bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carcinoma of the tonsil: Results of radical irradiation with surgery reserved for radiation failure
Authors: Kaplan Raymond , Million Rodney R. , Cassisi Nicholas J.
Published: October 2006

This analysis reviews the treatment results of 58 patients with squa‐mous cell carcinoma of the tonsil who were treated by radical irradiation to the primary, with operation reserved for radiation failures. Postirradia‐tion radical neck dissection was sometimes added as part of the initial treatment plan.

The local control and absolute survival rates for Ti‐Ta lesions were quite good, and complications were minimal. On the other hand, the local control and absolute survival for T3‐T4 lesions were only fair, and complications generally more severe, although mandibulectomy for osteonecrosis was not required in this small series.

There appears to be no justification for combining operation with radiation in the initial attack for Tj‐To lesions. Although the Tl‐T2 lesions might as well be cured by operation alone, it would entail the loss of part of the mandible, pharyngeal wall, possibly some tongue and soft palate, and at least one radical neck dissection.

At attempt at combining operation and irradiation for some T3 (T4) lesions appears justified by the high failure rate of radical irradiation alone. However, therapeutic zeal should be tempered by the realization that many of these patients are elderly or in poor general health, and an aggressive combined treatment approach may be unrealistic
Description of a new device: An Intranasal Airway/Splint
Authors: Doyle Donald E. , House Leland F. , Hall William P.
Published: October 2006

Over the past two decades, the concept and practice of using septal splints has gained in popularity. Various methods have been used including X‐ray film, sheets of Teflon and strips of Polyethylene. In this presentation a new device is introduced which incorporates the principles of septal splinting, along with the simultaneous use of nasal breathing tubes. A brief history of septal surgery and splinting is discussed, and the new device is described, both in its configuration and usage
A ten year statistical follow‐up of 1142 consecutive cases of cholesteatoma: The closedvs. The open technique
Authors: Brown James S.
Published: October 2006

Cholesteatoma has long been a formidable adversary to the otologic surgeon. The surgical treatment has been basically by two methods, open and closed. It was felt that a study should be undertaken to compare the results obtained over a long period of time, utilizing these two methods. A need for this study existed as the same number of new cases of cholestentoma was presenting each year.

In reviewing the literature, it is found that new advancements have not yet been made in the prevention of the disease and the medical and surgical management has remained essentially the same.

The ideal goal of successful surgery, namely an ear without disease, with normal hearing, and an intact drum and posterior canal wall, has been difficult to achieve in a high percentage of cases. To achieve this goal, two main surgical methods have evolved: the classical “open method,” and the more recent “closed method.”

In the open method cases, the hearing results were often poor and the cavity presented a management problem. In the closed method there has been a fairly high occurrence of residual, and/or recurrent cholesteatoma which necessitated a second procedure. These two methods were compared by reviewing a large number of histologically proved cholesteatoma cases 10 years after surgery, to determine the incidence of recurrence of cholesteatoma and the residual hearing function.

The results of this study show conclusively that the hearing was better using the closed method, but the recurrence rate was considerably higher.

This paper presents a practical method of approach to the management of all presenting cases of cholesteatoma.
Co2 laser myringotomy
Authors: Goode Richard L.
Published: October 2006

CO2 laser myringotomies were performed in 4 temporal bone specimens, 10 cat ears, and 11 patient ears. The method in cats produced a hole that remained open 3 to 6 weeks and healed without excessive scarring. In the patient ears, 9 of 11 laser myringotomies (82%) healed within 6 weeks. One myringotomy 4 mm in diameter did not heal and one 2 mm myringotomy made through a monomeric membrane did not heal.
Rhabdomyosarcoma of the head and neck
Authors: Feldman Bruce A.
Published: October 2006

Rhnbdomyosarcoma is an uncommon neoplasm that is seen in the head and neck area. Since the symptoms of rhabdomyosarcoma, such as aural discharge and nasal obstruction Mimic common disease states, the clinical diagnosis is often delayed. Case reports and a literature review are presented to emphasize the clinical and roentgenological findings in rhabdomyosarcoma.

Misinterpretation of microscopic findings can delay the histological diagnosis. Cross‐striations, the “hallmark” of rhabdomyosarcoma, are not always found, while “racquet” and “spindle” cells may be seen. Special stains and electron microscopy can assist the pathologist. The pathological findings of the different variants of rhabdomyosarcoma and a review of cases accessioned by the A.F.I.P. Otolaryngic Registry are presented.

Early diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma is important because the disease, once inevitably fatal, can now be controlled and apparently cured in most cases by a combination of surgery, radiation, and multidrug chemotherapy. This therapeutic approach, its results, complications, and support measures are considered.
Comparison of photosensitizers in saline and liposomes for tumor photodynamic therapyand skin phototoxicity
Authors: Davos R. Kim , Kereszti Zsolt , Straght Richard
Published: October 2006

The uptake and distribution, skin phototoxicity, and direct tumor ablative potential of three porphyrin photosensitizers: hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD), dye hemato‐porphyrin ether (DHE), polyhematoporphyrin esters (PHE), and of Rhodamine‐123 (Rh‐123) have been studied in the AJ‐CR inbred albino female mouse implanted with C‐1300 neu‐roblastoma. Photosensitizer delivery was studied using saline and liposome carriers.

The ratio of tumor uptake of the porphyrin compounds compared to the tumor‐bed musculature and skin was favorable with both saline and liposome delivery. Rhodamine‐123 precipitated in saline but was delivered effectively throughout the body in liposomes. There was no selective uptake by tumor cells of Rh‐123 in this tumor model.

Skin phototoxicity with the porphyrin compounds was mildly decreased using liposomes carriers while Rh‐123 demonstrated no skin phototoxicity. DHE had the greatest tumoricidal effect among the porphyrin compounds. PHE has the potential of increased effect due to the ability to use higher light dosages in the activation of this porphyrin. Rhodamine‐123 had no tumor effect in this animal model. Clinical implications of phototherapy with these four compounds are addressed.
Nasopharyngeal carcinomas and malignant lymphomas: An immunohistochemical analysis of 74 cases
Authors: Sugimoto Takuya , Hashimoto Hiroshi , Enjoji Munetomo
Published: October 2006

Seventy‐four cases of nasopharyngeal malignant neoplasms were analyzed immunohistochemically and classified into 16 lymphomas and 58 carcinomas. Eight lymphomas were of T‐cell origin and eight were of B‐cell origin. Although there were no significant differences in prognoses between patients with carcinoma and those with lymphomn, T‐cell lymphomas resulted in a worse outcome. Five‐year survival rates of T‐cell and B‐cell Iymphoma were 12.5% and 75%, respectively. Polyclonal keratin and tissue polypeptide antigen were more sensitive and specific than other epithelial markers, and were positive in 97% (56 of 58) and 93% (54 of 58) of carcinomas, respectively. With regard to immunophenotypic analysis of malignant lymphomas, L26 to B‐cells (88%) and UCHL1 to T‐cells (100%) led to a satisfactory effect. Immunohistochemical investigations made possible differentiation of malignant lymphomas from a carcinoma and also aided in typing the latter.
Pediatric penetrating head and neck trauma
Authors: Stephen Martin W. , Gussack Gerald S.
Published: October 2006

Penetrating head and neck trauma in children causes uncommon and potentially life‐threatening injuries. We reviewed the charts of 21 patients who sustained penetrating injuries to the face or upper neck. Seventeen males and 4 females, aged 32 weeks' gestation to 19 years (mean = 10.2 years) comprised the study population. There were 15 gunshot wounds, 1 shotgun injury, and 5 stab wounds. Significant problems included 7 vascular injuries, 6 central nervous system injuries, 5 ocular injuries, 3 airway compromises, 2 facial nerve injuries, 1 cervical esophageal penetration, and 2 cases of pneumothorax. Three deaths occurred, but the majority of the patients survived and sustained minimal permanent disability. Included in this review is a unique case of an intrauterine gunshot wound to the face at approximately 32 weeks' gestation. The treatment protocol, differences from adult patients, and management highlights are reviewed.
Selective management of early glottic cancer
Authors: Kim Davis R. , Kelly Steven M. , Parkin James L. , Stevens Michael H. , Johnson Leland P.
Published: October 2006

Seventy patients with stage I and II glottic cancer were treated at the University of Utah School of Medicine hospitals from 1980 through 1987. Forty‐four patients had stage I cancer and 26 patients had stage II. The overall survival in the stage I group was 82%. Primary site control was 93% with only three deaths due to laryngeal cancer. Local control rates were 93% with CO2 laser excision, 80% with CO2 laser and irradiation, and 67% with radiation alone.

Stage II glottic patients had an overall survival of 61.5% with a local control rate of 76%. Twenty‐one of 24 patients were treated by full‐course irradiation. Of the eight patients who recurred at the primary site, all were irradiation failures who had initial bulky disease and impaired vocal cord mobility.

Selective CO2 laser excision was highly effective, whereas radiation therapy results were somewhat disappointing. Open partial laryngectomy should be considered in bulky stage II disease patients.
The melanocyte and melanoma
Authors: Conley John
Published: October 2006

This paper reviewed some of the interesting biological aspects of melanocytes and their relationship to the nevus and to melanoma. It also proposed a rationale for “adequate” surgery in the management of melanoma according to level, depth, margins, and trends in treatment. These propositions were derived from an analysis of 995 cases of melanoma of the head and neck.
Allograft tympanoplasty: Predictive value of preoperative status
Authors: Claes J. , Van De Heyning P. H. , Koekelkoren E. , Van Laer C. , De Saegher D. , Graff A. , Creten W.
Published: October 2006

The functional and anatomical results of a series of 181 consecutive allograft tympanoplasties for ears with drum perforation and an intact ossicular chain were retrospectively reviewed and related to preoperative factors. Drum closure was realized in 92% (166 of 181 cases evaluated 1 year after surgery), and 96.6% of the reconstructed drums were still intact 3 years after surgery (118 cases evaluated). An air‐bone gap of less than 21 dB was reached in 79.6% (of a total of 162 cases) 1 year after surgery, and in 78% (of a total of 118 cases) 3 years after surgery. Age, contralateral pathology, the wet or dry status of the ear preoperatively, and the preoperative air‐bone gap had no influence on anatomical results. The preoperative air‐bone gap did not predict the postoperative air‐bone gap. The influence of age and existence of contralateral pathology on hearing gain was only visible in some of the strictly defined patient groups. The wet preoperative status of the ear generally predicted lower functional gain.
Isolated congenital stapes ankylosis: Surgical results in 32 ears and a review of the literature
Authors: Teunissen Bert , Cremers W. R. J. , Huygen Patrick L. M. , Pouwels Ton P. B. M.
Published: October 2006

Isolated congenital stapes ankylosis is described in 32 operated ears from 28 patients. In 27 ears, a regular sta‐pedectomy was performed. In the remaining 5 ears, 2 had stapes gushers, 2 had bony stapedial tendons, and 1 had an aberrant facial nerve crossing the oval window.

The average individual hearing gain was 20 dB. The mean hearing gain for the 24 successful stapedectomies was 29 dB.

In 24 of 32 ears (75%), an essential hearing gain of at least 15 dB Fletcher's index hearing threshold could be achieved. A Fletcher's index not exceeding 30 dB could be achieved in 19 of 32 ears (60%), in spite of several cases with a sensori‐neural component in the hearing loss.

A review of the literature and overview of longer series with isolated congenital stapes ankylosis is presented.
Effect of Enzyme Replacement Therapy With Imiglucerase on BMD in Type 1 Gaucher Disease
Authors: Wenstrup Richard J , Kacena Katherine A , Kaplan Paige , Pastores Gregory M , Prakash-Cheng Ainu , Zimran Ari , Hangartner Thomas N
Published: October 2006

The effect of ERT with imiglucerase on BMD in type 1 GD was studied using BMD data from the International Collaborative Gaucher Group Gaucher Registry. Data were analyzed for 160 untreated patients and 342 ERT-treated patients. Imiglucerase significantly improves BMD in patients with GD, with 8 years of ERT leading to normal BMD.

Introduction: The objective was to determine the effect of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT; Cerezyme, imiglucerase) on BMD in type 1 Gaucher disease (GD).

Materials and Methods: The study population included all adults (men, 18–70 years; women, 18–50 years) enrolled in the International Collaborative Gaucher Group (ICGG) Gaucher Registry for whom lumbar spine BMD measurements were available. BMD data with up to 8 years of follow-up were analyzed for 160 patients who received no ERT and 342 patients treated with ERT alone. BMD was assessed by DXA of the lumbar spine. Z scores for patients with GD were compared with a reference population. From the model's estimate, percent of patients by age and sex with osteoporosis (T score ⩽ −2.5) were calculated.

Results: DXA Z scores for patients with GD in the no ERT (untreated) group were significantly below normal (y intercept = −0.80 Z score units, p < 0.001) and remained ˜1 SD below the reference population over time (slope = −0.010 Z score units per year, p = 0.68). The DXA Z scores for patients with GD who received ERT at a dose of 60 U/kg/2 weeks were significantly lower than the reference population at baseline (y-intercept = −1.17 Z score units, p < 0.001), but improved significantly over time (slope = +0.132 Z score units per year, p < 0.001). A significant dose–response relationship was noted for the ERT group, with the slopes for the three main dosing groups of 15, 30, and 60 U/kg/2 weeks of +0.064, +0.086, and +0.132 Z score units per year, respectively. The BMD of patients with GD treated with ERT increased to −0.12 (60 U/kg/2 weeks), −0.48 (30 U/kg/2 weeks), and −0.66 (15 U/kg/2 weeks) SD of the mean of the reference population after 8 years of ERT, approaching the reference population. Estimated risk of osteoporosis of this GD population, if left untreated, ranged from ˜10 to 30% in women and 10% to 25% in men.

Conclusions: ERT with imiglucerase (Cerezyme) may increase BMD in patients with GD. Response to treatment with imiglucerase is slower for BMD than for hematologic and visceral aspects of GD. A normal (age- and sex-adjusted) BMD should be a therapeutic goal for patients with type 1 GD.
Inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system: a new avenue for atherosclerosis
Authors: Tan Chunjiang , Li Yuguang , Tan Xuerui , Pan Hongxin , Huang Wen
Published: October 2006

Background: The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is thought to be functionally active in atherosclerosis (AS) lesions. Aspirin was found to be a potent inhibitor of the UPS in some tumour studies; however, its effect on AS remains to be demonstrated in vivo.

Methods: New Zealand rabbits were placed on a normal diet (N) or on a normal diet with aspirin (NI) or on an atherogenic diet without (H) or with aspirin (HI) for 12weeks. Proteasome activity, concentrations of plasma lipids and levels of peroxidation were determined. Ubiquitin/ubiquitin-conjugates (Ub), IκBα, phosphorylated IκB (pIκBα) and p65 were investigated by Western blotting or immunochemistry.

Results: Concentrations of plasma lipids and peroxidation levels were higher in H or HI vs. N or NI. Histological analysis showed that atheroma was increased in H. Ub and IκBα were mainly localised in subendothelium and media vascular smooth muscle cells. Western blots revealed that Ub, IκBα, and pIκBα were increased, whereas p65 was lower in HI vs. H. The activity of the 20S proteasome was functionally active in H vs. N, NI or HI, while the 26S proteasome was not affected in any of the groups.

Conclusions: Aspirin can attenuate the pathogenesis of atheroma formation, the degradation of IκBα and pIκBα, and lower the expression of p65, indicating that its therapeutic effects on AS may be via inhibition of the UPS.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1218–25.
Multicentre evaluation of a new point-of-care test for the determination of NT-proBNP in whole blood
Authors: Zugck Christian , Nelles Manfred , Katus Hugo A. , Collinson Paul O. , Gaze David C. , Dikkeschei Bert , Gurr Eberhard , Hayen Wiebke , Haass Markus , Hechler Christoph , van Hoof Viviane , Guerti Khadija , van Waes Carl , Printzen Gert , Klopprogge Kai , Schulz Ilse , Zerback Rainer
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1269–77.
Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity, but not PON1Q192R phenotype, is a predictor of coronary artery disease in a middle-aged Serbian population
Authors: Kotur-Stevuljevic Jelena , Spasic Slavica , Stefanovic Aleksandra , Zeljkovic Aleksandra , Bogavac-Stanojevic Natasa , Kalimanovska-Ostric Dimitra , Spasojevic-Kalimanovska Vesna , Jelic-Ivanovic Zorana
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1206–13.
Role of serum S100B as a predictive marker of fatal outcome following isolated severe head injury or multitrauma in males
Authors: da Rocha Adriana Brondani , Schneider Rogerio Fett , de Freitas Gabriel R. , André Charles , Grivicich Ivana , Zanoni Caroline , Fossá Aline , Gehrke Junia T. , Pereira Jotz Geraldo , Kaufmann Mauro , Simon Daniel , Regner Andrea
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1234–42.
Effect of nitrogen mustard, a vesicant agent, on lymphocyte energy metabolism
Authors: Kenar Levent , Boyunaga Hakan , Serdar Muhittin , Karayilanoglu Turan , Erbil M. Kemal
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1253–7.
Apolipoprotein B gene 3′VNTR polymorphism: association with plasma lipids and coronary heart disease in Han Chinese
Authors: Yan Sheng-kai , Song Yao-hong , Zhu Wen-ling , Yan Xiao-wei , Xue Hong , Du Hong , Chen Bao-sheng
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1199–205.
Frequency of a single nucleotide (A2317G) and 56-bp variable number of tandem repeat polymorphisms within the deoxyribonuclease I gene in five ethnic populations
Authors: Fujihara Junko , Yasuda Toshihiro , Shiwaku Kuninori , Takeshita Haruo
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1188–91.
Preanalytical and analytical variation of surface-enhanced laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry of human serum
Authors: Albrethsen Jakob , Bøgebo Rikke , Olsen Jesper , Raskov Hans , Gammeltoft Steen
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1243–52.
The importance of metrological traceability on the validity of creatinine measurement as an index of renal function: International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC)
Authors: Panteghini Mauro , Myers Gary L. , Miller W. Greg , Greenberg Neil
Published: October 2006

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is currently considered the best overall index of kidney function. The possibility that laboratories might routinely report an estimated GFR has become practically feasible with the development of a formula, the “four-variable” Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study (MDRD) equation that uses age, sex, race, and serum creatinine parameters. However, a limitation of this equation for general implementation in healthcare is related to the use of differently calibrated creatinine measurement procedures among laboratories. The only way to achieve universal implementation of the GFR prediction equation, with the associated clinical benefits for patients, is, therefore, to promote worldwide standardization of methods to determine creatinine, together with the introduction of a revised GFR-estimating equation appropriate for use with standardized creatinine methods.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1287–92.
Symmetry reduction and cation ordering in solid solution of stronium-lead and barium-lead nitrates
Authors: Shtukenberg Alexander G. , Euler Harald , Kirfel Armin , Popov Dmitry Yu.
Published: October 2006

Kinetic ordering of the cations in (Sr,Pb)(NO3)2 and (Ba,Pb)(NO3)2 solid solutions with anomalous birefringence was studied by means of single crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal structures of two samples of (Sr0.62Pb0.38)(NO3)2 and (Ba0.20Pb0.80)(NO3)2, respectively, taken from the {111} growth sectors as well as of two samples of (Sr0.62Pb0.38) (NO3)2 taken from the {100} growth sector were refined in the ideal structure space group Pa-3 and in two of its subgroups – trigonal R-3 and triclinic P-1 with R = 0.009 — 0.027. The final choice of trigonal symmetry for the samples from the {111} growth sectors is based on the analysis of the diffraction patterns and of the cation distributions over the crystallographic sites, which reflects the different orientations of the cation coordination polyhedra with respect to the (111) growth face (cubic setting). The observed optical indicatrices were successfully reproduced in the point-dipole approximation.
The crystal structures of polymorphic SUZ-4
Authors: Strohmeier Karl G. , Afeworki Mobae , Dorset Douglas L.
Published: October 2006

SUZ-4 is an aluminosilicate zeolite originally synthesized at British Petroleum and known to be related somehow to ferrierite. Although a model had been suggested for the framework structure no quantitative proof of its existence has been given in previous work. It is now found to be polymorphic. The originally identified ambient, hydrated form crystallizes in space group Imma where a = 18.882(1), b = 14.872(1), c = 14.211(1) Å. A model constructed by trial and error refines by Rietveld methods to give Rwp
= 0.1643, R(F
2) = 0.1665. Powder data collected at 100 °C, on the other hand, correspond to the Cmmm model proposed earlier by Lawton et al., where a = 18.790(1), b = 14.2305(8), c = 7.4511(4) Å. The Rietveld match gives Rwp
= 0.1473, R(F
2) = 0.1508. Although the two forms crystallize in different space groups, the framework topology remains the same, as revealed by vertex symbols and coordination sequences. Evidence is seen for potassium ions that cannot be completely removed by ammonium exchange. Later, the origin of the polymorphic change was discovered to be hydration of microporous channels rather than a thermal effect. Solid-state NMR measurements of the hydrated and anhydrous forms show that a more symmetric environment around the Al species is observed without affecting the coordination of the Al sites. Synchrotron powder data collected at room temperature from anhydrous material conformed to the Cmmm structural model, where a = 18.8064(4), b = 14.2298(3), c = 7.4548(2) Å. Rietveld refinement, including three potassium sites gives R
wp = 0.1127, R(F
2) = 0.1296. (Elemental analysis indicates a stoichiometric assembly: K4T36O72; the Rietveld refinement finds 3.86 of the 4.00 potassium atoms.) The material represents a one-dimensional 10-membered ring framework.
A crystallographic and spectroscopic study on the imine-amine tautomerism of 2-hydroxyaldimine compounds
Authors: Nazir Hasan , Arici Cengiz , Emregül Kaan C. , Atakol Orhan
Published: October 2006

The molecular structures of N-(2-hydroxy ethyl)-3,5-dinitrosalicylaldimine and N-N′-bis(acetophe-nylketimine)-1,4-diaminobuthane were determined using X-ray diffraction. It was established using the difference Fourier map that the phenolic hydrogens were situated on the iminic nitrogen. Identical observations of the molecular structure were made for similar Schiff bases in literature, and it was established that this situation was not in agreement with the IR and NMR results. The molecular structure of N-(4-hydroxylphenyl)-benzaldimine was determined using X-ray diffraction for comparison. Similar compounds were prepared and their FTIR spectra were investigated.
Gastrointestinal Tract Involvement in Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Hait Elizabeth , Liang Marilyn , Degar Barbara , Glickman Jonathan , Fox Victor L.
Published: October 2006

Digestive tract involvement in Langerhans cell histiocytosis is exceedingly rare. We report a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in an otherwise thriving neonate presenting with hematochezia, anemia, and rash. We also review the few cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis with gastrointestinal involvement reported in the English-language medical literature. Although gastrointestinal involvement can range in severity from mild to life-threatening, its presence may be indicative of multisystemic disease, and aggressive treatment should be considered.
Long-term Follow-up after Maxillary Distraction Osteogenesis in Growing Children with Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Huang Chiung-Shing , Harikrishnan Pandurangan , Liao Yu-Fang , Ko Ellen W. C. , Liou Eric J. W. , Chen Philip K. T.
Published: October 2006

Objective:

To evaluate the changes in maxillary position after maxillary distraction osteogenesis in six growing children with cleft lip and palate.

Design:

Retrospective, longitudinal study on maxillary changes at A point, anterior nasal spine, posterior nasal spine, central incisor, and first molar.

Setting:

The University Hospital Craniofacial Center.

Main Outcome Measure:

Cephalometric radiographs were used to measure the maxillary position immediately after distraction, at 6 months, and more than 1 year after distraction.

Results:

After maxillary distraction with a rigid external distraction device, the maxilla (A point) on average moved forward 9.7 mm and downward 3.5 mm immediately after distraction, moved backward 0.9 mm and upward 2.0 mm after 6 months postoperatively, and then moved further backward 2.3 mm and downward 6.8 mm after more than 1 year from the predistraction position.

Conclusion:

In most cases, maxilla moved forward at distraction and started to move backward until 1 year after distraction, but remained forward, as compared with predistraction position. Maxilla also moved downward during distraction and upward in 6 months, but started descending in 1 year. There also was no further forward growth of the maxilla after distraction in growing children with clefts.
PGC-1α regulates the isoform mRNA ratio of the alternatively spliced thyroid hormone receptor α transcript
Authors: Thijssen-Timmer D C , Schiphorst M Platvoet-Ter , Kwakkel J , Emter R , Kralli A , Wiersinga W M , Bakker O
Published: October 2006

Transcripts derived from the thyroid hormone receptor α (TRα) gene are alternatively spliced resulting in a functional receptor TRα1 and a non-T3-binding variant TRα2 that can exert a dominant negative effect on the transactivation functions of other TRs. There is evidence that the ratio of TRα isoform transcripts can be modulated and here, we investigate whether the PPARγ co-activator α (PGC-1α) has an effect on this splicing process. PGC-1α was discovered not only as a transcriptional co-activator, but also has certain motifs characteristic of splicing factors. We demonstrate that PGC-1α alters the ratio of endogenously expressed TRα isoform transcripts in HepG2 cells, by decreasing TRα1 mRNA levels twofold. This change in isoform ratio is accompanied by a decrease in 5′-deiodinase expression, whereas no differences were found in TRβ1 expression. Deletion of the RNA-processing domain of PGC-1α abrogated the effect on the TRα splicing, whereas expression of only the RNA-processing domain favored TRα1 expression. PGC-1α showed a similar effect on the splicing of a TRα minigene containing only the last four exons and introns of the TRα gene. These data suggest that PGC-1α is involved in the RNA processing of TRα transcripts.
The effect of neurogenin3 deficiency on pancreatic gene expression in embryonic mice
Authors: Petri Andreas , Ahnfelt-Rønne Jonas , Frederiksen Klaus Stensgaard , Edwards David George , Madsen Dennis , Serup Palle , Fleckner Jan , Heller R Scott
Published: October 2006

To understand the molecular mechanisms regulating pancreatic endocrine development and function, pancreatic gene expression was compared between Ngn3-deficient mice and littermate controls on embryonic days 13 and 15. Microarray analysis identified 504 genes with significant differences in expression. Fifty-two of these showed at least twofold reduction in Ngn3 knockouts compared to controls. Many of them were previously described to be involved in endocrine development and function. Among the genes not previously characterized were Rhomboid veinlet-like 4, genes involved in tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis and the Iroquois-type homeobox gene Irx1, the latter was selected for further investigation. In situ hybridisation demonstrated that two Iroquois genes, Irx1 and Irx2, were expressed in pancreatic endoderm of wild-type, but not Ngn3 mutant embryos. Furthermore, ectopic Ngn3 induced prominent Irx2 expression in chicken endoderm. Co-labelling established that Irx1 and Irx2 mRNA is located to glucagon-, but not insulin- or somatostatin-producing cells in mice and chicken. These data suggest that Irx1 and Irx2 serve an evolutionary conserved role in the regulation of α-cell-specific gene expression.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis as Antagonistic Modulators of Gingival Perfusion
Authors: Rodríguez‐Martínez Manuel , Patiño‐Marín Nuria , Loyola‐Rodríguez Juan Pablo , Brito‐Orta Ma. Dolores
Published: October 2006

Background: We explore the possible association between the extent of gingivitis or periodontitis and an index of gingival microvascular perfusion response to compression of alveolar mucosa, called the gingival perfusion index (GIPI).

Methods: A cross‐sectional analytical study was done in a sample of 60 adults, including healthy and non‐insulin‐dependent diabetic subjects of either gender, with teeth in the anteromandibular sextant with or without gingivitis and with or without periodontitis at the lower‐left lateral incisor (LLLI). A sample was selected by convenience non‐probability sampling. Gingival perfusion was evaluated at labial LLLI attached gingiva. Two perfusion recordings were done 5 minutes apart, each one consisting of a 40‐second control phase, a 22‐second compression phase, and a 40‐second postcompression phase. LLLI alveolar mucosa was compressed with a wood‐mounted cotton swab until reaching about one‐fifth of the control perfusion value. GIPI was used as response dependent variable. The gingival index and probing depth were used as measures of the extent of gingivitis and periodontitis, respectively.

Results: By analysis of covariance and multiple regression analysis, it was found that only the probing depth (negatively) and gingival index (positively) predicted GIPI (R2 adjusted = 0.5194, P <0.0001).

Conclusions: The data strongly suggest that, at least in the studied sample, gingivitis and periodontitis operate as antagonistic modulators of gingival perfusion. The major practical implication of our findings is that an increase or decrease in this index (GIPI) at a given attached gingiva site could indicate, respectively, the clinical predominance of gingivitis or periodontitis in such a site.
Histologic Evaluation of Early Human Bone Response to Different Implant Surfaces
Authors: Grassi Sauro , Piattelli Adriano , de Figueiredo Luciene Cristina , Feres Magda , de Melo Leandro , Iezzi Giovanna , Alba Rodolfo Candia , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: October 2006

Background: Studies have demonstrated that roughened dental implant surfaces show firmer bone fixation and an increased percentage of bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC%) compared to commercially pure titanium‐surface (machined) implants. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of implant‐surface topography on human bone tissue after 2 months of unloaded healing.

Methods: Fourteen subjects with a mean age of 46.87 ± 9.45 years received two microimplants each (2.5 mm in diameter and 6 mm in length), one test (sandblasted acid‐etched surface) and one control (machined surface), either in the mandible or in the maxilla. After a healing period of 2 months, the microimplants and surrounding tissues were removed with a trephine bur and prepared for histologic analysis.

Results: All microimplants, except for one of the controls, were clinically stable after the healing period. Histometric evaluation indicated that the mean BIC% was 23.08% ± 11.95% and 42.83% ± 9.80% for machined and rough microimplant surfaces, respectively (P = 0.0005). The bone area within the threads was also higher for sandblasted‐surface implants (P = 0.0005). The mean percentage of bone density did not differ between the two groups (P = 0.578).

Conclusion: Data from the present histological study suggest that the sandblasted acid‐etched implant provides a better human bone tissue response than machined implants under unloaded conditions after a healing period of 2 months.
The Association Between Cumulative Periodontal Disease and Stroke History in Older Adults
Authors: Lee Hyo‐Jung , Garcia Raul I. , Janket Sok‐Ja , Jones Judith A. , Mascarenhas Ana Karina , Scott Thayer E. , Nunn Martha E.
Published: October 2006

Background: Since the late 1980s, several studies have been conducted to investigate the relationship between periodontal disease and ischemic stroke. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship of periodontal disease to the self‐reported history of stroke in the elderly (60 years of age and older) by examining the data of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III).

Methods: Data from NHANES III, a large population‐based cross‐sectional survey of the United States, were used for this study. Because 1,563 of the 5,123 subjects in the study were edentulous, and periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss, it was necessary to account for edentulousness in the statistical analysis to avoid bias. Hence, a new index called the periodontal health status (PHS) index was developed to address this problem. Two measures of PHS were developed: PHS I, based on the median percentage of sites with ≥2 mm clinical attachment loss (CAL), and PHS II, based on the median percentage of sites with ≥3 mm CAL. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to test for the association of PHS with stroke history. Two types of a multiple logistic regression model were fit: 1) logistic regression modeling with adjustment for age and tobacco use only; and 2) logistic regression modeling with adjustment of all statistically significant confounders.

Results: Based on multiple logistic regression analysis of PHS with adjustment for age and tobacco use only, completely edentulous elderly adults (PHS Class 5) and partially edentulous (teeth in one arch) elderly adults with appreciable clinical attachment loss (PHS Class 4) were significantly more likely to have a history of stroke compared to dentate adults (teeth in both arches) without appreciable clinical attachment loss (PHS Class 1). When multiple logistic regression models were fit with adjustment of all significant confounders, no statistically significant association was found between PHS and stroke.

Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, there is evidence of an association between cumulative periodontal disease, based on PHS, and a history of stroke. However, it is unclear whether cumulative periodontal disease is an independent risk factor for stroke or a risk marker for the disease.
The Effects of Loading Time on Osseointegration and New Bone Formation Around Dental Implants: A Histologic and Histomorphometric Study in Dogs
Authors: Ghanavati Farzin , Shayegh Seyyed Shojaoddin , Rahimi Hessam , Sharifi Davood , Ghanavati Farzam , Khalesseh Niloofar , Eslami Behnam
Published: October 2006

Background: Immediate loading of dental implants has been introduced as a method of reducing implant treatment time without compromising its prognosis. In this research, the effects of loading time on the amount of bone‐to‐implant contact and bone formation around dental implants were evaluated histologically.

Methods: Three months prior to implantation, the lower premolar teeth of 15 dogs were extracted. Three or four dental implants were placed in the healed extraction sites for each dog (N = 48). Dividing the dogs into three groups, the implants were either loaded 48 hours or 1 week later with metallic or prefabricated acrylic crowns or were left unloaded until the time of sacrifice. Three months after implant insertion, the animals were sacrificed and samples were investigated to define the amount of bone‐to‐implant contact, lamellar and woven bone percentage, and local inflammation of the newly formed bone.

Results: No significant difference in the observed criteria was reported among the three groups (P >0.05); however, the unloaded group had the highest degree of bone‐to‐implant contact and the group loaded 48 hours after the primary implant insertion had the least. The prosthesis type had no significant effect on the implant success rate (P >0.05). The lamellar and woven bone percentage of newly formed bone also did not differ in the three groups (P >0.05). One implant from each group failed in this study.

Conclusion: Loading time does not seem to significantly affect the degree of osseointegration and bone‐to‐implant contact and the composition of newly formed bone around dental implants.
Experimental Intrabony and Periodontal Defects Treated With Natural Mineral Combined With a Synthetic Cell‐Binding Peptide in the Canine: Morphometric Evaluations
Authors: Artzi Zvi , Weinreb Miron , Tal Haim , Nemcovsky Carlos E. , Rohrer Michael D. , Prasad Hari S. , Kozlovsky Avital
Published: October 2006

Background: A synthetic peptide (P‐15) analog of collagen added to anorganic bovine bone mineral (ABM) has recently been used as an enhanced bone graft material (ABM/P‐15). The objective of this study was to test the contribution of ABM/P‐15 in a new putty form (PEP) in two experimental membrane‐protected defects: periodontal and intrabony. Its efficacy as filler biomaterial in guided tissue regeneration (GTR) and guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures was evaluated histologically and morphometrically.

Methods: In the maxillary canines, a facial mucoperiosteal flap was raised bilaterally in nine dogs. Two circular defects, 5 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth, were made on each side: a fenestrated periodontal on the canine root and an intrabony in the alveolar diastema, anteriorly. PEP particles filled both defects on one side; the contralateral side was blood filled (control). All surgical sites were covered with a bioabsorbable membrane. Histologically, at 4 months, tissue blocks were made using the cutting/grinding non‐decalcification method followed by morphometric analysis. In the periodontal fenestration root surface, the linear percentage of new cementum (%CEM), area percentage of new bone (%NB), and residual biomaterial particles (%PEP) were calculated. These same measurements were calculated at the intrabony sites, except cementum. The amount of direct NB to PEP contact was measured to assess the osteoconductivity level (OSC). The Pearson correlation test was used to evaluate any significant relationship between the different measured parameters.

Results: In the grafted and non‐grafted fenestration root surface defects, %CEM averaged 59.5% and 73.9% (P <0.02), respectively; %NB averaged 36.1% and 31.4%, respectively; and %PEP averaged 20.6%. The mean percentage of OSC was 52.4%. In the intrabony grafted and non‐grafted sites, %NB averaged 50.7% and 60.1%, respectively (P <0.02). Residual %PEP averaged 26.1%, and OSC averaged 35.6%. At the intrabony sites, higher %NB and lower %OSC were found compared to the fenestration sites (P <0.001 and P <0.03, respectively). Correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between %NB and %PEP at the fenestration defects. In between the two defect types, %OSC was significantly correlated (P <0.05).

Conclusions: ABM/P‐15 putty showed osteoconductive and biocompatible qualities. However, at 4 months in this model, no enhanced regeneration was present compared to a higher CEM and NB growth detected at non‐grafted membrane‐protected sites.
Immunohistochemical Study of Bone Sialoprotein and Osteopontin in Healthy and Diseased Root Surfaces
Authors: Lao Martin , Marino Victor , Bartold P. Mark
Published: October 2006

Background: Periodontal disease is marked by inflammation and damage to tooth‐supporting tissues. In particular, damage occurs to factors present in cementum that are thought to have the ability to influence the regeneration of surrounding tissues. Bone sialoprotein and osteopontin are major non‐collagenous proteins in mineralized connective tissues associated with precementoblast chemo‐attraction, adhesion to the root surface, and cell differentiation. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the expression and distribution of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin on root surfaces affected by periodontitis are altered compared to healthy, non‐diseased root surfaces.

Methods: Thirty healthy and 30 periodontitis‐affected teeth were collected. Following fixation and demineralization, specimens were embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and exposed to antibodies against bone sialoprotein and osteopontin. Stained sections were assessed using light microscopy.

Results: Bone sialoprotein was not detected in the exposed cementum (absence of overlying periodontal ligament) of diseased teeth. In most areas where the periodontal ligament was intact, bone sialoprotein was detected for healthy and diseased teeth. For teeth reactive for bone sialoprotein, the matrix of the cementum just below the periodontal ligament was moderately stained. A similar immunoreactivity pattern for osteopontin was observed.

Conclusions: The absence of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin staining along exposed cementum surfaces may be due to structural and compositional changes in matrix components associated with periodontal disease. This may influence the ability for regeneration and new connective tissue attachment onto previously diseased root surfaces.
Courts, credit and debt collection in post-communist Slovakia: Notes about some understudied ingredients of a successful transition
Authors: Schönfelder Bruno
Published: October 2006

In economic terms Slovakia has been one of the most successful transition countries, but its advance towards the rule of law has been uneven and beset with numerous difficulties. While in the 1990s the judiciary increased its reputation considerably by standing up in the defense of democracy, it lost face only shortly later because of its apparent inability to prevent court corruption from spreading. Only quite recently government managed to take effective measures against it. Nevertheless debt collection has become much less of a problem than it used to be in the 1990s and liquidity constraints have been greatly relieved. This change seems only to a minor part due to increasing judicial efficiency which has made slow progress only. Thus, Slovak experience has reconfirmed the conjecture that erecting the rule of law takes much more time than transforming the economic system.
The scope of foreign direct investment in South Eastern Europe and the economy of SCG
Authors: Beslac Milan
Published: October 2006

Foreign direct investments have had a long tradition in the modern Serbian history. The influence of the foreign capital on the Serbian economy was particularly expressed in the period between the two World Wars, when France England, Belgium, Germany and even Russia invested into Serbia. After World War II, until the end of the sixth decade, foreign direct investments were not stipulated in the legal regulations. In the last decade of the twentieth century and at the beginning of the twenty-first, the inflow of foreign direct investments has been provided for through the economy transformation and privatization process. In the last three years, privatization has been oriented only to sale and inflow of foreign capital, while the reverse process, i.e. investment into foreign countries (outflow), has been totally neglected. Therefore, orientation only to the FDI inflow constitutes both an opportunity and an obstacle to intensive economic development. Along with that, the following laws have not been passed yet: Law on Denationalization Law on Investment Funds and Law on Takeover of Joint-Stock Companies. Such laws will ensure completion of the privatization process and create an ambience for intensive economic development.
Financial sector and economic growth in the Republic of Croatia 1995-2005
Authors: Novotny Damir
Published: October 2006

Financial sector in the Republic of Croatia had a strong growth between 1995 2005.g. Liberalization of financial sector in 1999 led to an increase in bank foreign debt, which resulted in a strong increase in foreign currency reserves and appreciation of the national currency. The growth of the financial sector and credit expansion have been allocated in favour of private and public consumption, but not in industry investments. GDP growth didn't have the same momentum as financial aggregates. Economic growth, after a contraction in 1999 was within the average of global economic growth. Relying on neoclassical growth model, government and central bank didn't put in place the needed set of pro-active policies. Factor allocation was solely through private bank channels financing private consumption. If the sustainable economic growth and new employment are to be major macroeconomic goals, a new macroeconomic paradigm as combination of neclassical and neokeynesians approach will be needed.