bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Presidents Talk about: The Nixon Case
Authors: Jacobs Lawrence R. , Page Benjamin I. , Burns Melanie , McAvoy Gregory , Ostermeier Eric
Published: November 2003

Aside from the much‐analyzed State of the Union addresses and other major speeches, existing research tells us little about which issues presidents emphasize in their public rhetoric, how they do it, why, and with what effects. This article closely analyzes the public rhetoric of Richard Nixon over his entire presidency. The first section catalogs key characteristics of Nixon's rhetoric that confirm central expectations of the modern “public presidency” including the tendency of the “rhetorical presidency” toward oral rather than written formats, the orientation of “going public” by primarily addressing the general public rather than elite audiences, and a “two‐presidency” tilt toward emphasizing foreign over domestic policy. In addition, the article uses the month‐to‐month variations in the amount and content of presidential rhetoric to examine two hypotheses—that presidential rhetoric is a strategic tool that presidents use to affect real‐world events (rhetoric‐driven events) and that rhetoric is cast about by the winds of the world (event‐driven rhetoric). Despite the impression in some presidential studies that presidents are primarily movers of events, our findings offer substantial support for the event‐driven rhetoric hypothesis and only some evidence of the rhetoric‐driven event hypothesis.
American Values or Human Rights? U.S. Foreign Policy and the Fractured Myth of Virtuous Power
Authors: Kane John
Published: November 2003

American exceptionalism placed American values at the center of foreign policy, fostering belief in the essential union of American virtue and power. Developing a theme of Henry Kissinger’s, this article argues that in Vietnam this union was severed and undermined: America's power was defeated and its virtue assailed. Nixon offered only a pretense of reunion. Carter attempted the real thing by putting universal human rights, not American values, at the heart of foreign policy. His failure was followed by Reagan's denial of sin and reassurance of American values, though the Gulf War of his successor had a deeper impact on the national psyche. Clinton's foreign policy remained subject to the “Vietnam syndrome” and he, despite rhetorical dazzle, developed no new consensus on the disposition of American power. September 11, however, produced a sense of injured innocence in whose defense American power could again be virtuously deployed. The subsequent patriotic surge encouraged George W. Bush to revive American values in foreign policy, with potentially dangerous consequences.
Mapping the T cell epitopes of the Babesia bovis antigen 12D3: implications for vaccine design
Authors: Court R.A. , Sitte K. , Opdebeeck J.P. , East I.J.
Published: November 2003

The Babesia bovis antigen 12D3 was analysed to identify potential T‐cell epitopes. Two predictive algorithms identified 13 possible sites but there was minimal agreement between the different predictive methods. Experimental determination of the T‐cell epitopes recognized by nine cattle was achieved using a panel of overlapping peptides which identified seven different epitopes, five of which were clustered together around residues 210–320 of the molecule. No T cell epitopes were located within the tightly disulphide bonded core of 12D3. Using a series of truncated peptides, the location of two of the epitopes was mapped to residues 35–43 and 266–275. The sequences of these two epitopes was compared with a database of previously described binding motifs for MHC II alleles and each epitope was found to contain three sequence motifs recognized by HLA‐DR alleles. The BoLA‐DRB3 alleles occurring in these cattle were determined by a sequence specific oligonucleotide hybridization assay. Within those cattle whose T cells proliferated in response to 12D3, there was a consistent pattern of epitope recognition and presence of particular DRB3 alleles. The implications for effective vaccine design are discussed.
Antibody Reactivity Against Thyroid Peroxidase and Myeloperoxidase in Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Systemic Vasculitis
Authors: HAAPALA A. M. , HYÖTY H. , PARKKONEN P. , MUSTONEN J. , SOPPI E.
Published: November 2003

Potential cross‐reactivity between thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) molecules was evaluated by analysing the binding of 199 TPO antibody‐ and 145 MPO antibody‐ positive sera to TPO and MPO molecules. Sera from six patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (AITD) and four patients with systemic vasculitis (SV) with different TPO‐MPO antibody findings were then chosen for further analyses. All six patients with AITD had TPO antibodies in enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and four of them had simultaneously MPO antibodies in EIA. In AITD patients antibody binding to TPO could not be inhibited by adding native MPO to the serum diluent, suggesting that the possible cross‐reactive epitopes were exposed in the denaturated MPO molecule. Similarly, the MPO ab reactivity of patients with systemic vasculitis could not be inhibited by native TPO. To study whether TPO and MPO antibodies recognize linear epitopes, the binding of antibodies to synthetic TPO and MPO peptides was analysed. Several TPO and MPO peptides were reactive, including peptides reacting with both TPO and MPO antibody‐positive sera. One of the most cross‐reactive peptides contained AA 586–601 in TPO, showing also particularly high AA homology (88%) with MPO (AA 594–609). The results suggest that TPO and MPO molecules contain cross‐reactive epitopes that are exposed in denaturated molecules and may thus cause false positive antibody findings in solid phase EIA assays.
Donor exposure rate to transfusion ratio: a better discriminator of improvement in neonatal transfusion practice
Authors: Ibojie J. , Greiss M. , Lloyd D. J. , Urbaniak S. J.
Published: November 2003

summary.  This study identifies the benefit of using donor exposure rate (DER) to transfusion rate (TR) ratio as a discriminative index for assessing improvement in practice pattern in multiple‐transfused neonates. It provides a methodology to demonstrate reduction in donor exposure that is not evident from the use of DER alone. Two time points, one 12‐month period (1996–1997) before and one 12‐month period (1999–2000) following the introduction of a paedipack system, were reviewed. Blood issued and wasted was quantified. The 1994 BSCH guidelines to define transfusion were used for both time periods, and recombinant erythropoietin (EPO) was not used.

Following implementation of paedipack system, 186 donor units were made into satellite bags and kept for 35 days. A dramatic decrease in DER : TR ratio was noted for 79 transfused infants. The DER : TR ratio was 1 : 1 before and 1 : 3·2 after introduction of paedipacks, giving a 70·5% reduction in donor exposure risk. This was not evident from the use of DER alone, which remained the same (2·4) in the historical and study groups. High transfusions per donor unit (TPDU) correlated with the reduction in DER : TR ratio. Red cell wastage per transfusion was 190 ± 30 mL before and 24·5 ± 10 mL after intervention.
False‐positive result of sterility testing after a supposed adverse transfusion reaction
Authors: Strobel E.
Published: November 2003

Summary.  We report on the case of a woman who suffered from chills and fever when she was transfused with two units of red blood cell concentrate. Immunohaematological evaluation of the adverse reaction was inconspicuous, as well as sterility testing of one unit, but bacteriological evaluation of the second unit showed growth of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The sample for sterility testing of this unit had been drawn from the distal end of the transfusion device that was still connected to the blood bag. Later, two samples were drawn from the blood bag itself and were found to be sterile, whereas another sample drawn from the distal end of the transfusion device also showed growth of S. maltophilia. We conclude that reflux of the patient's blood into the transfusion device has caused a false‐positive result of sterility testing of the second unit when the sample was drawn from the distal end of the device.
Recurrent paroxysmal cold haemoglobinuria in a 3‐year‐old child: a case report
Authors: Taylor C. J. C. , Neilson J. R. , Chandra D. , Ibrahim Z.
Published: November 2003

Summary.  We present the case of a 3‐year‐old girl who presented on two separate occasions, eight months apart, with typical features of paroxysmal cold haemoglobinuria (PCH). On each occasion, she suffered malaise and fever with dark urine following an upper respiratory tract infection. She developed severe anaemia and required transfusion of red cells on both occasions, although each time she made a quick recovery. She was found to be direct antiglobulin test‐positive with anti‐C3d, and agglutination was observed on the blood film. A biphasic Donath–Landsteiner antibody was demonstrated. The specificity of the antibody was not identified, although it was not anti‐P. As far as we are aware, recurrence of acute PCH in a child has not been previously reported in the literature.
Identification of a new HLA‐DRB5 allele, DRB5*0112, by routine PCR‐SSP
Authors: Atkinson D.C. , Jobson S.E. , Dunn P.P.J. , Briggs D.C.
Published: November 2003

Abstract:  We describe the identification of a new HLA‐DRB5 allele found in two members of a British Caucasoid family. Genomic analysis of exon 2 revealed a novel sequence. The name DRB5*0112 has been assigned to this allele by the WHO Nomenclature Committee, and the EMBL sequence database accession number for this is AJ427352. DRB5*0112 has several unique sequence features when compared to other DRB5 alleles, and comparison with all known DRB1/3/4/5 alleles indicates this to have arisen as a result of intraexonic recombination between a DRB5‐containing haplotype and one carrying DRB1*09.
Adoptive immunotherapy as consolidation of remission in pediatric AML relapsing post‐transplant
Authors: Vettenranta Kim , Hovi Liisa , Saarinen‐Pihkala Ulla M.
Published: November 2003

Abstract:  Treatment of acute leukemia relapse following an allogeneic transplantation is a challenge. We reinduced three pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapsing after a marrow transplantation from a sibling donor into remission with chemotherapy and used donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) as consolidation. In two of the cases, the allogeneic recognition was enhanced through the use of interferon in the absence of clinical graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Subsequently, all the three developed (acute grade III–IV or chronic extensive) GVHD and remain in remission with a good quality of life 19, 15 and 14 months post‐relapse. We consider an active approach in the treatment of pediatric AML relapsing post‐transplant justified.
The plant glutathione transferase gene family: genomic structure, functions, expression and evolution
Authors: Frova Carla
Published: November 2003

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are ubiquitous, multifunctional proteins encoded by large gene families. In different plant species this gene family is comprised of 25–60 members, that can be grouped into six classes on the basis of sequence identity, gene organization and active site residues in the protein. The Phi and Tau classes are the most represented and are plant specific, while Zeta and Theta GSTs are found also in animals. Despite pronounced sequence and functional diversification, GSTs have maintained a highly conserved three‐dimensional structure through evolution. Most GSTs are cytosolic and active as dimers, performing diverse catalytic as well as non‐catalytic roles in detoxification of xenobiotics, prevention of oxidative damage and endogenous metabolism. Among their catalytic activities are the conjugation of electrophilic substrates to glutathione, glutathione‐dependent isomerizations and reductions of toxic organic hydroperoxides. Their main non‐catalytic role is as hormone and flavonoid ligandins. GST genes are predominantly organized in clusters non‐randomly distributed in the genome. Phylogenetic studies indicate that plant GSTs have mainly evolved after the divergence of plants, the two prevalent Phi and Tau classes being the result of recent, multiple duplication events.
A role for plant natriuretic peptide immuno‐analogues in NaCl‐ and drought‐stress responses
Authors: Rafudeen Suhail , Gxaba Gugu , Makgoke Gile , Bradley G. , Pironcheva Ganka , Raitt Lincoln , Irving Helen , Gehring Chris
Published: November 2003

Higher plants contain biologically active molecules that are recognized by anti‐human atrial natriuretic polypeptide rabbit serum (anti‐ANP). These molecules are termed immunoreactant plant natriuretic peptides (irPNPs) and have previously been shown to be associated with conductive tissue and to affect ion fluxes, protoplast volume regulation and stomatal guard cell responses. Herein an irPNP from the brassicaceus weed Erucastrum strigosum is identified and it is demonstrated that the relative amounts of irPNP expressed as a percentage of total water : methanol (50 : 50) extracted proteins are increased when plants are exposed to 300 mM NaCl. Since 100 and 200 mM NaCl reduce dry and fresh mass as well as increase total tissue NaCl load, it is hypothesized that irPNP up‐regulation is a late and possibly adaptive response. IrPNP is also significantly up‐regulated in Arabidopsis thaliana suspension culture cells in response to 150 mM NaCl and even more so in response to iso‐osmolar amounts of sorbitol. Finally, a recombinant A. thaliana irPNP (AtPNP‐A) promotes net water‐uptake into the protoplast and thus volume increases. This response is dependent on de novo protein synthesis and may suggest a complex and possibly regulatory function for irPNP‐like molecules in plant homeostasis.
An arginyl in the N‐terminus of the V1a vasopressin receptor is part of the conformational switch controlling activation by agonist
Authors: Hawtin Stuart R. , Wesley Victoria J. , Simms John , Parslow Rosemary A. , Miles Alice , McEwan Kim , Keen Mary , Wheatley Mark
Published: November 2003

Defining how the agonist–receptor interaction differs from that of the antagonist–receptor and understanding the mechanisms of receptor activation are fundamental issues in cell signalling. The V1a vasopressin receptor (V1aR) is a member of a family of related G‐protein coupled receptors that are activated by neurohypophysial peptide hormones, including vasopressin (AVP). It has recently been reported that an arginyl in the distal N‐terminus of the V1aR is critical for binding agonists but not antagonists. To determine specific features required at this locus to support high affinity agonist binding and second messenger generation, Arg46 was substituted by all other 19 encoded amino acids. Our data establish that there is an absolute requirement for arginyl, as none of the [R46X]V1aR mutant constructs supported high affinity agonist binding and all 19 had defective signalling. In contrast, all of the mutant receptors possessed wildtype binding for both peptide and nonpeptide antagonists. The ratio of Ki to EC50, an indicator of efficacy, was increased for all substitutions. Consequently, although [R46X]V1aR constructs have a lower affinity for agonist, once AVP has bound all 19 are more likely than the wildtype V1aR to become activated. Therefore, in the wildtype V1aR, Arg46 constrains the inactive conformation of the receptor. On binding AVP this constraint is alleviated, promoting the transition to active V1aR. Our findings explain why arginyl is conserved at this locus throughout the evolutionary lineage of the neurohypophysial peptide hormone receptor family of G‐protein coupled receptors.
Tyrosinase gene expression is not detected in mouse brain outside the retinal pigment epithelium cells
Authors: Giménez Estela , Lavado Alfonso , Giraldo Patricia , Montoliu Lluís
Published: November 2003

Tyrosinase is the rate‐limiting enzyme for melanin synthesis. Its gene is expressed in two cell types: melanocytes, derived from migrating neural crest cells, and, in the CNS, retinal pigment epithelium cells, derived from the optic cup. Its absence from the eye results in profound pathway selection errors of optic fibres at the chiasm and, hence, it has been implicated as a developmental regulator of CNS pathway selection. Recently, it has been proposed that tyrosinase can also be expressed in the developing and adult brain, although the methods used were indirect. Its presence in the brain could be very significant in terms of a potentially wider role in pathway finding. Here, we have evaluated the presence of tyrosinase expression in mouse developing, perinatal and adult brain by in situ hybridization in whole‐mount embryos and histological sections and by real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. We find no evidence for tyrosinase gene expression in the CNS outside the retinal pigment epithelium cells.
Estradiol modulates acetylcholine‐induced Ca2+ signals in LHRH‐releasing GT1‐7 cells through a membrane binding site
Authors: Morales Araceli , Díaz Mario , Ropero Ana B. , Nadal Angel , Alonso Rafael
Published: November 2003

Estrogen regulation of the female reproductive axis involves the rapid inhibition (< 30 min) of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) secretion from hypothalamic neurons. This fast time‐course suggests interactions with potential plasma membrane binding sites that could result in short‐term effects on LHRH neurons. Because LHRH release is calcium dependent, we have studied the acute effects of 17β‐estradiol (E2) and estradiol‐peroxidase (E‐HRP) on the elevations of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) induced by acetylcholine (ACh) in LHRH‐producing GT1‐7 cells. Exposure to ACh (1–100 µm) induced transient increases of [Ca2+]i, whereas pretreatment with E2 or E‐HRP (10 nm) for 2 min reduced this response by 50–60%. The effect was specific for E2 as neither 17α‐estradiol (1 µm) nor the synthetic antiestrogens ICI182 780 (1 µm) or tamoxifen (1 µm) elicited any change on the ACh‐induced Ca2+ signal. Both the latency of the effect and the response to the membrane impermeant conjugate suggested a membrane‐mediated mechanism. Such membrane binding sites for E2 in GT1‐7 cells were demonstrated by visualizing the binding of E‐HRP and estradiol‐BSA‐fluorescein isothiocyanate (E‐BSA‐FITC) conjugates. Competition studies showed that E‐HRP binding was blocked by preincubation with E2, but not with 17α‐E2, ICI182 780, tamoxifen or progesterone, indicating that the plasma membrane binding site is highly specific for E2 and exhibits a pharmacological profile different from classical estrogen receptors. We conclude that ACh‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i in GT1‐7 cells is modulated acutely by physiological E2 concentrations in a manner which is compatible with the existence of an estrogen‐specific membrane binding site.
Improved forage digestibility of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) by transgenic down‐regulation of cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase
Authors: Chen Lei , Auh Chung‐Kyoon , Dowling Paul , Bell Jeremey , Chen Fang , Hopkins Andrew , Dixon Richard A. , Wang Zeng‐Yu
Published: November 2003

Lignification of cell walls during plant development has been identified as the major factor limiting forage digestibility and concomitantly animal productivity. cDNA sequences encoding a key lignin biosynthetic enzyme, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD), were cloned from the widely grown monocotyledonous forage species tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). Recombinant tall fescue CAD expressed in E. coli exhibited the highest Vmax/Km values when coniferaldehyde and sinapaldehyde were used as substrates. Transgenic tall fescue plants carrying either sense or antisense CAD gene constructs were obtained by microprojectile bombardment of single genotype‐derived embryogenic suspension cells. Severely reduced levels of mRNA transcripts and significantly reduced CAD enzymatic activities were found in two transgenic plants carrying sense and antisense CAD transgenes, respectively. These CAD down‐regulated transgenic lines had significantly decreased lignin content and altered ratios of syringyl (S) to guaiacyl (G), G to p‐hydroxyphenyl (H) and S to H units. No significant changes in cellulose, hemicellulose, neutral sugar composition, p‐coumaric acid and ferulic acid levels were observed in the transgenic plants. Increases of in vitro dry matter digestibility of 7.2–9.5% were achieved in the CAD down‐regulated lines, thus providing a novel germplasm to be used for the development of grass cultivars with improved forage quality.
Carbon metabolite sensing and signalling
Authors: Halford Nigel G. , Paul Matthew J.
Published: November 2003

The regulation of carbon metabolism in plant cells responds sensitively to the levels of carbon metabolites that are available. The sensing and signalling systems that are involved in this process form a complex web that comprises metabolites, transporters, enzymes, transcription factors and hormones. Exactly which metabolites are sensed is not yet known, but candidates include sucrose, glucose and other hexoses, glucose‐6‐phosphate, trehalose‐6‐phosphate, trehalose and adenosine monophosphate. Important components of the signalling pathways include sucrose non‐fermenting‐1‐related protein kinase‐1 (SnRK1) and hexokinase; sugar transporters are also implicated. A battery of genes and enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, secondary metabolism, nitrogen assimilation and photosynthesis are under the control of these pathways and fundamental developmental processes such as germination, sprouting, pollen development and senescence are affected by them. Here we review the current knowledge of carbon metabolite sensing and signalling in plants, drawing comparisons with homologous and analogous systems in animals and fungi. We also review the evidence for cross‐talk between carbon metabolite and other major signalling systems in plant cells and the prospects for manipulating this fundamentally important aspect of metabolic regulation for crop improvement.
The Third Way and Social Welfare: The Myth of Post‐emotionalism
Authors: Dean Hartley
Published: November 2003

The “passive” welfare state was accused of promoting a dependency culture. “Active” welfare and the “what works?” approach of Britain's New Labour government is allegedly implicated in an age of post‐emotionalism, in which people are largely indifferent to the needs of others and committed primarily to their personal well‐being. This article, first, seeks to extend recent debates about agency and motivation in social policy and relate them to the notion of post‐emotionalism. Second, it draws on a recent empirical study of popular and welfare provider discourses, which suggests that popular opinion can accommodate an appreciation of human interdependency, while welfare providers remain committed to a public service ethos. None the less, Third Way thinking is associated with a narrowing of solidaristic responsibilities. The problem for the future of health, social care and state welfare policies lies not with the imagined consequences of post‐emotionalism, so much as with an ideological context that perpetuates a distorted ethic of responsibility.
Expression of galectin‐3 in neuronally differentiating PC12 cells is regulated both via Ras/MAPK‐dependent and –independent signalling pathways
Authors: Kuklinski Stephan , Vladimirova Valentina , Waha Andreas , Kamata Hideaki , Pesheva Penka , Probstmeier Rainer
Published: November 2003

Galectin‐3 (gal‐3) is a member of the galectin family of lectins whose expression strongly depends on the cellular state. Here we show that in PC12 cells the expression of gal‐3 protein is regulated via Ras‐ and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)‐dependent and independent signalling pathways and correlates with nerve growth factor (NGF)‐mediated neuronal differentiation. Gal‐3 expression, activation of the MAPK ERK1/2 and neurite outgrowth are induced by NGF and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), but not by ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), epidermal growth factor, insulin or interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). In addition, in NGF‐treated PC12 cells, gal‐3 expression, ERK1/2 activation and neurite outgrowth could be specifically inhibited at the level of TrkA, Ras and MAPK‐kinase, whereas expression of an oncogenic form of Ras leads to gal‐3 expression and neurite outgrowth in the absence of growth factors. In NGF‐primed PC12 cells, subsequent treatment with CNTF or IL‐6 induces ERK1/2 activation and neurite outgrowth, but not gal‐3 expression. Treatment of PC12 cells with staurosporine induces gal‐3 expression and neurite outgrowth without ERK1/2 activation. NGF‐ and staurosporine‐induced gal‐3‐expression is also regulated at the transcriptional level. Our data suggest the presence of complex induction mechanisms of gal‐3 expression in neuronally differentiating PC12 cells involving NGF‐, but not CNTF‐ and IL‐6‐driven (in NGF‐primed cells) Ras/MAPK‐related signalling pathways. Staurosporine, in contrast, induces gal‐3 expression by a Ras/MAPK‐independent mechanism.
THE USE OF TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF ENTRAPPED SLAG INCLUSIONS TO ESTABLISH ORE – BAR IRON LINKS: EXAMPLES FROM TWO GALLO‐ROMAN IRON‐MAKING SITES IN FRANCE (LES MARTYS, MONTAGNE NOIRE, AND LES FERRYS, LOIRET)*
Authors: Coustures M. P. , Béziat D. , Tollon F. , Domergue C. , Long L. , Rebiscoul A.
Published: November 2003

Knowledge of the iron trade in ancient times rests on determining the source of the objects recovered during archaeological excavations. Unfortunately, attributing the origin is not always possible using archaeological tools alone. Trace element data of the ore and the archaeological material (reduction and reheating slags, entrapped slag inclusions from the bloom, bar iron and iron blades) from two Gallo‐Roman iron‐making centres, Les Martys (Montagne Noire) and Les Ferrys (Loiret), were determined using ICP–AES/MS and LA–ICP–MS. The results highlight a continuity of composition that makes it possible to establish a link between the initial ore and the semi‐finished iron products.
Role of ADP‐ribosylation in wound repair. The contributions of Thomas K. Hunt, MD
Authors: Ghani Q. Perveen , Wagner Silvia , Hussain M. Zamirul
Published: November 2003

Nearly 36 years ago Thomas K. Hunt, with Patrick Twomey, was the first to report that the level of lactate significantly increases in healing wounds. This observation convinced him that lactate, besides being the by‐product of glycolysis, must have a regulatory role in the healing process. He set out to investigate this observation and found it to be so. This article is written in recognition of his foresight. It summarizes the salient findings emanating from this fundamental observation and describes the biochemical principles by which most of the lactate action may be explained. Down‐regulation of the ubiquitous protein modification reaction called ADP‐ribosylation turned out to be a basic signal behind the role of lactate in wound healing. (WOUND REP REG 2003;11:439–444)
Organization of wound healing services: The Danish experience and the importance of surgery
Authors: Gottrup Finn
Published: November 2003

Thomas K. Hunt is a general surgeon. Through his basic wound healing research and clinical work with wound patients he has been a great inspiration for my work in wound healing. In order to fulfill Dr. Hunt's vision, the clinical wound healing arena must be organized in an optimal way, and this article focuses on different options. Multidisciplinary wound care teams or centers focusing on all types of problem wounds have proved to be most effective at providing treatment and care for patients with problem wounds. The ultimate model is an outpatient clinic and an inpatient ward joined within a departmental structure, which represents an integrated part of an accepted national expert program on wound healing. Different types of center models can be established with different advantages and disadvantages. Currently, the wound care arena is being organized in Denmark and the model is described in this article. Of all specialties involved in treatment of wounds, surgery is of vital importance. “Wound healing is the keystone on which surgery is founded” (Thomas K. Hunt). This has long been understood in relation to acute wounds, while the importance of surgery in the treatment of chronic wounds has been less widely recognized. Surgical procedures directly related to the wound consist of debridement of all types of problem wounds and, in more specialized procedures such as skin transplantation, different types of flap constructions, bone surgery, and tendo‐Achilles lengthening. Arterial reconstruction is a type of surgery that indirectly, through improved tissue perfusion, improves healing of problem wounds. This study concludes that multidisciplinary specialized wound healing concepts integrated into the national health care system as accepted expert functions would be the ideal way to organize wound healing to best benefit patients and society. Emphasis is on the importance of surgical procedures in wound healing and care. The models described can be applied with minor adjustments to both industrialized and developing countries. (WOUND RED REG 2003;11:452–457)
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy of diabetic foot ulcers, transcutaneous oxymetry in clinical decision making
Authors: Niinikoski Juha
Published: November 2003

The foot ulcer is one of most common and devastating complications of diabetes and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. The major causes of these ulcers are ischemia/hypoxia, neuropathy, and infection, and they often coexist. Despite conventional therapy including revascularization procedures when appropriate, three situations lead frequently to amputation: persistent critical limb ischemia, soft tissue infection, and impaired wound healing from osteomyelitis. In these conditions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be used as an adjunctive treatment and is associated with a better outcome. Randomized, prospective, controlled trails have shown the benefit of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in diabetic ulcers of the lower extremity. Transcutaneous oxygen measurement performed under hyperbaric oxygen therapy has a prognostic significance when used to select patients who are the most likely to benefit from therapy. Hyperbaric oxygen should be added to conventional treatment if the transcutaneous oxygen tension close to the trophic lesion in 2.5 ATA hyperbaric oxygen is over 200 mmHg. Peri‐wound transcutaneous oxygen tensions over 400 mmHg in 2.5 ATA hyperbaric oxygen or over 50 mmHg in normobaric pure oxygen predict healing success with adjuncted hyperbaric oxygen therapy with high accuracy.(WOUND REP REG 2003;11:458–461)
Role for gap junctional intercellular communications in wound repair
Authors: Ehrlich H. Paul , Diez Tammy
Published: November 2003

The participation of fibroblasts in wound repair is a coordinated effort requiring sequential cellular modulations to behavior including migration (entering), proliferation (increasing cell numbers), synthesis (depositing a collagen matrix), remodeling (organizing collagen), transformation into myofibroblasts, apoptosis, and elimination. Disruptions in that orderly sequence of behaviors will alter repair. Insights into controlling wound repair have focused on soluble factors such as cytokines and growth factors. Here we examine the direct communications between coupled cells through gap junctional intercellular communications. Molecules of less than 1000 MW pass directly between cells through gated gap junction channels. Sugars, amino acids, and oxygen, as well as second messengers such as cAMP, inositol phosphates, and calcium can pass directly between coupled cells. Does gap junctional intercellular communication affect fibroblast phenotype progression in granulation tissue maturation? In rats gap junctional intercellular communication uncouplers heptanol and endosulfan were injected daily into polyvinyl alcohol sponge implants. At 7 days, uncoupler‐treated implants had capsules with increased fibroblast density, reduced cell penetration into the sponge, and diminished numbers of myofibroblasts. By polarized light, the uncouplers reduced the deposition and organization of collagen and thereby disrupted the coordinated phenotypic changes seen in fibroblasts during the repair process. It is proposed that gap junctional intercellular communication is critical for fibroblast progression from migratory cell to apoptosis as granulation tissue matures into scar. (WOUND REP REG 2003;11:481–489)
Effectiveness of an oral health education and caries prevention program in kindergartens in China
Authors: Rong Wen Sheng , Bian Jin You , Wang Wei Jian , De Wang Jia
Published: November 2003

Abstract –

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of a 2‐year oral health education and caries prevention program implemented in kindergartens in China.

Methods: Seven hundred and thirty‐one 3‐year‐old children were recruited from 10 kindergartens in Miyun County, Beijing, China. The kindergartens were randomly divided into two groups. Oral health education was provided to teachers in the test kindergartens every 3 months. Oral health education sessions were conducted for the test children monthly and for their parents semiannually. Children in the test kindergarten brushed their teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste (1100 ppm F−) in their kindergarten under the supervision of teachers during weekdays. No oral health education session and no supervised tooth brushing activities were carried out in the control kindergartens. A clinical examination of the study children and a questionnaire survey of their parents were conducted at baseline and after a 2‐year program.

Results: Five hundred and fourteen children remained in the study after 2 years. The mean caries increments of the test group (n = 258) and the control group (n = 256) were 2.47 and 3.56 dmfs, respectively. The reduction in dmfs increment was 30.6% (P = 0.009). At the evaluation, a significantly higher percentage of children in the test group than in the control group reported brushing their teeth twice a day (87.6% vs. 69.0%; P < 0.001). Parents of children in the test group had better oral health knowledge and attitude than the parents of children in the control group.

Conclusion: This oral health education program was effective in establishing good oral health habits among preschool children and in increasing oral health knowledge of their parents, in conjunction with supervised daily tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste, which could reduce the development of new dental caries in preschool children in China.
Occurrence of periodontal bacteria in healthy children: a 2‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Ooshima Takashi , Nishiyama Naoko , Hou Benxiang , Tamura Kiyoko , Amano Atsuo , Kusumoto Aki , Kimura Shigenobu
Published: November 2003

Abstract – Objectives: To examine the occurrence of specific periodontal bacteria in children and adolescents.

Methods: Ten putative periodontal bacteria were longitudinally examined in plaque and saliva samples from 119 periodontally healthy children (2–15 years old) using a polymerase chain reaction method.

Results: Capnocytophaga ochracea, C. sputigena, and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans were frequently found in saliva, and tended to persist in saliva for the remainder of the study, whereas Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Prevotella intermedia were rarely detected. P. nigrescens was more frequently detected in plaque and its prevalence increased with age. Eikenella corrodens and Campylobacter rectus were sometimes detected in both plaque and saliva, while Tannerella forsythensis was occasionally detected in saliva.

Conclusion: A. actinomycetemcomitans, C. ochracea, C. sputigena, P. nigrescens, C. rectus, and E. corrodens are common members of the oral microbial flora of healthy children, whereas P. gingivalis, P. intermedia, and T. denticola appear to be transient organisms.
The effect of fluorides and caries in primary teeth on permanent tooth emergence
Authors: Leroy Roos , Bogaerts Kris , Lesaffre Emmanuel , Declerck Dominique
Published: November 2003

Abstract – This study addressed two questions: (i) is there an effect of exposure to fluorides on the timing of emergence of permanent teeth? and (ii) can a difference in timing of tooth emergence be explained by the impact of fluorides on the caries experience of the predecessors? Data were obtained from a long‐term follow‐up study of the oral health condition in a sample of 4468 Flemish children. Survival analyses with log‐logistic distribution were performed to calculate median emergence ages and 95% confidence intervals; four fluoride exposure parameters (fluorosis, use of systemic fluoride supplements, age at which tooth brushing started and frequency of tooth brushing) and caries experience were taken as covariates in the model. The present study indicates that the impact of any of the four fluoride exposure parameters on permanent tooth emergence was relatively minimal. Caries experience in the primary molars had a more pronounced impact on the timing of emergence of the successors than exposure to any of the four fluoride parameters.
Enhancement of photodynamic effect in normal rat keratinocytes by treatment with 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D3
Authors: Matsuyama Asako , Nakano Hajime , Harada Ken , Yamazaki Takehiko , Kanno Takahiro , Wakui Makoto , Hanada Katsumi
Published: November 2003

Background: To better understand the pathogenesis of photodynamic therapy (PDT)‐induced apoptosis cytosolic calcium [Ca2+]i was measured using cultured fetal rat keratinocytes (FRSKs). Moreover, the influence of 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) with the action of increasing [Ca2+]i on the PDT effect was studied.

Methods: FRSKs were treated with a medium containing the photosensitizer, aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (AlPcTs), and were then exposed to selective visible light derived from a halogen lamp. Electrophoresis of DNA extracted from the PDT‐treated cells revealed DNA fragmentation, a sign of apoptosis in cultured FRSKs under the condition with or without 1,25(OH)2D3.

Results: PDT‐treated FRSKs exhibited increased levels of [Ca2+]i; these levels were significantly elevated further by the treatment of cells with 1,25(OH)2D3. However, cells treated with ethylene glycol bis (b‐aminoethyl ether)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid (EGTA), a chelator of extracellular calcium, prior to PDT did not show any DNA fragmentation either in the presence or absence of 1,25(OH)2D3.

Conclusion: PDT‐induced apoptosis in FRSKs may be caused by the influx of extracellular calcium. Addition of 1,25(OH)2D3 clearly enhanced the DNA fragmentation in the cultured FRSKs, indicating the effect of increased [Ca2+]i. The combination therapy of AlPcTs‐PDT with the administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 may contribute to the enhancement of the AlPcTs‐PTD effect.
Thalidomide inhibits UVB‐induced mouse keratinocyte apoptosis by both TNF‐α‐dependent and TNF‐α‐independent pathways
Authors: Lu Kurt Q. , Brenneman Stephen , Burns Robert , Vink Ard , Gaines Erika , Haake Anne , Gaspari Anthony
Published: November 2003

Background:Thalidomide is an anti‐inflammatory pharmacologic agent that has been utilized as a therapy for a number of dermatologic diseases. Its anti‐inflammatory properties have been attributed to its ability to antagonize tumor necrosis factor‐alfa (TNF‐α) production by monocytes. However, its mechanism of action in the skin is not known.

Purpose:To test our hypothesis that thalidomide may antagonize TNF‐α production in the skin, we used a mouse model for acute ultraviolet‐B (UVB) exposure, a known stimulus for inducing this cytokine.

Results:A single bolus dose of thalidomide (either 100 or 400 mg/kg) given immediately before UVB exposure (40–120 mJ/cm2) inhibited, in a dose‐dependent manner, sunburn cell formation (i.e. keratinocyte (KC) apoptosis as defined by histologic appearance and confirmed by terminal transferase mediated biotinylated dUTP nick end labelling staining) in mouse skin biopsy specimens. However, this agent did not affect the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, a measure of UVB‐induced DNA damage, which is an early event associated with apoptosis. RNase protection assays confirmed that high (400 mg/kg), but not low (100 mg/kg), doses of thalidomide inhibited the UVB‐induced increase in steady‐state TNF‐α mRNA. Additionally, ourin vitrodata using neonatal mouse KCs showed that thalidomide prevented UVB‐induced cell death (JAM assay). The antiapoptotic effects of thalidomide can be reversed by the addition of exogenous recombinant mouse TNF‐α and hence reconstituting UVB‐induced programmed cell death. The inhibition of sunburn cell formation by low‐dose thalidomide in the absence of TNF‐α inhibition suggests that other, unidentified mechanisms of apoptosis inhibition are active.

Conclusions:These data suggest that the anti‐inflammatory effects of thalidomide can affect UVB injury, and may, in part, explain its action in photosensitivity diseases such as cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
Corrigendum to: Intra- and interspecific allozyme variation in eucalypts from the spotted gum group, Corymbia, section 'Politaria' (Myrtaceae)
Authors: McDonald M. W. , Butcher P. A. , Larmour J. S. , Bell J. C.
Published: November 2003

The distribution of genetic variation within and among species inCorymbia section‘Politaria’ was examined using allozymes.This section consists of four species,Corymbia citriodora (Hook.) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson, C. maculata (Hook.) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson, C. henryi (Blake) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson and C. variegata (F.Muell.) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson, which are of commercial interest for plantation and farmforestry. Thirty populations representing the species’ range-widedistributions were studied, extending from upland tropical regions of northQueensland, south to eastern Victoria. Despite relatively low allozymedivergence between species, there was a relationship between geographicdistribution patterns of populations and allozyme variation. The section wasshown to comprise very closely related species with only 15% of thetotal genetic diversity attributed to differences between species. Twodistinct genetic alliances were evident:C. maculata–C. henryi andC. citriodora–C. variegata.Corymbia citriodora andC. variegata, however, could not be distinguished bytheir allozyme profiles. The lack of genetic differentiation between thesetaxa suggests that they represent one species composed of two chemical races.Corymbia maculata and C. henryiwere shown to be closely allied but genetically distinct.Corymbia henryi had the highest genetic diversity in thegroup and lowest differentiation among populations, whileC. maculata had the lowest diversity but the highestgenetic differentiation among populations. There was evidence ofisolation-by-distance among populations ofC. citriodora, C. maculata andC. variegata but not in C. henryi,which has a smaller geographic range. The inclusion in the study ofC. torelliana (F.Muell.) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson asan outgroup accentuated the small genetic differences between species in thegroup. The patterns of genetic diversity are discussed in relation to thespecies’ taxonomic relationships, breeding systems and utilisation.
Ovary structure of the genus Gyrogyne (Gesneriaceae, Epithemateae)
Authors: Wang Yin-Zheng
Published: November 2003

The anatomical re-investigation of the ovary in the holotype of Gyrogyne subaequifolia W.T.Wang is carried out in order to clarify the ovarian structure of the genus Gyrogyne W.T.Wang (Gesneriaceae), a seemingly unusual ovarian structure according to its original description. The present anatomical re-investigation reveals that the ovary is, in fact, bilocular with a swollen axile placenta in the centre, that is, the median area of the membranous septum. The ovarian structure of G. subaequifolia shows, thus, a common feature frequently observed in the ovaries of Gesneriaceae rather than a unique ovarian characteristic that contributes to the family Gesneriaceae. The systematic placement of Gyrogyne and the relationship between Gyrogyne and allies are discussed.
A revision of Lissanthe (Styphelioideae: Ericaceae)
Authors: Crayn Darren M. , Brown Elizabeth A. , Powell Jocelyn M.
Published: November 2003

A revision of the styphelioid genus Lissanthe recognises seven species and two subspecies: L. brevistyla A.R.Bean, L. sapida R.Br., L. strigosa (Sm.) R.Br. subsp. strigosa, L. strigosa subsp. subulata (R.Br.) J.M.Powell. New combinations are made for two species transferred from Leucopogon: Lissanthe rubicunda (F.Muell.) J.M.Powell, D.M.Crayn & E.A.Br. and Lissanthe pluriloculata (F.Muell.) J.M.Powell, D.M.Crayn & E.A.Br. Two new species from Western Australia, Lissanthe powelliae D.M.Crayn & E.A.Br. and L. scabra D.M.Crayn & E.A.Br. are described, and Lissanthe sapida is lectotypified. Keys, illustrations and distribution maps are provided for all taxa. Lissanthe as defined here is a strongly supported clade based on analyses of sequence data from two chloroplast loci, the atpB–rbcL intergenic spacer and the matK gene. Potential morphological synapomorphies for Lissanthe include flowers pedicellate above the bracteoles, styles hairy at least at the base, and leaves with an abaxial surface that is grooved longitudinally.
Homing behaviour of intertidal rockpool fishes in south-eastern New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Griffiths Shane P.
Published: November 2003

The homing ability of 20 temperate Australian intertidal rockpool fishes was investigated between September 1999 and August 2001 by relocating tagged fish to other rockpools at distances of <5 m and 10–20 m. Eleven species showed homing ability, which may be due to topographical cues learned during high-tide feeding excursions within the intertidal zone. Displacement distance and time at liberty did not influence the proportion of fish homing, indicating that homing tendency is strong for most species examined. After ~120 days there is a dramatic decrease in the number of fish homing, but fish are capable of homing up to 214 days. The proportion of fish homing was independent of size, except for Lepidoblennius haplodactylus, which showed a reduced tendency to home with increasing size. The fate or whereabouts of fish that never returned to rockpools could not be determined. Possible explanations include relocation to rockpools near release points or increased susceptibility to predation due to tagging.