bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review: New approaches to the assessment of left ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Agabiti-Rosei Enrico , Muiesan Maria Lorenza , Salvetti Massimo
Published: December 2007

In hypertension, Left ventricular hypertrophy is initially a useful compensatory process that represents an adaptation to increased ventricular wall stress; however, it is also the first step toward the development of overt clinical disease. For this reason most international guidelines recommend the assessment of cardiac target organ damage in hypertensive patients for cardiovascular risk stratification. It is therefore of great importance to keep in mind the strengths and weakness of the different available methods for LVH assessment.

Several methods are currently available for the assessment of LVH; however the various techniques differ in cost, availability, sensitivity and specificity. Due to its wide availability and its low cost, eLectrocardiography should be part of all routine assessment of subjects with high blood pressure; however, despite its good specificity, the sensitivity for LVH detection is low. Several other methods have been proposed for LVH detection. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging allows 3D reconstruction of the heart with high spatial resolution; however its main limitation is represented by the relatively low availability and by its costs. Echocardiography certainly represents a valuable method for the detection of LVH in hypertensive patients, due to its wide availability and its relatively low cost. The main limitations of the technique are represented by the lower spatial resolution and reproducibility in comparison with magnetic resonance. The development of new matrix-array transducers and new software for 3D reconstruction with echocardiography make this approach particularly promising for the future; in the meantime, standard echocardiography, widely available and with low cost, will probably remain the most used tool for the evaluation of left ventricular structure and function in hypertension.
Impaired response to GM-CSF and G-CSF, and enhanced apoptosis in C/EBPβ-deficient hematopoietic cells
Authors: Akagi Tadayuki , Saitoh Takayuki , O'Kelly James , Akira Shizuo , Gombart Adrian F. , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: December 2007

Transcription factors known as CCAAT enhancer binding proteins (C/EBPs) are involved in hematopoietic differentiation, including myelopoiesis and granulopoiesis. C/EBPβ-deficient mice develop normally; however, they exhibit defective macrophage function, resulting in increased susceptibility to infection. Little is known about the role of C/EBPβ in granulopoiesis; therefore, we examined granulopoiesis in C/EBPβ-deficient mice. Morphology, the number of peripheral blood and bone marrow cells, and the expression of genes specific for the myeloid lineage were normal in C/EBPβ-deficient mice. Interestingly, the hematopoietic progenitor cells of C/EBPβ-deficient mice did not respond normally to granulocyte/macrophage-colony stimulating factor and granulocyte colony stimulating factor. In addition, C/EBPβ-deficient neutrophils displayed enhanced apoptosis compared with wild-type neutrophils. Our present results indicate that C/EBPβ helps regulate survival of neutrophils, downstream of the granulocyte colony stimulating factor receptor.
Effective and selective inhibition of chronic myeloid leukemia primitive hematopoietic progenitors by the dual Src/Abl kinase inhibitor SKI-606
Authors: Konig Heiko , Holyoake Tessa L. , Bhatia Ravi
Published: December 2007

Imatinib mesylate (imatinib) is highly effective in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) but is less effective in eliminating CML stem cells. We investigated whether SKI-606, a potent Bcr-Abl and Src kinase inhibitor without anti-PDGF or c-Kit activity, could effectively target primitive CML progenitors. CML and normal progenitors were cultured with SKI-606 or imatinib. SKI-606 effectively inhibited Bcr-Abl kinase activity in CML CD34+ cells and inhibited Src phosphorylation more potently than imatinib. However, SKI-606 and imatinib resulted in similar suppression of CML primitive and committed progenitor proliferation and growth in CFC and LTC-IC assays. Exposure to either agent alone or in combination resulted in only modest increase in apoptosis. Evaluation of downstream signaling pathways indicated that Akt and STAT5 activity was not changed, but a delayed increase in MAPK activity was seen at high concentrations of SKI-606. SKI-606 inhibited normal progenitor proliferation to a lesser extent than imatinib. SKI-606 effectively inhibits Bcr-Abl and Src kinase activity and inhibits CML progenitor growth with relatively little effect on normal progenitors. However, SKI-606 does not demonstrate increased ability to eliminate primitive CML progenitors by apoptosis compared with imatinib, emphasizing the need for additional strategies besides Bcr-Abl kinase inhibition for curative therapy of CML.
Inhibition of collagen-induced platelet aggregation by anopheline antiplatelet protein, a saliva protein from a malaria vector mosquito
Authors: Yoshida Shigeto , Sudo Toshiki , Niimi Masashi , Tao Lian , Sun Bing , Kambayashi Junichi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Luo Enjie , Matsuoka Hiroyuki
Published: December 2007

During blood feeding, mosquitoes inject saliva containing a mixture of molecules that inactivate or inhibit various components of the hemostatic response to the bite injury as well as the inflammatory reactions produced by the bite, to facilitate the ingestion of blood. However, the molecular functions of the individual saliva components remain largely unknown. Here, we describe anopheline antiplatelet protein (AAPP) isolated from the saliva of Anopheles stephensi, a human malaria vector mosquito. AAPP exhibited a strong and specific inhibitory activity toward collagen-induced platelet aggregation. The inhibitory mechanism involves direct binding of AAPP to collagen, which blocks platelet adhesion to collagen and inhibits the subsequent increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). The binding of AAPP to collagen effectively blocked platelet adhesion via glycoprotein VI (GPVI) and integrin α2β1. Cell adhesion assay showed that AAPP inhibited the binding of GPVI to collagen type I and III without direct effect on GPVI. Moreover, intravenously administered recombinant AAPP strongly inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation ex vivo in rats. In summary, AAPP is a malaria vector mosquito-derived specific antagonist of receptors that mediate the adhesion of platelets to collagen. Our study may provide important insights for elucidating the effects of mosquito blood feeding against host hemostasis.
BCL-2 dependence and ABT-737 sensitivity in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Del Gaizo Moore Victoria , Schlis Krysta D. , Sallan Stephen E. , Armstrong Scott A. , Letai Anthony
Published: December 2007

Cancer cells acquire disruptions in normal signal transduction pathways and homeostatic mechanisms that would trigger apoptosis in normal cells. These abnormalities include genomic instability, oncogene activation, and growth factor independent proliferation. Therefore, cancer cells likely require a block in apoptosis in order to survive. Overexpression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL-2 provides a block in apoptosis that is frequently observed in cancer cells. We have developed methods for the detection and analysis of BCL-2 dependence and here apply them to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). BH3 profiling, a mitochondrial assay that classifies blocks in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, indicated a dependence on BCL-2 of both ALL cell lines and primary samples. This dependence predicted that BCL-2 would be complexed with select pro-death BH3 family proteins, a prediction confirmed by the isolation of BCL-2 complexes with BIM. Furthermore, the BH3 profiling and protein analysis predicted that ALL cell lines and primary cells would be sensitive to ABT-737 as a single agent. Finally, BH3 profiling and protein studies accurately predicted a relative degree of sensitivity to BCL-2 antagonism in cell lines. The ALL cells studied exhibit BCL-2 dependence, supporting clinical trials of BCL-2 antagonists in ALL as single agents or combination therapies.
CMS links the tail
Authors: Screpanti Isabella
Published: December 2007

In this issue of Blood, Navarro and colleagues report the first molecular evidence for a pTα intracellular adaptor involved in human pre-TCR (T-cell receptor) function.
Biologically induced mineralization of dypingite by cyanobacteria from an alkaline wetland near Atlin, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Power Ian M , Wilson Sasha , Thom James M , Dipple Gregory M , Southam Gordon
Published: December 2007

Background

This study provides experimental evidence for biologically induced precipitation of magnesium carbonates, specifically dypingite (Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·5H2O), by cyanobacteria from an alkaline wetland near Atlin, British Columbia. This wetland is part of a larger hydromagnesite (Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·4H2O) playa. Abiotic and biotic processes for magnesium carbonate precipitation in this environment are compared.

Results

Field observations show that evaporation of wetland water produces carbonate films of nesquehonite (MgCO3·3H2O) on the water surface and crusts on exposed surfaces. In contrast, benthic microbial mats possessing filamentous cyanobacteria (Lyngbya sp.) contain platy dypingite (Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·5H2O) and aragonite. Bulk carbonates in the benthic mats (δ13C avg. = 6.7‰, δ18O avg. = 17.2‰) were isotopically distinguishable from abiotically formed nesquehonite (δ13C avg. = 9.3‰, δ18O avg. = 24.9‰). Field and laboratory experiments, which emulated natural conditions, were conducted to provide insight into the processes for magnesium carbonate precipitation in this environment. Field microcosm experiments included an abiotic control and two microbial systems, one containing ambient wetland water and one amended with nutrients to simulate eutrophic conditions. The abiotic control developed an extensive crust of nesquehonite on its bottom surface during which [Mg2+] decreased by 16.7% relative to the starting concentration. In the microbial systems, precipitation occurred within the mats and was not simply due to the capturing of mineral grains settling out of the water column. Magnesium concentrations decreased by 22.2% and 38.7% in the microbial systems, respectively. Laboratory experiments using natural waters from the Atlin site produced rosettes and flakey globular aggregates of dypingite precipitated in association with filamentous cyanobacteria dominated biofilms cultured from the site, whereas the abiotic control again precipitated nesquehonite.

Conclusion

Microbial mats in the Atlin wetland create ideal conditions for biologically induced precipitation of dypingite and have presumably played a significant role in the development of this natural Mg-carbonate playa. This biogeochemical process represents an important link between the biosphere and the inorganic carbon pool.
Direct maximum parsimony phylogeny reconstruction from genotype data
Authors: Sridhar Srinath , Lam Fumei , Blelloch Guy E , Ravi R , Schwartz Russell
Published: December 2007

Background

Maximum parsimony phylogenetic tree reconstruction from genetic variation data is a fundamental problem in computational genetics with many practical applications in population genetics, whole genome analysis, and the search for genetic predictors of disease. Efficient methods are available for reconstruction of maximum parsimony trees from haplotype data, but such data are difficult to determine directly for autosomal DNA. Data more commonly is available in the form of genotypes, which consist of conflated combinations of pairs of haplotypes from homologous chromosomes. Currently, there are no general algorithms for the direct reconstruction of maximum parsimony phylogenies from genotype data. Hence phylogenetic applications for autosomal data must therefore rely on other methods for first computationally inferring haplotypes from genotypes.

Results

In this work, we develop the first practical method for computing maximum parsimony phylogenies directly from genotype data. We show that the standard practice of first inferring haplotypes from genotypes and then reconstructing a phylogeny on the haplotypes often substantially overestimates phylogeny size. As an immediate application, our method can be used to determine the minimum number of mutations required to explain a given set of observed genotypes.

Conclusion

Phylogeny reconstruction directly from unphased data is computationally feasible for moderate-sized problem instances and can lead to substantially more accurate tree size inferences than the standard practice of treating phasing and phylogeny construction as two separate analysis stages. The difference between the approaches is particularly important for downstream applications that require a lower-bound on the number of mutations that the genetic region has undergone.
Trafficking of Central Opioid Receptors and Descending Pain Inhibition
Authors: Bie Bihua , Pan Zhizhong Z
Published: December 2007

The delta-opioid receptor (DOR) belongs to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with seven transmembrane domains, and its membrane trafficking is regulated by intracellular sorting processes involving its C-tail motifs, intracellular sorting proteins, and several intracellular signaling pathways. In the quiescent state, DOR is generally located in the intracellular compartments in central neurons. However, chronic stimulation, such as chronic pain and sustained opioid exposure, may induce membrane trafficking of DOR and its translocation to surface membrane. The emerged functional DOR on cell membrane is actively involved in pain modulation and opioid analgesia. This article reviews current understanding of the mechanisms underlying GPCRs and DOR membrane trafficking, and the analgesic function of emerged DOR through membrane trafficking under certain pathophysiological circumstances.
Importance of the Lon Protease in Mitochondrial Maintenance and the Significance of Declining Lon in Aging
Authors: NGO JENNY K. , DAVIES KELVIN J. A.
Published: December 2007

Abstract:  Mitochondria are a major intracellular source of free radicals and related oxidants. It is generally agreed that the mitochondrial production of such reactive oxygen and nitrogen species increases with age. Antioxidant systems in the mitochondria play an important role in limiting the amount of oxidative damage to tolerable levels. The Lon protease degrades oxidatively modified proteins in the mitochondrial matrix, a function similar to that of the 20S proteasome in the cytoplasm. Recently it was shown that inactive aconitase, a preferential substrate for the Lon protease, might be involved in the maintenance of the mitochondrial genome. Lon protease expression and activity declines with age, which may contribute to the accumulation of the oxidatively modified protein aggregates typically observed in aging and diseased cells. In addition, Lon has multiple functions, such as DNA binding and chaperone activity, for the assembly of respiratory complexes in the Electron Transport Chain. Taken together, Lon and aconitase may be key players in the maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis under conditions of stress, and (partial) compromise of their function may contribute to both aging and degenerative diseases.
Determinants of Skeletal Age Deviation in a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Powell Sandi , Ma Deqiong , Jones Graeme
Published: December 2007

Objective: Skeletal age deviation (SAD) is associated with bone mass and fracture risk in children, but factors determining this are unknown. The aim of this population-based cross-sectional study was to describe the factors associated with SAD.

Methods: A convenience sample of 640 male and female children aged 7–17 yr was studied. All were assessed for body composition (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), diet, strength, dexterity, habitual physical activity, sunlight exposure, smoking, and medication use. Skeletal age was assigned using the Tanner-Whitehouse-2 method.

Results: Subjects with a SAD greater than the 75th percentile had significantly higher height, weight, and Tanner stage compared with all other subjects. Bone-free lean mass, fat mass, and grip strength were positively associated with SAD. In multivariate analysis, ever smoking and use of inhaled corticosteroids were negatively associated with SAD, whereas milk drinking was positively associated with SAD. There was no significant association between sunlight exposure, television watching, light, or strenuous exercise and SAD.

Conclusions: The results of this study should be regarded as hypothesis generating but are biologically plausible and suggest that body composition, strength, diet, ever smoking, and inhaled corticosteroid use may be determinants of bone maturity relative to age and thus affect fracture risk in children. However, more studies are necessary to explore other determinants of SAD such as genetic and perinatal factors and whether SAD influences peak bone mass.
An evidence-based approach to lifestyle interventions in urogynaecology
Authors: Christofi Nicholas , Hextall Andrew
Published: December 2007

Urinary incontinence, urgency, overactive bladder symptoms, cystitis and urinary tract infections are common conditions that collectively trouble over one-third of the female population around and beyond the time of menopause, with a detrimental effect on physical, social and mental wellbeing. Apart from pharmacological and surgical treatments, a long list of lifestyle, behavioural, physical and complementary interventions have been introduced over the years to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms. This review examines the effect on these symptoms of lifestyle factors (such as weight, smoking, dietary components, fluid intake, exercise and bowel habit), complementary therapies (such as herbal remedies, acupuncture and hypnotherapy), behavioural therapies (bladder training and timed and prompted voiding), pelvic floor muscle training and some over-the-counter preparations. The high prevalence of the above conditions in combination with the increasing publicity for and awareness of the subject has contributed to the popularity of the interventions considered in this review. Many of them, however, lack a solid evidence base with regard to their efficacy and few have been subjected to robust randomized trials. It is widely recognized that there is a need for further prospective interventional studies of all lifestyle interventions to evaluate the effects of modifying these factors on lower urinary tract symptoms.
Proteins' promise – progress and challenges in ovarian cancer proteomics
Authors: Koehn H , Oehler M K
Published: December 2007

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of gynaecological cancer death. The mortality rate of ovarian cancer could be greatly decreased if there were a screening test which was able to detect the disease at an early stage, resulting in an increased probability of cure. The most promising prospect for the early detection of ovarian cancer comes from the rapidly advancing field of clinical proteomics. An increasing number of reports on the potential clinical application of proteomics research for early detection as well as risk assessment and management of ovarian cancer are being published. Although the research is very promising, major technical challenges are still preventing new discoveries in ovarian cancer proteomics from being translated into clinical practice.
Grape flavonoids and menopausal health
Authors: Huntley A L
Published: December 2007

Grape flavonoids are members of a larger group of plant compounds called polyphenols. Epidemiological evidence relating to the traditional Mediterranean diet, which is high in polyphenols, derived from vegetables and red wine, suggests that dietary polyphenols are of benefit to health and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Overall, the evidence is promising for the benefit of grape flavonoids in the form of red wine, red grape juice and related preparations for cardiovascular risk factors. There are data to suggest a reduction in platelet activation, inflammation and low-density lipoprotein oxidation, and improvement of endothelial function with grape flavonoids. The evidence for grape flavonoids and renal function, cognition and cancer is less clear. However, it is important to note that much of this research has been carried out in animal and cell models; relatively little work has been done in humans and specifically on the health of menopausal women. There are no general safety concerns with ingestion of grape products. Obviously, consumption of red wine should be within recommended limits and it should be noted that grape juice has high sugar content. Grape flavonoids are also available as a supplement. In conclusion, it is likely that grape flavonoids do benefit the menopausal women. Further research is needed on the mode and dosage of application to maximize these benefits.
Fusion of the wrist in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Toma C. D. , Machacek P. , Bitzan P. , Assadian O. , Trieb K. , Wanivenhaus A.
Published: December 2007

We retrospectively compared wrist arthrodesis using the Mannerfelt technique in 19 or an AO-plate in 23 patients with long-standing rheumatoid arthritis. The mean follow-up was for 76 months.

Compared with the Mannerfelt fusion group, patients in the AO-plate group reported greater satisfaction with their wrist function (74% vs 37%, p = 0.015). Complications were reported in six wrists in the AO-plate group and two wrists in the Mannerfelt fusion group (p = 0.258). At final follow-up, 95% of patients (41) reported either no pain or only mild pain. There was improvement in flexion of the finger joints in both groups but no significant improvement in the extension lag in either group.

Both methods relieve pain and improve function. Overall, the activities of daily living scores and the patients’ subjective assessment of outcome tended to be higher in the AO-plate group than in the Mannerfelt fusion group, although the difference was not statistically significant. Similarly, although more postoperative complications occurred in the AO-plate group, the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant.
The management of cubitus varus and valgus using the Ilizarov method
Authors: Piskin A. , Tomak Y. , Sen C. , Tomak L.
Published: December 2007

Cubitus varus and valgus are the most common complications of supracondylar and lateral condylar fractures. Various combinations of osteotomy and fixation have been described to correct these deformities but each is associated with significant complications. In this study, we used distraction osteogenesis and Ilizarov frame fixation to treat 24 elbows in 23 patients with cubitus varus or valgus. Their clinical outcome was evaluated using the protocol of Bellemore et al. The mean time to follow-up was 18.3 months (10 to 36) and the mean time to frame removal was 13.5 weeks (8 to 20). The mean carrying angle was corrected from −18.7° (−10° to −30°) to 6.1° (2° to 10°) in patients with cubitus varus and from 36.5° (25° to 45°) to 9.4° (4° to 15°) in patients with cubitus valgus. There were 18 excellent and six good results.

The Ilizarov method with gradual distraction is a safe, stable, adjustable and versatile method of treating deformities at the elbow without the problems of an unsightly scar or limited range of movement, and gives a good clinical and radiological outcome. Tardy ulnar nerve palsy should be treated first by anterior transposition.
The ‘four-in-one’ procedure for habitual dislocation of the patella in children
Authors: Joo S. Y. , Park K. B. , Kim B. R. , Park H. W. , Kim H. W.
Published: December 2007

We describe our experience with the ‘four-in-one’ procedure for habitual dislocation of the patella in five children (six knees). All the patients presented with severe generalised ligamentous laxity and aplasia of the trochlear groove. All had a lateral release, proximal ‘tube’ realignment of the patella, semitendinosus tenodesis and transfer of the patellar tendon. The mean age at the time of the operation was 6.1 years (4.9 to 6.9), and the patients were followed up for a mean of 54.5 months (31 to 66). The clinical results were evaluated using the Kujala score.

There has been no recurrence of dislocation. All the patients have returned to full activities and the parents and children were satisfied with the clinical results. The mean Kujala score was 95.3 (88 to 98). Two patients had marginal skin necrosis which healed after debridement and secondary closure. These early results in this small group have shown that the ‘four-in-one’ procedure is effective in the treatment of obligatory dislocation of the patella in children with severe ligamentous laxity and trochlear aplasia.
Total hip replacement in renal transplant patients
Authors: Nowicki P. , Chaudhary H.
Published: December 2007

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head creates considerable morbidity in successful renal transplant recipients who are generally young and expect active lifestyles. Total hip replacement is considered the treatment of choice in these patients, but surgeons may be wary because of a supposed increase in the risk of infection and other complications.

A review of the literature reveals that cemented hip arthroplasty provides good to excellent functional outcomes for renal transplant patients. Most authors have found that the risk of infection is not increased despite chronic immunosuppression, but the rates of general complications are and should be anticipated and treated. There is a high rate of early failure in these patients because of their young age and diffuse osteopenia as a result of secondary hyperparathyroidism related to the underlying renal disease and chronic steroid use. Recent studies have found that despite decreased bone stock in these patients, porous-coated prostheses are not contraindicated.
Radiological evidence of femoroacetabular impingement in mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Authors: Fraitzl C. R. , Käfer W. , Nelitz M. , Reichel H.
Published: December 2007

Conventional treatment of mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis consists of fixation in situ with wires or screws. Recent contributions to the literature suggest that even a mild slip may lead to early damage of the acetabular labrum and adjacent cartilage by abutment of a prominent femoral metaphysis. It has been suggested that the appropriate treatment in mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis should not only prevent further slipping of the epiphysis, but also address potential femoroacetabular impingement by restoring the anatomy of the proximal femur.

Between October 1984 and December 1995 we treated 16 patients for unilateral mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis by fixation in situ with Kirschner wires. In this study we have reviewed these patients for clinical and radiological evidence of femoroacetabular impingement. There was little clinical indication of impingement but radiological evaluation assessing the femoral head-neck ratio and measuring the Nötzli α angle on the anteroposterior and cross-table radiographs showed significant alterations in the proximal femur. None of the affected hips had a normal head-neck ratio and the mean α angle was 86° (55° to 99°) and 55° (40° to 94°) on the anteroposterior and lateral cross-table radiographs, respectively.

While our clinical data favours conventional treatment, our radiological findings are in support of restoring the anatomy of the proximal femur to avoid or delay the development of femoroacetabular impingement following mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
Using Budget Pies to Reveal Preferences: Validation of a Survey Instrument
Authors: McIver John P. , Ostrom Elinor
Published: December 2007

Why use a budget pie? A classic problem faccs everyone who is curious about the perferences of at least one other individual: How can some simple questions lead us to accurately know about another’s preferences? Husbands and wives sometimes face this problem when they are trying to find out where the other would like to vacation, what type of Christmas present the other would like, and so on. Some spouses try to hide their own prefercnces, deferring instead to the preferences of the other. Some married couples end up doing something neither partner prefers, both of them believing they are doing the thing the other most wants.

In the market-place, the entrepreneur faces the problem of ascertaining what his customers prefer. A misjudgement on his part will result in a loss of sales and profit. Continued difficulty in determining others’ prefcrences will result in business failure. But a private entrepreneur does have some information to go on. As private consumers purchase goods, they reveal their preferences for certain goods at one price over other goods at other prices. In the short run, quid pro quo relationships reveal much about the preferences of buyers for the goods and services they are currently offered.
Efficacy of Memantine on Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms Related to Dementia: A Systematic Meta-Analysis
Authors: Maidment Ian D , Fox Chris G , Boustani Malaz , Rodriguez Jorge , Brown Ruth C , Katona Cornelius L
Published: December 2007

Background:

The behavioral and psychological symptoms related to dementia (BPSD) are difficult to manage and are associated with adverse patient outcomes.

Objective:

To systematically analyze the data on memantine in the treatment of BPSD.

Methods:

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Pharm-line, the Cochrane Centre Collaboration, www.clinicaltrials.gov , www.controlled-trials.com , and PsycINFO (1966–July 2007). We contacted manufacturers and scrutinized the reference sections of articles identified in our search for further references, including conference proceedings. Two researchers (IM and CF) independently reviewed all studies Identified by the search strategy. We Included 6 randomized, parallel-group, double-blind studies that rated BPSD with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) in our meta-analysis. Patients had probable Alzheimer's disease and received treatment with memantine for at least one month. Overall efficacy of memantine on the NPI was established with a t-test for the average difference between means across studies, using a random effects model.

Results:

Five of the 6 studies identified had NPI outcome data. In these 5 studies, 868 patients were treated with memantine and 882 patients were treated with placebo. Patients on memantine improved by 1.99 on the NPI scale (95% CI –0.08 to –3.91: p = 0.041) compared with the placebo group.

Conclusions:

Initial data appear to indicate that memantine decreases NPI scores and may have a role in managing BPSD. However, there are a number of limitations with the current data; the effect size was relatively small, and whether memantine produces significant clinical benefit is not dear.
Evaluation of Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden biopulping with Ceriporiopsis subvermispora under non-aseptic conditions
Authors: Masarin Fernando , Ferraz André
Published: December 2007

In biopulping, efficient wood colonization by a selected white-rot fungus depends on previous wood chip decontamination to avoid the growth of primary molds. Although simple to perform in the laboratory, in large-scale biopulping trials, complete wood decontamination is difficult to achieve. Furthermore, the use of fungal growth promoters such as corn steep liquor enhances the risk of culture contamination. This paper evaluates the ability of the biopulping fungus Ceriporiopsis subvermispora to compete with indigenous fungi in cultures of fresh or poorly decontaminated Eucalyptus grandis wood chips. While cultures containing autoclaved wood chips were completely free of contaminants, primary molds grew rapidly when non-autoclaved wood chips were used, resulting in heavily contaminated cultures, regardless of the C. subvermispora inoculum/wood ratio evaluated (5, 50 and 3000 mg mycelium kg−1 wood). Studies on benomyl-amended medium suggested that the fungi involved competed by consumption of the easily available nutrient sources, with C. subvermispora less successful than the contaminant fungi. The use of acid-washed wood chips decreased the level of such contaminant fungi, but production of manganese peroxidase and xylanases was also decreased under these conditions. Nevertheless, chemithermomechanical pulping of acid-washed samples biotreated under non-aseptic conditions gave similar fibrillation improvements compared to samples subjected to the standard biodegradation process using autoclaved wood chips.
A new and facile method for isolation of lignin from wood based on complete wood dissolution
Authors: Fasching Mario , Schröder Philipp , Wollboldt R. Petra , Weber Hedda K. , Sixta Herbert
Published: December 2007

A new method for the isolation of lignin in high yield from wood and pretreated wood is presented, avoiding the liquid-solid extraction step of the classical milled wood lignin (MWL) isolation. Dissolved wood lignin (DWL) was obtained by total dissolution of ball milled wood in dimethylsulfoxide and N-methylimidazole (DMSO/NMI) followed by precipitation in dioxane/water in the course of which lignin and carbohydrate fractions were separated. The lignin fraction was purified. High lignin yields and the low number of separation steps belong to the advantages of the described method. DWL lignin was isolated from beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) and the sample was compared to MWL obtained by the classical Björkman method. Elemental analyses, methoxyl group content, potassium permanganate oxidation, infrared spectroscopy, and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy indicated that both lignin preparations are quite similar. However, MWL contained significantly more phenolic hydroxyl groups than DWL. The results indicated that MWL contains higher amounts of smaller fractions with broken β-O-4 linkages than DWL.
Isolation and characterization of lignins from Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. by enzymatic mild acidolysis (EMAL)
Authors: Guerra Anderson , Lucia Lucian A. , Argyropoulos Dimitris S.
Published: December 2007

Despite the growing importance of Eucalyptus wood as raw material for pulp and paper, there is a lack of knowledge on the chemistry of their macromolecular components. The present paper addresses this issue by applying the recently developed protocol for isolating enzymatic mild acidolysis lignins (EMAL) from Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus globulus and the softwood species Douglas fir and white fir, which were used for comparative purposes. The structures of EMALs were investigated by quantitative 31P NMR, DFRC/31P NMR (derivatization followed by reductive cleavage followed by quantitative 31P NMR) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Overall, the yields of EMALs isolated from Eucalyptus were higher than those from the softwoods examined. Lignin from E. globulus was found to contain higher contents of arylglycerol-β-aryl ether structures, free phenolic hydroxyl groups and syringyl-type units than lignin from E. grandis. New insights provided by the DFRC/31P NMR revealed that up to 62.2% of arylglycerol-β-aryl ether structures in E. globulus are uncondensed, while in E. grandis the amount of such uncondensed structures was found to be lower than 48%. SEC analyses showed that lignins from E. grandis and softwoods associate in greater extension than lignin from E. globulus.
Brock Collection Microfilm and Online Catalog are Extraordinary Resources
Authors: Campbell Edward D. C.
Published: December 2007

In August 2002 the Library of Virginia and the Huntington Library of San Marino, California, signed a much-anticipated agreement. Since combining resources, the two research libraries have been hard at work microfilming the Huntington's immense collection of Virginia manuscripts collected a century ago by noted historian, antiquarian, and collector Robert Alonzo Brock (1839–1914). Purchased by Henry Edwards Huntington in 1922, the Brock Collection ranges from the colonial period through the end of the 19th century, with the bulk of the materials dating to the middle years of the 1800s. The collection includes letters, diaries, military and business records, governmental records, church and other organizational records, genealogical research, and Civil War–related materials of every sort, as well as much of Brock's own correspondence as he assembled this amazing assortment of resources.
Heroin Abuse Is Characterized by Discrete Mesolimbic Dopamine and Opioid Abnormalities and Exaggerated Nuclear Receptor-Related 1 Transcriptional Decline with Age
Authors: Horvath Monika Cs. , Kovacs Gabor G. , Kovari Viktor , Majtenyi Katalin , Hurd Yasmin L. , Keller Eva
Published: December 2007

Dysfunction of mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic neurons is considered a common feature of all drugs of abuse, yet few investigations have evaluated the dopamine (DA) system in nonstimulant human abusers. We examined mRNA expression levels of DA transporter (DAT), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine D2receptor, α-synuclein, and nuclear receptor-related 1 (Nurr1) in discrete mesocorticolimbic and nigrostriatal subpopulations of heroin users and control subjects. The chronic use of heroin was significantly associated with decreased DAT mRNA expression localized to the paranigral nucleus (PN) and the mesolimbic division of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) with no alterations in nigrostriatal populations. Consistently, the density of DAT immunoreactivity was significantly reduced in the nucleus accumbens but not in dorsal striatum, mesolimbic and nigrostriatal efferent targets, respectively. Significant alteration of the mRNA expression of Nurr1, a transcription factor that regulates DAT expression, was also confined to the PN. Moreover, the results revealed an exaggerated reduction of Nurr1 expression with age in heroin users (r= −0.8268,p< 0.001 vs controls,r= −0.6204,p= 0.0746). TH and α-synuclein mRNA levels were, in contrast, elevated in the VTA PN in heroin users with no change of the D2receptor. Evaluating midbrain μ- and κ-opioid receptors, relevant for the action of heroin and regulation of DA neurons, revealed dysregulation of G-protein coupling selective to the VTA PN. Altogether the current findings provide direct neurobiological evidence that midbrain reward circuits have the most prominent DA and opioid impairments in human heroin abusers and that abnormal Nurr1 transcription with opiate use may exacerbate limbic dysfunction with age.
Lack of Synapsin I Reduces the Readily Releasable Pool of Synaptic Vesicles at Central Inhibitory Synapses
Authors: Baldelli Pietro , Fassio Anna , Valtorta Flavia , Benfenati Fabio
Published: December 2007

Synapsins (Syns) are synaptic vesicle (SV) phosphoproteins that play a role in neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity by acting at multiple steps of exocytosis. Mutation ofSYNgenes results in an epileptic phenotype in mouse and man suggesting a role of Syns in the control of network excitability. We have studied the effects of the genetic ablation of theSYN1gene on inhibitory synaptic transmission in primary hippocampal neurons. Inhibitory neurons lacking SynI showed reduced amplitude of IPSCs evoked by isolated action potentials. The impairment in inhibitory transmission was caused by a decrease in the size of the SV readily releasable pool, rather than by changes in release probability or quantal size. The reduction of the readily releasable pool was caused by a decrease in the number of SVs released by single synaptic boutons in response to the action potential, in the absence of variations in the number of synaptic contacts between couples of monosynaptically connected neurons. The deletion ofSYN1did not affect paired-pulse depression or post-tetanic potentation, but was associated with a moderate increase of synaptic depression evoked by trains of action potentials, which became apparent at high stimulation frequencies and was accompanied by a slow down of recovery from depression. The decreased size of the SV readily releasable pool, coupled with a decreased SV recycling rate and refilling by the SV reserve pool, may contribute to the epileptic phenotype of SynI knock-out mice.
Modulation of CA3 Afferent Inputs by Novelty and Theta Rhythm
Authors: Villarreal Desiree M. , Gross Amanda L. , Derrick Brian E.
Published: December 2007

Models of hippocampal function suggest that the modulation of CA3 afferent input during theta rhythm allows for a rapid alternation between encoding and retrieval states, with each phase enhancing either extrinsic or intrinsic CA3 afferents, favoring either encoding or retrieval, respectively. Here, we show that during the initial exploration of a novel environment by rats, intrinsic CA3-CA3 synaptic inputs are attenuated on CA3 theta peaks, favoring extrinsic CA3 inputs, whereas extrinsic perforant path-CA3 synaptic inputs are attenuated on CA3 theta troughs, favoring intrinsic CA3 inputs. This modulation is absent when animals are re-exposed to the same environment 2 or 48 h later and thus habituates with familiarity, suggesting a process involved in learning. Modulation of CA3 synaptic inputs during novelty was blocked by atropine at a dose that blocks type 2 theta rhythm. Re-exposure to the same novel environment 48 h later in the absence of atropine did not result in habituation, but instead modulated CA3 synaptic responses as though the environment were novel and explored for the first time. The NMDA receptor antagonist (±)-3-(2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)propyl-1-phosphonic acid (CPP), administered in a dose that blocks long-term potentiation induction, did not alter CA3 synaptic modulation during initial exploration. However, like atropine, CPP blocked the habituation of synaptic modulation normally observed with re-exposure, as though the environment were novel and explored for the first time. Thus, as predicted theoretically, recurrent and cortical CA3 afferents are differentially modulated during phases of theta rhythm. This modulation is atropine sensitive and habituates in an NMDA receptor-dependent manner, suggesting an NMDA receptor-dependent process that, in conjunction with theta rhythm, contributes to encoding of novel information in the hippocampus.
Synthetic bone grafts, the role of the gypsum in bone substitution; molecular biological approach
Authors: Lazáry Áron , Balla Bernadett , Kósa János , Bácsi Krisztián , Nagy Zsolt , Takács István , Varga Péter Pál , Speer Gábor , Lakatos Péter
Published: December 2007

A csontpótlást igénylő műtéti beavatkozások során a beültetésre kerülő csontpótló graft tulajdonságai meghatározzák az eljárás kimenetelét, rövid és hosszú távú sikerét. Munkánk első részében áttekintést adunk a modern csontpótló eljárások előnyeiről-hátrányairól, illetve részletesen foglalkozunk a gipsz szintetikus csontpótló graftként történő alkalmazásának lehetőségével. A kísérletes klinikai leírások biztonsággal és jó hosszú távú eredménnyel alkalmazható csonthiánykitöltő anyagként írják le a kalcium-szulfát-dihidrátot, azonban a gipsz csontsejtekre kifejtett hatása, a csontpótlás mechanizmusa nem ismert. Molekuláris biológiai módszerekkel vizsgáltuk a gipsz csontsejtekre gyakorolt hatását. Az egér-praeosteoblastok szaporodására ideális tenyésztőfelületnek bizonyult a gipsz, míg a klinikumban gyakran csonthiánykitöltő anyagként alkalmazott polimetil-metakrilát-csontcement gátolta a sejtek osztódását. A gipsz megváltoztatta a sejtek génkifejeződési profilját, a csontképződés irányába mutató gének expresszálódtak nagyobb mértékben a gipszes tenyészetekben, és ezekben a sejtkultúrákban emelkedett alkalikusfoszfatáz-aktivitást mértünk. Eredményeink molekuláris biológiai szempontból támasztották alá a gipsz szintetikus csontpótló graftként történő alkalmazásának létjogosultságát, a kalcium-szulfát-dihidrát új – a csontgyógyulást támogató – tulajdonságát is kimutatva.
Infestação de área urbana por Aedes aegypti e relação com níveis socioeconômicos
Authors: Ferreira Aline Chimello , Chiaravalloti Neto Francisco
Published: December 2007

OBJETIVO: Analisar a associação entre índices de infestação larvária por Aedes aegypti e fatores socioeconômicos. MÉTODOS: Foram calculados os índices de infestação na área urbana de São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, em janeiro de 2005 e em seguida geocodificados por endereço. Os setores censitários urbanos foram agrupados por meio de análise de componentes principais, produzindo quatro áreas socioeconômicas (1-4, ordem decrescente de nível socioeconômico) e um quinto agrupamento (5) com nível inferior aos demais e não pertencente aos setores censitários urbanos (bairros novos e loteamentos irregulares). Calcularam-se, para cada área, os índices de Breteau (IB), predial (IP) e de recipientes (IR), e as médias de recipientes existentes e pesquisados por casa. RESULTADOS: Os valores dos índices de infestação não apresentaram diferenças significativas entre as áreas socioeconômicas 1 a 4, mas foram menores que os índices obtidos para a área 5. As médias de recipientes existentes e pesquisados foram maiores para a área 1 em relação às áreas 2 a 4, mas não apresentaram diferenças significativas em relação à 5. CONCLUSÕES: Os índices larvários não mostraram associação com os diferentes níveis socioeconômicos da área correspondente aos setores censitários urbanos. Entretanto, os bairros novos, loteamentos irregulares e locais contíguos com as piores condições de saneamento básico apresentaram os maiores valores desses indicadores.
Mortalidade infantil e condições sociodemográficas no Ceará, em 1991 e 2000
Authors: Bezerra Filho José Gomes , Pontes Lígia Regina Franco Sansigolo Kerr , Miná Daniel de Lima , Barreto Maurício Lima
Published: December 2007

OBJETIVO: Analisar os modelos explicativos ecológicos para a taxa de mortalidade infantil no Ceará, em dois períodos distintos. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico transversal de dois anos censitários, 1991 e 2000, a partir de informações desagregadas por municípios do Ceará. Foram utilizadas as estimativas da taxa de mortalidade infantil do Instituto de Pesquisas Econômicas Aplicadas. Para os demais indicadores foram utilizadas diferentes fontes do Sistema de Informação de Saúde. Os principais fatores de risco foram encontrados empregando-se regressão linear múltipla. RESULTADOS: Para 1991, as variáveis preditoras da mortalidade infantil (R2=0,3575) nos municípios foram: proporção de residências pequenas (beta=0,0043; ro=0,010), de pessoas que vivem em domicílios com água encanada (beta=-0,0029; ro=0,024), de crianças de dez a 14 anos que trabalham (beta=0,0049; ro=0,017), de alfabetizados (beta=-0,0062; ro=0,031), taxa de urbanização (beta=0,0032; ro=0,004), taxa de fecundidade total (beta=0,0351; ro=0,024), chefes de família com renda mensal menor que meio salário mínimo (beta=0,0056; ro=0,000). Em 2000, os possíveis determinantes (R2=0,3236) foram: proporção de crianças menores de dois anos desnutridas (beta=0,0064; ro=0,024), de imóveis com esgotamento sanitário adequado (beta=-0,0024; ro=0,010), de despesa com recursos humanos da saúde em relação à despesa total em saúde (beta=-0,0024; ro=0,027), de valor da produção vegetal em relação ao total do estado (beta=-0,1090; ro=0,001), de mulheres alfabetizadas (beta=-0,0068; ro=0,044), intensidade da pobreza (beta=0,0065; ro=0,002) e índice de envelhecimento (beta=-0,0100; ro=0,006). CONCLUSÕES: Embora as variáveis não tenham sido exatamente as mesmas para os anos, percebeu-se tendência de mudança dos determinantes da mortalidade infantil, excetuando-se os indicadores de educação, renda e saneamento. A queda generalizada da fecundidade resultou na perda de seu poder descriminante, sendo substituída pelo índice de envelhecimento. Outra tendência observada foi a substituição de variáveis demográficas por indicadores de assistência à saúde.