bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of once‐daily fluticasone furoate nasal spray in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis treated for 2 wk
Authors: Meltzer Eli O. , Lee Jane , Tripathy Ita , Lim Junghee , Ellsworth Anna , Philpot Edward
Published: August 2008

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluticasone furoate (FF) nasal spray 55 and 110 μg once daily in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). Patients (n = 554) received placebo nasal spray or FF, administered using a unique side‐actuated device, in a 2‐wk, randomized, double‐blind study. Symptoms were evaluated by patients using a 4‐point categorical scale. Efficacy assessments included reflective and instantaneous total nasal symptom scores (r/iTNSS). Primary analyses were conducted in patients aged 6–11 yr in the intent‐to‐treat population (ITT); the 2–11 yr group provided supportive analyses. In patients aged 6–11 yr, FF 110 μg once daily significantly improved the daily rTNSS compared with placebo. FF 55 μg once daily was only numerically better for rTNSS and iTNSS. Secondary pre‐dose iTNSS and overall response to therapy were significant with FF 110 μg. The significant findings for FF 110 μg were supported by analyses in the entire ITT population of 2–11 yr olds. Both doses of FF were well tolerated. These study results suggest that FF nasal spray administered once daily for 2 wk is well tolerated and effective for the treatment of SAR symptoms in children aged 2–11 yr.
Coronatine Alleviates Polyethylene Glycol‐induced Water Stress in Two Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars
Authors: Ai L. , Li Z. H. , Xie Z. X. , Tian X. L. , Eneji A. E. , Duan L. S.
Published: August 2008

We studied the effects of coronatine (COR), a structural and functional analogue of jasmonates, on the drought tolerance of two rice cultivars, Handao 297 (a drought‐tolerant upland rice) and Yuefu (a drought‐sensitive lowland rice). Seedlings were treated with COR at the three‐leaved stage at 0.01 and 0.1 μm for 24 h, followed by imposition of water deficit induced with 20 % polyethylene glycol (PEG). Water stress reduced the biomass of both cultivars and increased leaf lipid peroxidation and solute leakage. Pre‐treatment with COR significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase in leaf tissues of water‐stressed Handao 297 (0.01 μm) and Yuefu (0.1 μm) seedlings. COR supplement also increased the accumulation of 44 and 32 kDa polypeptides in water‐stressed Handao 297 (0.01 and 0.1 μm) and Yuefu (0.1 μm) and significantly induced the expression of 29 kDa polypeptide in Handao 297. The results suggest that COR might alleviate drought stress by activating antioxidant enzymes and inducing proteins, thereby preventing membrane peroxidation and denaturation of bio‐molecules. Thus, membrane permeability decreased substantially by 24–27 % in Handao 297, and 22–29 % in Yuefu. The optimal concentrations conferring drought resistance were 0.01 for the upland rice and 0.1 μm for the lowland cultivar.
Annual dynamics of the mesozooplankton communities in a highly variable ecosystem (North Adriatic Sea, Italy)
Authors: Camatti Elisa , Comaschi Alessandra , De Olazabal Alessandra , Fonda Umani Serena
Published: August 2008

Mesozooplankton community composition at the species/taxa level was investigated from January to December 2001, at eight stations in the northern Adriatic Sea. Annual dynamics, taxonomic composition and spatial diversity in relation to different trophic conditions are discussed as related to previous studies and to different conditions, such as the presence of mucilage events. Zooplankton communities all over the northern sub‐basin were dominated by the cladoceran Penilia avirostris in summer, and by the calanoids Paracalanus parvus, Acartia clausi and the poecilostomatoids Oncaea spp. during the rest of the year. Whereas coastal communities were more variable with time and location, we were able to identify a group of offshore stations with a similar species/taxa composition and annual dynamics. Comparing the present results with previous studies, we observed significant changes in community composition in the time scale of 20 years, mostly due to a general decrease of A. clausi as the dominant species, being replaced by P. parvus. Also, P. avirostris swarms appear to have extended their temporal occurrence, and were present for longer periods of time when compared to past records. These changes might be related to the observed general increase of the average sea water temperature in the northern Adriatic Sea.
Saturation biopsies on autopsied prostates for detecting and characterizing prostate cancer
Authors: Delongchamps Nicolas B. , De La Roza Gustavo , Jones Richard , Jumbelic Mary , Haas Gabriel P.
Published: August 2008

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate a 36‐core saturation biopsy scheme on autopsied prostate glands to estimate the detection rate based on the true cancer prevalence, and to compare the cancer features on biopsy with whole‐mount pathological analysis, as saturation biopsies have been proposed as a tool to increase the prostate cancer detection rate, and as a staging tool to identify potentially insignificant cancers before surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We took 36‐core needle biopsies in 48 autopsied prostates from men who had no history of prostate cancer. The first 18 cores corresponded to an extended biopsy protocol including six cores each in the mid peripheral zone (PZ), lateral PZ and central zone. Six additional cores were then taken in each of these three locations. We compared the histological characteristics of step‐sectioned prostates with the biopsy findings. Tumours were considered clinically insignificant if they were organ‐confined with an index tumour volume of <0.5 mL and Gleason score of ≤6.

RESULTS

The pathological evaluation identified 12 (25%) cases of prostate cancer and 22 tumour foci; seven prostate cancers were significant. Of the 22 tumour foci, 16 (73%) were in the PZ. The first 18 cores detected seven cancers (58%), of which five were clinically significant. The last 18 cores detected four cancers, all of which were already detected by the first 18 cores. Of the five cancers remaining undetected by biopsies, two were clinically significant and three were insignificant. Comparison of the histological characteristics between biopsies and step‐sectioned prostates showed an overestimation of Gleason score by saturation biopsies in three of seven cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of saturation biopsies based on the true prevalence of prostate cancer showed no increase in detection rate over a less extensive 18‐core biopsy. Also, saturation biopsies might overestimate the final Gleason score on whole‐mount analysis.
The destruction of the lower urinary tract by ketamine abuse: a new syndrome?
Authors: Chu Peggy Sau‐Kwan , Ma Wai‐Kit , Wong Simon Chun‐Wing , Chu Ringo Wing‐Hong , Cheng Cheung‐Hing , Wong Shun , Tse Johnny Man‐li , Lau Fei‐Lung , Yiu Ming‐Kwong , Man Chi‐Wai
Published: August 2008

OBJECTIVE

To report the clinical spectrum seen in young abusers of street‐ketamine (regular recreational abusers of street‐ketamine, for its hallucinogenic effects) in Hong Kong, presenting with significant lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) but with no evidence of bacterial infection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the clinical presentations, pelvic pain and urgency/frequency scores, video‐urodynamic studies, cystoscopy findings, histological features of bladder biopsies and radiological findings of 59 ketamine abusers who were referred to the urology units of Princess Margaret and Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, from March 2000 to December 2007.

RESULTS

Of the 59 patients, all had moderate to severe LUTS, i.e. frequency, urgency, dysuria, urge incontinence and occasionally painful haematuria. Forty‐two (71%) patients had a cystoscopy that showed various degrees of epithelial inflammation similar to that seen in chronic interstitial cystitis. All of 12 available bladder biopsies had histological features resembling those of interstitial cystitis. Urodynamically, either detrusor overactivity or decreased bladder compliance with or without vesico‐ureteric reflux was detected to some degree in all of 47 patients. Thirty patients (51%) had unilateral or bilateral hydronephrosis on renal ultrasonography, and four (7%) showed features suggestive of papillary necrosis on radiological imaging. Eight patients had a raised serum creatinine level.

CONCLUSION

A syndrome of cystitis and contracted bladder can be associated with street‐ketamine abuse. Secondary renal damage can occur in severe cases which might be irreversible, rendering patients dependent on dialysis. The present data do not establish the precise cause nor the incidence. Street‐ketamine abuse is not only a drug problem, but might be associated with a serious urological condition causing a significant burden to healthcare resources.
SELF‐ORGANIZING PEER‐TO‐PEER SOCIAL NETWORKS
Authors: Wang Fang , Sun Yaoru
Published: August 2008

Peer‐to‐peer (P2P) systems provide a new solution to distributed information and resource sharing because of its outstanding properties in decentralization, dynamics, flexibility, autonomy, and cooperation, summarized as DDFAC in this paper. After a detailed analysis of the current P2P literature, this paper suggests to better exploit peer social relationships and peer autonomy to achieve efficient P2P structure design. Accordingly, this paper proposes Self‐organizing peer‐to‐peer social networks (SoPPSoNs) to self‐organize distributed peers in a decentralized way, in which neuron‐like agents following extended Hebbian rules found in the brain activity represent peers to discover useful peer connections. The self‐organized networks capture social associations of peers in resource sharing, and hence are called P2P social networks. SoPPSoNs have improved search speed and success rate as peer social networks are correctly formed. This has been verified through tests on real data collected from the Gnutella system. Analysis on the Gnutella data has verified that social associations of peers in reality are directed, asymmetric and weighted, validating the design of SoPPSoN. The tests presented in this paper have also evaluated the scalability of SoPPSoN, its performance under varied initial network connectivity and the effects of different learning rules.
Evolution of Higher‐Order Gray Hirota Solitary Waves
Authors: Hoseini S. M. , Marchant T. R.
Published: August 2008

The defocusing Hirota equation has dark and gray soliton solutions which are stable on a background of periodic waves of constant amplitude. In this paper, gray solitary wave evolution for a higher‐order defocusing Hirota equation is examined. A direct analysis is used to identify families of higher‐order gray Hirota solitary waves, which are embedded for certain parameter values. Soliton perturbation theory is used to determine the detailed behavior of an evolving higher‐order gray Hirota solitary wave. An integral expression for the first‐order correction to the wave is found and analytical expressions for the steady‐state and transient components of the solitary wave tail are derived. A subtle and complex picture of the development of solitary wave tails emerges. It is found that solitary wave tails develop for two reasons, one is decay of the solitary wave caused by resonance, the second is corrections at first‐order to the background wave. Strong agreement is found between the theoretical predictions of the perturbation theory and numerical solutions of the governing equations.
An Interactive, Similarity Increasing Algorithm for Random Strings with Applications to Key Agreement in ad hoc Networks
Authors: Makri Effie , Stamatiou Yannis C.
Published: August 2008

A central problem in distributed computing and telecommunications is the establishment of common knowledge between two computing entities. An immediate use of such common knowledge is in the initiation of a secure communication session between two entities because the two entities may use this common knowledge to produce a secret key for use with some symmetric cipher. The dynamic establishment of shared information (e.g., secret key) between two entities is particularly important in networks with no predetermined structure such as wireless mobile ad hoc networks. In such networks, nodes establish and terminate communication sessions dynamically with other nodes which may have never been encountered before to somehow exchange information which will enable them to subsequently communicate in a secure manner. In this paper we give and theoretically analyze a protocol that enables two entities initially possessing a string each to securely eliminate inconsistent bit positions, obtaining strings with a larger percentage of similarities. Our analysis involves the modeling of the operation of the protocol with a discrete random process amenable to approximation with a continuous differential equation belonging to the class of Abel's differential equations of the first kind, whose solution involves Lambert's W function.
The Symmetric Fourth Painlevé Hierarchy and Associated Special Polynomials
Authors: Filipuk Galina V. , Clarkson Peter A.
Published: August 2008

In this paper two families of rational solutions and associated special polynomials for the equations in the symmetric fourth Painlevé hierarchy are studied. The structure of the roots of these polynomials is shown to be highly regular in the complex plane. Further representations are given of the associated special polynomials in terms of Schur functions. The properties of these polynomials are compared and contrasted with the special polynomials associated with rational solutions of the fourth Painlevé equation.
Asymptotic N‐wave Solutions of the Nonplanar Burgers Equation
Authors: Rao Ch. Srinivasa , Satyanarayana Engu
Published: August 2008

In this paper, we construct asymptotic N‐wave solutions for the nonplanar Burgers equation as t→∞ via a balancing argument. These constructed asymptotics are compared with the approximate solutions of the nonplanar Burgers equation obtained by an approach due to Parker (Acoust. Lett. 4 (1981)). We also present a computationally convenient form for the N‐wave solution of the nonplanar Burgers equation modifying Sachdev et al.'s (Stud. Appl. Math. 103 (1999)) approach. The asymptotic N‐wave solutions obtained by balancing argument and modification to Sachdev et al.'s approach are validated by a careful numerical study.
PURE JOINT PRODUCTION, INCOME DISTRIBUTION, EMPLOYMENT AND THE EXCHANGE RATE
Authors: Mariolis Theodore
Published: August 2008

This paper deals with an open economy with heterogeneous capital and linear processes of pure joint production from a long‐period perspective. It is shown that: (1) an effective exchange rate change has ambiguous effects on the distribution of income and the competitiveness of domestic output; (2) the matrix of super‐multipliers linking exports to gross output is not always uniquely defined; and (3) the volume of exports and the volume of total employment may be inversely related, even if prices and distribution do not change.
A NOTE ON METROECONOMICA: SHACKLE'S CONTRIBUTION
Authors: Pomini Mario
Published: August 2008

In the 1950s Shackle contributed a number of important articles to Metroeconomica, a new economic journal founded by Eraldo Fossati in 1949 and published in Trieste (Italy). The journal gave considerable prominence to Shackle's theory of decision under uncertainty through publication of many articles, but, above all, through publication of the proceedings of a symposium held in 1959 and entitled ‘Shackle's theory on decision’. The aim of this note is to clarify why Metroeconomica gave particular importance to Shackle's perspective.
DIVORCE AND THE OPTION VALUE OF MARITAL SEARCH
Authors: Filoso Valerio
Published: August 2008

This work tests whether the introduction of divorce law changes the timing of marital search. Rational agents should adjust to the divorce risk by increasing the average search spell, whereas option value theory stresses the role of irreversible investments: in this case, the new exit option should result in shorter spells. Using a dynamic model of marital search, a new data set of retrospective individual Italian data, and two robust statistical specifications, we find strong evidence that the legal innovation actually lowered the age at marriage, thereby worsening the level of marital matching, and possibly reinforcing self‐fulfilling prophecies of divorce.
Digital photography for patient counseling in dermatology – a study
Authors: Kaliyadan F
Published: August 2008

Objectives  To evaluate the use of digital photography in dermatology as an aid to patient counseling and follow‐up.

Materials and methods  Two hundred patients attending the dermatology Out‐Patient Department at our centre over a 1‐year period were included. Half the group, randomly assigned (G1), had their clinical photographs taken and were counseled using basic imaging software, their images and other relevant images regarding their disease and possible treatment outcomes. The control group (G0) was counseled without using any kind of imaging. Patient satisfaction was scored in both groups after the initial counseling session and then after 2 months.

Results  The test group (G1) gave statistically significant higher scores at both readings compared with the control group (G0).

Conclusion  Digital imaging can be a very effective tool for the dermatologist for patient counseling.
Climatic warming increases isoprene emission from a subarctic heath
Authors: Tiiva Päivi , Faubert Patrick , Michelsen Anders , Holopainen Toini , Holopainen Jarmo K. , Rinnan Riikka
Published: August 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02658.xCommentary p 735
Truncated Tau with the Fyn‐binding domain and without the microtubule‐binding domain hinders the myelinating capacity of an oligodendrocyte cell line
Authors: Belkadi Abdelmadjid , LoPresti Patrizia
Published: August 2008

The mechanisms underlying developmental myelination have therapeutic potential following CNS injury and degeneration. We report that transplanted central glial (CG)‐4 cells had a diminished myelinating capacity in myelin‐deficient (md) rats when cells express a mutated form of Tau (Tau [688]), which binds Fyn but not the microtubules. In the brain of the md rats, Tau [688]‐transfected CG‐4 cells displayed a decrease in cellular process outgrowth and myelination; in the spinal cord the extent of myelination rostral and caudal to the injection site was decreased. In contrast, control Tau [605]‐transfected CG‐4 cells formed long cellular processes and substantial areas of myelin both in the brain and spinal cord. In culture, Tau [688]‐transfected CG‐4 cells displayed a decrease in cellular process outgrowth, and Fyn localized largely in the cell body, not the processes. Thus, Tau in oligodendrocytes plays a key role in myelination, and a functional Tau‐Fyn interaction might have therapeutic potential during demyelination and myelin repair following CNS injury and degeneration.
Sex differences in circulating antibodies in nestling Pied FlycatchersFicedula hypoleuca
Authors: LOBATO ELISA , MERINO SANTIAGO , MORALES JUDITH , TOMÁS GUSTAVO , MARTÍNEZ‐DE LA PUENTE JOSUÉ , SÁNCHEZ ESTRELLA , GARCÍA‐FRAILE SONIA , MORENO JUAN
Published: August 2008

Sex differences in immune function are relatively well studied in vertebrate animals, although the patterns are not always clear in birds. The study of immune responses in nestlings of wild bird populations may constitute an appropriate way to investigate inherent intersexual differences while controlling for environmental conditions such as parasitism that affect male and female individuals growing in the same nest. We studied whether the cell‐mediated immune response, as measured by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) injection, and the levels of circulating antibodies differ between sexes of Pied Flycatcher nestlingsFicedula hypoleuca.No sex differences in nestling cell‐mediated immune response were found, but females showed significantly higher levels of plasma immunoglobulins than males did. Although nestling birds may not have a fully functional humoral immune defence, our study indicates that sex differences in the humoral component exist at this early stage of life. Given the importance of antibodies in the fight against parasite, bacterial and viral infections, the intrinsic sex disparity in circulating antibodies may have important implications for the life history of each sex.
Conservation of Scops Owl Otus scops in the Alps: relationships with grassland management, predation risk and wider biodiversity
Authors: SERGIO FABRIZIO , MARCHESI LUIGI , PEDRINI PAOLO
Published: August 2008

The Scops Owl Otus scops is the most endangered and least studied owl in Europe, with widespread declines reported throughout Europe. The species is qualitatively associated with two threats: changes in agricultural practices and predation by Tawny Owls Strix aluco. We investigated these two threats to a population in the Alps, where land abandonment is causing widespread woodland expansion with unknown consequences. Predation risk and environmental indicators of the degree of agricultural change both predicted Scops Owl distribution. Furthermore, agricultural change also affected broader biodiversity, as estimated by the richness and diversity of bird and diurnal butterfly species. This resulted in a strong association between Scops Owl presence and wider biodiversity, which held at different spatial scales and justified a conservation focus on a single, threatened species. The persistence of Scops Owls in the Alps could be promoted through subsidies halting land abandonment and promoting extensive grassland management practices. Such interventions would have the additional advantage of yielding broader biodiversity benefits.
Comparing the genetics of wild and captive populations of White‐headed Ducks Oxyura leucocephala: consequences for recovery programmes
Authors: MUÑOZ‐FUENTES VIOLETA , GREEN ANDY J. , SORENSON MICHAEL D.
Published: August 2008

The White‐headed Duck is a globally threatened species historically recorded from Spain in the west to China in the east. It has suffered major population declines, local extinctions and range fragmentation. Several projects have attempted to reintroduce captive‐bred birds into parts of the former range in Europe, but with little success. Two captive stocks currently exist, one originating from Pakistan in 1968 and the other originating from Spain in 1982. This study compares the suitability of these captive stocks for specific reintroduction projects by using 11 microsatellite markers and mtDNA control region sequences to assess genetic differences between captive populations and wild birds from Spain and Greece. No significant population structure was found and all microsatellite alleles recorded in captive birds originating from Pakistan were also observed in the wild Spanish population. A higher diversity of alleles was observed in wild birds from Greece than from Spain, probably due to the effects of a strong bottleneck experienced in Spain in the 1970s. Compared with wild populations, both captive stocks have suffered a significant loss of diversity in microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA owing to founder effects and/or genetic drift, and therefore may not be well suited for release programmes. We recommend the development of a more diverse captive breeding programme based on birds taken from different areas of the range, in particular by supplementing the Spanish population with birds from North Africa. Our study shows the value of molecular tools in developing conservation programmes for threatened bird species and has implications for the design of recovery programmes.
Partial proteasome inhibition in human fibroblasts triggers accelerated M1 senescence or M2 crisis depending on p53 and Rb status
Authors: Chondrogianni Niki , Trougakos Ioannis P. , Kletsas Dimitris , Chen Qin M. , Gonos Efstathios S.
Published: August 2008

Proteasome‐dependent degradation has been extensively investigated and has been shown to play a vital role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Proteasome activity and expression are reduced during aging and replicative senescence. Its activation has been shown to confer lifespan extension in human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs), whereas partial proteasome inhibition triggers an irreversible premature senescent state in young HDFs. As p53 and Rb tumor suppressors regulate both replicative and premature senescence (RS and PS, respectively), in this study we investigated their implication in proteasome inhibition‐mediated PS. By taking advantage of a variety of HDFs with defective p53 or/and Rb pathways, we reveal that proteasome activity inhibition to levels normally found in senescent human cells results in immediate growth arrest and/or moderate increase of apoptotic death. These effects are independent of the cellular genetic context. However, in the long term, proteasome inhibition‐mediated PS can only be initiated and maintained in the presence of functional p53. More specifically, we demonstrate that following partial proteasome inhibition, senescence is dominant in HDFs with functional p53 and Rb molecules, crisis/death is induced in cells with high p53 levels and defective Rb pathway, whereas stress recovery and restoration of normal cycling occurs in cells that lack functional p53. These data reveal the continuous interplay between the integrity of proteasome function, senescence and cell survival.
Rapid and sensitive detection of viable bacteria in contaminated platelet concentrates using a newly developed bioimaging system
Authors: Motoyama Yasuo , Yamaguchi Nobuyasu , Matsumoto Mami , Kagami Noboru , Tani Yoshihiko , Satake Masahiro , Nasu Masao
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: Rapid and sensitive methods for the detection of bacteria in platelet concentrates (PCs) are required as well as inactivation techniques to decrease the transfusion‐associated risk of infection from bacterially contaminated PCs. In this study, a rapid microbiologic method for the sensitive counting of viable bacteria in PCs was developed by combining a fluorescent staining technique and a bioimaging system.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: An esterase indicator, carboxyfluorescein diacetate, was used to detect physiologically active bacteria. Treatment was optimized to selectively remove platelets (PLTs). Bacterial cells trapped on a filter were automatically discriminated from other particles or PLT debris and counted by a bioimaging system. The sensitivity, rapidity, and recovery rates were evaluated using PCs spiked with 14 reference bacterial strains and clinical isolates.

RESULTS: Lysis treatment with enzyme and detergent was effective to remove PLTs and white blood cells. Two buffers for fluorescent vital staining were needed for highly sensitive detection of pathogenic bacteria. Fewer than 100 cells spiked in 5‐mL PCs were detected by the bioimaging system after treatment and fluorescent staining, and this result shows that PLTs are selectively digested by the treatment. Bacterial cells spiked in 25‐mL PCs were detected within 45 minutes (treatment, 15 min; filtration and fluorescent staining, 15 min; automated counting and precise image analysis, 10‐15 min).

CONCLUSION: The microbiologic method described here is rapid and sensitive, and this method has potential for the screening of PCs contaminated with bacterial cells. Furthermore, this method could contribute to further evaluation of inactivation techniques.
Freezing of buffy coat–derived, leukoreduced platelet concentrates in 6 percent dimethyl sulfoxide
Authors: Hornsey Valerie S. , McMillan Loraine , Morrison Alex , Drummond Olive , MacGregor Ian R. , Prowse Chris V.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: There has recently been renewed interest in freezing platelets (PLTs) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for the treatment of major traumatic injuries, especially in military situations. This study examined PLTs that were frozen in small volumes of 6 percent DMSO at −80°C.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Buffy coat–derived pooled leukoreduced PLT concentrates were frozen in 6 percent DMSO and stored at −80°C. Assays included hypotonic shock response (HSR); aggregation; glycoprotein (GP)Ibα and P‐selectin binding sites; annexin V binding to phosphatidylserine, glycocalicin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Cone and plate technology (DiaMed Impact‐R, DiaMed) was used to test PLT function under near physiologic conditions.

RESULTS: The freeze‐thaw loss of PLTs was 23 percent. HSR was 17 ± 7 percent. Cytometry demonstrated two populations of PLTs: one with normal levels of GPIbα binding sites (27 × 103 ± 3 × 103/PLT) and one with reduced levels (5.5 × 103 ± 1.2 × 103/PLT). There were 1.4 × 103 ± 0.2 × 103 P‐selectin binding sites per PLT. Annexin V binding to phosphatidylserine was 50 ± 9 percent and LDH was 496 ± 207 IU per 1012 PLTs. Surface coverage and aggregate size, as measured by the DiaMed Impact‐R, were similar to those observed with PLTs stored for 2 days at 22°C.

CONCLUSION: Some degree of activation was demonstrated by the proportion of PLTs with reduced levels of GPIbα binding sites, increased P‐selectin expression, and increased Annexin V binding. LDH concentrations indicated a degree of lysis. The DiaMed Impact‐R results showed that the PLTs were still capable of adhering to surfaces and forming aggregates under shear force.
Gingival and dentofacial changes in adolescents and adults 2 to 10 years after orthodontic treatment
Authors: Theytaz Georges‐André , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: August 2008

Background: Information about long‐term changes of the shape of the gingival margin is missing.

Aim: To monitor 8 year changes of the gingival contour occurring in adolescents and adults and relate these changes to dentofacial growth.

Subjects and method: Forty adolescents (mean age 16.3), and 14 adults (mean age 29.7) were included in the study with photographs, radiographs and casts taken 2 and 10 years after orthodontic treatment.

The gingival contour of upper central incisors and the midline passing through the contact surface of both teeth were traced digitally using calibrated photographs. Changes were measured on seven standardized lines of the gingival contour. Lower facial height changes and tooth eruption were measured using lateral cephalograms.

Results: Adolescents and adults showed a central mean apical displacement of the gingival margin of 0.51 mm (SD 0.4 mm) and 0.13 mm (SD 0.17 mm), respectively. This displacement decreased by moving away from the centre. The gingival displacement was associated to the individual's lower facial height augmentation, r=0.63 (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Apical displacement of the gingival contour of the upper central incisors takes place during adolescence following a semi‐lunar shape. Growth explains parts of these changes.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Three‐Dimensional Culture of Endometrial Cells: An In Vitro Model of Endometriosis
Authors: Esfandiari Navid , Nazemian Zohreh , Casper Robert F.
Published: August 2008

Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue outside of the uterine cavity and is the most common gynecologic disorder in women of reproductive age. Although the quality of life for women with endometriosis is severely compromised, very little is known about the pathophysiology of endometriosis and current therapeutic strategies provide temporary symptomatic relief but not a cure. Endometriosis remains poorly understood primarily because of an inability to identify patients with early stage disease. Animal models have been developed to study early endometriosis but all have some problems that limit their usefulness in determination of the pathophysiology of endometriosis as it occurs in the human. We have preliminary evidence that in the presence of a three‐dimensional fibrin matrix, human endometrial glands, stroma, and neovascularization can develop in vitro, mimicking the earliest stages of endometriosis. We believe this model system reflects the situation in the peritoneal cavity of women following retrograde menstruation when endometrial fragments, fibrin, leucocytes and cytokines are trapped in pockets in the dependent parts of the pelvis, allowing endometrial cell proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis to occur. In the present review article, we will further discuss this in vitro model of early endometriosis and discuss possible anti‐angiogenic drugs that are already commercially available in an attempt to find an effective and specific treatment for endometriosis.
Serotonergic genes and amygdala activity in response to negative affective facial stimuli in Korean women
Authors: Lee B.‐T. , Ham B.‐J.
Published: August 2008

Serotonergic genes have been implicated in mood disorders, alcoholism and certain personality traits. We investigated the possible relationship between several polymorphisms in the serotonin (5‐HT) system and amygdala responses to negative facial stimuli in Korean women using functional magnetic resonance imaging. All participants were genotyped with regard to the following polymorphisms: the serotonin transporter‐gene‐linked polymorphic region (5‐HTTLPR), tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) G(−703)T, 5‐HT1A C(−1019)G and 5‐HT2A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs6311. We found increased activations in response to angry facial stimuli in the bilateral amygdala of subjects with the long allele of 5‐HTTLPR compared with those with two copies of the short allele. Higher activations in response to sad facial stimuli were found in the bilateral amygdala of subjects with the T/T genotype of 5‐HT2A SNP rs6311, compared with C allele carriers, and in subjects with the G/G genotype of TPH2 G(−703)T, compared with those with T/T and G/T genotypes. Our results for individuals from an Asian population countered a previous finding for a Caucasian population and identified the moderating role of genetic background in the relationships between these serotonergic gene polymorphisms and amygdala function elicited by negative emotional stimuli.
Verbal working memory deficits in abstinent heroin abusers
Authors: Wang Zhao-Xin , Xiao Zhuang-Wei , Zhang Da-Ren , Liang Chun-Yu , Zhang John X.
Published: August 2008

Background:

A prevailing belief is that opioids tend not to impair cognitive performance in opioid-dependent users. However, the impact of heroin abuse on verbal memory, especially on working memory, is not well studied and the results available are inconsistent.

Objective:

This study was carried out to test the hypothesis that abstinent heroin abusers have intact working memory capacity.

Methods:

N-back task and backward digit span task were used to measure the verbal working memory capacity in 28 abstinent heroin abusers and 25 controls matched for age, education level and gender. Forward digit span task was used as a control task to measure short-term memory capacity.

Results:

Compared with the control subjects, heroin abusers showed normal backward/forward digit spans but significant performance impairment in then-back task.

Conclusion:

Abstinent heroin abusers have intact short-term memory capacity but impaired verbal working memory capacity.
Ethanol neurotoxicity and dentate gyrus development
Authors: Miki Takanori , Yokoyama Toshifumi , Sumitani Kazunori , Kusaka Takashi , Warita Katsuhiko , Matsumoto Yoshiki , Wang Zhi‐Yu , Wilce Peter A. , Bedi Kuldip S. , Itoh Susumu , Takeuchi Yoshiki
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT  Maternal alcohol ingestion during pregnancy adversely affects the developing fetus, often leading to fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). One of the most severe consequences of FAS is brain damage that is manifested as cognitive, learning, and behavioral deficits. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in such abilities; it is also known as one of the brain regions most vulnerable to ethanol‐induced neurotoxicity. Our recent studies using morphometric techniques have further shown that ethanol neurotoxicity appears to affect the development of the dentate gyrus in a region‐specific manner; it was found that early postnatal ethanol exposure causes a transitory deficit in the hilus volume of the dentate gyrus. It is strongly speculated that such structural modifications, even transitory ones, appear to result in developmental abnormalities in the brain circuitry and lead to the learning disabilities observed in FAS children. Based on reports on possible factors deciding ethanol neurotoxicity to the brain, we review developmental neurotoxicity to the dentate gyrus of the hippocampal formation.
Metabolic fingerprinting of amniotic fluid from the streptozotocin‐induced diabetic pregnant rat using Fourier transform‐ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Hasegawa Mina , Tanaka Katsuhiro , Takenaka Shigeo
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT  Metabolic fingerprinting of amniotic fluid from streptozotocin‐induced diabetic pregnant rats was performed using Fourier transform‐ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. Some of the fetuses from the diabetic pregnant rats exhibited ventricular septal defect. The positive ion profiles of amniotic fluids from diabetes were different to those of the control rats. The alteration of biochemical composition in the diabetic amniotic fluid suggests the presence of potential biomarkers to indicate progression of malformation under the diabetic pregnancy.
Herlyn‐Werner‐Wunderlich syndrome with pregnancy: A rare presentation
Authors: Rana Ritu , Pasrija Shika , Puri Manju
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT  Müllerian duct anomalies are infrequently encountered clinical problems and often present with difficulty in diagnosis. A high level of suspicion is the key to diagnosis, which is usually made soon after menarche. However, this is the first reported case of uterus didelphys with obstructed hemivagina and pyocolpos with ipsilateral renal agenesis in which the diagnosis was delayed until pregnancy.
Protein folding includes oligomerization – examples from the endoplasmic reticulum and cytosol
Authors: Christis Chantal , Lubsen Nicolette H. , Braakman Ineke
Published: August 2008

A correct three‐dimensional structure is a prerequisite for protein functionality, and therefore for life. Thus, it is not surprising that our cells are packed with proteins that assist protein folding, the process in which the native three‐dimensional structure is formed. In general, plasma membrane and secreted proteins, as well as those residing in compartments along the endocytic and exocytic pathways, fold and oligomerize in the endoplasmic reticulum. The proteins residing in the endoplasmic reticulum are specialized in the folding of this subset of proteins, which renders this compartment a protein‐folding factory. This review focuses on protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum, and discusses the challenge of oligomer formation in the endoplasmic reticulum as well as the cytosol.
No association of the CD45 77C>G transversion with inflammatory bowel disease in German patients
Authors: Thude H. , Rebstock K. , Blume J. , Lutz B. , Barz D.
Published: August 2008

A 77C>G transversion in exon A of the CD45 gene was investigated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and controls. The distribution of the 77G allele was not significantly different between patients and controls. We found no evidence for the contribution of the 77C>G transversion in susceptibility to IBD.
The microsatellite, macrophage migration inhibitory factor ‐794, may influence gene expression in human mononuclear cells stimulated with E. coli or S. pneumoniae
Authors: Temple S. E. L. , Cheong K. Y. , Price P. , Waterer G. W.
Published: August 2008

Polymorphisms within the gene encoding macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) have been associated with susceptibility to inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and increased risk of developing sepsis. We investigated the effects of the MIF‐173G>C polymorphism and the MIF‐794 CATT microsatellite on MIF expression. These are in moderate linkage disequilibrium. Mononuclear cells from healthy donors were stimulated with bacterial pathogens associated with sepsis (Streptococcus pneumoniae or Escherichia coli). MIF mRNA and protein levels were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and ELISA, respectively. Carriage of the C allele of MIF‐173G>C or the 7 CATT repeat of the MIF‐794 microsatellite correlated with lower basal and stimulated MIF mRNA levels. However, levels of intracellular and extracellular MIF protein were similar. This discordance between effects on MIF mRNA and protein was not explained by differential effects of genotype on stability of MIF mRNA (detected by actinomycin D mRNA chase). Gel shift assays revealed no differences in the profile of nuclear proteins from mononuclear cells bound by the G and C alleles of MIF‐173G>C, but alleles at the microsatellite marker showed differential binding. Our data suggest that the MIF‐794 CATT microsatellite influences transcription by differential binding of nuclear transcription factors. This may impact on inflammatory processes.
An investigation of the C4 gene arrangement in ethnic Chinese (Taiwanese)
Authors: Tseng Yung‐Te , Lee Hsien‐Hsiung , Lee Yann‐Jinn
Published: August 2008

C4 complement components are encoded by two genes, C4A and C4B, located on chromosome 6p21.3 of the major histocompatibility complex class III region. The isotypic residues at position 1101–1106 of the C4A gene contain the Pro‐Cys‐Pro‐Val‐Leu‐Asp sequence which has a higher affinity for binding amino group‐containing antigens, while C4B contains the Leu‐Ser‐Pro‐Val‐Ileu‐His sequence which has a higher affinity for hydroxyl group‐containing antigens. These two genes show different reaction rates which infer solubilization of antibody–antigen aggregates and propagation of the activation pathway to form the membrane attack complex. Using a polymerase chain reaction‐based amplification method to identify and differentiate the locations of the C4A and C4B genes adjacent to the respective CYP21A2P and CYP21A2 genes, the isotypic residues at position 1101–1106 for the C4 isotype were categorized into five haplotypes of C4 gene arrangements. Among them, we found that 65% of the gene proportions between C4A and C4B were balanced, while 35% of them were unbalanced in this ethnic Chinese (i.e. Taiwanese) cohort. We consider that the unbalanced arrangements of the C4 locus in the individuals might have influenced the clearance of apoptotic debris and immune complexes which may injure tissue by initiating autoimmune diseases and immunity responses associated with susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections.
Seasonal and Tissue Age Influences on Endophytic Fungi of Pinus tabulaeformis (Pinaceae) in the Dongling Mountains, Beijing
Authors: Guo Liang‐Dong , Huang Guo‐Rui , Wang Yu
Published: August 2008

Endophytic fungi associated with Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. were investigated in the Dongling Mountains of Beijing. A total of 16 200 tissue segments of P. tabulaeformis from four sample collections were processed, and 10 659 fungal isolates were recovered. The overall colonization and isolation rates of endophytic fungi from high to low were spring > winter > autumn > summer and in different tissues were bark > needle > xylem, irrespective of sampling seasons. The colonization rates of endophytic fungi of needles increased with age in the four sample collections. There were no significant differences of the colonization rates of endophytic fungi among 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year‐old bark and xylem, except for significantly lower colonization rates in 1‐year‐old bark than in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old bark in summer. A similar trend of the isolation rates of endophytic fungi occurred. A total of 24 fungal taxa were recorded, of these five taxa Alternaria alternata, Leptostroma sp., Pestalotiopsis besseyi, Phoma lingam, and Phomopsis archeri, were consistently isolated as the common fungi in each sample collection. Our results suggest that some fungi show a certain degree of tissue recurrence or specificity, and the composition of endophytic assemblages is not conspicuously influenced by the seasonal factor.
Establishment of Withania somnifera Hairy Root Cultures for the Production of Withanolide A
Authors: Murthy Hosakatte N. , Dijkstra Camelia , Anthony Paul , White Daniel A. , Davey Mike R. , Power J. Brian , Hahn Eun J. , Paek Kee Y.
Published: August 2008

Withania sominifera (Indian ginseng) was transformed by Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Explants from seedling roots, stems, hypocotyls, cotyledonary nodal segments, cotyledons and young leaves were inoculated with A. rhizogenes strain R1601. Hairy (transformed) roots were induced from cotyledons and leaf explants. The transgenic status of hairy roots was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction using nptII and rolB specific primers and, subsequently, by Southern analysis for the presence of nptII and rolB genes in the genomes of transformed roots. Four clones of hairy roots were established; these differed in their morphology. The doubling time of faster growing cultures was 8–14 d with a fivefold increase in biomass after 28 d compared with cultured, non‐transformed seedling roots. MS‐based liquid medium was superior for the growth of transformed roots compared with other culture media evaluated (SH, LS and N6), with MS‐based medium supplemented with 40 g/L sucrose being optimal for biomass production. Cultured hairy roots synthesized withanolide A, a steroidal lactone of medicinal and therapeutic value. The concentration of withanolide A in transformed roots (157.4 μg/g dry weight) was 2.7‐fold more than in non‐transformed cultured roots (57.9 μg/g dry weight).
Phylogenetic Analysis of the Plant‐specificZinc Finger‐HomeoboxandMini Zinc FingerGene Families
Authors: Hu Wei , DePamphilis Claude W. , Ma Hong
Published: August 2008

Zinc finger‐homeodomain proteins (ZHD) are present in many plants; however, the evolutionary history of theZHDgene family remains largely unknown. We show here thatZHDgenes are plant‐specific, nearly all intronless, and related toMINI ZINC FINGER(MIF) genes that possess only the zinc finger. Phylogenetic analyses ofZHDgenes from representative land plants suggest that non‐seed plantZHDgenes occupy basal positions and angiosperm homologs form seven distinct clades. Several clades contain genes from two or more major angiosperm groups, including eudicots, monocots, magnoliids, and other basal angiosperms, indicating that several duplications occurred before the diversification of flowering plants. In addition, specific lineages have experienced more recent duplications. Unlike theZHDgenes,MIFs are found only from seed plants, possibly derived fromZHDs by loss of the homeodomain before the divergence of seed plants. Moreover, theMIFgenes have also undergone relatively recent gene duplications. Finally, genome duplication might have contributed substantially to the expansion of family size in angiosperms and caused a high level of functional redundancy/overlap in these genes.