bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Titanium Tetrafluoride, Amine Fluoride and Fluoride Varnish on Enamel Erosion in vitro
Authors: Vieira A. , Ruben J.L. , Huysmans M.C.D.N.J.M.
Published: August 2005

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of 1 and 4% titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) gels, amine fluoride (AmF) 1 and 0.25% and a fluoride varnish (FP) on the prevention of dental erosion. Two experimental groups served as controls, one with no pretreatment and another one pretreated with a fluoride-free varnish (FP-blanco). Dental erosion was modelled using bovine enamel samples submitted to alternate cycles of acid exposure in citric acid and remineralization in artificial saliva. Calcium loss of all samples involved in the study was quantified by atomic absorption spectroscopy and erosion depths were estimated. Two samples of each experimental group were also analyzed by white light confocal microscopy. The cumulative erosion depth (in µm) after 72 min was: TiF4 gel 1% 8.29 ± 0.39; TiF4 gel 4% 8.27 ± 0.55; AmF 1% 8.69 ± 0.66; AmF 0.25% 8.86 ± 0.33; FP 3.43 ± 1.07; FP-blanco 14.86 ± 1.59 and control 9.77 ± 0.49. A statistically significant protective effect (p ≤ 0.001) was found only for the group pretreated with the fluoride varnish. Within the limitations of an in vitro study it may be concluded that topical applications of the fluoride varnish tested have a protective effect on the prevention of dental erosion.
Profilometric and Microradiographic Studies on the Effects of Toothpaste and Acidic Gel Abrasivity on Sound and Demineralized Bovine Dental Enamel
Authors: Kielbassa A.M. , Gillmann L. , Zantner C. , Meyer-Lueckel H. , Hellwig E. , Schulte-Mönting J.
Published: August 2005

The objective of this study was to assess the abrasive effects of toothpastes and acidic F gels on sound and demineralized enamel. Pairs of enamel specimens were cut from bovine incisors, embedded in epoxy resin and polished. An artificial subsurface lesion of 80–90 µm depth was created in one specimen from each pair. The samples were covered with adhesive tape, thereby exposing the enamel for abrasivity testing. All samples were divided into six groups of 15 and brushed with a slurry (1:3) of F gel or toothpaste and human saliva. Brushing with water (control) or with slurry was carried out (16,000 strokes) using a medium toothbrush (load 275 g) mounted in a brushing machine. Abrasion was evaluated using laser profilometry, and was about 50% less on sound than on demineralized enamel (p < 0.001). In the latter, brushing with water (0.09 ± 0.03 µm) or with fluoride-free gel (0.08 ± 0.03 µm) resulted in negligible wear. With a medium-abrasive paste (1.76 ± 0.85 µm) and an acidic F gel (2.48 ± 0.72 µm), brushing abrasion was significantly greater (p < 0.001) than with a low-abrasive paste (0.84 ± 0.38 µm). The greatest wear (16.6 ± 10.8 µm) was observed with high-abrasive paste (p < 0.001), and here transversal microradiography revealed a complete loss of the pseudointact surface after brushing. In vitro formed caries-like lesions can be abraded (by toothbrushing) more easily than sound enamel; hence, initial white spot lesions should preferably be brushed with oral hygiene products of low abrasivity.
Influence of Laser Irradiation on the Constant Composition Kinetics of Enamel Dissolution
Authors: Gerard D.E. , Fried D. , Featherstone J.D.B. , Nancollas G.H.
Published: August 2005

The influence of 9.6 µm CO2 laser irradiation on enamel dissolution kinetics was investigated using a constant composition method designed for rate measurements of enamel dissolution as a function of depth, on a micrometer scale. In contrast to lower irradiation intensities (≤1.0 J cm–2), which consistently showed reduced dissolution rates, higher fluences (energy per surface area) resulted in initially increased dissolution rates, which rapidly decreased, after dissolution times corresponding to removal of a few micrometers, to rates similar to those acquired using lower fluences. It was also demonstrated that surface damage during laser irradiation could be limited to the first 1–2 µm by lowering the number of pulses per spot during the irradiation procedure. The constant composition method can be used to measure detailed kinetics of inhibition of acid dissolution of dental enamel that has been treated by low fluence 9.6-µm CO2 laser irradiation.
Comparison of Fluorescence Detection of Carious Dentin for Different Excitation Wavelengths
Authors: Ribeiro Figueiredo A.C. , Kurachi C. , Bagnato V.S.
Published: August 2005

This study compared the fluorescence spectra obtained at three laser excitation wavelengths from intact enamel, sound dentin and carious dentin. Results were analyzed using a figure of merit (ratio of backscattered peak to maximum fluorescence amplitude). The results showed that the best excitation wavelengths for caries detection, which offered the greatest contrast between sound and carious tissue, were 442 and 632 nm. A discussion of the results between these two ends of the visible spectrum is provided. The results confirmed the choice of red light as a good excitation source for fluorescence detection of caries.
The Effect of Video Repositioning on the Reliability of Light-Induced Fluorescence Imaging: An in vivo Study
Authors: Romane D. , Bendika Z. , Senakola E. , Davies R.M. , Ellwood R.P. , Pretty I.A.
Published: August 2005

The ability to monitor longitudinally the development, arrest or resolution of early demineralised lesions is one strength of quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). When taking sequential images of an individual’s teeth for monitoring it has been suggested that the subsequent images should be taken from the same position the baseline image. To assist in this process, video repositioning software is available that enables automatic capture of images once the system identifies that they are similar enough to the baseline comparator. The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of such software-assisted capture improves the reliability of subsequent QLF analysis. 20 subjects had 34 surfaces (buccal and occlusal) imaged by 2 examiners at baseline, and again 1 week later using both manual and software-assisted (VidRep) systems. Analysis of the three key reportable values for QLF (ΔF, lesion area, ΔQ) suggested that there is no significant improvement in reliability using VidRep although VidRep demonstrates additional advantages above and beyond image geometry, relating to the speed of subsequent image analysis.
Reproducibility of Electrical Caries Measurements: A Technical Problem?
Authors: Huysmans M.C.D.N.J.M. , Kühnisch J. , ten Bosch J.J.
Published: August 2005

The currently available instrument for electrical detection of occlusal caries lesions [Electronic Caries Monitor (ECM)] uses a site-specific measurement with co-axial air drying. The reproducibility of this method has been reported to be fair to good. It was noticed that the measurement variation of this technique appeared to be non-random. It was the aim of this study to analyse how such a non-random reproducibility pattern arises and whether it could be observed for other operators and ECM models. Analysis of hypothetical measurement pairs showed that the pattern was related to measurements at the high and low end of the measurement range for the instrument. Data sets supplied by other researchers to a varying degree showed signs of a similar non-random pattern. These data sets were acquired at different locations, by different operators and using 3 different ECM models. The frequency distribution of measurements in all cases showed a single or double end-peaked distribution shape. It was concluded that the pattern was a general feature of the measurement method. It was tentatively attributed to several characteristics such as a high value censoring, insufficient probe contact and unpredictable probe contact. A different measurement technique, with an improved probe contact, appears to be advisable.
Interactions of Streptococcus mutans Glucosyltransferase B with Lysozyme in Solution and on the Surface of Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Kho H.-S. , Vacca Smith A.M. , Koo H. , Scott-Anne K. , Bowen W.H.
Published: August 2005

Several active enzymes have been identified as components of acquired enamel pellicle. In the present study, the interactions of Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase B (GtfB) with lysozyme in solution and on the surface of hydroxyapatite (HA) beads were studied. Experiments were also performed to investigate whether structural differences exist between glucans formed by GtfB enzyme in the presence or absence of lysozyme in solution and on the surface of HA. Hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL) and saliva were used as the sources of lysozyme; lysozyme-depleted saliva was used as control. Lysozyme activity was significantly reduced when adsorbed onto HA beads compared with that in solution. The GtfB enzyme did not affect the activity of lysozyme in solution or that of adsorbed lysozyme onto HA. The presence of HEWL increased GtfB activity; bovine serum albumin had an even greater enhancing effect. Depletion of lysozyme from whole saliva increased GtfB activity in solution, but not on the surface of saliva-coated HA. The presence of lysozyme affected the amount of glucan formation by GtfB, but not the structure of glucans formed in solution and on the surface. Therefore, the interaction of lysozyme and GtfB enzymes on HA surface may modulate the formation of glucan and dental plaque.
Detection of MutA Genes in Transmitted Strains and Nontransmitted Strains of Mutans Streptococci
Authors: Li S. , Liu T. , Xiao X. , Yang J. , Yang D. , Zhuang H. , Liu Z.
Published: August 2005

Our aim was to determine whether an isolate carrying one of the mutA genes was related to its ability to be transmitted from mother to her child. First, 200 mutans streptococci isolates were genotyped by arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction (AP-PCR) to demonstrate transmission between 20 mother-child pairs and to detect the transmitted and nontransmitted strains. Thenthemutacin structural genes mutA encoding mutacin types I, II, and III were screened by PCR. The results showed that all strains found to carry the mutAI gene were nontransmitted strains; PCR screening primers mutAII and mutAIII did not yield amplicons in any of the strains tested. Our data suggest that an isolate carrying the mutAI gene is related to reduced transmission. The low frequency of detection of mutAII, and mutAIII suggests that there is a high heterogeneity in the genetic determinants needed for the production of mutacin-like substances.
Immunogenicity and Protective Efficacy of a Targeted Fusion DNA Construct against Dental Caries
Authors: Xu Qing-an , Yu Fei , Fan Mingwen , Bian Zhuan , Guo Jihua , Jia Rong , Chen Zhi , Peng Bin , Fan Bing
Published: August 2005

Targeting antigens to antigen-presenting cells by fusion to cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA4) has been shown to be a highly efficient method to enhance the efficacy of DNA vaccines. The purpose of this study was to determine the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the targeted fusion DNA construct pGJA-P, which contains the signal peptide and extracellular regions of human CTLA4 gene, the hinge and Fc regions of human Igγ1 gene, the glucan-binding domain of the Streptococcus mutans gtfB gene and the A-P fragment of the S. mutans pac gene, compared with the fusion DNA construct pGLUA-P, which contains only the glucan-binding domain of the S. mutansgtfB gene and the A-P fragment of the S. mutans pac gene. BALB/c mice were immunized with pGJA-P, pGLUA-P, or pCI (vector) by the intramuscular or intranasal route. Specific anti-PAc and anti-GTF-I serum IgG and salivary IgA antibody responses were assessed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Wistar rats were orally challenged with S. mutans and immunized with pGJA-P, pGLUA-P, or pCI intramuscularly or intranasally, and caries activity was evaluated by the Keyes method. pGJA-P induced accelerated and increased serum and salivary antibody responses in mice compared with pGLUA-P. Rats immunized with pGJA-P had significantly fewer caries lesions than rats immunized with pGLUA-P (p < 0.01). Thus, this study demonstrates that the targeted DNA construct pGJA-P can enhance both systemic and mucosal immunity and may be a useful strategy for improving the protective efficacy of anticaries DNA vaccines.
Method to Detect Minimal Amounts of Calcium Dissolved in Acidic Solutions
Authors: Attin T. , Becker K. , Hannig C. , Buchalla W. , Hilgers R.
Published: August 2005

The study describes the application of the Arsenazo III method for detection of minimal amounts of calcium 12.4–49.4 µmol/l in different acidic solutions (hydrochloric acid, oxalic acid, maleic acid, phosphoric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, lactic acid and acetic acid) adjusted to pH 2.0, 2.3 and 3.0. A mixture of the respective calcium concentrations with distilled water served as control. The experiments were run with ten repeats in series. Assessment of intra- and interassay coefficient of variation, and lower limit of quantification revealed that depending on the acid used, the Arsenazo III method is a reliable tool to quantify minimal calcium contents in acidic solutions.
Localized Bronchioloalveolar Carcinoma with Small Foci of Active Fibroblastic Proliferation
Authors: Sugita Makoto , Sagawa Motoyasu , Ueda Yoshimichi , Higashi Kotaro , Sakuma Tsutomu
Published: August 2005

Localized bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (LBAC) without foci of active fibroblastic proliferation has been reported to be a pN0 disease. Predominantly, these tumors have not been associated with cancer relapse or death subsequent to surgery. Based on these observations, LBAC cases have been considered candidates for limited lung resection without lymph node dissection. However, this surgical option requires careful validation, and an accurate diagnosis is indispensable. The absence of foci of active fibroblastic proliferation must be confirmed by a thorough investigation. Nonetheless, these foci may escape detection, and even currently accepted diagnostic modalities may not be sufficient to accurately determine their absence. We illustrate this point by reporting 2 cases of LBAC with small but distinct foci of active fibroblastic proliferation.
Unusual Case of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Kolilekas L. , Gallis P. , Liasis N. , Anagnostopoulos G.K. , Eleftheriadis I.
Published: August 2005

Truly reversible pulmonary hypertension is rare. Acquired systemic arteriovenous (A-V) fistulas following spinal surgery (laminectomy) are a less recognized cause of secondary pulmonary hypertension. We describe a patient who presented with symptoms and clinical evidence of pulmonary hypertension and underwent endovascular correction of an acquired A-V fistula, which led to improvement according to clinical and noninvasive hemodynamic criteria.
Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation of Primary Pleural Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Lee Ho Kyung , Kwon Hyeok Jin , Lee Heung Bum , Jin Gong Yong , Chung Myoung Ja , Lee Yong Chul
Published: August 2005

Percutaneous radiofrequency (RF) thermal ablation has received attention as an effective minimally invasive approach for the treatment of a variety of neoplasms. However, the therapeutic efficacy of RF thermal ablation on primary pleural synovial sarcoma has not yet been reported. A 76-year-old man with a primary pleural synovial sarcoma who was medically inoperable received RF thermal ablation to achieve local control. Therefore, an RF electrode was inserted into the lesion and connected to an RF generator. In this report, a case of successful treatment of a primary pleural synovial sarcoma using RF ablation without complication is presented.
Extralobar Pulmonary Sequestration in the Right Upper Thoracic Region
Authors: Cserni Tamás , Kiss Ákos , Józsa Tamás , Szőlősi Zoltán , Nagy Béla
Published: August 2005

We present an extremely rare case of extralobar pulmonary sequestration in the right upper thoracic region, with a wide tracheal communication and a right subclavian arterial blood supply. The MRI scan suggested a bronchogenic cyst. Although preoperative color Doppler and angiography were not performed, successful resection was carried out. The histology indicated a diagnosis of extralobar pulmonary sequestration.
Pulmonary Varix Mimicking Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation in a Patient with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Maillard Jacques-Olivier , Cottin Vincent , Etienne-Mastroïanni Bénédicte , Frolet Jean-Marc , Revel Didier , Cordier Jean-François
Published: August 2005

A 36-year-old asymptomatic female with Turner syndrome was referred for a 3-cm opacity of the left lung detected by routine chest X-ray. A computed tomography scan of the chest suggested a vascular lesion such as pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, and transcatheter embolotherapy was considered. The lack of a right-to-left shunt on contrast echocardiography led to suspect an alternate diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging and pulmonary angiography eventually demonstrated a pulmonary varix associated with a partial anomalous pulmonary venous return. Contrast echocardiography may help to distinguish between pulmonary varix and arteriovenous malformation.
Venobronchial Fistula: An Unusual Complication of Long-Term Central Venous Access
Authors: Ananian Pascal , Doddoli Christophe , Barlési Fabrice , Grégoire Emilie , Aragon Adrian , Giudicelli Roger , Thomas Pascal
Published: August 2005

A venobronchial fistula developed between the azygous vein and the upper aspect of the right main bronchus 12 months after completion of the treatment of a stage IIIB non-small-cell lung cancer in a 54-year-old man. The fistula contained the tip of the catheter placed for chemotherapy perfusion. The reported case presented risk factors previously identified for such a complication. In addition, some clinical particularities were present, suggesting new potent risk factors and some preventive means for safe long-term central venous catheterization.
Nitric Acid-Induced Bronchiolitis in Rats Mimics Childhood Bronchiolitis obliterans
Authors: Costa Claudia L.B. , Spilborghs Graziela M.G.T. , Martins Milton A. , Saldiva Paulo H.N. , Mauad Thais
Published: August 2005

Background: Childhood bronchiolitis obliterans (CBO) is an infrequent but severe disease, characterized by persistent obstructive respiratory symptoms after an acute episode of bronchiolitis. Its etiology is mostly postviral, especially in developing countries. Pathologically, CBO is characterized as constrictive-type BO. The pathogenesis of this disease is poorly understood and there is no specific treatment. Animal models could help to better understand the sequence of events culminating in bronchiolar obliteration and serve as basis for experimental therapeutic research. Objectives: In this study, we adapted the nitric acid (NA) technique to develop a suitable model to study CBO in rats. Methods: We have intratracheally instilled 0.5% NA or saline and studied the histological lesions on days 2, 7, 14 and 30. NA-instilled animals developed a sequence of bronchiolar lesions that included necrotizing bronchiolitis, proliferative (PROL) bronchiolar lesions and constricitive (CONS) bronchiolar lesions with bronchiectasis, mucostasis and macrophagic accumulation. Results: The frequency of PROL lesions decreased and that of the CONS lesions increased, with a statistically significant difference at the sacrifice days, except for day 7 (PROL vs. CONS lesions day 2: p = 0.001; PROL vs. CONS lesions day 7: p = 0.38; PROL vs. CONS lesions day 14: p < 0.001; PROL vs. CONS lesions day 30: p < 0.001). Conclusions: We conclude that this model presents histological similarities with the histological picture of CBO, being suitable for further developmental and therapeutic experimental research in this field.
Chylothorax following Innominate Vein Thrombosis – A Rare Complication of Transvenous Pacemaker Implantation
Authors: Thomas Rajesh , Christopher D.J. , Roy Anil , Rose Anand , Chandy Sunil Thomas , Cherian Rekha Aley , Rima Jeeva
Published: August 2005

A case of chylothorax following innominate vein thrombosis which developed as a late complication of transvenous pacemaker implantation is discussed. A 78-year-old man presented with a refractory left-sided pleural effusion, which turned out to be a chylothorax. He had undergone a transvenous pacemaker implantation 6 years earlier for sick sinus syndrome. Aetiological work-up showed occlusion of the innominate vein as the cause for the chylothorax. The chylothorax resolved following pleurodesis with talc slurry, and the innominate vein was recanalized by angioplasty. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a case of this nature.
Factors Influencing Length of Hospital Stay in Patients with Bacterial Pleural Effusion
Authors: Soriano T. , Alegre J. , Alemán C. , Ruiz E. , Vázquez A. , Carrasco J.L. , Segura R. , Ferrer A. , Fernández de Sevilla T.
Published: August 2005

Background: Factors influencing length of hospital stay have been poorly analyzed in parapneumonic pleural effusions (PPE). Objectives: The aim of this work is to identify the variables that determine increased hospital stay in patients with infectious pleural effusion (PE). Patients and Methods: We analyzed 112 patients with PE: empyema, complicated parapneumonic and non-complicated parapneumonic. Epidemiologic, biochemical, therapeutic and radiological variables were analyzed. Correlations with hospital stay were studied using the Student’s t test, analysis of variance, Mann-Whitney U-test and linear regression model. Results: Among the 112 patients studied, there were 32 empyema, 50 complicated and 30 non-complicated parapneumonic cases. The median of length stay for all patients was 17 days. Longer hospitalization was required in patients with empyemic PE (p = 0.015), patients with underlying diseases (p = 0.003), those needing pleural drainage (p = 0.005) or decortication (p = 0.043) and those presenting unfavorable radiological outcome after treatment (p = 0.02). Biochemical parameters associated with longer hospital stay were elevated pleural fluid polymorphonuclear elastase (p = 0.001, r = 0.307) and lactate dehydrogenase (p = 0.001, r = 0.312). After linear regression analysis, only underlying disease, pleural drainage and pleural fluid polymorphonuclear elastase values remained in the model, explaining 23.1% of the variability of days of hospitalization. Conclusions: The patients with PPE and empyema who required longer hospitalization were those with purulent fluid, underlying disease, surgical drainage and/or decortication, with unfavorable radiological outcome and higher pleural fluid levels of lactate dehydrogenase and polymorphonuclear elastase.
Diffuse Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations in a Teenager with Corrected Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Drainage
Authors: Pfleger Andreas , Gamillscheg Andreas , Popper Helmut H. , Smolle-Jüttner Freyja-Maria , Zach Maximilian S.
Published: August 2005

This case report describes a 13-year-old boy with diffuse microvascular pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, in whom total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage had been corrected surgically in the newborn period. Contrast transesophageal echocardiography, cardiac catheterization and a lung perfusion scan suggested, and lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis in our patient. Treatment with nifedipin was commenced. Conclusion: This case illustrates the diagnostic difficulties with this rare malformation.
The Rush Memory and Aging Project: Study Design and Baseline Characteristics of the Study Cohort
Authors: Bennett David A. , Schneider Julie A. , Buchman Aron S. , Mendes de Leon Carlos , Bienias Julia L. , Wilson Robert S.
Published: August 2005

The long-term objective of the Rush Memory and Aging Project is to identify the postmortem indices linking genetic and environmental risk factors to the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The overall study design involves a detailed assessment of risk factors for AD in older persons without known dementia who agree to annual clinical evaluation and organ donation at the time of death. In contrast to other clinical-pathologic studies which are conducted on special populations, the Rush Memory and Aging Project enrolled a cohort with much greater diversity in terms of educational attainment, in addition to gender, race, and ethnicity. From September of 1997 through April of 2005, more than 1,000 older persons without known dementia from more than 30 residential facilities across the Chicago metropolitan area agreed to participate. Their mean age was 81 years, about a third had 12 or fewer years of education, a third were men, and about 10% were members of a racial or ethnic minority group. More than 950 already have completed their baseline clinical evaluation.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mortality in 1.9 Million US Cancer Survivors
Authors: Freedman D. Michal , Travis Lois B. , Gridley Gloria , Kuncl Ralph W.
Published: August 2005

Background: Large cancer registries offer the opportunity to explore and generate hypotheses about the pathogenesis of cancer and other diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: Using data from nine population-based cancer registries of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program of the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) and death certificates, we followed 1.9 million cancer survivors who were diagnosed between 1973 and 2000 and who survived at least 1 year, through the year 2000. The outcome of interest was the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) of observed to expected ALS deaths among cancer survivors. To assess the validity of the study design, we also examined associations with Parkinson’s disease mortality, which we expected to be inversely associated with smoking-related cancers. Results: There was no significantly increased risk or deficit of ALS mortality for all cancer sites combined (SMR = 1.0). Parkinson’s disease mortality was, as expected, significantly and inversely associated with smoking-related cancers. Both ALS and Parkinson’s disease mortality were significantly elevated following melanoma (SMR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.1–2.2; SMR = 1.5; 1.2–1.8, respectively). Contrary to previous hypotheses, ALS was unrelated to lymphomas or lymphoproliferative malignancies and was not associated with smoking-related cancers. Conclusions: In this exploratory study, we observed a modest, significant association between melanoma and both ALS and Parkinson’s disease mortality. It would be useful to explore these findings in other large national databases that are able to link cancer and ALS and Parkinson’s disease.
The Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study: Study Design and Methods
Authors: Langa Kenneth M. , Plassman Brenda L. , Wallace Robert B. , Herzog A. Regula , Heeringa Steven G. , Ofstedal Mary Beth , Burke James R. , Fisher Gwenith G. , Fultz Nancy H. , Hurd Michael D. , Potter Guy G. , Rodgers Willard L. , Steffens David C. , Weir David R. , Willis Robert J.
Published: August 2005

Objective: We describe the design and methods of the Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study (ADAMS), a new national study that will provide data on the antecedents, prevalence, outcomes, and costs of dementia and ‘cognitive impairment, not demented’ (CIND) using a unique study design based on the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS). We also illustrate potential uses of the ADAMS data and provide information to interested researchers on obtaining ADAMS and HRS data. Methods: The ADAMS is the first population-based study of dementia in the United States to include subjects from all regions of the country, while at the same time using a single standardized diagnostic protocol in a community-based sample. A sample of 856 individuals age 70 or older who were participants in the ongoing HRS received an extensive in-home clinical and neuropsychological assessment to determine a diagnosis of normal, CIND, or dementia. Within the CIND and dementia categories, subcategories (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia) were assigned to denote the etiology of cognitive impairment. Conclusion: Linking the ADAMS dementia clinical assessment data to the wealth of available longitudinal HRS data on health, health care utilization, informal care, and economic resources and behavior, will provide a unique opportunity to study the onset of CIND and dementia in a nationally representative population-based sample, as well as the risk factors, prevalence, outcomes, and costs of CIND and dementia.
Stroke Etiology among Haitians Living in Miami
Authors: Koch Sebastian , Pabon Diego , Rabinstein Alejandro A. , Chirinos Julio , Romano Jose G. , Forteza Alejandro
Published: August 2005

The black Caribbean population continues to grow in the US and little is known about stroke etiologies in that community. We examined stroke subtypes in 175 consecutive Haitian-born patients living in Miami, admitted for acute stroke. Ischemic stroke was diagnosed in 72%. Small vessel occlusion was the most frequent stroke subtype. There was a high prevalence of hypertension, medication noncompliance and intracranial atherosclerosis. Hypertension was the only cardiovascular risk factor significantly associated with small vessel infarction when compared with non-small vessel infarcts.
Is There Evidence That Alpha-Iso-Methylionone Causes Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
Authors: Hostýnek Jurij J. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: August 2005

The fragrance material alpha-iso-methylionone, or ‘gamma-methylionone’, has been cited as a moderately frequent cause of allergic contact dermatitis. A review of the literature shows that when the underlying clinical and experimental data are analyzed, a clear cause-effect relationship has infrequently or rarely been established. On the basis of the generally weak sensitizing potential of this substance, coupled with its generally low exposure conditions, the prevalence of clinical cases would not be expected to be particularly high. This is not to say that alpha-iso-methylionone is a frequent inducer of low-intensity but sub-clinical, type IV allergy in members of the public. It remains to be seen however, how often such allergy, once established, is responsible for any of the cases of allergic contact dermatitis commonly ascribed in the literature. Indeed, in some cases, patch test conditions may not be optimal for differentiating between clinically relevant and irrelevant allergy to alpha-iso-methylionone. Prospective screening patch test studies combined with appropriate follow-up to ascertain clinical relevance should clarify these issues.
Smoking Habits and Alcohol Consumption in Patients with Cutaneous Lichen planus
Authors: Mansur A.Tülin , Kılıç Zeliha
Published: August 2005

Background: Alcohol intake and smoking have been reported to be risk factors in some inflammatory skin disorders. There is a dearth of published data on the relation between smoking/alcohol intake and oral lichen planus. Moreover, the reports on the relationship of these habits with cutaneous lichen planus (CLP) are lacking. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate smoking and alcohol as potential risk factors in CLP. Methods: We examined smoking habits and alcohol consumption in 55 patients with CLP, and compared the results with control subjects who had superficial fungal infections, matched for age and sex. Results: There was no statistical difference between the two groups according to the rate of patients that had ever smoked (combining both current and past smokers) and the rate of the patients who had never smoked (p > 0.05). No significant difference was found between CLP patients and controls with respect to current smokers and subjects who never smoked (p > 0.05). The most notable finding was that the rate of subjects who quitted smoking was significantly higher among CLP patients compared to controls (23.6 vs. 5.5%, p < 0.05). Regarding alcohol consumption, there was no significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: We conclude that alcohol intake and smoking do not appear to be risk factors for CLP. The increased incidence of ex-smokers in patients with CLP was an unexpected and interesting finding. Further epidemiological studies and investigations are warranted to clear up this observation.
Influence of Sodium Valproate on Sodium and Chloride Urinary Excretion in Rats, Gender Differences
Authors: Grikiniene Jurgita , Stakisaitis Donatas , Tschaika Marina
Published: August 2005

Evidence exists indicating that sodium valproate (VPA) increases diuresis in rats. The chloriuretic and natriuretic effect of VPA has not previously been investigated, so the aim of the present study was to define the peculiarities of 24-hour urinary sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) excretion in young adult Wistar rats of both genders, and to evaluate the effects of VPA. 24-Hour urinary Na, Cl, creatinine and pH levels were measured in 28 control intact Wistar rats and 26 Wistar rats after a single intragastric administration of 300 mg/kg VPA. After VPA administration, 24-hour diuresis and 24-hour diuresis per 100 g of body weight were significantly higher in VPA rats of both genders. 24-Hour urine Na and Cl excretion were significantly higher in VPA male and VPA female rats than in gender-matched controls. The 24-hour urinary Cl excretion was found to be significantly higher in VPA male than in VPA female rats. The study data show that VPA, alongside the diuretic effect, enhances Na and Cl excretion with urine. The 24-hour chloriuretic response to VPA in male rats was significantly higher than in female rats. The mechanism of such a gender-related effect is not yet clear.
Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis: Alkali Heals Osteomalacia and Increases Net Production of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D
Authors: Wrong Oliver , Henderson Janet E. , Kaye Michael
Published: August 2005

In 2 women with distal renal tubular acidosis and osteomalacia, alkali treatment cured the bone disease and was accompanied by marked increases in the serum 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D concentration, without a significant change in the 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration.
Index Variables for Studying Outcomes in Vascular Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Mitnitski Arnold , Rockwood Kenneth
Published: August 2005

Multivariable modeling in dementia risk factor studies is limited by the number of factors that can be analyzed practicably. Index variables, which integrate exposures, can efficiently reduce dimensionality. The Consortium to Investigate Vascular Impairment of Cognition study, a Canadian memory-clinic-based 30-month cohort study of 1,347 patients, used a vascular risk factor index (from 20 exposures) and a vascular clinical profile index (17 items). Patients with vascular cognitive impairment had higher index counts compared to those without cognitive impairment (0.16 ± 0.11 vs. 0.07 ± 0.07 for the risk factor index and 0.21 ± 0.16 vs. 0.09 ± 0.07 for the clinical profile index; p < 0.05). Both the death rate and the rate of cognitive impairment increased exponentially with the index variable (r > 0.90 for each index). The risk ratio for death was 1.12 (95% CI 1.09–1.15) for each increment of the risk factor index and was 1.23 (95% CI 1.1–1.28) for each increment of the clinical profile index. With each index, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for predicting death and institutionalization ranged from 0.73 ± 0.01 to 0.75 ± 0.01. Construction of index variables that integrate multidimensional factors is a promising approach to assessing risk in multidetermined states.
Morphological Abnormalities in Nitric-Oxide-Synthase-Positive Striatal Interneurons of Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Lauer Martin , Johannes Silvia , Fritzen Sabrina , Senitz Dieter , Riederer Peter , Reif Andreas
Published: August 2005

Schizophrenia has been suggested to be a neurodevelopmental disorder, and nitric-oxide-synthase (NOS)-positive neurons were shown to be involved in distorted cortical development in schizophrenia. Here we investigated whether nitrinergic neurons in the striatum of schizophrenic patients also display abnormalities regarding distribution or morphology. To do so, postmortem putaminal sections of schizophrenic subjects were examined by means of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPHd) staining and NOS immunohistochemistry. NOS-positive neurons were counted and analyzed morphologically. Abnormalities regarding morphology or number of NOS-containing neurons could be found in the putamen of schizophrenics (n = 3), but not controls (n = 5). Neurons were either of abnormal size and branching pattern, or they were markedly reduced (130 ± 44 vs. 54 ± 62 NADPHd-positive somata/mm3 putamen; p < 0.0001). Striatal nitrinergic interneurons might thus be involved in the pathogenesis of at least some forms of schizophrenia. Studies on larger samples are however needed to further corroborate this finding.
Association Study of a Functional MAOA-uVNTR Gene Polymorphism and Personality Traits in Chinese Young Females
Authors: Yu Younger W.-Y. , Yang Chih-Wei , Wu Hung-Chi , Tsai Shih-Jen , Hong Chen-Jee , Chen Ming-Chao , Chen Tai-Jui
Published: August 2005

Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), a mitochondrial outer membrane enzyme, degrades biogenic amines including norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, which have been implicated in the expression ofpersonality traits. We tested the associations between functional MAOA-uVNTR genetic variants and personality traits in a cohort of 370 healthy young Chinese females. Subjects who were homozygous for the 4-repeat allele of the MAOA-uVNTR gene tended to have a higher total score on the Harm Avoidance (HA) dimension of the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ) (p = 0.056), and had a significantly higher score on subdimension 4 of HA (p = 0.020) compared with the 3-repeat carriers. No significant association was demonstrated for MAOA-uVNTR polymorphism and the other two dimensions (Novelty Seeking and Reward Dependence) of TPQ. These results suggest that genetic variants of the MAOA gene may play a role in HA, but not in Novelty Seeking or Reward Dependence.
Rapid Visual Information Processing in Schizophrenic Patients: The Impact of Cognitive Load and Duration of Stimulus Presentation
Authors: Cattapan-Ludewig Katja , Hilti Caroline C. , Ludewig Stephan , Vollenweider Franz X. , Feldon Joram
Published: August 2005

The inability to sustain attention has been proposed as a core deficit in schizophrenia. The Continuous Performance Task (AX-CPT) and the Rapid Visual Information Processing Task (RVP) are widely used neuropsychological tasks to measure sustained attention. The RVP displays numbers as stimuli, whereas the AX-CPT uses letters. Ten patients with chronic schizophrenia and 18 healthy control subjects were studied using four different versions of the RVP. The versions differed with regard to stimulus presentation time (600 vs. 1,200 ms) and the number of target sequences to be memorized: either one sequence (low cognitive load) or two sequences (high cognitive load). Schizophrenic patients showed a reduced number of hits only on the task version with 600 ms stimulus duration coupled with high cognitive load. The combination of high cognitive load and short stimulus duration created a critical performance breaking point for schizophrenic patients. This finding supports the hypothesis that patients have an impaired ability to coactivate different cognitive performances; thus the results favor the theory of impaired functional connectivity in schizophrenia.
G-Protein β3 Subunit C825T Polymorphism Tends to Be Associated with Seasonal Variation in Young Male College Students
Authors: Lee Heon-Jeong , Sung Seung-Mo , Han Chang-Su , Kim Yong-Ku , Kim Seung-Hyun , Lee Min-Soo , Joe Sook-Haeng , Jung In-Kwa , Kim Leen
Published: August 2005

This study investigated the relationship between G-protein β3 subunit (GNB3) C825T polymorphism and seasonal variation in 189 young male college students. The subjects were genotyped for C825T and were evaluated by the Seasonality Pattern Assessment Questionnaire. The Global Seasonality Score (GSS) between the three genotypes revealed a marginal difference. The heterozygotes showed significantly higher seasonal variations in GSS than the homozygotes. The prevalence of heterozygotes tended to be higher in seasonals compared with normal subjects, although it was not statistically significant. These results suggest that GNB3 C825T polymorphism tends to be related to seasonal variation in mood and behavior in the normal population.
Paradoxical Sleep in Mice Lacking M3 and M2/M4 Muscarinic Receptors
Authors: Goutagny Romain , Comte Jean-Christophe , Salvert Denise , Gomeza Jesus , Yamada Masahisa , Wess Jürgen , Luppi Pierre-Hervé , Fort Patrice
Published: August 2005

Acetylcholine is crucial for the regulation of paradoxical sleep (PS) and EEG theta activity. To determine the contribution of individual muscarinic receptors to these events, we analyzed the sleep-waking cycle and EEG activities of mice lacking functional M3 or M2/M4 receptors. Daily PS amounts were significantly decreased in M3–/– (–22%) but not in M2/M4–/– mice. Further, the theta peak frequency for PS was significantly increased in both M2/M4–/– and M3–/– mice. This study supports the potential role of M3 rather than M2 and M4 muscarinic receptors in the modulation of PS in mice and strengthens the idea that multiple muscarinic receptors contribute to the regulation of the EEG theta activity during PS.
Successful Treatment of Deep Dyspareunia and Primary Dysmenorrhea with Laparoscopic Uterosacral Nerve Ablation (LUNA) Procedure
Authors: Juang Chi-Mou , Yen Ming-Shien , Horng Huann-Cheng , Yu Hung-Chuan , Chang Chia-Ming , Yeh Jiun-Yih
Published: August 2005

Deep dyspareunia, often described as pain resulting from pelvic thrusting during sexual intercourse, is relatively common and has many causes. To date, feasible surgical interventions for deep dyspareunia are very rare. The two procedures which have been mentioned in the literature for the treatment of deep dyspareunia were laparoscopic uterosacral ligament ablation (LUNA) and uterine ventrosuspension. We report the case of a young female patient, aged 32, gravida 3, parity 2, presenting with deep dyspareunia and primary dysmenorrhea for 4 years. She had both subjective and objective improvements for dyspareunia and primary dysmenorrhea following LUNA operation. Further large-scaled randomized controlled trial is mandatory to verify the surgical effect of LUNA operation for patients with deep dyspareunia.
Vaginal Hysterectomy for the Enlarged Uterus
Authors: Harmanli Ozgur H. , Byun Sharon , Dandolu Vani , Gaughan John P. , Grody M.H. Terry
Published: August 2005

Objective: To evaluate the effect of uterine weight on the perioperative outcomesof vaginal hysterectomy for benign gynecological conditions. Materials and Methods: The medical records of 312 consecutive women who underwent vaginal hysterectomies for benign gynecological conditions without major pelvic reconstruction at Temple University Hospital between March 1994 and August 1999were reviewed. 88 women with uterine weights ≧250 g were compared with 224 women with uterine weights <250 g. The risk of perioperative complications, operative time, perioperative hemoglobin change, length of postoperative hospital stay, and readmission were evaluated between the groups. Results: Groups were similar with respect to age, parity, history of previous pelvic surgery and concurrent adnexal removal. Operative time was significantly increased for women with uteri weighing ≧250 g. Women with uterine weight ≧250 g had a higher risk for postoperative febrile morbidity. The risks of all other major complications, perioperative change in hemoglobin concentration, length of stay, and readmission risk were not statistically different between the groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Despite the increased postoperative febrile morbidity and prolonged operative time, women with uteri weighing ≧250 g who underwent vaginal hysterectomy were discharged from the hospital without any increase in other complications when compared to women with a smaller uterus.
Mt 21-42: Development and Validation of an Automatic Device Proposed for the Endoscopic Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Atrophic Gastritis
Authors: Tucci Antonio , Tucci Primiano , Marchegiani Attilio , Papadopoli Giovanni , Spada Alessia , Cristino Michele , Fusaroli Pietro , Olivero Pistoletto Massimo , Olivero Pistoletto Mauro , Poli Loris , Bisceglia Michele , Caletti Giancarlo
Published: August 2005

Background: Gastric juice may give important clinico-pathological information, but measurements in this medium are difficult. In this study we present and validate an innovative device (Mt 21-42) performing gastric juice analyses during endoscopy and proposed for the endoscopic diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection and hypo/achlorhydria. Methods: Analyses on both aqueous solutions (80 pH buffer + 120 ammonium chloride samples) and human gastric juice were carried out to assess the measuring performance of Mt 21-42 on the ideal and real matrix, respectively. Matrix spike and manipulation tests were also performed to investigate the matrix effect of gastric juice and to evaluate the consequences of its manipulation on the measurements. Furthermore, preliminary clinical tests were performed to evaluate the clinical potentiality of the device. Results:Mt 21-42 showed a good measuring performance on ideal matrix (coefficient variation: pH = 1.3%, ammonium = 2.1%) and real matrix (coefficient variation: pH = 1.2%, ammonium = 1.9%). Analyses on gastric juice excluded a substantial matrix effect (percent recovery =96.5–98.7%) but demonstrated a significant influence of manipulation procedures (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Human gastric juice does not have a substantial matrix effect for pH and ammonium determination, but its manipulation may affect the measurement of these components. Mt 21-42 represents a precise instrument for the measurement of gastric juice and a potential precious tool for the endoscopic detection of H. pylori infection and hypo/achlorhydric conditions.
Insulin-Induced Hypoglycemia Stimulates Gastric Vagal Activity and Motor Function without Increasing Cardiac Vagal Activity
Authors: Hjelland Ina Elen , Oveland Nils Petter , Leversen Katrine , Berstad Arnold , Hausken Trygve
Published: August 2005

Background/Aims: We investigated whether increasing the efferent vagal activity by insulin-induced hypoglycemia would enhance gastric emptying and volumes in healthy subjects. Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers (10 males) were examined with and without vagal stimulation by insulin-induced hypoglycemia using a glucose clamp technique. Stomach function was tested by drinking meat soup (0.04 kcal ml–1) at a rate of 100 ml min–1 until maximal capacity. Intragastric volume at maximal drinking capacity was determined by three-dimensional ultrasound. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was used as an index of cardiac vagal activity and plasma pancreatic polypeptide (PP) as a measure of gastric vagal activity, and skin conductance (SC) as a measure of sympathetic tone. Results: Insulin-induced hypoglycaemia increased drinking capacity (p = 0.002), gastric emptying (p = 0.02), PP (p = 0.004) and SC (p = 0.004), while intragastric volume was unchanged (p = 0.7) and RSA decreased (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Enhancement of gastric vagal activity by insulin-induced hypoglycemia increased drinking capacity and gastric emptying similarly, resulting in an unchanged intragastric volume. Enhanced efferent vagal activity to the stomach (as measured by PP) was not associated by enhanced cardiac vagal activity (as measured by RSA), possibly a consequence of stress-induced sympathetic activation during the procedure.