bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiotherapeutic treatment improves oral opening in oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Cox Stephen , Zoellner Hans
Published: August 2010

Background:  In oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) fibrous bands and burning mucosal pain restrict oral opening to limit speech and eating. The pathogenesis of OSF remains unclear, while surgical and pharmacological treatments have limited success, and are often inaccessible in communities using areca nut where OSF is prevalent. Improved outcomes are reported for surgical treatment when followed by physiotherapy. We tested the hypothesis that physiotherapy alone can modify tissue remodelling in OSF to increase oral opening.

Materials and methods:  Fifty‐four Nepali OSF patients were managed for 4 months in three randomly assigned groups receiving either: five times daily physiotherapy by inter‐positioning tongue spatulas between teeth and adding a new spatula every 5–10 days; local injection of hyaluronidase with steroids; or no active treatment.

Results:  More males presented with OSF than females (p < 0.05). All patients reported reduced opening and 47% had mucosal pain. Progressive mucosal involvement was always in the same order, starting with the soft palate, and then progressing to the fauces, unilateral buccal mucosa, bilateral buccal mucosa, floor of mouth and finally lip mucosa (p < 0.006). Physiotherapy improved oral opening (p < 0.0005), but not oral pain, while no clear improvement was seen in untreated patients as well as patients managed by injection.

Conclusions:  We conclude OSF in the Nepali population progresses in a predictable pattern, and that physiotherapy is effective for increasing the oral opening. We further suggest physiotherapy can be readily used to improve OSF in communities with otherwise limited health resources.
Polymorphic drug metabolizing CYP‐enzymes – a pathogenic factor in oral lichen planus?
Authors: Kragelund C. , Hansen C. , Reibel J. , Nauntofte B. , Broesen K. , Pedersen A. M. L. , Smidt D. , Eiberg H. , Torpet L. A.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic mucosal disease with a characteristic clinical phenotype. Environmental exposures, e.g. drugs have been associated with the pathogenesis.

Objectives:  To test the hypothesis that some OLP lesions have a pharmacological pathogenesis related to polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) resulting in poor or intermediate CYP metabolism.

Methods:  One hundred and twenty patients with OLP and 180 gender‐matched controls without OLP were genotyped for CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6 alleles with absent or reduced function.

Results:  The prevalence of poor or intermediate metabolizers was not higher among the OLPs as compared with the controls; however, there were higher numbers of variant CYP2D6 genotypes among the OLP females (P < 0.05). There were no differences between the groups with regard to intake of drugs metabolized by polymorphic CYPs or drug or herbal products inhibiting CYPs. The prevalence of CYP2D6*4 alleles among the OLPs was higher [28%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 20–36%] than previously reported among Danes (19%; 95% CI 17–22%). Fifty per cent of the OLPs had a CYP2D6*4 genotype as compared with 30% in the background population (P = 0.0001). The CYP2D6*4 protein has sequence homology with human herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) and Candida albicans, which may result in molecular mimicry.

Conclusion:  It was not possible to substantiate a pharmacological pathogenesis of OLP based on poor or intermediate CYP metabolism. However, molecular mimicry between CYP2D6, in particular CYP2D6*4, and common oral pathogens may be involved in the pathogenesis of OLP.
A case–control study on etiological factors involved in patients with burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Gao Jianming , Chen Lizhang , Zhou Jia , Peng Jieying
Published: August 2010

Objective:  To evaluate and analyze the risk factors for burning mouth syndrome (BMS).

Methods:  Eighty‐seven consecutive patients with BMS and a randomly selected control group (n = 82) were comprehensively investigated with a self‐designed questionnaire, Self‐rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self‐rating Depression Scale (SDS). A complete blood count and serum sex hormone were also examined in patients with BMS and control subjects. All the data obtained were transferred to a data bank and analyzed statistically in spss 11.5 for windows.

Results:  No statistical difference between the BMS group and the control group was found in blood analyses including white blood cell count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin and platelet count. Among the menopausal or postmenopausal women with BMS, the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level was significantly higher, but the estradiol level was significantly lower. The BMS group reported adverse life events more frequently than the control group. Patients with BMS significantly exhibited symptoms of somatization, and both the scores of anxiety, depression in patients with BMS were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). A regression equation which included six variables had been established by using logistic regression analysis, indicating that the habit of tongue thrusting, lip sucking, periodontitis, smoking, outcome of recent medication, depression were the principal risk factors, among which tongue thrusting was the most significant.

Conclusion:  Our study indicated that BMS may be of psychological origin, and the measures such as refraining from oral parafunctional activities, removing local irritating factors, stopping smoking, good mental health status could help in the prevention of BMS.
An investigation of the role of oral epithelial cells and Langerhans cells as possible HIV viral reservoirs
Authors: Boy Sonja C. , Van Heerden Marlene B. , Wolfaardt Marianne , Cockeran Riana , Gema Elize , Van Heerden Willie F.
Published: August 2010

Background:  The role of the oral mucosa as a target of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV‐1) infection and persistence is unclear. HIV‐1 has been reported in oral epithelial cells, but this has not been confirmed. Cellular reservoirs may impede antiretroviral therapies and should be identified. This study was performed to determine the presence of HIV‐1 in oral epithelial and Langerhans cells (LCs) of HIV‐1‐positive antiretroviral naïve patients. Non‐invasive brush biopsy technique for future in vivo HIV research was also evaluated.

Methods:  Oral mucosal cells were harvested from the buccal mucosae, dorsal tongue and the gingiva of the mandibular teeth of 35 HIV‐1‐positive patients using a Cytobrush Plus cell collector. Epithelial cells were purified from the samples by flow cytometric cell sorting using cytokeratin stains after which the epithelial cell samples were further purified and divided into superficial and deep epithelial cells by laser microdissection on Pap stained cytospin smears. LCs were picked up individually by laser microdissection from CD1a stained cytospin smears. Purified epithelial and LC samples were tested for the presence of HIV‐1 DNA by polymerase chain reaction analysis.

Results:  Ten of the patients had HIV‐1 DNA in one or more of the sampled anatomical locations. No HIV‐1 DNA could be demonstrated in any of the purified superficial or deep epithelial or LC samples.

Conclusions:  HIV‐DNA can be found using non‐invasive oral brush biopsies and should be investigated further as an experimental model for in vivo oral HIV research. Better ways to purify the different cell types should be investigated.
Areca nut extract‐treated gingival fibroblasts modulate the invasiveness of polymorphonuclear leukocytes via the production of MMP‐2
Authors: Lu Hsuan‐Hsuan , Chen Li‐Kai , Cheng Chieh‐Yuan , Hung Shan‐Ling , Lin Shu‐Chun , Chang Kuo‐Wei
Published: August 2010

Background:  Areca nut chewing is associated with an increase in the incidence of oral neoplastic or inflammatory diseases. Aberrations in matrix metalloprotease (MMP) expression are associated with the pathogenesis of oral diseases. This study investigated the potential effects of areca nut extract (ANE) on human gingival fibroblasts and the consequential impacts on inflammatory pathogenesis.

Methods:  Analyses of senescence marker, cell viability, changes of the cell cycle, and cell granularity in gingival fibroblasts together with an assessment of the invasiveness of polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes after treatment with the supernatant of ANE‐treated gingival fibroblasts were performed to characterize the phenotypic impacts. Western blotting and gelatin zymography were used to assay the expression and activity of MMP‐2.

Results:  Chronic subtoxic (<10 μg/ml) ANE treatment resulted in premature growth arrest, appearance of senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity and various other senescence‐associated phenotypes in gingival fibroblasts. Gingival fibroblasts established from older individuals had a higher propensity to become ANE‐induced senescent gingival fibroblasts. An activation of MMP‐2 was identified in senescent cells. PMN leukocytes treated with the supernatant of ANE‐induced senescent cells exhibited a significant increase in invasiveness, which was abrogated by both a MMP‐2 blocker and a MMP‐2 nullifying antibody.

Conclusions:  This study provides evidence whereby MMP‐2 secreted from ANE‐induced senescent gingival fibroblasts would facilitate the invasiveness of PMN leukocytes, which could be associated with the oral inflammatory process in areca chewers.
Insight into the mechanisms underlying tumor response to boron neutron capture therapy in the hamster cheek pouch oral cancer model
Authors: Aromando Romina F. , Heber Elisa M. , Trivillin Verónica A. , Nigg David W. , Schwint Amanda E. , Itoiz María E.
Published: August 2010

Objective:  The therapeutic success of different boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) protocols employing the hamster cheek pouch oral cancer model has been previously reported by our laboratory. The aim of this study was to explore potential mechanisms of BNCT‐induced damage to tumor in terms of potential inhibition in DNA synthesis and induction of apoptosis in the tumors that underwent partial remission following application of the different BNCT protocols in this model.

Materials and methods:  We evaluated DNA synthesis employing incorporation of 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine as an end‐point. Apoptosis was evaluated by immunohistochemistry employing the deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate‐biotin nick end‐labeling technique and Bax and Bcl‐2 labeling. These studies were performed in tumors that underwent partial remission 1–30 days post‐BNCT mediated by boronophenylalanine (BPA), GB‐10 (Na210B10H10) or (BPA + GB‐10).

Results:  BNCT exerted a marked inhibitory effect on DNA synthesis in tumors for all the protocols under study. The inhibitory effect of BPA‐BNCT occurred as soon as 1 day post‐treatment (P < 0.001). Conversely, the effect of GB‐10‐BNCT became apparent 7–14 days after therapy (P < 0.001) and was sustained until killed at 30 days post‐treatment (P < 0.001). (GB‐10 + BPA)‐BNCT exerted a rapid and persistent effect, conceivably because of the combined effect of BNCT mediated by both boron compounds. The apoptosis studies did not show differences between the pre‐treatment group and any of the BNCT groups.

Conclusions:  One of the mechanisms involved in BNCT‐induced tumor control in our model would be an inhibitory effect on DNA synthesis. Apoptosis does not seem to have a significant role in BNCT‐induced tumor control in our model.
Calcitonin gene‐related peptide levels in saliva of patients with burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Zidverc‐Trajkovic Jasna , Stanimirovic Dragan , Obrenovic Radmila , Tajti János , Vécsei László , Gardi János , Németh József , Mijajlovic Milija , Sternic Nadezda , Jankovic Ljiljana
Published: August 2010

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is an intraoral burning sensation for which no medical or dental cause can be found. Recent studies suggest that primary neuropathic dysfunction might be involved in the pathogenesis of BMS. Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) plays an important role in the development of pain and serves as a biological marker of trigeminovascular activation. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of CGRP in the saliva of BMS patients and estimate the trigeminovascular activation in BMS. CGRP levels were measured, by RIA method in 78 BMS patients and 16 healthy subjects. The levels of CGRP were non‐significantly decreased in BMS patients in comparison to healthy subjects. These results suggest that trigeminal nerve degeneration may be the underlying cause of BMS.
Long‐standing oral ulcers: proposal for a new `S‐C‐D classification system’
Authors: Compilato D. , Cirillo N. , Termine N. , Kerr A. R. , Paderni C. , Ciavarella D. , Campisi G.
Published: August 2010

Persistent oral ulcers and erosions can be the final common manifestation, sometimes clinically indistinguishable, of a diverse spectrum of conditions ranging from traumatic lesions, infectious diseases, systemic and local immune‐mediated lesions up to neoplasms. The process of making correct diagnosis for persistent oral ulcers still represents a challenge to clinicians. Major diagnostic criteria should include the clinical appearance of both ulcer and surrounding non‐ulcerated mucosa, together with the evaluation of associated signs and symptoms, such as: number (single or multiple), shape, severity of the ulcer(s), conditions of remaining mucosa (white, red or with vesiculo‐bullous lesions) and systemic involvement (e.g. fever, lymphadenopathy or evaluation of haematological changes). The aim of this paper was to review the literature relating to persistent oral ulcers and provide a helpful, clinical‐based diagnostic tool for recognising long‐standing ulcers in clinical dental practice. The authors, therefore, suggest distinguishing SIMPLE, COMPLEX AND DESTROYING (S‐C‐D system) ulcerations, as each requires different diagnostic evaluations and management. This classification has arisen from studying the current English literature relating to this topic, performed using MEDLINE / PubMed / Ovid databases (key words: oral ulcerations, persistent oral ulcers, systemic diseases and oral ulcers, drugs and oral ulcers).
The prevalence and distribution of human papillomavirus genotypes in oral epithelial hyperplasia: proposal of a concept
Authors: Varnai Alinda Dalma , Bollmann Magdolna , Bankfalvi Agnes , Kovacs Krisztina , Heller Hildegard , Schmitt Christoph , Volek Jan , Szendy Marianna , Bollmann Reinhard , Hildenbrand Ralf
Published: August 2010

Background:  Evidence is accumulating for the aetiological role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the pathogenesis of potentially malignant oral mucosal lesions and squamous cell carcinomas.

Methods:  Paraffin tissue sections from 49 patients with ‘white patches’ of the oral mucosa were investigated histologically, by broad‐spectrum PCR followed by genotyping and chromogenic in situ hybridisation (CISH).

Results:  Histologically, 33 flat hyperplasias and 16 papillary hyperplasias were diagnosed. Twenty‐two of 28 samples studied (78.6%) were positive for HPV DNA by PCR and six were negative. The following HPV types were detected in decreasing order of prevalence: HPV 35, HPV 6, HPV16, HPV 53, HPV 18, HPV 51 and HPV 55. Seventeen samples (60.7%) contained high‐risk HPV DNA. Using CISH, ≥ 1 HPV signals were detected at least in a few epithelial cells in 95% of cases studied. All but one case were positive with the high‐risk HPV probe and all HPV infections contained low viral load. Concordant positive results both by PCR and CISH were detected in 14 of 19 cases (73.7%) analysed.

Conclusions:  The high prevalence of HPV infection in hyperplastic ‘white patches’ of the oral mucosa supports the putative role of HPV at an early stage of oral carcinogenesis. These results further indicate that the majority of white oral mucosal lesions – flat, exophytic, wart‐like or papillary proliferations – could be considered as the clinical manifestations of oral HPV infection. This finding has clinical relevance regarding therapy and patient management and may help in elucidating the role of HPV infection in oral carcinogenesis.
Altered binding of MYF‐5 toFOXE1promoter in non‐syndromic and CHARGE‐associated cleft palate
Authors: Venza Mario , Visalli Maria , Venza Isabella , Torino Claudia , Tripodo Barbara , Melita Rocco , Teti Diana
Published: August 2010

Background: Three different homozygous loss‐of‐function mutations of the Forkhead box E1 (FOXE1) gene have been associated with syndromic cleft palate. Here, we screened the entire promoter region to identify the variations in significant consensus motifs affectingFOXE1transcription.

Method: Genomic DNAs of 35 cleft palate patients, 10 of whom with CHARGE association, 80 unrelated healthy people and 80 unaffected first‐degree relatives were analysed by automatic sequencing. The Transcription Element Search System program was employed to identify transcription factor binding sites. The protein‐DNA complexes were observed using DNA band‐shift assays and oligonucleotide competition analyses. Real‐time PCR was used to estimateFOXE1expression at mRNA level.

Results: In 11 non‐syndromic cleft palate patients, a novel non‐coding polymorphism (C→G) in the 5′‐untranslated region ofFOXE1was found. The variation fell into a putative consensus sequence for the transcription factorMYF‐5and completely impaired the ability ofMYF‐5 to bind to its motif, as shown by EMSA experiments. As a consequence, a significantly reducedFOXE1mRNA expression was observed.

Conclusions: In 45% of non‐syndromic cleft palate patients, a novel homozygous polymorphism that prevented the binding ofMYF‐5 toFOXE1promoter and affected theFOXE1expression was found. As recent data show the role ofMYF‐5in the muscle‐dependent craniofacial skeletal development and in the fusion of primary palate and secondary palate, the results reported here strongly suggest a more significant involvement of this factor in the cleft palate onset.
Burning mouth syndrome and saliva: detection of salivary trace elements and cytokines
Authors: Pekiner F. N. , Gümrü B. , Demirel G. Y. , Özbayrak S.
Published: August 2010

Background: Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is considered a syndrome with an unknown cause. Roles of various trace elements and cytokines in saliva have been implicated in the development of BMS. The aim of the present study was to compare the levels of salivary trace elements [magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu)] and interleukin (IL)‐2 and IL‐6, and to search for a correlation between depression/anxiety and salivary trace elements and cytokines in BMS patients and controls.

Methods: Thirty patients with BMS and 30 matched healthy controls participated in the study. Unstimulated saliva was collected from participants and salivary flow rates were determined. Mg, Zn and Cu levels were determined by atomic absorbance spectrophotometry. Cytokine immunoassay kits were used to determine the concentration of IL‐2 and IL‐6 in the whole saliva samples. Anxiety and depression were analyzed by means of the Speilberger State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (SAI‐TAI) and Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale.

Results: Although subjects in the control group had significantly higher mean levels for Mg compared with BMS patients (P < 0.01), no statistically significant differences were observed in relation to Zn and Cu levels between the two groups (P < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in IL‐2 and IL‐6 levels of BMS and control groups, but subjects in BMS group had slightly, not significantly, higher mean levels for IL‐6 compared with controls. Subjects in BMS group had significantly higher mean values for TAI compared with controls (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in relation to salivary levels of Mg, Zn, Cu, IL‐2, IL‐6 and depression/anxiety between BMS and control groups.

Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that Mg levels could have an impact on symptoms of BMS and further studies are necessary to determine the importance of cytokines in the pathogenesis of BMS.
The efficacy of topical hyaluronic acid in the management of oral lichen planus
Authors: Nolan A. , Badminton J. , Maguire J. , Seymour R. A.
Published: August 2010

Background:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a topical hyaluronic acid (HA) gel preparation (0.2%) in the management of oral lichen planus (OLP).

Methods:  A total of 124 patients with erosive OLP participated in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trial to evaluate the efficacy of a topical HA preparation. Outcome measures included soreness relief following immediate application, oral function and size of erosive/ulcerative area. Patients were medicated for 28 days and completed a log diary recording oral function and soreness scores.

Results:  Application of topical HA produced a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in soreness scores when compared with placebo for up to 4 h post‐application. There was no difference between treatment groups (P > 0.05) with respect to oral function. Patients treated with 0.2% HA showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the size of the erosive/ulcerated area after 28 days of treatment when compared with baseline. There was no significant difference in changes in ulcerative areas between treatment groups.

Conclusions:  Topical HA (0.2%) does appear to be of some benefit in the management of erosive lichen planus providing efficacy for up to 4 h after administration. Very frequent applications should be considered to obtain a more significant clinical benefit. Topical HA gel may be a useful addition to the treatment option for OLP.
Detection of fascin and CCR‐7 positive mature dendritic cells in oral lichen planus
Authors: Mukae Shotaro , Okazaki Yasuhiro , Tsuda Hirotaka , Nagai Koichi , Matsumoto Naoyuki , Ochiai Toyoko , Oki Hidero , Komiyama Kazuo
Published: August 2010

Background:  Dendritic cells (DC) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus (OLP) with respect to antigens presented to T cells. We performed immunohistochemical analysis to elucidate the process of activation of DC in OLP.

Methods:  Thirty biopsy specimens were obtained from the patients with OLP. The expressions of CD1a, Langerin, S‐100, fascin, chemokine receptor‐7 (CCR‐7), D2‐40, cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1) in DC from OLP and disease free control were investigated using specific antibodies. The distribution and number (1 mm2) of DC were assessed in the intra‐epithelium and the submucosa specimens. Correlation between the number of DC and epithelium thickness was also determined.

Result:  Immature DC (Langerin+, CD1a+, and S‐100+) were identified in the epithelia from OLP patients and control, though the numbers of Langerin+ and CD1a+ positive cells were decreased in the OLP samples as compared to the control. Mature DC (fascin+) were identified in the submucosa specimens, not found in the epithelium from OLP or control. Double immunostaining revealed DC positive for fascin and CCR‐7 in the submucosa, which had migrated into D2‐40+ lymph vessels. Furthermore, keratinocytes expressed both Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) converting enzymes, COX‐2, and mPGES‐1, indicating PGE2 synthesis in the epithelial layer of the OLP specimens.

Conclusion:  Our results indicate that DC change from immature to mature in the epithelium and are then drawn out to the submucosa. We demonstrate that mature DC localized in the submucosa, it consequently migrates into lymph vessels. This maturation process of DC is an important immunopathological feature of OLP.
Clonal nature of odontogenic tumours
Authors: Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , Da Silveira Oliveira Carla , Castro Wagner Henriques , De Lacerda Júlio César Tanos , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: August 2010

Background:  Although clonal origin is an essential step in the comprehension of neoplasias, there have been no studies to examine whether odontogenic tumours are derived from a single somatic progenitor cell. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clonal origin of odontogenic tumours.

Methods:  Fresh samples of seven ameloblastomas, two odontogenic mixomas, two adenomatoid odontogenic tumour, one calcifying odontogenic cyst, one calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumour (CEOT) and six odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) of female patients were included in this study. After DNA extraction, the HUMARA gene polymorphism assay was performed.

Results:  Most of the informative odontogenic lesions studied (12 out of 16) showed a monoclonal pattern. Among the polyclonal cases, two were OKC, one CEOT and one odontogenic mixoma.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that most odontogenic tumours are monoclonal.
Smokeless tobacco use among adult patients who visited family practice clinics in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Ali Niloufer Sultan , Khuwaja Ali Khan , Ali Tabrez , Hameed Rabia
Published: August 2010

Background:  Use of smokeless tobacco (SLT) is significantly associated with poor oral health and cancers. The objectives of this study were to estimate the proportion of use and the knowledge about SLT in relation to oral cancer and its differentials by socio‐demographic and patient’s diagnostic categories. This study also aimed to assess the SLT user’s attitude and practices for its use.

Methods:  In a cross‐sectional study, 502 adult patients (≥15 years) were randomly interviewed in family practice clinics in Karachi, Pakistan. SLT use was considered as usage of any of the following: betel quid (paan) with tobacco, betel nuts with tobacco (gutkha), and snuff (naswar).

Results:  Overall, 52.4% subjects had used SLT at least in one form. More males were using SLT than females (P = 0.03). Similarly, higher proportion of patients with gastro‐intestinal diseases were using SLT compared with other diagnostic categories (P = 0.004). Knowledge about the oral carcinogenic effect of SLT was higher among men and those who had schooling of >10 years (P < 0.001). This knowledge was also higher in patients with non‐communicable and infectious diseases. Among SLT users, 31.3% tried to quit this habit but failed. The majority of users started using SLT before the age of 15 years; 40.2% and 30.8% started after being inspired by media advertisements and friends/peer pressure, respectively.

Conclusions:  In this study, over half of the patients were using SLT in various forms and had poor knowledge about its hazards. We suggest that there is a need for socially and culturally acceptable educational and behavioral interventions for control of SLT usage.
Expression of keratinocyte growth factor and its receptor in odontogenic keratocysts
Authors: Suyama Y. , Kubota Y. , Yamashiro T. , Ninomiya T. , Koji T. , Shirasuna K.
Published: August 2010

Background:  The mitotic activity of the epithelial cells of odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) is greater than that of other odontogenic jaw cysts, and the mitotic activity of the epithelial cells decreases after marsupialization. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) interacts with its specific receptor (KGFR), and elicits the proliferation and/or differentiation of the various types of epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of KGF/KGFR in OKCs before and after marsupialization.

Methods:  The expression of KGF was immunohistochemically detected in the specimens of 16 OKCs and 11 dentigerous cysts before and after marsupialization. The expression of KGF mRNA was measured in the fibroblasts isolated from OKCs by real‐time PCR.

Results:  KGF was expressed in the epithelial cells and fibroblasts of 12 and seven of 16 OKC specimens, respectively. The intensity of the KGF expression in both the epithelial cells and the fibroblasts significantly decreased after marsupialization. KGFR was expressed throughout the epithelium in 15 of 16 OKC specimens, but the intensity of the KGFR expression did not change after marsupialization. The expression of KGF was detected in the epithelium of two of 11 dentigerous cyst specimens, but not in the fibroblasts before marsupialization. Real‐time PCR revealed that recombinant human interleukin (IL)‐1α increased the expression of KGF mRNA in the fibroblasts isolated from OKCs.

Conclusion:  KGF/KGFR signaling may play a crucial role in the epithelial cells of OKCs. Furthermore, the expression of KGF in the fibroblasts of OKCs is regulated by IL‐1α.
The close association between dental and periodontal treatments and oral ulcer course in behcet’s disease: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Karacayli Umit , Mumcu Gonca , Simsek Ismail , Pay Salih , Kose Osman , Erdem Hakan , Direskeneli Haner , Gunaydin Yılmaz , Dinc Ayhan
Published: August 2010

Objective:  The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of dental and periodontal treatments to the course of oral ulcers in patients with Behcet’s disease (BD).

Methods:  Fifty‐eight consecutive BD patients with oral ulcers were studied. Twenty‐nine patients were in the intervention group (F/M: 15/14, mean age: 39.6 ± 6.9 years) and 29 (F/M: 15/14, 39.4 ± 10.6 years) were followed with a conventional treatment approach. In addition to oral hygiene education, dental and periodontal treatments were carried out in the intervention group, whereas the control group was only given oral hygiene education. Patients were evaluated in the pre‐treatment observation period (1 month), treatment period (1 month) and 6 months after treatment.

Results:  An increase in the number of new oral ulcers (4.1 ± 3.5) was observed within 2 days during the treatment compared with 3–30 days during treatment month (2.3 ± 1.2) (P = 0.002). However, 6 months after the treatment, the number of oral ulcers (1.9 ± 1.5) was significantly lower compared with the pre‐treatment observation (4.8 ± 3.2) (P = 0.000) and treatment periods (6.4 ± 2.3) in the intervention group (P = 0.05), whereas a similar oral ulcer presence was observed in the control group (2.8 ± 2.4, 3.7 ± 2.3 and 4.8 ± 4.3, respectively) (P > 0.05). Dental and periodontal indices were also better in the intervention group during the 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that, in BD patients, dental and periodontal therapies could be associated with a flare‐up of oral ulcers in the short term, but may decrease their number in longer follow‐up. They also lead to a better oral health.
Clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of oral spindle cell carcinoma
Authors: Romañach Mário José , Azevedo Rebeca Souza , Carlos Roman , De Almeida Oslei Paes , Pires Fábio Ramôa
Published: August 2010

J Oral Pathol Med (2010) 39: 335–341

Background:  Oral spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC) is a rare variant of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The aims of this study were to compare the clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features of oral SpCC with conventional oral SCC.

Methods:  Five cases of oral SpCC and 10 cases of oral SCC (five well‐differentiated and five poorly differentiated) were evaluated through conventional hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical reactions to cytokeratins (CK), vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle actin, muscle‐specific actin, S‐100 protein, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), p53, and ki‐67.

Results:  Oral SpCC showed predilection for males on their sixth decade of life, presenting clinically as painful infiltrative ulcers or ulcerated exophytic polypoid masses, preferably located on the alveolar mucosa. Mesenchymal markers were expressed in the spindle cell but not in the carcinomatous component of SpCC, and it was negative in all SCC. CKs AE1/AE3, 6, 14, and EMA were positive on both carcinomatous and spindle cell components of most SpCCs. These tumors also presented higher p53 and ki‐67 expression and no CK 1 expression in contrast to well‐differentiated SCC.

Conclusion:  Oral SpCC presented a different clinical profile than conventional SCC and histopathologic features and p53 and ki‐67 expression closer to poorly differentiated SCC. Besides mesenchymal markers, CK AE1/AE3, 6, 14, and EMA expression on spindle cells may be useful as an adjunct on microscopical differential diagnosis of SpCC.
The clustering of disorders in infants born before the 28th week of gestation
Authors: Leviton Alan , Dammann Olaf , Engelke Stephen , Allred Elizabeth , Kuban Karl CK , O’Shea T Michael , Paneth Nigel ,   for the ELGAN study investigators
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To see whether disorders prevalent in infants born extremely preterm cluster.

Design:  Observational cohort study.

Setting:  University‐affiliated newborn intensive care nurseries.

Subjects:  One thousand two hundred and twenty‐three infants born before the 28th week of gestation who survived until 36 weeks postmenstrual age when the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) could be made.

Interventions:  None.

Main outcome measures:  Cerebral white matter damage (an echolucent lesion, or moderate or severe ventriculomegaly on a protocol cranial ultrasound scan), BPD, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and early and late bacteremia.

Results:  After adjustment for gestational age, children who had severe NEC (Bell stage IIIb) were at increased risk of cerebral white matter damage, severe ROP (stage 3+), and severe BPD (defined as both oxygen and ventilator dependent). Children who had early bacteremia were at increased risk of late bacteremia and severe ROP. Those who had severe ROP were at increased risk of severe BPD and both early and late bacteremia.

Conclusions:  Necrotizing enterocolitis is the disorder common to most of the clusters, but we do not know if its onset occurred before the others. Organ‐damage‐promoting substances, however, have been found in the circulation of newborn animals with bowel inflammation, supporting the view that NEC contributes to the damage of other organs.
SMOOTH‐MUSCLE ANTIBODIES IN SERA WITH PAUL‐BUNNELL HETEROPHIL ANTIBODIES
Authors: Andersen Paul
Published: August 2010

A total of 115 Paul‐Bunnell‐positive and 40 Paul‐Bunnell‐negative sera were studied for smooth‐muscle antibodies (SMA) and some other tissue antibodies by means of the indirect immunofluorescent method. SMA were found in 56 per cent of the Paul‐Bunnell‐positive sera and in 23 per cent of the negative sera (0.001 > p). The SMA were mainly of the IgM class, but antibodies of the IgG and the IgA class were also demonstrated. SMA of the IgM class were found most frequently in sera with Paul‐Bunnell antibodies in high titres. This relationship could not be demonstrated for SMA of the IgG or the IgA class. In a few persons, two or three serum samples were obtained, and it was found that the IgM‐SMA disappeared within a few weeks, while the Paul‐Bunnell antibody titre remained virtually unchanged. All SMA‐positive sera reacted with rat gastric smooth‐muscle fibres and rat renal vessel walls in the same or approximately the same titres. In addition, some of the positive sera also reacted with rat renal glomeruli, which suggests that antibodies with different specificity may occur. Tissue antibodies other than SMA were rare, occurring with the same frequency in the Paul‐Bunnell‐positive and negative sera.
USE OF THE MIXED HAEMADSORPTION TECHNIQUE TO DEMONSTRATE LECTINS ADSORBED TO MONOLAYER CULTURES
Authors: Jonsson J. , Östborn Anita , Fagraeus Astrid , Skoog V.
Published: August 2010

The radial diffusion mixed haemadsorption test was found to be a convenient, specific, sensitive and reproducible procedure by which to demonstrate the presence of phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and concanavallin A (Con A) on the surface of monolayer cultures. When 100–500 μg/ml of PHA or Con A was included in the culture medium for 24 hours, an easily demonstrable concentration of the lectin was attached to the culture and remained so for at least 60 days. The heterogenicity of the commercial PHA preparations used was reflected by the fact that only the homologous antiserum gave filled haemadsorption zones with Difco PHA. An anti Wellcome PHA gave ring‐ or target zones with both the homologous and the Difco PHA. Also the anti‐Difco PHA serum gave ring‐ or target zones with the Wellcome PHA. The ring zone effect obtained with Wellcome PHA, therefore, depended on the properties of this antigen and most probably on the fact that the Wellcome preparation was more homogenous and therefore contained less antigenic specificities than the Difco preparation.
IMMUNE RESPONSIVENESS TO MYCOBACTERIUM LEPRAE OF HEALTHY HUMANS
Authors: Myrvang Bjørn , Negassi Kesete , Løfgren Monica , Godal Tore
Published: August 2010

Immune responsiveness to Mycobacterium leprae was studied in various groups of healthy humans. Contacts of leprosy patients responded significanctly more than non‐contacts by the methods of leucocyte migration inhibition, lymphocyte transformation and early and late lepromin testing. By classifying responses of strengths found in non‐contacts as negative, 71.2 per cent of medical attendants, the main category of contacts, were responders by the leucocyte migration inhibition test, 44.2 per cent by the lymphocyte transformation assay and 50.0 per cent by the early lepromin reaction. On the other hand, no degree ot the late lepromin reaction was found solely in M. leprae‐exposed people. While the assays of leucocyte migration inhibition, lymphocyte transformation and early lepromin testing thus may be considered useful for detection of healthy individuals exposed to M. leprae, the late lepromin reaction appears unsuitable as a measure of exposure. Besides the association of negative responses by leucocyte migration inhibition, lymphocyte transformation and early lepromin tests, there was in the group of non‐contacts a significant quantitative correlation between early and late lepromin reactions. In the group of medical attendants significant correlations were observed between the results of all tests employed.
CAPSULAR SWELLING AND PASSIVE HAEMAGGLUTINATION INDUCED BY MONOCLONAL IgM REACTING WITH ACID POLYSACCHARIDES OF KLEBSIELLA
Authors: Harboe Morten , Deverill Johanna , Eriksen Jorunn
Published: August 2010

(1) Three selected macroglobulinaemia sera, Rø, Th, and We gave highly specific precipitin reactions in gel against type 12, type 13 and type 35 acid polysaccharides of Klebsiella. The same specificity was observed in more sensitive passive haemagglutination tests. The activity was confined to the monoclonal IgM present in the sera, and all of the monoclonal IgM in each serum had the characteristic activity. (2) The monoclonal IgM proteins induced typical capsular swelling reactions of similar specificity with Klebsiella bacteria. (3) In both precipitation, passive haemagglutination and capsular swelling reactions, the IgM Rø reacted both with type 12 and type 13 polysaccharides. Absorption experiments in situ in crossed immunoelectro‐phoresis indicated that the same macroglobulin molecules reacted both with type 12 and type 13 polysaccharides. This cross‐reaction evident in monoclonal IgM has not been seen previously in immune antibodies'against Klebsiella type 12 and 13.
ACTIVATED MOUSE MACROPHAGES: MORPHOLOGY, LYSOSOMAL BIOCHEMISTRY, AND MICROBICIDAL PROPERTIES OF IN VIVO AND IN VITRO ACTIVATED CELLS
Authors: Reikvam Å. , Grammeltvedt R. , Høibv E. A.
Published: August 2010

Peritoneal macrophages harvested from mice with a 14 days old Toxoplasma (Beverly strain) infection were compared with normal macrophages activated by culture in a medium containing 50 per cent newborn calf serum (NBCS). Morphologically they seemed to be similar and numerous lysosomes appeared in both types. The lysosomal enzymes acid phosphatase and β‐glucuronidase were increased in both macrophage types. Per mg protein, acid phosphatase was increased 6.9 × in in vitro activated macrophages and 4.6 × in in vivo activated cells, and β‐glucuronidase 2.0 × and 2.2 X, respectively. The capacity of the two cell types to phagocytose the RH‐strain of T. gondii and a strain of L. monocytogenes was approximately identical. In contrast, in vivo activated macrophages were much more effective in restricting intracellular growth of the micro‐organisms. Mice initially infected with the Beverly strain and then challenged with the RH‐strain 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months or 4 months later, showed almost 100 per cent survival rates, while normal mice all died after 5—9 days.
NITROBLUE‐TETRAZOLIUM (NBT)‐REDUCTION BY HUMAN PERIPHERAL NEUTROPHIL GRANULOCYTES IN THE PRESENCE OF BACTERIAL ANTIGENS
Authors: Koch Christian , Høiby Niels , Wiik Allan
Published: August 2010

The NBT‐reduction induced in human peripheral neutrophils by stimulation with Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigens was found to depend upon the presence of serum factors. The response of the cells to stimulation was enhanced using immune serum, containing multiple precipitating antibodies against these antigens. The response was diminished by heat‐inactivation of serum, prior to reaction with the antigens, and by elimination of precipitating immune complexes. Direct immunofluorescence studies demonstrated ingestion by the neutrophils of specific antigens with participation of immunoglobulins G, M, A, and complement C3. This was found, using immune serum, but also using normal serum, containing low‐titred, cross‐reactive antibodies to Ps. aeruginosa. Similar results were also obtained, using antigens from other bacterial species. It is suggested that bacterial antigens, upon interaction with immune as well as with normal serum, form large immune complexes, that are easily ingested by neutrophils, and that immune complex ingestion is closely linked to stimulated NBT‐reduction. These studies suggest an important role of normally occurring, cross‐reactive antibodies to bacterial antigens in promoting rapid clearing of toxic material, or material otherwise damaging to the host.
FURTHER EVIDENCE OF AN EXTENSIVE CROSS‐REACTIVITY BETWEEN THE THREE MAIN PARTS OF THE BOVINE ENCEPHALITOGENIC PROTEIN IN THE LYMPHOID CELL TRANSFORMATION TEST AND THE MACROPHAGE MIGRATION INHIBITION TEST
Authors: Bergstrand Håkan , Källén Bengt
Published: August 2010

The results presented indicate that the three main peptide parts of bovine encephalitogenic protein (BEP) cross‐react when examined by the macrophage migration inhibition test in guinea pigs and the lymph node cell transformation test in rabbits: 1. Guinea pigs were immunized with peptide 43—88 of BEP and the capillary migration of peritoneal cells from these animals was examined in the presence of the intact protein or various peptide fragments derived from the latter. The complete protein and peptides 1–42 and 92–169 were all capable of inhibiting cell migration, but none of these antigens were as efficient as the immunizing agent (peptide 43–88). 2. Lymph node cells from rabbits sensitized with peptide 1–42, 43–88, or 92—169 were examined using the lymphoid cell transformation test. Cells from animals immunized with any one region always showed a substantial degree of transformation also when stimulated by peptides covering the other two regions of the protein, but the immunizing peptide consistently showed a transforming effect better than that of the other two peptides. 3. Control experiments showed that contamination of the immunizing peptide with other parts of the protein could not explain the observed cross‐reactivity between the three main regions of BEP.
A REACTION BETWEEN SOME STREPTOCOCCI AND IgA MYELOMA PROTEINS
Authors: Christensen Poul , Oxelius Vivi‐Anne
Published: August 2010

A reaction is described between some streptococci and IgA myeloma proteins; most streptococci showed low affinity for IgA myeloma proteins, with the exception of group A, type M 4 and two freshly isolated group A streptococci; they took up 40 to 50 per cent of 1 μg 125I labelled IgA myeloma protein added. Addition of similar amounts of unlabelled IgA and IgG myeloma proteins showed no cross inhibition between uptake of IgG and IgA. Heat‐ and trypsin treatment of the streptococci did not reveal any differences in IgA and IgG reactivity. The uptake of one 125 I labelled IgA myeloma protein was inhibited uniformely by four randomly selected unlabelled IgA myeloma proteins. Thus, the uptake of 125 I labelled IgA myeloma protein seems to be independent from the specificity of the antibody combining sites.
IgG ANTIBODIES TO IgA IN TWO PATIENTS WITH HYPOGAMMAGLOBULINAEMIA TREATED WITH COMMERCIAL GAMMAGLOBULIN
Authors: Kamme Carl , Dahiquist Erik , Jonsson Svante , Lindstrom Folke
Published: August 2010

Antibodies to IgA were detected in two males with hypogammaglobulinaemia. The antibodies were demonstrated to belong to the IgG class. In both patients low serum levels of IgG and IgM but no IgA were found. On two occasions one of the patients reacted with severe side reactions within a few seconds after an intramuscularly given injection of gammaglobulin. The other patient had received monthly intramuscular injections of gammaglobulin over a period of 2 years when the anti‐IgA antibodies first appeared and has since then been regularly treated for 1 1/2 years without any signs of adverse reactions. In five additional patients with hypogammaglobulinaemia and side reactions after i.m. injections of gammaglobulin no antibodies to IgA, IgG or Gm‐determinants were detected.
FURTHER STUDIES OF THE CHEMISTRY OF A HUMAN SALIVARY BLOOD‐GROUP SUBSTANCE
Authors: Sonju Torxeif , Rölla Gunnar
Published: August 2010

A glycoprotein possessing blood‐group and virus haemagglutination inhibition activity was isolated from the saliva of donors of blood groups A and B. The glycoprotein was subjected to amino acid analysis and tested for alkali stability and the presence of sulphate. No definite differences in‐the amino acid composition between the blood groups A and B could be found. The salivary glycoprotein was alkali stable and contained a substantial amount of sulphate. The results were compared with reported properties of blood‐group substances obtained from erythrocytes and ovarian cyst material.
DETECTION OF HUMAN ANTIBODIES TO TRICHINELLA SPIRALIS BY ENZYME‐LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY, ELISA
Authors: Engvall E. , Ljungström I.
Published: August 2010

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, ELISA, was used to detect and quantitate antibodies to Trichinella spiralis in human sera. An extract of Trichinella spiralis larvae was adsorbed to polystyrene tubes. These were incubated with serum and bound antibodies were detected by anti‐immunoglobulin labelled with alkaline phosphatase. Class specific conjugates were used to detect specific IgM and IgA antibodies. ELISA was at least as sensitive as passive haem‐agglutination and more sensitive than indirect immunofluorescence.
MORPHOLOGICAL AND HAEMATOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THE IN VIVO EFFECT OF PHYTOHAEMAGGLUTININ, POKEWEED MITOGEN, AND BACILLUS CALMETTE‐GUÉRIN ON DBA/2 MICE
Authors: Rem Jorgen , Jensen Mogens Krogh , Olsen Jens Erland
Published: August 2010

Intraperitoneal injection of either PHA, PWM, or BCG in DBA/2 mice had no effect on the haemoglobin concentration and leucocyte count. A transformation of the lymphocytes of the peripheral blood to large blast‐like DNA‐synthesizing cells—as seen in vitro—did not occur. Repeated injections of BCG produced a displacement of the blood differential count towards a higher percentage of granulocytes. Both PHA and PWM produced a significant increase in the spleen weight, corresponding to a significant enlargement of the germinal centres and an increased cellularity of the red pulp with large pyroninophilic blast‐like cells. The lymph nodes were characterized by partial disorganization of the follicular structure followed by enlarged germinal centres and increased cellularity, partly consisting of blast‐like cells. A single injection of BCG did not prodvice any significant changes in the spleen and lymph nodes. In contrast to this, administration of BCG twice at an interval of two weeks caused a significant increase in the spleen weight, accompanied by morphological alterations in the spleen and lymph nodes, essentially similar to those brought about by PHA and PWM. The bone marrow and thymus remained unaffected by PHA, PWM, and BCG.