bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis of plasma cell–free Epstein‐Barr virus DNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma after salvage nasopharyngectomy: A prospective study
Authors: Wei William I. , Yuen Anthony P. W. , Ng Raymond W. M. , Ho W. K. , Kwong Dora L. W. , Sham Jonathan S. T.
Published: August 2004

Background.

The quantity of circulating cell–free Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) DNA in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) managed by radiotherapy has prognostic relevance. We measured the copy number of EBV DNA in patients with early recurrent NPC before and after salvage nasopharyngectomy.

Methods.

Nasopharyngectomy with the maxillary swing approach was performed for 28 patients. Serum blood samples were taken prospectively before nasopharyngectomy and on postoperative day 7. Plasma cell–free EBV DNA copies were measured with a real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the BamHI‐W fragment of the EBV genome.

Results.

Cell‐free EBV DNA was detected in 17 patients before nasopharyngectomy. Surgical resection reduced the copy number of EBV DNA significantly (p = .016). Negative surgical margins achieved during nasopharyngectomy is associated with a zero EBV DNA copy postoperatively (p = .022).

Conclusion.

Cell‐free EBV DNA was detected in 61% of patients with recurrent NPC, and its quantity postoperatively reflects whether the salvage nasopharyngectomy has achieved a negative surgical margin. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 878–883, 2004
Incidence and disease‐free survival after surgical therapy of central giant cell granulomas of the jaw in The Netherlands: 1990–1995
Authors: de Lange Jan , van den Akker Hans P. , Klip Helen
Published: August 2004

Background.

The central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) of the jaw is a rare benign tumor with an unknown etiology. Epidemiologic data on CGCGs in a general population are not available, nor are data on the overall outcome of surgical therapy. In this article, an overview of these aspects in the Dutch population from January 1, 1990, until January 1, 1995, is presented.

Methods.

All CGCGs that were diagnosed and surgically treated in The Netherlands from 1990 until 1995 were evaluated.

Results.

The incidence is 0.00011%, and the disease‐free survival after surgical therapy after 5 years is 76.1%. There is a significantly higher recurrence rate in young males, which cannot be explained by clinical signs and symptoms of the lesion.

Conclusion.

The CGCG is a rare affliction with a high recurrence rate after surgical therapy, especially in young males. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 792–795, 2004
The impact of computed tomography on pretherapeutic staging in patients with laryngeal cancer: Demonstration of the Will Rogers' phenomenon
Authors: Champion Gretchen A. , Piccirillo Jay F.
Published: August 2004

Background.

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that pretherapeutic CT of patients with primary laryngeal cancer results in stage migration, therefore affecting laryngeal cancer outcome data.

Methods.

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 90 patients with primary laryngeal cancer diagnosed between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 1997, at a university hospital.

Results.

The disease in 15 (17%) of 90 patients was reclassified into a new TNM stage after pretherapeutic CT. As a result, stage‐specific survival rates improved in three of four TNM stages, even though average survival for the entire cohort did not change.

Conclusions.

The TNM staging system is not a temporally stable classification and prediction system, because TNM assignment varies on the basis of the type of pretherapeutic evaluation. Outcome data for patients with laryngeal cancer must account for the introduction of new technologies that affect our ability to diagnose and stage this disease. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 972–976, 2004
A review of social and behavioral efforts at oral cancer preventions in India
Authors: Sturgis Erich M.
Published: August 2004

Background.

Oral cancer is a major public health problem in South‐Central Asia, home to one fifth of the world's population. In most regions of India, it is the most common cancer in men and the third most common cancer in women. Prevention is an effective tool to reduce disease burden on society and may offer particular advantages in developing countries.

Methods.

The primary and secondary oral cancer prevention efforts in India were reviewed and presented. In addition, the scope of the oral cancer problem and the tobacco industry in India are discussed, and the chief etiologies in the region are summarized.

Results and Conclusions.

The effectiveness of these prevention efforts provides an excellent social/behavioral model for similar programs in other developing countries. Furthermore, similar programs may also be applicable to certain populations in schools or industries in the developed world. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 937–944, 2004
Imatinib mesylate as treatment for adenoid cystic carcinoma of the salivary glands: Report of two successfully treated cases
Authors: Alcedo Juan Carlos , Fábrega José Manuel , Arosemena Juan Ramón , Urrutia Aníbal
Published: August 2004

Background.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a malignant neoplasia of the salivary glands that is treated primarily by surgery. Local control and survival are usually compromised despite surgery. Expression of KIT tyrosine kinase is involved in the pathogenesis of ACC. Imatinib mesylate is a potent inhibitor of KIT tyrosine kinase, so we explored the possibility that ACC could be a potential target for this drug.

Methods.

We report two cases of unresectable ACC treated with imatinib mesylate in the context of recurrent disease (case 1) and locally advanced tumor at its initial presentation (case 2).

Results.

Both patients responded well to treatment with imatinib mesylate. Significant regression of recurrent disease (case 1) resulted in a successful salvage surgical resection; the locally advanced tumor (case 2) had an excellent response to treatment, but, unfortunately, the patient refused salvage resection.

Conclusion.

This is the first time ACC is reported to respond to imatinib mesylate. Studies in which more patients are enrolled in controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm this observation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 829–831, 2004
Pectoralis major and other myofascial/myocutaneous flaps in head and neck cancer reconstruction: Experience with 437 cases at a single institution
Authors: Vartanian José Guilherme , Carvalho André Lopes , Carvalho Solange Maria T. , Mizobe Lia , Magrin José , Kowalski Luiz Paulo
Published: August 2004

Background.

Pectoralis major and other myofascial/myocutaneous flaps have been recognized as important reconstructive methods in head and neck cancer surgery. Even with the worldwide use of free flaps, they are still the mainstay reconstructive procedures in many centers.

Methods.

We retrospectively analyzed the records of patients with head and neck cancer who underwent an immediate reconstruction with pectoralis major or other myofascial/myocutaneous flaps at a tertiary cancer center from 1982 to 1998.

Results.

A total of 437 patients were reviewed. Three hundred seventy‐one patients underwent pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps; of these, 335 (90.3%) were men, with a median age of 56 years (range, 24–91 years). Tumors were located at the oral cavity and oropharynx in 246 patients (66.3%). Most tumors were at an advanced stage at presentation (T3–T4 in 60.9%). The flaps were used to cover mucosal defects in 280 patients (75.5%), skin defects in 62 patients (16.7%), and both in 29 patients (7.8%). In most patients, the flap was transferred to the head and neck region through a subclavicular tunnel. The overall complication rate was 36.1%, with 2.4% of cases involving total flap necrosis.

Conclusion.

To date, this is the largest published series of patients who underwent reconstruction with a pectoralis major flap. Our results show that this flap remains an important reconstructive method, and it can be done with low risk and acceptable morbidity. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 1018–1023, 2004
Ursodeoxycholic Acid Therapy in Pediatric Patients With Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Jacquemin E , Hermans D , Myara A , Habes D , Debray D , Hadchouel M , Sokal E M , Bernard O
Published: August 2004

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a lethal inherited childhood cholestasis of hepatocellular origin. Different subtypes of PFIC have been described according to serum gamma–glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activity. There is currently no effective medical therapy available for children with PFIC. We report on 39 patients with PFIC who received ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) orally (20–30 mg/kg b.w./day) for a period of 2 to 4 years. Group 1 (n = 26) consisted of children with normal GGT activity, and group 2 (n = 13) of children with high GGT activity. Within group 1, liver tests normalized in 11 children, improved in 5, and stabilized or worsened in 10. Within group 2, liver tests normalized in six children, improved in four, and stabilized or worsened in three. Improvement of parameters was associated with an enrichment of the circulating pool of bile acids with UDCA. Hepatosplenomegaly and pruritus disappeared or diminished in children in whom liver tests normalized. In nine of these children, liver tests worsened and normalized again after stopping and restarting UDCA. Liver histology assessed in four children after normalization of liver tests and 2 years of treatment showed a decrease in fibrosis. We conclude that UDCA should be considered in the initial therapeutic management of children with PFIC, because it appears effective in resolving or improving the liver function and the clinical status of a fair proportion of children. Chronic UDCA therapy might thus avoid the need for liver transplantation in some children with PFIC.
Type Iiib Glycogen Storage Disease Associated With End–Stage Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Haagsma E B , Smit G P , Niezen-Koning K E , Gouw A S , Meerman L , Slooff M J
Published: August 2004

Type III glycogen storage disease (GSD) is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism caused by a deficiency of debranching enzyme. Different subtypes with different clinical pictures have been recognized. During childhood and early adulthood, the symptoms generally regress, and normal adulthood appears possible in most patients without symptoms or signs of cirrhosis. We report on an adult patient with GSD who developed endstage cirrhosis and a small hepatocellular carcinoma. She had GSD subtype IIIb, i.e., there were no signs of cardiomyopathy, myopathy, or neuropathy. She underwent a successful transplantation, representing the first case treated this way for this indication to our knowledge, and she is doing well after 1 year. Debranching enzyme activity was absent both in the liver and in the leukocytes before transplantation. The debranching enzyme activity remained absent in the leukocytes after transplantation. We conclude that patients with GSD type III may develop end–stage cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and therefore need hepatological follow–up during adulthood.
Small Hepatocellular Carcinomas in Cirrhotic Explant Livers: Identification by Macroscopic Examination and Lipiodol Localization
Authors: Bhattacharya S , Dhillon A P , Rees J , Savage K , Saada J , Burroughs A , Rolles K , Davidson B
Published: August 2004

Small hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in cirrhotic livers are difficult to detect. This study aimed to assess if small HCCs can be better identified using specific macroscopic sampling criteria and Lipiodol (iodized oil) localization on radiographs, and to evaluate thereby their incidence and morphology. Prospective cirrhotic recipients of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) were administered hepatic arterial Lipiodol at angiography. Posttransplantation, the explant livers were sliced and inspected as per routine for unusual nodules. If unusual nodules were found or HCC clinically suspected, the slices underwent soft–tissue radiography. Tissue samples were then taken as per protocol from all nodules with diameter ≥1 cm/unusual appearance/exophytic bulge, and from foci of radiographic Lipiodol uptake or high soft–tissue density. One hundred three lesions were assessed and classified histologically as HCC (n = 55) or regenerative nodule (n = 39) or borderline (n = 9). Sampling according to predetermined macroscopic criteria proved an effective method for identifying small HCCs: 44 cancers were detected, most < 5 mm in diameter, additional to those picked up on routine assessment. Green nodules were more likely to be HCC (P < .0001). The cancers were all multifocal, and had characteristic histological features of HCC except for 12 unusual fibrotic cancers in livers with alcoholic cirrhosis. Lipiodolization alone identified one additional HCC. Lipiodol retention on x–ray is fairly specific for HCC (83%), and can even identify lesions 2 mm in diameter. But its sensitivity is poor (45%), and its routine use to identify HCCs in explant livers is not recommended.
Expression of Hepatocyte Growth Factor and Its Receptor, the C– Met Proto–Oncogene, in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ueki T , Fujimoto J , Suzuki T , Yamamoto H , Okamoto E
Published: August 2004

The c–met proto–oncogene encodes the tyrosine kinase receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a potent mitogen and motogen for epithelial cells. Because of its profound effects on cell growth and motility, HGF may be important in the development of cancer metastases in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we examined HGF concentration and expression of the c–met proto–oncogene product (c–Met) in 62 patients with HCC to determine the relationship between the level of expression and clinicopathological features, and patient outcome following hepatectomy. Western blotting was used to examine the c–Met expression, and HGF concentration in tumors was measured using an enzyme–linked immunosorbent assay. c–Met was found to be overexpressed in HCC compared with nontumorous liver tissue (P < .01), and correlated with an increased incidence of intrahepatic metastases (P = .039). Patients were divided into two groups: low c–Met HCC and high c–Met HCC. Patients with high c–Met HCC had a significantly shorter 5–year survival than patients with low c–Met HCC (33.5% vs. 80.3%, respectively; P < .05). However, there was no correlation between HGF concentration in the tumor tissue and clinicopathological factors and patient survival. These results indicate that the expression of c–Met played an important role in tumor growth and metastases in patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC.
Identification of High– and Low–Risk Patients Before Liver Transplantation: A Prospective Cohort Study of Nutritional and Metabolic Parameters in 150 Patients
Authors: Selberg O , Bottcher J , Tusch G , Pichlmayr R , Henkel E , Muller M J
Published: August 2004

The clinical relevance of malnutrition and hypermetabolism in end–stage liver disease, as well as their effects on survival after liver transplantation (LTx), are largely unknown. This study investigates the prognostic value of nutritional and metabolic parameters obtained before LTx for survival after LTx. One hundred fifty patients with end– stage liver disease undergoing LTx were assessed prospectively and followed for a mean period of 46 ± 16 months after LTx. All patients were randomized into a study group and a validation group, each comprising 75 patients. Body composition analysis (24–hour urinary creatinine excretion, anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis), deviation of measured from predicted resting energy expenditure (ΔREE), year of transplantation, and several variables known to be of prognostic relevance in patients with liver disease undergoing conservative treatment were analyzed. Kaplan–Meier and log rank analysis showed that hypermetabolic patients (ΔREE > +20%) and patients with a body cell mass (BCM) < 35% of body weight tended to have reduced survival after LTx. A risk profile on the basis of ΔREE and BCM identified patients with high risk (5–year survival rate, 54%) and low risk (5–year survival rate, 88%; P < .01). The predictive power of this risk profile was independent of the presence of ascites and clinical edema, and its validity was confirmed in the validation group (P < .01). The Child–Pugh score was not of prognostic value. We conclude that a poor nutritional state, as well as hypermetabolism, adversely affects survival after LTx. These potentially treatable presurgical factors deserve close attention in interventional studies.
Coagulation and Fibrinolysis in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Compared With Other Liver Disease and During Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Segal H , Cottam S , Potter D , Hunt B J
Published: August 2004

Cirrhosis is associated with compromised hemostasis and coagulopathy during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). It has been suggested that hemostasis is better preserved during OLT in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) than other cirrhotic states. The aim of this study was to compare coagulation and fibrinolysis in 15 patients with PBC with 31 patients with other liver disease before and during OLT. Preoperatively, both groups had subnormal mean levels of prekallikrein, factor XIIa, antithrombin III (ATIII), plasminogen, and α2– antiplasmin. C1 esterase inhibitor and kallikrein inhibition in PBC was higher than the normal range (P < .01), but not in non–PBC. Non–PBC had lower median fibrinogen levels and shorter euglobulin clot lysis times (ECLT) (P < .05). Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) antigen levels did not differ between groups but were elevated from the normal range, as were median thrombin–antithrombin complexes (TAT). Plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) activity was significantly higher in PBC (0.0041). Perioperatively in the PBC group during the early anhepatic phase of OLT, there was more thrombin generation, as evidenced by higher TAT levels (P = .0455) and less hyperfibrinolysis with longer ECLTs. We hypothesize that there is a preserved capacity to generate thrombin and less fibrinolytic activation during the anhepatic phase of OLT, and we suggest that, in PBC, the use of antifibrinolytic agents may have an adverse effect.
B7/Bb–1 Expression and Hepatitis Activity in Liver Tissues of Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Mochizuki K , Hayashi N , Katayama K , Hiramatsu N , Kanto T , Mita E , Tatsumi T , Kuzushita N , Kasahara A , Fusamoto H , Yokochi T , Kamada T
Published: August 2004

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) are closely related to the mechanism of liver injury in chronic viral hepatitis. Recently, it has been suggested that antigen–specific T cell activation requires both presentation of antigen by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and the delivery of costimulatory signals. Such signals are provided by B7/BB–1, one of the most important accessory molecules, sufficient for causing antigen–specific MHC–restricted T cell activation. To evaluate the role of B7/BB–1 in chronic hepatitis C, we immunohistochemically studied its expression in liver tissues obtained from 61 patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and compared them based on hepatitis activity. In HCV–infected liver, B7/BB–1 was strongly expressed in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. B7/BB–1–positive cells accompanied liver–infiltrating lymphocytes and were mainly detected in the periportal region. B7/BB–1 expression was closely correlated with the activity of viral hepatitis as evaluated from scores of periportal or intralobular inflammation and necrosis, or serum alanine transferase (ALT) levels. Further study by immunostaining with anti–HCV core and anti–human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I antibody showed B7/BB–1 positive cells near HCV core antigen–and HLA class I–positive cells, with B7/BB–1–positive cells mostly included among HLA class I–positive cells. These findings suggested that B7/BB–1 expression by hepatocytes may be induced by HCV infection and may trigger generation and activation of CTL, which may cause damage to HCV–infected HLA class I–expressing hepatocytes.
Hepatitis C Virus Core and E2 Protein Expression in Transgenic Mice
Authors: Pasquinelli C , Shoenberger J M , Chung J , Chang K M , Guidotti L G , Selby M , Berger K , Lesniewski R , Houghton M , Chisari F V
Published: August 2004

Transgenic mice have been produced that express the hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein in the liver under the transcriptional control of the mouse major urinary protein promoter. These animals express the full length core protein in cytoplasm of their hepatocytes at levels comparable to those detected in naturally infected patients, without histological or biochemical evidence of liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma. This contrasts with recent reports that HCV core protein can transform NIH 3T3 cells and cooperates with H–ras to transform primary rat fibroblasts in vitro. Coexpression of HCV core protein in double transgenic mice that replicate the hepatitis B virus (HBV) does not inhibit hepatocellular HBV gene expression or replication, contrary to reports that it inhibits HBV replication in HuH–7 cells after transient transfection in vitro. We have also produced transgenic mice in which a C–terminally truncated (aa384–715) glycosylated HCV E2 protein is expressed in the liver under the transcriptional control of the mouse albumin promoter. Despite the high level expression of HCV E2 protein, no evidence of liver disease was detected in these animals. These results suggest that the HCV core and E2 proteins are not cytopathic for the hepatocyte in vivo, and they represent an initial step in the development of a small animal model of HCV immunopathology.
Consumer‐led demand side financing in health and education and its relevance for low and middle income countries
Authors: Ensor Tim
Published: August 2004

There is increasing awareness that supply subsidies for health and education services often fail to benefit those that are most vulnerable in a community. This recognition has led to a growing interest in and experimentation with, consumer‐led demand side financing systems (CL‐DSF). These mechanisms place purchasing power in the hands of consumers to spend on specific services at accredited facilities.

International evidence in education and health sectors suggest a limited success of CL‐DSF in raising the consumption of key services amongst priority groups. There is also some evidence that vouchers can be used to improve targeting of vulnerable groups. There is very little positive evidence on the effect of CL‐DSF on service quality as a consequence of greater competition. Location of services relative to population means that areas with more provider choice, particularly in the private sector, tend to be dominated by higher and middle‐income households.

Extending CL‐DSF in low‐income countries requires the development of capacity in administering these financing schemes and also accrediting providers. Schemes could focus primarily on fixed packages of key services aimed at easily identifiable groups. Piloting and robust evaluation is required to fill the evidence gap on the impact of these mechanisms. Extending demand financing to less predictable services, such as hospital coverage for the population, is likely to require the development of a voucher scheme to purchase insurance. This suggests an already developed insurance market and is unlikely to be appropriate in most low‐income countries for some time. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysing the use of hospital care services in Finland
Authors: Ovaskainen Päivi , Rautava Päivi , Ojanlatva Ansa , Päkkilä Jussi , Päivärinta Ritva
Published: August 2004

Hospital care captures more than one half of the funds allocated for health care within municipalities in Finland. Municipal administrators perceive that there is little they can do as far the quantity and quality of services are concerned. This case study was to analyse the utilization of hospital care within a coalition of two municipalities (Paimio and Sauvo) for one year. By using the Diagnosis Related Groups and Main Diagnostic Categorizations and by comparing the data with the existing physician visits, health care decisions may be made regarding the general morbidity and the use of medical services. While the databases number among the most extensive in the world, the existing information has not been fully utilized for planning, implementation and evaluation of services within the municipalities. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo metoclopramide protection of cholinesterase from paraoxon inhibition: direct comparison with pralidoxime in subchronic low‐dose exposure
Authors: Hasan M. Y. , Nurulain S. M. , Arafat K. , Naseer O. P. , Petroianu G. A.
Published: August 2004

The benzamide compound metoclopramide (MCP) protects against cholinesterase inhibition by paraoxon (POX) both in vitro and in vivo. This study evaluates MCP‐conferred protection of enzyme activity head to head against the therapeutic gold standard pralidoxime (PRX). Six groups of rats were used. All substances were applied i.p. daily for 5 days, followed by a 2‐day rest. The 7‐day cycle was repeated eight times. Group 1 received 100 nM POX, group 2 received 50 µM MCP, group 3 received 100 nM POX + 50 µM MCP, group 4 received 50 µM PRX, group 5 received 100 nM POX + 50 µM PRX and group 6 received saline. Red blood cell acetylcholinesterase (RBC‐AChE) measurements were performed at baseline and on day 5 of each 7‐day cycle. The sums of enzyme activities over time (weekly values expressed as % of baseline of 100%) were compared using the Mann–Whitney rank order test. A Bonferroni correction of 4 for multiple comparisons was applied. Paraoxon signiﬁcantly reduced enzyme activities when compared with saline (Σ = 535 ± 25 vs 902 ± 42). Metoclopramide conferred statistically signiﬁcant in vivo protection from inhibition of RBC‐AChE by POX (Σ = 640 ± 58). The extent of protection was signiﬁcantly less than that conferred by the gold standard PRX (Σ = 765 ± 57). Metoclopramide, in addition to being less effective as an RBC‐AChE protective agent, also caused a failure to thrive in the POX+MCP‐exposed rats, as evidenced by the changes in body weight. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety evaluation of a new allergy vaccine containing the adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL®) for the treatment of grass pollen allergy
Authors: Baldrick Paul , Richardson Derek , Wheeler Alan W. , Woroniecki Stefan R.
Published: August 2004

A novel allergy vaccine (Pollinex® Quattro) has been developed for the prevention or relief of allergic symptoms caused by a variety of pollens. Within this range, the grass pollen allergy vaccine contains extracts of 12 grass pollens and rye cereal (all chemically modiﬁed by glutaraldehyde) that are adsorbed onto l‐tyrosine with addition of the immunostimulatory adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL®). A speciﬁc preclinical safety testing strategy was developed to support clinical use, comprising single‐dose toxicity, repeat‐dose toxicity and local tolerance studies. Dose levels of up to 0.5 ml per animal (mouse) and up to 1.0 ml per animal (rat and rabbit) were used with vaccines containing 2000 or 12 000 standardized units (SU) ml−1 of grass pollen allergoids, 50 µg ml−1 of MPL® adjuvant and 20 mg ml−1 of tyrosine. Overall, the product showed no toxicological ﬁndings of signiﬁcance at levels greatly in excess of those proposed for clinical use. A not unexpected, but relatively minor, immunostimulatory effect was seen following repeated dosing (once weekly for 3 weeks) at 1.0 ml per rat. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of rosmarinic acid against aﬂatoxin B1 and ochratoxin‐A‐induced cell damage in a human hepatoma cell line (Hep G2)
Authors: Renzulli C. , Galvano F. , Pierdomenico L. , Speroni E. , Guerra M. C.
Published: August 2004

Recent ﬁndings have suggested that oxidative damage might contribute to the cytotoxicity and carcinogenicity of aﬂatoxin B1 (AFB1). The induction of oxidative stress also plays an important role in the toxicity of another mycotoxin: ochratoxin A (OTA). In this study, the protective effect of rosmarinic acid (Ros A) against AFB1 and OTA‐induced cytotoxicity was investigated in a human hepatoma‐derived cell line (Hep G2). Rosmarinic acid, a natural phenolic compound contained in many Lamiaceae herbs such as Perilla frutescens, sage, basil and mint, inhibits complement‐dependent inﬂammatory processes and may have therapeutic potential.

The ability of Ros A to reduce radical oxygen species (ROS) production, protein and DNA synthesis inhibition and apoptosis caused by the two mycotoxins was also investigated. Our experiments proved the signiﬁcant cytoprotective effect of Ros A in vitro from OTA‐ and AFB1‐induced cell damage. In particular, 24‐h pretreatment with 50 µM Ros A inhibited the cytotoxicity of 10 µM AFB1 (by 45%) and 10 µM OTA (by 35%) in Hep G2 cells (P < 0.001). Moreover, Ros A dose dependently attenuated ROS production and DNA and protein synthesis inhibition induced by both of the toxins. Similarly, apoptosis cell death was prevented, as demonstrated by reduction of DNA fragmentation and inhibition of caspase‐3 activation (P < 0.001). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cisplatin‐induced acute renal failure is ameliorated by erdosteine in a dose‐dependent manner
Authors: Özyurt Hüseyin , Yıldırım Zeki , Kotuk Mahir , Yılmaz H. Ramazan , Yağmurca Murat , Iraz Mustafa , Söğüt Sad , Gergerlioglu Serdar
Published: August 2004

The aim of this study was to investigate the optimum dosage of erdosteine to ameliorate cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity. Three different doses of erdosteine at 25, 50 and 75 mg kg−1 were studied in rats. Intraperitoneal administration of 7 mg kg−1 cisplatin led to acute renal failure, as indicated by kidney histology and increases in plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. At 5 days after cisplatin injection the BUN level was increased signiﬁcantly from 15.1 ± 4.3 to 126.7 ± 152.6 mg dl−1 and plasma creatinine levels increased from 0.37 ± 0.005 to 1.68 ± 1.9 mg dl−1. When the rats were administered 50 and 75 mg kg−1 erdosteine 24 h before cisplatin injection that was continued until sacriﬁce (total of 6 days), the BUN and creatinine levels remained similar to control levels and the grade of histology was similar. Erdosteine at doses of 50 and 75 mg kg−1 ameliorates cisplatin‐induced renal failure. The optimum dose of erdosteine may be 50 mg kg−1 in this study. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sidestream tobacco smoke as the main predictor of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Lodovici M. , Akpan V. , Evangelisti C. , Dolara P.
Published: August 2004

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured in mainstream and sidestream tobacco smoke from 14 commercial brands of cigarettes purchased in Italy during 2001–2002. The PAHs detected in smoke and analysed with HPLC and a ﬂuorimetric detector were: ﬂuoranthene, pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[b]ﬂuoranthene, benzo[k]ﬂuoranthene, benzo[g,h,i]perylene and dibenzo[a,h]anthracene. The PAH levels in mainstream smoke from different cigarette brands obtained using an ofﬁcial smoking machine varied by about threefold (from 118 to 374 ng per cigarette for total PAHs and from 23.5 to 100 ng per cigarette for carcinogenic PAHs). Total PAH levels in mainstream smoke were correlated with tar content (r = 0.615, P < 0.05, n = 14). Total PAH content in sidestream smoke, measured by collection of all the smoke produced by a lit cigarette in a glass chamber, was about tenfold higher compared with mainstream smoke. The PAH content in sidestream smoke was relatively uniform (2.3–3.9 and 0.49–1.21 µg per cigarette for total and carcinogenic PAHs, respectively) and was not correlated with tar content. These results indicate that cigarette manufacturing and ﬁlter characteristics inﬂuence the PAH composition of mainstream smoke, but have no effect on the PAH content in sidestream smoke, which is the main determinant of smokers' and non‐smokers' exposure to PAHs in environmental tobacco smoke. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gas chromatographic determination of cocaine and its metabolites in blood and urine from cocaine users in northwestern Spain
Authors: Fernández P. , Buján L. , Bermejo A. M. , Tabernero M. J.
Published: August 2004

A gas chromatographic method with ﬂame ionization detection (GC/FID) was developed for the determination of cocaine and its metabolites in blood and urine samples from cocaine users in Northwestern Spain. After a solid‐phase extraction with Bond Elut Certify cartridges and a derivatization with bis‐trimethylsilyltriﬂuoroacetamide–trimethylchlorosilane (1%), calibration curves were constructed over 0.4–4 µg ml−1 for urine and 0.1–2 µg ml−1 for blood, using proadifen as the reference compound. The average extraction recoveries were 75% for urine and 78% for blood. The limits of detection and quantitation were 0.071 and 0.24 µg ml−1, respectively. Coefﬁcients of variation were <10% and accuracy was within ±12%. The average blood concentrations of cocaine, benzoylecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester in 42 living patients were 0.22, 1.43 and 0.16 µg ml−1, respectively. Urine samples were collected from individuals in the criminal justice system (70 cases), from drug abusers admitted to emergency rooms (36 cases) and from patients under detoxiﬁcation treatment (36 cases). The second group exhibited the highest average concentrations (e.g. 0.97 µg ml−1 for cocaine, 5.23 µg ml−1 for benzoylecgonine and 0.39 µg ml−1 for ecgonine methyl ester). Sixty‐ﬁve fatal intoxications due to cocaine alone or in combination with other drugs were studied, and average blood levels were found to be higher in the deaths related to cocaine alone (e.g. 0.40 µg ml−1 for cocaine, 2.38 µg ml−1 for benzoylecgonine and 0.38 µg ml−1 for ecgonine methyl ester). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biocompatibility and antibacterial activity studies of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendron, side chain dendritic oligourethane (SCDOU)
Authors: Ghosh Samaresh , Banthia Ajit K.
Published: August 2004

Cytotoxicity of both polyamidoamine dendritic diol (PAMAM) and side chain dendritic oligourethane (SCDOU) was studied through interaction with mammalian fibroblast cells (L929). Cell metabolic activity in the presence of dendritic polymers was measured using an MTT assay exhibiting significant cell viability. Additionally, the antibacterial activity of PAMAM dendron, SCDOU, as well as their silver‐doped structures was studied against Escherichia coli bacteria. The results showed that the silver‐doped structures attain high antibacterial activity. Formation of silver‐doped dendritic polymers was investigated from the UV‐visible plasmon absorption band of silver particles. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 71A: 1–5, 2004
Efficacy of polyanionic collagen matrices for bone defect healing
Authors: Rocha Lenaldo B. , Brochi Marco Aurélio C. , Bellucci Ângela D. , Rossi Marcos A.
Published: August 2004

Polyanionic collagen–elastin matrices (PCEMs) possess attractive properties, such as extra negative charges, piezoelectricity, and extra RGD sites, which could make them effective in the treatment of bone defects. Although they are biocompatible with the osteogenesis process, it is unknown if PCEMs could aid in the recovery of bone defects in challenging situations. To evaluate this hypothesis, three PCEMs, differing in their negative charge density, were implanted in rat calvarial defects. Specimens harvested at 3, 7, 15, 30, and 60 days after implantation were evaluated radiographically and histologically. Two matrices were able to sustain the osteogenesis process and quickly recover the lost bone structure. The third, and most electronegative, left matrix remnants amidst the areas of new bone. The control showed bone formation limited to the boundaries of the defect. These results suggest that some PCEMs might become a useful resource in the treatment of bone defects. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 71B: 355–359, 2004
Effects of root‐end filling materials and eugenol on mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and cytotoxicity to human periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Lin Chun‐Pin , Chen Yi‐Jane , Lee Yuan‐Ling , Wang Juo‐Song , Chang Mei‐Chi , Lan Wan‐Hong , Chang Hsiao‐Hwa , Chao William Ming‐Wei , Tai Tseng‐Fang , Lee Mon‐Ying , Lin Bor‐Ru , Jeng Jiiang‐Huei
Published: August 2004

Various root‐end filling materials have been used to prevent the entry of root‐canal pathogens into periapical regions. Five root‐end filling materials were compared regarding the cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dehydrogenase (MDH) activities of human periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts, with the use of a novel transwell culture system. Exposure to IRM (a ZnO eugenol‐based intermediate restorative material), a 2‐ethoxybenzoic acid cement (Super EBA), and amalgam for 3 days inhibited the MDH activity of PDL fibroblasts as indicated by decrease in 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction by 97%, 95%, and 51%, respectively. Evident suppression of MTT reduction by amalgam and glass ionomer cement (GIC) was noted after 5 days of exposure, with 73% and 46% of inhibition, respectively. Mineral trioxide aggregates (MTA) showed little effect on MDH activity. IRM and Super EBA were cytotoxic to PDL fibroblasts as indicated by a trypan blue dye exclusion technique. GIC and amalgam showed mild cytotoxicity. IRM, GIC, and amalgam further induced apoptosis of PDL cells, as revealed by the presence of sub‐G0/G1 DNA content in flow cytometric histogram. Twenty‐four‐hour exposure to IRM and Super EBA elevated the MDH activities to 156% and 117%, correspondingly, of that of control. Eugenol, a phenolic ingredient in Super EBA and IRM, also increases MDH activity of PDL fibroblasts by 45% and 51%, at concentrations of 0.5 and 1 mM. However, at concentrations higher than 0.5 mM, eugenol decreased the number of viable PDL fibroblasts. These results suggest that MTA is a biocompatible root‐end filling material, followed by self‐curing Fuji II GIC and amalgam. IRM and Super EBA ingredients induced marked cytotoxicity and transiently stimulate MDH activities, which is possibly due to their content of eugenol and induction of cellular adaptive response. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 71B: 429–440, 2004
Exposure to violence, parental monitoring, and television viewing as contributors to children's psychological trauma
Authors: Singer Mark I. , Flannery Daniel J. , Guo Shenyang , Miller David , Leibbrandt Sylvia
Published: August 2004

This study examined the relative contributions of exposure to violence, parental monitoring, and television viewing habits to children's self‐reported symptoms of psychological trauma. Children in grades 3–8 in 11 public schools completed an anonymous self‐report questionnaire administered during usual school hours. The final sample was comprised of 2245 children who represented 80% of the students in attendance at the participating schools. Students ranged in age from 7 to 15 years; 49% were female, 57% were white, 33% black, and 5% were Hispanic. A model using hierarchical multiple regression explained approximately 39% of the variance in students' overall trauma symptom scores. A combination of demographic variables, daily hours of television viewing, and recent and past exposure to violence were significant contributors to this explained variance. Bivariate analyses of high violence‐exposed students (top quartile) revealed approximately 39% of both girls and boys with clinically elevated scores in at least one trauma symptom category. The findings support the need to identify and to provide services for children exposed to violence. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 489–504, 2004.
Impact of witnessing violence on growth curves for problem behaviors among early adolescents in urban and rural settings
Authors: Farrell Albert D. , Sullivan Terri N.
Published: August 2004

Two studies used latent growth‐curve analysis to examine the relation between witnessing violence and changes in problem behaviors (drug use, aggression, and delinquency) and attitudes during early adolescence. In Study 1, six waves of data covering 6th to 8th grades were collected from 731 students in urban schools serving mostly African‐American students. Strong cross‐sectional relations were found between witnessing violence and other variables. Witnessing violence also predicted subsequent increases in drug use and attitudes supporting violence and decreases in value on achievement. In Study 2, five waves of data covering 6th to 9th grades were collected from an ethnically diverse sample of 922 students at four rural schools. Witnessing violence predicted subsequent changes in drug use, but not in other variables. Growth‐curve trajectories indicated that boys reported greater increases in witnessing violence than girls. Strong cross‐sectional relations again were found between witnessing violence and other variables. Increases in witnessing violence also were related strongly to increases in problem behaviors and attitudes supporting violence and to decreases in attitudes supporting nonviolence. These findings have important implications for research and intervention efforts. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 505–525, 2004.
Violence exposure in home and community: Influence on posttraumatic stress symptoms in Army recruits*
Authors: Chapin Mark G.
Published: August 2004

This study assessed the levels and types of violence exposure, levels of posttraumatic stress symptoms, and the relationship among exposure to violence, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and early discharge in U.S. Army recruits at Basic Combat Training (BCT). The study applied a modified ABCX model of family stress adaptation developed by McCubbin, Thompson, and McCubbin (1996). A sample of 779 BCT recruits were surveyed before training began. At the end of training, data was collected on those recruits who had been discharged before completion of training. Statistical measures of association were used to assess the relationship between the variables. Results supported all three of the hypotheses tested. Significant positive relationships were found between violence exposure and trauma symptoms, as well as levels of trauma symptoms and odds of early discharge. Patterns of association were found between types of exposure to community versus home violence and specific symptom clusters of traumatic stress. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 527–541, 2004.
Effects of psychoeducation for offenders in a community correctional facility
Authors: Liau Albert K. , Shively Randy , Horn Mary , Landau Jennifer , Barriga Alvaro , Gibbs John C.
Published: August 2004

The present study provided a randomized outcome evaluation of the psychoeducational component of the EQUIP program. The psychoeducational curriculum was implemented in a community correctional facility for adult felony offenders. The psychoeducational curriculum is designed to remedy offenders' delays in moral judgment maturity, social cognitive distortions, and social skill deficiencies. The participants were 316 felony offenders, 71% male, aged 18 to 61 years. Relative to a control group, participants who received portions of the curriculum reported fewer serious institutional violations. Female, but not male participants, who received the curriculum were less likely to recidivate than those in the control group at six months. Reductions in mediating factors—cognitive distortion for males and social skills for females—were associated with fewer serious institutional violations. Levels of substance abuse, exposure to violence, and number of serious violations were found to predict recidivism at six months. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 543–558, 2004.
Impact of exposure to violence in school on child and adolescent mental health and behavior
Authors: Flannery Daniel J. , Wester Kelly L. , Singer Mark I.
Published: August 2004

Exposure to violence at school remains a significant problem for children and adolescents. This study examined the relationship between exposure to violence at school and child reports of psychological trauma symptoms and violent behavior. The sample consisted of children in grades 3 through 12 in 17 public schools from two different states. Rates of witnessing violence ranged from 56% of elementary‐school students witnessing someone else being beaten up to 87% of students witnessing someone else being hit, slapped, or punched at school in the past year. Nearly half (44%) of middle‐school youth were threatened at school. After accounting for demographic effects, witnessing violence at school accounted for more variance than being victimized by violence at school in predicting both psychological trauma symptoms and violent behavior. Students who were exposed to high levels of violence at school also were significantly more likely to experience clinical levels of trauma symptoms than students who were exposed to low levels of violence at school. The association between exposure to violence at school and child well being are discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 559–573, 2004.
Community‐based prevention using simple, low‐cost, evidence‐based kernels and behavior vaccines
Authors: Embry Dennis D.
Published: August 2004

A paradox exists in community prevention of violence and drugs. Good research now exists on evidence‐based programs, yet extensive expenditures on prevention have not produced community‐level results. Various multiproblems are quite prevalent in the United States, such as violence, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), conduct problems, learning disabilities, depression, and other mood problems. Various studies have observed that intuitively appealing community‐based coalitions and best practice requirements have not produced prevention gains as hoped for by many. Calls for more money, fidelity, or dose seem unlikely to succeed. Other alternatives may be possible. Most of the best practices aimed at preventing these community problems are composed of evidence‐based kernels, which act on core principles of prevention (risk and protective factors). What is not widely known is that the evidence‐based kernels are powerful in their own right. Evidence‐based kernels are irreducible units of behavior‐change technology, and they can be put together into behavioral vaccines (daily practices) with powerful longitudinal prevention results. Kernels and behavioral vaccines are simple, and they are not programs or curriculum in the conventional sense. This article presents examples of evidence‐based kernels and behavioral vaccines that can be promoted easily across whole communities or states using social marketing principles. Widespread propagation of evidence‐based kernels and behavioral vaccines could have a significant impact on communities and their prevention norms, providing low‐cost alternatives and practical models for community psychology, public health, and policy makers. Behavioral kernels and vaccines can add needed precision to prevention science and community psychology. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 575–591, 2004.