Cervical Mobility in Women With Migraine

Objective.-To contrast the cervical range of motion (CROM) in women with episodic migraine (EM), transformed migraine (TM), and controls without migraine headaches. Background.-Migraineurs often complain about neck pain. Furthermore, neck problems can worsen the headaches in individuals with migraine. Individuals with neck pain usually have reduced CROM. Nonetheless, studies assessing the CROM in migraineurs are scarce. Methods.-Our sample was selected in an outpatient headache clinic, and consisted of 45 women aged 20-54 years old, 15 per group. Cervical mobility was evaluated in movements of flexion, extension, right lateral flexion, left lateral flexion, right rotation, and left rotation using the CROM technique, and was contrasted among the groups. Migraine clinical patterns were also evaluated ( frequency, duration of migraine, pain in the moment of evaluation, pain in movement, and pain localization) as a function of CROM. Results.-Compared with controls, individuals with TM had numerically inferior CROM in all parameters, and significant reduction in 3 of them: extension (59.3 vs 68.1, P = .02), left lateral flexion (44.5 vs 49.1, P = .03), and right rotation (62.2 vs 69.6, P = .02). Compared with individuals with migraine, the TM group presented significantly reduced mobility only for extension ( 59.3 vs 68.4, P = .02). Migraineurs also had numerically inferior ROM, contrasted to controls, in 5 of the 6 parameters, although significance was seen just for right rotation (60.8 vs 68.6 P < .01). There was no correlation between cervical mobility and migraine parameters. The CROM was not reduced for the symptomatic side of migraine, in cases of unilateral pain. Conclusion.-Contrasted to controls, individuals with episodic and TM have decreased cervical range of motion.

Effects of creatine supplementation on homocysteine levels and lipid peroxidation in rats

Hyperhomocysteinaemia is an independent risk factor for CVD. Recent data show a relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) and free radical formation. Since creatine synthesis is responsible for most of the methyl group transfers that result in Hcy formation, creatine supplementation might inhibit Hcy production and reduce free radical formation. The present study investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on Hcy levels and lipid peroxidation biomarkers. Thirty rats were divided into three groups: control group; diet with creatine group (DCr; 2% creatine in the diet for 28 d); creatine overload plus diet with creatine group (CrO + D; 5 g creatine/kg by oral administration for 5 d + 2 % in the diet for 23 d). Plasma Hcy was significantly lower (P<0.05) in DCr (7.5 (SD 1.2) mu mol/l) and CrO + D (7.2 (SD 1.7) mu mol/l) groups compared with the control group (12.4 (SD 2.2) mu mol/l). Both plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) (control, 10 (SD 3.4); DCr, 4.9 (So 0.7); CrO + D, 2.4 (SD 1) mu mol/l) and plasma total glutathione (control, 4.3 (SD 1.9); DCr, 2.5 (SD 0.8); CrO + D, 1.8 (SD 0.5) mu mol/l) were lower in the groups that received creatine (P<0.05). In addition, Hcy showed significant negative correlation (P<0.05) with plasma creatine (r - 0.61) and positive correlation with plasma TBARS (r 0.74). Plasma creatine was negatively correlated with plasma TBARS (r - 0.75) and total peroxide (r - 0.40). We conclude that creatine supplementation reduces plasma Hcy levels and lipid peroxidation biomarkers, suggesting a protective role against oxidative damage. Modulating Hcy fort-nation may, however, influence glutathione synthesis and thereby affect the redox state of the cells.

Gene Expression Profiles Stratified according to Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Susceptibility Regions

The MHC region (6p21) aggregates the major genes that contribute to susceptibility to type 1 diabetes (T1D). Three additional relevant susceptibility regions mapped on chromosomes 1p13 (PTPN22), 2q33 (CTLA-4), and 11p15 (insulin) have also been described by linkage studies. To evaluate the contribution of these susceptibility regions and the chromosomes that house these regions, we performed a large-scale differential gene expression on lymphomononuclear cells of recently diagnosed T1D patients, pinpointing relevant modulated genes clustered in these regions and their respective chromosomes. A total of 4608 cDNAs from the IMAGE library were spotted onto glass slides using robotic technology. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SAM program, and data regarding gene location and biological function were obtained at the SOURCE, NCBI, and FATIGO programs. Three induced genes were observed spanning around the MHC region (6p21-6p23), and seven modulated genes (5 repressed and 2 repressed) were seen spanning around the 6q21-24 region. Additional modulated genes were observed in and around the 1p13, 2q33, and 11p15 regions. Overall, modulated genes in these regions were primarily associated with cellular metabolism, transcription factors and signaling transduction. The differential gene expression characterization may identify new genes potentially involved with diabetes pathogenesis.

Stapled haemorrhoidopexy transiently decreases rectal compliance and sensitivity

Aim Stapled haemorrhoidopexy may damage the anorectal musculature and its sensorimotor function. Most studies have not used a barostat for the measurement of compliance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of stapled haemorrhoidopexy on rectal compliance and sensitivity. Method After Ethical Committee approval, we studied 10 male patients (mean age 33.8 years) with third- or fourth-degree haemorrhoids. Rectal compliance and sensitivity were measured with a 600-ml bag and an electronic barostat. Volunteers were submitted to two consecutive rectal distension protocols, including continuous distension at 2, 4 and 6 months after stapled haemorrhoidopexy. Intraluminal volume and pressure were recorded, including the first rectal sensation, desire to defecate and onset of rectal pain. Another group of 10 male control patients (mean age 24.9 years) with pilonidal sinus and no haemorrhoids was also included in the study. Results Two months after stapled haemorrhoidopexy, rectal compliance decreased (7.1 +/- 0.2 vs 5.3 +/- 0.1, 6.4 +/- 0.1 vs 5.1 +/- 0.1 and 5.6 +/- 0.2 vs 4.7 +/- 0.1 ml/mmHg for first rectal sensation, desire to defecate and rectal pain, respectively; P < 0.05). The sensitivity threshold volume did not change for the first sensation but decreased significantly for the desier to defecate and pain (p < 0.05) (116.8 +/- 13.8 vs 148.4 +/- 14.61, 251.1 +/- 8.9 vs 185.8 +/- 8.6 and 293.3 +/- 16.6 vs 221.2 +/- 6.0 ml for first rectal sensation, desire to defecate and rectal pain, respectively). Four and 6 months after surgery, rectal compliance and sensitivity returned to levels similar to those in the basal period. Muscle tissue was found in only three of the 10 resected doughnuts. Controls remained without any change in rectal compliance and sensitivity. Conclusion Stapled haemorrhoidopexy transiently decreases rectal compliance and sensitivity threshold in young male patients.

5-HT(1A/1B), 5-HT(6), and 5-HT(7) serotonergic receptors recruitment in tonic-clonic seizure-induced antinociception: Role of dorsal raphe nucleus

Pharmacological studies have been focused on the involvement of different neural pathways in the organization of antinociception that follows tonic-clonic seizures, including 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-, norepinephrine-, acetylcholine- and endogenous opioid peptide-mediated mechanisms, giving rise to more in-depth comprehension of this interesting post-ictal antinociceptive phenomenon. The present work investigated the involvement of 5-HT(1A/1B), 5-HT(6), and 5-HT(7) serotonergic receptors through peripheral pretreatment with methiothepin at doses of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 mg/kg in the organization of the post-ictal antinociception elicited by pharmacologically (with pentylenetetrazole at 64 mg/kg)-induced tonic-clonic seizures. Methiothepin at 1.0 mg/kg blocked the post-ictal antinociception recorded after the end of seizures, whereas doses of 2.0 and 3.0 mg/kg potentiated the post-ictal antinociception. The nociceptive thresholds were kept higher than those of the control group. However, when the same 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors antagonist was microinjected (at 1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 mu g/0.2 mu L) in the dorsal raphe nucleus, a mesencephalic structure rich in serotonergic neurons and 5-HT receptors, the post-ictal hypo-analgesia was consistently antagonized. The present findings suggest a dual effect of methiothepin, characterized by a disinhibitory effect on the post-ictal antinociception when peripherally administered (possibly due to an antagonism of pre-synaptic 5-HT(1A) serotonergic autoreceptors in the pain endogenous inhibitory system) and an inhibitory effect (possibly due to a DRN post-synaptic 5-HT(1B), 5-HT(6), and 5-HT(7) serotonergic receptors blockade) when centrally administered. The present data also Suggest that serotonin-mediated mechanisms of the dorsal raphe nucleus exert a key-role in the modulation of the post-ictal antinociception. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sympathetic-mediated hypertension of awake juvenile rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia is not linked to baroreflex dysfunction

In the present study, we evaluated the mechanisms underpinning the hypertension observed in freely moving juvenile rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). Male juvenile Wistar rats (20-21 days old) were submitted to CIH (6% O(2) for 40 s every 9 min, 8 h day(-1)) for 10 days while control rats were maintained in normoxia. Prior to CIH, baseline systolic arterial pressure (SAP), measured indirectly, was similar between groups (86 +/- 1 versus 87 +/- 1 mmHg). After exposure to CIH, SAP recorded directly was higher in the CIH (n = 28) than in the control group (n = 29; 131 +/- 3 versus 115 +/- 2 mmHg, P < 0.05). This higher SAP of CIH rats presented an augmented power of oscillatory components at low (10.05 +/- 0.91 versus 5.02 +/- 0.63 mmHg(2), P < 0.05) and high (respiratory-related) frequencies (12.42 +/- 2.46 versus 3.28 +/- 0.61 mmHg(2), P < 0.05) in comparison with control animals. In addition, rats exposed to CIH also exhibited an increased cardiac baroreflex gain (-3.11 +/- 0.08 versus -2.1 +/- 0.10 beats min(-1) mmHg(-1), P < 0.0001), associated with a shift to the right of the operating point, in comparison with control rats. Administration of hexamethonium (ganglionic blocker, i.v.), injected after losartan (angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist) and [beta-mercapto-beta,beta-cyclopenta-methylenepropionyl(1), O-Me-Tyr(2), Arg(8)]-vasopressin (vasopressin type 1a receptor antagonist), produced a larger depressor response in the CIH (n = 8) than in the control group (n = 9; -49 +/- 2 versus -39 +/- 2 mmHg, P < 0.05). Fifteen days after the cessation of exposure to CIH, the mean arterial pressure of CIH rats returned to normal levels. The data indicate that the sympathetic-mediated hypertension observed in conscious juvenile rats exposed to CIH is not secondary to a reduction in cardiac baroreflex gain and exhibits a higher respiratory modulation, indicating that an enhanced respiratory-sympathetic coupling seems to be the major factor contributing to hypertension in rats exposed to CIH.

Obesity due to Melanocortin 4 Receptor (MC4R) Deficiency Is Associated with Increased Linear Growth and Final Height, Fasting Hyperinsulinemia, and Incompletely Suppressed Growth Hormone Secretion

Context: Melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R) deficiency is characterized by increased linear growth greater than expected for the degree of obesity. Objective: The objective of the investigation was to study the somatotroph axis in obese MC4R-deficient patients and equally obese controls. Patients and Methods: We obtained anthropometric measurements and insulin concentrations in 153 MC4R-deficient subjects and 1392 controls matched for age and severity of obesity. We measured fasting IGF-I, IGF-II, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-1, IGFBP-3, and acid-labile subunit levels in a subset of 33 MC4R-deficient patients and 36 control subjects. We examined pulsatile GH secretion in six adult MC4R-deficient subjects and six obese controls. Results: Height so score was significantly greater in MC4R-deficient children under 5 yr of age compared with controls (mean +/- SEM: 2.3 +/- 0.06 vs. 1.8 +/- 0.04, P < 0.001), an effect that persisted throughout childhood. Final height (cm) was greater in MC4R-deficient men (mean +/- SEM 173 +/- 2.5 vs. 168 +/- 2.1, P < 0.001) and women (mean 165 +/- 2.1 vs. 158 +/- 1.9, P < 0.001). Fasting IGF-I, IGF-II, acid-labile subunit, and IGFBP-3 concentrations were similar in the two groups. GH levels were markedly suppressed in obese controls, but pulsatile GH secretion was retained in MC4R deficiency. The mean maximal GH secretion rate per burst (P < 0.05) and mass per burst (P < 0.05) were increased in MC4R deficiency, consistent with increased pulsatile and total GH secretion. Fasting insulin levels were markedly elevated in MC4R-deficient children. Conclusions: In MC4R deficiency, increased linear growth in childhood leads to increased adult final height, greater than predicted by obesity alone. GH pulsatility is maintained in MC4R deficiency, a finding consistent with animal studies, suggesting a role for MC4R in controlling hypothalamic somatostatinergic tone. Fasting insulin levels are significantly higher in children carrying MC4R mutations. Both of these factors may contribute to the accelerated growth phenotype characteristic of MC4R deficiency. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 96: E181-E188, 2011)

Qualitative Analysis of the Removal of the Smear Layer in the Apical Third of Curved Roots: Conventional Irrigation versus Activation Systems

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of different irrigant agitation techniques on smear layer removal in curved root canals. Methods: Mesiobuccal canals of 62 extracted lower molars with a curvature of 33 degrees were used and instrumented up to Pro Taper F2. The samples were divided into 3 experimental groups according to the final irrigation: conventional irrigation, ultrasonic irrigation, and sonic irrigation by using the Endo Activator system. The control group was composed of 2 specimens without any final irrigation. In all of the experimental groups, 5 mL of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid was used for 1 minute, and 5 mL of 2.5% NaOCl was used for 30 seconds. The analysis of the apical region was performed via scanning electron microscopy by 3 examiners. The data were submitted to the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (P<.05). Results: The activation systems removed significantly more smear layer than did conventional irrigation. Conclusions: Sonic and ultrasonic irrigation resulted in better removal of the smear layer in the apical third of curved root canals than did conventional irrigation. (J Endod 2011;37:1268-1271)

Caries Resistance of Lased Human Root Surface with 10.6 mu m CO(2) Laser-Thermal, Morphological, and Microhardness Analysis

Although the cariostatic effects of CO(2) laser on enamel have been shown, its effects on root surface demineralization remains uncertain. The objectives of this in vitro research was to establish safe parameters for a pulsed 10.6 mu m CO(2) laser and to evaluate its effect on morphological features of the root surface, as well as on the reduction of root demineralization. Ninety-five human root surfaces were randomly divided into five groups: G1-No treatment (control); G2-2.5 J/cm(2); G3-4.0 J/cm(2); G4-5.0 J/cm(2); and G5-6.0 J/cm(2). Intrapulpal temperature was evaluated during root surface irradiation by a thermocouple and morphological changes were evaluated by SEM. After the surface treatment, the specimens were submitted to a 7-day pH-cycling model. Subsequently, the cross-sectional Knoop microhardness values were measured. For all irradiated groups, intrapulpal temperature changes were less than 1.5 degrees C. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that fluences as low as 4.0 J/cm(2) were sufficient to induce morphological changes in the root surface. Additionally, for fluences reaching or exceeding 4.0 J/cm(2), laser-induced inhibitory effects on root surface demineralization were observed. It was concluded that laser energy density in the range of 4.0 to 6.0 J/cm(2) could be applied to a dental root to reduce demineralization of this surface without compromising pulp vitality.

Isolation of Candida dubliniensis from denture wearers

Candida albicans is considered the most important Candida species able to cause oral infections in denture wearers. In recent years, Candida dubliniensis has emerged as a pathogenic yeast in humans. The close phenotypic similarities of C. albicans and C. dubliniensis have led to the misidentification of these species. In this work, our aim was to verify through PCR the presence of C. dubliniensis in palate and maxillary denture samples from 112 denture wearers presenting with or without denture-related stomatitis (DRS). C. dubliniensis was isolated at low rates from both palate (5.3% and 10.7%) and maxillary denture (5.3% and 8.9%) samples from wearers regardless of the presence of the disease. However, when C. dubliniensis was detected in individuals with DRS, it was always associated with C. albicans. In addition, our results showed that C. albicans was the most commonly identified candidal species in maxillary denture and hard palate samples from DRS patients (78.5% and 89.2%, respectively) as well as from controls (31.2% and 28.5%, respectively). In conclusion, C. dubliniensis was detected in the oral environment of denture wearers. The association of C. dubliniensis with C. albicans occurred in approximately 10% of the DRS cases.

Effect of laser phototherapy on the release of fibroblast growth factors by human gingival fibroblasts

The effects of laser phototherapy on the release of growth factors by human gingival fibroblasts were studied in vitro. Cells from a primary culture were irradiated twice (6 h interval), with continuous diode laser [gallium-aluminum-arsenium (GaAlAs), 780 nm, or indium-gallium-aluminum-phosphide (InGaAlP),_660 nm] in punctual and contact mode, 40 mW, spot size 0.042 cm(2), 3 J/cm(2) and 5 J/cm(2) (3 s and 5 s, respectively). Positive [10% fetal bovine serum (FBS)] and negative (1%FBS) controls were not irradiated. Production of keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data were statistically compared by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey`s test (P a parts per thousand currency signaEuro parts per thousand 0.05). The characterization of the cell line indicated a mesenchymal nature. KGF release was similar in all groups, while that of bFGF was significantly greater (1.49-times) in groups treated with infra-red laser. It was concluded that increased production of bFGF could be one of the mechanisms by which infra-red laser stimulates wound healing.

The Effect of Polymerization Cycles on Color Stability of Microwave-Processed Denture Base Resin

Purpose: This study evaluated the effect of different microwave polymerization cycles on the color changes of a microwave-processed denture base resin after accelerated aging and immersion in beverages. Materials and Methods: Specimens of light pink acrylic resin were divided into three groups according to polymerization cycle: (A) 500 W for 3 minutes, (B) 90 W for 13 minutes + 500 W for 90 seconds, and (C) 320 W for 3 minutes + 0 W for 4 minutes + 720 W for 3 minutes. Control groups were a heat-processed acrylic resin (T) and a chemically activated denture repair resin (Q). Eight specimens per group were aged in an artificial aging chamber and evaluated at 20, 192, and 384 hours. Another series of 40 specimens per group were immersed in water, coffee, tea, cola, or red wine and evaluated at 1, 12, and 36 days. Color was measured by a spectrophotometer before and after aging or immersion. Color changes (Delta E) were analyzed by ANOVA/Bonferroni t-test (alpha = 0.05). Results: Mean Delta E (+/- SD) after 384 hours of accelerated aging were (A) 2.51 +/- 0.50; (B) 3.16 +/- 1.09; (C) 2.89 +/- 1.06; (T) 2.64 +/- 0.34; and (Q) 9.03 +/- 0.40. Group Q had a significantly higher Delta E than the other groups. Color changes of immersed specimens were significantly influenced by solutions and time, but the five groups showed similar values. Mean Delta E at 36 days were (water) 1.4 +/- 0.8; (coffee) 1.3 +/- 0.6; (tea) 1.7 +/- 0.5; (cola) 1.4 +/- 0.7; and (red wine) 10.2 +/- 2.7. Results were similar among the five test groups. Conclusions: Color changes of the microwave-polymerized denture base resin tested were not affected by different polymerization cycles after accelerated aging or immersion in beverages. These changes were similar to the conventional heat-polymerized acrylic resin test, but lower than the repair resin after accelerated aging.

Migraine is the Most Prevalent Primary Headache in Individuals with Temporomandibular Disorders

Aims: To assess the prevalence of primary headaches (HA) in adults with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) who were assessed in a specialty orofacial pain clinic, as well as in controls without TMD. Methods: The sample consisted of 158 individuals with TMD seen at a university-based specialty clinic, as well as 68 controls. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD were used to diagnose the TMD patients. HAs were assessed using a structured interview and classified according to the Second Edition of the International Classification for Headache Disorders. Data were analyzed by chi-square tests with a significance level of 5% and odds ratio (OR) tests with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: HAs occurred in 45.6% of the control group (30.9% had migraine and 14.7% had tension-type headache [TTH]) and in 85.5% of individuals with TMD. Among individuals with TMD, migraine was the most prevalent primary HA (55.3%), followed by TTH (30.2%); 14.5% had no HA. In contrast to controls, the odds ratio (OR) for HA in those with TMD was 7.05 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.65-13.61; P = .000), for migraine, the OR was 2.76 (95% CI = 1.50-5.06; P = .001), and for TTH, the OR was 2.51 (95% CI = 1.18-5.35; P = .014). Myofascial pain/arthralgia was the most common TMD diagnosis (53.2%). The presence of HA or specific HAs was not associated with the time since the onset of TMD (P = .714). However, migraine frequency was positively associated with TMD pain severity (P = .000). Conclusion: TMD was associated with increased primary HA prevalence rates. Migraine was the most common primary HA diagnosis in individuals with TMD. J OROFAC PAIN 2010;24:287-292

Paleomagnetism and rock magnetism of the Neoproterozoic Itajai Basin of the Rio de la Plata craton (Brazil): Cambrian to Cretaceous widespread remagnetizations of South America

A detailed rock magnetic and paleomagnetic study was performed on samples from the Neoproterozoic Itajai Basin in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, in order to better constrain the paleogeographic evolution of the Rio de la Plata craton between 600 and 550 Ma. However, rock magnetic properties typical of remagnetized rocks and negative response in the fold test indicated that these rocks carried a secondary chemical remanent magnetization. After detailed AF and thermal cleaning, almost all samples showed a normal polarity characteristic remanent magnetization component close to the present geomagnetic field. The main magnetic carriers are magnetite and hematite, probably of authigenic origin. The mean paleomagnetic pole of the ltajai Basin is located at Plat= -84 degrees, Plong = 97.5 degrees (A95 = 2 degrees) and overlaps the lower Cretaceous segment of the apparent polar wander path of South America, suggesting a cause and effect with the opening of the South Atlantic Ocean. A compilation of remagnetized paleomagnetic poles from South America is presented that highlights the superposition of several large-scale remagnetization events between the Cambrian and the Cretaceous. It is suggested that some paleomagnetic poles used to calibrate the APWP of Gondwana at Precambrian times need to be revised; the indication of remagnetized areas in southern South America may offer some help in the selection of sites for future paleomagnetic investigations in Precambrian rocks. (C) 2011 International Association for Gondwana Research. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Paleointensity data from Early Cretaceous Ponta Grossa dikes (Brazil) using a multisample method

Definition of the long-term variation of the geomagnetic virtual dipole moment requires more reliable paleointensity results. Here, we applied a multisample protocol to the study of the 130.5 Ma Ponta Grossa basaltic dikes (southern Brazil) that carry a very stable dual-polarity magnetic component. The magnetic stability of the samples wits checked using thermomagnetic curves and by monitoring the magnetic Susceptibility evolution through the paleointensity experiments. Twelve sites containing the least alterable samples were chosen for the paleointensity measurements. Although these rocks failed stepwise double-heating experiments, they yielded coherent results in the multisample method for all sites but one. The coherent sites show low to moderate field intensities between 5.7 +/- 0.2 and 26.4 +/- 0.7 mu T (average 13.4 +/- 1.9 mu T). Virtual dipole moments for these sites range from 1.3 +/- 0.04 to 6.0 +/- 0.2 x 10(22) A m(2) (average 2.9 +/- 0.5 x 10(22) A m(2)). Our results agree with the tendency for low dipole moments during the Early Cretaceous, immediately prior to the Cretaceous Normal Superchron (CNS). The available paleointensity database shows a strong variability of the field between 80 and 160 Ma. There seems to be no firm evidence for a Mesozoic Dipole Low, but a long-term tendency does emerge from the data with the highest dipole moments Occurring at the middle of the CNS.