bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real‐Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography Is Useful in the Evaluation of Patients with Atrioventricular Septal Defects
Authors: Hlavacek Anthony M. , Crawford Fred A. , Chessa Karen S. , Shirali Girish S.
Published: January 2006

Objective: We sought to determine whether three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) is useful in the evaluation of patients with atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). Background: Recent advances in 3DE have enhanced its practicality. We assessed whether 3DE provided new information compared to 2DE among patients with AVSD. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 52 3DE datasets from 51 patients (median age: 4.6 years, range 0–30 years; median BSA: 0.6 m2, range 0.2–1.9 m2) with any type of AVSD during a 1‐year period. 3DE findings were compared to 2DE and surgical reports. For each study, AVSD was classified by 2DE as one of the following: unrepaired balanced defect, repaired balanced defect with residual lesions, repaired balanced defect without residual lesions, or unbalanced defect. 3DE was graded as (1) Additive: 3DE resulted in a new finding or changed diagnosis; (2) Useful: While useful, 3DE did not result in new findings or changed diagnosis; or (3) Not useful. Results: 3DE on unrepaired balanced AVSD and repaired AVSD with residual lesions was more often additive/useful (33/36; 92%) than on repaired AVSD without residual lesions or unbalanced AVSD (9/16 (56%), P=0.009). 3DE was additive or useful in all three patients with unbalanced AVSD being considered for biventricular repair. Useful information obtained by 3DE included: precise characterization of mitral regurgitation and cleft leaflet, substrate for subaortic stenosis, valve anatomy, and presence and location of additional septal defects. Conclusion: 3DE provides useful and additive information in unrepaired balanced AVSD, repaired AVSD with residual lesions, and unbalanced AVSD under consideration for biventricular repair.
A New Method for Precracking Beam for Fracture Toughness Experiments
Authors: Bao Yiwang , Zhou Yanchun
Published: January 2006

A simple and versatile precracking method using a triangular notch as a crack starter in limited bending was developed, which is suitable for both brittle ceramics and quasi‐plastic materials that are difficult to precrack by the conventional bridge‐indentation technique. Slow growth of large crack in brittle or quasi‐brittle ceramics was controlled and observed in situ in this way. The precracking tests performed on various ceramics exhibited high reliability and feasibility. The precracked specimens were subsequently used to measure the fracture toughness, and the resultant data showed that the fracture toughness determined by using the precracked specimens reflected the minimum value of the toughness measured in single edge‐notched beam (SENB) tests.
Synthesis and Characterization of Luminescent Yttrium Oxide Doped with Tm and Yb
Authors: Graeve Olivia A. , Varma Shailaja , Rojas‐George Gabriel , Brown David R. , Lopez Enrique A.
Published: January 2006

Combustion synthesis was used to obtain nanocrystalline Y(2−x−y)TmxYbyO3 blue‐emitting phosphors. From X‐ray diffraction (XRD) it was determined that the powders in the as‐synthesized state were in a state of high strain. Upon thermal treatment, the strain in the lattice decreased, which resulted in an improvement in the photoluminescence emission intensity of these phosphors. Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry analysis showed that there is a negligible difference in the absorbed impurities with heat‐treatment temperature and time. Hence, it was concluded that the surface impurities do not play a role in the increase in luminescence intensity of these phosphors. The optimum activator concentrations were determined to be approximately x=0.02 and y=0.01.
Effects of intraperitoneal vitamin E, melatonin and aprotinin on leptin expression in the guinea pig eye during experimental uveitis
Authors: Kükner Aysel , Çolakoğlu Neriman , Serin Didem , Alagöz Gürsoy , Çelebi Serdal , Kükner A. Şahap
Published: January 2006

Purpose:  To observe ultrastructural changes and leptin expression in the guinea pig eye during experimental uveitis (EU) and the effects of vitamin E, melatonin and aprotinin on leptin expression.

Methods:  Thirty male guinea pigs were randomly classified into five groups. Group 1 was the control group. Groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 received intravitreal injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) to induce EU. At the same time on the third day, groups 3 (EU + vitamin E), 4 (EU + melatonin) and 5 (EU + aprotinin) received intraperitoneal vitamin E (150 mg/kg), melatonin (10 mg/kg) and aprotinin (20 000 IU/kg), respectively. On the sixth day, histopathological and clinical scoring of inflammation were performed, and leptin expression was investigated in the retina, choroid, sclera, episclera and cornea, and compared.

Results:  There was a remarkable increase in leptin expression in the retina, choroid, sclera and episclera in the EU group. Leptin expression in the treatment groups was similar to that in the control group. At light and electron microscopic levels, ganglion cells were oedematous and inner plexiform layer thickness had increased in the EU group retinas. Oedema was decreased in the treatment groups. Comparison of the EU and treatment groups revealed significant differences histopathologically and clinically.

Conclusion:  Experimental uveitis causes an increase in leptin expression in the retina, choroid, sclera and episclera of guinea pigs. Vitamin E, melatonin and aprotinin inhibit this increase. Leptin seems to be closely related to ocular inflammation.
Socioeconomic differences in glaucoma patients' knowledge, need for information and expectations of treatments
Authors: Hoevenaars Juliette G. M. M. , Schouten Jan S. A. G. , Van Den Borne Bart , Beckers Henny J. M. , Webers Carroll A. B.
Published: January 2006

Purpose:  To study the specific items for which socioeconomic differences in glaucoma patients' knowledge, need for information and expectations of treatments exist, with the aim of developing a patient education programme.

Methods:  A total of 44 randomly selected ophthalmologists assigned 166 consecutive outpatient glaucoma patients to complete a questionnaire that had been systematically developed based on focus group interviews, suggestions from several experts and a pilot test. Topics included knowledge about glaucoma and its treatment, need for information and expectations of treatment. Educational level was used as a measure for socioeconomic status. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to adjust for age, sex and duration of glaucoma.

Results:  After adjusting for age, sex and duration of glaucoma, knowledge of glaucoma and its treatment was found to be positively correlated with socioeconomic status. Items on knowledge with socioeconomic differences concerned risk factors, pathophysiology and consequences of glaucoma, as well as effects and adverse effects of treatments. The lowest socioeconomic group demonstrated more need for information on public assistance and practical aspects of glaucoma and more often expected that glaucoma damage could be repaired.

Conclusion:  Important socioeconomic differences in knowledge, need for information and expectations of treatment exist in glaucoma patients. Patient education should focus on every glaucoma patient, but better information for the lower socioeconomic groups about specific items mentioned in this study might reduce the negative effects of low socioeconomic status on visual impairment.
The pathogenesis of optic disc splinter haemorrhages: a new hypothesis
Authors: Grieshaber Matthias C. , Terhorst Tobias , Flammer Josef
Published: January 2006

Purpose:  To describe a hypothesized relationship between optic disc haemorrhages (ODHs) and primary vascular dysregulation (PVD).

Methods:  Observational case report of a patient with classical PVD and five bilateral recurrent ODHs

Results:  The ODHs were superotemporal in the right eye and inferotemporal in the left; the eyes were otherwise normal. Intraocular pressure (IOP) never exceeded 17 mmHg. Visual fields were normal. Increased blood flow resistivity, a reduced blood flow of the extraocular vessels, a low systemic blood pressure, a cold‐induced flow stop of the nailfold capillaries, and elevated endothelin‐1 plasma levels were found, all confirming the diagnosis of vascular dysregulation.

Conclusions:  Optic disc haemorrhages may be due to a disturbed blood–retina barrier rather than to a mechanical rupture of the vessel. This barrier dysfunction may occur in the context of PVD.
The relationship between mental illness severity and stigma
Authors: Gaebel W. , Zäske H. , Baumann A. E.
Published: January 2006

Objective:  To investigate influencing factors for lay perception of mental illness severity and their effects on the stigma of mental illness.

Method:  Selective review including attitude surveys assessing social distance towards different diagnostic labels, and attitudes towards treatment professions, treatment strategies, and psychopharmacotherapy.

Results:  Lays differentiate in their attitudes towards people with mental illness according to the given diagnostic label, the involved treatment professions or institutions, the applied treatment methods, and the perceived psychosocial disability.

Conclusion:  Beside perceived treatment intensity and diagnostic label, the perception of social disability of mentally ill people accounts for a differentiated stigma. The question arises how antistigma‐programmes can include the topic of social disability into their messages without risking to strengthen the stigma of mental illness.
The therapeutic relationship in psychiatric settings
Authors: Priebe S. , McCabe R.
Published: January 2006

Objective:  To discuss the current climate of research on the therapeutic relationship (TR) in mainstream psychiatric settings.

Method:  Consideration of theoretical frameworks, quantitative and qualitative research methods, along with potentials for interventions.

Results:  Most of the concepts and methods used to investigate the TR in conventional psychiatric settings have been imported from psychotherapy and, despite significant differences between the two, there is little specific research. A distinction is suggested between therapeutic relationships and patient–clinician interactions. Relationships predict outcome and may be assessed with operationalized methods. Specific communicative skills may be helpful in the treatment of particular illnesses. The feasibility and effectiveness of potential interventions in the TR have rarely been studied.

Conclusion:  Specific conceptual and methodological work is required to develop a better understanding of TRs in psychiatric settings. Further research should include intervention studies and might support a stronger emphasis on TRs in training and supervision.
Early detection and treatment of schizophrenia: how early?
Authors: Riecher‐Rössler A. , Gschwandtner U. , Borgwardt S. , Aston J. , Pflüger M. , Rössler W.
Published: January 2006

Objective: Whereas early detection and therapy of schizophrenic psychoses until some time ago concentrated on frank schizophrenia, during the last years some centres have also started to treat patients even before a clear diagnosis could be established. This paper attempts to discuss if and when this is justified in the light of recent research.

Method: Mini review of literature.

Results: The rationale for early detection and treatment of schizophrenia is based on several observations: diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia are often seriously delayed. Consequences of the disease are severe already in the early undiagnosed phase of the disorder and early treatment seems to improve the course of the disease. It can therefore be stated quite safely that patients should be treatedas early as possible. However, the question ofhow earlyhas not been sufficiently answered up to now.

Conclusion: We are at the moment in an ethical dilemma between either diagnosing and treating this disorder too late or too early. The only way and prerequisite for solving this dilemma is a more reliable identification of individuals at risk and the beginning disease process.
Social psychiatry and public mental health: present situation and future objectives Time for rethinking and renaissance?
Authors: Rutz W.
Published: January 2006

Objective:  To describe the social psychiatric challenges of modern psychiatry in European societies in the light of recent psychiatric research evidence and to show how these challenges could be conceptualized.

Method:  Reviewing aggregate morbidity and mortality data from the WHO European Health for All Database, and summarizing consultations and fact‐finding missions to many European countries during the authors engagement as WHO Regional Advisor for Mental health from 1998 to 2004.

Results:  Societal change in Europe is leading to stress and mental ill health for its populations. The consequence is a dramatic increase in burden due to mental illness and stress‐related morbidity and mortality.

Conclusion:  A rethought and reconceptualized social and societal psychiatry with focus on public mental health must have a renaissance. Innovative efforts are of crucial and imperative importance seeing mental health in the light of recent experience and science as probably the most important public health issue.
Needs of people with severe mental illness
Authors: Wiersma D.
Published: January 2006

Objective:  This study reviews conceptual and methodological issues of needs for care among people with severe mental illness (SMI) and presents data on their prevalence, correlates and consequences for mental health care.

Method:  Focus is on the definition of the concept of need as what people can benefit from and its measurement by means of two instruments, the Needs for Care Assessment (NCA) and the Camberwell Assessment of Needs (CAN).

Results:  The prevalence of needs among patients with SMI varies between 4 and 10, which appears to be rather unrelated to gender, age or education, but not to severity of symptoms, diagnosis or treatment setting. Important is the perspective of the beholder: patient and professional differ significantly from each other in the assessment of number of needs and their adequate fulfilment. One of two to four needs are unmet, in particular in the area of psychological distress, daily activities, social contacts and psychotic symptoms. Prevalence of unmet needs seems to be related to the system of mental health care and to socioeconomic circumstances as well: the less integrated and continuous care and the poorer the life situation, the more unmet needs.

Conclusion:  Unmet needs are a strong predictor of less favourable health perceptions and a lower quality of life. Needs are to a certain extent changeable, and thus amenable by treatment or mental health interventions. The prevalence of (un)met needs should be an outcome criterion for the evaluation of mental health service systems and for cross‐cultural comparison.
Perceived sources of stress in Nigerian dental students
Authors: Sofola O. O. , Jeboda S. O.
Published: January 2006

Abstract  The objective of this study was to identify sources of stress among dental students at the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria. A modified Dental Environment Stress (DES) questionnaire was used to study the 137 students in years 3–6, of which 105 (76.6%) responded. Results show that the year 5 students indicated the highest level of stress overall on items relating to pre‐clinical training with 21 (70%) recording aggregate DES score over the cut‐off point for high stress. For clinical items, nearly all the students – 27(90%) of year 5 and 24 (100%) of year 6 recorded aggregates over the cut‐off point. The most important stressors were those related to the lack of provision of a well‐supported system of dental education in Nigeria in terms of availability of materials for clinical training and study materials. There were no significant differences in stress perception between genders. However, students who chose Medicine as their first choice for admission with Dentistry as an alternative experienced significantly higher overall mean and higher mean scores for most items. In conclusion, it appears there is a need to improve support for dental education in Nigeria.
Novel heterozygous missense mutation in the second leucine rich repeat of GPIbα affects GPIb/IX/V expression and results in macrothrombocytopenia in a patient initially misdiagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Kunishima Shinji , Imai Toshi , Hamaguchi Motohiro , Saito Hidehiko
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  Recent studies have shown that heterozygous carriers of the bleeding disorder Bernard‐Soulier syndrome are occasionally identified as isolated case of giant platelet disorder/macrothrombocytopenia or misdiagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). We describe here a patient with congenital macrothrombocytopenia who had been diagnosed with ITP. On peripheral blood smears, platelet diameter was ∼30% larger than normal controls. In the patient's platelets, the expression level of the GPIbIX complex was slightly decreased (70–80% of normal control). Densitometric analysis of immunoblots showed GPIbα to be ∼52% of normal. DNA sequencing analysis revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation in the GPIbα gene that converts Tyr to Asp at residue 54 (Y54D) in the second leucine‐rich repeat. Mutant GPIbα protein was not detected in the patient's platelets. Transient transfection studies demonstrated that mutant GPIbα affects complex expression. These findings suggest that null expression of the mutant GPIbα causes decreased density of the complex and results in macrothrombocytopenia.
IL‐9 expression contributes to the cellular composition in Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Glimelius Ingrid , Edström Annika , Amini Rose‐Marie , Fischer Marie , Nilsson Gunnar , Sundström Christer , Enblad Gunilla , Molin Daniel
Published: January 2006

Objectives: The presence of numerous mast cells or eosinophils in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) tumours have both been described as negative prognostic factors. One cytokine related to HL is interleukin‐9 (IL‐9) and it is known to affect both mast cells and eosinophils. The aim of this study was to explore if the expression of IL‐9 correlates to the presence of these inflammatory cells in HL tumours. Methods: In 131 HL biopsies, immunostainings for IL‐9 and IL‐9 receptor (IL‐9R) were performed. The same material was previously stained for mast cells and eosinophils. These data were correlated to clinical and survival data from all patients. Results: Fifty‐three percent of cases were positive for IL‐9 and 19% were positive for IL‐9R in the cytoplasm of the tumour cells. The IL‐9 positive patients had more eosinophils (P = 0.002) and mast cells (P = 0.02) in their tumours, more often a nodular sclerosis histology (P < 0.0001), a higher white‐blood‐cell count (P = 0.006) and a higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P = 0.003) at the time of diagnosis. Conclusions: IL‐9 expression is related to the histology, clinical picture and the presence of eosinophils and mast cells in HL. These results indicate that IL‐9 is an important part of the cytokine network and inflammatory infiltrate in HL.
Gene–environment interaction involved in oral carcinogenesis: molecular epidemiological study for metabolic and DNA repair gene polymorphisms
Authors: Sugimura Tomotaka , Kumimoto Hiroshi , Tohnai Iwai , Fukui Takafumi , Matsuo Keitaro , Tsurusako Shinichi , Mitsudo Kenji , Ueda Minoru , Tajima Kazuo , Ishizaki Kanji
Published: January 2006

Background:  Exposure to environmental carcinogens leads to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC); however, the impact of genetic variations in carcinogen metabolisms and DNA repair on OSCC risk considering environmental exposures has not been clearly elucidated.

Methods:  We conducted a case–control study with 122 cases and 241 controls. The risk of OSCC was evaluated in 10 genetic polymorphisms of nine genes, such as CYP1A1, CYP2E1, GSTM1, GSTT1, XPA, XPC, XPC, XPF and ERCC1. Gene–environment interaction was also evaluated.

Results:  We found that CYP2E1 and XPA polymorphisms significantly affected the OSCC risk. Gene–environment interactions with smoking were significant for CYP2E1 and ERCC1 polymorphisms. Odds ratios for gene–environment interaction were 7.98 (P = 0.036), 9.67 (P = 0.017) and 8.49 (P = 0.031) for CYP2E1RsaI, DraI and ERCC1 polymorphisms, respectively. No interaction was observed with heavy drinking and any polymorphisms.

Conclusion:  CYP2E1, XPA and ERCC1 polymorphisms may affect the risk of OSCC.
Refined characterization of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas expressing a seemingly wild‐type p53 protein
Authors: Leng Katharina , Schlien Simone , Bosch Franz X.
Published: January 2006

Background:  A fraction of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) reveal overexpression of the p53 protein although sequence analysis failed to detect mutations in the core region of the protein. The functional and clinical status of p53 in these tumors is unclear.

Methods:  In 31 HNSCC, allelic imbalances (AI) at TP53 and other chromosome 17 loci were analyzed by microsatellite marker analysis. Expression of p16INK4a protein was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Seven tumors were re‐examined for sequence alterations by the Affymetrix p53 GeneChip.

Results:  About 54.8% of these tumors showed AI at TP53; 41.9% showed loss of p16, an overlapping fraction of 35.5% demonstrated AI and p16 loss. Six of seven such tumors revealed heterozygous missense mutations.

Conclusions:  A large proportion of HNSCC with presumed wild‐type p53 overexpression are false‐negative cases. These results strengthen the established strong association of p53 protein overexpression with missense mutations. AI at TP53 and p16 loss are useful surrogate markers for genetic alterations of TP53 in HNSCC.
Immunohistopathological study of the oral lichenoid lesions of chronic GVHD
Authors: Sato M. , Tokuda N. , Fukumoto T. , Mano T. , Sato T. , Ueyama Y.
Published: January 2006

Background:  Chronic graft‐vs.‐host disease (cGVHD) is a common and serious complication after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). However, the detailed process of oral lichenoid lesions of cGVHD is still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the immunohistopathological features of cGVHD compared with oral lichen planus (OLP) and healthy controls.

Methods:  Nineteen allogenic BMT recipients with a histopathological diagnosis of cGVHD were investigated. We investigated the immunohistopathological features of cGVHD compared with OLP and healthy controls.

Results:  Immunohistopathological features showed that the infiltrations of CD4‐positive T cells of cGVHD and OLP were significantly larger than those of the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.005). A larger number of CD8‐positive T cells was infiltrated in cGVHD and OLP compared with the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.001). The difference in the number of CD4‐ and CD8‐positive T cells between cGVHD and OLP was not significant. The infiltrations of Langerhans cells (CD1a) in cGVHD and OLP were significantly larger than those in the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.005). The difference in the number of Langerhans cells between cGVHD and OLP was not significant. CD68‐positive macrophages were more frequently seen in cGVHD and OLP than in the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.0001). The difference in the number of CD68‐positive macrophages between cGVHD and OLP was not significant.

Conclusions:  It is suggested that Langerhans cells and CD8‐positive T cell may play a major role in the pathogenesis of the oral lichenoid lesions of cGVHD, and the immune response was inducted in OLP as well as the oral lichenoid lesion of cGVHD in this study.
Decreased expression of p63 in oral lichen planus and graft‐vs.‐host disease associated with oral inflammation
Authors: Ebrahimi Majid , Wahlin Ylva‐Britt , Coates Philip J. , Sjöström Björn , Nylander Karin
Published: January 2006

Background:  Oral lichen planus (OLP) and graft‐vs.‐host disease (GVHD) are conditions with increased risk of malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). The p63 gene encodes six different proteins and is expressed at high levels in SCCHN.

Methods:  Biopsies from patients diagnosed with OLP and GVHD were analysed for p63 protein expression using antibodies distinguishing between the major isoforms expressed in normal epithelia, in parallel with biopsies from normal buccal mucosa and SCCHN.

Results:  In OLP and GVHD a decreased expression of all p63 isoforms was seen, while expression of p53 protein was upregulated, compared with normal mucosa. In SCCHN, p63 was abundantly expressed and some tumours showed strong p53 staining, suggestive of p53 mutation.

Conclusions:  Decreased p63 and increased p53 expression in OLP and GVHD indicates a coordinated action of these two related proteins to protect the oral mucosae from the damaging effects of underlying inflammation. In SCCHN disruption of the TP53 gene and overrepresentation of certain p63 isoforms has been seen, indicating that this could lead to neoplastic transformation.
Porphyromonas gingivalis heat shock protein vaccine reduces the alveolar bone loss induced by multiple periodontopathogenic bacteria
Authors: Lee Ju‐Youn , Yi Ni‐Na , Kim Ueon‐Suk , Choi Jeoung‐Soon , Kim Sung‐Jo , Choi Jeom‐Il
Published: January 2006

Objectives:  Heat shock protein (HSP) can be utilized as a vaccine to cross‐protect against multiple pathogenic species. The present study was performed to evaluate Porphyromonas gingivalis heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) as a vaccine candidate to inhibit multiple bacteria‐induced alveolar bone loss.

Material and methods:  Recombinant P. gingivalis HSP60 was produced and purified from P. gingivalis GroEL gene. Rats were immunized with P. gingivalis HSP60, and experimental alveolar bone loss was induced by infection with multiple periodontopathogenic bacteria.

Results:  There was a very strong inverse relationship between postimmune anti‐P. gingivalis HSP immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels and the amount of alveolar bone loss induced by either P. gingivalis or multiple bacterial infection (p = 0.007). Polymerase chain reaction data indicated that the vaccine successfully eradicated the multiple pathogenic species.

Conclusions:  We concluded that P. gingivalis HSP60 could potentially be developed as a vaccine to inhibit periodontal disease induced by multiple pathogenic bacteria.
Porphyromonas gingivalis‐related cardiac cell apoptosis was majorly co‐activated by p38 and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase pathways
Authors: Lee Shin‐Da , Wu Cheng‐Chung , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Lin James A. , Hwang Jin‐Ming , Lu Min‐Chi , Chen Li‐Ming , Hsu His‐Hsien , Wang Chin‐Kun , Chang Sheng‐Huang , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: January 2006

Background and Objective:  Little is known about the pathogenesis of apoptosis caused in cardiac tissues by periodontitis pathogens. The purpose of this study was to determine the related effect of periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis on cardiac cell apoptosis.

Methods:  DNA fragmentation, nuclear condensation and activated apoptotic caspases were measured by agarose gel electrophoresis, nuclear DAPI (4′,6‐diamidine‐2‐phenylindole dihydrochloride) stain and western blotting analysis following the surrounding medium of P. gingivalis and/or pre‐administration of SB203580 (p38 inhibitor), U0126 [mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) inhibitor], LY294002 [phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor], cyclosporine A (CsA: calcineurin inhibitor), and Sp600125 [c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor] in cultured cardiac H9c2 cells.

Results:  The surrounding medium of periodontal pathogen P. gingivalis increased DNA fragmentation, nuclear condensation and the activated apoptotic caspase‐3, ‐8, and ‐9 proteins in H9c2 cells. DNA fragmentation and nuclear condensation of H9c2 cells treated with P. gingivalis medium were completely blocked by SB203580 plus U0126 and were decreased after pre‐administration of SB203580 only, U0126 only, LY294002, CsA, but were increased by Sp600125.

Conclusion:  Our findings suggest that the development of cardiac cell apoptosis can be directly induced by P. gingivalis medium. Porphyromonas gingivalis‐related H9c2 cell apoptosis was mainly co‐activated by p38 and ERK pathways and may be involved in death receptor‐dependent (caspase 8) and mitochondria (caspase 9)‐dependent apoptotic pathways. Porphyromonas gingivalis‐related cardiac cell apoptosis was also partially mediated by PI3K or calcineurin signaling pathways, whereas the JNK pathway might play a protective role in P. gingivalis‐related cardiac cell apoptosis.
Effects of minocycline and doxycycline on cell survival and gene expression in human gingival and periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Suzuki Ayako , Yagisawa Junko , Kumakura Shin‐ichi , Tsutsui Takeki
Published: January 2006

Objectives and Background:  Periodontitis is an infectious disease in the gingival crevice caused by periodontopathic bacteria, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, and Tennerella forsythensis, and antibacterial agents are directly administered to the site of infection to treat it. To maximize the therapeutic effects while reducing the adverse effects, the antibacterial agents should be administered at concentrations greater than their MIC90 doses required to inhibit the growth of 90% of periodontopathic bacteria and the administration should not damage the periodontal tissue. One approach for estimating cellular damage in the periodontal tissue caused by the administration is to assay cytological damages following exposures of cultured human cells derived from periodontal tissues to antibacterial agents. In the present study, we investigated the cytotoxic effect of minocycline (MINO) and doxycycline (DOX) by using a human gingival fibroblast cell line, a human gingival epithelial cell line, and a human periodontal ligament fibroblast cell line. We also used these cell lines to study the effect of MINO or DOX on the mRNA and protein expressions of genes associated with the differentiation of fibroblasts and the proliferation, differentiation, or cellular adhesion important to the epithelial regeneration of the periodontal attachment.

Methods:  The cytotoxic effect of MINO or DOX was measured as a decrease in cell survivals. The effects of these antibiotics on the mRNA and protein expressions in the cell lines were studied by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) and western blot analyses, respectively.

Results:  The maximum concentration of MINO or DOX that has little effect on the cell survivals and the mRNA and protein expressions of genes for alkaline phosphatase, type I procollagen, keratinocyte growth factor receptor, keratin 18 or 8/18, integrin β1, integrin β4, and laminin 5γ2 was 10 or 30 µm, respectively, which are greater than their MIC90 doses against periodontopathic bacteria described above.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that little, if any, cellular damage would be expected with topical administration of MINO or DOX to the periodontal pocket at a dose equivalent to the MIC90. It is important to note, however, that the extrapolation of these findings to in vivo conditions has yet to be undertaken.
Gender‐related differences in urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels in obese pubertal individuals
Authors: Fideleff Hugo L. , Boquete Hugo , Fideleff Gabriel , Albornoz Liliana , Lloret Santiago Pérez , Suarez Martha , Esquifino Ana I. , Honfi Margarita , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to measure the urinary excretion of the main melatonin metabolite 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin in obese and normal weight (wt) boys and girls. The study included 94 subjects, aged 4–15.7 yr (50 obese and 44 normal wt; 48 boys) classified as: mid‐childhood (4–7.99 yr), late‐childhood (8–12 yr) and pubertal (10.1–15.7 yr, Tanner II–IV). Normal wt subjects were children with a body mass index (BMI) between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the group of obese subjects included children whose BMI was above the 97th percentile. A 24‐hr urine sample was collected during two intervals: (i) 18:00–08:00 hr, and (ii) 08:00–18:00 hr. Analysis of urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels was performed by radioimmunoassay. Excretion of 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin was expressed as: (i) total amount excreted (μg); (ii) μg excreted per time interval, nocturnal or diurnal; and (iii) the difference between nocturnal and diurnal samples (μg, estimated amplitude). A factorial analysis of variance indicated that nocturnal 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin excretion and amplitude were significantly higher in the obese individuals. A significant interaction ‘BMI × age’ was detected, i.e. the effect of BMI was significant in the pubertal group only. Total, nocturnal and diurnal 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin excretion was significantly higher in girls. The increase in 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin excretion found in obesity occurred only in boys and at the pubertal age. To what extent this increase in melatonin production contributes to a delayed puberty in some pubertal obese males remains to be established.
A direct influence of moonlight intensity on changes in melatonin production by cultured pineal glands of the golden rabbitfish,Siganus guttatus
Authors: Takemura Akihiro , Ueda Satomi , Hiyakawa Nanae , Nikaido Yoshiaki
Published: January 2006

Abstract: Rabbitfish are a restricted lunar‐synchronized spawner that spawns around a species‐specific lunar phase. It is not known how the fish perceive changes in cues from the moon. One possible explanation is that rabbitfish utilize changes in moonlight intensity to establish synchrony. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether or not the pineal gland of the golden rabbitfish can directly perceive changes in moonlight intensity. Isolated pineal glands were statically cultured under natural or artificial light conditions and melatonin secreted into the culture medium was measured using a time‐resolved fluoroimmunoassay. Under an artificial light/dark cycle, melatonin secretion significantly increased during the dark phase. Under continuous light conditions, melatonin secretion was suppressed, while culture under continuous dark conditions seemed to duplicate melatonin secretion corresponding to the light/dark cycle in which the fish were acclimated. When cultured pineal glands were kept under natural light conditions on the dates of the full and the new moon, small amounts of melatonin were secreted at night. Moreover, exposure of cultured pineal glands to artificial and natural light conditions resulted in a significant decrease of melatonin secretion within 2 hr. These results suggest that the isolated pineal gland of golden rabbitfish responds to environmental light cycles and that ‘brightness’ of the night moon has an influence on melatonin secretion from the isolated pineal gland.
Therapeutic value of melatonin in an experimental model of liver injury and regeneration
Authors: Sigala Fragiska , Theocharis Stamatis , Sigalas Konstantinos , Markantonis‐Kyroudis Sophia , Papalabros Efstathios , Triantafyllou Aggeliki , Kostopanagiotou Georgia , Andreadou Ioanna
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  Melatonin has marked antioxidant properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of melatonin on acute liver injury induced in rats by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), allyl alcohol (AA) and their combination. A total of 108 male Wistar rats were divided into 12 experimental groups according to their treatment regimen (n = 5–10 rats in each group). Melatonin (100 mg/kg body weight, BW) was administered 6 hr (a) after a single dose of CCl4 (intragastrically 0. 66 mL/kg BW diluted 1:1 v/v with corn oil); (b) a single dose of AA (intraperitonealy, 0.62 mmol/kg BW 1:50 v/v in 0.9% saline solution); and (c) a combination of the above substances. Rats were sacrificed at 24 and 48 hr post‐toxin administration and the therapeutic effect of melatonin was investigated by assessment of histopathological changes and lipid peroxidation alterations determined by measuring tissue malondialdehyde plus 4‐hydroxy‐nonenal (MDA + 4‐HNE), plasma MDA and plasma levels of liver enzymes. The levels of a key antioxidant, glutathione (GSH), were measured in liver tissue homogenates. Hepatic necrosis was significantly reduced in the melatonin‐treated rats 48 hr after administration of CCl4, AA and CCl4 + AA. The levels of hepatic enzymes in plasma were found to be significantly reduced at 24 and 48 hr in the CCl4 + AA treated rats after melatonin administration. Additionally, MDA and MDA + 4‐HNE concentrations were significantly reduced at 24 and 48 hr time‐points in all groups that received melatonin. GSH levels were decreased in liver after the toxic substances administration, whereas melatonin reversed this effect. In conclusion, a single dose of melatonin decreased hepatic injury induced by CCl4, AA and CCl4 + AA. The inhibition of the oxidative stress and therefore lipid peroxidation by melatonin in CCl4 and AA administered animals, may constitute the protective mechanism of melatonin against acute liver injury.
Number VI Recurrent aphthous stomatitis
Authors: Jurge S , Kuffer R , Scully C , Porter SR
Published: January 2006

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS; aphthae; canker sores) is a common condition which is characterized by multiple recurrent small, round or ovoid ulcers with circumscribed margins, erythematous haloes, and yellow or grey floors typically presenting first in childhood or adolescence. RAS occurs worldwide although it appears most common in the developed world. The aetiology of RAS is not entirely clear. Despite many studies trying to identify a causal microorganism, RAS does not appear to be infectious. A genetic predisposition is present, as shown by strong associations with genotypes of IL‐1β; IL‐6 in RAS patients, and a positive family history in about one‐third of patients with RAS. Haematinic deficiency is found in up to 20% of patients. Cessation of smoking may precipitate or exacerbate RAS in some cases. Ulcers similar to RAS may be seen in human immunodeficiency virus disease and some other immune defects, and drugs, especially non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and nicorandil may produce lesions clinically similar to RAS. Topical corticosteroids can often control RAS. However, the treatment of RAS remains unsatisfactory, as most therapies only reduce the severity of the ulceration and do not stop recurrence.
Recurrent intraoral pyogenic granuloma with satellitosis treated with corticosteroids
Authors: Parisi E , Glick PH , Glick M
Published: January 2006

The development of recurrent pyogenic granulomas as multiple satellite lesions has not been reported in the oral cavity. This report describes an unusual case of intraoral pyogenic granuloma recurring multiple times after surgical excisions with the formation of satellite lesions. Due to failure of surgical management, an alternative approach was taken. We illustrate how the lesions were successfully treated with a series of intralesional corticosteroid injections.
Cephalometric study of elderly with nearly intact dental arches
Authors: Shimizu Takako , Motegi Etsuko , Nomura Mayumi , Kaneko Yukio , Takeuchi Fumie , Yamaguchi Takao , Miyazaki Haruyo , Harazaki Morihiro , Hirai Motoyuki , Kurihara Saburo , Yamaguchi Hideharu
Published: January 2006

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the craniofacial morphology of elderly people with many remaining teeth using cephalometric analysis.

Subjects and methods:  The subjects were 30 Japanese elderly who participated in the ‘8020 campaign 2001’ in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, organised by The Dental Association of Tokyo, as well as 30 Japanese young adults with normal occlusion. Lateral cephalograms of all subjects were analysed using the Coben method.

Results:  In the female elderly group, the lower face depth was smaller than in the younger adults. In the male elderly group, the height and depth of both the total face and the lower face were longer than in the younger group. In comparing the 8020 achievers with the younger group, the proportion of the lower facial height was greater than the upper facial height, and this finding was more pronounced in women than in men.

Conclusion:  For the lateral facial pattern of the elderly, a reduction of lower facial height because of tooth occlusal reduction was not apparent. It was clear that there are age differences for males and females; in addition, differences in the total face and lower face area of the elderly group were due to their having many remaining teeth over a long time period. Also, these changes were more apparent in women than in men, and it is clear that there is a male–female difference in ageing.
Comparison of antioxidant enzymes in saliva of elderly smokers and non‐smokers
Authors: Kanehira Takashi , Shibata Kouichi , Kashiwazaki Haruhiko , Inoue Nobuo , Morita Manabu
Published: January 2006

Objectives:  This study was designed to compare the levels of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD), peroxidase (POx) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) in saliva of smokers and those in saliva of non‐smokers.

Methods:  Unstimulated saliva samples were collected from 88 elderly males (65 years old or over) who visited a private dental clinic. Forty‐four subjects were current smokers (more than 20 cigarettes daily for at least 30 years) and 44 were non‐smokers. The levels of salivary thiocyanate, Cu/Zn SOD, GSH‐Px, and POx activity were measured using standard procedures.

Results:  The mean levels of salivary thiocyanate (SCN−) and SOD were significantly higher (p < 0.01) in the smoking group than in the non‐smoking group, whereas the specific activity levels of POx and GSH‐Px were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the non‐smoking group than in the smoking group. Significant correlation coefficients were found between the levels of SCN− and SOD (r = 0.37, p < 0.001). In the non‐smoking group, a significant positive association was found between specific activity of POx and age (r = 0.33, p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Measurement of SCN− and Cu/Zn SOD in human saliva might be useful for estimating the level of oxidative stress caused by cigarette smoke. Despite increased H2O2 level as a defense system induced by SOD, detoxification of H2O2 might be deteriorated in the oral cavity of elderly smokers.
Self‐reported oral hygiene habits among institutionalised elderly and their relationship to the condition of oral tissues in Taubaté, Brazil
Authors: Marchini L. , Vieira P. C. , Bossan T. P. , Montenegro F. L. B. , Cunha V. P. P.
Published: January 2006

Objectives:  To record self‐reported hygiene habits, examine the oral conditions of a sample group of institutionalised elderly, and examine possible relationships between these habits and conditions.

Design:  Cross‐sectional.

Setting:  All the institutions for the elderly in Taubaté, Brazil.

Subjects:  The entire population of these institutionalised elderly people (n = 553).

Intervention:  The subjects were interviewed and underwent an oral examination.

Main outcome measures:  Oral hygiene habits, oral conditions and statistical relationships between habits and oral conditions were recorded.

Results:  The average age of the subjects who knew their age (n = 364) was 74.9 years (±12.9), and 64.7% of the sample group were females. Denture‐related stomatitis was found in 19.5%, impaired manual dexterity in 40%, dry mouth sensation in 36.3%, difficulty in performing oral hygiene in 20%, no oral hygiene‐related orientation in 54.1%, no periodic oral examinations in 59.5%, and no tongue cleaning in 68.3% was declared. Among dentate subjects, 73.3% had periodontal disease, 54.7% had caries, 26% reported no toothbrushing, and 7.3% reported flossing. Of the denture wearers, 7% did not brush their dentures. Denture‐related stomatitis showed a statistical relationship with impaired manual dexterity (p = 0.012) and an inverse statistical relationship with denture brushing frequency (p = 0.006). Periodontal disease showed an inverse relationship to flossing (p < 0.001) and tongue cleaning (p = 0.0026). Caries showed an inverse relationship with tooth‐brushing (p = 0.043), flossing (0.022), proper oral hygiene orientation (p = 0.041) and periodical check‐ups (p = 0.007).

Conclusion:  Oral hygiene practices in this sample group were found to be inadequate, and statistically significant relationships were verified between the lack of good oral hygiene practices and the deleterious oral conditions.
Oral health and morbidity – implications of oral infections on the elderly
Authors: Meurman Jukka H. , Hämäläinen Piia
Published: January 2006

Detrimental effects of oral infections on general health have been known for almost 3000 years. Modern studies, however, have cast new light on the pathogenic mechanisms by which oral infections appear to link with morbidity and mortality. In particular, among the elderly, poor dental health seems to associate with all‐cause mortality. This review aims to provide an overview of present knowledge of these issues, starting from dental bacteraemia, oral mucosal infections and problems of drug resistance and, briefly, discussing what is known about the link between oral health and some systemic diseases such as atherosclerosis and type‐2 diabetes. The main conclusions are that scientific evidence is still weak on these interactions and that the elderly should be better taken into account when planning future studies. Functions of the body differ in the frail and diseased from those of the young. Consequently, novel prevention and treatment strategies should be developed and properly tested for combating oral infections in elderly populations. Specific suggestions for further research are outlined.
An Application of Item Response Time: The Effort‐Moderated IRT Model
Authors: Wise Steven L. , DeMars Christine E.
Published: January 2006

The validity of inferences based on achievement test scores is dependent on the amount of effort that examinees put forth while taking the test. With low‐stakes tests, for which this problem is particularly prevalent, there is a consequent need for psychometric models that can take into account differing levels of examinee effort. This article introduces the effort‐moderated IRT model, which incorporates item response time into proficiency estimation and item parameter estimation. In two studies of the effort‐moderated model when rapid guessing (i.e., reflecting low examinee effort) was present, one based on real data and the other on simulated data, the effort‐moderated model performed better than the standard 3PL model. Specifically, it was found that the effort‐moderated model (a) showed better model fit, (b) yielded more accurate item parameter estimates, (c) more accurately estimated test information, and (d) yielded proficiency estimates with higher convergent validity.
PROPERTIES OF TURKISH‐STYLE SUCUK MADE WITH DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF BEEF AND HEN MEAT
Authors: SARICOBAN C. , KARAKAYA M. , CANER C.
Published: January 2006

Mixtures of beef and spent laying hen meat (100/0, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 50/50) were investigated for production of Turkish‐style sucuks as semidry fermented sausage. During the fermentation period (0–6 days), weight loss increased, shrinkage in diameter occurred and moisture content decreased. Weight loss of the control (100% beef/0% hen) sucuk was the lowest. Increasing the amount of spent hen meat in the sucuks up to 50% increased weight losses. The best sensory scores occurred with 50/50 (beef/hen meats) for color and odor, 100/0 for texture and flavor and 90/10 for overall product taste.