bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted:At diabetes‐like concentration, glucose down‐regulates the placental serotonin transport system in a cell‐cycle‐dependent manner
Authors: Unal R. , Ahmed B.A. , Jeffus B.C. , Harney J.T. , Lyle C.S. , Wu Y.‐K. , Chambers T.C. , Reece E.A. , Kilic F.
Published: March 2007

Serotonin [5‐hydroxytryptamine (5HT)] is a vasoconstrictor that also acts as a developmental signal early in embryogenesis. The 5HT transporter (SERT) on the membranes of the placental trophoblast cells controls 5HT levels in the maternal bloodstream to maintain stable transplacental blood flow and simultaneously provide 5HT to the embryo. The 5HT uptake rate of placental SERT is important for both the mother and the developing embryo. The impact of glucose on the placental SERT system during diabetic pregnancy is not known. The presentin vitrostudy investigated this important issue in human placental choriocarcinoma (JAR) cells that were cultured for 24–96 h in a medium containing either 5.5 (physiologic concentration) or 25 mmol/Ld‐glucose (diabetic‐like concentration). The 5HT uptake rates of the cultured cells were not altered at exogenousd‐glucose concentrations in the range of 5.5–15 mmol/L, but were decreased significantly at a diabetic‐like concentration (≥25 mmol/L). To understand better the role of glucose on the placental 5HT system, we first characterized SERT in JAR cells at different cell‐cycle phases and then determined the expression levels of SERT on the plasma membrane and in the intracellular pools of JAR cells at the late‐S and G2 phases, where the uptake rates were decreased 73% under diabetic‐like glucose concentrations. Finally, the importance of self‐association of SERT molecules was examined. In JAR cells co‐expressing Flag‐ and myc‐tagged SERT, myc‐antibody precipitated 70% of Flag‐SERT, indicating that a large percentage of SERT proteins exist as oligomersin situ. Under diabetic conditions, myc‐antibody no longer precipitated Flag‐SERT, suggesting a disruption in the aggregation of SERT molecules. Therefore, we propose that under uncontrolled diabetic conditions, glucose down‐regulates 5HT uptake rates of placental SERT by interfering with its functional expression in a cell‐cycle‐dependent manner.
Modern World History as the Rise of the Rich: A New Paradigm
Authors: Gran Peter
Published: March 2007

This article argues that the old paradigm for modern world history given us by Hegel of the Rise of the West has been rendered less useful by the development of new knowledge over the past half century and as a result there is today a good deal of dissatisfaction among professional historians about its retention. What other options are there? This article suggests we try out the idea of the rise of the rich.
Searching History: The Non‐Elite in Ancient Egypt
Authors: Ambridge Lindsay June
Published: March 2007

This article surveys the place of non‐elites and popular culture in recent trends in social and cultural history, with particular reference to currents in Egyptology. Both archaeological and historiographical developments are reviewed and found to be largely complementary. The aim is to establish a framework within which to study non‐elites in Egyptian history, and this article concludes with a brief discussion of the New Kingdom village of Deir el‐Medina, one of the most fruitful Egyptian sites for the study of popular culture.
The Value of Primary, Secondary, and Plantation Forests for a Neotropical Herpetofauna
Authors: GARDNER TOBY A. , RIBEIRO‐JÚNIOR MARCO ANTÔNIO , BARLOW JOS , ÁVILA‐PIRES TERESA CRISTINA SAUER , HOOGMOED MARINUS S. , PERES CARLOS A.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Plantation forests and second‐growth forests are becoming dominant components of many tropical forest landscapes. Yet there is little information available concerning the consequences of different forestry options for biodiversity conservation in the tropics. We sampled the leaf‐litter herpetofauna of primary, secondary, and Eucalyptus plantation forests in the Jari River area of northeastern Brazilian Amazonia. We used four complementary sampling techniques, combined samples from 2 consecutive years, and collected 1739 leaf‐litter amphibians (23 species) and 1937 lizards (30 species). We analyzed the data for differences among forest types regarding patterns of alpha and beta diversity, species‐abundance distributions, and community structure. Primary rainforest harbored significantly more species, but supported a similar abundance of amphibians and lizards compared with adjacent areas of second‐growth forest or plantations. Plantation forests were dominated by wide‐ranging habitat generalists. Secondary forest faunas contained a number of species characteristic of primary forest habitat. Amphibian communities in secondary forests and Eucalyptus plantations formed a nested subset of primary forest species, whereas the species composition of the lizard community in plantations was distinct, and was dominated by open‐area species. Although plantation forests are relatively impoverished, naturally regenerating forests can help mitigate some negative effects of deforestation for herpetofauna. Nevertheless, secondary forest does not provide a substitute for primary forest, and in the absence of further evidence from older successional stands, we caution against the optimistic claim that natural forest regeneration in abandoned lands will provide refuge for the many species that are currently threatened by deforestation.
General Practitioners' Reasons for the Failure of a Randomized Controlled Trial (The TIGER Trial) to Implement Epilepsy Guidelines in Primary Care
Authors: Williams Brian , Skinner James , Dowell Jon , Roberts Richard , Crombie Iain , Davis Julian
Published: March 2007

Summary:  Purpose: To explore reasons for the failure of a randomized controlled trial to influence implementation of epilepsy guidelines in primary care, and to generate theory about likely contexts in which guidelines would lead to changes in clinician behavior.

Methods: Qualitative study based on focus groups and a single in‐depth interview. Participants included 47 primary health care staff selected from a purposive sample of 13 urban and rural general practices.

Results: The key reason for the lack of implementation of the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network epilepsy guideline was an established pattern of general practitioner behavior, supported by practice staff, with which there was little perceived need to change. Secondary to this was a lack of knowledge of the existence and/or content of the guideline and perceived difficulties in implementing them in practice stemming from resource constraints and possible patient resistance. The individual behavior of clinicians was therefore rooted in wider service structures and policies.

Conclusions: Guidelines may be more likely to be implemented where there are perceived problems with current service delivery. Attempts to facilitate the implementation of guidelines could also focus on areas where there is already a perceived need for guidance or a disruption in one of the underlying variables that maintain the health professional's role and practice. They may also be more likely where initiatives are focused more widely than individual physician behavior and are more broadly directed toward redesigning the wider care delivery systems by incorporating other providers to provide care coordination, enhancing patient self‐management, and using information technology tools.
THE SYSTEMATICS OF A SMALL SPINELESS DESMODESMUS SPECIES, D. COSTATO‐GRANULATUS (SPHAEROPLEALES, CHLOROPHYCEAE), BASED ON ITS2 rDNA SEQUENCE ANALYSES AND CELL WALL MORPHOLOGY1
Authors: Vanormelingen Pieter , Hegewald Eberhard , Braband Anke , Kitschke Michaela , Friedl Thomas , Sabbe Koen , Vyverman Wim
Published: March 2007

Desmodesmus species taxonomy is one of the most long‐standing issues in green microalgal systematics due to problems associated with phenotypic plasticity. Whereas more recent species descriptions and identifications are mainly based on cell wall structures and the use of cultures, comparisons with molecular phylogenies are largely lacking. In this study, the phylogenetic relationships between 22 clones identified as Desmodesmus costato‐granulatus (Skuja) E. H. Hegew. were assessed using ITS2 rDNA sequence data in combination with cell wall morphology. The unrooted ITS2 phylogeny showed that the clones cluster into five groups, which also differ in their cell wall structures. Therefore, the taxon is split into five species: D. costato‐granulatus, D. elegans, D. fennicus, D. regularis, and D. ultrasquamatus. Compared with other Desmodesmus species, intraspecific sequence variation is extensive and may contain additional (pseudo)cryptic diversity. Compensatory base changes were near‐absent within the species and varied from one to 11 between species. Relationships among the species were unresolved. Despite this, they clustered together with the two other Desmodesmus species having a combination of small and large warts in a well‐supported lineage. Remarkably, ITS2 sequence variation in this lineage is as high as between all other included Desmodesmus species, even though the morphology of its members is rather uniform.
NUTRIENT LIMITATION OF BENTHIC ALGAE IN LAKE MICHIGAN: THE ROLE OF SILICA1
Authors: Carrick Hunter J. , Lowe Rex L.
Published: March 2007

In the Laurentian Great Lakes, phytoplankton growth and biomass are secondarily limited by silica (Si), as a result of phosphorus (P) enrichment. Even modest levels of P enrichment can induce secondary Silimitation, which, in turn, promotes a shift from the native diatom phytoplankton flora to chlorophyte and cyanobacteria species. However, very little is known about the nutritional status of benthic populations and their response to nutrient enrichment. Two experiments were performed in the littoral zone of Lake Michigan where nutrients were delivered to in situ benthic algal (episammic and epilithic) assemblages using nutrient‐diffusing substrata. In order to test the hypothesis that benthic algae in Lake Michigan are Si limited, a 2 × 3 factorial experiment was used to deliver all combinations of Si, N, and P to resident assemblages growing on artificial substrata composed of natural (Si rich) versus calcium carbonate (Si poor) sand. A second experiment utilized a serial enrichment to evaluate the role of Si in mediating changes in taxonomic composition. These findings indicate that benthic algae in Lake Michigan exhibit signs of secondary Si limitation, and that their response to enrichment is similar to the phytoplankton. Moreover, natural sand substrata may provide a source of Si to resident benthic algae.
7 A Cultural Critique of Cultural Relativism
Authors: Li Xiaorong
Published: March 2007

Abstract.  This chapter explores a certain line of critical analysis according to which one can proceed to undermine the claim that judgments approving freedom, and standards upholding human rights, are culturally relativistic and cannot possibly have any universal validity. This exploration begins with a scrutiny of common assumptions about the nature of culture itself. The author tries to demonstrate that common misunderstandings of culture have provided ammunition to cultural relativists. Seeking clarity helps strengthen the philosophical objections to normative cultural relativism. The author refers to such a line of analysis as the “cultural critique of cultural relativism.”
Role of High Frequency Atrial Pacing for the Termination of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Atypical Atrial Flutter
Authors: SHLEVKOV NIKOLAY , YANG ALEXANDER , SCHRICKEL JAN WILKO , SCHWAB JOERG OTTO , BIELIK HELGA , LICKFETT LARS , BITZEN ALEXANDER , NICKENIG GEORG , LÜDERITZ BERNDT , LEWALTER THORSTEN
Published: March 2007

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of high‐frequency (HF) pacing from the right atrial appendage (RAA) or coronary sinus ostium (CS‐Os) for the termination of acute atrial fibrillation (AF) and atypical atrial flutter (AAFL) during an electrophysiological (EP) study.

Methods: 128 episodes of acute fast atrial arrhythmias (FAAs; 93 AF and 35 AAFL) were analyzed in 110 patients. Patients were initially observed for 60s leading to spontaneous termination of 28 FAAs. The remaining 100 FAAs (70 AF) episodes were randomized to the following strategies: (A) pacing at RAA using up to 10 consecutive 20‐Hz trains followed by the same stimulation protocol at CS‐Os if RAA pacing failed, (B) pacing at CS‐Os using the same stimulation protocol followed by HF pacing at RAA, or (C) observation up to 6 minutes (“no pacing”).

Results: The 20‐Hz pacing at both RAA and CS‐Os was associated with higher conversion of AAFL, as compared to strategy C (60% and 77% vs 11%; P < 0.05). Only HF pacing at CS‐Os was superior to observation strategy for the conversion of AF (21% vs 4%; P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The 20‐Hz pacing protocol is superior to observation strategy for interruption of either acute AF or acute AAFL episodes; however, its efficacy is higher in AAFLs. These results can be helpful for the termination of acute atrial tachyarrhythmias during EPstudy and should be further evaluated in patients with implantable devices capable of antitachycardia pacing.
A Clinical Risk Score to Predict the Time to First Appropriate Device Therapy in Recipients of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
Authors: HREYBE HAITHAM , SABA SAMIR
Published: March 2007

Background:

To develop a risk score to predict the occurrence of appropriate defibrillator [implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD)] therapies.
A simple clinical score predicting the risk of appropriate ICD therapy is lacking.

Methods:

A Cox regression model was developed from a database of ICD patients at a single tertiary center to predict the time to appropriate ICD therapy defined as shock or antitachycardia pacing. A risk score was derived from this model using half of the database and was validated using the other half.

Results:

A total of 399 patients were entered into the database between July 2001 and February 2004. There were no statistically significant differences between the derivation (n = 200) and validation (n = 199) groups in any of the demographic or clinical variables recorded. The risk score included three independent variables: indication for ICD implantation (P = 0.03), serum creatinine level (P = 0.015), and QRS width (P = 0.028). The observed risk scores were highly predictive of time to ICD therapy in the validation group (P = 0.02).

Conclusion:

We describe a new clinical risk score that predicts the time to appropriate device therapy in ICD recipients of a single tertiary center hospital. The performance of this risk score needs to be investigated prospectively in a larger patient population.
Incidence and Significance of Far‐Field R Wave Sensing in a VDD‐Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: EBERHARDT FRANK , SCHUCHERT ANDREAS , SCHMITZ DIETMAR , ZERM THOMAS , MITZENHEIM SABINE , WIEGAND UWE KH ,   on behalf of the Deikos/Kainox VDD Study Group
Published: March 2007

Background: A VDD‐implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) provides atrioventricular (AV) synchronous stimulation when necessary and incorporates the advantages of dual chamber arrhythmia discrimination algorithms both at potentially lower costs and less periprocedural complications than a DDD‐ICD system. A prerequisite for correct dual chamber ICD function is reliable atrial sensing.

Methods: We evaluated atrial near‐ and ventricular far‐field sensing and its impact on the dual‐chamber detection algorithm in 106 patients with a single‐lead VDD‐ICD during a 12‐month follow‐up period.

Results: Six hundred and thirty‐nine follow‐ups were included. Mean near‐field amplitude was 3.82 ± 1.76 mV; mean far‐field amplitude was 0.31 ± 0.15 mV. 46% of patients had far‐fields >0.35 mV and 35% of patients showed atrial EGM markers corresponding to a ventricular far‐field in at least one follow‐up. Six hundred and forty‐five tachycardia episodes were evaluated. Due to far‐field sensing, three of 66 episodes (4.5%) of sinus tachycardia were misclassified as ventricular tachycardia (VT), leading to antitachycardia therapies. Delayed detection of VT was seen in a 12 of 323 episodes (3.7%) in five of 62 patients (8%) having VT events (delay 6.4 ± 6.0 seconds (range 2–24 seconds)). Stable far‐field amplitudes <0.2 mV in a follow‐up had a high negative predictive value for the occurrence of malfunction during tachycardia—conversely, high far‐field amplitudes or a high incidence of far‐field markers are only moderately correlated with malfunction.

Conclusions: Ventricular far‐field sensing in a VDD‐ICD is not uncommon, however, tachycardia detection by the dual chamber algorithm is not seriously impaired by far‐field sensing.
How, Why, and When May Atrial Defibrillation Find a Specific Role in Implantable Devices? A Clinical Viewpoint
Authors: BORIANI GIUSEPPE , DIEMBERGER IGOR , BIFFI MAURO , MARTIGNANI CRISTIAN , ZIACCHI MATTEO , BERTINI MATTEO , VALZANIA CINZIA , BRONZETTI GABRIELE , RAPEZZI CLAUDIO , BRANZI ANGELO
Published: March 2007

This viewpoint article discusses the potential for incorporation of atrial defibrillation capabilities in modern multi‐chamber devices. In the late 1990s, the possibility of using shock‐only therapy to treat selected patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) was explored in the context of the stand‐alone atrial defibrillator. The failure of this strategy can be attributed to the technical limitations of the stand‐alone device, low tolerance of atrial shocks, difficulties in patient selection, a lack of predictive knowledge about the evolution of AF, and, last but not least, commercial considerations. An open question is how atrial defibrillation capability may now assume a specific new role in devices implanted for sudden death prevention or cardiac resynchronization. For patients who already have indications for implantable devices, device‐based atrial defibrillation appears attractive as a “backup” option for managing AF when preventive pharmacological/electrical measures fail. This and several other personalized hybrid therapeutic approaches await exploration, though assessment of their efficacy is methodologically challenging. Achievement of acceptance by patients is an essential premise for any updated atrial defibrillation strategy. Strategies that are being investigated to improve patient tolerance include waveform shaping, pharmacologic modulation of pain, and patient‐activated defibrillation (patients might also perceive the problem of discomfort somewhat differently in the context of a backup therapy). The economic impact of implementing atrial defibrillation features in available devices is progressively decreasing, and financial feasibility need not be a major issue. Future studies should examine clinically relevant outcomes and not be limited (as occurred with stand‐alone defibrillators) to technical or other soft endpoints.
Low Voltage ECG in Myocarditis: Peripheral Edema as a Plausible Contributing Mechanism
Authors: MADIAS JOHN E.
Published: March 2007

A 24‐year‐old woman was hospitalized with acute myocarditis that led to multiple organ, including heart, failure, with fluid retention. An echocardiogram showed left ventricular ejection fraction ∼10%, and her electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed low voltage. She rapidly recovered and was discharged 15 days after admission. On evaluation at 1, 10, and 22 weeks after discharge, she was asymptomatic, with unlimited exercise tolerance. An echocardiogram 11 weeks after discharge from the hospital showed left ventricular ejection fraction of ∼60%. Correlations of weights with ECG QRS voltage parameters in the hospital revealed r = 0.80 and 0.83, with P = 0.021 and 0.029, suggesting that ≥64% of the attenuation of the QRS potentials could be accounted for by the corresponding gain in weight.
Aromatherapy on a large scale: exposing entire adult holding rooms to ginger root oil increases the mating competitiveness of sterile males of the Mediterranean fruit fly in field cage trials
Authors: Shelly Todd , Edu James , Smith Eileen , Hoffman Kevin , War Mamadou , Santos Rufino , Favela Alicia , Garagliano Robert , Ibewiro Basil , McInnis Donald
Published: March 2007

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is widely used in integrated programs against fruit fly pests, particularly the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae). Unfortunately, the mass‐rearing procedures inherent to the SIT often lead to a reduction in male mating competitiveness. One potential solution involves the pre‐release exposure of males to specific attractants. In particular, male exposure to ginger root oil [Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae); hereafter GRO] has been shown to increase mating success dramatically in field cage trials. Initial studies exposed small groups of males (25 individuals), but more recent work has demonstrated that GRO exposure involving standard storage boxes (containing ≈ 36 000 males) also results in enhanced mating performance. The objective of the present study was to determine whether aromatization of entire trailers, holding ≈ 14 million sterile males from a genetic sexing [temperature sensitive lethal (tsl)] strain, increases male mating success. Independent of the total dose, spatial distribution, or type of dispenser used, sterile males exposed to GRO for a 24‐h period displayed greater mating success than non‐exposed males in mating cage trials (in which tsl males competed against males from a standard, bisexual strain for females from this same standard strain). Averaged over all experiments, tsl males exposed to GRO obtained 54% of all matings compared to 38% for non‐exposed tsl males, an increase of 42%. The implications of these findings for SIT programs against C. capitata are discussed.
Effects of tomato spotted wilt virus isolates, host plants, and temperature on survival, size, and development time of Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Stumpf Christof F. , Kennedy George G.
Published: March 2007

Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) replicates in both its plant hosts and its thrips vectors. Replication of TSWV within thrips suggests the potential for pathological effects that could affect the fitness of its vectors directly, whereas infection of the plant may alter its suitability as a host for thrips development. This study was undertaken to examine the influence of TSWV isolate, host plant, and temperature on potential direct and host‐mediated effects of virus infection of the thrips and the plant on Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), an important vector of TSWV. Neonate F. occidentalis were reared to adult eclosion on excised foliage of Datura stramonium (L.) (Solanaceae) or Emilia sonchifolia (L.) (Compositae) infected with either the CFL or RG2 isolate of TSWV, or not infected. Effects of the TSWV isolates and host plants on thrips were measured at 18.3, 23.9, and 29.4 °C. Results demonstrate significantly improved survival and a small but significant decrease in development time of F. occidentalis on TSWV‐infected plants. These effects resulted from the combined influence of the direct effects of the virus on infected thrips and plant‐mediated effects resulting from virus infection of the thrips’ host plant. Our results extend previous findings and help to explain inconsistencies among previously published reports by demonstrating that the manifestation and magnitude of effects of TSWV on F. occidentalis are dependent on host plant, virus isolate, and temperature.
Optical coherence tomography in anterior segment imaging
Authors: Kalev‐Landoy Maya , Day Alexander C. , Cordeiro M. Francesca , Migdal Clive
Published: March 2007

Purpose:  To evaluate the ability of optical coherence tomography (OCT), designed primarily to image the posterior segment, to visualize the anterior chamber angle (ACA) in patients with different angle configurations.

Methods:  In a prospective observational study, the anterior segments of 26 eyes of 26 patients were imaged using the Zeiss Stratus OCT, model 3000. Imaging of the anterior segment was achieved by adjusting the focusing control on the Stratus OCT. A total of 16 patients had abnormal angle configurations including narrow or closed angles and plateau irides, and 10 had normal angle configurations as determined by prior full ophthalmic examination, including slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and gonioscopy.

Results:  In all cases, OCT provided high‐resolution information regarding iris configuration. The ACA itself was clearly visualized in patients with narrow or closed angles, but not in patients with open angles.

Conclusions:  Stratus OCT offers a non‐contact, convenient and rapid method of assessing the configuration of the anterior chamber. Despite its limitations, it may be of help during the routine clinical assessment and treatment of patients with glaucoma, particularly when gonioscopy is not possible or difficult to interpret.
Prolactin level during 5 years of risperidone treatment in patients with psychotic disorders
Authors: Eberhard J. , Lindström E. , Holstad M. , Levander S.
Published: March 2007

Objective:  To investigate prolactin levels and related side effects in 128 men and 90 women initially treated with risperidone.

Method:  Patients initially treated with risperidone were followed over 5 years, during which 45% were switched to other antipsychotic drugs.

Results:  Initially, prolactin levels were fivefold the norm in women, and threefold in men. Diagnosis did not affect the prolactin level if adjustment for sex, current age, and age at onset of psychosis was applied. Prolactin levels did not correlate significantly neither with any Positive and Negative Symptom Scale item or subscale, nor with side effects. Drugs other than risperidone were not associated with high prolactin levels. For patients on continuous monotherapy risperidone treatment, there was a marked linear reduction of prolactin level over all 5 years.

Conclusion:  Risperidone induces a higher prolactin elevation than other atypical antipsychotics, but the effect adapts over time. Prolactin was not associated with expected side effects (e.g. sexual, mental, or weight gain).
The destinies of the low‐ and middle‐income country submissions
Authors: Konradsen J. , Munk‐Jørgensen A.
Published: March 2007

Objective:  To measure the number of submissions to Acta Pyschiatrica Scandinavica from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LIC/MIC) compared with submissions from high income countries (HIC), to compare the way through the peer review process for the three groups respectively, as well as how they do as published articles eventually.

Method:  By help of the Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica editorial office database all submissions of reviews of the literature, clinical overviews, original articles, brief communications, and case reports from 2002 through 2005 were analysed as to external/in‐house review, acceptance/rejection, number of downloads from Blackwell‐Synergy, and number of citations [Institute of Scientific Information (ISI)] in a comparison between HIC and LIC/MIC.

Results:  About 14.6% of the total submissions in 2002/2003 came from LIC and MIC countries, 15.5% for the 2004/2005 period. In both periods, a larger portion of LIC/MIC manuscripts were reviewed exclusively in‐house compared with HIC ones and among those papers reviewed by external experts a smaller proportion of the submissions from HIC countries were rejected than of those from LIC and MIC countries. From the first to the second period there is a significant increase of proportion of submitted LIC/MIC papers accepted for publication compared with HIC papers. Full text download and citation statistics did not differ significantly between HIC and LIC/MIC.

Conclusion:  Low‐ and middle‐income countries manuscripts do gradually better in the competition with HIC papers in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. The major observation is that the total number of LIC/MIC submissions to the journal is still low.
Prevotella bivia can invade human cervix epithelial (HeLa) cells
Authors: STRÖMBECK LOUISE , SANDROS JENS , HOLST ELISABETH , MADIANOS PHOEBUS , NANNMARK ULF , PAPAPANOU PANOS , MATTSBY‐BALTZER INGER
Published: March 2007

Prevotella bivia has been associated with female upper genital tract infections and an increased risk of preterm delivery. In this study, the adherence and invasion capacity of P. bivia was investigated using a cervix epithelial cell line. P. bivia was furthermore analysed for its ability to evoke a proinflammatory cytokine response in epithelial cells. The invasion capacity, defined as the number of bacteria recovered from lysed HeLa cells infected with P. bivia, varied considerably among five strains, all of which were isolates from women with bacterial vaginosis. One P. bivia strain (P47) gave rise to an approximately 120‐fold higher number of intracellular bacteria (7×103 bacteria per 1×105 cells) compared with the least invasive strain. Three strains expressed an intermediate or low invasiveness, showing an approximately 3‐ to 40‐fold higher number of intracellular bacteria per 1×105 cells compared with the least invasive strain. The intracellular localization of P47 in phagosome‐like vesicles was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. All P. bivia strains adhered to HeLa cells to the same extent (range 14–22 bacteria per cell) as analysed by interference microscopy. No correlation was found between adhesion and invasion capacity of the strains. Furthermore, no fimbriae‐like structures were observed on P47 detected by scanning electron microscopy or negative staining. Analysis of TNF‐α, IL‐1α, IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐18 in P. bivia‐stimulated HeLa cells showed low levels of only IL‐6 and IL‐8 for the most invasive P. bivia strain P47. Thus, the induction of IL‐6 or IL‐8 secretion appeared to be associated with invasion capacity. This work provides evidence that some P. bivia isolates can invade human cervix epithelial. Thus, a strong capacity for invasion and a weak proinflammatory cytokine‐inducing capacity in P. bivia are suggested to be virulence factors in establishing a low‐grade upper genital tract infection.
Resonance frequency analysis in relation to jawbone characteristics and during early healing of implant installation
Authors: Huwiler M. A. , Pjetursson B. E. , Bosshardt D. D. , Salvi G. E. , Lang N. P.
Published: March 2007

Objectives: To monitor resonance frequency analysis (RFA) in relation to the jawbone characteristics and during the early phases of healing and incorporation of Straumann® dental implants with an SLA surface.

Material and methods: 17 Straumann 4.1 mm implants (10 mm) and 7 Straumann 4.8 mm implants (10 mm) were installed and ISQ determined at baseline and after 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 12 weeks. Central bone cores were analyzed from the 4.1 mm implants using micro CT for bone volume density (BVD) and bone trabecular connectivity (BTC).

Results: Pocket probing depths ranged from 2–4 mm and bleeding on probing from 5–20%. At baseline, BVD varied between 24% and 65% and BTC between 4.9 and 25.4 for the 4.1 mm implants. Baseline ISQ varied between 55 and 74 with a mean of 61.4. No significant correlations were found between BVD or BTC and ISQ Values. For the 4.8 mm diameter implants baseline ISQ values ranged from 57–70 with a mean of 63.3. Over the healing period ISQ values increased at 1 week and decreased after 2–3 weeks. After 4 weeks ISQ values, again increased slightly, no significant differences were noted over time. One implant (4.1 mm) lost stability at 3 weeks. Its ISQ value had dropped from 68 to 45. However the latter value was determined after the clinical diagnosis of instability.

Conclusion: ISQ values of 57–70 represented homeostasis and implant stability. However no predictive value for loosing implant stability can be attributed to RFA since the decrease occurred after the fact.
Evaluation of sinus floor elevation using a composite bone graft mixture
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Ávila Gustavo , Fernández‐Barbero Juan Emilio , Aguilar Mariano , Sánchez‐Fernández Elena , Cutando Antonio , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: March 2007

Background: The performance of implant surgery in the posterior maxilla often poses a challenge due to insufficient available bone. Sinus floor elevation was developed to increase needed vertical height to overcome this problem. The present study described and reported a simple, safe and predictable bone graft mixture for the sinus lifting procedure.

Material and methods: Seventy patients were recruited for this study and underwent a sinus lift procedure. All sites were treated with a composite graft of cortical autogenous bone, bovine bone and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP). A total of 263 implants (171 Astra Tech and 92 Microdent) were placed either simultaneously or delayed. All sites were clinically and radiographically evaluated 24 months after their prosthetic loading. Biopsy samples were taken from 16 delayed implant placement sites at the time of their implant placement.

Results: A 100% implant success rate was found after 24 months of functioning. Only two Microdent implants failed before loading, which translates to a 99% overall implant success rate. No statistically significant differences were found between simultaneous and delayed implant placement. Image processing revealed 34±6.34% vital bone, 49.6±6.04% connective tissue and 16.4±3.23% remaining Bio‐Oss® particles. However, the histomorphometric analysis showed that the bovine bone was incorporated into new bone formation.

Conclusion: The results showed that a composite graft comprised of cortical autogenous bone, bovine bone and PRP mixture can be successfully used for sinus augmentation.
Implant‐retained oral appliances: a novel treatment for edentulous patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome
Authors: Hoekema Aarnoud , De Vries Frist , Heydenrijk Kees , Stegenga Boudewijn
Published: March 2007

Objectives: Mandibular repositioning appliances (MRAs) are a viable treatment alternative in patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Because these appliances require retention in the patient's dentition, edentelous patients generally do not qualify for this treatment. This study describes our experiences with an implant‐retained MRA in the treatment of edentulous OSAHS patients.

Patients and methods: Six edentulous OSAHS patients were included in this study. Standard treatment consisted of the placement of four endosseous dental implants in the mandible and the construction of a new maxillary denture and a mandibular overdenture. Subsequently, an MRA was made. After a habituation and adjustment period, the effect of treatment was evaluated with polysomnography. Treatment was considered effective in cases where it yielded an apnea–hypopnea index <5.

Results: Of the six patients included, two did not tolerate the MRA because of pressure‐induced discomfort on the labial mucosa in the maxilla. These two patients were offered an implant‐retained overdenture and MRA in the maxilla. One of the two patients proceeded with this secondary treatment. Of the five patients completing the follow‐up polysomnography, effective OSAHS treatment was attained in four.

Conclusions: The results from this study suggest that an implant‐retained MRA in the mandible is a viable treatment modality in edentulous OSAHS patients. Because the therapeutic effectiveness of this treatment may be compromised by excessive pressure of the MRA on the labial mucosa in the maxilla, we suggest that an implant‐retained MRA in the maxilla be offered as a secondary treatment in selected patients.
Adjunctive local antibiotic therapy in the treatment of peri‐implantitis II: clinical and radiographic outcomes
Authors: Salvi Giovanni E. , Persson G. Rutger , Heitz‐Mayfield Lisa J. A. , Frei Marc , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: March 2007

Aim: To monitor over 12 months clinical and radiographic changes occurring after adjunctive local delivery of minocycline microspheres for the treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Material and methods: In 25 partially edentulous subjects, 31 implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis were treated. Three weeks after oral hygiene instruction, mechanical debridement and local antiseptic cleansing using 0.2% chlorhexidine gel, baseline (Day 0) parameters were recorded. Minocycline microspheres (Arestin®) were locally delivered to each implant site with bone loss and a probing pocket depth (PPD) ≥5 mm. Rescue therapy with Arestin® was allowed at Days 180 and 270 at any site exhibiting an increase in PPD≥2 mm from the previous visit. The following clinical parameters were recorded at four sites/implant at Day 0, 10, 30, 60, 90, 180, 270 and 360: PPD, clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP) and plaque index (PlI).

Results: Six implants in six subjects were either rescued or exited because of persisting active peri‐implantitis. Successful implants showed a statistically significant reduction in both PPD and percentage of sites with BOP between baseline and Day 360 (P<0.05). At mesial implant sites, the mean PPD reduction amounted to 1.6 mm (95% CI: 0.9–2.2 mm, P<0.001) and was accompanied by a statistically significant reduction of the BOP value (P<0.001). Binary regression analysis showed that the clinical parameters and smoking history could not discriminate between successfully treated and rescued or exited implants at any observation time point.

Conclusion: Non‐surgical mechanical treatment of peri‐implantitis lesions with adjunctive local delivery of microencapsulated minocycline led to positive effects on clinical parameters up to 12 months.
Association of height with inflammation and periodontitis: the Study of Health in Pomerania
Authors: Meisel Peter , Kohlmann Thomas , Kocher Thomas
Published: March 2007

Aim: Short stature in adulthood has been associated with increased risk of health problems. Predisposition to inflammatory diseases might be associated with impaired length growth and impose a lifelong inflammatory burden. We tested this hypothesis in a cross‐sectional population‐based study with respect to periodontitis.

Material and Methods: In 4290 randomly selected subjects from the normal population, we determined anthropometric measures and diagnostic periodontal parameters. Behavioural and environmental risk factors were assessed by interviews and questionnaires.

Results: In regression analyses adjusted for age, gender, smoking, diabetes, education, and dental appointments, an inverse association was observed between height and clinical attachment loss. The magnitude of the association was higher in presence of risk factors smoking or diabetes. Odds ratios for smoking were 3.5 (2.2–5.7%, 95% confidence interval) and 2.6 (1.5–4.3%) with the shortest and tallest height quartile, respectively. Figures for diabetes were 1.37 (1.04–1.80%) and 0.97 (0.67–1.39%), respectively. Stratification for age and gender revealed that taller subjects had less periodontitis and decreased concentrations of markers of systemic inflammation than their shorter counterparts.

Conclusion: This study is the first to associate height with periodontitis concluding that individuals born with a high susceptibility to infectious and inflammatory diseases may suffer from such diseases in childhood whereby the length growth could be impaired. Reaching adulthood, growth comes to a halt but the individual remains susceptible to inflammatory sequelae. Thus, smaller persons pertain a tendency to more severe periodontitis.
Tight junction proteins in keratinocytes: localization and contribution to barrier function
Authors: Yuki Takuo , Haratake Akinori , Koishikawa Hisa , Morita Kazumasa , Miyachi Yoshiki , Inoue Shintaro
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Recent research suggests that tight junctions (TJs) are located in the stratum granulosum, where they contribute to the barrier function of the epidermis. In this study, we investigated the formation of functional TJs in cultured normal human epidermal keratinocytes. We observed the development of permeability barrier function through the process of Ca2+‐induced differentiation. Immunofluorescence analyses at 96 h after Ca2+‐induced differentiation revealed concentrated portions of occludin, a TJ‐specific marker, arranged as continuous lines circumscribing individual flattened suprabasal cells in areas with high concentrations of claudin‐1 and ‐4. Transient Ca2+ depletion reversibly disrupted the continuous network of TJ proteins and the permeability barrier. We also found that the addition of ochratoxin A weakened the permeability barrier and the expression of claudin‐4. Our findings suggest that TJ proteins contribute to the permeability barrier in epidermal keratinocytes.
Putative cancer stem cells in cutaneous malignancies
Authors: Kamstrup Maria R. , Gniadecki Robert , Skovgaard Gunhild L.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Recent experimental data offer convincing evidence for the existence of cancer stem cells in leukaemia, brain tumors and breast cancer. These cells are responsible for the maintenance of tumor growth and relapses after cytoreductive treatments. This paper provides a brief overview of current data supporting the idea of cancer stem cells in the pathogenesis of cutaneous malignancies, including skin carcinoma, malignant melanoma and cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. The characterization of putative cancer stem cells is important to develop new therapies selectively targeting these cells.
Cutaneous Leishmania infection: progress in pathogenesis research and experimental therapy
Authors: Von Stebut Esther
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Studies in murine experimental Leishmania major infection have helped to understand the requirements for efficient development of T helper (Th)1/cytotoxic T (Tc)1‐mediated protection against the parasite. As such they have revealed that Fcγ receptor (FcγR)I and FcγRIII‐mediated uptake of L. major amastigotes by dendritic cells (DC) is an important prerequisite for Th1 development. In addition, DC‐derived cytokines contribute to adequate T‐cell education. DC‐based vaccines may thus provide an important tool for both the development of a prophylactic vaccine against leishmaniasis and – together with leishmanicidal drugs – for eliciting immune‐deviating functions towards protective immunity in non‐healing leishmaniasis. This review highlights recent advances in the understanding of the role of DC for the induction of Th1/Tc1‐predominant immunity against L. major and how this knowledge may translate into clinical approaches.
Application of ELI‐P‐Complex Method in Clinical Obstetrics
Authors: Poletaev Alexander B. , Maltseva Larisa I. , Zamaleeva Rosa S. , Nukhnin Michael A. , Osipenko Leeza G.
Published: March 2007

Problem

Evaluation of embryotropic natural auto‐antibodies (a‐Abs) of IgG class in blood serum of women planning pregnancy or in that of already pregnant women is necessary in order to predict the course of gestation and pregnancy outcomes.

Method of study

The ELISA‐based probability of pathology in pregnancy (ELI‐P)‐complex method is based on the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technology. We used it to evaluate serum samples of 380 women with complicated obstetric anamnesis (COA) by measuring contents/affinity (immunoreactivity; IR) of a‐Abs interacting with eight specific antigens related to mechanisms of gestation process. The control group was presented by 30 healthy women without COA. For each woman we carried out a pre‐gestational investigation and, if necessary, performed a standard antibacterial/antiviral treatment and correction of endocrine state.

Results

We found that 92.6% of investigated women with COA were characterized by deviations in serum IR of the examined a‐Abs. In contrast, in the control group there were no immune deviations related to the examined a‐Abs. A direct relation was revealed between normal or deviated serum IR of investigated a‐Abs and physiological or pathological pregnancy development and pregnancy outcome.

Conclusion

We recommend ELI‐P‐complex as a screening and monitoring tool for predicting pregnancy outcomes and providing proper treatment therapies.
Outcomes‐Focused Knowledge Translation: A Framework for Knowledge Translation and Patient Outcomes Improvement
Authors: Doran Diane M. , Sidani Souraya
Published: March 2007

Background: Regularly accessing information that is current and reliable continues to be a challenge for front‐line staff nurses. Reconceptualizing how nurses access information and designing appropriate decision support systems to facilitate timely access to information may be important for increasing research utilization.

Description of Strategy: An outcomes‐focused knowledge translation framework was developed to guide the continuous improvement of patient care through the uptake of research evidence and feedback data about patient outcomes. The framework operationalizes the three elements of the PARIHS framework at the point of care.

Outcomes‐focused knowledge translation involves four components: (a) patient outcomes measurement and real‐time feedback about outcomes achievement; (b) best‐practice guidelines, embedded in decision support tools that deliver key messages in response to patient assessment data; (c) clarification of patients' preferences for care; and (d) facilitation by advanced practice nurses and practice leaders. In this paper the framework is described and evidence is provided to support theorized relationships among the concepts in the framework.

Implications: The framework guided the design of a knowledge translation intervention aimed at continuous improvement of patient care and evidence‐based practice, which are fostered through real‐time feedback data about patient outcomes, electronic access to evidence‐based resources at the point of care, and facilitation by advanced practice nurses. The propositions in the framework need to be empirically tested through future research.
Development and Testing of a DVT Risk Assessment Tool: Providing Evidence of Validity and Reliability
Authors: McCaffrey Ruth , Bishop Mary , Adonis‐Rizzo Marie , Williamson Ellen , McPherson Melanie , Cruikshank Alice , Carrier Vicki Jo , Sands Simone , Pigano Diane , Girard Patricia , Lauzon Cathy
Published: March 2007

Background: Hospital‐acquired deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms (PE) are preventable problems that can increase mortality. Early assessment and recognition of risk as well as initiating appropriate prevention measures can prevent DVT or PE.

Aims: The purpose of this research project was to develop a DVT risk assessment tool and test the tool for validity and reliability.

Methods: Three phases were undertaken in developing and testing the JFK Medical Center DVT risk assessment tool. Investigation and clarification of risk and predisposing factors for DVT were identified from the literature, expert nursing knowledge, and medical staff input. Second, item development and weighting were undertaken. Third, parametric testing for content validity measured the differences in mean assessment tool scores between a group of patients who developed DVT in the hospital and a demographically similar group who did not develop DVT. Interrater reliability was measured by having three different nurses score each patient and compare the differences in scores among the three.

Findings: The DVT group had significantly higher scores on the JFK DVT assessment scale than did those who did not experience DVT. Interrater reliability showed a strong correlation among the scores of the three nurses (.98).

Discussion: Providing a valid and reliable tool for measuring the risk for DVT or PE in hospitalized patients will enable nurses to intervene early in patients at risk. Basing DVT risk assessment on the evidence provided in this study will assist nurses in becoming more confident in recognizing the necessity for interventions in hospitalized patients and decreasing risk.

Implications: Nurses can now evaluate patients at risk for DVT or PE using the JFK Medial Center's risk assessment tool.