bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of chromatin decondensation in vitro on fertilization rate after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
Authors: Hammadeh M. E. , Al‐Hasani S. , Gauß C. , Rosenbaum P. , Georg T. , Diedrich K. , Schmidt W.
Published: March 2003

This study was undertaken to identify the relationship between sperm chromatin decondensation after incubation with sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA), or heparin at various points of time. Likewise, this study will determine chromatin stability within definite time intervals, chromatin decondensation after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and whether chromatin decondensation in vitro could be used as a predictive test for fertilization capability after ICSI. Sixty‐five infertile couples undergoing ICSI therapy were included in this prospective study. Male factor infertility was the main indication for inclusion. One millilitre from each semen sample after washing was mixed with SDS–EDTA (group 1) or SDS/heparin (group 2) and incubated for 120 min. Many smears were made within 10 min of mixing the spermatozoa with detergent and the reducing agents and at the following points of time 30, 60 and 120 min and after 24 h. Chromatin decondensation was evaluated after staining with acridine orange (AO). The mean percentage of uncondensed chromatin of spermatozoa in the semen sample in the first group before addition of SDS/EDTA was 26.1 ± 19.0 and 22.3 ± 18.9% in the second one. After incubation of spermatozoa for 30, 60 and 120 min and 24 h, the chromatin decondensation increased in the first group to 64.0 ± 28.6, 83.0 ± 21.1, 87.9 ± 14.6, 92.1 ± 16.2 and 98.0 ± 6.75%, respectively. The corresponding values in the second group were 69.5 ± 29.9, 78.6 ± 22.4, 86.9 ± 17.1, 95.13 ± 6.5 and 98.3 ± 5.6%. On the other hand, no correlations were found between the chromatin decondensation or chromatin decondensation rate in vitro and the fertilization rates in all investigated groups. In conclusion, neither the chromatin decondensation ability in vitro nor the rate of chromatin decondensation between various points of time after using SDS/EDTA, SDS/heparin could predict the chromatin decondensation of spermatozoa (fertilization capability) after ICSI.
Absence of microdeletions in the Y chromosome in patients with Prader–Willi syndrome with cryptorchidism
Authors: Suzuki Y. , Sasagawa I. , Tateno T. , Yazawa H. , Ashida J. , Nakada T.
Published: March 2003

Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism is found in 80–100% of male patients with Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS). Recently, the relationship between Yq deletions and cryptorchidism has been assessed. However, the relationship between Yq deletions and PWS patients with cryptorchidism remains unclear. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of 51 DNA loci encompassing all of the regions for azoospermia factor (AZF) of the Y chromosome, including the deleted in azoospermia (DAZ) and ribonucleic acid‐binding motif (RBM) genes, were examined for microdeletions in 10 PWS males with cryptorchidism and 20 healthy control male subjects. No microdeletions of 51 loci were found in any of the PWS males. The present study therefore suggests that microdeletions in the AZF regions of the Y chromosome do not relate to the occurrence of cryptorchidism in PWS patients.
The effects of oxytocin and arginine vasopressin in vitro on epididymal contractility in the rat
Authors: Studdard Paul W. , Stein Jaime L. , Cosentino M. James
Published: March 2003

Oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) have been found to be present in the reproductive system of the mammalian male, but their function in this system is unclear. This study examined the effects of these two hormones on contractions of the rat caput epididymis, as well as the hormones' effects on epididymal diameter during contractions. The initial segments of caput epididymides were observed in vitro in a solution of modified Tyrode's solution, with a test solution containing a concentration of either OT or AVP being added after a 5‐min period. The frequency and diameter of the epididymal contractions were measured before and after addition of each test solution. Also observed was the effect of magnesium concentrations on the ability of OT to induce changes in epididymal contractility. This study found that the frequency of epididymal contractions increase and that the diameter of the epididymal tubules decrease proportionally during contractions with the addition of either OT or AVP. Furthermore, we noted that Mg++ has an inverse correlation with the frequency of contractions of the caput epididymis both in the presence and absence of OT. These findings suggest that both OT and AVP may have a role in regulating epididymal contractility and thus, perhaps, sperm transport through that organ.
Impact of foetal‐onset hypothyroidism on the epididymis of mature rats
Authors: Kala N. , Ravisankar B. , Govindarajulu P. , Aruldhas M. M.
Published: March 2003

It is well established that congenital hypothyroidism leads to male infertility. However, there is a dearth of information on foetal‐onset hypothyroidism‐induced changes in the epididymis. With regard to transient hypothyroidism, the existing literature deals mainly with the testis. However, it is not known whether there is any corresponding alteration in epididymal morphology and physiology under such a condition. The present study is therefore aimed at understanding the impact of persistent and transient hypothyroidism on the concentration of epididymal sex steroids, as they play a vital role in maintaining the normal structure and function of the epididymis. Normal rats of 90 days of age served as controls (Group I). Hypothyroidism was induced by using pregnant/lactating mothers and post‐weaning rats to 0.05% (w/v) methimazole (MMI) in the drinking water. Group II were subjected to persistent hypothyroidism from day 9 of post‐coitum (pc) to 90 days. Group III rats were subjected to transient hypothyroidism from day 9 day pc to day 1 post‐partum (pp), 21 pp or 35 pp (IIIa, b and c, respectively) and group IV rats were given simultaneous T3supplementation (3 μg/100 g body wt./day i.m.) with MMI from day 9 pc to day 1 pp; 21 pp and 35 pp (Group IVa, b and c). Animals from all groups were killed on day 90 pp. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones confirmed euthyroidism in group I, IIIa, b and c and IVa, b and c rats and hypothyroidism in group II rats. Caput and cauda epididymal concentration of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol (E2) and androgen binding protien (ABP) markedly decreased in group II rats. While the concentration of testosterone, E2and ABP increased in group III rats, that of DHT remained unaltered. However, group IV rats maintained normal concentration of the sex steroid and ABP. The activity of 5‐α‐reductase in the epididymis of all the groups followed the same trend as that of the concentration of epididymal DHT. From the present data it is evident that persistent hypothyroidism diminishes the bioavailability of androgens and oestrogens, while transient hypothyroidism enhances the same, indicating the importance of euthyroidism during foetal and neonatal period towards the maintenance of optimal hormonal status in the epididymis required for its maturation.
Quantification of cyclin A1 and glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase expression in testicular biopsies of infertile patients by fluorescence real‐time RT‐PCR
Authors: Schrader Mark , Ravnik Stuart , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Müller Markus , Straub Bernd , Diedrichs Sven , Serve Hubert , Miller Kurt
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to establish a classification of meiotic disorders by detection of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and cyclin A1 mRNA in patients presenting with non‐obstructive azoospermia.

GAPDH and cyclin A1 expression levels were detected in 37 histologically classified testicular tissue specimens by one‐line RT‐PCR. Levels of cyclin A1 expression (NCyclinA1) were high in tissue specimens with full spermatogenesis [3.519 ± 3.141 (mean ± SD)] but only minimal in those without haploid germ cells. A lack of cyclin A1 expression was seen in most sertoli‐cell‐only syndrome (SCOS) specimens. The criteria for an ideal internal standard were only partially met by GAPDH, as we detected decreased expression in tissue samples with maturation arrest [(268.2 ± 106.2 relative gene expression (mean ± SD)] and SCOS (201.7 ± 95.2) compared to those with normal histological findings (325.1 ± 129.3).

It was concluded that the level of cyclin A1 mRNA expression predicts meiotic disorders during spermatogenesis. GAPDH is not an ideal internal standard for specific gene expression in testicular tissue specimens.
Androgen insensitivity and male infertility1
Authors: Hiort O. , Holterhus P.‐M.
Published: March 2003

Abnormal human spermatogenesis can be caused by defects in androgen action because of androgen insensitivity. A variety of mutations have been described in the human androgen receptor gene associated with male infertility. These can be attributed to two molecular mechanisms. First, point mutations in the androgen receptor gene cause alterations in the amino acid sequence and, hence, lead to apparently slight changes in the androgen receptor effector mechanisms and mild androgen insensitivity. Secondly, variations in the polymorphic poly glutamine segment within the N‐terminal end of the androgen receptor have been ascribed to correlate with fertility aspects possibly because of modifications of transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. It has been postulated that longer poly glutamine segments are associated with decreased sperm counts. However, the molecular mechanisms that lead to inhibition of spermatogenesis because of a mutated androgen receptor are poorly understood and will need more focus in the future.
The bcl‐2 knockout mouse exhibits marked changes in osteoblast phenotype and collagen deposition in bone as well as a mild growth plate phenotype
Authors: BOOT‐HANDFORD R. P. , MICHAELIDIS T. M. , HILLARBY M. C. , ZAMBELLI A. , DENTON J. , HOYLAND J. A. , FREEMONT A. J. , GRANT M. E. , WALLIS G. A.
Published: March 2003

Histological examination of long bones from 1‐day‐old bcl‐2 knockout and age‐matched control mice revealed no obvious differences in length of bone, growth plate architecture or stage of endochondral ossification. In 35‐day‐old bcl‐2 knockout mice that are growth retarded or ‘dwarfed’, the proliferative zone of the growth plate appeared slightly thinner and the secondary centres of ossification less well developed than their age‐matched wild‐type controls. The most marked histological effects of bcl‐2 ablation were on osteoblasts and bone. 35‐day‐old knockout mouse bones exhibited far greater numbers of osteoblasts than controls and the osteoblasts had a cuboidal phenotype in comparison with the normal flattened cell appearance. In addition, the collagen deposited by the osteoblasts in the bcl‐2 knockout mouse bone was disorganized in comparison with control tissue and had a pseudo‐woven appearance. The results suggest an important role for Bcl‐2 in controlling osteoblast phenotype and bone deposition in vivo.
Temperature effects on cation transport in hereditary stomatocytosis and allied disorders
Authors: Coles Suzanne E. , Stewart Gordon W.
Published: March 2003

The conditions known as ‘hereditary stomatocytosis and allied syndromes’ comprise a group of dominantly inherited human haemolytic anaemias characterized by a plasma membrane ‘leak’ to the univalent cations Na and K, an example of a small but growing group of diseases where pathology can be directly attributed to abnormal membrane transport. A number of case reports in the different variants have alluded to temperature‐related phenomena, including loss of K on storage at room temperature (giving ‘pseudohyperkalaemia’) and lysis of cells when stored in the cold (‘cryohydrocytosis’). This review collects together published studies of these temperature effects, which show very major differences in the ‘leak’ K transport. Two main variations on normal emerge: a ‘shallow slope’ type, in which the flux shows an abnormally low dependence on temperature in the range 37–20°C, and ‘high minimum’, in which the minimum in this flux, which occurs in normal cells at 8°C, is shifted up to 23°C. These temperature studies provide a powerful method for phenotypic characterization.
2.5 kDa and 5.0 kDa heparin fragments specifically inhibit microvessel sprouting and network formation in VEGF165‐mediated mammalian angiogenesis
Authors: Norrby Klas
Published: March 2003

Tumour growth is angiogenesis dependent. Thrombosis and thromboembolism are very common in cancer patients. These patients are often treated with heparin as an anti‐coagulant. Many tumour angiogens, including VEGF165, and endogenous anti‐angiogenesis factors bind heparin tightly. Using the non‐surgical mesenteric‐window angiogenesis assay, we studied in detail the systemic effect of heparin fractions with a mean MW of 2.5, 5.0 and 16.4 kDa on the microvessel sprouting and network formation in angiogenesis mediated by VEGF165 in rats. The microvessel network was assessed objectively in terms of the number and lengths of segments (the distance between two successive branching points), the number of branching points, the degree of tortuosity, the index of interconnecting loop formation, the index of intersection, as well as the number and lengths of sprouts. Compared with the saline control, the 2.5 kDa fraction significantly shortened the microvessel sprouts and the microvessel segments but increased the microvessel tortuosity in statistical terms; the 5.0 kDa fraction statistically significantly shortened the sprouts, decreased the number of segments and the number of microvessel branching points; whereas the 16.4 kDa fraction statistically significantly elongated the longest segments. Moreover, statistically significant differences were found between the three heparin fractions in terms of microvessel tortuosity (2.5 vs. 16.4 kDa), index of loop formation (5.0 vs. 2.5 + 16.4 kDa) and index of intersection (5.0 vs. 16.4 kDa). These findings demonstrate that heparin fragments size‐specifically inhibit microvessel sprouting and network formation in VEGF165‐mediated angiogenesis. As VEGF165 is a potent angiogen in human tumours, we suggest that heparin enriched in 2.5 kDa species and 5.0 kDa species especially should be exploited as a combined anti‐coagulant and specific adjuvant anti‐angiogenic agent in cancer patients who require anti‐coagulant therapy.
Insulin‐like Growth Factor (IGF)‐I affects parasite growth and host cell migration in experimental cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Gomes Cláudia Maria De C. , Goto Hiro , Ribeiro Da Matta Vania Lúcia , Laurenti Márcia Dalastra , Gidlund Magnus , Corbett Carlos E.P.
Published: March 2003

While the control or progression of leishmaniasis depends on host immune responses, the initial inflammatory process represents a key event. This process involves the participation of several cytokines and growth factors induced during inflammation as well as factors already present at the site of infection such as insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I. We have previously demonstrated a potential role for IGF‐I in experimental cutaneous leishmaniasis based on the significant increase in lesion size seen in mice injected with Leishmania promastigotes preactivated with IGF‐I. In the present study we show that preactivation of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis promastigotes with IGF‐I induces an increase in the actual number of parasites at the lesion site from seven days postinfection, in addition to a more intense inflammatory infiltrate. There was a higher numerical density of polymorphonuclear neutrophils from 3 to 24 h, and of mononuclear cells from 48 h of infection onward. A higher density of polymorphonuclear neutrophils and mononuclear cells harboring parasites was also observed. The most important observation, however, was that more parasites per cell were present, revealing that IGF‐I appears to favour parasite growth within the macrophages. These results strongly suggest an important role for IGF‐I in the development of cutaneous leishmaniasis, where it influences both the inflammatory process and parasite growth.
Constitutively synthesized nitric oxide is a physiological negative regulator of mammalian angiogenesis mediated by basic fibroblast growth factor
Authors: Norrby Klas
Published: March 2003

We recently reported that the systemically administered nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor Nw‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester, L‐NAME, administered before, during and after the angiogenic treatment stimulated angiogenesis induced by basic fibroblast growth factor, bFGF, in the rat. This suggests that suppression of constitutively expressed NOS, cNOS,plusinducible NOS, iNOS, and thus reduced production of nitric oxide, NO, was the stimulating factor. In those studies, the rat mesenteric‐window angiogenesis assay was used. Moreover, the systemic administration of a NO releaser inhibited bFGF‐mediated angiogenesis. Using the same experimental system, we have now studied whether the inhibition of cNOS alone in adult animals under physiological conditions, i.e. prior to the administration of the angiogenic stimulation with bFGF, affected the subsequent angiogenic response. cNOS constitute endothelial cell NOS (ecNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS). L‐NAME or its inactive enantiomer Nw‐nitro‐d‐arginine methyl ester, D‐NAME, were given continuously in the drinking water (1.0 g/L) during 14 days prior to the start of the treatment with bFGF. The treatment with L‐NAME significantly enhanced the subsequent angiogenic response. NO synthesized under physiological conditions by ecNOS in endothelial cells and platelets or nNOS in platelets may thus act as a first constitutional angiostatic factor in bFGF‐mediated mammalian angiogenesis.
Intravenous 1α, 25[OH]2 vitamin D3 (calcitriol) pulse therapy for bone lesions in a murine model of chronic cadmium toxicosis
Authors: Kurata Yoshimasa , Katsuta Osamu , Hiratsuka Hideaki , Tsuchitani Minoru , Umemura Takashi
Published: March 2003

The aim of the present study was to clarify the therapeutic effects of 1α, 25[OH]2 vitamin D3 (calcitriol) pulse injection on bone lesions induced in a rat model of chronic cadmium toxicosis. Ovariectomized (OVX) and control‐operated (sham‐OVX) rats were given repeated intravenous injections of 0.5 mg/kg/day CdCl2 for 70 weeks. The rats were then treated intravenously with 0.02 μg/kg/day calcitriol 3 days per week for 8 weeks. CdCl2 treatment induced increases in osteoid volumes of the femur cortex and trabecula. This change was accompanied by an increase in the volume of iron deposition at the mineralization front of the trabeculae and a reduction in mineral density. Abnormalities of bone metabolic parameters, which were increases in the blood calcium, inorganic phosphorous, bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and osteocalcin levels, and in the urine deoxypyridinoline (D‐PYR) level, were also induced. Calcitriol treatment increased the blood calcium and inorganic phosphorous levels, and reduced the blood PTH level. Decreases in blood tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase and urine d‐PYR levels were also induced indicating that bone resorption was suppressed. The findings indicated that the increased osteoid volume of the cortex and Fe‐deposition volume of the trabecula were improved. These effects or improvements were observed in the sham‐OVX rats but not in the OVX rats.
Resolution of skeletal muscle inflammation in mdx dystrophic mouse is accompanied by increased immunoglobulin and interferon‐γ production
Authors: Lagrota‐Candido Jussara , Vasconcellos Rita , Cavalcanti Marta , Bozza Marcelo , Savino Wilson , Quirico‐Santos Thereza
Published: March 2003

Mdx mouse, the animal model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, develops an X‐linked recessive inflammatory myopathy with an apparent sustained capacity for muscle regeneration. We analysed whether changes in the skeletal muscle during myonecrosis and regeneration would correlate with functional alterations in peripheral lymphoid tissues. Here we show that during the height of myonecrosis, mdx mice display marked atrophy of peripheral lymph nodes and extensive muscle inflammation. In contrast, enlargement of draining lymph nodes with accumulation of CD4+ CD44+, CD4+ CD25+, CD8+ CD44+ T lymphocytes and type‐2 B cells was consistently observed during amelioration of the muscle lesion. In addition, regeneration of the muscular tissue was accompanied by concomitant increase of immunoglobulin‐secreting cells in regional lymph nodes and bone marrow. Double immunolabelling analysis revealed intense B cell proliferation and formation of germinal centre in the follicles of dystrophic regional lymph nodes. Furthermore, lymph node cells produced large amounts of IFN‐γ but not IL‐4, IL‐6 or IL‐10 after in vitro mitogen stimulation with Concanavalin A. As these alterations occurred mainly during the recovery period, we suggested that local activation of the immune system could be an influence which mitigates the myonecrosis of muscular tissue in the mdx dystrophic mouse.
Chemopreventive effect of celecoxib and expression of cyclooxygenase‐1 and cyclooxygenase‐2 on chemically‐induced rat mammary tumours
Authors: Jang Tae Jung , Jung Ho Guen , Jung Ki Hoon , O Min Ku
Published: March 2003

We investigated the chemopreventive effect of celecoxib on 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)‐induced rat mammary tumours and also the expression and immunolocalization of cyclooxygenase‐1 (COX‐1) and COX‐2 in the various stages of rat mammary carcinogenesis. Rats were divided into normal control group, DMBA‐control group, 500 p.p.m. celecoxib‐treated group, and 1500 p.p.m. celecoxib‐treated group. Both incidence and multiplicity values of tumour for rats treated with celecoxib were less than those in rats of the DMBA‐control group. The level of prostaglandin E2 was higher in tumours of the DMBA‐control and both celecoxib‐treated groups compared to normal mammary glands of each group. In Western blot analysis, all tumours of the DMBA‐control group expressed COX‐1, whereas normal mammary glands showed insignificant expression. COX‐2 expression was observed in 67% of the DMBA‐control group and 20% of both celecoxib‐treated groups and was absent in normal mammary glands. COX‐1 protein was localized in the nuclear membrane and cytoplasm of epithelial tumour cells abutting on glandular lumen, stromal cells, and endothelial cells. COX‐2 protein was detected in the perinuclear cytoplasm of tumour cells bordering on glandular lumen and surrounding stroma, stromal cells, and vascular smooth muscle. In the DMBA‐control group, invasive carcinoma cells showed higher positive immunoreactivity of COX‐2 than carcinomas in situ and atypical tumours. Tumours displayed an increased number of mast‐like cells with COX‐2 expression in comparison to carcinomas in situ. Our results suggest that COX‐1 and COX‐2 expression in tumour cells and stromal cells play an important role in the various stages of DMBA‐induced rat mammary carcinogenesis. In addition, we reconfirm that celecoxib reduces the growth of DMBA‐induced rat mammary tumours.
A survey of cases of cancrum oris seen in Ile‐Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Oginni F.O. , Oginni A.O. , Ugboko V.L. , Otuyemi O.D.
Published: March 2003

Summary.
Aim. To review the records of child patients with cancrum oris who presented at a teaching hospital in Nigeria.

Setting. Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile‐Ife, Nigeria.

Sample and methods. The study was carried out through review of records of child patients diagnosed as having cancrum oris or post‐cancrum oris defects between 1982 and 1996. Age, gender, site distribution, treatment and its outcome were recorded.

Results. One hundred and forty‐two cases were diagnosed during the study period. Mean age was 4·65 years (range 2–16 years). The maxillary quadrants were affected more often than the mandibular. Seventeen patients completed treatment satisfactorily, but 55 failed to do so. All patients had evidence of malnutrition.

Conclusions. The findings of this and other studies demonstrate the need for major initiatives to address the underlying causes of cancrum oris and to promote the utilization of health care.
Rare benign tumours of oral cavity – capillary haemangioma of palatal mucosa: a case report
Authors: Açikgözsurname Aydan , Sakallioglu Umur , Özdamar Sükrü , Uysal Ata
Published: March 2003

Haemangiomas are benign tumours composed of blood vessels, they are probably developmental rather than neoplastic in origin. Haemangiomas are often present at birth but may become more apparent during life. The tumours appear as a flat or raised reddish‐blue lesions and are generally solitary. They are occasionally seen on the palatal mucosa.

Haemangiomas are classified on the basis of their histological appearance as capillary, mixed, cavernous or a sclerosing variety that tends to undergo fibrosis. Their differential clinical diagnosis is based on appearance. The tumours may be slowly progressive, involving extensive portions of the superficial and deep blood vessels. Function may be affected where development of the lesion is extra‐invasive. Colour change on pressure is a common finding with return to the original colour on withdrawal of pressure.

The case presented here was referred because of swelling and recurrent periodontal bleeding. The lesion was diagnosed as a capillary haemangioma through histopathology.

Although different therapeutic procedures have been reported, in this case surgical excision was carried out under general anaesthesia following hospitalization.

Despite their benign origins and behaviour, haemangiomas in the region of oral cavity are always of clinical importance to the dental profession and require appropriate clinical management. Dental practitioners and oral surgeons need to be aware of these lesions because they may pose serious bleeding risks.
A prospective study of factors affecting survival of replanted permanent incisors in children
Authors: Boyd D.H. , Kinirons M.J. , Gregg T.A.
Published: March 2003

Objective. To examine the factors associated with the onset of resorption in replanted avulsed permanent incisor teeth and to demonstrate their patterns of survival free of resorption.

Setting. Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Belfast.

Design. Prospective recording of the timing of the injury and of replantation, the storage media, the degree of root development and contamination, and the completion of root treatment. Clinical and radiographic reviews at 3‐month intervals. Root resorption classified as replacement and inflammatory. Logistic regression and survival curves with freedom from resorption as outcomes.

Results. In 50 avulsed incisors in children aged 6–16 years the best predictor of overall resorption was total time of dryness, and that for replacement resorption was total extra‐oral time. The timing of detection of resorption varied from 102 days to 997 days.

Conclusion. Both total extra‐oral time and time stored dry are important factors for the onset of resorption in replanted avulsed teeth in children.
Spontaneous improvement in position of canines from apparently hopeless positions
Authors: Brown N.L. , Sandy J.R.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Two cases are presented, each with both unerupted maxillary canines so badly positioned that eruption seemed unlikely. However, over a period of approximately three years, three out of the four initially displaced canines did erupt; the improvements in position being unrelated to whether or not the associated primary canine was extracted. Three out of four primary canines were removed. These cases highlight the difficulties in predicting canine eruption for individual patients.
Correction of anterior dental crossbite with composite as an inclined plane
Authors: Sari S. , Gokalp H. , Aras S.
Published: March 2003

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a passive method to correct anterior crossbite of only one incisor by constructing a composite inclined plane.

Sample and Method. A total of 35 children aged 7–11 with a crossbite of only one incisor tooth were selected for this study. An inclined composite block 3–4 mm in size and 45 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the tooth, was constructed on the incisal edges of the related mandibular incisors. The occlusion was checked so that the only contact between both arches was at the level of these incisors.

Results. At the end of one week, 33 cases of crossbite were corrected by this method. Of the two cases which were not corrected one had a deep overbite and the second had a rotated incisor together with crossbite.

Conclusion. The present results show that, a composite inclined plane is a useful technique to correct anterior crossbite of only one incisor tooth.
Vegetarian children and dental erosion
Authors: Al‐Dlaigan Y.H. , Shaw L. , Smith A.J.
Published: March 2003

Background. There have been recent changes in teenage lifestyle and diet. The increasing consumption of soft drinks and foods containing significant acidic components may play a role in the development of dental erosion.

Objective. The aims of this investigation were firstly, to assess the prevalence of vegetarian children in a cluster random sample of 14‐year‐old children in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Secondly, to determine the prevalence of dental erosion in these children, and thirdly, to see if there were any differences between vegetarian and non‐vegetarian children in the prevalence of dental erosion and dietary intake.

Design. A cluster random sample of 418 14‐year‐old children (209 males and 209 females) were examined from 12 different schools in Birmingham, United Kingdom; a dietary questionnaire was completed and the levels of tooth wear were recorded using a modification of the (TWI) index. All data were analysed using SPSS with t‐test and Chi‐square analysis. Significance was accepted at the P < 0·05 level.

Results. The results showed that 10% of the children were vegetarian; 52% of them had low dental erosion and 48% moderate dental erosion. Statistically there were no significant differences between vegetarian and non‐vegetarian children in the prevalence of erosion; however, there were significant differences in some food and drink consumption.

Conclusions. It was concluded that dental erosion is common in teenage children, but there were no significant differences in prevalence between vegetarian and non‐vegetarian children.
Knowledge, attitudes and status of oral health in children at risk for infective endocarditis
Authors: Da Silva D. B. , Souza I. P. R. , Cunha M. C. S. A.
Published: March 2003

Summary.Aim.The purpose of this study was to assess the oral health status of 104 children (2–17 years of age) at risk for infective endocarditis attending the Paediatric Cardiology Service of the Martagão Gesteira Institute of Child Care and Paediatrics, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and their guardians’ attitudes towards and knowledge about endocarditis risks.

Methods.A structured interview was carried out with guardians and an oral examination was performed on each child to determine scores for the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) and dmft/DMFT index.

Results.The percentage of guardians who understood the meaning of ‘heart infection’ was 9·6%, who knew the possibility of heart disease caused by dental procedures was 60·6%, who understood the requirement for antibiotic cover before dental treatment was 72·1%, and who understood the importance of good oral health to prevent infective endocarditis was 41·3%. As regards oral health behaviours, 46·1% of children brushed their teeth three times or more a day, 28·8% had never visited a dentist before, and only 24·3% attended the dentist for prevention. There was visible plaque in 98% and gingival bleeding in 99% of children in this study. The caries experience for primary dentition (dmft) was 2·62, and 3·97 for permanent dentition (DMFT).

Conclusions.Based on these results, we can conclude that the guardians’ knowledge and attitudes about oral health were not good. This group at risk has poor oral health, which may give rise to a frequent bacteraemia under physiological conditions.
Bilateral maxillary fused primary incisors accompanied by succedaneous supernumerary teeth: report of a case
Authors: Tomizawa M. , Shimizu A. , Hayashi S. , Noda T.
Published: March 2003

Summary. A rare case of fusion between maxillary primary central incisors and supplemental teeth occurring bilaterally, accompanied by succedaneous supernumerary teeth, is presented. The patient was an 8·5‐year‐old Japanese boy. Intraoral examination revealed fusion of left and right maxillary primary central incisors to supplemental teeth, which had labial and lingual grooves. The maxillary primary lateral incisors were present. Radiographs showed that the fused teeth had separate roots, pulp chambers and root canals. There were two impacted supernumerary teeth and eruption of the permanent maxillary central incisors was delayed. Treatment was performed and the fused primary teeth and the impacted supernumerary teeth were extracted. After 6 months observation, surgical exposure of the two crowns of the permanent maxillary central incisors was performed. The teeth began to erupt and have since been kept under observation.
Sealing ability of a single bond adhesive in primary teeth. An in vivo study
Authors: El‐Housseiny A. A. , Farsi N.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Aim. To compare the ability of a single bond adhesive to its preceding multiple step dentin bonding agent in reducing microleakage around class V composite resin in primary teeth.

Material and methods. Twelve children, between 9 and 11 years old, with non‐carious primary canines indicated for extraction for orthodontic purposes, were selected for this study. Each child had facial surfaces of his or her upper and/or lower canines prepared for class V cavities. One canine was randomly selected for restoration using the Scotchbond Multi Purpose Plus System (group I) and its antimere for the Single Bond adhesive (group II). Thirty cavities were restored by Z‐100 composite. Materials were handled according to the instructions of the manufacturer. All teeth were extracted one month later, immersed in 2% basic fuchsin then sectioned to evaluate dye penetration.

Results. No statistically significant difference was found in the degree of microleakage between the two materials.

Conclusions. Neither of the two adhesive systems was able to completely prevent leakage of class V restorations. Additional preventive measures should be implemented whenever using composite resin restorations in children.
Diagnostic features and pedodontic–orthodontic management in dentinogenesis imperfecta type II: a case report
Authors: Huth K. CH. , Paschos E. , Sagner T. , Hickel R.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Dentinogenesis imperfecta type II, also known as hereditary opalescent dentin, is an isolated inherited condition transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait affecting the primary and permanent dentition. The combined pedodontic‐orthodontic management of a 4‐year‐old child is described. Following orthodontic analysis to encourage a favourable growth outcome, treatment comprised restoration of the primary teeth with stainless steel crowns and composite crowns. Differential diagnosis and alternative therapies, including orthodontic considerations, are discussed.
Cooperation during dental treatment: the Children's Fear Survey Schedule in Japanese children
Authors: Yamada M. K. M. , Tanabe Y. , Sano T. , Noda T.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate dental fear and cooperation during dental treatment using the Children's Fear Survey Schedule – Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS).

Methods. From the behaviour assessment of regular patients of the Pediatric Dental Clinic in Niigata University Dental Hospital (aged 5–12 years old), the patients were classified into two groups: uncooperative and cooperative. CFSS‐DS questionnaires were sent to a total of 295 patients, 186 of which were returned, 61 from the uncooperative group and 125 from the cooperative group.

Results. In the uncooperative and the cooperative groups, the CFSS‐DS mean total scores were 31·79 and 24·02 (P < 0·05), respectively, and the ratios of the patients whose scores were equal to or more than 35 were 36·1 and 11·2%, respectively. Fear of ‘injections’ and ‘the dentist drilling’ had high scores in both groups.

Conclusions. The results indicated that there are many uncooperative patients with low dental fear and cooperative patients with high dental fear.
Oral and maxillofacial surgical considerations for a case of Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria
Authors: Batstone M. D. , Macleod A. W. G.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Hutchinson‐Guilford progeria is a rare genetic condition showing the stigmata of accelerated ageing combined with severe growth retardation. Patients with this condition show a classical facies and clinical features with an average age of death of 13, usually due to atherosclerotic changes. Craniofacial and dental manifestations include mandibular and maxillary hypoplasia, both vertically and horizontally. Delayed and abnormal tooth eruption and morphology are commonly present. The long‐term medical prognosis and eruption potential of individual teeth is important when considering treatment. In addition to this, surgical planning and surgical technique must be modified by the abnormal facial morphology, dermal inelasticity, potential anaesthetic difficulties, and ongoing deterioration in the medical condition. These factors mandate early and definitive intervention for oral surgical conditions. We report the case of a 13‐year‐old male treated for pericoronitis and oral pain relating to delayed eruption of first permanent molars.
Assessment of dental maturity of Brazilian children aged 6 to 14 years using Demirjian's method
Authors: Eid R. M. R. , Simi R. , Friggi M. N. P. , Fisberg M.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Dental maturity, often expressed as dental age, is an indicator of the biological maturity of growing children. A method for the assessment of dental maturity was first described by Demirjian, and is widely used and accepted, mainly because of its ability to compare different ethnic groups. This is possible, as the maturity scoring system proposed by the method is universal in application, although the conversion to dental age depends on the population considered.

Objectives. The aim of this study was to apply Demirjian's method to Brazilian children aged 6–14 years in order to obtain dental maturity curves for each sex, to compare this data with that obtained by Demirjian, and to determine whether there is a significant correlation between dental maturity and body mass index.

Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the orthopantomograms, height and weight measurements of 689 healthy children. Curves of dental maturity of males and females were constructed.

Results. When compared to the French‐Canadian sample of Demirjian, Brazilian males and females were 0·681 years and 0·616 years, respectively, more advanced in dental maturity. There was no significant correlation between dental maturity and body mass index.
Lesch–Nyhan syndrome: a preventive approach to self‐mutilation
Authors: Fardi K. , Topouzelis N. , Kotsanos N.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Lesch–Nyhan syndrome (LNS), a rare inborn error of metabolism, is characterized by self‐injurious behaviour, which results in partial or total destruction of oral and perioral tissues and/or fingers and hands. Prevention of self‐mutilation raises significant difficulties. Treatment modalities include drug therapy, extraction of teeth, oral appliances and orthognathic surgery, all with variable success. A case of a 10‐year‐old boy with aggressive behaviour and severe lower lip injuries is presented. A palatal plate fabricated to raise the anterior bite proved to have satisfactory results. Although two adjustments were required during the recall visits, the effectiveness of the appliance in assisting healing of soft tissue damage was immediate and still apparent during the 3 years and 8 month follow‐up period.
Dental erosion – changing prevalence? A review of British national childrens’ surveys
Authors: Nunn J. H. , Gordon P. H. , Morris A. J. , C. M. Pine  , Walker A.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Objectives. To investigate the change in the prevalence of dental erosion, over time, by a review of the data from the published national dental surveys of young people in the UK. A subsidiary objective was to investigate the relationship between erosion and possible associated risk factors.

Design. The review was based on cross‐sectional prevalence studies incorporating a clinical dental examination and structured interviews.

Sample. The data were collated from the 1993 UK childrens’ dental health survey and the dental report of the two National Diet and Nutrition Surveys (NDNS) of children aged 1½−4½ in 1992/3 and 4–18 years in 1996/7. The criteria used for data collection were comparable between the three different studies.

Results. Comparing the data from the different studies, the prevalence of erosion was seen to increase from the time of the childrens’ dental health survey in 1993 and the NDNS study of 4–18‐year‐olds in 1996/7. There was a trend towards a higher prevalence of erosion in children aged between 3½ and 4½ and in those who consumed carbonated drinks on most days compared with toddlers consuming these drinks less often. Drinks overnight were associated with an increased prevalence of erosion. More 4–6‐year‐olds with reported symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux had erosion compared with symptom‐free children. On multivariate analysis, the strongest independent association with erosion was geography, with children living in the North having twice the odds of having erosion compared with those in London and the South‐east.

Conclusions. Comparing prevalence data from cross‐sectional national studies indicates that dental erosion increases between different age cohorts of young people over time. Dietary associations with erosion are present but weak. Similarly, there is an association apparent between erosion, symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux and socio‐demographic variables such as region of domicile, social class, and receipt of social benefits.
Spousal caregiving following institutionalization: the experience of elderly wives
Authors: Ross Margaret M , Rosenthal Carolyn J , Dawson Pamela G
Published: March 2003

A large body of research reveals the contribution of families to the care of elderly and health‐impaired community‐dwelling individuals Less is known about the contribution of families to the provision of care following the admission of elderly relatives to a long‐term care institution Still less is known of the experience of elderly wives following the institutionalization of their husbands The purpose of this paper is to increase nurses’ awareness, through a review of the literature on family caregiving in later life, of the contribution to care made by elderly wives following the institutionalization of their husbands We also hope to provide direction for clinicians with respect to the needs and concerns of wives, particularly at the time of, and following, the admission of their husbands to long‐term care institutions
Nurse teachers' feelings about participating in clinical practice: an exploratory study
Authors: Bailhe Lesley
Published: March 2003

The aim of this small study was to explore nurse teachers’feelings about participating in clinical practice An exploratory design was used entailing focused interviews with 10 nurse teachers which explored their current participation in clinical practice and their feelings about this Other areas addressed were the perceived benefits and negative effects of participating in practice, as well as the factors which may inhibit or enable teachers participating in practice It was found that while half the teachers had some participation in practice, only one participated on a regular basis The teachers were generally dissatisfied with their current level of clinical practice The teachers identified a number of potential benefits of practising, including keeping in touch with clinical practice, maintenance of clinical skills, improved relationships with trained staff and the opportunity to use knowledge and skills in practice Perceived negative effects were that their clinical participation may be misinterpreted, or may impinge on other aspects of the role Some also felt that the limited time which they would have available, would lead to their clinical practice being ineffective The two major factors which affected whether nurse teachers were able to participate in practice were time and the college philosophy/culture Other important factors were support from clinical staff, clinical confidence, and the teacher's role perception and attitude towards practice As recent publications have inferred the need for nurse teachers to remain involved in clinical practice, teachers need to identify how clinical practice may best be achieved, and clarify their aims for practising Different models of practice may be appropriate for individual teachers It seems that a supportive environment and a college culture which values nurse teachers practising would be beneficial if clinical practice is to become part of the teacher's role
The Medical Data Index (MDI) dependency module: a shared database to assist discharge planning and audit
Authors: Pheby D F H , Thorne P
Published: March 2003

As part of the development of integrated, patient‐based hospital information technology (IT) systems in the South‐Western Region of England, a module has been developed which will hold core data pertaining to the functional status and current resources of elderly or disabled patients Its purpose is to assist early identification of unmet needs and facilitate prompt transfer to community care The module provides a shared database, which is completed or updated as necessary on admission and is then available to all appropriate users of the hospital system, avoiding duplication of data collection In addition to details of home circumstances and support, it includes brief, standardized assessment scales for activities of daily living and mental state, which will identify the need for specialist referral A summary is provided for easy communication with other care agencies
Does nursing education promote ageism?
Authors: Haight Barbara K , Christ Mary Ann , Dias James K
Published: March 2003

The literature is replete with diverse studies about gerontological nursing education on the attitudes of nursing students This study examined the effect of a 3‐year curriculum on ageism over all 3 years Students were exposed first to well elderly subjects, then hospitalized older subjects, then severely ill older subjects They were tested with the Kogan's Old People Scale and a semantic differential scale to seehow their attitudes towards older people changed according to their experiences The Kogan scale was most sensitive and showed that older students and those with grandparent role models had better attitudes towards older adults Also, there were great increases in positive attitudes towards ageing in year 1 that slowly decreased by the end of year 3
Sociology and the nursing curriculum: a note of caution
Authors: Sharp Keith
Published: March 2003

One of the consequences of the expansion of degree, and diploma level Project 2000 courses in nursing, has been that students are now exposed to a significant amount of material from academic disciplines other than nursing, at a relatively advanced level In this paper, one such discipline, sociology, is considered, and its relevance to the nursing curriculum is assessed Following a consideration of two theoretical models of the relationship between academic disciplines and professional practice (the‘personal education’and ‘semantic conjunction’models), it is argued that whilst the implicit rationale for the inclusion of sociology in the nursing curriculum can best be understood in relation to the latter, neither model offers a convincing reason as to why we should teach sociology to nurses It is argued instead that the nature of sociological knowledge is inherently multi‐paradigmatic, and hence reflexive, and so cannot in principle provide a knowledge base for action‐oriented conduct such as nursing work