bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic carbon in the silt + clay fraction of Tasmanian soils
Authors: Sparrow L. A. , Belbin K. C. , Doyle R. B.
Published: March 2006

Organic carbon (C) was measured in the silt + clay fraction of 78 soils from agricultural areas in Tasmania, and the relationship between C in the silt + clay fraction and the percentage by weight of particles in this fraction was compared with similar data for soils from other regions and climates. Most of the cropping soils from Tasmania followed a previously published linear relationship, which is considered an indication of the capacity of soils to store C. The soils which fell the greatest distance below this relationship were sandy soils, consistent with previous evidence that these soils in Tasmania have been degraded. Soils which showed a major positive departure from the relationship were clay loams with >60% silt + clay. Most were also pasture soils. Tasmania's cool‐temperate climate would promote plant growth and C inputs and slow C breakdown, while the high clay content would help protect C. The results for the clay loam soils are consistent with earlier observations that these soils are generally in good health.
Safety and Efficacy of Teriparatide in Elderly Women with Established Osteoporosis: Bone Anabolic Therapy from a Geriatric Perspective
Authors: Boonen Steven , Marin Fernando , Mellstrom Dan , Xie Li , Desaiah Durisala , Krege John H. , Rosen Clifford J.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES: To assess the safety and efficacy of teriparatide in patients aged 75 and older and compare these findings with those of women younger than 75 using data from the Fracture Prevention Trial (FPT).

DESIGN: The FPT was a randomized, multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study.

SETTING: The FPT multicenter international study.

PARTICIPANTS: Postmenopausal women aged 42 to 86 were randomized to placebo (N=544) or teriparatide 20 μg (N=541) by daily self‐injection for a median of 19 months. Patients received daily oral supplements of 1,000 mg calcium and 400 to 1,200 IU vitamin D. For this analysis, subgroups were defined according to patient age younger than 75 (N=841) and 75 and older (N=244).

MEASUREMENTS: The effects of teriparatide on bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine and femoral neck; the incidence of new vertebral and new nonvertebral fragility fractures; bone turnover markers, including bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase; and urinary deoxypyridinoline corrected for creatinine clearance, as well as the safety of teriparatide, were investigated.

RESULTS: There were no significant treatment‐by‐age interactions for the bone turnover markers, femoral neck BMD, vertebral fractures, nonvertebral fragility fractures, height loss, hyperuricemia, or hypercalcemia. A significant treatment‐by‐age interaction for lumbar spine BMD (P=.08) was due to an increase in BMD observed in the placebo group aged 75 and older. There were no treatment‐by‐age interactions for important treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs), including back pain, nausea, leg cramps, and dizziness. The most important TEAEs in women aged 80 and older (23 patients from the placebo group and 25 patients from the teriparatide group) were also reviewed; no unexpected TEAEs were found in the patients treated with teriparatide. These results indicate that the clinical effects of teriparatide were consistent in the older and younger women.

CONCLUSION: Age does not affect the safety and efficacy of teriparatide in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Chronic Kidney Disease and Functional Limitation in Older People: Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Authors: Fried Linda F. , Lee Jung Sun , Shlipak Michael , Chertow Glenn M. , Green Christie , Ding Jingzhong , Harris Tamara , Newman Anne B. ,   for the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether chronic kidney disease (CKD) is independently associated with incident physical‐function limitation.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Two sites: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Memphis, Tennessee.

PARTICIPANTS: Two thousand one hundred thirty‐five men and women aged 70 to 79 without functional limitation at baseline from the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study.

MEASUREMENTS: Functional limitation was defined as difficulty in walking one‐quarter of a mile or climbing 10 steps on two consecutive reports 6 months apart (in the same function). Kidney function was measured using serum cystatin C. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula (<60 versus ≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m2), was a secondary predictor. Muscle strength, lean body mass according to dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry, comorbidity, medication use, and inflammatory markers were evaluated as covariates.

RESULTS: Persons in the highest (≥1.13 mg/L) quartile of cystatin C experienced a significantly higher risk of developing functional limitation than those in the lowest (<0.86 mg/L) quartile (hazard ratio (HR)=1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.40–2.07). The association between the fourth cystatin C quartile and functional limitation remained after adjustment for demographics, lean body mass, comorbidity, muscle strength, and gait speed (HR=1.41, 95% CI=1.13–1.75), although the association was attenuated after adjustment for markers of inflammation (HR=1.15, 95% CI=0.90–1.46). Similar results were found for eGFR less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2, although the association with functional limitation remained after adjustment for inflammatory markers (HR=1.30, 95% CI=1.08–1.56).

CONCLUSION: CKD is associated with the development of functional impairment independent of comorbidity, body composition, and tests of strength and physical performance. The mechanism may be related to a heightened inflammatory state in CKD.
Summary of the AABB Interorganizational Task Force on Bacterial Contamination of Platelets: Fall 2004 impact survey
Authors: Silva Marianne A. , Gregory Kay R. , Carr‐Greer M. Allene , Holmberg Jerry A. , Kuehnert Matthew J. , Brecher Mark E. ,   Task Force
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND:  New voluntary standards in the United States regarding bacterial contamination of platelets (PLTs) led to the formation of the AABB Interorganizational Task Force on Bacterial Contamination of Platelets. This article summarizes a survey conducted by the Task Force to assess the impact of bacterial detection.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  An Internet‐based survey of AABB member institutions was conducted from September 17, 2004, to October 1, 2004. The survey was designed principally to assess PLT usage, supply, and outdating and the currently used bacteria detection methods.

RESULTS:  Of 900 facilities surveyed, 350 responded (38%). These facilities collected approximately 43.3 and 65.9 percent and transfused approximately 19.1 and 22.2 percent of the whole blood–derived PLT concentrates (WBPCs) and apheresis PLTs in the United States, respectively. Most facilities (64‐91%) indicated that their ability to provide PLTs for transfusion had not been affected. Approximately half (50‐57.1%) indicated no changes in their PLT inventory. Two‐thirds (66‐68%) indicated no increased PLT outdating. More than 90 percent of apheresis PLTs are tested with a culture‐based method, whereas WBPCs are tested with a variety of methods (mostly non–culture‐based) resulting in a 4.6‐fold decrease in the confirmed positive detection rate compared with apheresis PLTs (p  < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:  After the implementation of AABB Standard 5.1.5.1, the majority of facilities responding to this survey experienced no (or modest) impact on PLT availability or outdating. Nevertheless, a substantial portion of facilities experienced both increased outdating and decreased availability. Some facilities were greatly impacted. Based on the data gathered, it is impossible to conclude whether such shortages resulted from production or distribution problems or were due to decreased shelf life and increased outdates.
Monocytes‐macrophages are a potential target in human infection with West Nile virus through blood transfusion
Authors: Rios Maria , Zhang Ming J. , Grinev Andriyan , Srinivasan Kumar , Daniel Sylvester , Wood Owen , Hewlett Indira K. , Dayton Andrew I.
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND:  West Nile virus (WNV) transmission by transfusion was documented in 2002. Approximately 80 percent of WNV infections are asymptomatic and 1 percent develop severe neurological illness. In animals, Langerhans‐dendritic cells support initial viral replication, followed by replication in lymphoid tissues and dissemination to organs and possibly to the CNS. The cellular tropism of WNV infection after transfusion and the particular human blood cells that sustain viral replication remain largely unknown. Whether primary monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDMs) support WNV infection‐replication and produce infectious virions, with an in vitro system, was investigated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Elutriated monocytes (CD33+/CD14+) from suitable blood donors were cultured in the presence of macrophage–colony‐stimulating factor, infected with WNV‐NY99 at different time points, washed, and cultivated for up to 47 days. Supernatants were tested for WNV replication by TaqMan reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), with primers for the envelope and/or 3′NC regions, and by cDNA‐PCR to detect WNV minus‐strand RNA and for the presence of functional virions by infectivity assays in Vero cells.

RESULTS:  RT‐PCR TaqMan of supernatants demonstrated productive infection of MDMs. Viral load reached 2 to 5 log above baseline in 3 to 6 days and then declined, with detectable viral replication persisting for up to 47 days. WNV minus‐strand RNA was detected in Day 4 cultures, indicating active viral replication. Infected MDM cultures showed no cytopathic changes. Supernatants that were TaqMan‐positive for the presence of WNV‐infected Vero cells and produced cytopathic effects within 3 to 5 days of culture.

CONCLUSION:  The susceptibility of monocytes‐macrophages to productive infection in vitro is compatible with a potential role in initial WNV replication and propagation after transmission by transfusion.
Use of sequence variation in three highly variable regions of the mitochondrial DNA for the discrimination of allogeneic platelets
Authors: Warner Jessica B. , Bruin Elinda J. , Hannig Horst , Hellenkamp Frank , Hörning André , Mittmann Karin , Van Der Steege Gerrit , De Leij Lou F.M.H. , Garritsen Henk S.P.
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND:  Human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) polymorphisms can be used to detect allogeneic transfused platelets. To increase the number of informative polymorphisms we investigated three hypervariable regions (HVR1, HVR2, and HVR3) within the displacement loop (D‐loop) region of the mtDNA.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  mtDNA was obtained from 119 unrelated blood donors. Forward and reverse primers were designed and conditions optimized to amplify and sequence the template mtDNA by dye terminator cycle sequencing.

RESULTS:  We established a sequencing protocol for all three HVRs of the mtDNA. Polymorphic sites were found in all three regions: 66 in HVR1, 44 in HVR2, and 18 in HVR3. Combining the sequence information of HVR1, ‐2, and ‐3 resulted in 105 different genotypes of which 95 were unique. We were able to discriminate between two randomly chosen individuals with a random match probability of 1.2 percent.

CONCLUSION:  The D‐loop region of mtDNA contains a wealth of informative molecular markers for chimerism and survival studies after transfusions of cellular blood components.
The Lutheran glycoprotein: a multifunctional adhesion receptor
Authors: Eyler Christine E. , Telen Marilyn J.
Published: March 2006

The Lutheran blood group system, which comprises one of the largest families of human red blood cell (RBC) antigens, resides on two immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) proteins: Lutheran and basal cell adhesion molecule (B‐CAM). These two glycoproteins arise via alternative splicing of mRNA from a single gene and differ in structure only in the lengths of their cytoplasmic tails. Both are expressed on RBCs as well as a variety of other cell types, and they are overexpressed on sickle RBCs (SS RBC). B‐CAM/Lu is the critical receptor for SS RBC adhesion to the extracellular matrix protein laminin, an interaction thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of sickle cell–related vasoocclusive events. Recent work has also shown that B‐CAM/Lu on RBCs can undergo activation as a result of adrenergic signaling pathways. The high affinity of B‐CAM/Lu for laminin is also thought to contribute to various developmental processes, including organogenesis, vascular development, erythropoiesis, and smooth muscle development and organization. Interestingly, the B‐CAM spliceoform seems to be overexpressed by a variety of different malignant tumors and may be involved, along with other adhesion receptor proteins, in malignant transformation and tumor metastasis. Studies of B‐CAM/Lu have thus expanded from defining antigen‐specific polymorphisms to investigations of processes involved in sickle cell disease, human development, and cancer biology.
Effect of cyclic  guanosine‐monophosphate on porcine retinal vasomotion
Authors: Hessellund Anders , Aalkjaer Christian , Bek Toke
Published: March 2006

Purpose:  Vasomotion refers to periodic oscillations in vascular tone that ensure the intermittent supply of blood to adjacent microvascular units. Previous evidence from vessels outside the eye suggests that cyclic guanosine‐monophosphate (cGMP) is involved in the regulation of vasomotion, but it is unknown whether this compound has an effect on vasomotion in retinal vessels.

Methods:  Retinal arterioles from porcine eyes were studied in a wire myograph. After initiation of vasomotion, the vessels were stimulated with increasing concentrations of the cGMP agonist 8‐Br‐cGMP (n = 6), the phosphodiesterase inhibitor zaprinast (n = 6) and the cGMP synthesis inhibitor L‐NAME (n = 6). High concentrations of L‐NAME blocked vasomotion, and control experiments (n = 20) using 8‐Br‐cGMP, S‐nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), adenosine and pinacidil were carried out to elucidate whether this effect was related to changes in the general tone of the vessel. Additionally, the relationship between oscillations in vascular tone and intracellular calcium concentration was studied.

Results:  Induction of cGMP agonistic activity with either 8‐Br‐cGMP or zaprinast lowered the vasomotion frequency significantly, whereas L‐NAME‐induced inhibition of cGMP increased this frequency. Neither of the agents affected the amplitude of the oscillations. The control experiments indicated that the effect of cGMP on vasomotion frequency was independent of the accompanying increase in tone. The oscillations in tone during vasomotion were accompanied by similar oscillations in intracellular calcium concentration.

Conclusion:  Cyclic GMP lowers the frequency without affecting the amplitude of vasomotion in isolated porcine retinal arterioles.
Developments in molecular genetics and electrophysiology in inherited retinal disorders
Authors: Andréasson Sten
Published: March 2006

Retinitis pigmentosa is said to be the most frequent reason for severe visual handicap among young people in Scandinavia today. Developments in the fields of electrophysiology and molecular genetics have increased our understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders and have also improved our clinical competence, leading to a better understanding of the patient's visual handicap and his or her prognosis. This represents the first step towards fulfilling our plan for the future, which is ultimately to cure blindness caused by the different forms of hereditary retinal degeneration. This review is based on 20 years of research at the Department of Ophthalmology in Lund.
Comparison of Vaginal Cytokine Collection Methods
Authors: Faro Constance J. , Hollier Lisa M. , Bishop Karen
Published: March 2006

Objective

The objective of our study was to correlate the interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) concentrations detected in patient‐collected specimens with provider‐collected specimens and compare the reproducibility of the methods.

Study design

All enrolled participants underwent pelvic examination with collection of cytokine samples by the provider and also collected samples themselves using vaginal swabs. The order of sample collection was randomly assigned. All samples were frozen at −80°C for batch analysis. A commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the concentrations of IL‐6 in all samples.

Results

IL‐6 concentrations from wicks and swabs were correlated in a linear fashion (r = 0.67, P < 0.001). IL‐6 concentrations in the two swabs (r = 0.94, P < 0.001) and the two wicks (r = 0.71, P < 0.001) were correlated in a linear fashion, although there was more variability in wick specimens.

Conclusion

IL‐6 concentrations can be reproducibly measured using either method. The ease of patient swab collection and the correlation with provider‐collected specimens may make frequent assessment of the vaginal cytokine environment more acceptable to patients.
Identification of Evolutionary Conserved Mouse Sperm Surface Antigens by Human Antisperm Antibodies (ASA) from Infertile Patients
Authors: Paradowska Agnieszka , Bohring Claudia , Krause Eberhard , Krause Walter
Published: March 2006

Problem

The presence of antisperm antibodies (ASA) in semen may impair sperm function leading to immunological infertility. The aim of the study was to identify the evolutionary conserved antigens on mouse sperm surface that react with human ASA in order to study the mechanism of autoimmune infertility.

Methods of study

The binding of human ASA to mouse sperm was investigated by means of indirect immunofluorescence. 2D‐electrophoresis was applied to separate the biotin‐labelled mouse membrane proteins using isoelectric focusing followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Cognate antigens of ASA from seminal plasma of infertile patients were analysed by Western blotting. Performing avidin‐blots it was detected which of the proteins recognized were sperm surface proteins. The spots of interest were analysed by means of mass spectrometry.

Results

ASA bound most frequently (36%) to the post‐acrosomal region and to the midpiece of mouse spermatozoa. About 30% of ASA recognized apo lactate dehydrogenase (LDHC4) as a cognate antigen, 30% voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC2). ASA of 20% bound to outer dense fibre protein and 20% of samples recognized glutathione S‐transferase mu5.

Conclusions

Human ASA bound to specific cognate antigens of mouse spermatozoa, offering the possibility to study their functional relevance in the mouse model.
Alloimmune and Autoimmune Background in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss – Successful Immunotherapy by Intravenous Immunoglobulin
Authors: Kotlan Beatrix , Padanyi Agnes , Batorfi Jozsef , Fulop Vilmos , Szigetvari Ivan , Rajczy Katalin , Penzes Maria , Gyodi Eva , Reti Marienne , Petranyi Gyozo
Published: March 2006

Problem

Immunotherapies [leukocyte immunization, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)] introduced to treat women with recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) have still controversial results in most clinical trials. A selection of these patients would be advantageous for higher efficacy.

Method of study

A complex immunological panel assay was offered to patients with reproductive failure without any other known cause. We focused here on the cellular immunological parameters.

Results

High cytotoxic T lymphocyte precursor frequency and cell‐mediated cytotoxic activity and a rather high natural killer cell activity were found in alloimmune RSA patients. Thirty‐two patients were investigated by immunological assays and in 78% of the women an alloimmune background could be defined. The efficacy of IVIG treatment was 96% in this group.

Conclusions

The novel cellular immunological assays proved to be favourable for the indication of RSA patients and showed the usefulness of this selection process for effective immunotherapy.
Immunocontraception of Florida Feral Swine with a Single‐dose GnRH Vaccine
Authors: Killian G. , Miller L. , Rhyan J. , Doten H.
Published: March 2006

Problem

Methods to limit fertility of feral swine are needed to reduce transmission of diseases and agricultural and ecosystem damage.

Method of Study

We evaluated a single‐shot GnRH immunocontraceptive vaccine in both male and female feral swine for its effect on fertility and functional status of the reproductive tissues. Captive feral pigs were randomly assigned to receive 1000 or 2000 μg GnRH‐KLH vaccine treatments or no treatment.

Results

After 36 weeks, none of the 2000‐μg‐treated females and only 20% of the 1000‐μg‐treated females were pregnant. This corresponded to reduced serum progesterone, regressed tissues within the reproductive tract and lack of evidence for follicular development leading to ovulation. Males were less responsive to the vaccine than females, but more responsive to the lower dose of the vaccine than the higher dose.

Conclusions

The single‐shot GnRH vaccine is effective in controlling fertility of female feral swine and may be useful for population reduction.
Economic efficiency of Japanese Black cattle selection schemes utilizing crossbreeding with the Holstein breed
Authors: KAHI Alexander K. , HIROOKA Hiroyuki
Published: March 2006

The economic efficiency of Japanese Black (JB) cattle selection schemes utilizing crossbreeding with the Holstein (H) breed was evaluated in the context of maximizing profitability. Selection schemes were defined that differed in the records available for use as selection criteria. The selection schemes were assessed based on profitability per cow in the JB cattle population. Within each selection scheme, two terminal crossbreeding systems were considered: two‐way crossbreeding without backcrossing (F1 system) and two‐way crossbreeding with backcrossing (F1 cross system). The impact on profitability of varying number of sires selected per year and the proportion of H cows that were inseminated by JB semen and of F1 females that are retained for replacement was examined for all selection schemes. Utilizing crossbreeding with the H breed was less profitable than purebreeding of the JB. Profitability was higher in the F1 system than in the F1 cross system in all selection schemes. Profitability was influenced more by changes in the number of sires selected per year than by the proportion H cows that were inseminated by JB semen and of F1 females that were retained for replacement. Implications of these results for the JB breeding program are discussed.
Gene constitution of South‐East Asian native chickens, commercial chickens and jungle fowl using polymorphisms of four calpain genes
Authors: OKUMURA Fumihiko , SHIMOGIRI Takeshi , KAWABE Kotaro , OKAMOTO Shin , NISHIBORI Masahide , YAMAMOTO Yoshio , MAEDA Yoshizane
Published: March 2006

The gene constitution of polymorphisms of the four calpain genes (µ‐calpain, m‐calpain, p94, and µ/m‐calpain) were analyzed in South‐East Asian native chickens, White Leghorn and Broiler commercial chickens, and Red and Green jungle fowl. Polymorphisms were detected at all loci in chickens and Red jungle fowl, but only for CAPN1 (µ‐calpain gene) in Green jungle fowl. CAPN2 and CAPN1.5 are linked on chicken chromosome 3, and the genotype for these loci were treated as haplotype. Some combinations of calpain loci were tested using principal component analysis, and the best combination (CAPN1, CAPN3, and CAPN1.5) was determined. The proportion of polymorphic loci (Ppoly) and heterozygosity (H̄) were 1.00 and 0.316–0.465 in domestic chickens and red jungle fowl, and 0.33 and 0.137 in Green jungle fowl, respectively. GST values suggested that the degree of subdivision among native chickens was relatively low except for Thailand, which was highest. Pair‐wise FST testing, dendrogram and principal component analysis from the results of calpain loci showed that the four South‐East Asian native and commercial chicken populations were close genetically.
Effects of intracerebroventricular injections of leptin on the release of luteinizing hormone and growth hormone in castrated calves
Authors: NONAKA Sumie , HASHIZUME Tsutomu , KASUYA Etsuko
Published: March 2006

The purpose of the present study was to clarify the hypothalamic action of leptin on the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and growth hormone (GH) in cattle. Intracerebroventricular (the third ventricle) injections of leptin were given to fully fed castrated Holstein calves. Blood samples were collected at 10‐min intervals for 60 min after injection and 20‐min intervals for 60 min before injection and for 60–180 min after injection through an indwelling catheter in the external jugular vein. Plasma LH and GH levels were examined by homologous radioimmunoassay. The administration of 10 µg of leptin stimulated a significant (P < 0.05) release of GH but not LH. Average GH levels began to rise after 30 min and were significantly increased at 40, 50 and 60 min after the injection, compared with the respective control values (P < 0.05). The present result suggests that leptin may act partly on the hypothalamus to stimulate the release of GH in castrated calves.
Effects of high ambient temperature and restricted feed intake on urinary and plasma 3‐methylhistidine in lactating Holstein cows
Authors: KAMIYA Mitsuru , KAMIYA Yuko , TANAKA Masahito , OKI Tomoyuki , NISHIBA Yoichi , SHIOYA Shigeru
Published: March 2006

Three experiments were performed to examine the effects of high ambient temperature and feed restrictions on urinary 3‐methylhistidine (3MH) excretion and plasma 3MH concentrations as a marker of myofibrillar proteolysis in lactating Holstein cows. In a crossover design, four cows were maintained during two 14‐day treatment periods with ad libitum feed intake under constant moderate (18°C) or high (28°C) ambient temperature (Experiment 1), with ad libitum or 70% ad libitum feed intake under constant moderate temperature (Experiment 2), and with 70% ad libitum feed intake under constant moderate or high ambient temperature (Experiment 3). The total digestible nutrients intake was decreased (P < 0.01) under high ambient temperature (Experiment 1) or feed restriction (Experiment 2). Across experiments, urinary 3MH excretion during days 10–14 of each treatment period was not different among treatments. However, the plasma 3MH concentrations at day 14 of treatment were increased significantly under high ambient temperature with subsequent reduced feeding (P < 0.01) or moderate temperature with feed restriction (P < 0.05), and were increased slightly (P = 0.11) under high ambient temperature alone. These results show that the plasma marker of myofibrillar proteolysis in lactating dairy cows was increased at day 14 of treatments of high ambient temperature with subsequent reduced feeding, moderate temperature with feed restriction, or high ambient temperature alone.
Expression and localization of estrogen receptors α and β mRNA in medullary bone of laying hens
Authors: IMAMURA Tomohiko , SUGIYAMA Toshie , KUSUHARA Seiji
Published: March 2006

The aim of this study was to observe the expression and localization of estrogen receptor (ER) α and ER β mRNA in the medullary bone of laying hens. First, medullary bone, liver, kidney, and shell gland of the oviduct tissues were dissected from laying hens. Then, the total cellular RNA was isolated from each tissue specimen, and the ER α and ER β mRNA expression was observed using semiquantitative RT‐PCR. Second, the localization of ER α mRNA in the medullary bone was detected with in situ hybridization using digoxigenin‐11‐UTP‐labeled cRNA probes. As a result, the expression of ER α mRNA was higher than that of ER β mRNA in the medullary bone, liver, and shell gland of the oviduct from laying hens. In the kidney, ER α mRNA expression was lower than that of ER β mRNA. The expression pattern of ER α and ER β mRNA of the medullary bone was similar to that of the shell gland of the oviduct. Moreover, ER α mRNA was intensively expressed in osteoblasts on the medullary bone surface and bone marrow stromal cells but was not expressed in osteoclasts. These results suggest that in medullary bone, estrogen action may be regulated not by ER β but by ER α.
Meat characteristics of Qinghai yak and semi‐wild yak
Authors: LUO Xiao Lin , TONG Zi Bao , WEI Ya Ping , ZHAO Xin Quan
Published: March 2006

Six domestic yaks aged 6 years, comprising three culling male and three culling female yaks, from the Qinghai Lake area and three male semi‐wild yaks aged 6 months from Datong Yak Farm were used to detect the levels of amino acids, mineral elements, residual heavy metals and pesticides in yak meat. The results showed that there was little difference in amino acid levels for different types of yak by age and sex. The meat of the adult male yak was 7.35 mg/kg higher in calcium (P < 0.05) and 124 mg/kg higher in phosphorus (P < 0.01) than that of the adult female yak. There was an obvious difference in zinc content, and there was also a significant difference for copper and sulfur between adult male and female yaks (P < 0.01). Iron was 8.85 mg/kg higher in semi‐wild yaks than in domestic yaks, but there were no differences for other minerals. The levels of residual heavy metals and residual pesticides were well within those allowed by the National Standard of China. Furthermore, the data showed that introducing wild yak’s blood did not result in a quality change in the domestic yak meat. Yak meat from Qinghai Plateau has the characteristics of being non‐polluted and rich in amino acids in comparison with local yellow cattle meat.
Determination of nucleotide sequence of SRY gene in sika deer (Cervus nippon)
Authors: FUKUI Emiko , KOGANEZAWA Masaaki , YOSHIZAWA Midori
Published: March 2006

The aim of the present study was to determine the whole nucleotide sequence of the open reading frame of the sex‐determining region Y (SRY‐ORF) in wild sika deer. The SRY gene of wild sika deer was obtained by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with DNA from blood samples. The whole nucleotide sequence of the SRY‐ORF in wild sika deer consisted of 687 bp and encoded 229 deduced amino acids. In comparison with the bovine SRY gene, the percentage of nucleotide sequence homology was 91.0% in the overall ORF, and those of the N‐terminal, high mobility group (HMG) box, and C‐terminal regions within ORF were 88.9%, 96.2% and 87.9%, respectively. The nucleotide sequences of sika deer SRY‐ORF characterized in the present study can be used for phylogenetic analysis or sexing in wild sika deer.
Differential responses of Arabidopsis ecotypes to cold, chilling and freezing temperatures
Authors: Hasdai M. , Weiss B. , Levi A. , Samach A. , Porat R.
Published: March 2006

Arabidopsis plants show an increase in freezing tolerance in response to exposure to low nonfreezing temperatures, a phenomenon known as cold acclimation. In the present study, we evaluated the physiological and morphological responses of various Arabidopsis ecotypes to continuous growth under chilling (14°C) and cold (6°C) temperatures and evaluated their basal freezing tolerance levels. Seedlings of Arabidopsis plants were extremely sensitive to low growth temperatures: the hypocotyls and petioles were much longer and the angles of the second pair of true leaves were much greater in plants grown at 14°C than in those grown at 22°C, whereas just intermediate responses were observed under the cold temperature of 6°C. Flowering time was also markedly delayed at low growth temperatures and, interestingly, lower growth temperatures were accompanied by longer inflorescences. Other marked responses to low temperatures were changes in pigmentation, which appeared to be both ecotype specific and temperature dependent and resulted in various visual phenotypes such as chlorosis, necrosis or enhanced accumulation of anthocyanins. The observed decreases in chlorophyll contents and accumulation of anthocyanins were much more prominent in plants grown at 6°C than in those grown at 14°C. Among the various ecotypes tested, Mt‐0 plants markedly accumulated the highest levels of anthocyanins upon growth at 6°C. Freezing tolerance examination revealed that among 10 ecotypes tested, only C24 plants were significantly more sensitive to subzero temperatures. In conclusion, Arabidopsis ecotypes responded differentially to cold (6°C), chilling (14°C) and freezing temperatures, with specific ecotypes being more sensitive in particular traits to each low temperature.
Operating strategies for variable‐flow sequencing batch reactors
Authors: Bungay S. , Humphries M. , Stephenson T.
Published: March 2006

Sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) are variable‐volume, non‐steady‐state, suspended‐growth biological wastewater treatment reactors. The treatment process is characterised by a repeated treatment cycle consisting of a series of sequential process phases: fill, react, settle, decant and idle. The design and operation of an SBR must take into account (1) the biological process requirement for treating influent wastewater and (2) the hydraulic requirement to enable throughput of the water through the reactor without compromising on the quality of biological treatment. During routine operation, the priority between the process and hydraulic consideration can change depending on the influent flow rate and its rate of change. The importance of the interaction between these considerations will vary depending on the fill strategy and the cycle time control strategy. Where flow‐proportional cycle times are utilised to optimise the treatment process, the operating strategy must be capable of accurately adjusting the intercycle phase times to prevent loss of biological treatment or volumetric capacity. This paper considers various operating strategies and describes the specific strategy used at the SBR at Avonmouth wastewater treatment works.
Deformation and Slip Along the Sunda Megathrust in the Great 2005 Nias-Simeulue Earthquake
Authors: Briggs Richard W. , Sieh Kerry , Meltzner Aron J. , Natawidjaja Danny , Galetzka John , Suwargadi Bambang , Hsu Ya-ju , Simons Mark , Hananto Nugroho , Suprihanto Imam , Prayudi Dudi , Avouac Jean-Philippe , Prawirodirdjo Linette , Bock Yehuda
Published: March 2006

Seismic rupture produced spectacular tectonic deformation above a 400-kilometer strip of the Sunda megathrust, offshore northern Sumatra, in March 2005. Measurements from coral microatolls and Global Positioning System stations reveal trench-parallel belts of uplift up to 3 meters high on the outer-arc islands above the rupture and a 1-meter-deep subsidence trough farther from the trench. Surface deformation reflects more than 11 meters of fault slip under the islands and a pronounced lessening of slip trenchward. A saddle in megathrust slip separates the northwestern edge of the 2005 rupture from the great 2004 Sumatra-Andaman rupture. The southeastern edge abuts a predominantly aseismic section of the megathrust near the equator.
Cellulose Synthase-Like
CslF
Genes Mediate the Synthesis of Cell Wall (1,3;1,4)-ß-
d
-Glucans
Authors: Burton Rachel A. , Wilson Sarah M. , Hrmova Maria , Harvey Andrew J. , Shirley Neil J. , Medhurst Anne , Stone Bruce A. , Newbigin Edward J. , Bacic Antony , Fincher Geoffrey B.
Published: March 2006

A characteristic feature of grasses and commercially important cereals is the presence of (1,3;1,4)-β-
d
-glucans in their cell walls. We have used comparative genomics to link a major quantitative trait locus for (1,3;1,4)-β-
d
-glucan content in barley grain to a cluster of cellulose synthase–like
CslF
genes in rice. After insertion of rice
CslF
genes into
Arabidopsis
, we detected (1,3;1,4)-β-
d
-glucan in walls of transgenic plants using specific monoclonal antibodies and enzymatic analysis. Because wild-type
Arabidopsis
does not contain
CslF
genes or have (1,3;1,4)-β-
d
-glucans in its walls, these experiments provide direct, gain-of-function evidence for the participation of rice
CslF
genes in (1,3;1,4)-β-
d
-glucan biosynthesis.
A Linear Homocatenated Compound Containing Six Indium Centers
Authors: Hill Michael S. , Hitchcock Peter B. , Pongtavornpinyo Ruti
Published: March 2006

In contrast to carbon and its heavier congeners, group 13 elements are rarely observed to catenate into linear chains. Here, we find that treatment of indium(I) iodide with a protonated
N
-xylyl β-diketiminate and a strong potassium base in tetrahydrofuran yields a hexa-indium chain. X-ray crystallography revealed one β-diketiminate ligand bound to each indium center with no bridging ligands supporting the five indium-indium single bonds. The terminal indium centers were capped with iodine. Electronic spectroscopy and computations on a model compound offer preliminary support for σ delocalization along the chain.
A Critical Role for the Innate Immune Signaling Molecule IRAK-4 in T Cell Activation
Authors: Suzuki Nobutaka , Suzuki Shinobu , Millar Douglas G. , Unno Midori , Hara Hiromitsu , Calzascia Thomas , Yamasaki Sho , Yokosuka Tadashi , Chen Nien-Jung , Elford Alisha R. , Suzuki Jun-ichiro , Takeuchi Arata , Mirtsos Christine , Bouchard Denis , Ohashi Pamela S. , Yeh Wen-Chen , Saito Takashi
Published: March 2006

IRAK-4 is a protein kinase that is pivotal in mediating signals for innate immune responses. Here, we report that IRAK-4 signaling is also essential for eliciting adaptive immune responses. Thus, in the absence of IRAK-4, in vivo T cell responses were significantly impaired. Upon T cell receptor stimulation, IRAK-4 is recruited to T cell lipid rafts, where it induces downstream signals, including protein kinase Cθ activation through the association with Zap70. This signaling pathway was found to be required for optimal activation of nuclear factor κB. Our findings suggest that T cells use this critical regulator of innate immunity for the development of acquired immunity, suggesting that IRAK-4 may be involved in direct signal cross talk between the two systems.
High-Performance High-
T
c
Superconducting Wires
Authors: Kang S. , Goyal A. , Li J. , Gapud A. A. , Martin P. M. , Heatherly L. , Thompson J. R. , Christen D. K. , List F. A. , Paranthaman M. , Lee D. F.
Published: March 2006

We demonstrated short segments of a superconducting wire that meets or exceeds performance requirements for many large-scale applications of high-temperature superconducting materials, especially those requiring a high supercurrent and/or a high engineering critical current density in applied magnetic fields. The performance requirements for these varied applications were met in 3-micrometer-thick YBa
2
Cu
3
O
7-δ
films epitaxially grown via pulsed laser ablation on rolling assisted biaxially textured substrates. Enhancements of the critical current in self-field as well as excellent retention of this current in high applied magnetic fields were achieved in the thick films via incorporation of a periodic array of extended columnar defects, composed of self-aligned nanodots of nonsuperconducting material extending through the entire thickness of the film. These columnar defects are highly effective in pinning the superconducting vortices or flux lines, thereby resulting in the substantially enhanced performance of this wire.
Bodily rights and property rights
Authors: Björkman B , Hansson S O
Published: March 2006

Whereas previous discussions on ownership of biological material have been much informed by the natural rights tradition, insufficient attention has been paid to the strand in liberal political theory represented by Felix Cohen, Tony Honoré, and others, which treats property relations as socially constructed bundles of rights. In accordance with that tradition, we propose that the primary normative issue is what combination of rights a person should have to a particular item of biological material. Whether that bundle qualifies to be called “property” or “ownership” is a secondary, terminological issue. We suggest five principles of bodily rights and show how they can be applied to the construction of ethically appropriate bundles of rights to biological material.
Xenotransplantation: a bioethical evaluation
Authors: Anderson M
Published: March 2006

Allograft shortage is a formidable obstacle in organ transplantation. Xenotransplantation, the interspecies transplantation of cells, tissues, and organs, or ex vivo interspecies exchange between cells, tissues, and organs is a frequently suggested alternative to this allograft shortage. As xenotransplantation steadily improves into a viable allotransplantation alternative, several bioethical considerations coalesce. Such considerations include the Helsinki declaration’s guarantee of patients’ rights to privacy; political red tape that may select for undermined socioeconomic groups as the first recipients of xenografts; industry incentives in xenotransplantation investments; conflicts of interest when a clinician supervises a patient as a research subject; the psychosocial impact of transplantation on the xenograft recipient, and the rights of animals. This review illuminates these issues through a conglomeration of expert opinion and relevant experimental studies.
Adenosine receptor expression and function in bladder uroepithelium
Authors: Yu Weiqun , Zacharia Lefteris C. , Jackson Edwin K. , Apodaca Gerard
Published: March 2006

The uroepithelium of the bladder forms an impermeable barrier that is maintained in part by regulated membrane turnover in the outermost umbrella cell layer. Other than bladder filling, few physiological regulators of this process are known. Western blot analysis established that all four adenosine receptors (A1, A2a, A2b, and A3) are expressed in the uroepithelium. A1receptors were prominently localized to the apical membrane of the umbrella cell layer, whereas A2a, A2b, and A3receptors were localized intracellularly or on the basolateral membrane of umbrella cells and the plasma membrane of the underlying cell layers. Adenosine was released from the uroepithelium, which was potentiated 10-fold by stretching the tissue. Administration of adenosine to the serosal or mucosal surface of the uroepithelium led to increases in membrane capacitance (where 1 μF ≈ 1 cm2tissue area) of ∼30% or ∼24%, respectively, after 5 h. Although A1, A2a, and A3selective agonists all stimulated membrane capacitance after being administrated serosally, only the A1agonist caused large increases in capacitance after being administered mucosally. Adenosine receptor antagonists as well as adenosine deaminase had no effect on stretch-induced capacitance increases, but adenosine potentiated the effects of stretch. Treatment with U-73122, 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborate, or xestospongin C or incubation in calcium-free Krebs solution inhibited adenosine-induced increases in capacitance. These data indicate that the uroepithelium is a site of adenosine biosynthesis, that adenosine receptors are expressed in the uroepithelium, and that one function of these receptors may be to modulate exocytosis in umbrella cells.
Src family kinases regulate p38 MAPK-mediated IL-6 production in Kupffer cells following hypoxia
Authors: Thobe Björn M. , Frink Michael , Choudhry Mashkoor A. , Schwacha Martin G. , Bland Kirby I. , Chaudry Irshad H.
Published: March 2006

Tissue hypoxia is a common sequel of trauma-hemorrhage but can occur even without blood loss under hypoxic conditions. Although hypoxia is known to upregulate Kupffer cells (KC) to release cytokines, the precise mechanism of release remains unknown. We hypothesized that Src family kinases play a role in mediating KC mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and their cytokine production after hypoxia. Male C3H/HeN mice received either Src inhibitor PP1 (1.5 mg/kg body wt) or vehicle 1 h before hypoxia. KCs were isolated 1 h after hypoxia, lysed, and immunoblotted with antibodies to Src, p38, ERK1/2, or JNK proteins. In addition, KCs were cultured to measure interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production. Hypoxia produced a significant increase in KC Src and MAPK (p38, ERK, JNK) activity compared with normoxic controls. This was associated with an increase in IL-6 and MCP-1 production. Treatment with PP1 abolished the increase in KC Src activation as well as p38 activity. However, PP1 did not prevent the increase in KC ERK1/2 or JNK phosphorylation. Furthermore, administration of PP1 prevented the hypoxia-induced increase in IL-6 but not MCP-1 release by KC. Additional in vitro results suggest that p38 but not ERK1/2 or JNK are critical for KC IL-6 production. In contrast, the production of MCP-1 by KC was found to be independent of MAPK. Thus hypoxia increases KC IL-6 production by p38 MAPK activation via Src-dependent pathway. Src kinases may therefore be a novel therapeutic target for preventing immune dysfunction following low-flow conditions in trauma patients.
Role of vimentin in smooth muscle force development
Authors: Wang Ruping , Li Qingfen , Tang Dale D.
Published: March 2006

Vimentin intermediate filaments undergo spatial reorganization in cultured smooth muscle cells in response to contractile activation; however, the role of vimentin in the physiological properties of smooth muscle has not been well elucidated. Tracheal smooth muscle strips were loaded with antisense oligonucleotides (ODNs) against vimentin and then cultured for 2 days to allow for protein degradation. Treatment with vimentin antisense, but not sense, ODNs suppressed vimentin protein expression; neither vimentin antisense nor sense ODNs affected protein levels of desmin and actin. Force development in response to ACh stimulation or KCl depolarization was lower in vimentin-deficient tissues than in vimentin sense ODN- or non-ODN-treated muscle strips. Passive tension was also depressed in vimentin-depleted muscle tissues. Vimentin downregulation did not attenuate increases in myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation in response to contractile stimulation or basal MLC phosphorylation. In vimentin sense ODN-treated or non-ODN-treated smooth muscle strips, the desmosomal protein plakoglobin was primarily localized in the cell periphery. The membrane-associated localization of plakoglobin was reduced in vimentin-depleted muscle tissues. These studies suggest that vimentin filaments play an important role in mediating active force development and passive tension, which are not regulated by MLC phosphorylation. Vimentin downregulation impairs the structural organization of desmosomes, which may be associated with the decrease in force development.
Calsequestrin targeting to sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle fibers
Authors: Nori Alessandra , Valle Giorgia , Bortoloso Elena , Turcato Federica , Volpe Pompeo
Published: March 2006

Calsequestrin (CS) is the low-affinity, high-capacity calcium binding protein segregated to the lumen of terminal cisternae (TC) of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). The physiological role of CS in controlling calcium release from the SR depends on both its intrinsic properties and its localization. The mechanisms of CS targeting were investigated in skeletal muscle fibers and C2C12 myotubes, a model of SR differentiation, with four deletion mutants of epitope (hemagglutinin, HA)-tagged CS: CS-HAΔ24NH2, CS-HAΔ2D, CS-HAΔ3D, and CS-HAΔHT, a double mutant of the NH2 terminus and domain III. As judged by immunofluorescence of transfected skeletal muscle fibers, only the double CS-HA mutant showed a homogeneous distribution at the sarcomeric I band, i.e., it did not segregate to TC. As shown by subfractionation of microsomes derived from transfected skeletal muscles, CS-HAΔHT was largely associated to longitudinal SR whereas CS-HA was concentrated in TC. In C2C12 myotubes, as judged by immunofluorescence, not only CS-HAΔHT but also CS-HAΔ3D and CS-HAΔ2D were not sorted to developing SR. Condensation competence, a property referable to CS oligomerization, was monitored for the several CS-HA mutants in C2C12 myoblasts, and only CS-HAΔ3D was found able to condense. Together, the results indicate that 1) there are at least two targeting sequences at the NH2 terminus and domain III of CS, 2) SR-specific target and structural information is contained in these sequences, 3) heterologous interactions with junctional SR proteins are relevant for segregation, 4) homologous CS-CS interactions are involved in the overall targeting process, and 5) different targeting mechanisms prevail depending on the stage of SR differentiation.