bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Enterprise Potential in Young People
Authors: Athayde Rosemary
Published: March 2009

As young people increasingly become the target of entrepreneurial and enterprise policy initiatives and enterprise education in schools increases, so does the need to effectively measure the impact these programs have. A research instrument was designed to measure “enterprise potential” in young people using attitudes toward characteristics associated with entrepreneurship. A control–group cross–sectional design was used to investigate the impact of participation in a Young Enterprise Company Program, which is based on the U.S. Junior Achievement model, in six secondary schools in London, United Kingdom. The study found that participation in a Company Program can foster positive attitudes toward self–employment and that participants displayed greater enterprise potential than nonparticipants. Demographic differences also emerged in enterprise potential between ethnic groups. Young Black people were more positive about self–employment and displayed greater enterprise potential than either White or Asian pupils. A family background of self–employment had a positive influence on pupils’ intentions to become self–employed. Finally, the research raises a conceptual issue concerning the multidimensionality of the construct of “enterprise potential.”
Entrepreneurs’ Decisions on Timing of Entry: Learning from Participation and from the Experiences of Others
Authors: Lévesque Moren , Minniti Maria , Shepherd Dean
Published: March 2009

Depending on the type of industry, an entrepreneur's decision of when to enter an industry may be a crucial one. The longer entrepreneurs wait, the more they learn from others. However, by waiting, they reduce their ability to learn directly and the possibility of locking in competitive advantages. We suggest that the optimal time of entry depends on the hostility of the learning environment since the latter has an impact on dimensions of performance, such as profit potential and mortality risk. The environment for entrepreneurial learning is less hostile when the information to be learned is abundant and when learning from others is relatively more effective at increasing performance than learning from participation. Our results suggest that delaying entry is desirable when the environment is less hostile. Entrepreneurs, however, cannot wait forever. We show that, under some general conditions, an optimal time of entry can be determined, and discuss the specific situations in which, instead, multiple equilibria may arise.
Enhancing mating performance after juvenile hormone treatment in Anastrepha fraterculus: a differential response in males and females acts as a physiological sexing system
Authors: Segura Diego F. , Cáceres Carlos , Vera M. Teresa , Wornoayporn Viwat , Islam Amirul , Teal Peter E.A. , Cladera Jorge L. , Hendrichs Jorge , Robinson Alan S.
Published: March 2009

Methoprene (a mimic of juvenile hormone) treatment can reduce the time required for sexual maturation in Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) males under laboratory conditions, supporting its use as a treatment for sterile males within the context of the sterile insect technique (SIT). We evaluated sexual behaviour, mating competitiveness of methoprene‐treated males, and female readiness to mate after methoprene‐treatment in field cages. The study involved two strains of A. fraterculus from Argentina and Peru, which show several polymorphisms in relation to their sexual behaviour. We also analyzed whether methoprene treatment affected male and/or female behaviour in the same way in these two strains. Methoprene‐treated males were equally competitive with untreated mature males, and became sexually competitive 6 days after emergence (3–4 days earlier than untreated males). In contrast, methoprene did not induce sexual maturation in females or, at least, it did not induce a higher rate of mating in 7‐day‐old females. These results were observed both for the Argentina and the Peru strains. Altogether, our results indicate that methoprene treatment produces sexually competitive males in field cages. In the absence of a genetic sexing system, and when sterile males and females of A. fraterculus are released simultaneously, the fact that females do not respond as do males to the methoprene treatment acts as a physiological sexing effect. Therefore, in the presence of mainly sexually immature sterile females, released sexually mature sterile males would have to disperse in search of wild fertile females, thereby greatly reducing matings among the released sterile insects and thus enhancing sterile insect technique efficiency.
Inflammation and frailty measures in older people
Authors: Hubbard Ruth E. , O’Mahony M. Sinead , Savva George M. , Calver Brian L. , Woodhouse Ken W.
Published: March 2009

Inflammation in patients defined as frail by Fried’s phenotypic definition may be related to sarcopenia. This study aimed to investigate inflammation in older patients across different frailty criteria. Frailty status was determined in 110 patients aged over 75 years (mean 83.9 years) according to function (dependent, intermediate, independent); Fried (three or more items of exhaustion, weight loss, slow walking speed, low handgrip strength, low physical activity) and Frailty Index (a measure of accumulated deficits). With increasing patient frailty as defined by function and by Fried phenotype, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) increased significantly. Albumin was lowest in the frailest subjects by each definition. The greatest differences were seen between intermediate and dependent groups and between the pre‐frail and frail. Adjustment for multiple covariates (age, sex, BMI category, smoking status, number of co‐morbidities and number of prescribed medications) did not account for any of the observed differences in levels of inflammatory markers. The Frailty Index correlated significantly with log‐transformed CRP (r= 0.221, P < 0.05), log‐transformed IL‐6 (r= 0.369, P < 0.01), TNF‐α (r= 0.379, P < 0.01) and inversely with albumin (r=– 0.545, P < 0.01). This study provides further evidence linking inflammation and frailty in older people, an association that seems consistent across different frailty measures.
H2O2‐induced Ca2+ influx and its inhibition by N‐(p‐amylcinnamoyl) anthranilic acid in the β‐cells: involvement of TRPM2 channels
Authors: Bari Muhammad R. , Akbar Sanian , Eweida Mohamed , Kühn Frank J.P. , Gustafsson Amanda Jabin , Lückhoff Andreas , Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: March 2009

Type 2 melastatin‐related transient receptor potential channel (TRPM2), a member of the melastatin‐related TRP (transient receptor potential) subfamily is a Ca2+‐permeable channel activated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). We have investigated the role of TRPM2 channels in mediating the H2O2‐induced increase in the cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in insulin‐secreting cells. In fura‐2 loaded INS‐1E cells, a widely used model of β‐cells, and in human β‐cells, H2O2 increased [Ca2+]i, in the presence of 3 mM glucose, by inducing Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane. H2O2‐induced Ca2+ influx was not blocked by nimodipine, a blocker of the L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channels nor by 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, a blocker of several TRP channels and store‐operated channels, but it was completely blocked by N‐(p‐amylcinnamoyl)anthranilic acid (ACA), a potent inhibitor of TRPM2. Adenosine diphosphate phosphate ribose, a specific activator of TRPM2 channel and H2O2, induced inward cation currents that were blocked by ACA. Western blot using antibodies directed to the epitopes on the N‐terminal and on the C‐terminal parts of TRPM2 identified the full length TRPM2 (TRPM2‐L), and the C‐terminally truncated TRPM2 (TRPM2‐S) in human islets. We conclude that functional TRPM2 channels mediate H2O2‐induced Ca2+ entry in β‐cells, a process potently inhibited by ACA.
Affinity and catalytic heterogeneity of polyclonal myelin basic protein‐hydrolyzing IgGs from sera of patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Legostaeva Galina A. , Polosukhina Dar’ya I. , Bezuglova Anna M. , Doronin Boris M. , Buneva Valentina N. , Nevinsky Georgy A.
Published: March 2009

Human myelin basic protein (hMBP)‐hydrolyzing activity was recently shown to be an intrinsic property of antibodies (Abs) from multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Here, we present the first evidence demonstrating a significant diversity of different fractions of polyclonal IgGs (pIgGs) from MS patients in their affinity for hMBP and in the ability of pIgGs to hydrolyze hBMP at different optimal pHs (3–10.5). IgGs containing λ‐ and κ‐types of light chains demonstrated comparable relative activities in the hydrolysis of hMBP. IgGs of IgG1–IgG4 sub‐classes were analyzed for catalytic activity. IgGs of all four sub‐classes were catalytically active, with their contribution to the total activity of Abzs in the hydrolysis of hMBP and its 19‐mer oligopeptide increasing in the order: IgG1 (1.5–2.1%) < IgG2 (4.9–12.8%) < IgG3 (14.7–25.0%) < IgG4 (71–78%). Our findings suggest that the immune systems of individual MS patients generate a variety of anti‐hMBP abzymes with different catalytic properties, which can attack hMBP of myelin‐proteolipid shell of axons, playing an important role in MS pathogenesis.
Cardiac cell therapy: overexpression of connexin43 in skeletal myoblasts and prevention of ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Fernandes Sarah , Rijen Harold V.M. van , Forest Virginie , Evain Stéphane , Leblond Anne‐Laure , Mérot Jean , Charpentier Flavien , Bakker Jacques M.T. de , Lemarchand Patricia
Published: March 2009

Cell‐based therapies have great potential for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Recently, using a transgenic mouse model Roell et al. reported that cardiac engraftment of connexin43 (Cx43)‐overexpressing myoblasts in vivo prevents post‐infarct arrhythmia, a common cause of death in patients following heart attack. We carried out a similar study but in a clinically relevant context via transplantation of autologous connexin43‐overexpressing myoblasts in infarcted rats. Seven days after coronary ligation, rats were randomized into three groups: a control group injected with myoblasts, a null group injected with myoblasts transduced with an empty lentivirus vector (null) and a Cx43 group injected with myoblasts transduced with a lentivirus vector encoding connexin43. In contrast to Roell’s report, arrhythmia occurrence was not statistically different between groups (58%, 64% and 48% for the control (n= 12), null (n= 14) and Cx43 (n= 23) groups, respectively, P= 0.92). Using ex vivo intramural monophasic action potential recordings synchronous electrical activity was observed between connexin43‐overexpressing myoblasts and host cardiomyocytes, whereas such synchrony did not occur in the null‐transduced group. This suggests that ex vivo connexin43 gene transfer and expression in myoblasts improved intercellular electrical coupling between myoblasts and cardiomyocytes. However, in our model such electrical coupling was not sufficient to decrease arrhythmia induction. Therefore, we would suggest a note of caution on the use of combined Cx43 gene and cell therapy to prevent post‐infarct arrhythmias in heart failure patients.
Formation of lipid raft redox signalling platforms in glomerular endothelial cells: an early event of homocysteine‐induced glomerular injury
Authors: Yi Fan , Jin Si , Zhang Fan , Xia Min , Bao Jun‐Xiang , Hu Junjun , Poklis Justin L. , Li Pin‐Lan
Published: March 2009

The present study tested the hypothesis that homocysteine (Hcys)‐induced ceramide production stimulates lipid rafts (LRs) clustering on the membrane of glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) to form redox signalling platforms by aggregation and activation of NADPH oxidase subunits and thereby enhances superoxide (O2.−) production, leading to glomerular endothelial dysfunction and ultimate injury or sclerosis. Using confocal microscopy, we first demonstrated a co‐localization of LR clusters with NADPH oxidase subunits, gp91phox and p47phox in the GECs membrane upon Hcys stimulation. Immunoblot analysis of floated detergent‐resistant membrane fractions found that in LR fractions NADPH oxidase subunits gp91phox and p47phox are enriched and that the activity of this enzyme dramatically increased. We also examined the effect of elevated Hcys on the cell monolayer permeability in GECs. It was found that Hcys significantly increased GEC permeability, which was blocked by inhibition of LR redox signalling platform formation. Finally, we found that Hcys‐induced enhancement of GEC permeability is associated with the regulation of microtubule stability through these LR‐redox platforms. It is concluded that the early injurious effect of Hcys on the glomerular endothelium is associated with the formation of redox signalling platforms via LR clustering, which may lead to increases in glomerular permeability by disruption of microtubule network in GECs.
Cytomegalovirus: its potential role in the development of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Ballanger F. , Bressollette C. , Volteau C. , Planche L. , Dreno B.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  To investigate the potential role of CMV in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL), we studied cytomegalovirus (CMV) seroprevalence in parapsoriasis (PP), mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS) compared with healthy control patients. In cases where CMV seropositivity was observed, CMV PCR analyses were performed on skin biopsies. CMV seroprevalence was 37.1% in the control group, 50.68% in the PP + MF + SS group (P = 0.08), 56.2% in the MF + SS group (P = 0.07), 40% in the PP group (P = 0.9), 66.67% in the MF group (P = 0.009), 42.86% in the SS group (P = 0.9). CMV PCR in initial skin biopsies were all negative. However, PCR CMV was positive in two SS skin biopsies realized at an advanced stage. Our results show that latent CMV infection may play a role in the susceptibility of MF in predisposed subjects by inducing T‐cell proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. Concerning SS, an immunosuppressive state may be responsible for CMV reactivation that in turn may interfere with evolution of the disease.
In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy of erythematosquamous skin diseases
Authors: Koller Silvia , Gerger Armin , Ahlgrimm‐Siess Verena , Weger Wolfgang , Smolle Josef , Hofmann‐Wellenhof Rainer
Published: March 2009

Background:  In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) represents a promising imaging tool that allows a non‐invasive examination of skin morphology in real time at nearly histological resolution, showing microanatomical structures and individual cells.

Objectives:  The aim of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of confocal examination of erythematosquamous skin diseases, to define typical RCM‐features and assess them for their presence or absence, diagnostic performance and reliability.

Methods:  Three independent observers received standardized instructions about diagnostic RCM‐features of erythematosquamous skin diseases. A total of 1700 RCM images obtained from 75 patients with psoriasis, contact dermatitis, mycosis fungoides, chronic discoid lupus erythematosus (CDLE) or subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) and from 10 ‘healthy adults’ without any skin disease were evaluated by each observer.

Results:  Overall, sensitivity and specificity values as observed by three observers were, respectively, 89.13% and 95.41% for psoriasis; 83.33% and 92.31% for contact dermatitis; 62.96% and 94.53% for SCLE/CDLE; and 63.33% and 92.89% for mycosis fungoides.

Conclusions:  Reflectance confocal microscopy examination appears to be a promising method for non‐invasive assessment of erythematosquamous skin diseases. This study provides a set of well‐described morphological criteria with obvious diagnostic impact, which should be used in further investigations.
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry: a new tool in diagnostic investigation of nail disorders?
Authors: Pföhler Claudia , Hollemeyer Klaus , Heinzle Elmar , Altmeyer Wolfgang , Graeber Stefan , Müller Cornelia S. L. , Stark Alexandra , Jager Sven Uwe , Tilgen Wolfgang
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The incidence and prevalence of onychomycosis are rising worldwide. Common diagnostic techniques often lack sensitivity or specificity. Differentiation between non‐infectious nail disorders is frequently not possible. The aim of this study was to establish a better diagnostic routine procedure based on modern mass spectrometric peptide analysis techniques. One hundred and fifty‐five nail samples from 145 patients with clinically suspected onychomycosis (n = 96, 62%) and without onychomycosis [e.g. nail psoriasis or nail dystrophy resulting from eczema (n = 59, 38%)] were investigated using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) peptide mass fingerprinting in comparison with standard techniques. We demonstrated that MALDI‐TOF MS represents a precise, robust and fast tool in diagnostic investigation of nail disorders, which is superior to common standard methods.
Conformational snapshots of Tec kinases during signaling
Authors: Joseph Raji E. , Andreotti Amy H.
Published: March 2009

Summary:  The control of cellular signaling cascades is of utmost importance in regulating the immune response. Exquisitely precise protein–protein interactions and chemical modification of substrates by enzymatic catalysis are the fundamental components of the signals that alert immune cells to the presence of a foreign antigen. In particular, the phosphorylation events induced by protein kinase activity must be spatially and temporally regulated by specific interactions to maintain a normal and effective immune response. High resolution structures of many protein kinases along with supporting biochemical data are providing significant insight into the intricate regulatory mechanisms responsible for controlling cellular signaling. The Tec family kinases are immunologically important kinases for which regulatory details are beginning to emerge. This review focuses on bringing together structural insights gained over the years to develop an understanding of how domain interactions both within the Tec kinases and between the Tec kinases and other signaling molecules control immune cell function.
T‐cell protein tyrosine phosphatase is a key regulator in immune cell signaling: lessons from the knockout mouse model and implications in human disease
Authors: Doody Karen M. , Bourdeau Annie , Tremblay Michel L.
Published: March 2009

Summary:  The immune system requires for its proper ontogeny, differentiation, and maintenance the function of several tyrosine kinases and adapters that create and modify tyrosine phosphorylation sites. Tyrosine phosphorylation is a crucial protein modification in immune cell signaling and can be reversed by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Much progress has been made in identifying and understanding PTP function in the immune system. In this review, we present one of these proteins, named T‐cell PTPs (TC‐PTP) (gene name PTPN2), a classical, non‐receptor PTP that is ubiquitously expressed with particularly high expression in hematopoietic tissues. TC‐PTP is remarkable not only by the fact that it appears to influence most, if not all, cells involved in the development of the immune system, from stem cells to differentiated lineages, but also recent findings have positioned it at the core of several human diseases from autoimmune disease to cancer.
Regulation of the immune response by stress‐activated protein kinases
Authors: Rincón Mercedes , Davis Roger J.
Published: March 2009

Summary:  Activation of immune cells to mediate an immune response is often triggered by potential ‘danger’ or ‘stress’ stimuli that the organism receives. Within the mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) family, the stress‐activated protein kinase (SAPK) group was defined as group of kinases that activated by stimuli that cause cell stress. In the immune cells, SAPKs are activated by antigen receptors (B‐ or T‐cell receptors), Toll‐like receptors, cytokine receptors, and physical–chemical changes in the environment among other stimuli. The SAPKs are established to be important mediators of intracellular signaling during adaptive and innate immune responses. Here we summarize what is currently known about the role of two sub‐groups of SAPKs – c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase and p38 MAPK‐in the function of specific components of the immune system and the overall contribution to the immune response.
T‐cell receptor proximal signaling via the Src‐family kinases, Lck and Fyn, influences T‐cell activation, differentiation, and tolerance
Authors: Salmond Robert J. , Filby Andrew , Qureshi Ihjaaz , Caserta Stefano , Zamoyska Rose
Published: March 2009

Summary:  T‐cell development in the thymus and activation of mature T cells in secondary lymphoid organs requires the ability of cells to respond appropriately to environmental signals at multiple stages of their development. The process of thymocyte selection insures a functional T‐cell repertoire, while activation of naive peripheral T cells induces proliferation, gain of effector function, and, ultimately, long‐lived T‐cell memory. The T‐cell immune response is initiated upon engagement of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) and coreceptor, CD4 or CD8, by cognate antigen/major histocompatibility complexes presented by antigen‐presenting cells. TCR/coreceptor engagement induces the activation of biochemical signaling pathways that, in combination with signals from costimulator molecules and cytokine receptors, direct the outcome of the response. Activation of the src‐family kinases p56lck (Lck) and p59fyn (Fyn) is central to the initiation of TCR signaling pathways. This review focuses on our current understanding of the mechanisms by which these two proteins orchestrate T‐cell function.
The structure, regulation, and function of ZAP‐70
Authors: Au‐Yeung Byron B. , Deindl Sebastian , Hsu Lih‐Yun , Palacios Emil H. , Levin Susan E. , Kuriyan John , Weiss Arthur
Published: March 2009

Summary:  The tyrosine ZAP‐70 (ζ‐associated protein of 70 kDa) kinase plays a critical role in activating many downstream signal transduction pathways in T cells following T‐cell receptor (TCR) engagement. The importance of ZAP‐70 is evidenced by the severe combined immunodeficiency that occurs in ZAP‐70‐deficient mice and humans. In this review, we describe recent analyses of the ZAP‐70 crystal structure, revealing a complex regulatory mechanism of ZAP‐70 activity, the differential requirements for ZAP‐70 and spleen tyrosine kinase (SyK) in early T‐cell development, as well as the role of ZAP‐70 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and autoimmunity. Thus, the critical importance of ZAP‐70 in TCR signaling and its predominantly T‐cell‐restricted expression pattern make ZAP‐70 an attractive drug target for the inhibition of pathological T‐cell responses in disease.
TNFR signaling: ubiquitin‐conjugated TRAFfic signals control stop‐and‐go for MAPK signaling complexes
Authors: Karin Michael , Gallagher Ewen
Published: March 2009

Summary:  Nearly two decades after the initial cloning and identification of the founding father of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) family, much has been learned about the mechanisms by which these receptors signal to critical transcription factors and other targets that regulate gene expression and cellular physiology. Mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and inhibitor of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB (IκB) kinases (IKKs) were identified early on as the upstream kinases responsible for activation of activator‐protein 1 (AP‐1) and NF‐κB, respectively, and later on for their ability to control life‐or‐death decisions in TNF‐stimulated cells. Both of these critical pathways are regulated at the level of MAPK kinase kinases (MAP3Ks), after which point they diverge. Recent work, however, illustrates that protein ubiquitination cascades play a critical initiating role in TNFR signaling and account for spatial and temporal separation of IKK and MAPK signaling cascades and thereby determine biological specificity and outcome. Cellular inhibitors of apoptosis (cIAPs) 1 and 2 are ubiquitin (Ub) ligases (E3s) that mediate canonical Lys48‐linked ubiquitination of TNFR‐associated factor 3 (TRAF3), marking it for subsequent degradation by the proteasome. TRAF3 degradation releases the brake on TRAF2/6:MAP3K signaling complexes responsible for MAPK activation, leading to their translocation from the cytoplasmic segment of the receptor to the cytosol where they initiate MAPK phosphorylation and activation. By contrast, IKK activation proceeds considerably faster than MAPK activation, takes place at the receptor, and is independent of cIAP1/2 activity and TRAF3 degradation. This arrangement may be important for ensuring the proper delivery of NF‐κB‐dependent survival signals and conversion of JNK‐promoted death signals to proliferative ones.
Calmodulin‐dependent phosphatase, kinases, and transcriptional corepressors involved in T‐cell activation
Authors: Liu Jun O.
Published: March 2009

Summary:  The second messenger calcium plays an essential role in mediating the T‐cell receptor (TCR) signaling pathway leading to cytokine production and T‐cell clonal expansion. The immunosuppressive drugs cyclosporine A and FK506 have served both as therapeutic agents and as molecular probes for unraveling the protein phosphatase calcineurin as a rate‐limiting enzyme involved in the transmission of calcium signal from the cytosol into the nucleus to reprogram gene expression. The use of mouse knockout models has helped to verify and further elucidate the functions of different isoforms of calcineurin in both helper T‐cell activation and thymocyte development. In addition to calcineurin, three other classes of calmodulin‐binding proteins have also been shown to play important roles in calcium signaling in T cells. Thus, Cabin1 and class II histone deacetylases have been found to constitute a novel calcium‐signaling module in conjunction with the transcription factor myocyte enhance factor family and the transcriptional coactivator p300 to suppress and activate cytokine gene transcription in a calcium‐dependent manner. The calmodulin‐dependent protein kinases II and IV were also shown to play negative and positive regulatory functions, respectively, in TCR‐mediated cytokine production. The crosstalks among these and other signal transducers in T cells form an extensive nonlinear signaling network that dictates the final outcome of the TCR signaling pathway.
New insights into the regulation and function of serine/threonine kinases in T lymphocytes
Authors: Matthews Sharon A. , Cantrell Doreen A.
Published: March 2009

Summary:  The development of T lymphocytes in the thymus and the function of mature T cells in adaptive immune responses are choreographed by antigen receptors, costimulatory molecules, adhesion molecules, cytokines, and chemokines. These extrinsic stimuli are coupled to a diverse network of signal transduction pathways that control the transcriptional and metabolic programs that determine T‐cell function. At the core of T‐lymphocyte signal transduction is the regulated metabolism of inositol phospholipids and the production of two key lipid second messengers: polyunsaturated diacylglycerols (DAGs) and phosphatidylinositol (3–5) triphosphate [PI‐(3–5)‐P3]. The object of the present review is to discuss facts, controversies, and unresolved issues about DAG and PI‐(3,4,5)‐P3 production in T lymphocytes and to discuss some of the serine/threonine kinases that control unique aspects of T‐lymphocyte biology and coordinate T‐cell participation in adaptive immune responses.
Low rates of transmission of SRV‐2 and STLV‐I to juveniles in a population of Macaca fascicularis facilitate establishment of specific retrovirus‐free colonies
Authors: Mee E.T. , Murrell C.K. , Watkins J. , Almond N. , Cutler K. , Rose N.J.
Published: March 2009

Background  Prevalence of simian retrovirus‐2 (SRV‐2) and simian T lymphotropic virus type I (STLV‐I), was unknown in 337 captive cynomolgus macaques.

Methods and Results  Molecular assays identified 29% of animals as SRV‐2 mono‐infected, 4% of animals as STLV‐I mono‐infected and 9% of animals as dual‐infected. Of 108 juvenile animals, 83% were SRV‐2‐negative and no juvenile animal was STLV‐I‐positive. A subsequent study of juvenile macaques over a period of 2.5 years detected no STLV‐I and 10 SRV‐2 infections, six of which occurred between testing and day of colony formation. The study also highlighted that an anti‐SRV‐2 serological response does not presuppose infection. Tissue reservoirs of latent SRV‐2 were not identified in suspected SRV‐2 infections.

Conclusions  Low transmissibility of the viruses present in the parental cohort and improved knowledge of the host response to SRV‐2 has facilitated the creation of specific‐retrovirus‐free colonies of cynomolgus macaques.
On the challenge of treating various types of variables: application for improving the measurement of functional diversity
Authors: Pavoine Sandrine , Vallet Jeanne , Dufour Anne‐Béatrice , Gachet Sophie , Daniel Hervé
Published: March 2009

Functional diversity is at the heart of current research in the field of conservation biology. Most of the indices that measure diversity depend on variables that have various statistical types (e.g. circular, fuzzy, ordinal) and that go through a matrix of distances among species. We show how to compute such distances from a generalization of Gower's distance, which is dedicated to the treatment of mixed data. We prove Gower's distance can be extended to include new types of data. The impact of this generalization is illustrated on a real data set containing 80 plant species and 13 various traits. Gower's distance allows an efficient treatment of missing data and the inclusion of variable weights. An evaluation of the real contribution of each variable to the mixed distance is proposed. We conclude that such a generalized index will be crucial for analyzing functional diversity at small and large scales.
Melatonin, a potent regulator of hemeoxygenase‐1, reduces cardiopulmonary bypass‐induced renal damage in rats
Authors: Wang Zhongqiu , Zhang Junwen , Liu Hao , Huang Hairong , Wang Changtian , Shen Yi , Li Demin , Jing Hua
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Acute renal dysfunction is a frequent complication after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). This study was designed to evaluate the potential protective effect of melatonin on CPB‐induced renal damage in a rat model. Forty male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham, control (CPB + placebo), low dose of melatonin (CPB + 10 mg/kg melatonin) and high dose of melatonin (CPB + 20 mg/kg melatonin). Blood samples were collected at the beginning, at the end of CPB, and at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 24 hr postoperation. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were assayed. Rats were killed 24 hr after surgery, the histologic appearance of the kidney and malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) contents were determined. The expression levels of hemeoxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) protein and gene were determined using western blotting and real‐time PCR, respectively. In the control group, CPB surgery significantly increased urea, creatinine levels in serum, MDA and MPO levels in tissues, while decreasing SOD and CAT activities in tissues. Histopathologic findings of the control group confirmed that there was renal impairment by cast formation and tubular necrosis in the tubular epithelium. These changes were markedly reversed in both low dose of melatonin and high dose of melatonin groups. Furthermore, HO‐1 gene transcript and protein were significantly upregulated in the kidney tissues after melatonin treatment compared with the placebo treatment. Our findings show that melatonin was effective in preventing CPB‐induced renal damage probably through its antioxidant function and upregulation of HO‐1.
Nocturnal urine melatonin and 6‐sulphatoxymelatonin excretion at the acute stage of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Ritzenthaler Thomas , Nighoghossian Norbert , Berthiller Julien , Schott Anne‐Marie , Cho Tae‐Hee , Derex Laurent , Brun Jocelyne , Trouillas Paul , Claustrat Bruno
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Melatonin’s neuroprotective action has been demonstrated in experimental models of brain ischaemia. The relationship between stroke and melatonin levels has been based on scarce and small sample size studies. In addition, the changes have not been correlated with the age of patients. We compared levels of nocturnal urinary melatonin and its metabolite, 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6S) in a large series of acute ischaemic stroke patients and healthy volunteers. Consecutive ischaemic stroke patients with a first episode of anterior circulation stroke were recruited. Urine samples were collected in 127 patients on day 1 poststroke and in a control population including 216 healthy volunteers, from 20:00 to 08:00 hr. Melatonin and aMT6S were measured by radioimmunoassay. Differences in melatonin and aMT6S levels between ischaemic stroke patients and healthy volunteers were assessed by gender and age categories, using the Student’st‐test. Melatonin excretion was decreased in stroke patients compared with healthy volunteers (74.1 ± 13.9 versus 211.9 ± 31.0 ng/hr;P = 0.0004), whereas aMT6S level was not significantly reduced (6371 ± 1028 versus 4469 ± 508 ng/hr;P = 0.10). Conversely, the stratification by age showed a significant reduction of both melatonin and aMT6S levels among ischaemic stroke patients over 70 yr (P = 0.001 andP = 0.03 respectively). The impact of melatonin at the acute stage of stroke on clinical severity and lesion size needs further assessment, as melatonin may have potential neuroprotective effects.
Effect of different bleaching systems on the ultrastructure of bovine dentin
Authors: Carrasco‐Guerisoli Laise Daniela , Schiavoni Renato Jonas dos Santos , Barroso Juliana Machado , Guerisoli Danilo Mathias Zanello , Pécora Jesus Djalma , Fröner Izabel Cristina
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the effect of different in‐office bleaching systems on the surface morphology of bovine dentin. Thirty tooth fragments measuring 4 × 4mm, containing enamel and dentin, were obtained from the crowns of extracted bovine incisors. Samples were subjected to simulated intracoronal bleaching techniques using conventional (Opalescence Endo® and Whiteness Super Endo®) and light‐activated systems (Opalescence Xtra® and Whiteness HP Maxx®). Controls were treated with either sodium perborate mixed with 10% hydrogen peroxide or no bleaching agent. The samples were observed under SEM and the recorded images were evaluated for topographic alterations. The ultrastructural alterations of dentin observed in this study varied greatly between groups according to the products used. Higher pH products (Whiteness HP Maxx® and Opalescence Xtra®) associated with in‐office techniques yielded better maintenance of dentin ultrastructure. Apparently, both low pH and hydrogen peroxide oxidation play a role in altering the ultrastructure of dentin during internal dental bleaching. The use of alkaline products with reduced time of application (in‐office techniques) may decrease such morphological alterations.
Mandibular fracture with a mouth formed mouthguard in kickboxing
Authors: Shimoyama Tetsuo , Masuda Issei , Numa Takehiro , Horie Norio
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Reports of injuries caused by kickboxing, one of the contact sports that potentially causes a large number of injuries, are relatively rare. Wearing a mouthguard is obligatory in kickboxing, but the association between maxillofacial injuries and the quality of mouthguards has not been described thus far. In this article, we present a case of mandibular fracture in a 25‐year‐old male, who was injured during kickboxing despite wearing a mouth formed mouthguard.
Sequential surgical treatment for panfacial fractures and significance of biological osteosynthesis
Authors: Tang Wei , Feng Fan , Long Jie , Lin Yunfeng , Wang Hang , Liu Lei , Tian Weidong
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of panfacial fracture repair and to review guidelines for treatment based on AO/Arbeitsgemeinschaft fuer Osteosynthesefragen Association for Study of Internal Fixation theories of biological osteosynthesis. Sixty‐eight patients with panfacial fractures were subjected to preoperative X‐ray cephalometric analysis and model surgery, followed by open surgical reduction, rigid internal fixation and at least 8 weeks of clinical follow up. A variety of surgical approaches were used, with the 68 patients undergoing a total of 93 surgical procedures. In all but eight patients, the treatment produced satisfactory correction of maxillofacial deformities and restoration of normal function. Among the eight patients whose treatment was not deemed successful, there were two whose facial deformities were not corrected by treatment. In addition, there were five patients with enophthalmos or motor disturbance of the eye that failed to show improvement during the study, and four patients who exhibited signs of limited mouth opening and malocclusion. The systematic and sequential choices of surgical methods were key factors in determining panfacial fracture treatment outcomes. We propose that treatment of bone fractures must take into account the biological characteristics of the damaged bone to facilitate selection of appropriate plate and screw systems and repositioning methods.
Effects on permanent teeth after luxation injuries to the primary predecessors: a study in children assisted at an emergency service
Authors: Da Silva Assunção Luciana Reichert , Ferelle Antônio , Iwakura Maria Luiza Hiromi , Cunha Robson Frederico
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Aim:  The purpose of this study is to evaluate the developmental disturbances in permanent teeth as a result of luxation injuries in the primary teeth predecessors.

Materials and methods:  A total of 5330 records, corresponding to 10 years attendance at the Emergency Center of Baby Clinic, Londrina State University, Brazil, were analyzed. Three hundred and eighty nine children were involved in this study, totaling 620 traumatized primary teeth. Clinical and radiographic examinations were carried out in the permanent successor teeth.

Results:  In total, 623 permanent teeth were examined and developmental disturbances were detected in 126 teeth (20.2%). The white or yellow‐brown discoloration of enamel was the clinical disturbance most observed (78.0%) and the crown alteration most detected through radiographic analysis was hypoplasia (86.0%). Root alterations were rare; root dilaceration was observed in only one case. The age of the children when their primary teeth received damage varied between 6 and 36 months (P = 0.000325). Intrusive luxation and avulsion were related with most of the cases of sequelae in the successor permanent teeth (P = 0.000001).

Conclusion:  The results of the present investigation emphasize the special attention required for children who suffered dental trauma at an early age, especially in cases of intrusive luxation and avulsion.
The analysis of oral air using selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry in persons with and without a history of oral malodour
Authors: Ross BM , Dadgostar N , Bloom M , McKeown L
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Objectives:  Oral malodour is a common disorder predominantly caused by bacterial metabolism of food stuffs in the mouth. It is routinely diagnosed and monitored by either the subjective rating or the measurement of oral volatile sulphur compound (VSC) levels. Non‐sulphur compounds are also believed to contribute significantly to the condition although there is currently no direct means to assess their levels. In this study, we utilized selective flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) to measure, in real time, a range of sulphur and non‐sulphur containing compounds in oral air to determine whether the technique can be used to objectively monitor oral malodour.

Methods:  Oral malodour was assessed using organoleptic scores in subjects with and without a history of oral malodour (n = 18) by a trained rater, while the chemical composition of oral air was analysed by both VSC sensor and SIFT‐MS.

Results:  Total VSC levels were significantly correlated with levels of hydrogen sulphide and methylmercaptan measured by SIFT‐MS, but not with organoleptic scores. In subjects with elevated organoleptic score, only levels of methylmercaptan were significantly elevated. In three subjects with elevated tongue organoleptic scores but normal total VSC levels, SIFT‐MS suggested that one subject possessed high levels of oral acetone while another had high oral levels of acetic acid.

Conclusions:  Our data suggest that SIFT‐MS can be used to assess a wide range of compounds in oral air in addition to VSC to provide a clearer picture of the chemical nature of malodour. This may assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of the condition.
Increase in detectable opportunistic bacteria in the oral cavity of orthodontic patients
Authors: Kitada K , De Toledo A , Oho T
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Objectives:  This study was performed to detect the opportunistic bacteria and fungi from the oral cavities of orthodontic patients and examine the ability of the organisms to adhere to saliva‐coated metallic brackets.

Methods:  Opportunistic bacteria and fungi were isolated from 58 patients (orthodontic group: 42; non‐orthodontic group: 16) using culture methods and were identified based on their biochemical and enzymatic profiles. Seven opportunistic and four streptococcal strains were tested for their ability to adhere to saliva‐coated metallic brackets.

Results:  More opportunistic bacteria and fungi were detected in the orthodontic group than in the non‐orthodontic group (P < 0.05). Opportunistic bacteria adhered to saliva‐coated metallic brackets to the same degree as oral streptococci.

Conclusions:  The isolation frequencies of opportunistic bacteria and fungi increase during orthodontic treatment, suggesting the importance of paying special attention to oral hygiene in orthodontic patients to prevent periodontal disease and the aggravation of systemic disease in immunocompromised conditions.
The role of oral hygiene in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Guzeldemir E
Published: March 2009

Objective:  Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an acquired disease of children and adults defined as isolated thrombocytopenia with no clinically apparent associated conditions or other causes of thrombocytopenia. Oral manifestations are gingival bleeding, petechiae, mucocutaneous bleeding and haemorrhage into tissues.

Case description and results:  An 11‐year‐old Turkish female was referred to the periodontology clinic by the paediatric haematologist for the treatment of spontaneous gingival bleeding, gingival oedematous enlargement and hyperaemia. She was diagnosed as chronic ITP 6 months ago and she was told not to brush her teeth. She was also complaining with dull pain and oral malodor. She was motivated for oral hygiene and after consulting with paediatric haematologist, under the proper circumstances, dental plaque and calculus were removed. Healing was uneventful.

Conclusion:  Oral hygiene motivation and dental plaque control is crucial in order to prevent gingival bleeding, inflammation and severe periodontal diseases in patients with haematologic disorders. Understanding of the oral findings is essential in the management of patients and close cooperation between patients’ dentist and haematologist is needed. Dental consultation is essential for diagnosis and improvement of medical conditions. It is possible to obtain adequate oral hygiene with limited performance and haematologic disorders are not handicaps for dental/periodontal procedures under the proper circumstances.
Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Diagnostic, clinical relevance and therapy
Authors: Dissemond Joachim
Published: March 2009

In the last decades, increasing numbers of patients with problematic bacteria such as methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have been reported. Beside the common problem of MRSA variants in hospitals, recently community‐based MRSA (cMRSA) has become a growing problem even in patients without typical risk factors. cMRSA often carries the virulence factor Panton‐Valentine‐leukocidin (PVL) causing dermatologic diseases like therapy‐refractory furunculosis in young adults. Thus, it is both a medical and health economic issue to identify MRSA as quickly as possible and then eradiate it completely. We review the practical consequences and in particular, the therapy options which are reasonable once MRSA is identified.
Plasmalogen levels in full‐term neonates
Authors: Labadaridis I , Moraitou M , Theodoraki M , Triantafyllidis G , Sarafidou J , Michelakakis H
Published: March 2009

Aim: Plasmalogens are phospholipids characterized by the presence of a vinyl ether bond at the sn‐1 position of the glycerol backbone. They are particularly abundant in the nervous system, the heart and striated muscle. Peroxisomes are essential for their biosynthesis and red blood cell (RBC) plasmalogen levels are a reliable test in the investigation of patients suspect for a peroxisomal defect. The functions attributed to them include protection against oxidative stress, myelin formation and signal transduction. The aim of the present study was the investigation of RBC plasmalogen levels in neonates.

Methods: A total of 25 healthy full‐term, appropriate for gestational age neonates were studied. RBC plasmalogens were estimated using gas chromatography within the first five days of life. Fifteen healthy children 1–8‐year olds served as controls.

Results: Statistically significant lower plasmalogen levels were found in neonates compared to older children.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that a different range of normal values for plasmalogen levels should be used in the investigation of peroxisomal diseases in neonates. The lower levels of plasmalogens in neonates found in our study could render them more vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Congressional Mobilization of Private Litigants: Evidence from the Civil Rights Act of 1991
Authors: Farhang Sean
Published: March 2009

Levels of private litigation enforcing statutes are critically determined by legislative choice. I set out a theoretical framework for understanding how legislators purposefully influence the potential economic value of statutory claims, thereby establishing a market for enforcement consistent with legislative preferences. To test the theory, I examine the effects of the Civil Rights Act (CRA) of 1991, which increased the value of employment discrimination claims under the CRA of 1964, and find that the law increased the number of claims filed. The origins and legislative history of the law also reveal that Congress utilized economic incentives as a policy instrument to purposefully increase private litigation, with a high degree of self‐consciousness, in the course of conflict with other political actors over control of civil rights policy.
Piercing the Veil of Statewide Data: The Case of Vanishing Trials in North Carolina
Authors: Moog Robert
Published: March 2009

Marc Galanter's 2003 report to the ABA on the declining rate of trials in federal and state courts has generated a good deal of discussion. This article adds to that literature by narrowing the focus to the fate of trials in one state (North Carolina) between 1987 and 2005, and then moving to the next level to determine if statewide trends are replicated in the six largest counties in the state. Regarding jury trials, the downward trends are quite consistent at both the state and county levels, but bench trials present a far more complex picture. Although the status of bench trials in North Carolina remains unclear, the research emphasizes the importance of the data‐collection process, and the necessity of looking to the local level to understand the complexities underlying what can appear as statewide trends.