bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation and Diversity of
sap
Homologues and Their Organization among
Campylobacter fetus
Isolates
Authors: Tu Zheng-Chao , Hui John , Blaser Martin J.
Published: February 2004

Campylobacter fetus
surface layer proteins (SLPs), encoded by
sapA
homologues, are important in virulence. In wild-type
C. fetus
strain 23D, all eight
sapA
homologues are located in the 54-kb
sap
island, and SLP expression reflects the position of a unique
sapA
promoter in relation to the
sapA
homologues. The extensive homologies in the
sap
island include both direct and inverted repeats, which allow DNA rearrangements, deletion, or duplication; these elements confer substantial potential for genomic plasticity. To better understand
C. fetus sap
island diversity and variation mechanisms, we investigated the organization and distribution of
sapA
homologues among 18
C. fetus
strains of different subspecies, serotypes, and origins. For all type A strains, the boundaries of the
sap
island were relatively consistent. A 187-bp noncoding DNA insertion near the upstream boundary of the
sap
island was found in two of three reptile strains studied. The
sapA
homologue profiles were strain specific, and six new
sapA
homologues were recognized. Several homologues from reptile strains are remarkably conserved in relation to their corresponding mammalian homologues. In total, the observed differences suggest that the
sap
island has evolved differing genotypes that are plastic, perhaps enabling colonization of varied niches, in addition to antigenic variation.
Attenuation of Late-Stage Disease in Mice Infected bythe
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Mutant Lacking theSigF Alternate Sigma Factor and Identification ofSigF-Dependent Genes by MicroarrayAnalysis
Authors: Geiman Deborah E. , Kaushal Deepak , Ko Chiew , Tyagi Sandeep , Manabe Yukari C. , Schroeder Benjamin G. , Fleischmann Robert D. , Morrison Norman E. , Converse Paul J. , Chen Ping , Bishai William R.
Published: February 2004

The
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
alternate sigma factor, SigF, is
expressed during stationary growth phase and under stress conditions in
vitro. To better understand the function of SigF we studied the
phenotype of the
M. tuberculosis
Δ
sigF
mutant
in vivo during mouse infection, tested the mutant as a vaccine in
rabbits, and evaluated the mutant's microarray expression profile
in comparison with the wild type. In mice the growth rates of theΔ
sigF
mutant and wild-type strains were nearly
identical during the first 8 weeks after infection. At 8 weeks, theΔ
sigF
mutant persisted in the lung, while the wild
type continued growing through 20 weeks. Histopathological analysis
showed that both wild-type and mutant strains had similar degrees of
interstitial and granulomatous inflammation during the first 12 weeks
of infection. However, from 12 to 20 weeks the mutant strain showed
smaller and fewer lesions and less inflammation in the lungs and
spleen. Intradermal vaccination of rabbits with the
M.
tuberculosis
Δ
sigF
strain, followed by aerosol
challenge, resulted in fewer tubercles than did intradermal
M.
bovis
BCG vaccination. Complete genomic microarray analysis
revealed that 187 genes were relatively underexpressed in the absence
of SigF in early stationary phase, 277 in late stationary phase, and
only 38 genes in exponential growth phase. Numerous regulatory genes
and those involved in cell envelope synthesis were down-regulated in
the absence of SigF; moreover, the Δ
sigF
mutant strain
lacked neutral red staining, suggesting a reduction in the expression
of envelope-associated sulfolipids. Examination of
5′-untranslated sequences among the downregulated genes
revealed multiple instances of a putative SigF consensus recognition
sequence: GGTTTCX
18
GGGTAT.
These results indicate that in the mouse the
M.
tuberculosis
Δ
sigF
mutant strain persists in the
lung but at lower bacterial burdens than wild type and is attenuated by
histopathologic assessment. Microarray analysis has identified
SigF-dependent genes and a putative SigF consensus recognition
site.
Protective Efficacy of Antigenic Fractions in Mouse Models of Cryptococcosis
Authors: Mansour Michael K. , Yauch Lauren E. , Rottman James B. , Levitz Stuart M.
Published: February 2004

Infections due to the encapsulated fungusCryptococcus neoformansare a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with impaired T-cell function, particularly those with AIDS. Presumably then, T-cell responses to cryptococcal antigens are critical for protection against this ubiquitous fungus. To test the protective efficacy of these antigens as vaccine candidates, secreted cryptococcal antigens were separated by concanavalin A affinity chromatography into adherent (mannoprotein [MP]) and nonadherent (flowthrough [FT]) fractions, and the fractions were tested in murine models of disseminated cryptococcosis. Compared with adjuvant alone, C57BL/6 mice that received two inoculations of MP and FT exhibited prolonged survival and reduced brain and kidney fungal loads following intravenous challenge withC. neoformansstrain B3501. MP-immunized animals had increased brain levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, gamma interferon, and interleukin-2. Histopathologic examination revealed that compared with organs from mice that received only adjuvant, MP-immunized mice were able to recruit a stronger cellular infiltrate in brain, kidney, and liver in response to cryptococcal infection. Conjugated O-linked glycans were necessary for optimal MP-mediated protection, because chemical O deglycosylation reduced the protective efficacy of MP immunization. FT and MP immunization protected B-cell-deficient, but not T-cell-deficient mice, suggesting that protection was T-cell mediated. CBA/J mice also benefited from immunization with FT and MP, although the benefits were more modest than those seen with C57BL/6 mice. Thus, both MP and FT fractions ofC. neoformanscontain components that protect mice from disseminated cryptococcosis, and this protection appears to be T-cell mediated.
OspB Antibody Prevents
Borrelia burgdorferi
Colonization of
Ixodes scapularis
Authors: Fikrig Erol , Pal Utpal , Chen Manchuan , Anderson John F. , Flavell Richard A.
Published: February 2004

Borrelia burgdorferi
outer surface protein OspB is expressed by spirochetes in the
Ixodes scapularis
gut.
ospB
is transcribed from a bicistronic operon with
ospA
, a known spirochete adhesion gene in the tick gut. Here we examine whether OspB also has a specific function in ticks. OspB specifically binds to a protein or protein complex within the tick gut. We also assessed whether selected nonborreliacidal OspB antibodies or F(ab)
2
fragments interfere with
B. burgdorferi
-tick attachment in vivo. We examined engorged ticks that fed on
B. burgdorferi
N40-infected
scid
mice that had been treated with OspB F(ab)
2
fragments. Control F(ab)
2
fragments did not interfere with
B. burgdorferi
colonization of the tick gut, whereas OspB F(ab)
2
fragments significantly inhibited the attachment of spirochetes to the tick gut. These studies show that nonbactericidal OspB antibodies interfere with
B. burgdorferi
colonization of
I. scapularis
, highlighting a specific role for OspB in spirochete- arthropod interactions and suggesting new antibody-mediated strategies for interfering with
B. burgdorferi
transmission.
Determination of Surface-Exposed, Functional Domains of Gonococcal Transferrin-Binding Protein A
Authors: Yost-Daljev Mary Kate , Cornelissen Cynthia Nau
Published: February 2004

The gonococcal transferrin receptor is composed of two distinct proteins, TbpA and TbpB. TbpA is a member of the TonB-dependent family of integral outer membrane transporters, while TbpB is lipid modified and thought to be peripherally surface exposed. We previously proposed a hypothetical topology model for gonococcal TbpA that was based upon computer predictions and similarity with other TonB-dependent transporters for which crystal structures have been determined. In the present study, the hemagglutinin epitope was inserted into TbpA to probe the surface topology of this protein and secondarily to test the functional impacts of site-specific mutagenesis. Twelve epitope insertion mutants were constructed, five of which allowed us to confirm the surface exposure of loops 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10. In contrast to the predictions set forth by the hypothetical model, insertion into the plug region resulted in an epitope that was surface accessible, while epitope insertions into two putative loops (9 and 11) were not surface accessible. Insertions into putative loop 3 and β strand 9 abolished transferrin binding and utilization, and the plug insertion mutant exhibited decreased transferrin-binding affinity concomitant with an inability to utilize it. Insertion into putative β strand 16 generated a mutant that was able to bind transferrin normally but that was unable to mediate utilization. Mutants with insertions into putative loops 2, 9, and 11 maintained wild-type binding affinity but could utilize only transferrin in the presence of TbpB. This is the first demonstration of the ability of TbpB to compensate for a mutation in TbpA.
Rat Neutrophils Prevent the Development of Tuberculosis
Authors: Sugawara Isamu , Udagawa Tadashi , Yamada Hiroyuki
Published: February 2004

To understand the role of neutrophils in the development of rat tuberculosis in vivo, we utilized lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neutrophilia in the lungs. LPS (50 μg/ml) was administered intratracheally to male Fischer rats. Rats were then infected with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
by an airborne route. Intratracheal injection of LPS significantly blocked the development of pulmonary granulomas and significantly reduced pulmonary CFU (
P
< 0.01). LPS treatment with amphotericin B (an LPS inhibitor) or neutralizing anti-rat neutrophil antibody reversed the development of pulmonary lesions. LPS-induced transient neutrophilia prevented early mycobacterial infection. The timing of LPS administration was important. When given intratracheally at least 10 days after aerial infection, LPS did not prevent development of tuberculosis. Neutrophils obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage killed
M. tuberculosis
cells. These results indicate clearly that neutrophils participate actively in defense against early-phase tuberculosis.
Mycobacterial Purified Protein Derivatives Stimulate Innate Immunity: Malawians Show Enhanced Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha, Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-10 Responses Compared to Those of Adolescents in the United Kingdom
Authors: Weir Rosemary E. , Black Gillian F. , Dockrell Hazel M. , Floyd Sian , Fine Paul E. M. , Chaguluka Steven D. , Stenson Sally , King Elizabeth , Nazareth Bernadette , Warndorff David K. , Ngwira Bagrey , Crampin Amelia C. , Mwaungulu Lorren , Sichali Lifted , Jarman Elizabeth , Donovan Linda , Blackwell Jenefer M.
Published: February 2004

To investigate the role of innate immunity in variable efficacy ofMycobacterium bovisBCG vaccination in Malawi and the United Kingdom, we examined 24-h tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-10 responses to mycobacterial purified protein derivatives (PPDs). The rank order in stimulatory potency for different PPDs was the same for all three cytokines. Before vaccination Malawians made higher pro- and anti-inflammatory responses than did United Kingdom subjects. Fewer than 5% of United Kingdom subjects made IL-10 in response to any PPD, compared to 19 to 57% responders among Malawians. Priming for regulatory IL-10 may contribute to the smaller increase in gamma interferon responses in Malawians compared to United Kingdom subjects following BCG vaccination.
Detection of Antibodies to Toxin-Coregulated Pili in Sera from Cholera Patients
Authors: Attridge Stephen R. , Wallerström Gun , Qadri Firdausi , Svennerholm Ann-Mari
Published: February 2004

Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were prepared against toxin-coregulated pili (TCP) isolated from
Vibrio cholerae
O1 El Tor. Despite their limited bactericidal potential, two MAbs were able to mediate biotype-specific protection against experimental cholera in infant mice. These MAbs were used in immunoblotting studies to assess seroconversion to El Tor TCP following cholera. Clear anti-pilus responses were observed in five of nine patients.
Impacts of
sarA
and
agr
in
Staphylococcus aureus
Strain Newman on Fibronectin-Binding Protein A Gene Expression and Fibronectin Adherence Capacity In Vitro and in Experimental Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Xiong Yan-Qiong , Bayer Arnold S. , Yeaman Michael R. , van Wamel Willem , Manna Adhar C. , Cheung Ambrose L.
Published: February 2004

We investigated the impacts of
sarA
and
agr
on
fnbA
expression and fibronectin-binding capacity in
Staphylococcus aureus
in vitro and in experimental endocarditis. Although
sarA
up-regulated and
agr
down-regulated both
fnbA
expression and fibronectin binding in vitro and in vivo,
fnbA
expression was positively regulated in the absence of both global regulators. Thus, additional regulatory loci contribute to
fnbA
regulation and fibronectin-binding capacities in
S. aureus
.
The effects of occupational exposure to chlorpyrifos on the peripheral nervous system: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Albers J W , Garabrant D H , Schweitzer S J , Garrison R P , Richardson R J , Berent S
Published: February 2004

Aims:To determine whether chronic occupational exposure to chlorpyrifos at levels associated with various aspects of manufacturing produced a clinically evident or subclinical peripheral neuropathy.

Methods:Clinical and quantitative nerve conduction study (NCS) examinations were performed on two occasions on chlorpyrifos manufacturing workers who had measurable chlorpyrifos exposure and a referent group. Baseline evaluations were performed on 53 of 66 eligible chlorpyrifos subjects and on 60 of 74 eligible referent subjects; one-year evaluations were completed on 111 of the 113 subjects evaluated at baseline.

Results:Chlorpyrifos and referent groups differed significantly in measures of 3,5,6 trichloro-2-pyridinol excretion and plasma butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) activity, indicating substantially higher exposures among chlorpyrifos subjects. Few subjects had clinically important neurological symptoms or signs. NCS results were comparable to control values, and there were no significant group differences in NCS results at baseline, one year, or change over one year. No chlorpyrifos subject fulfilled conventional criteria for confirmed peripheral neuropathy at baseline or one-year examinations. The odds ratios for developing any diagnosable level of peripheral neuropathy among the chlorpyrifos subjects was not increased at baseline or at one year compared to referents at baseline. Mixed regression models used to evaluate subclinical group-by-time interactions showed numerous significant NCS differences attributable to near-nerve temperature differences among all subjects between the baseline and one-year examinations, but only a few disparate effects related to group.

Conclusions:Chronic chlorpyrifos exposure during the manufacturing process sufficient to produce biological effects on BuChE activity was not associated with clinically evident or subclinical peripheral neuropathy at baseline or with measurable deterioration among chlorpyrifos subjects compared to referents after one year of additional exposure.
ACCELERATING UNIVERSE IN A BIG BOUNCE MODEL
Authors: WANG BEILI , LIU HONGYA , XU LIXIN
Published: February 2004

Recent observations of Type Ia supernovae provide evidence for the acceleration of our universe, which leads to the possibility that the universe is entering an inflationary epoch. We simulate it under a "big bounce" model, which contains a time variable cosmological "constant" that is derived from a higher dimension and manifests itself in 4D spacetime as dark energy. By properly choosing the two arbitrary functions contained in the model, we obtain a simple exact solution in which the evolution of the universe is divided into several stages. Before the big bounce, the universe contracts from a Λ-dominated vacuum, and after the bounce, the universe expands. In the early time after the bounce, the expansion of the universe is decelerating. In the late time after the bounce, dark energy (i.e. the variable cosmological "constant") overtakes dark matter and baryons, and the expansion enters an accelerating stage. When time tends to infinity, the contribution of dark energy tends to two thirds of the total energy density of the universe, qualitatively in agreement with observations.
LOW-MOMENTUM PION ENHANCEMENT INDUCED BY CHIRAL SYMMETRY RESTORATION
Authors: ZHUANG PENGFEI
Published: February 2004

The thermal and nonthermal pion production by sigma decay and its relation with chiral symmetry restoration in a hot and dense matter are investigated. The nonthermal decay into pions of sigma mesons which are popularly produced in chiral symmetric phase leads to a low-momentum pion enhancement as a possible signature of chiral phase transition at finite temperature and density.
SPACE–TIME EVOLUTION OF THE OSCILLATOR, RAPIDLY MOVING IN A RANDOM MEDIA
Authors: BLOK B.
Published: February 2004

We study the quantum-mechanical evolution of the nonrelativistic oscillator, rapidly moving in the media with the random vector fields. We calculate the evolution of the level probability distribution as a function of time, and obtain rapid level diffusion over the energy levels. Our results imply a new mechanism of charmonium dissociation in QCD media.
ULTRAHIGH ENERGY NEUTRINO PHYSICS
Authors: STAŚTO ANNA M.
Published: February 2004

Ultrahigh energy neutrinos can provide important information about the distant astronomical objects and the origin of the Universe. Precise knowledge about neutrino interactions and production rates is essential for estimating background, expected fluxes and detection probabilities. In this paper we review the applications of the high energy QCD to the calculations of the interaction cross-sections of the neutrinos. We also study the production of the ultrahigh energy neutrinos in the atmosphere due to the charm and beauty decays.
NEW PHYSICS EFFECTS IN RARE Z DECAYS
Authors: PÉREZ M. A. , TAVARES-VELASCO G. , TOSCANO J. J.
Published: February 2004

Virtual effects induced by new physics in rare Z decays are reviewed. Since the expected sensitivity of the giga-Z linear collider is of the order of 10-8, we emphasize the importance of any new physics effect that gives a prediction above this limit. It is also pointed out that an improvement on the known experimental constraints on rare Z decays will provide us with a critical test of the validity of the standard model at the loop level.
SUPERINTEGRABLE SYSTEMS, MULTI-HAMILTONIAN STRUCTURES AND NAMBU MECHANICS IN AN ARBITRARY DIMENSION
Authors: TEĞMEN A. , VERÇIN A.
Published: February 2004

A general algebraic condition for the functional independence of 2n-1 constants of motion of an n-dimensional maximal superintegrable Hamiltonian system has been proved for an arbitrary finite n. This makes it possible to construct, in a well-defined generic way, a normalized Nambu bracket which produces the correct Hamiltonian time evolution. Existence and explicit forms of pairwise compatible multi-Hamiltonian structures for any maximal superintegrable system have been established. The Calogero–Moser system, motion of a charged particle in a uniform perpendicular magnetic field and Smorodinsky–Winternitz potentials are considered as illustrative applications and their symmetry algebras as well as their Nambu formulations and alternative Poisson structures are presented.
DEVELOPMENT OF A UNIFIED TENSOR CALCULUS FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL LIE ALGEBRAS
Authors: MACFARLANE A. J. , PFEIFFER HENDRYK
Published: February 2004

The uniformity of the decomposition law, for a family ℱ of Lie algebras which includes the exceptional Lie algebras, of the tensor powers ad ⊗n of their adjoint representations ad is now well known. This paper uses it to embark on the development of a unified tensor calculus for the exceptional Lie algebras. It deals explicitly with all the tensors that arise at the n=2 stage, obtaining a large body of systematic information about their properties and identities satisfied by them. Some results at the n=3 level are obtained, including a simple derivation of the dimension and Casimir eigenvalue data for all the constituents of ad ⊗3. This is vital input data for treating the set of all tensors that enter the picture at the n=3 level, following a path already known to be viable for [Formula: see text].

The special way in which the Lie algebra [Formula: see text] conforms to its place in the family ℱ alongside the exceptional Lie algebras is described.
Secretagogue-induced translocation of CRHSP-28 within an early apical endosomal compartment in acinar cells
Authors: Thomas Diana D. H. , Weng Ning , Groblewski Guy E.
Published: February 2004

Ca2+-regulated heat-stable protein (CRHSP-28) is a member of the TPD52 protein family that has been shown to regulate Ca2+-dependent secretory activity in pancreatic acinar cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy of isolated lobules demonstrated that CRHSP-28 is localized to a supranuclear apical compartment in acini and accumulates immediately below the apical membrane within 2 min of CCK octapeptide (CCK-8) stimulation. Dual-immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated an endosomal localization of CRHSP-28 that strongly overlapped with early endosomal antigen-1 (EEA-1) on vesicular structures throughout the apical cytoplasm but showed only minimal overlap with the transferrin receptor, which is present in basolaterally derived endosomes. Significant overlapping of CRHSP-28 with the trans-Golgi network marker-38 was also noted in supranuclear regions of acini. Interestingly, treatment of lobules with brefeldin A reversibly disrupted the vesicular localization of CRHSP-28 and EEA-1 within the apical cytoplasm. The CCK-8-induced accumulation of CRHSP-28 in subapical regions of acini was not altered by inhibition of apical endocytosis with the actin filament-disrupting agent latrunculin B. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that CRHSP-28 is associated with the limiting membrane of irregularly shaped vesicular structures of low electron density in the apical cytoplasm that are positive for EEA-1 staining. Sparse, but significant, CRHSP-28 immunoreactivity was also observed along the limiting membrane of zymogen granules. Consistent with immunofluorescence data, CRHSP-28 was found to accumulate in clusters on endosomes and positioned between zymogen granules below the cell apex on CCK-8 stimulation. These data indicate that CRHSP-28 is present within endocytic and exocytic compartments of acinar cells and is acutely regulated by secretagogue stimulation.
Generation and characterization of immortalized rat pancreatic stellate cells
Authors: Sparmann Gisela , Hohenadl Christine , Tornøe Jens , Jaster Robert , Fitzner Brit , Koczan Dirk , Thiesen Hans-Jürgen , Glass Änne , Winder David , Liebe Stefan , Emmrich Jörg
Published: February 2004

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are involved in, among other things, the pathogenesis of pancreatic fibrosis. Here, we present the generation of immortalized PSCs 7 and 14 days after isolation by retroviral gene transfer of the SV40 large T antigen encoding region. Propagated cell lines [large T immortalized cells (LTC)-7, LTC-14] retained characteristics of primary cells in terms of morphology, responsiveness to mediators regulating cellular functions such as proliferation, and expression profile of a number of investigated genes. Whereas LTC-14 kept the morphological features of the differentiation status of the primary cells they were made of, LTC-7 appeared similar to an earlier stage. Thus the established cell lines represent a versatile tool to investigate various aspects of PSC biology.
Muscle sympathetic nerve activity during lower body negative pressure is accentuated in heat-stressed humans
Authors: Cui Jian , Wilson Thad E. , Crandall Craig G.
Published: February 2004

The purpose of this project was to test the hypothesis that increases in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) during an orthostatic challenge is attenuated in heat-stressed individuals. To accomplish this objective, MSNA was measured during graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) in nine subjects under normothermic and heat-stressed conditions. Progressive LBNP was applied at -3, -6, -9, -12, -15, -18, -21, and -40 mmHg for 2 min per stage. Whole body heating caused significant increases in sublingual temperature, skin blood flow, sweat rate, heart rate, and MSNA (all P < 0.05) but not in mean arterial blood pressure ( P > 0.05). Progressive LBNP induced significant increases in MSNA in both thermal conditions. However, during the heat stress trial, increases in MSNA at LBNP levels higher than -9 mmHg were greater compared with during the same LBNP levels in normothermia (all P < 0.05). These data suggest that the increase in MSNA to orthostatic stress is not attenuated but rather accentuated in heat-stressed humans.
Use of phosphocreatine kinetics to determine the influence of creatine on muscle mitochondrial respiration: an in vivo 31P-MRS study of oral creatine ingestion
Authors: Smith Sinclair A. , Montain Scott J. , Zientara Gary P. , Fielding Roger A.
Published: February 2004

Recent human isolated muscle fiber studies suggest that phosphocreatine (PCr) and creatine (Cr) concentrations play a role in the regulation of mitochondrial respiration rate. To determine whether similar regulatory mechanisms are present in vivo, this study examined the relationship between skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration rate and end-exercise PCr, Cr, PCr-to-Cr ratio (PCr/Cr), ADP, and pH by using 31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy in 16 men and women (36.9 ± 4.6 yr). The initial PCr resynthesis rate and time constant (Tc) were used as indicators of mitochondrial respiration after brief (10–12 s) and exhaustive (1–4 min) dynamic knee extension exercise performed in placebo and creatine-supplemented conditions. The results show that the initial PCr resynthesis rate has a strong relationship with end-exercise PCr, Cr, and PCr/Cr ( r > 0.80, P < 0.001), a moderate relationship with end-exercise ADP ( r = 0.77, P < 0.001), and no relationship with end-exercise pH ( r = -0.14, P = 0.34). The PCr Tc was not as strongly related to PCr, Cr, PCr/Cr, and ADP ( r < 0.77, P < 0.001–0.18) and was significantly influenced by end-exercise pH ( r = -0.43, P < 0.01). These findings suggest that end-exercise PCr and Cr should be taken into consideration when PCr recovery kinetics is used as an indicator of mitochondrial respiration and that the initial PCr resynthesis rate is a more reliable indicator of mitochondrial respiration compared with the PCr Tc.
Archaeology and the History of Early Islam: The First Seventy Years
Authors: Johns Jeremy
Published: February 2004

The rarity of material evidence for the religion of Islam during the first seventy years of the hijra (622-92 CE) has been used to attack the traditional positivist account of the rise of Islam. However, the earliest declarations of Islam are to be found on media produced by the early Islamic state. It is therefore mistake to read too much significance into the absence of such declarations prior to the formation of that state by Abd al-Malik (685-705 CE). There is little prospect that archaeology will uncover new evidence of Islam from the first seventy years. Le manque de données matérielles sur la religion de l'Islam pendant les sept premières décennies de l'hégire (622-92) a été utilisé pour réfuter la théorie positiviste traditionelle de l'essor de l'Islam. Cependant, les premières déclarations de l'Islam sont à trouver dans des oeuvres produites par l'Etat islamique à ses débuts. Il est donc erroné d'attribuer trop de sens à l'absence de telles déclarations avant la formation de cet Etat par Abd al-Malik (685-705). Il y a peu de perspectives de nouvelles découvertes archéologiques sur l'Islam des sept premières décennies.
ΛΟΓΟΣ UND ΜΥΘΟΣ IN PLATONISCHEN JENSEITSVORSTELLUNGEN
Authors: Kuch Heinrich
Published: February 2004

This contribution considers the evidence of λογος and μυος in Plato's metaphysical exposés Grg. 523a1-527e7, Phd. 107c1-115a7, R. 614a5-621d3 and Phdr. 246a3-257b6. The two terms differ widely. λογος proves to be the central idea of Platonic philosophy, meaning in particular philosophical arguing, investigation, debate, concept. Understood as a discourse on mythical level μυος is without doubt a remarkable phenomenon in Plato's dialogues, especially when it exhibits divinatory dimensions. But it can be a simple story-telling, too. Abandoning the reality μυος fails to come up to the whole truth. It goes without saying that both λογος and μυος have further significant semantic facets. Although they seem sometimes to approach each other, λογος and μυος are basically different, as the texts display in detail.
ORAL AND WRITTEN SOURCES IN ATHENIAN FORENSIC RHETORIC
Authors: Rydberg-Cox Jeffrey
Published: February 2004

Athens in the fifth and fourth centuries witnessed an increase in the use of written materials such as evidence in the law courts, the revision and writing down of laws, the establishment of state archives, and the emergence of books. While many authors praised writing for its positive impact, other writers viewed it as an object of concern. In this paper, I explore the contexts in which Athenian orators used this ambivalence about writing in support of their cases. I demonstrate that the sorts of writing that are praised or attacked in Athenian forensic orations fall into three broad categories, written laws, written contracts, and written evidence. In most cases, the discussion does not revolve around writing in general, but rather focuses on promoting or discrediting an individual piece of writing to suit the needs of the case.
FOUNDER, CIVILIZER AND LEADER: VERGIL'S EVANDER AND HIS ROLE IN THE ORIGINS OF ROME
Authors: Papaioannou Sophia
Published: February 2004

Contrary to the two other major Augustan writers who discussed the origins of Rome, Vergil's Roman prehistory centers on the presence of Evander. An involuntary exile from the East (Greek Arcadia) who settled in Latium and instilled civilization and laws among the Italians, Evander is a duplicate of Aeneas, a cultural ancestor and a model of leadership. Aeneas is instructed by the deities of Italy (Tiberinus) to pay a visit to Pallanteum, Evander's capital and the primordial site of Rome, in order to learn about the past and receive instructions about the future. His tour of proto-Rome, led by Evander, carries Aeneas through a series of monuments that span through Rome's entire history. Aeneas is guided to follow Evander's example, and Vergil, urging reevaluation of widespread anti-Hellenic prejudices, prominently underscores the seminal contribution of Greece to the cultural and political origins of Rome.
SIND DIE EPIKUREISCHEN GÖTTER 'THOUGHT-CONSTRUCTS?'
Authors: Schiebe Marianne Wifstrand
Published: February 2004

This paper examines the tacit implications of the theory proposed by A.A. Long and D.N. Sedley, according to which Epicurus did not believe that the gods were eternal living beings consisting of body and soul—this would be in conflict with the general atomistic principle of compounds as subject to eventual dissolution—but assumed instead that they are created in the human mind by the very act of imagination. Thus, they are eternal, not as living beings but as imagined living beings, and as concepts. It is argued that this alleged solution to the question how the Epicurean gods could be eternal does not do away with the problem; on the contrary, the implications and consequences of the arguments given in support of the theory, when made explicit, turn out to result in a scenario that is wholly inconceivable. Taken together with the long recognized fact—not contested by L & S—that the primary sources speak against the theory, these results should lead to its definite dismissal. Admittedly, if the Epicureans held the gods to consist of some kind of body and soul, there is a conflict, but a conflict much easier to live with than the difficulties accompanying the proposed solution.
Use of Bone Marrow Stromal Cells for Tendon Graft-to-Bone Healing
Authors: Ouyang Hong Wei , Goh James C. H. , Lee Eng Hin
Published: February 2004

Background

Despite increasing attention on the issue of tendon-to-bone integration, there has been no animal study on the use of cell therapy for promoting the insertion healing of tendon to bone.

Purpose

To determine the efficacy of using a large number of bone marrow stromal cells (bMSCs) to enhance tendon-to-bone healing.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

The hallucis longus tendons were translated into 2.5-mm diameter calcaneal bone tunnels in a New Zealand white rabbit model. The bone tunnels were treated with or without bMSCs. Three specimens from each group were harvested at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively and evaluated by conventional histological and immunohistochemical methods.

Results

At 4 weeks, the specimens with bMSCs exhibited more perpendicular collagen fiber formation and increased proliferation of cartilage-like cells, which was indicated by positive collagen type-II immuno-staining of the tendon-bone interface. In contrast, the specimens without bMSCs demonstrated progressive maturation and reorganization of fibrous tissue aligned along the load axis.

Conclusion

Introduction of a large number of bone marrow stromal cells to the bone tunnel have shown to improve the insertion healing of tendon to bone in a rabbit model through formation of fibrocartilagenous attachment at early time points.
What Really Happens during the Lachman Test?
Authors: Logan Martin Charles , Williams Andrew , Lavelle Jonathon , Gedroyc Wady , Freeman Michael
Published: February 2004

Background

The Lachman test is the most reliable clinical test for diagnosing rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It is generally believed that the lateral side contributes more than the medial side to anterior tibial translation, but this has never been convincingly proven. The MRI study presented in this article addresses this issue.

Hypothesis

The lateral side of the ACL-deficient knee contributes more than the medial side to anterior tibial translation.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

The Lachman test and the radiologic Lachman test were performed on 10 patients with isolated rupture of the ACL while the knee was scanned dynamically using open-access magnetic resonance imaging. The amount of movement in the midmedial and midlateral compartments of both the contralateral normal knee and the ACL-deficient knee was measured.

Results

In both normal and ACL-deficient knees, the lateral compartment contributes more than the medial to anterior translation of the tibia. Rupture of the ACL leads to increased laxity in both medial and lateral compartments with a statistically significant greater contribution from the lateral side.

Conclusion

Rupture of the ACL leads to increased anterior tibial translation coupled with tibial internal rotation.
Conservative Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis
Authors: Struijs P. A. A. , Kerkhoffs G. M. M. J. , Assendelft W. J. J. , van Dijk C. N.
Published: February 2004

Background

The authors evaluated the effectiveness of brace-only treatment, physical therapy, and the combination of these for patients with tennis elbow.

Methods

Patients were randomized over 3 groups: brace-only treatment, physical therapy, and the combination of these. Main outcome measures were success rate, severity of complaints, pain, disability, and satisfaction. Data were analyzed using both intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses. Follow-up was 1 year.

Results

A total of 180 patients were randomized. Physical therapy was superior to brace only at 6 weeks for pain, disability, and satisfaction. Contrarily, brace-only treatment was superior on ability of daily activities. Combination treatment was superior to brace on severity of complaints, disability, and satisfaction. At 26 weeks and 52 weeks, no significant differences were identified.

Conclusion

Conflicting results were found. Brace treatment might be useful as initial therapy. Combination therapy has no additional advantage compared to physical therapy but is superior to brace only for the short term.
Myofibers Express IL-6 after Eccentric Exercise
Authors: Tomiya Akihito , Aizawa Toshimi , Nagatomi Ryoichi , Sensui Hiroomi , Kokubun Shoichi
Published: February 2004

Background

Interleukin (IL)-6 is locally produced in skeletal muscles and shows a remarkable increase in plasma after eccentric exercises.

Objective

To elucidate the cell types in the muscles responsible for IL-6 production after eccentric exercises.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

An eccentric contraction model was made using electrical stimulation. The authors investigated the muscle damage and regeneration processes after eccentric exercises histologically, and the cell types expressing IL-6 and its subcellular compartimentalization with time immunohistochemically after eccentric exercises.

Results

Swollen myofibers were detected from 8 hours to 3 days after exercises. Disrupted myofibers were detected from 24 hours to 7 days, with a peak of 3 days. IL-6 was detected only in the cytoplasm of myofibers until 12 hours; thereafter, it was found in the inflammatory cells and proliferating satellite cells as well. The swollen myofibers were negatively stained for IL-6. The positive ratios of IL-6 in myofibers immediately increased after exercises, peaked in 12 hours, and then decreased.

Conclusions

After eccentric exercises, IL-6 expression increased in myofibers preceding the disruption of myofibers. IL-6 might be closely related to muscle damage caused by strenuous exercises.
Intra-Articular Knee Temperature Changes
Authors: Warren Todd A. , Mccarty Eric C. , Richardson Airron L. , Michener Todd , Spindler Kurt P.
Published: February 2004

Background

Cryotherapy is commonly applied without research documenting the intra-articular (IA) temperature changes or subject discomfort between ice and a cryotherapy device.

Hypothesis

The null hypothesis is that no difference would be observed in IA temperature decline or subject tolerance between ice and the cryotherapy device in normal knees.

Study Design

Prospective, within-subject controlled clinical trial.

Methods

Twelve subjects had IA temperature in suprapatellar pouch and skin recorded bilaterally after application of cryotherapy versus ice. Subject tolerance was recorded by 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS). Statistical evaluation was by Spearman's correlation analysis and paired, nonparametric Wilcoxon's signed rank test.

Results

Both significantly lowered (P < 0.001) skin and IA temperature with median decreases (ice/cryotherapy) at 30 (3.3 °C/2.2 °C), 60 (12.8 °C/7.1 °C), and 90 (15.2 °C/9.7 °C) minutes. However, ice lowered the IA temperature significantly more than the cryotherapy device (P < 0.001) and was more painful by VAS at 30 and 60 minutes (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Both methods produced large declines in skin and IA temperatures. However, ice was more effective yet resulted in higher pain scores. The authors hypothesize that IA temperatures below a threshold are associated with increased perceived pain.
Aggressive Quadriceps Loading Can Induce Noncontact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Demorat Gene , Weinhold Paul , Blackburn Troy , Chudik Steven , Garrett William
Published: February 2004

Background

The force responsible for noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries remains controversial. The patella tendon to tibial shaft angle causes an anterior tibial shear force with quadriceps activation.

Hypothesis

An aggressive quadriceps contraction can injure the ACL.

Methods

The authors characterized noncontact ACL injury and kinematics with aggressive quadriceps loading. Thirteen freshfrozen knees were potted in a jig held in 20 ° of flexion while a 4500 N quadriceps contraction was simulated. Knee kinematics were recorded. A KT-1000 arthrometer and a simulated active quadriceps test assessed anterior displacement. Statistics were performed using paired t tests and 1-way analysis of variance.

Results

Kinematics revealed the following mean values: anterior displacement, 19.5 mm; valgus, 2.3 °; and internal rotation, 5.5 °. Mean KT-1000 and active quadriceps test differences were 4.0 mm and 2.7 mm, respectively (statistically significant P = .002 and P = .002). Six knees showed gross ACL injury at the femoral insertion. Based on ACL injury, KT-1000 differences were statistically significant (P = .029).

Conclusions

Aggressive quadriceps loading, with the knee in slight flexion, produces significant anterior tibial translation and ACL injury. This suggests that the quadriceps is the intrinsic force in noncontact ACL injuries, producing a model for further investigation.
Interference Screw Fixation of Soft Tissue Grafts in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Part 2
Authors: Nurmi Janne T. , Kannus Pekka , Sievänen Harri , Järvelä Timo , Järvinen Markku , Järvinen Teppo L. N.
Published: February 2004

Background

Preconditioning of tendon grafts is believed to eliminate natural viscoelasticity of the tendons and prevent knee laxity after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Hypothesis

Preconditioned ACL grafts maintain their initially set tension.

Study Design

Randomized experimental study.

Methods

Forty-two human anterior tibialis (AT) tendon grafts were subjected to either no preconditioning (group 1), cyclic preconditioning (group 2), or isometric preconditioning (group 3). The residual graft tension was then recorded immediately after the application of an initial graft tension of 80 N and fixation into tibia with an interference screw, as well as 10 minutes later. In another experiment, the residual graft tension was recorded 1, 10, and 60 minutes after 10 AT nd quadrupled hamstring tendon (HT) grafts alone (no fixation) had been subjected to isometric preconditioning (80 N).

Results

Immediately after screw insertion, the residual (AT) graft tensions were 79 ± 19 N, 100 ± 17 N, and 102 ± 15 N in groups 1 through 3, respectively. Ten minutes later, the corresponding values were 49 ± 16 N, 60 ± 11 N, and 64 ± 12 N. For the AT and HT grafts alone, the residual graft tensions were 67 ± 2 N and 67 ± 2 N, 45 ± 2 N and 46 ± 4 N, and 29 ± 3 N and 34 ± 5 N at 1, 10, and 60 minutes, respectively.

Conclusions

A steady decrease (–60% within 60 minutes after initial tensioning) occurs in the initially set tension of the soft tissue ACL grafts.

Clinical Relevance

Clinically applicable preconditioning protocols cannot eliminate the intrinsic viscoelasticity from ACL soft tissue grafts, and thus, the reasonableness of preconditioning per se is questioned in ACL reconstruction.
Arthroscopic Drilling with Debridementof Remaining Cartilage for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talar Dome in Unstable Ankles
Authors: Takao Masato , Uchio Yuji , Kakimaru Hiroyuki , Kumahashi Nobuyuki , Ochi Mitsuo
Published: February 2004

Background

Arthroscopic examination has shown that the regenerative cartilage that appears after arthroscopic drilling for thetreatment of osteochondral lesions of the talar dome does not always cover the cartilage defect sufficiently.

Hypothesis

The remaining degenerative cartilage at the lesions may obstruct the healing of the articular cartilage.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Thirty-nine patients underwent arthroscopic drilling that kept the remaining cartilage at the lesion (group A), and 30patients underwent arthroscopic drilling that removed the remaining cartilage at the lesion (group B). At 1 year after theoperation, we performed ankle arthroscopy to evaluate the cartilage condition.

Results

The arthroscopic findings revealed that in group A, 11 cases (28.2%) were improved, 12 cases (30.8%) wereunchanged, and 16 cases (41.0%) had deteriorated; in group B, 27 cases (93.1%) were improved and 2 cases were unchanged. There were significant differences between group A and group B in the rate of cases whose cartilage condition was seen toimprove under arthroscopic examination (P< 0.0001).

Conclusions

The study shows that in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talar dome, the removing of the remainingdegenerative cartilage may be of some benefit in the treatment of these lesions.
Proprioception of the Shoulder Joint after Surgical Repair for Instability
Authors: Pötzl Wolfgang , Thorwesten Lothar , Götze Christian , Garmann Stefan , Steinbeck Jörn
Published: February 2004

Background

Proprioceptive capabilities play an important role in stability of the shoulder joint.

Hypothesis

Decreased proprioceptive capabilities can improve by surgical repair of shoulder instability.

Study Design

Prospective long-term study.

Methods

The proprioceptive capabilities of 14 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability were examined preoperative and with a minimum follow-up of 5 years postoperative using the angle reproduction test. The patients' data were compared to a healthy control group.

Results

The joint position sense improved significantly in abduction, flexion, and rotation (P< .05). The preoperative difference from the target joint position was 9.3 ° (SD, 4.6 °) for the summarized positions in abduction, 9.1 ° (SD, 4.5 °) in flexion, and 10.1 ° (SD, 5.1 °) in rotation. Postoperatively, it improved to 5.6 ° (SD, 2.9 °) in abduction, 5.6 ° (SD, 2.7 °) in flexion, and 5.0 ° (SD, 1.8 °) in rotation. The joint position sense of the uninvolved contralateral shoulder improved too.

Conclusions

Five years after surgical repair for shoulder instability, the joint position sense improved significantly, to a level of normal, healthy shoulders.
A New Technique
Authors: Lemos Stephen E. , Ebramzedeh Edward , Kvitne Ronald S.
Published: February 2004

Background

Suture anchor and bone tunnel fixations are used for distal biceps tendon repairs and have not been compared.

Hypothesis

Suture anchor fixation is equal or superior to bone tunnel fixation.

Study Design

Randomized controlled in vitro study.

Methods

A new fixation technique was compared to traditional bone tunnel fixation of distal biceps tendon ruptures between randomly selected sides of nine matched-pair, fresh-frozen elbow specimens from cadaveric donors (mean age = 74.7 years). Bone densities were determined. The distal biceps tendon was attached to the actuator of a servohydraulic load frame and loaded to tensile failure at a constant rate of 4 mm/sec. Bone density, sex, age, side, tuberosity area, repair, failure type, repair stiffness, and yield strength were compared.

Results

Superior yield strength of suture anchor fixation (263 N) compared to bone tunnel fixation (203 N) (P= 0.0233) were demonstrated. When suture anchor fixation failure (1 of 9) occurred, the matched pair also failed.

Conclusion

Suture anchor fixation offers an equal if not superior alternative to bone tunnel fixation for repair of the distal biceps tendon in the specimens tested.

Clinical Relevance

Suture anchor fixation may be used for distal biceps tendon repairs.