bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualização linfocintigráfica da desembocadura do ducto torácico
Authors: Marques Silvio Romero Barros , Lins Esdras Marques , Marchetti Fernanda , Sohsten Walter V.
Published: May 2006

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a sensibilidade da linfocintigrafia intersticial na visualização da desembocadura do ducto torácico. MÉTODO: Foram analisados 535 exames linfocintigráficos realizados no Serviço de Medicina Nuclear do Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), no período de 1993 a 1999. Todas as linfocintigrafias foram realizadas através da injeção subcutânea, no primeiro espaço interdigital de cada pé, de 1 ml da solução de Dextran 500 marcado com Tecnécio-99 metaestável. RESULTADOS: A desembocadura do ducto torácico foi visualizada em 424 pacientes, que representam 79,3% das linfocintigrafias realizadas. Na avaliação por sexo, a desembocadura do ducto torácico foi visualizada em 191 pacientes do sexo feminino, representando 77% dos casos. Nos pacientes do sexo masculino, a desembocadura foi visualizada em 233 casos (80,9%). CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo confirma a importância da linfocintigrafia como método de escolha na avaliação da circulação linfática e demonstra que esse exame apresenta uma alta sensibilidade para a visualização da desembocadura do ducto torácico.
Derivação carótido-carotídea por via retrofaríngea: seguimento tardio
Authors: Aerts Newton Roech , Erling Jr. Nilon , Lichtenfels Eduardo
Published: May 2006

Existem diversas opções para o tratamento da doença oclusiva dos troncos supra-aórticos, de acordo com a apresentação clínica e a localização das lesões arteriais. As abordagens cervicais são aceitas como alternativas de baixa morbimortalidade, com elevada perviedade em longo prazo. Os autores relatam um caso tratado com sucesso através de derivação carótido-carotídea cruzada por via retrofaríngea associada à endarterectomia da bifurcação carotídea. São discutidos também os aspectos clínicos e as opções cirúrgicas ou endovasculares para o melhor tratamento desses pacientes.
Reducing damage to concrete stitches in bridge decks
Authors: Kwan A. K. H. , Ng P. L.
Published: May 2006

In bridge widening projects, it is a common practice to provide a monolithic connection between the existing and new decks by casting an in situ concrete stitching slab. Due to the difficulties associated with complete closure of the bridge, traffic flow has to be maintained on the existing deck. As a result, the existing deck will deflect under traffic load and the concrete stitching slab will be subjected to differential deflection, which is cyclic in nature. Such cyclic differential deflection hinders strength development of the concrete and may affect the structural integrity of the stitching slab. Some possible methods of reducing the differential deflection so as to mitigate damage to the curing concrete stitches have been proposed, but no systematic comparative studies have been carried out. These methods include traffic restriction, provision of temporary shear connections, provision of temporary propping and segmental concrete stitching. This paper evaluates the relative effectiveness of these mitigation measures as well as their different combinations by conducting grillage analysis of the widening bridge deck at various stages of construction. Based on the results, it is advocated that among these, the combination of temporary shear connection and segmental concrete stitching should be the most practicable and effective.
Long-term maintenance strategies for highway bridges
Authors: Vassie P. R. , Arya C.
Published: May 2006

The need for cost-effective maintenance strategies for highway bridges is becoming increasingly important as these structures age and the demands for funding expand. Shortfalls in the annual budget to complete all the identified work also requires that rational procedures be formulated regarding when maintenance work on different structures within a stock should take place. Two main types of maintenance are considered: steady state and essential. The concept of an optimal maintenance programme is introduced. In most cases this is the ideal situation since it minimises long-term costs and disruption to users of the structures. In practice, optimal maintenance strategies may not be affordable when first introduced if there is a backlog of work resulting in a need to prioritise parts of the work. Prioritisation is discussed in terms of quantifying the consequences of deferring maintenance work, and ranking the bridges in the stock by their value of cost: benefit ratio of deferring the work. The use of a long-term plan to eliminate maintenance backlogs that arise from long-term underfunding is explained and the ‘long-term plan formula’ is introduced. A flow chart is provided to prioritise the maintenance on bridges included in a long-term plan.
Application of Periodontal Tissue Engineering Using Enamel Matrix Derivative and a Human Fibroblast‐Derived Dermal Substitute to Stimulate Periodontal Wound Healing in Class III Furcation Defects
Authors: Hovey Lawrence R. , Jones Archie A. , McGuire Michael , Mellonig James T. , Schoolfield John , Cochran David L.
Published: May 2006

Background: Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has been shown to promote several aspects of periodontal regeneration in vitro and in vivo. Recently, a bioengineered tissue (DG) was developed to promote wound healing of chronic skin ulcers. This pilot study sought to assess the effects of EMD and DG, alone or in combination, on periodontal wound healing in surgically created Class III furcation defects.

Methods: Six female baboons received bilateral ostectomy of ∼10 mm around the first and second mandibular molars to achieve Class III, subclass C furcation defects. Wire ligatures and cotton pellets were left in place for 2 months to maintain the depth of the defects and promote plaque accumulation. Each furcally involved molar was then assigned to one of four treatments: open flap debridement (OFD), OFD plus EMD, OFD plus DG, or OFD plus DG and EMD. This resulted in six total sites per treatment group. Seven months after defect creation and 5 months after treatment, and after no oral hygiene, tissue blocks of the mandible were taken for blinded histometric analysis to assess parameters of periodontal regeneration adjacent to furcal root surfaces and from the mid‐furcal aspect (i.e., new bone, new connective tissue attachment, new epithelial attachment, and new cementum formation).

Results: Histometric analysis demonstrated differential regenerative responses with respect to treatment within each animal. However, statistically significant differences between treatments from all six animals were not observed (P >0.20, mixed‐model analysis of variance). EMD‐treated sites presented mildly positive regenerative results and no negative responses. Both DG only and combination therapy demonstrated similar or less than positive responses relative to OFD controls.

Conclusion: The descriptive analysis may suggest a positive effect of enamel matrix proteins and a negative effect of DG used alone or in combination with enamel matrix proteins on the regeneration of Class III furcation defects in baboons.
Inhibitory Effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Alpha on Migration of Human Periodontal Ligament Cells
Authors: Takemura Akane , Nakagawa Ichiro , Kawai Shinji , Inaba Hiroaki , Kato Takahiro , Hamada Shigeyuki , Amano Atsuo
Published: May 2006

Background: Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) is associated with chronic gingival inflammation and is suspected to influence periodontal destruction. However, the exact roles of TNF‐α in wound healing and periodontal tissue regeneration are largely unknown. In the present study, we examined the effects of TNF‐α on migration and proliferation of human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells.

Methods: PDL cells were cultured in the presence of TNF‐α to determine its effects on cellular migration and proliferation. The protein expression profiles of α5 and β1 integrin subunits and their related molecules, paxillin and focal adhesion kinases (FAK), were investigated. Gene expression of fibronectin also was assayed. Further, the activation of Rho‐family small guanosine triphosphate (GTP)‐binding protein (RhoA) was evaluated using a GTP‐loading pull‐down assay, and focal adhesion formation by PDL cells after transfection with the expression vector of paxillin‐fused green fluorescent protein (GFP) also was observed with confocal microscopy.

Results: Cellular migration was impaired by TNF‐α and recovered following the addition of anti‐TNF‐α antibodies. In contrast, PDL cell proliferation was not affected by TNF‐α. TNF‐α upregulated the expression of the α5 and β1 integrin subunits, whereas fibronectin was not overexpressed. Phosphorylation of paxillin and FAK by PDL cells was induced, and RhoA activation also was induced. Confocal microscopic analysis revealed that TNF‐α induced focal adhesion and stress fiber formation in all parts of the cells.

Conclusion: Our results suggested that TNF‐α impairs cellular migration by enhancing cellular adhesive ability following significant focal adhesion and stress fiber formation.
Profiling the Cytokines in Gingival Crevicular Fluid Using a Cytokine Antibody Array
Authors: Sakai Akihiko , Ohshima Mitsuhiro , Sugano Naoyuki , Otsuka Kichibee , Ito Koichi
Published: May 2006

Background: Various compounds have been detected in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) as indicators of periodontal disease activity. Therefore, the analysis of GCF may be especially beneficial for diagnosing current periodontal status and addressing the effects of treatment. Moreover, the identification of new markers in GCF may also contribute to elucidating novel mechanisms involved in periodontal disease. This study sought novel marker proteins specific to chronic periodontitis by profiling cytokines in GCF using a cytokine antibody array system.

Methods: Human cytokine array V, which detects 79 cytokines on one membrane, was used to determine the profile of cytokines in GCF from seven subjects with chronic periodontitis and seven subjects with healthy periodontia. The profile was exposed to x‐ray film and quantified using image analysis software. Healthy and diseased sites were compared statistically.

Results: We detected 10 cytokines in periodontally healthy sites and 36 cytokines in periodontally diseased sites. Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) and transforming growth factor‐beta 2 (TGF‐β2) were detected at high levels in healthy and diseased subjects. There were significant differences between healthy and diseased subjects in the levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐2 (TIMP‐2), tumor necrosis factor‐beta (TNF‐β), growth‐related oncogene (GRO), interferon‐inducible protein‐10 (IP‐10), angiogenin (Ang), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3), osteoprotegerin (OPG), epidermal growth factor (EGF), glial‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), pulmonary and activation‐regulated chemokine (PARC), oncostatin M (OSM), fibroblast growth factor‐4 (FGF‐4), IL‐16, homologous to lymphotoxins (LIGHT), and placenta growth factor (PlGF). Of these, the newly detected cytokines were GRO, Ang, IGFBP‐3, GDNF, PARC, OSM, FGF‐4, IL‐16, LIGHT, and PlGF.

Conclusions: In this study, we detected several cytokines in GCF using a cytokine antibody array system, including both inflammatory cytokines and various growth factors. Therefore, periodontal disease may participate in the wound healing process and in tissue destruction via the inflammatory process. Our results suggest that the quantification of these cytokines in GCF provides useful information for the diagnosis of periodontal disease status.
Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coletta Ricardo D. , Graner Edgard
Published: May 2006

Generalized gingival enlargement can be caused by a variety of etiological factors. It can be inherited (hereditary gingival fibromatosis [HGF]); associated with other diseases characterizing a syndrome; or induced as a side effect of systemic drugs, such as phenytoin, cyclosporin, or nifedipine. HGF, previously known as elephantiasis gingivae, hereditary gingival hyperplasia, and hypertrophic gingiva, is a genetic disorder characterized by a progressive enlargement of the gingiva. This review will focus on diagnosis, treatment, and control of HGF. The pattern of inheritance, the histopathologic characteristics, and the known biologic and genetic features associated with HGF are also emphasized.
Dietary Cation–Anion Difference of Timothy as Affected by Development Stage and Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilization
Authors: Pelletier Sophie , Bélanger Gilles , Tremblay Gaëtan F. , Brégard Annie , Allard Guy
Published: May 2006

Dry dairy cows (Bos taurus) fed forages with a high dietary cation–anion difference (DCAD) are more likely to develop hypocalcaemia. We determined how development stage at harvest and N and P fertilization can be used to reduce the DCAD to <250 mmolc kg−1 dry matter (DM) for timothy (Phleum pratense L.) grown on a soil high in K content. Stages of development (stem elongation, early heading, late heading, and early flowering) in spring growth, and treatments of P (0, 15, 30, and 45 kg ha−1) and N (0, 60, 120, and 180 kg ha−1) fertilization were evaluated. Concentrations of K, Na, Ca, Mg, Cl, S, and P of timothy were determined and the DCAD was calculated with a short (DCADS) and a long (DCADL) equation. From stem elongation to early flowering, DCADS decreased from 326 to 196 mmolc kg−1 DM and DCADL from 297 to 181 mmolc kg−1 DM; this reduction was attributed to a decrease in K concentration and a slight increase in Cl concentration with development stage. Nitrogen fertilization increased DCADS and DCADL only at stem elongation; the lack of a response at later stages of development is explained by the concomitant increase in both K and Cl concentrations with increasing N fertilization. Phosphorus fertilization did not affect DCADS and DCADL even though it increased timothy P concentration. Harvesting timothy at late heading, with an appropriate N fertilization to ensure adequate yield, is an option to produce a forage with a DCAD of <250 mmolc kg−1. DM on a soil high in K.
Modeling Survival of Young Olive Trees (Olea europaea L. cv. Arbequina) in Saline and Waterlogging Field Conditions
Authors: Isidoro D. , Aragüés R.
Published: May 2006

As the pressure to use marginal or low‐quality lands for crop production increases, it becomes increasingly necessary to determine the influence of stress factors such as salinity or waterlogging on crop growth and yield. This paper models the survival of olive trees (Olea europaea L. cv. Arbequina) under salinity and waterlogging field conditions. The effects of soil salinity [electrical conductivity of the saturation extract (ECe)] and waterlogging [relative ground elevation (RGE) and water table depth (WTD)] on the survival of 338 young olive trees were analyzed by logistic regression. The logit and probit models based on ECe, RGE, and WTD and their interactions were fitted to the data. Also, a nonlinear regression with 100% probability of olive survival (P) below a first ECe limit, 0% P above a second ECe limit, and a linear decrease in between (threshold‐slope regression model) was fitted to the ECe data. The ECe and RGE were the two factors significantly affecting olive survival. The ECe was 7.7 dS m−1 for P = 50% (estimated median lethal ECe) and 3.7 dS m−1 for P = 95%. The threshold‐slope model ECe estimates were 5.0 dS m−1 (upper threshold for unrestricted survival or P = 100%) and 10.3 dS m−1 (lower limit for the nonsurvival or P = 0%). Young olive trees were moderately tolerant to soil salinity, and their P under saline conditions was satisfactorily explained by both the logistic and the threshold‐slope regression models.
Soybean Response to Zone Tillage, Twin‐Row Planting, and Row Spacing
Authors: Janovicek Ken J. , Deen William , Vyn Tony J.
Published: May 2006

Although zone tillage can result in favorable in‐row seedbed environments for high crop yield while providing soil conservation characteristics similar to no‐till, it necessitates a wide row width planting system. The objective of this study was to evaluate various zone‐till systems for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production. This study was conducted in southwestern Ontario from 1998 to 2000 on nine fields with clay contents between 133 and 354 g kg−1 and a minimum 5‐yr continuous no‐till history. Tillage systems evaluated were fall moldboard, fall zone‐till 15‐ and 30‐cm deep, spring coulter tillage, and no‐till. The no‐till and moldboard systems were planted in equally spaced 19‐, 38‐, 57‐, and 76‐cm rows plus a twin‐row configuration consisting of two 19‐cm rows centered 76 cm apart. Only single 76‐cm and twin‐row configurations were planted in the zone‐till and coulter‐till systems, where tillage was conducted in strips centered 76 cm apart. Twin‐row configurations in no‐till, spring coulter‐till, and fall zone‐till systems often increased yields over those obtained with single 76‐cm rows, with yields that were always similar to those obtained with no‐till planted in 38‐ or 19‐cm rows. Depth of fall zone tillage did not affect soybean yield. Fall zone‐till yields never exceeded those obtained with no‐till, even in environments where no‐till yields were less than those obtained with fall moldboard systems. Spring coulter tillage did not increase yields over those obtained with no‐till. Future research evaluating zone‐till systems for soybean should consider using twin‐row planting configurations.
Genotype × Environment Interactions within Iron Deficiency Chlorosis‐Tolerant Soybean Genotypes
Authors: Naeve Seth L. , Rehm George W.
Published: May 2006

Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) reduces total soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production in the USA by several million metric tonnes each year. Although IDC‐tolerant soybean varieties are available, variety screening is difficult and does not always provide reproducible results. More robust screening methods are needed, but it is unclear how soil properties impact varietal responses to IDC. This study evaluated genotype by environment (G × E) interactions among nine IDC‐tolerant soybean genotypes and one moderately tolerant genotype in IDC prone environments in Minnesota to determine which environmental factors most affect this putative G × E effect. Although visual severity of IDC within environments varied from moderate to severe over time, relative genotypic responses were similar, indicating that the timing of IDC ratings may not be critically important in ranking varieties for IDC. Across all environments a highly significant G × E interaction for yield was discovered, with soil factors creating a larger impact than year to year variation. Moreover, G × E interactions were found for visual IDC scores even when significant effects on yield were not found, indicating that variety screening based on IDC scores requires multiple locations to be predictive. Seed quality characteristics, as measured by protein and oil concentrations, were significantly affected by genotype, environment, and their interaction; however, these traits are likely indirectly affected by IDC through its effect on yield. A linear model based on three common soil chemical factors was developed to help predict future IDC severity by soil analysis alone.
Using Information about Spatial Variability to Improve Estimates of Total Soil Carbon
Authors: Kravchenko A. N. , Robertson G. P. , Snap S. S. , Smucker A. J. M.
Published: May 2006

Changes in soil C as a result of changes in management are relatively slow, and several years of experimentation are needed before differences in management practices can be detected using traditional statistical procedures such as randomized complete block design (RCBD). Using spatial analyses (SA) that take into account spatial variability between plots has a potential for faster and more efficient detection of soil C differences. We hypothesize that for variables with strong spatial continuity, such as total soil C, accurate spatial variability assessment can be obtained even in relatively small experiments. Thus, SA can significantly improve the statistical efficiency of even these experiments. The objective of this study is to test this hypothesis by comparing performances of RCBD analysis and SA for simulated small‐sized experiments where soil C is the response variable. Total soil C data collected from 11 field sites at the Long‐Term Ecological Research (LTER) experiment in Michigan were used as an input for simulated experiments. Performance of SA depended on the strength of spatial correlation in soil C and was found to be related to topographical diversity of the experimental sites. In the sites with more diverse topography and stronger spatial correlation of soil C the SA produced lower standard errors for treatment means than those of the RCBD analysis (8 out of 11 sites). In two sites with the flattest topography and weak spatial correlation, SA did not have advantages over RCBD.
Measuring Virtual Student-Student Cooperation. A Case Study on the Evaluation of Cooperative Learning in a Virtual Distributed Computer and Law Course
Authors: Nett Bernhard
Published: May 2006

This article demonstrates the evaluation of a German Computer and Law (C&L) seminar, which has been conducted in an experimental, distributed manner with five institutes co-operating. The evaluation was dedicated to the question, in which way the course supported cooperative learning among the students of the different participating institutes. As a result, most students concentrated upon writing their individual papers, which were to be placed on the learning platform afterwards. Additional cooperative functionalities such as forums and annotation were used for an intensification of tutor-student cooperation, but the intensified tutoring was not accompanied by more student-student cooperation. A concentration on most active students took place. The empirical results are based on interviews and on interaction analysis, as well. In the context of the interaction analysis, the article describes the active-reception criterion which has been adopted focusing on inter-student activities. The limits of the criterion are discussed, which is given by educational goals to be evaluated and the educational scenario implemented. The article points out the opportunity for related automatic evaluation.
Who's Counting? A Survey of Mathematics Education Research 1982–1998
Authors: Lubienski Sarah Theule , Bowen Andrew
Published: May 2006

This study provides a broad look at mathematics education research published between 1982 and 1998. The ERIC database was utilized to count and categorize more than 3,000 articles from 48 educational research journals. We identified the number of articles relating to gender, ethnicity, class, and disability that were published in journals from various categories. Attention was also given to grade levels, mathematical topics, and general educational topics in conjunction with each equity group. We conclude that, in comparison with research on ethnicity, class, and disability, research on gender was more prevalent and integrated into mainstream U.S. mathematics education research. Overall, the majority of research seemed to focus on student cognition and outcomes, with less attention to contextual or cultural issues.
A module calculus for Pure Type Systems
Authors: COURANT JUDICAËL
Published: May 2006

Several proof-assistants rely on the very formal basis of Pure Type Systems (PTS) as their foundations. We are concerned with the issues involved in the development of large proofs in these provers such as namespace management, development of reusable proof libraries and separate verification. Although implementations offer many features to address them, few theoretical foundations have been laid for them up to now. This is a problem as features dealing with modularity may have harmful, unsuspected effects on the reliability or usability of an implementation.

In this paper, we propose an extension of Pure Type Systems with a module system, $\mathcal{MC}_2$, adapted from SML-like module systems for programming languages. This system gives a theoretical framework addressing the issues mentioned above in a quite uniform way. It is intended to be a theoretical foundation for the module systems of proof-assistants such as Coq or Agda. We show how reliability and usability can be formalized as metatheoretical properties and prove they hold for $\mathcal{MC}_2$.
Die Sonographie der Niere aus urologisch-nephrologischer Sicht
Authors: Heynemann  , Tuma
Published: May 2006

Die Sonographie der Niere aus urologisch-nephrologischer Sicht ist eine unverzichtbare Ergänzung der klinischen Untersuchung. Sie ermöglicht dem in der Methode erfahrenen Untersucher wertvolle Informationen zur Morphologie (B-Bild) und Hämoperfusion (farbkodierte Duplex-Sonographie der Niere). Ausgehend von einer standardisierten Untersuchungstechnik zur Erfassung der wesentlichen Kriterien für Normalbefunde, Harntransportstörungen unterschiedlicher Ursache (Harnsteine, intrinsische u./o. extrinsische Kompression), neoplastische solide Veränderungen und traumatische Verletzungen der Niere werden typische sonographische Befunde demonstriert. Die Nieren-Sonographie hat sich mit ihren modernen Techniken (z.B. Sono-CT, harmonic tissue imaging, power mode, etc.) sowohl für die Urologie als auch die Nephrologie zu einer unentbehrlichen Untersuchungsmethode in Kombination mit Anamnese, körperlicher Untersuchung und labordiagnostischen Befunden entwickelt und trägt wesentlich zu einer differenzierten Diagnosepräzisierung bei.
Substrate-dependent Contribution of Double-stranded RNA-binding Motifs to ADAR2 Function
Authors: Xu Ming , Wells K. Sam , Emeson Ronald B.
Published: May 2006

ADAR2 is a double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase involved in the editing of mammalian RNAs by the site-specific conversion of adenosine to inosine (A-to-I). ADAR2 contains two tandem double-stranded RNA-binding motifs (dsRBMs) that are not only important for efficient editing of RNA substrates but also necessary for localizing ADAR2 to nucleoli. The sequence and structural similarity of these motifs have raised questions regarding the role(s) that each dsRBM plays in ADAR2 function. Here, we demonstrate that the dsRBMs of ADAR2 differ in both their ability to modulate subnuclear localization as well as to promote site-selective A-to-I conversion. Surprisingly, dsRBM1 contributes to editing activity in a substrate-dependent manner, indicating that dsRBMs recognize distinct structural determinants in each RNA substrate. Although dsRBM2 is essential for the editing of all substrates examined, a point mutation in this motif affects editing for only a subset of RNAs, suggesting that dsRBM2 uses unique sets of amino acid(s) for functional interactions with different RNA targets. The dsRBMs of ADAR2 are interchangeable for subnuclear targeting, yet such motif alterations do not support site-selective editing, indicating that the unique binding preferences of each dsRBM differentially contribute to their pleiotropic function.
A comparative study of physicochemical properties of AH PlusTM and EpiphanyTM root canal sealants
Authors: Versiani M. A. , Carvalho‐Junior J. R. , Padilha M. I. A. F. , Lacey S. , Pascon E. A. , Sousa‐Neto M. D.
Published: May 2006

Aim  To evaluate setting time, solubility and disintegration, flow, film thickness, and dimensional change following setting in a dual‐cured resin root canal sealer EpiphanyTM compared with an epoxy‐resin‐based sealer AH PlusTM.

Methodology  The experiments were performed according to ANSI/ADA Specification 57 which tests the physicochemical properties of endodontic sealing materials. Five samples of each material were tested for each of the properties. In addition, deionized distilled water from the solubility test of EpiphanyTM was submitted for analysis of the cations Fe, Ni, Ca, Mg, Zn, Na, and K in an atomic absorption spectrometer. Three samples were analysed.

Results  There were no statistical differences (P > 0.05) in flow (AH PlusTM: 38.57 mm; EpiphanyTM: 35.74 mm) and film thickness (AH PlusTM: 10.6 μm; EpiphanyTM: 20.1 μm). The solubility (AH PlusTM: 0.21%; EpiphanyTM: 3.41%) and dimensional alterations following setting (AH PlusTM: expansion of 1.3%; EpiphanyTM: expansion of 8.1%) were statistically different (P < 0.05). The setting times of both sealants were in accordance with ANSI/ADA requirements.

Conclusions  Setting time, flow, and film thickness tests for both cements conformed to ANSI/ADA standards. Dimensional alteration test for both cements were greater than values considered acceptable by ANSI/ADA. EpiphanyTM values regarding solubility were also greater than values considered acceptable by ANSI/ADA.
Periapical central giant cell granuloma misdiagnosed as odontogenic cyst
Authors: Lombardi T. , Bischof M. , Nedir R. , Vergain D. , Galgano C. , Samson J. , Küffer R.
Published: May 2006

Aim  To present the clinicopathological features of a series of four periapically located central giant cell granulomas (CGCGs) that were misdiagnosed and treated as being of endodontic origin.

Summary  Four cases of periapical CGCGs were submitted with a clinical diagnosis of either radicular or residual cyst. In two cases, root canal treatment had been performed previously. The patients were two women and two men whose age ranged from 31 to 85 years. Two cases were located in the mandibular premolar‐molar region, and two in the anterolateral region of the maxilla. Two lesions were submitted for histological examination with a diagnosis of radicular cyst whereas the remaining two were submitted with a diagnosis of residual cyst.

Key learning points

• Periapical giant cell lesions may be unilocular and therefore misdiagnosed as an endodontic lesion because of their radiographic similarity to an inflammatory periradicular lesion, especially if the teeth have been root filled or if the vitality is negative or doubtful.

• It is important to follow up the healing process of a periapical radiolucency related to a root filled tooth and, in case of persistence, to perform surgery and to submit the specimen for histological examination.
In vivo evaluation of microbial reduction after chemo‐mechanical preparation of human root canals containing necrotic pulp tissue
Authors: Vianna M.E. , Horz H.P. , Gomes B.P.F.A. , Conrads G.
Published: May 2006

Aim  To determine in vivo, the degree of microbial reduction after chemo‐mechanical preparation of human root canals containing necrotic pulp tissue when using two endodontic irrigating reagents, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) or chlorhexidine gel (CHX).

Methodology  Thirty‐two single rooted teeth with necrotic pulp were divided into two groups. One group (n = 16) was irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl, whilst the other group (n = 16) was irrigated with 2% CHX gel. Assessment of the bacterial load was accomplished by use of real‐time quantitative‐polymerase chain reaction (RTQ‐PCR) directed against the small subunit ribosomal DNA using the SYBRGreen and TaqMan formats. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney test. For contrast, bacterial load was also determined by traditional culture techniques.

Results  The bacterial load was reduced substantially in both groups (over 96%). However, using RTQ‐PCR the bacterial load before and after chemo‐mechanical preparation was greater when compared with evaluation using colony forming units (CFU). Furthermore, as measured by RTQ‐PCR, the bacterial reduction in the NaOCl‐group (SYBRGreen 99.99%; TaqMan: 99.63%) was significantly greater (P < 0.01) than in the CHX‐group (SYBRGreen 96.62%; TaqMan: 96.60%). According to culture technique 75% of cases were free of bacteria after chemo‐mechanical preparation in the NaOCl‐group, whilst 50% of cases were bacteria free in the CHX‐group.

Conclusion  NaOCl has not only a higher capacity to kill microorganisms but is also more able to remove cells from the root canal.
The attitudes of British fundholding general practitioners to community psychiatric nursing services
Authors: Monkley‐Poole Stevan
Published: May 2006

This study was designed to explore the attitudes of Brush fundholding general practitioners to community psychiatric nurses and the services they currently provide, and may provide in the future The information was collected by postal questionnaire Seventy‐two fundholding general practitioners were identified within the East Sussex Family Health Authority, England, 20 (27%) completed and returned the questionnaire The instrument was based on previously published work, with some adaptations relating to the fundholding element The results confirmed previous research findings suggesting a favourable attitude towards community psychiatric nurses, and also identified the services they should provide Three areas in need of urgent research were highlighted
SHOULD CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS BE TESTED FOR HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE? ATTITUDES OF FUTURE LAWYERS AND PHYSICIANS IN SWITZERLAND
Authors: ELGER BERNICE S. , HARDING TIMOTHY W.
Published: May 2006

The objective of the study was to identify future lawyers’ and physicians’ views on testing children for Huntington’s disease (HD) against parents’ wishes. After receiving general information about HD, patient autonomy and confidentiality, law students and advanced medical students were shown an interview with a mother suffering from HD who is opposed to informing and testing her two children (aged 10 and 16) for HD. Students then filled out questionnaires concerning their agreement with testing. No significant differences were found between medical and law students or between students from different courses concerning the adolescent son. Three quarters of students thought that he should be told about his mother’s disease, and 91% thought the adolescent son should have the opportunity of genetic testing for HD for himself. However, significant differences were found concerning the 10‐year old son, with 44% of law students and 30% of medical students in favour of testing the child for HD. Students raised some important ethical issues in their elective comments. In conclusion, we found highly positive attitudes towards informing a 16‐year old of his mother’s HD and offering to test him. These attitudes were not in tune with guidelines. Students did not consider several practical and ethical issues of genetic testing of children and adolescents. Specific education should ensure that attitudes are based on sufficiently detailed knowledge about all aspects of genetic testing of children to discourage pressures on persons at risk of HD.
FOR A POSTMODERN PREMODERNITY
Authors: Spiegel Gabrielle M.
Published: May 2006

History, Theory, Text: Historians and the Linguistic Turn. By Elizabeth A. Clark
Ketones Keep Neurons Alive
Authors: Stafstrom Carl E.
Published: May 2006

Ketogenic Diet Reduces Hypoglycemia-Induced Neuronal Death in Young Rats

Yamada KA, Rensing N, Thio LL

Neurosci Lett 2005;385(3):210–214

Hypoglycemia is an important complication of insulin treatment in diabetic children and may contribute to lasting cognitive impairment. Previous studies demonstrated that 21-day-old rats (P21) subjected to brief, repetitive episodes of hypoglycemia sustain cortical neuronal death. The developing brain is capable of utilizing alternative energy substrates acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate. In these studies, we tested the hypothesis that the developing brain adapted to ketone utilization and provided with ketones during hypoglycemia by eating a ketogenic diet would sustain less brain injury compared to littermates fed a standard diet. Supporting this hypothesis, P21 rats weaned to a ketogenic diet and subjected to insulin-induced hypoglycemia at P25 had significantly less neuronal death than rats on a standard diet. This animal model may provide insight into the determinants influencing the brain's susceptibility to hypoglycemic injury.
Access to oral health care – an Australian perspective*
Authors: Schwarz Eli
Published: May 2006

Abstract –  The objectives of this paper are to give a brief description of the Australian context for its dental care services and to discuss some of the nationally recognized issues in access to dental care with special reference to the situation in the most populous state, New South Wales. Australia is the size of continental USA but with only around 21 million people, 85% of whom reside within 50 km of the coastline. Thus, access to health care has a strong urban–rural dimension. The universal healthcare coverage excludes dental care, 80–90% of which is delivered through traditional fee‐for‐service private dental care. A public dental care system exists with varying eligibility criteria from state to state, mostly directed at children, low‐income individuals, pensioners, and defined disadvantaged groups. Thus, access to dental care also has a strong socioeconomic dimension with disadvantaged people having serious access problems and extensive waiting times. Government and other reports have documented considerable polarization issues both in oral health and in access to dental care. Suggested change strategies have ranged from broad political changes in the dental care system to local oral health promotion initiatives, but overall, dental care remains a pawn in state–commonwealth political squabbles. In response to strong public reactions documented shortcomings of the public dental care system the government of New South Wales has recently initiated a political inquiry into dental care. Unless new resources are injected and policy adjustments made, serious changes are unlikely.
Analysis in non‐human primates reveals that the ancestral Band 3 gene encodes Dib and the Band 3‐Memphis phenotype
Authors: Schawalder Alissa , Hue‐Roye Kim , Castilho Lilian , Chaudhuri Asok , Reid Marion E.
Published: May 2006

Background  The anion exchanger, Band 3, carries antigens in the Diego blood group system, and can carry the Band 3‐Memphis phenotype. Although Dib is of high prevalence and Band 3‐Memphis is of low prevalence in humans, it has been suggested that both are on the ancestral gene. We determined the orthologue nucleotide sequences corresponding to these two polymorphic sites, Dia/Dib (2561T > C; Leu854Pro) and Band 3‐Memphis(166A > G; Lys56Glu) in several nonhuman primates.

Methods  Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples of great apes, lesser apes, old world monkeys, new world monkeys and prosimians. PCR amplifications were done with primer pairs that were located in the flanking intronic regions of Exon 4 and Exon 19; and the amplified products were sequenced.

Results  Amino acid sequence alignment of nonhuman primates band 3 with that of human showed extensive homologies. In exon 4, Glu56Lys polymorphic site showed Glu similar to Band 3‐Memphis type and in exon 19, Leu854Pro polymorphic site showed Pro indicating Dib phenotype.

Conclusions  The nonhuman primates have nucleotide sequences of Dib(2561C) in cis to Band 3‐Memphis (166G), which is consistent with the assertion that the Dib and Band 3‐Memphis phenotype represents the ancestral Band 3 gene.
The new Enamel Defects Index: testing and expansion
Authors: Elcock Claire , Lath Darren Lee , Luty Joanna D. , Gallagher Martin G. , Abdellatif A. , Bäckman Birgitta , Brook Alan H.
Published: May 2006

The Enamel Defects Index (EDI) was created based on three innovative principles: (i) a basic level of the three major categories of defects; (ii) more detailed subcategories of each major category; and (iii) each category scored independently as present [1] or absent [0], simplifying decision making. The aim of this investigation was to further test the index in a number of applications and to expand it to record defect subtype and treatment need. Testing was undertaken by operators with different levels of clinical experience. A computer‐assisted learning (CAL) package was developed for operator training and calibration. The index was also used on clinical photographs and high‐resolution digital images of exfoliated and extracted teeth. Scoring of photographs revealed substantial intra‐operator agreement. Training using the CAL package resulted in significant improvement in index use. Intra‐operator reproducibility was good to excellent, and interoperator reproducibility was good for buccal surfaces on digital images. Index expansion allowed information on defect subtype, location, and treatment need to be gathered readily. The EDI has high reproducibility and allows more rapid and accurate data collection from clinical and in vitro studies than the Fédération Dentaire Internationale Developmental Defects of Enamel index.
1141605463 Autoimmune and thrombophilic causes of recurrent pregnancy loss in greek couples
Authors: Drakakis P , Loutradis D , Milingos S , Stefanidis C , Marinopoulos S , Protopapas A , Antsaklis A
Published: May 2006

Introduction:  This was a retrospective study performed in order to investigate the distribution of various autoimmune and thrombophilic causes including gene mutations in the Greek population that have been associated in the literature with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), the latter considered after at least two and not three fisrt trimester embryo losses.

Materials and Methods:  We included in this study the last 80 couples that entered our Recurrent Pregnancy Unit which had at least two consecutive miscarriages before the 13th week of gestation with no other pregnancy apart from induced abortions. They had been checked for: phospholipid autoimmunity (anticardiolipins, β2GPI and serine antiphoSPSholipid antibodies (IgG and IgM)), ANA, antithyroid antibodies (AA), immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and for thrombophilia incuding protein C, protein S, activated protein C resistance (APC‐R), antithrombin III, homocystein, lupus anticoagulant and the following gene mutations: FVLeiden, Prothrombin 20210A, MTHFR T677T (homozygous or double heterozygous for C677T and A1298C), PAI‐1 4G/5G and the GPI‐α gene mutation.

Results:  At least one thrombophilic factor was found in 19 patients (24%), an autoimmune factor in 7 (9%), ANA (+) >1/160 in 14 (17%), AA in 19 (25%), increased IgG in 5 (62%). 11 had a possible anatomic factor (18%). Five out of the 19 patients (26%) with thrombophilia had a thrombophilic gene mutation with no phenotypic findings in peripheral blood. All percentages were calculated with respect to the number of patients searched for the specific factor.

Conclusion:  The distribution of the above factors is discussed and their possible role in RPL. The high percentage of thrombophilia gene mutations among patients with a thrombophilic factor is mainly discussed as well as the need to include those expensive tests in the work‐up of RPL.
1141753263 Amniochorion secretes chemotactic signals for leukocytes during human labor
Authors: Gomez N , Estrada‐Gutierrez G , Giono‐Cerezo SG , Vega‐Sanchez R , Vadillo‐Ortega F
Published: May 2006

Objective:  Leukocytes arriving to choriodecidua during labor are capable to secrete cytokines and collagenases that may play a role in extracellular matrix degradation leading to the rupture of amniochorion. The aim of this work was to study the role of amniochorion in the active recruitment of leukocytes through production of specific chemokines during labor.

Methods:  Amniochorion explants were obtained from women at term with spontaneous labor (n = 4) and subjected to cesarean section without labor (n = 4). Explant cultures were carried out during 24 hr and a homogenate including the culture media was made after this period. Cell free extracts were tested in Boyden chambers for chemotaxis using leukocytes from maternal blood obtained from women with (n = 2) and without labor (n = 2). Attracted cells were analyzed by flow cytometry for count and immunophenotype. Chemokines were identified in the extracts using a commercial chemiarray.

Results:  All tested amniochorion extracts induced chemotaxis for leukocytes; however, those from labor tissues induced a higher chemotactic activity than the correspondent non‐in‐labor tissues (P = 0.003). Chemotactic effect was higher over leukocytes from labor women (P = 0.001). More than 80% of the attracted cells were polymorphonuclear cells in all cases. IL‐8 was the main chemokine found in all extracts; however its concentration was increased in extracts from labor.

Conclusions:  Fetal membranes induced chemotaxis for leukocytes and this condition is enhanced by the presence of labor. Amniochorion under active labor secretes IL‐8 which induces a preferential chemotaxis for polymorphonuclears. Infiltration of these cells in choriodecidua during labor may play a role in the amniochorion degradation associated to rupture.
1140835246 Aberrant activation of LIF‐downstream signal caused decidualization failure in pseudopregnant mice
Authors: Kimura T , Nakamura H , Koyama S , Ogita K , Tabata C , Khan MH , Tsutsui T , Shimoya K , Kaneda Y , Murata Y
Published: May 2006

As the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) knockout mice is infertile because of implantation failure, the downstream signals of LIF, such as STAT‐3, should play crucial roles for implantation. We have focused on the function of multifunctional transcription factors in endometrium during implantation window. We investigated here the effect of STAT‐3 decoy introduction into mouse uterus in vivo on pregnancy and decidualization. STAT‐3 decoy and scramble decoy were synthesized with phosphorotioate‐modification. On day 1.5 p.c., 80 μg decoy DNA+1000HAU HVJ‐E vector (GenomONE – Neo, Ishihara Sangyo, Osaka, Japan) suspension/horn was introduced into the uterine cavity. On day 5.0 p.c., implantation rate was determined by Evans blue injection. On day 3.5 p.c., 10 μL of sesame oil was injected single horn of pseudopregnant mice and fold‐increase of uterine wet weights was compared. Uterine morphology was examined by conventional Hematoxylin‐Eosin staining. Implantation rate was suppressed more than 70% in STAT‐3 decoy treated mice. In scramble decoy treated pseudopregnant mice, the uterine wet weight of infusion side was approximately 6.5‐fold of the control side. In STAT‐3 decoy infused mice, sesame oil induced ~2‐fold increase of the uterine wet weight. Histological examination indicated that decidualization of interstitial cells was apparently suppressed in the STAT‐3 decoy treated uterus, as compared with scramble decoy treated uteri. We revealed that in vivo transfection of STAT‐3 decoy into early pregnant mice uterus effectively inhibited implantation. The activation of STAT‐3 deeply concern with decidualization, which is one of very important steps to determine uterine receptivity.
1140918040 Prevention of abortion in the CBAxDBA/2 model by intravaginal TGF‐β is associated with local recruitment of predominantly CD8+ Foxp3+ T cells to the genital tract
Authors: Clark DA , Fernandes J , Banwatt D
Published: May 2006

Problem:  Spontaneous abortions in DBA/2‐mated CBA/J mice can be prevented by an immune response to BALB/c, and CD4+25+ Treg cells as well as CD8+ T cells have been proposed to confer protection. Recently a 2 ng dose of intravaginal TGF‐β3 at the time of exposure to DBA/2 semen was shown to be effective. TGF‐β is known to facilitate development of Treg cells. Is there evidence for local Treg induction?

Methods:  The phenotype of cellular recruitment to the vaginal wall and uterus was established by immunostaining tissue sections from CBA/J females following intravaginal TGF‐β treatment. The phenotype of cells in vaginal washings 48 hr after TGF‐β was determined by flow cytometry.

Results:  Increased numbers of CD3+, CD25+, and CD11c+ cells were found in vaginal mucosa with increasing doses of TGF‐β. A 2 ng TGF‐β3 treatment at the time of estrus recruited Foxp3+ cells to the vaginal lumen, and the majority of these were CD8+; CD4+ cells were also present, but expressed only low levels of CD25 and CTLA4. A 20 ng dose recruited predominantly CD4+8+ Foxp3+ cells.

Conclusion:  Induction of Tregs to semen‐associated DBA/2 antigens may prevent pregnancy loss in the CBAxDBA/2 model without the need for BALB/c as an immunogen. The Treg phenotype in the genital tract is compatible with additional members of the Treg family that recognize Class I MHC and associated paternal peptides and prevent abortions.