bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Clinical Non-Spine Fractures in Older Black and White Men and Women With Volumetric BMD of the Spine and Areal BMD of the Hip: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Authors: Mackey Dawn C , Eby Jean Gaare , Harris Fran , Taaffe Dennis R , Cauley Jane A , Tylavsky Frances A , Harris Tamara B , Lang Thomas F , Cummings Steven R
Published: August 2007

In a prospective study of 1446 black and white adults 70–79 yr of age (average follow-up, 6.4 yr), vertebral TrvBMD from QCT predicted non-spine fracture in black and white women and black men, but it was not a stronger predictor than total hip aBMD from DXA. Hip aBMD predicted non-spine fracture in black men.

Introduction: Areal BMD (aBMD) at multiple skeletal sites predicts clinical non-spine fractures in white and black women and white men. The predictive ability of vertebral trabecular volumetric BMD (TrvBMD) for all types of clinical non-spine fractures has never been tested or compared with hip aBMD. Also, the predictive accuracy of hip aBMD has never been tested prospectively for black men.

Materials and Methods: We measured vertebral TrvBMD with QCT and hip aBMD with DXA in 1446 elderly black and white adults (70–79 yr) in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study. One hundred fifty-two clinical non-spine fractures were confirmed during an average of 6.4 yr of >95% complete follow-up. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to determine the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CIs of non-spine fracture per SD reduction in hip aBMD and vertebral TrvBMD.

Results: Vertebral TrvBMD and hip aBMD were both associated with risk of non-spine fracture in black and white women and black men. The age-adjusted HR of fracture per SD decrease in BMD was highest in black men (hip aBMD: HR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.03, 4.04; vertebral TrvBMD: HR = 3.00, 95% CI = 1.29, 7.00) and lowest in white men (hip aBMD: HR = 1.23, 95% CI = 0.85, 1.78; vertebral TrvBMD: HR = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.73, 1.54). Adjusted for age, sex, and race, each SD decrease in hip aBMD was associated with a 1.67-fold (95% CI = 1.36, 2.07) greater risk of fracture, and each SD decrease in vertebral TrvBMD was associated with a 1.47-fold (95% CI = 1.18, 1.82) greater risk. Combining measurements of hip aBMD and vertebral TrvBMD did not improve fracture prediction.

Conclusions: Low BMD measured by either spine QCT or hip DXA predicts non-spine fracture in older black and white women and black men. Vertebral TrvBMD is not a stronger predictor than hip aBMD of non-spine fracture.
Aromatase Deficiency Causes Altered Expression of Molecules Critical for Calcium Reabsorption in the Kidneys of Female Mice
Authors: Öz Orhan K , Hajibeigi Asghar , Howard Kevin , Cummins Carolyn L , van Abel Monique , Bindels Rene JM , Word R Ann , Kuro-o Makoto , Pak Charles YC , Zerwekh Joseph E
Published: August 2007

Kidney stones increase after menopause, suggesting a role for estrogen deficiency. ArKO mice have hypercalciuria and lower levels of calcium transport proteins, whereas levels of the klotho protein are elevated. Thus, estrogen deficiency is sufficient to cause altered renal calcium handling.

Introduction: The incidence of renal stones increases in women after menopause, implicating a possible role for estrogen deficiency. We used the aromatase deficient (ArKO) mouse, a model of estrogen deficiency, to test the hypothesis that estrogen deficiency would increase urinary calcium excretion and alter the expression of molecular regulators of renal calcium reabsorption.

Materials and Methods: Adult female wildtype (WT), ArKO, and estradiol-treated ArKO mice (n = 5–12/group) were used to measure urinary calcium in the fed and fasting states, relative expression level of some genes involved in calcium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule by real-time PCR, and protein expression by Western blotting or immunohistochemistry. Plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA) activity was measured in kidney membrane preparations. ANOVA was used to test for differences between groups followed by posthoc analysis with Dunnett's test.

Results: Compared with WT, urinary Ca:Cr ratios were elevated in ArKO mice, renal mRNA levels of transient receptor potential cation channel vallinoid subfamily member 5 (TRPV5), TRPV6, calbindin-D28k, the Na+/Ca+ exchanger (NCX1), and the PMCA1b were significantly decreased, and klotho mRNA and protein levels were elevated. Estradiol treatment of ArKO mice normalized urinary calcium excretion, renal mRNA levels of TRPV5, calbindin-D28k, PMCA1b, and klotho, as well as protein levels of calbindin-D28k and Klotho. ArKO mice treated with estradiol had significantly greater PMCA activity than either untreated ArKO mice or WT mice.

Conclusions: Estrogen deficiency caused by aromatase inactivation is sufficient for renal calcium loss. Changes in estradiol levels are associated with coordinated changes in expression of many proteins involved in distal tubule calcium reabsorption. Estradiol seems to act at the genomic level by increasing or decreasing (klotho) protein expression and nongenomically by increasing PMCA activity. PMCA, not NCX1, is likely responsible for extruding calcium in response to in vivo estradiol hormonal challenge. These data provide potential mechanisms for regulation of renal calcium handling in response to changes in serum estrogen levels.
Two-Dimensional Correlation Analysis of Polyimide Films Using Attenuated Total Reflection-Based Dynamic Compression Modulation Step-Scan Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Nishikawa Yuji , Nakano Tatsuhiko , Noda Isao
Published: August 2007

Attenuated total reflection (ATR)-based dynamic compression modulation two-dimensional (2D) correlation study of poly(p-phenylene biphenyltetracarboximide) film is carried out in combination with spectral simulation analysis by density functional theory (DFT). The dynamic 2D infrared (IR) correlation spectra in the region of imide I (C=O stretching mode) show three distinct correlation peaks located around 1777, 1725, and 1708 cm−1. The band at 1708 cm−1 is the lower wavenumber shift component of 1777 or 1735 cm−1 peaks and is attributed to the results from intermolecular interactions, according to the DFT analysis. The 1708 cm−1 band also shows the largest dynamic response, suggesting that these intermolecular interactions may enhance the dynamic response. The dynamic 2D IR correlation spectra in the region of imide II (C–N–C axial stretching mode) vibrations also show three correlation peaks located around 1335, 1355, and 1370 cm−1, although the imide II band is shown to consist substantially of one component by the DFT analysis. These multiple peaks may be attributed to the compression-induced wavenumber shift of the band in the backbone structures. The sequential analysis of 2D correlation data show that, upon applying the dynamic compression, the response of the backbone regions (imide II) occurs first, followed by that of the side-chain regions (imide I, C=O).
Vacuum Ultraviolet Photoionization Mass Spectra and Cross-Sections for Volatile Organic Compounds at 10.5 eV
Authors: Kanno Nozomu , Tonokura Kenichi
Published: August 2007

Vacuum ultraviolet single-photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (VUV-SPI-TOFMS) has been applied to the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including aromatic, chlorinated, and oxygenated compounds. Photoionization mass spectra of 23 VOCs were measured using SPI-TOFMS at 10.5 eV (118 nm). The limits of detection of VOCs using SPI-TOFMS at 10.5 eV were estimated to be a few ppbv. The mass spectra of 20 VOCs exhibit only the parent ion and its isotopes' signals. The ionization processes of the VOCs were discussed on the basis of the reaction enthalpies predicted by the quantum chemical calculations. Absolute photoionization cross-sections for 23 VOCs, including 12 newly measured VOCs, at 10.5 eV were determined in comparison to the reported absolute photoionization cross-section of NO.
Phase Angle Description of Perturbation Correlation Analysis and its Application to Time-Resolved Infrared Spectra
Authors: Morita Shigeaki , Tanaka Masaru , Noda Isao , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: August 2007

A method of spectral analysis, phase angle description of perturbation correlation analysis, is proposed. This method is based on global phase angle description of generalized two-dimensional (2D) correlation spectroscopy, proposed by Shin-ichi Morita et al., and perturbation-correlation moving-window 2D (PCMW2D) correlation spectroscopy, proposed by Shigeaki Morita et al. For a spectral data set collected under an external perturbation, such as time-resolved infrared spectra, this method provides only one phase angle spectrum. A phase angle of the Fourier frequency domain correlation between a spectral intensity (e.g., absorbance) variation and a perturbation variation (e.g., scores of the first principle component) as a function of spectral variable (e.g., wavenumber) is plotted. Therefore, a degree of time lag of each band variation with respect to the perturbation variation is directly visualized in the phase angle spectrum. This method is applied to time-resolved infrared spectra in the O–H stretching region of the water sorption process into a poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) film. The time-resolved infrared (IR) spectra show three broad and overlapping bands in the region. Each band increases toward saturated water sorption with different relaxation times. In comparison to conventional methods of generalized 2D correlation spectroscopy and global phase angle mapping, the method proposed in the present study enables the easier visualization of the sequence as a degree of phase angle in the spectrum.
Potential of Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for the Rapid Identification of Escherichia Coli and Listeria Monocytogenes Cultures on Silver Colloidal Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Yongliang , Chen Yud-Ren , Nou Xiangwu , Chao Kuanglin
Published: August 2007

Surface-enhanced Raman (SERS) spectra of various batches of bacteria adsorbed on silver colloidal nanoparticles were collected to explore the potential of the SERS technique for rapid and routine identification of E. coli and L. monocytogenes cultures. Relative standard deviation (RSD) of SERS spectra from silver colloidal suspensions and ratios of SERS peaks from small molecules (K3PO4) were used to evaluate the reproducibility, stability, and binding effectiveness of citrate-reduced silver colloids over batch and storage processes. The results suggested consistent reproducibility of silver colloids over batch process and also stability and consistent binding effectiveness over an eight-week storage period. A variety of mixtures of E. coli/L. monocytogenes cultures with different colloidal batches revealed that, despite large variations in relative intensities and positions of SERS active bands, characteristic and unique bands at 712 and 390 cm−1 were consistently observed and were the strongest in E. coli and L. monocytogenes cultures, respectively. Two specific bands were used to develop simple algorithms in the evaluation of binding effectiveness of silver colloids over storage and further to identify E. coli and L. monocytogenes cultures with a 100% success. A single spectrum acquisition took 5∼6 min, and a minimum of 25 μL silver colloid was directly mixed with 25 μL volume of incubated bacterial culture. The short acquisition time and small volume of incubated bacterial culture make silver colloidal nanoparticle based SERS spectroscopy ideal for potential use in the routine and rapid screening of E. coli and L. monocytogenes cultures on large scales. This is the first report of the development of simple and universal algorithms for bacterial identification from the respective exclusive SERS peaks.
Single Nanoparticle Based Optical pH Probe
Authors: Jensen Rebecca A. , Sherin Jennifer , Emory Steven R.
Published: August 2007

This paper describes the development of a nanoscale optical pH probe based upon the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) properties of silica–gold core-shell nanoparticles. In this approach, a thin layer of gold is deposited onto a core of silica to form a metallic nanoshell with surface plasmon modes in the red-to-near-infrared spectral region. The surface of the nanoshell is functionalized with a pH-sensitive SERS reporter molecule, 4-mercaptopyridine (4-MPy). The SERS spectra of 4-MPy is shown to be sensitive to the pH of the surrounding media within the range of 3 to 7. In addition, it is shown that individual silica–gold core-shell nanoparticles yield more reliable SERS spectra than aggregates of core-shell nanoparticles.
Investigation of the Christiansen Effect in the Mid-Infrared Region for Airborne Particles
Authors: Pollard Matthew J. , Griffiths Peter R. , Nishikida Koichi
Published: August 2007

During measurements of open-path Fourier transform infrared spectra, airborne dust may be present in the infrared beam. We have investigated the feasibility of identifying and quantifying the airborne particulate matter from spectra measured in this way. Although the results showed that analysis of the particulate matter was not able to be performed from these spectra, insight into the size and wavelength dependence of the Christiansen effect at wavelengths where the particles absorb strongly was obtained. Airborne particles larger than or equal to the wavelength of the incident radiation give rise to asymmetrical features in the spectrum caused by the Christiansen effect. However, the transmittance at wavelengths where the refractive index of the particles equals that of the atmosphere never reaches 1.0 because of absorption by the particles. As the particle size becomes much smaller than the wavelength of the incident radiation, the Christiansen effect becomes less pronounced and eventually is not exhibited.
Analysis of Composite Structure and Primordial Wood Remains in Petrified Wood
Authors: Nowak J. , Nowak D. , Chevallier P. , Lekki J. , van Grieken R. , Kuczumow A.
Published: August 2007

Among all the fossils, petrified wood belongs to the most impressive and most common of materials. Still, its study has not exceeded the purely phenomenological level. The recognition of the conserved structure of petrified wood seems to be of meaning for understanding the geological past, the complete carbon cycle inside the Earth, and the structure of potential new materials. The first ever published spatial distributions of the remains of the primordial organic material (lignin, cellulose, pectins) in the cells of permineralized wood, from Dunarobba (Central Italy), are presented here. They were collected using μ-Raman spectrometry. The composite nature of the petrified material (calcite located in the lumena of cells and goethite located in the cell walls) was confirmed by electron, proton, and X-ray microprobes. The structure of the cell walls was well preserved. The mineralization process was induced by the tracheidal water flow and was stopped after formation of pipe-like goethite shielding of the cell walls on the cellulose scaffolds. The chemical (Eh and pH ranges) and probable microbial conditions for such a pattern of mineralization were determined. We estimate that substantial amounts of the primordial organic matter were preserved in bodies of petrified wood on a global scale. The wood petrifaction process, if well understood, can be a basis for the production of “everlasting” organic–inorganic composite compounds.
Estimation of Wood Stiffness and Strength Properties of Hybrid Larch by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Fujimoto Takaaki , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Tsuchikawa Satoru
Published: August 2007

This work was undertaken to investigate the feasibility of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for estimating wood mechanical properties, i.e., modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) in bending tests. Two sample sets having large and limited density variation were prepared to examine the effects of wood density on estimation of MOE and MOR by the NIR technique. Partial least squares (PLS) analysis was employed and it was found that the relationships between laboratory-measured and NIR-predicted values were good in the case of sample sets having large density variation. MOE could be estimated even when density variation in the sample set was limited. It was concluded that absorption bands due to the OH group in the semi-crystalline or crystalline regions of cellulose strongly influenced the calibrations for bending stiffness of hybrid larch. This was also suggested from the result that both α-cellulose content and cellulose crystallinity showed moderate positive correlation to wood stiffness.
Raman Signal Enhancement in Deep Spectroscopy of Turbid Media
Authors: Matousek P.
Published: August 2007

A new, passive method for enhancing spontaneous Raman signals for the spectroscopic investigation of turbid media is presented. The main areas to benefit are transmission Raman and spatially offset Raman spectroscopy approaches for deep probing of turbid media. The enhancement, which is typically several fold, is achieved using a multilayer dielectric optical element, such as a bandpass filter, placed within the laser beam over the sample. This element prevents loss of the photons that re-emerge from the medium at the critical point where the laser beam enters the sample, the point where major photon loss occurs. This leads to a substantial increase of the coupling of laser radiation into the sample and consequently an enhanced laser photon–medium interaction process. The method utilizes the angular dependence of dielectric optical elements on impacting photon direction with its transmission spectral profile shifting to the blue with increase in the deviation of photons away from normal incidence. This feature enables it to act as a unidirectional mirror passing a semi-collimated laser beam through unhindered from one side, and at the other side, reflecting photons emerging from the sample at random directions back into it with no restrictions to the detected Raman signal. With substantial restrictions to the spectral range, the concept can also be applied to conventional backscattering Raman spectroscopy. The use of additional reflective elements around the sample to enhance the Raman signal further is also discussed. The increased signal strength yields higher signal quality, a feature important in many applications. Potential uses include sensitive noninvasive disease diagnosis in vivo, security screening, and quality control of pharmaceutical products. The concept is also applicable in an analogous manner to other types of analytical methods such as fluorescence or near-infrared (NIR) absorption spectroscopy of turbid media or it can be used to enhance the effectiveness of the coupling of laser radiation into tissue in applications such as photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment.
Contrast Enhancement for in Vivo Visible Reflectance Imaging of Tissue Oxygenation
Authors: Crane Nicole J. , Schultz Zachary D. , Levin Ira W.
Published: August 2007

Results are presented illustrating a straightforward algorithm to be used for real-time monitoring of oxygenation levels in blood cells and tissue based on the visible spectrum of hemoglobin. Absorbance images obtained from the visible reflection of white light through separate red and blue bandpass filters recorded by monochrome charge-coupled devices (CCDs) are combined to create enhanced images that suggest a quantitative correlation between the degree of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in red blood cells. The filter bandpass regions are chosen specifically to mimic the color response of commercial 3-CCD cameras, representative of detectors with which the operating room laparoscopic tower systems are equipped. Adaptation of this filter approach is demonstrated for laparoscopic donor nephrectomies in which images are analyzed in terms of real-time in vivo monitoring of tissue oxygenation.
Civil Litigation Against Police in Australia: Exploring Its Extent, Nature and Implications for Accountability
Authors: Ransley Janet , Anderson Jessica , Prenzler Tim
Published: August 2007

Much recent policing reform has been concerned with strengthening organisational and individual accountability through complaints, discipline systems and external oversight. Civil litigation against police has largely been ignored as an accountability measure. This research aimed to broaden the understanding of police litigation in Australia, and determine the implications for its use as an accountability mechanism. While the findings are not definitive, they generally conform with previous research outcomes that most cases initiated by civilians involve allegations of police abuse of power or process corruption. A new finding is that police sue their own organisations at about the same rate as they are sued by members of the public, although primarily for unfair dismissal. The results show a need for more detailed research, but highlight that civil litigation can form part of a regulatory web for identifying, controlling and preventing police misconduct.
The Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) Pilot Program: Court Outcomes and Recidivism
Authors: Passey Megan , Bolitho Jane , Scantleton John , Flaherty Bruce
Published: August 2007

Diversion programs for drug offenders have proliferated in the last decade in the belief that treatment of underlying drug use will decrease an individual's criminal activity. The NSW Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) program diverts adult offenders with significant drug problems, on bail, from the court to a 3-month intensive drug treatment program. This article reports on the criminal justice outcomes of the Lismore MERIT Pilot Program. Findings indicate that participants who completed the program were significantly less likely to reoffend, took longer to reoffend and received less severe sentences than those who did not complete the program. The reduction in reoffending is significantly associated with program completion even when other factors associated with recidivism are controlled for, including previous incarceration. Overall these findings contribute to the growing literature indicating that providing treatment for offenders with illicit drug problems can be an effective crime reduction strategy.
Criminal Justice Education, Employment Destinations, and Graduate Satisfaction
Authors: Wimshurst Kerry , Allard Troy
Published: August 2007

The article addresses the lack of sound empirical research both overseas and especially in Australia on the outcomes of criminal justice education. The very limited research on graduate outcomes is potentially problematic at a time when governments are increasingly calling for program accountability and evaluation in higher education. The article reports on an empirical study of one criminology/criminal justice program that investigated the employment destinations of graduates. Principal components analysis and regression analyses were used to explore graduate satisfaction with their degree. There was evidence that educational outcomes were important considerations when alumni evaluated their degree. However, findings indicated that satisfaction varied considerably between occupational groups and was influenced by employment experiences and perceived ‘success’ in the workforce. The article addresses various themes emerging from the findings and identifies the need for further research across other programs on the outcomes of criminal justice education and graduate destinations.
Internet Cognitive Testing of Large Samples Needed in Genetic Research
Authors: Haworth Claire M. A. , Harlaar Nicole , Kovas Yulia , Davis Oliver S. P. , Oliver Bonamy R. , Hayiou-Thomas Marianna E. , Frances Jane , Busfield Patricia , McMillan Andrew , Dale Philip S. , Plomin Robert
Published: August 2007

Quantitative and molecular genetic research requires large samples to provide adequate statistical power, but it is expensive to test large samples in person, especially when the participants are widely distributed geographically. Increasing access to inexpensive and fast Internet connections makes it possible to test large samples efficiently and economically online. Reliability and validity of Internet testing for cognitive ability have not been previously reported; these issues are especially pertinent for testing children. We developed Internet versions of reading, language, mathematics and general cognitive ability tests and investigated their reliability and validity for 10- and 12-year-old children. We tested online more than 2500 pairs of 10-year-old twins and compared their scores to similar internet-based measures administered online to a subsample of the children when they were 12 years old (> 759 pairs). Within 3 months of the online testing at 12 years, we administered standard paper and pencil versions of the reading and mathematics tests in person to 30 children (15 pairs of twins). Scores on Internet-based measures at 10 and 12 years correlated .63 on average across the two years, suggesting substantial stability and high reliability. Correlations of about .80 between Internet measures and in-person testing suggest excellent validity. In addition, the comparison of the internet-based measures to ratings from teachers based on criteria from the UK National Curriculum suggests good concurrent validity for these tests. We conclude that Internet testing can be reliable and valid for collecting cognitive test data on large samples even for children as young as 10 years.
Depressive Symptomatology in Child and Adolescent Twins With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and/or Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Piek Jan P. , Rigoli Daniela , Pearsall-Jones Jillian G. , Martin Neilson C. , Hay David A. , Bennett Kellie S. , Levy Florence
Published: August 2007

Previous research has demonstrated a link between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and depression. The present study utilized a monozygotic (MZ) differences design to investigate differences in depressive symptomatology between MZ twins discordant for ADHD or DCD. This extends previous research as it controls for genetic effects and shared environmental influences and enables the investigation of nonshared environmental influences. In addition, children and adolescents with comorbid ADHD and DCD were compared on their level of depressive symptomatology to those with ADHD only, DCD only, and no ADHD or DCD. The parent-rated Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD Symptoms and Normal Behavior, Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire, and Sad Affect Scale were used to assess ADHD, DCD, and depressive symptomatology respectively. The results revealed higher levels of depressive symptomatology in MZ twins with ADHD or DCD compared to their nonaffected co-twins. In addition, children and adolescents with comorbid ADHD and DCD demonstrated higher levels of depressive symptomatology compared to those with ADHD only, DCD only, and no ADHD or DCD. The implications of these findings are discussed with emphasis on understanding and recognizing the relationship between ADHD, DCD, and depression in the assessment and intervention for children and adolescents with these disorders.
Large-Scale Zygosity Testing Using Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
Authors: Hannelius Ulf , Gherman Loreana , Mäkelä Ville-Veikko , Lindstedt Astrid , Zucchelli Marco , Lagerberg Camilla , Tybring Gunnel , Kere Juha , Lindgren Cecilia M
Published: August 2007

A requirement for performing robust genetic and statistical analyses on twins is correctly assigned zygosities. In order to increase the power to detect small risk factors of disease, zygosity testing should also be amenable for high throughput screening. In this study we validate and implement the use of a panel of 50 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for reliable high throughput zygosity testing and compare it to a panel of 16 short tandem repeats (STRs). We genotyped both genomic (gDNA) and whole genome amplified DNA (WGA DNA), ending up with 47 SNP and 11 STR markers fulfilling our quality criteria. Out of 99 studied twin pairs, 2 were assigned a different zygosity using SNP and STR data as compared to self reported zygosity in a questionnaire. We also performed a sensitivity analysis based on simulated data where we evaluated the effects of genotyping error, shifts in allele frequencies and missing data on the qualitative zygosity assignments. The frequency of false positives was less than 0.01 when assuming a 1% genotyping error, a decrease of 10% of the observed minor allele frequency compared to the actual values and up to 10 missing markers. The SNP markers were also successfully genotyped on both gDNA and WGA DNA from whole blood, saliva and filter paper. In conclusion, we validate a robust panel of 47 highly multiplexed SNPs that provide reliable and high quality data on a range of different DNA templates.
Does a Probability of Breech Presentation of More Than 50% Exist Among Diseases and Medical Conditions?
Authors: Sekulić Slobodan R. , Petrović Đorde S. , Runić Radmila , Williams Mark , Vejnović Tihomir R.
Published: August 2007

The aim was to study the effect of twin gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies on the probability of breech presentation at delivery. The hypothesis was that the probability of breech presentation was not higher than 50%. A review was undertaken of MEDLINE (1966–2004) and of the article reference list for statistical analysis of presentation at delivery among twins in a normal uterus, singleton gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies, and case studies of twins in a uterus with 2 bodies. There are 10 studies of twin gestations in a normal uterus (Twin A 3036 cases, breech presentation 22.36%; Twin B 2758 cases, breech presentation 36.87%), 2 studies of singleton gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies (297 cases, breech presentation 42.09%), and 57 case report studies of twin gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies (Twin A 56 cases, breech presentation 14.29%; Twin B 54 cases, breech presentation 18.52%). The odds ratio and chi-square test for differences in probabilities show a significantly lower incidence of breech presentation for twins in a uterus with 2 bodies compared with twins in a normal uterus (Twin A, odds ratio = 0.58; χ2 = 2.08, p > .05, Twin B, odds ratio = 0.39, χ2 = 7.67, p < .05), and singleton gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies (Twin A, odds ratio = 0.23, χ2 = 15.51, p < .05; Twin B, odds ratio = 0.31, χ2 = 10.72, p < .05). Twin gestations in a uterus with 2 bodies decrease the probability of breech presentation.
SCE Frequency Measurement Could Be Useful in the Prenatal Diagnosis of Roberts Syndrome
Authors: Bukvic Nenad , Resta Nicoletta , Bukvic Dragoslav , Susca Francesco C. , Bagnulo Rosanna , Fanelli Margherita , Guanti Ginevra
Published: August 2007

In a previously published article (Resta et al., 2006) on Robert's syndrome in prenatal diagnosis, a case of a 36-year-old woman and her 36-year-old, nonconsanguineous husband were presented. Our findings suggest the existence of nonsense mediated decay (NMD) variability which could account for the varying severity reported in carriers of identical mutations. Furthermore, fetal cells were used to evaluate the influence of premature centromere separation (PCS) on the sister chromatid exchange (SCE) and micronucleus (MN) frequency. Given the similar variation observed in the SCE frequencies, dependent on tissue/cell type (amniotic fluid sample, chorionic villus sampling) and duration of in vitro cultures (48 hours or 72 hours), the idea was that this new piece of information could be interesting. It seems that the SCE frequency increased proportionally to the cell cycle increasing (1° < 2° < 3° … n). Obviously, our observations are too scarce to draw conclusions, but further investigation could be useful to corroborate or dispute these results, considering that the two techniques, (MN and SCE), are simple to perform and do not require expensive laboratory equipment.
DD Simulations of Dislocation-Crack Interaction During Fatigue
Authors: Mastorakos I. N. , Zbib H. M.
Published: August 2007

The effect of different shaped cracks on fatigue behavior in metals is investigated with the help of the discrete dislocation dynamics (DD) technique. The cracks are represented as distributions of infinitesimal dislocation loops. The distribution is determined by an integral equation satisfying stress-free boundary conditions and containing a singular kernel of the third type. The stress field in the cracked domain is calculated using a superposition principle. The derived stress field describes the interaction between the crack and the dislocations into the framework of dislocation dynamics. The simulation results provide an insight on the three-dimensional character of the dislocation structure around the crack tip and its relation to the crack shape and number of cycles. The effect of the crack on the macroscopic yield stress is also computed for various crack sizes and shapes.
The Effect of Polymeric, Ammonium Sulfate-Based Adjuvants on the Deposition of Glyphosate Spray Solutions
Authors: Rose Simon A. H. , Lyons Lynn , Whitehead Mark
Published: August 2007

High molecular weight polymers have been shown to improve the efficacy of systemic herbicides such as glyphosate. The mode of activity of these polymeric adjuvants is not well understood. In this study a commercial polymer/ammonium sulfate (AMS)-based adjuvant was tested with commercial glyphosate formulations. The effect of the various treatments on the mass of spray deposited, droplet bounce, and droplet run-off was determined. The polymeric/AMS adjuvant was found to improve the deposition of the commercial glyphosate formulations in that: the loss of active due to spray drift was reduced, i.e., the mass of spray deposited was increased; droplet bounce of the spray solutions was reduced, i.e., droplet retention was improved; the polymeric/AMS adjuvant did not significantly affect the angle at which droplets were detached from leaves, therefore the adjuvant should not affect droplet run-off.
Retrovirus-mediated in vitro gene transfer into chicken male germ line cells
Authors: Kalina Jiří , Šenigl Filip , Mičáková Alena , Mucksová Jitka , Blažková Jana , Yan Haifeng , Poplštein Martin , Hejnar Jiří , Trefil Pavel
Published: August 2007

Chicken testicular cells, including spermatogonia, transplanted into the testes of recipient cockerels sterilized by repeated γ-irradiation repopulate the seminiferous epithelium and resume the exogenous spermatogenesis. This procedure could be used to introduce genetic modifications into the male germ line and generate transgenic chickens. In this study, we present a successful retroviral infection of chicken testicular cells and consequent transduction of the retroviral vector into the sperm of recipient cockerels. A vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein G-pseudotyped recombinant retroviral vector, carrying the enhanced green fluorescent protein reporter gene was applied to the short-term culture of dispersed testicular cells. The efficiency of infection and the viability of infected cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. No significant CpG methylation was detected in the infected testicular cells, suggesting that epigenetic silencing events do not play a role at this stage of germ line development. After transplantation into sterilized recipient cockerels, these retrovirus-infected testicular cells restored exogenous spermatogenesis within 9 weeks with approximately the same efficiency as non-infected cells. Transduction of the reporter gene encoding the green fluorescent protein was detected in the sperms of recipient cockerels with restored spermatogenesis. Our data demonstrate that, similarly as in mouse and rat, the transplantation of retrovirus-infected spermatogonia provides an efficient system to introduce genes into the chicken male germ line.
Stable inhibition of interleukin 1 receptor type II in Ishikawa cells augments secretion of matrix metalloproteinases: possible role in endometriosis pathophysiology
Authors: Guay S , Akoum A
Published: August 2007

Our previous studies showed a marked deficiency in interleukin 1 receptor type II (IL1R2) in the endometrial tissue of women with endometriosis, particularly in epithelial cells. We believe that such a deficiency in IL1R2, a potent and specific IL1 inhibitor, makes endometrial cells more sensitive to IL1 and less capable of buffering the cytokine’s effects, which may lead to functional changes that favor endometriosis development. The main objective of our study was to stably inhibit IL1R2 expression in endometrial cells in order to evaluate the role of IL1R2 deficiency in endometriosis pathophysiology. Stable clones of Ishikawa adenocarcinoma endometrial cells transfected with IL1R2 antisense and showing downregulation of IL1R2 protein expression, or with the empty expression vector alone and showing no noticeable difference in IL1R2 expression, were selected. The downregulation of IL1R2 expression in IL1R2 antisense transfectants when compared with control cells was confirmed by ELISA, Western blot and immunofluorescence. In these cells, IL1R2 expression was markedly reduced, compared with non-transfected cells or cells transfected with the empty vector, and there was a significant increase in the basal and the IL1-β (IL1B)-induced levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 secretion. Furthermore, a significant decrease in IL1B-induced secretion of tissue inhibitor of MMPs-1, a known MMP-9 inhibitor, was observed. These in vitro data make plausible a role for IL1R2 deficiency in the capability of endometrial cells to invade the host tissue and develop in ectopic locations.
Porcine sperm motility is regulated by serine phosphorylation of the glycogen synthase kinase-3α
Authors: Aparicio I M , Bragado M J , Gil M C , Garcia-Herreros M , Gonzalez-Fernandez L , Tapia J A , Garcia-Marin L J
Published: August 2007

Sperm functions are critically controlled through the phosphorylation state of specific proteins. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) is a serine/threonine kinase with two different isoforms (α and β), the enzyme activity of which is inhibited by serine phosphorylation. Recent studies suggest that GSK3 is involved in the control of bovine sperm motility. Our aim was to investigate whether GSK3 is present in porcine spermatozoa and its role in the function of these cells. This work shows that both isoforms of GSK3 are present in whole cell lysates of porcine sperm and are phosphorylated on serine in spermatozoa stimulated with the cAMP analog, 8Br-cAMP. A parallel increase in serine phosphorylation of the isoform GSK3α, but not in the isoform GSK3β, is observed after treatments that also induce a significant increase in porcine sperm velocity parameters. Therefore, a significant positive correlation among straight-line velocity, circular velocity, average velocity, rapid-speed spermatozoa, and GSK3α serine phosphorylation levels exists. Inhibition of GSK3 activity by alsterpaullone leads to a significant increase in the percentage of rapid- and medium-speed spermatozoa as well as in all sperm velocity parameters and coefficients. Moreover, pretreatment of porcine spermatozoa with alsterpaullone significantly increased the percentage of capacitated porcine spermatozoa and presents no effect in the number of acrosome-reacted porcine spermatozoa. Our work suggests that the isoform GSK3α plays a negative role in the regulation of porcine sperm motility and points out the possibility that sperm motile quality might be modulated according the activity state of GSK3α.
The expression of transforming growth factor β in pregnant rat myometrium is hormone and stretch dependent
Authors: Shynlova Oksana , Tsui Prudence , Dorogin Anna , Langille B Lowell , Lye Stephen J
Published: August 2007

From a quiescent state in early pregnancy to a highly contractile state in labor, the myometrium displays tremendous growth and remodeling. We hypothesize that the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) system is involved in the differentiation of pregnant myometrium throughout gestation and labor. Furthermore, we propose that during pregnancy the mechanical and hormonal stimuli play a role in regulating myometrial TGFβs. The expression of TGFβ1-3 mRNAs and proteins was examined by real-time PCR, Western immunoblot, and localized with immunohistochemistry in the rat uterus throughout pregnancy and labor. Tgfβ1-3 genes were expressed differentially in pregnant myometrium. Tgfβ2 gene was not affected by pregnancy, whereas the Tgfβ1 gene showed a threefold increase during the second half of gestation. In contrast, we observed a dramatic bimodal change in Tgfβ3 gene expression throughout pregnancy. Tgfβ3 mRNA levels first transiently increased at mid-gestation (11-fold on day 14) and later at term (45-fold at labor, day 23). Protein expression levels paralleled the changes in mRNA. Treatment of pregnant rats with the progesterone (P4) receptor antagonist RU486 induced premature labor on day 19 and increased Tgfβ3 mRNA, whereas artificial maintenance of elevated P4 levels at late gestation (days 20–23) caused a significant decrease in the expression of Tgfβ3 gene. In addition, Tgfβ3 was up-regulated specifically in the gravid horn of unilaterally pregnant rats subjected to a passive biological stretch imposed by the growing fetuses, but not in the empty horn. Collectively, these data indicate that the TGFβ family contributes in the regulation of myometrial activation at term integrating mechanical and endocrine signals for successful labor contraction.
11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes in the testis and male reproductive tract of the boar (Sus scrofa domestica) indicate local roles for glucocorticoids in male reproductive physiology
Authors: Sharp Victoria , Thurston Lisa M , Fowkes Robert C , Michael Anthony E
Published: August 2007

11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11βHSD) enzymes modulate the target cell actions of corticosteroids by catalysing metabolism of the physiological glucocorticoid (GC), cortisol, to inert cortisone. Recent studies have implicated GCs in boar sperm apoptosis. Hence, the objective of this study was to characterise 11βHSD enzyme expression and activities in the boar testis and reproductive tract. Although 11βHSD1 and 11βHSD2 mRNA transcripts and proteins were co-expressed in all tissues, cortisol–cortisone interconversion was undetectable in the corpus and cauda epididymides, vas deferens, vesicular and prostate glands, irrespective of nucleotide cofactors. In contrast, homogenates of boar testis, caput epididymidis and bulbourethral gland all displayed pronounced 11βHSD activities in the presence of NADPH/NADP+ and NAD+, and the penile urethra exhibited NAD+-dependent 11β-dehydrogenase activity. In kinetic studies, homogenates of boar testis, caput epididymidis and bulbourethral gland oxidised cortisol with Km values of 237–443 and 154–226 nmol/l in the presence of NADP+ and NAD+ respectively. Maximal rates of NADP+-dependent cortisol oxidation were 7.4- to 28.5-fold greater than the Vmax for NADPH- dependent reduction of cortisone, but were comparable with the rates of NAD+-dependent cortisol metabolism. The relatively low Km estimates for NADP+ -dependent cortisol oxidation suggest that either the affinity of 11βHSD1 has been increased or the cortisol inactivation is catalysed by a novel NADP+-dependent 11βHSD enzyme in these tissues. We conclude that in the boar testis, caput epididymidis and bulbourethral gland, NADP+- and NAD+-dependent 11βHSD enzymes catalyse net inactivation of cortisol, consistent with a physiological role in limiting any local actions of GCs within these reproductive tissues.
Immunoendocrine aspects of endometrial function and implantation
Authors: Lea Richard G , Sandra Olivier
Published: August 2007

Effective ovarian and uterine function relies on a complex interplay between the endocrine and immune systems. It is generally accepted that in reproductive tissues, oestradiol and progesterone have pro- and anti-inflammatory activities respectively and, in this regard, the paracrine effects of the sex steroids on the ovary are similar to the endocrine effects on the uterus. Ovarian leukocyte recruitment and cytokine release are central to follicle development, ovulation and corpus luteum function. At the uterine level, the cyclical changes in sex steroids regulate the number and distribution of endometrial and decidual immune cells as well as other immune signalling and surveillance factors. The uterine mucosa is unique, in that it must tolerate sperm and the allogeneic blastocyst in a way that does not compromise uterine immune surveillance against bacteria, yeast and viruses. Crosstalk between the sex steroids and immune mediators (systemic and local) are central to these functions, and this article will review these mechanisms and their importance for successful reproductive function and pregnancy success.
Analysis of São Vicente de Fora church, Portugal
Authors: Correia J. R. , Branco F. A. , de Brito J.
Published: August 2007

The current paper presents a rehabilitation analysis of the sixteenth century church of São Vicente de Fora, where significant damage was observed, particularly in the structure of the barrel vaulted roof above the nave. Having ascertained the main pathology of the church, a numerical model was developed to analyse the behaviour of the structure and to identify the most probable causes of its damage. The numerical model was then used to define possible solutions for the repair and strengthening of the structure of the barrel vaulted roof.
Assessment of progressive collapse in multi-storey buildings
Authors: Izzuddin B. A. , Vlassis A. G. , Elghazouli A. Y. , Nethercot OBE D. A.
Published: August 2007

A simplified framework is proposed for the progressive collapse assessment of multi-storey buildings, considering sudden column loss as a design scenario. This framework can be applied at various levels of structural idealisation, and enables the quantification of structural robustness taking into account the combined influences of redundancy, ductility and energy absorption. Three main stages are involved in the proposed approach: (a) determination of the non-linear static response, (b) dynamic assessment using a novel simplified approach based on energy conservation and (c) ductility assessment at the maximum dynamic deformed configuration. The application of the proposed method is illustrated on a multi-storey steel-framed composite building, where the relative importance of various joint details and levels of axial restraint are highlighted. Importantly, the study underlines the inadequacy of prescriptive tying force requirements that neglect ductility issues, and demonstrates that typical composite buildings must rely on bending or compressive arching rather than tensile catenary action for enhanced structural robustness.
Nonlinear response of a torsionally coupled base-isolated structure
Authors: Khoshnoudian F. , Azizi N.
Published: August 2007

Torsion in base-isolated structures with inelastic elastomeric isolation systems owing to earthquakes is studied under various parametric variations using the finite element method. Parameters include: those that characterise the number of storeys; the ratio of uncoupled torsional fundamental frequency to lateral frequency in a superstructure; the ratio of uncoupled torsional frequency to lateral frequency in an isolation system; and the stiffness eccentricity in the superstructure and in the isolation system. The effect of these parameters on the torsional behaviour of a superstructure is investigated under different ground motions. It is shown that the total superstructure response is reduced significantly owing to the existence of a base isolation system. Torsional amplification significantly depends on: the isolation system and superstructure eccentricities; the lateral and torsional flexibilities of the superstructure; the ratio of uncoupled torsional frequency to lateral frequency of a superstructure; and the isolation system. The results of the parametric study help in the understanding of the behaviour of torsionally coupled base-isolated structures. In addition the study demonstrates that the asymmetric of superstructure cannot be ignored, even if the isolation system is symmetric.