bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early migration of cutaneous lymphocyte‐associated antigen (CLA) positive T cells into evolving psoriatic plaques
Authors: Davison S. C. , Ballsdon A. , Allen M. H. , Barker J. N. W. N.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The majority of T cells in lesional psoriatic skin express the skin homing receptor, cutaneous lymphocyte‐associated antigen (CLA). We investigated whether this reflects the selective migration of CLA positive cells into evolving psoriatic plaques, consistent with an important role in disease onset, or whether this occurs in the context of an established cutaneous inflammatory response. We identified the advancing edge of plaques in 16 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis using scanning laser Doppler fluxmetry, and performed immunohistochemical analysis of i) lesional psoriatic skin, ii) clinically normal skin immediately in front of the advancing plaque edge, and iii) uninvolved skin distant from the plaque edge. The T‐cell infiltrate was characterized using monoclonal antibodies to CD3, CLA and the integrin αEβ7, which is associated with the retention of lymphocytes at mucosal sites. Epithelial proliferation was assessed using a monoclonal antibody to the nuclear proliferation marker Ki67. There was enrichment of CLA positive T cells in evolving psoriatic skin compared to distant, uninvolved skin (mean CLA positive 75.9% vs 47.8%; P<0.003). This accumulation of CLA positive cells occurred before epidermal hyperproliferation was evident, suggesting that this population of cells plays an important, early role in disease pathogenesis. Established lesional psoriatic skin contained a mixed infiltrate of CLA positive (mean 53.2%) and αEβ7 positive (mean 18.2%) cells, suggesting less tissue‐specific T‐cell infiltration, although an additional, specific role for αEβ7 in cutaneous inflammation cannot be excluded. Furthermore, this study has highlighted scanning laser Doppler fluxmetry as a useful investigative tool, permitting analysis of the earliest and therefore potentially most important changes in psoriatic plaque formation.
CUSP/p63 expression in basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Dellavalle Robert P. , Walsh Patrick , Marchbank Angela , Grayson Timothy E. , Su Lih‐Jen , Parker Eva R. , DeGregori James , Penheiter Kristi , Aszterbaum Michelle , Epstein jr Ervin H. , Lee Lela A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Chronic ulcerative stomatitis protein (CUSP), the most abundant cutaneous isoform of p63, is a p53‐related gene essential for epithelial development. CUSP lacks the N‐terminal transactivation domain found on other p53 family members and has been shown to inhibit p53 function in vitro. In this study, biopsies of normal skin (21 of 21), benign neoplasms [seborrheic keratosis (3 of 3), acrochordon (2 of 3), and verruca plana (3 of 3)], and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) (4 of 4) displayed strong nuclear CUSP immuno‐reactivity in epidermal cells. In contrast few basal cell carcinomas (BCC) (7 of 27) and sebaceous nevi (1 of 2) displayed this pattern of CUSP immunoreactivity. Thus, biopsies of cutaneous conditions characterized by sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway dysregulation were more than 86 times as likely to lack CUSP/p63 immunofluorescence as were other cutaneous samples. Adjacent normal‐appearing skin from patients with basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) (2 of 3) also lacked CUSP immuno‐staining. Lastly, a BCC arising in a patched heterozygous mouse also lacked CUSP immuno‐staining. Because CUSP mRNA and protein were detected via Northern and Western analysis in BCC samples lacking CUSP immuno‐staining, we sequenced the coding region of CUSP from two non‐staining BCCs but found no mutations. Therefore, CUSP appears to be present, unmutated, and yet frequently undetectable by immunofluorescence in cutaneous lesions in both humans and mice that are associated with SHH pathway dysregulation (BCCs, BCNS, and nevus sebaceous).
Decreased frequency of intracellular IFN‐γ producing T cells in whole blood preparations from patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Källström Eva , Roscher Ingrid , Andreasson Annica , Bäck Ove , Van Hage‐Hamsten Marianne
Published: March 2003

Abstract: There have been contradictory reports on the shift in the T‐cell cytokine expression pattern of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with atopic dermatitis (AD); more specifically the interleukin (IL)‐4 and interferon (IFN)‐γ profiles. The aim of this study was to shed further light on this contradiction by measuring the intracellular cytokines IL‐4 and IFN‐γ by flow cytometry on unseparated whole blood to obtain results that, as accurately as possible, reflect the situation in circulating cells in vivo. The patient group including 64 patients with AD was compared with 18 nonatopic healthy adults. The results showed that the percentage of CD4+ T cells expressing IFN‐γ was significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.001), as well as the percentage expressing IL‐4 (P < 0.05) in AD patients compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, in supernatants from whole blood samples stimulated with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate and ionomycin, production of IFN‐γ was significantly decreased, while IL‐4 production remained unchanged in AD patients compared with healthy controls. We also investigated if there was a relationship between serum IgE level and Phadiatop®, a screening test for atopy, vs. the levels of IL‐4 and IFN‐γ , but found no correlation with either. However, there was a significant correlation between disease severity and the level of total IgE (r = 0.67, P < 0.05). In conclusion, our results support the evidence for a decreased ability of peripheral CD4+ T cells to produce IFN‐γ among AD patients.
Parasitism, water temperature and life history characteristics of the freshwater fish Gobiomorphus breviceps Stokell (Eleotridae)
Authors: Hamilton W. J. , Poulin R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Life history traits can vary among populations of the same fish species in response to selective pressures exerted by the local environment. Here we used inter‐population comparisons to investigate the effects of parasitism and variability in water temperature on life history traits in a New Zealand freshwater fish, the upland bully. Although age and size at maturity varied among populations, they were not significantly related to either temperature regime or average parasite load. Trade‐offs between egg size and clutch size were only apparent in one of the seven populations when populations were analyzed separately but became clear when all data were pooled. However, neither average population clutch size or egg size was related to the population’s mean parasite load or the local temperature regime. Although the latter two parameters may influence other life history variables, such as the number of clutches produced per season and the partitioning of eggs among clutches, there was no evidence that they influenced life history strategies of the upland bully populations investigated here.Note
The influence of stunted body size on the reproductive ecology of bluegill Lepomis macrochirus
Authors: Aday D. D. , Kush C. M. , Wahl D. H. , Philipp D. P.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Although stunting is a common phenomenon in fish populations, the consequences of stunted body size on the reproductive ecology of individuals has received little attention. The present study compares the reproductive ecology of bluegill in established stunted and non‐stunted populations. Three ponds (two non‐stunted and one stunted) were monitored for spawning activity throughout the summer. Parental male bluegill from both non‐stunted populations were older, larger, and had greater mating success (number of eggs or fry within nests) than parental males in the stunted population. Stunted bluegill also experienced a shortened reproductive season owing to the delay in onset of spawning. The present study demonstrates that individual size and population size structure can have a marked influence on the reproductive ecology of bluegill.
Ultrastructural preservation of rat embryonic dental tissues after rapid fixation and dehydration under microwave irradiation
Authors: Massa Luciana F. , Arana‐Chavez Victor E.
Published: March 2003

Adequate preservation of the cells and matrix of mineralising tissues remains difficult, as organic components and initial mineral deposits may be lost during conventional processing for electron microscopy. In this study, we have reduced significantly the processing time using microwave irradiation. Rat molar tooth germs were fixed in 4% glutaraldehyde+4% formaldehyde with 0.1 M sodium cacodylate in a laboratory microwave oven for two periods of 20 s with a maximal temperature of 37°C. After conventional washing and post‐fixation, specimens were dehydrated in graded ethanols under microwave irradiation for a total of 7 min 20 s. For comparison, some specimens were processed by conventional methods. After embedding, ultrathin sections were examined by electron microscopy. In differentiating ameloblasts and odontoblasts, plasma membranes, mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi complex, together with all other cytoplasmic organelles exhibited excellent preservation. Microtubules, microfilaments and coated vesicles were particularly evident. Crystal‐like mineral deposits were conspicuously present in relation to dentine matrix vesicles and collagen fibrils as well as in enamel matrix. The matrix of forming enamel had a globular electron‐lucent appearance. It is concluded that this is a rapid method which provides a preserved or even improved morphology.
Molecular cloning of a human dentin sialophosphoprotein gene
Authors: Gu Keni , Chang Syweren , Ritchie Helena H. , Clarkson Brian H. , Rutherford R. Bruce
Published: March 2003

Dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP; phosphophoryn) are two principal dentin‐specific non‐collagenous proteins. DPP is extremely acidic and is rich in aspartic acid and serine. By virtue of this structure, DPP may bind large amounts of calcium and may facilitate initial mineralization of dentin matrix collagen as well as regulate the size and shape of the crystals. The function of DSP is not known. DSP and DPP are encoded by a single gene in both rat and mouse, and are uniquely expressed in odontoblasts and transiently in pre‐ameloblasts. Because DSP and DPP are isolated from dentin as distinct proteins and appear to be present in different amounts, the nascent dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is likely cleaved to yield DSP and DPP. However, when, where and how the DSPP is cleaved into DSP and DPP is not clear. To further elucidate the structure and function of human DSP and DPP, we have cloned DPP and DSP cDNA by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) strategies, and then cloned and initiated characterization of a human dentin sialophosphoprotein gene. The genomic organization of human DSPP is very similar to that of mouse, containing five exons and four introns, suggesting it is a homologue of mouse dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP). Exons 1–4 encode for DSP, while exon 5 encodes for the C‐terminus of DSP and the whole DPP. A 4.6‐kb RNA transcript was detected on Northern blot analyses of total RNA extracted from immature (open root apices) human teeth using either a human DPP or DSP probe.
Adaptation of normal and hypofunctional masseter muscle after bite‐raising in growing rats
Authors: Bresin Andrea , Bagge Ulf , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: March 2003

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of prolonged muscular elongation induced by bite‐raising on the length of the muscle belly, sarcomeres and aponeurosis of the anterior deep masseter in the growing rat. Another aim was to determine the role of different functional conditions of this muscle in the adaptation process. Ninety‐six young male rats were split into two groups: one was fed a hard diet and the other a soft diet to develop different functional capacities in the masticatory muscles. After 2 wk, half of the rats in both groups were fitted with an appliance that raised the bite by 2 mm. The measurements on the muscles were performed in situ. The insertion of the appliance stretched the anterior masseter muscle. After 4 wk, the vertical dentoskeletal dimension, the muscle belly, and the sarcomeres showed no difference in length among the groups. However, the aponeurosis was longer in the rats wearing the appliance compared to the controls, and among the bite block groups it was longer in the rats fed a hard diet. Length adaptation occurred in the aponeurosis. Clinically this may imply a need for reactivation of functional appliances to increase their efficiency, at a rate possibly depending on masseter muscles functional condition.
Clinical tests in distinguishing between persons with or without craniomandibular or cervical spinal pain complaints
Authors: Visscher Corine M. , Lobbezoo Frank , De Boer Wim , Van Der Zaag Jacques , Verheij Johannes G. C. , Naeije Machiel
Published: March 2003

The recognition of a craniomandibular or cervical spinal pain is usually based upon the pain complaint of the patient, reported during an oral history, and the pain responses provoked in a clinical examination. Often used clinical tests are palpation, and function tests like dynamic/static tests or active movements. The relative importance of these tests for the recognition of the musculoskeletal pain is important. Therefore, it was the aim of the present study to determine which test, or combination of tests, best discriminates between persons with or without craniomandibular and/or cervical spinal pain complaints. Two hundred and fifty persons participated. From each person, a standardized oral history was taken. Then, in a randomized order and using a blind design, physical examinations of the craniomandibular system and of the neck were performed. Forward stepwise logistic regression analyses showed that the dynamic/static tests discriminated better between persons with and without pain complaints than the other tests did. In conclusion, in studies to the coexistence of craniomandibular and cervical spinal pain, it may be a good choice to base the recognition of these disorders on the pain complaints reported in the oral history which are verified by the pain response of the dynamic/static tests.
In situ induced demineralization in irradiated and non‐irradiated human dentin
Authors: Kielbassa A.M.
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to evaluate the onset of initial demineralization in irradiated and non‐irradiated human dentin. Dentin specimens were prepared from the cervical regions of 48 third molars. Either the lingual or the buccal dentin specimen of each tooth was irradiated fractionally up to 60 Gy (2 Gy/d, 5 d/wk). The remaining dentin sample was not irradiated. Two irradiated and two non‐irradiated dentin specimens were inserted into both buccal aspects of each 12 intraoral mandibular appliances. The appliances were worn by 12 persons for 5 wk day and night. One side was brushed daily with a fluoride‐free toothpaste. On the other side, plaque was allowed to grow. Individual oral hygiene techniques were performed without any fluorides. During meals, the appliance was stored in 10% sucrose solution. After the in situ period, slabs (150 μm) were ground and studied by means of transversal microradiography and microscopic techniques. Concerning mineral loss and lesion depth, ANOVA revealed significant differences between brushed and non‐brushed specimens, whereas no differences between irradiated and non‐irradiated dentin lesions were found. It is concluded that (in vitro) irradiated dentine is not more susceptible to caries than non‐irradiated, if adequate oral hygiene techniques are implemented.
Cloning, characterization and immunolocalization of human ameloblastin
Authors: MacDougall Mary , Simmons Darrin , Gu Ting Ting , Forsman‐Semb Kristina , Kärrman Mårdh Carina , Mesbah Michael , Forest Nadine , Krebsbach Paul H. , Yamada Yoishi , Berdal Ariane
Published: March 2003

Amelogenesis imperfecta is a broad classification of hereditary enamel defects, exhibiting both genetic and clinical diversity. Most amelogenesis imperfecta cases are autosomal dominant disorders, yet only the local hypoplastic form has been mapped to human chromosome 4q between D4S2421 and the albumin gene. An enamel protein cDNA, termed ameloblastin (also known as amelin and sheathlin), has been isolated from rat, mouse and pig. Its human homolog has been mapped to chromosome 4q21 between markers D4S409 and D4S400, flanking the local hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta critical region. Therefore, ameloblastin is a strong candidate gene for this form of amelogenesis imperfecta. To facilitate genetic studies related to this dental disease, we isolated and characterized a human ameloblastin cDNA. A human third molar cDNA library was screened and two ameloblastin clones identified. Nucleotide sequencing of these cDNAs indicated alternative splicing of the putative open reading frame, use of different polyadenylation signals, and a high degree of similarity to reported rat, mouse and porcine cDNAs. Immunohistochemistry studies on embryonic human teeth using an antibody to recombinant ameloblastin indicated ameloblastin expression by ameloblasts with localization in the enamel matrix associated with the sheath structures.
Catch‐up growth and craniofacial dimensions following administrationof the antineoplastic agent vincristine to young rats
Authors: Karsila Susanna , Jahnukainen Kirsi , Salmi Toivo T. , Rönning Olli
Published: March 2003

Decreased linear growth is a common problem during childhood anticancer therapy. Although catch‐up growth may occur, short stature is sometimes permanent. A macroscopic experimental study was performed to investigate the catch‐up growth of body and craniofacial structures of growing rats subjected to the antineoplastic agent vincristine. A total of 150 Long‐Evans/Turku strain rats were randomly divided into one of two treatment or control groups. A group of 10‐d‐old rats was given a single s.c. injection of 0.0375 mg/kg vincristine, while another treatment group of 30‐d‐old rats received three injections of 0.05 mg/kg vincristine. All rats were killed at the age of 100 d. Twelve different craniofacial dimensions, tibia and body length, and final weight were recorded. Female and male groups were analyzed separately. As an expression of catch‐up growth, most of the body and craniofacial structures returned to the control level by 100 d of age. A clear sex‐dependency was seen in the measurements which remained reduced so that females seemed to catch‐up better than males. The timing of the first injection was found to be important for the catch‐up growth in the neurocranial area.
Chewing efficiency of pre‐orthognathic surgery patients: selection and breakage of food particles
Authors: Van Den Braber Willem , Van Der Glas Hilbert W. , Van Der Bilt Andries , Bosman Frederik
Published: March 2003

Comminution of food is the composite result of selection and breakage. Selection is characterised by the chance that a food particle will at least be damaged by the teeth during chewing. For any size, this chance equals the ratio between the weight of damaged or broken particles and that of all initial particles. The breakage process refers to fracturing of selected particles. The aim was to examine whether a reduced chewing performance of pre‐orthognathic surgery patients is due to an impairment of selection, breakage or both. Eight cubes of 8.0 mm of the silicone‐rubber Optosil® were used as a test food to determine chewing efficiency for 12 patients (skeletal Angle Class II and dental Angle Class II, subdivision 1) and 12 controls (class I molar relation). Selection and breakage were determined in one‐chew experiments using various particle sizes. Chewing efficiency was significantly lower for the patients than for the controls. The selection chance was significantly smaller for the patients, in particular for smaller (≤4.8 mm) particles. The degree of breakage was lower for the patients, in particular for medium‐sized particles of 4.8 mm. These findings suggest that the reduced chewing performance of pre‐orthognathic surgery patients is due to an impairment of both selection and breakage.
Is the observed association between periodontitis and atherosclerosis causal?
Authors: Kolltveit Kristin M. , Eriksen Harald M.
Published: March 2003

Most of the documentation of possible causal links between periodontitis and atherosclerosis‐related diseases appears indirect or circumstantial. There is, however, an increasing number of both experimental and longitudinal epidemiological studies which seem to support a causal relationship. A critical evaluation of the epidemiological data available might therefore be appropriate. The present study is based on a literature search using Ovid medical data base covering the period from 1989 to October 2000 and applying specific inclusion criteria. Based on a critical evaluation of the 14 investigations selected from a total of 21 retrieved from the search, a causal relationship between periodontitis and atherosclerosis‐related diseases appeared possible. However, the nature both of periodontitis and atherosclerosis is multifactorial, and caution should be exercised when implicating periodontal disease in the causation of atherosclerotic disorders.
Gene transfer mediated by different viral vectors following direct cannulation of mouse submandibular salivary glands
Authors: Shai Ela , Falk Haya , Honigman Alik , Panet Amos , Palmon Aaron
Published: March 2003

The salivary gland has been suggested as an accessible organ for gene transfer to express recombinant proteins locally in the saliva, as well as for secretion to the blood circulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of gene transfer to salivary glands using different viral vectors: adenovirus, vaccinia, herpes simplex type 1 (HSV), and two retroviral vectors (murine leukemia virus (MuLV) and lentivirus). We show, by in situ staining and β‐galactosidase reporter activity assay, that the adenoviral and vaccinia vectors were able to deliver the reporter gene efficiently to acinar and duct cells. The HSV vector was less efficient and infected only the acinar cells. The lentiviral vector infected acinar and duct cells, but at a relatively low efficiency. The MuLV vector did not infect the salivary gland unless cell proliferation was induced. Host immune responses to viral infection, inflammation, apoptosis and lymphocyte infiltration, in the transduced glands, were assessed. The DNA viral vectors induced local lymphocyte infiltration and apoptosis. In contrast, the retroviral vectors did not induce an immune response. Our results describe the outcome of salivary gland infection with each of the five different viral vectors and indicate their advantages and limitations for transferring genes to the salivary glands.
Amine fluoride gel affects the viability and the generation of superoxide anions in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes: an in vitro study
Authors: Knoll‐Köhler Elisabeth , Stiebel Juliane
Published: March 2003

Amine hydrofluorides are widely used to prevent caries. As an acidulated gel, they were also studied for their applicability to reduce pathogenic bacteria in periodontal pockets. We assessed the toxicity of this pharmaceutical amine hydrofluoride preparation on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes in vitro by measuring Trypan blue exclusion and the generation of superoxide anions (O2–) by the chemotactic peptide N‐formyl‐l‐methionyl‐l‐leucyl‐l‐phenylalanine (fMLP) after a 3‐min contact with gel. Depending on the experimental conditions, gel dilutions up to 1.3 × 104 resulted in an increase in Trypan blue‐colored cells and liberation of β‐glucuronidase. Dilutions between 3 × 104 and 1 × 105 augmented the fMLP‐mediated O2– generation, which could be prevented by Ca2+ chelation with BAPTA‐AM (1,2′‐bis (o‐aminophenoxy‐ethane‐n,n,n′,n′‐tetraacetic acid tetra (acetoxymethyl) ester) and ethyleneglycoltetraacetic acid (EGTA) or inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) with staurosporine and bisindolylmaleimide I, respectively. Compared with data published on the minimal inhibitory concentration for periodontal pathogenic bacteria, the cytotoxicity of amine hydrofluorides on eukaryotic cells is much greater and thus of consequence for their clinical use.
Possible involvement of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 in mitogenic response of periodontal ligament cells to enamel matrix derivative
Authors: Matsuda Naoki , Horikawa Miwa , Watanabe Masami , Kitagawa Syoji , Kudo Yasusei , Takata Takashi
Published: March 2003

The efficacy of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) as an adjunct to periodontal regenerative therapy has been demonstrated in recent clinical studies, however, little is known about its molecular mechanism (s). We examined the mitogenic response of cultured periodontal ligament (PDL) cells to EMD and characterized associated changes in proliferation‐related intracellular signaling molecules, including mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) and Akt kinases/protein kinase B (Akt/PKB) kinases. The DNA synthesis of PDL cells increased following treatment with EMD at concentrations higher than 1 µg ml−1. This mitogenic response to EMD was associated with the selective activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. No other MAPKs, or Akt/PKB kinases, responded to EMD stimulation. The EMD induction of DNA synthesis and activation of ERK 1/2 were diminished by pretreatment with suramin, an inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK). The signaling pathway induced by EMD from RTK to ERK 1/2 was similar to that activated by epidermal growth factor (EGF), although the specific binding of 125I‐EGF to PDL cells was not affected by pretreatment or concomitant treatment with EMD. These findings suggest that EMD elicits its mitogenic signal through an EMD‐specific RTK towards ERK 1/2.
Characterization of porcine dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) cDNA clones
Authors: Yamakoshi Yasuo , Hu Jan C.‐C. , Liu Shengxi , Zhang Chuhua , Oida Shinichiro , Fukae Makoto , Simmer James P.
Published: March 2003

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a chimeric glycoprotein with dentin sialoprotein (DSP) on its N‐terminus and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) on its C‐terminus. We have constructed and screened a unidirectional cDNA library derived from the pulp organ of developing pig teeth, and isolated cDNA clones encoding DSP‐only, as well as two DSPP clones with alternative sequences in their 3′ coding regions. The DSP‐only transcript has an open reading frame of 386 codons, and is generated through the use of a polyadenylation signal within intron 4, immediately following the DSP coding region. the use of this polyadenylation signal deletes the DPP coding region and places a TGA translation termination signal as the fourth codon following the exon 4‐encoded segment. The DSPP cDNAs contain open reading frames of 593 and 600 codons. Northern blots hybridized to radiolabeled DSP probes showed bands at 1.4, 2.5, 4.4, and 4.8 kb. Cloning and characterization of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction products confirmed the existence of mRNA encoding pDSP386, pDSPP593, and pDSPP600in vivo, but also suggested that DNA sequence redundancies in the DSPP coding region make it prone to cloning artifacts.
High Serum Interleukin‐8 Levels in Afro‐Caribbean Women with Pre‐eclampsia. Relations with Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α, Duffy Negative Phenotype and Von Willebrand Factor
Authors: Velzing‐Aarts Francien V. , Muskiet Frits A.J. , Van Der Dijs Fey P.L. , Duits Ashley J.
Published: March 2003

Velzing‐Aarts FV, van der Dijs FPL, Muskiet FAJ, Duits AJ. High serum interleukin‐8 levels in Afro‐Caribbean women with pre‐eclampsia. Relations with tumor necrosis factor‐α, Duffy negative phenotype and von Willebrand factor. AJRI 2002; 48:319–322 © Blackwell Munksgaard, 2002

PROBLEM: Pre‐eclampsia is characterized by neutrophil activation. Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) is a strong neutrophil chemo‐attractant and activator.

METHOD OF STUDY: We measured serum IL‐8 in 13 pre‐eclamptic Afro‐Caribbean women and 13 gestational age‐, race‐ and parity‐matched normotensive and non‐proteinuric controls. We also determined serum tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), the phenotypes of the IL‐8 binding Duffy blood group antigen receptor and the von Willebrand factor (vWF) plasma levels.

RESULTS: Serum IL‐8, TNF‐α, Duffy negative phenotype frequency and plasma vWF were higher in pre‐eclamptic women compared with controls. IL‐8 correlated positively with both TNF‐α and vWF in the entire study group.

CONCLUSIONS: Higher IL‐8 levels in pre‐eclampsia may result from increased production (secondary to increased TNF‐α levels) and/or reduced clearance (related to a high frequency of Duffy negative phenotype).
Dominant IL‐10 and TGF‐β mRNA Expression in γδT Cells of Human Early Pregnancy Decidua Suggests Immunoregulatory Potential
Authors: NAGAEVA OLGA , JONSSON LENA , MINCHEVA‐NILSSON LUCIA
Published: March 2003

PROBLEM: To examine the cytokine gene expression in γδT‐cells from human early pregnancy decidua.

METHOD OF STUDY: The cytokine messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in isolated decidual T‐cell receptor (TCR)γδ+/CD56+and TCRγδ single positive cells was investigated with a panel of cytokine primers and probes selected to distinguish between T helper (Th)1, Th2, Th3 and regulatory T‐cells (Tr1) type of immune response using real‐time quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

RESULTS: TCRγδ+/CD56+cells express almost exclusively the immunosuppressive cytokines interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β. The TCRγδ single positive cells enhance their transcription of IL‐10 and TGF‐β, compared with the TCRγδ+/CD56+cells and additionally express mRNA for IL‐1β and IL‐6.

CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that γδT cells in normal pregnancy create a cytokine milieu promoting immunotolerance to the fetus. We hypothesize that through the production of the immunosuppressive cytokines IL‐10 and/or TGF‐β the γδT cells could function directly as regulatory T cells or induce the differentiation of Th0 TCRαβ+cells into regulatory/suppresser cells.
In Vitro Modulation of Protective Antibody Responses by Estrogen, Progesterone and Interleukin‐6
Authors: Canellada Andrea , Blois Sandra , Gentile Teresa , Margni Idehu Ricardo A.
Published: March 2003

Canellada A, Blois S, Gentile T, Margni Idehu RA. In vitro modulation of protective antibody responses by estrogen, progesterone and interleukin‐6. AJRI 2002; 48:334–343 © Blackwell Munksgaard, 2002

PROBLEM: We have previously demonstrated that the addition of placental interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) to murine hybridomas increased asymmetric antibody synthesis. Here we analyze whether progesterone (Pg) and estrogen (E2) affect asymmetric antibody synthesis by modulating IL‐6 production in hybridoma cells.

METHOD OF STUDY: Hybridoma 112D5 B cells were cultured with E2, Pg or recombinant IL‐6. Cell proliferation was assessed by 3H‐thymidine incorporation, and asymmetric antibodies were measured in culture supernatants by Con A fixation and enzyme‐linked immunusorbant assay (ELISA). E2 and Pg‐receptors (ER and PR) were evaluated in whole cell extracts by Western blot. IL‐6 was measured in culture supernatants by ELISA.

RESULTS: 112D5 expressed both PR and ER, which were differentially regulated. At 48 hr, Pg and E2 slightly decreased cell proliferation whereas IL‐6 did not. As well as IL‐6, 10–10 M Pg but not E2 induced asymmetric antibody production. Interestingly, Pg at 10–6 M decreased asymmetric antibody synthesis by hybridoma cells. Finally, mainly Pg but also E2 increased IL‐6 synthesis, although IL‐6 levels did not correlate with asymmetric antibodies synthesized in the presence of E2 or Pg.

CONCLUSIONS: In cells expressing both ER and PR, we could demonstrate that steroids participate in humoral immune responses by modulating asymmetric antibody synthesis. IL‐6 proved to be only partially involved. Other possible mechanisms involved in the effect of Pg on blocking antibody responses and their contribution to a successful pregnancy are discussed in the paper.
Regulation of Trophoblast Invasion by IL‐1β and TGF‐ β1
Authors: KARMAKAR SUBHRADIP , DAS CHANDANA
Published: March 2003

Karmakar S, Das C. Regulation of trophoblast invasion by IL‐1β and TGF‐β1. AJRI 2002; 48:210–219 © Blackwell Munksgaard, 2002

PROBLEM: To investigate the effect of IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 on trophoblast derived proteases and their inhibitors at the mRNA and protein level for elucidation of the mechanism of trophoblast invasion.

METHOD OF STUDY: Trophoblast derived proteases and their inhibitors were localized in human placental villi by immunohistochemistry, their regulation at mRNA and protein levels were studied using RT–PCR and zymography, respectively, on trophoblast cells in culture.

RESULTS: Trophoblast proteases, matrix metalloproteases (MMP‐2, MMP‐9), membrane type matrix metalloproteases (MT‐MMP1&2) and urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) were found to be up regulated by IL‐1β while the protease inhibitors, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases (TIMP‐1 & 2) and plasminogen activator inhibitors (PAI‐1 & 2) to be up regulated by TGF‐β1.

CONCLUSION: Temporo‐spatial regulation of trophoblast invasion is the outcome of a balanced interplay between the proteases and their cognate inhibitors. IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 seem to be critical for regulating the protease network thereby effectively controlling the extent to which the trophoblast may invade the maternal endometrium.
Increased Levels of Macrophage Colony‐Stimulating Factor in the Placenta and Blood in Preeclampsia
Authors: HAYASHI MASATOSHI , HOSHIMOTO KAZUNORI , OHKURA TAKEYOSHI , INABA NORIYUKI
Published: March 2003

PROBLEM: Macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) is considered an essential cytokine for placental growth and maintenance. We evaluated whether M‐CSF levels in the placenta and blood in preeclampsia differed from those in normal pregnancies.

METHOD OF STUDY: The subjects were 37 pregnant women carrying single fetuses, of whom 19 were women with normal pregnancies and 18 were women with preeclampsia. Their average gestational age at entry was 38 weeks of gestation. Blood was collected before the onset of labor, and separated serum was obtained after centrifugation. A tissue segment of the placenta was cut immediately after delivery. The frozen placental tissue was placed in a plastic tube containing phosphate‐buffered saline. The tissue was fully homogenized and then centrifuged. Separated supernatant was used for subsequent determination. M‐CSF levels in separated serum were measured, and M‐CSF and total protein (TP) levels in separated supernatant were also measured.

RESULTS: Both M‐CSF/TP levels in the placenta and M‐CSF levels in blood were significantly higher (P < 0.05–0.01) in preeclampsia than in normal pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report concerning high placenta levels of M‐CSF/TP in preeclampsia. Increased M‐CSF in the placenta supports the hypothesis that immunological abnormalities contribute to the etiology of preeclampsia.
Glomerular Immunoglobulin Deposits Induce Glomerular Inflammation in Pregnant but not in Non‐pregnant Rats
Authors: Faas M.M. , Van Der Schaaf G. , Schipper M. , Moes H.
Published: March 2003

PROBLEM: Does an inflammatory stimulus evoke a more intense inflammatory response in pregnant rats as compared with non‐pregnant rats?

METHOD OF STUDY: Non‐pregnant rats were injected with antibodies against the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), 14 days before pregnancy, to induce a subclinical glomerulonephritis. Part of the rats were rendered pregnant, the others remained non‐pregnant throughout the experiment. Two experiments were performed: in experiment 1, pregnant and non‐pregnant rats were killed at various intervals after the injection with antibody and parameters characteristic of a glomerular inflammation were evaluated using immunohistology on cryostat kidney sections and liver sections. In experiment 2, 24‐hr urinary protein excretion was measured at various days after the injection in pregnant and non‐pregnant rats.

RESULTS: Experiment 1 revealed that a significant glomerular inflammation, as characterized by increased numbers of monocytes and LFA‐1 positive cells per glomerulus, was only observed in pregnant rats with glomerulonephritis. Experiment 2 revealed that only pregnant rats with glomerulonephritis showed increased urinary protein excretion.

CONCLUSION: The fact that glomerular inflammation coincides with proteinuria only in pregnant rats with glomerulonephritis, may suggest that these phenomena are causally related and promoted by the pregnant condition.
Rationale for the use of low‐torque endodontic motors in root canal instrumentation
Authors: Gambarini G.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Fracture of nickel‐titanium rotary files is an iatrogenic error which can seriously jeopardize root canal therapy. If a high‐torque motor is used, the instrument‐specific limit‐torque (fracture limit) is often exceeded, thus increasing the risk of intracanal failure. A possible solution to this problem is to use a low‐torque endodontic motor which operates below these values. If the torque is set just below the limit of elasticity for each instrument, the risk of fracture is likely to be markedly reduced. The purpose of this paper was to discuss mechanical properties of NiTi rotary instruments, the rationale for selecting low torque values, and to use clinically a new endodontic motor (step‐motor) which operates below the limit of elasticity of each rotary file. The step‐motor was found to be helpful in reducing the risk of instrument fracture. Irreversible material damage (plastic deformation) and instrument fracture were rarely seen. Low‐torque instrumentation also increased tactile sense and, consequently, mental awareness of rotary instrumentation.
Comparison of profiles of key periodontal pathogens in periodontium and endodontium
Authors: Rupf S. , Kannengießer S. , Merte K. , Pfister W. , Sigusch B. , Eschrich K.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Despite the established anatomical relationship between the periodontal and pulpal tissues, bacterial migration between endodontium and periodontium is still under discussion. The objective of this study was an investigation of profiles of periodontal pathogens in pulpal and periodontal diseases affecting the same tooth by means of 16S rRNA gene directed polymerase chain reaction (PCR). 31 intact teeth with both pulp and marginal infections were investigated. The diagnosis was based on clinical and radiological examination. Samples were taken from the gingival sulcus or periodontal pocket, respectively, with sterile paper points before trepanation of the teeth. After trepanation sterile paper points and Hedstroem files were used for taking samples from the root canal. Specific PCR methods were used to detect the presence of the following pathogens: Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Bacteroides forsythus, Eikenella corrodens, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Treponema denticola. In addition, quantitative competitive PCR was used to determine the total bacterial count of the samples. The investigated pathogens were proven to be present in the endondontium in all disease categories. Particularly in endodontic samples of “chronic apical periodontitis” and “chronic adult periodontitis” profiles of the periodontal pathogens were found. The results confirmed that periodontal pathogens often accompany endodontic infections and supported the idea that the periodontic‐endodontic interrelationships should be considered as critical pathways which might contribute to refractory courses of endodontic or periodontal diseases.
Periodontal healing after replantation of intentionally rotated teeth with healthy and denuded root surfaces
Authors: Kawanami Masamitsu , Sugaya Tsutomu , Gama Hiroki , Tsukuda Nobukazu , Tanaka Saori , Kato Hiroshi
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The purpose of the study was to evaluate periodontal healing after replantation of intentionally rotated teeth with healthy and denuded root surfaces. Ten teeth with hopeless prognoses because of extensive alveolar bone loss and deep pockets extending to the apexes only on one or two surfaces, but with a healthy periodontal apparatus on the other surfaces, were selected. A mucogingival flap was elevated and the teeth were extracted carefully so as not to damage the healthy remnant of the periodontal membrane remaining on the root surfaces. Thorough extra‐oral debridement was performed on the contaminated root surface and the remnant was carefully conserved. Retrofilling was also done to eliminate an endodontic cause of attachment loss. The teeth were horizontally rotated and then replanted so that the healthy root would face the connective tissue at the initially periodontally involved sites, and the root planed surfaces, which had been periodontally involved, would face the surfaces of the alveolar sockets at initially healthy sites. The teeth were splinted with adjacent teeth. Clinical parameters and radiographic examination were performed pre‐operatively, and at 3 or 6 months, 1, 2, and 3 years postoperatively. One tooth was extracted 1.5 years postoperatively due to reduced support and the treatment strategy of the patient. The other nine teeth were well maintained without any discomfort for the whole maintenance period of 3 years. In all teeth, areas that previously had no pocketing but were now against denuded root surfaces maintained the previous pocket depth readings. In areas where a deep pocket was present but now had a root surface with healthy periodontium, a distinct decrease of mean pocket depth was observed at the first reexamination 3 months postoperatively. The mean radiographic alveolar bone level increased from 0.3% to 45.3% in 2 years and was thereafter maintained for the entire observation period. Loss of periodontal space and possible root resorption were observed in only one case without other ankylotic symptoms. These results suggest that the healing without ankylosis of an extensive denuded root surface may occur by mechanisms other than the maintenance of a viable periodontal ligament on the root surface.
In vitro viability, mitogenicity and clonogenic capacities of periodontal ligament fibroblasts after storage in four media supplemented with growth factors
Authors: Ashkenazi Malka , Marouni Mehran , Sarnat Haim
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The choice of storage medium for preserving traumatically avulsed teeth is important for the success of future replantation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of growth factors (IGF‐1 and PDGF‐BB) when added to storage media in preserving the functional abilities of cultured periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF). The evaluated storage media were: ViaSpan, Hanks’ balanced salt solution (HBSS), α minimal essential medium (α MEM), and α MEM supplemented with FCS and antibiotic (α MEM‐S). PDLF were obtained from explants of human healthy extracted teeth. Plates with confluent PDLF were soaked in the various media supplemented with IGF‐1 (10 ng/ml) and PDGF‐BB (4 ng/ml) for 2, 8 and 24 h at room temperature (24 °C). The control group was incubated with the examined storage media without growth factors at 24 °C. An additional control group was incubated with culture medium at 37 °C without growth factors. After incubation, the viability of the cells was determined by Trypan blue exclusion test. Viable cells were then analyzed for mitogenic (with thymidine) and clonogenic (by culturing one cell/well) capacities. Storage of PDLF with growth factors (GF) for 2, 8 and 24 h decreased their vitality by only 3% (not statistically significant). The mitogenicity of PDLF stored for 2, 8 and 24 h in various media with GF was statistically comparable to that of the control group. Generally, the highest mitogenic capacity of PDLF stored with or without GF was found after 8 h of storage. Increasing the storage period to 24 h decreased the mitogenic capacity of the cells stored with GF by only 10–40% compared to the control group. In contrast, the clonogenic capacity of PDLF stored with GF increased with increasing storage periods by 100–300%, and the highest clonogenic capacity was found in most storage media after 24 h of storage with GF. The highest clonogenic and mitogenic capacities were found in cells stored in HBSS followed by α MEM‐S. The mitogenic and clonogenic capacities of PDLF stored in various media supplemented with GF for 2–8 h were generally lower than without GF supplementation. The mitogenic and clonogenic effects of GF‐supplementation was observed only after 24 h of storage. After 24 h of storage with GF, the clonogenic capacity increased by 8–224% and the mitogenicity by 20–37%, except in cells stored in α MEM (‐1%). However, these differences were generally not statistically significant. In conclusion, the mitogenic and clonogenic effects of GF were observed only after 24 h of storage at room temperature. HBSS and α MEM‐S supplemented with GF were the most effective media for preserving the viability, mitogenicity and clonogenic capacity of PDLF stored for 24 h at room temperature. For short periods of storage (2 and 8 h), HBSS and α MEM‐S without GF were preferable.
Repair of untreated horizontal root fractures: two case reports
Authors: Öztan Meltem Dartar , Sonat Bade
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Intra‐alveolar root fractures of incisor teeth are more frequent than other dental injuries. These case reports describe two untreated horizontal root fractures of the maxillary right central incisors. Patients reported accidental trauma, which occurred several years ago. These fractures were discovered during a routine full‐mouth radiographic survey. Teeth were asymptomatic and tested vital to electric pulp tests
A retrospective study of traumatic dental injuries in a Brazilian dental trauma clinic
Authors: De França Caldas Arnaldo , Burgos Maria Eleonora Araújo
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyse data from the records of patients seen in the dental trauma emergency clinic in a general hospital in the city of Recife, Brazil, during the years 1997–1999, according to sex, age, cause, number of injured teeth, type of tooth and type of trauma. The records of all patients seen by dentists were collected. Altogether, 250 patients from 1 to 59 years of age presenting 403 dental injuries were examined and/or treated. The causes of dento‐alveolar trauma were classified in five categories: home injuries, street injuries, school injuries, sports activities, violence. The type of trauma was classified by dentists working at the dental trauma clinic on the basis of Andreasen’s classification. The gender difference in the number of cases of trauma was statistically significant (males 63.2% vs females 36.8) (P<0.0001). Fracture in enamel only (51.6%) and fractures in dentine (40.8%) were the most commonly occurring types of injury. Injuries were most frequently diagnosed as serious among the youngest patients (up to 15 years of age); 82.4% of intrusive luxation cases were diagnosed in the 1–5 years age group. The main causes of tooth injury were falls (72.4%), collisions with objects (9.2%), violence (8.0%), traffic accidents (6.8%) and sports (3.6%). Trauma caused by violence was found to be statistically significant in the 6–15 years age group (P<0.0005).
PCNA‐expression of cementoblasts and fibroblasts on the root surface after extraoral rinsing for decontamination
Authors: Ebensberger Ulrike , Pohl Yango , Filippi Andreas
Published: March 2003

Abstract  – Periodontal cells capable of proliferation were studied immunohistochemically on extracted human teeth after 2‐min irrigation with saline or ozonized water and marking of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA). All specimens expressed PCNA. The labelling index (LI), i.e. the number of positive cells compared to the total number of cells, was 6.6% after irrigation with saline and 7.8% after irrigation with ozone. There was no difference in number and distribution of PCNA‐positive cells from the coronal to the apical thirds of the roots. Irrigation with ozonized water showed higher labelling indices in comparison with saline, but this could not be statistically substantiated (P = 0.24). Ozonized water, not being isotonic, had no negative effect on periodontal cells remaining on the tooth surface after irrigation for 2 min.