bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEDICATION PRACTICE AND FEMINIST THOUGHT: A THEORETICAL AND ETHICAL RESPONSE TO ADHERENCE IN HIV/AIDS
Authors: BROYLES LAUREN M. , COLBERT ALISON M. , ERLEN JUDITH A.
Published: August 2005

Accurate self‐administration of antiretroviral medication therapy for HIV/AIDS is a significant clinical and ethical concern because of its implications for individual morbidity and mortality, the health of the public, and escalating healthcare costs. However, the traditional construction of patient medication adherence is oversimplified, myopic, and ethically problematic. Adherence relies on existing social power structures and western normative assumptions about the proper roles of patients and providers, and principally focuses on patient variables, obscuring the powerful socioeconomic and institutional influences on behaviour. Some professionals advocate for alternate approaches to adherence, but many of the available alternatives remain conceptually underdeveloped. Using HIV/AIDS as an exemplar, this paper presents medication practice as a theoretical reconstruction and explicates its conceptual and ethical evolution. We first propose that one of these alternatives, medication practice, broadens the understanding of individuals’ medication‐taking behaviour, speaks to the inherent power inequities in the patient‐provider interaction, and addresses the ethical shortcomings in the traditional construal. We then integrate medication practice with feminist thought, further validating individuals’ situated knowledge, choices, and multiple roles; more fully recognizing the individual as a multidimensional, autonomous human being; and reducing notions of obedience and deference to authority. Blame is thus extricated from the healthcare relationship, reshaping the traditionally adversarial components of the interaction, and eliminating the view of adherence as a patient problem in need of patient‐centred interventions.
A GENERALIZED EARNINGS‐BASED STOCK VALUATION MODEL
Authors: DONG MING , HIRSHLEIFER DAVID
Published: August 2005

This paper provides a model for valuing stocks that takes into account the stochastic processes for earnings and interest rates. Our analysis differs from past research of this type in being applicable to stocks that have a positive probability of zero or negative earnings. By avoiding the singularity at the zero point, our earnings‐based pricing model achieves improved pricing performance. The out‐of‐sample pricing performance of the generalized earnings valuation model (GEVM) and the Bakshi and Chen pricing model are compared on four stocks and two indices. The generalized model has smaller pricing errors and greater parameter stability. Furthermore, deviations between market and model prices tend to be mean‐reverting using the GEVM model, suggesting that the model may be able to identify stock market misvaluation.
RETURNS TO EQUITY, INVESTMENT AND Q: EVIDENCE FROM THE UK
Authors: PRICE SIMON , SCHLEICHER CHRISTOPH
Published: August 2005

Conventional wisdom has it that Tobin's Q cannot help explain aggregate investment. However, the standard linearized present‐value asset price decomposition suggests that it should be able to predict other variables, such as stock returns. Using a new data set for the UK, we find that Q has strong predictive power for debt accumulation, stock returns and UK business investment. The correctly signed results on both returns and investment appear to be robust, and are supported by the commonly used and bootstrapped standard error corrections, as well as recently developed asymptotic corrections.
ESTIMATING A RISKY TERM STRUCTURE OF BRADY BONDS
Authors: KESWANI ANEEL
Published: August 2005

We compare the performance of a structural and a reduced form default risky bond pricing model for Brady bonds from different countries. Goodness of fit statistics indicate comparable in‐sample model performance whilst our out‐of‐sample tests favour the reduced form model. We also find evidence that a decrease in US interest rates is associated with larger sovereign spreads, consistent with flights‐to‐quality at times of financial crisis. We test for a common factor driving default probabilities across countries, using our reduced form model. We find that this factor is statistically significant indicating the presence of contagion effects in this market.
Vacuolating Cytotoxin A is Associated with Increased Thrombin Generation in Gastric Mucosa
Authors: Suzuki Yuko , Gabazza Esteban Cesar , Imoto Ichiro , James Roger F.L. , Hirayama Toshiya , Wada Akihiro , Horiki Noriyuki , Nakamura Misaki , Inoue Hiroyuki , Kuroda Mikito , Ogura Ayumi , Taguchi Yukiko , Yano Yutaka , Taguchi Osamu , Suzuki Koji , Adachi Yukihiko
Published: August 2005

Background.  Activation of the coagulation system is a critical response for both the repair of tissue injury and the host defense against microbial pathogens. Activation of the coagulation cascade culminates with the generation of thrombin. In vitro studies have shown that thrombin protects gastric epithelial cells from injury. The present study was undertaken to assess in vivo the relationship between gastric intramucosal generation of thrombin and Helicobacter pylori infection.

Materials and methods.  This study comprised 59 patients with gastroduodenal disorders. There were 27 patients with H. pylori infection (Hp+), 14 without it (Hp–), and 18 patients with cured H. pylori infection (Hp c). The gastric intramucosal concentrations of thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT), epidermal growth factor (EGF), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and vacuolating cytotoxin A (VacA) were measured by specific immunoassays.

Results.  The level of TAT was significantly increased in patients with Hp+ compared to Hp– and Hp c. The levels of TAT, EGF and PGE2 were higher in VacA (+) patients than in those with VacA (–). VacA induced significant expression of tissue factor in gastric epithelial cells in vitro. The gastric intramucosal level of VacA antigen was proportionally and significantly correlated with TAT, EGF and PGE2 in Hp+ patients. The level of TAT was proportionally and significantly correlated with EGF in Hp+ patients but not in Hp– and HP c patients.

Conclusions.  These results showed that VacA produced by H. pylori is associated with increased thrombin generation, and that thrombin may play a protective role in H. pylori‐associated gastroduodenal disorders.
Cellular Mucosal Defense During Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Review of the Role of Glutathione and the Oxidative Pentose Pathway
Authors: Matthews Geoffrey M. , Butler Ross N.
Published: August 2005

Helicobacter pylori is the primary cause of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease and is known to infect greater than 50% of the world's population. It is also known to lead to the onset of gastric cancer and unless treated, lasts throughout life in most individuals. Mouse models of H. pylori infection have improved our ability to study this organism and can be used to investigate the host mucosal response to the infection, particularly the early events postinoculation. Previous studies have shown that H. pylori infection leads to an increased production of reactive oxygen species within the gastric mucosa which are thought to play a major role in the mediation of associated disease. Recent studies have shown differences in the availability of an important antioxidant, glutathione, during chronic H. pylori infection. The availability of glutathione is primarily controlled by the activity of the oxidative pentose pathway. This review proposes that the severity of inflammation and damage associated with H. pylori infection is dependent on the ability of mucosal cells to counteract the increased load of reactive oxygen species. It is hypothesized that the oxidative pentose pathway and glutathione availability are important factors modulating this response. It is suggested that the therapeutic regulation of glutathione availability could provide a novel method for preventing or reducing the damage caused during H. pylori infection.
Incidence and Predictors of Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Following Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation Using the Anatomic Pulmonary Vein Ablation Approach: Results from Paired Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: DONG JUN , VASAMREDDY CHANDRASEKHAR R. , JAYAM VINOD , DALAL DARSHAN , DICKFELD TIMM , ELDADAH ZAYD , MEININGER GLENN , HALPERIN HENRY R. , BERGER RONALD , BLUEMKE DAVID A. , CALKINS HUGH
Published: August 2005

Introduction: There are currently no studies systematically evaluating pulmonary vein (PV) stenosis following catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) using the anatomic PV ablation approach.

Methods and Results: Forty‐one patients with AF underwent anatomic PV ablation under the guidance of a three‐dimensional electroanatomic mapping system. Gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performed in all patients prior to and 8–10 weeks after ablation procedures for screening of PV stenosis. A PV stenosis was defined as a detectable (≥3 mm) narrowing in PV diameter. The severity of stenosis was categorized as mild (<50% stenosis), moderate (50–70%), or severe (>70%). A total 157 PVs were analyzed. A detectable PV narrowing was observed in 60 of 157 PVs (38%). The severity of stenosis was mild in 54 PVs (34%), moderate in five PVs (3.2%), and severe in one PV (0.6%). All mild PV stenoses displayed a concentric pattern. Moderate or severe PV stenosis was only observed in patients with an individual encircling lesion set. Multivariable analysis identified individual encircling lesion set and larger PV size as the independent predictors of detectable PV narrowing. All patients with PV stenosis were asymptomatic and none required treatment.

Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that detectable PV narrowing occurs in 38% of PVs following anatomic PV ablation. Moderate or severe PV stenosis occurs in 3.8% of PVs. The high incidence of mild stenosis likely reflects reverse remodeling rather than pathological PV stenosis. The probability of moderate or severe PV stenosis appears to be related to creation of individual encircling rather than encircling in pairs lesion.
Assessment of the Proarrhythmic Potential of the Novel Antiarrhythmic Agent AZD7009 and Dofetilide in Experimental Models of Torsades De Pointes
Authors: WU YING , CARLSSON LEIF , LIU TENGXIAN , KOWEY PETER R. , YAN GAN‐XIN
Published: August 2005

Background: This study examined the proarrhythmic potential of the novel antiarrhythmic agent AZD7009 and dofetilide.

Methods and Results: The electrophysiological and proarrhythmic effects of AZD7009 and dofetilide were assessed in the arterially perfused canine and rabbit left ventricular wedge preparation. The proarrhythmic potential of AZD7009, dofetilide, and azimilide was further assessed in the methoxamine‐sensitized rabbit model of torsades de pointes (TdP) in vivo. AZD7009 lengthened the action potential duration (APD) and the QT interval in a bell‐shaped manner (15.9 ± 1.3% in canine wedge and 46.1 ± 2.9% in rabbit wedge) occurring at 3 and 1 μM. In contrast, dofetilide did not show the bell‐shaped concentration response and the QT interval was lengthened more extensively (27.7 ± 1.6% and 100.8 ± 10.0%). Furthermore, whereas dofetilide prolonged the midmyocardial and endocardial APD predominantly, resulting in an increased transmural dispersion of repolarization (TDR), AZD7009 prolonged the APD more homogenously in all cell layers. At 1 μM, AZD7009 produced phase 2 early afterdepolarizations (EADs) in 1/4 rabbit preparations but without ventricular R‐on‐T extrasystoles or TdP. In contrast, starting at 0.03 μM, dofetilide‐induced EADs, R‐on‐T extrasystoles and TdP in 6/6, 5/6, and 4/6 preparations. Following intravenous infusion of AZD7009 (210 nmol/kg/minute), dofetilide (2 nmol/kg/minute) or azimilide (3.33 μmol/kg/minute), TdP was induced in 0/8, 5/8, and 5/8 rabbits (P = 0.026 vs AZD7009), respectively. In 5/5 rabbits, AZD7009 promptly suppressed TdP induced by dofetilide.

Conclusions: In animal models of TdP, AZD7009 delays ventricular repolarization in a self‐limited way associated with a low risk of repolarization‐related proarrhythmia.
Comparison of Induced and Spontaneous Atrial Tachyarrhythmias in Patients with a History of Spontaneous Atrial Tachyarrhythmias
Authors: WOLLMANN CHRISTIAN G. , BIRNIE DAVID , TANG ANTHONY , BORIANI GIUSEPPE , KÜHL MARTIN , BÖCKER DIRK
Published: August 2005

Introduction: This retrospective study investigated whether induced episodes could be used to predict the morphology of future spontaneous atrial episodes.

Methods: Eighty‐two patients (64 ± 12 years; 77% male; CAD in 60%; left ventricular ejection fraction 45 ± 16%) with a history of atrial tachycardia or atrial fibrillation (AT/AF) were implanted with a dual‐chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and followed for 6 months. A total of 224 episodes of induced and spontaneous AT/AF were classified into type I, II, and III according to the method of Israel et al. and then compared based on average cycle length (CL) and atrial amplitude. Episodes were also grouped as “pace‐terminable” or “nonpace‐terminable” based on the CL definition of Gillis et al.

Results: The analysis of 121 induced episodes (from 80 patients) and 103 spontaneous episodes (from 43 patients) showed that within each arrhythmia type, there were no significant differences in CL or mean amplitude between induced and spontaneous episodes. Additional analysis of patients that had both induced and spontaneous episodes (n = 41) showed 78% had at least one spontaneous episode that matched the induced episode. Fifty‐seven percent of spontaneous episodes were considered to be pace‐terminable based on CL.

Conclusions: Our data suggest that there is no significant difference between induced and spontaneous episodes of AT/AF of the same type. The majority of patients had at least one spontaneous episode of the same type as the induced episode, showing that induced atrial arrhythmias may be useful in predicting the morphology of future spontaneous episodes and in identifying patients potentially benefiting from atrial antitachycardia pacing.
Action Potential Duration and QT Interval During Pinacidil Infusion in Isolated Rabbit Hearts
Authors: WU SUHUA , HAYASHI HIDEKI , LIN SHIEN‐FONG , CHEN PENG‐SHENG
Published: August 2005

Introduction: Acute myocardial ischemia, which opens KATP channel, is associated with shortened action potential duration (APD) but prolonged QT interval. This discrepancy has not been adequately explained. We hypothesize that the duration of intracellular calcium (Cai) transient (DCaT) may play a role in determining QT interval.

Methods and Results: We performed simultaneous optical mapping of voltage and Cai in 15 isolated rabbit hearts during a KATP channel opener (pinacidil) infusion. Anterior epicardial mapping (n = 7) showed no difference of APD90, QT interval, and the DCaT90 at baseline. When perfused with 80 μM pinacidil, the APD90, the QT interval, and the DCaT90 were 105 ± 10 msec, 199 ± 14 msec, and 189 ± 13 msec, respectively, during right ventricular (RV) pacing (P < 0.05). Posterior epicardial mapping (n = 4) showed that the APD90 was significantly (P < 0.05) shorter than QT interval and DCaT90 during pinacidil infusion. The results of the transmural mapping studies (n = 4) showed that the QT interval during RV pacing was not different than the DCaT90 in the epicardium, midmyocardium, and endocardium, but was significantly (P < 0.01) longer than the APD90 in epicardium, midmyocardium, and endocardium, respectively. There was a good correlation between the DCaT90 and QT interval at baseline (r = 0.92, P < 0.0001) and during pinacidil infusion (r = 0.74, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: We conclude that KATP channel opening shortened APD but not the QT interval. Because Cai did not return to diastolic level at the end of action potential, it may have created a heterogeneous membrane potential distribution that determined the QT interval.
Creating Continuous Linear Lesions in the Atria: A Comparison of the Multipolar Ablation Technique Versus the Conventional Drag‐and‐Burn
Authors: SU WILBER W. , JOHNSON SUSAN B. , JAIN MUDIT K. , HALL JEFFREY , PACKER DOUGLAS L.
Published: August 2005

Introduction: Catheter‐based treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) requires the isolation of the triggering foci as well as modification of the atria with substrate that sustains AF. The creation of linear lesions in the left atrium with standard radiofrequency ablative methods requires long procedural times with unpredictable results.

Methods: The simultaneous delivery of phase‐shifted radiofrequency energy from a multipolar catheter was compared to the conventional drag‐and‐burn technique for creating linear lesions in 10 dogs. Four atrial sites were targeted under intracardiac ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance in each of 10 dogs. The conventional drag‐and‐burn technique or the multipolar phase‐shifted ablation catheter was randomly applied for 60 seconds and compared.

Results: Creating linear lesions using the simultaneous multipolar phase‐shifted ablation catheter was on average 11.0 minutes faster (33.6 minutes vs 44.6 minutes, P < 0.01) than the drag‐and‐burn method. The fraction of the lesion length achieved using phase‐shifted ablation compared to that intended was 23% greater (76% vs 53%, P < 0.01), and has less discontinuities (0.1 compared to 0.8 discontinuities/line, P < 0.003). There was no significant difference in either the lesion transmurality, or fluoroscopy times.

Conclusion: The simultaneous delivery of phase‐shifted, radiofrequency energy using a multipolar catheter is more effective and efficient in producing linear lesions than the traditional drag‐and‐burn technique. Using the multipolar ablative method to create linear lesions may be a useful technique in the treatment of patients with substrate‐mediated atrial fibrillation.
Spatial Resolution of Pacemapping and Activation Mapping in Patients with Idiopathic Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Tachycardia
Authors: AZEGAMI KOJI , WILBER DAVID J. , ARRUDA MAURICIO , LIN ALBERT C. , DENMAN RUSSELL A.
Published: August 2005

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the spatial resolution of activation mapping and pacemapping in patients undergoing ablation of idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT) arising from the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). A direct comparison of the two techniques has not been undertaken.

Methods and Results: Electroanatomical activation maps of the RVOT were obtained during VT in 15 patients. Pacemaps were obtained from multiple sites, tagged on the activation map, and scored according the degree of concordance between the paced QRS configuration and that of VT. The site of successful ablation was considered the VT site of origin. Initial endocardial activation away from the site of origin was rapid; the mean area of myocardium activated within the first 10 msec (early activation area, EAA) was 3.0 ± 1.6 cm2 (range: 1.3–6.4 cm2). Best pacemap scores were always obtained adjacent to the site of origin. Pacemap concordance, and the probability of an exact pacemap match significantly decreased with increasing distance of the pacing site from the site of origin (P < 0.01). All patients had more than one pacing site yielding a best pacemap score. The greatest distance between such sites in an individual patient ranged from 11 to 26 mm (mean: 18 ± 5 mm), and was strongly correlated with the size of the EAA (r = 0.77, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Pacemapping and activation mapping provide similar localizing information. The spatial resolution of each technique is modest, varies between patients, and may be optimized by three‐dimensional data display
Transition of polycythemia vera to chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Saviola Alessia , Fiorani Claudia , Ferrara Leonardo , Mazzocchi Valeria , Zucchini Patrizia , Temperani Paola , Longo Giuseppe , Emilia Giovanni , Torelli Giuseppe
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  A 77‐year‐old female with polycythemia vera (PV) showed a sudden, typical chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), 8 yr after the initial diagnosis, and an intermittent treatment with hydroxyurea (0.5–1 g/d) and phlebotomies. At PV diagnosis, the Ph chromosome was negative and no bcr–abl rearrangement was observed; they were both revealed positive at CML onset. Transition of PV to CML is very rare; only seven substantiated cases had been reported in the literature up until now (six from 1964 to 1993). All patients but one received 32P or alkylating agents for PV treatment. The pathogenetic mechanisms are briefly discussed.
The effect of ciprofloxacin on cyclophosphamide pharmacokinetics in patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Afsharian Parvaneh , Möllgård Lars , Hassan Zuzana , Xie Hanjing , Kimby Eva , Hassan Moustapha
Published: August 2005

Abstract: Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is widely used in chemotherapy. The CPA is a prodrug that requires metabolic transformation to generate the active metabolite, 4‐hydroxy‐CPA (4‐OH‐CPA). Ciprofloxacin (CF) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with a broad spectrum that is commonly used in treatment of a variety of infections. It has been reported that prophylactic administration of CF during CPA conditioning was a high‐risk factor for relapse in patients undergoing allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. In the present study we investigated the pharmacokinetics of CPA and 4‐OH‐CPA in eight non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients treated with CPA together with or without CF. Clearance and distribution volumes of CPA were significantly (P < 0.01) lower (4.7 L/h and 42.3 L, respectively) when patients were treated with CF prior to CPA compared to that observed when the patients did not receive CF (5.9 L/h and 48.1 L, respectively). No change in the elimination half‐life was observed. The CF administration prior to CPA has resulted in significantly (P < 0.01) lower exposure to 4‐OH‐CPA as expressed as area under the plasma concentration curve (AUC). The metabolic ratio AUC4‐OH‐CPA/AUCCPAwas lower in all patients treated with CF prior to CPA compared to that observed when patients received CPA only (P = 0.008). Our study showed that CF administration alters CPA kinetics in patients with NHL. Other antibiotics than these contain fluoroquinolones should be used during CPA therapy.
Hemoglobin H hydrops fetalis syndrome resulting from the association of the – –SEA deletion and the αQuong Szeα mutation in a Chinese woman
Authors: Li D. Z. , Liao C. , Li J. , Xie X. M. , Huang Y. N. , Wu Q. C.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  A case with Hb H hydrops fetalis syndrome resulting from the association of the – –SEA deletion and the αQuong Szeα mutation is reported. This is the first description of Hb H hydrops associated with the Hb Quong Sze mutation.
Platelet and granulocyte alloimmunisation in multitransfused Tunisian patients
Authors: Skouri Hadef , Bettaieb Ali , Fromont Patricia , Elomri Halima , Ennabli Souad , Bierling Philippe
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  We determined the frequency of post‐transfusion alloimmunisation against platelet and granulocyte antigens in 51 Tunisian polytransfused patients with haematological diseases. Serum samples were analysed by a standard and an antiglobulin‐augmented lymphocytotoxicity technique, a granulocyte agglutination test, a granulocyte immunofluorescence test, a platelet immunofluorescence test and the monoclonal antibody‐specific immobilisation of platelet antigens assay. No granulocyte‐specific antibodies were detected. HLA antibodies were found in 58.8% of patients. Platelet‐specific antibodies were detected in four patients and were directed against human platelet antigen (HPA)‐5b, HPA‐1b and HPA‐3a. The three patients with Glanzmann's thrombasthenia developed anti‐GPIIb/IIIa antibodies. This study provides immunogenetic information that could improve the management of transfusion therapy in Tunisia.
Etodolac inhibits EBER expression and induces Bcl‐2‐regulated apoptosis in Burkitt's lymphoma cells
Authors: Kobayashi Miki , Nakamura Satoki , Shibata Kiyoshi , Sahara Naohi , Shigeno Kazuyuki , Shinjo Kaori , Naito Kensuke , Ohnishi Kazunori
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is reported to be an important cellular target for therapy in malignancies. The growth inhibitory effects of COX‐2 inhibitors on malignancies have been demonstrated to be through not only COX‐2 dependent, but also independent mechanisms. In this study, we showed that etodolac, COX‐2 inhibitor, induced apoptosis via COX‐2 independent pathway, and investigated the molecular details of etodolac‐induced apoptosis in Burkitt's lymphoma cells. In Daudi and Raji Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines, which expressed no COX‐2 enzyme, etodolac more strongly induced apoptosis compared to meloxicam. Moreover, etodolac did not induce apoptosis to normal B‐lymphocytes. For the pathway of etodolac‐induced apoptosis, reduction of anti‐apoptotic bcl‐2 mRNA and Bcl‐2 protein, activation of Caspase‐9 and ‐3, down‐regulation of caspase inhibitors, c‐IAP‐1 and Survivin were involved. Moreover, EBER‐1 and ‐2 expression in Epstein–Barr virus positive Daudi and Raji cells were reduced to result in down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 by treatment with etodolac. It has been reported that etodolac has stereoisomers, R‐ and S‐etodolac. We found that racemate of etodolac more strongly induced apoptosis in Daudi and Raji cells compared to R‐ or S‐etodolac. In conclusion, our findings indicated etodolac inhibited EBERs expression and induced apoptosis via a Bcl‐2‐regulated pathway. Moreover, racemate of etodolac more effectively induced apoptosis than R‐ and/or S‐etodolac. Therefore, these activities of etodolac potentially extend to the treatment of patients with Burkitt's lymphoma resistant to chemotherapy.
Cytokine Profile of Natural Killer Cells in Early Human Pregnancy
Authors: Higuma‐Myojo Subaru , Sasaki Yasushi , Miyazaki Satomi , Sakai Masatoshi , Siozaki Arihiro , Miwa Naoko , Saito Shigeru
Published: August 2005

Problem:  To examine whether the NK1/NK2/NK3/NKr1 paradigm can be adapted in natural killer (NK) cells.

Method of study:  Mononuclear cells were isolated from peripheral blood and/or decidua in healthy non‐pregnant women (n = 17), early pregnant women (6–12 weeks of gestation, n = 17) and miscarriage cases (6–11 weeks of gestation, n = 10). We investigated the production of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10, IL‐13, interferon (IFN)‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α from peripheral blood‐ and decidual‐CD56bright NK cells and ‐CD56dim NK cells by flow cytometry.

Results:  In the peripheral blood of the non‐pregnant subjects, the main populations of CD56bright NK cells and CD56dim NK cells were IFN‐γ‐producing NK1 type cells. Populations of IL‐10‐producing NKr1 type cells in peripheral blood CD56bright NK cells and CD56dim NK cells in early pregnant women were significantly greater compared with those in non‐pregnant women, and these cells population decreased in miscarriage cases. In the early pregnancy decidua, the main populations of CD56bright NK cells and CD56dim NK cells were TGF‐β‐producing NK3 type cells, and NK1 type cells were rare. NK3 type cells in decidua were significantly decreased in miscarriage cases compared with those in normal pregnant subjects. IL‐4‐, IL‐5‐ or IL‐13‐producing NK2 type cells were rare in peripheral blood and decidua.

Conclusion:  These data support the NK1/NK2/NK3/NKr1 hypothesis. NKr1 type cells in peripheral blood and NK3 type cells in decidua might play some important roles in the maintenance of pregnancy by regulation of maternal immune function.
Anti‐Tumor Antibodies in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Luborsky Judith L , Barua Animesh , Shatavi Seerin V , Kebede Tewabe , Abramowicz Jacques , Rotmensch Jacob
Published: August 2005

Anti‐tumor antibodies have potential as cancer biomarkers. There is relatively limited identification of anti‐tumor antibodies in response to ovarian cancer, compared with studies for other cancers. There is also very limited information on the prevalence of anti‐tumor antibodies among ovarian cancer patients. Although most anti‐tumor antibodies react with antigens common to both tumor and normal tissue, the anti‐tumor response tends to be confined to individuals with ovarian cancer, similar to other cancers. Antibodies to HOXA7, a differentiation antigen, have the highest reported prevalence in ovarian cancer (67%). Antibodies to other ubiquitous antigens including NY‐ESO‐1, Ep‐CAM (epithelial cell adhesion molecule), HSP‐90 (heat shock protein 90), and mutated p53 have been identified in ovarian cancer. Anti‐tumor antibody specificity reflects the heterogeneity of antigen expression in tumors. Tests based on panels of a combination of anti‐tumor antibodies may be more predictive for ovarian cancer, as no single specificity accounts for ovarian tumors. In addition to characterization of anti‐tumor antibodies as diagnostic markers, study of anti‐tumor antibodies is likely to provide insights into mechanisms of tumor development. There is evidence of antibodies to tumor antigens and of activated T cells, suggesting immune recognition of tumor antigens occurred. Nonetheless, as tumors are not ‘rejected’, it is likely that there are alterations in the immune system. The basis for tumor growth in the face of immune activity remains to be determined.
Decreased Proinflammatory Cytokines in Cervicovaginal Fluid, as Measured in Midgestation, are Associated with Preterm Delivery
Authors: Kalinka Jarosław , Sobala Wojciech , Wasiela Małgorzata , Brzezińska‐Błaszczyk Ewa
Published: August 2005

Problem

The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between selected proinflammatory cytokines [interleukin IL‐1 alpha (IL‐1α), IL‐1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6 and IL‐8] concentrations in cervicovaginal fluid, as measured in midgestation, and the risk of subsequent preterm delivery.

Method of study

Cervicovaginal fluids were obtained from a cohort of 114 pregnant women at 22–34 weeks’ gestation and analyzed for the concentrations of IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique. Lower genital tract microbiology was diagnosed using Gram stain method and by culture.

Results

Mean gestational age at the time of sampling was 29.0 weeks. Mean time between sampling and delivery was 9.3 weeks (S.D. 4.7). Median cervicovaginal concentrations of IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 did not differ between preterm and term delivery group. Women with lower genital tract pathological flora and IL‐1α concentration below 25th percentile presented significant risk of subsequent preterm delivery as compared with women with no low cytokines (OR = 10.7; 95% CI, 2.0–58.1). Women with more than one cytokine’ low concentration (below 25th percentile) presented an increased risk of preterm delivery – OR = 11.8 (95% CI, 1.8–78.0).

Conclusions

The midgestation cytokines’ measurement in cervicovaginal fluid of pregnant women could be useful for prediction of preterm delivery only among women with lower genital tract pathological flora.
Serum Levels of Macrophage Colony Stimulating, Vascular Endothelial, and Placenta Growth Factor in Relation to Later Clinical Onset of Pre‐Eclampsia and a Small‐for‐Gestational Age Birth
Authors: Bersinger Nick A. , Ødegård Rønnaug A.
Published: August 2005

Problem

The multisystem disorder of pre‐eclampsia (PE) becomes manifest in late gestation, but the pathology originates in early pregnancy by the deleterious action of placental substances to the maternal endothelial system. These factors were searched for in the attempt to identify, as early as possible, the pregnancies with an increased risk of developing pre‐eclampsia. The literature is equivocal regarding the usefulness of various markers including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF). Results are often confounded by a varying fraction of pregnancies affected by foetal growth restriction (FGR) amongst the case and control groups.

Method of study

In a nested case–control study we compared the serum levels of M‐CSF, VEGF, and placenta growth factor (PLGF) in 23 pregnancies with subsequent mild PE without FGR and nine FGR pregnancies without PE with 40 matched controls at 17, 25, and 33 weeks of gestation cross‐sectionally and longitudinally.

Results

VEGF levels were reduced in FGR but not in subsequently pre‐eclamptic pregnancies at 17, 25, and 33 weeks. In contrast, PLGF was reduced in the PE but not in the FGR group. M‐CSF did not differ between the three groups.

Conclusion

Depending on which growth factor is found to be reduced, an early distinction can be made in terms of an increased risk for PE or FGR. Inconsistencies in the literature may reflect differences in PE disease severity between studies and the presence of a varying fraction of cases with FGR.
The Skewed TCR‐BV Repertoire Displayed at the Maternal–Fetal Interface of Women with Unexplained Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Wang Xipeng , Ma Zhengwen , Hong Yan , Zhao Aimin , Qiu Lihua , Lu Peihua , Lin Qide
Published: August 2005

Problem

The study was undertaken to investigate T‐cell receptor (TCR) variable β (BV)‐chain usage at maternal–fetal interface and explore the relationship between the skewed TCR‐BV usage and unexplained pregnancy losses.

Method of study

A total of 57 patients with unexplained pregnancy loss including 39 cases with unexplained spontaneous abortion and 18 cases with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) were chosen in Renji Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University matched with 41 women with normal pregnancies in first trimester between September 2002 and November 2003. A high‐resolution spectratyping analysis of complementarity‐determining region 3 (CDR3) was used to detect and compare the degree and pattern of TCR‐BV repertoire usage at the maternal–fetal interface between patients with pregnancy loss and normal controls.

Results

There were two comparisons of TCR usage performed between patients and controls, which included the degree (mean value of every TCR‐BVn expression) and the pattern (skewed TCR‐BVn frequency). The skewed TCR‐BVn is defined as an absolute BVn usage of >5% calculated from the formula or a double increased BVn usage compared with the mean value of normal BVn. According to the degree of TCR‐BV usage, BV2 (P = 0.046), BV10 (P = 0.016), and BV11 (P = 0.030) in spontaneous abortion group and BV19 (P = 0.038) in RSA group showed higher usage, while BV5.2 (P = 0.006 and P = 0.046) in both abortion groups showed significantly lower usage when compared with normal controls. About the pattern of skewed TCR‐BV distribution, we found that TCR‐BV2, ‐3, ‐6, and ‐7 were the four most common BV families in deciduas of patients with both types of abortion and normal controls. Women with spontaneous abortion demonstrated higher frequency of BV10 (P = 0.035) and lower frequencies of BV4 (P = 0.002) and BV5.2 (P = 0.003) in comparison with controls. In RSA, higher frequencies of BV15 (P = 0.018), BV19 (P = 0.049), and BV20 (P = 0.018), in the mean time, lower frequencies of BV4 (P = 0.026) and BV7 (P = 0.018) distributions were verified.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that a significant skewed TCR‐BV repertoire occurred at the maternal–fetal interface with patients undergoing abortion. The specific skewed usages of TCR‐BV might be associated with the susceptibility to unexplained pregnancy loss.
Type 2 11β‐Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Activity in Human Fallopian Tube and Correlation of Enzyme Levels with Endometrial Histopathology
Authors: Muneyyirci‐Delale Ozgul , Nacharaju Vijaya L. , Kessel Allan , Yang Lianfu , Jalou Sanaa , Dalloul Nezar , Rahman Monzila , Bowers Charles H. , Abulafia Ovadia
Published: August 2005

Problem

The inter‐conversion of hormonally active cortisol and inactive cortisone is catalyzed by 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β‐HSD). This conversion controls the level of active glucocorticoid concentration in tissues. As the fallopian tube plays a major role in the process of fertilization, we wanted to investigate whether 11β‐HSD is present in the human fallopian tube to control the glucocorticoid levels as in other tissues.

Method of study

Isthmic, ampullary and fimbrial portions of the fallopian tube are obtained from patients undergoing hysterectomy and salpingo‐oopherectomy for symptomatic leomyomata uteri. 11β‐HSD activities were measured in the homogenates of the tube, cortisol as the steroid substrate. The enzyme activity was expressed as nanomolar cortisone formed per minute per gram of tissue (mean ± S.D.).

Results

A significant level of 11β‐HSD activity in oxidation direction was found in all three parts of the tube. There is no significant difference in the distribution of the enzyme activity throughout the tube. When tubal 11β‐HSD activity was compared with endometrial histology, the enzyme activity is significantly lower in proliferative endometrium when compared with secretory endometrium (P = 0.002). The enzyme activity in inactive endometrium is significantly higher than the active endometrium (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

The presence of 11β‐HSD throughout the fallopian tube and its correlation to endometrial histology is indicative of its probable role in controlling the glucocorticoid levels in the tissue, which in turn may influence the fertilization process.
Altered Immunophenotypic Parameters in Infertile Women. Possible Role of Herpes Viremia
Authors: Thomas D , Michou V , Moustakarias T , Aleporou V , Matzavinos T , Mitsakos‐Barbagiannis K , Kalofoutis A , Tsilivakos V
Published: August 2005

Problem

Purpose of this study was to reveal any alteration in peripheral blood lymphocytic concentrations of a large cohort of infertile women and to investigate the possible role of herpes viremia in the peripheral immunostimulation.

Method of study

The immunophenotypic characteristics and the presence of herpes viruses DNA in the peripheral blood of 168 infertile women were studied.

Results

Peripheral CD56+/CD16+ natural killer (NK) cell concentration, CD56+/CD16− NK cell concentration, white blood cell (WBC) concentration and lymphocyte concentration were statistically correlated to herpes viremia. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) viremia is related with a limited reduction of CD56+/CD16− cell levels in the peripheral blood of infertile women with regard to the rest of herpes viruses. High T‐lymphocyte concentration, CD4+ T‐cell concentration and CD8+ T‐cell concentration was observed in women positive for three different kinds of herpes viruses (triple viremia) in the peripheral blood.

Conclusions

Assuming that all women under study remained asymptomatic, these data suggest that subclinical herpesvirus viremia may be an important cause of peripheral immunostimulation in women with a history of infertility.
ASRI2005‐89  During pregnancy, treg cells induce a privileged tolerant microenvironment at the fetal‐maternal interface by up‐regulating HO‐1, TGF‐β and LIF expression
Authors: Zenclussen ML , Zambon Bertoja A , Gerlof K , Ritschel S , Sollwedel A , Volk HD , Zenclussen AC
Published: August 2005

The mechanisms underlying immune tolerance during pregnancy are poorly understood. We recently proposed a crucial role of T regulatory cells (Treg) in avoiding immunological rejection of the fetus, since we observed diminished number and function of Treg in abortion‐prone mice. We further confirmed the protective role of Treg during pregnancy by transferring pregnancy‐induced Treg into abortion‐prone mice, which prevented rejection. Here, we analyzed the mechanisms involved in Treg‐mediated protection. We transferred mice undergoing abortion with Treg from mice having normal pregnancies, including normal pregnant and abortion‐prone mice as controls. We evaluated decidual lymphocytes for their cytokine profile. The mRNA levels for several tolerance‐associated cytokines were also analyzed. As expected, Treg therapy prevented abortion, while expanding the peripheral and thymic Treg population. Locally, augmented foxp3 levels could be observed. Surprisingly, after therapy the decidual levels of the Th1 cytokines IFN‐γ and TNF‐α were not diminished. The transfer of Treg dramatically up‐regulated the expression of LIF, TGF‐β and HO‐1 at the fetal‐maternal interface. Our data suggest that Treg‐treatment can not prevent T cell infiltration or high Th1 levels but is able to create a privileged tolerant microenvironment at the fetal‐maternal interface, further shedding light onto the molecular mechanisms involved in pregnancy tolerance.
ASRI2005‐90  Vaginal formulations – how innocuous are they to the vaginal epithelial immune function?
Authors: Trifonova RT , Pasicznyk J‐M , Fichorova RN
Published: August 2005

Problem:  The disruption of the epithelial barrier and activation of inflammatory pathways may lead to increased susceptibility to viral infection. Over‐the‐counter (OTC) vaginal products have received little attention in this regard, however the recent development of anti‐HIV‐1 microbicides has brought the importance of mucosal integrity to forefront. While vaginal microbicides represent a promising strategy for preventing HIV‐1 and other sexually transmitted infections, they can be efficacious only if they cause no epithelial toxicity or inflammation.

Method:  We used a novel organotypic cervicovaginal model (VEC100, Mattek) to compare hygienic or spermicidal OTC to the anti‐HIV‐1 microbicide cellulose acetate 1,2‐benzenedicarboxylate (CAP).

Results:  CAP film and gel formulations appeared non‐toxic in MTT and LDH viability assays and did not induce release of pro‐inflammatory mediators e.g. IL‐1, IL‐6 and IL‐8 as compared to controls. In contrast, a commercially available vaginal cleansing film containing Nonoxynol‐9 showed proinflammatory potential commeasurable to that of TNFα.

Conclusions:  Our study demonstrates the usefulness of the VEC tissue model for immunoinflammatory characterization and safety assessment of vaginal products. It provides evidence that CAP in film and gel forms may be used as a safe anti‐HIV‐1 prevention agent or vehicle for other vaginal products. This study was supported by NICHD 1P01HD041761.
ASRI2005‐92  Possible reproductive immunological importance of pp13 / galectin‐13, a galectin with principally placental expression
Authors: Than NG , Magenheim R , Dienes J , Kovacs T , Nagy B , Hupuczi P , Meiri H , Bohn H , Papp Z
Published: August 2005

As previous sequential and structural analyses showed its conserved homology to members of the galectin superfamily, Placental Protein 13 (PP13) was designated galectin‐13. Similarly to eosinophil Charcot Leyden Crystal protein / galectin‐10, its weak lysophospholipase activity was proved. Sugar binding assays revealed that residues widely expressed in placenta had the strongest binding affinity to PP13, which expression was found to be restricted to placenta. With regard to its strong labeling of the syncythiotrophoblasts’ brush border membrane as well as its co‐localization and specific binding to annexin II, PP13 was assumed to be externalized to the cell surface like other galectins. In a comparative study we found, that in the 3rd trimester, expression of PP13 was significantly reduced in preeclamptic (n = 20) and HELLP syndrome (n = 5) placentas compared to gestational age matched healthy samples (n = 25). In the same pathologic cases, maternal PP13 serum levels were also lower than in controls. Recently, PP13 was also successfully tested as a new 1st and 2nd trimester placental marker for the prediction of preeclampsia and IUGR. With regard to these results, PP13 may have special immunobiological function at the lining of the common feto‐maternal blood‐paces. The possible clinical importance of PP13 in pathological pregnancies with immunological background have to be emphasized.
Judicial Review of the War Power
Authors: FISHER LOUIS
Published: August 2005

From the Vietnam War to the present, there has been a growing impression that federal courts lack both the jurisdiction and the competence to decide war power disputes. Such a cramped view finds no support in the first century and a half, when courts regularly accepted and decided such cases. It was only with Vietnam that courts began to avoid the merits of war power cases by invoking a variety of threshold tests. Following 9/11, the broad and expansive justifications of unilateral presidential powers by the Bush administration forced federal courts to revisit and reassert their constitutional responsibilities.
George W. Bush, Edgar Allan Poe, and the Use and Abuse of Presidential Signing Statements
Authors: COOPER PHILLIP J.
Published: August 2005

This article considers how George W. Bush chose to use the presidential signing statement and the ways in which the administration's application of this tool of direct presidential action in its first term represents a set of important initiatives. The Bush administration has very effectively expanded the scope and character of the signing statement, not only to address specific provisions of legislation that the White House wishes to nullify but also to reposition and strengthen the powers of the presidency relative to the Congress. What is almost as interesting is the fact that so few in Congress, the media, or the scholarly community are aware that anything has happened at all.
The Contemporary Presidency: Condoleezza Rice as NSC Advisor: A Case Study of the Honest Broker Role
Authors: BURKE JOHN P.
Published: August 2005

“We need to plan as if things won’t go well.”

—George W. Bush, September 25, 2001 (Woodward 2002, 136)

“I want to know what the options are. A president cannot decide and make rational decisions unless I understand the feasibility of that which may have to happen.”

—George W. Bush, circa late November 2001 (Woodward 2004, 30)

“If we don’t have a case to make, I won’t send in the troops.”

—George W. Bush, January 6, 2003 (Woodward 2004, 256)

The role of honest broker has often been seen as a contributor to effective presidential decision making. This article explores the broker role of National Security Council Advisor Condoleezza Rice during three crucial decision‐making episodes in George W. Bush's first term: (1) deliberations in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and the decision to go to war in Afghanistan; (2) deliberations that led to the war in Iraq; and (3) deliberations concerning Iraq's postwar stabilization and reconstruction. The article finds that the broker role declined over time. This decline does not appear to be linked to other roles of the NSC advisor such as policy advocacy, but it does appear to be affected by problems of organization and management as well as its fit with presidential expectations and support of the broker role.
Elections: Party Identification in the 2004 Election
Authors: WINNEG KENNETH , JAMIESON KATHLEEN HALL
Published: August 2005

Data from the National Annenberg Election Survey (NAES) show that during the 2004 presidential election campaign, party affiliation was not entirely stable. The gap between Democrats and Republicans narrowed, continuing a pattern evident in the 2000 NAES. However, the Democrats retained their edge in party identification. Demographically, Republican party identification grew most among white evangelical Protestants. Slight gains were made among men and women. An analysis of party breakdown by state shows Republicans made significant gains in southern states but also grew in Maine and Oregon. The Democratic party made gains in a handful of states around the country.
SELF‐MONITORING AS A MODERATOR OF THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PERSONALITY TRAITS AND PERFORMANCE
Authors: BARRICK MURRAY R. , PARKS LAURA , MOUNT MICHAEL K.
Published: August 2005

This study examined the hypothesis that self‐monitoring moderates the relationship between Big Five personality traits and interpersonal performance. The findings from a sample of 102 employed Executive MBA students reveal that when self‐monitoring was high the relationships between 3 of the Big Five personality traits (Extraversion, Emotional Stability, and Openness to Experience) and supervisory ratings of interpersonal performance were attenuated. These effects were replicated using peer ratings of interpersonal performance for Extraversion and Emotional Stability but not for Openness to Experience. Further, as expected, self‐monitoring did not moderate the relationships between personality traits and supervisory or peer ratings of task performance. Implications for future research in the area of personality and other motivational theories are discussed.