bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction in voltage‐gated K+channel activity in primary sensory neurons in painful diabetic neuropathy: role of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Cao Xue‐Hong , Byun Hee‐Sun , Chen Shao‐Rui , Cai You‐Qing , Pan Hui‐Lin
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 1460–1475.

Abnormal hyperexcitability of primary sensory neurons plays an important role in neuropathic pain. Voltage‐gated potassium (Kv) channels regulate neuronal excitability by affecting the resting membrane potential and influencing the repolarization and frequency of the action potential. In this study, we determined changes in Kv channels in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in a rat model of diabetic neuropathic pain. The densities of total Kv, A‐type (IA) and sustained delayed (IK) currents were markedly reduced in medium‐ and large‐, but not in small‐, diameter DRG neurons in diabetic rats. Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis revealed that the mRNA levels of IAsubunits, including Kv1.4, Kv3.4, Kv4.2, and Kv4.3, in the DRG were reduced ∼50% in diabetic rats compared with those in control rats. However, there were no significant differences in the mRNA levels of IKsubunits (Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv2.1, and Kv2.2) in the DRG between the two groups. Incubation with brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) caused a large reduction in Kv currents, especially IAcurrents, in medium and large DRG neurons from control rats. Furthermore, the reductions in Kv currents and mRNA levels of IAsubunits in diabetic rats were normalized by pre‐treatment with anti‐BDNF antibody or K252a, a TrkB tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In addition, the number of medium and large DRG neurons with BDNF immunoreactivity was greater in diabetic than control rats. Collectively, our findings suggest that diabetes primarily reduces Kv channel activity in medium and large DRG neurons. Increased BDNF activity in these neurons likely contributes to the reduction in Kv channel function through TrkB receptor stimulation in painful diabetic neuropathy.
Holocene climate dynamics in Latvia, eastern Baltic region: a pollen‐based summer temperature reconstruction and regional comparison
Authors: HEIKKILÄ MAIJA , SEPPÄ HEIKKI
Published: June 2010

Heikkilä, M. & Seppä, H. 2010: Holocene climate dynamics in Latvia, eastern Baltic region: a pollen‐based summer temperature reconstruction and regional comparison. Boreas, Vol. 39, pp. 705–719. 10.1111/j.1502‐3885.2010.00164.x. ISSN 0300‐9483.

A pollen‐based summer temperature (Tsummer) reconstruction reveals the Holocene climate history in southeastern Latvia and contributes to the limited understanding of past climate behaviour in the eastern sector of northern Europe. Notably, steady climate warming of the early Holocene was interrupted c. 8350–8150 cal. yr BP by the well‐known 8.2 ka cold event, recorded as a decrease of 0.9 to 1.8 °C in Tsummer. During the Holocene Thermal Maximum, c. 8000–4000 cal. yr BP, the reconstructed summer temperature was ∼2.5–3.5 °C higher than the modern reconstructed value, and subsequently declined towards present‐day values. Comparison of the current reconstruction with other pollen‐based reconstructions in northern Europe shows that the 8.2 ka event is particularly clearly reflected in the Baltic region, possibly as a result of distinct climatic and ecological gradients and the sensitivity of the vegetation growth pattern to seasonal temperature change. The new reconstruction also reveals that the Holocene Thermal Maximum was warmer in Latvia than in central Europe and Fennoscandia. In fact, a gradient of increasing positive temperature anomalies is detected from northernmost Fennoscandia towards the south and from the Atlantic coast in Norway towards the continental East European Plain. The dynamics of the temperate broadleaved tree species Tilia and Quercus in Latvia and adjacent northern Europe during the mid‐Holocene give complementary information on the multifaceted climatic and environmental changes in the region.
Course and outcome of childhood epilepsy: A 15‐year follow‐up of the Dutch Study of Epilepsy in Childhood
Authors: Geerts Ada , Arts Willem F. , Stroink Hans , Peeters Els , Brouwer Oebele , Peters Boudewijn , Laan Laura , Van Donselaar Cees
Published: June 2010

Purpose:  To study the course and outcome of childhood‐onset epilepsy during 15‐year follow‐up (FU).

Methods:  We extended FU in 413 of 494 children with new‐onset epilepsy recruited in a previously described prospective hospital‐based study by questionnaire.

Results:  Mean FU was 14.8 years (range 11.6–17.5 years). Five‐year terminal remission (TR) was reached by 71% of the cohort. Course during FU was favorable in 50%, improving in 29%, and poor or deteriorating in 16%. Mean duration of seizure activity was 6.0 years (range 0–21.5 years), strongly depending on etiology and epilepsy type. Duration was <1 year in 25% of the cohort and exceeded 12 years in another 25%. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were used by 86% during a mean of 7.4 years: one‐third had their last seizure within 1 year of treatment, and one‐third continued treatment at the end, although some had a 5‐year TR. At last contact, 9% of the cohort was intractable. In multivariate analysis, predictors were nonidiopathic etiology, febrile seizures, no 3‐month remission, and early intractability. Eighteen patients died; 17 had remote symptomatic etiology. Standardized mortality ratio for remote symptomatic etiology was 31.6 [95% confidence interval (CI) 18.4–50.6], versus 0.8 [95% CI 0.02–4.2] for idiopathic/cryptogenic etiology.

Discussion:  In most children with newly diagnosed epilepsy, the long‐term prognosis of epilepsy is favorable, and in particular, patients with idiopathic etiology will eventually reach remission. In contrast, epilepsy remains active in ∼30% and becomes intractable in ∼10%. AEDs probably do not influence epilepsy course; they merely suppress seizures. Mortality is significantly higher only in those with remote symptomatic etiology.
Advocacy, Political Participation, and Citizenship: Lutheran Contributions to Public Theology1
Authors: Deifelt Wanda
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Martin Luther never developed a political theory, but his theology does inform the way Christians live in society, making it both public and political. Luther's “two kingdom theory” often has been misinterpreted to justify passivity and obedience toward civil authorities. Under closer examination, however, his theology applies to the everyday practices of politics, economics, and religious affairs. In the context of nation‐building, a Lutheran theology fosters citizenship not only as individual rights and responsibilities, but as active participation in civil society.
Integrating Physical Constraints in Statistical Inference by 11‐Month‐Old Infants
Authors: Denison Stephanie , Xu Fei
Published: June 2010

Much research on cognitive development focuses either on early‐emerging domain‐specific knowledge or domain‐general learning mechanisms. However, little research examines how these sources of knowledge interact. Previous research suggests that young infants can make inferences from samples to populations (Xu & Garcia, 2008) and 11‐ to 12.5‐month‐old infants can integrate psychological and physical knowledge in probabilistic reasoning (Teglas, Girotto, Gonzalez, & Bonatti, 2007; Xu & Denison, 2009). Here, we ask whether infants can integrate a physical constraint of immobility into a statistical inference mechanism. Results from three experiments suggest that, first, infants were able to use domain‐specific knowledge to override statistical information, reasoning that sometimes a physical constraint is more informative than probabilistic information. Second, we provide the first evidence that infants are capable of applying domain‐specific knowledge in probabilistic reasoning by using a physical constraint to exclude one set of objects while computing probabilities over the remaining sets.
Nickel (Ni) allergic patients with complications to Ni containing joint replacement show preferential IL‐17 type reactivity to Ni
Authors: Summer Burkhard , Paul Carina , Mazoochian Farhad , Rau Christoph , Thomsen Marc , Banke Ingo , Gollwitzer Hans , Dietrich Karin‐Almut , Mayer‐Wagner Susanne , Ruzicka Thomas , Thomas Peter
Published: June 2010

Background: Some nickel (Ni) allergic patients develop complications following Ni‐containing arthroplasty. In the peri‐implant tissue of such patients, we had observed lymphocyte dominated inflammation together with IFN‐γ and IL‐17 expression.

Objectives: To determine whether Ni stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of such patients would lead to a different cytokine pattern as compared to Ni‐allergic patients with symptom‐free arthroplasty.

Patients and Methods: Based on history and patch testing in 15 Ni‐allergic patients (five without implant, five with symptom‐free arthroplasty, five with complicated arthroplasty) and five non‐allergic individuals, lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) was performed using PBMC. In parallel in vitro cytokine response to Ni was assessed by real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results: All 15 Ni‐allergic individuals showed enhanced LTT reactivity to Ni (mean SI = 8.42 ± 1.8) compared to the non‐allergic control group. Predominant IFN‐γ expression to Ni was found both in the five allergic patients without arthroplasty and also in the five allergic, symptom‐free arthroplasty patients. In contrast, in the five Ni‐allergic patients with arthroplasty‐linked complications a predominant, significant IL‐17 expression to Ni was seen but not in patients with symptom‐free arthroplasty.

Conclusions: The predominant IL‐17 type response to Ni may characterize a subgroup of Ni‐allergic patients prone to develop lymphocytic peri‐implant hyper‐reactivity.
Formaldehyde exposure and patterns of concomitant contact allergy to formaldehyde and formaldehyde‐releasers
Authors: Lundov Michael D. , Johansen Jeanne D. , Carlsen Berit C. , Engkilde Kåre , Menné Torkil , Thyssen Jacob P.
Published: June 2010

Background: Formaldehyde and formaldehyde‐releasers are widely used in consumer products and may often cause contact allergy.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of concomitant contact allergy to formaldehyde and formaldehyde‐releasers in dermatitis patients, and to determine the sources of formaldehyde exposure based on personal and occupational products obtained from dermatitis patients.

Methods: Patch test data from referred dermatitis patients with a positive patch test reaction to formaldehyde or formaldehyde‐releasers were analysed. For the period 2000–2008, the formaldehyde content in products obtained from formaldehyde‐allergic patients was analysed by chromotropic acid test and/or acetylacetone test.

Results: Patients allergic to a formaldehyde‐releaser often had simultaneous contact allergy to formaldehyde. Other combinations were also prevalent. In patients who reacted to more than two formaldehyde‐releasers, nearly all reacted simultaneously to formaldehyde. Seventy‐five percent of the formaldehyde‐allergic patients used a product that contained formaldehyde. The main source of formaldehyde exposure was cosmetics (78%).

Conclusions: Concomitant contact allergy to formaldehyde and formaldehyde‐releaser remains common. Furthermore, contact allergy to a formaldehyde‐releaser was nearly always concomitant with another formaldehyde‐releaser. Formaldehyde was commonly found in personal products used by formaldehyde‐allergic patients.
Metabolic alterations of DHEA and cholesterol sulphates in the hair of patients with acne measured by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Cho Sung‐Hee , Choi Man Ho , Sim Woo Y. , Lee Won‐Yong , Chung Bong Chul
Published: June 2010

Please cite this paper as: Metabolic alterations of DHEA and cholesterol sulphates in the hair of patients with acne measured by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 694–696.

Abstract:  As the hormonal levels in scalp hair reflects the condition of skin appendage, the level of dehydroepiandrosterone‐3‐sulphate (DHEAS) and cholesterol sulphate (CS) was evaluated in scalp hair obtained from patients with acne. The hair samples were extracted by alkaline solution and were analysed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry coupled to column switching system. The levels of DHEAS in scalp hair of women with acne were higher (P < 0.001) than controls, while the levels of CS in scalp hair of women and men with acne were higher (P < 0.001) than both control subjects. Increased hair levels of both DHEAS and CS could indicate acne development because of its direct action or stimulatory effect on local enzyme activity. It may be also helpful to understand the pathogenesis of acne based on follicular retention hyperkeratosis and increased sebum production of both steroid sulphates.
The inhibition of DNA synthesis by prostaglandin E2 in human gingival fibroblasts is independent of the cyclic AMP‐protein kinase A signal transduction pathway
Authors: Arai H. , Nomura Y. , Kinoshita M. , Nishimura F. , Takigawa M. , Takahashi K. , Washio N. , Takashiba S. , Murayama Y.
Published: June 2010

In this study we attempted to clarify the mechanism of the inhibitory effects of PGE2 on DNA synthesis in Gin‐1 (fibroblasts derived from healthy human gingiva) from the aspect of the cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase signal transduction pathway. PGE2 upregulated intracellular cyclic AMP accumulation and inhibited DNA synthesis in Gin‐1 in a dose‐dependent manner. When the PGE2‐induced intracellular cyclic AMP accumulation was further enhanced by treatment with the cyclic AMP‐phosphodiesterase inhibitor, IBMX, the inhibitory effect of PGE2 on DNA synthesis was also enhanced. Furthermore, when we examined the effects of forskolin, an activator of cyclic AMP production, on intracellular cyclic AMP accumulation and DNA synthesis, similar results were obtained. However, inhibitors of cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A) such as HA1004 did not diminish the inhibitory effect of PGE2 on DNA synthesis in Gin‐1. These results suggest that in Gin‐I, PGE2‐induced cyclic AMP accumulation may not lead to the activation of protein kinase A or protein kinase A activity may not relate directly to the growth inhibitory effect of PGE2, and that PGE2 does not inhibit DNA synthesis through the cyclic AMP‐protein kinase A signal transduction pathway in Gin‐1.
Rapid detection of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromona gingivalis by multiplex PCR
Authors: Garcia Lucia , Tercero Juan C. , Legido Berta , Ramos Jose A. , Alemany Jorge , Sanz Mariano
Published: June 2010

The identification of specific periodontal pathogens by conventional methods, mainly anaerobic cultivation, is difficult, time consuming and even sometimes unreliable. Therefore, a multiplex PCR method for simultaneous detection of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (A.a.), Porphyromona gingivalis (P.g.) and Prevotella intermedia (Pi) was developed for rapid and easy identification of these specific bacterial pathogens in subgingival plaque samples. In this paper, there is a detailed description of the oligonucleotide primer selection, DNA extraction and PCR conditions and the sequencing of the amplified products. The locus chosen to be amplified is a highly variable region in the 16S ribosomal DNA. For the development of this technique ATCC cultures and pure cultures from subgingival plaque samples taken from periodontitis patients were used. As an internal positive control a recombinant plasmid was developed. This simple DNA extraction procedure and the DNA amplification and visualization of the amplified product permits the detection of the bacteria in a working day. Thus, this multiplex PCR method is a rapid and effective detection method for specific periodontal pathogens.
Type VI collagen is associated with microfibrils and oxytalan fibers in the extracellular matrix of periodontium, mesenterium and periosteum
Authors: Everts V. , Niehof A. , Jansen D. , Beerken W.
Published: June 2010

Type VI collagen was immunolocalized in several soft connective tissues at the light and electron microscopic level. Positive labeling was found in all tissues examined, periodontal ligament, gingiva, mesenterium and periosteum. The labeled structures could be divided into 2 categories: microfibrils intermingling with collagen fibrils, and those that formed bundles (oxytalan fibres and elastin‐associated microfibrils). Control sections incubated with antibody pre‐absorbed to purified type VI collagen, or with non‐immune antibody, proved to be negative. Our observations indicate that the structural organization of type VI collagen varies from small microfibrillar structures associated with the collagen and elastin fibre systems to highly ordered parallel arrays of oxytalan bundles.
The effects of cold storage and endotoxin challenge on osteoblast viability and interleukin‐6 production
Authors: Bisch Frederick C. , Hanson Benjamin S. , Best Norma H. , Craft David W.
Published: June 2010

Autogenous hip marrow is an excellent source of pluripotential cells for regenerative procedures. However, before this treatment modality can be employed a method to attenuate osteoclast activity must be developed. The shock of cold storage (4°C) is thought to abate osteoclast activity through the downregulation of osteolytic cytokines produced by osteoblasts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cold storage (4°C) and endotoxin challenge on bone cell culture viability and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) production. These cells (osteoblasts) were primarily harvested from murine calvaria utilizing sequential digestions, separated by density gradient and combined. Twelve‐well cell culture plates were inoculated with 2 × 104 cells/ml and placed in cold storage for 1‐14 d. After cold storage the cultures were then incubated at 37°C for 1‐20 d. A set of replicate plates was also challenged with 10 ng/ml endotoxin upon incubation at 37°C for 4 consecutive days. Cells were evaluated daily for alkaline phosphatase activity. Cell culture supernatants were also collected daily and batch assayed for IL‐6 production. Cell cultures did not survive more than 48 h of cold storage. There was a decrease in IL‐6 secretion in all refrigerated cultures and a significant decrease in those cells refrigerated for 48 h versus control cultures (p < 0.05). Replicate cultures treated with endotoxin secreted significantly increased amounts of IL‐6 in both the control cultures and the cultures exposed to 24 h of cold storage versus non‐endotoxin‐treated control cultures (p < 0.05). These observations suggest that after 48 h of cold storage autogenous marrow may be safe to use because of the dramatic decrease in IL‐6 production by osteoblasts.
Protease‐activated receptors and their role in IL‐6 and NF‐IL‐6 expression in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Hou L. , Ravenall S. , Macey M. G. , Harrlott P. , Kapas S. , Howells G. L.
Published: June 2010

The serine protease thrombin is formed at sites of coagulation and inflammation and has been shown to have important proinflammatory cellular effects relevant to the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Thrombin acts via specific cell surface receptors termed protease‐activated receptor‐1 (PAR‐1) and PAR‐3, which have a distinctive method of activation. Proteolytic cleavage of the extracellular domain by thrombin reveals a hidden amino terminus which then acts as a “tethered ligand”. A short synthetic peptide (SFLLRN) can also mimic the tethered ligand and activate PAR‐1 but not PAR‐3. Also, a trypsin‐sensitive receptor termed PAR‐2 has been described which is activated by the PAR‐1 activating peptide SFLLRN. Here we show conclusively by flow cytometric and Northern blot analysis that human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) express PAR‐1 but not PAR‐2. In functional studies we also show that thrombin and SFLLRN stimulated increased expression of mRNA encoding nuclear transcription factor NF‐IL‐6 and IL‐6 in vitro. At optimal concentrations, thrombin (10−7 M) induced 7.6 ± 0.01 ng/ml immunoactive IL‐6 and PAR‐1 activating peptide (5 × 10−5 M) induced 2.2±0.2 ng/ml (mean ± standard error of mean). A proteolytically inactive recombinant thrombin (serine 195 to alanine) was without activity. These data show that HGF express PAR‐1 and suggest that PAR‐1 activation stimulates increased NF‐IL‐6 and IL‐6 gene expression and IL‐6 secretion by HGF in vitro. Whether HGF express PAR‐3 is unknown, but the fact that SFLLRN was not a complete replacement for thrombin raises the possibility that HGF may express additional thrombin receptors. These findings add weight to the importance of the cytokine‐like role played by thrombin and raise the possibility that protease‐activated receptors may play a role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory periodontal disease.
Use of hyaluronic acid binding protein for detection of hyaluronan in ligature‐induced periodontitis tissue
Authors: Shibutani T. , Imai K. , Kanazawa A. , Iwayama Y. , Shibutani Toshiaki
Published: June 2010

This study was designed to demonstrate, by use of biotin‐labeled hyaluronic acid binding protein (HABP) and an avidin‐enzyme system, the localization of hyaluronan (HA) in periodontal tissue of beagle dogs during experimentally induced periodontitis. Experimental periodontitis was induced in the dogs by ligation of the gingival sulcus. Experimental tissue was collected at 0, 3, 7 and 21 days after ligation. HA was revealed by strong staining in the intercellular space around epithelial cells and periodontal ligament, and by light staining in the gingival connective tissue. According to the progression of periodontal tissue breakdown, HA was detected in a small number of leukocytes and monocytes, on the surface of osteoclasts, the surface of alveolar bone, thickened endothelium and in epithelial cells related to rete peg formation. Streptomyces hyaluronidase‐treated specimens gave negative staining. This study suggests that HA may be associated with the inflammatory reaction in experimental periodontitis tissue.
Effect of projective aspect variations on estimates of changes in bone mass using digital subtraction radiography
Authors: Loftin R. , Webber R. , Horton R. , Tyndall D. , Moriarty J.
Published: June 2010

This study tests the hypothesis that estimates of changes in bone mass derived from subtraction data obtained in accord with published methods are independent of the spatial aspect of the lesion being evaluated when calibrations are performed independently. Nineteen sliver‐shaped bone chips ranging in mass from approximately 1 to 35 mg were orientated with broad side parallel to the facial surface of a hemisectioned dry human mandible and radiographed using conventional exposure parameters on conventional E‐speed dental X‐ray film. Also attached to the film was a standardized aluminum calibration wedge that facilitated quantitative analysis of resulting subtraction data using established methodology. The effects of scatter were simulated by the addition of a 1‐cm‐thick slab of tissue‐equivalent plastic. A second series of exposures then was produced using the same respective spatial chip locations and projection geometries but each chip was reorientated such that its broad side was now positioned perpendicular to the mandibular facial surface. Finally, a comparable series of control exposures was produced without any chips or calibration wedge to facilitate subtraction. When paired bone estimates derived from the two chip orientations were compared (paired comparisons) using Student's t‐test, a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) was observed. These results also were tested for statistical significance using the non‐parametric Wilcoxon test. As with the parametric analysis, the discrepancy between the parallel and perpendicular mass estimates was found to statistically significant (p<0.05). The methods employed in this investigation thus resulted in bone mass estimates that varied significantly depending upon lesion orientation.
The effects of different (pseudo)halide substrates on peroxidase‐mediated killing of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Ihalin Riikka , Loimaranta Vuokko , Lenander‐Lumikari Marianne , Tenovuo Jorma
Published: June 2010

Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is a Gram‐negative bacterium which has an important role in localized juvenile and in progressive periodontitis. It is sensitive to killing by the myeloperoxidase (MP)‐hydrogen peroxide(H2O2)‐chloride system which is part of the innate host defense mediated by polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Since it has been recently suggested that thiocyanate, instead of chloride, could serve as a main substrate for MP as for lactoperoxidase (LP) and salivary peroxidase, we investigated in this study the effect of both LP and MP systems on A. actinomycetemcomitans with different (pseudo)halide substrates, thiocyanate, chloride and iodide. The concentrations of the substrates were physiological for oral fluids, as was the concentration range of H2O2. Both peroxidases produced end products with identical antibacterial activity with thiocyanate and iodide. The oxidation of iodide resulted in the highest antimicrobial efficiency followed by chloride and thiocyanate. Addition of thiocyanate into either MP‐H2O2‐chloride or MP/LP‐H2O2‐iodide system abolished the bactericidal activity of the oxidized halide. However, the chloride did not affect the bactericidality of the MP‐H2O2‐iodide system, but when all 3 (pseudo)halide substrates were present no antimicrobial effect was recorded. Our study shows that the presence of thiocyanate in physiological amounts is able to prevent the bactericidal activity of halide‐peroxidase systems in low H2O2 concentrations. These results explain why thiocyanate‐peroxidase systems of either innate origin (saliva, crevicular fluid) or introduced by commercial oral hygiene products are most probably ineffective against A. actinomycetemcomitans in vivo. Further studies of halide/thiocyanate ratio are needed to develop products which are also effective against oral anaerobes.
Cyclosporin A inhibits collagenase gene expression via AP‐1 and JNK suppression in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Sugano Naoyuki , Ito Koichi , Murai Seidai
Published: June 2010

A frequent side effect of cyclosporin A (CsA) administration is gingival overgrowth. Although the molecular mechanisms of CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth are still unknown, it has been postulated that CsA acts on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce fibroblastic activity, which results in an increase of the extracellular matrix. Here we provide evidence that CsA is able to affect signal transduction of LPS‐induced collagenase expression in fibroblasts. Treatment of fibroblasts with LPS caused activation of collagenase gene, activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK). These activations were blocked by CsA. We suggest that inhibitory effects of CsA on LPS‐induced signal transduction may contribute to the mechanism of CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth.
Vascular endothelial growth factor in human periodontal disease
Authors: Booth V. , Young S. , Cruchley A. , Taichman N. S. , Paleolog E.
Published: June 2010

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a multifunctional angiogenic cytokine of importance in inflammation and wound healing but its presence in chronic inflammatory periodontal disease has never been reported. The aims of this study were to investigate the presence of VEGF in human periodontal tissue and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in periodontal health and disease. VEGF in tissue was localized by immunohistochemistry. GCF and unstimulated saliva were collected from patients and clinically healthy subjects and VEGF was assessed by using an ELISA. VEGF was detected within vascular endothelial cells, neutrophils, plasma cells and junctional, pocket and gingival epithelium. In periodontitis patients, the volume of GCF and total amount of VEGF collected from diseased sites were both greater than from clinically healthy sites (Wilcoxon test p <0.01). However, the concentration of VEGF per unit volume of GCF was higher at healthy sites compared with diseased sites (Wilcoxon test p<0.05). Higher concentrations of VEGF were detected in healthy sites in patients compared with similar sites in clinically healthy subjects (Mann‐Whitney U‐test p <0.05). A logistic regression approach indicated that there was variation in VEGF between subjects (p<0.01), and that age (p<0.05), plaque (p < 0.05) and pocket depth (p < 0.07) were explanatory variables. VEGF was also detected in all saliva samples and was significantly higher in patients than in healthy controls (p<0.05). This study suggests that VEGF could be relevant to angiogenic processes in healthy as well as diseased periodontal tissue and that the periodontal status influences the salivary level of VEGF.
Induced systemic resistance against three foliar diseases of Agrostis stolonifera by (2R,3R)‐butanediol or an isoparaffin mixture
Authors: Cortes‐Barco A.M. , Hsiang T. , Goodwin P.H.
Published: June 2010

Induced systemic resistance (ISR) is a type of plant defence mechanism typically activated by non‐pathogenic root‐associated micro‐organisms and systemic priming of gene expression in response to subsequent pathogen challenge. ISR was found to be activated by PC1, a mixture of food‐grade synthetic isoparaffins and (2R,3R)‐butanediol, a volatile organic compound produced by bacteria. In controlled environment tests, application of PC1 or (2R,3R)‐butanediol to the soil reduced the diseased leaf area of Agrostis stolonifera by 20–40% for the fungal pathogens, Microdochium nivale, Rhizoctonia solani or Sclerotinia homoeocarpa compared to the water control. In A. stolonifera, expression of the jasmonate synthesis‐related genes, AsAOS1, encoding an allene oxide synthase, and AsOPR4, encoding a 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid reductase, and expression of a pathogenesis‐related protein gene, AsGns5, encoding an acidic β‐1,3‐glucanase, were primed for increased expression by PC1 or (2R,3R)‐butanediol when M. nivale was inoculated 7 days later. However, the compounds differed in their ability to induce expression prior to pathogen challenge. PC1 induced AsAOS1 expression upon treatment, whereas (2R,3R)‐butanediol induced expression of AsOPR4 and AsGns5 upon treatment. These results indicate that both (2R,3R)‐butanediol and PC1 can produce ISR in A. stolonifera but may do so through different mechanisms.
Differential Signaling Circuits in Regulation of Ultraviolet C Light‐induced Early‐ and Late‐phase Activation of NF‐κB
Authors: Wu Shiyong , Tong Lingying
Published: June 2010

Ultraviolet C light (UVC) induces nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activation via a complex network. In the early phase (4–12 h) of irradiation, NF‐κB activation is accompanied with IκBα reduction via a translation inhibition pathway. In the late phase of UVC‐induced NF‐κB activation (16–24 h), the IκBα depletion is a combined result of regulation at both transcriptional and translational levels. However, the NF‐κB activation appears to be independent of the level of IκBα. In this review, we will discuss the multiple signaling circuits that regulate NF‐κB activation during the early and late phases of UVC irradiation.
Anaesthetic choice for palatal canine exposure
Authors: Hetherington S. , Corbett I.P. , Chapple J.R. , Meechan J.G.
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To determine if predicted difficulty of exposure of palatally displaced, unerupted canines assessed by radiographic score had influenced the choice between a local or a general anaesthetic procedure in adolescents.

Materials and methods:  This was a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing surgical exposure of palatal canines between December 2005 and June 2008 in a dental hospital setting. A total of 56 subjects, for whom complete records were available, aged 16 years or under and assessed and treated by one surgeon, were included. The predicted degree of difficulty of exposure was graded from preoperative radiographs based on three criteria; the horizontal and vertical position of the crown, and the canine angulation (possible score range 3–11: higher score = more difficulty). The radiographic scores and patient age for the local anaesthetic and general anaesthetic groups were compared using Student's unpaired t‐tests. Other variables including gender, other surgical treatment required and unilateral or bilateral exposure were evaluated by chi‐squared analysis.

Results:  Thirty‐one (55%) patients were treated with local anaesthetic and 25 (45%) with general anaesthetic, the mean age was 13.7 years. The mean radiographic scores did not differ between groups being 7.53 and 7.36 for the local anaesthetic and general anaesthetic groups, respectively. Chi‐squared analysis showed concurrent other surgical treatment to be the only statistically significant factor in anaesthetic choice.

Conclusions:  Difficulty of canine exposure is not a significant factor in anaesthetic choice for adolescents, other concurrent surgical treatment appears a more significant factor in anaesthetic choice in this group.
Case report of a displaced wisdom tooth
Authors: Kotli M. , Anand R. , Patel M. , Robinson N. , Bond S.
Published: June 2010

Displacement of teeth perioperatively is rare but well reported. Maxillary premolar and molar teeth with conical roots are most commonly displaced into the maxillary sinus and Mandibular teeth into the pterygomandibular space. Appropriate measures taken during extraction of teeth can prevent this complication which potentially may lead to severe complications especially if the teeth are displaced into infratemporal fossa, lingual space or respiratory tract. We report a case of displaced wisdom tooth into the pterygomandibular space during extraction.
Genome‐wide association studies of pigmentation and skin cancer: a review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gerstenblith Meg R. , Shi Jianxin , Landi Maria Teresa
Published: June 2010

Recent genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) identified genetic loci associated with pigmentation, nevi, and skin cancer. We performed a review and meta‐analysis of GWAS results, grouping them into four categories: (i) loci associated with pigmentation (hair, eye, and/or skin color), cutaneous UV‐response (sun sensitivity and/or freckling), and skin cancer; (ii) loci associated with nevi and melanoma; (iii) loci associated with pigmentation and/or cutaneous UV‐response but not skin cancer; and (iv) loci associated distinctly with skin cancer, mostly basal cell carcinoma, but not pigmentation or cutaneous UV‐response. These findings suggest at least two pathways for melanoma development (via pigmentation and via nevi), and two pathways for basal cell carcinoma development (via pigmentation and independent of pigmentation). However, further work is necessary to separate the association with skin cancer from the association with pigmentation. As with any GWAS, the identified loci may not include the causal variants and may need confirmation by direct genome sequencing.
Targeting GRP78 to enhance melanoma cell death
Authors: Martin Shaun , Hill David S. , Paton James C. , Paton Adrienne W. , Birch‐Machin Mark A. , Lovat Penny E. , Redfern Chris P.F.
Published: June 2010

Targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress‐induced apoptosis may offer an alternative therapeutic strategy for metastatic melanoma. Fenretinide and bortezomib induce apoptosis of melanoma cells but their efficacy may be hindered by the unfolded protein response, which promotes survival by ameliorating endoplasmic reticulum stress. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that inhibition of GRP78, a vital unfolded protein response mediator, increases cell death in combination with endoplasmic reticulum stress‐inducing agents. Down‐regulation of GRP78 by small‐interfering RNA increased fenretinide‐ or bortezomib‐induced apoptosis. Treatment of cells with a GRP78‐specific subtilase toxin produced a synergistic enhancement with fenretinide or bortezomib. These data suggest that combining endoplasmic reticulum stress‐inducing agents with strategies to down‐regulate GRP78, or other components of the unfolded protein response, may represent a novel therapeutic approach for metastatic melanoma.
CASE REPORT: Epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the bronchus
Authors: Jun Young Jin , Jang Se Min , Na Woong , Jang Ki‐Seok , Chung Won Sang , Paik Seung Sam
Published: June 2010

Pulmonary epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma is a rare low‐grade malignant neoplasm that has the characteristic histologic features, epithelial and myoepithelial differentiation, similar to the salivary gland counterpart. This tumor is thought to arise from bronchial submucosal glands distributed throughout the lower respiratory tract. We recently experienced a case of epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the bronchus in a 61‐year‐old man. Computed tomography of his chest revealed an endobronchial mass in the bronchus of the left lower lobe. The lobectomy specimen showed a solitary endobronchial mass, measuring 2.3 cm in greatest diameter. Histologically, the tumor was composed of variable proportions of epithelial and myoepithelial cells. The epithelial cells represented an inner layer of duct‐like structures and the outer clear cell layer was myoepithelial‐type cells. The epithelial cells were positive for pancytokeratin and the clear myoepithelial cells were positive for vimentin, alpha‐smooth muscle actin and S‐100 protein. Finally our diagnosis was epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the bronchus.
Hepatocyte growth factor mobilizes and recruits hematopoietic progenitor cells into liver through a stem cell factor‐mediated mechanism
Authors: Tajima Fumihito , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Nishikawa Kenichi , Kataoka Motoyuki , Hisatome Ichiro , Shiota Goshi
Published: June 2010

Aims:   Although bone marrow cells are reported to migrate to the liver under circumstances of severe liver injury, the bone marrow cell type and the mechanisms in this process, remain to be clarified. We examined the involvement of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in this process and the cell type of migrated hematopoietic cells by HGF.

Methods:  The CD34+ cells and colony forming cells in the peripheral blood were examined in HGF transgenic, recombinant HGF‐administered, and HGF‐expressing adenovirus‐administered mice. The cell type mobilized by HGF was examined by the percentages of donor cells in the peripheral blood of the recipient mice transplanted with Lin‐c‐kit+Sca‐1+CD34+ cells and those with Lin‐c‐kit+Sca‐1+CD34‐ cells. Expression of stem cell factor (SCF) was examined after the addition of HGF in MS‐5 stromal cells. The numbers of the cells which were mobilized from bone marrow and recruited into liver by HGF were assessed using green fluorescence fluorescent (GFP)‐chimera mice.

Results:  Mobilized CD34+ cells and colony forming cells in the peripheral blood were increased by HGF treatment. The cells mobilized by HGF were mostly Lin‐c‐kit+Sca‐1+CD34+ cells. Recruitment of bone marrow cells into liver was not suppressed in MMP‐9‐/‐ mice. Expression of SCF was induced by HGF in MS‐5 stromal cells. However, expression of CXCR4, SDF‐1, MMP‐9 or VCAM‐1 was not changed. The numbers of GFP‐positive cells in liver 1 month after treatment by HGF was greater than that by G‐CSF.

Conclusion:  The results of the present study suggest that HGF mobilizes and recruits hematopoietic progenitor cells from bone marrow into the liver through SCF‐mediated mechanism.
Reflections on Design Management Education in China
Authors: Liu Jikun , Zhan Manxian
Published: June 2010

Design management and its instruction is a recent phenomenon in China. Rapid development is anticipated in the near future alongside the advances in China's innovation‐oriented society and its further economic growth. After reviewing the features of design management, the development of MBA programs, and the higher‐education system in contemporary China, this paper proposes a range of future solutions to the development of design management education programs in China. It suggests that curriculum development for better cultural fit with the current Chinese reality must be based not only on research into successful models in Europe and the United States, but on investigation into the specific demands of Chinese companies and Chinese teaching and learning styles. The paper goes on to show that, at this initial stage, foreign‐partner programs can be an immediate and efficient way of developing Chinese design management education, and concludes by outlining opportunities for further research.
Strategic New Product Development in Chinese Organizations: A Case Study in the High Technology Sector
Authors: Zhang Xiaohuan , Williams Alex
Published: June 2010

Despite a growing body of research on Chinese business practices and consumer market development, little has been written on the significance of new product development (NPD) within Chinese organizations. In addition, there has been little analysis of the influence of Chinese industry structures and national culture on approaches to NPD. A key assumption has been that it will mirror Western experience. This paper will establish whether a Western interpretation of NPD is appropriate to indigenous Chinese enterprises engaged in high technology sectors. Further, it will provide an overview of the nature of the NPD process within Chinese organizations, contextualized within the Chinese economy. The authors subsequently present the findings of a case study conducted within a high technology state‐owned enterprise. The study focuses on its engagement with NPD in both market and organizational contexts, and its relationship to research and development (R&D), production systems, and technology transfer, in particular. The paper concludes by proposing a model of the NPD process specific to Chinese organizations, and suggests that future development of the Chinese economy will necessitate greater engagement with NPD, albeit in a differing form.
Local Cultures and Global Corporations
Authors: Asokan Ashwini , Payne Michael J.
Published: June 2010

More than ever before, booming economies and growing levels of disposable income have placed many countries on the global consumer market landscape. Users, embedded in their own cultures and societies, are also consumers of global products and information in their own localized contexts. A range of companies, from the tech arena to the food business, are striving to carve a niche in these countries, trying to redesign themselves to cater to local cultural needs. Most of these companies try to manufacture products for a global market and achieve large‐scale volumes in production. However, this often requires the coordination of multiple companies to manufacture a single product, companies that may be situated in different cultures and countries. Designers, design managers, and user experience professionals across these organizations face a tremendous challenge against the backdrop of this changing landscape. With local practices and cultures on one hand, and large global corporations and global lifestyles situated all over the globe on the other, designers and social scientists are challenged with striking the right balance between these two ends. This paper uses examples from Intel's Digital Home User Experience Group to highlight how user experience professionals can manage and design culturally rich experiences while sustaining large‐scale production, as well as managing smooth working processes among organizations situated across the globe.
Globalization and Product Design Education: The Global Studio
Authors: Bohemia Erik , Harman Kerry
Published: June 2010

This paper examines shifts in manufacturing related to globalization. The purpose of the paper is to provide design educators with a better understanding of changes taking place in manufacturing, with the aim of generating discussion around educational responses to these changes in the subject area of design. In the first part of the paper, the broad transformations taking place in manufacturing are outlined, with a focus on concurrent engineering and agile manufacturing. Next, the ways these changes are affecting the contemporary organization of product development teams are examined. Then, the implications of these shifts for design education are considered. It is argued that changing trends in manufacturing, and related changes in the organization of product development, highlight the importance of equipping design students with skills for working in globally networked organizations. Finally, we overview an educational response to globalization in the subject area of design.
Study of Natural Convection in Volumetrically Heated Enclosures for Different Aspect Ratios and Prandtl Numbers
Authors: Deshmukh Parameshwar , Mitra Sushanta K. , Gaitonde U. N.
Published: June 2010

Natural convection in volumetrically heated rectangular enclosures is studied in this work. The walls of the enclosure are maintained isothermal. For the rectangular enclosure, two-dimensional conservation equations are solved using SIMPLE algorithm. The code is benchmarked with the results for a lid-driven cavity and a differentially heated cavity. Parametric studies are conducted to examine the effects of orientation of the cavity, fluid properties (Pr number), and aspect ratio for Rayleigh numbers up to 106. For a horizontal cavity, the flow becomes periodically oscillating at Ra = 5×104 and chaotic at Ra = 8×105. With a slight increase in the inclination angle, the oscillations die down and for inclination angles greater than 15°, the flow attain a steady state over a range of Ra. The aspect ratio AR, defined as the ratio of the height to the width of the cavity, is varied from 0.25 to 0.75 (AR < 1: wide cavities) and from 2.0 to 6.0 (AR > 1: long cavities). The values of critical Ra at which the convection sets in the cavity are presented for the range of AR studied here. The corresponding flow regimes are also identified.
Monte Carlo Study of Phonon Heat Conduction in Silicon Thin Films: Role of Optical Phonons
Authors: Mittal Arpit , Mazumder Sandip
Published: June 2010

The Monte Carlo (MC) method has found prolific use in the solution of the Boltzmann Transport Equation (BTE) for phonons for the prediction of non-equilibrium heat conduction in crystalline thin films. This paper contributes to the state-of-the-art by performing a systematic study of the role of the various phonon modes on thermal conductivity predictions—in particular, optical phonons. A procedure to calculate scattering time-scales with the inclusion of optical phonons is described and implemented. The roles of various phonon modes are assessed. It is found that Transverse acoustic (TA) phonons are the primary carriers of energy at low temperatures. At high temperatures (T > 200K), longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonons carry more energy than TA phonons. When optical phonons are included, there is a significant change in the amount of energy carried by various phonons modes. At room temperature, optical modes are found to carry about 25% of the energy at steady state in Silicon thin films. Most importantly, inclusion of optical phonons results in better match with experimental observations for Silicon thin-film thermal conductivity.