bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Rotation and Rotational Invariance in the Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Köhler Christian , Hoffmann Klaus Peter , Dehnhardt Guido , Mauck Björn
Published: July 2005

The mode of visual information processing during visuospatial tasks differs across species and is supposed to depend on evolutionary and ecological factors. Humans show reaction times that increase with angular disparity when tested in mental rotation tasks. Pigeons show a time-independent rotational invariance that possibly evolved in response to the horizontal reference plane birds perceive while flying. As it was suggested that hominids may have secondarily lost the ability of rotational invariance while retreating from arboreal living and evolving upright gait where the vertical reference plane is more important, mental rotation tests with various recent primate species promise to model the evolution of the respective modes of information processing. The results of recent corresponding experiments with a mainly arboreal living primate species could not be explained by either mode, thus supporting the idea of information processing systems having gradually evolved. Here, we conducted mental rotation experiments with three Rhesus monkeys, a more terrestrial living primate species. In a two-alternative matching-to-sample procedure, we measured the monkeys’ reaction times for decisions between rotated figures representing image and mirror-image of a previously shown upright sample. The results of our three monkeys were inconsistent. Linear regression analyses showed for one test animal significant correlation coefficients for mean reaction times depending on angular disparity and thus clearly indicated mental rotation. The other two test animals showed reaction times not consistent with mental rotation, whereas rotational invariance might explain the responses to the smaller angles of rotation. Our results suggest that two separately evolved information processing systems may be coexisting to a certain extent in species with correspondingly overlapping ecological demands.
Prey Tracking by Larval Zebrafish: Axial Kinematics and Visual Control
Authors: McElligott Melissa B. , O’Malley Donald M.
Published: July 2005

High-speed imaging was used to record the prey-tracking behavior of larval zebrafish as they fed upon paramecium. Prey tracking is comprised of a variable set of discrete locomotor movements that together align the larva with the paramecium and bring it into close proximity, usually within one body length. These tracking behaviors are followed by a brief capture swim bout that was previously described [Borla et al., 2002]. Tracking movements were classified as either swimming or turning bouts. The swimming bouts were similar to a previously characterized larval slow swim [Budick and O’Malley, 2000], but the turning movements consisted of unique J-shaped bends which appear to minimize forward hydrodynamic disturbance when approaching the paramecium. Such J-turn tracking bouts consisted of multiple unilateral contractions to one side of the body. J-turns slowly and moderately alter the orientation of the larva – this is in contrast to previously described escape and routine turns. Tracking behaviors appear to be entirely visually guided. Infra-red (IR) imaging of locomotor behaviors in a dark environment revealed a complete absence of tracking behaviors, even though the normal repertoire of other locomotive behaviors was recorded. Concomitantly, such larvae were greatly impaired in consuming paramecia. The tracking behavior is of interest because it indicates the presence of sophisticated locomotor control circuitry in this relatively simple model organism. Such locomotor strategies may be conserved and elaborated upon by other larval and adult fishes.
Margatoxin Inhibits VEGF-Induced Hyperpolarization, Proliferation and Nitric Oxide Production of Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Erdogan Ali , Schaefer Christian Alexander , Schaefer Matthias , Luedders Doerte Wiebke , Stockhausen Florian , Abdallah Yaser , Schaefer Claudia , Most Astrid Kerstin , Tillmanns Harald , Piper Hans Michael , Kuhlmann Christoph Ruediger Wolfram
Published: July 2005

Background: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induces proliferation of endothelial cells (EC) in vitro and angiogenesis in vivo. Furthermore, a role of VEGF in K+ channel, nitric oxide (NO) and Ca2+ signaling was reported. We examined whether the K+ channel blocker margatoxin (MTX) influences VEGF-induced signaling in human EC. Methods: Fluorescence imaging was used to analyze changes in the membrane potential (DiBAC), intracellular Ca2+ (FURA-2) and NO (DAF) levels in cultured human EC derived from human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC). Proliferation of HUVEC was examined by cell counts (CC) and [3H]-thymidine incorporation (TI).Results: VEGF (5–50 ng/ml) caused a dose-dependent hyperpolarization of EC, with a maximum at 30 ng/ml (n = 30, p < 0.05). This effect was completely blocked by MTX (5 µmol/l). VEGF caused an increase in transmembrane Ca2+ influx (n = 30, p < 0.05) that was sensitive to MTX and the blocker of transmembrane Ca2+ entry 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (APB, 100 µmol/l). VEGF-induced NO production was significantly reduced by MTX, APB and a reduction in extracellular Ca2+ (n = 30, p < 0.05). HUVEC proliferation, examined by CC and TI, was significantly increased by VEGF and inhibited by MTX (CC: –58%, TI –121%); APB (CC –99%, TI –187%); N-monomethyl-L-arginine (300 µmol/l: CC: –86%, TI –164%). Conclusions: VEGF caused an MTX-sensitive hyperpolarization which results in an increased transmembrane Ca2+ entry that is responsible for the effects on endothelial proliferation and NO production.
Exercise Training in Patients Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Cheema Birinder Singh B. , Fiatarone Singh Maria A.
Published: July 2005

Background: Exercise is not routinely advocated in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD), compared to best practice in other chronically diseased cohorts. Lack of widespread awareness of the exercise in HD literature may be contributing to these shortcomings of clinical practice. Therefore, our objectives are: (1) to systematically review trials of exercise training involving adult HD patients; (2) to provide empirical evidence that exercise can elicit health-related adaptations in this cohort, and (3) to provide recommendations for future investigations. Method: A systematic review of the literature using computerized databases was performed. Results: According to the 29 trials reviewed, HD patients can safely derive a myriad of health-related adaptations from engaging in appropriately structured exercise regimens involving aerobic and/or resistance training. However, methodological limitations within this body of literature may be partially responsible for minimal advocacy for exercise in this cohort. Conclusions: Robustly designed RCTs with thorough, standardized reporting are required if clinical practice and quality of life of this cohort is to be enhanced through the integration of exercise training and mainstream medical practice. Future trials should demonstrate the clinical importance, and long-term feasibility and applicability of exercise training for this vulnerable patient population.
The Insulin-Like Growth Factor System and Markers of Inflammation in Adult Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Eivindson M. , Nielsen J.N. , Grønbæk H. , Flyvbjerg A. , Hey H.
Published: July 2005

Background and Objectives:Catabolism and growth impairment are well-known complications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recent studies have demonstrated significant changes in the IGF system in IBD patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate correlations between the IGF system and markers of inflammation in IBD. Methods:A cross-sectional study comprising 99 IBD patients (Crohn’s disease (CD, n = 50) and ulcerative colitis (UC, n = 49)). Correlations between markers of inflammation and IGF-I, IGF-II and IGFBP-3 were examined in CD and UC patients in remission and relapse. The patients were clinically scored using Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) for CD patients and Activity Index (AI) for UC patients. Results: In the UC group we found correlations between IGF-I and CRP (rs = Spearman’s rho) (rs = –0.40, p < 0.01) and albumin (rs = 0.46, p < 0.001), IGFBP-3 and albumin (rs = 0.36, p < 0.01) and AI score (rs = –0.31, p < 0.05). IGF-II correlated with CRP (rs = –0.42, p < 0.01), IL-6 (rs = –0.65, p < 0.001), albumin (rs = 0.41, p < 0.01), AI score (rs = –0.30, p < 0.05) and orosomucoid (rs = –0.47, p < 0.001). In the CD group we found correlations between IGF-I and CRP (rs = –0.40, p < 0.05), and albumin (rs = –0.46, p < 0.01), IGFBP-3 and albumin (r = 0.36, p < 0.01). IGF-II correlated with IL-6 (rs = –0.65, p < 0.001), albumin (rs = 0.41, p < 0.01), CDAI score (rs = –0.30, p < 0.05) and orosomucoid (rs = –0.47, p < 0.001). Conclusions: IGF-I, IGF-II and IGFBP-3 are correlated to albumin and IGF-I and IGF-II are correlated to CRP in IBD patients. Further, IGF-II is correlated to IL-6 in IBD patients. This may suggest a correlation between inflammation and the IGF system with involvement in muscle and bone catabolism in IBD.
Jejunal Dopamine and Na+,K+-ATPase Activity in Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Sampaio-Maia B. , Moreira-Rodrigues M. , Serrão P. , Pestana M.
Published: July 2005

Background: The occurrence of complementary functions in sodium transport between the intestine and the kidney was suggested to occur when the renal function is immature or compromised and jejunal dopamine has been implicated in this renal-intestinal cross-talk. The jejunal sodium transport was not previously evaluated in the nephrotic syndrome. Methods: We examined the jejunal Na+,K+-ATPase activity and the role of dopamine in puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) and HgCl2-induced nephrotic syndrome rat models. Results: In both nephrotic syndrome rat models, the jejunal Na+,K+-ATPase activity was reduced during greatest sodium retention and ascites accumulation (PAN nephrosis, day 7; HgCl2 nephrosis, day 14), whereas during enhanced sodium excretion and ascites mobilization the jejunal Na+,K+-ATPase activity was increased in HgCl2 nephrosis (day 21) and was similar to controls in PAN nephrosis (day 14). In both PAN- and HgCl2-induced nephrosis, the jejunal aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) activity, the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of jejunal dopamine, did not differ from controls. In addition, the jejunal Na+,K+-ATPase activity was not sensitive to inhibition by dopamine (1 µM) in both experimental groups throughout the study. Conclusions: In the nephrotic syndrome the jejunal Na+,K+-ATPase activity may respond in a compensatory way to changes in extracellular volume, through dopamine-independent mechanisms.
A Classification System of Echogenicity for Gastrointestinal Neoplasms
Authors: Okanobu Hideharu , Hata Jiro , Haruma Ken , Mitsuoka Yutaka , Kunihiro Kayoko , Manabe Noriaki , Tanaka Shinji , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: July 2005

Background and Aims: To confirm the utility of a newly-devised endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) echogenicity classification system, which is based on the normal five-layer structure of the gastrointestinal wall, for the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal neoplasms. Methods: A total of 275 patients with gastrointestinal disease detected by endoscopy, 53 with submucosal tumor (22 esophageal, 27 gastric, and 4 duodenal), 208 with cancer (58 esophageal, 150 gastric), and 14 with gastric malignant lymphoma, were examined. In each case, we performed standard EUS with 7.5, 12, or 20 MHz to evaluate the echogenicity of the lesion. Echogenicity was classified into seven levels that is based on the echogenicity of the normal five-layer structure of the gastrointestinal wall. The levels are stratified from anechoic (level 0) to hyperechoic (level 6), muscularis propria and deep mucosa being referred to as level 2 and level 4, respectively. Level 6 was equivalent to or higher than the echogenicity of submucosa. Results: EUS findings revealed several distinct echogenicities among the diseases. In submucosal tumor, levels 0, 2, and 6 were observed only in patients with cyst, myogenic tumor, and lipoma, respectively. In malignancies, levels 0, 5, and 6 were not observed in this study. The echo level of malignant lymphoma was markedly lower than that of epithelial cancer. Conclusion: Our classification system of echogenicity can be a useful method in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal neoplasms.
Aldosterone Stimulates Matrix Metalloproteinases and Reactive Oxygen Species in Adult Rat Ventricular Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Rude Mary K. , Duhaney Toni-Ann S. , Kuster Gabriela M. , Judge Sharon , Heo Joline , Colucci Wilson S. , Siwik Deborah A. , Sam Flora
Published: July 2005

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), aldosterone, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in myocardial remodeling. Although ROS, cytokines, and neurohormones regulate MMP in cardiac fibroblasts, it is unknown whether aldosterone regulates MMP in cardiomyocytes. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that aldosterone regulates MMP in cultured adult rat ventricular myocytes (ARVMs). ARVMs were treated with aldosterone for 24 hours, and MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were measured by zymography. Aldosterone (50 nmol/L) increased MMP-2 (43±5%) and MMP-9 (55±15%;
P
<0.001 for both) activities. Pretreatment with spironolactone (100 nmol/L) abolished the aldosterone-induced increase in MMP activities. Aldosterone (50 nmol/L; 30 minutes) increased mitogen/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK) (31±3%) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2; 41±7%;
P
<0.001 for both) phosphorylation. U0126 (10 μmol/L), an MEK1/2 inhibitor, abolished the aldosterone-induced increase in MMP activities. Aldosterone increased intracellular ROS as assessed by dichlorofluorescein diacetate (27±4%;
P
<0.05). This increase was inhibited by apocynin, an NADPH oxidase inhibitor. Apocynin likewise inhibited aldosterone-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and the increase in MMP activities. Furthermore, the antioxidants MnTMPyP and
N-
acetylcysteine inhibited the aldosterone-induced increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MMP activities, respectively. Protein kinase C (PKC) is implicated in the nongenomic effects of aldosterone. To test the role of PKC, ARVMs were pretreated with chelerythrine, a PKC inhibitor. Chelerythrine prevented the aldosterone-induced increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MMP activities. Thus, aldosterone induces MMP activity in ARVM via activation of the mineralocorticoid receptor, PKC, and ROS-dependent activation of the MEK/ERK pathway. NADPH oxidase is a likely source of ROS in this system.
Contribution of 20-HETE to Augmented Myogenic Constriction in Coronary Arteries of Endothelial NO Synthase Knockout Mice
Authors: Huang An , Sun Dong , Yan Changdong , Falck John R. , Kaley Gabor
Published: July 2005

Previous studies suggested an important role for 20-HETE in the regulation of myogenic responses. Thus, pressure–diameter relationships were investigated in isolated, cannulated coronary arteries (≈100μm) from male endothelial NO synthase knockout (eNOS-KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. All arteries constricted in response to step increases in perfusate pressure from 20 to 100 mm Hg. This constriction was significantly enhanced from 40 to 100 mm Hg in arteries of eNOS-KO compared with those of WT mice. For example, at 60 and 100 mm Hg, respectively, the normalized diameter (expressed as a percentage of the corresponding passive diameter) of arteries of eNOS-KO mice was 10% and 12% smaller than that of WT mice. Removal of the endothelium did not significantly affect the responses of vessels from either strain of mice. However,
N-
methylsulfonyl-12,12-dibromododec-11-enamide (5×10
−6
M), an inhibitor of cytochrome P-450 (CYP)/ω-hydroxylase, significantly attenuated the greater myogenic constriction of arteries from eNOS-KO mice by ≈12% at each pressure step but did not significantly affect responses of those from WT mice, leading to a comparable myogenic response in the 2 strains. Western blot analysis demonstrated a comparable CYP4A protein content in coronary arteries of the 2 strains of mice. However, production of 20-HETE, measured by fluorescent high-performance liquid chromatography assay was ≈2.7-fold greater in eNOS-KO compared to WT mice. Thus, as a function of eNOS deficiency, the enhanced coronary artery constriction to pressure is attributable to an increased activity of ω-hydroxylase, which, consequently, increases the synthesis of 20-HETE in vascular smooth muscle.
Current Management of Severe Congenital Mitral Stenosis
Authors: McElhinney Doff B. , Sherwood Megan C. , Keane John F. , del Nido Pedro J. , Almond Christopher S.D. , Lock James E.
Published: July 2005

Background—

Severe congenital mitral stenosis (MS) is a rare anomaly that is frequently associated with additional left heart obstructions. Anatomic treatments for congenital MS include balloon mitral valvuloplasty (BMVP), surgical mitral valvuloplasty (SMVP), and mitral valve replacement (MVR), although the optimal therapeutic strategy is unclear.

Methods and Results—

Between 1985 and 2003, 108 patients with severe congenital MS underwent BMVP or surgical intervention at a median age of 18 months (range 1 month to 17.9 years). Anatomic subtypes of MS were “typical” congenital MS in 78 patients, supravalvar mitral ring in 46, parachute mitral valve in 28, and double-orifice mitral valve in 11, with multiple types in ≈50% of patients. Additional left heart anomalies were present in 82 patients (76%). The first MS intervention was BMVP in 64 patients, SMVP in 33, and MVR in 11. BMVP decreased peak and mean MS gradients by a median of 33% and 38%, respectively (
P
<0.001), but was complicated by significant mitral regurgitation in 28%. Cross-sectional follow-up was obtained at 4.8±4.2 years. Overall, Kaplan-Meier survival was 92% at 1 month, 84% at 1 year, and 77% at 5 years, with 69% 5-year survival during the first decade of our experience and 87% since (
P
=0.09). Initial MVR and younger age were associated with worse survival. Survival free from failure of biventricular repair or mitral valve reintervention was 55% at 1 year among patients who underwent BMVP and 69% among patients who underwent supravalvar mitral ring resection initially. Among patients who underwent BMVP, survival free from failure of biventricular repair or MVR was 79% at 1 month and 55% at 5 years, with worse outcome in younger patients and those who developed significant postdilation mitral regurgitation.

Conclusions—

BMVP effectively relieves left ventricular inflow obstruction in most infants and children with severe congenital MS who require intervention. However, surgical resection is preferable in patients with MS due to a supravalvar mitral ring. Five-year survival is relatively poor in patients with severe congenital MS, with worse outcomes in infants and patients undergoing MVR, but has improved in our more recent experience. Many patients have undergone second procedures for either recurrent/residual MS or mitral regurgitation resulting from dilation-related disruption of the mitral valve apparatus.
Upregulation of Nitric Oxide Production in Vascular Endothelial Cells by All-
trans
Retinoic Acid Through the Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase/Akt Pathway
Authors: Uruno Akira , Sugawara Akira , Kanatsuka Hiroshi , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Saito Akiko , Sato Kazunori , Kudo Masataka , Takeuchi Kazuhisa , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: July 2005

Background—

A natural retinoid all-
trans
retinoic acid (ATRA) contains various beneficial effects on vasculature, including suppression of neointima formation after balloon injury. However, little is known about the effects of ATRA on vascular endothelial function. We therefore studied its role in nitric oxide (NO) production of vascular endothelial cells (ECs).

Methods and Results—

Human dermal microvascular ECs, human umbilical vein ECs, and SV40-transformed rat lung vascular ECs were incubated with or without ATRA (1 μmol/L) for 48 hours. Their NO production was determined with the use of a fluorescent NO indicator, diaminofluorescein-2 diacetate. ATRA significantly increased their basal as well as acetylcholine-induced NO production. Treatment with
N
ω
-nitro-
l
-arginine methyl ester or carboxy-PTIO suppressed their fluorescence. Increase of NO production was also observed by incubation with retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonist Am580. ATRA-induced NO increase was abolished by coincubation with RAR antagonist LE540. Moreover, the NO increase was completely inhibited by the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin and LY294002. ATRA as well as Am580 enhanced endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation at Ser-1177 as well as Akt phosphorylation at Ser-473 without changing their protein expression. Overexpression of dominant-negative Akt inhibited the eNOS phosphorylation. Moreover, ATRA increased PI3K activity as well as PI3K catalytic subunit p110β protein expression, which was completely inhibited by LE540 treatment. Real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrated that ATRA increased PI3K catalytic subunit p110β mRNA expression without affecting its stability. Finally, ATRA-induced NO increase was observed in COS-1 cells transfected with wild-type eNOS and RARα, but not with mutated eNOS whose Ser-1177 was substituted.

Conclusions—

ATRA increases NO production by eNOS phosphorylation through RAR-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway activation in vascular ECs and possibly plays beneficial roles in vascular endothelium. Retinoids may therefore be candidates as novel therapeutic agents against vascular disorders with endothelial damage.
Mechanisms of Cardiac Depression Caused by Lipoteichoic Acids From
Staphylococcus aureus
in Isolated Rat Hearts
Authors: Grandel Ulrich , Hopf Michael , Buerke Michael , Hattar Katja , Heep Martina , Fink Ludger , Bohle Rainer M. , Morath Siegfried , Hartung Thomas , Pullamsetti Soni , Schermuly Ralph T. , Seeger Werner , Grimminger Friedrich , Sibelius Ulf
Published: July 2005

Background—

Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) represents a major virulence factor in gram-positive sepsis.

Methods and Results—

In the present study we perfused isolated rat hearts for 180 minutes with highly purified LTA from
Staphylococcus aureus
. A progressive decline of left ventricular contractile function paralleled by the expression of myocardial tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA and protein as well as the release of TNF-α into the perfusate was observed in LTA-perfused hearts. Employment of an anti–TNF-α antibody completely prevented the loss in contractile function. When CD14, a prominent pathogen recognition receptor, was blocked by a specific antibody, induction of TNF-α mRNA and protein release as well as the associated cardiodepression was diminished in response to LTA. Synthesis of TNF-α protein was located to interstitial cells of LTA-challenged hearts as detected by immunohistochemistry. Besides progressive cardiodepression, coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) was moderately increased in LTA-perfused hearts. This was accompanied by the release of thromboxane A
2
(TXA
2
) into the perfusate and the induction of cyclooxygenase (Cox)-2 mRNA and protein in the myocardium. Blocking of TXA
2
by the nonspecific Cox inhibitor indomethacin, the thromboxane receptor antagonist daltroban, or the selective Cox-2 inhibitor NS-398 prevented the increase in CPP.

Conclusions—

LTA causes cardiac depression by activating myocardial TNF-α synthesis via CD14 and induces coronary vascular disturbances by activating Cox-2–dependent TXA
2
synthesis. These phenomena may contribute to cardiac depression in gram-positive sepsis.
Genetic Analysis of the Interleukin-18 System Highlights the Role of the Interleukin-18 Gene in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Tiret Laurence , Godefroy Tiphaine , Lubos Edith , Nicaud Viviane , Tregouet David-Alexandre , Barbaux Sandrine , Schnabel Renate , Bickel Christoph , Espinola-Klein Christine , Poirier Odette , Perret Claire , Münzel Thomas , Rupprecht Hans-Jurgen , Lackner Karl , Cambien François , Blankenberg Stefan
Published: July 2005

Background—

Interleukin (IL)-18 plays a key role in atherosclerosis and its complications. The present study investigated the genetic variability of 4 genes of the IL-18 system—
IL18
,
IL18R1
,
IL18RAP
, and
IL18BP
—in relation to circulating IL-18 levels and cardiovascular mortality.

Methods and Results—

Twenty-two polymorphisms were genotyped in 1288 patients with coronary artery disease prospectively followed up during a median period of 5.9 years. The end point was death from cardiovascular causes (n=142). Baseline IL-18 levels were predictive of cardiovascular deaths occurring during ≤4 years of follow-up (HR=2.96, 95% CI 1.54 to 5.70,
P
=0.001 for the top compared with the bottom quartile) but not of later deaths. Haplotypes of the
IL18
gene were associated with IL-18 levels (
P
=0.002) and cardiovascular mortality (
P
=0.006) after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. The same haplotype was associated with both a 9% lowering effect on IL-18 levels and a protective effect on risk (HR=0.57, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.92).
IL18
haplotypes explained only 2% of IL-18 variability. Adjustment for baseline IL-18 levels abolished the association of haplotypes with cardiovascular risk. The haplotype associated with phenotypes was the only one carrying the minor allele of the
IL18
/A+183G polymorphism located in the 3′untranslated region and potentially affecting mRNA stability. The other genes of the system were not related to IL-18 levels or cardiovascular outcome.

Conclusion—

Variations of the
IL18
gene consistently influence circulating levels of IL-18 and clinical outcome in patients with coronary artery disease, which supports the hypothesis of a causal role of IL-18 in atherosclerosis and its complications.
Overexpression of Mitochondrial Transcription Factor A Ameliorates Mitochondrial Deficiencies and Cardiac Failure After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ikeuchi Masaki , Matsusaka Hidenori , Kang Dongchon , Matsushima Shouji , Ide Tomomi , Kubota Toru , Fujiwara Toshiyuki , Hamasaki Naotaka , Takeshita Akira , Sunagawa Kenji , Tsutsui Hiroyuki
Published: July 2005

Background—

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number is decreased not only in mtDNA-mutation diseases but also in a wide variety of acquired degenerative and ischemic diseases. Mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) is essential for mtDNA transcription and replication. Myocardial mtDNA copy number and TFAM expression both decreased in cardiac failure. However, the functional significance of TFAM has not been established in this disease state.

Methods and Results—

We have now addressed this question by creating transgenic (Tg) mice that overexpress human
TFAM
gene and examined whether TFAM could protect the heart from mtDNA deficiencies and attenuate left ventricular (LV) remodeling and failure after myocardial infarction (MI) created by ligating the left coronary artery.
TFAM
overexpression could ameliorate the decrease in mtDNA copy number and mitochondrial complex enzyme activities in post-MI hearts. Survival rate during 4 weeks of MI was significantly higher in Tg-MI than in wild-type (WT) littermates (WT-MI), although infarct size was comparable. LV cavity dilatation and dysfunction were significantly attenuated in Tg-MI. LV end-diastolic pressure was increased in WT-MI, and it was also reduced in Tg-MI. Improvement of LV function in Tg-MI was accompanied by a decrease in myocyte hypertrophy, apoptosis, and interstitial fibrosis as well as oxidative stress in the noninfarcted LV.

Conclusions—

Overexpression of
TFAM
inhibited LV remodeling after MI. TFAM may provide a novel therapeutic strategy of cardiac failure.
Kruppel-Like Factor 2 as a Novel Mediator of Statin Effects in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Sen-Banerjee Sucharita , Mir Samy , Lin Zhiyong , Hamik Anne , Atkins G. Brandon , Das Hiranmoy , Banerjee Pallab , Kumar Ajay , Jain Mukesh K.
Published: July 2005

Background—

Although 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are known to modulate endothelial function, the transcriptional mechanisms underlying these effects are incompletely understood. We hypothesized that Lung-Kruppel–like factor (LKLF/KLF2), a novel and potent regulator of endothelial gene expression, may mediate the downstream effects of statins. Here we report that statin-induced expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and thrombomodulin is KLF2 dependent.

Methods and Results—

KLF2 mRNA was induced by treatment with multiple statins in a concentration-dependent manner. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that this induction is dependent on inhibition of the Rho pathway and requires de novo transcription. Furthermore, promoter deletion and mutational analyses suggest that mevastatin induced KLF2 promoter activity through a single myocyte enhancer factor binding site. Finally, small-interfering RNA–mediated knockdown of KLF2 strongly attenuated the ability of mevastatin to increase eNOS and thrombomodulin accumulation in endothelial cells.

Conclusions—

Taken together, these observations indicate that statin-dependent induction of eNOS and thrombomodulin requires KLF2 and thereby provides a novel molecular target for modulating endothelial function in vascular disease.
Cerebral Vascular Dysfunction in Methionine Synthase–Deficient Mice
Authors: Dayal Sanjana , Devlin Angela M. , McCaw Ryan B. , Liu Mei-Lan , Arning Erland , Bottiglieri Teodoro , Shane Barry , Faraci Frank M. , Lentz Steven R.
Published: July 2005

Background—

Methionine synthase (MS) catalyzes the folate-dependent remethylation of homocysteine to methionine. We tested the hypothesis that deficiency of MS impairs endothelial function in mice heterozygous for disruption of the
Mtr
gene, which encodes MS.

Methods and Results—

Plasma total homocysteine was similar in wild-type (
Mtr
+/+
) and heterozygous (
Mtr
+/−
) mice fed a control diet (4.5±0.3 and 5.3±0.4 μmol/L, respectively) and mildly elevated in
Mtr
+/+
and
Mtr
+/−
mice fed a low-folate (LF) diet (7.5±0.7 and 9.6±1.2 μmol/L, respectively;
P
<0.001 versus control diet). Dilatation of cerebral arterioles to the endothelium-dependent dilator, acetylcholine (10 μmol/L) was blunted in
Mtr
+/−
mice compared with
Mtr
+/+
mice fed the control diet (21±4 versus 32±4%;
P
<0.05). Both
Mtr
+/+
and
Mtr
+/−
mice exhibited impaired dilatation of cerebral arterioles to acetylcholine when they were fed the LF diet (12±2 and 14±2%, respectively;
P
<0.01 versus
Mtr
+/+
mice fed the control diet). Elevated levels of superoxide and hydrogen peroxide were detected by confocal microscopy in cerebral arterioles of
Mtr
+/−
mice fed the control diet and in both
Mtr
+/+
and
Mtr
+/−
mice fed the LF diet.

Conclusions—

These findings demonstrate that defective homocysteine remethylation caused by deficiency of either MS or folate produces oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in the cerebral microcirculation of mice.
Pilot Study of Rapid Infusion of 2 L of 4°C Normal Saline for Induction of Mild Hypothermia in Hospitalized, Comatose Survivors of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Kim Francis , Olsufka Michele , Carlbom David , Deem Steven , Longstreth W.T. , Hanrahan Margret , Maynard Charles , Copass Michael K. , Cobb Leonard A.
Published: July 2005

Background—

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that mild hypothermia (32°C to 34°C) induced by surface cooling improves neurological outcome after resuscitation from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Results from animal models suggest that the effectiveness of mild hypothermia could be improved if initiated as soon as possible after return of spontaneous circulation. Infusion of cold, intravenous fluid has been proposed as a safe, effective, and inexpensive technique to induce mild hypothermia after cardiac arrest.

Methods and Results—

In 17 hospitalized survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, we determined the effect on temperature and hemodynamics of infusing 2 L of 4°C cold, normal saline during 20 to 30 minutes into a peripheral vein with a high-pressure bag. Data on vital signs, electrolytes, arterial blood gases, and coagulation were collected before and after fluid infusion. Cardiac function was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography before fluid administration and 1 hour after infusion. Passive (fans, leaving patient uncovered) or active (cooling blankets, neuromuscular blockade) cooling measures were used to maintain mild hypothermia for 24 hours. Infusion of 2 L of 4°C cold, normal saline resulted in a mean temperature drop of 1.4°C 30 minutes after the initiation of infusion. Rapid infusion of fluid was not associated with clinically important changes in vital signs, electrolytes, arterial blood gases, or coagulation parameters. The initial mean ejection fraction was 34%, and fluid infusion did not affect ejection fraction or increase central venous pressure, pulmonary pressures, or left atrial filling pressures as assessed by echocardiography. Passive measures were ineffective in maintaining hypothermia compared with active measures.

Conclusions—

Infusion of 2 L of 4°C cold, normal saline is safe and effective in rapidly lowering body temperature in survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Accelerated Longitudinal Decline of Aerobic Capacity in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Fleg Jerome L. , Morrell Christopher H. , Bos Angelo G. , Brant Larry J. , Talbot Laura A. , Wright Jeanette G. , Lakatta Edward G.
Published: July 2005

Background—

The ability of older persons to function independently is dependent largely on the maintenance of sufficient aerobic capacity and strength to perform daily activities. Although peak aerobic capacity is widely recognized to decline with age, its rate of decline has been estimated primarily from cross-sectional studies that may provide misleading, overly optimistic estimates of aging changes.

Methods and Results—

To determine longitudinal rate of change in aerobic capacity and the influence of age, gender, and physical activity on these changes, we performed serial measurements of peak treadmill oxygen consumption (peak V̇
o
2
) in 375 women and 435 men ages 21 to 87 years from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, a community-dwelling cohort free of clinical heart disease, over a median follow-up period of 7.9 years. A linear mixed-effects regression model was used to calculate the predicted longitudinal 10-year rate of change in peak V̇
o
2
, expressed in milliliters per minute, for each age decade from the 20s through the 70s after adjustment for self-reported leisure-time physical activity. A longitudinal decline in peak V̇
o
2
was observed in each of the 6 age decades in both sexes; however, the rate of decline accelerated from 3% to 6% per 10 years in the 20s and 30s to >20% per 10 years in the 70s and beyond. The rate of decline for each decade was larger in men than in women from the 40s onward. Similar longitudinal rates of decline prevailed when peak V̇
o
2
was indexed per kilogram of body weight or per kilogram of fat-free mass and in all quartiles of self-reported leisure-time physical activity. When the components of peak V̇
o
2
were examined, the rate of longitudinal decline of the oxygen pulse (ie, the O
2
utilization per heart beat) mirrored that of peak V̇
o
2
, whereas the longitudinal rate of heart rate decline averaged only 4% to 6% per 10 years, and accelerated only minimally with age.

Conclusions—

The longitudinal rate of decline in peak V̇
o
2
in healthy adults is not constant across the age span in healthy persons, as assumed by cross-sectional studies, but accelerates markedly with each successive age decade, especially in men, regardless of physical activity habits. The accelerated rate of decline of peak aerobic capacity has substantial implications with regard to functional independence and quality of life, not only in healthy older persons, but particularly when disease-related deficits are superimposed.
The Logic of Nazification: The Case of the International Criminal Police Commission("Interpol")
Authors: Deflem Mathieu
Published: July 2005

The evolution of the International Criminal Police Commission (ICPC), the police organization today known as Interpol, is investigated in the period when the organization came under control of the Nazi regime and when, at roughly the same time, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) became the Commission's official U.S. representative. Confronting some of the prior historical literature on Interpol, this article draws out the conflicting motives of Nazi police and FBI in participating in the same international organization. It is argued that the nazification of the ICPC occurred in two strategic stages: from seeking influence in the organization to acquiring control of it. Although the infiltration of the ICPC by Nazi police officials was realized in these stages, in practical terms, it never went beyond presenting an illusion of continuity in international police cooperation. It is concluded that theoretical models of nazification should consider the rationality and purposive orientation of its direction as well as its complex dynamics and historically variable determinants.
Gender Ideologies, Relative Resources, and the Division of Housework in Intimate Relationships: A Test of Hyman Rodman's Theory of Resources in Cultural Context
Authors: Diefenbach Heike
Published: July 2005

Based on data from the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP), the theory of resources in cultural context proposed by Hyman Rodman (1967, 1970) is tested by analyzing the impact of spouses' relative resources on the division of housework in egalitarian, transitional, and traditional cultural contexts. It is found that the relative resources of the spouses are effective not only in transitional cultural contexts, but that they actually have a greater impact on the division of housework in transitional contexts than in egalitarian or traditional contexts. In accordance with Rodman's theory, this article shows that the division of housework between spouses is not easily explained by either relative resources or gender ideologies, and interaction effects are found to be significant.
The Roots of Civil Society: A Model of Voluntary Association Prevalence Applied to Data on Larger Contemporary Nations
Authors: Smith David Horton , Shen Ce
Published: July 2005

Based on a literature review, a theory of voluntary association prevalence in nations of the world is proposed. Greater associational prevalence is hypothesized to result from certain societal background factors (greater population size, and more favorable historical/cultural/environmental interface), aspects of basic societal structure (more permissive political control, greater modernization, more developed non-associational organizational field, and greater ethno-religious heterogeneity), and societal mobilization factors (aggregate resource mobilization for associations, aggregate social cohesion). Archival data on larger contemporary nations strongly confirm most of the model independently for two separate time periods, the 1970s and early 1990s. The ethno-religious heterogeneity variable is not confirmed as significant. No suitable data were available to test aggregate social cohesion as part of the empirical model tested. The results have important policy implications for the roots of civil society, political pluralism, and participatory democracy, partially as manifestations of social capital in a society.
Family Relations, Low Income, and Child Outcomes: A Comparison of Canadian Children in Intact-, Step-, and Lone-Parent Families
Authors: Kerr Don , Beaujot Roderic
Published: July 2005

This paper examines conditions that are more likely to lead to positive or negative child outcomes in intact, female lone-parent and reconstituted families. Family type is found to be more important than low income in predicting a set of behavioural, emotional, and psychological difficulties. After establishing measurement equivalence across family types, multiple group analysis using structural equation modelling shows that the explanatory factors also operate differently in the various family settings. In particular, low income has a significant impact on childhood difficulties in lone-parent and stepfamilies, but not in intact families. Family functioning has less impact on children’s outcomes in stepfamilies than in intact- or lone-parent families, and larger family size predicts negative child outcomes only in non-intact families. These observations can be interpreted in terms of the impact of family type on the transfer of financial, human, and social capital to children.
Determinants of Family Life Satisfaction in Reforming Urban China
Authors: Ji Jianjun , Xu Xiaohe , Rich S. Lynne
Published: July 2005

Since the late 1970s, mainland China has embarked on an unprecedented economic reform. This reform not only helped China move away more successfully from a centrally planned economy than the former Soviet Union and its East European satellites, it also improved the quality of life for China’s massive population, especially its urban population. While the impact of this reform on family life such as household composition, marriage patterns, childbearing decisions, and inter-generational relationships has been well documented, research on family life satisfaction during this political and economic transformation is nearly nonexistent. To fill this research void, we use the 1993 China Housing Survey conducted in Shanghai and Tianjin to explore the determinants of family life satisfaction among married urban Chinese. Our Confirmatory Factor Analysis conceptualizes family life satisfaction as a multi-dimensional concept, encompassing satisfaction with marriage, family economy, family relations, and family life in general. The OLS regression analysis indicates that varying individual characteristics, marital and parental roles, kinship, social and political ties, and community context are predicative of family life satisfaction in urban China. Gender differences in these determinants are noticeable.
Seeking Work Daily: Supply, Demand, and Spatial Dimensions of Day Labor in Two Global Cities
Authors: Valenzuela Abel , Kawachi Janette A. , Marr Matthew D.
Published: July 2005

Day labor, the industry in which workers, primarily men, seek temporary employment daily in open-air street markets or curb-side hiring sites, is a burgeoning market in the United States and a historically important, but declining industry in Japan. Using data from surveys of day laborers in Tokyo and Los Angeles, we analyze the unique characteristics of these two markets, comparing and contrasting the workers, the demand for their employment, and the spatial dimensions of this industry. We find that day laborers in Los Angeles are predominantly young, recent immigrants undertaking varied jobs. In contrast, day laborers in Tokyo are aging and mostly native Japanese displaced from Japan’s slouching post-industrial economy. Demand for day labor is equally contrasting. In Los Angeles, employers are more diversified, associated with a network of industries, and a consumer base that is broad and elastic. On the other hand, employers in Tokyo are overwhelmingly in construction and day laborers only cater to sub-contractors or middlemen. We speculate on the future of day labor in both cities.
Do Islamic Orientations Influence Attitudes Toward Democracy in the Arab World? Evidence from Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Algeria
Authors: Tessler Mark
Published: July 2005

Research on democratic transitions and consolidation has emphasized the importance not only of structural factors, such as institutional reform and economic development, but also political culture. There are differing scholarly opinions about whether a democratic political culture can emerge in the Arab world, however. More specifically, there is disagreement about whether the Islamic attachments of ordinary citizens discourage the emergence of democratic attitudes and values. Against this background, the present study uses World Values Survey data from Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Algeria to assess the influence of Islamic orientations on attitudes toward democracy. Two separate attitudinal measures pertaining to democracy are dependent variables in the analysis. Independent variables include measures pertaining both to personal religious involvement and the role of Islam in political affairs. The results of this analysis, which are similar in all four countries, show that strong Islamic attachments do not discourage or otherwise influence support for democracy to any significant degree.
Effective Democracy, Mass Culture, and the Quality of Elites: The Human Development Perspective
Authors: Welzel Christian
Published: July 2005

This article demonstrates that low corruption and high female representation are two characteristics of elite quality that go closely together and help make “formal” democracy increasingly “effective.” However, the quality of elites is not an inherently independent phenomenon but is shaped by a pervasive mass factor: rising self-expression values that shift cultural norms toward greater emphasis on responsive and inclusive elites. Self-expression values, in turn, tend to be strengthened by growing human resources among the masses. Considered in a comprehensive perspective, these various components are linked through the emancipative logic of Human Development: (1) human resources, (2) self-expression values, (3) elite quality, and (4) effective democracy all contribute to widen the scope of human autonomy and choice in several aspects of people’s lives, including their means and skills, their norms and values, as well as their institutions and rights.
Gender, Aging, and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Inglehart Ronald
Published: July 2005

Previous research has consistently found that men and women have similar levels of happiness, life satisfaction, and other global measures of subjective well-being. This article demonstrates that significant gender-related differences in subjective well-being exist— but tend to be concealed by an interaction effect between age, gender and well-being. Women under 45 tend to be happier than men; but older women are less happy. Thus, in a pooled sample of 146,000 respondents from 65 societies, among the youngest group, 24 percent of the men and 28 percent of the women describe themselves as very happy; but among the oldest group, only 20 percent of the women describe themselves as very happy, while 25 percent of the men do so. The relationship between gender and well-being reverses itself, moving from a female advantage of 4 points to a deficit of 5 points. Given the huge sample size, these differences are highly significant.

The aspiration-adjustment model implies that, despite their continuing disadvantages in income, status, and power, women of today should show higher levels of subjective well-being than men. A global women’s movement has been pushing for gender equality throughout the world, with some success, so that currently, women’s achievement tends to be above traditional aspiration levels. But this is offset by a systematic tendency to devalue older women. This tendency is particularly strong in advanced industrial societies where women have made the most progress—but where the mass media and advertising convey the message that only young women are beautiful and devalue the social worth of older women (Bluhm 2000). This produces an interaction between gender, age, and well-being that conceals statistically significant and theoretically interesting gender differences in subjective well-being.