bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endodontic retreatment: a rational approach to non‐surgical root canal therapy of immature teeth
Authors: Mandel E. , Bourguignon‐Adelle C.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The specificity of retreating immature teeth involves generally a broadly wide open apex and/or an inverted root canal conicity (apical opening wider than the root canal orifice), a periapical pathology leading often to a continuous canal exudation and thin and fragile dentinal walls.

Nonsurgical endodontic retreatment of immature teeth consists at first in removing coronal and root canal iatrogenic obstructions in order to regain total canal patency. Apexification is then the treatment of choice, preceding a final gutta‐percha obturation.

The present article outlines a step‐by‐step rational approach to the root canal retreatment of immature teeth, pertaining to their biomechanical and pathological specificity.
Traumatic injuries to anterior teeth in Italian schoolchildren: prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Petti S. , Tarsitani G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract In the present study, the prevalence of traumatic injuries to anterior teeth in 824, 6‐ to I 1‐year‐old, schoolchildren from Rome (Italy) and the relationship between injuries and predisposing factors were evaluated. Prevalence value of the study‐population was 20.26%. This value is higher than those reported in surveys performed in Italian emergency dental services, but it is similar to those of retrospective studies from other countries. The highest prevalence was found among 9‐year‐old boys (33.69%); the M/F ratio was 1.64. The percentage of injuries with unknown cause (21.46%) was higher than that of other studies. This may be because most of injuries were slight (64.39% of injuries were enamel fractures) and it is likely that children and their parents were not worried about them, when they happened, so that they did not seek urgent dental care ‐ this helps to explain the prevalence values of this and other retrospective studies, which are higher than those from emergency services ‐ and, when interviewed, they did not remember the circumstances of the traumatic event. Using the Mantcl‐Haenszel's Odds Ratios stratified for age and sex, injuries were related to individual predisposing factors (overjet larger than 3 mm: OR=2.57, p = 0.0001, short upper lip: OR=2.23, p=0.0001 and upper medial incisor protrusion: OR=3.95. p = n.s.), but not to children's trauma predisposing behaviour (OR=0.92, p = n.s.). Serious injuries, however, happened lo children without predisposing factors and were caused by strong impacts, suggesting that individual risk factors may not affect these type of injuries.
Mental nerve paresthesia associated with a non‐vital tooth
Authors: Cohenca N. , Rotstein I.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Apical periodontitis is a common development associated with teeth with necrotic pulp. Although rare, some cases may present further complications, such as neuropathies in areas adjacent to the affected tooth. A case is described in which mental nerve paresthesia was associated with a non‐vital mandibular preniolar. Kndodontic therapy resolved the paresthesia completely without further clinical complications.
Diffusion of resin monomers through human carious dentin in vitro
Authors: Hamid A. , Hume W. R.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The diffusion of 2‐hydroxyethylmediacrylate (HEMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) from light cured bonding resin‐composite resin restorations through human carious dentin was investigated. Extracted human molar teeth with different degrees of caries were obtained from consenting donors. Teeth were classified into three groups according to caries severity (mild, moderate and severe) using subjective criteria. The outer carious lesions were then removed guided by a proprietary caries detector dye. Teeth with exposure of the pulp space after caries removal were excluded from the study. A polypropylene chamber was attached to the cemento‐enamel junction of each tooth to contain 1 ml distilled water. Each cavity was restored with a HEMA containing bonding resin then a TEGDMA‐containing resin composite. Water samples were retrieved over a lime course and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. There was great variation between teeth in HEMA and TEGDMA permeability. The cumulative amounts released were of similar magnitude to those observed in non‐carious teeth for the mild and moderately‐severe groups. However, the cumulative amounts released were markedly greater in severely carious teeth than in those with moderate or mild caries.
Revascularization of traumatized teeth assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry: case report
Authors: Mesaros S. V. , Trope M.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Infection of the pulp space in addition to the attachment damage of a traumatic injury to a tooth, results in serious complications and often tooth loss. Therefore, the prevention or treatment of root canal infection is a major consideration in these cases. In immature teeth, revascularization of a necrotic pulp is possible and highly desirable. Unfortunately, current sensitivity tests are poor indicators of revascularization, with the result that many pulps are removed unnecessarily. Laser Doppler flowmetry is an objective test of the presence of moving red blood cells within a tissue, which has been reported to be effective in the detection of tooth pulp vitality as well. A case is presented where an eight year old child severely luxated both maxillary central incisors. While only one of the incisors was weakly responsive to CO2 ice at 76 days after replantation, the laser Doppler flowmeter indicated that revascularization was occurring in both teeth at a much earlier lime. Because of the laser Doppler readings, endodontic treatment was not initiated and the teeth developed normally.
Comparison of two desensitizing agents for the treatment of cervical dentine sensitivity
Authors: Gillam D. G. , Coventry J. F. , Manning R. H. , Newman H. N. , Bulman J. S.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Numerous desensitizing agents have been utilized in an effort to alleviate the discomfort associated with cervical dentine sensitivity (CDS). Recently several new tubule‐occluding and sealant systems have been marketed for treatment. The aim of this study was to compare two desensitizing agents (ALL‐BOND 2 and Butler Protect) in a 3‐month clinical study. Ten subjects (6F; 4M mean age 45.1 years (SD 8.81) who had provided voluntary written informed consent participated in a single‐blind 3‐month clinical study. Subjects were evaluated for tactile (Yeaple probe) and air sensitivity (dental air syringe) together with subjective perception of pain (VAS scores) at 0.5 min, 1, 2 and 3 months. There was an overall trend in reduction of CDS over the study period in all groups with no significant differences detected between groups. The results suggested that while subjects reported overall reductions in sensitivity levels, this may not necessarily be substantiated when assessed objectively. Furthermore, there appeared to be a strong placebo effect in this study.
Mouth guard for athletes during orthodontic treatment
Authors: Yamade T. , Sawaki Y. , Ueda M.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Mouth guards have been proven to greatly reduce the number and severity of traumatic dental injuries to participants in contact sports. However, there are some difficult problems in making month guards for athletes with orthdontic appliances on their teeth. We developed a method of making mouth guards by using a coating material for such athletes to prevent dental and oral sports injuries and to protect the orthodontic appliances. This mouth guard fits well and does not damage the appliances.
Endodontic management of a rare combination (intrusion and avulsion) of dental trauma
Authors: Harlamb S. C. , Messer H. H.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Combined trauma involving intrusive luxation of one tooth and avulsion of another is rare. A case is presented involving the endodontic management of two traumatised maxillary central incisors, one of which was intrusively luxated and the other avulsed. Spontaneous re‐eruption of the intruded tooth occurred, thereby avoiding the need to further traumatise the periodontal ligament with cither orthodontic or surgical repositioning, and allowing endodontic therapy to be carried out uneventfully. Endodontic therapy of the avulsed tooth was completed and its prognosis is considered good.
A comparison of dentine removal using safety or conventional Hedstrom files
Authors: Lumley P. J.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Mandibular molars (n=20) were divided and the mesial roots mounted in an acrylic mould which allowed them to be removed, sectioned horizontally and then reassembled. The furcal root canal wall thickness 7 mm from the apex was measured prior to instrumentation. The roots were allocated to two groups (n=10). One group was instrumented using the step back technique with safety Hedstroms in one canal and conventional Hedstrom files in the other canal. The second group was instrumented using a crown down approach (using files and Gates Glidden drills to provide early radicular access). The furcal root canal wall thickness was then remeasured and the amount of dentine removed calculated. The results showed that the safetv Hedstrom file removed less dentine from the furcal region of the canal compared to the conventional Hedstrom file. This however was not statistically significant (Paired t test, n=10, p>0.05). The amount of dentine removed using the crown down technique was significantly greater than that using the step back technique (Two sample t, n = 20, p<0.01). In conclusion, less dentine was removed from the furcal region with safety Hedstrom files compared to conventional Hedstrom files; however, Gates Glidden drills removed more dentine than either type of hand file.
Periapical status, quality of root canal fillings and estimated endodontic treatment needs in an urban German population
Authors: Weiger R. , Hitzler S. , Hermle G. , Löst C.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the periapical status and the quality of root canal fillings and to estimate the endodontic treatment needs in a German population. Clinical and radiographic data and the operative procedures performed were evaluated on 323 patients coming to a dental surgery in Stuttgart, Germany, in 1993. In 182 individuals at least one tooth exhibited a root canal filling, a necrotic pulp or an irreversible pulpitis. Out of the 7897 teeth examined, 215 (2.7%) had a root canal treatment (category A), 122 being nonendodontically treated (1.5%) did not respond to the sensitivity test (category B) and 53 (0.7%) were diagnosed as having irreversible inflamed pulp tissue (category C). The prevalence of teeth associated with radiographic signs of periapical pathosis was 61 % in the group of root canal filled teeth and 88% in the group of pulpless and non‐endodontically treated teeth. Using the level and the density of the root canal filling as criteria for evaluating the technical standard, only 14% of the endodontic treatments of non‐apicectomized teeth were qualified as adequate. The minimal endodontic treatment need is 2.3% related to all examined teeth when the root canal filled teeth with clinical symptoms of periapical periodontitis (category A) and those of categories B and C are included. The real endodontic treatment need is suggested to be larger when considering that the technical quality of the obturation is poor in most symptomless endodontically treated teeth associated with a periapical lesion. In the case of retreatment of these teeth, the endodontic treatment need would then be calculated at 3.7%.
Endodontic treatment of an unusual mandibular second molar
Authors: Beltes P. , Huang G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract A case involving unusual pulpal morphology due to fusion or gemination was treated by conservative endodontic treatment. Clinically, the involved mandibular second molar had an enlarged clinical crown and an extra cusp with a deep carious lesion. Careful negotiation, instrumentation and obturation of the root canal system led to successful treatment.
Endodontic therapy for fused mandibular molar
Authors: Rotstein I. , Moshonov J. , Cohenca N.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Variations in tooth morphology present a clinical challenge when endodontic treatment is required. A case of conservative endodontic therapy for a fused mandibular second and third molar is presented.
Avulsed permanent teeth: a review of the literature and treatment guidelines
Authors: Barrett E. J. , Kenny D. J.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Dental trauma represents one of the few situations where dentists are called upon to make unscheduled diagnostic and treatment decisions in an area that is outside their routine experience. Since patients who sustain an avulsion present infrequently, except in child‐oriented or emergency‐based practices, clinicians often make diagnostic and management decisions based upon their previous rare treatment experiences. Clinicians also rely on published guidelines for this aspect of their practice and expect these standards to be up‐to‐date and based on current research information. None of the current protocols has been tested by a prospective longitudinal outcome study in humans. Nevertheless, current guidelines have become the standard for clinical practice around the world. An effort must be made to develop treatment protocols that are based upon the biological mechanisms that underlie periodontal wound healing.
Accuracy of apex locator
Authors: Vajrabhaya L. , Tepmongkol P.
Published: April 2006

Abstract An evaluation of the accuracy of the “Root ZX” apex locator was conducted on 20 single‐rooted teeth that had been extracted because of severe disease or orthodontic treatment. After the pulp chamber had been accessed and the tooth length determined using the Root ZX apparatus, the file was fixed to the tooth with light‐cured composite resin. After extraction, the tooth was longitudinally ground with a diamond bur until the file was visible. The distance between the file tip and the apical foramen was measured under a microscope (×100). The results showed that the tip of the instrument reached the apical foramen in all teeth.
Direct digital radiography for the detection of periapical bone lesions: a clinical study
Authors: Kullendorff B. , Petersson K. , Rohlin M.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The aim was to compare the observer performance of direct digital radiography, with and without image processing, with that of conventional radiography, for the detection of periapical bone lesions. For 50 patients, a conventional periapical radiograph using E‐speed film was taken. Then, a direct digital image of the same area was made. The images presenting the periapical bone tissue of 59 roots were assessed by seven observers using a 5‐point confidence scale. The digital images were first presented as original images, with default contrast and brightness set by the computer system. Following this, the observers were allowed to use the processing facilities for greyscale treatment. The results for original and processed direct digital images and for conventional radiographs were compared by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. The area under the ROC curve, calculated as P(A) value, was 0.88 for conventional film, 0.82 for original digital images and 0.78 for processed images. Corresponding Az values were slightly higher, 0.89, 0.84 and 0.81. Statistically significant differences between ROC areas calculated as P(A) values for the methods were found. Comparison between Az values showed no significant differences between conventional radiographs and original digital images, whereas the difference between Az values for original and processed digital images was still significant. It was concluded that conventional film radiography performed slightly better for the detection of periapical bone lesions than direct digital radiography and that image processing did not improve the observer performance.
Long‐term follow‐up of conservative treatment of severely traumatized maxillary incisors
Authors: Brin I. , Fuks A. , Guelmann M. , Hirschfeld Z.
Published: April 2006

Abstract We present the case of a 26‐year‐old man who at the age of 9 suffered severe trauma to both maxillary central incisors. The underlying malocclusion was skeletal and classified as dental Class II/1 with severe crowding. Both the maxillary central incisors and the two lower first premolars were extracted and the patient was treated with an edgewise appliance for 2 years. Acceptable occlusal relationships were achieved following orthodontic and adjunctive treatment which consisted of reshaping the maxillary lateral incisors with composite materials and grinding the canines to resemble lateral incisors. A critical evaluation of the esthetic and functional results at the age of 26 years is presented.
Multiple dens invaginatus affecting maxillary lateral incisors and a supernumerary tooth
Authors: Jiménez‐Rubio A. , Segura J. J. , Jiménez‐Planas A. , Llamas R.
Published: April 2006

Abstract Dens invaginatus is a developmental variation resulting from an alteration in the normal growth pattern of the dental papilla of a tooth. This anomaly occurs predominantly in maxillary permanent lateral incisors. Multiple occurrence in maxillary incisor teeth in the same patient has frequently been reported, and examination of bilateral teeth for the anomaly is often carried out routinely. This paper reports an unusual case of multiple invaginations, including dens invaginatus affecting maxillary lateral incisors and a supernumerary tooth and minor imaginations of the upper canines. Moreover, the case illustrates the importance of examining all the teeth in patients who present with dens invaginatus and palatal pits in incisors and canines. The possibility that the supernumerary tooth had resulted from gemination of the lateral incisor tooth germ is discussed.
Traumatic dental injuries in a cohort of 16‐year‐olds in northern Sweden
Authors: Borssén E. , Holm A.‐K.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The prevalence and yearly incidence of traumatic tooth injury between 1 and 16 years of age were studied in a cohort of 16 year‐olds, born in 1975, and residing in the County of Västerbotten, northern Sweden. The study comprised 3007 dental records from the public denial health service. The general distribution was 50.3% girls and 49.7% boys. The records showed that 35% of the children on one or more occasions had sustained injury to their primary or permanent dentition. The frequency was nearly twice as high for boys (64%) as for girls (36%). Twenty‐five percent of the 16‐year‐olds had met with tooth injury more than once and this group consisted predominantly of boys. The incidence of injury episodes to primary and permanent teeth was 28 per 1000 per year. The boys had sustained trauma to their teeth most frequently when they were 4 years of age and between the ages of 8 and 11. This was also true for girls at 4 and at 9 years of age, although less evidently so. In the primary dentition, the majority of dental injuries had affected the supporting tissue of the maxillary incisors. In the permanent dentition, 75% of the traumatised teeth were upper incisors. Fractures of varying severity constituted 60% of all registered diagnoses in this dentition, followed by subluxation (19%) and concussion (11%).
Delayed endodontic and orthodontic treatment of cross‐bite occurring after luxation injury in permanent incisor teeth
Authors: Çalişkan M.K. , Çinsar A. , Türkün M. , Akkemik Ö.
Published: April 2006

Abstract A case is presented in which combined endodontic and orthodontic therapy was performed in traumatically injured teeth 12 months after an accident. Calcium hydroxide treatment was used to halt any possible resolution during orthodontic treatment. The teeth were repositioned in a desirable manner without any complication by orthodontic treatment. Root canal obturation was accomplished after the completion of active orthodontic treatment. Recall examination 12 months after completion of root canal treatment showed clinical and radiographic evidence of healing.
The crumbling citadel: absolute judicial immunity de-rationalised
Authors: Olowofoyeku Abimbola A.
Published: April 2006

A Turk is fined and recommended for deportation by a magistrate for breach of the Aliens Order 1953. The magistrate recommends that he not be detained in custody pending the Home Office’ decision on the recommendation for deportation. The Turk appeals to the Crown Court against the recommendation for his deportation. The judge rules that he has no jurisidiction to hear the appeal and dismisses it. On seeing the erstwhile appellant about to leave the court premises the judge cries ‘stop him’, on which the appellant Turk is arrested by the police and detained in custody. The Divisional Court of the Queens Bench issues an order of habeas corpus for the release of the Turk on the ground that the judge in the Crown Court had been functus officio before be began to consider whether the Turk should be detained or not. The Turk consequently brings an action against the Crown Court judge and the police, claiming damages for assault and false imprisonment. It is decided that the judge is immune from liability because he had acted in his capacity as a judge.
From need to choice, welfarism to advanced liberalism? Problematics of social housing allocation
Authors: Cowan Dave , Marsh Alex
Published: April 2006

Drawing on studies in governmentality, this paper considers the ways in which the selection and allocation of households for social housing have been conceptualised and treated as problematic. The paper urgues that the notion of ‘need’ emerged relatively slowly over the course of the twentieth century as the organising criterion of social housing. Yet ‘need’ became established as a powerful tool used to place those seeking social housing in hierarchies, and around which considerable expertise developed. While the principle of allocation on the basis of need has come to occupy a hegemonic position, it has operated it continual tension with competing criteria based on notions of suitability. As a consequence, this paper identifies risk management as a recurrent theme of housing management practices. By the 1960s need-based allocation was proving problematic in terms of who was being prioritised; it was also unuble to resist the challenge ofdeviant behaviour by tenunts and the apparent unpopularity of the social rented sector. We argue that the tramition to advanced liberalism prefaced a shift to new forms of letting accommodation bused on household choice, which have been portrayed as addressing core problems with the bureaucratically-driven system. We conclude by reflecting on the tensions inherent in seeking to foster choice, while continuing to adhere to the notion of need.
Effect of dopamine on rat diaphragm apoptosis and muscle performance
Authors: Pierce Janet D. , Goodyear‐Bruch Caryl , Hall Sandra , Clancy Richard L.
Published: April 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine whether dopamine (DA) decreases diaphragm apoptosis and attenuates the decline in diaphragmatic contractile performance associated with repetitive isometric contraction using an in vitro diaphragm preparation. Strenuous diaphragm contractions produce free radicals and muscle apoptosis. Dopamine is a free radical scavenger and, at higher concentrations, increases muscle contractility by simulating β2‐adrenoreceptors. A total of 47 male Sprague–Dawley rats weighing 330–450 g were used in a prospective, randomized, controlled in vitro study. Following animal anaesthetization, diaphragms were excised, and muscle strips prepared and placed in a temperature‐controlled isolated tissue bath containing Krebs–Ringer solution (KR) or KR plus 100 μm DA. The solutions were equilibrated with oxygen (O2) at 10, 21 or 95% and 5% carbon dioxide, with the balance being nitrogen. Diaphragm isometric twitch and subtetanic contractions were measured intermittently over 65 min. The diaphragms were then removed and, using a nuclear differential dye uptake method, the percentages of normal, apoptotic and necrotic nuclei were determined using fluorescent microscopy. There were significantly fewer apoptotic nuclei in the DA group diaphragms than in the KR‐only group diaphragms in 10 and 21% O2 following either twitch or subtetanic contractions. Dopamine at 100 μm produced only modest increases in muscle performance in both 10 and 21% O2. The attenuation of apoptosis by DA was markedly greater than the effect of DA on muscle performance. Dopamine decreased diaphragmatic apoptosis, perhaps by preventing the activation of intricate apoptotic pathways, stimulating antiapoptotic mechanisms and/or scavenging free radicals.
The cation‐chloride cotransporter NKCC1 promotes sharp waves in the neonatal rat hippocampus
Authors: Sipilä Sampsa T. , Schuchmann Sebastian , Voipio Juha , Yamada Junko , Kaila Kai
Published: April 2006

Earlier studies indicate a crucial role for the interconnected network of intrinsically bursting CA3 pyramidal neurons in the generation of in vivo hippocampal sharp waves (SPWs) and their proposed neonatal in vitro counterparts, the giant depolarizing potentials (GDPs). While mechanisms involving ligand‐ and voltage‐gated channels have received lots of attention in the generation of CA3 network events in the immature hippocampus, the contribution of ion‐transport mechanisms has not been extensively studied. Here, we show that bumetanide, a selective inhibitor of neuronal Cl− uptake mediated by the Na+–K+–2Cl− cotransporter isoform 1 (NKCC1), completely and reversibly blocks SPWs in the neonate (postnatal days 7–9) rat hippocampus in vivo, an action also seen on GDPs in slices (postnatal days 1–8). These findings strengthen the view that GDPs and early SPWs are homologous events. Gramicidin‐perforated patch recordings indicated that NKCC1 accounts for a large (∼10 mV) depolarizing driving force for the GABAA current in the immature CA3 pyramids. Consistent with a reduction in the depolarization mediated by endogenous GABAA‐receptor activation, bumetanide inhibited the spontaneous bursts of individual neonatal CA3 pyramids, but it slightly increased the interneuronal activity as seen in the frequency of spontaneous GABAergic currents. An inhibitory effect of bumetanide was seen on the in vitro population events in the absence of synaptic GABAA receptor‐mediated transmission, provided that a tonic GABAA receptor‐mediated current was present. Our work indicates that NKCC1 expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons promotes network activity in the developing hippocampus.
AMP‐activated protein kinase – development of the energy sensor concept
Authors: Hardie D. Grahame , Hawley Simon A. , Scott John W.
Published: April 2006

The LKB1→AMPK cascade is switched on by metabolic stresses that either inhibit ATP production (e.g. hypoxia, hypoglycaemia) or that accelerate ATP consumption (e.g. muscle contraction). Any decline in cellular energy status is accompanied by a rise in the cellular AMP: ATP ratio, and this activates AMPK by a complex and sensitive mechanism involving antagonistic binding of the nucleotides to two sites on the regulatory γ subunits of AMPK. Once activated by metabolic stress, AMPK activates catabolic pathways that generate ATP, while inhibiting cell growth and biosynthesis and other processes that consume ATP. While the AMPK system probably evolved in single‐celled eukaryotes to maintain energy balance at the cellular level, in multicellular organisms its role has become adapted so that it is also involved in maintaining whole body energy balance. Thus, it is regulated by hormones and cytokines, especially the adipokines leptin and adiponectin, increasing whole body energy expenditure while regulating food intake. Some hormones may activate AMPK by an LKB1‐independent mechanism involving Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein kinase kinases. Low levels of activation of AMPK are likely to play a role in the current global rise in obesity and Type 2 diabetes, and AMPK is the target for the widely used antidiabetic drug metformin.
The relationship between an inflammation-based prognostic score (Glasgow Prognostic Score) and changes in serum biochemical variables in patients with advanced lung and gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Brown D J F , Milroy R , Preston T , McMillan D C
Published: April 2006

Background:The Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), an inflammation-based prognostic score formed from standard thresholds of C reactive protein (CRP) and albumin, has prognostic value in patients with advanced cancer. Little is known about the general biochemical disturbance associated with the systemic inflammatory response in cancer.

Aim:To examine the relationship between the GPS and blood biochemistry in patients with advanced lung and gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods:The GPS (albumin <35 g/l = 1 and CRP >10 mg/l = 1 combined to form a prognostic score of 0 (normal) and 1 or 2 (abnormal)) and a variety of biochemical variables were examined in patients (n = 50) with advanced lung or gastrointestinal cancer and in a healthy control group (n = 13).

Results:The GPS was normal in all the controls, but abnormal in 78% of the cancer group. Serum levels of sodium, chloride, creatine kinase, zinc and vitamin D were lower in the cancer group (all p<0.01), whereas levels of calcium, copper (both p<0.05), alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transferase (both p<0.001) and lactate dehydrogenase (p<0.10) were raised. In the patient group, with increasing GPS, there was a median reduction in Karnofsky Performance Status (25%), haemoglobin (22%), sodium (3%), zinc (15%) and survival (93%, all p<0.05) and a median increase in white cell count (129%), alkaline phosphatase (217%), γ-glutamyl transferase (371%) and lactate dehydrogenase (130%, all p<0.05). CRP levels were strongly and similarly correlated with alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase, accounting for more than 25% of the variation in their activities.

Conclusion:Several correlations were seen between biochemical variables and increasing GPS. In particular, chronic activation of the systemic inflammatory response in cancer was associated with increase in γ-glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase activity in patients with advanced lung and gastrointestinal cancer.
Informed choice of pregnant women in prenatal screening tests for Down’s syndrome
Authors: Chiang H-H , Chao Y-M (Yu) , Yuh Y-S
Published: April 2006

Background:Although maternal serum screening (MSS) for Down’s syndrome has become routinely available in most obstetric clinics in many countries, few studies have addressed the reasons why women agree to undergo the MSS test.

Objectives:The aims of this study were to describe the circumstances in which MSS was offered to pregnant women and their reasons for undertaking it.

Methods:Participant observation and in depth interviews were used in this study; specifically, the experiences of women who had a positive result for MSS and who then followed this up with amniocentesis were examined. The interviewees were twenty six mothers aged between 22 and 35 years. The interviews were audio taped and transcribed for analysis. The results were analysed by the constant comparative method.

Results:This study identified the reasons on which pregnant women appeared to base their decisions when undergoing MSS. The reasons were first, the recognition that the procedure was a prenatal routine procedure; second, the need to avoid the risk of giving birth to a baby with Down’s syndrome, and third, a trust in modern technology and in the professional authorities.

Conclusions:This study offers insights into the informed choice made by women with a positive MSS result. The reasons for undergoing MSS might help health professionals and policy makers to reflect on their practice and this may, in turn, improve the quality of prenatal care during MSS.
Occupational trichloroethylene exposure and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma: a meta-analysis and review
Authors: Mandel J H , Kelsh M A , Mink P J , Alexander D D , Kalmes R M , Weingart M , Yost L , Goodman M
Published: April 2006

Methods:Meta-analysis and review of 14 occupational cohort and four case-control studies of workers exposed to trichloroethylene (TCE) to investigate the relation between TCE exposure and the risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Studies were selected and categorised based on a priori criteria, and results from random effects meta-analyses are presented.

Results:The summary relative risk estimates (SRRE) for the group of cohort studies that had more detailed information on TCE exposure was 1.29 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.66) for the total cohort and 1.59 (95% CI 1.21 to 2.08) for the seven studies that identified a specific TCE exposed sub-cohort. SRREs for three studies with cumulative exposure information were 1.8 (95% CI 0.62 to 5.26) for the lowest exposure category and 1.41 (95% CI 0.61 to 3.23) for the highest category. Comparison of SRREs by levels of TCE exposure did not indicate exposure-response trends. The remaining cohort studies that identified TCE exposure but lacked detailed exposure information had an SRRE of 0.843 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.98). Case-control studies had an SRRE of 1.39 (95% CI 0.62 to 3.10). Statistically significant findings for the Group 1 studies were driven by the results from the subgroup of multiple industry cohort studies (conducted in Europe) (SRRE = 1.86; 95% CI 1.27 to 2.71). The SRRE for single industry cohort studies was not significantly elevated (SRRE = 1.25; 95% CI 0.87 to 1.79).

Conclusions:Interpretation of overall findings is hampered by variability in results across the Group 1 studies, limited exposure assessments, lack of evidence of exposure response trends, lack of supportive information from toxicological and mechanistic data, and absence of consistent findings in epidemiologic studies of exposure and NHL. Although a modest positive association was found in the TCE sub-cohort analysis, a finding attributable to studies that included workers from multiple industries, there is insufficient evidence to suggest a causal link between TCE exposure and NHL.
PHENOMENOLOGY OF "BIMAXIMAL + DEMOCRATIC" TYPE NEUTRINO MASS MATRIX
Authors: GHOSAL AMBAR , MAJUMDAR DEBASISH
Published: April 2006

We demonstrate that "Bimaximal + Democratic" type neutrino mass matrix can accommodate the deviation of θ⊙ from its maximal value along with the other present-day neutrino experimental results, namely, atmospheric, CHOOZ, neutrinoless double beta decay (ββ0ν) and result obtained from WMAP experiment. We define a function χp in terms of solar and atmospheric neutrino mass squared differences and solar neutrino mixing angle (obtained from different experiments and our proposed texture). The masses and mixing angles are expressed in terms of three parameters in our proposed texture. The allowed region of the texture parameters is obtained through minimization of the above function. The proposed texture crucially depends on the value of the experimental results of ββ0ν experiment among all other above-mentioned experiments. If, in future, ββ0ν experiments, namely, MOON, EXO, GENIUS shift the lower bound on 〈mee〉 at the higher side by one order, the present texture will be ruled out.
AN INVARIANT APPROACH TO DYNAMICAL FUZZY SPACES WITH A THREE-INDEX VARIABLE
Authors: SASAKURA NAOKI
Published: April 2006

A dynamical fuzzy space might be described by a three-index variable [Formula: see text], which determines the algebraic relations [Formula: see text] among the functions fa on the fuzzy space. A fuzzy analogue of the general coordinate transformation would be given by the general linear transformation on fa. We study equations for the three-index variable invariant under the general linear transformation and show that the solutions can be generally constructed from the invariant tensors of Lie groups. As specific examples, we study SO(3) symmetric solutions and discuss the construction of a scalar field theory on a fuzzy two-sphere within this framework.
SHAPE EVOLUTION FOR Ce ISOTOPES IN RELATIVISTIC MEAN-FIELD THEORY
Authors: YU MIAO , ZHANG PENG-FEI , RUAN TU-NAN , GUO JIAN-YOU
Published: April 2006

The evolution of shape from the axially deformed to the spherical shapes in the Ce isotopes is investigated microscopically in relativistic mean-field theory. The microscopic and self-consistent quadruple deformation constrained relativistic mean-field calculations show a clear change for the even-even Ce isotopes with N = 62 ~ 84. The potential surfaces for 128 Ce , 130 Ce , 132 Ce and 134 Ce are found to be relatively flat, which may be the possible critical-point nuclei. Similar conclusions can also be drawn from the microscopic single-particle spectra.
DECISION FRAMEWORK FOR SELECTION OF FACILITIES LOCATION IN COMPETITIVE SUPPLY CHAIN
Authors: KODALI RAMBABU , ROUTROY SRIKANTA
Published: April 2006

Supply chain management (SCM) is an area that has recently received a great deal of attention. In today's markets, no business can be successful without mastering the issues, problems and possibilities in managing competitive supply chains. In competitive supply chain network, facilities location includes location of manufacturing plant, which is considered as supply chain design decisions and involved in major capital investments and has a long-term effect on the supply chain performance. Therefore, the successful execution of this decision would give cutting edge to the organization. Selection of a facilities location is a complex task as it involves both qualitative and quantitative factors. The present work describes a framework for selection of facilities location in competitive supply chain.
POSITIONING ACCURACY CHARACTERIZATION OF PRECISION MICROROBOT OVER THE INTERNET
Authors: KWON YONGJIN , CHIOU RICHARD , RAUNIAR SHREEPUD , SOSA HORACIO
Published: April 2006

There is a missing link between a virtual development environment (e.g., a CAD/CAM driven offline robotic programming) and production requirements of the actual robotic workcell. Simulated robot path planning and generation of pick-and-place coordinate points will not exactly coincide with the robot performance due to lack of consideration in variations in individual robot repeatability and thermal expansion of robot linkages. This is especially important when robots are controlled and programmed remotely (e.g., through Internet or Ethernet) since remote users have no physical contact with robotic systems. Using the current technology in Internet-based manufacturing that is limited to a web camera for live image transfer has been a significant challenge for the robot task performance. Consequently, the calibration and accuracy quantification of robot critical to precision assembly have to be performed on-site and the verification of robot positioning accuracy cannot be ascertained remotely. In worst case, the remote users have to assume the robot performance envelope provided by the manufacturers, which may causes a potentially serious hazard for system crash and damage to the parts and robot arms. Currently, there is no reliable methodology for remotely calibrating the robot performance. The objective of this research is, therefore, to advance the current state-of-the-art in Internet-based control and monitoring technology, with a specific aim in the accuracy calibration of micro precision robotic system for the development of a novel methodology utilizing Ethernet-based smart image sensors and other advanced precision sensory control network.
Locus coeruleus is a central chemoreceptive site in toads
Authors: Noronha-de-Souza Carolina R. , Bícego Kênia C. , Michel Gustavo , Glass Mogens L. , Branco Luiz G. S. , Gargaglioni Luciane H.
Published: April 2006

The locus coeruleus (LC) has been suggested as a CO2chemoreceptor site in mammals. This nucleus is a mesencephalic structure of the amphibian brain and is probably homologous to the LC in mammals. There are no data available for the role of LC in the central chemoreception of amphibians. Thus the present study was designed to investigate whether LC of toads ( Bufo schneideri) is a CO2/H+chemoreceptor site. Fos immunoreactivity was used to verify whether the nucleus is activated by hypercarbia (5% CO2in air). In addition, we assessed the role of noradrenergic LC neurons on respiratory and cardiovascular responses to hypercarbia by using 6-hydroxydopamine lesion. To further explore the role of LC in central chemosensitivity, we examined the effects of microinjection of solutions with different pH values (7.2, 7.4, 7.6, 7.8, and 8.0) into the nucleus. Our main findings were that 1) a marked increase in c-fos-positive cells in the LC was induced after 3 h of breathing a hypercarbic gas mixture; 2) chemical lesions in the LC attenuated the increase of the ventilatory response to hypercarbia but did not affect ventilation under resting conditions; and 3) microinjection with acid solutions (pH = 7.2, 7.4, and 7.6) into the LC elicited an increased ventilation, indicating that the LC of toads participates in the central chemoreception.
Protection of Endothelial Survival by Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-δ Mediated 14-3-3 Upregulation
Authors: Liou Jun-Yang , Lee Sang , Ghelani Dipak , Matijevic-Aleksic Nevenka , Wu Kenneth K.
Published: April 2006

Objective—

To determine the role of prostacyclin (PGI
2
) in protecting endothelial cells (ECs) from apoptosis and elucidate the protective mechanism.

Methods and Results—

To evaluate the effect of PGI
2
on EC survival, we treated ECs with Ad-COX1/PGIS (Ad-COPI), which augmented selectively PGI
2
production or carbaprostacyclin (cPGI
2
) followed by H
2
O
2
for 4 hours. Ad-COPI inhibited annexin V–positive cells and blocked caspase 3 activation. cPGI
2
inhibited apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. L-165041 had a similar effect, suggesting the involvement of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-δ (PPARδ). ECs expressed functional PPARδ. PPARδ overexpression enhanced whereas PPARδ knockdown by small interfering RNA abrogated the antiapoptotic action of cPGI
2
and L-165041. Our results show for the first time that PGI
2
stimulated 14-3-3α expression via PPARδ activation. cPGI
2
and L-165041 induced binding oaf PPARδ to PPAR response elements located between −1426 and −1477 of 14-3-3α promoter region, thereby activating 14-3-3α promoter activity and protein expression. Upregulation of 14-3-3α proteins resulted in an increase in Bad binding to 14-3-3α and a reduction in Bad translocation to mitochondria.

Conclusions—

PGI
2
protects ECs from H
2
O
2
-induced apoptosis by inducing PPARδ binding to 14-3-3α promoter, thereby upregulating 14-3-3α protein expression. Elevated 14-3-3α augments Bad sequestration and prevents Bad-triggered apoptosis.
Involvement of the Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37 in Human Atherosclerosis
Authors: Edfeldt Kristina , Agerberth Birgitta , Rottenberg Martin E. , Gudmundsson Gudmundur H. , Wang Xiong-Biao , Mandal Kaushik , Xu Qingbo , Yan Zhong-qun
Published: April 2006

Objective—

Antimicrobial peptides are effector molecules of the innate immune system. To understand the function of vascular innate immunity in atherosclerosis, we investigated the role of LL-37, a cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, in the disease process.

Methods and Results—

Using real-time polymerase chain reaction, we found a 6-fold increase in human cationic antimicrobial protein 18/LL-37 transcript in human atherosclerotic lesions compared with normal arteries. Immunohistochemical analysis of atherosclerotic plaques showed that LL-37 was expressed mainly by macrophages and some endothelial cells. Western blot demonstrated existence of active LL-37 peptide and abundant proprotein in atheroma specimens. To understand the functional implication of LL-37 production in atherosclerosis, the transcription profile was assessed in endothelial cells treated with LL-37. Our data show that LL-37 induces expression of the adhesion molecule intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and the chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 in endothelial cells. Intriguingly,
Chlamydia pneumoniae
withstood the antimicrobial activity of LL-37 in vitro, although inflammatory response was induced on infection.

Conclusion—

LL-37 is produced in atherosclerotic lesions, where it may function as an immune modulator by activating adhesion molecule and chemokine expression, thus enhancing innate immunity in atherosclerosis.
Cardiomyocyte-Specific Overexpression of NO Synthase-3 Protects Against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Elrod John W. , Greer James J.M. , Bryan Nathan S. , Langston Will , Szot Jeffrey F. , Gebregzlabher Henock , Janssens Stefan , Feelisch Martin , Lefer David J.
Published: April 2006

Objective—

The protective effect of NO synthase-3 (eNOS)–derived NO in limiting myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI-R) injury is well established. We reported previously that systemic genetic overexpression of eNOS attenuates MI-R injury. The purpose of the current study was to investigate tissue-specific genetic overexpression of the human eNOS gene.

Methods and Results—

To accomplish this, we used 2 distinct murine models of transgenic overexpression, a cardiomyocyte-specific eNOS overexpresser (CS eNOS-Tg) under the control of the α-myosin heavy chain promoter, and a systemic eNOS transgenic mouse (SYS eNOS-Tg) under control of the native eNOS promoter with an upstream endothelial enhancer element. Mice were subjected to 30 or 45 minutes of left coronary artery ischemia and 24 or 72 hours of reperfusion. CS eNOS-Tg mice displayed significantly decreased infarct size beyond that of mice with systemic overexpression. Additionally, CS eNOS-Tg mice exhibited better preservation of cardiac function compared with SYS eNOS-Tg mice after myocardial infarction.

Conclusion—

These results provide evidence that site-specific targeting of eNOS gene therapy may be more advantageous in limiting MI-R injury and subsequent cardiac dysfunction.
Motor Cortex Activation During Treatment May Predict Therapeutic Gains in Paretic Hand Function After Stroke
Authors: Dong Yun , Dobkin Bruce H. , Cen Steven Y. , Wu Allan D. , Winstein Carolee J.
Published: April 2006

Background and Purpose—

Functional brain imaging after stroke offers insight into motor network adaptations. This exploratory study examined whether motor cortical activation captured during arm-focused therapy can predict paretic hand functional gains.

Methods—

Eight hemiparetic patients had serial functional MRI (fMRI) while performing a pinch task before, midway, and after 2 weeks of constraint-induced therapy. The Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) was performed before and after intervention.

Results—

There was a linear reduction in ipsilateral (contralesional) primary motor (M1) activation (voxel counts) across time. The midpoint M1 Laterality Index anticipated post-therapeutic change in time to perform the WMFT. The change in ipsilateral M1 voxel count (pre- to mid-) correlated with the change in mean WMFT time (pre- to post-).

Conclusions—

The relationship between brain activation during treatment and functional gains suggests a use for serial fMRI in predicting the success and optimal duration for a focused therapeutic intervention.