bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Multicenter Bronchiolitis Study: Predicting Intensive Care Unit Admissions
Authors: Damore Dorothy , Mansbach Jonathan M. , Clark Sunday , Ramundo Maria , Camargo Jr Carlos A.
Published: September 2008

Objectives:  The authors sought to identify predictors of intensive care unit (ICU) admission among children hospitalized with bronchiolitis for ≥24 hours.

Methods:  The authors conducted a prospective cohort study during two consecutive bronchiolitis seasons, 2004 through 2006, in 30 U.S. emergency departments (EDs). All included patients were aged <2 years and had a final diagnosis of bronchiolitis. Regular floor versus ICU admissions were compared.

Results:  Of 1,456 enrolled patients, 533 (37%) were admitted to the regular floor and 50 (3%) to the ICU. Comparing floor and ICU admissions, multivariate ED predictors of ICU admission were age <2 months (26% vs. 53%; odds ratio [OR] = 4.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.1 to 8.3), an ED visit the past week (25% vs. 40%; OR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.1 to 4.4), moderate/severe retractions (31% vs. 48%; OR = 2.6; 95% CI = 1.3 to 5.2), and inadequate oral intake (31% vs. 53%; OR = 3.3; 95% CI = 1.6 to 7.1). Unlike previous studies, no association with male gender, socioeconomic factors, insurance status, breast‐feeding, or parental asthma was found with ICU admission.

Conclusions:  In this prospective multicenter ED‐based study of children admitted for bronchiolitis, four independent predictors of ICU admission were identified. The authors did not confirm many putative risk factors, but cannot rule out modest associations.
Amyloid‐β oligomers set fire to inflammasomes and induce Alzheimer's pathology
Authors: Salminen Antero , Ojala Johanna , Suuronen Tiina , Kaarniranta Kai , Kauppinen Anu
Published: September 2008

Genetic and molecular studies have confirmed the central role of amyloid‐β production and fibrillation in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the pathological pathways from amyloid‐β peptide oligomerization to the major pathological hallmarks of AD, such as neurofibrillary tangles, inflammation and loss of cholinergic neurons, are largely unknown. The innate immunity defence system utilizes pattern recognition receptors to respond to a variety of danger‐ and pathogen‐associated molecular structures. Amyloid‐β oligomers and fibrils and their cellular effects can activate the innate immunity defence and induce inflammatory and apoptotic responses in human brain. Amyloid‐β oligomers can interfere with many aspects of neuronal membrane functions and can evoke potassium (K+) efflux from neurons. A low K+ concentration is a potent activator for the NALP1 inflammasomes, which then stimulate caspase‐1 to cleave the proforms of IL‐1β and IL‐18 cytokines. Interestingly, recent observations have demonstrated that amyloid‐β fibrils can activate NALP3 inflammasomes Via the lysosomal damage in mouse microglia. We will review here the activation mechanisms of NALP inflammasomes in neurons and microglia and several downstream effects in brain demonstrating that toxic amyloid‐β oligomers and fibrils can light afire in inflammasomes and induce Alzheimer's pathology.
Clinical analysis of the soft tissue integration of non‐submerged (ITI) and submerged (3i) implants: a prospective‐controlled cohort study
Authors: Garcia Ricardo Vieira , Kraehenmann Michael Alexander , Bezerra Fábio José Barbosa , Mendes Carlos Maurício Cardeal , Rapp Gisela Estela
Published: September 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the soft tissue integration of submerged and non‐submerged implants by means of periodontal parameter assessments and analysis.

Material and methods: Thirty‐one patients, who received 42 non‐submerged implants (ITI) and 48 submerged implants (3i), participated in the study. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between both groups considering gender; educational level; handedness; toothbrushing frequency; the number of auxiliary devices used; and smoking habits. The parameters assessed were gingival index (GI), plaque index (PII), retention index (RI), pocket probing depth (PPD) and keratinized mucosa index.

Results: At evaluation, 66.67% of all sites showed a GI of 0; 72.22% a PI of 0, and 93.33% the absence of calculus. The average PPD was 2.56 mm in the non‐submerged and 2.70 mm in the submerged group. With regard to the width of keratinized mucosa, 100% of the ITI implants showed a band of keratinized gingiva around the implant, whereas 14.58% in the 3i group showed a complete absence of keratinized mucosa. The intra‐examiner reproducibility was 90.96% for all parameters and the Kendall tau‐b analysis showed a powerless correlation between the chosen parameters for both studied groups.

Conclusions: The study material showed no major differences between submerged and non‐submerged dental implants regarding GI, PII, RI and PPD, except the width of keratinized mucosa. Regarding the presence of keratinized mucosa, there is a need for further longitudinal studies to elucidate a possible benefit of one implant system over the other.
Long‐term results of mandibular reconstruction with autogenous bone grafts and oral implants after tumor resection
Authors: Chiapasco Matteo , Colletti Giacomo , Romeo Eugenio , Zaniboni Marco , Brusati Roberto
Published: September 2008

Objectives: (a) To evaluate retrospectively the clinical outcome of non‐vascularized bone grafts used for the reconstruction of mandibular defects following tumor resection; (b) to evaluate the clinical outcome of implants and implant‐supported prostheses placed in the reconstructed areas; and (c) to evaluate patients' satisfaction regarding function and esthetics after oral rehabilitation.

Material and methods: In a 9‐year period (1995–2003), 29 patients affected by mandibular tumors involving to tooth bearing areas were treated by means of tumor resection and immediate or delayed reconstruction with autogenous non‐revascularized calvarial or iliac bone grafts. Among these patients, 16 patients were selected for dental rehabilitation of the lost dentition with implant‐supported 3fixed prosthese333s. For to 7 months later, the patients received 60 oral implants for the prosthetic rehabilitation of the reconstructed edentulous areas.

Results: No total failure of the graft was observed, while partial loss of the graft was observed in one patient. The mean follow‐up of patients after the start of prosthetic loading of implants treated was 94 months (range: 36–132 months). Two patients dropped out of the follow‐up after 3 and 4 years of observation, respectively. Two implants were removed due to loss of osseointegration, while two implants, although still integrated, presented peri‐implant bone resorption values higher than those proposed by Albrektsson et al. for successful implants. Cumulative survival and success rates of implants were 96.7% and 93.3%, respectively.

Conclusion: Results from this study demonstrated that bone defects following resection of mandibular tumors can be predictably reconstructed with autogenous bone grafts taken from the calvarium or the anterior iliac crest. It has also been shown that the long‐term survival and success rates of implants placed in the reconstructed areas (96.7% and 93.3%, respectively) may guarantee an excellent prognosis of implant‐supported prostheses.
Orthodontic loading of titanium miniplates in dogs: microradiographic and histological evaluation
Authors: Cornelis M. A. , Vandergugten S. , Mahy P. , De Clerck H. J. , Lengelé B. , D'Hoore W. , Nyssen‐Behets C.
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The objectives of this animal study were to evaluate if orthodontic loading has an impact on osseointegration of screws supporting miniplates, and to describe the histological components of the bone–screw interface.

Materials and methods: Eighty orthodontic miniplates were placed in the jaws of 10 dogs. After 2 weeks, a 125 g force was applied between the miniplates of one upper quadrant of each dog and between those of the controlateral lower quadrant. The others, nonloaded miniplates, were considered as controls. Five dogs were sacrificed 7 weeks after implantation and the remaining five dogs after 29 weeks [Short Term (ST) and Long Term (LT) groups, respectively]. Fluorochromes were injected at implantation and at sacrifice. Jaw quadrants were dissected, embedded, cut into undecalcified transverse sections through the screws and finally submitted to microradiographic analysis to allow assessment of bone–implant contact (BIC) and bone volume/total volume (BV/TV). The sections were observed under UV light and stained in order to examine them under ordinary light.

Results: Osseointegration occurred around 90/160 screws and consisted mainly in limited repair and remodelling processes of lamellar bone, without inflammation. Wide variations were observed in BIC and BV/TV, but without any significant difference, neither between the loaded and the nonloaded screws, nor according to the direction of load, whereas they were significantly higher in the LT than in the ST group. Nonosseointegrated screws were surrounded by fibrous tissue. Osteoblastic activity, when present in front of these screws, was not sufficient to achieve stability.

Conclusions: Osseointegration underlying orthodontic anchorage was not affected by loading. BIC increased with time and varied according to implantation site. Particularly the tight‐fitting screw insertion appeared crucial in determining the appropriate bone healing response.
Angiogenesis in newly augmented bone observed in rabbit calvarium using a titanium cap
Authors: Yamada Yutaka , Tamura Takanori , Hariu Kotaro , Asano Yukihiro , Sato Shuichi , Ito Koichi
Published: September 2008

Objectives: In our previous work using a rabbit experimental model, we identified the importance of using a rigid support device for augmenting the development of mineralized bone. In the early stage of healing, newly generated tissue has not filled occlusive spaces, and mineralized bone forms and tends to climb along the inner wall of a device. Even though the blood supply is critical for successful bone augmentation, few studies have been conducted on angiogenesis in augmented bone. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate a method for observing angiogenesis in newly augmented bone.

Material and methods: The right and left sections of the calvarium of six adult male Japanese white rabbits were exposed. The cortical bone was penetrated, and custom‐made, standardized, hemispherical titanium caps were fixed to the exposed bone. The caps on the right side of each rabbit were filled with granulated β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP). After a healing period of 1 month, the animals were injected with MICROFIL® into the right and left common carotid arteries to form a three‐dimensional cast of the vasculature, and the newly generated blood vessels in the augmented bone were observed.

Results: The newly generated blood vessels were observed entering the space beyond the existing calvarial bone. Furthermore, angiogenesis was seen to have occurred to a similar extent through the inter‐granular β‐TCP in the right caps. These areas of angiogenesis were observed in a histological study with cross‐sections.

Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that this observation method allows the examination of angiogenesis in hard tissue before the preparation of histological specimens.
Bone level changes at implants supporting crowns or fixed partial dentures with or without cantilevers
Authors: Hälg Gian Andrea , Schmid Jürg , Hämmerle Christoph H. F.
Published: September 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze whether or not a cantilever extension on a fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) supported by implants increased the amount of peri‐implant bone loss or technical complications compared with reconstructions without cantilevers.

Materials and Methods: Fifty‐four partially dentate patients with a total of 54 FDPs supported by 78 implants were enrolled in the study. Twenty‐seven FDPs were with cantilever and 27 FDPs were without cantilever (control group). All FDPs were supported by one or two implants and were located in the posterior maxilla or mandible. The primary outcome variable was change in peri‐implant marginal bone level from the time of FDP placement to the last follow‐up visit. FDPs were under functional loading for a period of 3 up to 12.7 years. Statistical analysis was carried out with Student's t‐test. Regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the influence of confounding factors on the peri‐implant bone level change. In addition, implant survival rates were calculated and technical complications assessed.

Results: After a mean observation period of 5.3 years, the mean peri‐implant bone loss for the FDPs with cantilevers was 0.23 mm (SD±0.63 mm) and 0.09 mm (SD±0.43 mm) for FDPs without cantilever. Concerning the bone level change at implants supporting FDPs with or without cantilevers no statistically significant differences were found. The regression analysis revealed that jaw of implant placement had a statistically significant influence on peri‐implant bone loss. When the bone loss in the cantilever group and the control group were compared within the maxilla or mandible separately, no statistically significant difference was found. Implant survival rates reached 95.7% for implants supporting cantilever prostheses and 96.9% for implants of the control group. Five FDPs in the cantilever group showed minor technical complications, none were observed in the control group.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study it was concluded that cantilever on FDPs did not lead to a higher implant failure rate and did not lead to more bone loss around supporting implants compared with implants supporting conventional FDPs. In contrast to these results more technical complications were observed in the group reconstructed with cantilever.
Orthodontic load on short maxillary implants with reduced sink depth: an experimental study
Authors: Wehrbein H. , Göllner P. , Diedrich P.
Published: September 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate experimentally the positional stability and histomorphometric findings of length‐reduced temporary anchorage devices (Orthosystem®, length: 4 mm) with reduced sink depth.

Material and methods: For this purpose, four maxillary pre‐molars (2P2, 3P3) were extracted from each of four foxhounds. After a 16‐week alveolar healing period, 16 implants (four per dog) were inserted into the edentulous areas. Four implants (one per dog) were placed simultaneously in the mid‐palatal area. The implants were intentionally submerged to about three‐quarters of their length. After a 10‐week unloaded implant healing period, the implants in the P3 areas and the palate were loaded (test implants) by means of transpalatal bars fixed on the implants in the P3 areas and Sentalloy traction springs (∼2 N continuous force) inserted mid‐sagittally between palatal implants and bars (force application period: 24 weeks). The implants in the P2 areas served as controls.

Results: Clinical measurements and histological evaluation revealed positional stability of the loaded fixtures. Alveolar control implants (ACI) were inserted to a mean depth of 3.2 mm, alveolar test implants (ATI) to 3.3 mm and palatal test implants (PTI) to 2.6 mm. The mean direct bone contact percentage values were 71.3% (ACI), 79.6% (ATI) and 72.2% (PTI).

Conclusion: These results suggest that, probably due to the relatively high percentage of bone contact with implant surface, only 3 mm of intrabony implant length is sufficient to retain positional stability during long‐term orthodontic loading.
Composition of supra‐ and subgingival biofilm of subjects with healthy and diseased implants
Authors: Shibli Jamil A. , Melo Leandro , Ferrari Daniel S. , Figueiredo Luciene C. , Faveri Marcelo , Feres Magda
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the microbial composition of supra‐ and subgingival biofilm in subjects with and without peri‐implantitis.

Material and methods: Forty‐four subjects (mean age 48.9 ± 13.51 years) with at least one implant restored and functional for at least 2 years were assigned to two groups: a peri‐implantitis group (n=22), consisting of subjects presenting peri‐implant sites with radiographic defects >3 mm, bleeding on probing and/or suppuration; and a control group (n=22), consisting of subjects with healthy implants. The clinical parameters evaluated were plaque index, gingival bleeding, bleeding on probing, suppuration, probing depth and clinical attachment level. Supra‐ and subgingival biofilm samples were taken from the deepest sites of each implant and analyzed for the presence of 36 microorganisms by checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization.

Results: Higher mean counts of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia were observed in the peri‐implantitis group, both supra‐ and subgingivally (P<0.05). The proportions of the pathogens from the red complex were elevated, while host‐compatible beneficial microbial complexes were reduced in diseased compared with healthy implants. The microbiological profiles of supra‐ and subgingival environments did not differ substantially within each group.

Conclusion: Marked differences were observed in the composition of supra‐ and subgingival biofilm between healthy and diseased implants. The microbiota associated with peri‐implantitis was comprised of more periodontal pathogenic bacterial species, including the supragingival biofilm.
Alveolar ridge augmentation using implants coated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2: radiographic observations
Authors: Leknes Knut N. , Yang Jie , Qahash Mohammed , Polimeni Giuseppe , Susin Cristiano , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: September 2008

Objectives: Effective carrier technologies and dosing appear critical for the successful use of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). This study evaluated radiographically the potential of a purpose‐designed titanium porous‐oxide implant surface combined with recombinant human BMP‐2 (rhBMP‐2) to stimulate alveolar ridge augmentation.

Material and methods: Twelve young‐adult Labrador dogs were used. Three 10‐mm titanium implants per jaw quadrant were placed 5 mm into the alveolar ridge following extraction of the premolar teeth and reduction of alveolar ridge. Six animals received implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 0.75 or 1.5 mg/ml randomized to contralateral jaw quadrants. Another six animals received implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 3 mg/ml or uncoated control using the same split‐mouth design. The mucoperiosteal flaps were advanced, adapted, and sutured to submerge the implants. Radiographic registrations were made immediately postsurgery (baseline), and at weeks 4 and 8 (end of study).

Results: rhBMP‐2‐coated implants exhibited robust radiographic bone formation extending to and above the implant platform from week 4 (P<0.01). Some rhBMP‐2‐coated implants showed voids within the newly formed bone that gradually resolved and/or implant displacement, being severe in two animals receiving implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 3 mg/ml. Controls showed limited, if any, new bone formation at weeks 4 and 8 postsurgery. There were no significant differences among the rhBMP‐2 groups in bone gain.

Conclusions: The titanium porous‐oxide surface serves as an effective carrier for rhBMP‐2, showing a clinically significant potential to stimulate local bone formation. With the carrier technology used, therapeutic dosage appears to be in the range of 0.75–1.5 mg/ml.
Immunohistochemical characterization of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite silica gel (NanoBone®) osteogenesis: a study on biopsies from human jaws
Authors: Götz Werner , Gerber Thomas , Michel Barbara , Lossdörfer Stefan , Henkel Kai‐Olaf , Heinemann Friedhelm
Published: September 2008

Objectives: Bone substitute biomaterials may be osteogenic, osteoconductive or osteoinductive. To test for these probable characteristics in a new nanoporous grafting material consisting of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite embedded in a porous silica gel matrix (NanoBone®), applied in humans, we studied biopsies from 12 patients before dental implantation following various orofacial augmentation techniques with healing times of between 3.5 and 12 months.

Material and methods: Sections from decalcified specimens were investigated using histology, histochemistry [periodic acid Schiff, alcian blue staining and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)] and immunohistochemistry, with markers for osteogenesis, bone remodelling, resorption and vessel walls (alkaline phosphatase, bone morphogenetic protein‐2, collagen type I, ED1, osteocalcin, osteopontin, runx2 and Von‐Willebrand factor).

Results: Histologically, four specific stages of graft transformation into lamellar bone could be characterized. During early stages of healing, bone matrix proteins were absorbed by NanoBone® granules, forming a proteinaceous matrix, which was invaded by small vessels and cells. We assume that the deposition of these molecules promotes early osteogenesis in and around NanoBone® and supports the concomitant degradation probably by osteoclast‐like cells. TRAP‐positive osteoclast‐like cells were localized directly on the granular surfaces. Runx2‐immunoreactive pre‐osteoblasts, which are probably involved in direct osteogenesis forming woven bone that is later transformed into lamellar bone, were attracted. Graft resorption and bone apposition around the graft granules appear concomitantly.

Conclusions: We postulate that NanoBone® has osteoconductive and biomimetic properties and is integrated into the host's physiological bone turnover at a very early stage.
Calvarial bone regeneration by a combination of natural anorganic bovine‐derived hydroxyapatite matrix coupled with a synthetic cell‐binding peptide (PepGen™): an experimental study in rats
Authors: Mardas Nikos , Stavropoulos Andreas , Karring Thorkild
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate histologically the effect of natural anorganic bovine‐derived hydroxyapatite matrix (ABM) coupled with a synthetic cell‐binding peptide on the healing of critical size calvarial defects in rats.

Material and methods: Sixteen 4‐month‐old rats were used in the study. A 5 mm trephine defect was created in each parietal bone of every animal. One defect was left untreated (control) while the contralateral defect was treated with a natural ABM coupled with a synthetic cell‐binding peptide (test). At 60 and 120 days post‐operatively, groups of eight animals were sacrificed and 7–10‐μm‐thick decalcified sections were produced from both test and control sides. Three sections, 100 μm apart, representing the central area of each defect were selected for the histometric analysis.

Results: Histological analysis showed limited bone formation in both control and test defects at both observation periods. The control defects healed with fibrous connective tissue occupying the midportion of the defect and minimal new bone formation at the periphery. In the test defects, the major part of the defect was occupied by graft particles embedded in connective tissue. After 60 days of healing the residual defects accounted up to 94.6% of the original defect dimensions in the control specimens and 90.6% in the test specimens. The differences between test and control defects were not statistically significant (P=0.06). After 120 days of healing, the residual defects accounted up 89.9% of the original defect dimensions in the control specimens and 85% in the test specimens. The difference was not statistically significant (P=0.33).

Conclusion: The ABM coupled with a synthetic cell‐binding peptide failed to substantially promote new bone formation in rat calvarial defects.
Electromyographic analysis of masticatory and neck muscles in subjects with natural dentition, teeth‐supported and implant‐supported prostheses
Authors: Tartaglia Gianluca M. , Testori Tiziano , Pallavera Andrea , Marelli Bruno , Sforza Chiarella
Published: September 2008

Objectives: To compare the electromyographic (EMG) characteristics of masticatory and neck muscles in patients with natural dentition, teeth‐supported prostheses and implant‐supported prostheses.

Materials and methods: Twenty‐five subjects aged 40–80 years were examined. Five patients had maxillary and mandibular implant‐supported fixed prostheses; five patients had mandibular implant‐supported fixed prosthesis and maxillary removable complete denture; seven patients had implant‐supported fixed prosthesis (one arch) and natural dentition or full‐arch tooth‐fixed prosthesis (one arch); and eight control subjects had natural dentition or single tooth‐fixed prostheses. Surface EMG of masseter, temporal and sternocleidomastoid muscles was performed during maximum teeth clenching and unilateral gum chewing. Interarch dental contacts were assessed with shim stocks.

Results: All groups had similar interarch dental contacts (P>0.05). During clenching, patients with maxillary and mandibular implant‐supported fixed prostheses had unbalanced standardized masseter and temporalis anterior activities (74%), with significantly larger values found in the other patients and control subjects (all mean values larger than 86%, P=0.017). All patients chewed with significantly larger muscular potentials than control subjects (on average, 1434–2100 μV s vs. 980 μV s, P=0.04), and had altered muscular patterns (left side, P=0.021). The patients with one arch with natural dentition/tooth fixed prostheses had chewing muscular patterns similar to the control subjects.

Conclusions: Clenching with the analyzed prostheses was performed with a relative increment of temporalis activity. Neuromuscular coordination during chewing was larger in patients who maintained their teeth or dental roots, independently from the number of dental contacts.
Über den Vergleich von Texten. Philosophische Reflexionen zu der grundlegenden Operation der literaturwissenschaftlichen Komparatistik
Authors: Hösle Vittorio
Published: September 2008

Der Aufsatz bietet eine Klassifikation der verschiedenen Typen von Vergleich, die die Komparatistik und andere Geisteswissenschaften verwenden. Er unterscheidet zwischen typologischer und genetischer Ähnlichkeit; die letzte bedeutet kausalen Einfluß– direkten oder indirekten – bzw. Abstammung von einer gemeinsamen Quelle. Er unterscheidet ferner zwischen produktionsästhetisch relevantem Einfluß und Bezugnahmen auf andere Kunstwerke, die in das Werk selber integriert sind; nur letzteres sollte ,,Intertextualität” genannt werden, die in explizite, offene und diskrete Intertextualität eingeteilt wird. Schließlich werden einige Kriterien vorgeschlagen, um festzustellen, ob Ähnlichkeiten zwischen literarischen Texten auf Einfluß zurückgehen – Kriterien, die im Falle literarischer Texte von denen für wissenschaftliche Texte abweichen.
Nucleotide‐Dependent Conformational Changes and Assembly of the AAA ATPase SKD1/VPS4B
Authors: Inoue Michio , Kamikubo Hironari , Kataoka Mikio , Kato Ryuichi , Yoshimori Tamotsu , Wakatsuki Soichi , Kawasaki Masato
Published: September 2008

SKD1/VPS4B belongs to the adenosine triphosphatases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA) family and regulates multivesicular body (MVB) biogenesis. SKD1 changes its oligomeric state during the ATPase cycle and subsequently releases endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) complexes from endosomes during the formation of MVBs. In this study, we describe domain motions in monomeric SKD1 on ATP and ADP binding. Nucleotides bind between the α/β and the α‐helical domains of SKD1, inducing a ∼20° domain rotation and closure of the binding site, which are similar to the changes observed in the AAA+ ATPase, HslU. Gel filtration and small‐angle X‐ray scattering experiments showed that the ATP‐bound form of SKD1 oligomerizes in solution, whereas ADP‐bound and apo forms of SKD1 exist as monomers, even though the conformations of the ADP‐ and ATP‐bound forms are nearly identical. Nucleotide‐bound SKD1 structures are compatible with a hexameric ring arrangement reminiscent of the AAA ATPase p97 D1 ring. In the hexameric ring model of SKD1, Arg290 from a neighboring molecule binds to the γ‐phosphate of ATP, which promotes oligomerization of the ATP‐bound form. ATP hydrolysis would eliminate this interaction and subsequent nucleotide release causes the domains to rotate, which together lead to the disassembly of the SKD1 oligomer.
Children and adolescents injured in traffic – associated psychological consequences: a literature review
Authors: Olofsson Eva , Bunketorp Olle , Andersson Anna‐Lena
Published: September 2008

Aim: To identify the prevalence of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and PTSD symptoms (PTSS) among children and adolescents injured in traffic, and to assess predictors of such post‐traumatic stress.

Methods: Studies identified from electronic databases were reviewed.

Results: Based on a review of 12 studies, fulfilling specified criteria, the prevalence of PTSS was estimated at 30% within 1 month and 13% at 3–6 months. The prevalence of PTSD was almost 30% at 1–2 months and decreased to the same level as PTSS at 3–6 months. Perceived threat and high levels of distress, anxiety symptoms and being female were significantly associated with PTSD and PTSS. Injury severity was positively related to the number of PTSD symptoms in one of eight studies. Types of accident, age and socioeconomic status were not related to the development of PTSD/PTSS.

Conclusion: Any child will be at risk of PTSD/PTSS, not just those with severe injuries. Trauma care should include procedures that could identify and prevent stress reactions in order to minimize the risk of associated psychological consequences.
Lack of association of δ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase genotype with blood lead levels in environmentally exposed children of Uygur and Han populations
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhao Jiang‐Xia , Liu Ji‐Wen , Cui Jun , Li Ling , Tian Wei
Published: September 2008

Aim: A cross‐section study was conducted to explore the association between polymorphism of δ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) and lead poisoning in Uygur and Han children in China.

Methods: The ALAD genotyping was determined by PCR‐RFLP in 443 Uygur and 469 Han children aged 6–10 years from Urumqi in Xinjiang province.

Results: The blood lead levels of 912 environmentally exposed children ranged from 0.5 to 48.2 μg/dL, with a mean of 5.45 μg/dL and a standard deviation of 0.22 μg/dL, and 23. Thirty‐one percent individuals were with blood lead level ≥10 μg/dL. The mean and standard deviation of blood lead levels were 5.57 ± 0.223 μg/dL and 5.30 ± 0.224 μg/dL in Uygur and Han children, respectively. The frequencies of the allele ALAD1 and ALAD2 in Uygur subjects were 90.52% and 9.48%, and in Han subjects were 95.73% and 4.27%, respectively (chi‐square = 19.55, p < 0.05). No statistic correlation between the distribution of ALAD alleles and the blood lead level was found in both populations.

Conclusion: A significant difference was seen in the frequency distribution of ALAD genotype between the different races. The genetic susceptibility of ALAD polymorphism to lead toxicity may exhibit in a lead dose‐dependent manner.
Patterns of food and aeroallergen sensitization in childhood eczema
Authors: Hon Kam‐Lun Ellis , Leung Ting‐fan , Ching Gary , Chow Chung‐mo , Luk Vivianne , Ko Wai‐san Fanny , Ng Pak‐Cheung
Published: September 2008

Aim: To compare the patterns of Type 1 sensitization of common food and aeroallergens among infants and older patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods: All skin prick tests (SPTs) performed over a 6‐month period were examined, and patients with urticaria were used for comparison.

Results: Dust mite was the most common aeroallergen and dog dander the least common. Egg white was the most common food allergen and beef the least common. Dust mite and peanut sensitization was more prevalent in AD than in urticaria. Dust mite sensitization was more prevalent in older children than infants with AD. Cow's milk sensitization only occurred in one‐tenth of these patients. Prevalence of sensitization to common aeroallergens, but not food allergens, was generally higher in children beyond 5 years of age.

Conclusion: Milk sensitization is far less prevalent than egg white, and the prevalence does not change beyond infancy. There is no significant change in prevalence in many of the common food allergens beyond infancy. Many infants with AD develop eczema before they show atopy to the common food and aeroallergens. The SPT information is useful in reassuring parents of the unlikelihood of severe Type 1 immediate IgE reaction to some of the common food and aeroallergens, so that empirical and multiple food avoidance/restriction can be avoided.
Body composition in a cohort of Swedish adolescents aged 15, 17 and 20.5 years
Authors: Lantz H , Bratteby L‐E , Fors H , Sandhagen B , Sjöström L , Samuelson G
Published: September 2008

Objective: To assess variables of body composition and identify their correlates in a group of individuals studied from adolescence to early adulthood.

Methods: Cross‐sectional results were obtained from 203, 149 and 106 subjects at the respective ages. Sixty‐two subjects examined at all three ages constituted the longitudinal study group. A cohort of randomly selected 15‐year‐old adolescents from an industrial town in Sweden was studied by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) and followed up at 17 and 20.5 years. Lean body mass (LBM), fat mass (FM) and total body bone mineral content (TBMC) were measured by DXA. Total bone mineral density (TBMD) was calculated. Information of parental educational level, energy intake and food habits, energy expenditure (TEE) and physical activity level (PAL) was obtained by questionnaires and diaries.

Results: LBM, TBMC and TBMD increased significantly more in males and FM more in females, from 15 to 20.5 years of age. Body weight, height, TEE, PAL and the fathers' educational level and, at age 15, also gender were identified as significant correlates of the body composition variables.

Conclusion: New reference values for body composition at ages 15, 17 and 20.5 years are presented and also a finding about an association between the father's educational level and the adolescent's body composition.
Hypocalcemia impacts heart failure control in DiGeorge 2 syndrome
Authors: Chao Pei‐Hsin , Chao Mei‐Chyn , Hwang Kao‐Pin , Chung Mei‐Yung
Published: September 2008

Chromosome 10p terminal deletion accounts for a rare subset among patients presenting with DiGeorge syndrome, and is designated as DiGeorge 2 syndrome. We report a neonate with DiGeorge‐like phenotype having a deletion of distal 10p (p13‐pter) and a duplication of terminal 3q (q29‐qter) derived from paternal balanced translocation between 3q29 and 10p13. She had facial dysmorphism, atrial and ventricular septal defect, impaired T‐cell function, hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural hearing loss, renal abnormalities and developmental delay. Her phenotype corresponded well with the typical characteristics of partial monosomy 10p and the small duplication of terminal 3q did not involve the critical region of 3q duplication syndrome. Clinically, hypoparathyroidism‐related hypocalcemia lasted for three weeks and resulted in repeated episodes of heart failure. It was not until the calcium level was normalized that her heart failure improved markedly.

Conclusion: Cytogenetic analysis can help to recognize patients early on who have terminal 10p deletion when microdeletion of 22q11.2 is not the cause of DiGeorge syndrome. Hypoparathyroidism‐related hypocalcemia impacts heart failure control in partial monosomy 10p and should be managed aggressively on critical care.
Systematic Review of Multicomponent Interventions with Overweight Middle Adolescents: Implications for Clinical Practice and Research
Authors: Kelly Stephanie A. , Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek
Published: September 2008

Background: Being overweight is a global epidemic that occurs in more than 10% of school‐aged children (age 5–17) worldwide. The rate of adolescents being overweight continues to rise despite numerous public health campaigns and programs to increase awareness and modify unhealthy lifestyle patterns.

Aims: The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the most efficacious intervention for treating overweight adolescents. Evidence from this systematic review could guide clinical practice and future research with this high‐risk population in youth.

Methods: In adolescents of 13–17 years of age who are above ideal body weight, are multicomponent interventions that integrate nutrition, activity, and behavioral components more efficacious than any type of comparison group in improving weight, body mass index (BMI), percentage body fat, or behaviors of dietary intake or activity level? Literature searches were completed in Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and PsycINFO databases as well as hand searching.

Results: Due to a lack of consistency among the studies regarding methods and rigor of the studies, the evidence is not entirely clear on the best multicomponent program for addressing overweight in middle adolescents. The success of an intervention was associated with the dose of the intervention received by the adolescent and parent.

Conclusions: A structured program addressing nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral skills appears to be efficacious in reducing weight and cardiovascular risk factors. Primarily, interventions have included the individual and varying degrees of parental participation. In the past few years, more research has addressed the multiple levels of the ecological model. Further research addressing the five levels of the ecological model will assist in illuminating the impact of the environment on behavior change in adolescents.
Differential binding of human immunoagents and Herceptin to the ErbB2 receptor
Authors: Troise Fulvia , Cafaro Valeria , Giancola Concetta , D’Alessio Giuseppe , De Lorenzo Claudia
Published: September 2008

Overexpression of the ErbB2 receptor is associated with the progression of breast cancer, and is a sign of a poor prognosis. Herceptin, a humanized antibody directed to the ErbB2 receptor, has been proven to be effective in the immunotherapy of breast cancer. However, it can result in cardiotoxicity, and a large fraction of breast cancer patients are resistant to Herceptin treatment. We have engineered three novel, fully human, anti‐ErbB2 immunoagents: Erbicin, a human single‐chain antibody fragment; ERB‐hRNase, a human immunoRNase composed of Erbicin fused to a human RNase; ERB‐hcAb, a human ‘compact’ antibody in which two Erbicin molecules are fused to the Fc fragment of a human IgG1. Both ERB‐hRNase and ERB‐hcAb strongly inhibit the growth of ErbB2‐positive cells in vivo. The interactions of the Erbicin‐derived immunoagents and Herceptin with the extracellular domain of ErbB2 (ErbB2‐ECD) were investigated for the first time by three different methods. Erbicin‐derived immunoagents bind soluble extracellular domain with a lower affinity than that measured for the native antigen on tumour cells. Herceptin, by contrast, shows a higher affinity for soluble ErbB2‐ECD. Accordingly, ErbB2‐ECD abolished the in vitro antitumour activity of Herceptin, with no effect on that of Erbicin‐derived immunoagents. These results suggest that the fraction of immunoagent neutralized by free extracellular domain shed into the bloodstream is much higher for Herceptin than for Erbicin‐derived immunoagents, which therefore may be used at lower therapeutic doses than those employed for Herceptin.
Oxygen‐induced changes in hemoglobin expression in Drosophila
Authors: Gleixner Eva , Abriss Daniela , Adryan Boris , Kraemer Melanie , Gerlach Frank , Schuh Reinhard , Burmester Thorsten , Hankeln Thomas
Published: September 2008

The hemoglobin gene 1 (dmeglob1) of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is expressed in the tracheal system and fat body, and has been implicated in hypoxia resistance. Here we investigate the expression levels of dmeglob1 and lactate dehydrogenase (a positive control) in embryos, third instar larvae and adult flies under various regimes of hypoxia and hyperoxia. As expected, mRNA levels of lactate dehydrogenase increased under hypoxia. We show that expression levels of dmeglob1 are decreased under both short‐ and long‐term hypoxia, compared with the normoxic (21% O2) control. By contrast, a hypoxia/reoxygenation regime applied to third instar larvae elevated the level of dmeglob1 mRNA. An excess of O2 (hyperoxia) also triggered an increase in dmeglob1 mRNA. The data suggest that Drosophila hemoglobin may be unlikely to function merely as a myoglobin‐like O2 storage protein. Rather, dmeglob1 may protect the fly from an excess of O2, either by buffering the flux of O2 from the tracheoles to the cells or by degrading noxious reactive oxygen species.
Identification and characterization of an inhibitor specific to bacterial NAD+‐dependent DNA ligases
Authors: Meier Timothy I. , Yan Dalai , Peery Robert B. , McAllister Kelly A. , Zook Chris , Peng Sheng‐Bin , Zhao Genshi
Published: September 2008

DNA ligases are the enzymes essential for DNA replication, repair and recombination in all organisms. The bacterial DNA ligases involved in DNA replication require NAD+ for activity, but eukaryotic and viral DNA ligases require ATP. Because of their essential nature, unique structures and widespread existence in nature, bacterial DNA ligases represent a class of valuable targets for identifying novel and selective antibacterial agents. In this study, we cloned and expressed the ligA gene from Streptococcus pneumoniae, and characterized this ligA‐encoded NAD+‐dependent DNA ligase. We then screened small molecule chemical libraries using a biochemical assay and identified a new small molecule with a structure of 2,4‐diamino‐7‐dimethylamino‐pyrimido[4,5‐d]pyrimidine. We show that this small molecule is a specific inhibitor of bacterial NAD+‐dependent DNA ligases. Biochemical studies show that this molecule inhibits NAD+‐dependent DNA ligases, but not ATP‐dependent enzymes. The molecule inhibits NAD+‐dependent DNA ligases competitively with respect to NAD+ and specifically inhibits enzyme adenylation, but not DNA adenylation or ligation. Labeling studies establish that this molecule inhibits the incorporation of thymidine into DNA and that overexpression of DNA ligase in the cell abolishes this inhibition. Finally, microbiological studies show that this molecule exhibits a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. Together, this study shows that this small molecule inhibitor identified is specific to bacterial NAD+‐dependent DNA ligases, exhibits a broad spectrum of antibacterial activities, and has the potential to be developed into an antibacterial agent.
Effect of Heating Rate on Phase and Microstructural Evolution During Pressureless Sintering of a Nanostructured Transition Alumina
Authors: Palmero Paola , Lombardi Mariangela , Montanaro Laura , Azar Mirella , Chevalier Jerome , Garnier Vincent , Fantozzi Gilbert
Published: September 2008

Deagglomeration of a nanocrystalline transition alumina performed using different techniques was first demonstrated to be active in the achievement of a better powder compaction ability under uniaxial pressing and consequently in the development of a highly dense and homogeneous microstructure during pressureless sintering. A major effect, however, was associated to the heating rate chosen during the densification cycle. In fact, the influence of different heating rates (10°C/min or 1°C/min) on phase and microstructural evolution during sintering was investigated in depth on the above best green bodies. A low‐rate thermal cycle leads to a significant reduction of the α‐Al2O3 crystallization temperature and promotes a more effective particle rearrangement during phase transformation. As a consequence, in the low‐rate treated material, it was possible to avoid the development of a vermicular structure as usually expected during the densification of a transition alumina and to yield a more homogenously fired microstructure.
Nano and Nanocomposite Superhard Coatings of Silicon Carbonitride and Titanium Diboride by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Mishra Suman Kumari
Published: September 2008

Superhard coatings (hardness >20 GPa) are being widely researched, driven by the need to use the components under different combinations of environments. Complex properties such as low friction and low wear, increased life time, and increased toughness are required in the same coating. Nanocomposite and nanocoatings are promising materials to achieve them. In the present communication, the author presents research findings on hard nanocomposite and nanocoatings of silicon carbonitride (SiCN) and titanium diborides by magnetron sputtering on Si and steel substrates. XPS, atomic force microscopy, and nanoindentation studies on both the films showed that they possessed high hardness, modulus, and significant elastic recoveries after unloading. These properties can be attributed to nanocrystalline dispersions of carbon nitride and silicon nitride phases in the amorphous SiCN matrix in nanocomposite SiCN thin films, whereas in the case of the TiB2 film, nanosize grains led to higher hardness.
THE NARROWING GENDER GAP IN ARRESTS: ASSESSING COMPETING EXPLANATIONS USING SELF‐REPORT, TRAFFIC FATALITY, AND OFFICIAL DATA ON DRUNK DRIVING, 1980–2004*
Authors: SCHWARTZ JENNIFER , ROOKEY BRYAN D.
Published: September 2008

We evaluate two alternative explanations for the converging gender gap in arrest—changes in women's behavior versus changes in mechanisms of social control. Using the offense of drunk driving and three methodologically diverse data sets, we explore trends in the DUI gender gap. We probe for change across various age groups and across measures tapping DUI prevalence and chronicity. Augmented Dickey‐Fuller time‐series techniques are used to assess changes in the gender gap and levels of drunk driving from 1980 to 2004. Analyses show women of all ages making arrest gains on men—a converging gender gap. In contrast, self‐report and traffic data indicate little or no systematic change in the DUI gender gap. Findings support the conclusion that mechanisms of social control have shifted to target female offending patterns disproportionately. Little support exists for the contention that increased strain and liberalized gender roles have altered the gender gap or female drunk‐driving patterns.
THE SOCIAL CONTEXT OF GUIDELINES CIRCUMVENTION: THE CASE OF FEDERAL DISTRICT COURTS*
Authors: JOHNSON BRIAN D. , ULMER JEFFERY T. , KRAMER JOHN H.
Published: September 2008

Recent scholarship on criminal punishments increasingly highlights the importance of courtroom social contexts. Combining recent data from the U.S. Sentencing Commission (FY1997–2000) with aggregate data on federal districts, the current study examines interdistrict variations in the application of downward departures from the federal sentencing guidelines. Findings indicate that substantial variation exists in the probability of both prosecutor‐initiated substantial assistance departures and judge‐initiated downward departures. This variation is accounted for, in part, by organizational court contexts, such as caseload pressures, and by environmental considerations, such as the racial composition of the district. Additional evidence suggests that individual trial penalties and race disparities are conditioned by aggregate court contexts. Drawing on interviews with federal justice personnel, this article concludes with a discussion of future directions for research on federal guidelines departures.

Part of the glory of the federal system…is that you've got this one big organization, but it can be molded to different needs… ‐ An assistant U.S. attorney ‐