bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commensal Bacteria Influence Innate Status Within Gingival Tissues: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dixon Douglas R. , Reife Robert A. , Cebra John J. , Darveau Richard P.
Published: February 2005

Background: The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of commensal bacteria to the innate defense status of gingival tissue by examining the expression of innate host defense mediators in germ‐free and conventionally reared groups in both BALBc/ByJ and SCID C.B17 mice.

Methods: Semiquantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was utilized to determine the constitutive levels within each gingival tissue set (N = 5) for: E‐selectin, P‐selectin, interleukin‐(IL)‐8 homologue, tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐1β, intercellular adhesion molecule‐(ICAM)‐1, ICAM‐2, and vascular adhesion molecule‐(VCAM)‐1. In addition, IL‐1β protein content was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: Gingival samples revealed that only IL‐1β mRNA expression among all mediators examined was significantly reduced in conventionally reared mice (P <0.01) compared to germ‐free mice. In contrast, IL‐1β protein levels were significantly (P <0.001) higher in conventionally reared mice compared to germ‐free animals. Conventionally reared and germ‐free SCID C.B17 mice revealed a similar pattern in regard to reduced IL‐1β mRNA and significantly increased IL‐1β protein (P <0.0001).

Conclusion: Commensal microbial colonization influences innate host defense mediator expression of IL‐1β at both the mRNA and protein levels in healthy periodontal tissue in mice. J Periodontol 2004;75:1486‐1492.
Root Trunk Concavities as a Risk Factor for Regenerative Procedures of Class II Furcation Lesions in Humans
Authors: Villaça José Henrique , Rodrigues Débora C. , Novaes Arthur B. , Taba Mário , Souza Sérgio L.S. , Grisi Márcio F.M.
Published: February 2005

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of root trunk concavities on guided tissue regeneration in humans and to determine if a modification in membrane design could improve the results.

Methods: Ten patients who provided 10 pairs of similar Class II furcation defects were recruited for the study. Each defect was randomly assigned to treatment with either a normal expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane (NM) or a modified ePTFE membrane (MM). The MM were made by removing the collar from an NM, cutting it into 2 mm segments, and suturing each of the segments to the collar of each MM. Following basic therapy, baseline clinical measurements were recorded using an acrylic stent, including probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). Full flaps were elevated, the defects were carefully debrided, and the root surfaces were decontaminated with manual and ultrasonic instruments. Hard tissue measurements were performed during surgery to determine vertical (VD) and horizontal defect (HD) depths. Then, NM and MM were sutured to their corresponding tooth and the flaps sutured. Membranes remained in position for 6 weeks. After 1 year, all sites were re‐entered and soft and hard tissue measurements were recorded.

Results: After 1 year, there were no statistically significant differences (Mann‐Whitney test) between NM and MM groups in percentages of PD reduction (P = 0.27), CAL change (P = 0.26), or VD resolution (P = 0.13). However, percentage of HD resolution (NM: 24.3 ± 11.8; MM: 44.8 ± 16.0) was significantly different between groups (P = 0.008).

Conclusions: The modified membranes resulted in greater horizontal resolution of Class II furcation defects. The collars of the membranes should be modified to improve results when root trunk concavities are present. J Periodontol 2004;75:1493‐1499.
Association of Interleukin‐1 Polymorphisms With Aggressive Periodontitis
Authors: Quappe Leticia , Jara Lilian , López Néstor J.
Published: February 2005

Background: Genetic polymorphisms for interleukin (IL)‐1α and ‐1β have been proposed as potential genetic markers for periodontal diseases. Since the prevalence of these polymorphisms could be race‐related, and no data exist about the frequency of these polymorphisms in the Chilean population, the aim of the current study was to investigate the association of the interleukin‐1 gene polymorphisms with aggressive periodontitis (AgP).

Methods: Thirty‐six patients with AgP, 75 healthy controls, and 75 subjects of unknown periodontal status (reference population) were genotyped for the IL‐1A –889 and IL‐1B +3954 loci, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification followed by restriction enzyme digestion and gel electrophoresis. Data were analyzed using the chi‐square test, calculating odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI).

Results: The prevalence of the positive composite IL‐1 genotype was higher in patients (25%) than in healthy controls (12%), but the difference was not significant (P = 0.14). The IL‐1B +3954 homozygous for allele 1 frequency was higher in controls than in patients suggesting a protective factor for AgP. The heterozygous for allele 2 of the IL‐1B showed a significant association with AgP (OR = 2.86, 95% CI 1.06 to 7.71, P = 0.030). No association was observed in localized AgP and generalized AgP between the extent of disease and the presence of the composite positive genotype. Because the number of smokers was too small in patients and in controls, no other analyses were performed.

Conclusion: The results of the present study support a positive association between AgP and the presence of the IL‐1B +3954 allele 2 polymorphism. J Periodontol 2004;75:1509‐1515.
Effects of Combined Systemic Administration of Low‐Dose Doxycycline and Alendronate on Endotoxin‐Induced Periodontitis in Rats
Authors: Buduneli Eralp , Vardar Saynur , Buduneli Nurcan , Berdeli Afig Huseyinov , Türkog͠lu Oya , Başkesen Aykut , Atilla Gül
Published: February 2005

Background: Doxycycline has been widely used in periodontal treatment for its antimicrobial and anti‐enzymatic effects. Recently, bisphosphonates have been shown to inhibit alveolar bone resorption. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of doxycycline and the bisphosphonate alendronate on the gingival tissue levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), leukotriene B4 (LTB4), and platelet‐activating factor (PAF) in endotoxin‐induced periodontal breakdown in rats.

Methods: Experimental periodontitis was induced by repeated injection of Escherichia coli endotoxin (LPS) and 44 adult male Sprague‐ Dawley rats were divided into five study groups as follows: LPS, doxycycline + LPS, alendronate + LPS, doxycycline + alendronate + LPS, and saline control. Doxycycline and alendronate were given either as a single agent or as a combination therapy during the 7‐day study period. At the end of the 1‐week protocol, the rats were sacrificed, the gingival tissues were dissected and extracted, and the extracts were analyzed for PGE2, PGF2α, LTB4, and PAF levels. The defleshed jaws were analyzed morphometrically for alveolar bone loss. Data were evaluated statistically by using parametric tests.

Results: Alveolar bone loss measurements revealed significantly higher values in LPS, doxycycline + LPS, alendronate + LPS, and doxycycline + alendronate + LPS groups in comparison to the saline control group (P <0.05). Combined administration of doxycycline and alendronate exhibited the most prominent inhibition on gingival tissue levels of PGE2 and PGF2α (P <0.05). Doxycycline + alendronate + LPS group also significantly reduced LTB4 and PAF levels, although doxycycline provided the most reduction in the levels of these mediators (P <0.05).

Conclusions: Alendronate and/or doxycycline may provide significant inhibition of the major inflammatory mediators of periodontal tissue destruction, and combined administration of these agents may provide beneficial effects in periodontal treatment. However, this hypothesis must be further verified by clinical human trials before introducing its use in dental practice. J Periodontol 2004;75:1516‐1523.
Favorable Periodontal Regenerative Outcomes From Teeth With Presurgical Mobility: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Trejo Pedro M. , Weltman Robin L.
Published: February 2005

Background: The relevance of tooth mobility on periodontal healing is still controversial. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of presurgical tooth mobility on periodontal regenerative outcomes.

Methods: The data in this study were derived from three randomized clinical trials which evaluated regenerative procedures. Sixty‐four patients with one intraosseous periodontal defect each received one of the following treatments: guided tissue regeneration (GTR) using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), GTR using a bioabsorbable membrane with or without demineralized freezedried bone allograft (DFDBA), or enamel matrix derivative with or without DFDBA. Probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), recession (REC), and tooth mobility (TM) were recorded at baseline and 1 year after treatment by a calibrated examiner. The post‐surgical follow‐up and maintenance periods were designed to optimize plaque control. The teeth were grouped according to their baseline Miller index TM score. The grouping yielded 36 teeth with minimal mobility, score 0; 13 teeth with score 1; and 15 with score 2. The mean changes in PD, CAL and REC from baseline to 1 year were calculated for each group. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to assess differences between the tooth mobility groups considering changes in PD, CAL, and REC at 1 year.

Results: The mean PD reduction from baseline to 1 year for teeth with TM score 0 was 3.67 mm; for TM score 1, 2.81 mm; and for score 2, 3.73 mm. The corresponding values for the gain in CAL were 2.73, 1.96, and 2.36 mm, respectively. According to ANOVA, the probing depth reductions and clinical attachment level gains found in each group were not statistically different, P = 0.218 and P = 0.252, respectively.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this analysis, it can be concluded that interproximal, intraosseous defects of teeth with limited presurgical tooth mobility; i.e., teeth with Miller's Class 1 and 2 mobility, will respond favorably to regenerative therapy. J Periodontol 2004;75:1532‐1538.
Resistance to caspase‐dependent, hypoxia‐induced apoptosis is not hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha mediated in prostate carcinoma cells
Authors: Coffey Ronan N. T. , Morrissey Colm , Taylor Cormac T. , Fitzpatrick John M. , Watson R. William G.
Published: February 2005

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia occurs in association with cancer development, the result being a more aggressive and metastatic cancer phenotype. Hypoxia, which activates hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α), is associated with a number of cellular changes including increased apoptotic resistance. The authors hypothesized that HIF‐1α is central to the cell's ability to resist apoptosis induced during the hypoxia selection process.

METHODS

PWR‐1E, LNCaP, LNCaP‐HOF, PC‐3, and DU‐145 cells were cultured in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Apoptosis was assessed by propidium iodide DNA staining. Cleavage of specific substrates was used to assess caspase activity and Western blotting was used to assess mitochondrial release of cytochrome c and second mitochondria‐derived activator caspase (SMAC)/Diablo. A dominant negative HIF‐1α construct was transfected into the PC‐3 and LNCaP cells to block HIF‐1α activity.

RESULTS

PC‐3 and DU‐145 were resistant to apoptosis induced by exposure to hypoxia, but the PWR‐1E and LNCaP cells were susceptible. This induction of apoptosis in the LNCaP cells was caspase dependent but independent of cytochrome c release. Blocking the activity of HIF‐1α had no effect on increased apoptotic susceptibility in the PC‐3 cells. LNCaP‐HOF cells, which were resistant to hypoxia‐induced apoptosis, showed no increase in HIF‐1α expression or activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Apoptotic resistance is already established in cells that survive a hypoxic insult and whereas increased HIF‐1α activity may be essential for the development of a more aggressive cancer phenotype, it may not be responsible for the initial selection of an apoptotic resistance phenotype. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Sequential topotecan and oral etoposide in recurrent ovarian carcinoma pretreated with platinum‐taxane
Authors: Gronlund Bo , Engelholm Svend A. , Horvath György , Mäenpää Johanna , Ridderheim Mona
Published: February 2005

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to determine the maximum tolerable dose (MTD), toxicity, efficacy, and feasibility of a sequential regimen of fixed‐dose topotecan (1.00 mg/m2 on Days 1–5) and increasing doses of oral etoposide (50 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg on Days 6–12 or Days 6–19) in patients with recurrent ovarian carcinoma.

METHODS

This multicenter, open‐label study was planned as a Phase I–II study that included patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma who failed or who developed recurrent disease < 12 months after the end of platinum and taxane‐containing chemotherapy. Dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as follows: Grade 4 neutropenia for > 1 week, or neutropenic fever 38.5 °C for > 24 hours/sepsis, or Grade 4 thrombocytopenia for > 1 week, or thrombocytopenia with bleeding, or Grade 3–4 nonhematologic toxicity.

RESULTS

The MTD, as defined in the protocol, could not be settled because of unpredictable toxicity, because DLT was found at all dose levels except the starting dose level. In 28 patients (Phase I), 155 cycles were evaluable for toxicity. The main DLT was neutropenia Grade 4 for > 1 week or neutropenic fever/sepsis. Overall, neutropenia Grade 4 that lasted > 1 week and sepsis were noticed in 3% and 2% of cycles, respectively. Because no MTD was reached, the planned Phase II trial was not initiated. However, the patients from Phase I were followed until they developed progressive disease and, among them, 9 patients (32%) obtained an objective response (according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) or CA125 response criteria).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined topotecan and oral etoposide was inappropriate in patients with recurrent ovarian carcinoma because of unpredictable hematologic toxicity. However, the high objective response rate highlighted the potential additive effect of topoisomerase I and II inhibitors. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Immunohistochemically detected lymph node metastases from breast carcinoma
Authors: de Mascarel Isabelle , Soubeyran Isabelle , MacGrogan Gaetan , Picot Véronique , Mathoulin‐Pélissier Simone
Published: February 2005

BACKGROUND

The authors applied the sixth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification system to their previously published group of patients with breast carcinoma who had immunohistochemically detected lymph node metastases.

METHODS

The original lymph node‐negative slides from 218 patients, including 129 patients with infiltrating duct carcinoma (IDC) and 89 patients with infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC), were reviewed and then destained to perform immunohistochemistry. Each tumor cell deposit was measured. Single tumor cells could not counted or measured (because the distance separating the most distant cells could be > 2.0 mm), but they were separated into Class 1 (sparse) and Class 2 (numerous). According to the AJCC classification, isolated tumor cells (ITCs) should be classified as pN0(i+) when they measure ≤ 0.2 mm and pN1mi when they measure ≤ 2.0 mm but > 0.2 mm.

RESULTS

ITCs were found in 13 IDCs (10%) and in 37 ILCs (41%) and corresponded in IDCs to a single deposit of a few tumor cells that measured ≤ 0.2 mm (associated with a single tumor cell in 3 tumors) and were classified as pN0(i+). In ILCs, ITCs corresponded to single tumor cells with an irregular distribution throughout the entire lymph node section (24 ITCs and 13 ITCs in Class 1 and Class 2, respectively) and were difficult to classify.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that there are 2 categories of pN0(i+): measurable tumor cell deposits ≤ 0.2 mm, which were found exclusively in IDCs; and nonmeasurable ITCs, which were found in ILCs and rarely in IDCs. The new classification is difficult to apply to ITCs that are detected by immunohistochemistry in ILCs. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Catalytic removal of phenol from aqueous solutions in a trickle‐bed reactor
Authors: Ovejero G , Sotelo JL , García J , Rodríguez A
Published: February 2005

The degradation of high concentrations of phenol (1g/dm−3) in aqueous media at high temperatures (100–190 °C) and pressures (2.0 MPa) has been studied by catalytic wet air oxidation in a trickle‐bed reactor. The effect of reaction temperature, weight hourly space velocity (WHSV) and hydrogen peroxide concentration on phenol concentration, total organic carbon (TOC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) conversion by using a commercial copper catalyst has been investigated. At 150 °C, TOC removal increased by 28% with the WHSV of 62.5 h−1. The addition of hydrogen peroxide as a free radical promoter significantly enhanced the depletion rate of phenol. A kinetic study has been carried out leading to the determination of the kinetic constants for the removal of TOC. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Stabilization of bioethanol recovery with silicone rubber‐coated ethanol‐permselective silicalite membranes by controlling the pH of acidic feed solution
Authors: Ikegami Toru , Negishi Hideyuki , Kitamoto Dai , Sakaki Keiji , Imura Tomohiro , Okamoto Masayoshi , Idemoto Yasushi , Koura Nobuyuki , Sano Tsuneji , Haraya Kenji , Yanagishita Hiroshi
Published: February 2005

In order to produce highly concentrated bioethanol by pervaporation using an ethanol‐permselective silicalite membrane, techniques to suppress adsorption of succinic acid, which is a chief by‐product of ethanol fermentation and causes the deterioration in pervaporation performance, onto the silicalite crystals was investigated. The amount adsorbed increased as the pH of the aqueous succinic acid solution decreased. The pervaporation performance also decreased with decreasing pH when the ternary mixtures of ethanol/water/succinic acid were separated. Using silicalite membranes individually coated with two types of silicone rubber, pervaporation performance was significantly improved in the pH range of 5 to 7, when compared with that of non‐coated silicalite membranes in ternary mixtures of ethanol/water/succinic acid. Moreover, when using a silicalite membrane double‐coated with the two types of silicone rubber, pervaporation performance was stabilized at lower pH values. In the separation of bioethanol by pervaporation using the double‐coated silicalite membrane, removal of accumulated substances having an ultraviolet absorption maximum at approximately 260 nm from the fermentation broth proved to be vital for efficient pervaporation. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Ileal digestibility of defatted soybean, lupin and chickpea seed meals in cannulated Iberian pigs: II. Fatty acids and carbohydrates
Authors: Rubio Luis A , Pedrosa Mercedes M , Pérez Alicia , Cuadrado Carmen , Burbano Carmen , Muzquiz Mercedes
Published: February 2005

Five castrated male Iberian pigs (100 ± 2 kg mean live body weight) fitted with T‐shaped ileal cannulas were used to determine ileal digestibility of legume seed meals. The diets were based on defatted soybean (256 g kg−1), lupin (451 g kg−1) or chickpea (731 g kg−1) seed meals and contained similar amounts of digestible energy (14.2–15.1 kJ g−1) and protein (107 g kg−1). Only myristic acid (C14:0) ileal apparent digestibility was higher (p < 0.05) in lupin than in chickpea meal. Ileal apparent digestibility of unsaturated fatty acids (FA) (710–920 g kg−1) was higher (p < 0.05) than that of saturated (480–710 g kg−1) FA for both seed meals. Ileal digestibility of chickpea starch was 850 g kg−1. Ileal digestibility of oligosaccharides (sucrose, raffinose, stachyose, verbascose and ciceritol) in lupin (820 g kg−1) and chickpea (690 g kg−1) was higher (p < 0.05) than that of defatted soybean (510 g kg−1). However, total amounts of oligosaccharides digested were higher (p < 0.05) for lupin and chickpea meals (29.6 and 24.6 g kg−1 feed respectively) than for soybean (15.2 g kg−1 feed). Among individual non‐starch polysaccharide (NSP) sugars, ileal digestibility values for rhamnose and xylose in lupins were higher (p < 0.05) than those for soybean or chickpea. Ileal digestibility of lupin meal NSP (650 g kg−1) was higher (p < 0.05) than those of soybean (560 g kg−1) or chickpea (430 g kg−1). Up to the terminal ileum, higher (p < 0.05) amounts of lupin total NSP (94.1 g kg−1) than for soybean (24.3 g kg−1) or chickpea (27.1 g kg−1) were digested. Lactate, acetate and isobutyrate concentrations were higher (p < 0.05) in ileal contents of pigs fed lupin and chickpea seed meals compared with soybean‐fed animals. It is concluded that higher lactate and short chain fatty acids concentrations in ileal contents of pigs fed lupin or chickpea seed meals compared with soybean are likely to be the result of higher total amounts of lupin NSP and/or lupin and chickpea oligosaccharides digested up to the terminal ileum. This might have a protective effect on Iberian pig's intestinal physiology. Both lupin and chickpea meals are likely to constitute a valuable alternative to defatted soybean in Iberian pig feeding. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Mesoscopic Patterning in Thin Polymer Films Formed under the Fast Dip‐Coating Process
Authors: Bormashenko Edward , Pogreb Roman , Stanevsky Oleg , Bormashenko Yelena , Stein Tamir , Gaisin Vladimir‐Zeev , Cohen Ron , Gendelman Oleg V.
Published: February 2005

Summary: Mesoscopically ordered self‐assembled polystyrene, polycarbonate and poly(methyl methacrylate) films were obtained when polymer solutions were deposited on vertical plates and dried with hot air. It was shown that characteristic size (≈50 μm) of the mesoscopic cell is practically insensitive to the polymer or substrate kind, while the thickness of the substrate plays a decisive role in the mesoscopic patterning. Junction angles of 120 and 90° were observed. Marangoni instability plays an important role in the cell's structure formation. A semi‐quantitative model explaining the phenomenon of mesoscopic cell formation is proposed.

Scheme of the dip‐coating process.

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Scheme of the dip‐coating process.
Organisation of Designed Nanofibres Assembled in Filaments via Flow Alignment
Authors: Fahmi Amir W. , Brünig Harald , Weidisch Roland , Stamm Manfred
Published: February 2005

Summary: Well‐aligned polymeric nanofibres have been prepared by a simple but effective melt‐spinning procedure. The influence of the extrusion process of a diblock copolymer polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (PS‐block‐P4VP) hydrogen bonded with surfactant [Ikkala et al., Science 2002, 295, 2407] pentadecylphenol (PDP) on orientation and their structural features have been investigated. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) demonstrated that the resulting nanofibres were based on PS cylinders within P4VP(PDP) matrix. The large scale orientation of the PS cylindrical structures were formed by microphase segregation in the melt when low flow rates were applied. The diameter of PS nanofibres in P4VP(PDP) matrix was about 90 nm. After removing the PDP surfactant with suitable solvent, polymeric nanofibres were obtained with diameter of 110 nm. The diblock copolymer nanofibres were formed from a PS core with P4VP shell and were more than 15 μm long. These nanofibres can be produced in large quantities, because extrusion is a continuous process. They can serve as templates for further modifications such as metallization [A. W. Fahmi et al., Adv. Mater. 2003, 15, 1201] or as components for composites with other materials.

Topography image and resulting cross section obtained from AFM of PS/PVP nanofibres.

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Topography image and resulting cross section obtained from AFM of PS/PVP nanofibres.
Case of neuroleptic malignant‐like syndrome precipitated by abrupt fava bean discontinuance
Authors: Ladha Shafeeq S. , Walker Russell , Shill Holly A.
Published: February 2005

Neuroleptic malignant‐like syndrome (NMLS) is well described in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The syndrome is characterized by fever, rigidity, autonomic instability, elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, and altered level of consciousness, which is usually precipitated by levodopa withdrawal. In recent years, patients have used fava beans to treat Parkinson's symptoms, because the beans contain appreciable amounts of levodopa and have been thought to be a safe adjunctive therapy. We describe a case of NMLS, which was precipitated by the abrupt cessation of fava bean ingestion. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Mosapride citrate, a novel 5‐HT4 agonist and partial 5‐HT3 antagonist, ameliorates constipation in parkinsonian patients
Authors: Liu Zhi , Sakakibara Ryuji , Odaka Takeo , Uchiyama Tomoyuki , Uchiyama Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Tatsuya , Ito Takashi , Asahina Masato , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Yamaguchi Taketo , Hattori Takamichi
Published: February 2005

Mosapride citrate is a novel selective 5‐HT4 receptor agonist. It facilitates acetylcholine release from the enteric cholinergic neurons. In contrast to cisapride, mosapride does not block K+ channels or D2 dopaminergic receptors. The objective of this study is to perform an open study of mosapride citrate's effects on constipation, a prominent lower gastrointestinal tract disorder in parkinsonian patients. A total of 14 parkinsonian patients (7 with Parkinson's disease, 7 with multiple system atrophy; 10 men, 4 women; mean age, 67 years) with constipation (10 with bowel movement < 3 times/week; 14 with difficulty in defecation) were treated with 15 mg/day of mosapride citrate for 3 months. Pre‐ and posttreatment objective parameters in colonic transit time (CTT) and rectoanal videomanometry were obtained. Statistical analysis was made by Student's t test. Mosapride was well tolerated by all patients except for 1, who discontinued use of the drug because of epigastric discomfort. None had a worsening of parkinsonism or other adverse events. Thirteen patients reported subjective improvements in bowel frequency (>3 times/week, 13) and difficult defecation (13). Mosapride shortened CTT of the left colon (P < 0.01) and the total colon (P < 0.05). During rectal filling, mosapride lessened the first sensation (P < 0.05) and augmented the amplitude in phasic rectal contraction. During defecation, mosapride augmented the amplitude in rectal contraction (P < 0.05) and lessened the volume of postdefecation residuals. The present study showed for the first time that mosapride citrate augmented lower gastrointestinal tract motility, as shown in CTT and videomanometry, and thereby ameliorated constipation in parkinsonian patients without serious adverse effects. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Gabapentin can improve postural stability and quality of life in primary orthostatic tremor
Authors: Rodrigues Julian P. , Edwards Dylan J. , Walters Susan E. , Byrnes Michelle L. , Thickbroom Gary , Stell Rick , Mastaglia Frank L.
Published: February 2005

Primary orthostatic tremor (OT) is characterized by leg tremor and instability on standing. High frequency (13–18 Hz) tremor bursting is present in leg muscles during stance, and posturography has shown greater than normal sway. We report on an open‐label add‐on study of gabapentin in 6 patients with OT. Six patients were studied with surface electromyography, force platform posturography, and a modified Parkinson's disease questionnaire (PDQ‐39) quality of life (QOL) scale before and during treatment with gabapentin 300 mg t.d.s. If on other medications for OT, these were continued unchanged. Of the 6 patients, 4 reported a subjective benefit of 50 to 75% with gabapentin, 3 of whom showed reduced tremor amplitude and postural sway of up to 70%. Dynamic balance improved in all 3 patients who completed the protocol. QOL data from 5 patients showed improvement in all cases. No adverse effects were noted. Gabapentin may improve tremor, stability, and QOL in patients with OT, and symptomatic response correlated with a reduction in tremor amplitude and postural sway. The findings confirm previous reports of symptomatic benefit with gabapentin and provide justification for larger controlled clinical trials. Further work is required to establish the optimal dosage and to validate the methods used to quantify the response to treatment. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Patient‐perceived involvement and satisfaction in Parkinson's disease: Effect on therapy decisions and quality of life
Authors: Grosset Katherine A. , Grosset Donald G.
Published: February 2005

Patient‐centered consultation styles are associated with higher patient satisfaction and improved health outcomes in diabetes and hypertension. In outpatient neurology, dissatisfaction with communication relates significantly to noncompliance. We undertook a single‐center study in Parkinson's disease (PD) using standardized questionnaires to score patient‐perceived involvement in therapy decisions (score 4 = low to 25 = high) and satisfaction with the consultation (score 1 = low to 7 = high). Correlation was tested against health outcomes of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Motor score, activities of daily living (UPDRS 2 and Schwab and England), Parkinson's disease quality of life (PDQ‐39), Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Of 117 patients enrolled, 107 (91%) fully completed the questionnaires. Mean patient‐perceived involvement scored 14.4 (SD, 2.8). Mean satisfaction scored 5.3 (SD 0.7). Higher involvement was associated with increased satisfaction (r = 0.28; P = 0.003), particularly distress relief (r = 0.38; P < 0.0001). Communication scores correlated significantly with compliance intent (r = 0.6; P < 0.0001). There was no correlation between either involvement or satisfaction and UPDRS, Schwab and England, MMSE, or GDS. Quality of life was significantly associated with depression, UPDRS, duration of PD, compliance intent, and satisfaction. The significant positive association between compliance intent and quality of life in the more satisfied patient replicates findings in other disease areas. Due attention to these aspects in delivering care to the PD patient is appropriate. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Relationship between cerebroplacental Doppler ratio and birth weight in postdates pregnancies
Authors: Lam H. , Leung W. C. , Lee C. P. , Lao T. T.
Published: February 2005

Objectives

To explore the relationship between cerebroplacental Doppler impedance index and birth weight in postdates pregnancies, and to evaluate the use of a combination of Doppler parameters and ultrasound biometry in the prediction of large‐for‐gestational age (LGA) fetuses at 41 weeks of gestation.

Methods

The pulsatility indices of the umbilical (UA‐PI) and middle cerebral (MCA‐PI) arteries, the cerebroplacental pulsatility index ratio (CPR) and the estimated fetal weight (EFW) were obtained in a cohort of 181 ultrasound‐dated pregnancies at 41 weeks' gestation, 2 days before induction of delivery. A regression equation was established and the correlation between umbilical artery impedance and different birth‐weight centile groups was determined. A receiver–operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to compare prediction of LGA fetuses using biometry alone with that using biometry and UA‐PI.

Results

UA‐PI was inversely related to EFW (Spearson's correlation coefficient rho = −0.28, P < 0.001). Logistic regression showed an independent contribution of UA‐PI to the birth‐weight estimation (birth weight = 1356.8 − 232.0 × UA‐PI + 0.65 × EFW). On ROC curve analysis, the prediction of LGA with the regression equation was comparable to that using ultrasound biometry alone.

Conclusion

UA‐PI was inversely correlated to EFW, but the combination of ultrasound biometry and UA‐PI compared with biometry alone showed similar prediction of LGA fetuses in postdates pregnancies. Further prospective trials on larger populations or groups with a higher prevalence of LGA fetuses would be needed to validate the use of the new formula. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased first‐trimester fetal nuchal translucency thickness in association with chondroectodermal dysplasia (Ellis–Van Creveld syndrome)
Authors: Venkat‐Raman N. , Sebire N. J. , Murphy K. W. , Carvalho J. S. , Hall C. M.
Published: February 2005

Increased nuchal translucency thickness (NT) is an established sonographic marker of fetal chromosomal abnormality. Several structural fetal defects and genetic syndromes including a range of skeletal dysplasias have been reported in association with increased NT. We report the first case of fetal Ellis–Van Creveld syndrome presenting as raised fetal NT at 13 weeks' gestation. Ultrasonography at 18 weeks' gestation demonstrated a narrow thorax, marked shortening of the long bones with bowed femora and hexadactyly of hands and feet. Pregnancy was terminated at 23 weeks' gestation. The postmortem radiological examination revealed short and bowed long bones with rounded metaphyses, postaxial polydactyly of hands and feet, short ribs and narrow thorax. The acetabular roofs were horizontal with medial and lateral spurs. This case adds a further type of severe skeletal dysplasia to the list of genetic syndromes which may present as increased fetal NT in the late first trimester. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of two mitochondrial GDP-binding sites in rat brown adipose tissue
Authors: Bryant K. R. , Rothwell N. J. , Stock M. J. , Stribling D.
Published: February 2005

Scatchard analysis of specific guanosine-diphosphate-([3H]GDP-) binding to rat brown-adipose-tissue mitochondria revealed two distinct binding sites with apparent dissociation constants (Kd) of approximately 0.05 and 2.0 μM. Binding to both sites was insensitive to atractyloside. Reducing the pH of the binding medium from 7.1 to 6.6 caused marked reductions in the Kd of both sites, but at pH 7.6, the dissociation constants were increased about 3-fold. Acute treatment of rats with noradrenaline, 1 h before sacrifice, increased the maximum number of binding sites (Bmax, pmol/rng mitochondrial protein) of both sites and also increased the dissociation constants. The Bmax of the lower-affinity site was elevated in rats exposed to 5°C or fed a palatable cafeteria diet for 10 d, compared to control animals, with the greater changes occurring in the cold-adapted group. The high-affinity site was unaltered by cold adaptation or cafeteria feeding. These results indicate the presence of two distinct nucleotide-binding sites in brown-fat mitochondria, both of which may be involved in thermogenesis.
The ribosomal proteins phosphorylated in vitro by protein kinase activities from Krebs II ascites cells
Authors: McGarvey Michael J. , Leader David P.
Published: February 2005

Studies were performed to identify in cytoplasmic extracts of Krebs II ascites cells protein kinase activities that might be responsible for the phosphorylation of the ribosomal proteins previously identified as phosphoproteins in these cells in vivo. Column chromatography resolved a casein kinase activity that could use ATP or GTP as a phosphoryl donor to phosphorylate, in ribosomes, exclusively the acidic 60S phosphoprotein(s) phosphorylated in vivo. A second casein kinase fraction could use ATP, only, in a similar reaction, but also contained protein kinase activity with respect to other ribosomal proteins, including the basic ribosomal protein phosphorylated in vivo, ribosomal protein S6. This latter was also among several proteins phosphorylated by an activity in the cyclic AMP-independent histone kinase fraction.
Insulin sensitivity of rates of glycolysis and glycogen synthesis in soleus, stripped soleus, epitrochlearis, and hemi-diaphragm muscles isolated from sedentary rats
Authors: Challiss R. A. J. , Espinal J. , Newsholme E. A.
Published: February 2005

The effect of insulin concentrations on the rates of glycolysis and glycogen synthesis in four different in vitro rat muscle preparations (intact soleus, stripped soleus, epitrochlearis, and hemi-diaphragm) were investigated: the concentrations of insulin that produced half-maximal stimulation of the rates of these two processes in the four muscle preparations were similar – about 100 μunits/ml. This is at least 10-fold greater than the concentration that produced half-maximal inhibition of lipolysis in isolated adipocytes. Since 100 μunits/ml insulin is outside the normal physiological range in the rat, it is suggested that, in vivo, insulin influences glucose utilization in muscle mainly indirectly, via changes in the plasma fatty acid levels and the ‘glucose/fatty acid cycle’. Consequently the view that insulin stimulates glucose utilization in muscle mainly by a direct effect on membrane transport must be treated with caution.
Alpha2-adrenoreceptor stimulation does not inhibit L-type calcium channels in mouse pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Bokvist Krister , Ämmälä Carina , Berggren Per-Olof , Rorsman Patrik , Wåhlander Karin
Published: February 2005

The effects of α2-adrenergic stimulation on the Ca2+-current in mouse pancreatic β-cells were investigated using the patch-clamp technique. When using the conventional whole-cell recording configuration (dialysis of cell interior with pipette solution), addition of adrenaline (1 μM) or the α2-adrenergic agonist clonidine (5 μM) failed to reduce the Ca2+-current, irrespective of whether intracellular GTP (or GTPγ S) was present or not and at both physiological (1.3 mM) and elevated (10.2 mM) Ca2+-concentrations. In fact, in the absence of added guanine nucleotides, the agonists tended to increase the Ca2+-current amplitude in the presence of the higher Ca2+-concentration. Ca2+-channel activation measured at 1.3 mM Ca2+ was not affected by clonidine. Half-maximal activation was observed at ≈−20 mV. In addition, when Ca2+-currents were recorded from intact β-cells, using the perforated patch whole-cell configuration, clonidine (1 μM) also failed to detectably affect the Ca2+-current. It is therefore suggested that the inhibition of β-cell electrical activity and insulin-secretion produced by α2-adrenoreceptor stimulation does not result from suppression of the L-type Ca2+-current.
Quantifying two‐dimensional dichromatic patterns using a photographic technique: case study on the shore crab (Carcinus maenas L.)
Authors: Todd P. A. , Ladle R. J. , Briers R. A. , Brunton A.
Published: February 2005

Contrasting patterns of pigmentation, such as those associated with crypsis and aposematism, are common in many taxa. In order to determine why patterning varies among individuals or populations, it is important to quantify how these patches of pigment are arranged. Here we present a simple technique for measuring areas of pigmentation as well as their spatial distribution, and demonstrate its application to the study of substrate‐associated patterning in shore crabs (Carcinus maenas L.). The results, based on a virtual grid laid over digital images of crab carapaces, allow for correlations to be made among sample populations. The technique, or variations of it, can be applied to any situation where two‐dimensional dichromatic patterns need to be quantified.
Olanzapine treatment in adolescents with severe conduct disorder
Authors: Masi Gabriele , Milone Annarita , Canepa Giovanna , Millepiedi Stefania , Mucci Maria , Muratori Filippo
Published: February 2005

The most severe forms of conduct disorder (CD) are highly stable and disabling disorders, more likely to persist in time and to evolve into disruptive or antisocial behaviors. One crucial issue in the prognosis of these forms of CD is the high resistence to both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, with antipsychotic drugs being frequently used in refractory cases. Aim of this study was: (1) to explore efficacy and tolerability of olanzapine treatment in adolescents with severe CD; (2) to identify predictors of olanzapine treatment outcome. This was a retrospective study, based on clinical records of the first 23 adolescents diagnosed as having a CD, diagnosed with a clinical interview (K-SADS), either pure or with comorbid diagnoses, and treated with olanzapine. All these patients did not respond satisfactorily to non-pharmacological intervention and to adequate dosages of mood stabilizers (lithium and/or valproate). The sample consisted of 16 males and seven females, 16 inpatients and seven outpatients (mean age 13.6 ± 1.9 years, range 11–17.2 years), followed-up for a period ranging from 6 to 12 months (mean 8.8 ± 2.7 months). Outcome measures included the Modified Overt Aggression Scale (MOAS), Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) and Children Global Assessment Scale (CGAS). During the follow-up, all patients were involved in non-pharmacological treatments (psychotherapy, family therapy, or day-hospital group treatments). Based on both an improvement of at least 50% at MOAS and a score 1 or 2 at CGI-I, 14 out of 23 patients (60.9%) were classified as responders at the end of the follow-up. Significant improvement at the last observation was found in MOAS (P < 0.001) and CGAS (P < 0.001) scores. Olanzapine dosage was 8 ± 3.2 mg/day (range 5–20 mg/day). Mean weight gain at the end of the follow-up was 4.6 ± 3 kg. The predictors of a positive treatment response was an impulsive-affective versus controlled-predatory type of aggression. Age at onset of CD and comorbid disorders did not affect treatment response. These preliminary findings suggest that olanzapine may improve behavior in adolescents with severe and treatment-refractory CD and impulsive aggression.
Strategy, uncertainty and the focused factory in international process manufacturing
Authors: Ketokivi Mikko , Jokinen Mikko
Published: February 2005

The extant literature on the focused factory has not explored the contingencies associated with the de facto adoption and use of focused factory principles: Why are some plants focused while others are not? Is focus—or unfocus—a strategic choice, best practice or perhaps a reflection of an environmental constraint? In his pioneering work, Skinner [W. Skinner, 1974. The focused factory. Harvard Business Review 52 (3), 113–121] prescribes companies to ensure that the manufacturing task of their manufacturing units is simple and focused, for instance, by assigning a narrow product mix for each factory or concentrating on a narrow mix of production technologies. Especially in the absence of compelling empirical evidence on the effectiveness of the focused factory approach, we argue that we still do not understand why some plants may remain unfocused.

We observe that in the international process industry case examined in this paper, some factories are unfocused and their manufacturing tasks are all but simple. Yet, some of them appear to be high performers. This presents an opportunity to seek empirical insight on the questions raised above. Specifically, we examine why manufacturing companies in the process industries may or may not follow the focused factory strategy. Our results suggest that in certain operating environments and with certain competitive strategies, choosing not to focus the manufacturing task should be viewed as a viable alternative manufacturing strategy, perhaps even a constraint imposed by the operating environment. We develop four contingency propositions to explain why focused manufacturing strategy may not be desirable or even possible.
Octahedral tilting evolution and phase transition in orthorhombic NaMgF3 perovskite under pressure
Authors: Liu H.‐Z. , Chen J. , Hu J. , Martin C. D. , Weidner D. J. , Häusermann D. , Mao H.‐K.
Published: February 2005

Rietveld refinement of monochromatic synchrotron x‐ray powder diffraction data was used to study the evolution of octahedral tilting in the orthorhombic NaMgF3 perovskite under pressure. Hydrostatic pressure conditions were ensured up to 16 GPa using helium as a pressure medium. The tilting angles of MgF6 octahedral framework were observed to increase with increasing pressure. The compression mechanism was observed to be dominated by the shortening of the octahedral Mg‐F bond below 6 GPa, and then controlled by the increase of the octahedral tilting above 12 GPa. The bulk modulus of NaMgF3 was estimated as 76.0 ± 1.1 GPa. A phase transition was observed at about 19.4 GPa in a separate run when silicone oil was used as pressure medium, and this high‐pressure phase could be rationalized in term of a post‐perovskite structural model.
Observations of near‐inertial current variability on the New England shelf
Authors: Shearman R. Kipp
Published: February 2005

Observations from the Coastal Mixing and Optics (CMO) moored array (deployed from August 1996 through June 1997) and supplemental moored observations are used to describe near‐inertial current variability over the New England shelf. Near‐inertial band current variance comprises 10–20% of the total observed current variance, and has episodic peak speeds exceeding 30 cm s−1. Near‐inertial current variability during CMO is characterized by a first baroclinic mode vertical structure with one zero‐crossing between 15 and 50 m. The zero‐crossing is shallower during periods of stronger stratification. Laterally, near‐inertial variability is coherent over the extent of the CMO moored array, and cross‐shelf decorrelation scales for near‐inertial currents are about 100 km, approximately the entire shelf width. The magnitude of near‐surface near‐inertial variability is stronger in the summer and weaker in the winter, following the seasonal variation in stratification and opposite the seasonal cycle in wind stress variance. During CMO, near‐surface near‐inertial kinetic energy is inversely related to surface mixed layer depth. Near‐inertial variance decreases onshore, matching approximately the cross‐shelf decrease in near‐inertial energy predicted by a two‐dimensional, linear, flat‐bottom, two‐layer, coastal wall model. In this model, the nullifying effects of a baroclinic wave emanating from the coastal wall play a dominant role in controlling the onshore decrease. Finally, strong persistent anticyclonic relative vorticity shifts near‐inertial variability on the New England shelf to subinertial frequencies.
Forcing of the Asian monsoon on the Tibetan Plateau: Evidence from high‐resolution ice core and tropical coral records
Authors: Davis Mary E. , Thompson Lonnie G. , Yao Tandong , Wang Ninglian
Published: February 2005

Climatic influences on snow accumulation across the Tibetan Plateau are examined using records of net snow accumulation (An) and oxygen isotopic ratios (δ18O) since 1801 from two ice cores from opposite sides of the Plateau. From ∼1880 to the 1990s, summer monsoon precipitation has been a significant component of the annual accumulation on the Dasuopu glacier in the Himalayas, but during the latter part of the Little Ice Age (∼1810 to ∼1880) total An was 30% higher than the summer monsoon amounts in northern India. This was possibly the result of increased early winter snowfall as westerly low‐pressure systems linked to the North Atlantic pushed farther east along the Himalayas than they normally do today. The decades of high accumulation and the colder temperatures allowed excess snow and ice to persist late into each year, which may have weakened the subsequent Asian summer monsoon. Consequently, precipitation in the northeast Tibetan Plateau where the Dunde ice cap is located may have been affected primarily by Eurasian continental processes rather than tropical meteorology during this time. Since the onset of the recent warming over the last century, the south Asian summer monsoon intensified and influenced summer climate farther to the north and west, and expressions of tropical Pacific and Indian Oceanic/atmospheric processes are noticeable in the Dunde net accumulation record. The Dunde and Dasuopu glaciers, which are located on the northern and southern rims of the Tibetan Plateau, were situated in regions of environmental transition as the Northern Hemisphere climate shifted from a neoglacial to a warming climate mode, which is something to consider when interpreting the longer ice core climate records.