bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Esthetic Correction of Anterior Dental Malalignment: Conventional versus Instant (Restorative) Orthodontics
Authors: SPEAR FRANK M.
Published: October 2006

Over the past 20 years since its introduction, adhesive dentistry has suffered, at times, from overuse, particularly in patients with problems of malalignment for which conventional orthodontics would once have been used. The purpose of this article is to create a “flow sheet” to aid decision making regarding whether conventional orthodontics should be used, and what the limitations of treating a patient are if treatment is performed without any orthodontics.
In Situ Effect of 10% Carbamide Peroxide on Resin‐Dentin Bond Strengths: A Novel Pilot Study
Authors: MIGUEL LUIZ C. , BARATIERI LUIZ N. , Jr SYLVIO MONTEIR. , RITTER ANDRÉ V.
Published: October 2006

Purpose::

This pilot study used a novel study design to evaluate the effect of a 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching gel on the bond strength of a resin‐based composite system to dentin.

Materials and Methods:

Dentin disks were obtained from human third molars, polished to 600 grit, and mounted on the palatal aspect of a removable orthodontic retainer. Two disks were exposed to a 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching gel for 2 h/d for 21 days, whereas two disks were not treated and served as controls. A retainer was worn by the participant regardless of whether bleaching was used, simulating the action of the saliva/oral fluids on the dentin specimens. After the treatment phase, the dentin disks were retrieved and a resin‐based composite system was applied to the specimens following manufacturer's instructions. Composite dentin “sticks” were obtained and tested in microtensile mode. Bond strength values were obtained for treated (n = 20) versus nontreated (n = 26) dentin and were analyzed statistically.

Results:

Mean bond strengths values (SD) were 29.9 MPa (6.2) and 39.2 MPa (5.8) for treated and nontreated dentin specimens, respectively (p < < .001).

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that nightguard (home) bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide for 2 h/d for 21 days significantly affects resin‐den tin bond strengths when dentin is exposed to bleaching material.
Influence of Phosphoric Acid Pretreatment on Self‐Etching Bond Strengths
Authors: ERHARDT MARIA CAROLINA GUILHERME , CAVALCANTE LARISSA MARIA ASSAD , PIMENTA LUIZ ANDRE FREIRE
Published: October 2006

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of phosphoric acid pretreatment on shear bond strength of two self‐etching bonding systems to enamel and dentin. Materials and Methods: Forty‐eight extracted third human molar teeth were mounted, embedded into polystyrene resin, polished with 600‐grit aluminum oxide papers, and randomly divided into four groups (n= 12): group 1–Clearfil Liner Bond® 2V (Kuraray Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan); group 2–One Up Bond F® (Tokuyama Corp., Tokyo, Japan); group 3–phosphoricacid (Condicionador Dental Gel®, Dentsply Ind. Com. LTDA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Clearfil Liner Bond 2V; group 4–phosphoric acid and One Up Bond F. In groups 3 and 4 the substrate was pre‐etched for 15 seconds with 37% phosphoric acid, rinsed, and dried with an air stream. In all groups adhesive systems were applied according to manufacturers' instructions and light cured; then a restorative composite resin (TPH Spectrum®, Dentsply Ind. Com. LTDA) was placed in a polytef matrix and cured. The specimens were stored in humidity for 7 days at 37°C. The shear bond strength test was performed in a universal test machine with a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. All procedures were repeated for the dentin evaluation. Mean values were analyzed with two‐way analysis of variance and Duncan tests (p < .05).

Results: The values obtained are listed in decreasing order: enamel–group 3 = 24.6 MPa, group 4 = 23.6 MPa, group 1 = 19.2 MPa, group 2 = 8.5 MPa; dentin–group 1 = 17.2 MPa, group 2 = 16.1 MPa, group 4 = 13.1 MPa, group 3 = 11.3 MPa.

Conclusions: Under the conditions of this study, enamel etching with 37% phosphoric acid provided statistically significant higher shear bond strength values, regardless of the adhesive system. However, in dentin, for Clearfil Liner Bond 2V, phosphoric acid pretreatment negatively affected bond strength values.
INFLUENCE OF SELF‐ETCHING PRIMER DRYING TIME ON ENAMEL BOND STRENGTH OF RESIN COMPOSITES
Authors: Miyazaki M. , Hirohata N. , Takagaki K. , Onose H. , Moore B.K.
Published: October 2006

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of self‐etching primer drying times on the bond strength of resin to bovine enamel.

Materials and Methods: Three self‐etching primer adhesive systems–Imperva Fluoro Bond® (Shofu Inc., Kyoto, Japan), Clearfil® Liner Bond (Kuraray Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan), and Mac Bond® II (Tokuyama Corp., Tokyo, Japan)– were used in this study, The labial enamel surfaces of bovine incisors were exposed by grinding with 240‐grit and 600‐grit wet silicon carbide paper. The primers were applied to enamel surfaces as per manufacturers' instructions. After priming, the surfaces were dried with compressed air for 0, 2, 5, 10, 20, or 30 seconds from 10 cm above the surface using a three‐way syringe. Following the application of adhesive resin, resin composites were applied into molds (diameter = 4 mm, depth = 2 mm) and were light‐cured. The shear test was performed at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. The ultrastructure of resin‐enamel interfaces was observed with SEM at magnifications of 2,000× to 3,500×.

Results: Mean enamel bond strengths varied with the different drying times and ranged from 8.2 to 17.4 MPa for Clearfil Liner Bond, from 10.9 to 16.3 MPa for Imperva Fluoro Bond, and from 17.5 to 19.4 MPa for Mac Bond. For Clearfil Liner Bond and Imperva Fluoro Bond, mean bond strengths increased significantly at the 10‐second drying time, whereas Mac Bond did not experience a significant change in bond strengths. SEM examination revealed morphologic differences among the groups with varying drying times. Resin tag penetration was not clearly seen at the 0‐second drying time, but resin tags appeared to be intimately adapted to the enamel surface in specimens at the 30‐second drying time.

Conclusions: The drying time of the self‐etching primer prior to the application of bonding resin affected the shear bond strength of resin to enamel for two self‐etch adhesive systems.
Chronic Administration of an Oral Rho Kinase Inhibitor Prevents the Development of Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model
Authors: Park Kwanjin , Kim Soo Woong , Rhu Kyong Shin , Paick Jae-Seung
Published: October 2006

Introduction

It has been shown that the Rho/Rho kinase calcium sensitizing pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction as well as systemic atherosclerosis.

Aims

To test whether chronic treatment of an oral Rho kinase inhibitor (fasudil, 5-Isoquinolinesulfonyl homopiperazine) could prevent the development of both vasculogenic erectile dysfunction and pelvic atherosclerosis in a rat model.

Methods

Rats (3 months old) were divided into three groups (N = 10 in each group): control (group 1); atherosclerosis (group 2); and fasudil-treated (group 3). Groups 2 and 3 received atherosclerosis-prone treatment (6 weeks of 1% cholesterol diet and early 2 weeks of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester [3 mg/mL/day] treatment, but group 3 was concurrently treated with fasudil (30 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

The amount of systemic endothelial injury (plasma von Willebrand factor) and pelvic atherosclerosis was determined. Erectile function, cavernosal Rho kinase activity, and expressions of total and phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were also determined.

Results

Group 2 showed a significant amount of pelvic atherosclerosis and endothelial injury. The rats also showed elevated cavernosal Rho kinase activity and impaired erectile function. Immunoblot showed a decreased total as well as phosphorylated eNOS expression. The treatment with fasudil partly but significantly ameliorated the development of pelvic atherosclerosis and plasma level of von Willebrand factor. The treatment also normalized the erectile function, cavernosal Rho kinase activity, and total eNOS expression. The overexpression of phospho-eNOS was observed in group 3.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the Rho/Rho kinase pathway is substantially involved in the development of erectile dysfunction and pelvic atherosclerosis, both of which could be prevented by chronic treatment with fasudil. Thus, Rho kinase might be considered a novel target for the prevention of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction.
Development of a Korean Version of the Female Sexual Distress Scale
Authors: Bae Jae Hyun , Han Chang Su , Kang Seok Ho , Shim Kang Soo , Kim Je Jong , Moon Du Geon
Published: October 2006

Introduction

This article presents data based on the responses of more than 100 women who contributed to the development of a Korean version of the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS).

Aim

The FSDS was developed to measure sexually related personal distress in women. This article aims to test the usefulness and analyze factors of the 20-item version of the FSDS in a Korean female sample.

Methods

The original two-item FSDS was translated with cultural modifications. A total of 104 healthy, married women were recruited through a survey. A second survey was undertaken after 2 weeks for test–retest reliability. Validity, internal consistency reliability, and test–retest reliability were evaluated. An exploratory factor analysis was also performed.

Main Outcome Measures

A Korean version of the FSDS.

Results

The test–retest coefficients of stability over a 2-week period was 0.99 (P < 0.01). The 20 items of the FSDS have good internal consistency, with an alpha of 0.96. The FSDS discriminated between women with and without sexually related distress (t = −7.34, P < 0.01). The optimal cut-off score was 20 (sensitivity 71.4%, specificity 92.2%). By principal axis factoring, the Korean version of the FSDS was found to consist of two factors. A 16-item FSDS had good internal consistency with an alpha of 0.97. The test–retest reliability was good (r = 0.99, P < 0.01). The items of the 16-item FSDS were somewhat different from the original 12-item FSDS.

Conclusions

The Korean version of the FSDS (20-item) might be a useful tool for screening sexually distressed women in Korea. Instead of the 12-item version of the original FSDS, the 16-item FSDS was validated in this study. These results could reflect cultural differences between Eastern Asian and Western societies.
Predictors of Tadalafil Efficacy in Men with Erectile Dysfunction: The SURE Study Comparing Two Dosing Regimens
Authors: Costa Pierre , Buvat Jacques , Holmes Simon , Weitckus Sabine , Petto Helmut , Hamidi Karim , Varanese Lucio
Published: October 2006

Introduction

The efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors in the treatment of erectile dysfunction may depend on patient characteristics.

Aim

To determine whether patient characteristics influence the efficacy of two tadalafil dosage regimens and to identify prognostic factors predictive of tadalafil efficacy.

Methods

This was a multicenter, open-label study in which men with erectile dysfunction were randomized to tadalafil 20 mg either on demand or three times per week for a period of 5–6 weeks. After a 1-week washout period, patients were crossed over to the alternate regimen for another 5–6 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

Score of the Erectile Function (EF) domain of the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire (IIEF) and percentage of positive responses to questions 3 and 5 of the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) diary.

Results

A total of 4,262 patients were randomized. A normal EF domain score (≥26) at the end of on-demand and three-times-per-week treatment was reported by 60.2% and 62.3% of patients, respectively. The percentage of patients who achieved a normal EF domain score and the percentages reporting positive responses to SEP3 and SEP5 depended on the severity of erectile dysfunction and the presence of certain comorbidities, irrespective of the tadalafil dosage regimen. On regression analysis, the two best predictors of tadalafil efficacy were the baseline score of the IIEF-EF domain and the baseline percentage of “Yes” responses to SEP2.

Conclusions

On-demand and three-times-per-week dosage regimens of tadalafil 20 mg were equally efficacious in men with erectile dysfunction. Among the possible prognostic factors tested in this study, baseline disease severity scores were the strongest predictors of efficacy endpoint scores.
Geographic and Linguistic Reflections on Moent and Dubbelde Ree: Two of Australia's First Recorded Placenames
Authors: TENT JAN
Published: October 2006

The year 2006 marks the quatercentenary of the first known European charting of any part of the Australian coastline, when the Dutch mariner Willem Janszoon explored 300 kms of the north‐west coast of Cape York Peninsula. He bestowed seven placenames, two of which, Moent and Dubbelde Ree have ambiguous meanings or referents. This paper attempts to resolve the enigmas behind these names by considering geographic, linguistic and historical evidence. Moent is particularly challenging, with several possible linguistic sources, some more plausible than others. The most compelling evidence points to it either referring to the western entrance to Endeavour Strait, or a Dutch rendition of an Indigenous Australian word. Dubbelde Ree is less problematic. The issue surrounding this name is whether its second element is meant to be Ree, an abbreviation of Reede (‘Roadstead’), or Rev, an abbreviation of Revier (‘River’). The search for the meaning of these placenames has provided credible evidence demonstrating that Janszoon explored the coastline in greater detail than has hitherto been thought, and that, in all likelihood, made contact with the local inhabitants.
From the Genome to the Proteome: Uncovering Peptides in the
Apis
Brain
Authors: Hummon Amanda B. , Richmond Timothy A. , Verleyen Peter , Baggerman Geert , Huybrechts Jurgen , Ewing Michael A. , Vierstraete Evy , Rodriguez-Zas Sandra L. , Schoofs Liliane , Robinson Gene E. , Sweedler Jonathan V.
Published: October 2006

Neuropeptides, critical brain peptides that modulate animal behavior by affecting the activity of almost every neuronal circuit, are inherently difficult to predict directly from a nascent genome sequence because of extensive posttranslational processing. The combination of bioinformatics and proteomics allows unprecedented neuropeptide discovery from an unannotated genome. Within the
Apis mellifera
genome, we have inferred more than 200 neuropeptides and have confirmed the sequences of 100 peptides. This study lays the groundwork for future molecular studies of
Apis
neuropeptides with the identification of 36 genes, 33 of which were previously unreported.
α-Hydroxy and α-Amino Acids Under Possible Hadean, Volcanic Origin-of-Life Conditions
Authors: Huber Claudia , Wächtershäuser Günter
Published: October 2006

To test the theory of a chemoautotrophic origin of life in a volcanic, hydrothermal setting, we explored mechanisms for the buildup of bio-organic compounds by carbon fixation on catalytic transition metal precipitates. We report the carbon monoxide–dependent formation of carbon-fixation products, including an ordered series of α-hydroxy and α-amino acids of the general formula R-CHA-COOH (where R is H, CH
3
,C
2
H
5
,orHOCH
2
and A is OH or NH
2
) by carbon fixation at 80° to 120°C, catalyzed by nickel or nickel,iron precipitates with carbonyl, cyano, and methylthio ligands as carbon sources, with or without sulfido ligands. Calcium or magnesium hydroxide was added as a pH buffer. The results narrow the gap between biochemistry and volcanic geochemistry and open a new gateway for the exploration of a volcanic, hydrothermal origin of life.
Colloid Transport of Plutonium in the Far-Field of the Mayak Production Association, Russia
Authors: Novikov Alexander P. , Kalmykov Stepan N. , Utsunomiya Satoshi , Ewing Rodney C. , Horreard François , Merkulov Alex , Clark Sue B. , Tkachev Vladimir V. , Myasoedov Boris F.
Published: October 2006

Sorption of actinides, particularly plutonium, onto submicrometer-sized colloids increases their mobility, but these plutonium colloids are difficult to detect in the far-field. We identified actinides on colloids in the groundwater from the Mayak Production Association, Urals, Russia; at the source, the plutonium activity is ∼1000 becquerels per liter. Plutonium activities are still 0.16 becquerels per liter at a distance of 3 kilometers, where 70 to 90 mole percent of the plutonium is sorbed onto colloids, confirming that colloids are responsible for the long-distance transport of plutonium. Nano–secondary ion mass spectrometry elemental maps reveal that amorphous iron oxide colloids adsorb Pu(IV) hydroxides or carbonates along with uranium carbonates.
Transformation of Binomial Input by the Postsynaptic Membrane at a Central Synapse
Authors: Korn Henri , Mallet Alain
Published: October 2006

Although a binomial model gives an adequate description of the release properties of central afferent synapses, slight differences between experimental and predicted probability density functions are observed, with an excess number of responses recorded around the means. These discrepancies can be quantified by comparing experimental and theoretical entropies, which could relate to information transfer at these junctions. A model, based on the experimentally supported assumption that the postsynaptic membrane functions as a nonlinear processor, minimizes the differences between the distributions of the recorded and predicted potentials. According to this model, the nonlinearity is due to a localized interaction between the effects of simultaneously activated adjacent synapses.
Genetic aspects of restless legs syndrome
Authors: Dhawan V , Ali M , Chaudhuri K R
Published: October 2006

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Ekbom syndrome, is a common movement disorder with sensorimotor symptoms occurring during sleep and quiet wakefulness. The underlying cause for RLS is unknown but genetic influences play a strong part in the pathogenesis of RLS, particularly when the condition starts at a young age. This review explores the genetic basis of RLS and related phenotypic variations. Recently, three loci showing vulnerability to RLS have been described in French-Canadian and Italian families in chromosomes 12q, 14q and 9q, emphasising on an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. These have been labelled RLS1, RLS2 and RLS3, respectively. However, specific causative mutations remain elusive and no linkage analysis has been identified so far in the candidate genes investigated in RLS.
Pitfalls in the diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrabeculation/non-compaction
Authors: Stöllberger C , Finsterer J
Published: October 2006

Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/non-compaction (LVHT) is a cardiac abnormality, characterised by >3 trabeculations apically to the papillary muscles and intertrabecular spaces. LVHT may occur with other cardiac abnormalities, heart failure, electrocardiographic abnormalities and neuromuscular disorders. This study gives an overview about (1) patients with LVHT in whom LVHT was initially overlooked and (2) cardiac conditions that may lead to falsely diagnosed LVHT. In 50 reported cases, LVHT has been overlooked and misdiagnosed as dilated (n = 20), hypertrophic (n = 14) or restrictive cardiomyopathy (n = 2), endocardial fibroelastosis (n = 5), endomyocardial fibrosis (n = 1), myocarditis (n = 3), thrombus (n = 2), localised left ventricular hypertrophy (n = 1), left ventricular mass (n = 1) or myocardial/pericardial disease (n = 1). In 14 patients, LVHT was diagnosed only by transoesophageal echocardiography (n = 1), computed tomography (n = 2) ventriculography (n = 2), magnetic resonance imaging (n = 3) or pathoanatomic findings (n = 6). Falsely diagnosed LVHT comprises false tendons, aberrant bands, thrombi, apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, fibroma, obliterative processes, intramyocardial haematoma, cardiac metastases and intramyocardial abscesses. Echocardiographers should be more aware of LVHT and consider its differential diagnoses.
RESTRICTED LIE ALGEBRAS OF POLYCYCLIC GROUPS
Authors: LICHTMAN A. I.
Published: October 2006

We consider some classes of polycyclic groups which have a p-series such that the restricted graded Lie algebra associated to this p-series is free abelian. We also study p-series and restricted Lie algebras associated to them in arbitrary polycyclic groups.
The Functional Impact of SLC6 Transporter Genetic Variation
Authors: Hahn Maureen K. , Blakely Randy D.
Published: October 2006

Solute carrier 6 (SLC6) is a gene family of ion-coupled plasma membrane cotransporters, including transporters of neurotransmitters, amino acids, and osmolytes that mediate the movement of their substrates into cells to facilitate or regulate synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter recycling, metabolic function, and fluid homeostasis. Polymorphisms in transporter genes may influence expression and activity of transporters and contribute to behavior, traits, and disease. Determining the relationship between the monoamine transporters and complex psychiatric disorders has been a particular challenge that is being met by evolving approaches. Elucidating the functional consequences of and interactions among polymorphic sites is advancing our understanding of this relationship. Examining the influence of environmental influences, especially early-life events, has helped bridge the gap between genotype and phenotype. Refining phenotypes, through assessment of endophenotypes, specific behavioral tasks, medication response, and brain network properties has also improved detection of the impact of genetic variation on complex behavior and disease.
Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Spectroscopy and Sensing
Authors: Willets Katherine A. , Van Duyne Richard P.
Published: October 2006

Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) spectroscopy of metallic nanoparticles is a powerful technique for chemical and biological sensing experiments. Moreover, the LSPR is responsible for the electromagnetic-field enhancement that leads to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and other surface-enhanced spectroscopic processes. This review describes recent fundamental spectroscopic studies that reveal key relationships governing the LSPR spectral location and its sensitivity to the local environment, including nanoparticle shape and size. We also describe studies on the distance dependence of the enhanced electromagnetic field and the relationship between the plasmon resonance and the Raman excitation energy. Lastly, we introduce a new form of LSPR spectroscopy, involving the coupling between nanoparticle plasmon resonances and adsorbate molecular resonances. The results from these fundamental studies guide the design of new sensing experiments, illustrated through applications in which researchers use both LSPR wavelength-shift sensing and SERS to detect molecules of chemical and biological relevance.
Antinecrotic and antiapoptotic effects of hepatocyte growth factor on cholestatic hepatitis in a mouse model of bile-obstructive diseases
Authors: Li Zhaodong , Mizuno Shinya , Nakamura Toshikazu
Published: October 2006

Cholestasis, an impairment of bile outflux, frequently occurs in liver diseases. In this process, an overaccumulation of bile acids causes hepatocyte necrosis and apoptosis, leading to advanced hepatitis. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is mitogenic toward hepatocytes, but it is still unclear whether HGF has physiological and therapeutic functions during the progression of cholestasis. Using anti-HGF IgG or recombinant HGF in mice that had undergone bile duct ligation (BDL), we investigated the involvement of HGF in cholestasis-induced hepatitis. After the BDL surgery, HGF and c-Met mRNA levels transiently increased in livers during the progression of cholestatic hepatitis. When c-Met tyrosine phosphorylation was blocked in the livers of BDL-treated mice by anti-HGF IgG, hepatic dysfunction became evident, associated with the acceleration of hepatocyte necrosis and apoptosis. Inversely, administration of recombinant HGF into the mice led to the prevention of cholestasis-induced inflammation: HGF suppressed the hepatic expression of intracellular adhesion molecule-1 and neutrophil infiltration in BDL-treated mice. As a result, parenchymal necrosis was suppressed in the HGF-injected BDL mice. In addition, HGF supplement therapy reduced the number of apoptotic hepatocytes in cholestatic mice, associated with the early induction of Bcl-xL. The administration of HGF enhanced hepatic repair, via accelerating G1/S progression in hepatocytes. Our study showed that 1) upregulation of HGF production is required for protective mechanisms against cholestatic hepatitis and 2) enhancement of the intrinsic defense system by adding HGF may be a reasonable strategy to attenuate hepatic inflammation, necrosis, and apoptosis under bile-congestive conditions.
Dehydration-induced drinking decreases Fos expression in hypothalamic paraventricular neurons expressing vasopressin but not corticotropin-releasing hormone
Authors: Wotus Cheryl , Arnhold Michelle M. , Engeland William C.
Published: October 2006

Water-restricted (WR) rats exhibit a rapid suppression of plasma corticosterone following drinking. The present study monitored Fos-like immunoreactivity (Fos) to assess the effect of WR-induced drinking on the activity of vasopressin (VP)-positive magnocellular and parvocellular neurons and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-positive parvocellular neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Adult male rats received water for 30 min (WR) in the post meridiem (PM) each day for 6 days and were killed without receiving water or at 1 h after receiving water for 15 min. In WR rats, Fos increased in VP magnocellular and parvocellular neurons but not CRH neurons. After drinking, Fos was reduced in VP magnocellular and parvocellular neurons but did not change in CRH neurons. To assess the severity of osmotic stress, rats were sampled throughout the final day of WR. Plasma osmolality, hematocrit and plasma VP were increased throughout the day before PM rehydration, and plasma ACTH and corticosterone were elevated at 1230 and 1430, respectively, showing that WR activates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity during the early PM before the time of rehydration. To determine the effects of WR-induced drinking on CRH neurons activated by acute stress, WR rats underwent restraint. Restraint increased plasma ACTH and corticosterone and Fos in CRH neurons; although rehydration reduced plasma ACTH and Fos expression in VP neurons, Fos in CRH neurons was not affected. These results suggest that inhibition of VP magnocellular and parvocellular neurons, but not CRH parvocellular neurons, contributes to the suppression of corticosterone after WR-induced drinking.
Dynamical Characteristics Common to Neuronal Competition Models
Authors: Shpiro Asya , Curtu Rodica , Rinzel John , Rubin Nava
Published: October 2006

Models implementing neuronal competition by reciprocally inhibitory populations are widely used to characterize bistable phenomena such as binocular rivalry. We find common dynamical behavior in several models of this general type, which differ in their architecture in the form of their gain functions, and in how they implement the slow process that underlies alternating dominance. We focus on examining the effect of the input strength on the rate (and existence) of oscillations. In spite of their differences, all considered models possess similar qualitative features, some of which we report here for the first time. Experimentally, dominance durations have been reported to decrease monotonically with increasing stimulus strength (such as Levelt's “Proposition IV”). The models predict this behavior; however, they also predict that at a lower range of input strength dominance durations increase with increasing stimulus strength. The nonmonotonic dependency of duration on stimulus strength is common to both deterministic and stochastic models. We conclude that additional experimental tests of Levelt's Proposition IV are needed to reconcile models and perception.
Stance- and Locomotion-Dependent Processing of Vibration-Induced Proprioceptive Inflow From Multiple Muscles in Humans
Authors: Courtine Grégoire , De Nunzio Alessandro Marco , Schmid Micaela , Beretta Maria Vittoria , Schieppati Marco
Published: October 2006

We performed a whole-body mapping study of the effect of unilateral muscle vibration, eliciting spindle Ia firing, on the control of standing and walking in humans. During quiet stance, vibration applied to various muscles of the trunk-neck system and of the lower limb elicited a significant tilt in whole body postural orientation. The direction of vibration-induced postural tilt was consistent with a response compensatory for the illusory lengthening of the stimulated muscles. During walking, trunk-neck muscle vibration induced ample deviations of the locomotor trajectory toward the side opposite to the stimulation site. In contrast, no significant modifications of the locomotor trajectory could be detected when vibrating various muscles of the lower as well as upper limb. The absence of correlation between the effects of muscle vibration during walking and standing dismisses the possibility that vibration-induced postural changes can account for the observed deviations of the locomotor trajectory during walking. We conclude that the dissimilar effects of trunk-neck and lower limb muscle vibration during walking and standing reflect a general sensory-motor plan, whereby muscle Ia input is processed according to both the performed task and the body segment from which the sensory inflow arises.
Sympathetic Sprouting Near Sensory Neurons After Nerve Injury Occurs Preferentially on Spontaneously Active Cells and Is Reduced by Early Nerve Block
Authors: Xie Wenrui , Strong Judith Ann , Li Huiqing , Zhang Jun-Ming
Published: October 2006

Some chronic pain conditions are maintained or enhanced by sympathetic activity. In animal models of pathological pain, abnormal sprouting of sympathetic fibers around large- and medium-sized sensory neurons is observed in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs). Large- and medium-sized cells are also more likely to be spontaneously active, suggesting that sprouting may be related to neuron activity. We previously showed that sprouting could be reduced by systemic or locally applied lidocaine. In the complete sciatic nerve transection model in rats, spontaneous activity initially originates in the injury site; later, the DRGs become the major source of spontaneous activity. In this study, spontaneous activity reaching the DRG soma was reduced by early nerve blockade (local perfusion of the transected nerve with TTX for the 1st 7 days after injury). This significantly reduced sympathetic sprouting. Conversely, increasing spontaneous activity by local nerve perfusion with K+ channel blockers increased sprouting. The hyperexcitability and spontaneous activity of DRG neurons observed in this model were also significantly reduced by early nerve blockade. These effects of early nerve blockade on sprouting, excitability, and spontaneous activity were all observed 4–5 wk after the end of early nerve blockade, indicating that the early period of spontaneous activity in the injured nerve is critical for establishing the more long-lasting pathologies observed in the DRG. Individual spontaneously active neurons, labeled with fluorescent dye, were five to six times more likely than quiescent cells to be co-localized with sympathetic fibers, suggesting a highly localized correlation of activity and sprouting.
Observed Relationships between Oceanic Kelvin Waves and Atmospheric Forcing
Authors: Roundy Paul E. , Kiladis George N.
Published: October 2006

The Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) has been implicated as a major source of the wind stress variability that generates basin-scale Kelvin waves in the equatorial Pacific. One source of debate concerning this relationship is the apparent difference in the frequencies of the two processes.

This work utilizes data from the Tropical Atmosphere Ocean (TAO) array of moored buoys along with outgoing longwave radiation data to show by means of a multiple linear regression model and case studies that the frequency discrepancy is due to a systematic decrease in the phase speeds of the Kelvin waves and an increase in the period of the waves toward the east as conditions adjust toward El Niño. Among the potential contributing factors to this phase speed decrease is an apparent air–sea interaction that enhances the wind forcing of some of the Kelvin waves, allowing them to continue to amplify because the propagating wind stress anomaly decelerates to the speed of the developing Kelvin wave instead of the significantly faster speed of the typical MJO. Kelvin waves appear to be most effectively amplified during periods when the temperature gradient above the thermocline across the equatorial central Pacific is strong, the thermocline shoals steeply toward the east in the central Pacific, and/or when the phase speed of the propagating wind stress forcing is closest to that of the Kelvin wave. These conditions tend to occur as the ocean adjusts toward El Niño. Since Kelvin waves are instrumental to the development of El Niño events, isolating the detailed relationship between the waves and the MJO will lead to a better understanding of interannual ocean–atmosphere interactions.
Family, Ethnicity, and Immigrant Youths’ Educational Achievements
Authors: Aldous Joan
Published: October 2006

Data from the 1988 National Educational Longitudinal Study (NELS) are used to examine immigrant youths’ reading comprehension and mathematics’ standardized scores as well as their parents’ demographic characteristics and parent-child relations that could influence children’s educational achievements. The comparisons were among parents who had emigrated from Asian, Central and South American, or the less often included European countries and their first- and second-generation offspring. It appeared that Asian students did somewhat better than the other groups. However, regardless of ethnicity and also as hypothesized, parents’ aspirations for their children to obtain more education as well as the children’s own aspirations generally were positively related to their children’s doing well in school. Contrary to previous research, though, ethnic background did not consistently differentiate parental help with homework or parent-child conversations about school on the adolescents’ standardized scores.
The Political Roots of Executive Clemency
Authors: Whitford Andrew B. , Ochs Holona L.
Published: October 2006

It is widespread conventional wisdom that presidential pardons—the only way for offenders to remove or eliminate all disabilities that arise from a federal or military offense—are political. We move beyond this belief and assess five broad ways that federal pardons may be systematically influenced by the policy agendas present in a separated powers system. We model the aggregate dispensation of clemency appeals (requests for pardons) using Prais-Winsten regression and find that the probability of denials for executive clemency reflects the president’s own agenda and ideological position, congressional attention to criminal justice issues, and the homicide rate. In sum, both policy signals and the political processes they signify permeate the presidential pardons process.
Amici Curiae in the U.S. Courts of Appeals
Authors: Martinek Wendy L.
Published: October 2006

Students of law and courts know a great deal about amici curiae vis-à-vis the U.S. Supreme Court. Conversely, scholars know little to nothing about amici curiae in the U.S. Courts of Appeals. This article begins to address this deficiency in our state of knowledge by examining the incidence of amici at the courts of appeals level. Drawing in part on the existing literature regarding amici in the Supreme Court, I develop a model of amicus curiae participation in the courts of appeals that arises directly from a consideration of the goals of potential amicus curiae filers. To wit, amici are interested in obtaining favorable rulings in the courts, and, hence, there will be more participation by amici in a case the more desirable that case is as a policy vehicle. An analysis relying on the data available in the U.S. Courts of Appeals Database supports this argument.
Browsing repeats in genomes: Pygram and an application to non-coding region analysis
Authors: Durand Patrick , Mahé Frédéric , Valin Anne-Sophie , Nicolas Jacques
Published: October 2006

Background

A large number of studies on genome sequences have revealed the major role played by repeated sequences in the structure, function, dynamics and evolution of genomes. In-depth repeat analysis requires specialized methods, including visualization techniques, to achieve optimum exploratory power.

Results

This article presents Pygram, a new visualization application for investigating the organization of repeated sequences in complete genome sequences. The application projects data from a repeat index file on the analysed sequences, and by combining this principle with a query system, is capable of locating repeated sequences with specific properties. In short, Pygram provides an efficient, graphical browser for studying repeats. Implementation of the complete configuration is illustrated in an analysis of CRISPR structures in Archaea genomes and the detection of horizontal transfer between Archaea and Viruses.

Conclusion

By proposing a new visualization environment to analyse repeated sequences, this application aims to increase the efficiency of laboratories involved in investigating repeat organization in single genomes or across several genomes.
The associated expression of Maspin and Bax proteins as a potential prognostic factor in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Romani Antonello A , Soliani Paolo , Desenzani Silvia , Borghetti Angelo F , Crafa Pellegrino
Published: October 2006

Background

Maspin, a member of the serpin family, is a suppressor of tumor growth, an inhibitor of angiogenesis and an inducer of apoptosis. Maspin induces apoptosis by increasing Bax, a member of the Bcl-2 family of apoptosis-regulating proteins. In this exploratory study, we investigated the associated expression of Maspin and Bax proteins as a potential prognostic factor in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCCA).

Methods

Twenty-two paraffin-embedded samples were analyzed by immunohistochemical methods using Maspin, Bax and CD34 antibodies. Maspin was scored semiquantitatively (HSCORE). Apoptosis was assessed using an antibody against cleaved caspase-3.

Results

The strong relationship observed between the expression of Maspin and Bax, indicates that Bax is likely to be the key effector of Maspin-mediated induction of apoptosis as indicated by the activation of cleaved caspase-3. We categorized Maspin HSCORE by calculating the optimal cutpoint. A Maspin HSCORE above the cutpoint was inversely related with tumor dimension, depth of tumor and vascular invasion. Uni/multivariate analysis suggests that a Maspin HSCORE below the cutpoint significantly worsens the patients' prognosis. Tumors with Maspin HSCORE below the cutpoint had a shorter survival (11+/-5 months) than did patients with Maspin HSCORE above the cutpoint (27+/-4 months), whereas Kaplan-Meier analysis and logrank test showed no significant difference in overall survival between the patients.

Conclusion

The associated expression of Maspin and Bax might delay tumor progression in IHCCA. Maspin above the cutpoint might counteract tumor development by increasing cell apoptosis, and by decreasing tumor mass and cell invasion. The combined expression of Maspin and Bax appears to influence the susceptibility of tumor cholangiocytes to apoptosis and thus may be involved in delaying IHCCA progression.
Mesothelin-MUC16 binding is a high affinity, N-glycan dependent interaction that facilitates peritoneal metastasis of ovarian tumors
Authors: Gubbels Jennifer AA , Belisle Jennifer , Onda Masanori , Rancourt Claudine , Migneault Martine , Ho Mitchell , Bera Tapan K , Connor Joseph , Sathyanarayana Bangalore K , Lee Byungkook , Pastan Ira , Patankar Manish S
Published: October 2006

Background

The mucin MUC16 and the glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchored glycoprotein mesothelin likely facilitate the peritoneal metastasis of ovarian tumors. The biochemical basis and the kinetics of the binding between these two glycoproteins are not clearly understood. Here we have addressed this deficit and provide further evidence supporting the role of the MUC16-mesothelin interaction in facilitating cell-cell binding under conditions that mimic the peritoneal environment.

Results

In this study we utilize recombinant-Fc tagged human mesothelin to measure the binding kinetics of this glycoprotein to MUC16 expressed on the ovarian tumor cell line OVCAR-3. OVCAR-3 derived sublines that did not express MUC16 showed no affinity for mesothelin. In a flow cytometry-based assay mesothelin binds with very high affinity to the MUC16 on the OVCAR-3 cells with an apparent Kd of 5–10 nM. Maximum interaction occurs within 5 mins of incubation of the recombinant mesothelin with the OVCAR-3 cells and significant binding is observed even after 10 sec. A five-fold molar excess of soluble MUC16 was unable to completely inhibit the binding of mesothelin to the OVCAR-3 cells. Oxidation of the MUC16 glycans, removal of its N-linked oligosaccharides, and treatment of the mucin with wheat germ agglutinin and erythroagglutinating phytohemagglutinin abrogates its binding to mesothelin. These observations suggest that at least a subset of the MUC16-asscociated N-glycans is required for binding to mesothelin. We also demonstrate that MUC16 positive ovarian tumor cells exhibit increased adherence to A431 cells transfected with mesothelin (A431-Meso+). Only minimal adhesion is observed between MUC16 knockdown cells and A431-Meso+ cells. The binding between the MUC16 expressing ovarian tumor cells and the A431-Meso+ cells occurs even in the presence of ascites from patients with ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

The strong binding kinetics of the mesothelin-MUC16 interaction and the cell adhesion between ovarian tumor cells and A431-Meso+ even in the presence of peritoneal fluid strongly support the importance of these two glycoproteins in the peritoneal metastasis of ovarian tumors. The demonstration that N-linked glycans are essential for mediating mesothlein-MUC16 binding may lead to novel therapeutic targets to control the spread of ovarian carcinoma.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submaxillary gland
Authors: Belson Thomas P. , Toohill Robert J. , Chobanian Susan L. , Lehman Roger H. , Grossman Thomas W. , Malin Thomas C.
Published: October 2006

A review of submaxillary gland neoplasms over a 21 year period revealed 15 malignancies and 7 benign tumors. All of the malignancies occurred in females, and 11 of these were adenoid cystic carcinoma. Two of the 11 were found to have infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast (1 pre and 1 postdiagnosis of the submaxillary carcinoma) and 3 had benign breast disease. While previous reports have suggested an association of parotid gland neoplasia and breast cancer, this is the first known report of an association between adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submaxillary gland and cancer of the breast. The discussion of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submaxillary gland emphasizes the increased frequency of this disease in females, its association with breast disease, and also experimental submaxillary gland neoplasia.
Skull base mapping
Authors: Wiet Richard J. , Kazan Robert , Sacy George
Published: October 2006

Early experience with medium to large tumors of the temporal region has re‐emphasized the value of radiologic preoperative plotting of these space occupying lesions in the sagittal, coronal, and horizontal planes. Attention to probable pathology, neurovascular structures and patient's medical status has been important in determining resectability.

A standard format of the interior and exterior of the skull base and cervical spine has been employed to map these lesions. Such devices have been used by otolaryngologists in the past to depict laryngeal lesions; and provide for the skull base surgeon a common base of comparison of tumor size, chart documentation, and a means to facilitate communication among other specialists.

Experience with 36 cases of skull base tumors seen since July 1979 has emphasized the occult manner in which these lesions may present.
Alveolar soft part sarcoma of the nasal cavity: Report of a case and a review of the literature
Authors: Rubinstein Mark I. , Drake Amelia F. , Mcclatchey Kenneth D.
Published: October 2006

A case of alveolar soft part sarcoma of the nasal cavity is presented. Alveolar soft part sarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm, which often affects females (ratio 2 to 1) in their second decade. It occurs most frequently in the extremities, with an unusual predilection to involve the right side of the body. Excluding the orbit, only a few cases have been reported in the head and neck area. We present the first reported case of alveolar soft part sarcoma limited to the nasal chamber.
An Objective, noninvasive method for the diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disorders
Authors: Westerman S. Thomas , Golz Avishay , Gilbert Liane , Joachims Henry Z.
Published: October 2006

An objective, noninvasive method for the diagnosis and monitoring of pathology referable to the temporomandibular joint is presented.

A computerized temporomandibular joint analyzer was developed to obtain data from the patient's temporomandibular joint area to provide an objective record of clinical symptoms and signs. This data, used in conjunction with a complete history and physical examination, aids in the diagnosis and decision‐making process for therapy.

Fifty patients with temporomandibular complaints were evaluated. Diagnoses made using the temporomandibular joint analyzer in conjunction with complete histories and physical examinations were confirmed in 81% of the patients by further examinations with x‐ray studies, computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and ar‐throscopy.

Patients' progress during treatment was monitored using the temporomandibular joint analyzer. Results of the temporomandibular joint analyzer were compatible with patients' progress as reported subjectively and with clinical evaluation in 97% of the cases.

The temporomandibular joint analyzer can be used to reduce time and expense as well as to minimize the discomfort involved in the evaluation of temporomandibular joint disorders.
Ultrasonography and ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy of head and neck lesions: A surgical perspective
Authors: Mcivor Nicholas P. , Freeman Jeremy L. , Salem Shia , Elden Lisa , Noyek Arnold M. , Bedard Yvan C.
Published: October 2006

A head and neck ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration clinic was set up to determine the role of ultrasound and ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration in the evaluation of patients with lesions in this region. One hundred ninety‐five lesions were biopsied by ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration in 203 patients. Ultrasound detected 2 or more lesions in 14 (48%) of 29 patients with a clinically solitary thyroid nodule. Three (8.8%) of 34 lesions thought to be within the parotid gland were determined to be external. A pronounced learning curve was evident in the technique of ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration, particularly for nonpalpable disease. Adequacy of sampling for each 3‐month period was 71%, 89%, and 94%, respectively. Seventy‐four percent of central aspirations were satisfactory compared to 54% of peripheral aspirations. Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration did not alter the clinical staging of metastatic neck disease in 8 patients having 10 neck dissections but proved useful in detecting nodal recurrence in 3 irradiated necks that did not proceed to surgery. The smallest node to harbor malignancy had 4‐mm maximal axial diameter. We conclude that ultrasound and ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration are valuable adjuncts to the clinical examination.