Showing papers by "University of Gothenburg published in 1998"
Journal Article•
TL;DR: It is concluded that gastrointestinal stromal tumors show striking morphological and immunophenotypic similarities with ICC and that they may originate from stem cells that differentiate toward a pacemaker cell phenotype and it is proposed that the noncommittal name "gastrointestinal stromic tumor" be replaced by gastrointestinal pacemaker Cell tumor.
Abstract: The interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) form a complex cell network within the gastrointestinal tract wall where they function as a pacemaker system. Expression of the kit proto-oncogene is essential for the development of this system. The aim of our study was to examine the hypothesis that gastrointestinal stromal tumors differentiate toward cells with an ICC phenotype. Ultrastructurally, 58 stromal tumors were characterized and found to share many features with ICC. Seventy-eight stromal tumors were immunophenotyped, particularly with regard to the kit receptor. All 78 tumors revealed strong, homogeneous immunoreactivity for the kit receptor as did ICC of adjacent and control gastrointestinal walls. Focal hyperplasia and hypertrophy of kit receptor positive cells were also observed in the gastrointestinal wall adjacent to the tumors. CD34 immunoreactivity observed in interstitial cells surrounding Auerbach's ganglia suggests that a subpopulation of ICC is CD34 positive and may explain why 56 of 78 stromal tumors were CD34 positive. Thirty control tumors, including gastrointestinal leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas, were all negative for the kit receptor. We conclude that gastrointestinal stromal tumors show striking morphological and immunophenotypic similarities with ICC and that they may originate from stem cells that differentiate toward a pacemaker cell phenotype. We propose that the noncommittal name "gastrointestinal stromal tumor" be replaced by gastrointestinal pacemaker cell tumor.
1,657 citations
TL;DR: It is concluded that further clinical follow-up and retrieval studies are required in order to achieve a better understanding of the mechanisms for failure of osseointegrated implants.
Abstract: The aim of this review was to offer a critical evaluation of the literature and to provide the clinician with scientifically-based diagnostic criteria for monitoring the implant condition. The revi ...
1,334 citations
TL;DR: It appears that implant surface properties (roughness and type of coating) may influence the failure pattern and various surface properties may therefore be indicated for different anatomical and host conditions.
Abstract: The aim of the present review is to evaluate the English language literature regarding factors associated with the loss of oral implants. An evidence-based format in conjunction, when possible, with a meta-analytic approach is used. The review identifies the following factors to be associated with biological failures of oral implants: medical status of the patient, smoking, bone quality, bone grafting, irradiation therapy, parafunctions, operator experience, degree of surgical trauma, bacterial contamination, lack of preoperative antibiotics, immediate loading, nonsubmerged procedure, number of implants supporting a prosthesis, implant surface characteristics and design. Excessive surgical trauma together with an impaired healing ability, premature loading and infection are likely to be the most common causes of early implant losses. Whereas progressive chronic marginal infection (peri-implantitis) and overload in conjunction with the host characteristics are the major etiological agents causing late failures. Furthermore, it appears that implant surface properties (roughness and type of coating) may influence the failure pattern. Various surface properties may therefore be indicated for different anatomical and host conditions. Finally, the histopathology of implant losses is described and discussed in relation to the clinical findings.
1,222 citations
13 Feb 1998
TL;DR: Rothstein this paper argues that the choice of such institutions at certain formative moments in a country's history is what determines the political support for different types of social policy, and thus explains the great variation among contemporary welfare states in terms of differing moral and political logics which have been set in motion by the deliberate choices of political institutions.
Abstract: In this book Bo Rothstein seeks to defend the universal welfare state against a number of important criticisms which it has faced in recent years. He combines genuine philosophical analysis of normative issues concerning what the state ought to do with empirical political scientific research in public policy examining what the state can do. Issues discussed include the relationship between welfare state and civil society, the privatization of social services, and changing values within society. His analysis centres around the importance of political institutions as both normative and empirical entities, and Rothstein argues that the choice of such institutions at certain formative moments in a country's history is what determines the political support for different types of social policy. He thus explains the great variation among contemporary welfare states in terms of differing moral and political logics which have been set in motion by the deliberate choices of political institutions. The book is an important contribution to both philosophical and political debates about the future of the welfare state.
1,057 citations
TL;DR: It is concluded that the microflora of the obturated canal differs from that found normally in the untreated necrotic dental pulp, quantitatively as well as qualitatively, and Nonsurgical retreatment strategies should be reconsidered.
Abstract: The present study examined the microbiological status of 100 root-filled teeth with radiographically verified apical periodontitis--the pathology (P) group--and of 20 teeth without signs of periapical pathosis--the technical (T) group. In the P group 117 strains of bacteria were recovered in 68 teeth. In most of the cases examined one or two strains were found. Facultative anaerobic species predominated among these isolates (69% of identified strains). Growth was classified as 'sparse' or 'very sparse' in 53%, and as 'heavy' or 'very heavy' in 42%. Enterococci were the most frequently isolated genera, showing 'heavy' or 'very heavy' growth in 25 out of 32 cases (78%). In 11 teeth of the T group no bacteria were recovered, whilst the remaining nine yielded 13 microbial strains. Eight of these grew 'very sparsely'. It is concluded that the microflora of the obturated canal differs from that found normally in the untreated necrotic dental pulp, quantitatively as well as qualitatively. Nonsurgical retreatment strategies should be reconsidered.
1,007 citations
University of California, San Francisco1, Harvard University2, Hoffmann-La Roche3, Ohio State University4, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis5, University of Alberta6, Emory University7, University of California, Los Angeles8, Lund University9, University of Alabama at Birmingham10, University of Gothenburg11
TL;DR: Daclizumab is a genetically engineered human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the α chain of the interleukin-2 receptor and may thus reduce the risk of rejection after renal transplantation.
Abstract: Background Monoclonal antibodies that block the high-affinity interleukin-2 receptor expressed on alloantigen-reactive T lymphocytes may cause selective immunosuppression. Daclizumab is a genetically engineered human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the α chain of the interleukin-2 receptor and may thus reduce the risk of rejection after renal transplantation. Methods We administered daclizumab (1.0 mg per kilogram of body weight) or placebo intravenously before transplantation and once every other week afterward, for a total of five doses, to 260 patients receiving first cadaveric kidney grafts and immunosuppressive therapy with cyclosporine, azathioprine, and prednisone. The patients were followed at regular intervals for 12 months. The primary end point was the incidence of biopsy-confirmed acute rejection within six months after transplantation. Results Of the 126 patients given daclizumab, 28 (22 percent) had biopsy-confirmed episodes of acute rejection, as compared with 47 of the ...
845 citations
TL;DR: It is argued that gender structures, reflected in gendered ideology and gendered practice, give rise to systematic gender differences in the perception of risk, and these gender differences may be of different kinds, and their investigation requires the use of qualitative as well as quantitative methods.
Abstract: A substantial body of risk research indicates that women and men differ in their perceptions of risk. This paper discusses how they differ and why. A review of a number of existing empirical studies of risk perception points at several problems, regarding what gender differences are found in such studies, and how these differences are accounted for. Firstly, quantitative approaches, which have so far dominated risk research, and qualitative approaches give different, sometimes even contradictory images of women's and men's perceptions of risk. Secondly, the gender differences that appear are often left unexplained, and even when explanations are suggested, these are seldom related to gender research and gender theory in any systematic way. This paper argues that a coherent, theoretically informed gender perspective on risk is needed to improve the understanding of women's and men's risk perceptions. An analysis of social theories of gender points out some relations and distinctions which should be considered in such a perspective. It is argued that gender structures, reflected in gendered ideology and gendered practice, give rise to systematic gender differences in the perception of risk. These gender differences may be of different kinds, and their investigation requires the use of qualitative as well as quantitative methods. In conclusion, the arguments about gender and risk perception are brought together in a theoretical model which might serve as a starting point for further research.
693 citations
TL;DR: It is shown that malignant granular cell tumor is a high-grade sarcoma with a high rate of metastases and a short survival.
Abstract: Seventy-three cases of malignant, atypical, and multicentric granular cell tumors of soft tissue were studied to clarify criteria for malignancy and prognostic factors Six histologic criteria were assessed: necrosis, spindling, vesicular nuclei with large nucleoli, increased mitotic activity (> 2 mitoses/10 high-power fields at 200x magnification), high nuclear to cytoplasmic (N:C) ratio, and pleomorphism Neoplasms that met three or more of these criteria were classified as histologically malignant; those that met one or two criteria were classified as atypical; and those that displayed only focal pleomorphism but fulfilled none of the other criteria were classified as benign Hence, 46 cases were classified as histologically malignant, 21 as atypical (3 were multicentric), and 6 as benign (all were multicentric) The patients with benign multicentric and atypical granular cell tumors had no metastases and there were no tumor deaths In contrast, 11 of 28 patients (39%) with malignant granular cell tumor with follow-up information died of disease at a median interval of 3 years; 8 of 28 (29%) were alive with disease, and 9/28 (32%) were disease free (median intervals, 2 and 7 years, respectively) There were local recurrences in 9 of 28 malignant cases (32%) and metastases in 14 of 28 (50%) (median intervals, each 2 years) Forty-eight cases were studied immunohistochemically; 100% expressed vimentin, 98% S-100 protein, 98% neuron-specific enolase, 69% CD57, and 65% CD68 Alpha-smooth muscle actin, desmin, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), cytokeratins (with CAM 52 and KL-1), chromogranin, and HMB45 were not detected The proliferative index with Ki67 (MIB 1) was 10-50% in 14 of 25 malignant tumors (56%), and immunostaining for p53 was detected in 50% or more of tumor cells in 17 of 25 (68%); both of these factors were statistically significant with regard to the histologic classification as benign, atypical, or malignant Ultrastructural examination of 13 benign, atypical, and malignant granular cell tumors showed engorgement of the cytoplasm with complex granules and lysosomes, as well as Schwannian features By flow cytometric DNA analysis, two of six malignant tumors were aneuploid, two were hyperdiploid, and two were diploid One atypical tumor was aneuploid and all 11 benign tumors were either diploid (9 cases) or hyperdiploid (2 cases) Statistically significant adverse prognostic factors with regard to survival included local recurrence, metastasis, larger tumor size, older patient age, histologic classification as malignant, presence of necrosis, increased mitotic activity, spindling of tumor cells, vesicular nuclei with large nucleoli, and Ki67 values greater [corrected] than 10% This study defines clinical and morphologic criteria for malignancy in granular cell tumors and shows that malignant granular cell tumor is a high-grade sarcoma with a high rate of metastases and a short survival
657 citations
Yeshiva University1, University of Michigan2, Harvard University3, Alzheimer's Association4, GlaxoSmithKline5, Cornell University6, Medical Research Council7, French Institute of Health and Medical Research8, University of British Columbia9, University of Gothenburg10, Howard University11, VU University Amsterdam12, University of Eastern Finland13, Trinity College, Dublin14, Karolinska Institutet15, University of Pennsylvania16, University of Tokyo17, Tohoku University18, University of California, San Diego19, University of Basel20, University of Toronto21, University of Pittsburgh22, National Institutes of Health23, Columbia University24, University of Santiago de Compostela25
TL;DR: Cerebrospinal fluid assays showing low levels of Aβ 42 and high levels of tau come closest to fulfilling criteria for a useful biomarker, and apolipoprotein E e4 allele can add confidence to the clinical diagnosis.
593 citations
University of California, San Francisco1, Washington University in St. Louis2, Mayo Clinic3, Maastricht University4, University of Washington5, University of Michigan6, Johns Hopkins University7, Emory University8, University of Gothenburg9, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health10, University of California, Berkeley11, Harvard University12, University of Massachusetts Medical School13
TL;DR: Criteria for the classification of carpal tunnel syndrome for use in epidemiologic studies were developed by means of a consensus process and reached agreement on several conceptual issues.
Abstract: Criteria for the classification of carpal tunnel syndrome for use in epidemiologic studies were developed by means of a consensus process. Twelve medical researchers with experience in conducting epidemiologic studies of carpal tunnel syndrome participated in the process. The group reached agreement on several conceptual issues. First, there is no perfect gold standard for carpal tunnel syndrome. The combination of electrodiagnostic study findings and symptom characteristics will provide the most accurate information for classification of carpal tunnel syndrome. Second, use of only electrodiagnostic study findings is not recommended. Finally, in the absence of electrodiagnostic studies, specific combinations of symptom characteristics and physical examination findings may be useful in some settings but are likely to result in greater misclassification of disease status.
514 citations
TL;DR: The results suggest that Lact.
Abstract: The Lactobacillus flora of the rectal and oral mucosa was sampled from 42 healthy volunteers. Species identification was carried out by numerically comparing API 50CH fermentation patterns with type strains, using an SJ-similarity cut-off level of 79%. For the largest groups, identity was further confirmed by DNA-DNA hybridizations against the type strain of the species. Seventeen lactobacilli clusters were defined, of which most were found both on rectal and oral mucosa. The largest taxa were Lactobacillus plantarum, Lact. rhamnosus and Lact. paracasei ssp. paracasei, which were isolated from 52%, 26% and 17% of the individuals, respectively. Most isolates were tested for their capacity to adhere to the human colonic cell line HT-29 in the absence and presence of methyl-alpha-D-mannoside. Mannose-sensitive adherence to HT-29 cells was encountered in two-thirds of the Lact. plantarum isolates, but infrequently among isolates of other taxa. The results suggest that Lact. plantarum is a major colonizer of the human gastrointestinal mucosa, and that its capacity to adhere to mannose-containing receptors may be of some ecological importance.
TL;DR: The L45 loop regions in type I receptors are identified as critical determinants in specifying Smad isoform activation in transcriptional responses.
TL;DR: The findings from the analysis demonstrated that the material used in the abutment portion of the implant influenced the location and the quality of the attachment that occurred between the periimplant mucosa and the implant.
Abstract: . The present experiment was performed to examine if the material used in the abutment part of an implant system influenced the quality of the mucosal barrier that formed following implant installation. 5 beagle dogs were included in the study. The mandibular premolars and the 1st. 2nd and 3rd maxillary premolars were extracted. Three fixtures of the Branemark System® were installed in each mandibular quadrant (a total of 6 fixtures per animal). Abutment connection was performed after 3 months of healing. In each dog the following types of abutments were used: 2 “control abutments” (c.p. titanium). 2 “ceramic abutments” (highly sintered Al2O3), 1 “gold abutment”, and 1 “short titanium abutment”. This “short titanium abutment” was provided with an outer structure made of dental porcelain fused to gold. Following abutment connection a plaque control program was initiated and maintained for 6 months. The animals were sacrificed and perfused with a fixative. The mandibles were removed and each implant region was dissected, demineralized in EDTA and embedded in EPON®. Semithin sections representing the mesial, distal, buccal and lingual aspects of the peri-implant tissues were produced and subjected to histological examination. The findings from the analysis demonstrated that the material used in the abutment portion of the implant influenced the location and the quality of the attachment that occurred between the periimplant mucosa and the implant. Abutments made of c.p. titanium or ceramic allowed the formation of a mucosal attachment which included one epithelial and one connective tissue portion that were about 2 mm and 1–1.5 mm high, respectively. At sites where abutments made of gold alloy or dental porcelain were used, no proper attachment formed at the abutment level, but the soft tissue margin receded and bone resorption occurred. The abutment fixture junction was hereby occasionally exposed and the mucosal barrier became established to the fixture portion of the implant. It was suggested that the observed differences were the result of varying adhesive properties of the materials studied or by variations in their resistance to corrosion.
TL;DR: A model in which mesangial cells originate from PDGF-Rbeta-positive progenitors surrounding the developing glomerular afferent and efferent arterioles, and are co-recruited in response toPDGF-B during angiogenic formation of theglomerular capillary tuft is proposed.
Abstract: Kidney glomerulus mesangial cells fail to develop in mice carrying targeted null mutations in the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B or PDGF-Rbeta genes. We have examined the pattern of expression of these genes and smooth muscle markers during kidney development, to address the possible mechanisms underlying the mutant phenotypes. In wild-type embryos, PDGF-B was expressed in vascular endothelial cells, particularly in capillary endothelial cells in the developing glomeruli, whereas PDGF-Rbeta was found in perivascular mesenchymal cells in the developing renal cortex. In the course of glomerular development, small groups of PDGF-Rbeta and desmin-expressing cells collected in the 'S'-shaped and early cup-shaped vesicles, and at later stages such cells were found in the glomerular mesangium. In PDGF-B or -Rbeta null embryos, some PDGF-Rbeta/desmin or desmin-positive cells, respectively, were seen in early cup-shaped vesicles, but fewer than in the wild type, and further development of the mesangium failed. In mouse chimeras composed of PDGF-Rbeta +/+ and -/- cells, the Rbeta-/- cells failed to populate the glomerular mesangium. Our results show that while the mesangial cell lineage is specified independently of PDGF-B/Rbeta, these molecules provide critical permissive signals in mesangial cell development. We propose a model in which mesangial cells originate from PDGF-Rbeta-positive progenitors surrounding the developing glomerular afferent and efferent arterioles, and are co-recruited in response to PDGF-B during angiogenic formation of the glomerular capillary tuft.
TL;DR: It is generally believed that success in male-male competition genuinely reflects high quality and that female preference for dominant males should therefore be widespread, but recent studies suggest that male dominance is not always attractive and that it does not necessarily predict superior parental quality, better genes or other forms of benefit to females.
Abstract: It is generally believed that success in male-male competition genuinely reflects high quality and that female preference for dominant males should therefore be widespread. However, recent studies ...
TL;DR: These findings demonstrate that, although mutations of FKHL7 result in anterior-segment defects and glaucoma in some patients, it is probable that at least one more locus involved in the regulation of eye development is also located at 6p25.
Abstract: Genetic linkage, genome mismatch scanning, and analysis of patients with alterations of chromosome 6 have indicated that a major locus for development of the anterior segment of the eye, IRID1, is located at 6p25. Abnormalities of this locus lead to glaucoma. FKHL7 (also called "FREAC3"), a member of the forkhead/winged-helix transcription-factor family, has also been mapped to 6p25. DNA sequencing of FKHL7 in five IRID1 families and 16 sporadic patients with anterior-segment defects revealed three mutations: a 10-bp deletion predicted to cause a frameshift and premature protein truncation prior to the FKHL7 forkhead DNA-binding domain, as well as two missense mutations of conserved amino acids within the FKHL7 forkhead domain. Mf1, the murine homologue of FKHL7, is expressed in the developing brain, skeletal system, and eye, consistent with FKHL7 having a role in ocular development. However, mutational screening and genetic-linkage analyses excluded FKHL7 from underlying the anterior-segment disorders in two IRID1 families with linkage to 6p25. Our findings demonstrate that, although mutations of FKHL7 result in anterior-segment defects and glaucoma in some patients, it is probable that at least one more locus involved in the regulation of eye development is also located at 6p25.
TL;DR: The results indicate that the antral cytokine response is of the Th1 type since IFN-γ, but not IL-4, was up-regulated both in H. pylori-infected DU patients and in AS carriers, and it is shown that the gastric epithelium contributes substantially to the antrals cytokineresponse of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6 in addition to IL-8.
Abstract: The host immune response to Helicobacter pylori infection might be of importance with regard to the outcome of infection by this organism, e.g., to explain why only a proportion of infected subjects develop peptic ulcers. In this study we have analyzed the local response of different cytokines-i.e., the proinflammatory interleukin-1beta, (IL-1beta), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and IL-8; the immunoregulatory gamma interferon (IFN-gamma); and IL-4; and the anti-inflammatory transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta)-in antral biopsy specimens from H. pylori-infected duodenal ulcer (DU) patients and asymptomatic (AS) carriers (i.e., with chronic gastritis only). For comparison, biopsy specimens from uninfected healthy individuals were also analyzed. An immunohistochemical technique was used to allow quantification of the cytokine responses as well as identification of the cell types associated with the cytokine expression. We found that the levels of all of the studied cytokines except IL-4 were increased in the H. pylori-infected subjects compared to the levels in the healthy individuals. Our results indicate that the antral cytokine response is of the Th1 type since IFN-gamma, but not IL-4, was up-regulated both in H. pylori-infected DU patients and in AS carriers. However, there were no significant differences in either proinflammatory or immunoregulatory cytokine levels when H. pylori-infected subjects with and without peptic ulcers were compared. Some of the cytokines, particularly IL-1beta and TGF-beta, were also found in the gastric mucosae of healthy, uninfected subjects. We also showed that the gastric epithelium contributes substantially to the antral cytokine response of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1beta and IL-6 in addition to IL-8.
TL;DR: In vitro data suggest that part of the atherogenicity of LDL may depend on its tendency to form complexes with arterial PGs in vivo, and ex vivo results support this hypothesis.
TL;DR: Breastfeeding may, in addition to the well-known passive protection against infections during lactation, have a unique capacity to stimulate the immune system of the offspring possibly with several long-term positive effects.
Abstract: Objectives The reader of this review will learn about the mechanisms through which breastfeeding protects against infections during and most likely after lactation, as well as possibly against certain immunologic diseases, including allergy. Data sources I have followed the literature in the area closely for the last 30 to 40 years and have made repeated literature searches through MEDLINE, most recently in 1998. Textbooks and peer-reviewed journals have been sought for, as well as books representing meeting reports in English, French, German, and Spanish. Results Human milk protects against infections in the breastfed offspring mainly via the secretory IgA antibodies, but also most likely via several other factors like the bactericidal lactoferrin. It is striking that the defense factors of human milk function without causing inflammation, some components are even directly antiinflammatory. Protection against infections has been well evidenced during lactation against, eg, acute and prolonged diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, otitis media, urinary tract infection, neonatal septicemia, and necrotizing enterocolitis. There is also interesting evidence for an enhanced protection remaining for years after lactation against diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, otitis media, Haemophilus influenzae type b infections, and wheezing illness. In several instances the protection seems to improve with the duration of breastfeeding. Some, but not all studies have shown better vaccine responses among breastfed than non-breastfed infants. A few factors in milk like anti-antibodies (anti-idiotypic antibodies) and T and B lymphocytes have in some experimental models been able to transfer priming of the breastfed offspring. This together with transfer of numerous cytokines and growth factors via milk may add to an active stimulation of the infant's immune system. Consequently, the infant might respond better to both infections and vaccines. Such an enhanced function could also explain why breastfeeding may protect against immunologic diseases like celiac disease and possibly allergy. Suggestions of protection against autoimune diseases and tumors have also been published, but need confirmation. Conclusions Breastfeeding may, in addition to the well-known passive protection against infections during lactation, have a unique capacity to stimulate the immune system of the offspring possibly with several long-term positive effects
TL;DR: Most bone in close contact to implant surface was found for a surface blasted with 75 microns sized particles, numerically characterized with an average height deviation and developed surface area ratio of 1.5.
Abstract: Four different surface modifications were designed. Forty screw-shaped implants were divided into 4 groups, 10 screws in each. Every screw was prepared with 2 different surface topographies. The surface topography was measured with a confocal laser scanning profilometer and the surface roughness was characterized using 1 height, 1 spatial and 1 hybrid descriptive parameter. After 12 weeks in rabbit bone all screws were histomorphometrically evaluated. Blasted surfaces demonstrated more bone in contact to implant surface compared with turned surfaces. Most bone in close contact to implant surface was found for a surface blasted with 75 microns sized particles, numerically characterized with an average height deviation (Sa) of 1.4 microns, an average wavelength (Scx) of 11.6 microns and a developed surface area ratio (Sdr) of 1.5.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: There is a need for further research to increase the success rates in the severely resorbed maxilla, and evidence for high long-term failure rates of press-fit cylinders was found.
Abstract: PURPOSE This article reviews the current knowledge about the influence of surgical factors on implant failure in routine cases and in those where implants have been used in conjunction with bone augmentation procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical reports published in major scientific journals served as the basis for this review. RESULTS With few exceptions, most clinical reports were on screw-shaped titanium implants. High failure rates are associated with poor bone quality and the use of short implants in the athrophic maxilla, irradiation, and bone-grafting procedures of the athrophic maxilla. Evidence for high long-term failure rates of press-fit cylinders was found. Moreover, limited clinical experience, lack of preoperative antibiotics, and smoking may lead to higher failure rates. CONCLUSION There is a need for further research to increase the success rates in the severely resorbed maxilla. Because of a lack of proper documentation with respect to the great majority of currently used oral implant designs, the influence of different factors and their long-term results remain unknown.
TL;DR: It was concluded that smoking is a significant risk indicator for tooth loss, probing attachment loss and dental caries.
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to examine the dental status and smoking habits in randomized samples of 35-, 50-, 65-, and 75-year-old subjects (n = 1093), recruited for a cross-sectional epidemiological study in the County of Varmland, Sweden. The following clinical variables were recorded by 4 well-calibrated dentists: number of edentuolous subjects, number of missing teeth, probing attachment level, furcation involvement, CPITN scores, DMF surfaces, plaque and stimulated salivary secretion rate (SSSR). In addition, the subjects reported in a questionnaire their tobacco habits, oral hygiene habits, dietary habits etc. The percentage of smokers in 35-, 50-, 65-, and 75-year-olds was 35%, 35%, 24% and 12%, respectively. In 75-year-olds, 41% of the smokers were edentulous compared to 35% of non-smokers. The difference in number of missing teeth between smokers and non-smokers was 0.6 (p=0.15), 1.5 (p=0.013), 3.5 (p=0.0007) and 5.8 (p=0.005) in the 4 age groups. Smokers had the largest mean probing attachment loss in all age groups. The differences between smokers and non-smokers in mean attachment level were 0.37 (p=0.001), 0.88 (p=0.001), 0.85 (p=0.001) and 1.33 mm (p=0.002) in the 35-, 50-, 65-, and 75-year-olds, respectively. Treatment need assessed by CPITN was in all age groups greatest among smokers. The number of intact tooth surfaces was fewer in 35-, 50-, and 75-year-old smokers than in non-smokers. The number of missing surfaces (MS) was higher in 50-, 65-, and 75-year-old smokers than in non-smokers. In addition, 35-year-old smokers exhibited a significantly larger number of decayed and filled tooth surfaces (DFS) than non-smokers. Male smokers had significantly higher SSSR than non-smoking males (p=0.012). Plaque index and oral hygiene were similar in smokers and non-smokers. Smokers reported a more frequent intake of sugar containing soft drinks (p=0.000) and snacks (p=0.003) than non-smokers. The opposite was reported for consumption of fruit (p=0.003). It was concluded that smoking is a significant risk indicator for tooth loss, probing attachment loss and dental caries.
TL;DR: The theoretical analysis of conceptualizations and corresponding theoretical frameworks were combined with empirical data gathered from the field, from semi-structured interviews with eight registered nurses, to promote theoretical clarity and examine implications for nursing practice.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to highlight the concept of professional identity of the nurse in order to promote theoretical clarity and examine implications for nursing practice. A modification of the hybrid model for concept development was followed. Accordingly, the theoretical analysis of conceptualizations and corresponding theoretical frameworks were combined with empirical data gathered from the field, from semi-structured interviews with eight registered nurses. The sampling was strategic and continuous. Personal and interpersonal dimensions and socio-historical aspects of the concept were found in the literature review as well as in the interview data. Attributes, antecedents and consequences of professional identity of the nurse in relation to the identified dimensions were stated. The analysis ends with a comprehensive description of the concept. Further, the relations to the concepts of self-esteem, self-image, professionalism and professional self-image, as well as professional function and roles of the nurse, are outlined. Finally, the importance of the developed concept is discussed, and suggestions for further research are presented.
TL;DR: The absence of porcine cells in the circulation of both patients, even in the samples taken soon after the perfusion experiment, suggests that any porcines dislodged from the kidney became rapidly sequestered from the circulation, which may increase the risk of transmission of PERV to the xenograft recipient.
TL;DR: It is clear that ellipsometry and related methods such as reflectometry and surface plasmon resonance (Biacore) are now being increasingly used in biomaterial research as well as in other areas of research.
TL;DR: In this paper, Orthogonal signal correction (OSC) is applied to NIR-spectra that were used in a calibration for the water content in a pharmaceutical product, and the performance of OSC was on the same level as for piecewise direct standardisation and spectral offset correction for each individual instrument and PLS-models with both instruments included.
TL;DR: This is the first neonatal study to show a long-term histopathologic protection of the brain after posthypoxic hypothermia.
Abstract: We have previously shown that mild hypothermia applied after hypoxia-ischemia in newborn piglets and rats reduces brain injury evaluated 3-7 d after the insult. The aim of the present study was to assess the neuroprotective efficacy of hypothermia with respect to short- (neuropathology) and long-term (neuropathology and sensorimotor function) outcome after hypoxia-ischemia in 7-d-old rats. One hundred fourteen animals from 13 litters survived either 1 or 6 wk after a hypoxic-ischemic insult. The animals were randomized to either 1) normothermic recovery for the whole 1- or 6-wk period or 2) cooling to a rectal temperature of 32.0 degrees C for the first 6 h followed by normothermic recovery with the dam. Hypothermia offered a uniform protection of 27, 35, 28, and 25% in cerebral cortex, hippocampus, basal ganglia, and thalamus, respectively, in the 1-wk survivors (n = 32). The corresponding values for the 6-wk survivors (n = 61) were 22, 28, 37, and 35%. There was a significant correlation between sensorimotor performance and infarct volume (r = 0.66; p < 0.001). However, the sensorimotor function was not significantly improved by hypothermia if all animals were included, but in female pups the total functional score was higher in the hypothermia group (150 +/- 35 versus 100 +/- 34, p < 0.0007) which corresponded to a marked (51%) reduction of the neuropathology score in this subgroup. This is the first neonatal study to show a long-term histopathologic protection of the brain after posthypoxic hypothermia.
TL;DR: It is concluded that NIDDM, treated hypertension, obesity, low HDL-cholesterol levels and high insulin levels constitute risk factors for the development of BPH and that BPH patients may share the same metabolic abnormalities of a defective insulin-mediated glucose uptake and secondary hyperinsulinemia as patients with the metabolic syndrome.
Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to perform a BPH risk factor analysis in men, relating the prostate gland volume to components of the metabolic syndrome and to identify clues to the etiology of BPH. Our material comprised a consecutive series of 158 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms with or without manifestations of the metabolic syndrome. In this group, the measured volume of the prostate was related consecutively to potential risk factors. The diagnoses atherosclerosis, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and treated hypertension were obtained from the patient's medical history. Data on blood pressure, waist and hip measure, body height and weight were collected and body mass index (BMI) and waist/hip ratio (WHR) were calculated. Blood samples were drawn from fasting patients to determine insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL-cholesterol, uric acid and ALAT. The prostate gland volume was determined using ultrasound. Our results show that there was a larger prostate gland in men with NIDDM (P=0.0058), treated hypertension (P=0.0317), obesity (P<0.0001), low HDL-cholesterol levels (P=0.0132) and high insulin levels (P<0.0001) than in men without these conditions. The prostate gland volume correlated positively with the systolic blood pressure (rs=0.17; P=0.03), obesity (rs=0.34; P<0.0001) and fasting insulin (rs=0.38; P<0.0001) and negatively with HDL-cholesterol (rs=−0.22; P=0.009). On the basis of our findings, we concluded that NIDDM, treated hypertension, obesity, low HDL-cholesterol levels and high insulin levels constitute risk factors for the development of BPH. The results suggest that BPH is a facet of the metabolic syndrome and that BPH patients may share the same metabolic abnormality of a defective insulin-mediated glucose uptake and secondary hyperinsulinemia as patients with the metabolic syndrome. The findings generate a hypothesis of a causal relationship between high insulin levels and the development of BPH. In a clinical setting, the findings of the present report suggest that, in any patient presenting with BPH, the possible presence of NIDDM, hypertension, obesity, high insulin and low HDL-cholesterol levels should be considered. Conversely, in patients suffering from these conditions, the possibility of a clinically important BPH should be kept in mind.
TL;DR: No evidence was found for solutes other than glycerol and trehalose being significant for the survival of or growth by S. cerevisiae under osmotic stress conditions, and data indicate thattrehalose does not act as a reserve compound for Glycerol synthesis under these conditions.
Abstract: Trehalose is an enigmatic compound that accumulates in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and has been implicated in survival under various stress conditions by acting as membrane protectant, as a supplementary compatible solute or as a reserve carbohydrate that may be mobilized during stress. In this study, specific mutants in trehalose metabolism were used to evaluate whether trehalose contributes to survival under severe osmotic stress and generates the compatible solute glycerol under moderate osmotic stress. The survival under severe osmotic stress (0.866 aw' NaCl or sorbitol) of mutants was compared to that of the wild-type strain when cultivated to either the mid-exponential or the stationary growth phase on glucose, galactose or ethanol. Stationary-phase cells survived better than exponential-phase cells. The death rates of ethanol-grown cells were lower than those of galactose-grown cells, which in turn survived better than glucose-grown cells. There was a strong relationship between intracellular trehalose levels and resistance to osmotic stress. The mutant strains unable to produce trehalose (tps1 delta tps2 delta and tps1 delta hxk2 delta) were more sensitive to severe osmotic stress (0.866 aw) than the isogenic wild-type strain, confirming a role for trehalose in survival. Hyperaccumulation of trehalose found in the nth1 delta and the nth1 delta gpd1 delta mutant strains, however, did not improve survival rates compared to the wild-type strain. When wild-type, nth1 delta and nth1 delta gpd1 delta cells were exposed to moderate osmotic stress (0.98 and 0.97 aw' NaCl), which permits growth, glycerol production did not appear to be related to the intracellular trehalose levels although glycerol levels increased more rapidly in nth1 delta cells than in wild-type cells during the initial response to osmotic stress. These data indicate that trehalose does not act as a reserve compound for glycerol synthesis under these conditions. No evidence was found for solutes other than glycerol and trehalose being significant for the survival of or growth by S. cerevisiae under osmotic stress conditions.
TL;DR: The prevalence of atopy is steadily rising in modern, highly industrialized countries, and the rising allergy frequency in the West seems to have started with people born in the 1960s.
Abstract: The prevalence of atopy is steadily rising in modern, highly industrialized countries (1). This is true of hay fever (2-5), asthma (6-4, and eczema (3, 4, 9). The incidence is much higher in Western Europe and Australia than in the former Eastern Europe and the developing countries. For example, the incidence of positive skin prick tests in children 4-14 years of age was 9% in Guinea-Bissau, as compared with 29% in 9-10-year-old children in Australia (10). In the former West Germany, 37% are atopically sensitized, as compared with 18% in the former East Germany (11). A much higher incidence of atopy is also seen in Sweden than in Poland (12). The rising allergy frequency in the West seems to have started with people born in the 1960s (13). In 1983, Gregg concluded that the “Western lifestyle” evolved among well-situated people was responsible for the rise in allergies after the 1960s (14).