bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Wage‐Setting Institutions on the Incidence of Public Employment in the OECD: 1960–1998
Authors: KAHN LAWRENCE M.
Published: May 2008

Using data on seventeen Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries for 1960–1998, this paper studies the impact of unions on public employment incidence, using macro‐ and microdata. Macrodata show that greater coverage by centralized collective bargaining institutions raises the public employment share, controlling for country effects and country‐specific trends. Microdata show that this effect is more positive for outsiders: women, and younger and older men. Thus, government jobs may in effect partially counteract the employment problems these groups face in highly unionized societies.
The International Classification of Headache Disorders: Accurate Diagnosis of Orofacial Pain?
Authors: Benoliel R , Birman N , Eliav E , Sharav Y
Published: May 2008

The aim was to apply diagnostic criteria, as published by the International Headache Society (IHS), to the diagnosis of orofacial pain. A total of 328 consecutive patients with orofacial pain were collected over a period of 2 years. The orofacial pain clinic routinely employs criteria published by the IHS, the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP) and the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDCTMD). Employing IHS criteria, 184 patients were successfully diagnosed (56%), including 34 with persistent idiopathic facial pain. In the remaining 144 we applied AAOP/RDCTMD criteria and diagnosed 120 as masticatory myofascial pain (MMP) resulting in a diagnostic efficiency of 92.7% (304/328) when applying the three classifications (IHS, AAOP, RDCTMD). Employing further published criteria, 23 patients were diagnosed as neurovascular orofacial pain (NVOP, facial migraine) and one as a neuropathy secondary to connective tissue disease. All the patients were therefore allocated to predefined diagnoses. MMP is clearly defined by AAOP and the RDCTMD. However, NVOP is not defined by any of the above classification systems. The features of MMP and NVOP are presented and analysed with calculations for positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV). In MMP the combination of facial pain aggravated by jaw movement, and the presence of three or more tender muscles resulted in a PPV = 0.82 and a NPV = 0.86. For NVOP the combination of facial pain, throbbing quality, autonomic and/or systemic features and attack duration of > 60 min gave a PPV = 0.71 and a NPV = 0.95. Expansion of the IHS system is needed so as to integrate more orofacial pain syndromes.
Central Nervous System Networks Involved in the Processing of Meningeal and Cutaneous Inputs From the Ophthalmic Branch of the Trigeminal Nerve in the Rat
Authors: Noseda R , Monconduit L , Constandil L , Chalus M , Villanueva L
Published: May 2008

This study analysed the organization of central nervous system networks involved in the processing of meningeal inputs in the male, Sprague-Dawley rat. We injected the anterograde tracer, biotin dextran, into areas of the medullary trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Sp5C), which receive inputs from the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve. Double-labelling immunohistochemical studies were then performed to compare calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) or serotonin 1D (5HT1D) receptor distributions in the areas innervated by Sp5C neurons. Dense, topographically organized intratrigeminal connections were observed. Sp5C neurons projected to the commissural subnucleus of the solitary tract, A5 cell group region/superior salivatory nucleus, lateral periaqueductal grey matter, inferior colliculus and parabrachial nuclei. Trigeminothalamic afferents were restricted to the posterior group and ventroposteromedial thalamic nuclei. Some of these areas are also immunoreactive for 5HT1D and CGRP and thus remain potential central targets of triptan molecules and other antimigraine drugs.
CACNA1A Mutation Linking Hemiplegic Migraine and Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood
Authors: de Vries B , Stam AH , Beker F , van den Maagdenberg AMJM , Vanmolkot KRJ , Laan LAEM , Ginjaar IB , Frants RR , Lauffer H , Haan J , Haas JP , Terwindt GM , Ferrari MD
Published: May 2008

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) and alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) are severe neurological disorders that share clinical features. Therefore, FHM genes are candidates for AHC. We performed mutation analysis in the CACNA1A gene in a monozygotic twin pair with clinical features overlapping with both AHC and FHM and identified a novel de novo CACNA1A mutation. We provide the first evidence that a CACNA1A mutation can cause atypical AHC, indicating an overlap of molecular mechanisms causing AHC and FHM. These results also suggest that CACNA1A mutation scanning is indicated in patients with a severe neurological phenotype that includes paroxysmal (alternating) hemiplegia.
Whiplash Headache is Transitory Worsening of a Pre-Existing Primary Headache
Authors: Stovner LJ , Obelieniene D
Published: May 2008

Acute and chronic whiplash headache are new diagnostic entities in the ICHD-2 (5.3, 5.4). In a prospective cohort study, 210 rear-end collision victims were identified consecutively from police records and asked about head and neck pain in questionnaires after 2 weeks, 3 months and 1 year. The results were compared with those of matched controls who were also followed for 1 year. Of 210 accident victims, 75 developed headache within 7 days. Of these, 37 had also neck pain and complied with the criteria for acute whiplash headache. These 37 had the same headache diagnoses, headache features, accompanying symptoms and long-term prognosis as the 38 without initial neck pain who therefore did not comply with the acute whiplash headache diagnosis. Previous headache was a major risk factor for headache both in the acute and chronic stage. Compared with the non-traumatized controls, headache in the whiplash group had the same prevalence, the same diagnoses and characteristic features, and the same prognosis. Both acute and chronic whiplash headache lack specificity compared with the headache in a control group, and have the same long-term prognosis, indicating that such headaches are primary headaches, probably elicited by the stress of the situation.
Physical Therapy and Exercise in Headache
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas C
Published: May 2008

To date the effects of physical therapy or exercise in headaches has hardly been analysed. Conflicting results in previous studies might be due to the low number of clinical trials plus an indiscriminate application of different techniques. As different pathogenic mechanisms seem to be involved in each headache, the most appropriate techniques might differ in each case. Future research should address the evaluation of specific physical therapy procedures for each headache disorder, and the identification of those subgroups of patients who are most likely to benefit from a particular intervention.
Cervicogenic Headache: Invasive Procedures
Authors: Fredriksen TA
Published: May 2008

A review of the most important invasive treatment options for cervicogenic headache is given. The methods are briefly described and discussed.
Nickel earlobe dermatitis and clinical non‐relevance of the oral exposure
Authors: Di Berardino F , Alpini D , Cesarani A
Published: May 2008

Objective  Nickel is the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Because nickel restriction is commonly imposed on many patients with the only earlobe ACD to nickel hypersensitivity, the aim of this study was to identify the role of occasional and extended oral nickel exposure in these patients.

Design  This is a case–control study

Subjects  Thirty‐four outpatients, previously diagnosed as monosensitized to nickel, suffering from earlobe dermatitis were enrolled; 11 of them showed active dermatitis. The control group consisted of six healthy (non‐nickel‐sensitive) subjects.

Interventions  High oral nickel challenge (20 mg) and protracted oral challenge (1 mg once a day). Observation period: 6 weeks.

Results  Clinical earlobe lesions were not affected by a high oral nickel intake nor by a protracted oral challenge.

Conclusions  Dietary nickel restriction seems to be useless in patients with earlobe ACD due to nickel hypersensitivity.
Sensory clusters of toddlers with autism spectrum disorders: differences in affective symptoms
Authors: Ben‐Sasson A. , Cermak S.A. , Orsmond G.I. , Tager‐Flusberg H. , Kadlec M.B. , Carter A.S.
Published: May 2008

Background:  Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) show variability in their sensory behaviors. In this study we identified clusters of toddlers with ASDs who shared sensory profiles and examined differences in affective symptoms across these clusters.

Method:  Using cluster analysis 170 toddlers with ASDs were grouped based on parent rating of the Infant Toddler Sensory Profile (Dunn, 2002) under‐responsivity, over‐responsivity, and seeking scales. Affective symptoms were evaluated with the Infant Toddler Social Emotional Assessment (Carter & Briggs‐Gowan, 2005).

Results:  Three clusters were identified: (1) low frequency of sensory symptoms (n = 44); (2) high frequency of symptoms (n = 49); and (3) mixed (n = 77); high frequency of under‐and over‐responsivity and low frequency of seeking). Relative to the low frequency cluster, parents rated toddlers in the high frequency and mixed clusters (both characterized by high frequencies of sensory under‐ and over‐responsivity) as higher on negative emotionality, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Sensory and affective differences among clusters remained after co‐varying severity of ASD symptoms.

Conclusions:  Interdisciplinary assessments are recommended for toddlers with ASDs in order to identify the interplay of sensory and affective symptoms.
Effect of Yttria on Interfacial Reactions Between Titanium Melt and Hot‐Pressed Yttria/Zirconia Composites at 1700°C
Authors: Lin Chien‐Cheng , Chang Yao‐Wen , Lin Kun‐Lin , Lin Kun‐Fung
Published: May 2008

Various Y2O3/ZrO2 samples were fabricated by hot pressing, whereby Y2O3 was mutually dissolved or reacted with ZrO2 as a solid solution or Zr3Y4O12. Hot‐pressed samples were allowed to react with Ti melt at 1700°C for 10 min in argon. Microstructural characterization was conducted using X‐ray diffraction and analytical electron microscopy. The Y2O3/ZrO2 samples became more stable with increasing Y2O3 because Y2O3 was hardly reacted and dissolved with Ti melt. The incorporation of more than 30 vol% Y2O3 could effectively suppress the reactions in the Ti side, where only a very small amount of α‐Ti and β′‐Ti was found. When ZrO2 was dissolved into Ti on the zirconia side near the original interfaces, Y2O3 reprecipitated in the samples containing 30%–70 vol% Y2O3, because the solubility of Y2O3 in Ti was very low. In the region far from the original interface, α‐Zr, Y2O3, and/or residual Zr3Y4O12 were found in the samples containing more than 50 vol% Y2O3 and the amount of α‐Zr decreased with increasing Y2O3.
Intensely Photoluminescent Pseudo‐Amorphous SiliconOxyCarboNitride Polymer–Ceramic Hybrids
Authors: Ferraioli Luigi , Ahn Dongjoon , Saha Atanu , Pavesi Lorenzo , Raj Rishi
Published: May 2008

SilconOxyCarboNitrides (SiCNO), made from thermal treatments of highly cross‐linked silicon, nitrogen, and oxygen containing polymers, exhibit intense luminescence that is broadly distributed over wavelengths of 500–800 nm. The intensity is sensitive to the composition, and especially to the heat‐treatment temperature (THT) of these new materials. The absorbance increases, and thus the brightness of the emission dims, as THT rises. The phenomenology suggests the presence of two, spatially and energetically separated, molecular complexes: one that absorbs and another that produces photoluminescence. The SiCNO are an entirely new class of high‐temperature materials that can be molecularly tailored for optical device applications.
Enhancing Electrical Properties in NBT–KBT Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Ceramics by Optimizing Sintering Temperature
Authors: Zhang Ya‐Ru , Li Jing‐Feng , Zhang Bo‐Ping
Published: May 2008

Conventional sintering of (Na1−xKx)0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (abbreviated as NKBTx, x=18–22 mol%) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics was investigated to clarify the optimal sintering temperature for densification and electrical properties. Both sintered density and electrical properties were sensitive to sintering temperature; particularly, the piezoelectric properties deteriorated when the ceramics were sintered above the optimum temperature. The NKBT20 and NKBT22 ceramics synthesized at 1110°–1170°C showed a phase transition from tetragonal to rhombohedral symmetry, which was similar to the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). Because of such MPB‐like behavior, the highest piezoelectric constant (d33) of about 192 pC/N with a high electromechanical coupling factor (kp) of about 32% were obtained in the NKBT22 ceramics sintered at 1150°C.
Enhanced Visible Light Absorption in a Photocatalytic Thin Film from a Decoupled Photonic Crystal
Authors: Li Qi , Liang Wei , Shang Jian Ku
Published: May 2008

The optical and photocatalytic properties of a photonic crystal structure were examined to elucidate the origin of the enhanced visible light absorption from semiconductor photonic crystals. Both an enhancement in visible light absorption and an increase of the photoactivity of the semiconductor photocatalyst were found when a photonic crystal layer was decoupled from the photocatalytic film. The decoupling clearly shows that the optical enhancement arose from the dielectric mirror effect of the photonic crystal. As such, the enhancement was maximized by matching the high light absorbance region of photocatalytic semiconductors with the characteristic photonic band gap of the decoupled photonic crystal layer under various illumination conditions. For enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity, the decoupled photonic crystal layer does not have to be made from the same light‐harvesting materials, but can be synthesized by a wide range of materials for ease of the fabrication process.
Borate Volatility from SOFC Sealing Glasses
Authors: Zhang Teng , Fahrenholtz William G. , Reis Signo T. , Brow Richard K.
Published: May 2008

The volatility of borate species from glasses developed for solid oxide fuel cell seals was studied using thermodynamic calculations and compared with experimental results. Vapor pressure diagrams were used to identify the most volatile compounds under a range of expected operational conditions, e.g. oxidizing and reducing atmospheres with water vapor, at temperatures in the range of 700°–1000°C. The species with the highest vapor pressures were BO2(g) under dry conditions and B3H3O6(g) under wet, reducing conditions. The depletion of boron from glass surfaces to depths beyond 100 nm was characterized using Auger electron spectroscopy depth profile analysis. Weight loss experiments were conducted on several different glass compositions. The cumulative weight loss from a glass with 20 mol% B2O3 (“glass #59”) was about 10 times greater than from a glass with 2 mol% B2O3 (“glass #27”), under the same conditions. The activation energy for volatilization from glass #59 was 371±86 kJ/mol and was 272±65 kJ/mol for “glass #27.” The cumulative weight loss of each composition in forming gas with 30% water vapor was greater than in dry air at 800°C. Volatile species were collected in a water trap, and these results confirmed predictions about the effect of atmosphere and B2O3 content on volatilization behavior.
In Situ Monitoring of Structural Changes in Boron Carbide Under Electric Fields
Authors: Fanchini Giovanni , Gupta Varun , Mann Adrian B. , Chhowalla Manish
Published: May 2008

In situ monitoring of the transformation of B4C under electric field using Raman spectroscopy is reported. Application of electric fields up to 5000 V/cm leads to local segregation of carbon, indicated by the appearance of Raman D and G peaks. At low electric fields (<3000 V/cm) the segregated carbon is amorphous, while at higher fields aromatic sp2 clustering is observed. Electrical measurements as a function of temperature are used to complement the Raman measurements. The results demonstrate that it is possible to induce transformations in boron carbide using electric fields that are comparable with those obtained under shock and nanoindentation.
Memories of “Bad” Days Are More Biased Than Memories of “Good” Days: Past Saturdays Vary, but Past Mondays Are Always Blue
Authors: Areni Charles S. , Burger Mitchell
Published: May 2008

In a survey of 202 participants, Monday was cited most frequently as the worst morning (65%) and evening (35%); whereas Friday (43%) and Saturday (45%) were the best evening and morning, respectively. Test–retest reliability was higher for worst morning (.89) and evening (.83) judgments, compared to best morning (.44) and evening (.61) judgments. In a second survey of 353 participants, ratings of typical moods were lowest on Monday, rising to a peak on Saturday, but actual momentary moods showed little or no variation by day. Remembered moods from the previous Monday were more strongly related to typical moods than to actual moods, but the reverse was true of remembered moods from the previous Friday and Saturday.
Social Support Opinions1
Authors: Harber Kent D. , Jussim Lee , Kennedy Kathleen A. , Freyberg Robin , Baum Lisa
Published: May 2008

This research introduces the Social Support Opinion Survey (SSOS), the first measure of social support from the provider's perspective. Studies 1–3 developed the SSOS and confirmed that support opinions can be reliably characterized as directive (attempting to govern how others cope) and nondirective (facilitating without governing how others cope). Studies 4–6 showed that social support opinions relate to more basic cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal styles. Directive opinions were related to cognitive rigidity (need for structure, need for certainty, and just‐world beliefs) and to an exchange orientation. Nondirective opinions, in contrast, were related to emotional differentiation, use of emotions as information, empathy, and a communal orientation. Thus, people may reveal who they are by how they help.
Can late summer Landsat data be used for locating Asian migratory locust, Locusta migratoria migratoria, oviposition sites in the Amudarya River delta, Uzbekistan?
Authors: Sivanpillai Ramesh , Latchininsky Alexandre V.
Published: May 2008

Existing survey methods for assessing the Asian migratory locust, Locusta migratoria migratoria L. (Orthoptera: Acrididae), infestation risk in the Amudarya River delta, Uzbekistan, are largely constrained by economic resources and site accessibility. The surveys are restricted to a few easily accessible areas, which leads to a misinterpretation of the threat of locust infestation. This often results in indiscriminate blanket treatments of vast areas of wetlands with broad‐spectrum insecticides, which may adversely impact non‐target fauna and flora. In order to minimize the bias during surveys, one approach would be to allocate the sampling locations based on the distribution of the primary food and shelter plant of the locusts, the common reed, Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud (Poaceae). In this study, we evaluated the utility of satellite‐based remotely sensed data (Landsat TM) acquired in August 2006 to characterize reed distribution in the delta and identify potential locust oviposition sites. The overall accuracy of the Landsat data to map land cover classes in the delta was 84%. The Landsat TM data identified 90% of the reeds, but it was less useful in identifying areas where other vegetations (shrubs and grasses) were mixed with reeds. During the following summer field survey in June 2007, we identified 37 sites that were infested with early‐instar locusts. The low migration capacity of young nymphs in dense reed vegetation allowed us to presume that these sites were used for oviposition in the previous summer. Twenty‐eight (74%) of these 37 sites had reeds in the previous year. Results from these studies demonstrate that reed distribution maps derived from satellite data could be used for targeting locust egg‐pod survey locations, in order to minimize sampling bias while predicting locust infestation risks for the following season.
Ovipositional preferences and larval performances of two populations of Indianmeal moth, Plodia interpunctella
Authors: Sambaraju Kishan R. , Phillips Thomas W.
Published: May 2008

Oviposition decisions by female insects can determine the survival and fitness of their offspring. In this study, we assessed the larval performance and adult oviposition preferences of two populations of the Indianmeal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), one a long‐term laboratory colony and another recently collected from the field. Development assays on a variety of foods were conducted on individual larvae in small shell vials, and data were collected for survival (percent), development time (days), and adult weight (mg). Larvae from both populations did not survive on ground walnut, pecan, coriander, and fennel. There were significant differences in larval survival on laboratory diet, chick pea, and soybean between the two populations. Development times were the longest on prunes and barley. Mean adult weights were the highest on chick pea, laboratory diet, and soybean for the laboratory moths whereas soybean and chick pea were very suitable for the field moths. Overall, field moths weighed significantly less than the laboratory moths. Adult ovipositional preferences were assessed in no‐choice and four‐choice oviposition bioassays in plastic boxes containing diets differing in quality. In a no‐choice situation, the numbers of eggs laid by laboratory moths on soybean, apricots, and wheat were not significantly different. Field moths laid significantly greater numbers of eggs on soybean, and those numbers were similar to those laid on barley. In four‐choice bioassays, laboratory moths oviposited in diets previously determined to be unsuitable for their progeny survival. Field moths were more selective and laid significantly greater numbers of eggs on soybean than in dishes containing barley, coriander, or an empty dish. Our studies clearly showed that laboratory colonization of Plodia interpunctella for long periods can alter the behavioral patterns of immatures and adults.
Host plant diversity of Sesamia calamistis: cytochrome b gene sequences reveal local genetic differentiation
Authors: Ong’amo G. O. , Le Rü B. P. , Moyal P. , Calatayud P.‐A. , Le Gall P. , Ogol C. K. P. O. , Kokwaro E. D. , Capdevielle‐Dulac C. , Silvain J.‐F.
Published: May 2008

Sesamia calamistis Hampson (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the indigenous stem borer pests associated with maize (Zea mays L.) and sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] (both Poaceae) in Africa. Its pest status varies across the continent and this has been attributed to variation in diet breadth and ecological preferences among populations. Its larvae were found on 12 plant species during a study initiated at four sites (Muhaka, Mtito Andei, Kakamega, and Suam) in Kenya to estimate its diet breadth and genetic population structure. Ten of the infested plant species belonged to the family Poaceae [Echinochloa haploclada (Stapf) Stapf, Eleusine corocana L., Eleusine jaegeri Pilg., Panicum deustum Thunb, Panicum maximum Jacquin, Pennisetum purpureum Schumacher, Setaria verticillata (L.) P. Beauv., Sorghum arundinaceum (Desvaux) Stapf, S. bicolor, and Z. mays]; the other two were Cyperaceae: Cyperus distans L. and Cyperus dives Delile. Combined with collections from other African countries (Uganda, South Africa, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo), comparisons of partial cytochrome b sequences revealed the presence of 68 haplotypes that differentiated into clades I and II. In Kenya, the two clades colonized different regions, except in Mtito Andei where they co‐existed. Individuals from Mtito Andei could be separated based on their host plants: clade I with 14 haplotypes was found mainly on maize (78.6%), whereas clade II with 10 haplotypes was found mainly among wild host plants (63.6%). Detection of divergence among these clades with cytochrome b suggests that their evolutionary separation may have taken place about one million years ago. This article discusses the potential implication of this differentiation for the management of S. calamistis as a pest of maize and sorghum in Africa.
Brevinin‐2R1 semi‐selectively kills cancer cells by a distinct mechanism, which involves the lysosomal‐mitochondrial death pathway
Authors: Ghavami Saeid , Asoodeh Ahmad , Klonisch Thomas , Halayko Andrew J. , Kadkhoda Kamran , Kroczak Tadeusz J. , Gibson Spencer B. , Booy Evan P. , Naderi‐Manesh Hossein , Los Marek
Published: May 2008

Brevinin‐2R is a novel non‐hemolytic defensin that was isolated from the skin of the frog Rana ridibunda. It exhibits preferential cytotoxicity towards malignant cells, including Jurkat (T‐cell leukemia), BJAB (B‐cell lymphoma), HT29/219, SW742 (colon carcinomas), L929 (fibrosarcoma), MCF‐7 (breast adenocarcinoma), A549 (lung carcinoma), as compared to primary cells including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), T cells and human lung fibroblasts. Jurkat and MCF‐7 cells overexpressing Bcl2, and L929 and MCF‐7 over‐expressing a dominant‐negative mutant of a pro‐apoptotic BNIP3 (ΔTM‐BNIP3) were largely resistant towards Brevinin‐2R treatment. The decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), or total cellular ATP levels, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, but not caspase activation or the release of apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF) or endonuclease G (Endo G), were early indicators of Brevinin‐2R‐triggered death. Brevinin‐2R interacts with both early and late endosomes. Lysosomal membrane permeabilization inhibitors and inhibitors of cathepsin‐B and cathepsin‐L prevented Brevinin‐2R‐induced cell death. Autophagosomes have been detected upon Brevinin‐2R treatment. Our results show that Brevinin‐2R activates the lysosomalmitochondrial death pathway, and involves autophagy‐like cell death.
Mechanisms of the lysophosphatidic acid‐induced increase in [Ca2+]iin skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Xu Yan‐Jun , Tappia Paramjit S. , Goyal Ramesh K. , Dhalla Naranjan S.
Published: May 2008

Although lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is known to increase intracellularfree calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in different cell types, the effect of LPA on the skeletal muscle cells is not known. The present study was therefore undertaken to examine the effect of LPA on the [Ca2+]iin C2C12 cells. LPA induced a concentration and time dependent increase in [Ca2+]i, which was inhibited by VPC12249, VPC 32183 and dioctanoyl glycerol pyrophosphate, LPA1/3 receptor antagonists. Pertussis toxin, a Giprotein inhibitor, also inhibited the LPA‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i. Inhibition of tyrosine kinase activities with tyrphostin A9 and genistein also prevented the increase in [Ca2+]idue to LPA. Likewise, wortmannin and LY 294002, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3‐K) inhibitors, inhibited [Ca2+]iresponse to LPA. The LPA effect was also attenuated by ethylene glycolbis(β‐aminoethylether)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid (EGTA), an extracellular Ca2+chelator, Ni2+and KB‐R7943, inhibitors of the Na+‐Ca2+exchanger; the receptor operated Ca2+channel (ROC) blockers, 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate and SK&F 96365. However, the L‐type Ca2+channel blockers, verapamil and diltiazem; the store operated Ca2+channel blockers, La3+and Gd3+; a sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium pump inhibitor, thapsigargin; an inositol trisphosphate receptor antagonist, xestospongin and a phospholipase C inhibitor, U73122, did not prevent the increase [Ca2+]idue to LPA. Our data suggest that the LPA‐induced increase in [Ca2+]imight occur through Gi‐protein coupled LPA1/3receptors that may be linked to tyrosine kinase and PI3‐K, and may also involve the Na+‐Ca2+exchanger as well as the ROC. In addition, LPA stimulated C2C12 cell proliferationviaPI3‐K. Thus, LPA may be an important phospholipid in the regulation of [Ca2+]iand growth of skeletal muscle cells.
Functional effects of caloxin 1c2, a novel engineered selective inhibitor of plasma membrane Ca2+‐pump isoform 4, on coronary artery
Authors: Pande Jyoti , Szewczyk Magdalena M. , Kuszczak Iwona , Grover Shawn , Escher E. , Grover Ashok K.
Published: May 2008

Coronary artery smooth muscle expresses the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump (PMCA) isoforms PMCA4 and PMCA1. We previously reported the peptide inhibitor caloxin 1b1 that was obtained by using extracellular domain 1 of PMCA4 as the target (Am J Physiol Cell.290 [2006] C1341). To engineer inhibitors with greater affinity and isoform selectivity, we have now created a phage display library of caloxin 1b1‐like peptides. We screened this library by affinity chromatography with PMCA from erythrocyte ghosts that contain mainly PMCA4 to obtain caloxin 1c2. Key properties of caloxin 1c2 are (a) Ki = 2.3 ± 0.3 μM which corresponds to a 20× higher affinity for PMCA4 than that of caloxin 1b1 and (b) it is selective for PMCA4 since it has greater than 10‐fold affinity for PMCA4 than for PMCA1, 2 or 3. It had the following functional effects on coronary artery smooth muscle: (a) it increased basal tone of the de‐endothelialized arteries; the increase being similar at 10, 20 or 50 μM, and (b) it enhanced the increase in the force of contraction at 0.05 but not at 1.6 mM extracellular Ca2+ when Ca2+ extrusion via the Na+–Ca2+ exchanger and the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump were inhibited. We conclude that PMCA4 is pivotal to Ca2+ extrusion in coronary artery smooth muscle. We anticipate caloxin 1c2 to aid in understanding the role of PMCA4 in signal transduction and home‐ostasis due to its isoform selectivity and ability to act when added extracellularly.
Angiogenic activity of multiple myeloma endothelial cells in vivo in the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assay is associated to a down‐regulation in the expression of endogenous endostatin
Authors: Mangieri Domenica , Nico Beatrice , Benagiano Vincenzo , De Giorgis Michela , Vacca Angelo , Ribatti Domenico
Published: May 2008

We have attempted a fine characterization of the angiogenic response induced by multiple myeloma endothelial cells (MMEC) by using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay and by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Results showed that in the CAM assay MMEC induced an angiogenic response comparable to that of a well‐known angiogenic cytokine, namely fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2), while RT‐PCR demonstrated that the expression of endostatin mRNA detected in MM treated CAM was significantly lower respect to control CAM. These data suggest that angiogenic switch in MM may involve loss of an endogenous angiogenesis inhibitor, such as endostatin.
Full‐mouth treatment concepts for chronic periodontitis: a systematic review
Authors: Eberhard Jörg , Jervøe‐Storm Pia‐Merete , Needleman Ian , Worthington Helen , Jepsen Søren
Published: May 2008

Objectives: To systematically review the effectiveness of full‐mouth treatment concepts for chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods: A search was conducted for randomized, controlled clinical trials including full‐mouth scaling with (FMD) or without (FMS) the use of antiseptics and quadrant scaling (control). Data sources included COHG, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Reviewers independently conducted data abstraction and quality assessment. The primary outcome was tooth loss; secondary outcomes were the reductions of PPD and BOP and a gain of CAL.

Results: Of 216 identified abstracts, seven trials were included. Meta‐analysis revealed a weighted mean difference (WMD) for the reduction of PPD between FMD and control of 0.53 mm [95% confidence interval (CI) (0.28, 0.77), p<0.0001] in moderately deep pockets of single‐rooted teeth. The WMD for gain in CAL was 0.33 mm [95% CI (0.04, 0.63), p=0.03] in moderately deep pockets of single‐ and multi‐rooted teeth. Comparing FMD and FMS, the WMD for the reduction of CAL amounted to 0.74 mm [95% CI (0.17, 1.31), p=0.01] in deep pockets of multi‐rooted teeth in favour of FMS. For BOP a WMD –18.0% [95% CI (−34.30, −1.70), p=0.03] was calculated in deep pockets of single‐rooted teeth in favour of FMD.

Conclusions: In adults with chronic periodontitis only minor differences in treatment effects were observed between the treatment strategies.
Tooth loss and implant outcomes in patients refractory to treatment in a periodontal practice
Authors: Fardal Øystein , Linden Gerard James
Published: May 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with continued significant tooth loss due to periodontal reasons during maintenance following periodontal therapy in a specialist periodontal practice in Norway.

Material and Methods: A case–control design was used. Refractory cases were patients who lost multiple teeth during a maintenance period of 13.4 (range 8–19) years following definitive periodontal treatment in a specialist practice. Controls were age‐ and gender‐matched maintenance patients from the same practice. Characteristics and treatment outcomes were assessed, and all teeth classified as being lost due to periodontal disease during follow‐up were identified. The use of implants in refractory cases and any complications relating to such a treatment were recorded.

Results: Only 27 (2.2%) patients who received periodontal treatment between 1986 and 1998 in a specialist practice met the criteria for inclusion in the refractory to treatment group. Each refractory subject lost 10.4 (range 4–16) teeth, which represented 50% of the teeth present at baseline. The rate of tooth loss in the refractory group was 0.78 teeth per year, which was 35 times greater than that in the control group. Multivariate analysis indicated that being in the refractory group was predicted by heavy smoking (p=0.026), being stressed (p=0.016) or having a family history of periodontitis (p=0.002). Implants were placed in 14 of the refractory patients and nine (64%) of these lost at least one implant. In total, 17 (25%) of the implants placed in the refractory group were lost during the study period.

Conclusions: A small number of periodontal maintenance patients are refractive to treatment and go on to experience significant tooth loss. These subjects also have a high level of implant complications and failure. Heavy smoking, stress and a family history of periodontal disease were identified as factors associated with a refractory outcome.
G1 cell cycle regulators in congenital melanocytic nevi. Comparison with acquired nevi and melanomas
Authors: Stefanaki Christina , Stefanaki Kalliopi , Antoniou Christina , Argyrakos Theodoros , Stratigos Alexander , Patereli Amalia , Katsambas Andreas
Published: May 2008

Background:  Congenital nevi are one of the known risk factors for the development of melanoma. However, the magnitude of the risk for both large and small congenital nevi is controversial.

Methods:  In order to elucidate the behavior of congenital nevocytes and to define any possible similarities or differences with common nevi and melanomas, we investigated the expression of Ki‐67, Rb, p16, cyclin D1, p53 and p21/Waf‐1 in 41 congenital nevi, 16 melanomas and 20 acquired common nevi by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  Congenital nevi highly expressed p16 (81.82 ± 9.98) but showed limited, if any, reactivity for Ki‐67 (1.34% ± 0.89), Rb (0.76% ± 0.94), cyclin D1 (0.21% ± 0.29), p53 (0.54% ± 0.93) and p21 (0.0609% ± 0.32). No statistically significant difference was found between giant and nongiant congenital nevi and between congenital and common nevi for any of the markers. The expression of p16 was significantly higher in congenital nevi than in melanomas (p < 0.0001). On the contrary, the expression of Ki‐67, p53, p21, Rb and cyclin D1 was significantly higher in melanomas (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:  Our data regarding the immunohistochemical expression of Rb, p16, p53, cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 in congenital nevi indicate that either the alteration of their expression is not an initiating event in melanoma formation or, alternatively, congenital melanocytic nevi may not be the first step in malignant transformation.
Analysis of FHIT allelic imbalance/loss of heterozygosity and FHIT expression in cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Gray Sarah E. , Kay Elaine , Leader Mary , Mabruk Mohamed
Published: May 2008

Aberrations of the tumor suppressor gene, the fragile histidine triad gene (FHIT), have been reported in a wide variety of human cancers including cervical carcinoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and oesophageal SCC. This study aimed to examine the integrity of the FHIT gene in cutaneous SCC. Allelic imbalance/loss of heterozygosity (AI/LOH) was examined in 21 histologically confirmed cutaneous SCC at two microsatellite markers, D3S1300 and D3S4103, both of which are located within intron 5 of the FHIT gene. Immunohistochemical analysis of FHIT protein expression was also examined in the cutaneous SCC. Ten of the 16 informative cutaneous SCC samples (63%) displayed AI/LOH at the D3S1300 locus, and 13 of the 17 informative cutaneous SCC samples (76%) displayed AI/LOH at the D3S4103 locus. Nine of the 21 SCC samples were found to be positive for FHIT protein expression, however, a further nine SCC samples showed reduced FHIT expression, and three SCC samples did not express the FHIT protein. No correlation between AI/LOH of the FHIT gene and reduced/absent FHIT expression was detected in the cutaneous SCC samples. Further investigation into the role of the FHIT protein in the epidermis is warranted to determine if the reduced/lost expression of FHIT observed in a subset of the cutaneous SCC is contributing to tumorigenesis.
Merkel cell carcinoma with squamous and sarcomatous differentiation
Authors: Hwang June H. K. , Alanen Ken , Dabbs Kelly D. , Danyluk John , Silverman Sveta
Published: May 2008

Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive neuroendocrine tumor historically thought to arise from neural crest‐derived cutaneous neuroendocrine cells. Recent evidence supports an epidermal origin. We present a case of Merkel cell carcinoma arising on the upper arm of a 94‐year‐old woman that had multiple morphologic patterns: small cells typical of Merkel cell carcinoma, malignant cells with squamous differentiation and malignant poorly differentiated spindle cells. Subsequent metastatic disease in regional lymph nodes showed only the small cells and the malignant spindle cells. To our knowledge, this is the first case of Merkel cell carcinoma showing these three patterns of differentiation at first presentation. This morphology raises the possibility that Merkel cell carcinomas may arise from epidermal stem cells that can differentiate along different lines.
Immunohistochemistry of pigmented actinic keratoses, actinic keratoses, melanomas in situ and solar lentigines with Melan‐A
Authors: Helm Klaus , Findeis‐Hosey Jennifer
Published: May 2008

Distinguishing lentigo maligna from solar lentigo, and pigmented actinic keratosis can sometimes be problematic. Melan‐A is an immunohistochemical marker which that can be helpful in decorating the melanocytes of pigmented lesions. A recent report has suggested that Melan‐A may spuriously label nests of junctional keratinocytes, potentially leading to the misdiagnosis of melanoma in situ. We compared Melan‐A immunohistochemical staining in pigmented actinic keratosis , non‐pigmented actinic keratoses , melanoma in situ of lentigo maligna type and solar lentigines. We found a statistically significant increase of Melan‐A staining in melanoma in situ, but no statistical difference in the number of junctional Melan‐A positively staining cells, in solar lentigines, pigmented actinic keratoses, and non‐pigmented actinic keratoses, respectively. In the non non‐melanoma samples, the Melan‐A A‐positive cells located at the dermal‐epidermal junction were interspersed and not observed in clusters. Increased staining with Melan‐A, in an actinic keratosis, or solar lentigo should raise the possibility of a contiguous melanoma in situ.
Immunological disturbance and infectious disease in anorexia nervosa: a review
Authors: Brown Rhonda F. , Bartrop Roger , Birmingham C. Laird
Published: May 2008

Objective:

Severely malnourished patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) are reported to show fewer symptomatic viral infections and a poorer response to bacterial infection than controls. They are also reported to show mild immune system changes, although the relevance of these to altered infection disease presentation in AN and AN pathophysiology is unknown. Thus, in this paper, we suggest a range of immune system changes that might underpin these altered responses to common pathogens, and review a number of recent infectious disease findings for their utility in explaining the pathophysiology of AN.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature pertaining to immunity and infectious disease in AN was performed.

Results:

AN is associated with leucopenia, and the increased spontaneous and stimulated levels of proinflammatory cytokines [i.e. interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor α). A range of less consistent findings are also reviewed. Most of these data were not controlled for length of illness, degree of malnutrition, micronutrient or vitamin deficiencies or recent refeeding and starvation.

Conclusion:

Cytokine disturbances have been suggested to be causally related to AN symptomatology and pathophysiology of AN, although the evidence supporting this assertion is lacking. Immune and cytokine changes in AN do, however, occur in association with a decreased incidence of symptomatic viral infection, decreased clinical response to bacterial infection leading to delayed diagnosis and increased morbidity and mortality associated with the infections.
Lymphogranuloma venereum outbreak in Europe
Authors: Stary Georg , Stary Angelika
Published: May 2008

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a venereal disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis biovars L1 to L3. Unlike other anogenital C. trachomatis infections, LGV preferably affects lymphatic tissue after invasion through an epithelial surface.

LGV has been considered an exotic tropical disease in Europe. This changed in 2003 as there was an outbreak of LGV in Rotterdam followed by additional reports from other European countries and North America. Most patients were HIV‐positive men who presented with proctitis. Most of these patients were infected by C. trachomatis L2b biovar, a variant that was first identified in patients from Amsterdam.

This review will address the recent developments of the LGV outbreak in Europe and discuss epidemiology, clinical manifestations, new subtypes of LGV genotypes and appropriate diagnostic measures.
Cutaneous infection with Leishmania infantum in an infant treated successfully with miltefosine
Authors: Neub Angela , Krahl Dieter , Stich August , Amon Ulrich
Published: May 2008

A two‐year‐old girl presented with a 20 month history of a facial nodule which had appeared after a vacation on Mallorca. Various topical treatments at other hospitals for the working diagnosis of mastocytoma failed to prevent a slow increase in size and the onset of systemic signs and symptoms. An indurated crusted nodule evolved. Histology, tissue PCR and serologic analysis proved the presence of Leishmania infantum. She was treated with oral miltefosine 10 mg p.o. t.i.d. for 28 days. Regression was apparent after 8 weeks and complete healing after 6 months.
HIV infection: Fear of contagion, reality of risk
Authors: HOLZEMER William L.
Published: May 2008

Purpose:  The purpose of this presentation at the 2007 Annual Meeting of the Japan Academy of Nursing was to give an overview of the HIV pandemic from global, Asian, and Japanese perspectives and to address the issues related to potential occupational exposure to HIV infection. Selected topics in the areas of prevention, treatment, and care were also addressed.

Discussion:  The session challenged the audience to understand that, while there is a risk of acquiring HIV infection through occupational exposure, the reality is that health‐care workers and others are much more likely to contract HIV through their own personal behaviour.
Harmonization of fibrinogen assay results: study within the framework of the Dutch project ‘Calibration 2000’
Authors: Van Den BESSELAAR A. M. H. P. , HAAS F. J. L. M. , Van Der GRAAF F. , KUYPERS A. W. H. M.
Published: May 2008

In a Dutch project for harmonization of fibrinogen assays, the commutability of potential calibrators for fibrinogen was assessed by means of a twin‐study design, which is, in essence, a multicentre, split‐patient sample, between‐field‐methods protocol. The study consisted of simultaneous analysis of fresh‐frozen patient plasmas and three potential calibrators for fibrinogen by 48 Dutch laboratories forming 24 couples. The state‐of‐the‐art intralaboratory standard deviation was used to assess the commutability of the potential calibrators. The potential calibrators were commutable for the Clauss, but not for the prothrombin time (PT)‐derived assays. One potential calibrator was used in an attempt to harmonize fibrinogen assay results in a Dutch field study. The interlaboratory coefficient of variation (CV) of three out of four test samples could be reduced significantly using the common calibrator. The average overall CV for the four test samples was 10.3% using the routine measurements and 7.8% using the common calibrator. Despite the reduction in the overall CV, the bias between Clauss and PT‐derived assay results in two coumarin test samples could not be eliminated.
Relative Contributions of Age and Atherosclerosis to Vascular Stiffness
Authors: Santelices Linda C. , Rutman Sarah J. , Prantil‐Baun Rachelle , Vorp David A. , Ahearn Joseph M.
Published: May 2008

To determine the relative contributions of aging and atherosclerosis to vascular stiffness, we studied aortic stiffness, plaque, and elastin in 8‐, 16‐, 25‐, and 34‐week‐old male ApoE‐KO and C57BL/6J control mice (N = 48). Stiffness increased gradually in both strains up to 25 weeks (p < 0.05), and dramatically between 25 and 34 weeks in ApoE‐KO (p < 0.001). Aging ApoE‐KO demonstrated increased plaque (p = 0.02), medial thickening (p < 0.001), and severe elastin fragmentation (p < 0.001). We conclude that the contribution of aging to vascular stiffness is relatively minor compared with the influence of atherosclerosis. However, the effect of atherosclerosis on stiffness is significant only with advanced stages of plaque formation.
Nexus Between Epidermolysis Bullosa and Transcriptional Regulation by Thyroid Hormone in Epidermal Keratinocytes
Authors: Tomic‐Canic Marjana , Stojadinovic Olivera , Lee Brian , Walsh Rebecca , Blumenberg Miroslav
Published: May 2008

Thyroid hormone, T3, through the interaction of its receptor with the recognition sequences in the DNA, regulates gene expression. This regulation includes the promoter activity of keratin genes. The receptor shares coregulators with other members of the nuclear receptor family, including RXR. Intending to define the transcriptional effects of thyroid hormones in keratinocytes, we used Affymetrix microarrays to comprehensively compare the genes expressed in T3‐treated and untreated human epidermal keratinocytes. The transcriptomes were compared at 1, 4, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Surprisingly, T3 induced only 9 and suppressed 28 genes, much fewer than expected. Significantly, genes associated with epidermolysis bullosa, a set of inherited blistering skin diseases, were found statistically highly overrepresented among the suppressed genes. These genes include Integrin β4, Plectin, Collagen XVII, MMP1, MMP3, and MMP14. The data imply that in keratinocytes T3 could suppresses the remodeling by, attachment to, and production of extracellular matrix. The results suggest that topical treatment with T3 may be effective for alleviation of symptoms in patients with epidermolysis bullosa.