bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of 3‐T FLAIR and 3D short tau inversion recovery MR imaging in the preoperative diagnosis of hippocampal sclerosis: Direct comparison with 1.5‐T FLAIR MR imaging
Authors: Hashiguchi Kimiaki , Morioka Takato , Murakami Nobuya , Suzuki Satoshi O. , Hiwatashi Akio , Yoshiura Takashi , Sasaki Tomio
Published: August 2010

Purpose: To examine the utility of fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging and three‐dimensional short tau inversion recovery (3DSTIR) imaging using a 3‐Tesla (3‐T) magnetic resonance (MR) imager in the preoperative evaluation of hippocampal sclerosis (HS).

Methods: Thirteen patients with intractable medial temporal lobe epilepsy who underwent anterior temporal lobectomy with amygdalohippocampectomy were studied. MR images were obtained twice, once with a 1.5‐T imager and once with a 3‐T imager. The extent of hippocampal resection was determined according to the findings on intraoperative hippocampal electroencephalography. We compared the diagnostic utility of FLAIR for HS between 1.5‐T and 3‐T MR imaging. In addition, the relationship between the existence of hypointense areas in the hippocampus (HIAs) on 3DSTIR and the severity of HS pathology (as evaluated using Watson’s grading) was examined. The relationship between postoperative seizure outcome and postoperatively remaining HIAs was also evaluated.

Results: There was no difference between FLAIR images from 1.5‐T and 3‐T imaging in the detection of HS. With 3DSTIR, an HIA in unilateral hippocampus was observed in all of the nine cases exhibiting severe pathologic HS (Watson’s grade III–V). In seven cases with HIA, the extent of hippocampal resection was smaller than the HIAs. Every case showed good seizure outcome (Engel’s class I and II).

Discussion: In the diagnosis of HS, no substantial difference was noted between 1.5‐T and 3‐T MR imaging. However, 3DSTIR using 3‐T MR imaging is useful for evaluating the extent of HS, although postoperative HS remnants are not correlated with surgical outcomes.
Transfusion and blood donation on the screen
Authors: Danic Bruno , Lefrère Jean‐Jacques
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: In the 20th century, blood transfusion has become an indispensable therapy in carrying out and improving many medical and surgical applications. Its scope of influence goes well beyond that of medicine, because blood donation, an action with high social significance, is completely connected to progress in the field.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The purpose of this research was to study, through films that show transfusion or blood donation, the impression that has been given to the public in the course of the 20th century and its sociologic impact. To accomplish this, we have used various sources from Histories of Cinema and from the Internet to identify films from different countries and from different epochs that touch on this theme.

RESULTS: With these two components, the act of donation and the act of transfusion, the relatively short history of blood transfusion is distinguished by upheavals in both the medical and the sociopolitical fields of the past century. Movies, the most commonly shared cultural event and mirror of society, have simultaneously gone through their first century by showing the diversity of our feelings and the human condition.

CONCLUSION: Through various cinematographic references, the authors offer an analysis of the use, by the Seventh Art, of values and illustrations that use blood donation and transfusion.
Perceiving the Present: Systematization of Illusions or Illusion of Systematization?
Authors: Briscoe Robert E.
Published: August 2010

Mark Changizi et al. (2008) claim that it is possible systematically to organize more than 50 kinds of illusions in a 7 × 4 matrix of 28 classes. This systematization, they further maintain, can be explained by the operation of a single visual processing latency correction mechanism that they call “perceiving the present” (PTP). This brief report raises some concerns about the way a number of illusions are classified by the proposed systematization. It also poses two general problems—one empirical and one conceptual—for the PTP approach.
Behavioral Experiments for Assessing the Abstract Argumentation Semantics of Reinstatement
Authors: Rahwan Iyad , Madakkatel Mohammed I. , Bonnefon Jean‐François , Awan Ruqiyabi N. , Abdallah Sherief
Published: August 2010

Argumentation is a very fertile area of research in Artificial Intelligence, and various semantics have been developed to predict when an argument can be accepted, depending on the abstract structure of its defeaters and defenders. When these semantics make conflicting predictions, theoretical arbitration typically relies on ad hoc examples and normative intuition about what prediction ought to be the correct one. We advocate a complementary, descriptive‐experimental method, based on the collection of behavioral data about the way human reasoners handle these critical cases. We report two studies applying this method to the case of reinstatement (both in its simple and floating forms). Results speak for the cognitive plausibility of reinstatement and yet show that it does not yield the full expected recovery of the attacked argument. Furthermore, results show that floating reinstatement yields comparable effects to that of simple reinstatement, thus arguing in favor of preferred argumentation semantics, rather than grounded argumentation semantics. Besides their theoretical value for validating and inspiring argumentation semantics, these results have applied value for developing artificial agents meant to argue with human users.
Response to Briscoe (2010)
Authors: Changizi Mark A.
Published: August 2010

In an earlier paper my colleagues and I put forth a theory called “perceiving‐the‐present” that predicts a systematic pattern across a large variety of illusions, and we presented evidence that the systematic pattern exists. Briscoe puts forth arguments against the theory and the existence of the systematic pattern. Here I provide counterarguments to his criticisms of the theory, and I explain why his arguments do not bear on the existence of the systematic pattern.
TELOCYTES IN ENDOCARDIUM: Electron Microscope Evidence
Authors: Gherghiceanu Mihaela , Manole C.G. , Popescu L.M.
Published: August 2010

The term TELOCYTES was very recently introduced, for replacing the name Interstitial Cajal‐Like Cells (ICLC). In fact, telocytes are not really Cajal‐like cells, they being different from all other interstitial cells by the presence of telopodes, which are cell‐body prolongations, very thin (under the resolving power of light microscopy), extremely long (tens up to hundreds of micrometers), with a moniliform aspect (many dilations along), and having caveolae. The presence of telocytes in epicardium and myocardium was previously documented. We present here electron microscope images showing the existence of telocytes, with telopodes, at the level of mouse endocardium. Telocytes are located in the subendothelial layer of endocardium, and their telopodes are interposed in between the endocardial endothelium and the cardiomyocytes bundles. Some telopodes penetrate from the endocardium among the cardiomyocytes and surround them, eventually. Telopodes frequently establish close spatial relationships with myocardial blood capillaries and nerve endings. Because we may consider endocardium as a ‘blood–heart barrier’, or more exactly as a ‘blood–myocardium barrier’, telocytes might have an important role in such a barrier being the dominant cell population in subendothelial layer of endocardium.
Comparison of the osteolytic activity of surface‐associated proteins of bacteria implicated in periodontal disease
Authors: Reddi K , Meghji S , Wilson M , Henderson B
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: To compare the osteolytic activity of surface‐associated material (SAM) and lipid A‐associated proteins (LAPs) from periodontopathogenic bacteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Surface‐associated material was extracted from the surface and LAPs from the cell walls of a range of periodontopathic bacteria including Actinobocillus actinomycetemcomitans and Eikenetla corrodens. These bacterial fractions were assayed to determine their composition and their capacity to induce bohe resorption was determined by use of the neonatal murine calvarial bone resorption assay.

RESULTS The SAMs from E. corrodens and A. actinomycetemcomitans demonstrated bone‐resorbing capacity at concentrations as low as I ng ml which, given the molecular weights of the active components, is in the picomolar range of activity. In contrast, the SAMs from the other three bacteria were significantly less potent and showed a lower efficacy. The LAPs all showed significant, and similar, capacities to induce bone breakdown.

CONCLUSIONS This is the first demonstration that LAP from periodontopathic bacteria can stimulate bone degradation. The LAPs from diverse bacteria all produced similar levets of bone‐resorbing activity. in contrast, the SAM showed significant differences in potency and in efficacy (maximal stimulation). This may mean that in vivo certain periodontopathic bacteria have significantly more bone‐resorbing capacity than others and should be therapeutic targets.
Newer saliva collection methods and saliva composition: a study of two Salivette® kits
Authors: Lenander‐Lumikari M , Johansson I , Vilja P , Samaranayake LP
Published: August 2010

Saliva is frequently used as a diagnostic fluid and several collection devices have been developed.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to investigate the validity and reliability of two types of Salivette® collection kits (non‐covered cotton roll and polypropylene covered polyether roll) relative to conventional collection of saliva using paraffin wax chewing stimulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Whole saliva samples were collected from 16 healthy volunteers. Following a cross‐over design saliva was collected in a standardized way. The flow rate was determined and saliva samples were analyzed for pH, buffer capacity, electrolytes and protein/glycoprotein content.

RESULTS: We find that Salivette® methods do not allow evaluation of flow rate. pH was unaffected but buffer capacity was lower in Salivette® collected than in paraffin wax‐stimulated saliva. The non‐covered cotton rolls reduced the content of Na+ K+ CI‐ as well as glycoprotein markers (hexosamines, fucose, sialic acid), lysozyme, lactoferrin, salivary‐ and myeloperoxidase but increased the concentrations of Ca2+ PO3–4 and SCN‐. Polypropylene covered polyether rolls affected saliva composition less than the non‐covered cotton rolls. Thus, SCN‐ and slgA concentrations were higher and lysozyme activity lower in the former (covered roll) saliva than in paraffin wax saliva. The reliability of the Salivette® kits was good.

CONCLUSION: We conclude that the Salivette® method generates data significantly different from conventional paraffin wax‐stimulated saliva such as buffer capacity and several electrolytes and organic components. Care should be taken in interpreting the results when such methods are employed.
Cytokine networks in destructive periodontal disease
Authors: Howells GL
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND Cytokines are important regulatory proteins, produced by activated cells, which act by binding high affinity cell surface receptors. They are involved in almost all aspects of cell biology and form interacting networks, with cascades of sequential cell activation. They often show overlapping activities (redundancy) or the same cytokine may have a variety of different effects (pleiotropy). In excess, certain cytokines are damaging and proinflammatory. Tumour necrosis factor a (TNFα) and interleukin‐I (IL‐I) are markedly proinflammatory, inducing bone resorption, collagenase and prostaglandin E2 production.

OBJECTIVE: This paper focuses on the role of TNFa and IL‐l in the cytokine networks of destructive chronic per‐iodontitis; specifically their regulation by T cell cytokines, receptor antagonists and inhibitory soluble forms of the IL‐l and TNF receptors.

CONCLUSION: A hypothesis is proposed that destructive periodontal disease may be due to disregulation of these inhibitors, rather than an overproduction of IL‐l and TNFα per se.
Subpopulations of fetal‐like gingival fibroblasts: characterisation and potential significance for wound healing and the progression of periodontal disease
Authors: Schor SL , Ellis I , Irwin CR , Banyard J , Seneviratne K , Dolman C , Gilbert AD , Chisholm DM
Published: August 2010

Wound healing in the adult is commonly compromised by excessive scar formation. In contrast, fetal wound healing is a regenerative process characterised by the conspicuous absence of scarring. Available evidence suggests that phenotypic differences between fetal and adult fibroblasts are important determinants of these distinct modes of tissue repair. In this context, a number of groups (including our own) have documented differences between fetal and adult fibroblasts with respect to such potentially relevant characteristics as migratory activity, motogenic response to cytokines and the synthesis of motility factors, cytokines and matrix macromolecules. The oral mucosa appears to be a privileged site in the adult in that it continues to display a fetal‐like mode of wound healing. Data are presented in this review indicating that a subpopulation of gingival fibroblasts expresses several ‘fetal‐like’ phenotypic characteristics. These observations are discussed in terms of both the continued expression of a fetal‐like mode of wound healing in the oral mucosa and the possible differential involvement of distinct fibroblast subpopulations in the progression of periodontal disease.
Putative periodontal pathogens, antibody titres and avidities to them in a longitudinal study of patients with resistant periodontitis
Authors: Holbrook WP , Mooney J , Sigurdsson T , Kitsiou N , Kinane DF
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To study changes in antibody titres and antibody avidities to putative periodontal pathogens in patients with resistant periodontitis and to compare these findings with the result of culture of these pathogens.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients meeting strict clinical criteria in whom periodontal therapy had failed to prevent disease progression were studied microbiologically and immunologically over a 75‐week period. Particular reference was made to the isolation of Actinobocillus actinomycetemcomitons (Aa) and Porphyromonos gingivalis (Pg) together with changes in antibody titres and avidities to these organisms between baseline examination and week 75.

RESULTS: Pg was eliminated following antibiotic treatment but metronidazole and amoxycillin therapy failed to remove Aa in all cases. Antibody avidities to these pathogens were higher in patients than in matched controls but no change in avidity was noted during the course of treatment. Most antibody titres were not significantly higher in patients than in controls.

CONCLUSIONS: Continued disease progression characterised these patients who, nevertheless, mounted an immune response to the periodontal pathogens but this appeared to be inadequate to stop the disease.
Expression of CDIa on monocytes cultured with supernatants from periodontally diseased gingival epithelial cells
Authors: Winning T , Gemmell E , Polak B , Savage NW , Seymour GJ , Walsh LJ
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: Langerhans cells are believed to originate from the monocyte lineage and have been reported to increase in number with plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of local gingival epithelial factors on the induction of CDla, a Langerhans cell phenotype, on monocyte rich populations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Peripheral blood monocyte rich populations from healthy subjects were cultured for 24 h with either healthy gingival or periodontally diseased gingival epithelial supernatants. Additionally, the monocyte rich populations were cultured with cytokines IL‐Iα, IL‐Iβ, IL‐6 and TNF‐α which are known to be produced by epithelial cells or co‐cultured with autologous epithelial cells. The percent CDIa positive cells was determined using FACS analysis.

RESULTS: Healthy gingival supernatants did not induce CDIa expression in monocyte rich populations, however, a significant increase in per cent CDla+ cells for monocyte rich populations cultured with five (P < 0.01) of six periodontal gingival epithelial supernatants was found. IL‐lα or TNF‐α (10ng/well) resulted in a significant increase in the per cent CDla+ cells (P < 0.01). Depletion of CDla+ Langerhans cells from healthy gingival epithelium did not enhance induction of CDIa expression in monocyte rich populations. Monocyte rich populations cultured together with non‐depleted epithelial cultures resulted in a decreased percent of CDla+ cells.

CONCLUSION: These findings indicated that epithelial factor/s associated with periodontally involved epithelia, may be involved in inducing a Langerhans cell phenotype in monocyte rich populations. The data also provide indirect evidence for a role of Langerhans cells in inhibiting induction of CDIa in healthy epithelium.
Chronic osteomyelitis of the mandible following tooth extraction in HIV infection
Authors: Asseri L. , Nguvumali HI , Matee MIN , Chindia ML
Published: August 2010

A case is presented of refractory chronic osteomyelitis of the left mandible arising after a tooth extraction in HIV infection. The challenges of prompt diagnosis and the dilemma of satisfactory management are highlighted. It is imperative that dental and oral health providers have a particularly high index of suspicion of conditions that occur in HIV infection so that early identification and appropriate management may be instituted.
External resorption presenting as an intracoronal radiolucent lesion in a pre‐eruptive tooth
Authors: McNamara CM , Foley T. , O'Sullivan VR , Crowley N. , McConnell RJ
Published: August 2010

A large intracoronal radiolucent lesion in an unerupted permanent molar was found during the routine assessment of a young male Caucasian prior to orthodontic treatment. The tooth was extracted. Histological examination indicated the lesion was caused by external resorption. The defect extended widely into the enamel and dentine, and was repaired in part by bone. The pulp chamber was not involved. The aetiology of these lesions is often obscure but in this case it appeared to have originated in the floor of two developmental pits on the occlusal surface of the tooth.
Oral manifestations of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) in patients with AIDS: report of five cases
Authors: Schmidt‐Westhausen A , Griinewald Th , Reichart PA , Pohle HD
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To describe oral findings in HIV‐infected individuals with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). PATIENTS: In a retrospective study over a 10 year period the medical histories of 931 hospitalised HIV‐infected patients were reviewed for the occurrence of TEN.

RESULTS: Five cases of TEN were diagnosed (three men, two women; median age: 41 years; median CD4+ T lymphocyte count: 20/μl). Four patients had been treated with biweekly pyrimethamine/sulfadoxine for prophylaxis against Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and toxoplasmosis. In one patient flucloxacillin was administered. Signs of TEN with cutaneous epidermolysis occurred and patients showed oral lesions characterized as oropharyngeal blisters and bullae on the palate, buccal mucosa, tongue and floor of the mouth initially. Antibiotics and corticosteroids were administered; none of the patients died.

CONCLUSION: Longacting sulfonamides and antibiotics have been implicated as the cause of severe mucocutaneous reactions. Since rash and oral blisters may be the first signs of TEN in patients receiving these it is mandatory to follow up these patients closely to detect oral or cutaneous changes indicating the development of TEN.
Anti‐calculus activity of a toothpaste with microgranules
Authors: Chesters RK , O'Mullane DM , Finnerty A , Huntington E , Jones PR
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the trial was to determine the efficacy of the proven anticalculus active system (zinc citrate trihydrate [ZCT] and triclosan), when the ZCT is delivered from microgranules incorporated in a silica‐based toothpaste containing 1450 ppm F as sodium fluoride.

DESIGN: A monadic, single‐blind, two phase design clinical trial was used to compare the effect of the test and a negative control fluoridated toothpaste on the formation of supragingival calculus.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Male and female calculus‐forming volunteers, aged 18 or over, were recruited for the study following a 2‐week screening phase. All subjects were given a scale and polish of their eight lower anterior teeth at the start of both the pre‐test and test phases. Subjects were supplied with a silica‐based 1450 F ppm fluoridated toothpaste with no anti‐calculus active for use during an 8‐week pre‐test phase. Calculus was assessed at the end of the pre‐test and test phases using the Volpe‐Manhold index (VMI). Subjects were stratified according to their pre‐test VMI score (8–10, 10.5–12, > 12) and gender and then allocated at random to test or negative control toothpaste groups. Subjects with < 8 mm of calculus were excluded from further participation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The outcome variable was the mean VMI score for the test and negative control groups.

RESULTS: The test toothpaste caused a statistically significant 30% reduction in calculus compared with the control paste after a 13‐week use. No adverse events were reported during the study.

CONCLUSION: The incorporation of the ZCT in microgranules did not adversely affect the anticalculus activity of the new formulation.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Kootval M , Eyeson J
Published: August 2010

Picture Tests in Oral Medicine D Wray and J Gibson Churchill‐Livingstone, Edinburgh, 1st Edn, 1997, £12.95, ISBN 0–443‐05301‐4
Juvenile chronic arthritis: a dental review
Authors: Walton AG , Welbury RR , Foster HE , Thomason JM
Published: August 2010

A review of the literature relating to juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) is presented. It includes a description of the disease itself and identifies our knowledge of the increased risk of dental disease associated with this condition. In addition the impact of JCA therapy on the dental management of the patient is discussed. The review highlights the need for further research into the effects of the disease on dental caries, periodontal disease and saliva.
Primary Sjögren's syndrome: salivary gland function and clinical oral findings
Authors: Pedersen AM , Reibel J. , Nordgarden H. , Bergem HO , Jensen JL , Nauntofte B.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate salivary gland function, saliva composition and oral findings in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) subdivided into patients with and without focus score ≤1 (FS) and/or antibodies to SSA/SSB (AB) as well as in healthy controls.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Unstimulated (UWS) and chewing stimulated (SWS) whole saliva, and stimulated parotid saliva (SPS) were collected in 16 patients fulfilling the European classification criteria for pSS subdivided into those with FS and/or AB (n= 8) and those without FS and AB (n= 8), and in age‐matched (n= 14) and young healthy controls (n= 13).UWS and SWS were analysed for Na+ and K+.SPS was analysed for Na+, K+, statherin, and proline‐rich proteins (PRPs).Sicca symptoms, DMFT/DMFS, plaque (PI) and gingival (GI) scores, periodontal pocket depth (PPD), and mucosal status were recorded.

RESULTS: The young healthy controls had lower UWS as compared to the aged controls (P= 0.03).However, the aged controls had higher DMFT/DMFS (P < 0.001) and PI, GI and PPD (P < 0.01).Patients with FS and/or AB generally had lower saliva secretory rates than patients without FS and/or AB (P= 0.01 for UWS and SPS) and age‐matched healthy controls (P= 0.001). There was no significant difference in the content of Na+ and K+, statherin and PRPs between groupS. Patients with FS and/or AB had the highest frequency of oral mucosal changes and higher DMFT/DMFS than patients without FS and/or AB and healthy controls (P < 0.01).However, PI, GI, and PPD did not differ significantly. CONCLUSION: Patients with FS and/or AB had lower salivary secretory rates, higher DMFT/DMFS, and more oral mucosal changes than patients without FS and/or AB.Additionally, data suggest that salivary gland function in healthy individuals do not decrease with age.
Purification of large quantities of human salivary cystatins S, SA and SN: their interactions with the model cysteine protease papain in a non‐inhibitory mode
Authors: Baron AC , Barrett‐Vespone NA , Featherstone JDB
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to purify large quantities of human salivary cystatins S, SA and SN in order to determine whether these salivary cystatins have a stable interaction with cysteine proteases at a second binding site, other than the protease active site. This property may affect their availability to act as cysteine protease inhibitors within the oral environment.

METHODS: Salivary cystatins S, SA and SN were purified from human submandibular sublingual saliva to homogeneity by column chromatography. Formation of stable complexes between the model cysteine protease papain in the absence of reductant was assessed by SDS‐PAGE and probing Western blots with antibody to human salivary cystatin SN.Proteolytic activity of the complex was determined in the gel after electrophoresis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Only cystatin SN (14.3 kD) was found to form a stable complex with papain (22 kD) that could be separated by SDS‐PAGE producing a Coomassie stained band at (37 kD).After western transfer this same band (37 kD) cross‐reacted with antibody to SN. In the presence of E64, an active site inhibitor of cysteine proteases, the same complex was formed, suggesting that SN is able to bind to papain at a site other than the active site. Activity staining of the gel confirmed that this complex (‐E64) retained proteolytic activity. Such complex formation between cystatin SN and cyst‐eine proteases in a non‐inhibitory mode may reduce its availability to act as an effective cysteine protease inhibitor in the oral environment.
Surface properties of lactobacilli isolated from healthy subjects
Authors: Colloca ME , Ahumada MC , López ME , Nader‐Macías ME
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: Lactobacilli are considered cariogenic micro‐organismS. As oral species of lactobacilli have not been thoroughly described, the aim of this work was to isolate and identify these organisms from teeth, tongue, saliva and gum of healthy patients and to describe some of their surface properties.

SUBJECTS: Forty‐four subjects from Tucumán, Argentina, with D, d and M, m indices equal to 0.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples were obtained from different areas of the oral cavity. Microorganisms were cultured in lactobacilli selected media (LBS) and identified morphologically and biochemically. Hydrophobicity was analysed by partition in organic solvents, acidity by affinity with chloroform and basicity with ethyl acetate (MATH method), aggregation and coaggregation in presence of (NH4)2SO4, and haemagglutination with ABO erythrocytes in microplates.

RESULTS: Eighty‐five lactobacilli were isolated; 29.4% were homofermenter, 44.7% facultative heterofermenter and 25.9% obligate heterofermenter. Predominant species were L.fermentum, L.plantarum, L.salivarius, and L.rhamnosus. Most of the strains showed moderate to high hydrophobicity and demonstrated high acid and basic surface charges with almost 40% showing salt aggregation. Few strains haemagglutinated.

CONCLUSIONS: A variety of Lactobacillus species were isolated from healthy mouths, some of whom showed adhesion‐related properties such as high hydrophobicity and charged surfaceS. Probable mechanisms related to the ecological behaviour of lactobacilli in the oral cavity are discussed.
Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) downregulates interleukin (IL)‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production via EP2/EP4subtypes of PGE2receptors in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Noguchi K , Maeda M , Ruwanpura SMPM , Ishikawa I
Published: August 2010

Objectives: Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) exerts its biological actions via EP receptors, which are divided into four subtypes, EP1, EP2, EP3and EP4. In the present study, we examined whether PGE2regulated interleukin (IL)‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production in human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and if so, which subtypes of PGE2receptors were involved.

Methods: PDL cells were stimulated with vehicle or IL‐1αin the presence or absence of indomethacin (a cylooxygenase inhibitor), PGE2or various EP agonists. IL‐6 and PGE2levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. EP receptor mRNA expression was examined by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results: Indomethacin significantly enhanced IL‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production by PDL cells, although it completely inhibited IL‐1α‐induced PGE2production. Exogenous PGE2significantly suppressed IL‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production. Butaprost, a selective EP2agonist, and ONO‐AE1‐329, a selective EP4agonist, significantly inhibited IL‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production, although 17‐phenyl‐ω‐trinor PGE2, an EP1agonist, and ONO‐AP‐324, an EP3agonist, did not affect it. RT‐PCR analysis showed that EP2and EP4mRNA was expressed in PDL cells.

Conclusions: We suggest that PGE2downregulates IL‐1α‐induced IL‐6 production via EP2/EP4receptors in human PDL cells.
Ankyloglossia: a morphofunctional investigation in children
Authors: Ruffoli R , Giambelluca MA , Scavuzzo MC , Bonfigli D , Cristofani R , Gabriele M , Giuca MR , Giannessi F
Published: August 2010

Objectives:  To provide diagnostic criteria for ankyloglossia in children by anatomical measurements; to investigate the correlation between severity of ankyloglossia and a series of morphofunctional findings; to evaluate the potential mismatch between a clinical suspect of ankyloglossia and the authentic anatomical diagnosis.

Design:  Two different techniques of anatomical measurements and a clinical evaluation of a series of morphofunctional findings were performed.

Subjects and methods:  In 200 children referred for evaluation and treatment of tongue‐tie, the length of the frenulum and the interincisal distance were measured in maximum opening of the mouth and with the tip of the tongue touching the palatal papilla. Occlusion, type of bite, tongue resting position, swallowing mechanism, oral floor mobility, frenulum insertion modality and speech were investigated. Any correlation between these morphofunctional findings and anatomical measures was investigated.

Results:  Children with a frenulum length more than 2 cm and an interincisal distance of more than 2.3 cm were normal. In both measurements, significant correlations among mean values and other variables were observed. Moreover, three levels – mild, moderate and severe – of ankyloglossia were assessed.

Conclusions:  Length of frenulum and interincisal distance allow an assessment of severity of ankyloglossia in children. Ankyloglossia was not associated with infantile swallowing.
FoxO1 – the key for the pathogenesis and therapy of acne?
Authors: Melnik Bodo C.
Published: August 2010

Five main factors play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of acne: androgen dependence, follicular retention hyperkeratosis, increased sebaceous lipogenesis, increased colonization with P. acnes, and inflammatory events. This paper offers a solution for the pathogenesis of acne and explains all major pathogenic factors at the genomic level by a relative deficiency of the nuclear transcription factor FoxO1. Nuclear FoxO1 suppresses androgen receptor, other important nuclear receptors and key genes of cell proliferation, lipid biosynthesis and inflammatory cytokines. Elevated growth factors during puberty and persistent growth factor signals due to Western life style stimulate the export of FoxO1 out of the nucleus into the cytoplasm via activation of the phos‐phoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway. By this mechanism, genes and nuclear receptors involved in acne are derepressed leading to increased androgen receptor‐mediated signal transduction, increased cell proliferation of androgen‐dependent cells, induction of sebaceous lipogenesis and upregulation of Toll‐like‐receptor‐2‐dependent inflammatory cytokines. All known acne‐inducing factors exert their action by reduction of nuclear FoxO1 levels. In contrast, retinoids, antibiotics and dietary intervention will increase the nuclear content of FoxO1, thereby normalizing increased transcription of genes involved in acne. Various receptor‐mediated growth factor signals are integrated at the level of PI3K/Akt activation which finally results in nuclear FoxO1 deficiency.
Which plant for which skin disease? Part 2: Dermatophytes, chronic venous insufficiency, photoprotection, actinic keratoses, vitiligo, hair loss, cosmetic indications
Authors: Reuter Juliane , Wölfle Ute , Korting Hans Christian , Schempp Christoph
Published: August 2010

This paper continues our review of scientifically evaluated plant extracts in dermatology. After plants effective against dermatophytes, botanicals with anti‐edema effects in chronic venous insufficiency are discussed. There is good evidence from randomized clinical studies that plant extracts from grape vine leaves (Vitis vinifera), horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), sea pine (Pinus maritima) and butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus) can reduce edema in chronic venous insufficiency. Plant extracts from witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), green tea (Camellia sinensis), the fern Polypodium leucotomos and others contain antioxidant polyphenolic compounds that may protect the skin from sunburn and photoaging when administered topically or systemically. Extracts from the garden spurge (Euphorbia peplus) and from birch bark (Betula alba) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of actinic keratoses in phase II studies. Some plant extracts have also been investigated in the treatment of vitiligo, various forms of hair loss and pigmentation disorders, and in aesthetic dermatology.
Spontaneous Growth in Turner's Syndrome
Authors: RANKE M.B. , STUBBE P. , MAJEWSKI F. , BIERICH J.R.
Published: August 2010

Growth in Turner's syndrome can be divided into four phases: intrauterine growth is slightly retarded, normal growth occurs up to a hone age of about 3 years, with a tendency to compensate for the loss in growth during intrauterine life, stunting of growth is severe during childhood, after a hone age of about 10 years — the time when puberty normally starts ‐ the growth phase is prolonged, hut total height gain is not essentially reduced. Based on a study of 150 patients with Turner's syndrome whose spontaneous growth was observed, standards of height and height velocity (means and SDs) were calculated to allow mathematical analysis of the spontaneous growth and growth during treatment in these patients. The auxological characteristics in Turner's syndrome do not support the assumption that GH deficiency playsa primary role in the pathogenesis of the growth disorder.
Growth Patterns in Child Abuse
Authors: TAITZ L.S. , KING J.M.
Published: August 2010

This study reports clinical details and statistical analysis of linear and body mass growth retardation in a cohort of 260 abused children. Seventy‐one children (26%) showed impairment of growth for weight or height; 21 out of 92 children who spent time in foster homes showed catch‐up growth whereas only 5 out of 168 never separated from their parents demonstrated improvement in height or weight centiles. Out of 11 children placed in fostercare who were more than 2 SD below the mean for height, 10 demonstrated significant catch‐up whereas only 4 out of 28 children who remained in their natural homes did so. Catch‐up growth among children who remained at home was generally less than that which occurred in foster homes. In 17 cases diagnosis of growth impairment preceded nonaccidental injury. Growth of growth‐retarded children in natural homes was poor. Because of the relationship between poor growth and other parameters of development, children who show catch‐up growth in foster homes should probably not be‘rehabilitated’with their natural parents. Key words: Growth impairment, abuse, non‐accidental injury.
The Treatment of Persistent Diarrhoea and Malnutrition: Long‐term Effects of In‐patient Rehabilitation
Authors: SULLIVAN P. B. , MASCIE‐TAYLOR C. G. N. , LUNN P. G. , NORTHROP‐CLEWES C. A. , NEALE G.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to characterise the clinical condition of Gambian children presenting with persistent diarrhoea and severe protein energy malnutrition and to evaluate the effects of short term in‐patient treatment in terms of long‐term outcome. Twenty‐two children (aged 6 to 36 months) with persistent diarrhoea (≥ four loose stools/day for more than two weeks) and severe malnutrition (weight‐for‐height <75% of the National Center for Health Statistics median value) were assessed prior to in‐patient treatment for three weeks with antibiotics and high nutrient‐density milk. Initial assessment included biochemical and immunological status together with stool microbiology. Criteria for discharge—cessation of diarrhoea for five consecutive days and steady weight gain—were met in all subjects within four weeks. Progress was assessed clinically and anthropometrically at weekly intervals and 6 and 12 months following discharge. Results showed a steady improvement in growth during the period of in‐patient treatment. Continuing improvement in weight‐for‐age and mid‐upper arm circumference was observed after 6 and 12 months and weight‐for‐height continued to improve up to 6 months but fell back by 12 months. This study has demonstrated that, in the treatment of persistent diarrhoea in the tropics, relatively short periods of in‐patient rehabilitation, whilst leading to a resolution of diarrhoea1 symptoms and weight gain in the short term, do not lead to complete recovery. Persistent diarrhoea and malnutrition are likely to recur when the child returns to his village. It is necessary to establish in a prospective study the minimum period of supervised feeding required to ensure the ‘critical level’ of weight gain necessary for linear growth to return to normal.
Status of survivors after atrial redirection for transposition of the great arteries: a complete long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Gilljam T , Eriksson BO , Solymar L , Jönsson M
Published: August 2010

All 32 survivors with transposition of the great arteries, born in 1964‐83 and operated on at our institution using atrial redirection, were evaluated by cardiac catheterization, echocardiography and Holter monitoring. There were 17 Mustard patients, age 17.1 years (±3.5, 12.0‐22.0) and 15 Senning patients, age 9.4 years (±1.6, 7.2‐12.1). All but one had simple transposition. Six had caval obstruction, one had pulmonary venous obstruction, three had large atrial shunts, four had considerable pulmonary hypertension, seven had mild ventricular outflow tract obstruction, four had significant tricuspid regurgitation, 11 had systemic ventricle dysfunction (one severe), 14 had sinus node dysfunction (three symptomatic) and two had atrioventricular block (one with pacemaker). Eight Mustard patients (47%) and one Senning patient (7%) had symptomatic cardiac sequelae, and only one patient (Senning) was free from sequelae, illustrating that these patient groups will need continuing medical attention.
Does impaired growth of PKU patients correlate with the strictness of dietary treatment?
Authors: van Spronsen FJ , Verkerk PH , van Houten M , Smit GPA , van der Meer SB , Bakker HD , Sengers RCA
Published: August 2010

Abstract To assess whether growth retardation in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) is related to the strictness of their dietary treatment, the relationship between Z scores for height up to 3 y of age and different indices of dietary control in 103 early treated Dutch PKU patients was studied. As indices of dietary control, the mean phenylalanine (Phe) concentration, the frequency of plasma Phe concentrations < 200 and < 120 µmol/1, and the standard deviation of the individual plasma Phe concentrations were studied. These measures of the dietary control were divided into quartiles. The mean Z score of the studied patients showed a decrease of 0.18/y (SD 0.36). No statistically significant difference between any of the quartiles of the studied indices with growth retardation was found. None of the used indices of dietary control based on plasma Phe concentrations showed a relationship between different degrees of the strictness of dietary treatment with growth retardation in Dutch PKU patients.
Interactions between maternal smoking and other prenatal risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Authors: Schellscheidt J , φyen N , Jorch G
Published: August 2010

Abstract In numerous investigations, maternal smoking increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In the present study we investigated whether prenatal risk factors for SIDS modify the effect of maternal smoking on SIDS mortality. We analysed data from a population‐based cohort study (222 cases, 260,604 infants at risk) within the Westphalian Perinatal Inquiry in Germany between 1990 and 1994. In the stratified analysis, smoking was classified into non‐smoking, moderate (1–10 cigarettes/d) and heavy smoking (> 10 cigarettes/d). Multiplicative interactions between smoking and other prenatal risk factors were assessed in a logistic regression model. The relative risk (RR) for maternal smoking was 2.4 (95% confidence interval 1.7‐5.4) for moderate and 7.2 (5.3, 9.7) for heavy smokers. Previous established risk factors for SIDS, such as preterm birth, low birthweight, and number of prenatal visits did not increase the risk of SIDS among non‐smokers, but became important risk factors among smokers. In preterm infants (< 37 weeks) of heavy smokers, the RR was 19.6 (10.4, 36.8) compared to term infants of non‐smokers. Low birthweight infants (< 2500 g) of heavy smokers had a RR of 16.3 (8.4, 31.2) compared to normal weighted infants of non‐smokers. Adjustment for occupational status did not change the crude estimates. The RR of < 6 prenatal visits in the heavy smoking subgroup was 14.8 (7.2, 29.6) compared to > 9 prenatal visits in the nonsmoking strata. Heavy smoking potentiates other prenatal risk factors for SIDS suggesting an increased susceptibility towards the adverse effects of tobacco smoke in utero. In infants born to non‐smoking mothers, prenatal risk factors are absent and postnatal factors may be of major importance.
Molecular genetics of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (21‐hydroxylase deficiency): implications for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment
Authors: Wedell A
Published: August 2010

The molecular genetics of congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency are reviewed. In Sweden, mutation detection based on allele‐specific PCR has been used for genetic diagnosis of this disease since 1993. Around 400 affected 21‐hydroxylase genes have been analysed so far. An update of the spectrum of mutations among the Swedish patients shows that nine common pseudogene‐derived mutations are responsible for the disease in around 95% of alleles. A total of 13 rare, mostly population‐specific mutations have been characterized among the remaining 5%. The mutations can be divided into different groups according to severity. This makes it possible to predict clinical outcome in affected subjects based on genotyping. The risk of salt‐wasting and prenatal virilization can be estimated, and over‐treatment can be avoided in mildly affected cases.
Role of complement in immune or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Hed J
Published: August 2010

The clinical course of immune or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is variable, suggesting different mechanisms for the decreased platelet count. The complement factors C3 and C4 have been detected on platelets, both alone and in association with immunoglobulin G (IgG), and a reduced platelet survival time has been described. Platelets have the capacity to interact with the complement system since they have both complement receptors and complement regulatory proteins on their cell membranes. The membrane attack complex (C5b‐9) induced by antiplatelet antibodies generates platelet microparticles in a concentration‐dependent manner. A marked variation in resistance to this phenomenon has been demonstrated between individuals and between men and women. These platelet microparticles seem to retain their biological role in haemostasis. Platelets also appear to play a role in the processing of immune complexes. Immunoglobulins and complement factors are found in several clinical situations where circulating immune complexes are expected. Furthermore, human platelets bind immune complexes in vitro and the reaction can be blocked by antireceptor antibodies to immunoglobulins and complement. These findings raise a number of questions about the role of complement in the pathophysiology of ITP.
Platelet function in autoimmune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Rand ML , Dean JA
Published: August 2010

Platelets play an essential role in the formation of haemostatic plugs. The quantitative defect of platelets in autoimmune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) can result in bleeding complications, but most ITP patients have platelets with normal or enhanced function. Platelets in ITP are large, young, so‐called “stress” platelets with increased platelet‐associated autoimmune antibody (immunoglobulin G). Young stress platelets are more functional platelets, and their presence may account for bleeding times in ITP patients that are shorter than would be predicted on the basis of the patients' (low) platelet counts. Some ITP patients have significant mucocutaneous bleeding with platelet counts >50 × 109l−1; this may be due to qualitative platelet dysfunction (e.g. brought about by inhibitory antiplatelet autoantibodies).
Neurosensory outcome and growth at three years in extremely low birthweight infants: follow‐up results from the Swedish national prospective study
Authors: Finnström O , Olausson P Otterblad , Sedin G , Serenius F , Svenningsen N , Thiringer K , Tunell R , Wesström G
Published: August 2010

A prospective national investigation comprising 633 extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants born alive in the 2‐y period 1990‐1992 with a birthweight of ≤ 1000 g and gestational age of ≥ 23 completed weeks was conducted regarding neurosensory outcome and growth. Three‐hundred and sixty‐two (98%) surviving ELBW infants were assessed at a median age of 36 months, using a specially designed protocol. At follow‐up, mean height, weight and head circumference in both boys and girls were significantly lower than the reference values. The incidence of cerebral palsy was 7% among all children and 14%, 10% and 3% in children born at 23‐24,25‐26 and ≥ 27 gestational weeks, respectively. At least one obvious handicap was present in 14%, 9% and 3% of these three groups of children, respectively. After adjustment for gestational age, a significantly increased risk of handicap was found in children with intraventricular haemorrhage grade ≥ 3 and/or periventricular leucomalacia and in children with retinopathy of prematurity stage ≥ 3. The results show that more than 90% of ELBW children born at ≥ 25 completed gestational weeks were without neurosensory handicap at 36 months of corrected age. In infants born at 23–24 weeks of gestation, both survival and long‐term outcome were less favourable.