bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agricultural land‐use and the spatial distribution of granivorous lowland farmland birds
Authors: Siriwardena Gavin M. , Crick Humphrey Q. P. , Baillic Stephen R. , Wilson Jeremy D.
Published: August 2010

Current agricultural practices are believed to have contributed to the declines of many farmland bird species, especially seed‐eaters, throughout Europe. We investigated associations between the spatial distribution of fourteen granivorous farmland bird species and agricultural land‐use in Britain, using breeding bird atlas data and national agricultural statistics. Analyses were spatially referenced by 10x10 km square and variation due to broad‐scale geography and spatial auto‐correlation was controlled for. Generalized linear modelling analyses were used to select models describing variation in distribution explained by the available land‐use variables. The results show that relationships between distribution and agriculture tend to be species‐specific, but that some general effects can be identified. Features of intensive arable farming including large areas of sugar beet, wheat and oilseed rape tended to be associated with low frequencies of occurrence for 9–11 species, while large areas of younger (re‐seeded) grassland and high sheep stocking densities were associated with low frequencies in pastoral farmland for up to 12 species. One key feature of lower intensity farming, the presence of larger areas of fallow land, was positively related to frequency index for up to 11 species. The proportion of barley sown in spring and agricultural diversity were each associated with a range of complex relationships with frequency index across species, probably reflecting combinations of positive influences and artefacts of scale and geography. A variable describing the heterogeneity of farmland (the extent to which it is a mix of arable and pastoral land‐use) was negatively related to frequency index for eight species, but other results suggested that farming which is mixed at a smaller spatial scale is widely beneficial. The results reveal relationships between agriculture and the occurrence of granivorous farmland bird species which suggest both hypotheses for the causes of population change and directions for management action. However, data on several key features of agricultural practice (such as pesticide use) were unavailable, so their effects could not be tested, and the effects of the variables included could not be separated from those of other factors which are subject to complex geographical variation. Experimental comparisons of the effects of land‐use at the farm scale are needed to investigate such confounded influences on farmland bird occurrence.
The impact of forest continuity and management on forest floor vegetation evaluated by species traits
Authors: Graae Bente Jessen , Sunde Pernille B.
Published: August 2010

The distribution of the flora with different species attributes are investigated in two studies of forest ecosystems in Denmark, One study compared 17 forests with different degrees of management, the other study compared the flora of 25 old forests with that of 6 new forests. No effect of forest management could be detected in the distribution of species attributes in the flora, whereas the forest continuity was correlated with almost all of the 14 traits investigated. Species with heavy seeds, transient seedbanks, ant dispersed seeds, early and short flowering time, low stature and high extent of lateral spread were more common in old forests, while the proportion of species with small, short‐lived seeds, epizoochorous dispersal, little lateral spread and later and longer flowering period was higher in new forests. In particular, Raunkiaers therophyles, and ruderal species were more common in new forests than in old.

Differences in the effects of the two types of disturbance ‐ forest management, and breaks in forest eontinuity ‐ are discussed in relation to survival strategies of the forest flora. The importanee of persistence ability in contrast to colonisation ability is stressed for many forest plants.
Biological invasions of Southern Ocean islands: the Collembola of Marion Island as a test of generalities
Authors: Gabriel A. G. A. , Chown S. L. , Barendse J. , Marshall D. J. , Mercer R. D. , Pugh P. J. A. , Smith V. R.
Published: August 2010

It has been suggested previously that the presence and abundance of indigenous species have a marked influence on the likelihood of invasion of a community. It has also been suggested that such biotic resistance has a negligible influence on the outcome of an invasion, but that the abiotic characteristics of the environment being invaded are more important. The latter has been claimed to be especially important on the islands of the Southern Ocean. In order to test these competing hypotheses we examined the distribution and abundance of indigenous and introduced springtails across 13 habitats, which differ considerably in the properties of their soils, and soil temperature, on the eastern quarter of sub‐Antarctic Marion Island. There was no evidence of negative abundance covariation or species associations within habitats, nor were there significant relationships between species richness or abundance of the indigenous as opposed to the introduced collembolans across habitats. Interspecific interactions thus seem to have played no readily identifiable role in the outcome of invasions by Collembola on Marion island. In contrast, the indigenous and introduced species responded very differently to abiotic variables. The indigenous Collembola prefer drier, more mineral soils with a low organic carbon content, and species richness tends to be highest in cold, fellfield areas. On the other hand, the introduced springtails prefer moist, warm sites, with organically enriched soils, introduced species richness was negligible in cold, fellfield areas. Disturbance also appeared to influence positively the species richness and abundance of introduced species at a site. These results provide independent support for the idea that abiotic factors, especially temperature, significantly influence the likelihood of biological invasions on Southern Ocean islands. They also suggest that predicting the outcome of climate change on community structure in this region is likely to be problematic, especially in the case of the Collembola.
Effects of density‐dependence and climate on the dynamics of a Svalbard reindeer population
Authors: Solberg E. J. , Jordhøy P. , Strand O. , Aanes R. , Loison A. , Sæther B.‐E. , Linnell J. D. C.
Published: August 2010

To determine the main factors affecting the population dynamics of Svalbard reindeer, we analysed 21 yr of annual censuses, including data on population size, recruitment rate (calves per female) and mortality (number of deaths), from the Reindalen reindeer population. In accordance with previous studies on population dynamics of Svalbard reindeer, we found large inter‐annual variation in population size, mortality and recruitment rates within the study area. Population size decreased in years with low recruitment rate as well as high winter mortality and vice versa. Apparently. the fluctuations were due to both direct density‐dependent food limitation and variation in winter climate associated with high precipitation and icing of the feeding range. We found no delayed density‐dependence or effect of climatic conditions during summer on the population dynamics. The mortality during die‐off years was mainly of calves and very old individuals, indicating that the population was more vulnerable to high die oft in years following high recruitment rate. These results suggest an unstable interaction between the reindeer population and its food supply in these predator‐free environments.
Plant species occurrences in a rural hemiboreal landscape: effects of remnant habitats, site history, topography and soil
Authors: Cousins Sara A. O. , Eriksson Ove
Published: August 2010

Changes in land use during the last century have caused fragmentation and a reduction in area of many species‐rich habitats in the hemiboreal region. We examined abundances of plant species and their occurrence in different habitats in south‐east Sweden. We found 361 plant species in 146 sample sites, which represented 14 different types of habitat. Most species were rare and occurred only in a few habitats. Almost half of all species (49%) were found in one or two habitats. Of these, 99 species occurred in one habitat only. The habitats with largest number of restricted species, i.e. habitat specialists, were dry to mesic semi‐natural grasslands and remnant habitats such as road verges and mid field islets. The occurrence of 52 species was analysed with respect to topography, top‐ and subsoil and land use history. Few of the 52 species were affected by aspect or type of topsoil. Subsoil affected nearly half of the species and habitats with a convex landform influenced occurrence of > 90% of the species. Seventeen species were positively associated with a long continuity of grassland management, whereas two species were associated with lack of management. Open grasslands that are encroached by trees and shrubs show a decline in species number. Deciduous forests, especially wet deciduous forests, have a potential for restoring moist to mesic grassland habitats. Small remnant habitats are important for many of the species restricted to semi‐natural grasslands. These habitats may function as “rescue sites” for the species, which in turn may promote dispersal and increase likelihood of restoration success. Therefore, remnant habitats are important for maintaining and restoring species richness in rural landscapes.
Determinants of distribution and abundance in the clouded apollo butterfly: a landscape ecological approach
Authors: Luoto Miska , Kuussaari Mikko , Rita Hannu , Salminen Jere , Bonsdorff Tea von
Published: August 2010

Recent studies on the determinants of distribution and abundance of animals at landscape level have emphasized the usefulness of the metapopulation approach, in which patch area and habitat connectivity have often proved to explain satisfactorily existing patch occupancy patterns. A different approach is needed to study the common situation in which suitable habitat is difficult to determine or does not occur in well‐defined habitat patches. We applied a landscape ecological approach to study the determinants of distribution and abundance of the threatened clouded apollo Parnassius mnemosyne butterfly within an area of 6 km2 of agricultural landscape in south‐western Finland. The relative role of 24 environmental variables potentially affecting the distribution and abundance of the butterfly was studied using a spatial grid system with 2408 grid squares of 0.25 ha, of which 349 were occupied by the clouded apollo. Both the probability of butterfly presence and abundance in a 0.25 ha square increased with the presence of the larval host plant Corydalis solida the cover of semi‐natural grassland, the amount of solar radiation and spalial autocorrelation in butterfly occurrence. Additionally, butterfly abundance increased with overall mean patch size and decreased with maximum slope angle and wind speed. Two advantages of the employment of a spatial grid system included the avoidance of a subjective definition of suitable habitat patches and an evaluation of the relative significance of different components of habitat quality at the same time with habitat availability and connectivity. The large variation in habitat quality was influenced by the abundance of the larval host plant and adult nectar sources but also by climatological. topographical and structural factors. The application of a spatial grid system as used here has potential for a wide use in studies on landscape‐level distribution and abundance patterns in species with complex habitat requirements and habitat availability patterns.
Plant species diversity and grazing in the Scandinavian mountains ‐ patterns and processes at different spatial scales
Authors: Austrheim Gunnar , Eriksson Ove
Published: August 2010

There is a long tradition of grazing by semi‐domestic reindeer and sheep in alpine and sub‐alpine Scandinavian habitats, but present management regimes are questioned from a conservation point of view. In this review we discuss plant diversity patterns in the Scandinavian mountains in a global, regional and local perspective. The main objective was to identify processes that influence diversity at different spatial scales with a particular focus on grazing. In a global perspective the species pool of the Scandinavian mountains is limited. partly reflecting the general latitudinal decline of species but also historical and ecological factors operating after the latest glaciation. At the local scale, both productivity and disturbance are primary factors structuring diversity, but abiotic factors such as soil pH, snow distribution and temperature are also important. Although evidence is scarce, grazing favours local species richness in productive habitats, whereas species richness decreases with grazing when productivity is low. Regional patterns of plant diversity is set by, 1) the species pool. 2) the heterogeneity and fragmentation of communities, and 3) local diversity of each plant community. We suggest that local shifts in community composition depend both on the local grazing frequency and the return‐time of the plant community after a grazing session. In addition, an increasing number of grazing‐modified local patches homogenises the vegetation and is likely to reduce the regional plant diversity. The time scale of local shifts in community composition depends on plant colonisation and persistence, From a mechanistic point of view, diversity patterns at a regional scale also depend on the regional dynamics of single species. Colonisation is usually a slow and irregular process in alpine environments, whereas the capacity for extended local persistence is generally high. Although the poor knowledge of plant regional dynamics restricts our understanding of how grazing influences plant diversity, we conclude that grazing is a key process for maintaining biodiversity in the Scandinavian mountains.
Flowering phenology of Campanula on Mt Olynipos, Greece
Authors: Blionis George J. , Halley John M. , Vokou Despina
Published: August 2010

We studied the fowering phenology of the genus Campanula (represented by nine species) along the elevation gradient of Mt Olympos (Greece) in order to assess whether there are elevation patterns at the genus level and whether these relate to patterns previously observed along such gradients at the community level. The traits examined were time and duration of the flowering period, flower life span, and duration of male and female flower phases. Floral attributes, such as number of flowers per plant, flower biomass, flower size, were also studied in order to examine whether they change with elevation or influence flower phenology. Flowering of Campanula species started in mid‐May and ended in late September. The average duration of flowering of the genus was ca 27 d and the average floral longevity 4 d. In all but one species, the female phase lasted longer than the male. Campanula versicolor differed remarkably from all others in flower phenology and other floral trails. Nearly all Campanula populations studied had right or positively skewed flowering distributions indicating that flowering begins more abruptly than it ends. At the genus level, the time of flowering increased with elevation by 2 3d for every 100 m. Floral longevity also increased with elevation, by 0,2 d for every 100 m. Neither duration of flowering nor duration of the flower phases showed any consistent change with elevation. The same is true of the non–phenological floral traits examined. No trade–off between duration of flowering and flower life span or between structure and maintenance of flowers was apparent. The pattern of increasing floral longevity along the elevation gradient suggests a mechanism of compensation for reduecd pollinator availability.
Short‐term and long‐term variation in seed bank/vegetation relations along an environmental and successional gradient
Authors: Grandin Ulf
Published: August 2010

The seed bank along a successional and environmental gradient was analysed. Soil was collected in 3‐cm thick horizons from permanent plots along two transects across a land uplift seashore, spanning several centuries of succession from shoreline to mature forest. Vegetation in the plots was recorded when the soil was sampled and also 9 and 15 yr before that. Within‐ and between‐plot effects on seed bank./vegetation relationships were analysed using estimates of seed longevity. Sorensen's similarity index and mean Ellenberg indicator values.

A seed bank longevity index was constructed by using the database by Thompson et al, (1997 The soil seed banks of north west Europe. Methodology, density and longevity, Cambridge Univ Press), for all species with more than one entry in the database. For species with one or no entry, an internal Index was constructed. The two indices were correlated and it was suggested that the internal index should be used where the Thompson database is insufficient.

There were small differences between the upper three soil horizons in seed density, in similarity with the vegetation and in mean Ellenberg values. The highest seed densities and seed bank/vegetation similarities were found at the shoreline, after that the density and the similarity decreased with increasing successional age, with the mature forest having very low seed density and similarity values. Weighted mean Ellenberg indicator values for light, nitrogen, salt and moisture differed between vegetation and seed bank. For the seed bank, the mean Ellenberg values for light, moisture and nitrogen and weighted mean of seed bank longevity indices showed a trend along one of the transects.
Concrescence of teeth: cemental union between the crown of an impacted tooth and the roots of an erupted tooth
Authors: Sugiyama Masaru , Ogawa Ikuko , Suei Yoshikazu , Tohmori Hidetoshi , Higashikawa Koichiro , Kamata Nobuyuki
Published: August 2010

Concrescence of teeth is a condition showing a union of adjacent teeth by only cementum. In all the previously reported cases, the union has been observed between the roots of the affected teeth. Here, we describe the first case that showed a concrescence of the crown of an impacted tooth and the roots of the erupted tooth. In addition, we discuss how this condition, especially the deposition of acellular cementum on the crown, occurred.
Relationship between cancer and oral pemphigoid patients with antibodies to α6‐integrin
Authors: Malik Mohsin , Gürcan Hakan M. , Christen William , Razzaque Ahmed A.
Published: August 2010

Background: Mucous membrane pemphigoid is an autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering disease. A subset, known as anti‐epiligrin cicatricial pemphigoid is associated with a high risk for malignancy. Oral pemphigoid (OP) is limited to the oral cavity. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between malignancy and patients with OP with antibodies toα6‐integrin subunit.

Methods: We determined the incidence of cancer in 72 patients with OP and compared it to the expected incidence using age and sex‐specific rates of malignancy in the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (NCI SEER) Registry.

Results: During a mean observation period of 9.1 years (range: 2.8–40), for 70, three OP patients developed malignancies. The expected number of cancers based on the NCI SEER Registry was 8.83. The relative risk for cancer in OP patients, with autoantibodies toα6‐integrin, was 0.34 (95% CI, 0.07–0.99,P < 0.05).

Conclusion: It appears that patients with OP, with antibodies toα6, may have a possible reduced relative risk for developing cancer.
A quantitative co‐localization analysis of large unspliced tenascin‐CL and laminin‐5/γ2‐chain in basement membranes of oral squamous cell carcinoma by confocal laser scanning microscopy
Authors: Franz Marcus , Hansen Torsten , Borsi Laura , Geier Christiane , Hyckel Peter , Schleier Peter , Richter Petra , Altendorf‐Hofmann Annelore , Kosmehl Hartwig , Berndt Alexander
Published: August 2010

Background:  A structural interaction of the oncofetal large tenascin‐C splice variants (Tn‐CL) and the γ2‐chain of laminin‐5 (Ln‐5/γ2) was recently demonstrated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In situ different patterns of co‐localization and co‐deposition of both proteins could be detected. Especially the co‐localization in re‐established basement membrane (BM) structures seemed to be biologically meaningful within the process of tumour progression.

Methods:  The amount of Tn‐CL incorporated in reorganized OSCC BM structures at the tumour margins was investigated by a laser scanning microscopy‐based quantitative co‐localization analysis.

Results:  In the BM of normal oral mucosa no Tn‐CL could be detected. In dysplastic and neoplastic oral mucosa a distinct co‐localization of Tn‐CL and Ln‐5/γ2 in the BM region could be observed. The extent of Tn‐CL arrangement into reorganized BM structures correlated with malignancy grade.

Conclusions:  The results suggest at first, a modulation of carcinomatous BM structures by the inclusion of oncofetal matrix proteins during tumour progression and secondly, the BM incorporation of the adhesion‐modulating molecule Tn‐CL as a pre‐invasive structural phenomenon in OSCC.
Effects of cisplatin, α‐interferon, and 13‐cis retinoic acid on the expression of Fas (CD95), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in oral cancer cell lines
Authors: Sundelin Kaarina , Roberg Karin , Grénman Reidar , Håkansson Leif
Published: August 2010

Background:  Previous studies showed that many chemotherapeutic agents can induce immuno‐suppression at therapeutic drug concentrations whereas low drug doses induce immuno‐augmentation.

Methods:  The effect of low‐dose cisplatin, interferon‐alpha, and 13‐cis retinoic acid on receptors involved in immune‐mediated apoptosis (Fas/CD95), cell growth (epidermal growth factor receptor) and lymphocyte adhesion (intercellular adhesion molecule‐1) was investigated in two oral cancer cell lines (UT‐SCC‐20A and UT‐SCC‐24A). Different methods for cell preparation were studied: mechanical and enzymatic detachment, and culture on chamber slides. Receptor expression was investigated using immunohistochemical staining. The amount of soluble and cell‐bound Fas was determined with the ELISA technique, and the functional relevance of Fas expression, apoptosis induction, was analyzed.

Results:  Cisplatin enhanced cytoplasm and membrane staining for Fas in both cell lines. After cisplatin treatment, the amount of soluble Fas was increased in UT‐SCC‐20A cultures, but no effect was observed in the UT‐SCC‐24A cell line. Apoptosis, measured as enhanced caspase‐3 activity, was induced by an agonistic Fas antibody (CH11) after cisplatin treatment in UT‐SCC‐24A cells.

Conclusions:  Low‐dose cisplatin treatment enhanced Fas expression in both cell lines and increased susceptibility to apoptosis in one of them.
Oral lesions among persons with HIV disease with and without highly active antiretroviral therapy in southern India
Authors: Umadevi K. M. R. , Ranganathan K. , Pavithra S. , Hemalatha R. , Saraswathi T. R. , Kumarasamy N. , Solomon Suniti , Greenspan John S.
Published: August 2010

Background:  The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has changed the scenario of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV patients in India have now access to generic HAART and this is the first report describing oral lesions in patients on HAART from our country.

Methods:  Oral lesions were studied in HIV seropositive patients (n = 50 on HAART and n = 50 not on HAART) attending a tertiary HIV referral care centre in India and patients on HAART were followed up.

Results:  There was a difference in the occurrence of oral candidiasis (OC) between HAART and non‐HAART participants (8%, 24%; P < 0.05). Pseudomembranous candidiasis was 4% and 18% in HAART and non‐HAART groups respectively (P < 0.05). In patients with CD4 count ≤200, OC was 5.6% in the HAART group and 39.1% in the non‐HAART group (P < 0.05). Among patients with CD4 count >200, pigmentation was 43.8% in the HAART group and 14.8% in the non‐HAART group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The prevalence of OC in patients who had access to HAART was less when compared with those who did not have access to HAART.
Hamartomatous proliferations of odontogenic epithelium within the jaws: a potential histogenetic source of intraosseous epithelial odontogenic tumors
Authors: Ide F. , Obara K. , Yamada H. , Mishima K. , Saito I. , Horie N. , Shimoyama T. , Kusama K.
Published: August 2010

Background:  The jawbone is replete with a vestige of odontogenesis. The overall consensus is that intraosseous remnants of the enamel organ and dental lamina are the only histogenetic option for central epithelial odontogenic tumors. Curiously, incipient tumors or possible precursor conditions of residual odontogenic epithelium have rarely been reported in the literature.

Methods:  We microscopically evaluated 39 660 biopsy samples to determine the presence of a tumor‐like odontogenic epithelial nodule in the maxilla and mandible.

Results:  Seven intraosseous specimens that associated with a focal proliferation of odontogenic epithelium were retrieved. Six hamartomatous processes showed four different morphologic patterns comparable with the tumor nests comprising ameloblastoma (n = 1), squamous odontogenic tumor (n = 1), calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (n = 2) and calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (n = 2). Among six lesions, four were the intrafollicular development. The remaining case of interest was multiple hyperplastic clear rests of Malassez in association with an impacted tooth.

Conclusion:  Although it is impossible to predict the fate of these microscopic structures of hamartomatous character, the present case series indicates that any of the dormant embryonic residues of odontogenic epithelium can return to an active state, capable of non‐reactive, probably neoplastic proliferation of pathological significance.
Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia and its progression to oral carcinoma: a review of the literature
Authors: Cabay Robert J. , Morton Thomas H. , Epstein Joel B.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is a distinct clinical form of oral leukoplakia defined by its progressive clinical course, changing clinical and histopathological features, and potential to develop into cancer. PVL behaves in a more aggressive and relentless manner than the more innocuous white oral lesions that it can resemble clinically.

Methods:  A PubMed search was conducted which identified studies that examined patients with PVL and reported data meeting inclusion criteria.

Results:  PVL is seen much more frequently in females and most often diagnosed after the sixth decade of life. Tobacco use is not strongly linked to the presence of PVL (63% of patients did not use tobacco products). Most (74%) of the patients with PVL progressed to oral carcinoma.

Conclusion:  PVL is a persistent and progressive oral lesion that requires very close follow‐up along with early and aggressive treatment to increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
Subantimicrobial dose doxycycline in the treatment of recurrent oral aphthous ulceration: a pilot study
Authors: Preshaw Philip M. , Grainger Paula , Bradshaw Mark H. , Mohammad Abdel R. , Powala Chris V. , Nolan Anita
Published: August 2010

Background:  Recurrent oral aphthous ulceration (ROAU) is a common problem that can result in considerable pain and distress for patients. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the role of subantimicrobial dose doxycycline (SDD – 20 mg doxycycline twice daily) in the management of patients with ROAU.

Methods:  50 patients with ROAU were randomly allocated to treatment with SDD or placebo for 90 days. Daily ulcer diaries were completed by the participants to record the number of new ulcers and the pain associated with the ulcers.

Results:  There were significantly more days with no new ulcers in the SDD group (80.4 ± 5.9) than the placebo group (69.8 ± 18.7; P = 0.04). Strong trends were observed towards fewer new ulcers per day, fewer new ulcers over the 90‐day period, and more days with no pain in the SDD group compared with the placebo group (P = 0.06–0.08).

Conclusion:  SDD shows promise as potential therapy in the management of ROAU, though this needs to be confirmed in further studies.
Smooth muscle hamartoma of the hard palate
Authors: Zaitoun H. , Triantfyllou A.
Published: August 2010

A small polypoid lesion was removed from the incisive papilla region of a healthy female aged 8 years. It was composed of non‐cycling smooth muscle fibres that were immunoreactive for various muscle antigens, surrounded by basement membrane containing collagen IV, arranged as bundles and mixed with CD34(+) interstitial cells, mast cells, dendrocytes and nerves. The lesion could be attributed to dysgenesis affecting media of vessels emerging from the incisive foramen. Intra‐oral smooth muscle hamartomas tend to favour regions featuring complex developmental events.
Multiple internal resorptions in deciduous teeth: a case report
Authors: Choi Eun‐Jung , Ahn Byung‐Duk , Lee Jae‐Il , Kim Jung‐Wook
Published: August 2010

We report a case of rare multiple internal resorptions. Etiology of multiple internal resorptions is unknown. Interestingly, the patient had an atopic dermatitis, which is possibly related to multiple and rapid internal resorptions.
A randomized‐controlled trial to compare topical cyclosporin with triamcinolone acetonide for the treatment of oral lichen planus
Authors: Thongprasom Kobkan , Chaimusig Mantharop , Korkij Wiwat , Sererat Thanasit , Luangjarmekorn Lakana , Rojwattanasirivej Somsri
Published: August 2010

Background:  Various treatments have been employed to treat symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP), but a complete cure is very difficult to achieve because of its recalcitrant nature. Topical cyclosporin therapy of OLP has shown conflicting results in many reports. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of cyclosporin solution with triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% in orabase in the treatment of Thai patients with OLP.

Methods:  Thirteen Thai patients with symptomatic OLP and proven by biopsy were randomly assigned treatment with cyclosporin (six) or triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% (seven). The patients were instructed to apply cyclosporin or triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% three times daily at the marker lesions and affected areas. The assessments were at weeks 0, 2, 4, 8 by clinical scoring and grid measurement of the target lesions. Cyclosporin levels were assessed at weeks 2 and 8 of treatment. Pain and burning sensation were evaluated by linear visual analogue scale (0–10).

Results:  OLP patients in the triamcinolone acetonide group showed equal cases of clinical complete and partial remission (50%). Whereas, in the cyclosporin group, there was partial remission in only two cases (33.5%) and no response in four cases (66.7%). However, our study showed that there were no statistical differences in pain, burning sensation and clinical response in OLP patients between the two groups (P > 0.01). Moreover, five of six cases in the cyclosporin group developed side‐effects such as transient burning sensation, itching, swelling lips, petechial haemorrhages and others.

Conclusion:  Our results indicated that topical cyclosporin did not provide any beneficial effect and was not more effective than triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% in the treatment of Thai patients with symptomatic OLP.
Oral premalignant lesions: is a biopsy reliable?
Authors: Holmstrup P. , Vedtofte P. , Reibel J. , Stoltze K.
Published: August 2010

Purpose:  The purpose of the present retrospective study was to learn whether a biopsy of oral premalignant lesions, leukoplakia and erythroplakia, shows histopathological findings representative of the whole surgically removed lesion. Moreover, to see whether histopathological characteristics of the whole lesion are significant for future malignant development after surgery.

Materials and methods:  A total of 101 lesions in 96 patients were included, 42 lesions (41%) being homogenous and 50 (50%) non‐homogenous leukoplakias, whereas nine (9%) were erythroplakias. The lesions were biopsied and subsequently surgically removed on the average of 10.4 months after biopsy. Surgical specimens were examined in two or more step sections distributed throughout the specimen. The histological findings of the biopsies were compared with those of the whole lesions. After surgical intervention the patients were followed (mean 6.8 years, range: 1.5–18.6), and new biopsies taken in case of recurrences. Smokers (73%) were encouraged to quit smoking and candidal infections were treated. The possible influence of different variables on the risk of malignant development was estimated by means of logistic regression analysis.

Results:  Histological examination of the whole lesions showed that seven lesions (7%) harboured a carcinoma and 70 lesions (69%) showed a degree of epithelial dysplasia or carcinoma in situ. Eleven lesions (12%) developed carcinoma after a mean follow‐up period of 7.5 years. A comparison of the degree of dysplasia in the biopsies with that of the whole lesion demonstrated variation with concurrent diagnosis in 49% of the lesions and in 79% after inclusion of lesions with one degree up or down the scale of epithelial dysplasia.

Conclusion:  The estimated odds ratio showed that none of the associated variables including presence of any degree of epithelial dysplasia in the whole lesion, site, demarcation and smoking had influence on the risk of malignant development.
Prognostic impact of p53 and p63 immunoexpression in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: De Oliveira Lucinei Roberto , Ribeiro‐Silva Alfredo , Zucoloto Sérgio
Published: August 2010

Background:  The role of p53 and p63 proteins in the prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is still debatable. Our aim here was to investigate the relationship between the immunoexpression of these proteins with some clinicopathologic parameters of prognostic significance in OSCC.

Methods:  Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded sections from 106 patients were used for study together with the following data: primary site, histologic differentiation, recurrences, metastasis, disease‐free survival and overall survival (OS).

Results:  In OSCCs, the positive rate for p63 protein immunoexpression (87.8%) was higher than p53 (52.8%). p53 expression correlated with metastasis. Tumors negative for p53 and with strong intensity for p63 expression had a significantly higher OS.

Conclusions:  p53 overexpression is associated with a larger number of metastases and is correlated with a poor outcome as well as decreased intensity in p63 immunoexpression.
Multiple leiomyomatous hamartoma in the oral cavity
Authors: Iida Seiji , Kishino Mitsunobu , Senoo Hitomi , Okura Masaya , Morisaki Ichijiro , Kogo Mikihiko
Published: August 2010

Leiomyomatous hamartoma (LH) is congenital lesion rarely seen in oral cavity. In English literature, all reported cases appeared as solitary lesion in alveolar ridge or the tongue, and there have never been a report showing a case of multiple occurrence of this lesion. A quite rare case of multiple LH occurred in a 2‐year‐old Japanese boy is presented. A polypoid lesion was presented at incisive papilla and two isolated lesions in the tongue dorsum, one appeared as a polypoid mass in the posterior dorsum and other as a small spindle‐shaped agger in the anterior dorsum. All of them were histologically diagnosed as LH.
LOH at chromosome 9q34.3 and the Notch1 gene methylation are less involved in oral squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Gao Shan , Krogdahl Annelise , Eiberg Hans , Liu Chung‐Ji , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: August 2010

Background:  Previous studies of oral carcinomas have shown that both loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and hypermethylation at chromosome 9q33 to 9q34.2 are frequent. The present study investigates the frequency of Notch1 gene methylation and LOH at 9q34.3 region.

Methods:  Gene promoter hypermethylation of the Notch1 gene was analysed by methylation‐specific PCR and LOH was analysed using microsatellite markers.

Results:  We found LOH at 9q34.3 in three patients and methylation of the Notch1 gene only in two patients with oral carcinoma.

Conclusion:  Comparing with the alterations at 9q33 to 34.2 regions, LOH at 9q34.3 and methylation of the Notch1 gene was less involved in oral squamous cell carcinomas.
Non‐calcifying variant of calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor with Langerhans cells
Authors: Wang Y.‐P. , Lee J.‐J. , Wang J.‐T. , Liu B.‐Y. , Yu C.‐H. , Kuo R.‐C. , Chiang C.‐P.
Published: August 2010

Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT) is a rare type of odontogenic tumor. The most characteristic feature of the classical CEOT is the presence of amyloid globules and Liesegang ring calcification in the tumor tissue. Here, we present a non‐calcifying variant of intraosseous CEOT with the presence of Langerhans cells within tumor epithelial nests in a 52‐year‐old Taiwanese woman. The patient was referred from a local dentist to our hospital for treatment of a unilocular radiolucent lesion at the right anterior region of the maxilla. The lesion was excised. Microscopically, the tumor was composed of small nests or strands of odontogenic epithelial cells and amorphous eosinophilic globules of amyloid‐like materials in a loose fibrous connective tissue stroma. The tumor epithelial cells were positive for pan‐cytokeratins (AE1 and AE3). Langerhans cells demonstrated by anti‐CD1a staining were found in nests or strands of tumor epithelial cells. The eosinophilic globules were positive for Congo red and showed green birefringence when subjected to polarized light. Review of the English literature revealed two cases of non‐calcifying variant of intraosseous CEOT with Langerhans cells in the anterior and premolar regions of the maxilla. Taken together, we suggest that the non‐calcifying, Langerhan cell‐rich variant of CEOT may have a distinct predilection for occurrence in the anterior and premolar region of the maxilla in contrast to the classical CEOTs that usually occur in the molar and ascending ramus area of the mandible.
An updated clinical and epidemiological profile of the adenomatoid odontogenic tumour: a collaborative retrospective study
Authors: Philipsen Hans Peter , Reichart Peter A. , Siar Chong Huat , Ng Kok Han , Lau Shin Hin , Zhang Xiaolin , Dhanuthai Kittipong , Swasdison Somporn , Jainkittivong Aree , Meer Shabnum , Jivan Vibha , Altini Mario , Hazarey Vinay , Ogawa Ikuko , Takata Takashi , Taylor Adalberto Abel Mosqueda , Godoy Héctor , Delgado Wilson A. , Carlos‐Bregni Roman , Macias Juan Fransisco Reyes , Matsuzaka Kenichi , Sato Daisuke , Vargas Pablo A. , Adebayo Ezekiel Taiwo
Published: August 2010

Background:  Adenomatoid odontogenic tumour (AOT) is a benign odontogenic jaw lesion. The aim of this study was to update the biological profile of AOT.

Material and methods:  Cases published in the literature and cases in files of co‐authors were included.

Results:  550 new cases were retrieved, and of a total of 1082 cases analysed, 87.2% were found in the second and third decades. The M:F ratio was 1:1.9. 70.8% were of the follicular variant (extrafollicular: 26.9%, peripheral: 2.3%). 64.3% occurred in the maxilla. 60% of follicular AOTs were associated with unerupted canines. Nineteen cases of AOT (2.8%, M:F ratio was 1:1.4) were associated with embedded third molars. Twenty‐two peripheral AOTs (2.3%, M:F ratio was 1:5.3) were recorded. The relative frequency (RF) of AOT ranged between 0.6% and 38.5%, revealing a considerably wider AOT/RF range than hitherto reported (2.2–7.1%).

Conclusions:  This updated review based on the largest number of AOT cases ever presented, confirms the distinctive, although not pathognomonic clinicopathological profile of the AOT, its worldwide occurrence, and its consistently benign behaviour.
Bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws: a comprehensive review
Authors: Hewitt Catherine , Farah Camile S.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) presents the clinician with significant management dilemmas. The purpose of this study was to distil information related to this disorder by comprehensively reviewing the literature.

Methods:  The structure and function of bisphosphonates, and their role in the development of BRONJ will be discussed, as will the possible mechanisms through which this pathology develops. A review of cases presented in the literature will be undertaken, and suggestions offered as to the management of this pathology in terms of surgical and conservative approaches.

Results:  Presentation of BRONJ is currently more common in patients taking intravenous forms of bisphosphonates, but there is a fear that the long‐term cumulative effects of oral bisphosphonates may see BRONJ increasingly occurring in this patient group.

Conclusions:  Prevention is superior to treatment, and the establishment of meticulous oral hygiene and pre‐emptive surgical treatment prior to commencement of bisphosphonate therapy is recommended.
Expression of MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP in oral squamous cell carcinoma as predictive indicator for tumor invasion and prognosis
Authors: De Vicente J.‐C. , Lequerica‐Fernández P. , Santamaría J. , Fresno M.‐F.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity is a highly invasive neoplasm that spreads locally and metastasizes to regional lymph nodes. This process involves multiple proteolytic enzymes including matrilysin (MMP‐7) and membrane type I‐matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP). This study was designed to explore the association between MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP in the invasiveness and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods:  About 4‐μM, formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections from 69 patients with OSCC were immunohistochemically studied using specific antibodies against MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP proteins. Immunostaining was semiquantitatively scored, and results were correlated with histologic and clinical variables including clinical behavior and survival.

Results:  MMP‐7 was observed only in cancer cells, and MT1‐MMP in both tumoral tissue and stroma. MMP‐7 expression was significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis (P = 0.03; RR = 3.2). MT1‐MMP showed a significant association with TIMP‐2 (in N+ cases) and p53 expression (P = 0.01). MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP displayed a survival relevance, and in multivariate analysis they were independent prognostic indicators, particularly in neck node‐positive cases.
DNA ploidy analysis in salivary gland tumours by image cytometry
Authors: Vargas P. A. , Torres‐Rendon A. , Speight P. M.
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To determine whether DNA ploidy by image cytometry is a good diagnostic tool to distinguish benign and malignant salivary gland tumours.

Methods:  A total of 62 salivary gland tumours were studied. Cases were histologically diagnosed [haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, there were 14 mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MEC), 11 adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC), 10 pleomorphic adenomas (PA), 10 carcinoma ex PA (CEPA), 9 acinic cell carcinomas (ACCa), 3 polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinomas (PLGA), 2 papillary cystadenocarcinomas (PC), 1 myoepithelial carcinoma (MC), 1 undifferentiated carcinoma (UC) and 1 mucinous adenocarcinoma (MA). Paraffin sections (40 μm) were micro‐dissected to isolate tumour areas; cell nuclei were extracted and Feulgen‐stained cytospin monolayers were analysed using a DNA image cytometry system. For each case, DNA index (DI) was calculated relative to internal controls (lymphocytes; DI = 1.0). Cases were categorized as diploid or aneuploid and the proportion of cells over 5c was also calculated.

Results:  Fifty‐three of 62 salivary gland tumours were uniformly diploid. Only nine cases were aneuploid: five CEPA, one low‐grade MEC, one PC, one UC and one MA.

Conclusions:  The vast majority of salivary gland tumours were diploid. High‐grade malignancies may be aneuploid, and ploidy may be useful to identify malignant change in atypical PA. Further, larger studies are needed to confirm our results and to further evaluate the usefulness of the technique in high‐grade lesions.
Calcineurin inhibitor‐associated oral inflammatory polyps after transplantation
Authors: Al‐Mohaya Maha , Treister Nathaniel , Al‐Khadra Ons , Lehmann Leslie , Padwa Bonnie , Woo Sook‐Bin
Published: August 2010

Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine and tacrolimus) have been used as the mainstay immunosuppressive therapy for solid organ and hematopoietic cell transplantations (HCT) to prevent allograft rejection and for prophylaxis and treatment of the chronic graft‐versus‐host disease. Adverse effects of these drugs include nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, hypertension and gingival hyperplasia. Association of oral non‐gingival soft tissue hyperplasia with calcineurin inhibitor therapy has only recently been recognized and is thought to occur infrequently.

We present four cases of oral non‐gingival inflammatory fibro‐vascular hyperplasias attributed to the use of calcineurin inhibitors following solid organ transplantation and HCT. These lesions interfere with function and must be differentiated from other oral lesions, and therefore should be surgically excised.
Neurotized nevi of the oral mucosa: an immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis of nevic corpuscles
Authors: Ide F. , Mishima K. , Yamada H. , Saito I. , Tanaka A. , Kusama K.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Nevic corpuscle (NC), a stacked lamellar structure reminiscent of Meissner corpuscle, is frequently observed in dermal melanocytic nevi. Although the heading ‘neurotized’ is classically used for these nevi, the exact neural nature of NC has been a topic of considerable debate. Neurotized nevi have received little attention in the dental literature, and there was no information on NC in oral melanocytic nevi.

Methods:  Six cases of oral intramucosal nevi with a significant number of NC (two completely and four partially neurotized nevi) were examined immunohistochemically and ultrastructurally.

Results:  NC was composed of closely piled laminar cells devoid of visible melanin. NC and associated spindle nevus cells were immunopositive for S‐100 protein but negative for HMB‐45, myelin basic protein and epithelial membrane antigen. Within NC, no reactivity for neurofilament protein, protein gene product 9.5 or peripherin was evident. Numerous CD34‐positive dendritic cells were located between nevus cells and often encircled NC. Ultrastructurally, NC consisted of concentrically layered elongated cells with a slender lamellated cytoplasm rich in thin filaments and pinocytotic vesicles. Their cytoplasmic processes were focally covered by external basal lamina and continuous to spindle nevus cells. Occasional NC cells contained a few melanosomes. There was no interposed axon in NC.

Conclusions:  Despite the close resemblance to Meissner corpuscle, NC showed no axonal supply. NC cells lacked terminal Schwannian differentiation and appeared to be modified melanocytes with some perineurial ultrastructural characteristics. The presence of CD34‐positive cells, presumably corresponding to endoneurial fibroblasts, further supports an organizational relationship of NC and peripheral nerve sheath elements.