bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pentostatin in Steroid-Refractory Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease
Authors: Bolaños-Meade Javier , Jacobsohn David A. , Margolis Jeffrey , Ogden Adam , Wientjes M. Guillaume , Byrd John C. , Lucas David M. , Anders Viki , Phelps Michele , Grever Michael R. , Vogelsang Georgia B.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. In steroid-refractory aGVHD, mortality is very high. Pentostatin, a potent inhibitor of adenosine deaminase, induces lymphocyte apoptosis and may be useful in the treatment of this condition.

Patients and Methods

We have conducted a phase I dose escalation study of pentostatin in patients with steroid-refractory aGVHD. Twenty-three patients were enrolled. Starting dose was 1 mg/m2/d by intravenous injection for 3 days.

Results

The maximum tolerated dose was found to be 1.5 mg/m2/d. Late infections at the 2-mg/m2/d dose level were believed to be dose limiting toxicities. Lymphopenia was universal, but the neutrophil count was generally not affected. Fevers associated with neutropenia were not observed. Otherwise, the drug was well tolerated, with only modest elevations of liver function tests and thrombocytopenia, each being observed in a single patient. Twenty-two patients were assessable for response, including 14 complete responses (63%) and three partial responses (13%). Median survival after therapy for the group was 85 days (range, 5 to 1,258 days).

Conclusion

The suggested intravenous dose for a phase II study will be 1.5 mg/m2/d for 3 days. Pentostatin has activity in patients with steroid-refractory aGVHD that is worth exploring in future trials.
Population-Based Validation of the Prognostic Model ADJUVANT! for Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Olivotto Ivo A. , Bajdik Chris D. , Ravdin Peter M. , Speers Caroline H. , Coldman Andrew J. , Norris Brian D. , Davis Greg J. , Chia Stephen K. , Gelmon Karen A.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Adjuvant! ( www.adjuvantonline.com ) is a web-based tool that predicts 10-year breast cancer outcomes with and without adjuvant systemic therapy, but it has not been independently validated.

Methods

Using the British Columbia Breast Cancer Outcomes Unit (BCOU) database, demographic, pathologic, staging, and treatment data on 4,083 women diagnosed between 1989 and 1993 in British Columbia with T1-2, N0-1, M0 breast cancer were abstracted and entered into Adjuvant! to calculate predicted 10-year overall survival (OS), breast cancer–specific survival (BCSS), and event-free survival (EFS) for each patient. Individual BCOU observed outcomes at 10 years were independently determined. Predicted and observed outcomes were compared.

Results

Across all 4,083 patients, 10-year predicted and observed outcomes were within 1% for OS, BCSS, and EFS (all P > .05). Predicted and observed outcomes were within 2% for most demographic, pathologic, and treatment-defined subgroups. Adjuvant! overestimated OS, BCSS, and EFS in women younger than age 35 years (predicted − observed = 8.6%, 9.6%, and 13.6%, respectively; all P < .001) or with lymphatic or vascular invasion (LVI; predicted − observed = 3.6%, 3.8%, and 4.2%, respectively; all P < .05); these two prognostic factors were not automatically incorporated within the Adjuvant! algorithm. After adjusting for the distribution of LVI, using the prognostic factor impact calculator in Adjuvant!, 10-year predicted and observed outcomes were no longer significantly different.

Conclusion

Adjuvant! performed reliably. Patients younger than age 35 or with known additional adverse prognostic factors such as LVI require adjustment of risks to derive reliable predictions of prognosis without adjuvant systemic therapy and the absolute benefits of adjuvant systemic therapy.
Long-Term Outcomes Among Localized Prostate Cancer Survivors: Health-Related Quality-of-Life Changes After Radical Prostatectomy, External Radiation, and Brachytherapy
Authors: Miller David C. , Sanda Martin G. , Dunn Rodney L. , Montie James E. , Pimentel Hector , Sandler Howard M. , McLaughlin William P. , Wei John T.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

We sought to elucidate long-term changes in health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) outcomes by prospectively re-evaluating a well-characterized cohort of prostate cancer (PC) survivors 4 to 8 years after primary treatment.

Patients and Methods

Patients who had been evaluated previously at a median of 2.6 years after radical prostatectomy (RP), external radiation (three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy [3-D CRT]), or brachytherapy (BT) were recontacted at a median of 6.2 years after treatment. The clinical relevance of long-term HRQOL impairment among survivors was established by comparison with controls of similar age. Factors associated with HRQOL changes during this interval were evaluated.

Results

Of the 964 eligible men, 709 (73.5%) completed measurable questionnaires. In four domains (urinary irritative-obstructive, urinary incontinence, bowel, and sexual), significant HRQOL differences were detected for at least one of the therapy groups, compared with controls (all P < .05). During the 4-year interval, significant improvement was observed for the urinary irritative-obstructive (P < .0001) and bowel (P < .0001) domains among BT patients, whereas urinary incontinence HRQOL worsened for both the BT (P = .0017) and 3-D CRT (P = .0008) treatment groups. Overall sexual HRQOL deteriorated for the 3-D CRT cohort (P = .0017), as well as for controls (P = .0136). Among RP patients, significant HRQOL changes were not observed.

Conclusion

During a 4-year interval from earlier to longer-term phases of PC treatment survivorship, sexual, urinary, and bowel dysfunction remain significant concerns among early-stage PC treatment survivors, compared with control men. Although postprostatectomy HRQOL remains relatively stable during this interval, disease-specific HRQOL continues to evolve among men treated with BT and 3-D CRT.
Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Testicular Cancer: Impact of Patient Selection Factors on Outcome
Authors: Stephenson Andrew J. , Bosl George J. , Motzer Robert J. , Kattan Michael W. , Stasi Jason , Bajorin Dean F. , Sheinfeld Joel
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To investigate the impact of patient selection criteria on the outcome of patients with nonseminomatous germ cell testicular cancer (NSGCT) treated by primary retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND). Since 1999, our criteria have excluded patients with persistent postorchiectomy elevation of serum tumor markers (STM) or clinical stage (CS) IIB disease from RPLND.

Patients and Methods

Between 1989 and 2002, 453 patients underwent primary RPLND at our institution for CS I to IIB NSGCT. Patient information was obtained from a prospective database. Retroperitoneal pathology and relapse rates were compared for patients treated before and after application of the current selection criteria in 1999.

Results

By excluding patients with elevated STM or CS IIB disease after 1999, the proportion of pathologic stage II patients with low-volume (pN1) retroperitoneal disease increased significantly (40% before 1999 v 64% after 1999; P = .01), without significantly affecting the rate of retroperitoneal teratoma (21% v 22%, respectively; P = .89) or pathologic stage I disease (56% v 67%, respectively; P = .06). For patients who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy, the 4-year progression-free probability improved significantly from 83% before 1999 (95% CI, 79% to 88%) to 96% after 1999 (95% CI, 91% to 100%; P = .005). Elevated postorchiectomy STM (P < .0001), clinical stage (P = .0002), and pre-1999 RPLND (P = .05) were independent pretreatment predictors of progression.

Conclusion

Excluding patients with CS IIB disease or elevated postorchiectomy STM from primary RPLND has had a favorable impact on the extent of retroperitoneal disease and has significantly reduced the risk of relapse after RPLND. For patients with normal STM and CS I to IIA disease, the low rate of systemic progression and 22% incidence of retroperitoneal teratoma supports RPLND as the preferred primary intervention.
Docetaxel Followed by Hormone Therapy in Men Experiencing Increasing Prostate-Specific Antigen After Primary Local Treatments for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hussain Arif , Dawson Nancy , Amin Pradip , Engstrom Christine , Dorsey Brenda , Siegel Eliot , Guo Chuanfa
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Prostatectomy or radiation for localized prostate cancer (PC) can fail in up to 15% to 30% of patients. The purpose of this study was to determine feasibility, tolerability, and outcome of docetaxel followed by hormone therapy in men experiencing an increasing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) after their primary local treatments for PC.

Patients and Methods

Men with increasing serum PSA after prostatectomy or/and radiation were eligible. Serum PSA had to be ≥ 4 ng/mL and serum testosterone had to be in the noncastrate range. Treatment included docetaxel 70 mg/m2 every 3 weeks for up to six cycles, followed by total androgen suppression (luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist plus bicalutamide) and peripheral androgen blockade (finasteride plus bicalutamide) for 12 to 20 months.

Results

Thirty-nine men were enrolled; 32 had PSA-only failure, seven also had clinical metastasis. Baseline median PSA was 13.7 ng/mL. Serum PSA decreased ≥ 50% in 17 of 35 patients (48.5%) and ≥ 75% in seven of 35 patients (20%) with docetaxel. The PSA decreased to a median of 0.1 ng/mL with subsequent hormone therapy. In 28 of 33 patients the PSA increased (median, 0.41 ng/mL) at a median follow-up of 2.3 months after treatment. In contrast, in five of 33 men the PSA remains at 0.1 ng/mL at a median of 18.9 months after therapy; three of these five men had soft tissue metastasis at entry but remain in complete remission. The most common grade 3 to 4 toxicity was neutropenia (61.5%).

Conclusion

Docetaxel followed by hormone therapy of limited duration may provide disease control in subgroups of men experiencing failure after local treatments for PC.
Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analog [177Lu-DOTA0,Tyr3]Octreotate in Patients With Endocrine Gastroenteropancreatic Tumors
Authors: Kwekkeboom Dik J. , Teunissen Jaap J. , Bakker Willem H. , Kooij Peter P. , de Herder Wouter W. , Feelders Richard A. , van Eijck Casper H. , Esser Jan-Paul , Kam Boen L. , Krenning Eric P.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

There are few treatment options for patients with metastasized or inoperable endocrine gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) tumors. Chemotherapy can be effective, but the response is usually less than 1 year. Here, we present the results of treatment with a radiolabeled somatostatin analog, [177Lu-DOTA0,Tyr3]octreotate (177Lu-octreotate).

Patients and Methods

One hundred thirty-one patients with somatostatin receptor-positive tumors were treated with up to a cumulative dose of 600 to 800 mCi (22.2 to 29.6 GBq) of 177Lu-octreotate.

Results

One patient developed renal insufficiency, and another patient developed hepatorenal syndrome. Creatinine clearance did not change significantly in the other patients. WHO hematologic toxicity grade 3 or 4 occurred after less than 2% of the administrations. We observed complete remission in three patients (2%), partial remission in 32 patients (26%), minor response (tumor diameter decrease of 25% to 50%) in 24 patients (19%), stable disease (SD) in 44 patients (35%), and progressive disease (PD) in 22 patients (18%). Higher remission rates were positively correlated with high uptake on pretherapy somatostatin receptor imaging and a limited number of liver metastases, whereas PD was significantly more frequent in patients with a low performance score and extensive disease. Median time to progression in 103 patients who either had SD or tumor regression was more than 36 months.

Conclusion

Treatment with 177Lu-octreotate results in tumor remission in a high percentage of patients with GEP tumors. Serious side effects are rare. The median time to progression compares favorably with chemotherapy. Results are better in patients with a limited tumor load. Therefore, early treatment, even in patients who have no PD, may be better.
COX-2: A Molecular Target for Colorectal Cancer Prevention
Authors: Brown Joanne R. , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: April 2005

Cyclooxygenase (COX), a key enzyme in the prostanoid biosynthetic pathway, has received considerable attention due to its role in human cancers. Observational and randomized controlled studies in many different population cohorts and settings have demonstrated protective effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; the inhibitors of COX activity) for colorectal cancers (CRCs). COX-2, the inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase, is overexpressed in early and advanced CRC tissues, which portends a poor prognosis. Experimental studies have thus identified important mechanisms and pathways by which COX-2 plays an important role in carcinogenesis. Selective COX-2 inhibitors have been approved for use as adjunctive therapy for patients with familial polyposis. The role of COX-2 inhibitors is currently being evaluated for use in wider populations.
Chronic Progressive Cardiac Dysfunction Years After Doxorubicin Therapy for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Lipshultz Steven E. , Lipsitz Stuart R. , Sallan Stephen E. , Dalton Virginia M. , Mone Suzanne M. , Gelber Richard D. , Colan Steven D.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Cross-sectional studies show that cardiac abnormalities are common in long-term survivors of doxorubicin-treated childhood malignancies. Longitudinal data, however, are rare.

Methods

Serial echocardiograms (N = 499) were obtained from 115 doxorubicin-treated long-term survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (median age at diagnosis, 4.8 years; median follow-up after completion of doxorubicin, 11.8 years). Results were expressed as z scores to indicate the number of standard deviations (SDs) above (+) or below (−) the normal predicted value. Median individual and cumulative doxorubicin doses were 30 mg/m2 per dose and 352 mg/m2, respectively.

Results

Left ventricular fractional shortening was significantly reduced after doxorubicin therapy, and the reduction was related to cumulative dose. z scores for fractional shortening transiently improved before falling to −2.76 more than 12 years after diagnosis. Reduced fractional shortening was related to impaired contractility and increasing afterload, consequences of a progressive reduction of ventricular mass, and wall thickness relative to body-surface area. Left ventricular contractility fell significantly over time and was depressed at last follow-up in patients receiving more than 300 mg/m2 of doxorubicin. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were below normal more than 9 years after diagnosis. Even patients receiving lower cumulative doxorubicin doses experienced reduced mass and dimension. Fractional shortening and dimension at the end of therapy predicted these parameters 11.8 years later.

Conclusion

Cardiac abnormalities were persistent and progressive after doxorubicin therapy. Inadequate ventricular mass with chronic afterload excess was associated with progressive contractile deficit and possibly reduced cardiac output and restrictive cardiomyopathy. The deficits were worst after highest cumulative doses of doxorubicin, but appeared even after low doses.
Direct Evidence of Ion-dipole Interaction between Imidazolium Cations and Polar Molecules in Ionic Liquid Solutions by Means of Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Clusters
Authors: Kanakubo Mitsuhiro , Hiejima Yusuke , Aizawa Takafumi , Kurata Yoshiaki , Wakisaka Akihiro
Published: April 2005

The mass spectrometric analyses of clusters in solutions composed of hydrophobic 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphates and various polar organic solvents demonstrate that the Coulomb-dipole interaction between the imidazolium cations and polar molecules is relatively strong.
Recognizing Nano SnO as an Electrode Material for Electrochemical Double Layer Capacitors
Authors: Rao M Mohan , Jayalaksmi M , Reddy B Ramachandra , Madhavendra S S , Kantam M Lakshmi
Published: April 2005

In this communication, we recognize the electrochemical capacitance behavior of SnO (tin(II) oxide) nanoparticles in aqueous solutions. TEM image shows the SnO nanoparticles synthesized via hydrothermal method to be in the nano scale range. The nanomaterial was immobilized on paraffin-impregnated graphite electrode to preserve the high surface area of SnO nanoparticles which plays a crucial role in preserving the electrochemical activity. In 0.1 M NaCl solutions, nano SnO provided a high cell voltage of 1.65 V vs Ag/AgCl and the nanomaterial was chemically and electrochemically stable over 1000 cycles of potentiodynamic and charge–discharge measurements.
New Triggering System for Dioxetane-based Chemiluminescence: Base-induced Decomposition of Bicyclic Dioxetanes Bearing a 3-Aminophenyl or 2-Phenylindol-6-yl Moiety
Authors: Watanabe Nobuko , Ichikawa Miho , Ono Ayumi , Murakami Hiroyuki , Matsumoto Masakatsu
Published: April 2005

A dioxetane substituted with a 3-aminophenyl group was deprotonated with t-BuOK in DMSO to give an unstable dioxetane bearing a phenylamide anion, which decomposed with accompanying emission of flash red light. Dioxetane bearing an indol-6-yl group was synthesized and found to exhibit emission of flash blue light on treatment with tetrabutylammonium fluoride as well as with t-BuOK.
Asymmetric 1,4-Addition of Potassium Aryltrifluoroborates [ArBF3]K to Enones Catalyzed by Dicationic Palladium(II) Complexes
Authors: Nishikata Takashi , Yamamoto Yasunori , Miyaura Norio
Published: April 2005

Asymmetric 1,4-addition of [ArBF3]K to cyclic and acyclic enones was carried out in aqueous methanol in the presence of a chiral phosphine-dicationic palladium(II) catalyst. A palladium complex of (S,S)-dipamp gave optically active β-arylketones of up to 96 % ee for 2-cyclohexenone and 2-cycloheptenone. A palladium-(S,S)-chiraphos complex resulted in 82–97 % ee for 2-cyclopentenone and acyclic enones.
Precession of Silver Dendrites in a Magnetic Field Due to MHD Induced Convection
Authors: Katsuki Akio , Tanimoto Yoshifumi
Published: April 2005

The “in situ” observation of the growth of dendrites was carried out in the superconducting magnet. The small dendrites showed the precession in the magnetic field. The precession was caused by Lorentz force on silver ions, and the boundary condition promoted the motion. The boundary-assisted MHD is main mechanism of the precession.
Potassium Fluoride-induced 1,4-Elimination of o-[(Trimethylsilyl)methyl]benzyl Acetates: A Versatile Generation of o-Quinodimethanes
Authors: Kuwano Ryoichi , Shige Takenori
Published: April 2005

o-Quinodimethane interemediate was generated from o-[(trimethylsilyl)methyl]benzyl acetate with potassium fluoride. The o-quinodimethane in hand reacted with electron-deficient olefins, affording [4+2] cycloadducts, tetrahydronaphthalenes.
A Case History in Fishing Regulations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: 1934–2004
Authors: Kulp Matt A. , Moore Stephen E.
Published: April 2005

Since the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM) in 1934, fisheries managers have utilized about every angling regulation in the toolbox to manage salmonids. Our objectives here were to summarize the regulation history of GRSM and determine whether regulations affected the age or size structure, growth, and population dynamics of wild populations of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss within GRSM. Data inconsistencies made data comparisons among regulation periods difficult; however, where feasible, comparisons revealed similar population dynamics among periods. The number of legal rainbow trout per kilometer of stream ranged from 215 to 885 throughout the 70-year study period, regardless of regulation. There were no statistical differences in rainbow trout relative stock densities (RSDs) on Little River among the 1930s, 1950s, 1980s, and 1990s, despite liberal regulations prior to 1960. Rainbow trout mean length at age data indicate no differences among populations for age-1 to age-4 rainbow trout. There also was no statistical difference between the age structure data for age-1 to age-4 rainbow trout collected in 1945 and 1993. Water quality data indicate that GRSM streams are naturally acidic and infertile, which results in populations that exhibit fast growth with high annual mortality rates. As a result, we determined that regulations provided no discernable effect on wild rainbow trout populations in GRSM. Most regulations were put in place for social reasons and were never evaluated over long-term periods (>5 years). Abiotic events, such as droughts and floods, have a much greater effect on salmonid abundance in GRSM than do regulations or fishing pressure.
A comparative study of eleven protein systems in tamarins, genus Saguinus (Platyrrhini, Callitrichinae)
Authors: Meireles Carla , Sampaio Iracilda , Schneider Horacio , Ferrari Stephen F. , Coimbra-Filho Adelmar F. , Pissinatti Alcides , Schneider Maria P.C.
Published: April 2005

The genetic variability of six tamarin taxa, genus Saguinus, was analyzed comparatively using protein data from eleven systems coded by 15 loci. S. fuscicollis weddelli and S. midas midas were the most polymorphic taxa, and S. bicolor the least. The results of the phylogenetic analyses (UPGMA and neighbor-joining) and the genetic distances between taxa were generally consistent with their geographic and probable phylogenetic relationships. Analyses of the S. bicolor and S. midas populations suggested that they represent no more than three subspecies of a single species, S. midas, with the bicolor forms belonging to a single subspecies, S. midas bicolor. If supported by additional studies, this would have important implications for the conservation of the bicolor form, which is endangered with extinction. The genetic similarity of S. fuscicollis and S. mystax was also consistent with their geographical and morphological proximity, although more data from a larger number of taxa will be required before the taxonomic relationships within the genus can be defined.
Predicting the range of inbreeding depression of inbred lines in cross-pollinated populations
Authors: Souza Jr. C.L. , Fernandes J.S.C.
Published: April 2005

The objectives of this paper were to derive the genetic variance of inbreeding depression ( ) and to predict the range of inbreeding depression (RID) in cross-pollinated populations. The variance of inbreeding depression is a function of the genetic variances related to dominance effects (, D2, and ), and of the inbreeding coefficients of the two generations in which inbreeding depression is measured (Ft and Fg). The results showed that the higher the level of dominance of a trait, the higher the variance of inbreeding depression. The magnitudes of were expected to be lower in improved (mean gene frequencies = > 0.6) and in unimproved ( < 0.4) populations, than in composite populations ( » 0.5). Data from a maize population used to illustrate the study showed that the range of inbreeding depression in the S¥ generation of selfing was from 48.7% to 85.3% for grain yield, and from 13.9% to 24.5% for plant height. A mating design outlined to estimate the genetic variance of inbreeding depression, the range of inbreeding depression, and of the range of inbred lines is presented.
Multivariate genetic divergence and hybrid performance of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.)
Authors: Dias Luiz Antônio dos Santos , Kageyama Paulo Yoshio
Published: April 2005

Genetic distances among cacao cultivars were calculated through multivariate analysis, using the D2 statistic, to examine racial group classification and to assess heterotic hybrids. A 5 x 5 complete diallel was evaluated. Over a five-year period (1986-1990), five cultivars of the S1 generation, pertaining to the Lower Amazon Forastero and Trinitario racial groups and 20 crosses between the corresponding S0 parents were analyzed, based upon five yield components - number of healthy and collected fruits per plant (NHFP and NCFP), wet seed weight per plant and per fruit (WSWP and WSWF), and percentage of diseased fruits per plant (PDFP). The diversity analysis suggested a close relationship between the Trinitario and Lower Amazon Forastero groups. A correlation coefficient (r) was calculated to determine the association between genetic diversity and heterosis. Genetic distance of parents by D2 was found to be linearly related to average performance of hybrids for WSWP and WSWF (r = 0.68, P < 0.05 and r = 0.76, P < 0.05, respectively). The heterotic performance for the same components was also correlated with D2, both with r = 0.66 (P < 0.05). A relationship between genetic divergence and combining ability effects was suggested because the most divergent cultivar exhibited a high general combining ability, generating the best performing hybrids. Results indicated that genetic diversity estimates can be useful in selecting parents for crosses and in assessing relationships among cacao racial groups.
Chromosome sensitivity to bleomycin in G2 lymphocytes from Down syndrome patients
Authors: Bartholomei-Santos Marlise Ladvocat , Lucca Edmundo José de
Published: April 2005

Several studies have demonstrated that lymphocytes from patients with Down syndrome (DS) exhibit an increased frequency of chromosome aberrations when they are exposed to ionizing radiation or to chemicals at the G0 or G1 phases of the cell cycle, but not at G2, when compared to normal subjects. To determine the susceptibility of DS lymphocytes at G2 phase, bleomycin, a radiomimetic agent, was used to induce DNA breaks in blood cultures from 24 Down syndrome patients. All the patients with DS showed free trisomy 21 (47,XX + 21 or 47,XY + 21). Individuals that showed an average number of chromatid breaks per cell higher than 0.8 were considered sensitive to the drug. No control child showed susceptibility to bleomycin, and among the 24 patients with DS, only one was sensitive to the drug. No significant difference was observed between the two groups, regarding chromatid break frequencies in treated G2 lymphocytes. The distribution of bleomycin-induced breaks in each group of chromosomes was similar for DS and controls. No significant difference was found in the response to bleomycin between male and female subjects. Probably, the main factor involved in chromosome sensitivity of lymphocytes from patients with DS is the phase of the cell cycle in which the cell is treated.
Chromosomal polymorphism in urban populations of Drosophila paulistorum
Authors: Valiati Victor Hugo , Valente Vera Lucia S.
Published: April 2005

Drosophila paulistorum populations colonizing the urban area of Porto Alegre, southern Brazil, were studied with the objective of characterizing their chromosomal polymorphism in this new environment. Despite being geographically and ecologically marginal and the fact that the colonization of the urban area seems to be a recent event, the populations showed a large number of inversions on all chromosome arms. Differences regarding inversion frequencies and percentage of heterozygosis were found when we compared the samples with respect to geographical, microenvironmental and temporal aspects. Such differences, however, could be attributed to both selective and stochastic factors
Genetic variability of behaviorin Melipona quadrifasciata(Hymenoptera: Meliponinae)
Authors: Waldschmidt Ana Maria , Campos Lúcio Antônio Oliveira , Marco Jr. Paulo De
Published: April 2005

Observation colonies containing only young workers from 10 matrix colonies were set up to investigate the genetic aspects involved in task division in Melipona quadrifasciata. Wide variation among origins was observed for all behaviors analyzed, but these differences were significant only for brood cell construction and propolis preparation
Changes in N2 fixation in Stylosanthes scabra derived from tissue culture
Authors: Valarini Maria José , Otsuk Ivani Pozar , Vieira Maria Lucia Carneiro
Published: April 2005

Plants were regenerated from leaf-derived callus culture of Stylosanthes scabra, a polyploid legume tolerant to drought and adapted to acid soils. A total of 168 regenerants were planted out in Leonard jars in a complete randomized design. Nitrogen fixation and vegetative growth were indirectly evaluated by shoot dry weight, root dry weight, shoot N content and acetylene reduction activity. The results showed higher variation in the regenerants than in controls not submitted to tissue culture. Significant differences were found for all nitrogen fixation related-traits
Comparative study of tissue response to polyglecaprone 25, polyglactin 910 and polytetrafluorethylene suture materials in rats
Authors: Nary Filho Hugo , Matsumoto Mariza Akemi , Batista Aline Carvalho , Lopes Luís César , Sampaio Góes Fernanda Costa Grizzo de , Consolaro Alberto
Published: April 2005

The authors evaluated the biocompatibility of three suture materials, polyglecaprone 25, polyglactin 910 and polytetrafluorethylene, implanted into subcutaneous tissue in the dorsal region of 20 Wistar albinus rats. After periods of 2, 7, 14 and 21 days, the rats were sacrificed and the specimens were processed for routine histotechnical analysis and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The rate of fibrosis, angioblastic and fibroblastic proliferation, and also the intensity of inflammation were observed with the optic microscope. The results showed that polyglecaprone 25 suture material induced a mild inflammatory reaction, followed by polyglactin 910 and polytetrafluorethylene, respectively. Such biological behavior must be considered during the selection of the suture material to be used in oral surgery.
Dentofacial morphology of mouth breathing children
Authors: Faria Patrícia Toledo Monteiro , Ruellas Antonio Carlos de Oliveira , Matsumoto Mírian Aiko Nakane , Anselmo-Lima Wilma T. , Pereira Fabiana C.
Published: April 2005

The relationship between dentofacial morphology and respiration has been debated and investigated from various approaches. The aim of this study was to verify the skeletal and dental relationship of mouth and nose breathing children. Thirty-five children, 7 to 10 years of age, were submitted to orthodontic and otorhinolaryngologic evaluations and were separated into 2 groups: 15 nose breathers and 20 mouth breathers. Each subject underwent a cephalometric radiograph analysis. Statistical analysis (Mann-Whitney U test) indicated that changed mode of breathing was associated with 1) maxillo-mandibular retrusion in relation to the cranial base in the mouth breathers; 2) the SNGoGn and NSGn angles were greater in the mouth breathing group; 3) incisor inclination in both jaws and the interincisal angle were not different between groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the maxillary and mandibular molar heights between the nose breathers and mouth breathers.
Effectiveness of teaching methods for toothbrushing in preschool children
Authors: Leal Soraya Coelho , Bezerra Ana Cristina Barreto , Toledo Orlando Ayrton de
Published: April 2005

Three different methods of instruction and motivation were used to assess the learning process and ability of preschool children in performing toothbrushing. Forty children from a private nursery of Brasília, DF, Brazil, were divided into 2 groups according to age (3-4 years old and 5-6 years old). The following methods of instruction and reinforcement were applied: I - audiovisual; II - child as a model; III - individual instruction. Professional prophylaxis was then performed and the children remained 48 hours without any kind of oral hygiene. Plaque disclosing and plaque index were carried out and recorded. The children subsequently brushed their teeth according to each method of instruction and a new plaque index was recorded. The data were analyzed statistically using the Student t-test and the comparison of two proportions. The results showed that the children of both groups reduced plaque index and that the individual instruction method was superior (p<0.05) to the others at all ages. Children older than 5 years of age were able to learn and accomplish toothbrushing better than younger children.
Structure and microstructure of coronary dentin in non-erupted human deciduous incisor teeth
Authors: Costa Luciane R.R S. , Watanabe Ii-Sei , Kronka Márcia C. , Silva Marcelo C.P.
Published: April 2005

The dentin structure of non-erupted human deciduous mandibular and maxillary central and lateral incisor teeth was studied employing light and scanning electron microscopy. For light microscopy, nitric-acid-demineralized and ground sections were used. The sections were stained by hematoxylin-eosin, picrosirius and azo-carmim methods, and ground specimens were prepared using a carborundum disk mounted in a handpiece. For SEM study, teeth were frozen in liquid nitrogen and fractured at longitudinal and transversal directions. Structurally, demineralization and ground methods revealed tubules with primary and secondary curvatures, canaliculi, giant tubules, interglobular dentin, predentin, and intertubular dentin. Scanning electron microscopy showed three-dimensional aspects of dentinal tubules, canaliculi, peritubular dentin, intertubular dentin, and predentin. This study contributes to knowledge about dentin morphology showing characteristics of teeth not yet submitted to mastication stress.
Effect of different EGTA concentrations on dentin microhardness
Authors: Cruz-Filho Antonio Miranda da , Paula Eduardo Augusto de , Pécora Jesus Djalma , Sousa-Neto Manoel Damião de
Published: April 2005

The effect of 1%, 3% and 5% EGTA (ethylene glycol-bis-(b-amino-ethyl ether) N,N,N´,N´-tetra-acetic acid) on the microhardness of root dentin of the cervical third of human teeth was studied. Five newly extracted maxillary incisors were sectioned transversely at the cementoenamel junction, and the crowns were discarded. The roots were embedded in blocks of high-speed polymerized acrylic resin and cut transversely into 1-mm sections. The second section of the cervical third of the root of each tooth was sectioned and divided into four parts. Each part was placed on an acrylic disc that was used as a base for microhardness measurement. Fifty microliters of 1% EGTA, 3% EGTA, or 5% EGTA were applied to the dentin surface. Deionized and distilled water was used as control. Dentin microhardness was then measured with a load of 50 g for 15 s. Statistical analysis showed that the three concentrations of the chelating solution EGTA significantly reduced dentin microhardness when compared with water (ANOVA, p<0.01), and that there was a statistically significant difference among the three solutions (Tukey test, p<0.05).
Odontologic use of copper/aluminum alloys: mitochondrial respiration as sensitive parameter of biocompatibility
Authors: Rodrigues Luiz Erlon A. , Carvalho Antônio A.V.F. , Azevedo Antônio L.M. , Cruz Cecília B.B.V. , Maia Antônio Wanderley C.
Published: April 2005

Copper/aluminum alloys are largely utilized in odontological restorations because they are less expensive than gold or platinum. However, tarnishing and important corrosion in intrabuccal prostheses made with copper/aluminum alloys after 28 days of use have been reported. Several kinds of food and beverage may attack and corrode these alloys. Copper is an essential component of several important enzymes directly involved in mitochondrial respiratory metabolism. Aluminum, in contrast, is very toxic and, when absorbed, plasma values as small as 1.65 to 21.55 µg/dl can cause severe lesions to the nervous system, kidneys, and bone marrow. Because mitochondria are extremely sensitive to minimal variation of cellular physiology, the direct relationship between the mitocondrial respiratory chain and cell lesions has been used as a sensitive parameter to evaluate cellular aggression by external agents. This work consisted in the polarographic study of mitochondrial respiratory metabolism of livers and kidneys of rabbits with femoral implants of titanium or copper/aluminum alloy screws. The experimental results obtained did not show physiological modifications of hepatic or renal mitochondria isolated from animals of the three experimental groups, which indicate good biocompatibility of copper/aluminum alloys and suggest their odontological use.
Surface roughness of composite resins after finishing and polishing
Authors: Nagem Filho Halim , D'Azevedo Maria Tereza Fortes Soares , Nagem Haline Drumond , Marsola Fernanda Pátaro
Published: April 2005

This study evaluated the effect of surface finishing methods on the average surface roughness of resin composites. Seven composites and two polishing systems were used. One hundred and twenty-six conical specimens of each material were prepared in stainless steel molds against a polyester strip. Forty-two of them remained intact and were used as controls. Each half of the remaining samples was polished with either diamond burs or diamond burs + aluminum oxide discs. The results showed no statistical difference in average surface roughness (Ra, µm) between the polyester strip and aluminum oxide discs (p>0.05). However, finishing with diamond burs showed a statistically higher average roughness for all composites (p<0.05). Statistical differences were detected among materials (p<0.05) in the use of diamond burs.
Results after two years of non-operative treatment of occlusal surface in children with high caries prevalence
Authors: Maltz Marisa , Silva Berenice Barbachan e , Carvalho Danusa Queiroz de , Volkweis Alexandre
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to describe the 2-year results of an individualized treatment program designed to control occlusal caries in erupting first permanent molars. The sample consisted of 145 five-to-six-year-old students divided into a control group (n=71) and a test group (n=74). All test children received a biannual basic preventive program and a recall system according to individual disease activity. The basic program consisted of 3 (March) and 2 (August) sessions of oral hygiene orientation and toothbrushing with fluoride gel. The analysis of the baseline and 1-2-year data showed a significant reduction in the number of active lesions in the test group. In the control group, there were initially 70 active lesions and after two years 68 surfaces remained with disease and 24 surfaces had been filled. The children in the test group had 80 surfaces with active lesions initially and after two years only 3 surfaces with disease remained. From the 15 cavitated lesions, only 5 surfaces needed to be filled. This program showed that care of erupting teeth on an individualized basis can control occlusal caries.
Goldenhar's syndrome: case report
Authors: Pinheiro Antônio Luiz Barbosa , Araújo Luciana Cavalcanti , Oliveira Suely Baptista , Sampaio Maria Carmeli Correia , Freitas André Carlos
Published: April 2005

Goldenhar's syndrome is a rare condition described initially in the early 1950's. It is characterized by a combination of anomalies: dermal epibulbar cysts, auricular appendices and malformation of the ears. In 1963, Gorlin suggested the name oculo-auriculo-vertebral (OAV) dysplasia for this condition and also included vertebral anomalies as signs of the syndrome. The etiology of this rare disease is not fully understood, as it has shown itself variable genetically and of unclear causes. This work reports a case of Goldenhar's syndrome in an 11-year-old female, who presented all classical signs of this rare condition
Cohort study of endodontic therapy success
Authors: Travassos Rosana Maria Coelho , Caldas Junior Arnaldo de França , Albuquerque Diana Santana de
Published: April 2005

A retrospective cohort study was carried out aiming to assess the success rate of endodontic treatment of patients from the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Pernambuco, Brazil. The dental records of the sampling comprised all patients treated in 1998 and 1999. Trials were standardized and a pilot study was carried out to determine the feasibility of the proposed study. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to calculate the level of significance that was set at 5%. Logistic regression models were used to confirm significant effect of some variables on the endodontic outcome. The final sample size comprised 311 (75.9%) women and 99 (21.1%) men. The majority of cases (82.9%) were considered successful. Success was less frequent for patients with up to primary school education (55.6%) than for those with a higher degree of education (89.7%). The vital condition of the pulp showed a statistically significant relationship with the success of endodontic therapy (p<0.05). These results suggest that it is possible to attain very high success rates for endodontic treatment when both the intraradicular and the extraradicular causes of failure of endodontic treatment are well managed.
Evaluation of mandibular implant sites: correlation between panoramic and linear tomography
Authors: Rockenbach Maria Ivete Bolzan , Sampaio Maria Carméli Correia , Costa Lino João da , Costa Nilza Pereira da
Published: April 2005

The reliability of the linear tomography and panoramic radiography made with X-ray equipment was evaluated (Vera View Scope X-600; Morita). The sample was composed of 20 dry human hemimandibles, in which the area selected for analysis was 1.5 cm distal from the limit set before the mental foramen. Four measurements were made. The images obtained were drawn on acetate paper and the hemimandibles cut at the demarcated area. The measurements were made using a digital electronic pachymeter. The values found for the radiographic images were compared to those obtained in the mandibular specimens and submitted to statistical evaluation by the Wilcoxon test. It was concluded that both techniques were reliable for the accomplishment of vertical linear measurements in the selected area. However, a 2.0 mm safety margin is recommended.
Pilomatricoma of the auricular region: case report
Authors: Silva Tarcília Aparecida da , Moraes Júnior Edgard Franco , Consolaro Alberto , Lara Vanessa Soares
Published: April 2005

Pilomatricomas are relatively rare tumors of ectodermal origin from the outer root sheath cell of the hair follicle. They are usually asymptomatic, solitary, firm or hard, freely mobile, dermal or subcutaneous nodules. The purpose of this article is to present a case that illustrates the diagnostic difficulty encountered by oral surgeons and pathologists and to review the literature regarding pilomatricomas of the auricular region.
Apical seal of root canals with gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide
Authors: Holland Roberto , Murata Sueli Satomi , Barbosa Henrian Gonzaga , Garlipp Osvaldo , Souza Valdir de , Dezan Junior Eloi
Published: April 2005

The objective of this research was to determine if gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] improve the apical seal after root canal filling and if the master point does it alone. Human single recently extracted teeth were biomechanically prepared and the root canals filled by the lateral condensation technique with ZOE and gutta-percha points, with or without calcium hydroxide. The teeth were placed into a 2% methylene blue solution in a vacuum environment for 24 h after which they were processed for stereomicroscope evaluation. Better results were observed with the teeth filled with gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide (p=0.01). We conclude that these new points make a better apical seal and that these results can also be obtained with the calcium hydroxide master point associated with regular ones (p=0.05).
Lack of repair of rat skull critical size defect treated with bovine morphometric protein bound to microgranular bioabsorbable hydroxyapatite
Authors: Ferreira Gabriel Ramalho , Cestari Tania Mary , Granjeiro José Mauro , Taga Rumio
Published: April 2005

The ability of a pool of bovine bone morphogenetic proteins bound to synthetic microgranular hydroxyapatite (BMPb-HA) to stimulate bone repair was determined in rat critical size defects. An 8-mm diameter defect was created in the calvaria of 25 rats. In 15 rats, the defects were filled with BMPb-HA homogenized with blood (experimental group), and in 10 rats the defects were filled only with blood clots (control). The calvariae of experimental rats were collected 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery and of the control rats at the end of surgery and 6 months thereafter. The morphometric results obtained in the radiographs showed an absence of new bone formation at 1 and 3 months post-surgery and, histologically, the defects were filled with fibrous connective tissue and numerous foci of a foreign body-type granulomatous reaction around hydroxyapatite agglomerates. At the end of 6 months, the number and size of the granulomatous foci decreased and the area of the defects was reduced by 22% compared to the 0-hour control due to the formation of new bone at their borders, although the mean area was similar to the 6-month control. We conclude that the use of BMPb-HA in the treatment of critical size bone defects of the rat skull leads to the formation of a foreign body-type granulomatous reaction that markedly inhibits new bone formation, suggesting that synthetic microgranular hydroxyapatite does not represent a good carrier for BMP-induced bone formation.
Evaluation of depth of cure and Knoop hardness in a dental composite photo-activated using different methods
Authors: Obici Andresa Carla , Sinhoreti Mário Alexandre Coelho , Correr Sobrinho Lourenço , Goes Mario Fernando de , Consani Simonides
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate the depth of cure and Knoop hardness in the P60 composite resin photo-activated using different methods. A bipartite brass matrix (3 mm in diameter X 11 mm in height) was filled with the composite and photo-activation was performed using continuous light, exponential light, intermittent light, plasma arc curing (PAC) or light-emitting diodes (LED). After opening the matrix, the uncured material was removed with a steel spatula and the polymerized composite was measured using a pachymeter. The specimens were then included in self-curing acrylic resin and worn longitudinally and the hardness was measured on the surface and at depths of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mm. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (5%). The results showed that the depth of cure was higher with the intermittent light, followed by continuous light, exponential light, PAC and LED methods. Up to a depth of 2 mm, all methods revealed similar hardness values, but there were differences between them at other depths, at which LED demonstrated the lowest values followed by PAC.
Sinus maxillaris mycetoma of odontogenic origin: case report
Authors: Rode Matjaz , Podboj Jernej , Kogoj-Rode Mirela
Published: April 2005

Fungal infections are on the increase and those of the jaw cavities with Aspergillus species may be connected with the root apices of teeth in the upper jaw. Diagnostic changes in the sinus maxillaris and certain types of facial pain may be indicative of fungal infection. The authors report a case of aspergillosis sinusitis and describe the diagnostic methods and treatment of this infection that may be associated with endodontic treatment.