bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of nitric oxide in posthypoxic contractile dysfunction of diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: El‐Omar Magdi M. , Lord Roger , Draper Nick J. , Shah Ajay M.
Published: April 2003

We investigated the role of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the contractile dysfunction of diabetic cardiomyopathy, comparing streptozotocin‐treated (60 mg/kg) diabetic Wistar rats with matched non‐diabetic controls. Isolated isovolumic heart function was studied during normoxia and in response to brief hypoxia‐reoxygenation. Diabetic hearts had significantly lower left‐ventricular pressure and slower isovolumic relaxation than controls (relaxation time constant, T 40.2±2.3 vs. 27.7±0.9 ms; P<0.05) and a blunted response to hypoxia. These abnormalities were unaffected by NOS inhibition. Upon reoxygenation after brief hypoxia, diabetic hearts exhibited substantial worsening of LV relaxation compared to normal hearts (T 69.1±3.3 vs. 56.6±7.9 ms; P<0.05). This post‐hypoxic diastolic dysfunction was significantly attenuated either by the non‐selective NOS inhibitor L‐NAME, the iNOS inhibitor L‐NIL, or the reactive‐oxygen‐species (ROS) scavenger thiourea. Only diabetic hearts expressed iNOS protein, whereas eNOS expression was similar in both groups. In conclusion, diabetic hearts exhibit markedly abnormal post‐hypoxic relaxation, which is attributable to both ROS and NO derived from iNOS.
Cardiovascular aging and heart failure
Authors: Oxenham Helen , Sharpe Norman
Published: April 2003

The aging process is a major factor that contributes to changes seen in the cardiovascular system in older people. Stiffening of the arterial tree alters afterload and left ventricular geometry and although resting left ventricular systolic function is maintained, left ventricular diastolic function changes substantially. Cardiovascular function in older people during exercise is also significantly altered but can be modified by exercise training in older adults or genetic modification in animals. Age‐related changes in cardiovascular structure and function also lower the threshold at which cardiac diseases become apparent. This review describes the changes in cardiovascular structure and function at rest and during exercise in older people and highlights their consequences.
The distribution of ATP within tomato (Lycopersicon esculentumMill.) embryos correlates with germination whereas total ATP concentration does not
Authors: Spoelstra Patrick , Joosen Ronny V.L. , Van der Plas Linus H.W. , Hilhorst Henk W.M.
Published: April 2003

The distribution of ATP in tomato seeds was visualized by monitoring the luminescence of frozen sections on top of a gel containing all the components of the luciferase reaction, but excluding ATP. ATP was imaged in germinating tomato seeds at intervals of 3, 6, 17, 24 and 48 h and in seeds with primary or secondary dormancy. ATP was present mainly in the embryo and concentrated in the radicle tip towards the completion of germination. In contrast to germinating seeds, ATP was distributed more evenly in dormant seeds. For germination, the ratio of ATP concentration in the radicle tip versus cotyledons was decisive, rather than the absolute concentration.
Vegetation-derived abscisic acid and four terpenes enforce dormancy in seeds of the post-fire annual,Nicotiana attenuata
Authors: Krock Bernd , Schmidt Sybille , Hertweck Christian , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: April 2003

The native tobacco,Nicotiana attenuata, synchronizes its germination with the immediate post-fire environment with a combination of germination stimulants found in wood smoke and inhibitors from the unburned litter of the dominant vegetation. The inhibitors override the stimulants and prevent seeds from germinating maladaptively in unburned habitats adjacent to burns. To understand the physiological basis of this environmental control of germination, we tested several previously isolated signals, phytohormones and their respective biosynthesis inhibitors. The germination inhibitors methyl jasmonate (MeJA, a constituent of sagebrush litter), bornane-2,5-dione (BD, a constituent of juniper litter extract, JLE) and JLE did not alter abscisic acid (ABA) content of imbibed seeds. Treatment with the ABA biosynthesis inhibitor, fluridone, inhibited the dormancy-inducing effects of BD, JLE and MeJA, but surprisingly did not affect endogenous ABA levels in treated seeds. However, ABA leached from litter of the species, which dominate the plant community before fires, plays an important role in germination control. We conclude thatN. attenuataseeds, which can lie dormant in the soil for 150 years between fires, time their germination with the post-fire environment by responding to smoke, ABA and four terpenes (BD, 1,8-cineole, β-thujaplicin and camphor) leaching from the litter of the dominant vegetation.
The effects of normative social belief systems and customer satisfaction on rural savings programs in Ghana
Authors: Dadzie Kofi Q. , Winston Evelyn , Afriyie Kofi
Published: April 2003

This study examines the effects of normative social beliefs, customer satisfaction with service quality and demographic variables on the long‐term savings behavior of rural households some 15 years after the 1981 large‐scale promotion of the rural bank program in Ghana. The results show that considerations of these influences beyond income alone provide stronger predictive power, over and above that of income. In addition, it appears that the negative effects of social beliefs on savings behavior were ameliorated significantly as a result of the promotional program. Similarly, customer satisfaction with the level of service quality was also positively correlated with the level of savings. However, the effects of the marketing approach used in Ghana differed significantly across state owned commercial banks, foreign multinational banks, and rural banks. The implications for enhancing the role of promotional marketing in changing savings attitudes in rural savings mobilization programs in Ghana and elsewhere in Africa are discussed.
Internalising effectiveness and accountability for the public good: strategic choices for public sector bureaucracies in Africa
Authors: Nze Festus C. , Nkamnebe Anayo D.
Published: April 2003

Public sector bureaucracies in Africa play important roles in the management of socio‐economic development and change. These tasks impose a number of imperatives on these institutions: they must be effective, efficient, transparent, and results‐oriented. In recent times, public bureaucracies in Africa have come under scathing criticisms for not living up to these imperatives; a situation which undermines good governance and engenders corruption. Public affairs stakeholders in the continent believe that for public bureaucracies in Africa to perform and enhance good governance, old ineffective structures and processes used in the administration of public business, must yield place to more results‐oriented management philosophies, processes, and practices. This paper, accordingly, proffers some strategic choices in the areas itemized, to public sector bureaucratic actors in Africa, for internalising effectiveness and accountability for the common good in public sector organizations.
Competitiveness of meat agri‐food chain in Brazil
Authors: Zylbersztajn Decio , Pinheiro Machado Filho Cláudio A.
Published: April 2003

Studies on competitiveness in agri‐food systems have been challenged by non‐standard approaches. Traditional studies are defined as the ones based on comparative costs and market participation of countries or industries. Since comparative costs and market shares are distorted by subsidies, especially for agricultural products, traditional approaches show inconsistent results. Discusses competitiveness in a dynamic way, based on comparative capacity of agribusiness chain co‐ordination. In order to study the competitive structure of the meat system in Brazil, this study followed the methodology adopted by Farina and Zylbersztajn, applied to different food systems. The traditional studies are based on methodologies that do not make clear the specific aspects of coordination as a source of competitive advantages. Aims at reinforcing the relation between coordination and competitiveness. The main conclusion is the need to create coordination devices to attend the demands in terms of quality, traceability, standardization and certification which are key elements to building dynamic capabilities to the insertion of the region on the global beef market.
Pre‐construction project partnering: from adversarial to collaborative relationships
Authors: Humphreys Paul , Matthews Jason , Kumaraswamy Monan
Published: April 2003

The use of subcontracting within the construction industry has become commonplace with many main contractors only undertaking the management and co‐ordination activities. The reliance on subcontractors has put much stress on the main contractor‐subcontractor relationship. As main contractors have realised that the greatest potential for cost savings lies with the subcontractors, the prevalence of unfair practices has increased. This paper describes a procurement approach, utilising limited competition, developed by a major UK main contractor in order to improve its relationships with subcontractors. The approach developed was based on research which identified: what the main contractor’s professional employees want from subcontractors; what subcontractors want from main contractors; and a study to compare the main contractor’s performance with that of its competitors. It was concluded that this approach offers a number of benefits for the client, the main contractor, partnering subcontractors and professional consultants, such as, lower costs, improved team approach and less confrontation.
Isolation and identification of glycated aminophospholipids from red cells and plasma of diabetic blood
Authors: Ravandi A. , Kuksis A. , Marai L. , Myher J.J. , Steiner G. , Lewisa G. , Kamido H.
Published: April 2003

Glycosylation is a major pathway for posttranslational modification of tissue protein and begins with non‐enzymatic addition of carbohydrate to the primary amino groups. Excessive glycation of tissue protein has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes and ageing. While glycation of aminophospholipids has also been postulated, glycated aminophospholipids have not been isolated. Using normal phase HPLC with on‐line electrospray mass spectrometry we found glycated ethanolamine phospholipids to make up 10–16% of the total phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) of the red blood cells and plasma of the diabetic subjects. The corresponding values for glycated PE of control subjects were 1–2%.
SecG plays a critical role in protein translocation in the absence of the proton motive force as well as at low temperature
Authors: Hanada Mitsuharu , Nishiyama Ken-ichi , Tokuda Hajime
Published: April 2003

SecG is an integral membrane component of E. coli protein translocase. However, a discrepancy exists as to the importance of SecG for protein translocation at 37°C between cells and reconstituted proteoliposomes; protein translocation in ΔsecG cells is defective at 20°C but normal at 37°C, indicating that SecG is dispensable at 37°C, whereas SecG remarkably stimulates protein translocation into reconstituted proteoliposomes at 37°C. In this study, protein translocation into membrane vesicles containing or not containing SecG was examined in the presence and absence of the proton motive force at 37°C and 20°C. We found that the absence of the proton motive force renders protein translocation strongly dependent on SecG even at 37°C. Protein translocation into proteoliposomes in the absence of the proton motive force thus required SecG whereas that in cells, which always generate the proton motive force, did not.
Cloning and characterization of a novel receptor to pancreatic polypeptide, a member of the neuropeptide Y receptor family
Authors: Gregor Paul , Millham Michele L. , Feng Yun , DeCarr Lynn B. , McCaleb Michael L. , Cornfield Linda J.
Published: April 2003

We report isolation of a murine gene, NPYR‐D, which predicts an intronless novel G protein‐coupled receptor of 375 amino acids. Percent identities of NPYR‐D to the cloned Y1, Y2, rat Y4/PP1 and human Y4/PP1 receptors are 45, 32, 92 and 76, respectively. Southern blots indicate that NPYR‐D and human Y4/PP1 receptor genes are species homologues. Rat [125I]pancreatic polypeptide ([125I]rPP) bound to NPYR‐D‐transfected COS‐7 cell membranes with a high affinity, i.e. IC50=90 pM. Pharmacological characterization of [125I]rPP binding showed a rank order of potency of PP > > PYY ≥ NPY, such that PYY and NPY were at least 5000‐fold weaker than PP. Interestingly, [125I]rPYY binding produced the same rank order, but PYY and NPY were only 25‐fold weaker than PP, which had an IC50 value of approximately 120 pM. Tissue distribution studies in mouse and humans suggest potential roles of this novel receptor in the gastrointestinal tract, heart, prostate, as well as in neural and endocrine signalling.
Interferons induce accumulation of diadenosine triphosphate (Ap3A) in human cultured cells
Authors: Vartanian A. , Narovlyansky A. , Amchenkova A. , Turpaev K. , Kisselev L.
Published: April 2003

After incubation of human monocytes J96 and human myeloid leukemia HL60 cells with interferons (IFN) α or γ, the Ap3A concentration considerably increases in parallel with accumulation of tryptophanyl‐tRNA synthetase (TrpRS, EC 6.1.1.2) The Ap3A formation in response to IFNs is catalysed by an excessive amount of TrpRS. Although the Ap3A function still remain unknown its accumulation may imply the Ap3A involment in the IFN‐signalling pathway.
Ethanolamine analogues stimulate DNA synthesis by a mechanism not involving phosphatidylethanolamine synthesis
Authors: Kiss Zoltan , Crilly Karan S.
Published: April 2003

Dimethylethanolamine (0.5–1 mM), added to serumstarved NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, stimulated DNA synthesis 11–32‐fold, and it also greatly enhanced the relatively modest (15–20‐fold) mitogenic effect of insulin. Ethanolamine and momomethylethanolamine alone had no effects on DNA synthesis, but they also enhanced the stimulatory effect of insulin, although less effectively than dimethylethanolamine did. Lower concentrations (2.5–5 μg/ml) of compound D 609 (tricyclo‐9‐yl‐xanthogenate), which had no effects on phospholipase activities, synergistically enhanced the combined effects of ethanolamine analogs and insulin on DNA synthesis without affecting the synthesis of ethanolamine phospholipids. These results suggest that ethanolamine and its analogues, formed by phospholipase D‐mediated hydrolysis of ethanolamine phospholipids, may have growth regulatory functions independent of their role as phospholipid precursors.
Evaluation of the relative contribution of nitric oxide and peroxynitrite to the suppression of mitochondrial respiration in immunostimulated macrophages using a manganese mesoporphyrin superoxide dismutase mimetic and peroxynitrite scavenger
Authors: Szabó Csaba , Day Brian J. , Salzman Andrew L.
Published: April 2003

Here we report that the cell‐permeable superoxide dismutase mimetic Mn(III)tetrakis (4‐benzoic acid) porphyrin (MnTBAP) inhibits the oxidation of dihydrorhodamine‐123 by peroxynitrite, but does not scavenge nitric oxide (NO). MnTBAP protects against the suppression of mitochondrial respiration in J774 cells exposed to peroxynitrite or to NO donors. MnTBAP and provide additive protective effect against the suppression of respiration in immunostimulated cells. Our data suggest separate contributions of NO and peroxynitrite to the suppression of mitochondrial respiration and support the role of oxidative stress in the expression of the inducible isoform of NO synthase.
Molecular cloning and expression of a multiubiquitin chain binding subunit of the human 26S protease
Authors: Ferrell Katherine , Deveraux Quinn , van Nocker Steven , Rechsteiner Martin
Published: April 2003

S5a is a subunit of the 26S protease that binds and presumably selects multiubiquitinated proteins for destruction. We recently identified an Arabidopsis protein, MBP1, that is physically, immunologically and biochemically similar to S5a from the human erythrocyte 26S protease. Based upon the MBP1 cDNA sequence we have now isolated a HeLa cell cDNA coding for human S5a. The HeLa cDNA sequence is highly similar to MBP1 and it encodes peptides obtained directly from human erythrocyte S5a. Moreover, expression of the isolated cDNA in E. coli results in a recombinant protein with an apparent molecular mass and multiubiquitin binding properties that match those of human S5a obtained from the purified 26S enzyme.
Cselp functions as the nuclear export receptor for importin α in yeast
Authors: Künzler Markus , Hurt Eduard C.
Published: April 2003

CSE1 is essential for yeast cell viability and has been implicated in chromosome segregation. Based on its sequence similarity, Cse1p has been grouped into the family of importin β‐like nucleocytoplasmic transport receptors with highest homology to the recently identified human nuclear export receptor for importin α, CAS. We demonstrate here that Cse1p physically interacts with yeast Ran and yeast importin α (Srp1p) in the yeast two‐hybrid system and that recombinant Cse1p, Srp1p and Ran‐GTP form a trimeric complex in vitro. Re‐export of Srp1p from the nucleus into the cytoplasm and nuclear uptake of a reporter protein containing a classical NLS are inhibited in a cse1 mutant strain. These findings suggest that Cse1p is the exportin of importin α in yeast.
Partial purification of a GTP‐insensitive (1 → 3)‐β‐glucan synthase from Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Antelo Luis , Cosio Eric G. , Hertkorn Norbert , Ebel Jürgen
Published: April 2003

A (1 → 3)‐β‐glucan synthase activity was identified in cell membrane preparations from the oomycete Phytophthora sojae, a soybean pathogen. The activity could be solubilized using the zwitterionic detergent CHAPS at relatively low concentrations (3 mg/ml). High salt concentrations were not effective in removing the activity from the membranes. Detergent solubilization of the enzyme resulted in a six‐fold increase of calculated Vmax values (2.5 vs. 0.4 nkat/mg protein) but only minor alteration of the K
m (10.6 vs. 10.7 mM). Analysis of the reaction product of the solubilized enzyme by enzymatic degradation and by 2D NMR spectroscopy confirmed its identity as a linear high molecular weight (1 → 3)‐β‐glucan. Glucan synthase activity in both membrane and solubilized preparations was not activated by GTP or divalent cations as reported for other fungal or plant glucan synthases, The activity was inhibited, as expected, in a competitive manner by UDP with a K
i of 2.9 mM. Partial purification of the enzyme was achieved by anion exchange chromatography followed by product entrapment. This procedure resulted in the selective enrichment of a protein band with apparent M
r 108 000 in SDS‐PAGE which was not visible in any of the steps preceding product entrapment. The glucan pellets from product entrapment contained up to 3% of the initial enzyme activity present in the fraction used for the procedure.
Thermally induced chain exchange of smooth muscle tropomyosin dimers studied by differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Orlov Victor N. , Rostkova Elena V. , Nikolaeva Olga P. , Drachev Vladimir A. , Gusev Nikolai B. , Levitsky Dmitrii I.
Published: April 2003

The thermal unfolding of duck gizzard tropomyosin dimers, αβ, αα, and ββ, and of a 1:1 mixture of αα and ββ homodimers was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Both αα and ββ homodimers demonstrated a broad thermal transition with maxima at 37.4°C and 44.6°C, respectively. However, a sharp cooperative thermal transition at 41.5°C characteristic for αβ heterodimer appeared on the thermogram of the mixture of homodimers. The appearance of this transition was prevented by disulfide cross‐linking of polypeptide chains in the homodimers. Thus, DSC studies clearly demonstrate formation of tropomyosin heterodimers during heating of the mixture of homodimers and in agreement with earlier published reports indicate thermally induced chain exchange between tropomyosin dimers.
Alteration of the ADP/ATP translocase isoform pattern improves ATP expenditure in developing rat liver mitochondria
Authors: Florian Volker , Schönfeld Peter
Published: April 2003

The expression of adenine nucleotide translocase isoforms (AAC) during perinatal development of the rat was studied by measuring mRNA transcript levels of AAC1 and AAC2 genes in liver, heart and brain tissue. In contrast to heart and brain, AAC1 mRNA is not present in adult liver tissue, but is transiently expressed around birth. AAC1 expression in liver did not respond to cold stress (examined with adult rats), therefore a possible involvement of AAC1 in the liver thermogenesis of newborns is excluded. Measurement of the [3H]ADP uptake by liver mitochondria revealed that the molecular activity of the AAC protein was significantly higher in mitochondria from 4‐day‐old neonates compared with adults. We suggest that the transient AAC1 gene expression in the perinatal liver helps to accommodate the mitochondrial ATP supply to the increased cytosolic ATP consumption initiated at birth.
Pyridoxal phosphate binding to wild type, W330F, and C298S mutants of Escherichia coli apotryptophanase: unraveling the cold inactivation
Authors: Erez Tali , Phillips Robert S. , Parola Abraham H.
Published: April 2003

The mechanism of pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) binding to apotryptophanase was investigated using stopped‐flow kinetics with wild type (WT), W330F and C298S mutants. Based on the dependence of the rate constants on PLP concentrations for the fast and slow phases detected, two mechanistic schemes were proposed. For the WT and C298S mutant, the slow process is due to an isomerization of the aldimine complex after its formation, and not to the binding to an alternative conformation of the apoenzyme, which is the case proposed for the W330F mutant. It is suggested that during the cold inactivation process a conformational change precedes the aldimine bond cleavage. For the W330F apotryptophanase, another conformational change occurs subsequent to the aldimine bond cleavage.
Simplification of the clinical phase of IVF and ICSI treatment in programmed cycles
Authors: Vlaisavljević V , Kovačič B , Gavrić‐Lovrec V , Reljič M
Published: April 2003

Objective: To evaluate the success of a protocol for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation allowing patient self‐selection into groups for ovulation stimulation planned 8 weeks and more in advance following cycle synchronization, drug self‐administration as well as a reduced number of folliculometries. Methods: A total of 714 patients received the same stimulation protocol. In 260 cases GnRH‐a was applied daily and in 454 as depot. In all patients FSH‐HP was self‐administered subcutaneously for ovarian stimulation. In 316 patients IVF and in 398 patients ICSI was performed. Results: The delivery rate per started cycle was higher in patients receiving depot GnRH‐a in the IVF and ICSI group (30.2 vs. 23.4) than in those receiving subcutaneous GnRH‐a (20.2 vs. 22.1). Conclusion: Programming of the IVF/ICSI cycle greatly simplifies treatment. A comparison of pregnancy rate and delivery rate per cycle between depot and subcutaneous daily application of GnRh‐a did not confirm any statistically significant difference.
Transdermal glyceryl trinitrate in the management of primary dysmenorrhea
Authors: Moya R.A. , Moisa C.F. , Morales F. , Wynter H. , Ali A. , Narancio E.
Published: April 2003

Objective: Increased intra‐uterine pressure due to exaggerated myometrial contractions is an important factor in the pathogenesis of dysmenorrhea, its treatment being associated with uterine muscle relaxation. Diminished synthesis of endogenous nitric oxide has been shown to induce myometrial contractions and, conversely, the administration of exogenous nitric oxide has successfully resulted in uterine relaxation in a variety of obstetrical/gynecological disorders. The objective of this study was to determine the role of transdermal glyceryl trinitrate, as a source of exogenous nitric oxide, in the management of primary dysmenorrhea. Method: This was a multi‐national, double‐blind, randomized and cross‐over study in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. Eighty‐eight patients from six countries were evaluated during three menstrual cycles while receiving glyceryl trinitrate patches, 0.1 mg/h (×) or matching placebo patches. Pain intensity scores assessed on a visual analog scale and the time‐weighted sum of the pain intensity differences (SPID) were evaluated during days 1, 2 and 3 of each cycle using an analysis of variance (ANOVA) model. Overall assessment of efficacy and the incidence of adverse events were analyzed by the Stuart–Maxwell or the McNemar tests as appropriate. Results: Efficacy was determined for the first day of each cycle, all days/all cycles and for patients who completed at least one cycle in each treatment modality. In all three analyses, SPIDs were statistically superior (P<0.01) for the glyceryl trinitrate patches. Pain intensity differences from hours 1 to 6 also showed statistically significant differences in favor of the active treatment. In the overall assessment of efficacy, glyceryl trinitrate patches were statistically superior as well. The incidence of headache was 26% for the active drug and 6.1% for placebo (P<0.01). Conclusions: The data indicate that transdermal glyceryl trinitrate, as a source of exogenous nitric oxide, is useful as a modulator of uterine contractility representing, therefore, a new and mechanistically different therapeutic alternative for the management of primary dysmenorrhea.
Management of non‐neoplastic ovarian cysts with sclerotherapy
Authors: Kafali H. , Yurtseven S. , Atmaca F. , Ozardali I.
Published: April 2003

Objective: To evaluate sclerotherapy with alcohol and erythromycin in the management of simple ovarian cysts. Methods: Twenty‐four simple ovarian cysts were subjected to sclerotherapy with alcohol and erythromycin. All procedures were performed under local anesthesia and in an outpatient setting. Cytological examination was carried out in all cases and two patients were excluded from the study because of suspicious cytological results. The patients were followed up monthly with color Doppler sonography for more than 12 months. Results: Cyst fluid was serous in 17 cases and dark‐chocolate colored in seven cases. The volume of aspirated fluid ranged from 100 to 220 ml. The size of ovarian masses and cyst‐wall thickness ranged from 5.5 to 8.5 cm and 1.5 to 5 mm, respectively. Cytological analysis of 15 cysts revealed acellular sediment, seven cysts were compatible with endometrioma, and two were reported as suspicious. During the 12‐month follow‐up, seven cyst recurrences were detected. Conclusion: Aspiration and sclerotherapy with alcohol and erythromycin are followed by a relatively high recurrence rate when the aspirate is bloody. However, patients with a simple cyst that is painful or liable to torsion could benefit from sclerotherapy. Such patients, who are at low risk for malignancy, are relieved with sclerotherapy while avoiding surgery.
Successful pregnancy in a woman with acromegaly treated with somatostatin analog (octreotide) prior to surgical resection
Authors: Mozas J , Ocón E , López de la Torre M , Suárez A.M , Miranda J.A , Herruzo A.J
Published: April 2003

A 27‐year‐old woman with a GH‐secreting pituitary macroadenoma was treated with continuous s.c. infusion of octreotide prior to surgical resection. Subsequently, she was found to be 6 months pregnant. Fetal echographs were normal, the newborn had no malformation, and postnatal development was normal.
Hemiurothorax following diaphragmatic hernia and kidney prolapse in a cat
Authors: Störk CK , Hamaide AJ , Schwedes C , Clercx CM , Snaps FR , Balligand MH
Published: April 2003

A 3-year-old cat was presented with increasing dyspnoea over the past four days. Unilateral pleural effusion was diagnosed and a modified transudate was drained several times. Surgical exploration revealed intra-thoracic prolapse of the left kidney and partial herniation of the spleen through a dorsal, circumferential diaphragmatic tear. Biochemical analysis of the pleural fluid confirmed urothorax. Due to excessive fibrin deposit on the well-vascularised kidney it was impossible to re-establish left urinary pathways. Left-sided nephrectomy and diaphragmatic herniorrhaphy were performed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful and complete. This is the first report of an urothorax in veterinary medical literature.
The non‐invasive assessment of hibernating myocardium in ischaemic cardiomyopathy—a myriad of techniques
Authors: Galasko Gavin I.W. , Lahiri Avijit
Published: April 2003

Heart failure is placing an ever‐increasing burden on society. Many subjects with heart failure and underlying coronary artery disease have a significant amount of akinetic but viable myocardium that is able to contract should myocardial perfusion improve (hibernating myocardium). Non‐randomised studies have shown prognostic benefit in subjects with hibernating myocardium undergoing revascularisation. Several non‐invasive techniques have been developed to assess the presence or absence of hibernating myocardium. This review will examine the epidemiology and underlying pathogenesis of hibernating myocardium; evaluate the non‐invasive techniques for diagnosing hibernating myocardium, and look at therapeutic intervention in subjects with hibernating myocardium.
Heart failure in a multiethnic population in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Chong Aun‐Yeong , Rajaratnam Ratna , Hussein Nur‐Run , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: April 2003

Background:

There are established differences in cardiovascular disease in different racial groups. Worldwide, the literature regarding the clinical epidemiology of congestive heart failure (CHF) in non‐white populations is scarce.

Objectives:

To document the prevalence of CHF in the multiracial population of Malaysia, and to describe the clinical features and management of these patients.

Setting:

Busy city centre general hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Results:

Of 1435 acute medical admissions to Kuala Lumpur General Hospital over the 4‐week study period, 97 patients (6.7%) were admitted with the primary diagnosis of CHF. Coronary artery disease was the main aetiology of CHF, accounting for almost half (49.5%) the patients, followed by hypertension (18.6%). However, there were variations in associated aetiological factors between ethnic groups, with diabetes mellitus affecting the majority of Indians—as well as underutilisation of standard drugs for CHF, such as the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which were only used in 43.3%.

Conclusion:

Amongst acute medical admissions to a single centre in Malaysia the prevalence of CHF was 6.7%. Coronary artery disease was the major aetiological factor in heart failure accounting for almost half the admissions. The under‐prescription of ACE inhibitors was similar to other clinical surveys carried out amongst Caucasian populations in the West.
The effects of potassium nitrate and NO-donors on phytochrome A- and phytochrome B-specific induced germination ofArabidopsis thalianaseeds
Authors: Batak Ivana , Dević Marijana , Gibal Zlatko , Grubišić Dragoljub , Poff Kenneth L. , Konjević Radomir
Published: April 2003

Nitrogenous compounds, such as potassium nitrate, potentiate germination of different species of light-requiring seeds. Using light-inducedArabidopsis thalianaseed germination as a model system, our data suggested that only phytochrome A (phyA)-specific induced germination was affected after the exogenous application of nitrates, different nitric oxide (NO)-donors (such as organic nitrates) or sodium nitroprusside. The stimulative effect was very pronounced. Treated seed samples reached maximal germination after very short periods of red-light irradiation. To a far lesser extent, these substances affected phytochrome B (phyB)-specific induced germination. In phyB-specific induced germination, potassium nitrate was most effective, but germination percentages never exceeded 50%. The least effective was sodium nitroprusside, which practically did not affect phyB-specific induced germination. These results were confirmed using corresponding phytochrome mutants.
The release of secondary dormancy by ethylene inAmaranthus caudatusL. seeds
Authors: Kępczyñski Jan , Bihun Magdalena , Kępczyñska Ewa
Published: April 2003

Neither ethylene nor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) was able to prevent the induction of secondary dormancy ofAmaranthus caudatusat 45°C. Both ethylene (4.5 × 10-9–4.5 × 10-7M) and ACC (10-3–10-2M) removed secondary dormancy at 25°C, although ethylene was much more effective. The presence of ethylene for only 10 h was sufficient to remove secondary dormancy in almost all seeds. Incubation of secondary dormant seeds for up to 5 d at 25°C did not change sensitivity to ethylene. The breaking of secondary dormancy by ethylene was prevented by 2,5-norbornadiene (NBD; 1.5 × 10-5–3 × 10-4M), indicating the physiological action of ethylene. Abscisic acid (ABA; 10-4–10-3M) increased the requirement for exogenous ethylene. It is suggested that secondary dormancy inA. caudatusseeds might be related to insufficient ethylene production associated with an insufficient amount of ACC.
Cultural orientation: its relationship with market orientation, innovation and organisational performance
Authors: Mavondo Felix , Farrell Mark
Published: April 2003

The relationships among organisational culture, business environment, business strategy and functional strategies are rarely investigated in a holistic perspective. This leads to reductionism in modelling and prevents the full exploration of the potentially complex relationships among cultural orientation, business strategy and functional strategies and their impact on organisational performance. This paper, based on a sample drawn from food manufacturing businesses in Zimbabwe, recognises the pervasive impact of organisational culture on organisational strategy and functional strategies. As a result, it acknowledges the multi‐level impact of cultural orientation – allowing for the building of a conceptual model, linking cultural orientation, business environment, organisational strategy, functional strategies and performance – which is subsequently empirically tested.
Manufacturer channel management behavior and retailers’ performance: an empirical investigation of automotive channel
Authors: Chang Tung‐Zong , Chen Su‐Jane , Polsa Pia
Published: April 2003

In a supplier‐dominated channel system, how a supplier manages the channel has profound influence on its retailers’ overall operations. The effect of supplier channel management behavior on retailers’ market orientation and overall business performance is examined in the context of automotive supplier‐dealer relationship. Investigating the effect of channel management behavior along three dimensions, directive, participative, and supportive, the results support that the participative and supportive management styles have a positive effect on market orientation. Further analysis shows that both supplier management leadership and market orientation are linked to various perceptual, productivity, volume, and profit performance measures. The results offer important managerial implications and future research directions.
Measuring police‐community co‐production
Authors: Renauer Brian C. , Duffee David E. , Scott Jason D.
Published: April 2003

A popular practice of community‐policing is police attendance at community meetings. Given the prevalence of this co‐productive activity, research needs to understand the potential variation in police‐community interactions occurring in or reported in community meetings. Developing reliable and valid measurement techniques to characterize interactions occurring at police‐community meetings has strategic planning value for police and community practitioners and scholarly theoretical value. Two observational coding (issue‐specific and global) and sampling (continuous and periodic) strategies are contrasted. Methodological trade‐offs regarding validity, utility, strategic planning value, and theory‐testing value of the different methods are detailed. It is concluded that global measures of police‐community interactions and periodic observations of police‐community meetings can help with understanding variation in police‐community meetings and implementation effectiveness of co‐productive strategies. Yet, to validly understand the cause and effects of police‐community co‐production on building community and public safety, issue‐specific coding strategies and continuous observations of community meetings are necessary.
The theory of andragogy applied to police training
Authors: Birzer Michael L.
Published: April 2003

Police‐training is an important tool in the process of facilitating change within police organizations. With the further implementation of community‐oriented policing strategies in US police agencies, training becomes a critical centerpiece. Traditionally, the majority of subjects in the police‐training environment have been taught utilizing behavioral approaches which may not be effective when teaching an evolving police curriculum which has been implemented under the axiom of community‐policing. Trainers have also relied heavily on teacher‐centered approaches when teaching both neophyte and veteran police. Authorities who train police might benefit from a more student‐centered instructional format. This manuscript examines incorporating the theory of andragogy into police‐training and identifies particular characteristics about the learning transaction in the police‐training classroom. Given the theory‐to‐practice gap that haunts police‐training authorities, andragogy holds much promise in closing this gap.
Identification and characterization of presenilin I‐467, I‐463 and I‐374
Authors: Naruhiko Sahara  , Yu-ichi Yahagi  , Hideyuki Takagi  , Takefumi Kondo  , Masayasu Okochi  , Mihoko Usami  , Takuji Shirasawa  , Hiroshi Mori
Published: April 2003

We cloned a novel isoform of presenilin I (presenilin I‐374) besides previously published presenilin I‐467 and I‐463 in human lymphocytes. Presenilin I‐463 was identical to presenilin I‐467 except a 12 bp nucleotides deletion in its amino terminal region. Another isoform, presenilin I‐374 was produced by an alternative splicing with an additional exon consisting of 92 bp nucleotides (exon 11), which resulted in the frame shift with a stop codon to generate a truncated presenilin consisting of 374 amino acids. The transcripts for presenilin I‐4671463 was ubiquitously detected while that for presenilin I‐374 was selectively detected in liver, spleen, kidney. Abnormal behavior of presenilin I on gel electrophoresis was found with affinity‐purified antibodies against presenilin I.
A functional Spo0A is required for maximal aprE expression in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Olmos Jorge , Bolaños Victor , Causey Stuart , Ferrari Eugenio , Bollvar Francisco , Valle Fernando
Published: April 2003

The initiation of sporulation in Bacillus subtilis is under control of the transcriptional factor SpoOA. Most SpoOA mutants fail to initiate the sporulation process and all the sporulation initiated processes such as the synthesis of subtilisin. However, the product of spoOA9V, one of the several spoOA mutants characterized, distinguishes itself in the fact that, while it appears to effectively repress abrB, it fails to activate the spoIIA operon. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the spoOA9V mutation on aprE expression and we found that in different genetic backgrounds, the spoOA9V mutation has a negative effect on aprE::lacZ expression.
NF‐κB p50 subunit cross‐linking to DNA duplexes, containing a monosubstituted pyrophosphate internucleotide bond
Authors: Kubareva Elena A. , Fedorova Olga A. , Gottikh Marina B. , Tanaka Hiroaki , Malvy Claude , Shabarova Zoe A.
Published: April 2003

The new express technique based on the use of BrCN to synthesize DNA duplexes, containing non‐substituted or monosubstituted pyrophosphate internucleotide bonds has been proposed. Using this technique, DNA duplexes having modified internucleotide bonds between dT and dC residues in the human NF‐κB transcription factor recognition sequence in HIV‐1 (5′‐GGAAAGTCCC‐3′) have been prepared. We demonstrate that these internucleotide bonds within the recognition site do not prevent the formation of NF‐κB p50 subunit complex with the corresponding duplexes. The cross‐linking of NF‐κB p50 subunit to the DNA duplex containing a monosubstituted pyrophosphate internucleotide bond has been successfully performed.
Afg3p, a mitochondrial ATP‐dependent metalloprotease, is involved in degradation of mitochondrially‐encoded Cox1, Cox3, Cob, Su6, Su8 and Su9 subunits of the inner membrane complexes III, IV and V
Authors: Guélin Emmanuel , Rep Martijn , Grivell Leslie A.
Published: April 2003

The yeast AFG3 gene encodes an ATP‐dependent metalloprotease belonging to a subgroup of the AAA‐family. This protease has been suggested to be essential for a metal‐ and ATP‐dependent breakdown of incompletely mitochondrially synthesized polypeptides in the inner membrane, a process proposed to be important for mitochondrial function (Pajic et al. (1994) FEBS Lett. 353, 201–206). Here, we confirm the proteolytic activity by site‐directed mutagenesis and demonstrate that the proteins Cox1, Cox3, Cob, Su6, Su8 and Su9 are substrates of Afg3p. Surprisingly, this proteolytic activity is not required for respiratory function and thus presumably also not essential for mitochondrial biogenesis.
The role of His117 in the redox reactions of azurin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Gorren Antonius C.F. , den Blaauwen Tanneke , Canters Gerard W. , Hopper David J. , Duine Johannis A.
Published: April 2003

The electron‐transfer properties of H117G‐ and wild‐type azurin were compared by applying both as electron acceptors in the conversion of 4‐ethylphenol by 4‐ethylphenol methylenehydroxylase (4‐EPMH). The reactivity of H117G‐azurin was determined in the absence and presence of imidazoles, which can substitute the missing fourth ligand. In the absence of imidazoles, H117G‐azurin reacted directly with 4‐ethylphenol, this reaction was abolished in the presence of imidazoles. The enzymatic reduction of H117G‐azurin by 4‐EPMH was 40 times slower than that of wild‐type azurin. The rate of this reaction was enhanced by some imidazoles, diminished by others. In all cases the reduction of H117G‐azurin was irreversible. These results demonstrate that His117 is vital for electron transfer and effectively protects the copper site against aspecific reactions.
Wild type but not ΔF508 CFTR inhibits Na+ conductance when coexpressed in Xenopus oocytes
Authors: Mall M. , Hipper A. , Greger R. , Kunzelmann K.
Published: April 2003

Airway epithelial cells bearing mutations of the cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) possess an increased Na+ conductance along with their well described defect of cAMP dependent Cl− conductance. Currently it is not clear, how this occurs, and whether it is due to a CFTR control of epithelial Na+ conductances which might be defective in CF patients. In the present study, we have tried to identify possible interactions between both CFTR and the epithelial Na+ conductance by overexpressing respective cRNAs in Xenopus oocytes. The expression of all three (α, β, γ) subunits of the rat epithelial Na+ channel (rENaC) and wild type (wt) CFTR resulted in the expected amiloride sensitive Na+ and IBMX (1 mmol/l) activated Cl− currents, respectively. The amiloride sensitive Na+ conductance was, however, inhibited when the wt‐CFTR Cl− conductance was activated by phosphodiesterase inhibition (IBMX). In contrast, IBMX had no such effect in ΔF508 and Na+ channels coexpressing oocytes. These results suggest that wt‐CFTR, but not ΔF508‐CFTR, is a cAMP dependent downregulator of epithelial Na+ channels. This may explain the higher Na+ conductance observed in airway epithelial cells of CF patients.
Modulation by protein kinase C activation of rat brain delayed‐rectifier K+ channel expressed in Xenopus oocytes
Authors: Peretz Tuvia , Levin Gal , Moran Ofira , Thornhill William B. , Chikvashvili Dodo , Lotan Ilana
Published: April 2003

The modulation by protein kinase C (PKC) of the RCK1 K+ channel was investigated in Xenopus oocytes by integration of two‐electrode voltage clamp, site‐directed mutagenesis and SDS‐PAGE analysis techniques. Upon application of β‐phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) the current was inhibited by 50–90%. No changes in the voltage sensitivity of the channel, changes in membrane surface area or selective elimination of RCK1 protein from the plasma membrane could be detected. The inhibition was mimicked by 1‐oleoyl‐2‐acetylrac‐glycerol (OAG) but not by αPMA, and was blocked by staurosporine and calphostin C. Upon deletion of most of the N‐terminus a preceding enhancement of about 40% of the current was prominent in response to PKC activation. Its physiological significance is discussed. The N‐terminus deletion eliminated 50% of the inhibition. However, phosphorylation of none of the ten classical PKC phosphorylation sites on the channel molecule could account, by itself or in combination with others, for the inhibition. Thus, our results show that PKC activation can modulate the channel conductance in a bimodal fashion. The N‐terminus is involved in the inhibition, however, not via its direct phosphorylation.
High resolution surface structure of E. coli GroES oligomer by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Mou Jianxun , Czajkowsky D.M. , Sheng Sitong (Jun) , Ho Rouya , Shao Zhifeng
Published: April 2003

Using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in aqueous solution, we show that the surface structure of the oligomeric GroES can be obtained up to 10 Å resolution. The seven subunits of the heptamer were well resolved without image averaging. The overall dimension of the GroES heptamer was 8.4±0.4 nm in diameter and 3.0±0.3 nm high. However, the AFM images further suggest that there is a central protrusion of 0.8±0.2 nm high and 4.5±0.4 nm in diameter on one side of GroES which displays a profound seven‐fold symmetry. It was found that GroEL could not bind to the adsorbed GroES in the presence of AMP‐PNP and Mg2+, suggesting that the side of GroES with the central protrusion faces away from the GroEL lumen, because only one side of GroES was observed under these conditions. Based on the results from both electron and atomic force microscopy, a surface model for the GroES is proposed.
NMR study on the impact of metal ion binding and deoxynucleotide substitution upon local structure and stability of a small ribozyme
Authors: Vogtherr Martin , Limmer Stefan
Published: April 2003

We have studied a very small ribozyme described earlier which requires the presence of soft metal ions like manganese or cadmium. It consists of only three uridines as ribozyme, cleaving the sequence 5′‐GAAA‐3′ after the guanosine. We have set out to characterize the metal ion binding in this system by NMR spectroscopy and the impact of the ribose 2′‐OH group of the cleavable nucleotide upon local strucure. NMR results indicate a high degree of regularity and order in the pyrimidine‐rich ribozyme strand, and high flexibility within the purine‐rich substrate. The guanosine 2′‐hydroxy group adjacent to the cleavage site was found to have a profound effect upon the structure, apparently destabilizing a stacked arrangement. Metal ions were found to bind in a rather unspecific way, however, in the presence of higher amounts of divalent ions a preference in the vicinity of the cleavage site could be observed. 113Cd NMR spectra suggest a specific binding of Cd2+ ions to the RNA.