bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effects on intake of cholecystokinin-8 and cholecystokinin-33 in rats with hepatic proper or common hepatic branch vagal innervation
Authors: Eisen S. , Phillips R. J. , Geary N. , Baronowsky E. A. , Powley T. L. , Smith G. P.
Published: April 2005

The relative potencies of cholecystokinin (CCK)-8 and CCK-33 for decreasing meal size depend on the route of administration. Inhibitory potencies are equal after intraperitoneal administration, but CCK-33 is significantly more potent after intraportal administration. This suggests that CCK-33 is a more effective stimulant of hepatic afferent vagal nerves than is CCK-8. To investigate this possibility, we administered both peptides intraperitoneally in rats with abdominal vagotomies that spared only the hepatic proper vagal nerves (H) and in rats with abdominal vagotomies that spared the common hepatic branch that contains the fibers of the hepatic proper and gastroduodenal nerves (HGD). The vagal afferent innervation in H and HGD rats was verified with a wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish tracer strategy. Intraperitoneal administration of CCK-33 decreased 30-min intake of 10% sucrose in H rats as much as in sham rats, but CCK-8 decreased intake significantly less in H rats than in sham rats. The larger inhibitory effect of CCK-33 than of CCK-8 in H rats is consistent with the hypothesis that CCK-33 is a more effective stimulant of the hepatic proper vagal afferent nerves than CCK-8. In contrast to the results in H rats, the inhibitory potencies of both peptides were significantly and equivalently reduced in HGD rats compared with sham rats. This suggests that there is an inhibitory interaction between the stimulation of the gastroduodenal and hepatic proper afferent fibers by CCK-33.
Effects of endurance exercise-training on single-fiber contractile properties of insulin-treated streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Sanchez Otto A. , Snow LeAnn M. , Lowe Dawn A. , Serfass Robert C. , Thompson LaDora V.
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this study was to characterize the contractile properties of individual skinned muscle fibers from insulin-treated streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats after an endurance exercise training program. We hypothesized that single-fiber contractile function would decrease in the diabetic sedentary rats and that endurance exercise would preserve the function. In the study, 28 rats were assigned to either a nondiabetic sedentary, a nondiabetic exercise, a diabetic sedentary, or a diabetic exercise group. Rats in the diabetic groups received subcutaneous intermediate-lasting insulin daily. The exercise-trained rats ran on a treadmill at a moderate intensity for 60 min, five times per week. After 12 wk, the extensor digitorum longus and soleus muscles were dissected. Single-fiber diameter, Ca2+-activated peak force, specific tension, activation threshold, and pCa50as well as the myosin heavy chain isoform expression (MHC) were determined. We found that in MHC type II fibers from extensor digitorum longus muscle, diameters were significantly smaller from diabetic sedentary rats compared with nondiabetic sedentary rats ( P < 0.001). Among the nondiabetic rats, fiber diameters were smaller with exercise ( P = 0.038). The absolute force-generating capacity of single fibers was lower in muscles from diabetic rats. There was greater specific tension (force normalized to cross-sectional area) by fibers from the rats that followed an endurance exercise program compared with sedentary. From the results, we conclude that alterations in the properties of contractile proteins are not implicated in the decrease in strength associated with diabetes and that endurance-exercise training does not prevent or increase muscle weakness in diabetic rats.
Age of Patients with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Is It a Key Factor in the Development of Variants?
Authors: Das Dilip Kumar
Published: April 2005

Background: Although the majority of papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) have an excellent prognosis, certain aggressive variants do occur. The tall cell variant (TCV) of PTC, which tends to occur in elderly patients, is the most common among the aggressive variants and the most aggressive of all variants. Objective: To compare the age of patients with major variants of PTC and correlate age with certain cytomorphological features of diagnostic importance. Methods: 53 PTC cases with available information on age and diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology were categorized into various variants following a review of smears. There were 6 TCV (≧30% tall cells) cases, 8 cases with a significant tall cell component (sig. TCC; 10–29% tall cells), 16 usual variants (UV), 17 follicular variants (FV), and 6 miscellaneous variants. These groups were compared with respect to age (mean ± SD, median). Further, the age of all patients with PTC was correlated with cytological features such as tall cell count and count of cells with reddish cytoplasm, intranuclear cytoplasmic inclusion, and nuclear grooves. Results: The median age of patients with TCV, PTC with a sig. TCC, UV, FV and miscellaneous variants was 47.5, 44.5, 31.5, 34.0 and 42.0 years, respectively. The age of PTC (TCV) cases (52.0 ± 17.84 years) and of those with a sig. TCC (45.9 ± 12.12 years) was significantly higher than the age of PTC (FV) cases (34.2 ± 8.21 years) (p = 0.004 and 0.027, respectively). The combined age of PTC (TCV) and PTC (sig. TCC) cases (48.5 ± 14.54 years) was significantly higher than the age of PTC (UV) cases (p = 0.038) as well as of PTC (FV) cases (p = 0.005). Six (42.9%) of the patients with PTC (TCV and sig. TCC) were ≧50 years of age as opposed to 3 (9.1%) of PTC (UV and FV) cases (p = 0.0134). The age of patients with PTC in general showed a significant correlation with tall cell count (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The age of the patients with PTC seems to play a role in the morphological manifestations of the neoplasm, which is related to the prognostic outcome.
Age-Related Alterations in the Carbohydrate Residue Composition of the Cell Surface in the Unexposed Normal Human Epidermis
Authors: Georgiou S. , Pasmatzi E. , Monastirli A. , Sakkis T. , Alachioti S. , Tsambaos D.
Published: April 2005

Background: The results of the very few histochemical studies that have been performed so far on the lectin-binding profile of normal human epidermis are mostly controversial; thus, the carbohydrate residue composition of the cell surface in the latter still remains in dispute and the possible alterations in the epidermal lectin-binding profile are unknown. Objective: To investigate the influence of age on the carbohydrate residue composition of the cell surface in unexposed normal human epidermis by means of lectin histochemistry. Methods: Biopsy specimens obtained from the sun-protected (unexposed) buttock skin, divided into 5 age groups of 18 subjects each, were fixed in buffered formalin (10%) and embedded in paraffin. 4-µm sections were processed for histochemistry using a panel of six biotinylated lectins. Results: In the unexposed normal human epidermis the concentration and distribution of cell surface β-D-galactose, D-galactose-β-(1,3 N-acetylo-D-galactosamine), β(1,4 D-N-acetylo-D-glucosamine) and α-D-N-acetylo-D-galactosamine were almost identical in all age groups, whereas those of α-D-mannose, α-D-glucose and α-L-fucose revealed significant age-related differences. Conclusion: These findings may be due to an age-related decline in synthesis and/or transport of monosaccharides from the cytoplasm to the surface of epidermal cells. Thus, the corresponding lectins concanavalin A and Ulex europaeus agglutinin-I can only be used in comparative histochemical studies of the carbohydrate residue composition of the cell surface in the normal and pathological epidermis of individuals of the same age, whereas Ricinus communis agglutinin-I, peanut agglutinin, wheat germ agglutinin and Dolichos biflorus agglutinin, whose binding to carbohydrates is not affected by aging can be used in histochemical studies of carbohydrate residue composition of the cell surface in the normal and pathological epidermis in human subjects of any age.
Modifiable Factors for the Length of Life with Disability before Death: Mortality Retrospective Study in Japan
Authors: Ohmori Kaori , Kuriyama Shinichi , Hozawa Atsushi , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Tsubono Yoshitaka , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: April 2005

Background: Past studies have measured and described the length of life with disability before death, but there has been no study of the relationship between modifiable lifestyle factors and duration of disability. Objective: To examine whether there are modifiable factors influencing the length of life with disability before death. Methods: The study was designed asa retrospective observation of the deceased who had earlier been enrolled in a prospective cohort study.During the follow-up period (1996–1999), we documented 781 deaths among those who were 70–79 years of age at the baseline survey in 1994 (n = 10,216). In 2000, we interviewed family members of the deceased about the duration of the subjects’ disability before death (n = 655). Results: The median duration of disability before death was approximately 6 months. Both higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and shorter time spent walking were significantly associated with an increased risk of long-term disability (more than 6 months). The odds ratios of long-term disability were 1.3 in those with BMI 20–25 and 2.1 in those with BMI >25, compared with BMI <20. The odds ratios of long-term disability were 1.3 in those walking for 0.5–0.9 h/day and 1.7 in those walking for <0.5 h/day, compared with those walking for >1.0 h/day. These relationships were unchanged after stratification for causes of death. Conclusion: Weight control and walking in later life may shorten the length of life with disability before death.
Nutritional Status and a 3-Year Follow-Up in Elderly Receiving Support at Home
Authors: Saletti Anja , Johansson Lennarth , Yifter-Lindgren Elinor , Wissing Ulla , Österberg Kerstin , Cederholm Tommy
Published: April 2005

Background: Elderly receiving public services and care are often frail, suffer from chronic diseases, and sustain a high risk for malnutrition. Objective: To evaluate nutritional status and long-term outcome in elderly living at home. Methods: Of 507 eligible subjects receiving home care in five Swedish municipalities, we examined 353 (age 82 ± 7 years, 64% females). The subjects were interviewed, and the nutritional status was assessed by means of the Mini Nutritional Assessment (0–30 points; the lower the score, the greater the risk). The Mini Nutritional Assessment consists of 18 questions concerning, e.g., anthropometry (body mass index or BMI; kg/m2) and global and dietary issues. The mortality was evaluated in 224 study participants after a 3-year period. In one municipality, 31 of 64 elderly were reexamined after 3 years. Results: 8 and 41% of the elderly were assessed as malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, respectively. BMIs <20 and <23 were found in 12 and 31% of the subjects, respectively. Chewing and swallowing problems and reduced appetite were more often reported by those at risk of being malnourished compared with the well-nourished study participants (p < 0.001). Meals-on-wheels services were given to one third, of whom 66% used one portion for several meals. The 3-year mortality was 50% for those who were malnourished, 40% for those at risk of malnutrition, and 28% for the well-nourished group (p < 0.05). The corresponding mortality was 50% for subjects with a BMI <20, 35% for those with BMIs 20–28, and 27% for those with a BMI >28 (p = 0.05). After 3 years, a weight loss of 4.0 ± 5.8 kg was registered (p < 0.001). Conclusions: About half of the home-living elderly with public support were malnourished or were at risk of malnutrition. The malnourished subjects often had problems during mealtimes and seldom ate full meals. Elderly with a BMI >28 displayed the lowest risk of death within 3 years.
Effect of Self-Hypnosis on Hay Fever Symptoms – A Randomised Controlled Intervention Study
Authors: Langewitz Wolf , Izakovic Jan , Wyler Jane , Schindler Christian , Kiss Alexander , Bircher Andreas J.
Published: April 2005

Background: Many people suffer from hay fever symptoms. Hypnosis has proved to be a useful adjunct in the treatment of conditions where allergic phenomena have an important role. Methods: Randomised parallel group study over an observation period of two consecutive pollen seasons. Outcome data include nasal flow under hypnosis, pollinosis symptoms from diaries and retrospective assessments, restrictions in well-being and use of anti-allergic medication. We investigated 79 patients with a mean age of 34 years (range 19–54 years; 41 males), with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis to grass or birch pollen of at least 2 years duration and mild allergic asthma. The intervention consisted of teaching self-hypnosis during a mean of 2.4 sessions (SD 1.7; range 2–5 sessions) and continuation of standard anti-allergic pharmacological treatment. Results: Of 79 randomised patients, 66 completed one, and 52 completed two seasons. Retrospective VAS scores yielded significant improvements in year 1 in patients who had learned self-hypnosis: pollinosis symptoms –29.2 (VAS score, range 0–100; SD 25.4; p < 0.001), restriction of well-being –26.2 (VAS score, range 0–100; SD 28.7; p < 0.001. In year 2, the control group improved significantly having learned self-hypnosis as well: pollinosis symptoms –24.8 (SD 29.1; p < 0.001), restriction of well-being –23.7 (SD 30.0; p < 0.001). Daily self-reports of subjects who learnt self-hypnosis do not show a significant improvement. The hazard ratio of reaching a critical flow of 70% in nasal provocation tests was 0.333 (95% CI 0.157–0.741) after having learnt and applied self-hypnosis.
Trauma Work, Sense of Coherence, and Positive and Negative Changes in Therapists
Authors: Linley P. Alex , Joseph Stephen , Loumidis Konstantinos
Published: April 2005

Background: The negative effects of vicarious traumatization through trauma work are well known. However, a growing body of evidence testifies to the positive effects that have been reported following trauma. This study explored the potential positive effects of trauma work on therapists, with a focus on the associations of the personality construct ‘sense of coherence’ with both positive and negative changes. Methods: The study examined the positive and negative effects of trauma work in an international sample of 85 therapists. Participants completed measures of their trauma work experience, sense of coherence and positive and negative changes they experienced as a result of their trauma work. Results: A greater sense of coherence was associated with fewer negative changes and more positive changes. Conclusions: Adversarial growth in therapists deserves further enquiry to allow a more detailed understanding of the factors and processes involved.
Analysis of Growth Factors and Inflammatory Cytokines in Exhaled Breath Condensate from Asthmatic Children
Authors: Leung Ting-fan , Wong Gary W.K. , Ko Fanny W.S. , Li Chung-yi , Yung Edmund , Lam Christopher W.K. , Fok Tai-fai
Published: April 2005

Background: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), AA isoform of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-AA), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are involved in the pathogenesis of airway inflammation in asthma. These molecules are closely associated with cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-4. This study investigates the relation between childhood asthma and levels of these mediators in exhaled breath condensate (EBC). Methods: EBC was collected from asthmatic children and controls using a disposable collection kit, and the concentrations of VEGF, PDGF-AA, EGF, TNF-α and IL-4 in EBC were measured using sandwich enzyme immunoassays. Exhaled nitric oxide concentration was measured by a chemiluminescence analyzer. Results: Thirty-five asthmatic patients aged between 7 and 18 years and 11 controls were recruited. Sixteen patients had intermittent asthma (IA) whereas 19 of them suffered from persistent asthma (PA). A significant correlation was found between IL-4 and TNF-α in EBC (ρ = 0.374, p = 0.010). PDGF-AA levels in EBC were higher in subjects with diminished FEV1 (p = 0.023) whereas IL-4 concentrations were increased in asthmatics (p = 0.007) as well as subjects with increased plasma total IgE (p = 0.033). Patients with PA receiving high-dose inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) had higher EBC IL-4 concentration than those on low-dose ICS (p = 0.007). Linear regression revealed that PDGF-AA levels in EBC were negatively associated with FEV1 percentage (β = –0.459, p = 0.006) among the asthmatic patients. Conclusions: IL-4 in EBC is increased in childhood asthma, and growth factors are detectable in a significant proportion of these children. Increased PDGF-AA is found in asthmatics with more severe airflow limitation.
Histamine in Allergic Inflammation and Immune Modulation
Authors: Jutel Marek , Blaser Kurt , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: April 2005

Histamine, originally considered as a mediator of acute inflammatory and immediate hypersensitivity responses has also been demonstrated to affect chronic inflammation and regulate several essential events in the immune response. On the other hand, various cytokines control histamine synthesis, release and expression of histamine receptors (HRs). The cells involved in the regulation of immune response and hematopoiesis express HRs and also secrete histamine, which can selectively recruit the major effector cells into tissue sites and affect their maturation, activation, polarization and effector functions leading to chronic inflammation. Histamine, acting through its receptor type 2, positively interferes with the peripheral antigen tolerance induced by T regulatory cells in several pathways. Histamine also regulates antigen-specific Th1 and Th2 cells, as well as related antibody isotype responses. The diverse effects of histamine on immune regulation are due to differential expression and regulation of four HRs and their distinct intracellular signals. In addition, differences in affinities of these receptors are highly decisive on the biological effects of histamine and agents that target HRs. This article highlights the findings leading to a change of perspective in histamine immunobiology.
Chloride-Dominant Salt Sensitivity in the Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
Authors: Schmidlin Olga , Tanaka Masae , Bollen Andrew W. , Yi Sai-Li , Morris R. Curtis
Published: April 2005

We tested the hypothesis that in the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHRSP), the Cl
−
component of dietary NaCl dominantly determines its pressor effect (salt-sensitivity). We telemetrically measured systolic aortic blood pressure (SBP) in SHRSP loaded with: nothing (CTL); NaCl alone (NaCl) (44 mmol/100 grams chow); KCl (KCl) alone (44 mmol); NaCl (44 mmol) combined with KHCO
3
(77 mmol) (NaCl/KBC) or with KCl (77 mmol) (NaCl/KCl). Across all groups, from age 10 to 15 or 16 weeks, SBP increased linearly (mm Hg/week) (dp/dt, change in SBP as a function of time): CTL, 5.6; NaCl, 9.5; KCl, 8.8; NaCl/KBC, 9.1; and NaCl/KCl, 14.6. Thus, the value of dp/dt in KCl matched that in NaCl. The value of dp/dt in NaCl/KCl exceeded that in NaCl in direct proportion to the greater Cl
−
load. Across all groups, only Cl
−
load bore a direct, highly linear relationship with dp/dt. Strokes occurred only, but always with SBP >250 mm Hg, a value observed almost exclusively in NaCl/KCl. Thus, Cl
−
dominantly determined the pressor effect induced with dietary NaCl, both with NaCl loaded alone and combined with either KCl or KHCO
3
, and thereby likely determined the occurrence of stroke with NaCl loading. Over the initial 3-day period of NaCl loading and exacerbating hypertension, external balance of Na
+
increased similarly among all groups. However, within 24 hours of initiating NaCl loading, urinary creatinine excretion decreased in direct proportion to dp/dt and urinary Cl
−
excretion. We conclude that in the SHRSP, the Cl
−
component of a dietary NaCl dominantly determines salt sensitivity and thereby phenotypic expression. We suggest that Cl
−
might do so by inducing renal vasoconstriction.
Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure Lowering as Determinants of Cardiovascular Outcome
Authors: Wang Ji-Guang , Staessen Jan A. , Franklin Stanley S. , Fagard Robert , Gueyffier François
Published: April 2005

Based on individual patient data, we performed a quantitative overview of trials in hypertension to investigate to what extent lowering of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) contributed to cardiovascular prevention. We selected trials that tested active antihypertensive drugs against placebo or no treatment. Our analyses included 12 903 young (30 to 49 years of age) patients randomized in 3 trials and 14 324 old (60 to 79 years of age) and 1209 very old (≥80 years of age) patients enrolled in 8 trials. Antihypertensive treatment reduced SBP/DBP by 8.3/4.6 mm Hg in young patients, by 10.7/4.2 mm Hg in old patients, and by 9.4/3.2 mm Hg in very old patients, respectively, resulting in ratios of DBP to SBP lowering of 0.55, 0.39, and 0.32, respectively (
P
=0.004 for trend with age). In spite of the differential lowering of SBP and DBP, antihypertensive treatment reduced the risk of all cardiovascular events, stroke and myocardial infarction in the 3 age strata to a similar extent. Absolute benefit increased with age and with lower ratio of DBP to SBP lowering. Furthermore, in patients with a larger-than-median reduction in SBP, active treatment consistently reduced the risk of all outcomes irrespective of the decrease in DBP or the achieved DBP. These findings remained consistent if the achieved DBP averaged <70 mm Hg. In conclusion, our overview suggests that antihypertensive drug treatment improves outcome mainly through lowering of SBP.
Ouabain-Like Compound Changes Rapidly on Physical Exercise in Humans and Dogs
Authors: Bauer Natali , Müller-Ehmsen Jochen , Krämer Ulrike , Hambarchian Njde , Zobel Carsten , Schwinger Robert H.G. , Neu Horst , Kirch Ulrike , Grünbaum Ernst-Günther , Schoner Wilhelm
Published: April 2005

Ouabain, an inhibitor of the sodium pump, has been identified as a constituent of bovine adrenal glands. We were interested whether the release of this cardiotonic steroid is stimulated by physical exercise. Hence, athletes and healthy dogs were subjected to ergometry. Ouabain-like compound (OLC) was measured in venous blood by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay as well as by
86
Rb
+
uptake inhibition (as ouabain equivalents). OLC increased in venous blood of athletes after 15 minutes of ergometry from 2.5±0.5 to 86.0±27.2 nmol/L (n=51;
P
<0.001), as did the concentration of a circulating inhibitor of the sodium pump from 7.3±1.7 to 129.8±51 nmol/L (ouabain equivalents,
P
<0.05). Half-maximal increase in heart rate and systolic blood pressure occurred at 5.1±1.2 nmol/L and at 30±1 nmol/L OLC, respectively. On rest, OLC decreased in humans and dogs with a half-life of 3 to 5 minutes. In beagles exposed to moderate exercise on a treadmill for 13 minutes, levels of OLC increased 46-fold (from 3.7±0.8 to 166.9±91.8 nmol/L; n=6;
P
<0.005). This effect was suppressed when the dogs had been treated for 3 weeks with the β
1
-adrenergic receptor blocker atenolol or the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor benazepril. We conclude that OLC changes rapidly during exercise and is under the control of norepinephrine and angiotensin II.
Role of Histamine Produced by Bone Marrow–Derived Vascular Cells in Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Sasaguri Yasuyuki , Wang Ke-Yong , Tanimoto Akihide , Tsutsui Masato , Ueno Hikaru , Murata Yoshitaka , Kohno Yukari , Yamada Sohsuke , Ohtsu Hiroshi
Published: April 2005

To clarify the role of histamine-producing cells and its origin in atherosclerosis, we investigated histidine decarboxylase (HDC; histamine-producing enzyme) expression in murine arteries with vascular injuries after the animal had received transplanted bone marrow (BM) from green fluorescent protein (GFP)–transgenic mice. The neointima in the ligated carotid arteries contained BM-derived HDC
+
cells that expressed macrophage (Mac-3) or smooth muscle cell antigen (α-SMA). In contrast, the HDC
+
BM-derived cells, which were positive for Mac-3, were mainly located in the adventitia in the cuff replacement model. In apolipoprotein E-knockout mice on a high cholesterol diet, BM-derived cells expressing Mac-3 in the atheromatous plaques were also positive for HDC. In comparison with wild-type mice, HDC
−/−
mice showed reduced neointimal thickening and a decreased intima-to-media ratio after ligation and cuff replacement. These results indicate that histamine produced from BM-derived progenitor cells, which could transdifferentiate into SMC- or macrophage-like cells, are important for the formation of neointima and atheromatous plaques.
Regulation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation
Authors: Mehrhof Felix B. , Schmidt-Ullrich Ruth , Dietz Rainer , Scheidereit Claus
Published: April 2005

The transcription factor NF-κB regulates cell cycle progression and proliferation in a number of cell types. An important unresolved issue is the potential role of NF-κB in the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) as a basis for the development of vascular disease. To investigate the contribution of NF-κB to mitogen-induced proliferation of VSMCs, a knock-in mouse model expressing the NF-κB superrepressor IκBαΔN (
c

I
κ
B
αΔ
N

) was used. Comparing wild-type and IκBαΔN-expressing VSMCs, we found that proliferation rates did not differ after mitogenic stimulation by platelet-derived growth-factor-BB (PDGF-BB) or serum. In line with this, NF-κB activation was not observed in VSMCs derived from transgenic mice expressing an NF-κB–dependent lacZ reporter (
c

(Igk)3conalacZ

). We further show, that classical mitogenic signaling pathways (namely mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK] and the phosphatidyl-inositol-3-OH-kinase [PI3K] pathways) control VSMC proliferation, but independently of NF-κB activation. In contrast to VSMCs, mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) derived from IκBαΔN-expressing mice showed significantly impaired proliferation rates after mitogenic stimulation. This was reflected by strongly impaired cyclin D1 expression in serum-stimulated MEFs derived from (
c

I
κ
B
αΔ
N

) mice. These results implicate that essential pathogenetic functions of NF-κB in the development of atherosclerosis involve apoptotic and inflammatory signaling of VSMCs rather than proliferation. They further provide genetic evidence for a cell-type restricted requirement of NF-κB in the control of cellular proliferation.
A Spirit of Deception in Job 4:15? Interpretive Indeterminacy and Eliphaz's Vision
Authors: Harding James
Published: April 2005

The text of Eliphaz's vision in Job 4:12-21 is written in highly ambiguous Hebrew whose meaning(s) must be constructed by the reading subject, in conversation with intertexts whose relevance to Job 4:12-21 is determined by the reading subject. This suggests that a single meaning forJob 4:12-21 is impossible, and the search for such a meaning futile: meaning(s) can only be created by the reading subject. Consequently, this article attempts to read Job 4:12-21 creatively in both inner- and extra-Joban contexts, teasing out the possibilities permitted by the ambiguitiesof the text. The ambiguous Hebrew permits reading Job 4:1221 in connection with accounts of the divine assembly, raising the question of the identity of the of 4:15. This possible 'spirit of deception' may be deceiving the participants in the Joban drama into pursuing the ambiguitiesof 4:17 to their logical implication in the context of Job, that Job is more righteous than YHWH. In addition to the subtleties of Job 4-5, which question the validity of Eliphaz's epistemology at the most basic level, the character YHWH in 42:7 implicitly supports this identification of the in order to prevent the reader from taking such possibilities, suggested by the ambiguities of 4:17, seriously, and in so doing questioning YHWH's justice and integrity. The ambiguities that permit the adoption of this set of interpretive options, of course, constitute the very factorthat denies the possibility of establishing the validity of this reading to anyone other than this reading subject.
The General Provisions on Purchase and Sale in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation
Authors: Smith Stephen
Published: April 2005

The author offers a critical examination of the provisions on purchase and sale in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. Focusing narrowly on the text of the code, the paper starts with a broad overview of, and commentary on, the provisions and then provides a detailed article-by-article commentary on individual provisions. Potential difficulties are identified (especially with respect to transfer of ownership, remedies, and the code's attempt to blend common and civil law approaches to sale) and suggestions are offered for how the text might be clarified or, in certain cases, substantively changed. In view of the broad similarity between the provisions on sale in the Russian code and the rules on contracts of sale applicable in Western market economies generally, the paper proposes neither far-ranging criticisms nor radical reforms of the Russian law.
Rights of Private Property in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and in the Civil Code of Quebec
Authors: Lametti David
Published: April 2005

Private property entails a relationship between people through objects. The objects of property rights form a necessary part of the property equation, and provide an understanding of the rights and obligations allowed and required in the exploitation of any given object. This often comes through the civilian notion of destination: the idea that certain resources have a specifi c teleology or accepted way of being properly exploited or used finds expression in various legal rules. The manner in which the destination is determined may vary: it may be formal, legal or merely tacit. This basic theme is amplified in this comparative study of the basic structure of private property rights and obligations in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and in the Civil Code of Quebec. Other themes also become equally apparent in the course of this study. First, the Russian code contains a very rough approximation of the general structure of civil law property rights: a fullest right of ownership and different lesser entitlements or dismemberments. The dismemberments, however, are quite unique to the Russian context. Second, both property rights and obligations are articulated much more explicitly and elaborately in the Russian code than in the Quebec counterpart. Third, this express enunciation of obligations and limitations on all entitlements in turn is founded on the idea that ownership is a limited concept. This foundation is in no way in contradiction to the theory of ownership in Western legal theory and practice. Finally, as a general observation, the continuing role of the state in the Russian private property system as articulated in the Russian code is much more pronounced. This is true both in its role as a legislator and enforcement agent of property limitations, as well as its express role as an actor in certain of the lesser entitlements.
General Concepts of Private Law Relating to Private Property in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and in the Civil Code of Quebec
Authors: Lametti David
Published: April 2005

The paperidentifies some notable features on general private law ordering contained in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. It does so by contrasting these provisions with similar articles and doctrine from the Civil Code of Quebec. The author points out several unique features of the Russian code and speculates on some of the potential implications of these features for private law ordering. These comments are meant to stimulate discussion and comparison, and are not meant to be exhaustive in either their descriptive content or substantive analysis. The Russian code convers similar conceptual territory as the Quebec code; thus, the organizing concepts are analogous. It is therefore not surprising that the animating themes of private laaw in the civilist tradition, major distinctions such as patrimonial and extra-patrimonial rights, real and personal rights, and various sub categories, find expression in the Russian code. The elaboration of these ideas is generally much extensive in the Russian code that in the Quebec code, although the iteration in the latter is arguably more concise, clear and coherent.
Imagen presidencial en la prensa: un heurístico cognitivo para la comprensión del universo político
Authors: García-Beaudoux Virginia , D'Adamo Orlando , Slavinsky Gabriel , Rosenbach Geraldine
Published: April 2005

En este trabajo se analizan las características de la cobertura informativa que la prensa argentina realiza de las acciones del gobierno. Para realizar la tarea propuesta se clasificaron 744 ediciones de periódicos y 10.340 notas periodísticas. Los resultados obtenidos indican que la cobertura periodística tiende a ser de tipo personalista, esto es, que en la comunicación las acciones de gobierno son representadas por la figura del presidente; y monolítica, es decir, las proposiciones e imágenes que la prensa presenta del gobierno y del presidente son recurrentes. Se discute la posibilidad de que dichas imágenes funcionen como heurísticos cognitivos para la comprensión de la política.
Antecedentes de la actitud hacia las políticas de acción positiva en favor de las personas con discapacidad
Authors: Ruiz Josefa , Moya Miguel
Published: April 2005

En el presente estudio se exploran los antecedentes de la actitud que manifiestan las personas sin discapacidad hacia las medidas de acción positiva en favor de la inserción laboral del colectivo de personas con discapacidad. Mediante el método de ecuaciones estructurales (EQS) se analiza, en un primer modelo, la influencia de una serie de variables—percepción de amenaza al interés colectivo, privación relativa y prejuicio—que tienen un papel relevante en los estudios sobre la acción positiva en favor de otras minorías como las mujeres o los inmigrantes. En el segundo modelo propuesto se explora el rol de otras variables (atribuciones el desempleo, juicio de responsabilidad, sentimientos) pertenecientes al modelo motivacional de Weiner (1995). Obtuvimos que la percepción de amenaza a los intereses colectivos de las personas sin discapacidad y la privación fraternal influyen positiva y directamente en las actitudes prejuiciosas hacia las personas con discapacidad. También se halló que el prejuicio moderno se asociaba de manera directa y negativa a la actitud hacia las medidas de acción positiva en favor de las personas con discapacidad en el ámbito laboral. Asimismo, los resultados mostraron una influencia directa de las explicaciones causales del desempleo de las personas con discapacidad sobre dicha actitud—la atribución a causas sociales conllevarían un apoyo hacia las medidas de este tipo mientras que las explicaciones de tipo personal llevarían a su rechazo. Respecto a la influencia de factores emocionales se encontró que el sentimiento negativo ejercía una influencia directa y negativa sobre la actitud hacia la acción positiva.
Preferential selection of human T-cell leukemia virus type I provirus integration sites in leukemic versus carrier states
Authors: Doi Keitarou , Wu Xiaolin , Taniguchi Yuko , Yasunaga Jun-ichirou , Satou Yorifumi , Okayama Akihiko , Nosaka Kisato , Matsuoka Masao
Published: April 2005

Human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I) is a causative agent of neoplastic disease, adult T-cell leukemia (ATL). Although the encoding viral proteins play an important role in oncogenesis, the role of the HTLV-I proviral integration site remains unsolved. We determined the integration sites of HTLV-I proviruses in ATL cells and HTLV-I–infected cells in asymptomatic carriers. In carrier and ATL cells, HTLV-I provirus was integrated into the transcriptional unit at frequencies of 26.8% (15/56) and 33.9% (20/59), respectively, which were equivalent to the frequency calculated based on random integration (33.2%). In addition, HTLV-I provirus was prone to integration near the transcriptional start sites in leukemic cells (P = .006), and the transcriptional direction of the provirus was in accordance with that of integrated cellular genes in 70% of cases. More importantly, the integration sites in the carrier cells favored the alphoid repetitive sequences (11/56; 20%) whereas in leukemic cells they disfavored these sequences (2/59; 3.4%). Taken together, during natural course from carrier to onset of ATL, HTLV-I–infected cells with integration sites favorable for viral gene transcription are susceptible to malignant transformation due to increased viral gene expression.
Crystal structure of the Jak3 kinase domain in complex with a staurosporine analog
Authors: Boggon Titus J. , Li Yiqun , Manley Paul W. , Eck Michael J.
Published: April 2005

Jak (Janus kinase) family nonreceptor tyrosine kinases are central mediators of cytokine signaling. The Jak kinases exhibit distinct cytokine receptor association profiles and so transduce different signals. Jak3 expression is limited to the immune system, where it plays a key role in signal transduction from cytokine receptors containing the common gamma-chain, γc. Patients unable to signal via γc present with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). The finding that Jak3 mutations result in SCID has made it a target for development of lymphocyte-specific immunosuppressants. Here, we present the crystal structure of the Jak3 kinase domain in complex with staurosporine analog AFN941. The kinase domain is in the active conformation, with both activation loop tyrosine residues phosphorylated. The phosphate group on pTyr981 in the activation loop is in part coordinated by an arginine residue in the regulatory C-helix, suggesting a direct mechanism by which the active position of the C-helix is induced by phosphorylation of the activation loop. Such a direct coupling has not been previously observed in tyrosine kinases and may be unique to Jak kinases. The crystal structure provides a detailed view of the Jak3 active site and will facilitate computational and structure-directed approaches to development of Jak3-specific inhibitors.
Occupational risk of tuberculosis transmission in a low incidence area
Authors: Diel Roland , Seidler Andreas , Nienhaus Albert , Rüsch-Gerdes Sabine , Niemann Stefan
Published: April 2005

Background

To investigate the occupational risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection in a low-incidence setting, data from a prospective study of patients with culture-confirmed TB conducted in Hamburg, Germany, from 1997 to 2002 were evaluated.

Methods

M. tuberculosis isolates were genotyped by IS6110 RFLP analysis. Results of contact tracing and additional patient interviews were used for further epidemiological analyses.

Results

Out of 848 cases included in the cluster analysis, 286 (33.7%) were classified into 76 clusters comprising 2 to 39 patients. In total, two patients in the non-cluster and eight patients in the cluster group were health-care workers. Logistic regression analysis confirmed work in the health-care sector as the strongest predictor for clustering (OR 17.9). However, only two of the eight transmission links among the eight clusters involving health-care workers had been detected previously. Overall, conventional contact tracing performed before genotyping had identified only 26 (25.2%) of the 103 contact persons with the disease among the clustered cases whose transmission links were epidemiologically verified.

Conclusion

Recent transmission was found to be strongly associated with health-care work in a setting with low incidence of TB. Conventional contact tracing alone was shown to be insufficient to discover recent transmission chains. The data presented also indicate the need for establishing improved TB control strategies in health-care settings.
MARS: Microarray analysis, retrieval, and storage system
Authors: Maurer Michael , Molidor Robert , Sturn Alexander , Hartler Juergen , Hackl Hubert , Stocker Gernot , Prokesch Andreas , Scheideler Marcel , Trajanoski Zlatko
Published: April 2005

Background

Microarray analysis has become a widely used technique for the study of gene-expression patterns on a genomic scale. As more and more laboratories are adopting microarray technology, there is a need for powerful and easy to use microarray databases facilitating array fabrication, labeling, hybridization, and data analysis. The wealth of data generated by this high throughput approach renders adequate database and analysis tools crucial for the pursuit of insights into the transcriptomic behavior of cells.

Results

MARS (Microarray Analysis and Retrieval System) provides a comprehensive MIAME supportive suite for storing, retrieving, and analyzing multi color microarray data. The system comprises a laboratory information management system (LIMS), a quality control management, as well as a sophisticated user management system. MARS is fully integrated into an analytical pipeline of microarray image analysis, normalization, gene expression clustering, and mapping of gene expression data onto biological pathways. The incorporation of ontologies and the use of MAGE-ML enables an export of studies stored in MARS to public repositories and other databases accepting these documents.

Conclusion

We have developed an integrated system tailored to serve the specific needs of microarray based research projects using a unique fusion of Web based and standalone applications connected to the latest J2EE application server technology. The presented system is freely available for academic and non-profit institutions. More information can be found at http://genome.tugraz.at.
Predictors of glycemic control among patients with Type 2 diabetes: A longitudinal study
Authors: Benoit Stephen R , Fleming Regina , Philis-Tsimikas Athena , Ji Ming
Published: April 2005

Background

Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death and results in significant morbidity. The purpose of this study is to determine what demographic, health status, treatment, access/quality of care, and behavioral factors are associated with poor glycemic control in a Type 2 diabetic, low-income, minority, San Diego population.

Methods

Longitudinal observational data was collected on patients with Type 2 diabetes from Project Dulce, a program in San Diego County designed to care for an underserved diabetic population. The study sample included 573 patients with a racial/ethnic mix of 53% Hispanic, 7% black, 18% Asian, 20% white, and 2% other. We utilized mixed effects models to determine the factors associated with poor glycemic control using hemoglobin A1C (A1C) as the outcome of interest. A multi-step model building process was used resulting in a final parsimonious model with main effects and interaction terms.

Results

Patients had a mean age of 55 years, 69% were female, the mean duration of diabetes was 7.1 years, 31% were treated with insulin, and 57% were obese. American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommendations for blood pressure and total cholesterol were met by 71% and 68%, respectively. Results of the mixed effects model showed that patients who were uninsured, had diabetes for a longer period of time, used insulin or multiple oral agents, or had high cholesterol had higher A1C values over time indicating poorer glycemic control. The younger subjects also had poorer control.

Conclusion

This study provides factors that predict glycemic control in a specific low-income, multiethnic, Type 2 diabetic population. With this information, subgroups with high risk of disease morbidity were identified. Barriers that prevent these patients from meeting their goals must be explored to improve health outcomes.
Epidemiology of leisure-time physical activity in socio-demographic, lifestyle and psychological characteristics of men and women in Greece: the ATTICA Study
Authors: Pitsavos Christos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B , Lentzas Yannis , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: April 2005

Background

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence, frequency and type of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among adults in Greece, as well as its relationship with socio-demographic, lifestyle and clinical characteristics of these people.

Methods

From May 2001 to December 2002 we randomly enrolled 1514 men and 1528 women, without any evidence of cardiovascular or any other chronic disease. The sampling was stratified by the age – gender distribution of (census 2001) of the greater area of Athens. Weekly energy expenditure assessed by considering frequency, duration (in minutes) and intensity of sports related physical activity during a usual week.

Results

53% of men and 48% of women were classified as physically active. Men were more likely to be active as compared to women (p < 0.05), while the lowest activity rates were observed in 40 to 49 years old participants (p < 0.01). Physically active people had higher occupation skills, were more likely to live in rural areas, to be unmarried, non smokers and they were devoted to a healthier dietary pattern, as compared to sedentary, irrespective of age and sex (all p < 0.05). In addition, the cumulative risk factors score of obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, was inversely associated with activity status (p < 0.001). Finally, physically active men and women were less likely to report depressive symptoms (p < 0.01), after various adjustments were made.

Conclusion

Half of the studied population reported physically inactive, indicating that sedentary lifestyle becomes a serious epidemic in Greece. High occupation skills, non-smoking, devotion to a healthier dietary pattern and a better cardiovascular risk factors profile were some of the determinants of physically active people.
Assessment of potential effects of the electromagnetic fields of mobile phones on hearing
Authors: Uloziene Ingrida , Uloza Virgilijus , Gradauskiene Egle , Saferis Viktoras
Published: April 2005

Background

Mobile phones have become indispensable as communication tools; however, to date there is only a limited knowledge about interaction between electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by mobile phones and auditory function. The aim of the study was to assess potential changes in hearing function as a consequence of exposure to low-intensity EMF's produced by mobile phones at frequencies of 900 and 1800 MHz.

Methods

The within-subject study was performed on thirty volunteers (age 18–30 years) with normal hearing to assess possible acute effect of EMF. Participants attended two sessions: genuine and sham exposure of EMF. Hearing threshold levels (HTL) on pure tone audiometry (PTA) and transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE's) were recorded before and immediately after 10 min of genuine and/or sham exposure of mobile phone EMF. The administration of genuine or sham exposure was double blind and counterbalanced in order.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in the mean HTLs of PTA and mean shifts of TEOAE's before and after genuine and/or sham mobile phone EMF 10 min exposure. The data collected showed that average TEOAE levels (averaged across a frequency range) changed less than 2.5 dB between pre- and post-, genuine and sham exposure. The greatest individual change was 10 dB, with a decrease in level from pre- to post- real exposure.

Conclusion

It could be concluded that a 10-min close exposure of EMFs emitted from a mobile phone had no immediate after-effect on measurements of HTL of PTA and TEOAEs in young human subjects and no measurable hearing deterioration was detected in our study.