bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deletion of the Escherichia coli O14:K7 O antigen gene cluster
Authors: Jensen Slade O , Reeves Peter R
Published: June 2004

Escherichia coli O14:K7 is a rough strain, lacking a typical O antigen, in which the enterobacterial common antigen is attached to the lipopolysaccharide core. The rough phenotype was previously mapped to the O antigen gene cluster; however, the nature of the nonfunctional locus was not defined. In this study, we have shown that the O antigen gene cluster of an O14:K7 type strain (Su4411/41) was most likely deleted via homologous recombination between the GDP–mannose pathway genes (manB and manC) of the colanic acid and O antigen gene clusters. A similar recombination event has previously been inferred for the deletion of E. coli Sonnei chromosomal O antigen genes. Therefore, recombination between the GDP–mannose pathway genes provides a convenient mechanism for the deletion of O antigen genes, which may occur if the typical O antigen becomes redundant.Key words: colanic acid, enterobacterial common antigen, GDP–mannose pathway, O14:K7, O antigen.
Development of an astrovirus RT–PCR detection assay for use with conventional, real-time, and integrated cell culture/RT–PCR
Authors: Grimm Ann C , Cashdollar Jennifer L , Williams Frederick P , Fout G Shay
Published: June 2004

Astrovirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis in humans that has been determined to be responsible for outbreaks of illness in several countries. Since astrovirus can be waterborne, it is important to be able to identify this virus in environmental water. We have developed and optimized a reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) method that was able to amplify all eight astrovirus serotypes in a single reaction. In addition, a positive control construct was designed so that any inhibitors of this astrovirus assay could be detected. The assay was adapted for use in a real-time PCR assay and the sensitivity of these two methods was compared. The real-time assay was then combined with CaCo2 cell culture to produce an integrated cell culture/RT–PCR (ICC/RT–PCR) assay that was able to detect low levels of astrovirus after an incubation of 7 days or less. Also, the sensitivity of the ICC/RT–PCR assay was compared with RT–PCR alone. The methods were used to detect astrovirus in acute phase illness stool samples as well as in a water sample spiked with astrovirus.Key words: astrovirus, RT–PCR, real-time PCR, ICC/RT–PCR, environmental water.
Cardiovascular and parasympathetic effects of dexmedetomidine in healthy subjects
Authors: Penttilä Jani , Helminen Antti , Anttila Markku , Hinkka Susanna , Scheinin Harry
Published: June 2004

We evaluated the cardiovascular effects of intravenously (i.v.) and buccally administered dexmedetomidine, a selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist. Six healthy male subjects were studied unmedicated and after 2 µg/kg i.v. or buccal doses of dexmedetomidine, using repeated recordings of ECG and blood pressure. Cardiac parasympathetic activity was estimated by measurements of high-frequency (HF) heart rate variability. Intravenous, but not buccal, dexmedetomidine raised systolic blood pressure by 11 ± 5 mmHg (mean ± SEM) and diastolic by 16 ± 3 mmHg (maxima at 10 min). Later on, both i.v., and buccal dexmedetomidine produced a very similar hypotensive effect: on average, [Formula: see text]10 mmHg reductions in systolic and diastolic pressure at 3 h. Intravenous dosing was followed by a decline in heart rate (–11 ± 2 beats/min) accompanied by a trend toward enhanced HF variability (maximal effect at 10 min), which probably reflected baroreflex-mediated parasympathetic efferent neuronal activation. Buccal dexmedetomidine increased significantly the HF variability (maximum at 45 min) without influencing heart rate. We conclude that dexmedetomidine, when administered by a method that avoids concentration peaks, e.g., buccal dosing, can be used to produce a prolonged augmentation of cardiac parasympathetic efferent neuronal activity.Key words: dexmedetomidine, parasympathetic nervous system, heart rate, blood pressure.
Sensitivity of northern redbelly dace, Phoxinus eos, to chemical alarm cues
Authors: Dupuch Angélique , Magnan Pierre , Dill Lawrence M
Published: June 2004

The northern redbelly dace, Phoxinus eos (Cope, 1862), is subject to predation by brook trout, Salvelinus fontinalis (Mitchill, 1814), in Canadian Shield lakes, particularly when individuals migrate to the pelagic zone at sunset to feed on zooplankton and fish shoals break up into single individuals. The objectives of the present study were to (i) determine whether northern redbelly dace react to skin extracts from conspecifics and thus potentially use chemical alarms to detect predators in nature, (ii) characterize the fright reaction in northern redbelly dace under different concentrations of alarm substance, and (iii) estimate the active space of the alarm substance in this species. Northern redbelly dace responded to skin extracts of conspecifics with a series of antipredator behaviours. The dace moved closer to the substrate and away from the area where the alarm substance was injected, increased both the cohesion and polarization of their schools, and performed more dashing and freezing behaviours. The observed responses were closely correlated with the concentration of the skin extract solution, suggesting that individuals could use this sensitivity to different concentrations of alarm substance to estimate the risk of predation in nature. The dilution experiment allowed us to estimate that 1 cm2 of northern redbelly dace skin contains enough alarm substance to generate a response of individuals in 110 558 L of water, which corresponds to a cube with sides of approximately 4.8 m. Indirect evidence suggests that the northern redbelly dace could use chemical alarm cues to assess the risk of predation by brook trout in nature.
Suitability of a young deciduous-dominated forest for American marten and the effects of forest removal
Authors: Poole Kim G , Porter Aswea D , Vries Andrew de , Maundrell Chris , Grindal Scott D , St. Clair Colleen Cassady
Published: June 2004

American marten (Martes americana (Turton, 1806)) are generally considered to be reliant upon and most successful in continuous late-successional coniferous forests. By contrast, young seral forests and deciduous-dominated forests are assumed to provide low-quality marten habitat, primarily as a result of insufficient structure, overhead cover, and prey. This study examined a moderate-density population of marten in northeastern British Columbia in what appeared to be comparatively low-quality, deciduous-dominated habitat, overgrown agricultural land primarily consisting of 30- to 40-year-old stands of regenerating trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.). Over 4 years, we monitored 52 radio-collared marten. The population appeared to be stable, as indicated by large numbers of adults, relatively constant densities, long-term residency of many individuals, low mortality rates, and older age structure. Relatively small home ranges (males, 3.3 km2; females, 2.0 km2) implied good habitat quality and prey availability. Shearing (removal of immature forest cover) of 17% of the study area resulted in home range shifts at the individual level but no detectable impact at the population level. Categorically, marten avoided nonforested cover types and preferred mature coniferous (>25% conifer) stands (7% of the study area) but otherwise appeared to use all forested stands relative to their availability, including extensive use of deciduous-dominated stands and deciduous stands <40 years of age. Thus, these young deciduous forests appeared to have sufficient structure, overhead cover, and prey to maintain moderate densities of resident marten on a long-term basis.
Brightness discrimination and neutral point testing in the horse
Authors: Geisbauer Gudrun , Griebel Ulrike , Schmid Axel , Timney Brian
Published: June 2004

Equine brightness discrimination ability and color discrimination were measured using a two-choice discrimination task. Two Haflinger horses (Equus caballus L., 1758) were trained to discriminate 30 different shades of grey varying from low to high relative brightness. Their ability to distinguish shades of grey was poor, with calculated Weber fractions of 0.42 and 0.45. In addition, a "neutral point" test to determine the dimensionality of color vision was carried out. Three hues of blue–green were tested versus a range of grey targets with brightnesses similar to those of the blue–green targets. A neutral point was found at about 480 nm. Thus, we can conclude that horses possess dichromatic color vision.
Flight energetics of the Marbled Murrelet,Brachyramphus marmoratus
Authors: Elliott Kyle H , Hewett Miyako , Kaiser Gary W , Blake Robert W
Published: June 2004

We measured flight speeds (n = 3000) of Marbled Murrelet, Brachyramphus marmoratus (J.F. Gmelin, 1789), to determine whether flight speeds of an exceptionably fast bird coincide with the maximum-range speeds (Vmr) predicted by aerodynamic theory. The mean (±SE) speed of 22.6 ± 0.21 m·s–1was significantly higher than the Vmrpredicted by four models, using conventional values for the parasite drag coefficient (CDpar). In order for the Penny cuick model to predict a Vmrof 22 m·s–1, a CDparof 0.05, which is lower than any previously reported, is necessary; the other models would need to assume even lower values for CDpar. We concluded that the cruising speed of Marbled Murrelets exceeds Vmr. Marbled Murrelets may exceed Vmras a result of behavioural decisions, and we examined two behavioural hypotheses: that flight speeds exceed Vmrto (1) minimize predation rate and (2) maximize chick growth rate. However, there was no significant difference between flight speeds during high (daylight) and low (darkness) predation periods or between chick-rearing and non-breeding periods. Marbled Murrelets may also appear to fly at a speed that exceeds Vmrbecause the underlying aerodynamic theory is inaccurate for this species. To examine the reliability of aerodynamic theory for Marble Murrelets, we compared measured wingbeat frequencies (f) to those predicted by Pennycuick's model. The mean f was significantly lower than the frefpredicted by Pennycuick's model, and generally, f = 7.9m–0.22is a better model for auks than Pennycuick's model. In addition, the Strouhal number was particularly low (0.12 ± 0.02). We conclude that the current aerodynamic models are insufficient for an exceptionally fast-flying bird.
A study of mate choice in mice with experimental Taenia crassiceps cysticercosis: can males choose?
Authors: Gourbal Benjamin Ernest François , Gabrion Claude
Published: June 2004

The detection and avoidance of infected males has been proposed as a component of female mate choice. However, male mate choice and sexual behaviour in the face of infected females have been rarely investigated. Here, we assessed the exact role displayed by each protagonist in mate choice during experimental Taenia crassiceps (Zeder, 1800) Rudolphi, 1810 cysticercosis. Mate choice was studied at two levels: (1) based on animal odour cues, using a two-choice test and (2) during dyadic interactions, using sexual behaviour and courtship analysis, but also ultrasonic vocalization recordings. Our results showed that female BALB/c mice (Mus musculus L., 1758) spent more time investigating odours in the two-choice test than males, but they were also able to repel infected males during dyadic interactions. Males did not display a clear mating choice with female odours, but during dyadic sexual interactions, they showed a significant aggressiveness towards infected females. Males were able to refrain from copulating with infected females. As shown by a number of studies on female mice, males were able to detect, select, and avoid infected females, and thus express a real mate choice. These observations provided an additional support to the sperm/ejaculate cost and male mate-choice hypothesis.
APPLICATION OF A NEW HAMILTONIAN OF INTERACTION TO THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURES
Authors: DOLOCAN ANDREI , DOLOCAN VOICU OCTAVIAN , DOLOCAN VOICU
Published: June 2004

Using a new Hamiltonian of interaction we have calculated the cohesive energy in three-dimensional structures. We have found the news dependences of this energy on the distance between the atoms. The obtained results are in a good agreement with experimental data in ionic, covalent and noble gases crystals. The coupling constant γ between the interacting field and the atoms is somewhat smaller than unity in ionic crystals and is some larger than unity in covalent and noble gases crystals. The formulae found by us are general and may be applied, also, to the other types of interactions, for example, gravitational interactions.
THE MODE-DEVIATION EFFECT OF TRAPPED SPINOR BOSE GAS BEYOND MEAN FIELD THEORY
Authors: XU YAN , JIA DUO-JE , CHEN ZHAO-YANG , GAO YUAN , LI FA-SHEN
Published: June 2004

The deviation effect of spinor mode from the single-mode for a spin-1 Bose gas of trapped atoms is studied beyond the mean field theory. Based on the effective Hamiltonian with nondegenerated level of the collective spin states, the splitting level of the system energy due to the deviation effect has been calculated. For the large condensates of 87 Rb and 23 Na with atom number N>105, the splitting fraction of the energy, arising from the magnetization exhibited by the trapped Bose gas, is found to have a typical order of (10-4~10-8), decreasing as N-2 for 87 Rb and increasing as -N-2 for 23 Na , respectively.
NOTE ON HYDROGENIC ATOMIC ORBITALS TO EVALUATE SENSITIVE PROPERTIES OF MOLECULES: AN EXAMPLE OF NMR CHEMICAL SHIFTS
Authors: HOGGAN P. E.
Published: June 2004

Now that the problems surrounding ab initio calculations over a Slater Type Orbital basis have been solved, it is available in several software packages.

For general structures the STOP package (Slater Type Orbital Package) has offered ab initio SCF molecular properties since 1996, the requisite integrals all being evaluated analytically, including the four center term available since 1994. SMILES (Slater Molecular Integrals for Large Electronic Systems) has offered various basis sets, geometry optimization and CI since 2001. For density functional work, ADF, the Amsterdam Density Functional suite of programs, is a project dating from the 1970s with a 2003 edition.

In this work the preferred ETOs (Exponential Type Orbitals) will be shown to be the hydrogenic orbitals and similar Coulomb Sturmians. Slater Type Functions (STFs) will be compared to them and suitable equivalent combinations, which are rarely used, given.

The correct shielding of the nucleus, resulting from radial factors of hydrogenic orbitals is shown to be essential in the evaluation of precise nuclear shielding tensors for NMR spectroscopy of molecules using ab initio or DFT methods.

The case study of benzothiazoles using natural abundance 15N is re-examined and compared with previous work including measurements.
TOPOLOGICAL MODEL FOR THE PREDICTION OF ALPHA-1 ADRENOCEPTOR ANTAGONISTIC ACTIVITY OF ARYLPIPERAZINES
Authors: KUMAR VIPIN , MADAN A. K.
Published: June 2004

The relationship between Wiener's index — a distance-based topological descriptor, Zagreb group parameter — M 1, an adjacency-based topological descriptor, and eccentric connectivity index — an adjacency-cum-distance based topological descriptor, with the alpha-1 adrenoceptor antagonistic activity of arylpiperazines has been investigated. A training set, comprising 30 analogues, of substituted arylpiperazines was selected for the present investigations. The values of the Wiener's index, Zagreb group parameter and eccentric connectivity index and each of 30 analogues comprising the data set were computed. Resulting data was analyzed and suitable models developed after identification of active range. Subsequently, a biological activity was assigned to each analogue involved in the data set using these models, which was then compared with the reported adrenoceptor antagonistic activity. High accuracy of prediction ranging from 90–93% was observed using these models.
Heart failure alters the strength and mechanisms of arterial baroreflex pressor responses during dynamic exercise
Authors: Kim Jong-Kyung , Augustyniak Robert A. , Sala-Mercado Javier A. , Hammond Robert L. , Ansorge Eric J. , Rossi Noreen F. , O’Leary Donal S.
Published: June 2004

Arterial baroreflex function is well preserved during dynamic exercise in normal subjects. In subjects with heart failure (HF), arterial baroreflex ability to regulate blood pressure is impaired at rest. However, whether exercise modifies the strength and mechanisms of baroreflex responses in HF is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the relative roles of cardiac output and peripheral vasoconstriction in eliciting the pressor response to bilateral carotid occlusion (BCO) in conscious, chronically instrumented dogs at rest and during treadmill exercise ranging from mild to heavy workloads. Experiments were performed in the same animals before and after rapid ventricular pacing-induced HF. At rest, the pressor response to BCO was significantly attenuated in HF (33.3 ± 1.2 vs. 18.7 ± 2.7 mmHg), and this difference persisted during exercise in part due to lower cardiac output responses in HF. However, both before and after the induction of HF, the contribution of vasoconstriction in active skeletal muscle toward the pressor response became progressively greater as workload increased. We conclude that, although there is an impaired ability of the baroreflex to regulate arterial pressure at rest and during exercise in HF, vasoconstriction in active skeletal muscle becomes progressively more important in mediating the baroreflex pressor response as workload increases with a pattern similar to that observed in normal subjects.
Eyes on Target: What Neurons Must do for the Vestibuloocular Reflex During Linear Motion
Authors: Angelaki Dora E.
Published: June 2004

A gaze-stabilization reflex that has been conserved throughout evolution is the rotational vestibuloocular reflex (RVOR), which keeps images stable on the entire retina during head rotation. An ethological newer reflex, the translational or linear VOR (TVOR), provides fast foveal image stabilization during linear motion. Whereas the sensorimotor processing has been extensively studied in the RVOR, much less is currently known about the neural organization of the TVOR. Here we summarize the computational problems faced by the system and the potential solutions that might be used by brain stem and cerebellar neurons participating in the VORs. First and foremost, recent experimental and theoretical evidence has shown that, contrary to popular beliefs, the sensory signals driving the TVOR arise from both the otolith organs and the semicircular canals. Additional unresolved issues include a scaling by both eye position and vergence angle as well as the temporal transformation of linear acceleration signals into eye-position commands. Behavioral differences between the RVOR and TVOR, as well as distinct differences in neuroanatomical and neurophysiological properties, raise multiple functional questions and computational issues, only some of which are readily understood. In this review, we provide a summary of what is known about the functional properties and neural substrates for this oculomotor system and outline some specific hypotheses about how sensory information is centrally processed to create motor commands for the VORs.
Neural Signature of Taste Familiarity in the Gustatory Cortex of the Freely Behaving Rat
Authors: Bahar Amir , Dudai Yadin , Ahissar Ehud
Published: June 2004

Ample data indicate that the gustatory cortex (GC) subserves the processing, encoding, and storage of taste information. To further elucidate the neural processes involved, we recorded multi-unit activity in the GC of the freely behaving rat as it became familiar with a novel tastant. Exposure to the tastant was performed over three 40- to 50-min sessions, 24 h apart. In each session, the tastant was presented repeatedly, 1 s at a time, with 10- to 12-s inter-trial intervals. The neural response to the tastant typically lasted 7 s. Our results show that the average neuronal response to the tastant increased as this tastant became familiar, but this increase was detected only during the last 5 s of the response. The increased response was not generalized to another tastant. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that specific neuronal populations subserve the processing of familiarity of specific tastants. The signature of familiarity was not detected in the course of the familiarization session, but only on the subsequent day, suggesting that its development involves slow post-acquisition processes. Our data are in line with the notion that GC neurons process multiple taste attributes, familiarity included, during different temporal phases of their response. The data also suggest that by default the brain considers a taste stimulus as novel, unless proven otherwise.
Estimating Use-Dependent Synaptic Gain in Autonomic Ganglia by Computational Simulation and Dynamic-Clamp Analysis
Authors: Wheeler Diek W. , Kullmann Paul H. M. , Horn John P.
Published: June 2004

Biological gain mechanisms regulate the sensitivity and dynamics of signaling pathways at the systemic, cellular, and molecular levels. In the sympathetic nervous system, gain in sensory-motor feedback loops is essential for homeostatic regulation of blood pressure and body temperature. This study shows how synaptic convergence and plasticity can interact to generate synaptic gain in autonomic ganglia and thereby enhance homeostatic control. Using a conductance-based computational model of an idealized sympathetic neuron, we simulated the postganglionic response to noisy patterns of presynaptic activity and found that a threefold amplification in postsynaptic spike output can arise in ganglia, depending on the number and strength of nicotinic synapses, the presynaptic firing rate, the extent of presynaptic facilitation, and the expression of muscarinic and peptidergic excitation. The simulations also showed that postsynaptic refractory periods serve to limit synaptic gain and alter postsynaptic spike timing. Synaptic gain was measured by stimulating dissociated bullfrog sympathetic neurons with 1–10 virtual synapses using a dynamic clamp. As in simulations, the threshold synaptic conductance for nicotinic excitation of firing was typically 10–15 nS, and synaptic gain increased with higher levels of nicotinic convergence. Unlike the model, gain in neurons sometimes declined during stimulation. This postsynaptic effect was partially blocked by 10 μM Cd2+, which inhibits voltage-dependent calcium currents. These results support a general model in which the circuit variations observed in parasympathetic and sympathetic ganglia, as well as other neural relays, can enable functional subsets of neurons to behave either as 1:1 relays, variable amplifiers, or switches.
Ca2+ Clearance in Visual Motion-Sensitive Neurons of the Fly Studied In Vivo by Sensory Stimulation and UV Photolysis of Caged Ca2+
Authors: Kurtz Rafael
Published: June 2004

In motion-sensitive visual neurons of the fly, excitatory visual stimulation elicits Ca2+ accumulation in dendrites and presynaptic arborizations. Following the cessation of motion stimuli, decay time courses of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration signals measured with fluorescent dyes were faster in fine arborizations compared with the main branches. When indicators with low Ca2+ affinity were used, the decay of the Ca2+ signals appeared slightly faster than with high affinity dyes, but the dependence of decay kinetics on branch size was preserved. The most parsimonious explanation for faster Ca2+ concentration decline in thin branches compared with thick ones is that the velocity of Ca2+ clearance is limited by transport mechanisms located in the outer membrane and is thus dependent on the neurite's surface-to-volume ratio. This interpretation was corroborated by UV flash photolysis of caged Ca2+ to systematically elicit spatially homogeneous step-like Ca2+ concentration increases of varying amplitude. Clearance of Ca2+ liberated by this method depended on branch size in the same way as Ca2+ accumulated during visual stimulation. Furthermore, the decay time courses of Ca2+ signals were only little affected by the amount of Ca2+ released by photolysis. Thus Ca2+ efflux via the outer membrane is likely to be the main reason for the spatial differences in Ca2+ clearance in visual motion-sensitive neurons of the fly.
Gamma→Alpha Linkage and Persistent Firing of Ia Fibers by Pudendal Nerve Stimulation in the Decerebrate Cat
Authors: Raya J. Guadalupe , Ramírez Alberto , Muñoz-Martínez E. J.
Published: June 2004

The sensory pudendal nerve (SPN) was stimulated in decerebrate female cats. Spikes of single Ia muscle spindle afferents from the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle were recorded in dorsal root filaments. Electroneurography (ENG) was recorded in a cut nerve filament to the MG muscle; MG electromyography (EMG) was also recorded. Single shock to SPN induced discharges of small ENG spikes (SS) with similar amplitude to that of gamma spikes elicited by ventral root stimulation. Thus SS were identified as gamma spikes. The latency of the gamma discharge was ∼15 ms. As expected, the onset of the gamma discharge preceded a discharge of Ia spikes; the time difference between both discharges was ∼5 ms. After the initial bursts, the Ia and the gamma activities paused during 20–30 ms but later increased again to last ∼1 s. After the shock, the EMG activity was depressed during ∼50 ms; later, motor-unit spikes may show transient activation. Thus the onset of the gamma activation preceded the activation of motor units (gamma→alpha link). Trains of shocks (1 or 100 Hz) to SPN induced a sustained increase in the frequency of gamma spikes, Ia spikes, and motor units that outlasted the train by 20–120 s. The sustained firing of Ia fibers might trigger or help to trigger and maintain the response of alpha-motoneurons.
A theorem of the alternative and a two‐function minimax theorem
Authors: Stefanescu Anton
Published: June 2004

The two main results of the paper are a theorem of the
alternative of Gordan type and a two‐function minimax theorem.
Both are based on some weakened convexlike properties, without
any vector space structure.
Dynamic boundary controls of a rotating body‐beam system with time‐varying angular velocity
Authors: Chentouf Boumediène
Published: June 2004

This paper deals with feedback stabilization of a flexible beam
clamped at a rigid body and free at the other end. We assume that
there is no damping and the rigid body rotates with a
nonconstant angular velocity. To stabilize this system,
we propose a feedback law which consists of a control torque
applied on the rigid body and either a dynamic boundary
control moment or a dynamic boundary control force or
both of them applied at the free end of the beam. Then it is
shown that the closed loop system is well posed and exponentially
stable provided that the actuators, which generate the boundary
controls, satisfy some classical assumptions and the angular
velocity is smaller than a critical one.
Numerical studies of viscous incompressible flow between two rotating concentric spheres
Authors: Ifidon E. O.
Published: June 2004

The problem of determining the induced steady axially symmetric
motion of an incompressible viscous fluid confined between two
concentric spheres, with the outer sphere rotating with constant
angular velocity and the inner sphere fixed, is numerically
investigated for large Reynolds number. The governing
Navier‐Stokes equations expressed in terms of a stream
function‐vorticity formulation are reduced to a set of nonlinear
ordinary differential equations in the radial variable, one of
second order and the other of fourth order, by expanding the flow
variables as an infinite series of orthogonal Gegenbauer
functions. The numerical investigation is based on a finite‐difference
technique which does not involve iterations and which
is valid for arbitrary large Reynolds number. Present
calculations are performed for Reynolds numbers as large as 5000.
The resulting flow patterns are displayed in the form of level
curves. The results show a stable configuration consistent with
experimental results with no evidence of any disjoint closed
curves.
Divergent Effects of the Catalytic and Bridging Functions of Hepatic Lipase on Atherosclerosis
Authors: Dichek Helén L. , Qian Kun , Agrawal Nalini
Published: June 2004

Objective—

Increased expression of human hepatic lipase (HL) or a catalytically inactive (ci) HL clears plasma cholesterol in mice deficient in low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLr) and murine HL. We hypothesized that increased expression of both HL and ciHL reduces atherosclerosis in these mice.

Methods and Results—

Mice deficient in both LDLr and murine HL, alone or transgenically expressing similar levels of either human HL or ciHL, were fed a high-fat, cholesterol-enriched “Western” diet for 3 months to accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. Levels of plasma lipids, insulin, glucose, and liver enzymes were measured monthly, and aortic atherosclerosis was quantitated after 3 months. Plasma insulin, glucose, and liver enzyme levels did not differ significantly from controls. After 3 months, expression of HL reduced plasma cholesterol by 55% to 65% and reduced atherosclerosis by 40%. Surprisingly, expression of ciHL did not reduce plasma cholesterol or atherosclerosis.

Conclusions—

High levels of HL, but not ciHL, delay the development of atherosclerosis in mice deficient in LDLr and mHL.
Widespread Myocardial Inflammation and Infarct-Related Artery Patency
Authors: Abbate Antonio , Bonanno Elena , Mauriello Alessandro , Bussani Rossana , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe G.L. , Liuzzo Giovanna , Leone Antonio Maria , Silvestri Furio , Dobrina Aldo , Baldi Feliciano , Pandolfi Franco , Biasucci Luigi M. , Baldi Alfonso , Spagnoli Luigi G. , Crea Filippo
Published: June 2004

Background—

Diffuse coronary vascular inflammation is associated with acute coronary syndromes. However, it is unknown whether inflammation also occurs within the myocardium. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the presence of activated cells in unaffected remote myocardium of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in comparison to the peri-infarct region from the same cases, and in comparison to myocardial specimens from control hearts.

Methods and Results—

Sixteen patients dying 1 to 12 weeks after AMI and 16 control subjects were selected at autopsy. Myocardial specimens were taken at remote unaffected viable regions and at peri-infarct regions in cases with AMI. Confocal microscopy was performed to measure the number of activated cells (DR+), T-lymphocytes (CD3+), and activated T-lymphocytes (CD3+/DR+). Activated cells and activated T-lymphocytes were found in remote unaffected regions in 11 of 16 cases (69%), in peri-infarct zone in all cases (100%), and in none of the control hearts (0%,
P
<0.001 versus others). A greater myocardial inflammatory burden in remote regions but not in peri-infarct regions was associated with persistent infarct-related artery occlusion (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

This study for the first time shows the presence of activated T-lymphocytes in remote unaffected myocardial regions in approximately two thirds of patients with recent AMI. Because these cells are associated with persistent infarct-related artery occlusion, our data may suggest that an antigenic stimulus present also in the myocardium triggers an immune response that may be critical to precipitate artery occlusion. (Circulation. 2004;110:46-50.)
Effects of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation on Predictors of Ventricular Fibrillation Defibrillation Success During Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Eftestøl Trygve , Wik Lars , Sunde Kjetil , Steen Petter Andreas
Published: June 2004

Background—

Early defibrillation is considered the most important factor for restoring spontaneous circulation in cardiac arrest patients with ventricular fibrillation. Recent studies have shown that, after prolonged ventricular fibrillation, the rates of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survival are improved if defibrillation is delayed so that CPR can be given first. To examine whether CPR improves myocardial readiness for defibrillation, we analyzed whether CPR causes changes in predictors of defibrillation success calculated from the ventricular fibrillation waveform.

Methods and Results—

ECG recordings were retrieved for 105 patients from an original study of 200 patients receiving CPR or defibrillation first. Altogether, 267 CPR sequences from 77 patients were identified on which the effect of CPR could be evaluated. Five predictors of ROSC (spectral flatness measure, energy, centroid frequency, amplitude spectrum relationship, and estimated probability of ROSC) were determined from a spectral analysis of the ventricular fibrillation waveform immediately before and immediately after each of the 267 sequences. CPR increased spectral flatness measure, centroid frequency, and amplitude spectrum relationship (
P
<0.05,
P
<0.001,
P
<0.01). In an analysis of the effect of the duration of CPR, the probability of ROSC and amplitude spectrum relationship showed a positive change for CPR sequences lasting >3 minutes (
P
<0.001,
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

During resuscitation from ventricular fibrillation, changes in the predictors calculated from the ventricular fibrillation waveform indicated a positive effect of CPR on the myocardium.
Blood Pressure Reactivity to Psychological Stress Predicts Hypertension in the CARDIA Study
Authors: Matthews Karen A. , Katholi Charles R. , McCreath Heather , Whooley Mary A. , Williams David R. , Zhu Sha , Markovitz Jerry H.
Published: June 2004

Background—

A longstanding but controversial hypothesis is that individuals who exhibit frequent, large increases in blood pressure (BP) during psychological stress are at risk for developing essential hypertension. We tested whether BP changes during psychological stress predict incident hypertension in young adults.

Methods and Results—

We used survival analysis to predict hypertensive status during 13 years of follow-up in a sample of >4100 normotensive black and white men and women (age at entry, 18 to 30 years) enrolled in the CARDIA study. BP responses to 3 psychological challenges—cold pressor, star tracing, and video game tasks—were measured. Hypertensive status was defined as use of antihypertensive medication or measured BP ≥140/90 mm Hg. After adjustment for race, gender, covariates (education, body mass index, age, and resting pressure), and their significant interactions, the larger the BP responses were to each of the 3 tasks, the earlier hypertension occurred (
P
<0.0001 to <0.01). The systolic BP effect for the cold pressor task was apparent for women and for whites in race- and gender-specific models, whereas the diastolic BP effect for the video game was apparent for men.

Conclusions—

Young adults who show a large BP response to psychological stress may be at risk for hypertension as they approach midlife.
Anemia and Its Relationship to Clinical Outcome in Heart Failure
Authors: Anand Inder , McMurray John J.V. , Whitmore James , Warren Marshelle , Pham Anh , McCamish Mark A. , Burton Paul B.J.
Published: June 2004

Background—

Anemia is often observed in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), but its implications for patient outcomes are not well understood. The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between anemia, severity of CHF, and clinical outcomes.

Methods and Results—

Hemoglobin concentration (Hb) was measured in 912 subjects with CHF enrolled in the Randomized Etanercept North American Strategy to Study Antagonism of Cytokines (RENAISSANCE) trial. In a subgroup of 69 subjects, cardiac MRI was performed at randomization and 24 weeks later. Anemia (Hb ≤12.0 g/dL) was present in 12% of subjects. Cox regression analysis indicated that for every 1-g/dL-higher baseline Hb, the risk of mortality was 15.8% lower (
P
=0.0009) and the risk of mortality or hospitalization for heart failure was 14.2% lower (
P
<0.0001). Greater CHF severity was associated with significantly lower Hb concentrations. An increase in Hb over time was associated with a decrease in left ventricular mass and lower mortality, whereas a decrease in Hb over time was associated with an increase in left ventricular mass and higher mortality. In multivariate analysis, anemia remained a significant, independent predictor of death or hospitalization for heart failure, with both outcomes being significantly higher in all NYHA classes.

Conclusions—

Anemia is frequently present in patients with CHF. Lower Hb is associated with greater disease severity, a greater left ventricular mass index, and higher hospitalization and mortality rates.
Plasma B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Levels Predict Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Wazni Oussama M. , Martin David O. , Marrouche Nassir F. , Latif Ahmed Abdel , Ziada Khaled , Shaaraoui Mustaphasahim , Almahameed Soufian , Schweikert Robert A. , Saliba Walid I. , Gillinov A. Marc , Tang W. H. Wilson , Mills Roger M. , Francis Gary S. , Young James B. , Natale Andrea
Published: June 2004

Background—

Postoperative (postop) atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs in up to 60% of patients after cardiac surgery, leading to longer hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Recently, B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been reported to predict occurrence of nonpostoperative AF. This study evaluates whether elevated preoperative (preop) plasma BNP levels predict the occurrence of postop AF.

Methods and Results—

One hundred eighty-seven patients with no history of atrial arrhythmia who had a preoperative BNP level and had undergone cardiac surgery were identified. Their records were reviewed, and postoperative ECG and telemetry strips were analyzed for AF until the time of discharge. Postop AF was documented in 80 patients (42.8%). AF patients were older (68±11 versus 64±14 years,
P
=0.04), but there was no difference in sex distribution, hypertension, left ventricular (LV) function, LV hypertrophy (LVH), left atrial size, history of coronary artery disease (CAD), or β-blocker use. Preop plasma BNP levels were higher in the postop AF patients (615 versus 444 pg/mL,
P
=0.005). After adjustment for age, sex, type of surgery, hypertension, LV function, LVH, left atrial size, CAD, and β-blocker use, the odds ratios of postop AF according to increasing quartiles, compared with patients with lowest quartile, were 1.8, 2.5, and 3.7 (
P
trend
=0.03).

Conclusions—

An elevated preop plasma BNP level is a strong and independent predictor of postop AF. This finding has important implications for identifying patients at higher risk of postop AF who could be considered for prophylactic antiarrhythmic or β-blocker therapy.
Three-Dimensional Assessment of Extracranial Doppler Sonography in Carotid Artery Stenosis Compared With Digital Subtraction Angiography
Authors: Wessels Tiemo , Harrer Judith U. , Stetter Susanne , Mull Michael , Klötzsch Christof
Published: June 2004

Background and Purpose—

Difficulties in data presentation, data storage, and a high interobserver variability may influence color-coded Duplex sonography assessment of internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS). The aim of our study was to evaluate the between-method agreement of ICAS using 3D color Doppler sonography (CDS) compared with digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Methods—

Forty-nine patients with 64 ICASs (age 64±9 years) were involved. The patients were investigated with a color-coded duplex system using the power mode. The 3D system consists of an electromagnet that induces a low-intensity magnetic field near the patient’s head. A magnetic position sensor is attached to the probe and transmits the spatial orientation to a personal computer.

Results—

A total of 62 ICASs were reconstructed successfully with 3D CDS in 47 of 49 patients. High agreement for 2 independent observers was found in 3D CDS (weighted κ coefficient of 0.88). Three-dimensional CDS slightly underestimated the mean stenotic degree (mean 3D CDS 68.47±10.5 versus DSA 71.3±10.0). The intermethod agreement comparing DSA with 3D CDS was analyzed with the Bland and Altman test, which showed good agreement. Mean sensitivity of 3D CDS was 93%, mean specificity 82.5%, mean positive predictive value 82%, and mean negative predictive value 98%.

Conclusions—

The 3D CDS findings demonstrated good agreement compared with the gold standard, DSA, yielding higher accuracy than CDS alone. Compared with angiography or magnetic resonance angiography, 3D CDS can be performed easily on critically ill patients in stroke or intensive care units and may therefore provide a useful tool for patients unable to undergo more invasive imaging techniques.
"For His Correction and as a Deterrent Example For Others" Mehmed Alī's First Criminal Legislation (1829-1830)
Authors: Peters Rudolph
Published: June 2004

Until now, the first criminal legislation promulgated by Mehmed Alī has been available only in an unreliable Arabic summary. In this essay, I edit and translate the original Ottoman Turkish text, as found in the Egyptian National Archive. The edition and translation are preceded by an analysis of the code in which I argue (1) that this code is best regarded as an expression of Mehmed Alī's attempt to centralize and rationalize the governmental apparatus and the administration of justice, in order to tighten his control over Egypt; and (2) that the document can be read as an articulation of the perceived social distance between the Turkish-speaking ruling class and other groups in Egyptian society.
Tiele On Religion
Authors: Molendijk Arie
Published: June 2004

This essay explores C.P. Tiele's concept of religion. After a sketch of his place in early Dutch science of religion (I), an outline is given of the main theme in Tiele's discussion of religion — the relationship between outside ("dogma and ritual") and inside ("inner conviction") (II). The most voluminous part of the essay (III) elaborates on this topic by giving a detailed analysis of Tiele's Gifford Lectures. The structure of this magnum opus is unravelled, which enables one to better discern the different angels from which Tiele approached his subject matter. The metaphor of outside manifestations, which reveal the inner core, enabled him to locate religion "in the inmost depths of our souls". He claims that religion is ultimately a psychological phenomenon; its essence is "piety". We owe this insight to the new science of religion, which also shows that the religious need is the "mightiest" and most profound of all human needs.
Recolonisation by nematodes of hot water treated cooking banana planting material in Uganda
Authors: Elsen Annemie , Goossens Ben , Belpaire Barbara , Neyens Annemie , Speijer Paul , De Waele Dirk
Published: June 2004

In East Africa, the cooking bananas (Musa spp., AAA group, subgroup Matoke)
are the major food crop. Yields are decreasing due to increasing damage
caused by a complex of pests and diseases, including plant-parasitic
nematodes. Planting of infected material is the principle means of dispersal
for these nematodes. An option to control the nematodes in planting material
is hot water treatment but the benefits depend on the rate of
recolonisation. Therefore, on-farm trials were carried out at five
localities representing Musa production systems in Uganda. Hot water
treatment of planting material slowed down build-up of Radpholus similis at
least until 30 months after planting. This was not only the case for the
treated mother plants but also for the suckers that developed from these
mother plants. A similar trend was observed for Helicotylenchus
multicinctus. Hot water treatment also slowed down the build-up of
Pratylenchus goodeyi but this effect was less pronounced.
Comparison of alanine aminopeptidase activities in Heterodera glycines and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Masler Edward
Published: June 2004

Aminopeptidases in whole body homogenates of Caenorhabditis elegans and Heterodera glycines were detected using a colorimetric assay with a series of seven aminoacyl p-nitroanilide substrates. Enzyme properties evaluated included substrate preference and stability in response to metal salts, alcohols and storage. The preferred substrate for both species was Ala-pNA, but C. elegans had a much broader substrate range than H. glycines. All substrates were more active in C. elegans than in H. glycines homogenates, except Pro-pNA which was three times more active than in H. glycines. Ca 2+, Mg 2+ and Zn 2+ inhibited C. elegans activity in a dose responsive manner but had little effect on H. glycines aminopeptidase, and Co 2+ was mildly inhibitory in both species. Ethanol inhibited both C. elegans and H. glycines aminopeptidases but methanol inhibited only H. glycines and increased C. elegans activity. Heterodera glycines aminopeptidase was more stable at room temperature than C. elegans.
The Right to Cross-Examine Witnesses – Case Law under the European Convention on Human Rights
Authors:   Holdgaard
Published: June 2004

The subject of this article is the right to cross-examine witnesses as laid down in Article 6 paragraph 3(d) of the European Convention on Human Rights. Case law of the European Court and Commission of Human Rights shows that general principles are applied by the Convention organs. Thus, it is practicable – in more general terms – to outline some acceptable possibilities of using statements made to the police or in court before the beginning of the hearing without violating the fair hearing requirement in Article 6.
Kaj Hobér, Extinctive Prescription and Applicable Law in Interstate Arbitration
Authors:   Bogdan
Published: June 2004

No Abstract
Anthony Aust, Modern Treaty Law and Practice
Authors:   Klabbers
Published: June 2004

No Abstract
Time Resolved Langmuir Probe Characterisation of Reactive Pulse Magnetron Sputtering of MgO Thin Films
Authors: Richter F. , Welzel T. , Dunger T. , Kupfer H.
Published: June 2004

A time resolved Langmuir double probe technique is presented, which is applied to a pulsed magnetron discharge at several hundred kilohertz used for MgO deposition. The probe was positioned on the symmetry axis of the circular magnetron. The time resolved measurement was done by fixing the probe voltage and recording the probe current as a function of time. This was repeated for different voltages. Then, the matrix of the IU(t) curves was transposed with a computer to yield the usual I(U) characteristic for each time step, from which the plasma density and electron temperature were determined. After proper correction of the measured IU(t) curves, consistent results are obtained. In particular, a characteristic time dependence of the charge carrier density during the ‘pulse on’ time including a sequence of maximum and minimum values was found. This characteristic temporal evolution of the charge carrier density depends on the pulse frequency and duty cycle. Similar structures in the electron temperature are only observed when the probe is placed near the magnesium target. SE/510