bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory diagnosis of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia: advantages of a functional flow cytometric test in comparison to the heparin‐induced platelet‐activation test
Authors: Poley Susanne , Mempel Wolfgang
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Nearly one third of patients with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) will progress to overt thrombosis. Owing to the severity of HIT, a reliable prompt diagnosis is mandatory. In this study 248 consecutive samples from patients referred to our laboratory for HIT diagnosis and 97 specimens from normal controls were prospectively evaluated in parallel using the heparin‐induced platelet aggregation (HIPA) test and a flow cytometric (FC) test. The HIPA test resulted in 214 negative, 17 indeterminate and 17 positive samples of patients. The FC method detects activated platelets induced by heparin‐immune complexes using the highly sensitive recombinant probe annexin V and pooled platelets from multiple donors. The criteria for positive FC test results included an increase in platelet activiation of at least 11% at 0.3 IU/mL heparin concentration in the tube, and a ratio of more than 1.5 between platelet activation at 0.3 and 200 IU/mL heparin. According to the cut‐off level 17 patients who showed indeteminate HIPA test results had 14 negative and 3 indeterminate corresponding FC test results. Only one of these patients (HIPA test indeterminate, FC test indeterminate) had no other obvious medical cause for thrombocytopenia than HIT. Infections or inflammations did not show any association with the FC test results, whereas thromboembolic events displayed a significant patelet activation at pharmacological heparin concentration. Therefore the FC test is associated to the complications of HIT.

In conclusion, the FC test, which is fast and practical, showed a good agreement with the HIPA test and may be an accurate and useful test for HIT.
Identification of numerical and structural chromosome aberrations in 15 high hyperdiploid childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemias using spectral karyotyping
Authors: Nordgren Ann , Farnebo Filip , Johansson Bertil , Holmgren Gösta , Forestier Erik , Larsson Catharina , Söderhäll Stefan , Nordenskjöld Magnus , Blennow Elisabeth
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Spectral karyotyping (SKY) on metaphase spreads from 15 high hyperdiploid (>51 chromosomes) childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL), which typically display a poor chromosome morphology, was performed in order to investigate the pattern of numerical abnormalities, reveal the chromosomal origin of marker chromosomes, and identify translocations and other interchromosomal rearrangements not detected by G‐banding analysis. In all cases the numerical changes could be fully characterized, and a non‐random pattern of chromosomal gain was identified, with chromosomes X, 21, 14, 17, 6, 18, 4, and 10 being most frequently gained. The numerical changes had been partly misinterpreted in 12 of the 15 ALL patients using G‐banding, and the present study hence emphasizes the importance of SKY in identifying such anomalies, some of which, i.e. +4 and +10, have been suggested to be prognostically important. The chromosomal origin of all marker chromosomes and of seven structural rearrangements, one of which was the prognostically important Philadelphia chromosome, could be identified. Five rearrangements [der(1)t(1;14)(q32;q21), der(2)t(2;8)(q36;?), der(3)t(2;3)(q21;?), der(8)t(8;14)(?;?), and t(9;21)(q12;q22)] have previously not been reported in ALL, emphasizing the value of SKY in identifying novel chromosomal rearrangements.
Peripheral blood accessory cells modulate committed colony‐forming units but not 5‐week cobblestone‐area‐forming cell outgrowth from CD34+ cells
Authors: Olesen Gitte , Tønder Hanne , Palshof Torben , Hokland Peter
Published: March 2003

Abstract: While cellular modulation in vitro of committed hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) growth has been known for some time, less is known about the effect of accessory cells (AC) on the growth of more immature HSC. We have examined the effect of peripheral blood (PB) AC on hematopoiesis by coculturing enriched PB CD34+ cells (> 96% pure) with different quantities of CD34− cells (< 1% contamination) harvested from 10 breast cancer patients. As expected colony growth was predominantly present in the CD34+ fractions, in which colony forming units granulocyte‐macrophage (CFU‐GM) varied between 89–3289/105 (median 1422/105 seeded cells) and week 5 cobblestone area forming cells (CAFC) between 64–1330/105 (median 427/105 seeded cells). Few CFU‐GM (0–27/105 seeded cells) and no week 5 CAFC (0–1/105 seeded cells) were present in the CD34− fractions. The addition of PB CD34− cells to cultures of CD34+ cells resulted in a considerable variation in the cloning efficiency at the CFU‐GM level, and the extent of modulation within the single patient was inconsistent between the different CD34+/CD34− cell mixtures. Overall the stimulatory effect was more pronounced than inhibition and on average the CFU‐GM formation per CD34+ cell seeded increased 3 fold (stimulatory effect ranged between 3–17 fold and decreases between 2–10 fold). In contrast, the cloning efficiency at the week 5 CAFC level of differentiation remained unaffected by the addition of different amounts of CD34− cells (the stimulatory effect was maximally 3‐fold and inhibition 3‐fold). We conclude that while the CFU assay is modulated by the presence of AC, the CAFC assay is more robust and can be employed as a reliable and reproducible tool for HSC measurement.
A population‐based study of the outcome for patients with first relapse of Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Amini Rose‐Marie , Glimelius Bengt , Gustavsson Anita , Ekman Tor , Erlanson Martin , Haapaniemi Eva , Enblad Gunilla
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Background
: Our aims were to evaluate the response to salvage treatment in relation to initial treatment and to evaluate prognostic factors at the time of relapse in an unselected population of relapsing patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL).
Patients and methods
: In total, 124 patients younger than 60 yr of age with initial diagnosis of HL in Sweden relapsed between 1985 and 1995.
Results
: Fifty‐eight patients relapsed after initial treatment with radiotherapy (RT) only, 62 after combination chemotherapy (CT), of whom 30 had received additional involved‐field RT, and four after a short course of CT followed by extended‐field RT. For 37 patients among the 58 relapsers after initial RT treated according to the recommendations of the National guidelines, the 5‐yr Hodgkin‐specific survival (HLS) was 85%, overall survival (OS) 73% and event‐free survival (EFS) 62%, which is not inferior to survival in patients with primarily advanced stages. It was poorer in the 21 patients who initially had received RT only, even though they had been recommended for more extensive treatment. For patients initially treated with a full course (6–8 cycles) of CT the 5‐yr HLS was 60%, OS 58% and EFS 22%. Bulky disease and age at diagnosis strongly affected survival in a multivariate analysis.
Conclusions : Patients initially treated with RT who relapse have a favourable outcome, provided they have been treated according to the recommendations of the guidelines at the time of diagnosis. Initially bulky disease and, as a consequence, additional RT as part of the initial treatment negatively affect survival at relapse in patients initially treated with a full course of CT.
Localisation and distribution of hyaluronan in normal bone marrow matrix: a novel method to evaluate impending fibrosis?
Authors: Sundström Gunnel , Löfvenberg Eva , Hassan Inaam , Engström‐Laurent Anna
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Bone marrow trephine biopsies from 30 healthy volunteers, 10 men and 20 women aged 18–60 yr were obtained for identification and localisation of hyaluronan (HYA). Fixation, decalcification and embedding were performed by two different methods, with identical results in both. For comparison bone marrow trephine biopsies from three patients with different haematological diseases and known fibrosis were studied. All bone marrow specimens were also stained for reticulin grading. HYA was found in the bone marrow specimens from healthy individuals in a pattern that was concordant with the reticulin staining, the common way of visualising bone marrow fibrosis. In bone marrow from the patients with known fibrosis the HYA and reticulin staining were both more intense and abundant. Interestingly, HYA was also found intracellularly in eosinophilic cells in normal bone marrow. HYA is a polysaccharide unique both in structural and biological properties, and in excess it may predict bone marrow fibrosis.
Megakaryocytic blast crisis as a first presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Flores Pelloso Luis Arthur , Guimarães Baiocchi Otávio Cesar , Chauffaille Maria Lourdes L.F. , Yamamoto Mihoko , Hungria Vania T.M. , Bordin José Orlando
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Acute megakaryocytic leukemia (AmegL) corresponds to 5.0–10.0% of all acute myeloid leukemias (AML). Blast crisis as the first presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) accounts for 10.0% of all cases. Objective: We report a case of megakaryocytic blast crisis as the first presentation of CML. Case report: A 25‐yr‐old‐female with a 2‐month history of dry cough and a large, non‐tender splenomegaly was found to have a hemoglobin concentration of 10.5 g/dL, a hematocritof 33.0%, a white blood cell count (WBC) of 11.4 × 106 L with 38% small blasts, eosinophilia of 5%, basophilia of 8%, and a platelet count of 580 × 109 L. Bone marrow aspiration revealed 24% of blast cells with cytoplasmatic blebs and hyperplastic megakaryocytic lineage with dysplasia. Cytochemical stains were all negative, immunophenotyping studies showed CD41 and CD61 positivity in blast cells. Bone marrow biopsy showed grade II fibrosis. Karyotype revealed 46, XX, t(9,22) (q34.1;q11.2)[20] and the reverse‐transcriptase‐PCR (RT‐PCR) gave rise a product with a size corresponding to the 210 kDa protein (p210). No matched donor was found. After induction therapy 5.9% of blast cells persisted. The patient received Imatinib Mesylate and is doing well after a 12‐month follow‐up. Discussion: AmegL as the first presentation of CML is a rare and often fatal event. Some characteristics point towards the diagnosis of a blast crisis instead of AmegL de novo with t(9,22).
Somatic hypermutation and VH gene usage in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Thorsélius Mia , Walsh Sarah , Eriksson Inger , Thunberg Ulf , Johnson Anna , Backlin Carin , Enblad Gunilla , Sundström Christer , Roos Göran , Rosenquist Richard
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is considered to derive from naïve, pregerminal center (GC) CD5+ B‐cells. However, the cell of origin has been questioned in recent studies that showed somatic hypermutations in the immunoglobulin (Ig) variable heavy chain (VH) genes in subsets of MCL. To clarify this issue, we analyzed the IgVH genes for the presence of somatic hypermutations in 51 MCL cases. Twenty percent of the MCL cases displayed somatically mutated VH genes (defined as >2% mutated), whereas 80% showed unmutated VH genes. This finding suggests that MCL is a genetically heterogeneous disease, with the majority of cases originating from unmutated pre‐GC B‐cells and a subset deriving from more mature B‐cells which have been exposed to the GC environment and have undergone somatic hypermutation. A biased VH gene usage has been demonstrated in several B‐cell malignancies; however, this has not yet been investigated in MCL, although VH4‐34 overusage has been indicated by small studies. Interestingly, we found a restricted usage of three individual VH genes in our MCL material; VH4‐34 (22%), VH3‐21 (16%) and VH5‐51 (12%). This novel finding of preferential VH gene usage in half of the MCL cases may suggest an antigen driven process occurring in B‐cells expressing specific VH genes, thus implicating that Ig specificity could be involved in mantle cell lymphoma development.
Enrichment of normal progenitors in counter‐flow centrifugal elutriation (CCE) fractions of fresh chronic myeloid leukemia leukapheresis products
Authors: Dlubek Dorota , Dybko Jaroslaw , Wysoczanska Barbara , Laba Anna , Klimczak Aleksandra , Kryczek Ilona , Konopka Lech , Lange Andrzej
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Objectives
: The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of a technique based on counter‐flow centrifugal elutriation (CCE), which should allow one to enrich chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients' unstimulated native leukapheresis product (nLP) in CD34
+
HLADR
–
cells and BCR‐ABL negative cells.
Methods
: Six newly diagnosed CML patients were subjected to leukapheresis, and the products were subfractionated with the use of CCE. nLP and all fractions were studied for the presence of CD34
+
cells and a proportion of
BCR‐ABL
fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (FISH)
+
cells.
Results
: CCE fractions with a high flow rate contained the highest proportion of CD34
+
cells [mean (SEM) 6.89% (3.88)]. However, CD34
+
cells present in low‐rate CCE fractions showed a higher proportion of HLADR
–
[49.6% (13.5 in 70 mL min
−1
) and 21.5% (11.6 in 110 mL min
−1
)] than those in 170 mL min
−1
[3.2% (2.5)] and ‘rotor off’[3.4% (1.9)]. This was associated with lower proportions of
BCR‐ABL
FISH
+
[8.1% (4.8) and 1.9 (1.7)] and smaller
BCR‐ABL
to
ABL
transcript ratios [0.58 (
17
) and 0.26 (0.08) in 70 and 110 mL min
−1
] fractions as compared to 140 and 170 mL min
−1
fractions [21.6% (5.2) and 31.6% (15.3) for
BCR‐ABL
FISH
+
cells and 0.75 (0.16) and 0.90 (0.24) for
BCR
‐
ABL
/
ABL
]. Fractions with the lowest proportions of
BCR
‐
ABL
‐positive cells and the lowest
BCR
‐
ABL
/
ABL
transcript ratios (110 mL min
−1
) contained from 1.3 × 10
6
to 82.7 × 10
6
(median: 3.97 × 10
6
) CD34
+
cells.
Conclusions : In the present study we have shown that CCE may be used effectively to obtain nLP fractions enriched in normal hematopoietic progenitors.
Pseudothrombocytopenia: a report of a new method to count platelets in a patient with EDTA‐ and temperature‐independent antibodies of the IgM type
Authors: Van Der Meer W. , Allebes W. , Simon A. , Van Berkel Y. , De Keijzer M.H.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Pseudothrombocytopenia is usually associated with blood specimens anticoagulated with ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) or other anticoagulants. It may be caused by temperature‐independent, EDTA‐dependent antibodies of the immunoglobulin‐M (IgM) type. Here a patient with EDTA‐independent and temperature‐independent pseudothrombocytopenia mediated by IgM or IgM‐containing immune complex is reported, and a reliable method is described for a proper counting of platelets in such cases.
Cost analysis of CHOP (‐like) chemotherapy regimens for patients with newly diagnosed aggressive non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Van Agthoven M. , Faber L.M. , Uyl‐de Groot C.A. , Sonneveld P. , Verdonck L.F. , Willemze R. , Kluin‐Nelemans J.C. , Löwenberg B. , Huijgens P.C.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Many cost analyses of stem‐cell transplantations are available, which is in sharp contrast to the level of cost analyses on first‐line chemotherapy for aggressive non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Given the scarcity of cost analyses of first‐line chemotherapy for NHL, it is difficult to assess the economic impact of upcoming new treatment modalities. Therefore we performed an analysis on costs of diagnosis and treatment of patients with newly diagnosed NHL who were treated with standard CHOP (‐like) chemotherapy. As many NHL patients are treated in trials and the economic effects of the trial participation are unknown, our analysis included both patients treated according to trial protocols and patients treated according to standard local practice (SLP). The cost analysis was based on the total medical consumption of the patients. It was found that costs of the trial and SLP groups are within comparable ranges, although costs of diagnostic tests were somewhat higher within the trials. In elderly patients, SLP chemotherapy was discontinued more frequently in case of leucocytopenia or thrombocytopenia. This analysis provides basic information about the costs of first‐line standard chemotherapy for patients with newly diagnosed aggressive NHL and the plausible ranges in which these costs may vary. Given the results, we will initiate larger studies to investigate whether trial treatments (showing more or less similar costs as SLP treatments) are more cost‐effective for patients with aggressive NHL.
Significance of chemokines and soluble CD40 ligand in patients with autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Nagahama Minori , Nomura Shosaku , Kanazawa Shigenori , Ozaki Yoshio , Kagawa Hideo , Fukuhara Shirou
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  We investigated the levels of various chemokines and soluble CD40L (sCD40L) in ITP patients, in order to determine the influence of CD40–CD40L interaction on the pathogenesis of ITP. We found increases in MCP‐1 and RANTES levels in ITP patients compared with those in healthy individuals. Thirty‐eight of the 65 ITP patients (58.5%) had elevated levels of sCD40L. We found significant decreases in platelet counts in sCD40L‐positive ITP patients. Although the sCD40L level did not differ significantly between the control and nonimmune thrombocytopenia groups, but among ITP patients. sCD40L level was significantly higher in those with untreated ITP than in those with treated ITP. In addition, significant increases in RANTES, MCP‐1, sCD14, and sP‐selectin levels were observed in sCD40L‐positive ITP patients, although sE‐selectin levels were not increased in such patients. For other factors examined, however, there were no differences in level between sCD40L‐positive and ‐negative ITP patients. These findings suggests that there are two groups of ITP patients, one with elevated and one with normal of sCD40L. ITP cases in which sCD40L was increased appeared to involve changes in platelet counts and monocyte activation. The pathogenesis of ITP may in some patients include alterations of the CD40/CD40L pathway.
A case of multicentric Castleman's disease demonstrating severe eosinophilia and enhanced production of interleukin‐5
Authors: Ishii Taeko , Tatekawa Toyoshi , Koseto Masahiro , Ishii Masaru , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Koike Masato , Fujii Takashi , Saeki Yukihiko
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Introduction: Castleman's disease (CD), idiopathic lymph‐node hyperplasia, is a heterogeneous disease of unknown origin. Although the pathophysiology is yet to be elucidated, interleukin (IL)‐6 produced by swollen lymph nodes has been reported to play a crucial role in CD.

Case report: This report presents a case of a 37‐yr‐old man with CD showing marked elevation of IL‐6, hypereosinophilia, and also IL‐5 elevation. To date, IL‐5 has not been reported to influence CD. However, because in this case the serum concentration of IL‐5 produced from swollen lymph nodes paralleled the general symptoms, IL‐5, in addition to IL‐6, may have played an important role in the disease.

Discussion: Although in CD the serum IL‐5 level is generally within the normal range, mild eosinophilia is a common complication of the disease. This case indicates that IL‐5 can also influence eosinophilia. Taken together, this suggests that there may be a more general association between local production of IL‐5 and the pathology of CD.
Granulocytic sarcoma of the pancreas successfully treated with intensive chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation
Authors: Breccia Massimo , D'Andrea Mariella , Mengarelli Andrea , Morano Salvatore G. , D'Elia Gianna M. , Alimena Giuliana
Published: March 2003

Abstract: A case of preleukemic granulocytic sarcoma of pancreas is presented. Pancreas is a well described site of secondary metastasis of solid tumors, but occasionally it has been reported as the primary site of leukemia. Like other cases reported in the literature, the present case was initially misdiagnosed as malignant lymphoma. We highlight the importance of an accurate immunohistochemical diagnosis and of an early and intensive acute myeloid leukemia‐like treatment for these cases representing an uncommon and aggressive form of acute leukemia.
Presence of immunoreactive β‐endorphin in human skin
Authors: Wintzen M. , De Winter S. , Out‐Luiting J. J. , Van Duinen S. G. , Vermeer B. J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The production and its induction by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) of proopiomelanocortin (POMC)‐derived peptides by keratinocytes has been reported, albeit not consistently. Recently we demonstrated that only under specific culturing conditions human keratinocytes are capable of producing a β‐endorphin (βE)‐like peptide with the characteristics of β‐lipotropin (βLPH). Here the presence and UV‐induction of βE‐immunoreactivity (βE‐IR) in keratinocytes in human skin in vivo was investigated. βE‐IR was detectable by immunohistochemistry in keratinocytes of the follicular matrix and to some extent in cells of sweat ducts, but was absent from epidermal keratinocytes. Absence of βE‐IR was confirmed by radioimmunoassay of HPLC‐fractionated extracts of normal epidermis. Repeated exposure to solar‐simulated UVR had no effect. This investigation is the first to demonstrate the presence of βE‐immunoreactive material in the follicular matrix of corporal hairs and in duct cells of sweat glands. The possible meaning of these results is discussed.
Pathophysiology of pruritus in atopic dermatitis: an overview
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Steinhoff Martin
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Pruritus is an essential feature of atopic dermatitis (AD) and the diagnosis of active AD cannot be made without the history of itching. Because of the high impact on life quality, most of the patients measure the severity of eczema by the intensity of pruritus rather than appearance of skin lesions. However, although pruritus is a cardinal symptom of AD, its mechanism and association with the cutaneous nervous system is not completely understood. Recently, a considerable progress has been achieved in clarifying the complex pathophysiology of pruritus in AD. As a cutaneous sensory perception, itch requires excitation of neuropeptide‐containing free nerve endings of unmyelinated nociceptor fibers. It is well known that histamine and acetylcholine provoke itch by direct binding to ‘itch receptors’ and several mediators such as neuropeptides, proteases or cytokines indirectly via histamine release. Interestingly, some variations of these complex mechanisms could be demonstrated in patients with AD. This review highlights the recent knowledge of different mechanisms which may be involved in regulating pruritus in patients with AD potentially leading to new therapeutic applications for the treatment of itch in AD.
Comparison of gene expression profiles in human keratinocyte mono‐layer cultures, reconstituted epidermis and normal human skin; transcriptional effects of retinoid treatments in reconstituted human epidermis
Authors: Bernard François‐Xavier , Pedretti Nathalie , Rosdy Martin , Deguercy Alain
Published: March 2003

Abstract: In order to validate a model for predictive screening of dermatological drugs, we used a customized cDNA macro‐array system containing 475 skin‐related genes to analyze the gene expression patterns in human keratinocytes from different origins: (1) normal human epidermal keratinocyte mono‐layer cultures, (2) the commercially available SkinEthic reconstituted human epidermis model, and (3) biopsies of normal human epidermis. Few markers of those that were detected significantly in keratinocyte mono‐layers or in reconstituted epidermis were undetected or detected at very low level in the normal epidermis biopsies. A comparative expression of more than 100 markers could be evidenced in both normal epidermis and reconstituted epidermis samples; however, only 90% of these were detected in keratinocyte mono‐layers: expression of several terminal differentiation markers, such as filaggrin, loricrin, and corneodesmosin were strongly detected in normal epidermis and reconstituted epidermis, but were not significantly expressed in keratinocyte mono‐layers. Under the experimental conditions described herein, the reconstituted human epidermis model was found to significantly reproduce the gene expression profile of normal human epidermis. Using the same methodology, we then investigated the effects of all‐trans retinoic acid, 9‐cis retinoic acid, all‐trans retinol and a commercialized tretinoin‐containing cream (Retacnyl™) on the gene expression profiles of reconstituted human epidermis. According to the nature and the length of the treatments, more than 40 genes were found significantly modified. Among the genes whose expression was decreased, we found cytokeratins 1, 10, 2E, and 6B, several cornified envelope precursors, integrins α3, α6, β1, β4, some components of desmosomes, of hemi‐desmosomes and of the epidermal basement membrane. Transcriptional upregulation was observed for keratins 18 and 19, autocrine and paracrine growth factors such as HB‐EGF, IGF 1, PDGF‐A, calgranulins A and B, interleukin‐1α and the other IL‐1‐related markers, type II IL‐1 receptor and type I IL‐1‐receptor antagonist. Our results confirm most of the known effects of retinoids on human epidermis, but also give new insights into their complex pharmacological activity on skin. The reconstituted human epidermis used proves to be a highly predictive model for efficacy evaluation of skin‐targeted compounds, such as retinoids.
Interpopulation comparison of size and age at smolting of white‐spotted charr, Salvelinus leucomaenis
Authors: Yamamoto S. , Morita K.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The relationships between size and age at smolting and juvenile growth rates were examined for 13 populations of white‐spotted charr (Salvelinus leucomaenis). Mean smolt length (ranging 142–210 mm in fork length) and smolt age (2.4–3.7 years) varied significantly among populations and there was a significant negative relationship between smolt length and age. Mean smolt length was positively correlated with mean specific growth rate from age 0 to 1 year, whereas mean smolt age was negatively correlated with specific growth rate. The present study shows that the freshwater environment conditions operating on juvenile growth are important for moulding the phenotypic characteristics of size and age at smolting.
Assessment of movements of resident stream brown trout, Salmo trutta L., among contiguous sections of stream
Authors: Knouft J. H. , Spotila J. R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The present authors studied the movements of resident stream brown trout, Salmo trutta L., in Valley Creek, Chester County, Pennsylvania, USA, using mark‐recapture techniques as well as radio telemetry. The novel characteristic of this study is that the entire stream was sampled during recapture, thus minimizing the possibility of bias during this portion of the analysis. The authors tagged 627 trout between June and September, 1995, and made 94.6% of recaptures in December, 1995, and 98.5% of recaptures in March, 1996, within 800 m of the initial tagging sites. They also implanted six trout with radio transmitters and made 94.6% of contacts within 800 m of the initial implantation sites. The data, which were pooled from mark‐recapture and radio telemetry studies, show that 95.5% of all recaptures and contacts were within 800 m of initial tagging sites. These results, derived from complete stream sampling, support previous studies indicating that a high percentage of resident stream salmonids remain in the same area of stream throughout the year.
Correlates of growth in juvenile three‐spined sticklebacks: potential predictors of growth rates in natural populations
Authors: Ali M. , Wootton R. J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract ‐ The possibility of using indices to quantitatively predict short‐term growth rates of juvenile three‐spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus L.) was assessed. A range of weight‐specific growth rates (GW) was obtained in experiments with individual sticklebacks fed enchtraeid worms at different daily rations over 21 days. There was a strong, positive correlation between GW and the RNA : DNA ratio in white muscle (r2 = 0.90) and lipid concentration (as percentage dry weight) of the carcass (r2 = 0.92). There were smaller, but significant correlations between GW and the percentage of dry matter in the carcass (r2 = 0.67), and the residuals from the weight–length relationship (r2 = 0.49). Regressions relating growth to RNA : DNA ratio and lipid concentration offer a means of estimating short‐term growth rates in natural populations. A test of such predictions using the results from a 56‐day experiment on stickleback growth suggested that predictions from percentage lipid were biased and inefficient, while predictions from the RNA : DNA ratio were unbiased but inefficient. Predictions from percentage lipid were higher than from the RNA : DNA ratio.
Effect of gender on acute pain prediction and memory in periodontal surgery
Authors: Eli Ilana , Baht Roni , Kozlovsky Avital , Simon Hanita
Published: March 2003

Pain is a complex experience that is affected by factors such as gender, stress, anxiety and cognitions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the inter‐relationship between gender and acute pain prediction and memory under periodontal surgery treatment. The study was conducted on 15 male and 22 female dental patients (mean age 34 yr, mean education level 14.7 yr), who were scheduled for periodontal surgery. Patients were evaluated during four consecutive appointments: at initial check‐up, immediately pre‐operatively, 1 wk post‐operatively, and at 4 wk post‐operative follow‐up. Patients were requested to complete questionnaires concerning their anxiety at each appointment and to indicate their subjective evaluations concerning pain (on a visual analogue scale). Evaluations concerning expectation to experience pain during the planned surgery (pain prediction) were made at the first two appointments and evaluations of the experienced pain as remembered from the surgery (pain memory) were made at the last two appointments. Gender had a significant effect on pain prediction and pain memory. Men expected to experience more pain pre‐operatively than women but remembered less pain post‐operatively. It was concluded that cognitive pain perception in clinical situations differs between genders.
Advanced dental maturity in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lehtinen Arto , Oksa Timo , Helenius Hans , Rönning Olli
Published: March 2003

The subjects of the investigation comprised 95 girls and 73 boys with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), and 102 girls and 66 boys representing healthy controls, all with a chronological age from 6.3 to 14.4 yr. The dental development was assessed from panoramic radiographs using a seven‐tooth model. The radiographs were evaluated on three separate occasions with a minimum interval of one month in a randomized order, and blind with respect to absence or presence of JRA. In both JRA patients and healthy controls, dental maturity was ahead of chronological age. In addition, dental maturity was significantly advanced in JRA patients with 0.26 yr in girls and 0.28 yr in boys. It is tentatively suggested that the advanced dental development in JRA patients compared with healthy children was partly an effect of treatment with cortisone, while the influence of the disorder per se remains to be elucidated.
Burnout and health among Dutch dentists
Authors: Gorter Ronald C. , Eijkman Michiel A. J. , Hoogstraten Johan
Published: March 2003

In this study, it was hypothesised that dentists with a high burnout risk would experience more health complaints and show more unhealthy behaviour when compared with dentists with a low burnout risk. With a response rate of 75%, a representative group of 709 actively practising dentists responded to a questionnaire containing the Dutch version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI‐NL), a health complaints measure (VOEG), and items on health behaviour. Results showed that dentists with a high burnout risk reported health complaints to a greater extent than dentists with a low burnout risk. They also reported more unhealthy behaviour in some aspects (physical exercise/sporting, increase in alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet), but not in others. It also appeared that one out of ten dentists reported having poor general health, and that three out of ten reported to have poor physical condition. In general, dentists' self‐reports appeared favourable in comparison with the Dutch population. It is concluded from this study that among dentists burnout and poor health are strongly related. It is discussed that in order to deal preventively with burnout in dentistry, attention to physical health, including ergonomics, is essential.
Characteristics of adult dentally fearful individuals. A cross‐cultural study
Authors: Berggren Ulf , Pierce Calvin J. , Eli Ilana
Published: March 2003

This cross‐cultural study investigated adult dental fear patients in three countries. A joint intake interview questionnaire and a dental anxiety scale explored the level, background and concomitant factors of dental anxiety among patients at the Universities of Tel Aviv (Israel), Göteborg (Sweden), and Pittsburgh (USA). It was shown that patients at all three sites were quite similar with regard to age, sex, level of dental anxiety (DAS) and avoidance time. Negative emotions were common, with more negative everyday life effects among Swedish patients. Regardless of country, most patients stated that they had always been fearful, but environmental etiologic factors were frequently reported. Swedish patients more often reported both direct and indirect learning patterns than Israeli patients. Patients' motivation for treatment was high, while the belief in getting fear reduction was clearly lower. The most common reason for Israeli patients to seek treatment was a personal decision to try to cope with the situation, while for Swedish patients it was pain. Israeli and US patients preferred more ‘active’ modes of treatment such as behavioral management therapies, while Swedish patients equally preferred active and more ‘passive’ treatment approaches such as general anesthesia. Preference for dentist attributes were similar among groups and underlined the strong emphasis that fearful individuals place upon dentists' behaviors and their performance of dentistry.
Elution of TEGDMA and BisGMA from a resin and a resin composite cured with halogen or plasma light
Authors: Munksgaard Erik Christian , Peutzfeldt Anne , Asmussen Erik
Published: March 2003

Plasma arc light units for curing resin composites have been introduced with the claim of relatively short curing times. The purpose of the present study was to measure and compare elution of monomers from an experimental BisGMA‐TEGDMA resin and a commercial resin composite when cured with a halogen unit and when cured with a plasma arc unit. Specimens of the materials were immersed in methanol, and the amounts of monomers released with time were analyzed by HPLC. By use of Fick's laws of diffusion, the amount of eluted monomers from the specimen at infinity was estimated. The elution from resin specimens and from resin composite specimens cured with the plasma arc light unit was 7 and 4 times higher, respectively, compared to the elution from specimens cured with the halogen unit. It was concluded that the plasma arc light curing unit did not provide optimal cure when used as recommended by the manufacturer.
Automated immunofluorescence for enumeration of selected taxa in supragingival dental plaque
Authors: Gmür Rudolf , Guggenheim Bernhard , Giertsen Elin , Thurnheer Thomas
Published: March 2003

The present study investigated a recently developed automated image analysis technique for its applicability to the enumeration of selected bacteria in supragingival dental plaque. Following initial calibration, the system is capable to count fluorescence‐labeled target cells in up to 48 samples without user interference. Test samples contained a characteristic mixture of planktonic bacteria, small almost planar bacterial aggregates, and large, virtually indisruptable clumps with cells from multiple species. Due to their complex composition, these samples provided a challenging validation step for the image analysis system. Automated enumeration of target bacteria was compared with visual counting of the fluorescence‐labeled bacteria. Results are shown for six taxa (Actinomyces naeslundii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia/Prev. nigrescens, Streptococcus gordonii/Strep. oralis/Strep. sanguis, Strep. sobrinus, and Veillonella dispar/V. parvula) with characteristic differences in abundance, cell morphology and aggregation behavior. Results revealed good correspondence between the two enumeration techniques (correlation coefficients ranging from 0.77 to 0.92) provided that the portion of target bacteria exceeded 0.05% of the total bacterial cell number. This work demonstrates the applicability and usefulness of fully automated immunofluorescence to analyze such complex ecosystems as supragingival dental plaque.
Complete denture wearers: electromyography of mastication and texture perception whilst eating meat
Authors: Veyrune Jean‐Luc , Mioche Laurence
Published: March 2003

This study was undertaken to evaluate the sensitivity of denture wearers to different food textures and to follow masticatory pattern adaptation with variation in texture using electromyography (EMG) recordings. Nine patients with complete dentures and 9 dentate control patients without any oro‐dental pathology were studied. Six different samples of beef were obtained from the same muscle by altering the state of the muscle fibres and by variation of the cooking temperature. The variations in texture were mechanically controlled. Electromyographic activity was recorded during chewing. The patients' subjective appreciation of texture was reported using a 10‐cm non‐structured analogue scale. The following parameters were analysed: muscle work, number of masticatory cycles, number of rejected samples, initial tenderness, overall tenderness, juiciness, and duration of chewing for each sample in the mouth. Muscle activity was less for the edentulous group, particularly that of the masseter muscles. The masticatory pattern of complete denture wearers was less adapted to each sample texture than was that of the control group. Both groups perceived differences in texture of the samples. It was concluded that although texture perception is little altered, muscular adaptation to the bolus is reduced in patients with complete dentures.
Psychological distress in chronic craniomandibular and cervical spinal pain patients
Authors: Visscher Corine M. , Lobbezoo Frank , De Boer Wim , Van Der Meulen Marylee , Naeije Machiel
Published: March 2003

Recent studies to chronic pain have shown that the number of painful body areas is related to the level of psychological distress. Therefore, the first aim of this study was to analyse differences in level of psychological distress between craniomandibular pain patients with or without cervical spinal pain. In this analysis, the number of painful body areas below the cervical spine was also taken into account. The second aim was to determine psychological differences between subgroups of craniomandibular pain patients. In this study, 103 out of 250 persons with or without craniomandibular pain were included in the final analyses. Patients who suffered from both craniomandibular and cervical spinal pain showed higher levels of psychological distress, as measured with the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL‐90) than patients with local craniomandibular pain and persons without pain. Further, a positive relationship was found between the number of painful body areas below the cervical spine, as measured on a body drawing, and the SCL‐90 scores. No psychological differences were found between myogenous and arthrogenous craniomandibular pain patients. In conclusion, chronic craniomandibular pain patients with a coexistent cervical spinal pain showed more psychological distress compared to patients with only a local craniomandibular pain and asymptomatic persons.
Effect of removable orthodontic appliances on oral colonisation by mutans streptococci in children
Authors: Batoni Giovanna , Pardini Manuela , Giannotti Alessia , Ota Fusao , Rita Giuca Maria , Gabriele Mario , Campa Mario , Senesi Sonia
Published: March 2003

Little is known about the effect of removable orthodontic appliances on oral colonisation by mutans streptococci (MS). In the present study, the frequency of isolation and serotype distribution of MS were evaluated in two groups of children, one undergoing therapy with removable appliances and the other not subjected to any kind of orthodontic treatment, respectively. Streptococci isolated from dental plaque samples from both groups of children were identified as mutans streptococci on the basis of their morphological and biochemical properties and were then serotyped in an enzyme immuno‐assay using monoclonal antibodies. The number of subjects harbouring MS in their dental plaque was statistically higher in the group of orthodontic children without caries experience (CF) in comparison with CF children of the control group (10/12, 83.3% vs. 15/44, 34%). No clear difference was observed in the distribution of the different MS serotypes between the experimental and control group: S. mutans c,f serotype was the most frequently isolated in both groups of children followed by S. mutans serotype e and S. sobrinus serotype g. Such results suggest that the use of removable appliances may lead to the creation of new retentive areas and surfaces, which favour the local adherence and growth of MS. The data obtained stress the importance of a careful monitoring of patients treated orthodontically for risk of caries development.
Biochemical and genetic characterization of serologically untypable Streptococcus mutans strains isolated from patients with bacteremia
Authors: Fujiwara Taku , Nakano Kazuhiko , Kawaguchi Mamoru , Ooshima Takashi , Sobue Shizuo , Kawabata Shigetada , Nakagawa Ichiro , Hamada Shigeyuki
Published: March 2003

Four out of 522 streptococcal isolates from the peripheral blood of patients with bacteremia exhibited typical properties of Streptococcus mutans in terms of sucrose‐dependent adhesion, expression of glucosyltransferases, fermentation profiles of sugars, the presence of surface protein antigen, and DNA‐DNA hybridization. Two strains were determined as serotype f and e by immunodiffusion, whereas the other two isolates did not react with the specific antiserum to S. mutans serotype c, e, or f of the eight different serotypes of mutans streptococci. The latter two untypable isolates, however, expressed a new antigenic determinant that was different from serotype c/e/f specificity as revealed by immunodiffusion. Analysis of the cell wall polysaccharides revealed very low contents of glucose in the untypable isolates. Furthermore, Southern blot analysis demonstrated that the untypable strains lacked at least one gene corresponding to a glucose‐adding enzyme. These results indicate that the serologically untypable nature is due to the loss of glucosidic residue from the serotype‐specific polysaccharide antigens of S. mutans.
Human ameloblastin gene: genomic organization and mutation analysis in amelogenesis imperfecta patients
Authors: Kärrman Mårdh Carina , Bäckman Birgitta , Simmons Darrin , Golovleva Irina , Gu Ting Ting , Holmgren Gösta , MacDougall Mary , Forsman‐Semb Kristina
Published: March 2003

A gene encoding the enamel protein ameloblastin (AMBN) was recently localized to a region on chromosome 4q21 containing a gene for the inherited enamel defect local hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta (AIH2). Ameloblastin protein is located at the Tomes processes of secretory ameloblasts and in the sheath space between rod‐interrod enamel, and the AMBN gene therefore represents a viable candidate gene for local hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta (AI). In this study, the genomic organization of human AMBN was characterized. The gene was shown to consist of 13 exons and 12 introns. An alternatively spliced 45 bp sequence was shown not to represent a separate exon and is most likely spliced by the use of a cryptic splice site. The finding that there were no recombinations between an intragenic microsatellite and AIH2 encouraged us to evaluate this gene's potential role as a candidate gene for local hypoplastic AI. Mutation screening was performed on all 13 exons in 20 families and 8 sporadic cases with 6 different forms of AI. DNA variants were found but none that was associated exclusively with local hypoplastic AI or any of the other variants of AI in the identified Swedish families. This study excludes the coding regions and the splice sites of AMBN from a causative role in the pathogenesis of AIH2.
The impact of maternal allergic sensitization on the development of pre‐ and postnatal immunity
Authors: Uthoff H. , Spenner A. , Wölk G. , Schaefer J.R. , Hackler R. , Renz H. , Herz U.
Published: March 2003

Epidemiological studies indicate the importance of pre‐ and postnatal factors in shaping the T‐cell effector response in early childhood. To study the underlying mechanisms we developed a murine model of prenatal sensitization. BALB/c mice were sensitized to Ovalbumin (OVA) before mating followed by OVA‐aerosol‐exposure during pregnancy (BALB/cOVA). The following key results have been recently obtained: (i) free allergen crosses the placental barrier in pregnant mice; (ii) T‐cells from (BALB/cOVA × BALB/c) F1 demonstrated a lowered frequency and reduced level of IFN‐γ production; (iii) F1 mice were challenged with the heterlogous allergen BLG. The antibody response and type I hyperreactivity reaction were accelerated and augmented in these (BALB/cOVA × BALB/c)F1 [=wild‐type phenotype]. This phenotype depends on the maternal adaptive immune system, since (SCIDOVA × BALB/c)F1 showed a normal immune response. The wild‐type phenotype could be reconstituted in (SCIDOVA × BALB/c)F1 by prenatal transfer of CD4 + OVA T‐cells. These data suggest a critical role for maternal T/B cells in shaping prepostnatal maturation of specific immunity to allergens.
Antitrophoblast cell‐mediated immunity and anticardiolipin autoantibodies in repeatedly aborting women
Authors: Madar J. , Sula K. , Chaloupkova A. , Peknicova J. , Novakova D.
Published: March 2003

This presentation is focused on immunopathological mechanisms involved in habitual miscarriage, namely on the anti‐trophoblast cell mediated immunity and circulating anti‐cardiolipin autoantibodies.

PATIENTS:  A group of habitually aborting women (three or more subsequent first‐trimester miscarriages, n = 216) was compared with two control groups – nulliparous women (n = 74) and ‘fertile’ women (n = 32) with at least one physiological pregnancy and no miscarriage in their personal history.

METHODS:  Cell‐mediated antitrophoblast immunity (AT‐CMI) was measured by the inhibition of migration of circulating leukocytes in the presence of antigen (choriocarcinoma cells JAR). Anticardiolipin autoantibodies (ACLA) of IgG and IgM types as well as serum levels of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) were determined using commercial diagnostic sets.

RESULTS:  AT‐CMI and ACLA‐IgG titres were significantly increased in habitually aborting women in comparison with both control groups. The elevation of AT‐CMI in fertile women as compared with nulliparae was not significant. Serum levels of total IgA, IgG and IgM immunoglobulins did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS:  Our results indicate that the elevation of antitrophoblast immunity often accompa‐ nies habitual first‐trimester aborts. Anticardiolipin autoantibodies are also elevated in aborting women.