bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissemination of the conifer seed fungus Caloscyphafulgens by small mammals
Authors: Sullivan Thomas P. , Sutherland Jack R. , Woods T. A. D. , Sullivan Druscilla S.
Published: August 2007

Field studies showed that the seed-pathogenic fungus Caloscyphafulgens (Pers.) Boudier was present in squirrel caches in 25% of the white spruce, Piceaglauca (Moench) Voss, stands in an area near Prince George, B.C. and in duff in 17 and 8% of the lodgepole pine, Pinuscontorta Dougl., clear-cuts there and at Williams Lake, respectively. In the laboratory, deer mice (Peromyscusmaniculatus Wagner), chipmunks (Eutamiastownsendii Bachman), and Douglas squirrels (Tamiasciurusdouglasii Bachman) consumed C. fulgens infested seeds of Douglas-fir, Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco, lodgepole pine, and white spruce as readily as noninfested seeds. Squirrels also ate C. fulgens ascocarps and passed intact ascospores, but these were not observed to germinate. Red squirrels, T. hudsonicus Erxleben, moved, and ate seeds from, both infested and noninfested Douglas-fir cones in the field. It is proposed that C. fulgens is disseminated by squirrels, and perhaps other rodents, and that the fungus may preserve seeds in caches thereby ensuring squirrel food supplies between cone crops. Caloscyphafulgens may also prevent seed germination in direct seeding trials.
A procedure for study of immunochemical properties of megagametophyte tissue of PinusStrobus L.
Authors: Eckert Robert T. , Eckert Barry S.
Published: August 2007

Seeds from six trees of Pinusstrobus L. were germinated. Excised megagametophyte tissue preparation from each was injected into female New Zealand white rabbits. After 7 weeks, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) – polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoretic separation of antigens was performed. Electrophoretic transfer of antigens from gels to nitrocellulose blots was accomplished, followed by treatment of blots with antibody, 125I-labelled protein A, and autoradiography. Each tree could be uniquely identified based on comparisons among the other trees. This procedure is highly sensitive and avoids lack of detection of nonprecipitating antibodies in agar preparations.
Rapid assessment of outerwood specific gravity in live trees using a pocket durometer
Authors: Godfrey G. A. , Garthwaite D. K.
Published: August 2007

A compact and inexpensive instrument (durometer) was tested for its ability to quickly estimate the specific gravity in the outerwood of 18-year-old Douglas-fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco). It utilizes the method of steel-pin penetration for correlating shock resistance with wood density, is capable of any number of repeatable strikes, and has a calibrated adjustment for the impact force. An individual durometer can thus be used on virtually any tree species. Both single- and double-strike readings of durometer penetration detected significant differences in average outerwood densities (as determined from increment cores) from opposite sides of sample trees. The double-strike measurements also gave a correlation coefficient of −0.69 when compared with outerwood densities of individual Douglas-fir trees, and −0.73 in a smaller trial on juvenile lodgepole pine (Pinuscontorta Dougl.). In general, the durometer appears capable of providing correlations very comparable to those obtained through the use of the pilodyn wood tester. Used in conjunction with its special bark punch, the durometer seems to have a high potential for exceptionally rapid measurement of outerwood density in large numbers of trees for group ranking.
Evaluation of forestry programs: the with–without analysis
Authors: Harou Patrice A.
Published: August 2007

The with–without analysis used in the evaluation of forestry programs, which are aimed at increasing timber supply from nonindustrial private forest land, offers much leeway for interpretation. Three factors have an important effect on the quantification of a program's net marginal social benefit: the information on yield for managed and unmanaged forest, the behavior of the program participants, and the existence of already existing forestry programs and laws affecting forest management.
Nitrification potential in an alder plantation
Authors: Hendrickson O. , Chatarpaul L.
Published: August 2007

Nitrification rates in soil from an alder plantation were measured by nitrite production in chlorate-amended slurries. Rates were stimulated by increased pH, ammonium, and phosphate levels. Alder roots did not have an inhibitory effect on nitrification. Conifer needles totally suppressed nitrite production in the slurries. If conifer needles were added 6 h after the start of incubation, nitrite levels declined rapidly. This decline was attributed to denitrification or microbial assimilation rather than to leakage through the chlorate block.
Relationship between gibberellin A4/7 concentration, time of treatment, and crown position on flowering of Piceaglauca
Authors: Marquard Robert D. , Hanover James W.
Published: August 2007

Treatment with the gibberellin mixture A4 and A7 (GA4/7) enhanced female flowering on mature white spruce (Piceaglauca (Moench) Voss). Time of treatment, crown position, and GA4/7 concentration influenced treatment success. GA4/7 treatment initiated before meristematic differentiation began (late June) enhanced female strobilus production, whereas those initiated after late June were ineffective. Shoots treated with 250 mg•L−1 GA4/7 bore significantly more female strobili than shoots that received 500 mg•L−1. Treatment did not affect female production on uppermost crown positions, male strobilus production, or seed yield per cone. Female strobili predominated from axillary buds centrally located on untreated shoots. GA4/7 treatments that enhanced female production shifted the distribution of strobili to more distal shoot positions.
Root and shoot biomass and mycorrhizal development of white spruce seedlings naturally regenerating in interior Alaskan floodplain communities
Authors: Krasny M. E. , Vogt K. A. , Zasada J. C.
Published: August 2007

Root and shoot biomass and mycorrhizal development were examined for white spruce (Piceaglauca (Moench) Voss) seedlings naturally regenerating in four floodplain communities in the boreal forest. Mean seedling biomass was highest in the open community and lowest in the spruce community. Seedlings growing in the open community had higher root:shoot ratios (0.50) compared with seedlings growing in the willow (0.34), alder (0.20), and spruce (0.24) communities. Essentially all short roots of spruce seedlings growing in all four communities were infected by mycorrhizal fungi throughout the growing season.
Limits on the usefulness of erosion-hazard ratings: experiences in northwestern California
Authors: Rice R. M. , Gradek P. D.
Published: August 2007

Although erosion-hazard ratings are often used to guide forest practices, those used in California from 1974 to 1982 have been inadequate for estimating erosion potential. To improve the erosion-hazard rating procedure, separate estimating equations were used for different situations. The ratings were partitioned according to yarding method, erosional process, and both yarding method and erosional process. Partitioning by yarding method resulted in a slight improvement in the precision of erosion estimates. The other two methods resulted in fourfold increases in prediction errors. Results indicate that a single unified erosion-hazard rating procedure is the most practical way of predicting logging-related erosion in northwestern California.
Bud development in grand fir (Abiesgrandis)
Authors: Owens John N.
Published: August 2007

Vegetative buds of mature Abiesgrandis (Dougl.) Lindl. (grand fir) were studied throughout the annual growth cycle. Vegetative buds became mitotically active in mid-March, bud burst occurred in mid-May, and shoot elongation continued until the end of June. Bud scales were initiated during shoot elongation. In mid-April axillary buds were initiated on elongating shoots. They were initiated subterminally in the axils of the first-formed bud scales and laterally in the axils of leaf primordia. Axillary buds followed the same developmental sequence as terminal buds. The end of bud-scale initiation was preceded by rapid apical enlargement and followed by a period of rapid leaf initiation. The rate of leaf initiation slowed in mid-August but continued until vegetative buds became dormant in mid-November. Seed cones are axillary on the upper surface of vigorous shoots in the upper region of the crown. Pollen cones are axillary on the lower surface of shoots below the seed cone bearing region of the crown. Bract and microsporophyll initiation began in early to mid-July, was rapid at first, until about two-thirds of the primordia were initiated, then slower until all primordia were initiated. All bracts and ovuliferous scales were initiated and seed-cone buds became dormant in early November. All microsporophylls were initiated by early September, microsporangial development began in mid-August, and pollen-cone buds became dormant in early November. The cyclic nature of cone production in Abies is discussed in relation to cone-bud initiation, cone maturation, and photosynthate utilization in developing shoots.
Islamic Constitutionalism
Authors: Arjomand Saïd Amir
Published: August 2007

As the first survey of the topic, this review covers Islamic constitutionalism since its emergence a century ago, showing a significant range of historical variation. The first two phases of Islamic constitutionalism are separated by a watershed, the late coming of the age of ideology, which began with the creation of Pakistan in 1947, thus predating the contemporary resurgence of Islam by some two decades. In the first phase, Islam appeared as a limitation to government and legislation, without any presumption that it should be the basis of the constitution itself. In the second phase, Islam came to be considered the basis of the constitution and the state. In the incipient third phase of postideological Islamic constitutionalism, we witness a return to the idea of limited government—this time as the rule of law according to a constitution that is not based on but is inclusive of the principles of Islam as the established religion.
Maternal diabetes adversely affects AMP-activated protein kinase activity and cellular metabolism in murine oocytes
Authors: Ratchford Ann M. , Chang Aimee S. , Chi Maggie M.-Y. , Sheridan Rachael , Moley Kelle H.
Published: August 2007

Maternal diabetes is associated with an increased risk of miscarriages and congenital anomalies. Preovulatory oocytes in murine models also experience maturational delay and greater granulosa cell apoptosis. The objective of this study was to examine whether maternal diabetes influences preovulatory oocyte metabolism and impacts meiotic maturation. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic B6SJLF1 mice were superovulated, and oocytes were collected at 0, 2, and 6 h after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection. Individual oocyte concentrations of ATP, 5′-AMP, glycogen, and fructose-1,6-phosphate (FBP) and enzyme activities of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), adenylate kinase, hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (Hadh2), and glutamic pyruvate transaminase (Gpt2) were measured. Protein levels of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) were also measured. ATP levels were significantly lower in oocytes from diabetic mice, and the percent change in the AMP-to-ATP ratio was significantly higher in these oocytes. In contrast, activities of Hadh2 and Gpt2, two enzymes activated by AMPK, were significantly less in these oocytes. Additionally, glycogen and FBP levels, both endogenous inhibitors of AMPK, were elevated. Phosphorylated ACC, a downstream target of AMPK, and phosphorylated AMPK were both decreased in diabetic oocytes, thus confirming decreased AMPK activity. Finally, addition of the activator AICAR to the in vitro maturation assay restored AMPK activity and corrected the maturation defect experienced by the oocytes from diabetic mice. In conclusion, maternal diabetes adversely alters cellular metabolism leading to abnormal AMPK activity in murine oocytes. Increasing AMPK activity in these oocytes during the preovulatory phase reverses the metabolic changes and corrects delays in meiotic maturation.
Peripheral estrogen receptor-α selectively modulates the waveform of GH secretory bursts in healthy women
Authors: Veldhuis Johannes D. , Keenan Daniel M. , Bowers Cyril Y.
Published: August 2007

Estradiol (E2) drives growth hormone (GH) secretion via estrogen receptors (ER) located in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. ERα is expressed in GH releasing hormone (GHRH) neurons and GH-secreting cells (somatotropes). Moreover, estrogen regulates receptors for somatostatin, GHR peptide (GHRP, ghrelin), and GH itself, while potentiating signaling by IGF-I. Given this complex network, one cannot a priori predict the selective roles of hypothalamic compared with pituitary ER pathways. To make such a distinction, we introduce an investigative model comprising 1) specific ERα blockade with a pure antiestrogen, fulvestrant, that does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier; 2) graded transdermal E2 administration, which doubles GH concentrations in postmenopausal women; 3) stimulation of fasting GH secretion by pairs of GHRH, GHRP-2 (a ghrelin analog), and l-arginine (to putatively limit somatostatin outflow); and 4) implementation of a flexible waveform deconvolution model to estimate the shape of secretory bursts independently of their size. The combined strategy unveiled that 1) E2 prolongs GH secretory bursts via fulvestrant-antagonizable mechanisms; 2) fulvestrant extends GHRH/GHRP-2-stimulated secretory bursts; 3) l-arginine/GHRP-2 stimulation lengthens GH secretory bursts whether or not E2 is present; 4) E2 limits the capability of l-arginine/GHRP-2 to expand GH secretory bursts, and fulvestrant does not inhibit this effect; and 5) E2 and/or fulvestrant do not alter the time evolution of l-arginine/GHRH-induced GH secretory bursts. The collective data indicate that peripheral ERα-dependent mechanisms determine the shape (waveform) of in vivo GH secretory bursts and that such mechanisms operate with secretagogue selectivity.
Leptin is a coactivator of TGF-β in unilateral ureteral obstructive kidney disease
Authors: Kümpers Philipp , Gueler Faikah , Rong Song , Mengel Michael , Tossidou Irini , Peters Imke , Haller Hermann , Schiffer Mario
Published: August 2007

Progressive tubulointerstitial fibrosis is the common end point leading to end-stage renal disease in experimental and clinical settings. Since the peptide hormone leptin is involved not only in the regulation of obesity but also in the regulation of inflammation and fibrosis, we tested the hypothesis whether leptin deficiency has an impact on tubulointerstitial fibrosis in mice. Leptin-deficient ( ob/ ob) and leptin receptor-deficient mice ( db/ db) were exposed to 14 days of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The degree of fibrosis and inflammation was compared with that in sham-operated mice by performing immunohistochemistry, quantitative PCR, and Western blotting. We found that tubulointerstitial fibrosis was significantly reduced in the obstructed kidneys of ob/ ob compared with db/ db mice or control mice. Detailed analysis of infiltrating inflammatory cells by immunohistochemistry revealed a significant reduction of CD4+ cells at 14 days after UUO in both ob/ ob and db/ db mice. In contrast, we could not detect significant differences in CD8+ cells and macrophage content. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β mRNA levels, TGF-β-induced Smad-2/3 activation, and the upregulation of downstream target genes were significantly reduced in ob/ ob mice. In addition, we demonstrated that leptin could enhance TGF-β signaling in normal rat kidney fibroblasts in vitro. We conclude that leptin can serve as a cofactor of TGF-β activation and thus plays an important role in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Therefore, selective blockade of the leptin axis might provide a therapeutic possibility to prevent or delay fibrotic kidney disease.
Forskolin stimulates phosphorylation and membrane accumulation of UT-A3
Authors: Blount Mitsi A. , Klein Janet D. , Martin Christopher F. , Tchapyjnikov Dmitry , Sands Jeff M.
Published: August 2007

UT-A1 is regulated by vasopressin and is localized to the apical membrane and intracellular compartment of inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells. UT-A3 is also expressed in the IMCD and is regulated by forskolin in heterologous systems. The goal of the present study is to investigate mechanisms by which vasopressin regulates UT-A3 in rat IMCD. In fresh suspensions of rat IMCD, forskolin increases the phosphorylation of UT-A3, similar to UT-A1. Biotinylation studies indicate that UT-A3 is located in the plasma membrane. Forskolin treatment increases the abundance of UT-A3 in the plasma membrane similar to UT-A1. However, these two transporters do not form a complex through a protein-protein interaction, suggesting that transporter function is unique to each protein. While immunohistochemistry localized UT-A3 to the basal and lateral membranes, a majority of the staining was cytosolic. Immunohistochemistry of vasopressin-treated rat kidney sections also localized UT-A3 primarily to the cytosol with basal and lateral membrane staining but also showed some apical membrane staining in some IMCD cells. This suggests that under normal conditions, UT-A3 functions as the basolateral transporter but in a high cAMP environment, the transporter may move from the cytosol to all plasma membranes to increase urea flux in the IMCD. In summary, this study confirms that UT-A3 is located in the inner medullary tip where it is expressed in the basolateral membrane, shows that UT-A3 is a phosphoprotein in rat IMCD that can be trafficked to the plasma membrane independent of UT-A1, and suggests that vasopressin may induce UT-A3 expression in the apical plasma membrane of IMCD.
Heterogeneous Biophysical Properties of Frog Dorsal Medullary Nucleus (Cochlear Nucleus) Neurons
Authors: Yang Sungchil , Feng Albert S.
Published: August 2007

The cochlear nucleus (CN) in mammals, or its counterpart in birds, has multiple subdivisions each containing distinct morphological and functional (i.e., temporal discharge patterns and biophysical properties) cell types that project to different auditory nuclei in the brain stem in parallel. The analogous structure in frogs, the dorsal medullary nucleus (DMN), is a single phylogenetically older structure with no subdivision. Similar to the CN, the DMN has complex cytoarchitecture and contains neurons with diverse morphological phenotypes, but whether these cell types possess distinct biophysical characteristics, like their counterparts in mammals and avians, is unclear. Here we show that DMN neurons in young adult northern leopard frogs ( Rana pipiens pipiens) possess heterogeneous biophysical properties. There are four major biophysical phenotypes on the basis of the unit's response (i.e., its temporal firing pattern) to depolarizing currents: onset, phasic-burst, sustained-chopper, and adapting. These cells have distinct membrane input resistances and time constants, spike shapes, current-voltage relationships, first-spike latencies, entrainment characteristics, and ionic compositions (i.e., low-threshold potassium current, Ikl, and hyperpolarization-activated current, Ih). Furthermore, these phenotypes correspond to cells' dendritic morphologies, and they bear similarities and differences to those found in the mammalian CN. The similarities are remarkable considering that amphibians are a distinct evolutionary lineage from birds and mammals.
Extracorporeal Photopheresis as a Treatment for Patients with Severe, Refractory Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Sand Michael , Bechara Falk G. , Sand Daniel , Radenhausen Michael , Tomi Nordwig S. , Altmeyer Peter , Hoffmann Klaus
Published: August 2007

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex disease with a variety of possible treatment regimens. The study objective was to demonstrate that methoxsalen used in conjunction with the Uvar XTS photopheresis system (Therakos, Exton, Pa., USA) is safe and can have a clinical effect on the skin manifestations and the quality of life in patients with severe, refractory AD. Methods: Single-arm, open-label treatment using the Uvar XTS photopheresis system. Seven patients (4 male and 3 female, median age: 47 years) with severe (SCORAD >45) AD of at least 12 months duration who in the preceding 12 months had been refractory to all 3 of the first-line therapies for AD, i.e. topical steroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors and one form of phototherapy (UVA, UVB or PUVA), or to one of the second-line therapies like systemic steroids or cyclosporine were included in the study. Treatment consisted of two extracorporeal photopheresis treatments (ExP) on successive days every 2 weeks for a minimum of 12 weeks to a maximum of 20 weeks. Quality of life assessment was performed with the SF-36 Health Survey and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy FACT-G Survey. Clinical improvement was documented with SCORAD assessment. Results: ExP led to a significant decrease in the SCORAD score from 77.7 after 10 cycles to 55.6. Patients reported that they had begun to notice improvement of their skin conditions after 5 cycles of photopheresis. The FACT-G score showed significant improvement from 64.8 to 72.9 (p < 0.05) and the SF-36 Health Survey showed significant improvement in the emotional well-being subscores (p < 0.05). Conclusions: ExP can have a significant therapeutic effect on the skin and quality of life improvement in a selected group of patients with severe AD who are refractory to conventional forms of therapy. However, larger studies are needed to further evaluate its therapeutic potential.
Successful Treatment with Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis for Secondary Skin Lesions of Chronic Lymphedema
Authors: Motegi Sei-ichiro , Tamura Atsushi , Okada Etsuko , Nagai Yayoi , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: August 2007

The treatment of severe lymphedema is a difficult challenge. We performed lymphaticovenular anastomosis on two patients with secondary skin lesions of chronic lymphedema; one patient exhibited acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum of the vulva and the other presented elephantiasis nostras verrucosa of the lower leg. Both patients obtained a remarkable improvement in skin lesions and also in the reduction of lymphedema of the lower extremity. During a 6-month-follow-up period, constant reduction in the circumference of the lower extremities without exacerbation of skin lesions was achieved in both patients. Lymphaticovenular anastomosis is a useful surgical treatment for secondary lymphedema in the lower extremities. In addition, this surgical treatment is effective for secondary lesions of lymphedema, including acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum and elephantiasis nostras verrucosa.
Exacerbation of Lupus Panniculitis following Anti-Hepatitis-B Vaccination
Authors: Choffray A. , Pinquier L. , Bachelez H.
Published: August 2007

Even though benefits of vaccination policies have been widely demonstrated, vaccine injections might be associated with rare side effects. In this setting, the potential role of vaccines, mostly against hepatitis B virus, in the induction of autoimmunity has been a matter of controversy. We report the case of a woman followed for a lupus panniculitis which had been in remission for 3 years, who developed a lupus flare following an anti-hepatitis-B vaccine injection. The topography of recurring lupus lesions, the chronology of the flare and the increase in the antinuclear autoantibody serum level all supported a causal role for vaccination in the relapse of the lupus lesions. We believe that the present case might provide a first observation of lupus panniculitis possibly induced by hepatitis B vaccination, and this should be added to the range of dysimmune manifestations caused by vaccinations.
Mitochondria in Perineuronal Satellite Cell Sheaths of Rabbit Spinal Ganglia: Quantitative Changes during Life
Authors: Martinelli Carla , Sartori Patrizia , Ledda Maria , Pannese Ennio
Published: August 2007

We studied quantitative changes in mitochondria of perineuronal satellite cell sheaths (SCSs) of rabbit spinal ganglia from young to extremely advanced age (1, 3.6, 6.7 and 8.8 years). The mitochondrial structure did not differ in the four age groups, while mitochondrial size increased progressively and significantly with age. The mean percentage of cytoplasmic volume occupied by mitochondria decreased progressively and significantly from young to old animals. This decrease was mainly due to a progressive and significant reduction in the total mitochondrial volume. Lipofuscin accumulation had a negligible influence on this reduction. These results suggest that the ability of SCSs to produce energy decreases with age and that the reduced ability of spinal ganglion neurons to respond to high energy demands in old age may be in part due to the diminished contribution of perineuronal satellite cells.
Ellobius lutescens: Sex Determination and Sex Chromosome
Authors: Just W. , Baumstark A. , Süss A. , Graphodatsky A. , Rens W. , Schäfer N. , Bakloushinskaya I. , Hameister H. , Vogel W.
Published: August 2007

The mole vole Ellobius lutescens is an interesting animal, not only concerning its sex determination mechanism without the Y-chromosomal Sry gene, that triggers sex determination in nearly all other mammalian species, but also regarding the karyotype with an odd number of chromosomes, being identical in male and female animals. The odd chromosome represents the X chromosome, and therefore, even males do not have a Y chromosome. We present an overview of a search for candidate genes of male sex determination in the mole vole Ellobius lutescens. A singular X raises questions about the need for X chromosome inactivation in female cells. We present preliminary data that support a hypothesis that the E. lutescensXist gene may be degenerated and thus non-functional.
Expression of Putative Sex-Determining Genes during the Thermosensitive Period of Gonad Development in the Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpentina
Authors: Rhen T. , Metzger K. , Schroeder A. , Woodward R.
Published: August 2007

Modes of sex determination are quite variable in vertebrates. The developmental decision to form a testis or an ovary can be influenced by one gene, several genes, environmental variables, or a combination of these factors. Nevertheless, certain morphogenetic aspects of sex determination appear to be conserved in amniotes. Here we clone fragments of nine candidate sex-determining genes from the snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina, a species with temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). We then analyze expression of these genes during the thermosensitive period of gonad development. In particular, we compare gene expression profiles in gonads from embryos incubated at a male-producing temperature to those from embryos at a female-producing temperature. Expression of Dmrt1 and Sox9 mRNA increased gradually at the male-producing temperature, but was suppressed at the female-producing temperature. This finding suggests that Dmrt1 and Sox9 play a role in testis development. In contrast, expression of aromatase, androgen receptor (Ar), and Foxl2 mRNA was constant at the male-producing temperature, but increased several-fold in embryos at the female-producing temperature. Aromatase, Ar, and Foxl2 may therefore play a role in ovary development. In addition, there was a small temperature effect on ERα expression with lower mRNA levels found in embryos at the female-producing temperature. Finally, Dax1, Fgf9, and SF-1 were not differentially expressed during the sex-determining period, suggesting these genes are not involved in sex determination in the snapping turtle. Comparison of gene expression profiles among amniotes indicates that Dmrt1 and Sox9 are part of a core testis-determining pathway and that Ar, aromatase, ERα, and Foxl2 are part of a core ovary-determining pathway.
Evolution of Left Atrial Systolic and Diastolic Functions in Different Stages of Hypertension: Distinct Effects of Blood Pressure Control
Authors: Tsai Chia-Ti , Hwang Juey-Jen , Shih Yi-Chung , Chiang Fu-Tien , Lai Ling-Ping , Lin Jiunn-Lee
Published: August 2007

Background: To evaluate the left atrial (LA) volume, and LA systolic (contractile) and diastolic (expansion) functions in different stages of hypertension with or without atrial fibrillation (AF), as well as the effects of good blood pressure control. Methods: A prospective observational study. Individuals including 22 normotensive controls, 23 patients with mild hypertension, 20 with severe hypertension, and 17 with hypertension and paroxysmal AF were recruited for paired echocardiography studies at baseline and 6 months after control of hypertension. Results: With increasing severity of hypertension, left ventricular (LV) diastolic function deteriorated with decreasing LV septal E′/A′ and increasing E/E′ ratios. LA expansion index was reduced in parallel. LA expansion index was correlated positively with LV E′/A′ (r = 0.43, p = 0.022) and inversely with LV E/E′ (r = 0.49, p = 0.009). Significant improvement of LV diastolic function and LA expansion index preceded the reduction of LA volume after blood pressure control. In patients with paroxysmal AF, LA volume reduction was more evident in patients receiving angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers. Conclusions: With progressive LV diastolic dysfunction in hypertension, there was a corresponding deterioration in LA diastolic function. Effective blood pressure control for 6 months improved LA diastolic function.
Laser Capture Microdissection-Microarray Analysis of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis Glomeruli
Authors: Bennett Michael R. , Czech Kimberly A. , Arend Lois J. , Witte David P. , Devarajan Prasad , Potter S. Steven
Published: August 2007

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a major cause of end-stage renal disease. In this report we used laser capture microdissection to purify diseased glomeruli, and microarrays to provide universal gene expression profiles. The results provide a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the disease process and suggest novel therapeutic strategies. Consistent with earlier studies, molecular markers of the differentiated podocyte, including WT1, nephrin, and VEGF, were dramatically downregulated in the diseased glomerulus. We also observed multiple changes consistent with increased TGF-β signaling, including elevated expression of TGF-β2, TGF-β3, SMAD2, TGF-β1 receptor, and thrombospondin. In addition, there was relatively low level expression of Csf1r, a marker of macrophages, but elevated expression of the chemokines CXCL1, CXCL2, CCL3, and CXCL14. We also observed strongly upregulated expression of Sox9, a transcription factor that can drive a genetic program of chondrogenesis and fibrosis. Further, the gene with the greatest fold increase in expression in the diseased glomerulus was osteopontin, which has been previously strongly implicated in kidney fibrosis in the unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse model. These results confirm old findings, and indicate the involvement of new genetic pathways in the cause and progression of FSGS.
Mechanistic Analysis of VDR-Mediated Renin Suppression
Authors: Nakane Masaki , Ma Junli , Ruan Xiaoan , Kroeger Paul E. , Wu-Wong Ruth
Published: August 2007

Background: The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is involved in the regulation of renin expression and vitamin D analogs down-regulated renin mRNA expression in As4.1 cells. Methods: Microarray analysis was used to assess the VDR-mediated gene expression profile in As4.1 cells treated with paricalcitol, followed by real-time RT-PCR. Mechanistic analyses were done using siRNA, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and Western blotting. Results: Microarray analysis shows that 709 target genes were affected by paricalcitol with 286 up- and 423 downregulated. A number of major pathways were impacted including transcription factors. Real-time RT-PCR confirmed the microarray results. Treatment of the cells with siRNA against nuclear receptor co-repressor (NCOR1) eliminated VDR-mediated renin suppression. Using EMSA, paricalcitol treatment reduced the level of protein complex binding to the cyclic AMP-responsive element (CRE)-like domain in the renin distal enhancer region. VDR, CRE-binding protein (CREB1) and NCOR1 were identified in the complex binding to the CRE-like domain by Western blot in the paricalcitol-treated cells. Paricalcitol treatment resulted in an increase in the VDR level, but no significant change in the CREB1 and NCOR1 levels. Conclusion: These results suggest that VDR-mediated renin suppression likely acts through a transcriptional regulatory complex including CREB1, NCOR1 and VDR that binds to the CRE-like domain in the renin enhancer region.
Preoperative Acute Pancreatitis in Periampullary Tumors: Implications for Surgical Management
Authors: Erkan Mert , Kleeff Jörg , Reiser Carolin , Hinz Ulf , Esposito Irene , Friess Helmut , Büchler Markus W.
Published: August 2007

Background: Pancreatitis is the most serious complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), occurring in 2–20% of the patients. Currently there is no information about the impact of preoperative pancreatitis on the surgical management of periampullary tumors. Methods: Ten patients with periampullary tumors and preoperative acute pancreatitis were retrospectively analyzed. Four patients who underwent pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (group A) and 6 patients who underwent total pancreatectomy (group B) were compared with a matching control group (age, gender, stage, tumor and operation type) of 30 patients without pancreatitis (group C) who underwent an operation during the same period. Parameters analyzed were C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocytes, aminotransferases, amylase, lipase, operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, morbidity, and mortality. Results: In the study group, 5 patients had pancreatic adenocarcinoma, 3 had distal bile duct cancers, and 2 had ampullary tumors. None of the patients had severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis that necessitated intervention prior to tumor resection. Preoperative median CRP levels in group B were 8.4- and 5.6-fold higher than those of groups A and C, respectively. In contrast, leukocytes, aminotransferases, amylase, and lipase levels were not significantly different. The presence of acute pancreatitis slightly prolonged the duration of the operation (+15 min), increased morbidity (60 vs. 33%) and lengthened median hospital stay (19.5 vs. 14.5 days) in groups A and B vs. group C. All patients with preoperative pancreatitis were managed without mortality. Conclusion: Preoperative pancreatitis is more commonly seen in patients with non-pancreatic periampullary tumors, and considerably influences surgical management. High preoperative CRP levels indicate a more severe form of pancreatic damage that may necessitate a total pancreatectomy.
Acute Confusion or Altered Mental State: Consider Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus
Authors: Beyenburg Stefan , Elger Christian E. , Reuber Markus
Published: August 2007

Background: The diagnosis of nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) is particularly challenging in elderly patients. Confusion, personality change, dysphasia, subtle motor activity and nystagmus may be the only presenting signs. Objective: To review current knowledge about NCSE with special focus on older people. Methods: Systematic review of the current literature via Medline search. Conclusion: Although prospective studies are still lacking, NCSE may be one of the most frequently missed diagnoses in patients presenting with altered mental status. Elderly patients are at particular risk of diagnostic errors because of the broad range of presentations of NCSE, significant comorbidities (especially cerebrovascular disease), limited awareness of this particular seizure emergency or difficulties with access to electroencephalography. Although diagnostic criteria and treatment remain controversial, the diagnosis of NCSE is important because it is potentially reversible.
Prognostic Significance of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Cyclooxygenase-2 in Patients with Rectal Cancer Treated with Preoperative Radiotherapy
Authors: Giralt Jordi , Navalpotro Begoña , Hermosilla Eduardo , de Torres Ines , Espin Eloi , Reyes Victoria , Cerezo Laura , de las Heras Manuel , Ramon y Cajal Santiago , Armengol Manel , Benavente Sergi
Published: August 2007

Purpose: To analyze the prognostic value of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with preoperative radiotherapy. Methods: Eighty-one patients with locally advanced rectal cancer were studied. All patients received preoperative pelvic radiotherapy. Forty-seven patients received concomitant chemotherapy. Surgical resection was performed 4–8 weeks later in all patients. Immunohistochemical examination of COX-2 and VEGF was performed on the preirradiation diagnostic biopsies. An immunohistochemical score established from the extension and intensity of the markers was used for analysis. The log-rank test and proportional hazards regression analysis were used to calculate the probability that the biomarkers were associated with patient outcome. Results: COX-2 expression was positive in 38 tumors (51%) while VEGF expression was positive in 43 (57%). The only clinicopathological parameter significantly associated with COX-2 or VEGF expression was performance status. None of the 2 markers were found to predict treatment response. There was no statistically significant correlation between COX-2 and VEGF. Univariate analysis identified pathological stage (pT, pN) as prognostic for disease-free survival. When VEGF expression was analyzed, disease-free survival was reduced among patients with VEGF-positive tumors (p = 0.047). This was specifically related to metastases-free survival (p = 0.016). These results were not observed for COX-2. After multivariate analysis, the pT and pN stage remained as independent prognostic factors. Conclusions: VEGF-positive expression is an indicator of poor disease-free survival, specifically linked to distant metastasis. More aggressive treatment strategies are warranted in pT3–4 and pN1–2 rectal cancer patients.
Fatty Acid Synthase Hyperactivation in Human Colorectal Cancer: Relationship with Tumor Side and Sex
Authors: Notarnicola Maria , Altomare Donato Francesco , Calvani Menotti , Orlando Antonella , Bifulco Maurizio , D’Attoma Benedetta , Caruso Maria Gabriella
Published: August 2007

Objective: Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a multienzyme protein required for the conversion of acetyl coenzyme A and malonyl coenzyme A to palpitate. High levels of FAS expression have been found in many human cancers, including breast, prostate and colon. In this study, we evaluated FAS activity levels and the expression of its mRNA in normal colorectal mucosa and cancer tissue from patients operated for colorectal carcinoma. In addition, the hypothesis of a relation between FAS activity and p53 mutation status of patients was tested. Methods: Forty-two patients were enrolled in the study. FAS activity was measured by using a radiometric assay. FAS gene expression was determined using quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and p53 mutations by polymerase chain reaction single-strand conformation polymorphism. Results: FAS activity levels were significantly higher in cancer than in the corresponding normal mucosa. Tumors located on the left side of the colon showed higher levels of FAS activity and tumors from male patients showed higher FAS activity than tumors from females. No difference was detected in mRNA FAS levels according to tumor side and gender. Moreover, lower levels of FAS activity were detected in patients carrying the p53 mutation. Conclusions: This study suggests that biological factors including sex and gene mutation status, as well as stratification of patients with colorectal cancer into right- and left-sided subsets, may be important in patient selection for targeted therapies and for the subsequent assessment of objective therapeutic responses.
Prevalence and Prognostic Value of Neurologic Abnormalities in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Huff F. Jacob , Belle Steven H. , Shim Youn Kyung , Ganguli Mary , Boller François
Published: August 2007

The prevalence of abnormal neurologic symptoms and signs in mildly to moderately demented patients with Alzheimer''s disease (AD) was determined by comparison with healthy control subjects, and abnormal findings in AD were examined in relation to progression of dementia, as reflected in the annual rate of change in scores on a dementia scale. Abnormalities on mental status testing were more prevalent in AD than abnormalities on symptom scales or findings on the remainder of the neurologic examination. Recent memory impairment was the most prevalent abnormality, whereas impaired object naming was most strongly associated with progression of dementia. Prominent impairment of naming and other language abilities early in the course of dementia may identify a subtype of AD characterized by more rapid progression.
The Role of Head Injury, Surgical Anaesthesia and Family History as Aetiological Factors in Dementia of Alzheimer Type
Authors: Paschalis C. , Polychronopoulos P. , Lekka N.P. , Harrison M.J.G. , Papapetropoulos T.
Published: August 2007

The hypothesis that head injuries and surgical anaesthetics might contribute to the risk of age-related cognitive impairment was tested in a prospective study of 103 patients with dementia of Alzheimer type (DAT), and 26 patients with multi-infarct dementia (MID). 90 age-matched demented community controls were studied in a comparison group. A family history (dementia in a first-degree relative) was found significantly more commonly in DAT (31.6%) than in MID (11.5%) or controls (8.9%). Head injuries were more common in demented patients (11.6%) than in controls (5.5%). The highest incidence (13.6%) was found in the group with DAT though the difference was not significant. No difference was found in the incidence of prior surgical anaesthetics amongst the three groups. The results are briefly discussed.
Preservation of Galanin Receptors in the Human Basal Nucleus of Meynert in Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type
Authors: Köhler Christer , Chan-Palay Victoria
Published: August 2007

The distribution of putative receptors for the peptide galanin was studied in the basal nucleus of Meynert of the normal postmortem human brain by in vitro receptor autoradiography. The density of specifically bound 125I-galanin was compared to that found in senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT) and in multi-infarct dementia (MID). The basal forebrain of the normal human brain was found to be rich in specifically bound 125I-galanin. In the basal nucleus of Meynert, the specifically bound peptide was found to be associated with individual subsectors of the basal nucleus as defined by acetylcholinesterase (AchE) histochemistry. At rostral levels, 125I-galanin binding sites were associated primarily with the peripheral parts of the individual subsectors while at more caudal levels, dense binding occurred within the central core of the intermedioventral, intermediodorsal and posterior subsectors. In the SDAT cases a marked loss of AchE staining was detected in the basal nucleus with preservation of 125I-galanin binding as compared to the control cases. In the MID case analyzed, a reduction of both AchE staining and 125I-galanin binding was found. Under the conditions of these experiments, the lack of a down-regulation of I25I-galanin receptor binding in the AchE cases suggests that there may be a possible increase in the receptor binding sites on surviving cholinergic neurons, or an increase in presynaptic 125I-galanin binding sites due to possible sprouting of galanin axons. This is consistent with observations published elsewhere that galanin neurons hyperinnervate surviving cholinergic neurons in SDAT. On the other hand, the detected down-regulation of 125I-galanin receptor binding and AchE reactivity in the MID case indicates the destruction of both galanin and cholinergic neurons.
Osmoregulation in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: May Conrad , Haber Michele , Young Sarah H. , Tomai Thomas P. , Csako Gyorgy , Friedland Robert P.
Published: August 2007

In order to investigate the integrity of osmoregulatory systems in dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT), we studied DAT and healthy control subjects during a 16-hour overnight fast which was followed by a 4-hour rehydration period. Both DAT patients and controls demonstrated increases in urine osmolality and plasma vasopressin over the course of the fast. However, plasma vasopressin levels peaked earlier in the controls than in the DAT patients. Serum electrolytes and osmolality were not significantly changed from baseline in either group. The DAT patients drank less fluid than the controls during the rehydration period (p < 0.05), despite encouragement to drink. This study suggests that the hypothalamic vasopressin system may be less rapidly responsive in DAT patients than in healthy controls and that the perception and awareness of thirst may be diminished in DAT, beyond that observed with normal aging.
Quantitative Morphometric Analysis of Basal Forebrain Neurons Expressing β-Nerve Growth Factor Receptors in Normal and Alzheimer's Disease Brains
Authors: Allen S.J. , Dawbarn D. , MacGowan S.H. , Wilcock G.K. , Treanor J.J.S. , Moss T.H.
Published: August 2007

The number and size distribution of β-nerve growth factor (p-NGF) receptor-immunoreactive neurons has been examined in the nucleus of the diagonal band and the anterior, intermediate and posterior regions of the nucleus basalis of Meynert in Alzheimer''s disease (AD) and compared with normal brain. The number of neurons was in general lower in AD, although there was not a statistically significant reduction in any region of the basal nuclei. In some regions, there was an increase in the proportion of small neurons, with a decrease in larger neurons. Cortical choline acetyltransferase activity was found to correlate positively with the number of neurons in all areas of the nucleus basalis. In this group of severely demented AD patients, there was a large number of basal forebrain neurons which expressed β-NGF receptors; β-NGF may, therefore, be of therapeutic value in AD.
Cholinergic Neurons of the Nucleus basalis Express Elevated Levels of Nerve Growth Factor Receptor mRNA in Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type
Authors: Ernfors Patrik , Lindefors Nils , Chan-Palay Victoria , Persson Håkan
Published: August 2007

Magnocellular cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM) undergo a profound and selective degeneration in patients with senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT). We show by in situ hybridization that nerve growth factor (NGF) which promotes the survival of basal-forebrain cholinergic neurons is expressed in hippocampal neurons in SDAT brains at levels not significantly different from those in age-matched controls. In situ hybridization was also used to document the expression of NGF receptor (NGFR) mRNA in magnocellular neurons of the nbM in both SDAT and age-matched control brains. Computerized image analysis of the in situ hybridization results showed that the surviving magnocellular neurons in the nbM of SDAT brains contained 3-fold higher levels of NGFR mRNA compared to age-matched controls. This indicates that in SDAT, the expression of NGFR mRNA is upregulated in magnocellular neurons of the nbM; it further suggests that these neurons respond to exogenously added NGF.