bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STANDARDIZATION OF THE APTT TEST CURRENT STATUS
Authors: Poller L.
Published: August 2010

The partial thromboplastin time (PTT) which is used as an overall measure of the intrinsic clotting system, is the commonest coagulation test employed in routine laboratories apart from the prothrombin time. The main functions of the test are: 1. to screen intrinsic coagulation defects; 2. to control heparin administration; 3. in the control of oral anticoagulant treatment.

Many different preparations of phospholipid of human, animal and vegetable origin are used as PTT reagents. In addition, different activators, incubation times, concentrations of calcium chloride and test dilutions of plasma and phospholipid are recommended for routine laboratory use. The need to standardise both reagents and technique has been emphasised in many reports. To meet the need for a reference preparation for the PTT test, a large batch of phospholipid material of human brain origin, designated 71/25, was prepared in the National (UK) Reference Laboratory in lyophilised form in 1971 and proposed as a provisional international reference material. This primary master preparation has been used to calibrate subsequent batches of secondary reference preparations distributed to hospitals in the UK and overseas. Results of a number of collaborative studies have demonstrated the greater reliability of the standardised PTT extract compared with commercial extracts used at the same centres in the three aspects of PTT testing.

The conclusion to be drawn from these extensive studies of the laboratory and clinical application of the provisional international reference preparation (71/25) is that we may now be in a position to define an acceptable international standard for the APTT.
Radiosensitivity of Haematopoietic Stem Cells (DCPC and CFU‐GM) from Cord Blood
Authors: Prindull G. , Prindull B. , Kiekenap R. , Markus B.
Published: August 2010

The radiosensitivity of human cord blood haematopoietic stem cells was measured by assessing colony formation in methylcellulose cultures and diffusion chambers. The results show that fetal colony forming units, granulocytic, monocytic (CFU‐GM), are radiosensitive: colonies formed by electron‐irradiated CFU‐GM, both in spontaneous and in colony stimulating factor (CSF) supplemented cultures decrease in number in an exponential fashion with increasing doses of irradiation. D0 values up to 800 rads were, for highly purified fetal lymphoid cells, 160 ± 88 rads; for whole buffy coat cells, 155 ± 75 rads; and for buffy coat cells plus exogenous CSF: 155 ± 77 rads. Extrapolation numbers (N) approached the value of 1. Among cord blood diffusion chambers progenitor cells (DCPC), radiosensitive and radioresistant subpopulations of myelopoietic stem cells exist, as tested over a range up to 1500 rads. Monocytopoietic CFU‐D are radioresistant.
Amrinone‐Mediated Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kinney Evlin L. , Ballard James O. , Carlin Brian , Zelis Robert
Published: August 2010

Amrinone, a new cardioactive drug, was administered for, on average, 27.9 d to 12 patients in severe congestive heart failure. Thrombocytopenia occurred in 4 patients, while a progressive decline in platelet numbers developed in 3 additional patients. The mechanism for these adverse effects of amrinone is unclear, but merits further study because of its frequency.
Immunological Typing of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
Authors: Reijden Hendrik J. van der , Wering Elizabeth R. van , Rijn J. Mathijs van de , Melief Cees J. M. , Veer Mars B. van T , Behrendt Henk , Borne Albert E. G. Kr. von dem
Published: August 2010

The blasts of 37 adult and 126 childhood cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) were characterized with a panel of xeno‐antisera and rosette tests. The Orthoclone® monoclonal antibodies (OKT series) were applied as well. Like other investigators, we were able to distinguish 4 major classes of ALL: T‐ALL, common‐ALL with the subclass pre‐B‐ALL, null‐ALL, and B‐ALL. We did not encounter a common‐ALL antigen‐positive T‐ALL subclass. In both adult and childhood ALL, all classes were present, and in about the same frequency as reported by others. In children, common‐ALL was the most frequent (66%); in adults, null‐ALL (38%). T‐ALL was seen both in adults and in children with about the same frequency (27 and 23%, respectively). We found pre‐B‐ALL only in children. Patients with B‐ALL comprised the smallest group in both adults and children (8 and 1.5%, respectively). The application of the OKT antibodies led to recognition of 3 major subclasses of T‐ALL: an immature, a common thymocyte and a mature thymocyte subclass. These antibodies were helpful in defining a better classification of null‐ALL.

With regard to remission induction and prognosis in adult ALL, complete remissions were always obtained in T‐ALL, followed by 70% of complete remissions in common‐ALL. The worst prognosis was encountered in null‐ALL and B‐ALL, with 50 and 0% remission, respectively, and a shorter survival in null‐ALL of those patients who achieved complete remission. Thus, the high number of cases of null‐ALL in adults partly explains the generally much worse prognosis for adult ALL.
Nuclear Fluorescing Particles (F‐Bodies) in Lymphocytes in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Lisse Ida M. , Holländer Niels H. , Thomsen Jørgen L.
Published: August 2010

The number of fluorescing particles (F‐bodies) in lymphocytes in 28 female and 45 male patients with CLL was compared to 63 (36 female, 27 male) controls, with and 25 (13 female, 12 male) without other haematological diseases. We found statistically highly significant increased F‐body counts in the CLL groups. The present investigation indicates that the F‐body feature described is specific for CLL‐patients and may be a characteristic of the malignant clone of lymphocytes.
T Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Authors: Scott C. S. , Wheeler R. , Ford P. , Bynoe A. G. , Roberts B. E.
Published: August 2010

Absolute T cell counts and the relative distributions of antibody‐defined helper and cytotoxic/suppressor T lymphocytes are reported in 26 patients with chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). T cell numbers are generally normal in ITP and alterations in relative helper (OKT4 positive) and suppressor (OKT8 positive) T cell numbers show no consistent patterns, although 35 % of the cases examined showed inverted distributions. The combined percentages of helper and suppressor T cells consistently exceeded 100 % in ITP indicating the presence of increased OKT4+8+ cells in these patients. A cell population, previously defined as SRBC positive and OKT3 negative, was found in the normal group and in ITP patients following splenectomy but was absent in those patients with intact spleens. The role of these changes in the pathogenesis of ITP is discussed.
Breast tumour as a first manifestation of extramedullary relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Ellegaard J. , Bendix‐Hansen K. , Boesen A. M. , Thorling K. , Hokland P.
Published: August 2010

After 2 years of maintained complete remission, a 17‐year old girl suffering from common acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (C‐ALL) developed a mass in the right breast. Determination of the tumour cell phenotype using a panel of monoclonal antibodies demonstrated the presence of leukaemic blasts. At this stage no other sign of relapse could be demonstrated. Later, however, when the leukaemia progressed despite aggressive treatment, blasts with the same surface phenotype as the ones in the breast were obtained both from repeated biopsies from a mediastinal mass and from a lower abdominal mass. Manifestaion of first relapse in ALL presenting as a breast tumour has never been described before and may be added to other unusual extramedullary sites of relapse. The significance of immunologically defined pheno‐typing of cells from tissue biopsies is underlined.
Financial Aspects of Hemophilia Care
Authors: Carman C.J. , Britten A.F.H. , Ala F. , Sibinga C. Smit
Published: August 2010

The price of factor VIII concentrates and cryoprecipitate, as well as the systems for paying for antihemophilic products have significant impact upon the availability of medical treatment for those with hemophilia. Task Force II of the World Federation of Hemophilia conducted a survey of fifty‐nine member countries of WFH regarding pricing and payment systems for antihemophilic products. These data show considerable variation from country to country. The potential impact of these financial aspects of hemophilia care is considered.
Peripheral giant cell granuloma. An immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study
Authors: Carvalho YR , Loyola AM , Gomez RS , Araújo VC
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To study the nature of multinucleated and mononuclear cells from peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded sections of 40 cases of PGCG were immunohistochemically stained for vimentin, alpha I‐antichymotrypsin, CD68, S‐100 protein, lysozyme. leucocyte common antigen (LCA), factor VIII‐retated antigen and muscle cell actin. Six cases of PGCG were also studied by transmission etectron microscopy.

RESULTS: Vimentin, alpha I‐antichymotrypsin and CD68 were expressed in both the mononuclear and multinucleated giant cells. Dendritic mononuclear cells, positive for 5–100 protein, were noted in 67.5% of the lesions, whereas lysozyme and leucocyte common antigen were detected in occasional mononuclear cells. Ultrastructural examination showed mononuclear cells with signs of phagocytosis and sometimes interdigitations with similar cells. Others presented non‐specific characteristics and the third type exhibited cytoplasmic processes and occasional Birbeck granules. Some multi‐nucleated giant cells showed oval nuclei, abundant mitochondria and granular endoplasmic reticulum whereas others presented with irregular nuclei and a great number of cytoplasmic vacuoles.

CONCLUSIONS: lmmunohistochemical and ultrastructural results suggest that PGCGs of the jaws are composed mainly of cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system and that Langerhans cells are present in two thirds of the lesions.
Expression of lymphocyte function‐associated antigen 3 in oral lichen planus
Authors: Kirby AC , OIsen I , Farthing PM , Porter SR
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: The expression pattern of lymphocyte function‐associated antigen 3 (LFA‐3) in the buccal mucosa of oral lichen planus (OLP) patients was compared to that of healthy controls to investigate the possible role of LFA‐3 in cell interactions within OLP lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples of buccal mucosa from 17 clinically healthy individuals and 17 OLP lesions were analysed. Expression of LFA‐3, CD2, CD3 and CD 14 was visualized by an immunoperoxidase technique and assessed microscopically.

RESULTS: In healthy buccal mucosa LFA‐3 was expressed on keratinocytes, Langerhans cells within the epithelium and on endothelial cells in the lamina propria. In OLP patients a similar pattern of LFA‐3 staining was observed. In addition, cytoplasmic LFA‐3, without accompanying surface staining, was seen on a subpopul‐ation of macrophage‐like cells. Substantial amounts of LFA‐3 also appeared to be associated with non‐cellular components of the extracellular matrix within the inflammatory infiltrate.

CONCLUSIONS: We have obtained evidence for a previously undescribed localization of LFA‐3 within macro‐phages, and have observed that expression of LFA‐3 is apparently elevated within OLP lesions. LFA‐3 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of OLP.
Laboratory studies of sweets re‐formulated to improve their dental properties
Authors: Grenby TH , Mistry M
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the potential dental effects of ten new types of sugar‐free sweets formulated with Lyca‐sin or isomalt as bulk sweeteners instead of sugars.

METHODS: Examination of the sweets for their acidity, fermentability by oral microorganisms, influence on the demineralisation of dental enamel, and their influence on human interdental plaque pH. compared with conventional sugar‐containing sweets.

FINDINGS: The importance of reducing the levels of flavouring acids in the sweets was demonstrated. It was not straightforward to evaluate chocolate products in this system, but the potential benefits of re‐formulating fruit gums, lollipops, chew‐bars, toffee and fudge with Lycasin or isomalt in place of sugars were shown by determining their reduced acidogenicity and ferment‐ability compared with conventional confectionery.

CONCLUSIONS: The extent of demineralisation of dental enamel was related to both the acidity and the fermentability of the sweets. Re‐formulating sweets with reduced acidity levels and bulk sweeteners not fermentable by dental plaque microorganisms can provide a basis for improving their potential dental effects.
Altered interface adhesion molecules in oral lichen planus
Authors: Ramirez‐Amador V , Dekker NP , Lozada‐Nur F , Mirowski GW , MacPhail LA , Regezi JA
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate expression of key epithelial‐connective tissue interface adhesion molecules (basal keratinocyte integrins and extracellular matrix receptors) in oral lichen planus (LP).

DESIGN: Integrins α3, α6, β1, β4 and basement membrane proteins laminin 1, laminin 5, collagen IV, and collagen VII were immunohistochemically identified in frozen biopsy specimens (14 oral LP and 11 matched controls) using a standard avidin‐biotin‐peroxidase technique.

RESULTS: An increased staining intensity of all antigens in LP was shown, as compared to controls. Integrin expression by LP keratinocytes was generally more intense and appeared on more upper level cells. Staining for basement membrane‐associated extra‐cellular matrix proteins was also generally more intense, although fragmentation and gaps were typically seen. Reactions for α6, β4, laminin 5, and collagen VII stains were particularly intense along the basement membrane. In LP, strands of laminin 5, collagen IV, and collagen VII appeared in the submucosa approximating or duplicating the basement membrane.

CONCLUSIONS: The apparent increased expression of the interface‐associated adhesion molecules may be reflective of a keratinocyte compensatory response (due to lymphocyte‐mediated damage) that would functionally help resist epithelial separation (ulceration). Expression of α3β1 and α6β4 would also assist in epithelial migration associated with wound repair. We interpret the submucosal extensions and deposits of basement membrane proteins as representing remnants of basement membrane, indicating recent remodeling or atrophy of epithelial rate ridges.
High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis of chondroitin sulphate isomers in human whole saliva in a variety of clinical conditions
Authors: Okazaki J , Kamada A , Gonda Y , Sakaki T , Embery G
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: Tests have been carried out to assess the level of unsaturated disaccharide isomers obtained from chondroitin sulphate in whole saliva, which contains chondroitin sulphate derived from gingival crevicular fluid (GCF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Whole saliva was collected from periodontally diseased subjects (PDS), clinically healthy subjects (CHS) and edentulous subjects (ES). Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) were liberated by digestion with Pronase E, and precipitated with cetylpyridinium chloride and ethanol. The unsaturated disaccharides obtained by chondroitinase ACII digestion of the liberated GAG were analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The unsaturated disaccharides included ΔDi‐0S, ΔDi‐6S and ΔDi‐4S.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of data indicated that ΔDi‐0S, ΔDi‐6S and ΔDi‐4S were found in all PDS samples. The amount (ng ml‐1 collected whole saliva) of ΔDi‐0S, ΔDi‐6S and ΔDi‐4S (P < 0.01) indicated significant differences between CHS and PDS whole saliva samples. The quantities of ΔDi‐0S and ΔDi‐4S (P < 0.01) indicated significant differences between PDS and ES whole saliva. The amount of ΔDi‐0S (P < 0.05) and ΔDi‐6S (P<0.01) also indicated significant differences between CHS and ES whole saliva. These results indicate that chondroitin sulphate in PDS and CHS whole saliva is representative of that previously reported in gingival crevicular fluid and so provides a useful and alternative means of assessing the role of GAG as indicators of periodontal disease.
Oral tuberculosis
Authors: Kolokotronis A , Antoniadis D , Trigonidis G , Papanagiotou P
Published: August 2010

A case with oral tuberculosis and unaware of systemic tuberculosis is reported. The oral lesions clinically manifested as two painless ulcerations in the hard palate. Pulmonary tuberculosis was diagnosed following the histopa‐thologic and bacteriologic examination of the oral lesions.
Rheumatoid factor from periodontitis patients cross‐reacts with epitopes on oral bacteria
Authors: The J , Ebersole JL
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the antigenic specificity of rheumatoid factor (RF) that had previously been reported in the serum of patients with periodontitis.

DESIGN: IgM‐RF was isolated from the serum of five RF‐seropositive rheumatoid arthritis patients and 14 RF‐seropositive periodontitis patients and examined for specificity to human IgG and selected oral bacteria. METHODS: IgM‐RF was prepared by affinity chromatography on human IgG columns. Human IgG antibody to Capnocytophaga gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleaturn, and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans was isolated by binding and elution of antibody from the bacteria, followed by purification using a rabbit anti‐lgG affinity column.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Binding of the isolated IgM‐RF was determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The antigens used for detection of binding included isolated human IgG, human IgG antibody bound to the bacteria, and the bacteria alone. Inhibition of the IgM‐RF binding with IgG or Fcγ was used to assess the specificity of the reactivity with IgG and/or the bacteria.

RESULTS: The results showed that the IgM‐RF reacted with polyclonal human IgG nonspecifically bound to microtiter plates. The reactivity of the IgM‐RF was increased when incubated with IgG that bound as antibody to C. gingivalis, F. nucleaturn or A. actinomyceternco‐mitans. However, the IgM‐RF did not bind with increased intensity to the specific IgG antibody preparations or to IgG preparations lacking antibody to these microorganisms. Additionally, the IgM‐RF preparations bound to surface components of both C. gingivalis and F. nucleatum. Blocking studies showed that Fcγ but not IgG inhibited IgM‐RF binding to both micro‐organisms. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that the RF detected in the serum of some periodontitis patients may be elicted by certain micro‐organisms in the subgingival plaque. Furthermore, C. gingivalis and F. nucleaturn appear to express surface antigen epitopes that are antigenically related to determinants on IgG and can induce cross‐reactive IgM‐RF.
Immunocompetent cells in oral candidiasis of HIV‐infected patients: an immunohistochemical and electron microscopical study
Authors: Romagnoli P. , Pimpinelli N. , Mori M. , Reichart PA , Eversole LR , Ficarra G.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the pathogenesis of oral candidiasis, a common cause of discomfort and social impairment among HIV‐infected individuals.

STUDY DESIGN, MATERIALS AND METHODS: The oral mucosal immune system cells were analysed by immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy in biopsies from five erythematous and four pseudomem‐branous candidiasis cases and were compared with those from seven HIV‐positive and 10 HIV‐negative controls without candidiasis.

RESULTS: The superficial lamina propria and basal epithelial layer was populated by CD1a+ Langerhans cells with infiltration of CD8+ lymphocyteS. Within the submu‐cosa are CD36+ dendritic macrophages and lymphocytes, although CD4+ subsets were absent from the infiltrate. The expression of human leukocyte antigen system, DR locus (HLA‐DR) and leukocyte specific adhesion molecules was low in erythematous, yet more marked in pseudomembranous candidiasiS. In the pseudomembra‐nous form, CD14+ leukocytes were found in the basal epithelial layer. Langerhans cells were significantly more numerous and were richer in dendrites and Birbeck granules in erythematous than in pseudomembranous can‐didiasis.

CONCLUSIONS: Candidiasis is associated with alterations in the number and differentiation of lymphocytes and dendritic cells, being more severe in the pseudo‐membranous than erythematous form. We propose that these alterations play a role in the pathogenesis and evolution of the disease.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Douglas CWI
Published: August 2010

Essential Microbiology for Dentistry LP Samaranayake Churchill Livingstone: 1997, £35, 335pp. ISBN 0–443‐04989‐0
Immunohistochemistry of ‘tertiary lymphoid follicles' in oral amalgam‐associated lichenoid lesions
Authors: Larsson Ä , Warfvinge G
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: To characterise lymphoid follicle‐like aggregates incidentally found to occur in biopsies of oral lichenoid reactions (OLR) and to correlate the findings to hyperplastic tonsil follicles.

DESIGN: An immunocytochemical analysis of archival material.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: In an arbitrarily selected period 1992–1994 with a total of 13 924 oral biopsies, 2407 cases were signed out as OLR or lichen planus. These were microscopically reviewed, with the purpose to retrieve all cases showing histologic changes resembling secondary lymphoid follicles.

RESULTS: 87 cases showed lymphoid follicle‐like changes and 82 of these were in oral regions known to constitut‐ively lack ‘organised MALT‘. Unexpectedly, all of the 82 were found retrospectively to be in close or direct contact with amalgam fillings. Immunocytochemically, using antibodies to B and T cells, macrophages, follicular dendritic cells and proliferation and apoptosis markers, the mucosal follicles stained similar to tonsillar secondary follicles. In several of an additional 11 OLR cases with histologic changes suggestive of primary follicles, we also found immunocytochemical evidence of such changes.

CONCLUSIONS: ‘Tertiary lymphoid follicles' may occasionally develop in OLR at sites of the oral mucosa constitutively lacking organised lymphoid tissue. The microenvironment of the OLR T cell infiltrate may occasionally favour such follicle development and amalgam constituents may causally be involved in an unknown way.
An immunohistochemical study of p53 and PCNA in inflammatory papillary hyperplasia of the palate: a dilemma of interpretation
Authors: Kaplan I , Vered M , Moskona D , Buchner A , Dayan D
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: Inflammatory papillary hyperplasia of the palate (IPHP) or the granular type of denture stomatitis, is a non‐neoplastic lesion characterized histologically by a significant epithelial hyperplasia and inflammatory infiltrate usually caused by trauma and Candida infection. p53 and proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) are cell‐cycle regulators, that when overexpressed, are considered by many investigators as markers of malignant transformation. The objective of this study was to investigate the immunodetection of p53 and PCNA in IPHP, and to correlate these results with the degree of epithelial hyperplasia and inflammatory infiltrate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 12 cases diagnosed clinically as IPHP, Candida was cultured from the denture base and the palatal mucosa. Lesions were biopsied and stained with H&E for histomorphometric analysis of the epithelial width and inflammatory infiltrate. PAS and Gram stains were used for screening of Candida. Sections were immunostained with DO‐7 for p53 and PC‐10 for PCNA. Fifteen palatal biopsies obtained from autopsies of edentulous subjects with normal palatal mucosa served as controls.

RESULTS: All cultures of swabs from both the palatal mucosa and denture base were positive for Candida. Candidal hyphae could not be identified in PAS stained sections. Small foci of Gram‐positive organisms were found in two cases of IPHP. Epithelial width and inflammation were significantly higher in IPHP than in controls (P < 0.001). A three‐fold increase in positively stained cells for p53 and a two‐fold increase in positively stained cells for PCNA were seen in IPHP compared with controls (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Although a significant increase in the immunodetection of p53 and PCNA may indicate a malignant potential, IPHP has never been reported to undergo malignant transformation nor is it associated with cytologic signs of dysplasia. The increase in the epithelial width and inflammation degree is probably associated with the colonization of the denture bases with Candida organisms. The increased detection of p53 and PCNA can be a secondary effect of cytokines originating from both the inflammatory cells and the keratinocytes. Thus, immunodetection of p53 and PCNA by current immunohistochemical methods on archival tissues is neither specific nor sensitive enough to be used as indicators for malignant potential in the absence of cytolog‐ical dysplastic changes or genetic proof of mutated cell cycle genes.
Efficacy of topical mesalazine compared with clobetasol propionate in treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus
Authors: Sardella A , Demarosi F , Oltolina A , Rimondini L , Carrassi A
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To compare topically applied mesalazine (5‐aminosalicylic acid) to topically applied clobetasol propionate in the treatment of patients suffering from symptomatic oral lichen planus.

DESIGN:

Randomized controlled longitudinal investigation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Twenty‐five out‐patients suffering from oral lichen planus and referred to the Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine of the University of Milan, Italy, during the period January to August 1997. Patients were randomly allocated (Group A and Group B) to treatment with mesalazine 5% or clobetasol propionate 0.05%. The drugs were topically applied twice daily for 4 weeks. Discomfort and pain were evaluated by the patient before and after treatment using a Visual Analogue Scale from zero (no pain) to 10 (extreme pain). Results were statistically evaluated by a Mann‐Whitney U test.

RESULTS:

The two pharmacological regimens obtained partial and complete absence of symptoms. In particular, the mesalazine tested group disclosed 57% complete absence of symptoms, 21.3% partial response and 9% no response. No statistically relevant difference has been detected between the two regimens.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this preliminary study, if confirmed by further investigations, suggest that mesalazine might be considered an alternative to clobetasol propionate for treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus.
Oral manifestations of idiopathic lenticular mucocutaneous pigmentation (Laugier‐Hunziker syndrome): a clinical, histopathological and ultrastructural review of 12 cases
Authors: Mignogna MD , Muzio L Lo , Ruoppo E. , Errico M. , Amato M. , Satriano RA
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To present a clinical, histopathological and ultrastructural study on a group of patients affected by idiopathic mucocutaneous pigmentation (Laugier‐Hunziker syndrome: LHS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients were investigated: clinical examination, laboratory tests, and X‐ray studies together with light microscopy and electron microscopy were performed in order to diagnose LHS.

RESULTS: All cases showed acquired, benign, macular hyperpigmentation of buccal mucosa lips and nailS. Histologically, pigmentations are due to an accumulation of melanin in the basal layer keratinocytes and an increase in the number of melanophages in the submucosa and/or papillary dermiS. Ultrastructurally there were increased numbers of normal‐appearing melanosomes in keratinocytes of the lower epithelium. No evidence of malignant changes were detected.

CONCLUSIONS: The importance of this condition relates to it being included in the differential diagnoses of pigmentary disorders of the oral mucosa with associated nail involvement. It is important to recognize this acquired benign disorder to avoid unnecessary investigations and treatments.
An immunohistochemical study of keratin expression in ameloblastoma from a Kenyan population
Authors: Ong'uti MN , Howells GL , Williams DM
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: Ameloblastomas appear to exhibit biological heterogeneity and, except in the case of malignancy, histological appearances that do not always allow their behaviour to be predicted. The aim of this study was to assess keratin expression in African ameloblastomas and to correlate this with their clinical and histological featureS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Expression of simple keratins 7, 8, 18 and 19; cornification keratins 1 and 10; basal and differentiation keratins 5 and 14 and hyperproliferation‐related keratins 6 and 16 in 14–39 cases of ameloblastoma was assessed by immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS: There was patchy expression of keratin 7 in the suprabasal and stellate reticulum‐like cells in some caseS. All cases showed similar weak expression for keratins 8 and 18 in suprabasal and stellate reticulum‐like cells but none showed keratin 1 or 10 expression. There was intense expression of keratins 5, 14 and 19 by all tumour cells suggesting that they may retain basal cell characteristics with a potential for proliferation. No consistent relationship was seen between histological types and keratin expression pattern. However, keratins 6 and 16, expressed by suprabasal and stellate reticulum‐like cells, showed a marked variation within and between cases, with the highest levels of expression in squamous strands.

CONCLUSIONS: We propose that squamous strands may represent the sites of most active growth within individual tumours and expression of keratins 6, 16 and 19 may be predictors of rapid growth. There is a need for further investigation of this in longitudinal clinical studies.
The effect of saliva specimen collection, handling and storage protocols on hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA detection by PCR
Authors: Roy KM , Bagg J. , McCarron B.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: Commercial assays can now be adapted to detect salivary anti‐hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies, increasing the potential of saliva as a non‐invasive diagnostic specimen suited to surveillance and epidemiological studieS. However, current diagnostic algorithms involve confirmation of HCV infection by RT‐PCR.Manipulation and storage conditions of serum can influence the stability of viral RNA. This study examined whether varying specimen collection, handling and storage protocols also affected subsequent HCV RNA detection by RT‐PCR applied to saliva specimenS. METHODS: Whole unstimulated saliva, together with saliva samples collected in two commercially available devices (Salivette™ and Omnisal™) were obtained from 50 HCV seropositive intravenous drug users. The specimens were subjected to a number of handling and storage conditions, including heat treatment and prolonged storage, then examined for HCV RNA by RT‐PCR using primers derived from the 5′ non‐coding region (5′NCR).RESULTS: HCV RNA was detected in saliva samples from 25 (50%) of the patientS. No single collection device or handling procedure identified all the subjects with HCV RNA positive saliva though whole saliva yielded the greatest number of positive results.

CONCLUSIONS: Collection and processing of saliva specimens for RT‐PCR analysis is complex. At present, detection of salivary HCV RNA by PCR is not sufficiently sensitive for use as a diagnostic tool in epidemiological studies.
Microbiological understandings and mysteries of noma (cancrum oris)
Authors: Falkler WA , Enwonwu CO , Idigbe EO
Published: August 2010

The microbiologic history of noma was reviewed. Studies have associated the disease process with large numbers of fusiform bacilli and spirochetal organismS. In order to study the microbiology of the staging and infection periods of noma 62 Nigerian children, aged 3–14 years, 22 children had acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) and were also malnourished, 20 exhibited no acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis but were malnourished and 20 were free of acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis and in good nutritional state) were evaluated for the presence of viruses and oral microorganisms. The ANUG cases in the malnourished children had a higher incidence ofHerpesviridae, the main virus being detected was cytomegalovirus. There were more anaerobic microorganisms recovered, withPrevotella intermediaas the predominant isolate, in the malnourished children as compared to the healthy children. A study of the predominant microflora in active sites of noma lesions was carried out in eight noma patients, 3–15 years of age, in Sokoto State, northwestern Nigeria.Fusobacterium necrophorumwas recovered from 87.5% of the noma lesionS. Oral microorganisms isolated includedPrevotella intermedia, alpha‐hemolytic streptococci andActinomycesspp.which were isolated from 75.0, 50.0 and 37.5% of the patients, respectively.Peptostreptococcus micros, Veil‐lonella parvula, Staphylococcus aureusandPseudomonasspp.were each recovered from one lesion. All strains were observed to be sensitive to all of the antibiotics tested with the exception of one strain ofP. Intermediawhich showed resistance to penicillin. The pathogenic mechanisms ofF.necrophorumas a trigger organism were discussed. The isolation from human noma lesions ofF.necrophorum, a pathogen primarily associated with animal diseases, may have important etiologic and animal transmission implications.
Penicilliosis marneffei: another AIDS defining illness in Southeast Asia
Authors: Nittayananta W.
Published: August 2010

Penicilliosis marneffei, a common mycosis among AIDS patients living in Southeast Asia, has been recently suggested for inclusion in the AIDS surveillance case definition. Infections with Penicillium marneffei were rare in the past, but infections with this dimorphic fungus have increased with the endemic of AIDS in the region. The reservoir of P.marneffei in nature is still unknown, although it seems likely that inhalation may be the route of entry of the organism leading to infection in humans.P.marneffei can cause two clinical types of the disease; focal and fatal progressive, disseminated infections, characterized by a variety of symptoms which can mimic those of other diseaseS. Oral P.marneffei lesions usually occur in patients with disseminated infections, presenting as shiny papules, as erosions or as shallow ulcers covered with whitish yellow, necrotic slough which may be found on the palate, gingiva, labial mucosa, tongue and oro‐pharynx. Biopsy and culture provide definitive diagnoses, while serologic tests for both antibody and antigen are useful in rapid presumptive diagnoses as well as in surveillance studies of the prevalence and latency of the infection. Penicilliosis marneffei is a treatable disease, but late diagnosis and treatment may be fatal. Itraconazole and ketoconazole are the drugs of first choice for mild to moderately severe forms of the disease, whereas parenteral therapy with amphotericin B may be required for seriously ill patientS. Recurrence of the disease is common, therefore maintenance is recommended. As reported, prophylaxis generating resistant strains are likely to develop.
Association of HIV viral load with oral diseases
Authors: Baqui AAMA , Meiller TF , Jabra‐Rizk MA , Zhang M. , Kelley JI , Falkler WA
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: The measurement of HIV viral load as a predictor of disease progression has revolutionized the medical management of HIV patientS. In this study, oral diseases as measured by DMFT (decayed, missing and filled teeth), periodontal assessment and oral Candida colonization, were related to HIV viral load. Also correlated was HIV status assessments, including CD4 count, a history of intravenous drug abuse (IVDA) and the use of protease inhibitor drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Oral and periodontal examination, dental radiographs, and tongue swab for fungal culture was accomplished over a 2‐month period on 39 HIV positive patients attending the University of Maryland Dental School. Twenty‐eight (71.8%) of these patients had a history of IVDA.Viral load was measured by a quantitative RT‐PCR.

RESULTS: Among the patients with high viral load (>10 000 copies ml‐1), 92.3% were found to have a history of IVDA.Also, patients with high viral load demonstrated average CD4+ counts of 136 mm‐3 while moderate viral load (400‐10 000 copies ml‐1) corresponded to average counts of 271 mm‐3.Periodontal pocket depths (PPD) of >5 mm at a minimum of two oral sites were found in 76.9% of the patients with high viral load. Among the high viral load patients, 69.2% had DMFT >20, 69.2% were culture positive for Candida and 81.5% of patients on protease inhibitors demonstrated moderate or low viral loads.

CONCLUSION: These data demonstrated that elevated viral load levels correlate well with oral disease prevalence in this predominantly IVDA population of HIV‐infected dental patients.
Retrospective analysis of 31 cases of nasopalatine duct cyst
Authors: Vasconcelos RF , de Aguiar MC Ferreira , Castro WH , de Araújo V Cavalcanti , Mesquita RA
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: To perform a retrospective analysis of patients with nasopalatine duct cysts (NPDC) in Brazil and compare with previous analyses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The files of the Laboratory of Oral Pathology (Minas Gerais Federal University) from 1966 to 1997 were reviewed. Demographic, clinical and histologic data of patients with nasopalatine duct cysts were collected.

RESULTS: The mean age of patients with nasopalatine duct cysts at the time of diagnosis was 37.4 years and with a predilection for males. The majority of cases were asymptomatic. Histologically, non‐keratinized stratified squamous epithelium alone or in combination with other epithelia was observed in 93% of the caseS. Recurrence was not recorded.

CONCLUSION: The demographic, histopathological, radiographic, and clinical data of the NPDC in our series are similar to previous studies in other populations.
Periodontitis increases chemiluminescence of the peripheral neutrophils independently of priming by the preparation method
Authors: Fredriksson M , Gustafsson A , Åsman B. , Bergström K
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate whether increased Fcγ‐receptor (FcγR)‐induced chemiluminescence (CL) from peripheral neutrophils in periodontitis could be due to increased sensitivity to non‐specific priming by the cell preparation.

DESIGN: Two methods of preparation were used: (1) cells purified by density centrifugation and lysis of erythrocytes; and (2) cells in a leukocyte suspension obtained by lysis of erythrocytes alone.

METHODS: Neutrophils from 17 subjects with periodontitis and pair‐matched healthy controls were studied by CL and flow cytometry (CD16, CD15 and CD11b).

RESULTS: Higher CL was found in the purified neutrophils, indicating higher non‐specific priming by the Percoll density centrifugation. Priming with TNFα and lipo‐polysaccharide abolished this difference. The net effect of specific priming was significantly lower in the purified neutrophils, indicating a depletion of the priming sensitivity by the density centrifugation. Both preparations reduced CD15 in relation to whole blood, while there was no difference between the two methods in any of the membrane markers. Thus, in both preparations, lysis alone changed the membranes to the same extent. Both methods gave nearly the same relative CL increase in the periodontitis patients as in the controls.

CONCLUSION: There was no difference between the neutrophils from patients and controls in sensitivity to non‐specific priming by the preparation method. The higher FcγR‐induced CL in patients with periodontitis is not related to such a non‐specific priming by density centrifugation.
HYPOTHESIS: Sjögren's syndrome: a possible pathogenetic mechanism involving somatostatin
Authors: Baccaglini L , Pillemer SR , Baum BJ
Published: August 2010

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic disease that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal glands. The pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome is unknown. We hypothesize that reduced somatostatin activity is an important factor in promoting immune dysregulation in patients affected by Sjögren's syndrome. Somatostatin is a multifunctional peptide with potent immunomodulatory properties. Its effects include reduced lymphocytic activity, reduced gastric and intestinal secretions, activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis, and anti‐inflammatory action, all opposite to the general presentation in Sjögren's syndrome. We suggest that the activity of somatostatin is low in patients affected by this disease, and this contributes significantly to the pathology observed.
Factors associated with periodontitis in an HIV‐infected Southeast USA study
Authors: McKaig RG , Patton LL , Thomas JC , Strauss RP , Slade GD , Beck JD
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relationship of immunosuppression with measures of probing pocket depth (PPD), recession (REC), and clinical attachment level (CAL) in an HIV‐infected population from North Carolina (NC), a state in the southeastern United States (USA).

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional study of HIV‐infected adults (n= 326) treated at the University of North Carolina Hospitals. Clinical medical record review and sociodemo‐graphic interview data were collected. Median age of study participants was 37 years (range 19–67). Males comprised 78% and Blacks 60%. Analyses were limited to those who were dentate (n= 316).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Main outcomes were cases vs non‐cases of notable PPD, REC, and CAL. Immunosuppression measured by CD4+ cell count μL was the exposure of interest.

RESULTS: Defined cases of PPD (n= 148) were 2.6 (95% CI = 1.3, 5.3) times less likely to occur at CD4+ cells >200 than non‐cases, whereas, cases of REC (n= 94) were 2.8 (95% CI = 1.2, 6.6) times more likely to occur at that level of severe immunosuppression, controlling for confounders.

CONCLUSION: Sub‐groups of persons with HIV experience a high burden of periodontitis where notable severity and extent of PPD, CAL, and REC were clearly evident at different stages of immunosuppression.
Comprehensive medical assessments for monitoring and improving the health of residents in aged care facilities: Existing comprehensive medical assessments coverage and trial of a new service model
Authors: Westbrook Johanna I , Georgiou Andrew , Black Deborah , Hordern Antonia
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To measure comprehensive medical assessment (CMA) completions among aged care residents in Australia; and to report the outcomes of a CMA service trial.

Methods:  A population‐based descriptive study of CMA completions using Medicare data; and a qualitative study of an intervention trial carried out at a 115‐bed residential aged care facility in Sydney, Australia. Fifty residents participated in the trial; 15 interviews were conducted.

Results:  In 2008, less than 50% of Australian aged care residents had a CMA completed. The CMA service trial improved CMA data quality and accessibility. A substantial proportion of residents were found to have previously unidentified health problems that impacted on their health and quality of life.

Conclusions:  CMA rates are low. New approaches to achieving higher CMA rates, utilising information technology, hold promise. Strategies for ongoing monitoring of care to follow‐up problems identified are required to achieve measurable improvements in residents' care and quality of life.
Challenges and Opportunities for Higher Education
Authors: McCROSKEY JACQUELYN
Published: August 2010

The builders of the modern university expected that the research conducted within it would solve moral problems. The research would provide authoritative instruction on how to live and how to shape a more perfect society. But within a generation, it became clear that this expectation would not easily be fulfilled. Indeed, many of the faculties housed in these new universities were ready to wash their hands of moral concerns. The university faced a crisis: Did it serve to advance morality? And if so, how? The success of the university in producing knowledge and training skilled professionals has compensated for and masked the moral crisis. But nonetheless, the problem of morality continues to plague American higher education. Universities have been unable either to fully incorporate morality or to comfortably abandon a moral mission. This is the unresolved legacy of the creation of the modern research university. (Reuben, 2000, pp. 72–73)
External Transaction Costs and Large‐scale Farming in Moscow Oblast   Coûts de transaction externes et agriculture à grande échelle dans la région de Moscou   Externe Transaktionskosten und landwirtschaftliche Großbetriebe in der Oblast Moskau
Authors: Svetlov Nikolai
Published: August 2010

External Transaction Costs and Large‐scale Farming in Moscow Oblast

The article addresses the reasons for the domination of large‐scale corporate farms in the Moscow oblast of Russia and concludes that high external transaction costs are likely to be an important determining factor. Over the nine year period studied, larger farms are shown to achieve higher performance. Increasing returns to scale, however, were not significant in explaining the superior performance of the larger farms. It is hypothesised that high external transaction costs due to lack of transparency in the milk market, typical of underdeveloped markets, give the larger farms a competitive advantage. Their search costs per unit of output are relatively low and they are able therefore to achieve higher farm‐gate prices for milk as a result. The results confirm the dependence of the farm‐gate milk price on farm size due to the presence of high transaction costs in the market of milk, the major output of the studied farms. The high performance farms were able to grow during the study period whereas the lower performing farms had limited growth capacity. A more competitive and transparent market environment along with improved infrastructure could lower transaction costs and entry barriers and provide opportunities for smaller scale corporate farms to compete more effectively.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of 3‐Butenyl, 4‐Pentenyl, 2‐Phenylethyl, and Benzyl Isothiocyanate in Brassica Vegetables
Authors: Jang Miran , Hong Eunyoung , Kim Gun‐Hee
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  This study investigated antibacterial activities of 4 isothiocyanates (3‐butenyl, 4‐phentenyl, 2‐phenylethyl, and benzyl isothiocyanate) against 4 Gram‐positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus) and 7 Gram‐negative bacteria (Aeromonas hydrophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella choleaesuis, Salmonella enterica, Serratia marcescens, Shigella sonnei, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus) by an agar disc diffusion assay. Benzyl isothiocyanate (> 90.00 mm inhibition zone diameter at 0.1 μL/mL) and 2‐phenylethyl isothiocyanate (58.33 mm at 0.2 μL/mL) showed large inhibition zones especially against B. cereus. Also, 3‐butenyl isothiocyanate (21.67 mm at 1.0 μL/mL) and 4‐pentenyl isothiocyanate (19.67 mm at 1.0 μL/mL) displayed potent antibacterial activity against A. hydrophila. Benzyl and 2‐phenylethyl isothiocyanate indicated higher activity against most of the pathogenic bacteria than 3‐butenyl and 4‐pentenyl isothiocyanate, and were more effective against Gram‐positive bacteria than Gram‐negative bacteria.