bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race as civic felony*
Authors: Wacquant Loïc
Published: May 2005

The highly particular US conception of “race” is a direct outcome of the unique status of the United States as a slaveholding republic. While slavery itself has long been abolished, its dynamics were replicated in Jim Crow segregation and later in the urban ghetto. Henceforth, another ‘peculiar institution’, born of the adjoining of the hyperghetto with the carceral system, is remoulding the social meaning and significance of ‘race’ in accordance with the dictates of the deregulated economy and the post‐Keynesian state. For the first time in US history, the carceral system has become the main ‘race making’ machine. Its material stranglehold and classificatory activity have assumed a salience and reach that are wholly unprecedented in American history as well as unparalleled in any other society.
Racial redistricting in the United States: an introduction to Supreme Court case law*
Authors: Mignot Jean‐François
Published: May 2005

Racial redistricting is a form of territorial rearrangement of electoral districts implemented in the United States in 1990s. Its purpose and effect is to increase the number of districts with an African American or Hispanic majority in order to increase the number of elected officials from those minorities. Racial redistricting is thus a public procedure that takes explicit account of the ethno‐racial identity of individuals. The emergence of racial redistricting is explained by the fact that, in the political and legal context of the late 1980s, the officials in charge of redistricting had a vested interest in adopting such a scheme in order to ensure their own continued presence in positions of power. However, racial redistricting had hardly been implemented than its constitutionality was challenged. The Supreme Court then defined the conditions for racial classifications to be validly taken into account in the redistricting process. The Court's complex case law is particularly concerned to make the account taken of racial factors in redistricting as invisible as possible. The objective is to ensure more complete integration of African Americans (and Hispanics) into the US political system.
‘Reflecting the diversity of the French population’: birth and development of a fuzzy concept
Authors: Calvès Gwénaële
Published: May 2005

While “reflecting the diversity of the French population” is currently an objective to which political parties, television channels, large corporations and higher education establishments subscribe, it was first formulated with respect to the national civil service. In this context, the theme is inseparable from an imported, specifically American model of “representative bureaucracy”, the import of which was itself determined by pragmatic considerations related to the peculiar problems faced by two institutions: the Army and the national police service. However, when one extends the objective of “diversity” to all public servants while simultaneously emphasising, in more or less explicit fashion, the ‘ethnic’ dimension of diversity, one encounters, in France, insuperable sociological and legal difficulties.
Food Security in Complex Emergencies: Enhancing Food System Resilience
Authors: Pingali Prabhu , Alinovi Luca , Sutton Jacky
Published: May 2005

This paper explores linkages between food security and crisis in different contexts, outlining the policy and institutional conditions needed to manage food security during a crisis and to rebuild the resilience of food systems in periods of relative peace. The paper reviews experiences over the past decade of countries in protracted crisis and draws lessons for national and international policy. It assesses the different alternatives on offer in fragile countries to address, for example, the disruption of institutional mechanisms and the decreasing level of support offered by international donors with respect to longer‐term expectations. It proposes a Twin Track Approach to enhance food security resilience through specific policies for protracted crises that link immediate hunger relief interventions with a long‐term strategy for sustainable growth. Finally, the article analyses policy options and the implications for both short‐ and longer‐term responses vis‐à‐vis the three dimensions of food security: availability; access; and stability.
Matching Food Security Analysis to Context: the Experience of the Somalia Food Security Assessment Unit
Authors: Hemrich Günter
Published: May 2005

This case study reviews the experience of the Somalia Food Security Assessment Unit (FSAU) of operating a food security information system in the context of a complex emergency1 In particular, it explores the linkages between selected features of the protracted crisis environment in Somalia and conceptual and operational aspects of food security information work. The paper specifically examines the implications of context characteristics for the establishment and operations of the FSAU field monitoring component and for the interface with information users and their diverse information needs. It also analyses the scope for linking food security and nutrition analysis and looks at the role of conflict and gender analysis in food security assessment work. Background data on the food security situation in Somalia and an overview of some key features of the FSAU set the scene for the case study. The paper is targeted at those involved in designing, operating and funding food security information activities.
War and Food Security in Eritrea and Ethiopia, 1998–2000
Authors: White Philip
Published: May 2005

This paper examines the 1998–2000 ‘border’ war between Eritrea and Ethiopia and its continuing legacies from the perspective of food security.1 Focusing on the food crisis that hit both countries during the same period and was allowed to develop into a famine in southeast Ethiopia, it argues that this was linked with the war in more ways than hitherto recognised. Such connections can be appreciated only by taking a longer‐term view of the decline of the rural economy of which this food crisis was part, factoring in the role played by this and other conflicts that have flared up in the region. An analysis of this kind might have helped donors and aid agencies to respond more effectively both to short‐term humanitarian needs in the midst of an inter‐state war and to the need for longer‐term support for food security in a region beset by endemic conflict.
Designing cigarettes for women: new findings from the tobacco industry documents
Authors: Carpenter Carrie Murray , Wayne Geoffrey Ferris , Connolly Gregory N.
Published: May 2005

Aims  To examine internal tobacco industry research on female smoking patterns and product preferences, and how this research has informed the design of female‐targeted cigarettes and impacted smoking behavior among this target population.

Design  Research was conducted through a systematic web‐based search of previously secret industry documents made publicly available through the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement.

Findings  This study provides evidence that the tobacco industry has conducted extensive research on female smoking patterns, needs and product preferences, and has intentionally modified product design for promotion of cigarette smoking among women. Cigarette manufacturers responded to changing female trends by focusing on social and health concerns as well as promoting dual‐sex brands that also featured traditional female style characteristics.

Conclusions  Product features responsive to female‐identified needs and preferences may contribute to differences in female smoking patterns. Assessment of female‐targeted product differences should inform smoking cessation and prevention programs tailored to women. Overall, these findings underscore the need for further investigation of effects of targeting on smoking behavior, health outcomes and regulation of tobacco products by public health agencies.
Pain and use of alcohol to manage pain: prevalence and 3‐year outcomes among older problem and non‐problem drinkers
Authors: Brennan Penny L. , Schutte Kathleen K. , Moos Rudolf H.
Published: May 2005

Aims  Most older adults report having recently experienced pain, and many older adults have late‐life drinking problems. However, to our knowledge, the intersection of pain and alcohol misuse by older adults has not been studied. This research focuses on the implications of pain for older individuals who have problems with alcohol.

Design  Longitudinal survey.

Setting, participants and measurement  Older community‐residing adults (n = 401) were classified as problem and non‐problem drinkers. At baseline and 3 years later they were asked to provide information about their pain, use of alcohol to manage pain, drinking behavior, chronic health problems and recent serious injury.

Findings  At baseline, older problem drinkers reported more severe pain, more disruption of daily activities due to pain and more frequent use of alcohol to manage pain than did older non‐problem drinkers. More pain was associated with more use of alcohol to manage pain; this relationship was stronger among older adults with drinking problems than among those without drinking problems. Among older men, more baseline drinking problems interacted with use of alcohol to manage pain to predict more health problems and serious injury 3 years later. Among older women, more baseline drinking problems interacted with use of alcohol to manage pain to predict more drinking problems 3 years later.

Conclusions  The results highlight the importance of monitoring the drinking behavior of older patients who present with pain complaints, especially patients who have pre‐existing problems with alcohol.
Menstrual cycle length during methadone maintenance
Authors: Schmittner John , Schroeder Jennifer R. , Epstein David H. , Preston Kenzie L.
Published: May 2005

Aims  While the menstrual disruption of heroin has been demonstrated, there are few published data concerning methadone maintenance and menstrual function. This study was conducted to evaluate whether cycle length was more regular during methadone maintenance.

Settings  An out‐patient research treatment program in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Participants  A total of 191 heroin and cocaine‐using women from two clinical trials, lasting 25–29 weeks; each woman was maintained on 70–100 mg of methadone.

Measurements  Start/end dates of each menses were collected.

Design  Menstrual patterns were classified as regular, irregular, transient amenorrhea, persistent amenorrhea or cycle restart. Repeated‐measures regression modeling determined correlates of cycle length and predictors of long cycles (> 40 days) and short cycles (< 20 days). Bleeding episodes were defined as 1 or more bleeding days, bound by at least 2 non‐bleeding days. Correlates/predictors examined were body mass index, drug use, methadone dose and race.

Findings  In the 133 women for whom menstrual patterns could be determined, cycle‐length irregularity was common: irregular, 62 (46.7%); regular, 37 (27.8%); cycle restart, 16 (12%); persistent amenorrhea, 11 (8.3%); transient amenorrhea, seven (5.3%). Each additional week on methadone maintenance was associated with decreased risk of long (OR = 0.96, P < 0.01 and short (OR = 0.92, P < 0.01) cycles. Of 27 women with secondary amenorrhea pre‐study, 16 (59%) restarted menses. Positivity for opioids or cocaine was not significantly associated with short or long cycles.

Conclusions  Cycle length begins to normalize during methadone maintenance. Menses resumption may occur. Methadone maintenance, despite interfering with menstrual function in an absolute sense, may interfere less than illicit heroin abuse.
Reduced activity of 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 is not responsible for sodium retention in nephrotic rats
Authors: Bistrup C. , Thiesson H. C. , Jensen B. L. , Skøtt O.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  In mineralocorticoid target cells 11‐beta‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) converts glucocorticoids into non‐active metabolites thereby protecting the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) from stimulation by glucocorticoids. In nephrotic syndrome, a decreased activity of 11βHSD2 has been suggested to allow glucocorticoids to stimulate MR, thereby contributing to sodium retention. We tested this hypothesis in the puromycin aminonucleoside model of nephrotic syndrome in rats.

Methods:  Complete sodium and potassium intakes and excretions (faeces and urine) were measured in rats in metabolic cages. RNase protection assay of mRNA and Western blotting of protein were used to estimate renocortical expression of 11βHSD2 and of the MR downstream effector serum and glucocorticoid induced kinase (SGK). In an intervention series, dexamethasone was given [10 μg (100 g bw)−1] to suppress endogenous glucocorticoids in the proteinuric stage during active sodium retention.

Results:  Nephrotic rats developed proteinuria, positive sodium balance, decreased plasma aldosterone concentration, and decreased urinary Na+/K+ ratio. 11βHSD2 mRNA expression was down‐regulated but protein expression was unchanged. SGK mRNA and phosphorylated SGK protein were up‐regulated while total SGK protein expression was unchanged. Dexamethasone treatment, which suppressed plasma corticosterone concentration, did not correct sodium balance or fluid retention in nephrotic rats.

Conclusion:  Our results do not support the hypothesis that stimulation of the MR by endogenous glucocorticoids induces sodium and fluid retention in experimental nephrotic syndrome in rats.
Expression of oestrogen receptor α and β is higher in skeletal muscle of highly endurance‐trained than of moderately active men
Authors: Wiik A. , Gustafsson T. , Esbjörnsson M. , Johansson O. , Ekman M. , Sundberg C. J. , Jansson E.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  Two known oestrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and the recently cloned ERβ, are expressed in the human skeletal muscle of both males and females. The effects of oestrogen and the role of ERs in skeletal muscle tissue are not well known. Oestrogen receptors and some of their target genes are involved in angiogenic processes. It was hypothesized that ERs are expressed at a higher level in a group with higher oxidative capacity, and that such an enhanced expression would parallel expression of the angiogenic factor – vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Method:  Muscle biopsies were taken from vastus lateralis in 10 highly endurance‐trained males and 10 moderately active males and analysed for the expression of ERs and VEGF.

Results:  The major findings in the present study were the higher mRNA levels of ERα, ERβ and VEGF in the highly endurance‐trained than in the moderately active group.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that the greater mRNA expression of ERα and ERβ and the oestrogen‐associated angiogenic factor VEGF support the hypothesis of an involvement of ERs in the adaptation of skeletal muscle to endurance training.
An in vivo model for gastric physiological and pathophysiological studies in the mouse
Authors: Henriksnäs J. , Phillipson M. , Petersson J. , Engstrand L. , Holm L.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  In vivo models for studying gastrointestinal physiology and pathophysiology are well established in rats. Since a number of genetically modified mice are available there is a need for reliable mouse models. The aim of this project was to develop an in vivo mouse model for gastrointestinal studies.

Methods:  C57bl/6, NMRI and transgenic FVB/N (expressing human α‐1,3/4‐fucosyltransferase) mice were anaesthetized with isoflurane and the gastric mucosa exteriorized for intravital microscopy. Acid–base status and acid secretion were measured and blood pressure was continuously monitored. Gastric mucosal blood flow was recorded by laser‐Doppler flowmetry. Mucus thickness and accumulation rate were measured with micropipettes.

Results:  We have developed an in vivo mouse model for studies of the gastric mucosa. With isoflurane anaesthesia the preparation can be studied for up to 5 h with stable blood pressure and mucosal blood flow. Acid–base status agrees with results from other laboratories. Blood flow increased in both C57bl/6 and α1.3/4‐FT mice in response to luminal HCl, and the mucus gel could be divided into a firmly and a loosely adherent layer, all comparable with results in the rat. However, the firmly adherent mucus layer was thinner (45 ± 2 μm), and the mucus accumulation rate lower, than in the rat. Furthermore, both basal and stimulated acid secretion showed lower outputs than in the rat.

Conclusions:  This model has great potential for investigations of gastrointestinal physiology and pathophysiology and can be applied for Helicobacter pylori infection studies.
Adaptive changes in cardiac myosin heavy chain and creatine kinase isozymic profiles in rats native of altitude
Authors: Letout A. , Solares‐Espinoza M. , Mateo P. , Koulmann N. , Bahi L. , Serrurier B. , Favier R. , Ventura‐Clapier R. , Bigard X.
Published: May 2005

Aim: The developmental changes in the myosin heavy chain (MHC) profile, creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and isozyme expression occurring in heart were examined in rats born and living at altitude (La Paz, Bolivia, 3700 m, HLP) for 16 generations. We hypothesized that HLPrats respond differently to hypoxia than rats born and living at sea level, and secondarily exposed to altitude during 3 weeks (H3W).

Methods: The cardiac expression of MHC, CK and LDH was studied in left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) of HLPanimals 1, 2, 3, 4 and 18 weeks after birth, and compared with control normoxic (C groups) and H3Wanimals.

Results: Rats secondarily exposed to hypoxia showed a lowerα‐MHC content than C or HLPrats in both LV and RV, 3 weeks after birth (P < 0.05), consistent with a delay in the maturation of the heart contractile phenotype. A global increase in the total CK activity was observed in the LV of H3Wanimals in comparison with C rats (P < 0.05), while no change was reported in HLPanimals. In both ventricles, M‐LDH activity was higher in H3Wthan in HLPand C rats (P < 0.05). The relative amount ofα‐MHC decreased by 20% in RV of 18‐week‐old HLPand H3Wrats in comparison with C animals, consistent with the hypoxia‐induced ventricular enlargement (P < 0.01). An increased activity of the foetal B‐CK subunit was observed in both LV and RV of H3Wrats in comparison with HLPand C animals (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that rats native and living at altitude for several generations present some features relevant to genetic selection to altitude.
Effects of acute hypercalcaemia on blood pressure in subjects with and without parathyroid hormone secretion
Authors: Kamycheva E. , Jorde R. , Haug E. , Sager G. , Sundsfjord J.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  Acute hypercalcaemia increases the blood pressure, but the mechanism is uncertain. It may partly be the result of the concomitant fall in parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion as PTH has been reported to have a vasodilator effect. To elucidate this, we infused calcium intravenously in subjects with and without PTH secretion.

Methods:  Seven thyroparathyroidectomized subjects with undetectable PTH levels and 10 controls were studied twice, once with a calcium clamp technique that increased plasma ionized calcium in two steps of 0.1 mmol L−1, each step lasting 60 min, and once with a placebo infusion.

Results:  On the placebo day, blood pressure and all other variables were unaffected in both groups. On the calcium day, systolic blood pressure increased gradually and significantly from end of baseline till end of the calcium infusion in the controls (123.5 ± 19.8 and 134.2 ± 17.6 mmHg, P < 0.004) but not in the thyroparathyroidectomized subjects (124.9 ± 15.7 and 126.0 ± 20.6 mmHg, P = ns). Serum PTH levels fell promptly in the controls, and in both groups there was a significant increase in serum phosphate. The diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate, and the plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline, plasma renin activity, and serum aldosterone levels were unaffected by the calcium infusion.

Conclusion:  During acute hypercalcaemia the blood pressure increase appears unrelated to catecholamine secretion and the renin–aldosterone system, whereas the fall in PTH secretion may play a contributory role.
Improved insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake and glycogen synthase activation in rat skeletal muscles after adrenaline infusion: role of glycogen content and PKB phosphorylation
Authors: Jensen J. , Ruzzin J. , Jebens E. , Brennesvik E. O. , Knardahl S.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  Effects of in vivo adrenaline infusion on subsequent insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake and glycogen synthase activation was investigated in slow‐twitch (soleus) and fast‐twitch (epitrochlearis) muscles. Furthermore, role of glycogen content and Protein kinase B (PKB) phosphorylation for modulation insulin sensitivity was investigated.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats received adrenaline from osmotic mini pumps (≈150 μg kg−1 h−1) for 1 or 12 days before muscles were removed for in vitro studies.

Results:  Glucose uptake at physiological insulin concentration was elevated in both muscles after 1 and 12 days of adrenaline infusion. Insulin‐stimulated glycogen synthase activation was also improved in both muscles. This elevated insulin sensitivity occurred despite the muscles were exposed to hyperglycaemia in vivo. After 1 day of adrenaline infusion, glycogen content was reduced in both muscles; insulin‐stimulated PKB ser473 phosphorylation was increased in both muscles only at the highest insulin concentration. After 12 days of adrenaline infusion, glycogen remained low in epitrochlearis, but returned to normal level in soleus; insulin‐stimulated PKB phosphorylation was normal in both muscles.

Conclusion:  Insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake and glycogen synthase activation were increased after adrenaline infusion. Increased insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake and glycogen synthase activation after adrenaline infusion cannot be explained by a reduction in glycogen content or an increase in PKB phosphorylation. The mechanisms for the improved insulin sensitivity after adrenaline treatment deserve particular attention as they occur in conjunction with hyperglycaemia.
Contribution of different Ca2+‐activated K+ channels to the first phase of the response to TRH in clonal rat anterior pituitary cells
Authors: Mørk H. K. , Haug T. M. , Sand O.
Published: May 2005

Aims:  Thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH) induces biphasic changes in electrical activity, cytosolic free Ca2+ level ([Ca2+]i), and prolactin secretion from both clonal GH cells and native lactotrophs. The first phase of the TRH response is characterized by hyperpolarization because of activation of Ca2+‐activated K+ channels (KCa). In the present study, the relative contribution of BK, SK, and IK channels to the first phase of the TRH response in GH4 cells was assessed.

Methods:  The expression of IK channels was confirmed by PCR with specific primers for SK4 (IK). The response to TRH was studied using the perforated patch technique and Ca2+ microfluoromety (fura‐2). The involvement of different KCa channels was estimated by employing the specific channel blockers iberiotoxin (BK), apamin (SK) and clotrimazole (IK).

Results:  Application of 100 nm iberiotoxin, 1 μm apamin, and 10 μm clotrimazole reduced the peak value of the outward K+ current during the first phase of the TRH response by 33, 26, and 33%, respectively. Clotrimazole also shortened the duration of the outward current response by 60%, causing a reduction of total charge movement by 73%. All these toxin‐induced reductions were significant (P < 0.05). A combination of all three toxins abolished the current response almost completely.

Conclusion:  All the three main types of KCa channels are involved in the first phase of the TRH response, with IK as the major contributor. This is the first demonstration of a dominant role of IK compared with BK and SK channels in excitable cells.
ERK1/2 inhibition prevents contraction‐induced increase in plasma membrane FAT/CD36 content and FA uptake in rodent muscle
Authors: Turcotte L. P. , Raney M. A. , Todd M. K.
Published: May 2005

Aim:  The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the role of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signalling in the contraction‐induced increase in muscle FA uptake.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats (n = 41) were randomly assigned to either a resting or stimulated group. Within each group, animals were randomly assigned to receive PD‐98059, an inhibitor of MAP/ERK kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2), a kinase upstream of ERK1/2 and perfused with 550 μm palmitate, [14C]palmitate, 7 mm glucose, and no insulin. In the stimulated group, electrical stimulation (ES) of supramaximal trains of 100 ms was delivered every 2 s for 20 min.

Results:  ERK1/2 phosphorylation was increased by 50% (P < 0.05) during ES but the contraction‐induced increase was prevented by the addition of PD‐98059. Glucose uptake increased by 3.6‐fold (P < 0.05) from rest to ES in muscle perfused without PD‐98059 and was not affected by the addition of PD‐98059 either at rest (P > 0.05) or during ES (P > 0.05). For a matched palmitate delivery, ES increased palmitate uptake by 35% (P < 0.05). PD‐98059 had no effect on palmitate uptake at rest but completely abolished the increase in palmitate uptake during ES. Plasma membrane FAT/CD36 protein content was increased by 38% during ES (P < 0.05) but the contraction‐induced increase was prevented by the addition of PD‐98059. AMPK activity was increased by ES (P < 0.05) but was unaffected by PD‐98059.

Conclusion:  These results show for the first time that the increase in FA uptake and in plasma membrane FAT/CD36 protein content is mediated, at least in part, by the ERK1/2 signalling pathway during muscle contraction.
Immunomodulatory properties of human serum immunoglobulin A: anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory activities in human monocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Olas K , Butterweck H , Teschner W , Schwarz H P , Reipert B
Published: May 2005

Our study investigated the immunomodulatory activities of human plasma-derived serum immunoglobulin (Ig)A. Previous findings seem contradictory indicating either pro- or anti-inflammatory activities. We used serum IgA purified from large plasma pools and studied the modulation of the release of cytokines and chemokines from resting and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin)-stimulated human adherent monocytes and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Our results indicate that IgA down-modulates the release of the pro-inflammatory chemokines monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP) 1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) 1α and MIP1β from LPS-stimulated PBMC and the release of MCP1, MIP1α and MIP1β from LPS-stimulated monocytes. Furthermore, we confirmed previous reports that plasma-derived serum IgA down-modulates the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, from LPS-stimulated monocytes and PBMC, and up-regulates the release of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) from resting and LPS-stimulated monocytes and resting PBMC. This IgA-mediated up-regulation of IL-1RA is independent of the simultaneous up-regulation of IL-1β release, as shown by blocking the biological activity of IL-1β with a neutralizing antibody. On the other hand, we also found an IgA-induced pro-inflammatory activity, namely IgA-mediated up-regutation of the release of pro-inflammatory IL-1β as well as down-regulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-12p40 from LPS-stimulated monocytes and PBMC and a down-regulation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β from resting and LPS-stimulated PBMC. We conclude that human serum IgA has both an anti-inflammatory and a pro-inflammatory capacity and this dual capacity might contribute to the feedback mechanisms maintaining a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory activities.
Measurement of peripheral B cell subpopulations in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) using a whole blood method
Authors: Ferry B L , Jones J , Bateman E A , Woodham N , Warnatz K , Schlesier M , Misbah S A , Peter H H , Chapel H M
Published: May 2005

Recent reports have described reduced populations of CD27+ memory B cells and increased percentages of undifferentiated B cells in peripheral blood of patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). This work has prompted two attempts to classify CVID based on rapid flow cytometric quantification of peripheral blood memory B cells and immature B cells. Evidence to support the hypothesis that such in vitro B cell classification systems correlate with clinical subtypes of CVID is being sought. For the classification to be useful in routine diagnosis, it is important that the flow cytometric method can be used without prior separation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). We have examined 23 CVID patients and 24 controls, using both PBMC and whole blood, and find an excellent correlation between these methods. The reproducibility of the method was excellent. We classified the CVID patients by all three of the existing classifications, including secretion of immunoglobulin by B cells in vitro as described by Bryant, as well as the more recent flow cytometric classification methods. Only one patient changed classification as a result of using whole blood.
Defective prevention of immune precipitation in autoimmune diseases is independent of C4A*Q0
Authors: Arason G J , Kolka R , Hreidarsson A B , Gudjonsson H , Schneider P M , Fry L , Arnason A
Published: May 2005

Increased prevalence of C4 null alleles is a common feature of autoimmune diseases. We have shown previously that complement-dependent prevention of immune precipitation (PIP) is defective in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and correlated this defect with C4A*Q0 and low levels of the C4A isotype. To further clarify the role of C4A in the aetiology of SLE, we now extend our studies to other diseases which have been associated with C4A*Q0. The frequency of C4A*Q0 was increased in Icelandic patients with coeliac disease (0·50; P < 0·001), Grave's disease (0·30; P = 0·002) and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (0·23; P = 0·04) and in British patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (0·42; P = 0·002) and this was reflected in low levels of C4A. In spite of this, PIP was normal in these patients, and in marked contrast to our previous observations on connective tissue diseases, PIP measurements in these patient groups correlated more strongly with levels of C4B (r = 0·51, P = 0·0000004) than C4A. Patients with increased levels of anti-C1q antibodies had significantly lower PIP than patients without such antibodies (P < 0·01) and a negative association of PIP with anti-C1q antibodies was also reflected in an increased prevalence (P = 0·006) and levels (P = 0·006) of anti-C1q antibodies in patients with subnormal PIP, as well as a negative correlation between PIP and anti-C1q antibodies (r = − 0·25, P = 0·02). These results show that the PIP defect cannot be explained by low levels of C4A alone and suggest that measurements of anti-C1q antibodies may be useful in future studies on the molecular cause of the PIP defect in autoimmune connective tissue disease.
The number of human peripheral blood CD4+ CD25high regulatory T cells increases with age
Authors: Gregg R , Smith C M , Clark F J , Dunnion D , Khan N , Chakraverty R , Nayak L , Moss P A
Published: May 2005

Ageing is associated with evidence of immune deficiency and dysregulation. Key changes in the immune system with ageing include a progressive reduction in naive T cell output associated with thymic involution and peripheral expansion of oligoclonal memory T cells. These features are associated with evidence of impaired immune responsiveness both in vitro and in vivo, termed immune senescence. CD4+ CD25+ T cells have recently been recognized as mediators of peripheral immune regulation and play a role in the control of autoimmune and pathogen-specific immune responses. The significance of CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells in the context of immunosenescence is not known. We have investigated the number, phenotype and function of CD4+ CD25+ T cells in healthy volunteers over a wide age range. We demonstrate that the number of CD4+ CD25+ and CD4+ CD25high T cells in healthy volunteers increases with age. In both age groups CD4+ CD25+ T cells showed a phenotype consistent with that described for regulatory T cells. Further analysis of CD4+ CD25high T cells in young and elderly donors showed equivalent expression of intracellular CTLA-4 and surface expression of activation markers. In vitro, functional titration assays of CD4+ CD25high T cells demonstrated equivalent regulatory function in both young and elderly donors, with suppression of proliferation and cytokine production in response to polyclonal T cell stimulation. These observations demonstrate an increase in peripheral blood CD4+ CD25high regulatory T cells associated with ageing. The relevance of these expanded cells in relation to the immune senescence seen in the elderly as yet remains unclear.
Batch kinetics and modelling of ethanolic fermentation of whey
Authors: Zafar Salman , Owais Mohammad , Saleemuddin Mohammed , Husain Sattar
Published: May 2005

The fermentation of whey by Kluyveromyces marxianus strain MTCC 1288 was studied using varying lactose concentrations at constant temperature and pH. The increase in substrate concentration up to a certain limit was accompanied by an increase in ethanol formation, for example, at a substrate concentration of 10 g L−1, the production of ethanol was 0.618 g L−1 whereas at 50 g L−1 it was 3.98 g L−1. However, an increase in lactose concentration to 100 g L−1 led to a drastic decrease in product formation and substrate utilization. The maximum ethanol yield was obtained with an initial lactose concentration of 50 g L−1. A method of batch kinetics was utilized to formulate a mathematical model using substrate and product inhibition constants. The model successfully simulated the batch kinetics observed at S0 = 10 and 50 g L−1 but failed in case of S0 = 100 g L−1 because of strong substrate inhibition.
The effect of extrusion temperature and drying‐tempering on both the kinetics of hydration and the textural changes in extruded ready‐to‐eat breakfast cereals during soaking in semi‐skimmed milk
Authors: Sacchetti Giampiero , Pittia Paola , Pinnavaia Gian Gaetano
Published: May 2005

Ready‐to‐eat breakfast cereals were made by a two‐step extrusion‐cooking and toasting process. Before toasting the products were given a drying‐tempering step. Two process variables (extrusion temperature and moisture content before toasting) were manipulated in order to obtain products with different physical characteristics. Density, hardness, hydration kinetics and textural changes of the products during soaking were studied in order to analyse the influence of these variables on the product quality. Both the variables significantly affected the product quality indices such as hardness and density. The processing conditions had only a slight influence on product water uptake during hydration but a dramatic influence on product softening. The hydration and softening rates were negatively correlated with density. When density was equal samples extruded at different extrusion temperatures showed different water uptake and softening rates. Products with the same values of initial hydration rate showed different initial softening rates because of extrusion temperature.
Thoracic myelitis as a possible cause of myocardial infarction
Authors: LAPPEGÅRD K. T. , JUSTAD G. , PRYTZ J. F. , MANHENKE C.
Published: May 2005

During the course of an inflammatory process in the thoracic part of the spinal cord, a previously healthy male suffered two myocardial infarctions in separate coronary territories. A coronary angiogram revealed only minor wall changes in one coronary artery. We hypothesize that the myocardial infarctions may have been caused by vasospastic reactions secondary to his spinal cord pathology, and present the case report and a review of the literature.
Upregulation of the immune system in primary hypercholesterolaemia: effect of atorvastatin therapy
Authors: SAMPIETRO T. , BIGAZZI F. , ROSSI G. , DAL PINO B. , PUNTONI M. R. , SBRANA F. , CHELLA E. , BIONDA A.
Published: May 2005

Objectives.  High levels of plasma high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (CRP), sensitive to therapy with statins, have been described in hypercholesterolaemia. In vitro evidence shows that CRP activates the complement system, which, in turn, leads to an increased expression of ICAM‐1. Our objectives were to verify whether primary hypercholesterolaemia (PHC) is associated with an upregulation of the inflammatory/immune response, and whether this is sensitive to atorvastatin.

Methods and results.  We examined the levels of sICAM‐1, C3, C4 complement fractions in 48 patients with PHC, with (CAD group) or without (No‐CAD group) coronary artery disease (CAD) in comparison with a group of 48 healthy controls. The two patient groups were studied before and after atorvastatin therapy. Both hypercholesterolaemic groups showed higher mean values of sICAM‐1, C3 and C4 (P < 0.0001) when compared with the controls. The two groups of patients responded differently to atorvastatin therapy. After 3 months, the C3 levels normalized in both groups of patients (P < 0.02 compared with basal values); C4 was greatly reduced only in the CAD group (P < 0.01). After 12 months of therapy, in CAD group C3 mean levels were still significantly lower than baseline values (P < 0.01); a further decrease in the C4 values (P < 0.05 with respect to levels after 3 months of therapy) and also a substantial reduction in sICAM‐1 values (P < 0.001 with respect to basal values) were observed.

Conclusions.  High plasma values of C3 and C4 in PHC cluster with high values of sICAM‐1, distinguish subjects with CAD and could be used to monitor the anti‐inflammatory effect of statin therapy in these patients.
Nurse‐recorded clinic and ambulatory blood pressures correlate equally well with left ventricular mass and carotid intima‐media thickness
Authors: NYSTRÖM F. , MALMQVIST K. , LIND L. , KAHAN T.
Published: May 2005

Objective.  To assess relationships between noninvasive ambulatory blood pressure (BP), clinic BP (mean value of three readings in the seated position measured by nurses), structural cardiac indices, intima‐media thickness of the common carotid artery and several hormones.

Design.  Cross‐sectional study of 75 subjects with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy (HTH) according to echocardiography, 35 subjects with hypertension and normal left ventricular dimensions (HT) and 23 normotensive subjects (NT).

Results.  We found an excellent correlation between mean 24‐h ambulatory BP and clinic BP, the r‐value for systolic BP being 0.82 and for diastolic levels 0.78 (both P < 0.0001). Clinic and ambulatory BP correlated equally well with left ventricular (LV) mass index (r‐values between 0.55 and 0.64, all P < 0.0001) and to intima‐media thickness of the carotid artery (r = 0.18–0.34, P < 0.01). The systolic white‐coat effect (clinic BP − day‐time BP) was higher in the HTH and HT compared with NT and was weakly correlated to LV mass index (r =0.18, P = 0.04). Nondippers (mean arterial night/day BP ratio of >0.9) had higher brain (6.1 ± 7.5 pmol L−1 vs. 3.7 ± 3.2 pmol L−1, P =0.01) and atrial (14 ± 3.4 pmol L−1 vs. 9.3 ± 5.4 pmol L−1, P = 0.04) natriuretic peptide levels, and also exhibited a lower ejection fraction (49 ± 8% vs. 57 ± 9%, P = 0.006), than dippers.

Conclusion.  Clinic BP recordings performed by nurses as three measurements 1 min apart provide excellent relationship to target organ damage. Nondippers exhibited signs of a more advanced hypertensive organ damage than dippers which corresponds well with the poor prognosis linked to this condition.
Systemic autoimmune diseases co‐existing with chronic hepatitis C virus infection (the HISPAMEC Registry): patterns of clinical and immunological expression in 180 cases
Authors: RAMOS‐CASALS M. , JARA L.‐J. , MEDINA F. , ROSAS J. , CALVO‐ALEN J. , MAÑÁ J. , ANAYA J.‐M. , FONT J. ,   THE HISPAMEC STUDY GROUP
Published: May 2005

Objectives.  To describe the clinical and immunologic characteristics of a large series of patients with systemic autoimmune diseases (SAD) associated with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

Methods.  We analysed 180 patients diagnosed with SAD and chronic HCV infection seen consecutively at our centres during the last 10 years. The clinical and immunological patterns of disease expression were compared with 180 SAD‐matched patients without chronic HCV infection.

Results.  A total of 180 HCV patients fulfilled the classification criteria for the following SAD: Sjögren's syndrome (n = 77), systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 43), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 14), antiphospholipid syndrome (n = 14), polyarteritis nodosa (n = 8) and other SAD (n = 24). One hundred and thirty (72%) patients were female and 50 (28%) male, with a mean age at SAD diagnosis of 50 years. The main immunologic features were antinuclear antibodies in 69% of patients, cryoglobulinaemia in 62%, hypocomplementaemia in 56% and rheumatoid factor (RF) in 56%. Compared with the SAD‐matched HCV‐negative group, SAD‐HCV patients presented a lower prevalence of females (P = 0.016), an older age at SAD diagnosis (P = 0.039) and a higher prevalence of vasculitis (P < 0.001) and neoplasia (P < 0.001). Immunologically, SAD‐HCV patients presented a lower prevalence of antinuclear (P = 0.036), anti‐extractable nuclear antigen (P = 0.038) and anti‐DNA (P = 0.005) antibodies, and a higher frequency of RF (P = 0.003), hypocomplementaemia (P < 0.001) and cryoglobulins (P < 0.001).

Conclusions.  In comparison with an SAD‐matched HCV‐negative population, SAD‐HCV patients were older and more likely to be male, with a higher frequency of vasculitis, cryoglobulinaemia and neoplasia. This complex pattern of disease expression is generated by a chronic viral infection that induces both liver and autoimmune disease.
Influence of metabolic syndrome on hypertension‐related target organ damage
Authors: MULÈ G. , NARDI E. , COTTONE S. , CUSIMANO P. , VOLPE V. , PIAZZA G. , MONGIOVÌ R. , MEZZATESTA G. , ANDRONICO G. , CERASOLA G.
Published: May 2005

Objectives.  The aim of our study was to analyse, in a wide group of essential hypertensive patients without diabetes mellitus, the influence of metabolic syndrome (MS) (defined according to the criteria laid down in the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults) on markers of preclinical cardiac, renal and retinal damage.

Design.  Cross‐sectional study.

Setting.  Outpatient hypertension clinic.

Subjects and methods.  A total of 353 young and middle‐aged hypertensives, free from cardiovascular and renal diseases (and 37% of whom had MS), underwent echocardiographic examination, microalbuminuria determination and non‐mydriatic retinography.

Results.  When compared with subjects without MS, hypertensive patients with MS exhibited more elevated left ventricular (LV) mass (either normalized by body surface area or by height elevated by a power of 2.7), higher myocardial relative wall thickness, albumin excretion rate (AER) and a greater prevalence of LV hypertrophy (57.7% vs. 25.1%; P < 0.00001), of microalbuminuria (36.2% vs. 19.3%; P = 0.002) and of hypertensive retinopathy (87.7% vs. 48.4%; P < 0.00001). These results held even after correction for age, 24‐h blood pressures, duration of hypertension, previous antihypertensive therapy, and gender distribution. The independent relationships between LV mass and MS, and between AER and MS, were confirmed in multivariate regression models including MS together with its individual components.

Conclusions.  MS may amplify hypertension‐related cardiac and renal changes, over and above the potential contribution of each single component of this syndrome. As these markers of target organ damage are well‐known predictors of cardiovascular events, our results may partly explain the enhanced cardiovascular risk associated with MS.
Nine patients with anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐positive vasculitis successfully treated with rituximab
Authors: ERIKSSON P.
Published: May 2005

Objectives.  Rituximab (RIT) is a monoclonal anti‐CD20 antibody, which depletes B‐lymphocytes but not plasma cells. RIT is used for treatment of B‐cell lymphomas, but has also shown beneficial effects in autoimmune diseases. In this case series RIT was used in anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐positive vasculitis.

Design.  Case series with a structured follow‐up of treated patients.

Setting.  Departments of Nephrology and Rheumatology of a university hospital.

Subjects.  Two women with myeloperoxidase‐ANCA‐positive microscopic polyangiitis and seven patients (five men and two women) with proteinase 3‐ANCA‐positive Wegener's granulomatosis. All patients were resistant to conventional therapy or had relapsed repeatedly after cessation of cyclophosphamide (Cyc).

Interventions.  The cases were treated with intravenous infusions of RIT once a week two times (three cases) or four times (six cases). To prevent formation of antibodies to RIT, mycophenolate mofetil (five patients), azathioprine (one patient), or a short course of Cyc (two patients) were added or allowed to continue.

Main outcome measures.  Remission at 6 months assessed with Birmingham vasculitis activity score. The cases were followed 6–24 months and relapse rate was also noted.

Results.  Eight of nine patients responded completely and one case responded partially. Pulmonary X‐ray improved (four cases), progress of lower extremity gangrene stopped (one case), remission of neuropathy was stable (one patient), renal vasculitis went into remission (two cases), and severe musculoskeletal pain improved (one case). Minor relapse in the nose occurred in two cases. No adverse events or major infections were noted.

Conclusion.  RIT seems promising and safe in ANCA‐positive vasculitis, and controlled studies should be conducted.
Mononeuropathy multiplex and chylothorax as earlier manifestations of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: CHEN H.‐A. , CHENG N.‐C. , LIN K.‐P. , LIAO H.‐T. , CHEN C.‐H. , HUANG D.‐F.
Published: May 2005

Mononeuropathy multiplex (MNM) and chylothorax are rare clinical disorders. The concurrence of these two disorders with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection has not been reported. We herein report a patient who was initially diagnosed with fever of unknown origin and MNM, and then developed chylothorax. Pulmonary tuberculosis was proved 1 month after chylothorax appeared. With low‐dose prednisolone 15 mg day−1 and anti‐tuberculosis drugs, all these disorders completely resolved 1 year later.