bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Novel Locus for Febrile Seizures and Epilepsy on Chromosome 21q22
Authors: Hedera Peter , Ma Shaochun , Blair Marcia A. , Taylor Kelly A. , Hamati Aline , Bradford Yuki , Abou‐Khalil Bassel , Haines Jonathan L.
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Purpose: To report results of linkage analysis in a large family with autosomal dominant (AD) febrile seizures (FS) and epilepsy.

Background:AD FS and epilepsy is clinically and genetically a heterogeneous group of epilepsies, frequently inherited. The most notable, generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+), is characterized by heterogeneous phenotypes including FS persisting beyond the usual age of remission or coexisting with afebrile seizures. Mutations in three subunits of sodium channel genes and one GABAA‐receptor subunit gene have been identified in some GEFS+ pedigrees. Six genetic loci for FS have been reported so far, but the molecular basis of FS remains unknown.

Methods: We identified a five‐generation family with 13 individuals affected by FS. Evidence was found for coexisting afebrile seizures in some affected individuals. Evaluation included a detailed history and neurologic examination, as well as collection of DNA. After excluding previously identified loci associated with FS and epilepsy, a genome‐wide search was performed.

Results: Two affected individuals reported only a single FS, whereas the other affected individuals had a history of repeated FS. Coexisting afebrile seizures developed in three individuals. The mode of inheritance was consistent with AD inheritance with an incomplete penetrance. Tight linkage to a group of markers on chromosome 21q22 was identified with flanking markers D21S1909 and D21S1444, and maximum 2‐point lod score 3.35 for markers D21S1910 and D21S1894. We excluded four ion‐channel genes within this 6.5‐cM locus as a cause of FS and epilepsy in this family.

Conclusions: We report a novel locus on chromosome 21q22 for AD FS. Identification of the gene causing epilepsy on chromosome 21q22 will advance our understanding of inherited epilepsy and FS, and possibly other types of epilepsies.
Do Children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy Have a Higher Prevalence of Migraine than Those with Other Partial Epilepsies or Nonepilepsy Controls?
Authors: Wirrell Elaine C. , Hamiwka Lorie D.
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Purpose: Prior studies have given conflicting data concerning the association of benign rolandic epilepsy of childhood (BREC) and migraine but were limited by lack of sensitive, diagnostic criteria for childhood migraine. By using revised International Headache Society (IHS‐R) criteria, we compared the prevalence of migraine in children with BREC with that of those (a) with cryptogenic/symptomatic partial epilepsy and (b) without epilepsy.

Methods: Three cohorts of children, gender and age matched (within 1 year) were identified: (a) BREC, (b) cryptogenic/symptomatic partial epilepsy, and (c) no history of seizures. Parents were queried in a standardized interview about migraine and migraine equivalents in their child, and in either biologic parent. Migraine was defined by using the IHS‐R (for children) and IHS criteria (for parents). Children with headache were divided into definite (meeting IHS‐R criteria), probable (recurrent, throbbing headaches with nausea, vomiting, photophobia or phonophobia, not meeting IHS‐R criteria), possible (recurrent headaches with throbbing character or associated nausea/vomiting), or nonmigraine groups. χ2 analysis was used to determine whether the cohort with BREC had a higher prevalence of definite, definite or probable, or definite, probable, or possible migraines or migraine equivalents than the other two cohorts.

Results: Each cohort consisted of 53 children (mean age, 9.8–9.9 years, M/F ratio, 35:18). Those with BREC had higher rates of definite and probable (p = 0.05), of definite, probable, and possible migraine (p = 0.05), and of migraine equivalents excluding motion sickness (p < 0.005) than did those without seizures; however, they did not differ significantly from the cryptogenic/symptomatic partial epilepsy cohort.

Conclusions: Partial epilepsy, regardless of etiology, is associated with higher rates of migraine in children. The pathophysiologic link between epilepsy and migraine is unknown.
Epidural Pentobarbital Delivery Can Prevent Locally Induced Neocortical Seizures in Rats: The Prospect of Transmeningeal Pharmacotherapy for Intractable Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Ludvig Nandor , Kuzniecky Ruben I. , Baptiste Shirn L. , John Jenine E. , Von Gizycki Hans , Doyle Werner K. , Devinsky Orrin
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Purpose: To determine whether epidural pentobarbital (PB) delivery can prevent and/or terminate neocortical seizures induced by locally administered acetylcholine (Ach) in freely moving rats.

Methods: Rats were implanted permanently with an epidural cup placed over the right parietal cortex with intact dura mater. Epidural screw‐electrodes, secured to the cup, recorded local neocortical EEG activity. In the seizure‐termination study, Ach was delivered into the epidural cup, and after the development of electrographic and behavioral seizures, the Ach solution was replaced with either PB or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF; control solution). In the seizure‐prevention study, the epidural Ach delivery was preceded by a 10‐min exposure of the delivery site to PB or aCSF. Raw EEG recordings, EEG power spectra, and behavioral events were analyzed.

Results: Ach‐induced EEG seizures associated with convulsions, which were unaffected by epidural aCSF applications, were terminated by epidurally delivered PB within 2–2.5 min. Epidural deliveries of PB before Ach applications completely prevented the development of electrographic and behavioral seizures, whereas similar deliveries of aCSF exerted no influence on the seizure‐generating potential of Ach.

Conclusions: This study showed for the first time that epidural AED delivery can prevent, as well as terminate, locally induced neocortical seizures. The findings support the viability of transmeningeal pharmacotherapy for the treatment of intractable neocortical epilepsy.
Nonfunctional SCN1A Is Common in Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy
Authors: Ohmori Iori , Kahlig Kristopher M. , Rhodes Thomas H. , Wang Dao W. , George Alfred L.
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Purpose: Mutations in SCN1A, encoding the human NaV1.1 neuronal voltage‐gated sodium channel, cause the syndrome of severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI). Most SMEI‐associated mutations are predicted to truncate the SCN1A protein, likely causing a loss of sodium channel function. However, many missense or in‐frame deletion SCN1A mutations have also been reported in this disorder, but their functional impact is largely unknown. Here we report the functional characterization of eight SCN1A mutations (G177E, I227S, R393H, Y426N, H939Q, C959R, delF1289, and T1909I) previously identified in SMEI probands.

Methods: SCN1A mutants were constructed in a recombinant human SCN1A and then heterologously expressed in human tsA201 cells along with the human β1 and β2 sodium channel accessory subunits. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording was used to define biophysical properties of each mutant and for comparison with the wild‐type (WT) channel.

Results: Six of the mutants were nonfunctional, but Y426N and T1909I generated measurable sodium channel activity. Cells expressing Y426N and T1909I had significantly lower current densities compared with WT‐SCN1A. In addition, other biophysical abnormalities were observed for the two functional mutants including decreased channel availability (Y426N) and increased persistent sodium current (T1909I).

Conclusions: We conclude that SMEI is caused either by complete loss of SCN1A function, or by dysfunctional sodium channels exhibiting mixed biophysical properties. This wide spectrum of functional defects observed among SCN1A mutations suggests that SMEI may result from more than a single molecular or cellular mechanism, or require other factors for pathogenesis.
SCN1AMutation Mosaicism in a Family with Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy in Infancy
Authors: Morimoto Masafumi , Mazaki Emi , Nishimura Akira , Chiyonobu Tomohiro , Sawai Yasuko , Murakami Aki , Nakamura Keiko , Inoue Ikuyo , Ogiwara Ikuo , Sugimoto Tohru , Yamakawa Kazuhiro
Published: September 2006

Summary: Purpose:To investigate the genetic background of familial severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI) cases.

Methods:We performed mutation analyses of the sodium‐channel geneSCN1Ain two Japanese brothers with clinical features of SMEI and their parents, who had no history of febrile and epileptic seizures.

Results:Each patient showed nucleotide changes (c.[730G>T; 735G>T; 736A>T]) in the coding exon 6 ofSCN1Athat led to a truncation of the channel protein. Their father showed no mutations, but their mother showed the same mutation in a subpopulation of lymphocytes.

Conclusions:The maternal mosaicism explains the identicalSCN1Amutations in the two brothers. This highlights the importance of investigating parental mosaicism even in sporadic SMEI cases.
Neural Network Underlying Ictal Humming Demonstrated by Very Early SPECT: A Case Report
Authors: Guedj Eric , Guye Maxime , De Laforte Catherine , Chauvel Patrick , Liegeois‐Chauvel Catherine , Mundler Olivier , Bartolomei Fabrice
Published: September 2006

Summary:  We report the case of a 49‐year‐old right‐handed woman with brief partial seizures in which the clinical semiology was marked by an early humming automatism. MRI fusion of the registered ictal and interictal single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) substraction exhibited a left neural network involving lateral temporal, inferior frontal, and inferior parietal cortices.
Mosaic SCN1A Mutation in Familial Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy
Authors: Marini Carla , Mei Davide , Helen Cross J. , Guerrini Renzo
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Purpose: Mutations of the α1 subunit sodium channel gene (SCN1A) cause severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI). Mutations of SCN1A have been found in 40 to 100% of SMEI patients and are de novo in the majority of individuals.

Methods: We studied two sisters with SMEI and their father with febrile seizures.

Results: SCN1A screening revealed a splice‐site mutation in both sisters. The mutation was inherited from their father in whom, however, a mosaicism was found, with 37% of ectodermal derivative cells carrying the mutation.

Conclusions: In this family, a SCN1A mosaic mutation correlated with the milder phenotype, whereas the full heterozygous mutation caused SMEI. The possibility of mosaic mutations must, therefore, also be taken into account for genetic counseling and determining the recurrence risk in patients with SMEI.
The Geography of Knowledge Spillovers Between High‐Technology Firms in Europe: Evidence from a Spatial Interaction Modeling Perspective
Authors: Fischer Manfred M. , Scherngell Thomas , Jansenberger Eva
Published: September 2006

The focus in this article is on knowledge spillovers between high‐technology firms in Europe, as captured by patent citations. The European coverage is given by patent applications at the European Patent Office that are assigned to high‐technology firms located in the EU‐25 member states (except Cyprus and Malta), the two accession countries Bulgaria and Romania, and Norway and Switzerland. By following the paper trail left by citations between these high‐technology patents we adopt a Poisson spatial interaction modeling perspective to identify and measure spatial separation effects to interregional knowledge spillovers. In doing so we control for technological proximity between the regions, as geographical distance could be just proxying for technological proximity. The study produces prima facie evidence that geography matters. First, geographical distance has a significant impact on knowledge spillovers, and this effect is substantial. Second, national border effects are important and dominate geographical distance effects. Knowledge flows within European countries more easily than across. Not only geography, but also technological proximity matters. Interregional knowledge flows are industry specific and occur most often between regions located close to each other in technological space.
Exploring a Relationship Between Aggregate and Individual Levels Spatial Data Through Semivariogram Models
Authors: Pawitan Gandhi , Steel David G.
Published: September 2006

Analysis of social data is frequently done using aggregate‐level data. There may not be a direct interest in spatial relationships in the data, but the presence of spatial interdependence may still need to be taken into account. This article explores the aggregation effect from a spatial perspective by assuming nonzero covariance for individual data from two different groups. We investigate the bias associated with aggregate‐level data for semivariogram analysis. We show that the bias mainly arises from the average of the semivariogram within the groups. It is also shown how aggregated‐level data may be used to estimate parameters of an individual‐level semivariogram model. A nonlinear regression method is proposed to carry out this estimation procedure and a simulation is done to clarify the results.
Event‐Recorder Monitoring in the Diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation in Symptomatic Patients: Subanalysis of the SOPAT Trial
Authors: PATTEN MONICA , MAAS RENKE , KARIM AMINA , MÜLLER HANS‐WALTER , SIMONOVSKY ROSA , MEINERTZ THOMAS
Published: September 2006

In the SOPAT (suppression of paroxysmal atrial tachyarrhythmias) trial, a high number of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) episodes were registered in patients with symptomatic AF. This subanalysis was performed to answer three questions: (1) Does antiarrhythmic therapy influence the ratio of symptomatic to asymptomatic AF? (2) Are symptoms during AF dependent on the heart rate (HR)? (3) Do symptoms correlate with an episode of AF? Within 60 months 1,033 patients with symptomatic AF were randomized to either quinidine plus verapamil (Q+V) 480/240 mg/day, Q+V 320/160 mg/day, sotalol 320 mg/day, or placebo, and followed up by daily and symptom‐triggered ECG event recording. Over 188,634 ECGs were analyzed (87% SR, 7% AF). Symptoms were reported in only 46% of AF‐ECGs. Quinidine plus verapamil reduced the ratio of symptomatic to asymptomatic AF, whereas sotalol had no effect (median [%] (25/75% quartile): Q+V 480/240: 33 (0/79), Q+V 320/160: 45 (1/82), sotalol: 56 (7/93), placebo: 63 (8/92)). The HR during AF directly correlates with the occurrence of symptoms (P < 0.001) and was significantly lower during asymptomatic AF in all groups (mean ± SD: sympt.: 113 ± 27/minute, asympt.: 103 ± 27/minute, P < 0.001). Both antiarrhythmics reduced the mean HR compared to placebo (P < 0.001). Analyzing all symptom‐triggered ECGs, AF was diagnosed in only 37%, whereas the majority were SR. Taken together, in contrast to sotalol, Q+V reduces the ratio of symptomatic to asymptomatic AF compared with placebo, at least in part by decreasing the heart rate. Furthermore, patients' symptoms are not a reliable surrogate parameter for the prevalence of AF.
Effect of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Moderate Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction and Wide QRS Complex: A Prospective Study
Authors: FUNG JEFFREY W.H. , ZHANG Q. , YIP GABRIEL W.K. , CHAN JOSEPH Y.S. , CHAN HAMISH C.K. , YU CHEUK M.
Published: September 2006

Background: We sought to investigate the effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on disease progression in patients with moderate left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction.

Methods and Results: This is a prospective study to explore the effect of CRT in 15 optimally treated patients (age: 66.1 ± 12.8 years; male = 13) with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III, LV ejection fraction >35% and <45% and QRS duration >120 msec. Echocardiographic examination and standard heart failure assessment was performed before and 3 months after CRT implantation. The magnitude of echocardiographic remodeling measurements was compared with 30 age, sex, NYHA class, and heart failure etiology matched patients with conventional CRT indication. There were significant reductions in LV end‐systolic (86.2 ± 24.1 to 69.7 ± 22.2 mL, P < 0.01)/end‐diastolic (135.5 ± 36.8 to 120.5 ± 34.6 mL, P < 0.01) volumes, improvement in LV ejection fraction (39.1 ± 2.2 to 44.2 ± 5.5%, P = 0.01), and NYHA class (3.0 ± 0.0 to 2.07 ± 0.46, P < 0.001). There was no difference in changes in LV volumes, ejection fraction, NYHA class, and exercise capacity before and after CRT between the study and conventional groups except for greater improvement in the quality of life score in the conventional group.

Conclusion: In this prospective study, significant LV reverse remodeling by CRT in those with a wide QRS complex and moderate LV systolic dysfunction was observed. Further studies to explore the benefit of CRT in patients with less severe heart failure are recommended.
Computerized calculation scheme for retinal image size after implantation of toric intraocular lenses
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Viestenz Anja , Seitz Berthold , Brünner Holger
Published: September 2006

Purpose.  To describe a paraxial computing scheme for tracing an axial pencil of rays through the ‘optical system eye’ containing astigmatic surfaces with their axes at random.

Methods.  Two rays (−10 prism diopters from vertical and horizontal) are traced through the uncorrected and corrected eye. In the uncorrected eye one specific ray is selected from the pencil of rays, which passes through the pupil center. In the corrected eye any ray can be traced through the eye. From the slope angle, the intersection of the ray with the refractive surface and the refraction the slope angle of the exiting ray is determined and the ray is traced to the subsequent surface. From both rays traced through the eye an ellipse is fitted to the image to characterize the image distortion of an circular object.

Example.  Assumptions: target refraction −0.5–1.0D/A = 90° at 14 mm, corneal refraction 42.5 + 3.5D/A = 15°, axial length 23.6 mm, IOL position 4.6 mm, central lens thickness 0.8 mm, refractive index 1.42, front/back surface of the toric IOL 10.0 D/7.14 + 6.47D/A = 101.8°. The vertical incident ray was imaged to (x, y) = (0.0055 mm, −1.6470 mm)/(0.0067 mm, −1.6531 mm) in the uncorrected/corrected eye. The horizontal incident ray was imaged to (x, y) = (1.6266 mm, −0.0055 mm)/(1.6001 mm, −0.0067 mm) in the uncorrected/corrected eye. The ellipse (semi‐major/semi‐minor meridian) fitted to the conjugate image of a circle sized 1.648 mm/1.625 mm in an orientation 14.2° in the uncorrected and 1.654 mm/1.599 mm in an orientation 7.1° in the corrected eye.

Conclusion.  This concept may be relevant for the assessment of aniseikonia after implantation of toric intraocular lenses for correction of high corneal astigmatism.
Ocular presentations of breast cancer
Authors: Wickremasinghe Sanj , Dansingani Kunal K. , Tranos Paris , Liyanage Sidath , Jones Alison , Davey Clare
Published: September 2006

Context: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, with increasing incidence in Europe and North America. The frequency of involvement of the eye and visual pathways is reported to be as high as 30% in patients with known metastatic disease. In some cases, ophthalmic involvement can be the first sign of metastatic spread. Metastasis occurs via the haematogenous route and predominantly involves the choroid. Metastases to other ocular structures, the orbit and the visual pathways have also been described. Paraneoplastic effects are rare but significant.

Treatments: Different modalities are employed in the treatment of breast cancer and its metastases. These include chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The ocular adverse effects of these have been well described, but recently developed new treatment modalities, such as monoclonal antibodies, may have different side‐effects. With the increasing incidence of breast cancer and the advent of new treatment strategies, the complications of the disease and the sequelae of therapy are highly relevant to both oncologists and ophthalmologists.
High‐order aberrations and preoperative associated factors
Authors: Fernández de Castro Luis E. , Sandoval Helga P. , Bartholomew Luanna R. , Vroman David T. , Solomon Kerry D.
Published: September 2006

Purpose:  The purpose of this study was to determine which preoperative factors are associated with the presence of high‐order aberrations.

Methods:  A total of 93 eyes of 52 subjects were evaluated preoperatively between 1 January and 31 March 2003, using a Hartmann−Shack‐based aberrometer. Age, gender, cycloplegic refraction, pupil size, keratometry readings, anterior chamber depth, white‐to‐white tests, intraocular pressure and basic secretion tests were evaluated.

Results:  Factors associated with high‐order aberrations included age ≥ 40 years (mean 4.39 ± 2.95 µm; p = 0.03, Mann–Whitney test), higher keratometry values (44.96 ± 1.57 D) (r = 0.447, p < 0.001, Spearman's correlation coefficient), higher degrees of myopia (≥ − 6.1 D) (p < 0.001, Kruskall−Wallis test) and increasing pupil size (p < 0.001, anova). Other factors including anterior chamber depth, white‐to‐white results, intraocular pressure and basic secretion test results did not correlate with the presence of high‐order aberrations preoperatively.

Conclusions:  Ocular wavefront aberrations varied greatly from subject to subject. Treatment should be customized for each laser based on patient characteristics in order to ensure the optimal treatment profile for the aberration.
Impact of short‐term versus longterm topical steroid treatment on ‘idiopathic’ endothelial cell loss after normal‐risk penetrating keratoplasty
Authors: Nguyen Nhung Xuan , Pham Huan Nguyen , Langenbucher Achim , Cursiefen Claus , Seitz Berthold
Published: September 2006

Purpose:  Chronic endothelial cell loss after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) is suspected to result from a subclinical immune reaction. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the prolonged use of a topical steroid after normal‐risk PK has a favourable impact on chronic endothelial cell loss.

Methods:  The study included 305 eyes from the prospective Erlangen Normal‐risk Keratoplasty Study, with a mean follow‐up of 3.1 ± 0.9 years. Postoperative treatment was initiated with prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops five times a day and was tapered slowly over the first 6 months. Patients were then randomized into two treatment groups: a short‐term group (n = 161), which stopped topical steroid treatment, and a longterm group (n = 144), which continued topical treatment with prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops once a day until 12 months postoperatively. Endothelial cell counts were determined at each follow‐up examination (after 6 weeks, then every 3 months until 2 years, then once a year).

Results:  Endothelial cell density in the short‐term and longterm groups decreased significantly from 1941 ± 550 cells/mm2 and 1957 ± 568 cells/mm2 to 1535 ± 535 cells/mm2 and 1472 ± 549 cells/mm2, respectively, from 6 weeks to 2 years postoperatively (p < 0.001). In a linear regression model, cell count in the short‐term group decreased by 216 ± 93 cells/mm2 and in the longterm group by 206 ± 111 cells/mm2 per year. There was no significant difference in endothelial cell loss between the short‐term and longterm groups (p = 0.5).

Conclusions:  Longterm, low‐dose, topical steroid treatment does not seem to prohibit chronic endothelial cell loss after normal‐risk penetrating keratoplasty, in contrast to its favourable effect on immunological graft reactions. Our results may indicate that the aetiology of chronic endothelial cell loss is not of inflammatory origin. Further studies are needed to investigate this phenomenon.
Prevalence of myopia in Danish conscripts
Authors: Jacobsen Nina , Jensen Hanne , Goldschmidt Ernst
Published: September 2006

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of myopia among Danish conscripts and compare the results with those from similar Danish studies carried out in 1882 and 1964. Furthermore, the relationships between myopia and educational level, ethnicity, intelligence (IQ), body mass index (BMI) and height were analysed.

Methods: We carried out a cross‐sectional study based on medical reports for 4681 male conscripts. The following data were collected from September to December 2004: age; place of birth; weight; height; power of spectacles or contact lenses; visual acuity; number of years at school (8–13 years); occupation; intelligence test (IQ test) score, and ethnicity.

Results: The prevalence of myopia (≤ − 0.5 D, spherical equivalent) was 12.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]± 0.96); the prevalence of high myopia (< − 6.5 D) was 0.3% (95% CI ± 0.15). Myopes scored higher (45.3 [SD 9.4]) on IQ tests than emmetropes (41.4 [SD 10.4]) (p < 0.001) and had a higher educational level. No relationship was found between myopia and BMI, height or ethnicity.

Conclusions: The study reports a significantly decreasing prevalence of low myopia among Danish conscripts in 2004 compared with 1964. Compared with the results from the 1882 study, the prevalence of low myopia seems stable. The prevalence of high myopia has decreased significantly since 1882 and has also tended to decrease from 1964. Number of years in education and IQ test score were related to myopia.
Avoidable mortality of psychiatric patients in an area with a community‐based system of mental health care
Authors: Amaddeo F. , Barbui C. , Perini G. , Biggeri A. , Tansella M.
Published: September 2006

Objective:  To ascertain the existence of an excess of avoidable mortality among psychiatric patients in an area with a community‐based system of care, to identify predictors of higher risk of avoidable mortality and to provide some possible indication to reduce avoidable mortality in modern psychiatric services.

Method:  All patients with an ICD‐10 psychiatric diagnosis, living in a catchment area of about 75 000 inhabitants, seeking care in 1982–2001 were included (n = 6956). Mortality and causes of death were ascertained using linkage procedures with other local health databases. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated for each avoidable cause of death.

Results:  The observed number of deaths for those causes considered avoidable by the European Community was four times greater than the expected (P < 0.01). SMR was higher for deaths preventable with adequate health promotion policies than for those preventable with appropriate health care. Males, alcohol/drug addicted and young patients have the highest avoidable SMRs.

Conclusion:  These findings urgently call for the implementation of health promotion and preventive programs targeted to psychiatric patients. Moreover, mental health services should improve the capacity to manage medical health problems of their patients.
What happens to children with PDD when they grow up? Prospective follow‐up of 219 children from preschool age to mid‐childhood
Authors: Baghdadli A , Picot M‐C , Michelon C , Bodet J , Pernon E , Burstezjn C , Hochmann J , Lazartigues A , Pry R , Aussilloux C
Published: September 2006

Objective:  To describe the psychological development of children with pervasive developmental disorders over a period of 3 years and to identify the factors linked to their developmental paths.

Method:  The study was a collaborative and prospective follow‐up study of 219 preschoolers. Retrospective data and enrollment data were collected at the beginning of the study and 3 years later.

Results:  We observed high variability in the short‐term outcomes of preschoolers. In line with previous research, our results showed that intellectual, linguistic and adaptive functioning were useful for predicting outcome. The severity of a child's autistic symptoms appears to be related to his or her future development. These variables can therefore be used as predictors of outcome for preschoolers with autism.

Conclusion:  Developmental and symptom changes in young children with autism should not be overlooked and need to be assessed regularly in view of choosing suitable servicing programs.
Clinical Evaluation of Direct Cuspal Coverage with Posterior Composite Resin Restorations
Authors: Deliperi Simone , Bardwell David N.
Published: September 2006

Background:  Composite resins have esthetic properties; they join the ability to preserve and reinforce sound tooth structure. Conservation is becoming popular for both small to medium defects and more compromised teeth.

Purpose:  This study aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of Class II cuspal coverage direct composite restorations.

Materials and Methods:  Twenty patients, 18 years or older, were included in this clinical trial restoring 25 vital molar teeth with one or two missing cusps. Criteria for inclusion are two or three surface restorations, replacement of composite and amalgam fillings (secondary decay, fracture of either filling material or tooth structure, aesthetic considerations), or virgin teeth with decay undermining a cusp. Teeth with residual cavity walls less than 1 mm or with complete loss of the clinical crown were excluded.

Teeth were restored using a combination of Ultra‐Etch 35% phosphoric acid, PQ1 adhesive system, and Vit‐l‐escence microhybrid composite resin (Ultradent Products, Inc., South Jordan, UT, USA). The enamel peripheral skeleton of the restoration was built up first, followed by dentin and enamel occlusal surface stratification. Wedge‐shaped increments of composite resin were placed and cured using the variable intensity polimerizer (VIP) light (Bisco Inc., Schaumburg, IL, USA) through a combination of a pulse and progressive curing technique.

Results:  All 25 restorations were evaluated at 6‐month intervals during the 30‐month period using a modified US Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria by two independent evaluators precalibrated at 85% reliability. No failures were reported and alpha scores were recorded for all parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using a Chi‐square test (χ2) and the Fisher’s exact test. Sixteen of the 25 samples (64%) exhibited preoperative sensitivity to air (χ2=10.6; p=0.001). A significant difference in tooth sensitivity was reported after completion of the restorations. No teeth exhibited sensitivity both at the 2‐week recall and the 30‐month follow‐up (χ2=23.5; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:  Microhybrid composite resin demonstrated excellent clinical performance in direct cuspal coverage at completion of a 30‐month evaluation.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In selected clinical situations, cuspal coverage direct posterior composite restorations may represent a valid alternative to conventional indirect restorations.
Effect of 10% Carbamide Peroxide Dental Bleaching on Microhardness of Filled and Unfilled Sealant Materials
Authors: De Alexandre Rodrigo Sversut , Sundfeld Renato Herman , Briso André luiz fraga , Bedran‐russo Ana Karina B. , Valentino Thiago Assunção , Sundefeld Maria Lúcia marçal mazza
Published: September 2006

Purpose:  The purpose of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the effect of 10% carbamide peroxide on the microhardness of pit and fissure sealant materials.

Methods:  Fluroshield, Vitroseal Alfa, and one unfilled (Clinpro) sealants were placed in Teflon matrices (4 mm in diameter by 2 mm in height) and polymerized for 40 seconds. A total of 20 specimens were prepared for each material, in which half were assigned as the control group (stored in artificial saliva and no bleaching treatment). For the remaining half, Clarigel Gold bleaching agent (10% carbamide peroxide) was placed over the specimen surface for 4 hours/day during 4 weeks. When specimens were not under bleaching treatment, they were kept in artificial saliva. Afterwards, specimens were subjected to Knoop microhardness testing using a 25‐g load for 5 seconds. Five measurements were made on the sealants’ surfaces and then calculated in Knoop hardness values. The data were statistically analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance and Tukey’s tests with a 5% confidence level.

Results:  The results of this in vitro study showed that the application of a carbamide peroxide‐based bleaching material significantly affected the microhardness values of filled sealant materials. The bleaching agent did not affect the microhardness of the unfilled sealant.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The results of this in vitro study suggest that the bleaching agents altered the surface hardness of filled sealant restorative materials. This could possibly lead to increased wear and surface roughness.
Endodontic Update 2006
Authors: WEST JOHN
Published: September 2006

The past 10 years have witnessed more significant changes in the art and science of endodontics than the previous 100 years. This observation is no surprise, given that change is our only constant. The rate of change, however, has been anything but constant. The rate has accelerated so fast that all clinicians in the field of dentistry need a reliable source to guide us in what works. What works today in endodontics is the theme of this update.

The discoveries and advancements in endodontic technology, instruments, and materials enable practitioners to achieve treatment outcomes that were previously considered unattainable. For example, in nonsurgical endodontic treatment, nickel titanium technology consistently can produce predictable radicular preparations that can be easily obturated. In nonsurgical re‐treatment, the previous endodontic obturation attempt frequently can be removed and successfully re‐treated largely because of enhanced vision and coaxial lighting from the operating microscope. Importantly, careful nonsurgical re‐treatment usually can be accomplished without disruption to the existing restorations and without risk to ferrule integrity. In endodontic surgery underfilled foramina, and the isthmi between them, predictably can be connected and obturated with state‐of‐the‐art miniature instruments.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This article reviews the clinical endodontic breakthroughs encountered during the last decade and focuses on three primary topics: (1) finding canals; (2) following canals; and (3) finishing canals. Every day, dentists are faced with the interdisciplinary treatment planning question of to “save or not to save a tooth?” Dentists must routinely make the decision of whether to remove or restore the tooth based on biology, structure, function, esthetics, and value.1 Occasionally, the endodontically treated tooth can be the weakest link in the restorative and esthetic sequence. This article examines the current state of endodontic technology, as well as the fundamentals of endodontic mechanics needed to achieve the most predictable endodontic outcome with the highest degree of success.
AT‐HOME BLEACHING: PULPAL EFFECTS AND TOOTH SENSITIVITY ISSUES, PART II
Authors: Swift Edward J.
Published: September 2006

The most common side effect of at‐home bleaching is transient tooth sensitivity. Despite its high frequency, this phenomenon is not well understood. This is the second of a two‐part Critical Appraisal on tooth sensitivity associated with at‐home bleaching. The first installment reviewed articles that focus on the incidence of sensitivity, long‐term effects of bleaching, and related pulpal concerns. This installment also covers pulpal concerns, as well as the prevention of sensitivity during at‐home whitening treatments.
Cultures of Terror: Nuclear Criticism During and Since the Cold War
Authors: Cordle Daniel
Published: September 2006

Nuclear Criticism emerged late in the Cold War as a short‐lived but important critical enterprise, seeking to understand the cultural impact of military and civilian nuclear technology. Critics argued that the possibility of a civilization‐ending nuclear war affected the production and reception of literary texts, and that scholars should reflect this in their research and their teaching. ‘Cultures of Terror’ looks afresh at this critical moment and makes two claims.

First, it argues that in Nuclear Criticism two broadly oppositional trends in literary studies came together, one ethically orientated, while the other was more sceptical of an ethics of literature and rooted in cutting‐edge theoretical debates. Second, it calls for a new Nuclear Criticism. Such a criticism can, in part, revisit ‘nuclear’ texts of the Cold War era, reading them with perspectives made possible by the post‐Cold War perspective. It can, also, though embark on a more radical enterprise, questioning the simple assumption that nuclear issues ceased to be pressing with the fall of the Berlin Wall, tracing the morphing of nuclear anxiety into other fears, and contextualizing contemporary conceptions of ‘terror’ in terms of an earlier geopolitics of nuclear anxiety.
The Rieske protein from Paracoccus denitrificans is inserted into the cytoplasmic membrane by the twin‐arginine translocase
Authors: Bachmann Julie , Bauer Brigitte , Zwicker Klaus , Ludwig Bernd , Anderka Oliver
Published: September 2006

The Rieske [2Fe−2S] protein (ISP) is an essential subunit of cytochrome bc1 complexes in mitochondrial and bacterial respiratory chains. Based on the presence of two consecutive arginines, it was argued that the ISP of Paracoccus denitrificans, a Gram‐negative soil bacterium, is inserted into the cytoplasmic membrane via the twin‐arginine translocation (Tat) pathway. Here, we provide experimental evidence that membrane integration of the bacterial ISP indeed relies on the Tat translocon. We show that targeting of the ISP depends on the twin‐arginine motif. A strict requirement is established particularly for the second arginine residue (R16); conservative replacement of the first arginine (R15K) still permits substantial ISP transport. Comparative sequence analysis reveals characteristics common to Tat signal peptides in several bacterial ISPs; however, there are distinctive features relating to the fact that the presumed ISP Tat signal simultaneously serves as a membrane anchor. These differences include an elevated hydrophobicity of the h‐region compared with generic Tat signals and the absence of an otherwise well‐conserved ‘+5’‐consensus motif lysine residue. Substitution of the +5 lysine (Y20K) compromises ISP export and/or cytochrome bc1 stability to some extent and points to a specific role for this deviation from the canonical Tat motif. EPR spectroscopy confirms cytosolic insertion of the [2Fe−2S] cofactor. Mutation of an essential cofactor binding residue (C152S) decreases the ISP membrane levels, possibly indicating that cofactor insertion is a prerequisite for efficient translocation along the Tat pathway.
TEXTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FROZEN BLUE SQUAT LOBSTER (CERVIMUNIDA JOHNI) TAILS AS MEASURED BY INSTRUMENTAL AND SENSORY METHODS
Authors: PÉREZ‐WON M. , BARRAZA M. , CORTÉS F. , MADRID D. , CORTÉS P. , ROCO T. , OSORIO F. , TABILO‐MUNIZAGA G.
Published: September 2006

Instrumental and sensory textural characteristics of frozen blue squat lobster (Cervimunida johni) tails stored at −22C for 0, 15 and 60 days were evaluated. The influence of fishing area (north or south) was also studied. Instrumental texture was evaluated by shear and compression testing using a Warner–Bratzler blade for firmness and a flat plunger with two‐cycle compression for texture profile analysis (TPA) testing. A trained panel was utilized to evaluate textural attributes using the score method. Results showed that fishing area and frozen storage did not affect the textural quality of blue squat lobster tails. However, a strong correlation (r > 0.9) between sensory and instrumental texture parameters was observed. Instrumental chewiness (r = 0.91), cohesiveness (r = 0.96) and sensory hardness (r > 0.84) obtained the strongest correlations. In this way, the use of instrumental analysis may be useful as an alternative to sensory analyses to evaluate the textural characteristics of blue squat lobster tails.
LIQUID–SOLID EXTRACTION OF SOLUBLE SOLIDS AND TOTAL PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS OF CAROB BEAN (Ceratonia siliqua L.)
Authors: TURHAN IRFAN , TETIK NEDIM , AKSU MEHMET , KARHAN MUSTAFA , CERTEL MUHARREM
Published: September 2006

Total mass transfer coefficients of soluble solids (SS) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) were determined during carob extraction. The Arrhenius equation was applied to determine the efficiency of process temperature, as an alternative approach to Fick's second law. Carob pod, cut into small pieces (internal diameter: 5–7 mm), was contacted with water in batch system to extract SS by continuous circulation of water at different temperatures (20, 50 and 85C). The process was also performed at 85C using an industrial‐scale extractor. Activation energies for both SS and TPC diffusions were calculated as 5.84 and 0.072 × 10−3 kJ/mol, respectively. As expected, higher extract concentrations were achieved with higher temperatures. In contrast, high extraction temperature, even at 85C, did not cause hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) formation. As the increase in temperature does not affect formation of HMF during carob pod extraction, higher operational temperatures such as 80–90C may be applied to obtain higher solute concentrations.
FLUIDIZED‐BED SYSTEM FOR WHEY PROTEIN FILM COATING OF PEANUTS
Authors: LIN S.‐Y. , KROCHTA J.M.
Published: September 2006

Complete peanut‐surface coverage and strong adhesion are necessary for whey protein‐based oxygen barrier coatings to be totally effective in reducing the oxidative rancidity of peanuts. Peanuts coated with a fluidized‐bed coating system attained practically complete coverage, and coating efficiency results were consistent and reproducible. Addition of surfactant to the coating solution improved whey protein coating efficiency on blanched/roasted peanuts coated with a bench‐scale fluidized‐bed coating system. A lower level of surfactant addition to the coating solution was required to attain complete coverage, compared with previous studies on dip coating and pan coating of peanuts. Addition of surfactant to the coating solution and peanut preroughening both imparted good coating adhesion for fluidized‐bed‐coated peanuts. Compared with pan coating, fluidized‐bed coating required application of a greater amount of coating solution because of the loss of coating solution to the fluidized‐bed column wall during spraying. Overall, fluidized‐bed coating required a shorter processing time and provided the peanuts with better coating efficiency and adhesion. These results suggest that a fluidized‐bed coating system is a viable alternative coating process for whey protein coating of peanuts.
GLOBAL YIELDS, CHEMICAL COMPOSITIONS AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF CLOVE BASIL (OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM L.) EXTRACTS OBTAINED BY SUPERCRITICAL FLUID EXTRACTION
Authors: LEAL PATRÍCIA F. , CHAVES F. CÉLIO M. , MING LIN C. , PETENATE ADEMIR J. , MEIRELES M. ANGELA. A.
Published: September 2006

Clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum) extracts were obtained with supercritical CO2. Clove basil was cultivated using 0, 4, 8 and 12 kg/m2 of organic fertilizer and was harvested in four seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn, in the Southern Hemisphere. The extracts' global yields were determined at 40C and 150 bar for samples from all cultivation conditions and harvesting seasons. For selected samples, the extracts' global yields at 40C were determined for pressures of 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 bar. The extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography–flame ionization detector. Antioxidant activity (AA) was assessed using the coupled reaction of β‐caroteneand linolenic acid. The extracts' global yields varied from 0.91 to 1.79% (dry basis), and the AAs varied from 62 to 84% compared with the control β‐carotene. Eugenol and β‐selinene were the major compounds. The relative proportion of eugenol varied from 35 to 60%, while the content of β‐selinene remained approximately constant (11.5–14.1%, area). The other substances quantified in the extracts were 1,8 cineole, trans‐caryophyllene and α‐selinene.
Major Role for FeoB in
Campylobacter jejuni
Ferrous Iron Acquisition, Gut Colonization, and Intracellular Survival
Authors: Naikare Hemant , Palyada Kiran , Panciera Roger , Marlow Denver , Stintzi Alain
Published: September 2006

To assess the importance of ferrous iron acquisition in
Campylobacter
physiology and pathogenesis, we disrupted and characterized the Fe
2+
iron transporter, FeoB, in
Campylobacter jejuni
NCTC 11168, 81-176, and ATCC 43431. The
feoB
mutant was significantly affected in its ability to transport
55
Fe
2+
. It accumulated half the amount of iron than the wild-type strain during growth in an iron-containing medium. The intracellular iron of the
feoB
mutant was localized in the periplasmic space versus the cytoplasm for the wild-type strain. These results indicate that the
feoB
gene of
C. jejuni
encodes a functional ferrous iron transport system. Reverse transcriptase PCR analysis revealed the cotranscription of
feoB
and Cj1397, which encodes a homolog of
Escherichia coli feoA. C. jejuni
81-176
feoB
mutants exhibited reduced ability to persist in human INT-407 embryonic intestinal cells and porcine IPEC-1 small intestinal epithelial cells compared to the wild type.
C. jejuni
NCTC 11168
feoB
mutant was outcompeted by the wild type for colonization and/or survival in the rabbit ileal loop. The
feoB
mutants of the three
C. jejuni
strains were significantly affected in their ability to colonize the chick cecum. And finally, the three
feoB
mutants were outcompeted by their respective wild-type strains for infection of the intestinal tracts of colostrum-deprived piglets. Taken together, these results demonstrate that FeoB-mediated ferrous iron acquisition contributes significantly to colonization of the gastrointestinal tract during both commensal and infectious relationship, and thus it plays an important role in
Campylobacter
pathogenesis.
Cytokine and Chemokine Transcription Profile duringMycoplasma pulmonisInfection in Susceptible and Resistant Strains of Mice: Macrophage Inflammatory Protein 1β (CCL4) and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein 2 (CCL8) and Accumulation of CCR5+Th Cells
Authors: Sun Xiangle , Jones Harlan P. , Hodge Lisa M. , Simecka Jerry W.
Published: September 2006

The progression of murine mycoplasma pneumonia is dependent on T cells and other immune cells. The role of cytokines in immunity are complex, and identifying the network of cytokines produced after infection of mice is essential in dissecting the key cytokine cascades involved mycoplasma disease pathogenesis. In the present study, mRNA expression of 143 different cytokines, chemokines, or receptors were evaluated in lung tissues from both susceptible (BALB/c and C3H/HeN) and resistant (C57BL/6) mice afterMycoplasma pulmonisinfection. To accomplish this, membrane-based cDNA microarrays were used to monitor changes mRNA expression in lungs. There was a clear association with disease susceptibility and development of cytokine mRNA expression. In addition to proinflammatory cytokines, mRNA expression of an anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-10, increased with disease severity, suggesting an attempt to moderate the severity of the inflammatory response. Furthermore, it is clear that an array of chemokines produced in susceptible mice could contribute to the recruitment and maintenance of inflammatory cells at the site of disease. In support of this, there was an increase in macrophage inflammatory protein 1β (MIP-1β; CCL4) and monocyte chemoattractant protein 2 (MCP-2; CCL8) mRNA levels from mycoplasma-infected mice and a corresponding accumulation of CD4+Th cells expressing the MIP-1β/MCP-2 receptor, CCR5, in the lungs of mice. Furthermore, MIP-1β- and MCP-2-producing cells and CD4+T cells were found to be in close association in pulmonary lesions. Thus, there was a significant cytokine response associated with disease pathogenesis, and these studies provide important leads and insights into ongoing cytokine- and chemokine-mediated processes in this persistent inflammatory disease.