bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of Thioamides, Selenoamides, and Amides with Diiodine
Authors: Hadjikakou Sotiris K. , Hadjiliadis Nick
Published: December 2006

We review the results of our work on the iodine interaction with
thioamides, selenoamides, and amides. Complexes with (i) “spoke” or “extended
spoke” structures, D · I2 and D · I2 · I2, respectively, (D is the ligand donor) (ii) iodonium salts of

(n = 3, 7) and formulae and (iii) disulfides of the categories
(a) [D − D], (b) have been isolated and
characterized. A compound of formula containing both types of complexes
(i) and (ii) was also isolated.
The interaction of diiodine with selenium analogs of the antithyroid drug 6‐n‐propyl‐2‐thiouracil (PTU), of formulae RSeU (6‐alkyl‐2‐Selenouracil) results in the formation of complexes with
formulae [(RSeU)I2]. All these results are correlated with the mechanism of
action of antithyroid drugs. Finally, we review here our work on the diiodine interaction
with the amides (LO).
On periodic orbits in discrete‐time cascade systems
Authors: Li Huimin , Yang Xiao-Song
Published: December 2006

We present some results on existence, minimum period, number of periodic orbits,
and stability of periodic orbits in discrete‐time cascade systems. Some examples are presented to
illustrate these results.
A perturbation‐based model for rectifier circuits
Authors: Vats Vipin B. , Parthasarathy H.
Published: December 2006

A perturbation‐theoretic analysis of rectifier circuits is presented. The governing differential equation of the half‐wave rectifier with capacitor filter is analyzed by expanding the output voltage as a Taylor series with respect to an artificially introduced parameter in the nonlinearity of the diode characteristic as is done in quantum theory. The perturbation parameter introduced in the analysis is independent of the circuit components as compared to the method presented by multiple scales. The various terms appearing in the perturbation series are then modeled in the form of an equivalent circuit. This model is subsequently used in the analysis of full‐wave rectifier. Matlab simulation results are included which confirm the validity of the theoretical formulations. Perturbation analysis acts a helpful tool in analyzing time‐varying systems and chaotic systems.
Fixed points as Nash equilibria
Authors: Torres-Martínez JuanPablo
Published: December 2006

The existence of fixed points for single or multivalued mappings is obtained as a corollary of Nash equilibrium existence in finitely many players games.
Endometrioma Complicated by Tubo‐Ovarian Abscess in a Woman With Bacterial Vaginosis
Authors: Kavoussi Shahryar K. , Pearlman Mark D. , Burke William M. , Lebovic Dan I.
Published: December 2006

Background. Tubo‐ovarian abscess involvement of an endometrioma has been reported in cases of
patients with polymicrobial sources such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis,
and obligate anaerobic bacteria; however, bacterial vaginosis (BV) predisposing to abscess formation in
an endometrioma has not been reported to date. Case. Superinfection of an endometrioma was surgically diagnosed in a patient with known advanced‐stage endometriosis after she presented with acute pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms and was unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. Gram‐negative rods were cultured from the endometrioma. On admission, cervical, blood, and urine cultures were negative; BV was diagnosed on normal saline wet prep and gram stain. Conclusion. This case raises the possibility of BV ascension to the upper genital tract predisposing to abscess formation in endometriomas. Therefore, aggressive treatment of BV in patients with known advanced‐stage endometriosis may be considered to prevent superinfected endometriomas.
Douching With Water Works Device for Perceived Vaginal Odor With or Without Complaints of Discharge in Women With No Infectious Cause of Vaginitis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chatwani Ashwin J. , Hassan Sarmina , Rahimi Salma , Jeronis Stacey , Dandolu Vani
Published: December 2006

Objective. To determine if douching with Water Works device for 1 month can (1) lower or eliminate perceived vaginal odor by subject; (2) have any effects on
vaginal ecosystem. Methods. Ten women with perceived vaginal odor with or without
discharge, douched every day for 4 weeks in an open‐label, nonrandomized
pilot study. Primary outcome measures included perceived vaginal odor by
subject, lactobacilli score from Nugent slide, and acceptance of the Water
Works douching system. Secondary outcome included the safety of using this
douching device. Results. At week 4, there was improvement in vaginal odor (P = .0006) and there was no significant change in lactobacilli score.
Conclusion. Douching with Water Works device is associated with reduction or
elimination of vaginal odor without adversely affecting the vaginal
ecosystem.
Mechanical Strains Induced in Osteoblasts by Use of Point Femtosecond Laser Targeting
Authors: Cranfield Charles , Bomzon Ze′ev , Day Daniel , Gu Min , Cartmell Sarah
Published: December 2006

A study demonstrating how ultrafast laser radiation stimulates osteoblasts is presented. The study employed a custom made optical system that allowed for simultaneous confocal cell imaging and targeted femtosecond pulse laser irradiation. When femtosecond laser light was focused onto a single cell, a rise in intracellular Ca2+ levels was observed followed by contraction of the targeted cell. This contraction caused deformation of neighbouring cells leading to a heterogeneous strain field throughout the monolayer. Quantification of the strain fields in the monolayer using digital image correlation revealed local strains much higher than threshold values typically reported to stimulate extracellular bone matrix production in vitro. This use of point targeting with femtosecond pulse lasers could provide a new method for stimulating cell activity in orthopaedic tissue engineering.
Mathematical Study and Numerical Simulation of Multispectral Bioluminescence Tomography
Authors: Han Weimin , Cong Wenxiang , Wang Ge
Published: December 2006

Multispectral bioluminescence tomography (BLT) attracts increasingly
more attention in the area of optical molecular imaging. In this paper, we analyze
the properties of the solutions to the regularized and discretized multispectral
BLT problems. First, we show the solution existence, uniqueness, and its
continuous dependence on the data. Then, we introduce stable numerical schemes and
derive error estimates for numerical solutions. We report some numerical results
to illustrate the performance of the numerical methods on the quality of multispectral
BLT reconstruction.
The First Bioluminescence Tomography System for Simultaneous Acquisition of Multiview and Multispectral Data
Authors: Wang Ge , Shen Haiou , Durairaj Kumar , Qian Xin , Cong Wenxiang
Published: December 2006

We describe the system design of the first bioluminescence tomography (BLT) system for parallel acquisition of multiple bioluminescent views around a mouse in a number of spectral channels simultaneously. The primary component of this BLT system is a novel mirror module and a unique mouse holder. The mirror module consists of a mounting plate and four mirrors with stages. These mirror stages are right triangular blocks symmetrically arranged and attached to the mounting plate such that the hypotenuse surfaces of the triangular blocks all make 45∘ to the plate surface. The cylindrical/polygonal mouse holder has semitransparent rainbow bands on its side surface for the acquisition of spectrally resolved data. Numerical studies and experiments are performed to demonstrate the feasibility of this system. It is shown that bioluminescent signals collected using our system can produce a similar BLT reconstruction quality while reducing the data acquisition time, as compared to the sequential data acquisition mode.
A Parallel Reconstruction Scheme in Fluorescence Tomography Based on Contrast of Independent Inversed Absorption Properties
Authors: Song Xiaolei , Yi Ji , Bai Jing
Published: December 2006

Based on an independent forward model in fluorescent tomography, a
parallel reconstructed scheme for inhomogeneous mediums with unknown absorption
property is proposed in this paper. The method considers the two diffusion equations
as separately describing the propagation of excited light in tissues with and without
fluorescent probes inside. Then the concentration of fluorophores is obtained directly
through the difference between two estimations of absorption coefficient which can be
parallel inversed. In this way, the multiparameter estimation problem in fluorescent
tomography is transformed into two independent single‐coefficient determined
schemes of diffusion optical tomography (DOT). Any algorithms proved to be
efficient and effective in DOT can be directly applied here. In this study the
absorption property is estimated from the independent diffusion equations by a
gradient‐based optimization method with finite element method (FEM) solving the
forward model. Simulation results of three representative occasions show that the
reconstructed method can well estimate fluorescent property and tissue absorption
distribution.
Free dendriform algebras. Part I. A parenthesis setting
Authors: Leroux Philippe
Published: December 2006

We propose both a reformulation of some known results on the free dendriform algebra on one generator from a parenthesis setting instead of using permutations and some developments as well. Moreover, by introducing the concept of NCP‐operad, we show how to use the free dendriform algebra on one generator to reformulate some results obtained by Speicher in free probability.
A new Hilbert‐type integral inequality and the equivalent form
Authors: Li Yongjin , Wu Jing , He Bing
Published: December 2006

We give a new Hilbert‐type integral inequality with
the best constant factor by estimating the weight function. And
the equivalent form is considered.
The fundamental group and Galois coverings of hexagonal systems in 3‐space
Authors: De La Peña J. A. , Mendoza L.
Published: December 2006

We consider hexagonal systems embedded into the 3‐dimensional space ℝ3. We define the fundamental group π1(G) of such a system G and show that in case G is a finite hexagonal system with boundary, then π1(G) is a (non‐Abelian) free group. In this case, the rank of π1(G) equals m(G) − h(G) − n(G) + 1, where n(G)
(resp., m(G), h(G)) denotes the number of vertices (resp., edges, hexagons) in G.
A counterexample to the article “On the fixed points of affine nonexpansive mappings”
Authors: Saeidi Shahram
Published: December 2006

We give a counterexample to the article “On the fixed points of affine nonexpansive mappings” (2001).
Combinatorial identities by way of Wilf′s multigraph model
Authors: Friedman Theresa L. , Klingsberg Paul
Published: December 2006

For many families of combinatorial objects, a construction of Wilf
(1977) allows the members of the family to be viewed as paths in a directed multigraph. Introducing a partition of these paths generates a number of known, but hitherto disparate, combinatorial identities. We include several examples.
Student absenteeism in engineering
colleges: Evaluation of alternatives using AHP
Authors: Kousalya P. , Ravindranath V. , VizayaKumar K.
Published: December 2006

The present study illustrates the application of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to a decision-making problem. AHP is a popular and powerful method for solving multiple
criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems. An attempt is made here to initialize the use of multicriteria decision-making methods for ranking alternatives that curb student absenteeism. Through the expert opinions, the criteria that cause student absenteeism are identified and the criteria hierarchy was developed. The relative importance of those criteria for Indian environment is obtained through the opinion survey. Alternatives that curb student absenteeism in engineering colleges like
counseling, infrastructure, making lecture more attractive, and so forth were collected from literature, journals' surveys and experts' opinions. Alternatives are evaluated based on the criteria, and the preferential weights and ranks are obtained. The experts' opinions are validated by Saaty's inconsistency test method. Involvement of parents is the best alternative given by the group of experts. Parents have to know their ward's day-to-day progress in
college. The second best alternative is counseling, as many criteria that cause student absenteeism are reduced by counseling.
Recent developments in volatility modeling and applications
Authors: Thavaneswaran A. , Appadoo S. S. , Bector C. R.
Published: December 2006

In financial modeling, it has been constantly pointed out that volatility clustering and conditional nonnormality induced leptokurtosis observed in high frequency data. Financial time series data are not adequately modeled by normal distribution, and empirical evidence on the non-normality assumption is well documented in the financial literature (details are illustrated by Engle (1982) and Bollerslev (1986)). An ARMA representation has been used by Thavaneswaran et al., in 2005, to derive the kurtosis of the various class of GARCH models such as power GARCH, non-Gaussian GARCH, nonstationary and random coefficient GARCH. Several empirical studies have shown that mixture distributions are more likely to capture heteroskedasticity observed in high frequency data than normal distribution. In this paper, some results on moment properties are generalized to stationary ARMA process with GARCH errors. Application to volatility forecasts and option pricing are also discussed in some detail.
On changes of measure in stochastic volatility models
Authors: Wong Bernard , Heyde C. C.
Published: December 2006

Pricing in mathematical finance often involves taking expected values under
different equivalent measures. Fundamentally, one needs to first ensure the
existence of ELMM, which in turn requires that the stochastic exponential of
the market price of risk process be a true martingale. In general, however,
this condition can be hard to validate, especially in stochastic volatility
models. This had led many researchers to “assume the condition away,” even though the condition is not innocuous, and nonsensical results can occur if it is in fact not satisfied. We provide an applicable theorem to check the conditions for a general class of Markovian stochastic volatility models. As an example we will also provide a detailed analysis of the Stein and Stein and Heston stochastic volatility models.
Analysis of a k‐out‐of‐N system with spares, repairs, and a probabilistic rule
Authors: Chakravarthy Srinivas R.
Published: December 2006

We consider a k‐out‐of‐N reliability
system with identical components having exponential lifetimes.
There is a single repairman who attends to failed components on a
first‐come first‐served basis. The repair times are assumed to be
of phase type. The system has K spares that can be used according to a probabilistic rule to extend the lifetime of the system. The system is analyzed using Markov chain theory and some
interesting results are obtained. A few illustrative numerical
examples are discussed.
Nanomedicine: Techniques, Potentials, and Ethical Implications
Authors: Ebbesen Mette , Jensen Thomas G.
Published: December 2006

Nanotechnology is concerned with materials and systems whose structures and components exhibit novel physical, chemical, and biological properties due to their nanoscale size. This paper focuses on what is known as nanomedicine, referring to the application of nanotechnology to medicine. We consider the use and potentials of emerging nanoscience techniques in medicine such as nanosurgery, tissue engineering, and targeted drug delivery, and we discuss the ethical questions that these techniques raise. The ethical considerations involved in nanomedicine are related to risk assessment in general, somatic‐cell versus germline‐cell therapy, the enhancement of human capabilities, research into human embryonic stem cells and the toxicity, uncontrolled function and self‐assembly of nanoparticles. The ethical considerations associated with the application of nanotechnology to medicine have not been greatly discussed. This paper aims to balance clear ethical discussion and sound science and so provide nanotechnologists and biotechnologists with tools to assess ethical problems in nanomedicine.
Ferromagnetic Nanostructures Incorporated in Quasi‐One‐Dimensional Porous Silicon Channels Suitable for Magnetic Sensor Applications
Authors: Granitzer P. , Rumpf K. , Krenn H.
Published: December 2006

Mesoporous silicon structures are fabricated during an anodization process of highly doped n‐type silicon in hydrofluoric acid solution. The resulting pores are oriented perpendicular to the surface and exhibit a diameter of about 50 nm and a length up to 50
μm, controlled by the etching time. The growth of the pores is self‐organized and depends on the crystal orientation of the used silicon wafer. The achieved channels, highly oriented along the (100) direction, are filled with nickel in a second electrochemical step. The deposition process leads to a distribution between high aspect ratio Ni‐wires and Ni‐particles of the incorporated metal. This achieved (porous silicon/Ni)‐nanocomposite system exhibits a twofold switching behavior of the magnetization curve at two different field ranges. This property gives rise to high‐magnetic field sensor applications based on a silicon technology.
Size‐Dependent Specific Surface Area of Nanoporous Film Assembled by Core‐Shell Iron Nanoclusters
Authors: Antony Jiji , Nutting Joseph , Baer Donald R. , Meyer Daniel , Sharma Amit , Qiang You
Published: December 2006

Nanoporous films of core‐shell iron nanoclusters have improved possibilities for remediation, chemical reactivity rate, and environmentally favorable reaction pathways. Conventional methods often have difficulties to yield stable monodispersed core‐shell nanoparticles. We produced core‐shell nanoclusters by a cluster source that utilizes combination of Fe target sputtering along with gas aggregations in an inert atmosphere at 7∘C. Sizes of core‐shell iron‐iron oxide nanoclusters are observed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The specific surface areas of the porous films obtained from Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) process are size‐dependent and compared with the calculated data.
Porous and Nanoporous Semiconductors and Emerging Applications
Authors: Föll Helmut , Carstensen Jürgen , Frey Stefan
Published: December 2006

Pores in single‐crystalline semiconductors can be produced in a wide range of geometries and morphologies, including the “nanometer” regime. Porous semiconductors may have properties completely different from the bulk, and metamaterials with, for example, optical properties not encountered in natural materials are emerging. Possible applications of porous semiconductors include various novel sensors, but also more “exotic” uses as, for example, high explosives or electrodes for micro‐fuel cells. The paper briefly reviews pore formation (including more applied aspects of large area etching), properties of porous semiconductors, and emerging applications.
Close Functional Coupling Between Ca2+ Release‐Activated Ca2+ Channels and Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Murine Macrophages
Authors: Jin Sheng-Wei , Zhang Li , Lian Qin-Quan , Yao Shang-Long , Wu Ping , Zhou Xiao-Yan , Xiong Wei , Ye Du-Yun
Published: December 2006

Aim. To investigate the role of Ca2+ release‐activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels in the ROS production in macrophages. Methods. The intracellular was analyzed by confocal laser microscopy. The production of ROS was assayed by flow cytometry. Results. Both LPS and thapsigargin induced an increase in intracellular , either in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+ in murine macrophages. The Ca2+ signal was sustained in the presence of external Ca2+ and only initiated a mild and transient rise in the absence of external Ca2+. CRAC channel inhibitor 2‐APB completely suppressed the Ca2+ entry signal evoked by thapsigargin, and suppressed approximately 93% of the Ca2+ entry signal evoked by LPS. The increase in intracellular was associated with increased ROS production, which was completely abolished in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ or in the presence of CRAC channel inhibitors 2‐APB and Gd3+. The mitochondrial uncoupler carbonyl cyanide p‐trifluoromethoxy‐phenylhydrazone and the inhibitor of the electron transport chain, antimycin, evoked a marked increase in ROS production and completely inhibited thapsigargin and LPS‐evoked responses. Conclusions. These findings indicate that the LPS‐induced intracellular increase depends on the Ca2+ entry through CRAC channels, and close functional coupling between CRAC and ROS production in murine macrophages.
Nonrecursive algorithm for remote geolocation using ranging measurements
Authors: Kaufmann P. L. , Vilhena de Moraes R. , Kuga H. K. , Beraldo L. A. , Motta Marins C. N. , Kaufmann P.
Published: December 2006

The objective of this work is to present a new algebraic solution for
the problem
of remote determination of geographic coordinates of a target, using
a new remote
geopositioning system being developed in Brazil. It can be useful for double‐check measurements obtained with other methods, for certain critical
applications, being capable to perform independently from them. This system
requires three‐reference bases
on the surface of the earth with synchronized clocks and a repeater in
space. Calculations are derived from measurements of propagation time of
clock signal
transmitted by one base to all bases and target, via a transponder in space.
The algorithm also provides the “instantaneous” determination of the repeater
position in space
and brings other applications in navigation and remote clock
synchronization. The algorithm has been successfully tested through
computational software.
Nonlinear oscillations of a coupled autoparametrical system with ideal and nonideal sources of power
Authors: Danuta Sado , Maciej Kot
Published: December 2006

An ideal and nonideal autoparametrical system excited by DC motor with unbalanced
mass is presented in this work. The system consists of the body of mass
M
which is hung on a nonlinear spring with a nonlinear
damper, and a pendulum of the length l and mass m mounted to the body of mass M. It is assumed
that the motion of the pendulum is damped by nonlinear resistive forces. Vibrations of both models
(ideal and nonideal) are researched. Solutions for the system response are presented for specific
values of the parameters of system and the energy transfer between modes of vibrations is
studied. Next excited vibrations for both models have been examined analytically and numerically.
Except different kinds of periodic vibrations, there may also appear chaotic vibrations.
Identification of a Gene Sharing a Promoter and Peroxisome Proliferator-Response Elements With Acyl-CoA Oxidase Gene
Authors: Akter Mst. Hasina , Razzaque Md. Abdur , Yang Liu , Fumoto Toshio , Motojima Kiyoto , Yamaguchi Tomohiro , Hirose Fumiko , Osumi Takashi
Published: December 2006

Many mammalian genes are clustered on the genomes, and hence the genes in the same cluster can be regulated through a common regulatory element. We indeed showed previously that the perilipin/PEX11αgene pair is transactivated tissue-selectively by PPARγand PPARα, respectively, through a common binding site. In the present study, we identified a gene, named GSPA, neighboring a canonical PPAR target, acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX) gene. GSPA expression was induced by a peroxisome proliferator, Wy14,643, in the liver of wild-type mice, but not PPARα-null mice. GSPA and AOX share the promoter and two peroxisome proliferator-response elements. GSPA mRNA was also found in the heart and skeletal muscle, as well as 3T3-L1 cells. GSPA encodes a protein of 161 amino acids that is enriched in 3T3-L1 cells. Even other gene pairs might be regulated through common sequence elements, and conversely it would be interesting how each gene is aptly regulated in clusters.
Thiazolidinediones and Fertility in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Froment Pascal , Touraine Philippe
Published: December 2006

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most frequent cause of female infertility. The treatment of PCOS patients with insulin sensitizers, such as metformin or thiazolidinediones, increases the ovulation rate and the number of successful pregnancies. The positive action of the insulin-sensitizing treatments could be explained by a decrease in the peripheral insulin resistance but also by a direct action at the ovarian level. We report in this review different hypotheses of thiazolidinediones actions to improve PCOS (steroid secretion by ovarian cells ; insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipocyte and fat redistribution).
Focus on the Tumour Periphery in MRI Evaluation of Soft Tissue Sarcoma: Infiltrative Growth Signifies Poor Prognosis
Authors: Fernebro Josefin , Wiklund Marie , Jonsson Kjell , Bendahl Pär-Ola , Rydholm Anders , Nilbert Mef , Engellau Jacob
Published: December 2006

Purpose. Infiltrative microscopical peripheral growth of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) has been shown to be of prognostic importance and preoperative risk stratification could individualize neoadjuvant treatment.
Patients and methods. We assessed peripheral tumour growth pattern on preoperative MRI from 78 STS. The findings were correlated to histopathology and to outcome.
Results. The MRI‐based peripheral tumour growth pattern was classified as pushing in 34 tumours, focally infiltrative in 25, and diffusely infiltrative in 19. All tumours with diffuse infiltration on MRI also showed microscopical infiltration, whereas MRI failed to identify infiltration in two‐thirds of the microscopically infiltrative tumours. Diffusely infiltrative growth on MRI gave a 2.5 times increased risk of metastases (P = .01) and a 3.7 times higher risk of local recurrence (P = .02).
Discussion. Based on this observation we suggest that MRI evaluation of STS should focus on the peripheral tumour growth pattern since it adds prognostic information of value for decisions on neoadjuvant therapies.
Late‐Onset Meningeal Metastases in Liposarcoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ferguson Michelle , Stewart William , Cowie Fiona , White Jeff
Published: December 2006

Intracranial metastases from liposarcoma are rare and almost always preceded by the development of systemic tumour spread. We report here a case of liposarcoma with spread to the cranial nervous system 23 years after treatment of the primary tumour. The literature on brain metastases from soft tissue sarcoma is also reviewed.
Primary Intracranial Leiomyosarcoma: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hussain Sakeer , Nanda Anil , Fowler Marjorie , Ampil Federico L. , Burton Gary V.
Published: December 2006

A 26‐year old man presented with a 3‐month history of a progressively enlarging palpable parieto‐occipital
mass. A CT scan indicated the lesion arose from the dura with bony destruction. A stealth assisted
craniotomy was performed with the provisional diagnosis of osteoblastic meningioma. Further histopathologic
analysis of the intracranial mass was consistent with leiomyosarcoma. Staging evaluation, including CT
and PET scans, demonstrated no other sites of disease. Despite complete surgical resection and radiotherapy
to the resection site, the disease recurred locally and systematically 5 months later. Primary intracranial
mesenchymal tumors are rare and few cases have been previously reported. Outcomes have been universally
poor and current therapeutic approaches appear to have only limited benefit.
Monoclonal Antibodies against the Candidate Lupin Allergens α-Conglutin and β-Conglutin
Authors: Dooper Maaike M.B.W. , Holden Lise , Fæste Christiane K. , Thompson Keith M. , Egaas Eliann
Published: December 2006

Background: The ingestion of dietary products containing sweet lupin (such as Lupinus albus or Lupinus angustifolius) has been reported to cause IgE-mediated allergic reactions. Recent studies have indicated lupin globulins as important IgE binding proteins. The aim of the present study was to generate and characterize monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against lupin seed proteins. Methods: Mice were immunized with a protein isolate from L. albus and mAbs were obtained by hybridoma techniques. Albumins and globulins were extracted, and the globulin fraction was separated further into conglutins by anion exchange chromatography. Specificities, binding patterns and applications of the mAbs were investigated by immunochemical methods. Results: Five mAbs were produced: Lu11 (an IgG2b antibody), Lu8, Lu18, Lu34 and Lu35 (all IgM antibodies). The mAbs reacted strongly with protein isolates from both L. albus and L. angustifolius. All mAbs are directed towards the lupin globulin fraction; Lu11 and Lu18 recognize α-conglutin, while Lu8, Lu34 and Lu35 recognize β-conglutin. In addition, Lu11 inhibited the binding of IgE from patients with positive skin prick tests to lupin proteins in a competitive ELISA by approximately 30%. Furthermore, preliminary results show that Lu11 can be used to develop a sensitive method for the detection of α-conglutin in foods. Conclusions: Lupin globulins are immunogenic and α-conglutin is a potential allergen. This is the first study describing mAbs against the candidate lupin allergens, emphasizing the importance of additional studies on conglutins in lupin allergy.
Characterization of Genes for a Pollen Allergen, Cry j 2, of Cryptomeria japonica
Authors: Futamura N. , Kusunoki Y. , Mukai Y. , Shinohara K.
Published: December 2006

Background: Cry j 2 is one of the major pollen allergens of Cryptomeria japonica. The polymorphism of Cry j 2 isoforms and the conservation of the structure of Cry j 2 in coniferous species remain to be analyzed. Methods:A cDNA library derived from the pollen of C. japonica was screened using a fragment of Cry j 2 cDNA. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was performed to examine the diversity of Cry j 2 genes. The promoters of Cry j 2 genes were isolated with a commercially available cloning kit. Clonal variations in the expression of Cry j 2 in pollen were examined by RNA gel blot analysis, and the conservation of the structure of the Cry j 2 gene in coniferous species was evaluated by DNA gel blot analysis. Results: We isolated three cDNA clones encoding novel isoforms of Cry j 2. We also sequenced a total of 16 promoter regions from 10 specimens. The sequences of promoter regions of Cry j 2 genes were highly divergent. The amount of Cry j 2 mRNA also varied considerably. The Cry j 2 gene was found to be conserved among species belonging to Taxodiaceae and Cupressaceae but to vary between Taxodiaceae and Pinaceae. Conclusions: The coding and promoter regions of Cry j 2 genes contain large numbers of polymorphisms. Our analysis revealed large variations in the expression of Cry j 2 at the transcriptional level, and we suggest that conserved homologs of Cry j 2 confer cross-allergenicity among Taxodiaceae and Cupressaceae.
Rice: Another Potential Cause of Food Allergy in Patients Sensitized to Lipid Transfer Protein
Authors: Asero Riccardo , Amato Stefano , Alfieri Beatrice , Folloni Silvia , Mistrello Gianni
Published: December 2006

Recent studies show that the lipid transfer protein (LTP), the major Rosaceae allergen in patients not sensitized to birch pollen, is a largely cross-reacting allergen. Moreover, it is a potentially hazardous allergen due to its stability upon thermal treatment and pepsin digestion. The present study reports 3 cases of rice-induced anaphylaxis in LTP-allergic patients. In vitro inhibition studies, carried out using LTP purified from both rice and apple as well as whole peach extract, show that LTP was the relevant allergen in these patients and demonstrate the cross-reactivity between rice LTP and peach/apple LTP.
A Negative Finding in an Exercise Test Is Reliable among Elderly People: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Sumanen Markku , Mattila Kari
Published: December 2006

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is very common among elderly people. Objective: To specify the diagnostic value of bicycle exercise tests conducted for elderly patients by trained general practitioners in primary health care. Methods: We performed a 2-year follow-up study at the Kangasala Health Centre, Finland. The study population comprised all patients at least 60 years old (n = 311) suspected of having CHD without prior diagnosis who were examined by an exercise test carried out by trained general practitioners during a period of 3 years. Specificity and sensitivity as well as positive and negative predictive values of the tests were calculated based on whether or not the participants had a diagnosis of CHD by the end of the follow-up period. The numbers of patients referred for coronary angiography and bypass operation were registered. For analysis, the patients were divided into two age categories: 60–69 years and ≧70 years. Results: A negative finding in the test proved very reliable: CHD manifested in only 3% of these cases in both age groups. The specificity of the test was 72% in the group 60–69 years and 66% in the group ≧70 years; the sensitivity values were 81 and 67%, respectively. The positive predictive values were 26 and 12%, the negative predictive value was 97% in both age groups. 1 in 4 patients yielding a positive finding eventually underwent coronary angiography and 1 in 6 patients coronary bypass surgery. Conclusions: Exercise tests may predict the clinical outcome of CHD among elderly patients. A negative finding in an exercise test is very reliable.
Is Osteoarthritis an Infection-Associated Disease and a Target for Chemotherapy?
Authors: Rozin Alexander
Published: December 2006

The treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) continues to be a challenge, and current treatment modalities are disappointing. New approaches in therapy may be developed as a result of evidence of the involvement of inflammatory cytokines in the progression of OA. Cotrimoxazole (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) was noted to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been used in the therapy of several autoimmune diseases. Analyzing our own and world experience, we propose that OA and degenerative joint and spine disease might be infection-associated diseases and a target for sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim therapy.
Telithromycin Inhibits the Number of Viable Bacteria but Not Lymphocyte Accumulation in a Murine Model of Chronic Respiratory Infection
Authors: Yanagihara Katsunori , Kuroki Misuzu , Higuchi Norihide , Ohno Hideaki , Higashiyama Yasuhito , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Hirakata Yoichi , Mukae Hiroshi , Tomono Kazunori , Mizuta Yohei , Kadota Jun-Ichi , Tsukamoto Kazuhiro , Kohno Shigeru
Published: December 2006

The 14-membered macrolides, such as clarithromycin (CAM) and erythromycin (EM), are effective against diffuse panbronchiolitis. However, there have been no studies on the effects of telithromycin (TEL) on chronic respiratory infection in vivo. In this study, we determined the effect of TEL on an experimental murine model of chronic respiratory infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa with biofilm formation. TEL significantly reduced the number of viable bacteria but had no effect on the proliferation of lymphocytes. In contrast, CAM decreased the number of lymphocytes but had no effect on the number of viable bacteria in the lung. These results suggest that TEL and CAM have different effects on chronic respiratory infection caused by P. aeruginosa.
Differing Effects of T4 DNA Ligase in the Modulation of the Damage Induced in Mammalian Cells by either X-Rays or Restriction Endonucleases
Authors: Ortiz Trinidad , Piñero Joaquín
Published: December 2006

Background: Of the different lesions induced by X-rays, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are considered the main cause of chromosomal aberrations and cell death. Restriction endonucleases (REs) induce only DNA DSBs and have frequently been used to mimic the effects of ionizing radiation in the study of DNA damage and repair. Methods: The present work makes use of clonogenic and cytogenetic assays to study the effect of T4 DNA ligase on modulating the damage induced by either X-rays or an RE (MspI) that produces breaks with cohesive ends. A CHO cell line defective in ligase III activity (EM9) and its corresponding parental line (AA8) were used. Results: Our results show that T4 DNA ligase increased cell survival and decreased chromosomal aberrations in cells treated with MspI, suggesting that most RE-induced DSBs can be repaired by a simple ligation. This enzyme was, however, unable to promote repair of the DNA damage induced by X-rays. Analysis of the ratios of exchange-type aberrations to chromatid break-type aberrations indicated that T4 ligase increased misrejoining of the DNA damage induced by X-rays. The results were similar in EM9 and AA8 cells, although the effect was greater in the cells deficient in DNA strand break rejoining. In addition, depending on whether the end strand break structure is 3′-hydroxyl and 5′-phosphoryl (REs) or more complex (X-rays), T4 DNA ligase could either promote the correct repair or, conversely, increase misrejoining. Conclusion: The present results confirm the idea that DNA DSBs induced by cohesive cutting RE are repaired by different mechanisms than those induced by X-rays causing cell lethality.
Upregulation of Enzymes Metabolizing 5-Fluorouracil in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Matsusaka Satoshi , Yamasaki Hajime , Fukushima Masakazu , Wakabayashi Ichiro
Published: December 2006

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the activities of various enzymes, participating in the metabolism of 5-fluorouracil, between colorectal cancer and nontumor tissues and to investigate the association of the enzyme activities with clinicopathological backgrounds. Methods: Activities of seven enzymes involved in nucleic acid metabolism – orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (OPRT), ribonucleotide reductase (RNR), thymidylate synthase, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, thymidine phosphorylase, uridine phosphorylase and thymidine kinase (TK) – were measured in tumor and nontumor tissues from 28 patients who were operated on for colorectal cancers. Results: OPRT, thymidylate synthase, RNR, thymidine phosphorylase, uridine phosphorylase and thymidine kinase activities were significantly higher in tumor areas than in nontumor areas. OPRT showed the highest T/N ratio (the ratio of each enzyme activity in tumor areas to that in nontumor areas). The T/N ratio of RNR activity showed a tendency to be associated with lymph node metastasis and Dukes classification. Conclusion: The results suggest that OPRT is a main enzyme participating in the phosphorylation of 5-fluorouracil and has an important role in tumor growth. The T/N ratio of RNR may be predictive of tumor progression.
Teach the Teachers: An Observational Study on Mentor Traineeship in Gynecological Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Kolkman Wendela , Engels Lieselotte E. , Smeets Maddy J.G.H. , Jansen Frank Willem
Published: December 2006

Background: To evaluate the effect of a mentor traineeship in laparoscopic surgery in a teaching hospital. Method: This observational study was performed between January 1997 and December 2004 at Bronovo Hospital, The Hague, The Netherlands. Since January 2001, an advanced endoscopic gynecologist has mentored a trainee in laparoscopic surgery. Data on the trainee’s procedures preceding (1997–2000) and during the mentor traineeship (2001–2004) were compared. The number and type of procedures performed, complications and conversions were derived from a prospectively kept database supplemented by a retrospective chart review. Operating times for total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) were registered to establish the trainee’s learning curve. Results: Since the presence of a mentor, the trainee has performed significantly more advanced laparoscopic procedures. Despite the significant increase in advanced cases, the trainee’s laparoscopic conversion rate to laparotomy remained stable between period 1 and period 2 (7.5 and 4.5%, respectively, p = 0.35, 95% CI –0.033 to 0.092); moreover, for level-3 procedures the conversion rate decreased (p < 0.001, 95% CI 0.30–0.71). Despite the increase in advanced cases, the total complication rate remained stable (3.2–4.5%, p = 0.62, 95% CI –0.07 to 0.04) including the number of level-3 complications (p = 0.63, 95% CI –0.4 to 0.3). A decreasing trend in operating time for TLH was found; however, this was not significant (Spearman correlation coefficient –0.421, p = 0.81). Conclusions: Mentor traineeship in gynecology enhanced the advanced laparoscopic caseload. With the increase in advanced procedures, no increase in conversion rate, complication rate or operating times for TLH was found. Due to the mentorship, patients were not exposed to increased complications and conversions, or to the disadvantages of a prolonged operating time. Predominantly, mentor traineeship facilitated the implementation of laparoscopic surgery into an established gynecological practice in a teaching hospital.
Tuboovarian Abscess Caused by Candida in a Woman with an Intrauterine Device
Authors: Hsu Wen-Chiung , Lee Yu-Hsiang , Chang Daw-Yuan
Published: December 2006

Candida infection should be considered in an individual with a pelvic abscess that is unresponsive to conventional antibiotic therapy, particularly in the presence of an intrauterine device. We present a case of a tuboovarian abscess caused by Candida species in a woman with an intrauterine device for >10 years. Surgical intervention followed by antifungal therapy resulted in a favorable outcome.
Effects of Donepezil on Central Processing Speed and Attentional Measures in Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Rowan Elise , McKeith Ian G. , Saxby Brian K. , O’Brien John T. , Burn David , Mosimann Urs , Newby Jane , Daniel Sarah , Sanders Jonathan , Wesnes Keith
Published: December 2006

Background: We examined attention-enhancing effects of the cholinesterase inhibitor donepezil in Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease with dementia (PDD) by means of open label study. Methods: 22 DLBs and 23 PDDs were assessed over 20 weeks using the Cognitive Drug Research Computerized Attentional Tasks. We examined how much closer our patients moved towards being normal for their age by comparing them to a non-demented elderly control sample (n = 183, aged 71–75 years). Results: Donepezil treatment improved power of attention, continuity of attention and reaction time variability. The deficit in responses was moved towards normal by 38 and 56% for power of attention and 22 and 10% for continuity of attention in PDD and DLB, respectively. Conclusions: Improvements in attention were found with donepezil in PDD and DLB.
Identification of Active Central Nervous System Sites in Renal Wrap Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Cunningham J. Thomas , Herrera-Rosales Myrna , Martinez Michelle A. , Mifflin Steve
Published: December 2006

To identify central neurons participating in cardiovascular regulation in hypertension, we studied Fos staining, a marker for synaptically activated neurons, in adult male normotensive and hypertensive (HT) rats. At 1 and 4 weeks after induction of unilateral nephrectomy, renal wrap hypertension mean arterial pressure was 138±4 mm Hg (n=6) in 1-week HT rats and 159±6 mm Hg (n=6) in 4-week HT rats. Mean arterial pressure was 103±2 mm Hg (n=6) in sham-operated, normotensive rats. Mean arterial pressure was greater in both HT groups compared with normotensive rats, and the mean arterial pressure in 4-week HT rats was greater than that in 1-week HT rats. Rats were anesthetized and perfused, brains sectioned and processed using a Fos antibody, and the number of Fos immunoreactive neurons counted in sections through various brain regions. Hypertension of 1 or 4 weeks did not alter the number of Fos immunoreactive neurons in the area postrema, the supraoptic nucleus, and the median preoptic nucleus. The number of Fos immunoreactive neurons was increased after 1 and 4 weeks in the nucleus of the solitary tract, both the caudal and ventral lateral medulla, and the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis. In addition, after 4 weeks of HT, the number of Fos immunoreactive neurons was increased in the parabrachial nucleus and the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. The results indicate central regions active in acute and chronic HT rats and suggest certain areas that may be differentially activated depending on the duration of the hypertension.
Adenylyl Cyclase Isoform V Mediates Renin Release From Juxtaglomerular Cells
Authors: Ortiz-Capisano M. Cecilia , Ortiz Pablo A. , Harding Pamela , Garvin Jeffrey L. , Beierwaltes William H.
Published: December 2006

We have shown previously that decreasing intracellular calcium in the juxtaglomerular cells increases both cAMP formation and renin release. We hypothesized that this is because of an interaction between intracellular calcium and the calcium-inhibitable isoform of adenylyl cyclase, type-V. We used primary cultures of juxtaglomerular cells isolated from C-57/B6 mice at 70% to 80% confluence. Western blots were performed on isolated juxtaglomerular cells using antibodies against either of the 2 calcium inhibitable isoforms of adenylyl cyclase, types-V and -VI. Only the antibody against adenylyl cyclase-V gave us a strong band at 120 kDa as expected. Immunolabeling in juxtaglomerular cells with confocal microscopy found immunofluorescence for the adenylyl cyclase-V–specific antibody compared with either negative controls or cells stained with the adenylyl cyclase-VI antibody. Reducing isolated juxtaglomerular intracellular calcium with 100 μmol/L of the cytosolic calcium chelator BAPTA-AM stimulated both cAMP (3.49±0.70 to 10.09±0.81 pmol/mL per milligram of protein;
P
<0.002) and renin release (1001.8±81.5 to 1648.0±139.1 ng of angiotensin I per milliliter per hour per milligram of protein;
P
<0.01). The selective adenylyl cyclase-V inhibitor NKY80 completely blocked both BAPTA-AM–stimulated cAMP formation and renin release. We conclude that lowering intracellular calcium is permissive, allowing an increased activity of the calcium-inhibitable isoform adenylyl cyclase-V (but not adenylyl cyclase-VI) in the juxtaglomerular cell, producing cAMP, which stimulates renin secretion.
Mutations in the Gene Encoding Filamin A as a Cause for Familial Cardiac Valvular Dystrophy
Authors: Kyndt Florence , Gueffet Jean-Pierre , Probst Vincent , Jaafar Philippe , Legendre Antoine , Le Bouffant Françoise , Toquet Claire , Roy Estelle , McGregor Lesley , Lynch Sally Ann , Newbury-Ecob Ruth , Tran Vinh , Young Ian , Trochu Jean-Noel , Le Marec Hervé , Schott Jean-Jacques
Published: December 2006

Background—

Myxomatous dystrophy of the cardiac valves affects ≈3% of the population and remains one of the most common indications for valvular surgery. Familial inheritance has been demonstrated with autosomal and X-linked transmission, but no specific molecular abnormalities have been documented in isolated nonsyndromic forms. We have investigated the genetic causes of X-linked myxomatous valvular dystrophy (XMVD) previously mapped to chromosome Xq28.

Methods and Results—

A familial and genealogical survey led us to expand the size of a large, previously identified family affected by XMVD and to refine the XMVD locus to a 2.5-Mb region. A standard positional cloning approach identified a P637Q mutation in the filamin A (
FLNA
) gene in all affected members. Two other missense mutations (G288R and V711D) and a 1944-bp genomic deletion coding for exons 16 to 19 in the
FLNA
gene were identified in 3 additional, smaller, unrelated families affected by valvular dystrophy, which demonstrates the responsibility of
FLNA
as a cause of XMVD. Among carriers of
FLNA
mutation, the penetrance of the disease was complete in men and incomplete in women. Female carriers could be mildly affected, and the severity of the disease was highly variable among mutation carriers.

Conclusions—

Our data demonstrate that
FLNA
is the first gene known to cause isolated nonsyndromic MVD. This is the first step to understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease and to defining pathways that may lead to valvular dystrophy. Screening for
FLNA
mutations could be important for families affected by XMVD to provide adequate follow-up and genetic counseling.