bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Overtime Effect of Social Position on Dental Caries Experience in a Group of Old‐Aged Danes Born in 1914
Authors: Krustrup Ulla , Holm‐Pedersen Poul , Petersen Poul Erik , Lund Rikke , Avlund Kirsten
Published: March 2008

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to analyze the life‐course effects of education, occupation, and income at ages 70, 75, 80, and 85 years, respectively, on dental caries experience of 85‐year‐olds.

Methods:The present study includes follow‐up data from a population‐based study, which comprised a sample of 176 individuals aged 85 years. Data on social position were collected at ages 70, 75, 80, and 85 years by means of structured personal interviews. Clinical oral health examinations were conducted to obtain data on dental caries at age 85. Dental caries was recorded at tooth surface level and caries experience was expressed by the DMF Index: the decayed tooth surfaces (D component), missing tooth surfaces (M component), and filled tooth surfaces (F component).

Results:The participants in the present study demonstrated a high level of dental caries experience; the prevalence rate for active dental caries (D‐S) was 80 percent. Older adults with low education, low occupational status, and poor income tended to have more active dental caries compared to their counterparts. In contrast, individuals with high education (F‐S = 35.5) and high occupational status (F‐S = 36.0) had significantly more filled surfaces than persons with low education (F‐S = 24.0) and low occupational status (F‐S = 25.6). Individuals with high income at ages 75, 80, and 85 years had more filled surfaces (F‐S = 31.9, 33.2, 34.1) compared to persons with low income (F‐S = 25.5, 23.5, 22.8).

Conclusion:The study identified social inequalities across age among the very old individuals in relation to dental caries experience.
On the Pediatric Oral Health Therapist: Lessons from Canada
Authors: Quiñonez Carlos R. , Locker David
Published: March 2008

Objectives: To review the development of dental therapy in Canada. Methods: Historical review. Results: Over its 35‐year history in Canada, this model of service delivery experienced a period of great success, but has since degraded, not fulfilling its potential. Conclusions: To ensure the success of the paediatric oral health therapist, US policy leaders will need to mitigate the challenges that degraded the viability of this form of service provision in Canada.
The “new” Canadian constitution: will the old answers do for new questions?
Authors: Mallory J.R.
Published: March 2008

Canada and the New Constitution: The Unfinished Agenda. 2 vols. Edited by STANLEY M. BECK and IVAN BERNIER. Montreal: The lnstitute for Research on Public Policy, 1982. $8.76. The project was conceived at York University and funded by the Donner Canadian Foundation.
Lymphadenoma of the salivary gland: A novel classification based on immunohistochemical comparison of benign and malignant lymphoepithelial neoplasms
Authors: Kang Jun , Kim Sang Yoon , Cho Kyung‐Ja
Published: March 2008

Background and aims: Non‐sebaceous lymphadenoma is a benign lymphoepithelial neoplasm of the salivary gland, listed in 2005 by the World Health Organization in their classification of head and neck tumors. There have been different histological features of lymphoepithelial components reported between non‐sebaceous lymphadenomas. We propose to specifically characterize non‐sebaceous lymphadenomas by examining their immunohistochemical profile. Methods: Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue samples of six benign and two malignant lymphoepithelial neoplasms of the salivary gland were histologically reviewed, and their immunoprofiles for CK5/6, CK7, CK19, p63, smooth muscle actin, calponin, p53, and Ki‐67 compared. Results: Our series of lymphadenomas, both sebaceous and non‐sebaceous, displayed a range of epithelial components. The non‐sebaceous lymphadenoma with an undifferentiated epithelial component and the non‐sebaceous lymphadenoma with a squamous epithelial component showed similar diffuse CK5/6, focal CK7 and peripheral cytoplasmic CK19 expressions. However, the non‐sebaceous lymphadenoma with a ductal epithelial component and sebaceous lymphadenoma showed basal CK5/6, diffuse CK7 and homogeneous cytoplasmic CK19 expressions. Conclusions: Based on the histological and immunohistochemical characteristics, we suggest a novel subtyping of benign lymphoepithelial neoplasms. Benign lymphoepithelial neoplasms could be classified as (i) lymphoepithelioma with or without squamous differentiation; (ii) lymphadenoma with or without sebaceous differentiation; or (iii) Warthin tumor lymphadenoma with oncocytic differentiation.
Complex and compound odontomas are clinico‐pathological entities
Authors: Lee Chong Heon , Park Gyeong Ju
Published: March 2008

Background and aims: The odontoma is the most common benign tumor of odontogenic origin, characterized by mixed histological features and diverse clinical presentation. The purpose of this study was to review clinicopathologic features of odontomas arising from oral and maxillofacial area in Korean patients. Methods: Sixty cases of odontoma were analyzed for their prevalence, clinical and pathological findings. Results: Clinical symptoms showed delayed eruption (n = 9) of either the deciduous or permanent tooth, intra‐ or extra‐oral swelling (n = 27), pain (n = 6), but 18 cases had no subjective symptoms. Seventy percent of the odontomas were associated with unerupted teeth. The location of the tumor was maxilla in 55% and mandible in 45% of cases. There were 55% in the anterosuperier sector and 25% in the posteroinferior zone, while the rest in the upper molar region. Compound odontoma was more common (60%) than complex odontoma. Compound odontoma showed a mean age of 18.5 years, in the incisor/canine area of the maxilla, and smaller tumors (5–30 mm) with unilocular and multiple radio‐opaque miniteeth surrounded by defined radiolucency. The complex odontoma showed a mean age of 30.1 years, in the first and second molar of the mandible, and larger tumors (10–60 mm) with unilocular undistinguished radio‐opaque mass surrounded by radiolucent zone and a distinct radio‐opaque border. Conclusions: The clinicopathologic pattern of odontomas can be divided into compound and complex odontomas, while the definitive diagnosis of odontomas was based on the pathological examination after surgical removal of the tumor.
Overexpression of promyelocytic leukemia protein is correlated with poor prognostic markers in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Choi Jene , Hwang Ilseon , Sohn Se Hee , Song Dong Eun , Hong Seoung‐Mo , Yu Eunsil
Published: March 2008

Background and aims: Promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML), a tumor suppressor in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), has a variable expression and distribution pattern in human solid neoplasms. We assessed PML expression and roles in 488 pairs of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and adjacent non‐neoplastic liver tissues. Methods: PML immunoreactivities were correlated with clinicopathological prognostic parameters. Expression levels of the alternatively transcribed PML isoforms were analyzed using real‐time PCR and Western blot assays in representative cases. Results: The PML expression level was increased in tumors from 483 patients (99.0%) compared with non‐neoplastic liver tissues. Staining patterns were variable. PML overexpression was significantly correlated with histological grade, increase in alpha‐fetoprotein and tumor necrosis that was associated with patients' survival. Although mRNA expression levels of PML were not correlated with the immunoreactivities of total PML, mRNA expression levels of PML4 tended to decrease in PML‐high HCCs, and increase in PML‐low HCCs, compared with adjacent non‐neoplastic liver tissues. Conclusions: The significant correlation of the PML overexpression with clinicopathological prognostic markers, and the inverse relationship between the expression levels of PML4 and total PML indicate that the total amount of PML expressed may not be a major factor, but that the isoform‐specific expression of PML, especially of PML4, plays an important role as a tumor suppressor in human hepatocarcinogenesis.
Longitudinal Study of Salmonella Infection in Italian Farrow‐To‐Finish Swine Herds
Authors: Merialdi G. , Barigazzi G. , Bonilauri P. , Tittarelli C. , Bonci M. , D’incau M. , Dottori M.
Published: March 2008

A longitudinal study of Salmonella enterica infection was carried out in five Italian farrow‐to‐finish swine herds previously known to be infected by Salmonella. Five litters were randomly selected from each herd and in each litter six piglets were randomly selected and individually identified. Thus, the study included 30 pigs from each farm. At weaning, individual blood samples were collected for serological examination from all selected piglets and on the same day from all sows in the farrowing unit. Piglets were bled again at approximately 60, 90, 150, 210 and 270 days of life whereas the last blood sample was collected at slaughtering. In one of the herds, in which the duration of productive cycle was about 12 months, the last blood samples were collected at 350 days of life. With the same time scheduling, five pen pooled faecal samples were collected from each herd for bacteriological examination. At slaughtering, mesenteric lymph nodes were collected from each ear‐tagged pig. Sero‐prevalence (cut off S/P ratio 0.25) in sows varied from 93.8% to 100%. In four herds, sero‐prevalence in piglets showed a similar profile with complete decline of maternal antibodies at day 60 and clear sero‐conversion between day 90 and day 150. In one herd, sero‐conversion was observed earlier and 56% of piglets were positive at day 90. The peak of sero‐prevalence was observed between day 210 and day 270. Sero‐prevalence at slaughtering varied from 66% to 100%. Salmonella was isolated from faecal samples in four of five herds. No Salmonella was isolated from mesenteric lymph nodes at slaughter in two of the herds. Culture prevalence from mesenteric lymph nodes in the other three herds ranged from 3.3% to 30%. This longitudinal study provides original information about epidemiological dynamics of Salmonella enterica infection in Italian swine herds in consideration of the unique extended fattening period typical of the Italian production.
Role of leptin in the regulation of growth and carbohydrate metabolism in the ovine fetus during late gestation
Authors: Forhead Alison J. , Lamb Christopher A. , Franko Kathryn L. , O'Connor Deirdre M. , Wooding F. B. Peter , Cripps Roselle L. , Ozanne Susan , Blache Dominique , Shen Qingwu W. , Du Min , Fowden Abigail L.
Published: March 2008

Leptin is an important regulator of appetite and energy expenditure in adulthood, although its role as a nutritional signal in the control of growth and metabolism before birth is poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of leptin on growth, carbohydrate metabolism and insulin signalling in fetal sheep. Crown–rump length‐measuring devices and vascular catheters were implanted in 12 sheep fetuses at 105–110 days of gestation (term 145 ± 2 days). The fetuses were infused i.v. either with saline (0.9% NaCl; n= 6) or recombinant ovine leptin (0.5–1.0 mg kg−1 day−1; n= 6) for 5 days from 125 to 130 days when they were humanely killed and tissues collected. Leptin receptor mRNA and protein were expressed in fetal liver, skeletal muscle and perirenal adipose tissue. Throughout infusion, plasma leptin in the leptin‐infused fetuses was 3‐ to 5‐fold higher than in the saline‐infused fetuses, although plasma concentrations of insulin, glucose, lactate, cortisol, catecholamines and thyroid hormones did not differ between the groups. Leptin infusion did not affect linear skeletal growth or body, placental and organ weights in utero. Hepatic glycogen content and activities of the gluconeogenic enzymes glucose‐6‐phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in the leptin‐infused fetuses were lower than in the saline‐infused fetuses by 44, 48 and 36%, respectively; however, there were no differences in hepatic glycogen synthase activity or insulin signalling protein levels. Therefore, before birth, leptin may inhibit endogenous glucose production by the fetal liver when adipose energy stores and transplacental nutrient delivery are sufficient for the metabolic needs of the fetus. These actions of leptin in utero may contribute to the development of neonatal hypoglycaemia in macrosomic babies of diabetic mothers.
A Fast and Efficient Method for Predicting Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer Problems
Authors: Ding Peng , Wu Xue-Hong , He Ya-Ling , Tao Wen-Quan
Published: March 2008

A fast and efficient method based on the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) technique for predicting fluid flow and heat transfer problems is proposed in this paper. POD is first applied to an ensemble of numerical simulation results at design parameters to obtain the empirical coefficients and eigenfunctions, and then the fluid and temperature fields in the range of design parameters are resolved by a linear combination of empirical coefficients and eigenfunctions. The empirical coefficients at off-design parameters are obtained by a cubic spline interpolation method for steady problems and a Galerkin projection method for transient problems. Finally, the efficiency and accuracy of the algorithm are examined by three examples. The POD based algorithm can predict both the velocity and temperature fields in the range of design parameters accurately at a price of a large number of precomputed cases (snapshots). It also brings significant computational time savings for the new cases within the parameter range presimulated compared with the finite volume method with SIMPLE-like algorithm.
Intermediate Scaling of Turbulent Momentum and Heat Transfer in a Transitional Rough Channel
Authors: Seena Abu , Afzal Noor
Published: March 2008

The properties of the mean momentum and thermal balance in fully developed turbulent channel flow on transitional rough surface have been explored by method of matched asymptotic expansions. Available high quality data support a dynamically relevant three-layer description that is a departure from two-layer traditional description of turbulent wall flows. The scaling properties of the intermediate layer are determined. The analysis shows the existence of an intermediate layer, with its own characteristic of mesolayer scaling, between the traditional inner and outer layers. Our predictions of the peak values of the Reynolds shear stress and Reynolds heat flux and their locations in the intermediate layer are well supported by the experimental and direct numerical simulation (DNS) data. The inflectional surface roughness data in a turbulent channel flow provide strong support to our proposed universal log law in the intermediate layer, that is, explicitly independent transitional surface roughness. There is no universality of scalings in traditional variables and different expressions are needed for various types of roughness, as suggested, for example, with inflectional type roughness, Colebrook–Moody monotonic roughness, etc. In traditional variables, the roughness scale for inflectional roughness is supported very well by experimental and DNS data. The higher order effects are also presented, which show the implications of the low Reynolds-number flows, where the intermediate layer provides the uniformly valid solutions in terms of generalized logarithmic laws for the velocity and the temperature distributions.
Frequency Ratio of Al+and Hg+Single-Ion Optical Clocks; Metrology at the 17th Decimal Place
Authors: Rosenband T. , Hume D. B. , Schmidt P. O. , Chou C. W. , Brusch A. , Lorini L. , Oskay W. H. , Drullinger R. E. , Fortier T. M. , Stalnaker J. E. , Diddams S. A. , Swann W. C. , Newbury N. R. , Itano W. M. , Wineland D. J. , Bergquist J. C.
Published: March 2008

Time has always had a special status in physics because of its fundamental role in specifying the regularities of nature and because of the extraordinary precision with which it can be measured. This precision enables tests of fundamental physics and cosmology, as well as practical applications such as satellite navigation. Recently, a regime of operation for atomic clocks based on optical transitions has become possible, promising even higher performance. We report the frequency ratio of two optical atomic clocks with a fractional uncertainty of 5.2 × 10–17. The ratio of aluminum and mercury single-ion optical clock frequencies νAl+/νHg+is 1.052871833148990438(55), where the uncertainty comprises a statistical measurement uncertainty of 4.3 × 10–17, and systematic uncertainties of 1.9 × 10–17and 2.3 × 10–17in the mercury and aluminum frequency standards, respectively. Repeated measurements during the past year yield a preliminary constraint on the temporal variation of the fine-structure constant α of\batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \({\dot{{\alpha}}}{/}{\alpha}=(-1.6{\pm}2.3){\times}10^{-17}{/}\mathrm{year}\) \end{document}.
Technical pitfalls potentially affecting diagnoses in immunohistochemistry
Authors: Bussolati G , Leonardo E
Published: March 2008

Result of the immunohistochemical reactions routinely used in diagnostic surgical pathology should be properly interpreted, since false results, related to technical and interpretative pitfalls may lead to incorrect diagnosis. The main sources of such pitfalls are reviewed, analytically described and related to different steps (fixation, tissue processing and embedding, decalcification, antigen retrieval) which may affect the accuracy of immunohistochemistry. In addition, the presence of endogenous enzyme activity, improper binding of avidin to endogenous biotin, incorrect use of antibodies, chromogen and detection systems, as well as incorrect interpretation may produce unreliable data. The high frequency and extension of such pitfalls make mandatory the use of internal and external controls and adoption of cross-validation programmes. The present study, supported by an extensive review of the related literature, is intended as a guideline leading to proper interpretation of immunohistochemical data, an essential component of the diagnostic process. Experience on the antigen retrieval procedures for different antigens is also presented.
Value of CT-guided biopsy in the diagnosis of septic discitis
Authors: Enoch D A , Cargill J S , Laing R , Herbert S , Corrah T W , Brown N M
Published: March 2008

Aim:

To determine the role of CT-guided biopsy in the management of cases of infective discitis.

Methods:

Data were examined from a retrospective case series of CT-guided biopsies for the 5-year period ending June 2006.

Results:

98 CT-guided biopsies were performed in the study period on 103 patients. Malignancy was diagnosed in 49 episodes. Discitis and paravertebral abscess accounted for 27 cases. Culture was positive in nine of 25 (36%) samples received by the microbiology laboratory.Staphylococcus aureus(four cases) andMycobacterium tuberculosis(three cases) were the most frequent organisms isolated, followed by group G streptococci and coagulase-negative staphylococci (one case each). Blood cultures were diagnostic in a further nine patients. The main reason for a negative culture was prior antimicrobial therapy. The biopsy changed management in 9/25 (36%) of cases. There were no reported adverse events.

Conclusion:

Septic discitis is a serious condition with a wide variety of infective causes. CT-guided biopsy is a useful tool when the diagnosis of infectious spinal infection is considered in terms of commencing and targeting therapy, and it is a safe and well-tolerated procedure.
CUGBP2 downregulation by prostaglandin E2protects colon cancer cells from radiation-induced mitotic catastrophe
Authors: Natarajan Gopalan , Ramalingam Satish , Ramachandran Ilangovan , May Randal , Queimado Lurdes , Houchen Courtney W. , Anant Shrikant
Published: March 2008

Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) is a potent inhibitor of ionizing radiation (IR)-induced cell death. Exposure of colon cancer cells to IR leads to increased CUGBP2 expression. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that PGE2radioprotects colon cancer cells by inhibiting CUGBP2 expression. Exposure of HCT-116 cells to γ-IR (0–12 Gy) resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in cell growth and an increase in the G2-M phase of the cell cycle. Western blot analyses demonstrated increased levels of activated caspase 9 and caspase 3. In addition, whereas Bax expression is increased, that of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xLwas reduced. Further analyses demonstrated increased activation of Chk1 and Chk2 kinases, coupled with higher levels of nuclear cyclin B1 and Cdc2. Pretreatment with PGE2suppressed the activation of caspase 3 and caspase 7 and inhibited Bax expression. In addition, PGE2treatment restored growth and colony formation to control levels. IR significantly upregulated the expression of CUGBP2 in the cells, which was suppressed when cells were pretreated with PGE2. Ectopic overexpression of CUGBP2 also induced apoptosis. Furthermore, it reversed the PGE2-mediated protection from IR-induced mitotic catastrophe. Furthermore, there was an increase in nuclear localization of cyclin B1 and Cdc2 coupled with increased phosphorylation of p53, Chk1, Chk2, and Cdc25c proteins. Cell cycle analysis also demonstrated increased G2-M transition. In contrast, siRNA-mediated suppression of CUGBP2 expression restored normal cell cycle progression and decreased IR-induced apoptosis. Taken together, these data demonstrate that PGE2protects colon cancer cells from IR-induced mitotic catastrophe in part through suppression of CUGBP2 expression.
Obestatin inhibits motor activity in the antrum and duodenum in the fed state of conscious rats
Authors: Ataka Koji , Inui Akio , Asakawa Akihiro , Kato Ikuo , Fujimiya Mineko
Published: March 2008

Obestatin is a novel peptide encoded by the ghrelin precursor gene; however, its effects on gastrointestinal motility remain controversial. Here we have examined the effects of obestatin on fed and fasted motor activities in the stomach and duodenum of freely moving conscious rats. We examined the effects of intravenous (IV) injection of obestatin on the percentage motor index (%MI) and phase III-like contractions in the antrum and duodenum. The brain mechanism mediating the action of obestatin on gastroduodenal motility and the involvement of vagal afferent pathway were also examined. Between 30 and 90 min after IV injection, obestatin decreased the %MI in the antrum and prolonged the time taken to return to fasted motility in the duodenum in fed rats given 3 g of chow after 18 h of fasting. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that corticotropin-releasing factor- and urocortin-2-containing neurons in the paraventricular nucleus in the hypothalamus were activated by IV injection of obestatin. Intracerebroventricular injection of CRF type 1 and type 2 receptor antagonists prevented the effects of obestatin on gastroduodenal motility. Capsaicin treatment blocked the effects of obestatin on duodenal motility but not on antral motility. Obestatin failed to antagonize ghrelin-induced stimulation of gastroduodenal motility. These results suggest that, in the fed state, obestatin inhibits motor activity in the antrum and duodenum and that CRF type 1 and type 2 receptors in the brain might be involved in these effects of obestatin on gastroduodenal motility.
The looped heart does not save energy by maintaining the momentum of blood flowing in the ventricle
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Sugiura Seiryo , Hisada Toshiaki
Published: March 2008

Previous studies suggested that the reconstruction or maintenance of physiological blood flow paths in the heart is important to obtain a good outcome following cardiac surgery, but this concept has no established theoretical foundation. We developed a multiscale, multiphysics heart simulator, based on the finite element method, and compared the hemodynamics of ventricles with physiological and nonphysiological flow paths. We found that the physiological flow path did not have an energy-saving effect but facilitated the separation of the outflow and inflow paths, so avoiding any mixing of the blood. The work performed by the ventricular wall was comparable at slower and faster heart rates (physiological vs. nonphysiological, 0.864 vs. 0.874 J, heart rate = 60 beats/min; and 0.599 vs. 0.590 J, heart rate = 100 beats/min), indicating that chiral asymmetry of the flow paths in the mammalian heart has minimal functional merit. At lower heart rates, the blood coming in the first beat was cleared almost completely by the ninth beat in both models. However, at high heart rates, such complete clearance was observed only in the physiological model, whereas 27.0% of blood remained in the nonphysiological model. This multiscale heart simulator provided detailed information on the cardiac mechanics and flow dynamics and could be a useful tool in cardiac physiology.
Diet-induced obesity causes innate airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine and enhances ozone-induced pulmonary inflammation
Authors: Johnston Richard A. , Theman Todd A. , Lu Frank L. , Terry Raya D. , Williams Erin S. , Shore Stephanie A.
Published: March 2008

We previously reported that genetically obese mice exhibit innate airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and enhanced ozone (O3)-induced pulmonary inflammation. Such genetic deficiencies in mice are rare in humans, and they may not be representative of human obesity. Thus the purpose of this study was to determine the pulmonary phenotype of mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO), which more closely mimics the cause of human obesity. Therefore, wild-type C57BL/6 mice were reared from the time of weaning until at least 30 wk of age on diets in which either 10 or 60% of the calories are derived from fat in the form of lard. Body mass was ∼40% greater in mice fed 60 vs. 10% fat diets. Baseline airway responsiveness to intravenous methacholine, measured by forced oscillation, was greater in mice fed 60 vs. 10% fat diets. We also examined lung permeability and inflammation after exposure to room air or O3 (2 parts/million for 3 h), an asthma trigger. Four hours after the exposure ended, O3-induced increases in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid protein, interleukin-6, KC, macrophage inflammatory protein-2, interferon-γ-inducible protein-10, and eotaxin were greater in mice fed 60 vs. 10% fat diets. Innate AHR and augmented responses to O3 were not observed in mice raised from weaning until 20–22 wk of age on a 60% fat diet. These results indicate that mice with DIO exhibit innate AHR and enhanced O3-induced pulmonary inflammation, similar to genetically obese mice. However, mice with DIO must remain obese for an extended period of time before this pulmonary phenotype is observed.
Exercise and diet enhance fat oxidation and reduce insulin resistance in older obese adults
Authors: Solomon Thomas P. J. , Sistrun Sakita N. , Krishnan Raj K. , Del Aguila Luis F. , Marchetti Christine M. , O'Carroll Susan M. , O'Leary Valerie B. , Kirwan John P.
Published: March 2008

Older, obese, and sedentary individuals are at high risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Exercise training improves metabolic anomalies associated with such diseases, but the effects of caloric restriction in addition to exercise in such a high-risk group are not known. Changes in body composition and metabolism during a lifestyle intervention were investigated in 23 older, obese men and women (aged 66 ± 1 yr, body mass index 33.2 ± 1.4 kg/m2) with impaired glucose tolerance. All volunteers undertook 12 wk of aerobic exercise training [5 days/wk for 60 min at 75% maximal oxygen consumption (V̇o2max)] with either normal caloric intake (eucaloric group, 1,901 ± 277 kcal/day, n = 12) or a reduced-calorie diet (hypocaloric group, 1,307 ± 70 kcal/day, n = 11), as dictated by nutritional counseling. Body composition (decreased fat mass; maintained fat-free mass), aerobic fitness (V̇o2max), leptinemia, insulin sensitivity, and intramyocellular lipid accumulation (IMCL) in skeletal muscle improved in both groups ( P < 0.05). Improvements in body composition, leptin, and basal fat oxidation were greater in the hypocaloric group. Following the intervention, there was a correlation between the increase in basal fat oxidation and the decrease in IMCL ( r = −0.53, P = 0.04). In addition, basal fat oxidation was associated with circulating leptin after ( r = 0.65, P = 0.0007) but not before the intervention ( r = 0.05, P = 0.84). In conclusion, these data show that exercise training improves resting substrate oxidation and creates a metabolic milieu that appears to promote lipid utilization in skeletal muscle, thus facilitating a reversal of insulin resistance. We also demonstrate that leptin sensitivity is improved but that such a trend may rely on reducing caloric intake in addition to exercise training.
Inhibition of CXCR2attenuates bronchial angiogenesis in the ischemic rat lung
Authors: Sukkar Adlah , Jenkins John , Sánchez Jesús , Wagner Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2008

Under conditions of chronic pulmonary ischemia, the bronchial circulation undergoes massive proliferation. However, little is known regarding the mechanisms that promote neovascularization. An expanding body of literature implicates the glutamic acid-leucine-arginine (ELR+) CXC chemokines and their G protein-coupled receptor, CXCR2, as key proangiogenic components in the lung. We used a rat model of chronic pulmonary ischemia induced by left pulmonary artery ligation (LPAL) to study bronchial angiogenesis. Using a methacrylate mixture, we cast the systemic vasculature of the rat lung at weekly intervals after LPAL. Twenty-one days after LPAL, numerous large, tortuous bronchial arteries were observed surrounding the left main bronchus that penetrated the left lung parenchyma. In stark contrast, the right lung was essentially devoid of vessels. We quantified bronchial neovascularization using 15-μm radiolabeled microspheres to measure systemic blood flow to the left lung ( n = 12 rats). Results showed that by 21 days after LPAL, bronchial blood flow to the ischemic left lung had increased >10-fold compared with controls 2 days after LPAL ( P < 0.01). Focusing on the predominant rat CXC chemokine that signals through CXCR2, we measured increased levels of cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-3 protein expression in left lung homogenates early (4 and 24 h; n = 10 rats) after LPAL relative to paired right lung controls ( P < 0.01). Treatment with a neutralizing antibody to CXCR2resulted in a significant decrease in neovascularization 21 days after LPAL ( n = 9 rats; P < 0.01). Our results confirm the time course of bronchial angiogenesis in the rat and suggest the importance of CXC chemokines in promoting systemic neovascularization in the lung.
Reflectance Changes in Clotting Native Blood: Evidence of a Red Cell Process
Authors: Greco Frank A.
Published: March 2008

When broadband light illuminates clotting native blood, the reflectance at each wavelength traces a time course with four discernible regions. Clot formation occurs just before the second phase. Two wavelengths, 471 and 771 nm, were selected for more detailed study of the first two phases. Analysis of each time course in native blood demonstrates that both signals track a single process during the first phase, but distinct processes during the second. Experiments on citrated blood identified which blood components contribute to reflectance changes. Comparison of liquid and clotting blood reveals a single process during the first phase, entailing that rouleaux formation determines the time course at both wavelengths. Control experiments eliminate clot propagation and shape change of red cells or platelets as possible factors in the second phase. Exogenous ADP added to EDTA blood evokes the second-phase response at 471 but not 771 nm, a novel phenomenon that requires the presence of red cells. The descriptive name ‘ADP-end-response’ is suggested for this red cell process until it is further characterized. We propose that the ADP-end-response determines the 471-nm signal during the second phase of clotting native blood and depends upon platelets in the absence of exogenous ADP. The 771-nm signal reports fibrin cross-linking during the second phase. An earlier pilot study demonstrated that rofecoxib effects the 471-nm signal ex vivo, which indicates that reflectance spectroscopy may be useful in the assessment of drug effects on platelet-erythrocyte interactions.
Pathophysiology of the Pleura
Authors: Jantz Michael A. , Antony Veena B.
Published: March 2008

The pleural mesothelial cell is an essential cell in maintaining the normal homeostasis of the pleural space and it is also a central component of the pathophysiologic processes affecting the pleural space. In this review, we will review the defense mechanisms of the pleural mesothelium and changes in pleural physiology as a result of inflammatory, infectious, and malignant conditions with a focus on cytokine and chemokine networks. We will also review the processes involved in the pathogenesis of pleural fibrosis.
Changes in Food Preferences during Aging
Authors: Koehler Jacqueline , Leonhaeuser Ingrid-Ute
Published: March 2008

Due to the increasing proportion of the elderly in the European Union knowledge of health and nutritional status has to be complemented by studies focused on food preferences and health behavior. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted. The state of the art documents a gap in understanding why differences exist between food knowledge, attitudes and practices. Inadequate attention has been given to cultural factors. Research into the reasons for nutrition behavior and food choice is of key importance for the future.
Sensory Design of Foods for the Elderly
Authors: Hall Gunnar , Wendin Karin
Published: March 2008

Background/Aims:Elderly persons with dysphagia need food that requires little or no chewing, that is easy to swallow and has attractive sensory characteristics. The aim was to investigate how ingredients varied according to experimental designs influence the perceived sensory, chewing and swallowing characteristics of two types of texture-modified model foods. Methods: Meat- and carrot-based, texture-modified model foods were produced. The following parameters were varied: particle size, fat content, starch and egg composition. The samples were studied using sensory analyses, focus group discussions and consumer studies. Results: The design parameters mainly had an impact on sensory texture attributes. The experts in the focus groups selected three products of each type which were regarded as being optimal for older persons. All the products contained a high proportion of egg yolk and a low amount of starch. Older consumers considered all the selected products to be easy to chew and swallow. The differences between older persons in nursing homes compared to those living in their own homes could be linked to health. Conclusions: Optimization of factors influencing food quality through the use of experimental designs in combination with sensory and consumer studies is required in order to meet the needs and demands of older people.
Food and Drug Interaction: Consequences for the Nutrition/Health Status
Authors: Genser Dieter
Published: March 2008

Food-drug interactions are defined as alterations of pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of a drug or nutritional element or a compromise in nutritional status as a result of the addition of a drug. Elderly patients are particularly at risk because more than 30% of all the prescription drugs are taken by this population. Failure to identify and properly manage drug-nutrient interactions can lead to serious consequences. For instance, drug-nutrient interactions can result in reduced absorption of certain oral antibiotics and may lead to suboptimal antibiotic concentrations at the site of infection. This predisposes the patient to treatment failure. Induction or inhibition of enzymes in the gut by nutrients may lead to a significant change in oral bioavailability of drugs or vice versa. For example, grapefruit juice is a selective intestinal CYP3A4 inhibitor. The overall exposure of some drugs can be increased by more than fivefold when taken with grapefruit juice and increase the risk of adverse effects. The use of certain drugs may affect GI tract function and may lead to a loss of bodily electrolytes and fluid. Limiting drug prescriptions to essential medications for as short a period as possible and periodic re-evaluations of the treatment chosen are essential to minimize adverse drug-nutrient interactions.
Quality of Nutrition of Elderly with Different Degrees of Dependency: Elderly Living in Private Homes
Authors: Fritz Katharina , Elmadfa Ibrahim
Published: March 2008

Background/Aim: To be aware of the influencing factors of healthy aging, several cross-sectional surveys have been carried out among the elderly living in Austria to identify health and lifestyle factors as well as socioeconomic influences that contribute to the nutritional situation. Methods: Information about the health situation was collected by questionnaires. Diet was assessed by both qualitative food frequency questionnaires and 24-hour recalls. Additionally, nutritional status was examined in blood and urine samples using static and functional parameters. Results: The prevalence of overweight (21%, BMI >29) and obesity increased with increasing age up to 65 years; in people older than 65 years an inverse tendency could be observed; as from this age upwards a high prevalence of underweight was found (22%, BMI <24). The consumption of meat and meat products was too high compared to the recommendations. By contrast, the intake of high nutrient density foods was insufficient. On average, the fat intake was around 38% of total energy (%E); that of saturated fatty acids amounted to 20%E; the intake of carbohydrate and fiber was considered as being too low. The intake of folate, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, magnesium and vitamin C was assessed as inadequate. Conclusion: More attention has to be paid to certain micronutrients in order to optimize dietary intake and to sustain health.
Assessment of the Nutritional Situation of Elderly Nursing Home Residents in Vienna
Authors: Kulnik D. , Elmadfa I.
Published: March 2008

Background: In Austria, reliable information about the nutritional situation of institutionalized, frail elderly is lacking. Methods: MNA (Mini Nutritional Assessment) and NuRAS (Nutritional Risk Assessment Scale), tools specifically developed to evaluate the nutritional status of the elderly, were used for the assessment of the general nutritional and health status of the residents. Individual intake of energy and nutrients was measured by using the weighed food intake method during 7 consecutive weekdays. Results: According to MNA results (n = 245), 13.9% had a satisfactory nutritional status, 48.3% were assessed as ‘at risk of malnutrition’, and 37.8% as being ‘malnourished’. There is evidence that the number of assessed nutritional risk factors has an impact on the nutritional status. Further, there is a link between the assessed nutritional status and the individual nutrient intake of the residents. Conclusion: There is evidence for nutritional problems in frail, institutionalized elderly nursing home residents. The MNA seems to be a reliable tool to identify individuals at risk for malnutrition. Strategies for effective nutritional intervention should be implemented in long-term care facilities for the elderly in order to prevent and treat malnutrition and to ensure high-quality care.
Intervention with Dietary Fiber to Treat Constipation and Reduce Laxative Use in Residents of Nursing Homes
Authors: Sturtzel Bärbel , Elmadfa Ibrahim
Published: March 2008

Background: Residents of nursing homes have lost their independence. Recent studies reported that nutritional problems arise in nursing homes. These problems are correlated with changed eating habits and geriatric constipation which is predominantly treated with laxatives. These interventions are not always without risk since frequent usage of laxatives may be accompanied by several side effects. Dietary fibers also affect stool weight and transit time. Therefore, oat-bran effectiveness in reducing the need for bowel medication was examined. Aim: To develop diets with the addition of oat bran for reduction of laxatives and to improve the inhabitants’ well-being in a long-term-care facility. Methods: A controlled blind parallel intervention trial among 30 frail inhabitants of a geriatric ward aged 57–100 years with laxative use. An intervention and a control group were formed. 15 of them received oat bran for 12 weeks (fiber group) mixed up in the daily common diet of the ward and 15 served as control (control group). Laxative use, body weight and the observations concerning the eating habits of the elderly were documented. Results: A cake with the required dietary fibers and the complaisant acceptance of the seniors was developed. Laxatives were successfully discontinued by 59% (p < 0.001) in the fiber group. Body weight remained constant in the fiber group and decreased in the control group (p < 0.005). Conclusion: Fiber supplementation in the form of a cake allows discontinuation of laxatives and increases the seniors’ well-being in a nursing home.
Nutritional Situation of the Elderly in Eastern/Baltic and Central/Western Europe – The AgeingNutrition Project
Authors: Lesser Stephanie , Pauly Lioba , Volkert Dorothee , Stehle Peter
Published: March 2008

Background/Aims: In the AgeingNutrition project, funded by the European Commission, partners from 10 ‘Eastern/Baltic’ (new) European (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, and Turkey) and 5 ‘Central/Western’ (old) European countries (Austria, Belgium, Germany, Greece, and Spain) performed a comparative analysis of existing data on nutritional status, food intake, nutrient intake, dietary habits and lifestyle of the aging population in Europe. Methods: Using predefined inclusion criteria, 36 studies (22 from Eastern/Baltic, 14 from Central/Western countries) were chosen for evaluation. The studies varied in general design, data assessment and parameters and methods applied (especially regarding assessment of nutritional situation, comprising anthropometry, blood lipid profile, dietary nutrient and food intake). Thus, data evaluation by recalculation of raw data had to be restricted to a few distinct, common parameters. Results and Conclusion: Energy intake is too high in both regions, especially in some of the ‘younger old’ and seems not to be adjusted to energy expenditure. Simultaneously, energy intake was considerably lower than recommended in some very old seniors in Eastern/Baltic countries. Interestingly, quantity and quality of available information is similar in ‘new’ and ‘old’ member states. Immense variations in methodology hampered performing reliable comparative evaluation. It is, thus, mandatory to standardize methods for assessment of nutrition and health status for future international multicenter studies.
The in vitro Anti-Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 and Type-2 Activity of Long Dan Xie Gan Tan, a Prescription of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Cheng Hua-Yew , Huang Hsin-Hsin , Yang Chien-Min , Lin Liang-Tzung , Lin Chun-Ching
Published: March 2008

Background: Long Dan Xie Gan Tan (LDXGT), a decoction of radix gentianae for purging the pathogenic inflammation of the liver, is a widely used prescription among many in traditional Chinese medicine. The prescription is primarily used to treat the disorders induced by damp-heat in the liver and the gall bladder. Methods: In this study, the in vitro anti-herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) and type-2 (HSV-2) activity of the water extract of LDXGT was investigated. Results: LDXGT water extract was shown to exhibit anti-HSV activity. The IC50 values of LDXGT against HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections were 257.5 ± 12.2 and 494.6 ± 1.8 µg/ml, respectively. It had a CC50 value of 4,077.2 ± 2.4 µg/ml towards Vero cells and showed no cytotoxic effect at a concentration of 2,000 µg/ml or below. The prescription was also found to inactivate HSV-2 infectivity in a dose-, time- and temperature-dependent manner. Conclusions: In summary, the water extract of LDXGT was concluded to inhibit HSV-1 and HSV-2 infection at different magnitudes of potency, and our observations also suggested that the effect was likely mediated by directly inactivating the virus infectivity.
A Phase I Study of Docetaxel and Bexarotene
Authors: Wildi Jonathan D. , Baggstrom Maria Q. , Suresh Rama , Read William , Fracasso Paula M. , Govindan Ramaswamy
Published: March 2008

Background: We conducted a single-arm, dose-escalation, phase 1 clinical trial in order to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of bexarotene in combination with docetaxel. Methods: Patients with solid tumors and no other curative treatment options were eligible. Oral bexarotene was taken daily in combination with docetaxel 25 mg/m2 administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. The dose of bexarotene started at 200 mg/m2 and increased by 100 mg/m2/dose level, until either a MTD or the final dose of 400 mg/m2 was reached. Results:Fifteen patients were enrolled in the study. Median age was 58 years. The majority had non-small-cell lung cancer. The study went to completion without reaching an MTD. Hematological toxicities were mild. Three patients developed grade 3 hypertriglyceridemia, all occurring during the first cycle of treatment. No objective responses were noted. Four patients had stable disease as a best response, 3 with non-small-cell lung cancer and 1 with angiosarcoma. Conclusions:Treatment was well tolerated and no DLT was seen at docetaxel 25 mg/m2 and bexarotene 400 mg/m2. Given that stable disease was durable in 4 patients, future studies with this combination may be warranted.
Development of the Olfactory System in a Wallaby (Macropus eugenii)
Authors: Ashwell K.W.S. , Marotte L.R. , Cheng Gang
Published: March 2008

We used carbocyanine dye tracing techniques in conjunction with hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry for GAP-43, and tritiated thymidine autoradiography to examine the development of the olfactory pathways in early pouch young tammar wallabies (Macropus eugenii). The overarching aim was to test the hypothesis that the olfactory system of newborn tammars is sufficiently mature at birth to contribute to the guidance of the pouch young to the nipple. Although GAP-43 immunoreactive fibers emerge from the olfactory epithelium and enter the olfactory bulb at birth, all other components of the olfactory pathway in newborn tammars are very immature at birth, postnatal day (P0). In particular, maturation of the vomeronasal organ and its projections to the accessory olfactory bulb appears to be delayed until P5 and the olfactory bulb is poorly differentiated until P12, with glomerular formation delayed until P25. The lateral olfactory tract is also very immature at birth with pioneer axons having penetrated only the most rostral portion of the piriform lobe. Interestingly, there were some early (P0) projections from the olfactory epithelium to the medial septal region and lamina terminalis (by the terminal nerve) and to olfactory tubercle and basal forebrain. The former of these is presumably serving the transfer of LHRH+ neurons to the forebrain, as seen in eutherians, but neither of these very early pathways is sufficiently robust or connected to the more caudal neuraxis to play a role in nipple finding. Tritiated thymidine autoradiography confirmed that most piriform cortex pyramidal neurons are generated in the first week of life and are unlikely to be able to contribute to circuitry guiding the climb to the pouch. Our findings lead us to reject the hypothesis that olfactory projections contribute to guidance of the newborn tammar to the pouch and nipple. It appears far more likely that the trigeminal pathways play a significant role in this behavior because the central projections of the trigeminal nerve are more mature at birth in this marsupial.