bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron status in Danish men 1984–94: a cohort comparison of changes in iron stores and the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron overload
Authors: Milman Nils , Byg Keld‐Erik , Ovesen Lars , Kirchhoff Marianne , Jürgensen Kirsten Schultz‐Larsen
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  Background and objectives
: From 1954 to 1987, flour in Denmark was fortified with 30 mg carbonyl iron per kg. This mandatory fortification was abolished in 1987. The aim of this study was to compare iron status in Danish men before and after abolition of iron fortification.
Methods
: Iron status (serum ferritin, haemoglobin), was assessed in population surveys in Copenhagen County during 1983–84 comprising 1324 Caucasian men (1024 non‐blood‐donors, 300 blood donors) and in 1993–94 comprising 1288 Caucasian men (1103 non‐blood‐donors, 185 donors), equally distributed in age cohorts of 40, 50, 60 and 70 yr.
Results
: In the 1984 survey median serum ferritin values in the four age cohorts in non‐blood‐donors were 136, 141, 133 and 111 µg/L, and in the 1994 survey 177, 173, 186 and 148 µg L
−1
, respectively. The difference was significant in all age groups (
P
<0.001). There was no significant difference between the two surveys concerning the prevalence of small iron stores (ferritin 16–32 µg L
−1
), depleted iron stores (ferritin <16 µg L
−1
) or iron‐deficiency anaemia (ferritin <13 µg L
−1
and Hb <5th percentile for iron‐replete men). However, from 1984 to 1994, the prevalence of iron overload (ferritin >300 µg L
−1
) increased from 11.3% to 18.9% (
P
<0.0001). During the study period there was an increase in body mass index (
P
<0.0001), alcohol consumption (
P
<0.03) and use of non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID) (
P
<0.0001), and a decrease in the use of vitamin–mineral supplements (
P
<0.04) and in the prevalence of tobacco smoking (
P
<0.0001). In contrast, median ferritin in blood donors showed a significant fall from 1984 to 1994 (103 vs. 74 µg L
−1
,
P
<0.02).
Conclusion
: Abolition of iron fortification reduced the iron content of the Danish diet by an average of 0.24 mg MJ
−1
, and the median dietary iron intake in men from 17 to 12 mg d
−1 . From 1984 to 1994, body iron stores and the prevalence of iron overload in Danish men increased significantly, despite the abolition of food iron fortification. The reason appears to be changes in dietary habits, with a lower consumption of dairy products and eggs, which inhibit iron absorption, and a higher consumption of alcohol, meat, and poultry, containing haem iron and enhancing iron absorption. The high prevalence of iron overload in men may constitute a health risk.
Effects of rituximab on a patient with Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia with deletion 13q14
Authors: Mori Akinori , Tamaru Jun‐Ichi , Kondo Haruki
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The haematological and serological responses of Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia (WM) to rituximab have been recently reported, but there have been few reports examining the genetic responses of the drug in the treatment of WM. We report here a case of WM associated with deletion 13q14 and JH gene rearrangement that was successfully treated with rituximab alone. Three months after the therapy, the patient achieved haematological remission with the disappearance of constitutional symptoms and chromosomal abnormalities; however, the remission was partial, because the serum monoclonal immunoglobulin M and JH gene rearrangement persisted. Our case demonstrates that first‐line therapy with rituximab is clinically and cytogenetically beneficial for WM.
Distribution and frequency of β‐thalassemia mutations in northwestern and central Greece
Authors: Georgiou I. , Makis A. , Chaidos A. , Bouba I. , Hatzi E. , Kranas V. , Zilidis C. , Bourantas K. L.
Published: March 2003

Objectives : β‐Thalassemia is a common autosomal recessive disorder resulting from over 200 different mutations of the β‐globin genes. The spectrum of β‐thalassemia mutations in Greece has been previously described in the population of the capital city of Athens, or in β‐thalassemia patients having transfusion therapy. The aim of the present study was to identify the distribution of the most common β‐thalassemia mutations in the population of northwestern and central Greece.

Methods : The data for this study were derived from a total of 1130 unrelated subjects including 46 β‐thalassemia major, three β ‐thalassemia intermedia and 1081 carriers identified in our antenatal screening program. β‐Thalassemia mutations were identified by ARMS, DGGE and Reverse Dot Blot.

Results : The most common mutation, IVS‐I‐110, is followed, in order of frequency, by the mutations Cd‐39, IVS‐I‐1, IVS‐II‐1, Cd‐6, IVS‐I‐6, IVS‐I‐5, IVS‐II‐745, Cd‐5 and 44 bp del. IVS‐I‐110 and Cd‐39 frequencies are similar with those found in other Balkan countries. Significant differences in regional distribution were observed. The results showed a clear drift of the distribution of the most frequent IVS‐I‐110 mutation in the south–north (29.4, 40.0, 44.6 and 61.7%) and the east–west axis (31.8 and 44.6%).

Conclusions : Population screening and prenatal diagnosis are significantly facilitated by these data. Furthermore, the detailed distribution tables of β‐thalassemia mutations are essential for counseling and extraction of genetic diversity estimates for population genetic studies in other inherited disorders.
Rituximab induces remission of cerebral ischemia caused by thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Tsai Han‐Mou , Shulman Keith
Published: March 2003

Objective: This report describes the experience of a case of atypical thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) whose diagnosis was based on severe deficiency of the von Willebrand factor (vWF) cleaving metalloprotease ADAMTS13.

Methods: The level of ADAMTS13 activity, the titer of the inhibitors of this protease and the size distribution of vWF multimers in plasma samples were analysed in a patient with recurrent episodes of dizziness and blurred vision.

Results: In the absence of thrombocytopenia or microangiopathic hemolysis, diagnosis of TTP was established by demonstration of very low ADAMTS13 activity levels and the presence of inhibitors of this protease. After rituximab therapy decreased the inhibitor titer and increased the ADAMTS13 level, the patient has had no relapse of ischemic symptoms in the following 16 months.

Conclusions: Acute neurological deficits may occur in TTP without concurrent thrombocytopenia or microangiopathic hemolysis. The role of rituximab for patients with TTP deserves further exploration.
Increased tryptase and myeloperoxidase levels in blister fluids of patients with bullous pemphigoid: correlations with cytokines, adhesion molecules and anti‐basement membrane zone antibodies
Authors: D'Auria L. , Pietravalle M. , Cordiali‐Fei P. , Ameglio F.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Tryptase and myeloperoxidase respectively represent 2 specific markers of activated mast cells or neutrophils. Therefore, establishing the levels of these enzymes may be useful to quantify the cell involvement in the tissues or fluids of different origins and in different pathologies. The aim of this study was to analyse the levels of these 2 markers in both the sera and blister fluids of patients affected with bullous pemphigoid. These levels were then correlated to the concentrations of 19 cytokines and 2 soluble adhesion molecules determined in the same samples and also with the log (anti‐basement membrane zone antibody) titres, evaluated in the patients' sera. For these purposes, 15 patients with bullous pemphigoid (10 males and 5 females; median age: 84 years, range 66–87; median disease duration: 0 years, range 0–3: median number of skin lesions: 17, range 14–30; median anti‐basement membrane zone antibody titre: 1:320, range 0.0–1:2560) and 15 normal subjects (11 males and 4 females, median age: 81 years, range 59–86) were analysed by means of commercially available kits. Results showed that blister fluid myeloperoxidase and tryptase levels were increased as compared with the respective sera (P<0.01) and several correlations were observed with cytokines and adhesion molecules. In fact, significant correlations of blister fluid tryptase levels were observed with IL‐3, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐7, IL‐8, VEGF, RANTES and sICAM‐1, while myeloperoxidase was correlated with IL‐1beta, IL‐13 and IL‐15. The blister fluid tryptase levels were also significantly correlated with the anti‐basement membrane zone antibody titres (R=0.53, P=0.05). In conclusion, these findings are in accord with an involvement of both mast cells and neutrophils in bullous pemphigoid and their recruitment may be mediated by different biological modulators. Our findings seem to indicate that the cytokine (IL‐3, IFN‐gamma and OSM) or adhesion molecule (sICAM‐1) concentrations in blister fluid are logarithmically related to the anti‐basement membrane zone antibody titers.
TCR Vβ expression in the small bowel of patients with dermatitis herpetiformis and gluten sensitive enteropathy
Authors: Hall R. P. , Owen S. , Smith A. , Keough M. , Bagheri B. , Church P. , Streilein R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a blistering skin disease characterized by cutaneous deposits of IgA and an associated, most often asymptomatic, gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE). Gluten sensitive enteropathy is also seen in patients that do not have skin disease or cutaneous IgA deposits, but do have significant gastrointestinal (GI) complaints. Patients with DH and with GSE without skin disease have similar small bowel morphologic changes and HLA associations and both the skin disease and the GI symptoms can be controlled by a gluten free diet. It is not known what factors allow almost all patients with DH to continue to eat gluten and not develop symptomatic gastrointestinal disease. We have examined the expression of the Vβ T‐cell receptor (TCR) in the small bowel of patients with DH (n=11) and of patients with both symptomatic (n=10) and asymptomatic (n=7) GSE without skin disease to determine if differences in the pattern of TCR Vβ expression are associated with differences in the clinical manifestations of these diseases. TCR Vβ expression was analyzed using RT‐PCR from small bowel biopsies. Patients with DH and those with GSE without skin disease that were on a gluten free diet and asymptomatic were found to express 6.6 and 5.6 out of 20 Vβ families respectively, with no single family preference. Examination of peripheral blood lymphocytes from these patients did not reveal any restriction of TCR Vβ family expression. In contrast, patients with symptomatic GSE expressed 12.6 Vβ families (P< 0.05), with no consistent preferential expression of any single Vβ family between patients. Patients with DH, who are continuing to ingest wheat, show a more restricted pattern of TCR Vβ utilization, similar to that of treated patients with GSE without skin disease, and significantly different from GSE without skin disease patients eating gluten. These findings suggest that the restricted nature of the TCR Vβ expression may play a role in the different clinical manifestations of dermatitis herpetiformis and isolated gluten sensitive enteropathy.
Structural analysis reflects the evolutionary relationship between the human desmocollin gene family members
Authors: Cserhalmi‐Friedman P. B. , Frank J. A. , Ahmad W. , Panteleyev A. A. , Aita V. M. , Christiano A. M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Desmocollins, members of the desmosomal cadherin family, are known to play an important role in desmosomal intercellular adhesion. The human desmosomal cadherin cluster is located on chromosome 18q12, and consists of three desmoglein and three desmocollin genes. The cDNAs of all six of these genes have been cloned and sequenced, however, the exon–intron organization was reported for only one human desmocollin gene, DSC2. We elucidated the exon–intron structures of the DSC1 and DSC3 genes using PCR amplification of genomic DNA and direct sequencing of BAC clones. The results suggest a strong evolutionary conservation between the genomic organization of the desmocollin genes.
UV‐A‐induced AP‐1 activation requires the Raf/ERK pathway in human NCTC 2544 keratinocytes
Authors: Djavaheri‐Mergny M. , Dubertret L.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: UV‐A irradiation causes a dose‐dependent activation of ERK in human NCTC 2544 keratinocytes. The specific inhibition of either ERK activity or Raf kinase activity impedes the activation of AP‐1 DNA binding induced by UV‐A. In addition, UV‐A raises AP‐1 promoter transcriptional activity, which is downregulated in NCTC 2544 cells expressing an inactive mutant of Raf‐1. We found that singlet oxygen might be one of the mediators in both UV‐A‐induced AP‐1 DNA binding and transcriptional activity. These results strongly suggest that UV‐A‐induced AP‐1 activity requires the Raf‐ERK pathway and imply a singlet oxygen effector.
Mutant laboratory mice with abnormalities in hair follicle morphogenesis, cycling, and/or structure: annotated tables
Authors: Nakamura M. , Sundberg J. P. , Paus R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Numerous transgenic, targeted mutagenesis (so‐called knockouts), conditional (so‐called “gene switch”) and spontaneous mutant mice develop abnormal hair phenotypes. The number of mice that exhibit such abnormalities is increasing exponentially as genetic engineering methods become routine. Since defined abnormalities in hair follicle morphogenesis, cycling and/or structure in such mutant mice provide important clues to the as yet poorly understood functional roles of many gene products, it is useful to summarize and classify these mutant mice according to their hair phenotype. This review provides a corresponding, annotated table of mutant mice with hair abnormalities, classifying the latter into 6 categories, 1) abnormally low number of hair follicles, 2) disorders of hair morphogenesis, 3) of hair follicle cycling, 4) of hair follicle structure 5) of sebaceous gland structure, and 6) hair growth disorders as a consequence of immunological abnormalities. This annotated table should serve as a useful source of reference for anyone who is interested in the molecular controls of hair growth, for investigators who are looking for mouse models to explore or compare the functional activities of their gene of interest, and for comparing the hair phenotype of newly generated mouse mutants with existing ones.
Expression of melanocortin‐1 receptor in normal, malformed and neoplastic skin glands and hair follicles
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Böhm Markus , Brzoska Thomas , Zimmer Klaus‐Peter , Luger Thomas , Metze Dieter
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Melanocortin receptors (MC‐Rs) are G‐protein coupled receptors that mediate pleiotropic actions of melanocyte‐stimulating hormones and adrenocorticotropin. There is increasing evidence that one of the five so far identified melanocortin receptors, i.e. melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC‐1R), has a more ubiquitous distribution in the skin than originally expected. In the present study, the expression of MC‐1R in normal skin glands and hair follicles, various malformations and neoplasms with adnexal differentiation is described. Using an anti‐MC‐1R antibody directed against the amino acids 2–18 of the human MC‐1R, specimens of normal healthy skin (n = 10) as well as hamartomas, cysts, hyperplasias, and benign or malignant neoplasms with eccrine, apocrine, sebaceous gland, and hair follicle differentiation (n = 98) were immunostained. MC‐1R expression was widely preserved in various adnexal malformations and neoplasms as compared with normal skin and did not show major differences with regard to maturation of the neoplasms. The majority of adnexal epithelia showed an intracytoplasmically granular staining and, to a lesser extent, an intercellular staining pattern. Immunoelectron microscopical investigations revealed expression of MC‐1R both along the cell surface and intracytoplasmically within tubular endosomes, the latter suggesting internalisation of the receptor. In conclusion, preserved MC‐1R expression in adnexal epithelia suggests a functional role of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) in various malformations and neoplasms of the skin.
Unique role for the periplakin tail in intermediate filament association: specific binding to keratin 8 and vimentin
Authors: Kazerounian Shideh , Uitto Jouni , Aho Sirpa
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Plectin, desmoplakin, and the 230‐kDa bullous pemphigoid antigen (BPAG1), members of the plakin family of proteins, are multifunctional cytolinkers, connecting the cytoskeletal structures to the cell adhesion complexes. Envoplakin and periplakin are components of the cornified envelope, but less is known about their role in tissues other than the stratified epithelium. Our tissue‐wide survey utilizing RT‐PCR revealed that periplakin, like plectin and desmoplakin, has a wide tissue distribution, but envoplakin expression is limited to certain tissues only, and BPAG1 is clearly specific for epidermal keratinocytes. Plectin, desmoplakin and BPAG1 are known to bind to the intermediate filaments through their C‐terminal domains. The short C‐terminal domain of periplakin is composed only of the linker domain, a region highly homologous between the plakin proteins. Here we demonstrate, through the use of yeast two‐hybrid assay, a specific interaction of the periplakin linker domain with keratin 8 and vimentin. Co‐expression of each plakin linker domain with keratin 8 revealed that periplakin and BPAG1 linkers co‐localize with keratin signals in HaCaT cells, plectin and desmoplakin linkers were detected both in the nucleus and in cytoplasm together with the overexpressed keratin 8, while envoplakin linker localized independently into the nucleus. These results suggest that, in spite of its high homology and structural similarity with envoplakin, periplakin is functionally closer to the well‐characterized plakin proteins plectin and desmoplakin, and thus may function tissue‐wide as a scaffolding protein in intermediate filament assembly.
The biological actions of estrogens on skin
Authors: Thornton M. J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: There is still extensive disparity in our understanding of how estrogens exert their actions, particularly in non‐reproductive tissues such as the skin. Although it has been recognized for some time that estrogens have significant effects on many aspects of skin physiology and pathophysiology, studies on estrogen action in skin have been limited. However, estrogens clearly have an important function in many components of human skin including the epidermis, dermis, vasculature, hair follicle and the sebaceous, eccrine and apocrine glands, having significant roles in skin aging, pigmentation, hair growth, sebum production and skin cancer. The recent discovery of a second intracellular estrogen receptor (ERβ) with different cell‐specific roles to the classic estrogen receptor (ERα), and the identification of cell surface estrogen receptors, has provided further challenges to understanding the mechanism of estrogen action. It is now time to readdress many of the outstanding questions regarding the role of estrogens in skin and improve our understanding of the physiology and interaction of steroid hormones and their receptors in human skin. Not only will this lead to a better understanding of estrogen action, but may also provide a basis for further interventions in pathological processes that involve dysregulation of estrogen action.
Spatiotemporal variation in the distribution of eel (Anguilla spp.) populations in three New Zealand lowland streams
Authors: Glova G. J. , Jellyman D. J. , Bonnett M. L.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – Populations of shortfinned eel (Anguilla australis) and longfinned eel (A. dieffenbachii) were sampled at randomly chosen sites along the length of three New Zealand streams during summer for three consecutive years to determine their variability in size distribution between streams, reaches (within streams) and years. The longfinned eel was numerically dominant in two of the streams, whereas the shortfinned eel was more abundant in the third stream. For comparisons, the data were stratified into 100‐mm size classes for eels ≤600 mm long, whereas eels >600 mm were pooled into a single class. Log‐linear analysis indicated that the size distribution of both species differed significantly between streams. Moreover, the size distribution of shortfinned, but not longfinned eels, differed significantly between reaches. Neither species showed significant change in size distribution between years. In contrast to the shortfinned eel, the density of longfinned eel ≤100 mm long was consistently low for all three years, which probably indicates poor recruitment.
Feeding ecology and habitat of the threespine stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus microcephalus, in a remnant population of northwestern Baja California, México
Authors: Sánchez‐Gonzáles S. , Ruiz‐Campos G. , Contreras‐Balderas S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – The feeding ecology and habitat of the threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus microcephalus Girard, 1854) was studied from November 1996 to May 1997 in a remnant population of northwestern Baja California, México. The analysis of the stomach content of 179 individuals (25 to 56 mm standard length [SL]) showed a diet dominated by cyclopoid copepods (43.8%) and chironomid larvae (39.1%). Diet in relation to size and sex of the fish was dominated by copepods in autumn and winter and by chironomid larvae during spring. Diet overlap (Schoener’s index) was significant (≥60%) between fish size‐classes in January, March and April and between sexes for most sampling months. The average size of prey consumed was independent of fish mouth size. The feeding strategy of the threespine stickleback shifted from opportunist in winter to specialist in spring.
Movements and habitat utilization of three cichlid species in the Zambezi River, Namibia
Authors: Thorstad E. B. , Hay C. J. , Næsje T. F. , Økland F.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – During 5–7 October 1999, 16 cichlids (30.5–51.0 cm) were tagged with radio transmitters in the Zambezi River in Namibia (eight threespot tilapia Oreochromis andersonii, seven pink happy Sargochromis giardi and one humpback largemouth Serranochromis altus). The main objectives of this pilot study were 1) to assess whether and how telemetry can be used to follow the movements of larger cichlids in the upper Zambezi River and 2) to study the movements, habitat preferences and homing behavior of three cichlid species important for subsistence and trophy fishing during a period of increasing water flow towards the rainy period. Nine fish showed a downriver movement immediately after release, believed to be a behavioral response to catch and tagging. From 11 October, only small‐scale movements were recorded. Average total distance moved from 11 October to 1 March was 375 m (range=1–1150) for threespot tilapia and 1276 m (range=540–1990) for pink happy. The farthest position compared to the position held on 11 October was on average 220 m away (range=0–500) for threespot tilapia and 538 m (range=20–1500) for pink happy. Displaced individuals did not show homing to the catch site. The threespot tilapia were, on average, located in the main river during 67% of the tracking surveys, in backwaters during 13% and in mouth of backwaters during 20%. The pink happy were, on average, located in the main river during 71% of the tracking surveys, in backwaters during 25% and in mouth of backwaters during 4%.
Migration and life history alternatives in a high latitude species, the broad whitefish, Coregonus nasus Pallas
Authors: Tallman R. F. , Abrahams M. V. , Chudobiak D. H.
Published: March 2003

Abstract – We examined the expected changes in the life history trajectory of an Arctic species, broad whitefish, in the lower Mackenzie River between an anadromous population with spawning migrations of 350–450 km and a potamodromous population with spawning migrations of 5–12 km. Based on life history theory we predicted that the anadromous population would have faster growth, later age‐at‐maturity, and greater reproductive investment than the potamodromous population. Early in its life the anadromous population had faster growth than the potamodromous but later growth was slower. Age‐at‐maturity was greater in the anadromous population than the potamodromous. Reproductive investment was higher in the anadromous population. We conclude that the broad whitefish did not conclusively follow the pattern of variation observed between migratory and relatively sedentary populations in temperate zones. Fecundity was greater in the migratory population but not conclusively linked to age‐at‐maturity or growth‐rate differences.
Size‐related habitat use by bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus) in a regulated lowland river
Authors: Reichard M. , Jurajda P. , Šimková A. , Matějusová I.
Published: March 2003

Abstract  – Habitat use by four size‐classes of bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus) in a regulated lowland river was studied at two spatial scales. Mesohabitat scale was represented by the bank type (boulder, beach and steep eroded bank). Microhabitat associations with substrate types, vegetation, woody debris and position in the stream were examined at each mesohabitat scale. Three size cohorts of young‐of‐the‐year (0+) fish and a group of adult bitterling were detected. Univariate (χ2‐tests) and multivariate (Outlying Mean Index analysis) methods were applied to determine size‐related habitat associations. All the size‐classes of bitterling avoided the steep eroded bank and most 0+ bitterling were distributed along the boulder bank. The smallest fish had the most pronounced habitat requirements and occurred mostly in the depositional areas, whereas the larger 0+ fish occurred in deeper water. The size‐related change in the habitat use coincided with a change in diet and morphological state.
Effects of fluoride‐ and chlorhexidine‐containing varnishes on plaque composition and on demineralization of dentinal grooves in situ
Authors: Zaura‐Arite E. , Ten Cate J. M.
Published: March 2003

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of Cervitec, containing 1% chlorhexidine (CHX) and 1% thymol, Fluor Protector, containing 0.1% fluoride, their 1:1 mixture, and a placebo varnish on the percentage of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in plaque and on the underlying dentin demineralization, as assessed by microradiography. Bovine dentine discs, fitted with three parallel grooves, received one of the varnish treatments into the first groove and on the adjacent part of the dentin surface. Volunteers (n=23) wore the discs fixed to their partial dentures for four consecutive 3 wk periods. Microbiological analysis of plaque accumulated in the grooves showed no difference between groups. Fluoride varnishes (Fluor Protector and mixed varnish) had a significantly larger inhibitory effect on mineral loss in the treated groove than Cervitec or placebo. All treatment varnishes had more pronounced effect in panelists (n=14) with higher degree of demineralization (mineral loss in placebo group ≥1,200 vol%×μm). In these panelists, CHX‐containing varnishes showed an inhibitory effect on demineralization in all grooves, also in the two non‐varnished grooves. As fluoride varnishes had the largest localized effect on demineralization, and CHX varnishes were showing a peripheral effect, a combined treatment could be the preferred method to obtain an optimal caries preventive effect in caries‐prone individuals.
Inhibitory effect of low‐level laser irradiation on LPS‐stimulated prostaglandin E2 production and cyclooxygenase‐2 in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Sakurai Y. , Yamaguchi M. , Abiko Y.
Published: March 2003

It has been reported that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from periodontal pathogens can penetrate gingival tissues and stimulate the production of prostaglandin E2(PGE2), which is known as a potent stimulator of inflammation and bone resorption. Although biostimulatory effects of low‐level laser irradiation such as anti‐inflammatory results have been reported, the physiological mechanism is not yet clarified. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of laser irradiation on PGE2 production and cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 and COX‐2 gene expression in LPS‐challenged human gingival fibroblast (hGF) cells in vitro. hGF cells were prepared from healthy gingival tissues and challenged with LPS, and Ga‐Al‐As diode laser was irradiated to the hGF cells. The amount of PGE2 released in the culture medium was measured by radioimmunoassay, and mRNA levels were analyzed by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Irradiation with Ga‐Al‐As diode low‐level laser significantly inhibited PGE2 production in a dose‐dependent manner, which led to a reduction of COX‐2 mRNA levels. In conclusion, low‐level laser irradiation inhibited PGE2 by LPS in hGF cells through a reduction of COX‐2 mRNA level. The findings suggest that low‐level laser irradiation may be of therapeutic benefit against the aggravation of gingivitis and periodontitis by bacterial infection.
In vitro inhibition of enamel demineralization by a polymerizable amphiphilic film
Authors: Tantbirojn Daranee , Rozzi Sharon M. , Mitra Sumita B. , Kedrowski Brant L. , Douglas William H.
Published: March 2003

An amphiphilic coating is configured as a substantive film that has a tendency for an in‐plane two‐dimensional polymerization. This coating is hypothesized to protect enamel from in vitro acid decalcification, assessed through the following artificial caries model. Three regions on labial enamel of eight bovine incisors were treated with an acid resistant varnish (A), the amphiphilic coating (B), or left undisturbed (C), and the teeth were immersed for 3 wk in lactic acid gel. Mineral loss (ΔZ‐value) was determined by a cross‐sectional microhardness technique. ΔZ‐values (mean±SD; volume percent mineral‐μm) were: −4±24 (A), 29±69 (B), and 7372±1766 (C). ΔZ‐value of the uncoated enamel (C) was significantly different from the other groups. Scanning electron microscopy showed enamel etched pattern from citric acid, and the coating firmly attached on enamel surface. This amphiphilic coating can inhibit enamel decalcification under the present experimental condition.
Determination of changes on tooth‐colored cervical restorations in vivo using a three‐dimensional laser scanning device
Authors: Flowaczny Matthias , Mehl Albert , Kunzelmann Karl‐Heinz , Hickel Reinhard
Published: March 2003

The present study aimed at the determination of changes of tooth‐colored cervical restorations in vivo using an optical 3‐dimensional laser scanning device. The study was performed on 197 cervical restorations placed on incisors, canines, and premolars. Four different tooth‐colored restoration materials, a composite, a polyacid‐modified resin composite, and two resin‐modified glass ionomer cements, were used for the restoration of the lesions. For the determination of changes, images were taken at baseline and 15, 24 and 36 months after the placement of the fillings using a 3D‐laser scanning device. The images were superimposed automatically, and digital subtraction was made by a specially developed image analysis software. The total substance loss on the entire filling surface at 36 months for the resin‐modified glass ionomer Photac‐Fil was 44 (±23)μm, for Fuji II LC 45 (±26)μm, for Dyract 71 (±47)μm and for Tetric 18 (±12)μm. Differentiating between the class of lesion, a higher wear rate was observed at 36 months on restorations which had been placed in erosion/non‐carious cervical cavities (66 (±33)μm). In conclusion, the composite material demonstrated a distinctly lower surface wear rate over time in comparison to the resin‐modified glass ionomer cements and the polyacid‐modified resin composite.
Superoxide release and superoxide dismutase expression by human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Skalerič Uroš , Manthey Carl M. , Mergenhagen Stephan E. , Gašpirc Boris , Wahl Sharon M.
Published: March 2003

Oxygen reactive intermediates released from phagocytic cells are important for microbicidal activity, but they may also be harmful to surrounding cells and matrix components at the inflammation site. In different forms of inflammatory periodontal disease, peripheral and crevicular polymorphonuclear leukocytes, as well as mononuclear phagocytes and gingival fibroblasts, are exposed to bacterial cell wall components and cytokines. The aim of this study was to evaluate if some bacterial components and cytokines induce superoxide release and superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression in gingival fibroblasts. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), streptococcal cell walls (SCW), and formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine were found to stimulate O2− release from gingival fibroblasts, which increased when Ca2+ was added. Phorbol myristate acetate, a potent activator of respiratory burst in phagocytes, was found to be a weak stimulator of O2− release in gingival fibroblasts. Of the cytokines tested, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α was found to activate superoxide release in gingival fibroblasts. Gene expression for manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), but not for copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), was demonstrated in fibroblasts exposed to LPS, SCW and TNF‐α using Northern blot analysis. The production of MnSOD may be protective for these cells. We conclude that bacterial cell wall components and cytokines modulate O2− release by gingival fibroblasts which may contribute to periodontal pathology.
Oral status indicators DMFT and FS‐T: reflections on index selection
Authors: Schuller Annemarie A. , Holst Dorthe
Published: March 2003

Oral status in a population has traditionally been described by the DMFT index (decayed, filled, and missing teeth). There seems to be contradicting and confusing evidence in the literature with regard to the usefulness of different indices. Limitations of the DMFT are recognised, and attempts have been made to develop other indices. Two indices, DMFT and FS‐T (filled and sound teeth) have been selected for analysis in the present paper. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between DMFT and FS‐T in different populations, and to show consequences of choice of index exemplified in analytical analysis. Data stem from the Trøndelag‐83 and ‐94 studies that were follow‐up studies of the Norwegian portion of the 1973 International Collaborative Study. Sunflower scatter plots and regression analyses were used to describe the variation in DMFT and FS‐T in different populations. DMFT was more suitable for describing variation in populations with low levels of disease than FS‐T, while FS‐T was more suitable for describing variation in populations with high levels of disease. It may be concluded that both DMFT and FS‐T should be presented when describing oral status in a population. However, choice of index depends first of all on the purpose of the investigation. If there are theoretical reasons to prefer one index instead of the other, the superiority of the alternative index in terms of variation must be disregarded.
Ultrastructural analysis of structural framework in dental plaque developing on synthetic carbonate apatite applied to human tooth surfaces
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroshi , Yamamoto Kohji
Published: March 2003

This study focused on determining the structural framework by oral microbiota in supragingival plaque on a carbonate apatite film applied to human tooth surfaces. The sequential phases of plaque formation over a 3‐wk period were found to be equivalent to those previously reported for natural tooth surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy of specimens prepared by vertical sectioning demonstrated the organization of two types of framework between certain genera of initial and secondary colonizers in the pre‐ and post‐organization phases, respectively. The initial colonizers in the pre‐organization phase were of a coccoid type, while colonizers in the post‐organization phase were of a bacillary type. Secondary colonizers, filamentous cells, were common to both frameworks. Transmission electron microscopy using freeze‐substitution and immunohistochemistry demonstrated two types of coaggregation, fibril‐ and saliva‐mediated modes, among the plaque microbiota. Coaggregation between microbiota, which organized the framework, showed a tendency to occur in the fibril‐mediated mode, and the filamentous secondary colonizers were characterized by inducing multigeneric coaggregation. The present findings indicate that a structural framework and specific cells to form this framework are essential for plaque formation.
Controlled study of EMG activity of the jaw closers and openers during mastication in patients with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Van Der Bilt Andries , Weijnen Florence G. , Bosman Frederik , Van Der Glas Hilbert W. , Kuks Jan B. M.
Published: March 2003

Mastication was evaluated in patients with bulbar myasthenia gravis and compared with that of patients with ocular myasthenia gravis, patients in remission who previously suffered from bulbar symptoms, and healthy controls. Bulbar myasthenia gravis may impair mastication due to weakness of the masticatory muscles. The aim of the study was to objectively evaluate the influence of myasthenia gravis on mastication. The subjects chewed a piece of breakfast cake and chewed 1 min on a piece of chewing gum. Surface EMG of the masseter muscle, temporalis muscle and jaw opener muscles was recorded. Statistical analysis revealed that bulbar patients produced significantly less EMG activity in the closing phase of a chewing cycle in both experiments. The EMG of the masseter muscle expressed as percentage of the maximum EMG during maximal clenching showed significantly higher values in the bulbar group than in the other groups. This was not found for the temporalis muscle. It was suggested that bulbar patients use a strategy of limited effort to produce a bolus that can be swallowed. The ocular patients and the patients in remission showed no subclinical impairments in muscle function during chewing.
Levels of pre‐kallikrein in resting and stimulated human parotid and submandibular saliva
Authors: Francis Carol A. , Hector Mark P. , Proctor Gordon B.
Published: March 2003

Salivary tissue kallikrein is stored in an active form in human salivary glands. Pre‐kallikrein has been demonstrated in mixed saliva, but it is not clear if the various salivary glands contribute equally. This study set out to determine if pre‐kallikrein is present in human parotid and submandibular salivas at rest, whether levels change during stimulation, and to compare the pattern of pre‐kallikrein and kallikrein secretion with that of total protein. Resting and citric acid‐stimulated parotid and submandibular, and gum‐stimulated parotid saliva samples were collected from 6 healthy subjects. Salivary flows were determined gravimetrically. Total protein concentration and kallikrein enzymic activity were assayed using standard techniques. Pre‐kallikrein was assayed following trypsinisation of duplicate samples. Pre‐kallikrein was present in parotid and submandibular ductal saliva. Proportions of pre‐kallikrein and active kallikrein were similar in salivas secreted at rest and during stimulation, and both outputs mirrored protein output in both major glands. Gum‐stimulated parotid saliva showed lower activity than resting, and no differences were seen between resting and stimulated submandibular samples.
Outline and arrangement of enamel rods in human deciduous and permanent enamel. 3D‐reconstructions obtained from CLSM and SEM images based on serial ground sections
Authors: Radlanski Ralf J. , Renz Herbert , Willersinn Ute , Cordis Cristina A. , Duschner Heinz
Published: March 2003

Human enamel rods were made visible continuously from the dentino‐enamel junction (DEJ) up to the enamel surface. From 12 teeth (1st and 2nd dentition) enamel blocks from the cervical third were prepared with perpendicular planes, embedded in resin, and ground down in steps of 15 µm parallel to the enamel surface. Enamel rods were made visible by acid etching (35% H3PO4, 45 s), sputtered and examined in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Prior to this, the enamel blocks were viewed under the CLSM and optical sections at distances of 2 µm were obtained, starting in the same plane as the grinding surface. The outlines of the rods were digitized and reconstructed three dimensionally. For the first time, the path of single and grouped enamel rods on their way through the entire enamel layer was depicted. 3D images obtained from conofocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) data were similar to those gained from SEM images. Single rods did not maintain their same outline throughout their path; arcade outlines predominated close to the DEJ, while keyhole outlines prevailed at the enamel surface. Within a group of rods, neighborhood relations changed, and neighbor rods influenced their outlines mutually, including the variable extent of the tail. The interdependence between the plasticity of the rods and the ameloblasts' forms should be topics of further research.
Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with the Karwetzky oral appliance
Authors: Rose Edmund , Staats Richard , Schulte‐Mönting Jürgen , Jonas Irmtrud E.
Published: March 2003

The aims of this retrospective study were to assess the effect of a Karwetzky mandibular protrusion appliance for treating patients with mild, moderate, and severe obstructive sleep apnea. Eighty‐one of 116 patients (69.8%) suffering from obstructive sleep apnea were treated with an activator model according to Karwetzky. After 4 months (SD 4.0 months) treatment outcome was controlled by polysomnography. Therapeutic outcome depended on the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. The median apnea‐hypopnea index decreased from 10.6 events/h (range 2.0–14.9) to 5.8 events/h (range 0.2–17.3, P<0.01) in the mild group, from 21.7 events/h (range 17.3–28.4) to 7.7 events/h (range 1.0–30.1, P<0.001) in the moderate group, and from 42.1 events/h (range 33.2–64.9) to 18.1 events/h (range 2.4–48.8, P<0.001) in the severe group. Sleep variables did not show consistent improvement except for a trend towards more REM sleep and slow‐wave sleep. The numbers of retentive teeth did not statistically influence treatment efficacy. Comparing the pre‐ and post‐treatment polysomnographic variables, it was found that the respiratory events rather than sleep stages were significantly reduced by the Karwetzky appliance investigated.
Attitudes to dental care among parents of uncooperative vs. cooperative child dental patients
Authors: Arnrup Kristina , Berggren Ulf , Broberg Anders G. , Lundin Sven‐Åke , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: March 2003

The aim of this cross‐sectional questionnaire study was to investigate four aspects of parents' attitudes to dental care (knowledge, child's oral health behavior, priorities and responsibility). One study group (n=50) of parents of uncooperative child dental patients (aged 8–12 yr) was compared to a reference group (n=113) of parents of ordinary child dental patients of similar age, and to a second study group (n=36) of parents of uncooperative younger child patients (aged 4–7 yr). Study group parents had significantly lower socio‐economic status and a higher level of dental fear as compared to parents of ordinary child patients. We found indications of a poorer dental knowledge and a differing responsibility‐taking profile among study group parents. Their children also had sweets more often. As compared to parents of younger children, the older study group parents had lower socio‐economic status and showed a lower responsibility‐taking related to the child's treatment refusal. In conclusion, parents of uncooperative children differ from parents of ordinary child dental patients, not only in socio‐economic status and dental fear, but also in aspects such as dental knowledge and responsibility‐taking. These differences were partly related to the child's age.
The effect of oral temperature on the temperature perception of liquids and semisolids in the mouth
Authors: Engelen Lina , De Wijk Rene A. , Prinz Jon F. , Van Der Bilt Andries , Janssen Anke M. , Bosman Frits
Published: March 2003

This work examined the influence of oral temperature on oral perception of temperature in liquids and semisolids. A panel of 20 adults assessed the temperature of water, custard dessert and mayonnaise. Oral temperatures were manipulated by 5‐s mouth rinses of 10, 35 and 55°C performed prior to assessments, which resulted in oral temperatures of 27, 35 and 43°C, respectively. The products were evaluated at 10, 22 and 35°C. Results show that subjects were able to differentiate between the product temperatures. A large effect of type of product was seen on perceived temperature, where water was, overall, perceived as significantly colder than custard dessert and mayonnaise. The range of perceived thermal ratings was widest for custard dessert, followed by water and mayonnaise. This might be due to differences in composition and structure of the products. Even though oral temperature was varied considerably in the present study, this did not exert large effects on perceived temperature.
Analysis of proliferation, apoptosis and keratin expression in cultured normal and immortalized human buccal keratinocytes
Authors: Hansson Annette , Bloor Balvinder K. , Sarang Zsolt , Haig Ylva , Morgan Peter R. , Stark Hans‐Jürgen , Fusenig Norbert E. , Ekstrand Jan , Grafström Roland C.
Published: March 2003

The current study was undertaken to analyse growth and differentiation‐related functions of normal keratinocytes (NOK) and an SV40T‐immortalized keratinocyte line (SVpgC2a) from buccal mucosa, viewing the latter cell line as a model of a dysplastic epithelium. Morphological and immunohistochemical assessments of organotypic epithelia generated from 10 or 17 d of culture showed three‐ to five‐fold higher apoptotic and proliferative activity in SVpgC2a relative to NOK. Conditions with or without serum (up to 10%) did not significantly influence these parameters in NOK whereas serum supported proliferation of SVpgC2a. Both cell types showed basal expression of collagen IV and laminin 1, indicating basal lamina, as well as vimentin, indicating an activated, proliferative state. Reduced expression of keratin, including the non‐keratinizing marker K13, was seen in SVpgC2a. Assessment of proliferative monolayer cultures by microarray showed that NOK transcribed tissue‐specific keratins, but also the epidermal keratin K2a, several simple epithelial keratins and low levels of hair keratins. SVpgC2a transcribed keratins seen in epithelial dysplasia, and K2a and hair keratins, albeit at low level. Overall, the results implied aberrant apoptosis, proliferation and keratin expression in the immortalized state of SVpgC2a. Comparison of NOK and SVpgC2a under identical culture conditions may serve to model the progression from a normal to a pre‐neoplastic state of buccal epithelium.
Immunocytochemical characterization of ectopic enamel deposits and cementicles in human teeth
Authors: Bosshardt Dieter D. , Nanci Antonio
Published: March 2003

Despite the relative frequency and clinical relevance of radicular enamel deposits and cementicles, their etiology and nature are unknown. The purpose of the present study was therefore to evaluate the presence and distribution of mineralization‐associated non‐collagenous matrix proteins (NCPs) in various types of root‐associated ectopic mineralizations. Human teeth were processed for embedding in epoxy or acrylic resins. Tissue sections were incubated with antibodies to amelogenins (AMEL), bone sialoprotein (BSP), and osteopontin (OPN). Radicular enamel deposits contained residual organic matrix that labeled for AMEL. In contrast, BSP and OPN were not detected in the residual enamel matrix, they were found in the cementum deposited on its surface as well as in collagen‐free cementicle‐like structures in the adjacent periodontal ligament. True cementicles consisted of a collagenous matrix intermixed with a non‐collagenous ground substance. Labeling for BSP and OPN was mainly associated with the interfibrillar ground substance. No immunoreactivity for AMEL was detected in cementicles. These data indicate that ectopic enamel deposits on the root retain a high amount of AMEL, whereas cementicles contain BSP and OPN, two NCPs typically found in bone and cementum. These NCPs may, like in their normal tissue counterparts, play a role in the mineralization process.