bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SUMOylation participates in induction of ischemic tolerance
Authors: Ja Lee Yang , Castri Paola , Bembry Joliet , Maric Dragan , Auh Sungyoung , Hallenbeck John M
Published: February 2009

Ground squirrels in hibernation torpor have been shown to have striking increases in global SUMOylation on tissue immunoblots. Here, we find evidence that global SUMOylation is also involved in ischemic tolerance in primary cortical neuronal cultures (from rats and mice) and SHSY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. Cultured cortical neurons preconditioned by sublethal oxygen/glucose deprivation (OGD) were less vulnerable to severe OGD than non‐preconditioned neurons. Preconditioned neurons maintained elevated SUMO‐1 conjugation levels (and, to a lesser extent those of SUMO‐2/3) on western blots in contrast to non‐preconditioned cells. Further, cortical neurons and SHSY5Y cells in which transfected SUMO‐1 or SUMO‐2 were over‐expressed showed increased survival after severe OGD. In contrast, cell cultures subjected to depletion of endogenous SUMO‐1 protein by RNAi had reduced survival after exposure to this form of in vitro ischemia and an attenuated protective response to preconditioning. These findings suggest that maintenance of a globally elevated SUMO‐1 (and maybe SUMO‐2/3) conjugation level as revealed by immunoblot assays is a component of ischemic tolerance.
In situ 3D magnetic resonance metabolic imaging of microwave‐irradiated rodent brain: a new tool for metabolomics research
Authors: De Graaf Robin A. , Chowdhury Golam M. I. , Brown Peter B. , Rothman Douglas L. , Behar Kevin L.
Published: February 2009

The rapid elevation in rat brain temperature achieveable with focused beam microwave irradiation (FBMI) leads to a permanent inactivation of enzymes, thereby minimizing enzyme‐dependent post‐mortem metabolic changes. An additional characteristic of FBMI is that the NMR properties of the tissue are close to those of the in vivo condition and remain so for at least 12 h. These features create an opportunity to develop magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging on microwave‐irradiated samples into a technique with a resolution, coverage and sensitivity superior to any experiment performed directly in vivo. Furthermore, when combined with pre‐FBMI infusion of 13C‐labeled substrates, like [1‐13C]‐glucose, the technique can generate maps of metabolic fluxes, like the tricarboxylic acid and glutamate‐glutamine neurotransmitter cycle fluxes at an unprecedented spatial resolution.
Muscarinic receptors prevent oxidative stress‐mediated apoptosis induced by domoic acid in mouse cerebellar granule cells
Authors: Giordano Gennaro , Li Li , White Collin C. , Farin Fred M. , Wilkerson Hui W. , Kavanagh Terrance J. , Costa L. G.
Published: February 2009

In mouse cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) low concentrations of domoic acid (DomA) induce apoptotic cell death, which is mediated by oxidative stress; apoptosis is more pronounced in CGNs fromGclm(−/−) mice, which lack the modifier subunit of glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) and have very low GSH levels. By activating M3muscarinic receptors, the cholinergic agonist carbachol inhibits DomA‐induced apoptosis, and the anti‐apoptotic action of carbachol is more pronounced in CGNs fromGclm(+/+) mice. Carbachol does not prevent DomA‐induced increase in reactive oxygen species, suggesting that its anti‐apoptotic effect is downstream of reactive oxygen species production. Carbachol inhibits DomA‐induced activation of Jun N‐terminal (JNK) and p38 kinases, increased translocation to mitochondria of the pro‐apoptotic protein Bax, and activation of caspase‐3. Carbachol activates extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) MAPK and phospahtidylinositol‐3 kinase (PI3K) in CGNs from both genotypes. However, while the protective effect of carbachol is mediated by ERK1/2 MAPK in CGNs from both mouse genotypes, inhibitors of PI3K are only effective at antagonizing the action of carbachol in CGNs fromGclm(+/+) mice. In CGNs from bothGclm(+/+) and (−/−) mice, carbachol induces a MAPK‐dependent increase in the level of the anti‐apoptotic protein Bcl‐2. In contrast, carbachol causes a PI3K‐dependent increase in GCL activity and of GSH levels only in CGNs from Gclm (+/+) mice. Such increase in GCL is not because of a transcriptionally‐mediated increase in glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit or glutamate cysteine ligase modifier subunit, but rather to an increase in the formation of the GCL holoenzyme. The results indicate that multiple pathways may contribute to the protective action of carbachol toward DomA‐induced apoptosis. Compromised GCLM expression, which is also found in a common genetic polymorphism in humans, leads to lower GSH levels, which can exacerbate the neurotoxicity of DomA, and decreases the anti‐apoptotic effectiveness of muscarinic agonists.
Triterpenoid CDDO‐methylamide improves memory and decreases amyloid plaques in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Dumont Magali , Wille Elizabeth , Calingasan Noel Y. , Tampellini Davide , Williams Charlotte , Gouras Gunnar K. , Liby Karen , Sporn Michael , Flint Beal M. , Lin Michael T.
Published: February 2009

Oxidative stress is one of the earliest events in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and can markedly exacerbate amyloid pathology. Modulation of antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory pathways represents an important approach for AD therapy. Synthetic triterpenoids have been found to facilitate antioxidant response and reduce inflammation in several models. We investigated the effect of the triterpenoid, 2‐Cyano‐3,12‐Dioxooleana‐1,9‐Dien‐28‐Oic acid‐MethylAmide (CDDO‐MA) in Tg19959 mice, which carry the human amyloid precursor protein with two mutations. These mice develop memory impairments and amyloid plaques as early as 2–3 months of age. CDDO‐MA was provided with chow (800 mg/kg) from 1 to 4 months of age. CDDO‐MA significantly improved spatial memory retention and reduced plaque burden, Aβ42 levels, microgliosis, and oxidative stress in Tg19959 mice.
Environmental correlates for tropical tree diversity and distribution patterns in Borneo
Authors: Slik J. W. Ferry , Raes Niels , Aiba Shin‐Ichiro , Brearley Francis Q. , Cannon Charles H. , Meijaard Erik , Nagamasu Hidetoshi , Nilus Reuben , Paoli Gary , Poulsen Axel D. , Sheil Douglas , Suzuki Eizi , Van Valkenburg Johan L. C. H. , Webb Campbell O. , Wilkie Peter , Wulffraat Stephan
Published: February 2009

Aim Identify environmental correlates for tropical tree diversity and composition.

Location Borneo, Southeast Asia.

Methods A GIS‐environmental database with 5 arc minute (c. 10 × 10 km) resolution was combined with tree inventory data. Tree diversity, phylogenetic diversity (PD) and the two main compositional gradients were determined for 46 tree inventories. Akaike's information criterion and a data jackknifing procedure were used to select 50 explanatory models for diversity and composition gradients. The average of these models was used as our final diversity and compositional model. We applied Moran'sIto detect spatial autocorrelation of residuals.

Results Tree diversity, PD and the two main compositional gradients in Borneo were all significantly correlated with the environment. Tree diversity correlated negatively with elevation, soil depth, soil coarseness (texture) and organic carbon content, whereas it correlated positively with soil C:N ratio, soil pH, moisture storage capacity and annual rainfall. Tree PD was correlated positively with elevation and temperature seasonality and was largely determined by gymnosperms. However, angiosperm PD also correlated positive with elevation. Compositional patterns were strongly correlated with elevation but soil texture, cation‐exchange‐capacity, C:N ratio, C and N content and drainage were also important next to rainfall seasonality and El Niño Southern Oscillation drought impact.

Main conclusions Although elevation is the most important correlate for diversity and compositional gradients in Borneo, significant additional variability is explained by soil characteristics (texture, carbon content, pH, depth, drainage and nutrient status) and climate (annual rainfall, rainfall seasonality and droughts). The identified environmental correlates for diversity and composition gradients correspond to those found in other tropical regions of the world. Differences between the regions are mainly formed by differences in the relative importance of the environmental variables in explaining diversity and compositional gradients.
THE PIEDMONT WHITE MARBLES USED IN ANTIQUITY: AN ARCHAEOMETRIC DISTINCTION INFERRED BY A MINERO‐PETROGRAPHIC AND C–O STABLE ISOTOPE STUDY*
Authors: BORGHI A. , VAGGELLI G. , MARCON C. , FIORA L.
Published: February 2009

The metamorphic rocks outcropping in the Western Alps are characterized by a great variety of white marbles, which have been poorly studied in the archaeometric field even though they have been used since antiquity. Typical examples are the Arc of August of Roman times in Susa (Piedmont, Italy) and lots of monuments and historical buildings of Turin (Italy). A multi‐analytical approach based on petrographic (optical and scanning electron microscopy), electron microprobe and stable isotope analysis of Piedmont white marbles has been performed in order to carry out a detailed description, summarizing their main microtextural, mineralogical and isotopic features. Eight historical Piedmont marbles have been sampled from well‐known quarry sites belonging to different metamorphic geological units of the Western Alps (Ornavasso, Crevola, Pont Canavese, Foresto, Chianocco, Prali, Brossasco and Garessio marbles). Their different metamorphic conditions, ages and structural evolution allowed us to draw a discriminative flowchart based on microscopic and minero‐chemical data.
Economic geography under postcolonial scrutiny
Authors: Pollard Jane , McEwan Cheryl , Laurie Nina , Stenning Alison
Published: February 2009

Because the economy is not found as an empirical object among other worldly things, in order for it to be ‘seen’ by the human perceptual apparatus it has to undergo a process, crucial for science, of representational mapping. This is doubling, but with a difference; the map shifts the point of view so that viewers can see the whole as if from the outside, in a way that allows them, from a specific position inside, to find their bearings. (Buck‐Morss 1995, 440)
Economics, environmentalism and party alignments: A note on partisan change in advanced industrial democracies
Authors: DALTON RUSSELL J.
Published: February 2009

‘We are neither Left nor Right, we are out in front’ was the mantra of the environmental movement in the 1970s and early 1980s. This research examines the relationship between the traditional left/right economic cleavage and the environmental cleavage in structuring party competition in advanced industrial democracies. It begins by discussing the theoretical rationale for the separation of environmentalism from the traditional economic cleavage, and utilises new expert data to describe the evolution of party positions between 1989 and 2002–2003. An initially strong relationship between party positions on both dimensions in 1989 has strengthened over time. The convergence occurs largely because of changes by Green parties and by the addition of new parties that define themselves on both dimensions. This points to the ability of democratic party systems to integrate a new political cleavage, and the process of integration. However, leftist parties still continue to diverge with respect to how they respond to the environmental cleavage.
EPAC proteins transduce diverse cellular actions of cAMP
Authors: Borland Gillian , Smith Brian O , Yarwood Stephen J
Published: February 2009

It has now been over 10 years since efforts to completely understand the signalling actions of cAMP (3′‐5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate) led to the discovery of exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) proteins. In the current review we will highlight important advances in the understanding of EPAC structure and function and demonstrate that EPAC proteins mediate multiple actions of cAMP in cells, revealing future targets for pharmaceutical intervention. It has been known for some time that drugs that elevate intracellular cAMP levels have proven therapeutic benefit for diseases ranging from depression to inflammation. The challenge now is to determine which of these positive actions of cAMP involve activation of EPAC‐regulated signal transduction pathways. EPACs are specific guanine nucleotide exchange factors for the Ras GTPase homologues, Rap1 and Rap2, which they activate independently of the classical routes for cAMP signalling, cyclic nucleotide‐gated ion channels and protein kinase A. Rather, EPAC activation is triggered by internal conformational changes induced by direct interaction with cAMP. Leading from this has been the development of EPAC‐specific agonists, which has helped to delineate numerous cellular actions of cAMP that rely on subsequent activation of EPAC. These include regulation of exocytosis and the control of cell adhesion, growth, division and differentiation. Recent work also implicates EPAC in the regulation of anti‐inflammatory signalling in the vascular endothelium, namely negative regulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokine signalling and positive support of barrier function. Further elucidation of these important signalling mechanisms will no doubt support the development of the next generation of anti‐inflammatory drugs.
Education for All: Reassessing the Historiography of Education in Colonial India
Authors: Ellis Catriona
Published: February 2009

This essay won the 2007 History Compass Graduate Essay Prize, Asia Section.

Despite the extensive literature on the history of education in colonial India, historians have confined their arguments to very narrow themes linked to colonial epistemological dominance and education as a means of control, resistance and dialogue. These tend to mirror the debates of the colonial period, particularly regarding the Anglicist‐Orientalist controversy. This article argues that such an approach is both gendered and hierarchical, and seeks to fundamentally redress the balance. It looks firstly at formal school education – colonial and indigenous – in both philosophical and technological terms. It then turns to education as experienced by the majority of Indian children outwith the classroom, either formally or within the domestic sphere. The article then looks at the neglected recipients of education, and seeks to re‐establish children as agents within these adult‐driven agendas. By considering educational discourse and practice, and the emerging historiography of Indian childhood and children, we can begin to establish a more rounded and inclusive picture of what education really meant.
Invasion versus Isolation: Trade‐Offs in Managing Native Salmonids with Barriers to Upstream Movement
Authors: FAUSCH KURT D. , RIEMAN BRUCE E. , DUNHAM JASON B. , YOUNG MICHAEL K. , PETERSON DOUGLAS P.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Conservation biologists often face the trade‐off that increasing connectivity in fragmented landscapes to reduce extinction risk of native species can foster invasion by non‐native species that enter via the corridors created, which can then increase extinction risk. This dilemma is acute for stream fishes, especially native salmonids, because their populations are frequently relegated to fragments of headwater habitat threatened by invasion from downstream by 3 cosmopolitan non‐native salmonids. Managers often block these upstream invasions with movement barriers, but isolation of native salmonids in small headwater streams can increase the threat of local extinction. We propose a conceptual framework to address this worldwide problem that focuses on 4 main questions. First, are populations of conservation value present (considering evolutionary legacies, ecological functions, and socioeconomic benefits as distinct values)? Second, are populations vulnerable to invasion and displacement by non‐native salmonids? Third, would these populations be threatened with local extinction if isolated with barriers? And, fourth, how should management be prioritized among multiple populations? We also developed a conceptual model of the joint trade‐off of invasion and isolation threats that considers the opportunities for managers to make strategic decisions. We illustrated use of this framework in an analysis of the invasion‐isolation trade‐off for native cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) in 2 contrasting basins in western North America where invasion and isolation are either present and strong or farther away and apparently weak. These cases demonstrate that decisions to install or remove barriers to conserve native salmonids are often complex and depend on conservation values, environmental context (which influences the threat of invasion and isolation), and additional socioeconomic factors. Explicit analysis with tools such as those we propose can help managers make sound decisions in such complex circumstances.
Behavioral Changes, Stress, and Survival Following Reintroduction of Persian Fallow Deer from Two Breeding Facilities
Authors: ZIDON ROYI , SALTZ DAVID , SHORE LAURENCE S. , MOTRO UZI
Published: February 2009

Abstract: Reintroductions often rely on captive‐raised, naïve animals that have not been exposed to the various threats present in natural environments. Wild animals entering new areas are timid and invest much time and effort in antipredator behavior. On the other hand, captive animals reared in predator‐free conditions and in close proximity to humans may initially lack this tendency, but can reacquire some antipredator behavior over time. We monitored the changes in antipredator‐related behaviors of 16 radio‐collared Persian fallow deer(Dama mesopotamica)reintroduced to the Soreq Valley in Israel from 2 breeding facilities: one heavily visited by the public (The Biblical Zoo of Jerusalem, Israel) and the other with reduced human presence (Hai‐Bar Carmel, Israel). We monitored each individual for up to 200 days after release, focusing on flush and flight distance, flight mode (running or walking), and use of cover. In addition, we compared fecal corticosterone (a stress‐related hormone) from samples collected from known animals in the wild to samples collected in the breeding facilities. Reintroduced individuals from both origins exhibit increased flush distance over time; flush and flight distances were larger in individuals from Hai‐Bar; use of cover increased with time, but was greater in Hai‐Bar Carmel animals; corticosterone levels were significantly higher in fecal samples from reintroduced animals than in samples from captive animals; and Hai‐Bar Carmel animals had an 80% survival rate over the 200 days, whereas no animals from the Biblical Zoo of Jerusalem survived. Reintroduced Persian fallow deer reacquired antipredator behaviors after the release, but the process was slow (months) and differences between conditions at the breeding facilities that were seemingly benign (e.g., number of visitors and other human related activities) influenced this process and consequently affected the success of the reintroduction. Captive breeding facilities for the purpose of reintroduction should minimize anthropogenic disturbances.
Outcomes of Dental Implants in Osteoporotic Patients. A Literature Review
Authors: Tsolaki Ioanna N. , Madianos Phoebus N. , Vrotsos John A.
Published: February 2009

Purpose: This article reviews available data on the outcome of dental implants in osteoporotic patients.

Materials and Methods: A search was performed in PubMed and completed in July 2007. The keywords “dental AND implants AND osteoporosis,”“dental AND implants AND age,”“dental AND implants AND gender,” and “dental AND implants AND bone AND quality,” with no limitations for language or year of publication, resulted in 82, 598, 94, and 541 articles, respectively. After abstract scanning (in case of doubt the article was read), 39 nonreview articles studying dental implant outcomes in osteoporotic/osteopenic subjects remained for our review. The bibliographies of the 39 articles were also inspected, but no additional studies were identified.

Results: Thirteen of 16 animal studies found lower osseointegration rates in osteoporotic/osteopenic bone than in normal bone. Six in nine clinical reports mention success. Eight of 12 studies in humans support the applicability of dental implants in osteoporotic patients.

Conclusions: There are no data to contraindicate the use of dental implants in osteoporotic patients; however, a proper adjustment of the surgical technique and a longer healing period may be considered in order to achieve osseointegration. Data on the use of biphosphonates in osteoporotic patients and implant outcomes are very limited, and no conclusions can be drawn. In addition, large prospective studies investigating the long‐term success of dental implants in osteoporotic individuals are required.
A Simple and Practical Approach to Evaluate Implant Positioning Immediately after Placement
Authors: Chowdhary Ramesh
Published: February 2009

With the use of the flapless technique in the placement of one‐piece implants, determination of the angulation of implant placement becomes critically important. After the implant is placed, the cast is made, sectioned, and superimposed on the radiographic template to determine the angulation. This method will assist the clinician in determining the angulation of one‐piece implants immediately after placement.
Successful Treatment of Lumbar Discogenic Pain Using Intradiscal Biacuplasty in Previously Discectomized Disc
Authors: Kapural Leonardo , Cata Juan P. , Narouze Samer
Published: February 2009

Discogenic back pain is frequently present in patients after discectomy. Here, we describe a case of young woman, previously discectomized, who was treated by a novel annuloplasty procedure, intradiscal biacuplasty (IDB). The improvement in functional capacity and pain scores were profound 12 months after the IDB. Visual analog pain scores (0–10) changed from 5 to 3. Oswestry scale showed functional improvement from 52%, or severe disability, to 14%, or minimal disability, and the SF‐36 physical function scale score changed from 55 to 95. IDB may be an effective treatment for patients with discogenic pain from previously discectomized discs.
Suboptimal effect of a three‐factor prothrombin complex concentrate (Profilnine‐SD) in correcting supratherapeutic international normalized ratio due to warfarin overdose
Authors: Holland Lorne , Warkentin Theodore E. , Refaai Majed , Crowther Mark A. , Johnston Marilyn A. , Sarode Ravindra
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Plasma transfusion is standard therapy for urgent warfarin reversal in the United States. “Four‐factor” prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), available in Europe, has advantages over plasma therapy for warfarin reversal; however, only “three‐factor” PCCs (containing relatively low Factor [F]VII) are available in the United States.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The efficacy of a three‐factor PCC for urgent warfarin reversal was evaluated in 40 patients presenting with supratherapeutic international normalized ratio (ST‐INR > 5.0) with bleeding (n = 29) or at high risk for bleeding (n = 11). In 13 patients, pre‐ and posttherapy vitamin K‐dependent factors were assayed. Historical controls (n = 42) treated with plasma alone were used for rate of ST‐INR correction comparison.

RESULTS: Treatment with plasma alone (mean, 3.6 units) lowered the INR to less than 3.0 in 63 percent of historical controls. Low‐dose (25 U/kg) and high‐dose (50 U/kg) PCC alone lowered INR to less than 3.0 in 50 and 43 percent of patients, respectively. Additional transfusion of a small amount of plasma (mean, 2.1 units) increased the rate of achieving an INR of less than 3.0 to 89 and 88 percent for low‐ and high‐dose PCC therapy, respectively. FII, F IX, and FX increments were similar for PCC‐treated patients with or without supplemental plasma; FVII was significantly higher in the PCC plus plasma group compared to the PCC‐only group (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Three‐factor PCC does not satisfactorily lower ST‐INR due to low FVII content. Infusion of a small amount of plasma increases the likelihood of satisfactory INR lowering.
Combining Information from Cancer Registry and Medical Records Data to Improve Analyses of Adjuvant Cancer Therapies
Authors: He Yulei , Zaslavsky Alan M.
Published: February 2009

Summary Cancer registry records contain valuable data on provision of adjuvant therapies for cancer patients. Previous studies, however, have shown that these therapies are underreported in registry systems. Hence direct use of the registry data may lead to invalid analysis results. We propose first to impute correct treatment status, borrowing information from an additional source such as medical records data collected in a validation sample, and then to analyze the multiply imputed data, as in Yucel and Zaslavsky (2005, Journal of the American Statistical Association 100, 1123–1132). We extend their models to multiple therapies using multivariate probit models with random effects. Our model takes into account the associations among different therapies in both administration and probability of reporting, as well as the multilevel structure (patients clustered within hospitals) of registry data. We use Gibbs sampling to estimate model parameters and impute treatment status. The proposed methodology is applied to the data from the Quality of Cancer Care project, in which stage II or III colorectal cancer patients were eligible to receive adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Gene‐Trait Similarity Regression for Multimarker‐Based Association Analysis
Authors: Tzeng Jung‐Ying , Zhang Daowen , Chang Sheng‐Mao , Thomas Duncan C. , Davidian Marie
Published: February 2009

Summary We propose a similarity‐based regression method to detect associations between traits and multimarker genotypes. The model regresses similarity in traits for pairs of “unrelated” individuals on their haplotype similarities, and detects the significance by a score test for which the limiting distribution is derived. The proposed method allows for covariates, uses phase‐independent similarity measures to bypass the needs to impute phase information, and is applicable to traits of general types (e.g., quantitative and qualitative traits). We also show that the gene‐trait similarity regression is closely connected with random effects haplotype analysis, although commonly they are considered as separate modeling tools. This connection unites the classic haplotype sharing methods with the variance‐component approaches, which enables direct derivation of analytical properties of the sharing statistics even when the similarity regression model becomes analytically challenging.
A multi‐site Canadian perspective: examining the functional outcome from first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Menezes N. M. , Malla A. M. , Norman R. M. , Archie S. , Roy P. , Zipursky R. B.
Published: February 2009

Objective:  To examine factors contributing to variance in functional outcome in first‐episode psychosis (FEP) following 1 year of treatment.

Method:  Naturalistic 1‐year follow‐up of a FEP cohort (n = 200), from programs in four university centers in Ontario, Canada. Functional recovery was defined by ‘Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale’ (SOFAS) score>60. Regression analysis examined the contribution of independent variables to variance in functional outcome.

Results:  Twelve‐month outcome measures were available for 76.5% of the original cohort. Of these, 70% reported being in school/work and in satisfactory relationships. The functional recovery rate was 51%, compared to 74% attaining symptomatic remission. The greatest contributors to variance in outcome were ongoing symptoms at 6 months and substance abuse comorbidity.

Conclusion:  After 1 year of treatment, FEP patients show high rates of symptomatic remission and relatively lower rates of functional recovery. Symptoms and substance abuse contribute to variance in outcome.
The impact of language skills on mental health in teenagers with hearing impairments
Authors: Fellinger J. , Holzinger D. , Beitel C. , Laucht M. , Goldberg D. P.
Published: February 2009

Objective:  The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of language competence level and mental distress in teenagers with hearing impairments.

Method:  43 pupils were given a battery of linguistic tests and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), which was also completed by 40 parents. Comparisons were made between the group of 33 children in mainstream education and 10 who were in a segregated school for the deaf.

Results:  The children had impaired language skills relative to published norms, especially marked in segregated schools. Parents rated children as having more distress than published norms. Those with superior level of spoken language had fewer peer relationship problems in mainstream education, but significantly more in segregated schools. The reverse was almost significant for those proficient in signed language.

Conclusion:  Peer relationship problems are associated with the language competence levels in the way that children at school communicate with one another.
A prospective randomized split‐mouth study comparing iliac onlay grafts in atrophied edentulous patients: covered with periosteum or a bioresorbable membrane
Authors: Heberer Susanne , Rühe Bärbel , Krekeler Leif , Schink Tania , Nelson John J. , Nelson Katja
Published: February 2009

Purpose: In this prospective study, solid monocortical iliac onlay grafts of the maxilla were randomly covered with a bioresorbable membrane and periosteum within the maxilla. Histologic specimens were analyzed by light microscopy after a healing period of three months and the rate of resorption of the grafts were measured.

Materials and methods: Fourteen patients (9 females and 5 males), with a mean age of 56 years (range 25–72) underwent augmentation with avascular iliac onlay bone grafts. The grafts were randomly covered either with a bioresorbable membrane (MC) or periosteum (PC). Resorption was measured with a digital caliper at the microscrews (∅1.5 mm) used to fixate the graft. Histologic evaluation of the specimens derived from the graft with a trephine bur (∅2 mm) from the implant site at implant placement after a 3‐month healing period. Statistical evaluation of the data was performed using Analysis of variance and the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results: Clinical appearance of the augmented bone after 3 months showed a dense cortical layer with good vascular perfusion. Thirty‐three sites in 13 patients (one dropped put) were analyzed histomorphometrically and showed an average of 46% newly formed bone with no significant difference between the groups (P=0.46). The mean resorption rate at 56 measured sites was 1.2 mm (range 0.3–3.4 mm) after 3 months, with no significant difference between the MC sites and the PC sites (P=0.38).

Discussion: Histomorphometry of new bone formation after 3 months demonstrates no significant difference between the PC and MC groups. Initialization of graft resorption can be seen after 3 months with no significant difference as to whether the graft was covered with a membrane or the periosteum.

Conclusion: This study provides evidence that after avascular iliac bone grafting, the revascularization of the graft was sufficient after 3 months regardless of the graft coverage with no effect on the amount of initial resorption of the graft.
Development of the osteoblastic phenotype in human alveolar bone‐derived cells grown on a collagen type I‐coated titanium surface
Authors: De Assis Adriano Freitas , Beloti Marcio Mateus , Crippa Grasiele Edilaine , De Oliveira Paulo Tambasco , Morra Marco , Rosa Adalberto Luiz
Published: February 2009

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the development of the osteoblastic phenotype in human alveolar bone‐derived cells grown on collagen type I‐coated titanium (Ti) surface (Col‐Ti) obtained by plasma deposition acrylic acid grafting compared with machined Ti (M‐Ti).

Material and methods: Osteoblastic cells were cultured until subconfluence and subcultured on Col‐Ti and M‐Ti for periods of up to 21 days.

Results: Cultures grown on Col‐Ti and M‐Ti exhibited similar cell morphology. Cell adhesion, total protein content, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were not affected by Ti surface modification in all evaluated periods. Growth analyses indicated that there were significantly more cells in cultures grown on Col‐Ti at day 3. Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteopontin (OPN), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA expression of cells subcultured on Col‐Ti was higher, whereas collagen type I (COL) was lower compared with M‐Ti. Ti surface modification neither affected the osteocalcin (OC), ALP and receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) mRNA expression nor the calcium content extracted from mineralized matrix.

Conclusions: These results demonstrated that Col‐Ti favours cell growth during the proliferative phase (day 3) and osteoblastic differentiation, as demonstrated by changes in mRNA expression profile during the matrix mineralization phase (day 14), suggesting that this Ti surface modification may affect the processes of bone healing and remodelling.
Bioactivation of alumina by surface modification: a possibility for improving the applicability of alumina in bone and oral repair
Authors: Bertazzo S. , Zambuzzi W. F. , Da Silva H. A. , Ferreira C. V. , Bertran C. A.
Published: February 2009

Objectives: In regenerative medicine, surface engineering of bioinert synthetic materials is often required in order to introduce bioactive species that can promote cell adhesion, proliferation, viability and enhanced ECM‐secretion functions. The aim of this work is to study cell interaction with alumina‐modified surfaces.

Material and methods: In this work, chemical properties of alumina surface were changed by a reaction at the surface of alumina with low molecular weight dicarboxylic acid, which produced carboxyl groups.

Results: These carboxyl groups were able to complex with Ca2+ on the surface, forming sites of precipitation for calcium phosphates that make alumina biocompatible, as indicated by cell culture of pre‐osteoblasts (MC3T3‐E1 cell line).

Conclusions: The procedure presented in this work shows that the insertion of specific functional groups on the surface of alumina increases cell interaction with the surface of alumina. This knowledge can be important in oral science and orthopedics, for the construction of prosthesis.
Which region of the median palate is a suitable location of temporary orthodontic anchorage devices? A histomorphometric study on human cadavers aged 15–20 years
Authors: Stockmann Philipp , Schlegel Karl Andreas , Srour Safwan , Neukam Friedrich Wilhelm , Fenner Matthias , Felszeghy Endre
Published: February 2009

Introduction: Endosseus implants can provide a reliable anchorage during orthodontic treatment. The midpalatal structures around the sutura palatina mediana (SPM) are of special interest due to increasing placement of orthodontic implants in this area. Knowledge about the osseous conditions at this site is necessary to predict the expected degree of implant osseointegration.

Methods: The upper jaws of 10 human cadavers, aged 15–20 years, were decalcified, and cross‐sectional specimens were obtained from four anterior‐to‐posterior palatal regions for histomorphometric analysis. The analyses focused on the amount of bone and the width of the SPM to determine the anatomical requirements for reliable insertion of palatal implants.

Results: Bone density [bone‐volume (BV)/ tissue‐volume (TV)] in all measured areas was 40–60%. The maximum density was measured at the level of the first premolars (54.9±5.9%) and the least values (44.2±9.6%) were measured at the level of the interconnecting line of the canines. The mean width of the SPM varies from 1.2 to 0.3 mm in different sections of the palate. In the median sagittal plane, the mean values of bone height to nasal cavity reached >5 mm as far as the level distal of the second premolars. Bone height 2 mm paramedian to the SPM decreased consistently from anterior (4.3±0.9 mm) to posterior (2.5±0.8 mm).

Conclusions: Our results indicate that the amount and quality of bone along the anterior palatal midline in 15‐to‐20‐year olds is sufficient for orthodontic implantation. Even implantation posterior to the recommended first premolar level, at which orthodontic implants are most often placed, may be suitable. There are some limitations, however, due to small number of samples and variations of anatomical structures.
Bone apposition around two different sandblasted, large‐grit and acid‐etched implant surfaces at sites with coronal circumferential defects: an experimental study in dogs
Authors: Lai Hong‐Chang , Zhuang Long‐Fei , Zhang Zhi‐Yong , Wieland Macro , Liu Xin
Published: February 2009

Objective: The study was designed to evaluate bone apposition around SLA (sandblasted, large‐grit and acid‐etched) implants compared with modified SLA (modSLA) ones at sites with different sizes of circumferential gaps.

Material and methods: All mandibular premolars and first molars of six beagle dogs were extracted. After a healing period of 3 months, three 10‐mm‐long implants were inserted in each side of the mandible. One implant was inserted with a 0.5‐mm and one with a 1‐mm gap between the implants and bone around the coronal 5 mm of the implants. The third implant was inserted without a gap as a control. The dogs were sacrificed respectively at weeks 2, 4 and 8 after implant placement for histological and histomorphometric analyses.

Results: The histomorphometric results showed similar pattern of bone apposition for the two surfaces. At 2 and 4 weeks of healing, the percentage of newly formed bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC%), new bone fill (NBF%) and the distance between the most coronal position of BIC and the defect bottom (B–D) were significantly higher for modSLA (P<0.05). At 8 weeks of healing, this difference was not significant (P>0.05). With regard to the defect size, the histological analyses showed no significant differences between the two defect sizes at all time points (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Significantly more bone apposition was found for the modSLA surface than for the SLA surface at early stage of healing, indicating that modSLA surface may enhance bone apposition in coronal circumferential defects at non‐submerged implants. Gap size within 1 mm may not need any kind of regenerative procedures.
A review of pulmonary coagulopathy in acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia
Authors: Nieuwenhuizen Laurens , De Groot Philip G. , Grutters Jan C. , Biesma Douwe H.
Published: February 2009

Enhanced bronchoalveolar coagulation is a hallmark of many acute inflammatory lung diseases such as acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia. Intervention with natural anticoagulants in these diseases has therefore become a topic of interest. Recently, new data on the role of pulmonary coagulation and inflammation has become available. The aim of this review is to summarize these findings. Furthermore, the results of anticoagulant therapeutic interventions in these disorders are discussed.
Effect of transforming growth factor‐beta1 on expression of the connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) gene in normal human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Takeuchi H. , Kubota S. , Murakashi E. , Fukada T. , Hashimoto S. , Takigawa M. , Numabe Y.
Published: February 2009

Background and Objective:  Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) plays an important role in wound healing and regulation of the extracellular matrix in periodontal tissue. However, the functional relationship between altered transforming growth factor‐beta1 levels and CCN2/CTGF has not been extensively investigated in human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells. This study investigated the effects of transforming growth factor‐beta1 on the expression of the CCN2/CTGF gene in human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells in vitro.

Material and Methods:  Cells were isolated from normal periodontal tissues and cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s minimal essential medium/F12 containing 10% fetal bovine serum. Subconfluent cells were maintained under serum deprivation for 24 h then treated with Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s minimal essential medium/F12 containing 0.5% fetal bovine serum (control) and 0.1, 1, 5 or 10 ng/mL of transforming growth factor‐beta1 for 24, 48 or 72 h. The effects of transforming growth factor‐beta1 on CCN2/CTGF mRNA expression were measured by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. CCN2/CTGF protein was quantitatively analyzed using enzyme‐liked immunosorbent assay. Subcellular distribution of CCN2/CTGF protein in both human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells was observed using immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results:  In both human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells, the expression of CCN2/CTGF mRNA and CCN2/CTGF protein was significantly increased, in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, in the presence of transforming growth factor‐beta1. Moreover, immunofluorescence analysis indicated that immunoreactivity to CCN2/CTGF showed a granular pattern of protein localization.

Conclusion:  The expression of CCN2/CTGF mRNA and protein was induced by transforming growth factor‐beta1 in human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells. These results suggest that CCN2/CTGF plays an important role in wound healing and in the regeneration of periodontal tissue.
Salivary cytokine levels in subjects with chronic periodontitis and in periodontally healthy individuals: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Teles R. P. , Likhari V. , Socransky S. S. , Haffajee A. D.
Published: February 2009

Background and Objective:  Saliva has been proposed as a noninvasive diagnostic fluid that could be used in the diagnosis of oral and systemic diseases. The levels of salivary biomarkers, such as cytokines, could potentially be used as a surrogate to distinguish periodontally healthy individuals from subjects with periodontitis. Therefore, the goal of the present investigation was to determine if the levels of 10 different cytokines in saliva differed between a group of periodontally healthy individuals and a group of subjects with periodontitis. Correlations between the concentrations of these 10 cytokines and clinical parameters of periodontal disease were also examined.

Material and Methods:  In this cross‐sectional study, 74 subjects with chronic periodontitis and 44 periodontally healthy individuals were periodontally examined and had the levels of granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐2, interleukin‐4, interleukin‐5, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐8, interleukin‐10, interferon‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α measured in whole saliva using a multiplexed bead immunoassay (Luminex). Significance of statistical differences in the levels of salivary cytokines between groups was determined using nonparametric analysis of covariance, adjusting for age and smoking status. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient was used to explore associations between the mean levels of salivary cytokines and mean clinical parameters.

Results:  There were no statistically significant differences between groups for any of the cytokines. There were weak, statistically significant positive associations between salivary interleukin‐8 and pocket depth (rs = 0.2, p < 0.05) and bleeding on probing (rs = 0.2, p < 0.05), and weak negative correlations between salivary interleukin‐10 and attachment level (rs = −0.2, p < 0.05) and bleeding on probing (rs = −0.3, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Mean salivary levels of granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐2, interleukin‐4, interleukin‐5, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐8, interleukin‐10, interferon‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α could not discriminate between periodontal health and disease.
Cyclosporine A inhibits the expression of membrane type‐I matrix metalloproteinase in gingiva
Authors: Chiu H‐C. , Lu Y‐T. , Chin Y‐T. , Tu H‐P. , Chiang C‐Y. , Gau C‐H. , Nieh S. , Fu E.
Published: February 2009

Background and Objective:  Membrane type‐I matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2 (TIMP‐2) regulate the activation of MMP‐2; however, their roles in the activation of MMP‐2 in gingiva during treatment with cyclosporine A are still unknown. Therefore, the expressions of membrane type‐I MMP and TIMP‐2, as well as MMP‐2, in gingivae upon treatment with cyclosporine A were examined in vivo and in vitro.

Material and Methods:  Thirty‐four rats were divided into two groups after edentulous ridges were established. The experimental group received 30 mg/kg/d of cyclosporine A and the control group received vehicle. At the end of the experimental period, the rats were killed, the gingivae were obtained and the expression of mRNA and protein of membrane type‐I MMP, TIMP‐2 and MMP‐2 in gingiva were examined using real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. In human gingival fibroblasts, the activity of MMP‐2 and the expression of MMP‐2, membrane type‐I MMP and TIMP‐2 mRNAs were examined (using zymography and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, respectively) after treatment with cyclosporine A.

Results:  In gingivae of rats, cyclosporine A significantly decreased the expression of mRNA and protein of membrane type‐I MMP, but not of TIMP‐2. The expression of MMP‐2 mRNA was unaffected but the expression of MMP‐2 protein showed a significant decrease upon treatment with cyclosporine A. In fibroblast culture medium, the presence of cyclosporine A induced a decrease in MMP‐2 activity in a dose‐dependent manner. The expression of MMP‐2, membrane type‐I MMP and TIMP‐2 mRNAs in fibroblasts was not significantly affected by cyclosporine A; however, in fibroblasts the ratio of mRNA expression of membrane type‐I MMP to that of TIMP‐2 decreased as the cyclosporine A dose was increased.

Conclusion:  Cyclosporine A inhibits the expression of membrane type‐I MMP in gingiva and it may further reduce the activation of MMP‐2.
Seed dispersal in a polder after partial tidal restoration: Implications for salt‐marsh restoration
Authors: Dausse Armel , Bonis Anne , Bouzillé Jan‐Bernard , Lefeuvre Jean‐Claude
Published: February 2009

Question: The vegetation in a polder after partial tidal restoration does not resemble the targeted salt‐marsh vegetation. Is this difference in vegetation due to lack of dispersal or unsuitable abiotic conditions? What could be done for a better restoration of the site?

Location: Northwestern France.

Methods: Seeds were trapped at the single inlet of the polder with a 200‐μ m mesh net to estimate inputs of seeds from the bay. In parallel, seed dispersal was studied in the polder by placing Astroturf® seed traps on the surface of the sediment at three different elevations in three distinct areas. Abiotic conditions such as flooding frequency, water table level and soil salinity were monitored.

Results: All but one species from the adjacent salt marshes were trapped at the inlet. Not all of these species were on the seed traps inside the polder. Seed dispersal was not homogeneous in the polder and seed trap content mostly discriminated in function of their elevation. Salinity and water logging at the bottom of the slope were very high compared to tolerance of most halophytes but decreased rapidly higher up the slope.

Conclusions: The development of salt marsh target species is highly restricted by limited hydrochory inside the polder but also by unfavourable soil conditions induced by the actual hydrological regime. Halophytes are excluded at the bottom of the slope by abiotic conditions and out‐competed by sub‐halophytes higher up. In order to restore salt marsh vegetation inside the polder, a larger opening should be induced in order to increase the flooded surface, and diminish water logging and flooding frequencies.