bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Areca (betel) nut extract activates mitogen‐activated protein kinasesand NF‐κB in oral keratinocytes
Authors: Lin Shu‐Chun , Lu Suu‐Yi , Lee Szu‐Ying , Lin Chi‐Yen , Chen Chun‐Hsien , Chang Kuo‐Wei
Published: April 2005

Areca (betel) was recently proved a carcinogenic substance by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. However, the signaling impact of areca in oral keratinocyte is still obscure. Mitogen‐activated protein kinase superfamilies, including extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK) and p38, together with transcription factor NF‐κB, are important signaling elements. We examined the activation of these signaling pathways in OECM‐1 and SAS oral keratinocytes, treated with ripe areca nut extract (ANE). In both cells, a rapid increase in JNK1 activity at 0.5 hr was noted following treatment of ANE. ERK was profoundly activated during 0.5–2 hr in OECM‐1 cells. Contrasting p38 activity was noted in these 2 cells. In both cells, ANE also activated NF‐κB pathway in a biphasic manner, particularly for SAS cells. NF‐κB was activated by ∼ 2‐ to 4‐fold at 0.5–1 hr and a plateau or slight decrease of activity existed between 1 and 6 hr. Later, another higher episode of NF‐κB activity was raised. This was accompanied with the rapid degradation in cytosolic IκBα as well as an increase of nuclear NF‐κB in both cells. ANE treatment did not activate epidermal growth factor receptor signaling system, but blockage of NF‐κB activation rendered the suppression of ANE‐modulated COX‐2 upregulation in OECM‐1. This study identified that ANE affected interactive signaling systems in oral keratonocytes that could be the pathogenetic basis for areca. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Helminthic infections in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
Authors: Miller Sara E.
Published: April 2005

Strongyloides stercoralis, the only helminthic parasite that can complete its life cycle in the human host, is also the only helminthic parasite that has been reported with any frequency in AIDS patients. Symptoms include hives, skin eruptions, abdominal pain, perianal pruitis, diarrhea, and pneumonitis. Diagnosis is made by demonstrating rhabditiform larvae in the stool or female parasitic worms and eggs in the small intestinal mucosa; in disseminated cases, rhabditiform or filariform larvae can be found in liver, heart, lungs, thyroid, kidneys, adrenals, pancreas, lymph nodes, and central nervous system. Successful treatment has been achieved with thiabendazol. Strongyloidiasis is uncommon, but since cell‐mediated immunity is important in combatting this organism, and since T‐lymphocyte function is impaired in AIDS patients, strongyloidiasis should not be overlooked in the diagnosis of opportunistic illnesses in these individuals.
Packing of linear molecules: An electron microscope study of disorder in mesophases and binary solids
Authors: Dorset Douglas L.
Published: April 2005

With the aid of epitaxial orientation techniques originally designed for linear polymer crystallization, it is found that a large assortment of linear chain molecules can be prepared for electron diffraction study in a projection onto the molecular axes. This not only facilitates a study of ordered monodisperse molecular crystal structures but also of the disordered state as well, including thermotropic phase transitions and the structure of binary solids. Representative studies of monodisperse and polydisperse phase behavior based on electron diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry measurements are reviewed for n‐paraffins, glycerolipids, and cholesteryl esters. The importance of observing the microcrystalline state is readily apparent from these studies—not only because the symmetry of individual small crystals can be determined, but also because local structural variations not detectable in bulk measurements are readily observed.
Muscle activity at the ilio‐sacral articulation of frogs
Authors: Emerson Sharon B. , De Jongh H. J.
Published: April 2005

Electromyographic recording indicates that the sequence of muscle firing around the ilio‐sacral joint is similar for three species of frogs during locomotion, despite differences in gross morphology at the articulation. The ilio‐sacral musculature is most active during the take‐off phase of a jump, and there is a correlation between the degree of muscle activity and height of jump. This muscle activity is involved in aligning the center of mass of the frog with the direction of the propulsive force of the jump. The firing pattern of the ilio‐sacral musculature is essentially similar during swimming and jumping, and suggests that differences in medium (water vs. air) are responsible for differences in propulsive thrust in the two types of locomotion.
Culture method for the induction of neurospheres from mouse embryonic stem cells by coculture with PA6 stromal cells
Authors: Kitajima Hideomi , Yoshimura Shinichi , Kokuzawa Jouji , Kato Masayasu , Iwama Toru , Motohashi Tsutomu , Kunisada Takahiro , Sakai Noboru
Published: April 2005

Embryonic stem (ES) cells proliferate and maintain their pluripotency for over 1 year in vitro and may therefore provide a sufficient source for cell therapies. However, most of the previously reported methods for obtaining a source for cell therapies have not been simple. We describe here a novel method for induction of neurospheres from mouse ES cells by coculturing on PA6 cells instead of the formation of embryoid bodies. The ES cells cocultured with the PA6 stromal cell line for at least 3 days were capable of differentiating into spheres. The cells in the spheres were all green fluorescent protein (GFP) positive, showing that they were derived from GFP‐expressing D3‐ES cells. The spheres contained nestin‐positive cells. The number of spheres increased when they were cocultured with PA6 for a longer period. Sphere formation was observed even after 10 mechanical dissociations and subculturings, showing its self‐renewal ability. The cells differentiated into microtubule‐associated protein‐2 (MAP2)‐positive neuronal cells and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐positive glial cells. γ‐Aminobutyric acid‐positive cells and tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive cells were also observed in the spheres. The percentages of the MAP2‐ or GFAP‐positive cells in the sphere changed according to the period of coculture on PA6 cells. At an early stage of coculture, more neurons were generated and, at a later period, more glial cells were generated. These results suggested that neurosphere could be generated from ES cells by coculturing with PA6, and that these cells resembled neural stem cells derived from mouse fetal brain tissue. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tensile bond strength of a flowable composite resin to ER:YAG‐laser‐treated dentin
Authors: Donadio‐Moura Juliana , Gouw‐Soares Sheila , de Freitas Patricia M. , Navarro Ricardo S. , Powell Lynn G. , Eduardo Carlos de P.
Published: April 2005

Background and Objectives

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of a flowable composite resin (FCR) on the tensile bond strength of resin to dentin treated with the Er:YAG Laser (L) and diamond bur (DB).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ninety dentin surfaces obtained from 45 third molars were ground and randomly divided into six groups (n = 15): G1–DB, G2–DB+FCR, G3–L (100 mJ, 10 Hz, 37.04 J/cm2), G4–L (100 mJ, 10 Hz, 37.04 J/cm2)+FCR, G5–L (250 mJ, 2 Hz, 92.60 J/cm2), and G6–L (250 mJ, 2 Hz, 92.60 J/cm2)+FCR. After surface etching with 37% phosphoric acid and the application of an adhesive system, inverted conical specimens were prepared with a hybrid composite resin. In groups G2, G4, and G6 a FCR was placed before the hybrid composite resin. After 24 hours‐storage in distilled water, the tensile test was performed in a universal testing machine (0.5 mm/minute, 500 N).

Results

Data were submitted to Kruskal Wallis test (P = 0.01). The mean bond strength values (MPa±SD) were: G1–13.54 (±2.99), G2–14.67 (±2.32), G3–9.49 (±3.09), G4–14.60 (±2.76), G5–8.97 (±3.89), and G6–13.02 (±2.18). Groups G1 and G2 presented the highest bond strength values, which were statistically similar to those of G4 and G6. The groups treated with laser and without the FCR (G3 and G5) showed the lowest shear bond strength values.

Conclusions

FCR can increase the adhesion to dentin treated with Er:YAG laser within different parameters. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement of the coagulation dynamics of bovine liver using the modified microscopic Beer–Lambert law
Authors: Terenji Albert , Willmann Stefan , Osterholz Jens , Hering Peter , Schwarzmaier Hans‐Joachim
Published: April 2005

Background and Objectives

During heating, the optical properties of biological tissues change with the coagulation state. In this study, we propose a technique, which uses these changes to monitor the coagulation process during laser‐induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Untreated and coagulated (water bath, temperatures between 35°C and 90°C for 20 minutes.) samples of bovine liver tissue were examined using a Nd:YAG (λ = 1064 nm) frequency‐domain reflectance spectrometer. We determined the time integrated intensities (IDC) and the phase shifts (Φ) of the photon density waves after migration through the tissue. From these measured quantities, the time of flight (TOF) of the photons and the absorption coefficients of the samples were derived using the modified microscopic Beer–Lambert law.

Results

The absorption coefficients of the liver samples decreased significantly with the temperature in the range between 50°C and 70°C. At the same time, the TOF of the investigated photos was found increased indicating an increased scattering. The coagulation dynamics could be well described using the Arrhenius formalism with the activation energy of 106 kJ/mol and the frequency factor of 1.59×1013/second.

Conclusions

Frequency‐domain reflectance spectroscopy in combination with the modified microscopic Beer–Lambert (MBL) is suitable to measure heat induced changes in the absorption and scattering properties of bovine liver in vitro. The technique may be used to monitor the coagulation dynamics during local thermo‐coagulation in vivo. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A monolithic 5.2‐GHz single‐ended input and single‐ended output GaInp/GaAs HBT upconversion Gilbert mixer with integrated oscillator
Authors: Meng C. C. , Hsu S. K. , Huang G. W.
Published: April 2005

A truly balanced operation of a 5.2‐GHz Gilbert micromixer with a single‐ended input and a single‐ended output is demonstrated using 2‐μm GaInP/GaAs HBT technology. Because the micromixer has a single‐ended input, a passive LC current combiner is used to convert the mixer‐differential output into a single‐ended output. A cross‐coupled LC oscillator with oscillation frequency of 4.3 GHz and a cascode buffer amplifier are also integrated in the same chip. The fully integrated upconversion micromixer has conversion gain of −2.5 dB and OP1dB of −12.5 dBm when input IF = 0.9 GHz and thus output RF = 5.2 GHz. The IF input return loss is better than 25 dB for frequencies up to 6 GHz, while the RF output return loss is better than 12 dB for frequencies from 5.15 to 5.35 GHz. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 45: 277–279, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20795
A novel compact interembedded AMC structure for integrated circuits and antenna arrays
Authors: Yan Dunbao , Wang Chao , Gao Qiang , Yuan Naichang
Published: April 2005

A novel compact interembedded artificial magnetic conductor (IE‐AMC) structure is introduced in this paper. For a desired bandgap frequency, the cell size of this novel IE‐AMC structure is only 30% to 40% of the conventional Sienvenpiper structure with the same substrate used. The IE‐AMC structure is very suitable to microwave integrated circuits and antenna‐arrays applications, especially in wireless‐communication bands (GSM, PCS, and ISM). © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 45: 303–305, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20803
Channel add/drop response in narrowband ASE feedback GC‐EDFA
Authors: Haoken Huoermaiti , Poopalan Prabakaran , Ahmad Harith
Published: April 2005

The effect of channel add/drop response on a new and novel type of narrowband ASE feedback EDFA is investigated. This gain‐clamped amplifier utilizes multiple fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) in a simulated eight‐channel WDM network. This experiment demonstrates that in order to minimize variation of surviving‐channel power to less then 0.28 dB for channel add/drop, the ASE feedback attenuation level and pump power are critical. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 45: 307–309, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20805
Message transmission using RF chaotic modulation‐demodulation system
Authors: Chou Hsi‐Chiang
Published: April 2005

This paper describes a technique for transmitting information using a RF chaotic modulation–demodulation system. This system is composed of two parts: (i) a modulation–demodulation circuit, which is constructed using a chaotic Colpitts oscillator and (ii) an interface circuit, which is constructed using wideband OP and passive elements. The information is masked by adding a RF chaotic signal to be transmitted, and is obtained by subtraction of the chaotic signal at the receiver. The results of both practical experiments and simulations are presented to verify our approach. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 45: 321–324, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20811
Neuromuscular manifestations of critical illness
Authors: Bolton Charles F.
Published: April 2005

Critical illness, more precisely defined as the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), occurs in 20%–50% of patients who have been on mechanical ventilation for more than 1 week in an intensive care unit. Critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) and myopathy (CIM), singly or in combination, occur commonly in these patients and present as limb weakness and difficulty in weaning from the ventilator. Critical illness myopathy can be subdivided into thick‐filament (myosin) loss, cachectic myopathy, acute rhabdomyolysis, and acute necrotizing myopathy of intensive care. SIRS is the predominant underlying factor in CIP and is likely a factor in CIM even though the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents and steroids predominate in CIM. Identification and characterization of the polyneuropathy and myopathy depend upon neurological examination, electrophysiological studies, measurement of serum creatine kinase, and, if features suggest a myopathy, muscle biopsy. The information is valuable in deciding treatment and prognosis. Muscle Nerve, 2005
High‐resolution multi‐parameter DNA flow cytometry enables detection of tumour and stromal cell subpopulations in paraffin‐embedded tissues
Authors: Corver Willem E , ter Haar Natalja T , Dreef Enno J , Miranda Noel FCC , Prins Frans A , Jordanova Ekaterina S , Cornelisse Cees J , Fleuren Gert Jan
Published: April 2005

The accuracy of DNA ploidy measurements of paraffin‐embedded tissues is limited by the lack of resolution and the inability to identify the DNA diploid population unequivocally in bimodal DNA histograms. A multi‐parameter DNA flow cytometric method has been developed that enables the simultaneous detection of neoplastic and stromal cells in samples from dewaxed 50 µm sections or 2 mm diameter punches of archival tissue blocks. The method combines heat pretreatment in sodium citrate buffer and subsequent enzymatic dissociation with a collagenase/dispase mixture. Cells were simultaneously stained for keratin (FITC), vimentin (R‐PE), and DNA (PI) before flow cytometric analysis. The method was applied to 12 paraffin‐embedded cervical carcinomas and four colorectal carcinomas. In all cervical cancers, distinct keratin‐positive and vimentin‐positive cell populations were observed. While the exclusive vimentin‐positive cell fractions always yielded unimodal DNA content distributions, bimodal distributions were observed for the keratin‐positive cell fractions in nine cervical carcinomas, whereas one cervical carcinoma showed three distinct G0G1 populations. Coefficients of variation of the G0G1 peaks ranged from 1.70% to 4.79%. Average background, aggregate, and debris values were 14.7% (vimentin‐positive fraction) and 33.8% (keratin‐positive fraction). Flow sorting confirmed that the exclusively vimentin‐positive cell fractions represent different normal stromal and infiltrate cells that can serve as an internal ploidy reference enabling discrimination between DNA hypo‐diploid and DNA hyper‐diploid tumour cell subpopulations. The neoplastic origin of the keratin–vimentin co‐expressing cells from two cervical carcinomas was confirmed by genotyping of flow‐sorted samples revealing loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of 6p. This improved method obviates the need for fresh/frozen tumour tissue for high‐resolution DNA ploidy measurements and enables the isolation of highly purified tumour subpopulations for subsequent genotyping. Copyright © 2005 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyaniline/polyimide blends as gas sensors and electrical conductivity response to CO–N2 mixtures
Authors: Watcharaphalakorn S , Ruangchuay L , Chotpattananont D , Sirivat A , Schwank J
Published: April 2005

The effects of dopant type, doping level, polyimide (PI) content and temperature on electrical conductivity response of polyaniline (PANI) and polyaniline/polyimide (PANI/PI) blends to CO–N2 gas mixtures were systematically investigated. At the same doping level, HNO3‐doped PANI has a greater electrical conductivity response and sensitivity towards CO than that of camphor sulfonic acid (CSA)‐doped PANI because the former has a more ordered structure. The interaction mechanism between CO and PANI is proposed to occur at the attack site, N̈H or the amine nitrogen where CO withdraws an electron. Addition of PI causes a small change in electrical conductivity under atmospheric conditions when PI content is below the percolation threshold value of 55 wt%. Addition of PI reduces brittleness and improves electrical conductivity sensitivity towards CO; the effect is more pronounced at higher temperatures. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and properties of cross‐linked poly(ethylene glycol)/poly[(vinylidene fluoride)‐co‐hexafluoropropylene] interpenetrating network‐type electrolytes for secondary lithium batteries
Authors: Chung Nakyong , Kang Donghoon , Kim Dukjoon
Published: April 2005

Cross‐linked poly(ethylene glycol)/poly[(vinylidene fluoride)‐co‐hexafluoropropylene] (XPEG/PVDF–HFP) gel‐type polymer electrolyte interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) were prepared by cross‐linking the PEG molecules in the presence of PVDF–HFP molecules. Thermal, mechanical, swelling and electrochemical properties, as well as microstructures of the prepared polymer electrolytes, were investigated for various polymer compositions. The mechanical strength increased, but the swelling ratio in electrolyte solution decreased with increasing PVDF–HFP content. The ion conductivity was highly affected by the type of electrolyte salt, and increased with increasing XPEG concentration. The Arrhenius‐type relationship was observed in the temperature dependence of ion conductivity. The polymer electrolyte systems prepared in this study were electrochemically stable up to about 5 V. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Exploration of high‐resolution ultrasonic spectroscopy as an analytical tool to study demixing and remixing in poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide)/water solutions
Authors: Van Durme Kurt , Delellio Laureen , Kudryashov Evgeny , Buckin Vitaly , Van Mele Bruno
Published: April 2005

The ultrasonic properties of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM)/water solutions, determined with high‐resolution ultrasonic spectroscopy (HR‐US), change during demixing and remixing. All HR‐US measurements are discussed with respect to modulated temperature differential scanning calorimetry results. The lower critical solution temperature type of phase behavior, in combination with the glass‐transition/composition curve of PNIPAM/water, determines the evolution of the ultrasonic signals. Three different temperature regions can be distinguished: a homogeneous region and a heterogeneous region, the latter subdivided into zones without and with interference of partial vitrification of the PNIPAM‐rich phase. During phase separation, the ultrasonic velocity decreases because of a change in the hydration structure around the polymer chains, whereas the ultrasonic attenuation increases as aggregation sets in. Isothermal measurements clearly show time dependence for both the velocity and the attenuation. The observed timescales are different and can be related to a changing polymer/water interphase and aggregate formation, respectively. Partial vitrification of the PNIPAM‐rich phase slows the demixing kinetics and especially the remixing kinetics. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 1283–1295, 2005
Field experiments for the evaluation of pesticide spray‐drift on arable crops
Authors: Ravier Isabelle , Haouisee Emmanuelle , Clément Michel , Seux René , Briand Olivier
Published: April 2005

Two distinct approaches were used to characterise spray‐drift during the application of atrazine and alachlor to a maize crop. The first consisted in determining the quantities which did not reach their target. A first experiment was carried in 2001 to improve the sampling method. A second experiment in 2002 showed that losses represented 46 and 38% for atrazine and alachlor, respectively. The second approach was to follow the spatiotemporal evolution of the cloud formed during application. The concentrations observed near the application zone during spraying reached 4.5 µg m−3 for atrazine and 8.5 µg m−3 for alachlor. With alachlor these concentrations decreased rapidly when increasing distance from the plot or time following treatment, whereas in the case of atrazine they stabilised rapidly (between 0.5 and 0.3 µg m−3) both in space and in time. Deposits around the plot were light and slightly higher for alachlor (from 20 to 130 µg m−2). Alachlor was more rapidly diluted in space than atrazine, reflecting a differentiated evolution of physical form during the process. Alachlor, being more volatile than atrazine, is quickly transferred to the gaseous phase which was more rapidly dispersed than aerosols. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Composite nature of the self‐trapped exciton luminescence in PbWO4
Authors: Itoh Minoru , Sakurai Takaaki
Published: April 2005

The blue luminescence from a self‐trapped exciton (STE) in PbWO4 is studied by means of time‐resolved spectroscopy in the temperature range of 77–300 K. The result clearly reveals that the STE luminescence consists of three bands peaking at 407, 425, and 450 nm. Such a composite nature indicates the importance of the Jahn–Teller effect on the lowest triplet STE states at the tetrahedral (WO4)2− complex anion. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
QSAR study of estrogens with the help of PM3‐based descriptors
Authors: Pasha F. A. , Srivastava H. K. , Singh P. P.
Published: April 2005

Quantum chemical descriptors (ϵHOMO, ϵLUMO, absolute hardness, global softness, chemical potential, and electronegativity) and energy descriptors (Qmin, ΔH, ET, and EE) based QSAR study of estrogen derivatives was made with the help of PM3 calculations on WinMOPAC 7.21 software. The observed RBA values of estrogens were taken from the literature. QSAR models were made using different quantum chemical and energy descriptors with the help of multiple linear regression analysis. Regression models indicate that absolute hardness in combination with different energy descriptors provide better correlation between observed relative binding affinity (RBA) and predicted relative binding affinity (PA). Regression models for other quantum chemical descriptors with energy descriptors are not as clear as in the case of absolute hardness. Hardness provides a better picture due to the maximum hardness principle and can be used as a QSAR model for predicting the biological activity of any compound. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Energy decomposition scheme for combined ab initio quantum mechanical / molecular mechanical methods
Authors: Berente Imre , Náray‐Szabó Gábor
Published: April 2005

A new energy decomposition scheme is presented which paves the way toward the accurate and simple treatment of boundary atoms in combined ab initio quantum mechanical / molecular mechanical methods. We extend the wave function beyond the quantum region to a few atoms of the molecular mechanical region, which are linked directly to boundary atoms. Furthermore, we apply an approximate decomposition scheme, which allows calculating the total energy in terms of one‐center atomic contributions. Comparisons with reference ab initio calculations are made, and good agreement is obtained for geometry parameters referring to CC, CC, and CX (XO, S, N) bonds at the boundary, as well as for the rotational energy curve ofn‐butane. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Using an interval branch‐and‐bound algorithm in the Hartree–Fock method
Authors: Lavor Carlile C. , Cardozo Thiago Messias , Chaer Nascimento Marco Antonio
Published: April 2005

The Hartree–Fock (HF) method is widely used to obtain atomic and molecular electronic wave functions, based on the minimization of a functional of the energy. We propose to use a deterministic global optimization algorithm, based on a branch‐and‐bound method, that applies techniques of interval arithmetic. This algorithm is applied directly to the minimization of the energy expression derived from the HF method. The proposed approach was successfully applied to the ground state of He and Be atoms. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Attitudes of high school students toward carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Durfy Sharon J. , Page Andrea , Eng Barry , Chang Patricia L. , Waye John S.
Published: April 2005

The identification of the common mutations of the cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator gene has made it feasible to consider population‐based CF carrier screening. However, the demand for such programs will depend largely on the attitudes and perceptions of the general public toward genetic testing. As part of a high school science project, we initiated studies to determine the attitudes of high school students toward carrier screening for CF and other genetic disorders. From a class of 120 biology students, 101 consented to participate in the study. Most of the students were of European ancestry and there were no known family histories of CF. Buccal swabs were obtained for PCR amplification and heteroduplex detection of the most common CF mutation (ΔF508). The students and their corresponding buccal swabs were assigned random numbers and the results were kept confidential unless the student requested his/her test result. A questionnaire was used to assess the students' attitudes toward carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis. This questionnaire was given both before testing and after the class was informed that three individuals were carriers of the ΔF508 mutation. Overall, the data indicate that high school students are receptive to the concepts of carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis. However, their attitudes changed considerably when informed of the possibility that they might actually be a ΔF508 carrier, with marked increases in the level of indecision. At the conclusion of the study, very few students (5/101) requested information about their ΔF508 carrier status.
The Amish: Perceptions of genetic disorders and services
Authors: Brensinger Jill D. , Laxova Renata
Published: April 2005

Previous studies of the closed Amish population have proven to be valuable in the field of genetics, however they have not explored the Amish parents' opinions and attitudes concerning genetic conditions and services. This exploration is necessary in order to provide culturally sensitive health care to a population at an increased risk for certain genetic conditions. The purpose of the present study was to examine the Amish population's general knowledge of genetic disorders, services, and the terminology used in describing inherited conditions, as well as their attitudes toward medical care and ethical and reproductive issues. Information was obtained from 17 Amish families, 12 who had an incidence of a genetic condition and five who had one or more children with other special health care needs, during personal interviews conducted in their homes in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Results of the interviews showed that the birth of an affected child did not deter subsequent reproduction, that the majority of the parents were never offered genetic counseling or prenatal testing, and that the parents are interested in understanding the cause of their children's problems and recurrence risks.
Global atmospheric response to specific linear combinations of the main SST modes. Part I: numerical experiments and preliminary results
Authors: Trzaska S. , Moron V. , Fontaine B.
Published: April 2005

Abstract. This article investigates through numerical experiments the controversial question of the impact of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomena on climate according to large-scale and regional-scale interhemispheric thermal contrast. Eight experiments (two considering only inversed Atlantic thermal anomalies and six combining ENSO warm phase with large-scale interhemispheric contrast and Atlantic anomaly patterns) were performed with the Météo-France atmospheric general circulation model. The definition of boundary conditions from observed composites and principal components is presented and preliminary results concerning the month of August, especially over West Africa and the equatorial Atlantic are discussed. Results are coherent with observations and show that interhemispheric and regional scale sea-surface-temperature anomaly (SST) patterns could significantly modulate the impact of ENSO phenomena: the impact of warm-phase ENSO, relative to the atmospheric model intercomparison project (AMIP) climatology, seems stronger when embedded in global and regional SSTA patterns representative of the post-1970 conditions [i.e. with temperatures warmer (colder) than the long-term mean in the southern hemisphere (northern hemisphere)]. Atlantic SSTAs may also play a significant role.
Thermal, pressure and wind fields at ground level in the area of the Italian base at Terra Nova Bay, Victoria Land, Antarctica, as observed by a network of automatic weather stations
Authors: Cogliani E. , Abbate G. , Racalbuto S.
Published: April 2005

Abstract. Ground temperature, pressure and wind speed monthly averages in the area of the Italian Station at Terra Nova Bay, Antarctica, were analyzed for the period 1987–1991 by means of a network of nine AWS (automatic weather stations). Spatial configurations of temperature show a well-defined, relatively warm island in the area of Terra Nova Bay, between Drygalsky and Campbell ice tongues, throughout the year. A second warm island is present to the north along the coast, between Aviator and Mariner ice tongues, for most of the year. From February to March a rapid drop in temperature is observed at all stations. A strong thermal gradient develops during February, March, April and October, November, December, between the coastal region and inner highlands. The baric configuration follows the elevation of the area. Annual average pressure and temperature as functions of stations altitude show linear trends. Severe katabatic wind episodes are recorded at all stations, with wind speed exceeding 25 m s–1 and direction following the orographic features of the inner areas. Co-occurrences of these episodes were observed for stations located along stream lines of cold air drainage. The autocorrelation function of maximum wind speed time series shows wind persistence of 2–3 days and wind periodicity of about one week.
RNA silencing: A remarkable parallel to protein‐based immune systems in vertebrates?
Authors: Chen Weizao , Liu Mingqiu , Cheng Gong , Yan Weiyao , Fei Liang , Zheng Zhaoxin
Published: April 2005

Sequence‐specific gene silencing by double‐strand RNA has been observed in many eukaryotes. Accumulating data suggest that it is the major antiviral defense mechanism in plants and invertebrates. The discovery that this cellular mechanism is also highly conserved though somewhat impaired in mammals has stimulated debate about the evolution of antiviral systems. Here we suggest that the existence of the interferon response as an evolutionary intermediate could account for both the relative decline of RNA silencing and the development of protein‐based immune systems in vertebrates. In addition, we emphasize the opportunities presented by RNA silencing and the deeper understanding of vertebrate antiviral systems that is needed.
Propolis solution for the treatment of chronic vaginitis
Authors: Imhof M. , Lipovac M. , Kurz Ch. , Barta J. , Verhoeven H.C. , Huber J.C.
Published: April 2005

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of 5% propolis solution in recurrent vaginitis.

Method

Fifty‐four patients with recurrent vaginal infections having undergone at least one cycle of antibiotic treatment were instructed to apply a 5% aqueous propolis solution as a vaginal douche for seven days. Vaginal smears and specific symptoms were evaluated at baseline and 14 days after treatment. Long‐term well‐being was assessed by telephone interview six months after follow‐up.

Result

At the follow‐up, the vaginal smears of 41 patients (75.9%) had improved. Forty‐seven patients (87%) reported reliefs concerning at least one complaint. Associated improvement of smear and well‐being was observed in 36 women (66.7%). After 6 months, 33 patients (61.1%) were satisfied with their condition without having undergone further treatment.

Conclusion

Propolis may have a role as an alternative treatment for chronic vaginal infection.
The Porcine Forelimb as a Model for Human Flexor Tendon Surgery
Authors: SMITH A. M. , FORDER J. A. , ANNAPUREDDY S. R. , REDDY K. S. K. , AMIS A. A.
Published: April 2005

Technical skills have been shown to transfer very well from bench models to practical use. The central two rays of 30 forelimbs of pigs were dissected and anatomical observations were made. The rays contained deep and superficial flexor tendons enclosed in a fibro-osseous tunnel and these were present in all 60 specimens. The fibrous part of the tunnel had specific constant condensations in annular and oblique directions which were present in all 60 rays. The anatomy of the porcine forelimb digital flexor tendon system is sufficiently similar to the human system to be used as a model for surgeons wishing to master the technical aspects of zone II flexor tendon repair. This paper proposes the porcine forelimb as a bench model for zone II flexor tendon repair.
Gemcitabine inhibits viability, growth, and metastasis of osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Ando Takashi , Ichikawa Jiro , Okamoto Atsushi , Tasaka Kachio , Nakao Atsuhito , Hamada Yoshiki
Published: April 2005

Gemcitabine (dFdCyd) is an analog of cytosine arabinoside with anti‐tumor activity in several human cancers. However, the efficacy of this compound in osteosarcoma has not been fully elucidated. Here we assessed the anti‐tumor activity of gemcitabine using osteosarcome cell lines. In 9 human osteosarcoma cell lines (G292, HOS, MG63, NY, SaOS, HuO, HuO‐3N1, HuO9, HuO9‐N2), gemcitabine at the doses of > 100 nM showed significant cytotoxicity. In HOS and MG63 cell lines, gemcitabine inhibited DNA synthesis as determined by IdU labeling assay and induced apoptosis as determined by DNA fragmentation assay and May‐Giemsa staining. In C3H mice inoculated s.c. with a murine osteosarcoma cell line, LM8, treatment of the mice with gemcitabine showed reduced size of the primary tumor associated with increased apoptotic cells and a virtual absence of metastatic lesions in the lung. Gemcitabine thus had anti‐tumor activity on osteosarcoma cell lines both in vitro and in vivo. The result would provide a cellular basis for application of gemcitabine to patients with osteosarcoma. © 2005 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The effects of short‐term load duration on anabolic and catabolic gene expression in the rat tail intervertebral disc
Authors: Maclean Jeffery J. , Lee Cynthia R. , Alini Mauro , Iatridis James C.
Published: April 2005

The goal of this study was to determine the time‐dependent response of the intervertebral disc cells to in vivo dynamic compression. Forty‐seven skeletally mature Wistar rats (>12 months old) were instrumented with an Ilizarov‐type device spanning caudal disc 8–9. Using a load magnitude (1 MPa) and frequency (1.0 Hz) that were previously shown to significantly alter mRNA levels in the disc, the effects of 0.5 and 4 h of loading were investigated and compared to a sham group and our previous 2 h results. Annulus and nucleus tissue of loaded (c8–9) and internal control discs (c6–7 and c10–11) were separately analyzed by real‐time RT‐PCR for levels of mRNA coding for various anabolic (collagen‐1A1, collagen‐2A1, aggrecan) and catabolic (MMP‐3, MMP‐13, ADAMTs‐4) proteins. In the annulus, mRNA levels increased for Collagen types I & II, and MMP 3 & 13 with increasing load duration. In contrast, the nucleus had the largest increases in aggrecan, ADAMTs‐4, MMP‐3 and MMP‐13 after 2 h of loading, with aggrecan and MMP‐13 mRNA levels returning to control values after 4 h of loading. Taken in context with our previous studies, we conclude that intervertebral disc cells from the nucleus and annulus have distinct responses to dynamic mechanical compression in vivo with sensitivity to compression magnitude, frequency and duration. © 2005 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Foraminiferal isotope anomalies from northwestern Pacific marginal sediments
Authors: Ohkushi Ken'ichi , Ahagon Naokazu , Uchida Masao , Shibata Yasuyuki
Published: April 2005

We evaluated the influence of methane release from methane hydrate reservoirs in the northwestern Pacific continental margin on stable isotope values. We analyzed stable isotopes of foraminifera from a piston core collected at 1066‐m water depth off eastern Hokkaido, northern Japan. Carbon isotope signals indicated that planktonic and benthic foraminifera in several glacial sediment layers in the core were highly depleted in 13C; both the planktonic and benthic foraminiferal δ13C values ranged from about −10‰ to −2‰. Most foraminiferal tests in these horizons were brown as a result of postdepositional alteration. Foraminiferal oxygen isotopes fluctuated abnormally in the glacial sediment layers, showing small (about 0.5‰) positive shifts relative to normal glacial values. We attributed the positive shifts to authigenic carbonate formation in the foraminiferal tests. The authigenic carbonates have formed when rising methane, from methane hydrate in the sediment, became oxidized as it came in contact with dissolved sulfate near the seafloor. Episodic methane‐release events may be associated with great plate‐boundary earthquakes with epicenters near the coring site.
Mg/Ca, Sr/Ca, and stable‐isotope (δ18O and δ13C) ratio profiles from the fan mussel Pinna nobilis: Seasonal records and temperature relationships
Authors: Freitas Pedro , Clarke Leon J. , Kennedy Hilary , Richardson Christopher , Abrantes Fátima
Published: April 2005

We present new annually resolved δ18O, δ13C, Mg/Ca, and Sr/Ca ratio records for two shells of the fast growing Mediterranean fan mussel Pinna nobilis, collected from proximal Spanish coast sea grass meadows. The relationship between the potential geochemical proxies and ontogenetic and environmental controlling factors is investigated. Specifically, the use of shell Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca ratios as potential calcification temperature proxies, the latter calculated from measured shell δ18O values, has been assessed. The δ18O cycles along the growth axis indicate that our P. nobilis specimens are ∼10.5 and ∼4.5 years old. Shell Sr/Ca ratios do not exhibit any consistent interannual cyclicity and are not correlated to temperature. A subtle ontogenetic effect on shell Mg/Ca ratios was observed during the first 4.5 years of recorded growth but was highly evident during the organism's later growth years. In P. nobilis shells, different mechanisms influence ontogenetic variation in shell Mg/Ca and δ18O records. Shell Mg/Ca ratios from the first 4.5 years of growth correlate significantly to temperature, in a best fit relationship described by the equation Mg/Ca = 17.16 ± 1.95 * exp(0.022 ± 0.004 * T). P. nobilis shell Mg/Ca records therefore are a valid temperature proxy only during an early growth phase. For the same range of temperatures, shell Mg/Ca ratios in P. nobilis are approximately 1/3 lower than those reported for inorganic calcite but 3 to 4 times higher than in another bivalve species, Mytilus trossulus, and 4 to 16 times higher than in foraminifera. We suggest these offsets are due to a higher degree of similarity between seawater and calcification‐fluid composition in P. nobilis than in other bivalves and foraminifera. The observed shell Mg/Ca ratio change per °C of 2.2% also is lower than that observed for inorganic and other biogenic calcites. Our findings strongly support taxon‐ and species‐specific Mg/Ca–temperature relationships for bivalves and other calcifying organisms. An appreciation of the physiology and calcification mechanisms of any biogenic carbonate archive therefore is paramount prior to the application of stable‐isotope and element/Ca ratio proxies for paleotemperature reconstructions.
Self‐potential signals associated with preferential ground water flow pathways in a buried paleo‐channel
Authors: Revil A. , Cary L. , Fan Q. , Finizola A. , Trolard F.
Published: April 2005

The flow of ground water in a buried permeable paleo‐channel can be observed at the ground surface through its self‐potential signature. We apply this method to delineate the Saint‐Ferréol paleo‐channel of the Rhone River located in Camargue, in the South East of France. Negative potentials, ∼−30 mV (reference taken outside the paleo‐channel), are associated with ground water flow in this major sand‐filled channel (500 m wide). Electrical resistivity is primarily controls by the salinity of the pore water. Electrical resistivity tomography and in situ sampling show the salinity of the water inside the paleo‐channel is ten times smaller by comparison with the pore water of the surrounding sediments. Combining electrical resistivity surveys, self‐potential data, and a minimum of drilling information, a 3‐D reconstruction of the architecture of the paleo‐channel is obtained showing the usefulness of this methodology for geomorphological reconstructions in this type of coastal environment.
One‐dimensional airflow in unsaturated zone induced by periodic water table fluctuation
Authors: Li Hailong , Jiao Jiu Jimmy
Published: April 2005

This paper investigates the vertical airflow driven by fluctuating water table within the lower layer of a coastal two‐layered system. The upper layer is unsaturated and semipermeable, while the lower is permeable. An analytical solution of the subsurface air pressure fluctuation is derived on the basis of model simplification assumptions, the reasonability of which was examined by numerical solutions of the original nonlinear model. The airflow in the upper layer is controlled from the top by the constant atmospheric pressure and from the bottom by a temporally fluctuating air pressure P0(t), which is spatially constant in the unsaturated zone of the lower layer. For a sinusoidal head the amplitude of P0(t) increases with the frequency of the head fluctuation, the upper layer's thickness, and the unconfined aquifer's air‐filled porosity and decreases with the upper layer's permeability. The phase shift of P0(t) ranges from 0 to π/2, indicating a “time advance.” Particularly, P0(t) is approximately proportional to the temporal derivative of the head for sufficiently thin or permeable upper layer and to the head itself for sufficiently thick or less permeable one. The fluctuation amplitude of the water table is always less than that of the head and can be only one tenth of the latter if the upper layer is sufficiently thick or less permeable, which may slow significantly the landward attenuation speed of the tide‐induced head fluctuation in a coastal “air‐confined” aquifer. The analytical solution was used to estimate the value range of the air permeability of the marine sand fill at a coastal reclamation area of Hong Kong.
Teaching old indices new tricks: A state‐space analysis of El Niño related climate indices
Authors: Mendelssohn Roy , Bograd Steven J. , Schwing Franklin B. , Palacios Daniel M.
Published: April 2005

State‐space models were applied to several climate indices associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), including the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and its component sea level pressure series; the NINO3 sea surface temperature index; and the Northern Oscillation Index (NOI). The best models for each series include a significant long‐term nonparametric trend combined with a stochastic stationary cyclic term that clearly delineates the El Niño and La Niña events. There is no evidence that the frequency of ENSO events has changed over the 20th century. The long‐term trend, however, has contributed to an apparent increase in the magnitude of recent El Niño events. This trend, potentially related to global warming, has increased the level of each series by an amount equal to 30–50% of the amplitude of their corresponding annual cycle or cyclic ENSO term. Thus, the background sea surface temperature in the eastern equatorial Pacific is more than 0.5°C warmer now than prior to 1950, implying a greater overall impact of El Niño events.