Parental Communication Not to Smoke and Adolescent Cigarette Smokers' Readiness to Quit: Differences by Age

There is limited information on the relationship between parental practices that specifically discourage current cigarette smoking and adolescent cessation, and how this relationship varies by age. Among 1629 adolescent smokers, self-reported receipt of parental communication not to smoke was significantly and positively associated with readiness to quit. The strength and significance of this association decreased from early to middle adolescence and was not significant in late adolescence.     

Towards cellular receptors for prions

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) are attributed to the conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrP(c)) into an abnormal isoform (PrP(sc)). This can be caused by the invasion of living organisms by infectious particles, or be inherited due to mutations on the PrP(c) gene. One of the most intriguing problems of prion biology is the inability to generate the infectious agent in vitro. This argues strongly that other cellular proteins besides those added in test tubes or found in cellular preparations are necessary for infection. Despite recent progress in the understanding of prion pathology, the subcellular compartments in which the interaction and conversion of PrP(c) into PrP(sc) take place are still controversial. PrP(c) interacts with various macromolecules at the cell membrane, in endocytic compartments and in the secretory pathway, all of which may play specific roles in the internalisation of PrP(sc) and conversion of PrP(c). A specific interacting protein required for the propagation of prions was originally proposed as a prion receptor, and later referred to as a ligand, a cofactor, protein X, or a partner. However, current studies indicate that PrP(c) associates with multi-molecular complexes, which mediate a variety of functions in distinct cellular compartments. It is proposed that a deeper understanding of the mechanics of such interactions, coupled to a better knowledge of the corresponding signalling pathways and ensuing cellular responses, will have a major impact on the prevention and treatment of TSE.     

Demonstration of immunoglobulin on the surface of thymus lymphocytes

Immunoglobulin molecules on the surface of mouse thymus cells have been shown by immunofluorescence. Ninety-five to 100 per cent of thymus lymphocytes were found to bind polyvalent rabbit anti-mouse immunoglobulin, although the density of the fluorescence was much less than that on the surface of B lymphocytes derived from the spleen.

Two purified antisera, an anti-IgM and an anti-kappa chain serum, also stained the cells.

The resynthesis of these immunoglobulin molecules in vitro was demonstrated after they had been removed with pronase.

     

Einfluß der Umwelt auf Krebsdisposition und Krebsalter

Ohne Zusammenfassung     

Evaluation of Sediments from the River Drava and Their Potential for Further Use in the Building Sector

Sedimentation is a naturally occurring process of allowing particles in water bodies to settle out of the suspension under a gravity effect. In this study, the sediments of the Drava River were fully investigated to determine the heavy metal concentrations along the river and their potential reuse in the construction sector. Naturally dehydrated sediments from the Drava River were tested as an additive for the production of fired bricks. The dredged sediments were used as a substitute for natural brick clay in amounts up to 50% by weight, and it was confirmed that up to 20% by weight of the added sediment could be used directly in the process without critically affecting performance. Finally, the naturally dehydrated sediments were also evaluated for their use as a filling material in the construction of levees. The natural moisture content of the dehydrated sediment was too high for it to be used without additives, so quicklime was added as an inorganic binder. The test results showed an improvement in the geotechnical properties of the material to such an extent that it is suitable as a filling material for levees.     

An Assessment of Dental Treatment Need: An Overview of Available Methods and Suggestions for a New, Comparative Summative Index

Objective: The aims were to give an overview and consider advantages and disadvantages of different approaches used to evaluate dental treatment need and to suggest an alternate Quantitative Summative Dental Treatment Need Index. Methods: The Medline Ovid database was searched for relevant articles published during the last three decades combining the terms "needs assessment,""dental care,""health services needs and demand." Results: There were substantial differences in methods used. Different modifications of the Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth/Surfaces indices, complex quantitative summative indices, or simplified approaches were used to assess dental treatment need. Differing advantages and disadvantages of these methods can be identified. Previously used approaches have a common limitation for use in oral epidemiology. Conclusions: The suggested alternate Quantitative Summative Dental Treatment Needs Index focuses on an ability to compare both the total burden of treatment need as well as to make a distinction among specific treatment needs across populations. This new approach is an attempt to develop a comprehensive index for use in oral epidemiology with further revisions anticipated.