bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The condylar asymmetry‐age relationship in determining myogenous or arthrogenous origin of pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: MILLER V.J. , ZELTSER R. , ZELTSER CH. , YOELI Z.
Published: May 2007

summary
The relation of age to asymmetry index of the condyles of the temporomandibular joint differs for groups of patients with a myogenous and arthrogenous origin of pain. It was decided to investigate if this has clinical diagnostic significance. Twenty‐eight patients complaining of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) were included in this study. All were dentate with a maximum of five missing teeth including third molars allowed. Condylar asymmetry was measured according to the method of Habets, and this was used to compute the expected patient age for both curves. The patient was assigned to the group with computed age closest to true age. The association between category derived from graphs and that from clinical diagnosis was studied. There was agreement clinically and graphically in 25 of 28 patients. The Kappa statistic to explore the agreement between the two methods gave a value of 0–78, which allows rejection of the hypothesis that agreement was based on chance alone.
Ten‐year follow‐up study of signs and symptoms of craniomandibular disorders in adults with intact and restored dentitions
Authors: KAMPE T. , HANNERZ H. , STRÖM P.
Published: May 2007

summary
Signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) and oral parafunctions were reexamined in subjects, 25–26 years of age, 10 years after the first examination. Forty subjects had restored dentitions at both examinations (group F), 18 subjects with previously intact dentitions had had fillings in their teeth during the follow‐up period (group FI), and 11 subjects had intact dentitions at both examinations (group I). Signs and symptoms of CMD were more common among the subjects in group F than in the original group of subjects with intact teeth (group 10). In accordance with the first study most of the symptoms were mild and of low frequency. However, frequent symptoms were only found among the subjects in group F1 and group F and more severe frequent symptoms only in group F. There was an increase of the symptoms in group FI and group F. Frequent tooth clenching and frequent tongue pressing were more common in group F and there was a statistically significant increase in group FI concerning tooth clenching and tooth grinding and in group F concerning tooth grinding, tooth clenching and tongue pressing. Together with the correlations found between tooth clenching and signs and symptoms of CMD, the findings in this study and the personality study indicate a possible causal relationship between oral parafunctions, signs and symptoms of CMD, personality and fillings. A hypothesis for the possible mechanisms is presented. However, the findings are not conclusive and more studies are necessary, and for further interpretation of the results, studies from other research centres would be of interest.
Height of the residual ridge and radiographic appearance of bony structure in the jaws of clinically edentulous elderly people
Authors: SOIKKONEN K. , AINAMO A. , XIE Q.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
Alveolar atrophy and its relation to osteo‐penia of the mandible were studied in 124 edentulous 76‐, and 81‐ and 86‐year‐old subjects (32 males and 92 females). Both variables were assessed visually from panoramic radiographs. Mandibular alveolar atrophy was found to be more severe in women (P < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found between the three age‐groups in mandibular alveolar atrophy, nor between the sexes or agegroups in maxillary alveolar atrophy. The structure of the mandibular bone was osteopenic in 38 patients (30.7%), a situation that was more frequent in women (P < 0.001). The relationship between the observed osteopenia and the severity of the mandibular alveolar atrophy in women was statistically significant (P < 0.05).
The effects of cross‐linking agents on the water sorption and solubility characteristics of denture base resin
Authors: ARIMA T. , MURATA H. , HAMAD T.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
Six different cross‐linking agents were added to the monomer component of an autopolymerizing denture base resin, and their effects on the water sorption and solubility were investigated. The results of this study suggested that the chemical nature of the polymer versus that of the water molecule directly affected the water sorption of denture base resin. The addition of a cross‐linking agent decreased the solubility with increasing concentration.
Shortened dental arch therapy: views of consultants in restorative dentistry in the United Kingdom
Authors: ALLEN P.F. , WITTER D.F. , WILSON N.H.F. , KAYSER A.F.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
This paper reports the results of a study on the attitudes of the consultants in restorative dentistry (CRD) in the UK towards shortened dental arch therapy (SDAT). Data were collected by means of questionnaire, with a response of 67% achieved. The results indicate that 95% (n = 87) of the 91 participants in the study were of the opinion that SDA has a place in contemporary clinical practice. Eighty (88%) of the participants reported having prescribed SDA therapy during the last 5 years, the number of these patients requiring < 5 units of crown and bridgework being typically less than 25%. Forty‐one (45%) of the participants reported patients being considered for SDAT expressing reservations about the outcome of their treatment, although around 75 (82%) of the participants indicated that SDAT was satisfactory in terms of oral function, comfort and well being. Experience of having to extend shortened dental arches following SDAT was limited to 34 (37%) of the participants. It is concluded that SDA is widely accepted but not widely practiced by CRDs in the UK and that, in patients satisfying existing criteria, the outcome of SDAT may be found to be acceptable in approximately 82% of cases.
A study of maxillofacial injuries in the elderly resulting from falls
Authors: CHEW D.J. , EDMONDSON H.D.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
Falls are a major problem for the elderly, both in terms of the injuries sustained and the consequent loss of confidence and independence. Many studies, both prospective and retrospective, have investigated the possible causes and the resulting injuries following falls. However, no specific consideration appears to have been given to maxillofacial injuries. This survey examines the incidence of such injuries, over a three year period, in elderly patients presenting at an Accident and Emergency Department, and reviews the causes. Recognition of old age abuse is an essential aspect of the assessment of injuries in this group of patients.
Fracture surface characteristics of damaged acrylic‐resinbased dentures as analysed by SEM‐replica technique
Authors: VALLITTU P. K.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
The aim of this study was to determine some characteristics of the fracture surface of an acrylic resin denture. For this purpose, five complete upper dentures and two complete lower dentures that had fractured into two pieces were collected, the fracture surfaces were duplicated with the SEM‐replica technique and duplicated surfaces were investigated with a scanning electron microscope. The reproducibility of the SEM‐replica technique was tested by comparing one original sample surface and its replica surface of the same area. The SEM‐photomicrographs revealed a series of fine striations in the fracture surfaces of both the upper and lower dentures perpendicularly orientated to the direction of the fracture propagation. A smooth area on the fracture surface was assumed to indicate a slow fatigue fracture process, and a rougher area fracturing with increased velocity.
A computerized method for evaluating balance of occlusal load
Authors: MATSUI Y. , OHNO K. , MICHI K. , SUZUKI Y. , YAMAGATA K.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
In order to undertake a quantitative evaluation of balance occlusal load, the use of the Dental Prescale System® was investigated. The method uses a test sheet that undergoes a colour‐developing chemical reaction, for detecting contact area, and a computerized analysis system, for evaluating the balance of occlusal load. Twenty natural dentate subjects and 10 hemimaxillectomy patients participated in the study. Each subject bit a test sheet as hard as possible for 3 s. The balance of occlusal load was expressed as a percentage of the load on the side with the lesser occlusive load (%OLR). The %OLR ranged from 39.7% to 49.4% in the natural dentate subjects, and from 0% to 31.3% in the hemimaxillectomy patients at their resection site. The patients’low %OLRs were attributed to loss of sustaining structure and subjective occlusal adjustment by clinicians. Combining technical simplicity, relatively high reproducibility, and diverse analysis capability, this system is useful for quantitative evaluation of balance of occlusal load in clinical situations.
Age changes in the rat temporomandibular joint articular disc: a biochemical study on glycosaminoglycan content
Authors: OKAZAKI J. , KAMADA A. , HIGUCHI Y. , KANABAYASHI T. , SAKAKI T. , GONDA Y.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articular discs were removed from female Sprague‐Dawley rats 3, 5, 10, 32, 90 and 130 weeks of age. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGS) were extracted from the discs by heat treatment, alkali treatment and digestion with Pronase E, and purified by precipitation with cetylpyridinium chloride and ethanol. The concentration of total GAG was highest in the 3 week extracts and tended to decrease with age. Dermatan sulphate was the predominant GAG detected in all age groups along with chondroitin sulphate, hyaluronic acid and heparan sulphate. The disaccharides obtained from chondroitin sulphate were ΔDi‐4S, ΔDi‐6S and ΔDi‐OS, with ADi‐4S being the predominant isomer followed by ADi‐6S for all ages of all the GAG examined. The concentration of chondroitin sulphate showed a decrease with age. Quantitative changes of GAG with age may be related to functional changes in TMJ discs.
Diagnosis and mode of treatment for ‘pseudo’‐class III patients and its effects on masticatory movements
Authors: HOCHMAN N. , EHRLICH Y. , YAFFE A.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
This paper describes the treatment and functional analysis of 18 ‘pseudo’‐class III patients. Clinical examination revealed IC‐RC discrepancies, aesthetic aberrations and functional disturbances. The improvement of these parameters upon treatment was followed by sirognathographic recordings.
Trauma in patients with temporomandibular disorders: frequency and treatment outcome
Authors: DE Boever J.A. , Keersmaekers K.
Published: May 2007

summary
Controversy exists on the aetiological importance and the effect of jaw macrotrauma (fractures excluded) on the occurrence of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of jaw injury in TMD patients and to compare the severity of the symptoms, the clinical characteristics and the treatment outcome in TMD patients with or without a history of trauma to the head and neck region directly linked to the onset of symptoms. The study sample included 400 consecutive TMD clinical patients. In 24.5% of patients the onset of the pain and dysfunction could be linked directly to the trauma, mainly whiplash accidents. No significant differences could be found between the two groups in daily recurrent headache, dizziness, neck pain, joint crepitation and pain in the joints. Maximal mouth opening was less than 20 mm in 14.3% of patients with a history of trauma and in 4.1% of those without such a history. According to the Helkimo dysfunction index (DI), more trauma than non‐trauma TMD patients belonged to the severe dysfunction groups (DI 4 and 5) at first examination. The outcome of a conservative treatment procedure (counselling, occlusal splint, physiotherapy, occasionally occlusal therapy and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammation drugs was not different between the two groups at the 1 year evaluation. The degree of maximal opening was similar: less than 20 mm in 3.7% and 2.2% in trauma and non‐trauma patients respectively. Forty percent and 41% respectively were symptom free or had DI = 1. The results suggest that external trauma to the joint or to the jaw in general is an important initiating factor in the aetiology of TMD but also that the prognosis is favourable.
Movement and signal analysis by means of a computer‐assisted system
Authors: Hamborg R. , Karlsson S.
Published: May 2007

summary
The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of an optoelectronic system for recording mandibular movements and the conformity of simultaneous recordings of the electromyographic activity in the masseter, the temporal and the suprahyoid muscles. A simulator test to identify the inherent noise of the MacReflex motion analysis system was performed by means of a micrometer screw. The test showed a very small noise inherent in the clinical set‐up of the monitoring system. The values obtained also reflected external vibrations. A clinical pilot study was performed to find a feasible site for attaching the reflective markers, either to the incisal teeth of the mandible or as chin marker. In tests including the muscle activity, the conformity between the curves of the movement and muscle activity was good. The method was easy to use in clinical tests, the software of the system reduced the analysis time to a minimum and a number of variables could be measured with a high degree of precision.
Repair strength of heat‐pressed ceramics
Authors: Uctasli S.
Published: May 2007

summary
The bond strengths of porcelain bonded to porcelain specimens using two different filled resin‐based cements were compared by means of notched‐disc test specimens. As a control group, unrepaired porcelain test specimens were fractured. Additionally, one group of broken half‐repairs was achieved by applying a bonding agent only. The control test specimens had significantly higher fracture strengths (P < 0.05) than the specimens bonded with either bonding agent or resin‐based cements. No difference between the resin‐based cements was found (P>005).
The acquisition and validation of removable partial denture design knowledge. I. Methodology and overview
Authors: DAVENPORT J.C. , HAMMOND P.
Published: May 2007

summary
The authors report on the eliciting of the partial denture design expertise of teachers of prosthetic dentistry. Their approach was to identify 125 design rules and then to sample expert reaction by surveying 10 experts individually and by surveying the prosthetic departments in all 17 dental schools in the British Isles. The surveys achieved a return of 100% and revealed an unsuspected consensus concerning the rules. A majority of schools were in agreement on whether or not 111 (89%) of the rules could be supported. This design expertise will be disseminated through RaPiD, a knowledge‐based assistant for the design of removable partial dentures. It is expected that by incorporating into this design assistant rules which have been shown to be widely supported, the acceptability and usefulness of RaPiD for clinical education and practice will be increased.
Long‐term observations of extensive fixed partial dentures on mandibular canine teeth
Authors: CARLSON B.R. , YONTCHEV E.
Published: May 2007

summary
Twelve patients were followed for 15 years after treatment with a 12‐unit cantilever fixed partial denture on the mandibular canines opposite to a complete maxillary denture. Four constructions failed and had to be removed but four were still in function after 15 years. Four patients died during the observation period still wearing their constructions. Endodontic complications, pulpal necrosis and loss of retention of posts were the most frequent, while caries and periodontal lesions were rare. The maintenance costs over the years were fairly low even compared to the maintenance costs for patients treated with implants. Extensive mandibular cantilever fixed partial dentures may be used in the rehabilitation of patients with a very reduced dentition and a history of difficulties in adapting to removable dentures.
Light‐activated restorative materials: a method of determining effective radiation times
Authors: HARRINGTON E. , WILSON H.J. , SHORTALL A.C.
Published: May 2007

summary
The aim of this investigation was to develop a test method that allows an operator to determine the appropriate radiation time for any light‐activated material, irrespective of the characteristics of the light‐activation unit or material to be cured. A computer‐based radiometer was used to monitor the radiation energy transmitted through a number of light‐activated materials during irradiation, and a method was devised to determine the predicted radiation time for any given material/shade/light unit combination based upon the change in transmission against time that occurred as the material polymerized. Additional test samples were cured for the predicted radiation times and upper and lower surface microhardness measurements were taken to verify the validity of the test method. Predicted times varied from 16 to 44 s for 2 mm thick samples of the materials/shade/light‐activation units used. This method may allow operators to determine appropriate radiation times for any new light‐activated restorative they decide to use with their own light‐activation unit.
Characteristics of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in Japanese women
Authors: Osakabe Mitsumasa , Hayashi Masahiro , Katayama Yousei , Emura Iwao , Nemoto Keiichi , Umezu Hajime , Saitoh Ken , Motoyama Teiichi
Published: May 2007

Although the presence of racial differences in vulvar squamous cell carcinomas has been suggested, fully analyzed data concerning such tumors in Japanese women have not been reported. A total of 21 vulvar squamous cell carcinomas of Japanese women who lived in north‐east Japan, were studied with respect to histological subtype, HPV, p53 and p16INK4a. The majority of tumors consisted of keratinizing and non‐keratinizing types (16/21, 76%), all of which were negative for HPV. The remaining five tumors of basaloid, warty or verrucous types were positive for HPV. HPV‐negative tumors showed a trend of greater accumulation of gene abnormalities, including p53 gene mutation, than HPV‐positive ones. p16INK4a overexpression was shown to not always be a marker for vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in Japanese women with activated high‐risk HPV.
Factor XIIIa‐positive dermal dendritic cells in keloids and hypertrophic and mature scars
Authors: Onodera Masayuki , Ueno Masaki , Ito Osamu , Suzuki Shigehiko , Igawa Hiroharu H. , Sakamoto Haruhiko
Published: May 2007

Keloids and hypertrophic scars have several common features. Both are reddish, firm, slightly protruding lesions that consist of proliferative fibroblastic cells and collagenous tissues. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the contribution of factor XIIIa (FXIIIa)‐positive dermal dendritic cells to formation of keloids and hypertrophic scars. The numbers of FXIIIa‐positive cells were counted in the keloid, hypertrophic scar and mature scar, each of which was divided into fibrocollagenous area and superficial dermal area overlying the nodular lesion. The features of the FXIIIa‐positive cells were examined using immunohistochemical and immunoelectron microscopic techniques. More FXIIIa‐positive cells were present in the overlying dermal area than in the fibrocollagenous area, commonly in three types of dermal lesion. The number of FXIIIa‐positive dendritic cells was significantly greater in the overlying dermal area of keloids than in the corresponding area of hypertrophic or mature scar. Immunoelectron microscopic examination showed that the immunoreactivity for FXIIIa was seen mainly at the periphery of the cytoplasm of dermal dendritic cells. These results suggest that FXIIIa‐positive dendritic cells in the overlying dermal area play active roles in formation of keloids and may contribute to dermal–epidermal interactions in keloids.
Quantitative image analysis in adipose tissue using an automated image analysis system: Differential effects of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α and ‐γ agonist on white and brown adipose tissue morphology in AKR obese and db/db diabetic mice
Authors: Okamoto Yuji , Higashiyama Hiroyuki , Inoue Hiroki , Kanematsu Masahiro , Kinoshita Mine , Asano Satoshi
Published: May 2007

Morphometric analysis of adipocytes is widely used to demonstrate the effects of antiobesity drugs or anti‐diabetic drugs on adipose tissues. However, adipocyte morphometry has been quantitatively performed by manual object extraction using conventional image analysis systems. The authors have developed an automated quantitative image analysis method for adipose tissues using an innovative object‐based quantitative image analysis system (eCognition). Using this system, it has been shown quantitatively that morphological features of adipose tissues of mice treated with peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) agonists differ dramatically depending on the type of PPAR agonist. Marked alteration of morphological characteristics of brown adipose tissue (BAT) treated with GI259578A, a PPAR‐α agonist, was observed in AKR/J (AKR) obese mice. Furthermore, there was a 22.8% decrease in the mean size of adipocytes in white adipose tissue (WAT) compared with vehicle. In diabetic db/db mice, the PPAR‐γ agonist GW347845X decreased the mean size of adipocytes in WAT by 15.4% compared with vehicle. In contrast to changes in WAT, GW347845X increased the mean size of adipocytes in BAT greatly by 96.1% compared with vehicle. These findings suggest that GI259578A may activate fatty acid oxidation in BAT and that GW347845X may cause adipocyte differentiation in WAT and enhancement of lipid storage in BAT.
Histopathological bone marrow changes after reduced‐intensity hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for follicular lymphoma involving bone marrow
Authors: Maeda Takashi , Shiozawa Eisuke , Saito Bungo , Usui Takako , Nakashima Hidetoshi , Hattori Norimichi , Adachi Daisuke , Yanagisawa Kouji , Kawakami Keiichiro , Nakamaki Tsuyoshi , Tomoyasu Shigeru , Yamochi‐Onizuka Toshiko , Takimoto Masafumi , Ota Hidekazu
Published: May 2007

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) is used as curative therapy for malignant lymphoma, and reduced‐intensity hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (RIST) is sometimes performed to avoid the toxicity and mortality associated with myeloablative allo‐SCT. RIST is generally preferred for elderly patients with malignant lymphoma. A 62‐year‐old woman with follicular lymphoma (FL) involving bone marrow (BM) suffered relapse after autologous SCT. RIST was performed; cells were from an unrelated, fully human leukocyte antigen‐matched donor. To study the hematopoietic reconstitution, BM biopsy specimens that were obtained at different times after RIST, were evaluated. Engraftment of donor cells was observed on days 19 and 48 after RIST, and residual FL in BM had completely disappeared by day 73 after RIST. This is the first report to document histological BM regeneration after RIST and disappearance of FL involving the BM.
Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy resulting from metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma of the stomach
Authors: Sakashita Naomi , Yokose Chiharu , Fujii Kazuhiko , Matsumoto Mitsuhiro , Ohnishi Koji , Takeya Motohiro
Published: May 2007

Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy is an unusual malignancy‐related respiratory complication characterized by multiple microthrombi and intimal myofibroblast proliferation. Its clinical manifestation is subacute respiratory failure with pulmonary hypertension. Herein is reported a case of pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy associated with gastric signet ring cell carcinoma. A 51‐year‐old woman with gastric cancer died of subacute respiratory failure. Autopsy showed gastric signet ring cell carcinoma with diffuse metastasis of pulmonary lymphatics and pleurae; every organ examined lacked a space‐occupying tumor mass. Histologically, proliferated intimal myofibroblasts obliterated most of the pulmonary vascular lumen, and a few stenosed vascular lumina contained cancer cells. In addition, pulmonary vasculature associated with intimal proliferation contained microthrombi. Most cancer cells in the stomach and pulmonary lymphatics were typical signet ring cells, whereas those in vascular lesions were cells of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma without mucous production. Consistent with a previous report, the latter expressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tissue factor (TF). The proliferated intimal myofibroblasts also expressed type 2A serotonin receptor (5‐HT2A). These findings suggest that local expression of VEGF, TF, and 5‐HT2A may be linked to the pathogenesis of this unusual pulmonary complication.
Microbial control of phosphate in the nutrient‐depleted North Atlantic subtropical gyre
Authors: Zubkov Mikhail V. , Mary Isabelle , Woodward E. Malcolm S. , Warwick Phillip E. , Fuchs Bernhard M. , Scanlan David J. , Burkill Peter H.
Published: May 2007

Little is known about the dynamics of dissolved phosphate in oligotrophic areas of the world's oceans, where concentrations are typically in the nanomolar range. Here, we have budgeted phosphate uptake by the dominant microbial groups in order to assess the effect of the microbial control of this depleted nutrient in the North Atlantic gyre. Low concentrations (2.2 ± 1.2 nM) and rapid microbial uptake (2.1 ± 2.4 nM day−1) of bioavailable phosphate were repeatedly determined in surface waters of the North Atlantic oligotrophic gyre during spring and autumn research cruises, using a radiotracer dilution bioassay technique. Upper estimates of the concentration of bioavailable phosphate were 7–55% of the dissolved mineral phosphate suggesting that a considerable part of the chemically measured nanomolar phosphate was in a form unavailable for direct microbial uptake. A 1:1 relationship (r2 = 0.96, P < 0.0001) was observed between the bioavailable total phosphate uptake and the phosphate uptake of all the flow sorted bacterioplankton cells, demonstrating that bacterioplankton were the main consumers of phosphate. Within the bacterioplankton a group of heterotrophic bacteria and Prochlorococcus phototrophic cyanobacteria, were the two major competing groups for bioavailable phosphate. These heterotrophic bacteria had low nucleic acid content and 60% of them comprised of SAR11 clade cells based on the results of fluorescence in situ hybridization. Each of the two competing bacterial groups was responsible for an average of 45% of the phosphate uptake, while Synechococcus cyanobacteria (7%) and picoplanktonic algae (0.3%) played minor roles in direct phosphate uptake. We have demonstrated that phosphate uptake in the oligotrophic gyre is rapid and dominated by two bacterial groups rather than by algae.
Functional screening of a metagenomic library for genes involved in microbial degradation of aromatic compounds
Authors: Suenaga Hikaru , Ohnuki Tsutomu , Miyazaki Kentaro
Published: May 2007

A metagenomic approach was taken to retrieve catabolic operons for aromatic compounds from activated sludge used to treat coke plant wastewater. Metagenomic DNA extracted from the sludge was cloned into fosmids and the resulting Escherichia coli library was screened for extradiol dioxygenases (EDOs) using catechol as a substrate, yielding 91 EDO‐positive clones. Based on their substrate specificity for various catecholic compounds, 38 clones were subjected to sequence analysis. Each insert contained at least one EDO gene, and a total of 43 EDO genes were identified. More than half of these belonged to new EDO subfamilies: I.1.C (2 clones), I.2.G (20 clones), I.3.M (2 clones) and I.3.N (1 clone). The fact that novel I.2.G family genes were over‐represented in these clones suggested that these genes play a specific role in environmental aromatic degradation. The I.2.G clones were further classified into six groups based on single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Based on the combination of the SNPs, the evolutionary lineage of the genes was reconstructed; further, taking the activities of the clones into account, potential adaptive mutations were identified. The metagenomic approach was thus used to retrieve novel EDO genes as well as to gain insights into the gene evolution of EDOs.
The Dispute Settlement Mechanism of the WTO: A Brief History and an Evaluation from Economic, Contractarian and Legal Perspectives
Authors: Srinivasan T. N.
Published: May 2007

Any rule‐based system has to include a mechanism for the enforcement of its rules and a means for settlement of disputes about alleged violation of rules. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), concluded in 1947, and its successor the World Trade Organisation (WTO) that subsumed it in 1995, embody rules governing the global trading system as specified in various agreements that their members have entered into over time. Naturally, both had a dispute settlement mechanism (DSM). It was a primarily political one in the GATT and was transformed into a largely legalistic one in the multilateral agreement that established the WTO. This paper reviews the history and evaluation of the two DSMs and examines their efficiency based on appropriate criteria. It views them from three alternative and overlapping perspectives: political‐diplomatic, legal‐economic and social. It concludes with a discussion of the unresolved problems in the operation of the WTO's DSM and the prospects of resolving them in the ongoing Doha Round of multilateral trade negotiations.
The Regulation of Professional Migration: Insights from the Health and IT Sectors in ASEAN
Authors: Manning Chris , Sidorenko Alexandra
Published: May 2007

This paper develops several indicators to measure the extent and depth of rules governing international migration. It is set in the context of moves towards further liberalisation of services trade and associated labour mobility (Mode 4) under GATS and related regional trading arrangements. Ten Southeast Asian countries at various stages of economic development are examined as a case study, with special reference to health care and information technology. These sectors are priority sectors for regional cooperation in services trade in ASEAN, but were expected to represent opposite extremes in terms of the regulation of migration. The study finds that the more advanced countries tend to have more liberal regimes for international movements of skilled manpower, although there were smaller differences regarding general visa and work permit arrangements. Generic restrictions on mobility were related to trade policies, as well as to direct barriers (often country‐specific) to migration. They included minimum salary requirement, levies on foreign workers, economic needs tests, and limitations related to language, education and job experience. Controls were more extensive in the health care sector, related to social considerations as well as professional organisational interests.
Cladribine in aggressive forms of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Martinez‐Rodriguez J. E. , Cadavid D. , Wolansky L. J. , Pliner L. , Cook S. D.
Published: May 2007

Cladribine (2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine) is an immunosuppressant drug previously evaluated in multiple sclerosis (MS) with variable results. We report six patients with aggressive relapsing MS who despite a poor response to other therapies had a favourable clinical evolution after cladribine. Four women and two men with a rapid increase in the number and severity of relapses leading to increasing disability [mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 6.42, standard deviation ± 0.58, mean relapse rate per year in the 2 years prior to study entry 2.67 ± 0.75] were retrospectively evaluated. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed in five patients showed active disease with gadolinium‐enhancing lesions. Cladribine was given at 0.07 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days once monthly with a total of 2‐ to 4‐monthly courses. After 6 months, mean EDSS decreased to 3.75 ± 1.64 and MRIs showed a decrease or suppression in the number of gadolinium‐enhancing lesions. After 1 year from first dose, cladribine dosage was repeated in four patients because of recurrence of relapses with subsequent similar positive clinical results. In the follow‐up period (49.33 ± 39.66 months), the mean relapse rate decreased to 0.71 ± 0.55 and no unexpected or serious adverse events were observed.
Imaging of acetylcholine esterase activity in brainstem nuclei involved in regulation of sleep and wakefulness
Authors: Eggers C. , Szelies B. , Bauer B. , Wienhard K. , Schröder H. , Herholz K. , Heiss W.‐D.
Published: May 2007

Positron emission tomography with 11C‐N‐methyl‐4‐piperidyl‐acetate (MP4A) was applied in eight healthy volunteers and two patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) to assess acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity in magnetic resonance imaging‐identified brainstem nuclei. Uptake ratios in lateral dorsal tegmental and pedunculopontine nuclei relative to cerebellum yielded reproducible values for the AChE activity in controls and reduced values in AD, more marked in a patient with complaints of disturbed sleep. Cortical AChE activity was related to the extent of cognitive impairment which was more severe in the AD patient without sleep disturbance. This preliminary observational study demonstrates the feasibility to image and assess AChE activity in small nuclei of the brain stem. This approach may be helpful to investigate the interaction of various nuclei in the complex network regulating sleep and wakefulness in representative patient groups with documented sleep disturbance.
Anterior opercular syndrome in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin‐only immunoreactive neuronal changes
Authors: Rektorova I. , Matej R.
Published: May 2007

This paper presents for the first time an anterior opercular syndrome in association with a gait disorder, dropped head syndrome, dysphagia, and sialorrhea in a neuropathologically proven case of frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin inclusions.
Action and object naming in Parkinson's disease without dementia
Authors: Cotelli M. , Borroni B. , Manenti R. , Zanetti M. , Arévalo A. , Cappa S. F. , Padovani A.
Published: May 2007

The present study aimed to assess the ability in objects and actions naming in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Further, we wished to assess the effect of a particular conceptual dimension, i.e. manipulability, on the naming of object and actions. Patients were recruited from the Department of Neurology, University of Brescia. Thirty‐two were diagnosed as PD, according to published criteria, and 15 healthy volunteers matched in age and education to patients’ sample. All patients underwent a detailed clinical and neurological evaluation. The stimuli used in the action–object picture naming task were taken from the Center for Research in Language‐International Picture Naming Project corpus. To assess the effect of manipulability (or the involvement of fine hand movements) the noun–verb stimuli were re‐categorized into manipulable and non‐manipulable items (i.e. objects which can or cannot be manipulated and actions which do or do not involve fine hand movements). Patients showed a deficit both in action and object naming, compared with controls. In addition, patients with PD but not controls were significantly more impaired in action than in object naming. The current study supports the view that action naming is affected in patients with PD, possibly reflecting the presence of prefrontal dysfunction.
Brain research has high returns but Europe is lagging behind
Authors: Sobocki P. , Olesen J. , Jönsson B.
Published: May 2007

We have shown that brain disorders cost Europe almost €400 billion annually, whereas the funding for brain research is only 1% of that amount. There is a growing understanding of the ability of research to improve prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of brain disease and thereby reduce the burden on the affected individuals and on society. New studies have shown that brain research is highly profitable, with conservatively measured annual returns of 50% or more. However, funding of brain research in Europe, particularly public funding, is lagging behind when compared with the US. We argue that increased public investment in brain research in Europe is critical and will most likely be highly cost‐effective to European society. If Europe wants to remain competitive in the field of brain research, public investments must be increased several fold over today's investment.
Age‐related white matter lesions are associated with reduction of the apparent diffusion coefficient in the cerebellum
Authors: Bugalho P. , Viana‐Baptista M. , Jordão C. , Secca M. F. , Ferro J. M.
Published: May 2007

Cerebellar apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) was found to be increased after acute cerebral hemispheric stroke. There are no data on cerebellar ADC changes in patients with chronic, age‐related white matter lesions (ARWML). We aimed to determine longitudinal ADC variations on cerebral hemispheric and cerebellar white matter regions of patients with ARWML in order to study relations between ADC changes in both regions. ADC was measured serially (1‐year interval) on lesioned periventricular frontal white matter, frontal and parietoccipital normal appearing white matter and middle cerebellar peduncles, on 19 aged patients with ARWML, which also underwent gait assessment. We compared regional ADC at 0 and 1 year and calculated variation percentages for each region. Correlation analysis was made between ADC variation in cerebellar regions and in contralateral hemispheric regions and between cerebellar ADC at 1 year and walking speed. After 1 year, ADC was higher on lesioned periventricular frontal white matter and lower on cerebellar regions. ADC variations on these regions were negatively correlated. Cerebellar ADC measured after 1 year was positively correlated with walking speed. This suggests a link between vascular disease progression inside frontal lesions and ADC reduction in contralateral cerebellar peduncles. Chronic ischemia in frontal white matter could have interrupted frontal‐cerebellar circuits, producing hypometabolism in cerebellar regions (and worse performance on motor tasks), decreased perfusion and hence ADC reduction.
Association between Helicobacter pylori infection and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Kountouras J. , Tsolaki M. , Boziki M. , Gavalas E. , Zavos C. , Stergiopoulos C. , Kapetanakis N. , Chatzopoulos D. , Venizelos I.
Published: May 2007

The association of Helicobacter pylori infection and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has recently been addressed, but no relative data exist regarding mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a prodromal phase of AD. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate H. pylori infection, by histology in a Greek MCI cohort. Sixty‐three consecutive patients with amnestic MCI and 35 normal controls underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, histologic and serological examinations. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 88.9% (56/63) in MCI patients and 48.6% (17/35) in anaemic controls, as confirmed by biopsy (P < 0.001, odds ratio: 8.47, 95% CI: 3.03–23.67). Mean serum anti‐H. pylori IgG concentration and plasma total homocysteine (Hcy) titre were higher in MCI patients than controls (74.86 ± 57.22 vs. 17.37 ± 9.30 U/ml; and 16.03 ± 4.28 vs. 13.5 ± 1.20 μmol/l; P < 0.001 and P = 0.015, respectively). When compared with the anaemic participants, MCI patients exhibited more often multifocal (body and antral) gastritis (92.1% vs. 68.6%; P = 0.03); in H. pylori positive MCI patients cognitive state correlated with serum anti‐H. pylori IgG concentration. In conclusion, H. pylori prevalence was significantly higher in MCI patients than controls. This infection might contribute, at least in part, to the pathophysiology of MCI, possibly through induction of chronic atrophic gastritis and elevated Hcy consequences.
Pitfalls in the diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and primary angiitis of the central nervous system
Authors: Koopman K. , Uyttenboogaart M. , Luijckx G.J. , De Keyser J. , Vroomen P.C.A.J.
Published: May 2007

A case of a 51‐year‐old woman with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) without an associative cause is reported. Initially the diagnosis primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS) was considered. Both diagnosis are rare and can mimic each other. Distinction between both can be difficult, but is necessary because of different treatment options. Clinical features and diagnostic assessments to distinguish RCVS from PACNS and the potential pitfalls are discussed.
Railing Rhymes Revisited: Libels, Scandals, and Early Stuart Politics
Authors: Bellany Alastair
Published: May 2007

This article surveys and assesses recent interdisciplinary scholarship on early Stuart verse libels – scandalous, defamatory poems surreptitiously circulating criticism of courtiers, councilors, and royal policies. It situates this scholarship within revisionist and post‐revisionist historians’ debates on the nature of early Stuart politics and the causes of the English Revolution, and within the cultural turn in early modern studies and in the discipline of history at large. The article then surveys what scholars have argued about the libel as a form of political media operating within an early modern literary underground and an emerging public sphere, and as a form of political expression which articulated serious critique through allegations of sexual and other forms of personal corruption. It concludes with suggestions for future research.
LRP16 is fused to RUNX1 in monocytic leukemia cell line with t(11;21)(q13;q22)
Authors: Imagama Shizuka , Abe Akihiro , Suzuki Momoko , Hayakawa Fumihiko , Katsumi Akira , Emi Nobuhiko , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Naoe Tomoki
Published: May 2007

Objective: The RUNX1 (also known as AML1) gene is observed frequently as the target of chromosomal rearrangements in human acute leukemia. We describe here a previously unreported rearrangement, t(11;21)(q13;q22), that disrupts the RUNX1 gene in a patient with acute leukemia and the molecular analysis of the fusion gene.Methods: We have established a monocytic leukemia cell line, ELAM‐1, from a patient with acute leukemia evolving from myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Translocation (11;21) (q13;q22) was observed in both patient leukemia cells and ELAM‐1.Results: The split signal of RUNX1 was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization and indicated the involvement of RUNX1 in ELAM‐1. Using 3′‐ Rapid amplification of cDNA ends and reverse transcription‐Polymerase chain reaction analysis, we detected both RUNX1 (exon 5)‐LRP16 and RUNX1 (exon 6)‐LRP16 transcripts, suggesting that the RUNX1 breakpoint lies in intron 6 and that alternative fusion splice variants are generated. Reciprocal LRP16‐RUNX1 fusion was also detected.Conclusions: We identified a novel RUNX1 fusion partner, LRP16 on 11q13 involving t(11;21)(q13;q22). Although it was reported that overexpression of LRP16 promotes human breast cancer cell proliferation, the function of LRP16 in leukemia remains to be studied. This fusion gene and cell line may provide a new research tool to investigate the mechanism of leukemogenesis generated by the RUNX1 fusion gene.
Functional analysis of cell‐free‐produced human endothelin B receptor reveals transmembrane segment 1 as an essential area for ET‐1 binding and homodimer formation
Authors: Klammt Christian , Srivastava Ankita , Eifler Nora , Junge Friederike , Beyermann Michael , Schwarz Daniel , Michel Hartmut , Doetsch Volker , Bernhard Frank
Published: May 2007

The functional and structural characterization of G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) still suffers from tremendous difficulties during sample preparation. Cell‐free expression has recently emerged as a promising alternative approach for the synthesis of polytopic integral membrane proteins and, in particular, for the production of G‐protein‐coupled receptors. We have now analyzed the quality and functional folding of cell‐free produced human endothelin type B receptor samples as an example of the rhodopsin‐type family of G‐protein‐coupled receptors in correlation with different cell‐free expression modes. Human endothelin B receptor was cell‐free produced as a precipitate and subsequently solubilized in detergent, or was directly synthesized in micelles of various supplied mild detergents. Purified cell‐free‐produced human endothelin B receptor samples were evaluated by single‐particle analysis and by ligand‐binding assays. The soluble human endothelin B receptor produced is predominantly present as dimeric complexes without detectable aggregation, and the quality of the sample is very similar to that of the related rhodopsin isolated from natural sources. The binding of human endothelin B receptor to its natural peptide ligand endothelin‐1 is demonstrated by coelution, pull‐down assays, and surface plasmon resonance assays. Systematic functional analysis of truncated human endothelin B receptor derivatives confined two key receptor functions to the membrane‐localized part of human endothelin B receptor. A 39 amino acid fragment spanning residues 93–131 and including the proposed transmembrane segment 1 was identified as a central area involved in endothelin‐1 binding as well as in human endothelin B receptor homo‐oligomer formation. Our approach represents an efficient expression technique for G‐protein‐coupled receptors such as human endothelin B receptor, and might provide a valuable tool for fast structural and functional characterizations.
Hydrochemical Facies Evaluation in Umm Er Radhuma Limestone, Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sen Zeka̧i , Al‐Dakheel Abdulrahman
Published: May 2007

Evaluation of the local hydrochemical facies in the Umm Er Radhuma (UER) limestone aquifer in the eastern part of Saudi Arabia and the presentation of supplemental methods for the classical techniques in such an evaluation are presented. Equilibrium studies of ground‐water chemistry of the UER aquifer indicate that most waters arc of calcium sulfate or sodium chloride types. The ground water is saturated with respect to calcite but unsaturated for anhydrite in the northern part of the study area.

Charts are developed to find, practically, the ionic activity of any major ion provided that TDS values are estimated. A detailed relationship is provided for estimating TDS values from field measurements of the electrical conductivity.
Laws of Biology, Laws of Nature: Problems and (Dis)Solutions
Authors: Hamilton Andrew
Published: May 2007

This article serves as an introduction to the laws‐of‐biology debate. After introducing the main issues in an introductory section, arguments for and against laws of biology are canvassed in Section 2. In Section 3, the debate is placed in wider epistemological context by engaging a group of scholars who have shifted the focus away from the question of whether there are laws of biology and toward offering good accounts of explanation(s) in the biological sciences. Section 4 introduces two relatively new pieces of science – metabolic scaling theory and ecological stoichiometry – that have not been topics of much discussion by philosophers but are relevant because they have at least some of the hallmarks of laws of nature. Section 5 concludes by pointing out that discovering laws of biology, if any there be, will not necessarily answer the questions raised by the debate in the first place: we will still want to know how biology compares to other sciences, how to characterize its systems and processes, and whether accounts in terms of laws always usually constitute adequate explanations in various sciences.