bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Matrix Metalloproteinase‐9 Promoter Gene Polymorphism With Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Keles Gonca Cayir , Gunes Sezgin , Sumer A. Pinar , Sumer Mahmut , Kara Nurten , Bagci Hasan , Koprulu Hulya
Published: September 2006

Background: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are related to tissue destruction and remodeling events in periodontal diseases. A single nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region of human MMP‐9 gene is associated with the risk of some inflammatory diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between MMP‐9 promoter polymorphism and severe generalized chronic periodontitis in a Turkish population.

Methods: Samples of venous blood and DNA were obtained from 70 severe generalized chronic periodontitis patients and 70 healthy subjects. The alleles of the C/T polymorphism at position −1562 in the promoter region of the MMP‐9 gene were distinguished by cutting with the SphI restriction enzyme. Genotype and allele frequencies were calculated, and data were analyzed by the χ2 test.

Results: There was a significant difference in MMP‐9 genotypes between chronic periodontitis patients and healthy controls. The odds ratios for the CT genotype and the combination of CT and TT genotypes were 0.4 (95% confidence interval, 0.17 to 0.93; P = 0.02) and 0.37 (95% confidence interval, 016 to 0.85; P = 0.01) relative to the subjects with the CC genotype, respectively.

Conclusion: MMP‐9 promoter gene polymorphism seems to be associated with severe generalized chronic periodontitis.
Paradental Cyst: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Kanno Cláudia M. , Gulinelli Jéssica L. , Nagata Maria J.H. , Soubhia Ana M.P. , Crivelini Marcelo M.
Published: September 2006

Background: The paradental cyst is an odontogenic lesion of inflammatory origin that has few clinical signs and symptoms apart from recurring acute episodes. A well‐defined radiolucency associated with the roots or distal to the crown may be seen radiographically. The purpose of this article is to report on different aspects of two cases involving paradental cysts. In the first case, the patient complained about recurring pericoronitis. A semilunar‐shaped radiolucency on the distal aspect of the mandibular third molar was noted on the periapical radiograph. In the second case, the patient's main complaint was chronic trauma of the overlying mucosa. Radiographs revealed an enlarged pericoronal space.

Methods: In both cases, the mandibular third molar was extracted due to a lack of space. Lesional samples were sent for histopathologic analysis.

Results: In the first case, the drainage of cystic fluid and a regular concavity were found during tooth removal. In the second case, a nodular lesion was found adhering to the disto‐buccal surface of the tooth arising from the distal wall of a periodontal pocket. The histopathologic analysis revealed a hyperplastic stratified squamous epithelium with arcading lining a fibrous capsule with inflammatory infiltrate, resulting in a final diagnosis of a paradental cyst.

Conclusions: The presence of a paradental cyst should be considered when recurrent inflammatory periodontal processes are associated with partially erupted vital teeth, even when characteristic radiographic findings are absent. Definitive diagnosis requires a clinicopathologic correlation incorporating surgical, radiographic, and histologic findings.
Periodontal Disease and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Geismar Karen , Stoltze Kaj , Sigurd Bjarne , Gyntelberg Finn , Holmstrup Palle
Published: September 2006

Background: Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease (CHD). The association could be a result of confounding by mutual risk factors. The present study was undertaken in a Danish population to reveal the significance of common risk factors.

Methods: The investigation was conducted as a case‐control study comprising 250 individuals: 110 individuals with verified CHD from a Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and 140 control individuals without CHD from the Copenhagen City Heart Study. Information on diabetic status, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, physical activity, school attendance, household income, body weight and height, triglyceride, and serum cholesterol was obtained. Full‐mouth probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and alveolar bone level (ABL) on radiographs were registered. ABL was stratified into ABL1 = ABL ≤2 mm; ABL2 = ABL >2 to ≤4 mm; and ABL3 = ABL >4 mm. Multiple logistic regression models with stepwise backward elimination were used allowing variables with P <0.15 to enter the multivariate analysis.

Results: The CHD group had a significantly lower outcome with respect to PD, BOP, CAL, and ABL. For participants <60 years old, only risk factors such as smoking and diabetic status entered the multivariate analysis. For the ABL3 group, there was a significant association with CHD for participants <60 years old, the odds ratio being 6.6 (1.69 to 25.6). For participants ≥60 years old, there was no association.

Conclusions: The present study showed a positive association between periodontal disease and CHD in agreement with several other studies. The association was highly age dependent and could only be attributed to diabetes and smoking to some extent.
Matrix Metalloproteinase‐1 Gene Polymorphism in Renal Transplant Patients With and Without Gingival Enlargement
Authors: Kurzawski Mateusz , Drozdzik Agnieszka , Dembowska Ewa , Pawlik Andrzej , Banach Jadwiga , Drozdzik Marek
Published: September 2006

Background: Gingival enlargement frequently occurs in transplant patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs. It was hypothesized that gingival enlargement associated with cyclosporin use results in a disturbance of the homeostatic balance, which is characterized by an increase in the number of fibroblasts and volume of the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) serves as an initiator of extracellular matrix destruction. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between genotypes of the MMP‐1 gene and gingival enlargement in kidney transplant patients.

Methods: Sixty‐one unrelated kidney transplant patients with gingival enlargement and 121 control transplant patients without enlargement were enrolled in the study. Six months after transplantation, all patients were given medication, which included cyclosporin A, and gingival enlargement was assessed. MMP‐1 polymorphism was determined using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) assay.

Results: In kidney transplant patients with gingival enlargement, the mean score of gingival enlargement was 1.42 ± 0.63, whereas in control subjects, it was 0.0. There were no significant differences in the frequency of −1607 1G>2G alleles and genotypes between patients with and without gingival enlargement. In all subjects (N = 182) and in patients without gingival enlargement, the genotype distribution met Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium criteria, whereas in patients with gingival enlargement, it was markedly different (P <0.06). There was a trend for carriers of at least the 1G allele to have an increased risk of gingival enlargement, but the trend was not statistically significant (odds ratio, 2.32; P <0.073).

Conclusion: No association between the MMP‐1 gene polymorphism and gingival enlargement was revealed in kidney transplant patients who were administered cyclosporin A as a principal immunosuppressive agent.
Interleukin‐10 Haplotype Frequencies in Children With Gingivitis
Authors: Dashash Mayssoon , Drucker David B. , Blinkhorn Anthony S.
Published: September 2006

Background: Polymorphisms in the promoter region of the interleukin (IL)‐10 gene have been identified at positions −1082 (G→A), −819 (C→T), and −592 (C→A). Linkage disequilibrium between alleles −819*C, and −592*C was observed. A previous study addressed the association between the −1082*A allele and gingivitis in white Caucasian children. The aim of this case‐control study was to test whether differences could exist between children with and without gingivitis in the distribution of IL‐10 alleles and haplotypes at positions −1082, −819, and −592.

Methods: A total of 248 subjects aged 8 to 12 years from the University Dental Hospital of Manchester were enrolled in this study. According to gingival and bleeding on probing indices, 84 children were classified as controls and 164 as children with gingivitis. Amplification refractory mutation system–polymerase chain reaction (ARMS‐PCR) was used for genotyping IL‐10 polymorphisms. Allele and haplotype frequencies were calculated by direct counting and by a haplotype frequency estimation (EH) program. Differences between subjects with gingivitis and controls in the frequency of haplotypes were determined by a χ2 test of homogeneity.

Results: The GCC/GCC genotype, which has been associated with increased production of IL‐10, was significantly more frequent in controls than in children with gingivitis (36% versus 23%) (P = 0.036). In addition, there was a marginally significant difference between controls and cases in the frequency of haplotypes (P = 0.06). The GCC haplotype was more frequent in controls than in children with gingivitis (60% versus 50%). In contrast, the ACC and ATA haplotypes were more frequent in children with gingivitis (27% and 23% versus 19% and 21% in controls).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that IL‐10 gene promoter polymorphisms could have an active role in the pathogenesis of gingivitis in Caucasian children.
Assessment of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism at IL‐1A+4845 and IL‐1B+3954 as Genetic Susceptibility Test for Chronic Periodontitis in Maharashtrian Ethnicity
Authors: Agrawal Amit A. , Kapley Atya , Yeltiwar Ramreddy K. , Purohit Hemant J.
Published: September 2006

Background: The inflammatory response that is directed in large part by proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐1 is genetically determined, with some people having a more vigorous response than others to the same stimulus. The reason for this is speculated that the dysregulated production of IL‐1 in some individuals overrides the feedback mechanisms that normally master the dose of inflammation to a level sufficient to fight microbial invasion without long‐lasting damage to the tissues involved. The aims of the present study were to determine the distribution of IL‐1 gene polymorphism (IL‐1A+4845 and IL‐1B+3954) and their association with periodontal disease severity and to determine the significance of detecting the composite genotype (IL‐1A allele2 + IL‐1B allele2) versus detecting either of them alone.

Methods: A total of 120 subjects were included and divided into four groups of 30 subjects each, namely, healthy, mild, moderate, and severe periodontitis groups. After a complete clinical examination, DNA was isolated from 0.5 ml blood. Specific primers were used to detect the presence of IL‐1 gene polymorphism with the help of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequent allele detection with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and separation by gel electrophoresis.

Results: The distribution of the allele1 homozygous genotype was 3% in the severe periodontitis group, and the distribution for the allele2 genotype was 30%. A higly significant difference (Wilcoxon signed‐rank test; P <0.001) was seen between subjects positive and negative for the composite genotype.

Conclusions: Results of the present study reinforced the association of the IL‐1 genotype as a risk factor for severe chronic periodontitis. Positivity for the composite genotype was found to be significantly associated with severe chronic periodontitis (odds ratio [OR] = 12.42).
Long‐Term Success of Implants Replacing a Single Molar
Authors: Levin Liran , Laviv Amir , Schwartz‐Arad Devorah
Published: September 2006

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the long‐term success and survival rates of implants replacing a single molar between two natural teeth and to evaluate the influence of implant characteristics on implant success.

Methods: The study was based on a consecutive cohort of 81 patients who received implants to replace a single molar between the years 1994 and 2004. Inclusion criteria for patients were having an implant replacing a molar between two natural teeth and follow‐up data of at least 6 months. Data were recorded regarding the incidence of complications and success and survival rates of these implants.

Results: The range of follow‐up was from 6 to 125 months (mean: 36 months). Smoking was reported by 18.5% of patients. The replacement of a mandibular molar was more frequent (87.7%), with 25.9% of the implants placed immediately after tooth extraction. Two implants were used to replace a single molar in seven patients (8.6%). The failure rate was 7.4% (six implants failed: three had broken necks, and three failed because of infection or bone loss). Complications included suppuration in 11.1% of implants and a pocket around the implant in two patients (2.5%). No relation was found among failure, complications, timing of implant placement, and smoking habits.

Conclusion: A single implant can serve as a good long‐term and predictable treatment modality to replace a single molar with low complication and failure rates.
Systematic Review of the Association Between Respiratory Diseases and Oral Health
Authors: Azarpazhooh Amir , Leake James L.
Published: September 2006

Background: The purpose of this review was to investigate evidence for a possible etiological association between oral health and pneumonia or other respiratory diseases.

Methods: The following data sources were used: Ovid MEDLINE (In‐Process & Other Non‐Indexed Citations, Daily Update, and OLDMEDLINE); Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature; Evidence Based Medicine of Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects; EMBASE; Health and Psychosocial Instruments; HealthSTAR; International Pharmaceutical Abstracts; PubMed; and Google Scholar from the earliest record until July 2005. Studies were selected from randomized controlled clinical trials and longitudinal, cohort, case‐control, and epidemiological studies. Searches were limited to English language and human studies.

Results: A total of 728 articles were searched for relevancy, determined by article title, abstract, and full copy, resulting in a yield of 19 studies that met our inclusion criteria. These articles were read and scored independently by the reviewers to obtain the evidence for this review: 1) the potential risk factors for pneumonia were identified as the presence of cariogenic and periodontal pathogens, dental decay, and poor oral hygiene in five studies; 2) a weak association between periodontal disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was identified in four poor to fair studies; and 3) 10 studies were retained providing evidence that interventions aiming to improve oral health reduced the progression or occurrence of pneumonia.

Conclusions: 1) There is fair evidence (II‐2, grade B recommendation) of an association of pneumonia with oral health (odds ratio [OR] = 1.2 to 9.6 depending on oral health indicators). 2) There is poor evidence of a weak association (OR <2.0) between COPD and oral health (II‐2/3, grade C recommendation). 3) There is good evidence (I, grade A recommendation) that improved oral hygiene and frequent professional oral health care reduces the progression or occurrence of respiratory diseases among high‐risk elderly adults living in nursing homes and especially those in intensive care units (ICUs) (number needed to treat [NNT] = 2 to 16; relative risk reduction [RRR] = 34% to 83%).
Osteoinductive Ability of Human Allograft Formulations
Authors: Boyan Barbara D. , Ranly Don M. , McMillan Jacquelyn , Sunwoo MoonHae , Roche Karen , Schwartz Zvi
Published: September 2006

Background: Bone graft materials are needed in periodontics that are osteoinductive, have good handling characteristics, and have physical properties that provide appropriate stiffness for the treatment site. Demineralized freeze‐dried bone allograft (DFDBA), also called demineralized bone matrix (DBM), is osteoinductive but requires a carrier to meet the other clinical objectives, thereby decreasing the DBM content per volume of the bone graft material. The present study determined whether the DBM content of a carrier formulation is an important variable with respect to its effectiveness as an osteoinductive material.

Methods: The immunocompromised Nu/Nu mouse‐muscle implantation assay of osteoinductivity was used to test human DBM formulated with hyaluronic acid (HY) and cancellous and cortical bone granules from the same donor: DBM alone (11 mg); DBM (11 mg):HY, 55:45, weight/weight (wt/wt); DBM (6.4 mg):HY, 32:68, wt/wt; DBM mixed with cortical and cancellous bone chips 1:4 (DBMC) (11 mg total, of which 2.2 mg was DBM); DBMC (11 mg):HY, 55:45, wt/wt; heat‐treated DBM (11 mg); HY alone; and positive‐control DBM (11 mg). Osteoinduction was scored using a qualitative scale and by histomorphometry.

Results: Results showed that all DBM was osteoinductive and the addition of HY did not change this as long as the amount of DBM used was held constant. The reduction in the absolute amount of DBM resulted in a reduced osteoinduction score, reduced ossicle area, and reduced new bone formation. The addition of HY also caused a decrease in the amount of residual non‐vital bone particles, particularly when DBMC was implanted. Results were donor dependent.

Conclusion: This study showed the importance of DBM content and donor variability in osteoinductivity of DBM formulations with improved handling and stiffness characteristics.
Periodontal Status in Smokers and Never‐Smokers: Clinical Findings and Real‐Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Quantification of Putative Periodontal Pathogens
Authors: Gomes Sabrina C. , Piccinin Flavia B. , Oppermann Rui V. , Susin Cristiano , Nonnenmacher Claudia I. , Mutters Reinier , Marcantonio Rosemary A.C.
Published: September 2006

Background: Smoking is a well‐known risk factor for destructive periodontal disease, but its relationship with periodontal status and subgingival microbiota remains unclear. Inherent limitations of microbiological methods previously used may partly explain these mixed results, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been presented as a valid alternative. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical condition and microbiological profile of patients with chronic periodontitis as related to the habit of smoking.

Methods: Fifty patients (33 to 59 years old), 25 smokers and 25 never‐smokers, constituted the sample. The visible plaque index (VPI), gingival bleeding index (GBI), bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) volume were recorded. Real‐time PCR quantified Porphyromonas gingivalis, Micromonas micros, Dialister pneumosintes, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and total bacteria in subgingival samples.

Results: Smokers and never‐smokers showed similar values for VPI, GBI, and BOP. Smokers had deeper PD in buccal/lingual sites and higher CAL independently of the tooth surface. The GCF volume was smaller in smokers, independent of the PD. Similar amounts of total bacteria and P. gingivalis were observed for both groups. Significantly higher numbers of D. pneumosintes and M. micros were present in smokers and associated with moderate and deep pockets. When heavy smokers were considered, higher counts of total bacteria, M. micros, and D. pneumosintes were observed.

Conclusions: Smoking seems to have a detrimental impact on the periodontal status and microbiological profile of patients with periodontitis. Compared to never‐smokers, smokers had deeper pockets, greater periodontal destruction, and higher counts of some putative periodontal pathogens.
Structural Characterization and Expression Studies ofDbyand Its Homologs in the Mouse
Authors: Vong Queenie P. , Li Yunmin , Lau Yun‐Fai Chris , Dym Martin , Rennert Owen M. , Chan Wai‐Yee
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT:In spite of recent evidence showing the importance ofDBY(DEAD‐box RNA helicase Y) in spermatogenesis in human, the biologic role of its homologDby(also known asDdx3y) in the mouse is less clear. The present study aims at characterizing the molecular structure ofDbyand comparing its expression with its X‐ and autosome‐linked homologs in embryonic gonads and developing germ cells in mice. Molecular cloning by rapid amplification of 3′‐cDNA ends showed that theDbygene in the mouse gives rise to 2 transcripts that differ only in the length of the 3′‐untranslated region as a consequence of the use of alternative polyadenylation signals. Measurement by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction showed that both transcripts were ubiquitously expressed and were present in male germ cells and Sertoli cells. They were more abundant in type A spermatogonia compared with pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Expression ofDbyin the embryonic gonad increased from day 10.5 and reached a peak at day 17.5. The expression level ofDbydecreased after birth and remained low in adult male gonads. Although the level of expression ofDbywas much lower than its X chromosome homolog,Ddx3(also known asDdx3x) in all samples examined, the pattern of expression of the 2 genes was comparable. In contrast, their autosomal homolog,D1Pas1(also known asPL10), was predominantly expressed in pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. This result is in accord with meiotic sex chromosome inactivation in thatDbyandDdxare replaced in pachytene spermatocytes by their autosomal retroposon. These observations indicate that unlikeDBYin humans, the role ofDbyin spermatogenesis is less obvious in the mouse and its biologic activity may be replaced by that ofDdx3andD1Pas1.
Functional Significance of the Sperm Head Morphometric Size and Shape for Determining Freezability in Iberian Red Deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) Epididymal Sperm Samples
Authors: Esteso Milagros C. , Soler Ana J. , Fernández‐Santos María R. , Quintero‐Moreno Armando A. , Garde Jose J.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT:In the present study, computer‐automated sperm head morphometry of epididymal samples was used to determine if sperm head area and shape are useful measurements for separating “good” and “bad” Iberian red deer freezers. A microscope slide was prepared from single diluted sperm fresh samples collected from 38 mature stags. Slides were air‐dried and stained with Hemacolor. The sperm head area and shape (length/width) for a minimum of 145 sperm heads were determined for each male by means of the Sperm‐Class Analyser. The remainder of each sample was frozen. After thawing, sperm cryosurvival was judged in vitro by microscopic assessments of individual sperm motility and of plasma membrane and acrosome integrities. All sperm parameters evaluated at thawing were placed in a statistical database and a multivariate cluster analysis performed. Mean sperm parameters of the 2 clusters generated (“bad” and “good” freezers) were compared by ANOVA. Our results show that sperm quality at thawing for all sperm parameters evaluated was significantly higher (P < .01) for “good” freezers than for the “bad” ones (sperm motility index: 67.4±2.0 vs 57.1±2.8; NAR: 67.1±2.5 vs 54.5±3.5; viability: 68.8±2.0 vs 60.1±2.8; HOST: 71.3±2.2 vs 63.1±3.1). Additionally, differences (P < .01) in epididymal sperm head area and shape were found between “good” and “bad” freezers before freezing, with the smallest overall sperm head dimensions found in the “good” freezers group (area: 32.04 μm2vs 34.42 μm2). Thus, the lower the sperm head area in the fresh samples, the greater the sperm cryoresistance. Our results show that the 2 groups of males also differ in sperm head shape in fresh samples (good: 1.96 vs poor: 1.72;P< .01). It is possible that sperm head area and shape influence total sperm volume, thus causing differences in heat exchange as well as in movements of water, ions, and cryoprotectants and, in turn, on sperm freezability.
Cavernosus Muscle Contraction During Erection: Is It Voluntary or Reflex, Given the Striated Nature of the Muscles?
Authors: Shafik Ahmed , Sibai Olfat El , Shafik Ali A. , Shafik Ismail A.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: The bulbo‐ and ischio‐cavernosus muscles (BCM, ICM) contract in the rigid erection phase, leading to a suprasystolic cavernosal pressure. We investigated the hypothesis that the contraction of cavernosal muscles is reflexogenic despite their striated nature. The intracavernosal pressure (ICP) and the cavernosus muscles' electromyography (EMG) were recorded in 18 healthy volunteers in the flaccid and erectile phases. The test was repeated after separate anesthetization of the cavernosus muscles and the corpora cavernosa while the penis was in the rigid erection phase. The ICM and BCM showed no EMG activity with tumescence and full erection. When the ICP reached a mean of 148.6±9.4 cm H2O, both the ICM and BCM showed increased EMG activity. The suprasystolic pressure was intermittent and corresponded to the intermittent BCM and ICM contraction. Voluntary cavernosus muscle contraction did not increase the ICP at the different stages of erection. Anesthetization of the penis in the rigid erection phase led to disappearance of the cavernosus muscles' EMG activity, while bland gel application did not. Anesthetization of the 2 contracting cavernosus muscles, while the penis was in the rigid phase, produced an ICP drop to 69.5±7.6 cm H2O; repetition with saline did not affect the ICP. Cavernosus muscle contraction on corporal pressure elevation seems to be reflex and mediated through the corporo‐cavernosal reflex (CCR). Changes in the evoked response amplitude would indicate a defect in the reflex pathway.
Doxazosin and Serotonin (5‐HT) Receptor (1A, 2A, and 4) Antagonists Inhibit 5‐HT‐Mediated Human Cavernosal Contraction
Authors: Lau David H. W. , Thompson Cecil S. , Bellringer James F. , Thomas Philip J. , Mumtaz Faiz H. , Morgan Robert J. , Mikhailidis Dimitri P.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: Penile erection results from the balance between relaxation and contractile mechanisms of the corpus cavernosum. Only a few studies suggest a role for endogenous contractile agents such as 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT). Our aim was to confirm the possible role of 5‐HT in human erection. The effect of 5‐HT on human cavernosal tissues, as well as those of doxazosin (shown previously to have 5‐HT inhibitory action), ketanserin (5‐HT (2A) receptor antagonist), NAN‐190 (5‐HT (1A) receptor antagonist), and SB 203186 (5‐HT (4) receptor antagonist) on 5‐HT‐mediated effects, were assessed using the organ bath technique, including electrical field stimulation study (EFS). Results are presented as median (mg/mg = mg contraction/mg of tissue). Consistent 5‐HT‐mediated (10−3 M) contractions were demonstrated (n = 18; 63 mg/mg). These contractions were inhibited with ketanserin by 90% (n = 8), NAN‐190 by 68% (n = 12), and SB 203186 by 55% (n = 12). Doxazosin showed a similar 5‐HT inhibitory action in a concentration‐dependent manner (10−4 M; 94% reduction; n = 8, 10−6 M; 68.3% reduction; n = 8). Our EFS studies indicated the presence of neuronally derived 5‐HT and that a majority of the nonnoradrenogenic contraction (54%) was mediated via 5‐HT(2A) receptors. These findings suggest that 5‐HT may play a role in the human detumescence process via 5‐HT(1A), 5‐HT(2A), and 5‐HT(4) receptors. Neuronally released 5‐HT is probably an important contractile neurotransmitter in the erectile process. Doxazosin, ketanserin, and 5‐HT(1A) and 5‐HT(4) receptor antagonists may be useful as part of combination therapy used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Androgens Induce Increases in Intracellular Calcium Via a G Protein—Coupled Receptor in LNCaP Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Sun Ying‐Hao , Gao Xu , Tang Yuan‐Jie , Xu Chuan‐Liang , Wang Lin‐Hui
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: The receptor mechanism of testosterone‐induced nongenomic Ca2+ signaling in prostate cancer cells is poorly understood. In this study we investigated androgen‐induced intracellular Ca2+ increases in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells with Fura‐2 as a Ca2+ probe. 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (DHT) produced fast and transient increases in intracellular Ca2+ in LNCaP cells in a concentration‐dependent manner. These effects were abolished by extracellular Ca2+ removal or pretreatment with L‐type Ca2+ channel inhibitors (nifedipine, verapamil, and diltiazem). Pretreatment with endoplasmic reticulum ryanodine receptor blocker (procaine) or phospholipase C inhibitor (neomycin sulfate) did not alter DHT‐induced Ca2+ influx. The concentration of Ca2+ was also increased by impermeable testosterone conjugated to bovine serum albumin. Neither an antagonist of intracellular androgen receptors (cyproterone acetate) nor a protein synthesis inhibitor (cycloheximide) affected this fast Ca2+ influx. Furthermore, the effect of DHT was abolished in cells incubated with a G protein inhibitor (pertussis toxin) and a nonhydrolyzable analog of guanosine triphosphate (guanosine 5‐[b‐thio]disphosphate) but not in cells incubated with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein. These results indicate that androgens induced an L‐type calcium channel—dependent intracellular Ca2+ increase in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. The rapid responses triggered by DHT did not appear to be mediated through classic intracellular androgen receptors, c‐Src kinase‐androgen receptor complex, or sex hormone—binding globulin but through a G protein—coupled receptor in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. These results may provide a new explanation for progression of prostate cancer.
Low Expression of Glycoprotein Subunit 130 in Ejaculated Spermatozoa from Asthenozoospermic Men
Authors: Cai Zhi‐Ming , Gui Yao‐Ting , Guo Xin , Yu Jing , Guo Lian‐Dian , Zhang Li‐Bing , Wang He , Yu Jie
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: Previous studies showed that interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) was expressed in human Leydig and Sertoli cells and that it inhibited sperm motility. The aim of this study was to compare the expression of IL‐6, IL‐6R, and GP130 in ejaculated spermatozoa between normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men. Human spermatozoa in the semen were purified by Percoll gradient technique to separate the seminal plasma and other round cells. RT‐PCR, immunocytochemistry, and Western blot were used to detect the expression of IL‐6, IL‐6R, and GP130 in spermatozoa. With RT‐PCR, only GP130 mRNA but not IL‐6 and IL‐6R mRNA was expressed in human ejaculated spermatozoa. The expression of GP130 mRNA was significantly lower in asthenozoospermic men than in normozoospermic men. The protein expression of GP130 was further confirmed by both immunocytochemistry and Western blot. Again, GP130 protein levels were significantly lower in asthenozoospermic men than in normozoospermic men. The results suggested that the decreased expression of GP130 in ejaculated spermatozoa could be associated with low sperm motility in asthenozoospermic men.
Stage‐Specific Expression of the Atce1/Tisp40α Isoform of CREB3L4 in Mouse Spermatids
Authors: El‐Alfy Mohamed , Azzi Lamia , Lessard Julie , Lavergne Éliane , Pelletier Mélissa , Labrie Claude
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: The maturation of haploid spermatids into spermatozoa relies on the timely production of proteins required for spermatid differentiation. The mammalian CREB3L4 (cAMP responsive element binding protein 3‐like 4) gene encodes a bZIP transcription factor that associates with the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. CREB3L4 is presumed to play an important role in protein maturation via its involvement in the cellular response to endoplasmic reticulum stress. In mice, the Creb3l4 gene gives rise to 2 distinct classes of mRNAs through the use of alternate promoters. Transcripts that initiate upstream of the first coding exon encode a 370‐amino acid (aa) protein designated Tisp40β, whereas transcripts that initiate downstream of the first coding exon encode Atce1/Tisp40α, a truncated (315‐aa) form of Tisp40β. In the mouse testis, Creb3l4 transcripts are known to be expressed exclusively in postmeiotic spermatids but the presence of CREB3L4 protein in spermatids has not been formally demonstrated. We produced an antibody directed against the carboxy terminus of mouse CREB3L4 and used it in immunostaining experiments to document that CREB3L4 protein accumulates in post‐meiotic spermatids in a stage‐specific manner. Moreover, we show that Atce1/Tisp40α is the major form of CREB3L4 in mouse testis. These findings suggest that testis‐specific isoforms of Creb3l4 could play an important role in spermatid differentiation.
Insufficient Response to Venous Stripping Surgery: Is the Penile Vein Recurrent or Residual?
Authors: Hsu Geng‐Long , Chen Heng‐Shuen , Hsieh Cheng‐Hsing , Ling Pei‐Ling , Wen Hsien‐Sheng , Liu Li‐Jen , Chen Cheng‐Wen , Liu Ming‐Wei
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: There is currently controversy on whether the insufficient response to penile venous surgery done in an attempt to restore erectile function is due to recurrent or residual veins. In order to elucidate this issue, we report a study on those patients who failed to respond to the first venous surgery and subsequently underwent or declined a second operation. From July 1996 to July 2003, a total of 83 patients, aged 25 to 83, who were dissatisfied with their first venous surgery and were later diagnosed with a persistent veno‐occlusive dysfunction via our dual cavernosography, were recruited into our study. Subsequently, 45 men underwent penile venous stripping surgery for a second time and were assigned to the surgery group, whereas the remaining 38 men were subject to follow‐up and routine management and were assigned to the control group. All were evaluated with the abridged 5‐item version of the international index of erectile function (IIEF‐5) every 6 months for 1 to 5 years and cavernosogram, if necessary. In the surgery group their preoperative IIEF‐5 score was 10.1 ± 3.7, which increased to 17.1 ± 3.2 (P < .001) after the first surgery and further increased to 20.7 ± 3.1 (P < .001) after a second venous stripping of the cavernosal vein that was consistently demonstrated on the cavernosogram. Overall, 41 men (91.1%) reported a positive response to further venous surgery, with more satisfactory coitus, after the residual veins were stripped thoroughly, although eventually 4, 3, and 3 men required additional oral sildenafil, penile implant, and intracavernosal injection, respectively. The follow‐up period ranged from 12 months to 72 months, with an average of 37.0 ± 11.5 months. In the control group, however, their corresponding IIEF‐5 score changed from 17.4 ± 2.9 to 16.9 ± 3.2 (P > .05). Finally, 11, 7, and 8 men required additional oral sildenafil, penile implant, and intracavernosal injection, respectively. Although there was no statistical significance between the 2 groups in the first postoperative IIEF‐5 scores, there was a significant difference in their IIEF‐5 after further venous surgery. In this study, we propose that the clinical relapse of erectile dysfunction is a result of “residual” veins rather than “recurrent” ones.
A New Device to Select Microcarriers for Biomass Immobilization: Application to an Anaerobic Consortium
Authors: Alves M. Madalena , Pereira M. Alcina , Novais J. Maggiolly , Polanco F. Fdz , Mota M.
Published: August 2006

A new device was designed to compare the biomass retention capacity of different microcarriers. Microcarriers were placed in as many as 28 independent, parallel minibioreactors under selected and identical flow conditions. Sepiolite, pozzolana, clay, and foam glass (Poraver™)were examined for biomass retention capacity, characterized in tenns of attached volatile solids and specific methanogenic activity, and examined with scanning electron microscopy. Sepiolite had the greatest biomass retention capacity and better internal porous volume for biomass immobilization. The specific methanogenic activity of the immobilized biomass in different materials was found to be inversely correlated to the amount of attached biomass. A maximum difference of 19% overall activity of the colonized material was observed between foam glass and pozzolana. Compared with the suspended biomass, a clear enhancement of syntrophic activity (up to 110%)and reduction of acetoclastic activity (up to 73%) was observed in the biofilm. This system of examination provides information useful for preselecting microcarriers for biomass colonization.
Pathologic and Molecular Analysis in a Family with Rare Mixed Supravalvar Aortic and Pulmonic Stenosis
Authors: Arrington Cammon B. , Nightengale Daniel , Lowichik Amy , Rosenthal Eric T. , Christian-Ritter Karlyle , Viskochil David H.
Published: September 2006

Nonsyndromic supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS) is an obstructive vascular disorder often inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. With pulmonary artery involvement, stenotic lesions are nearly always peripheral or downstream of the pulmonic valve. In rare cases when the supravalvar pulmonic region is affected, the stenoses usually improve over time and rarely affect prognosis. We evaluated a unique family in which 10 of 14 individuals have nonsyndromic SVAS and 7 of the 10 affected family members with SVAS have the rare finding of supravalvar pulmonic stenosis (SVPS). In at least 2 of these individuals, the severity of SVPS was so significant that it led to death in early infancy. Pathologic examination of stenotic lesions in this kindred group revealed concentrically organized smooth muscle cells separated by dense elastic fibers. In contrast, the arterial pathology reported for other individuals with nonsyndromic SVAS demonstrates increased numbers of hypertrophied smooth muscle cells separated by thin, fragmented elastin fibers. Molecular analysis identified a novel ELN mutation within the donor splice site of exon 16, which may be responsible for the unique phenotype and distinct elastin histopathology found in this kindred.
Unusual Fallopian Tube Neoplasm in a 10-Year-Old Patient with Proteus Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Funk Tracy , Frew Patty , Rodgers William , Troxell Megan
Published: September 2006

We report a case of fallopian tube and peritoneal lesions resected from a 10-year-old girl with Proteus syndrome. The papillary fallopian tube tumor expressed CA-125 and demonstrated negative staining for CEA, CD15, calretinin, and CK 5/6. Nondilated portions of fallopian tube exhibited evidence of an in situ component. This patient was also found to have peritoneal mesothelial hyperplasia as well as cystic peritoneal lesions of mesothelial origin, with positive calretinin staining. This case provides direct evidence of both Müllerian and mesothelial lesions arising concurrently in a patient with Proteus syndrome and represents the 1st documented fallopian tube neoplasm. Previously reported lesions involving the female and male genital tracts in patients with Proteus syndrome are reviewed.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising in a Pediatric Intra- and Paravertebral Teratoma
Authors: Jarzembowski Jason A. , Ruiz Robert E.
Published: September 2006

A 7-year-old boy presented with a 1-year history of back pain radiating to his left scapula and arm, with tenderness to palpation over the area. Laboratory studies were unremarkable. Computed tomographic scan showed a mixed lytic and sclerotic process at the T5-T6 level of the vertebral column in continuity with an adjacent paravertebral soft tissue mass. Nuclear medicine scan demonstrated increased uptake in the T5 vertebral body. Histology revealed invasive squamous cell carcinoma infiltrating mature, gliotic neural tissue, with areas of necrosis and prominent perivascular space involvement. Associated vertebral fragments showed bone destruction, reactive bone formation, and fibrosis. By immunohistochemistry, the carcinoma cells were positive for cytokeratin AE1/AE3, cytokeratin 5/6, EMA, and MIC-2 (membranous staining). The mature neural tissue was positive for GFAP; immature neural elements were not identified. Based on morphologic, immunohistochemical, and clinical features, this lesion was diagnosed as invasive squamous cell carcinoma arising within an intravertebral and paravertebral teratoma.
Adenovirus Infection within Stromal Cells in a Pediatric Small Bowel Allograft
Authors: Ozolek John A. , Cieply Kathleen , Walpusk Janet , Ranganathan Sarangarajan
Published: September 2006

Adenovirus infection is not uncommon in pediatric small bowel transplant recipients. Histopathologic findings include characteristic epithelial changes of intranuclear inclusions and smudging of nuclei. We present a case of adenovirus within stromal cells of the lamina propria in a biopsy from a small bowel allograft. Immunohistochemistry and double-labeled immunofluorescence were performed using antibodies against adenovirus, CD31, vimentin, cytokeratin, and CD163 on the allograft intestinal biopsy. Electron microscopy was done to confirm the presence of viral particles and to attempt to confirm the origin of the infected cells. The index biopsy showed scant cells within the lamina propria double-labeled with vimentin and adenovirus. Several cells showed predominantly cytoplasmic staining for adenoviral antigen. Intranuclear adenoviral particles were found in several cells of the lamina propria by electron microscopy. A subsequent biopsy showed typical adenoviral intranuclear inclusions within surface enterocytes. Adenovirus may infect stromal cells within the lamina propria. Although the typical location of adenoviral inclusions in small bowel is the surface epithelial cell nuclei, some cases may show inclusions within stromal cells. This observation may be important in the pathobiology of adenoviral infection, especially in the setting of pediatric transplantation. This finding should alert pathologists examining small bowel transplant biopsies, particularly those biopsies with extensive ulceration, to include careful surveillance of the lamina propria.
The Pathogenesis of Villitis of Unknown Etiology: Analysis with a New Conjoint Immunohistochemistry-in Situ Hybridization Procedure to Identify Specific Maternal and Fetal Cells
Authors: Myerson David , Parkin Rachael K. , Benirschke Kurt , Tschetter Clifford N. , Hyde Scott R.
Published: September 2006

The conjoint immunohistochemistry-in situ hybridization (IHC-ISH) procedure permits, under routine light microscopic conditions, simultaneous documentation of either a male or female karyotype plus the immunological phenotype of individual cells within paraffin-embedded tissues. We have used this technique to characterize the inflammatory response in placental villitis of unknown etiology (VUE). A male placenta with severe VUE and appropriate control placentas were analyzed. In situ hybridization probes concurrently label both the X and Y chromosomes. On the same tissue section, individual cells were characterized with antibodies to CD3, CD68, or CD20. The amnion and syncytiotrophoblast were delineated by cytokeratin antibody (AE1/AE3). A complete karyotyping was performed on amnion cells to validate the procedure. Amnion cell karyotyping confirmed the accuracy of the procedure. The VUE case revealed that 88.8% of intravillous CD3+ lymphocytes were female (maternal), while 11.2% were male (fetal). Intervillous CD3+ lymphocytes and CD68+ macrophages were universally female. Intravillous CD68+ cells were only 10.5% female. Perivillous CD68+ cells were 94.6% female. Remarkably, multinucleated giant cells were exclusively maternal. This study confirms that lymphocytes in VUE are predominately but not exclusively maternal T cells. Our findings indicate that invasion of fetal villi by maternal T cells is associated with focal destruction of the syncytiotrophoblast, clarifying how placental immunodefensive mechanisms may be contravened.
Tetralogy of Fallot, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, and Down's Syndrome: A Rare and Challenging Combination
Authors: Wheeler Yurong Y. , Russo Pierantonio , Carter Guy A. , Lababidi Zuhdi , Luger Alan M. , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: September 2006

A case of the combination of tetralogy of Fallot, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and Down's syndrome is reported here and is the first report on the combination of the 3 entities. Tetralogy of Fallot is often associated with chromosomal aberration, while hypertrophic cardiomyopathy associates with certain gene loci. Our experience with treating this patient, although ultimately unsuccessful, may provide useful information in any future cases.
Ectopic Pancreas Associated with Choledochal Cyst and Multiseptate Gallbladder
Authors: Bahadir Burak , Ozdamar Sukru O. , Gun Banu D. , Bektas Sibel , Numanoglu K. Varim , Kuzey Gamze M.
Published: September 2006

Congenital choledochal cyst is a rarely seen malformation of childhood, particularly when associated with multiseptate gallbladder or ectopic pancreas. The current case represents a 15-day-old boy with jaundice. Ultrasonography suggested a cystic lesion, probably of the common bile duct. The patient underwent a total excision of type I choledochal cyst and gallbladder with Roux-en-Y anastomosis, and a wedge biopsy from the liver. Gross examination revealed multiple septa dividing the gallbladder into multiple compartments. The outer and inner surfaces of the choledochal cyst were unremarkable. Microscopically, the cyst wall was composed of dense fibrous tissue with a single layer of cubic to columnar cells constituting the overlying epithelium. Serial sections incidentally revealed ectopic pancreatic tissue lying along the cyst wall characterized by acini, islets, and ductal structures with endocrine cells reactive for chromogranin A. Septa dividing the gallbladder were composed of fibrotic stalks containing smooth muscle fibers. Areas of papillary hyperplasia and intestinal metaplasia of gallbladder epithelium were also noted. The liver biopsy specimen demonstrated the presence of intrahepatic bile ducts, subsequently confirmed by cytokeratin 7. To our knowledge, this case represents the 1st one associated with these 3 entities and only the 2nd choledochal cyst with ectopic pancreatic tissue in its wall.
Comparison of high (5%) and low (1%) concentrations of micellar microemulsion propofol formulations with a standard (1%) lipid emulsion in horses
Authors: Boscan Pedro , Steffey Eugene P. , Farver Thomas B. , Mama Khursheed R. , Huang Nick J. , Harris Steven B.
Published: September 2006

Objective—To compare anesthesia-related events associated with IV administration of 2 novel micellar microemulsion preparations (1% and 5%) and a commercially available formulation (1%) of propofol in horses.

Animals—9 healthy horses.

Procedures—On 3 occasions, each horse was anesthetized with 1 of the 3 propofol formulations (1% or 5% microemulsion or 1% commercial preparation). All horses received xylazine (1 mg/kg, IV), and anesthesia was induced with propofol (2 mg/kg, IV). Induction and recovery events were quantitatively and qualitatively assessed. Venous blood samples were obtained before and at intervals following anesthesia for quantification of clinicopathologic variables.

Results—Compared with the commercial formulation, the quality of anesthesia induction in horses was slightly better with the micellar microemulsion formulas. In contrast, recovery characteristics were qualitatively and quantitatively indistinguishable among treatment groups (eg, time to stand after anesthesia was 34.3 ± 7.3 minutes, 34.1 ± 8.8 minutes, and 39.0 ± 7.6 minutes in horses treated with the commercial formulation, 1% microemulsion, and 5% microemulsion, respectively). During recovery from anesthesia, all horses stood on the first attempt and walked within 5 minutes of standing. No clinically relevant changes in hematologic and serum biochemical analytes were detected during a 3-day period following anesthesia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the micellar microemulsion preparation of propofol (1% or 5%) has similar anesthetic effects in horses, compared with the commercially available lipid propofol formulation. Additionally, the micellar microemulsion preparation is anticipated to have comparatively low production costs and can be manufactured in various concentrations.