bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature-Dependent Regulation of Vocal Pattern Generator
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayako , Gooler David , Herrold Amy , Patel Shailja , Pong Winnie W.
Published: October 2008

Vocalizations of Xenopus laevis are generated by central pattern generators (CPGs). The advertisement call of male X. laevis is a complex biphasic motor rhythm consisting of fast and slow trills (a train of clicks). We found that the trill rate of these advertisement calls is sensitive to temperature and that this rate modification of the vocal rhythms originates in the central pattern generators. In vivo the rates of fast and slow trills increased linearly with an increase in temperature. In vitro a similar linear relation between temperature and compound action potential frequency in the laryngeal nerve was found when fictive advertisement calls were evoked in the isolated brain. Temperature did not limit the contractile properties of laryngeal muscles within the frequency range of vocalizations. We next took advantage of the temperature sensitivity of the vocal CPG in vitro to localize the source of the vocal rhythms. We focused on the dorsal tegmental area of the medulla (DTAM), a brain stem nucleus that is essential for vocal production. We found that bilateral cooling of DTAM reduced both fast and slow trill rates. Thus we conclude that DTAM is a source of biphasic vocal rhythms.
The Dynamics of Postural Sway Cannot Be Captured Using a One-Segment Inverted Pendulum Model: A PCA on Segment Rotations During Unperturbed Stance
Authors: Pinter Ilona J. , van Swigchem Roos , van Soest A. J. Knoek , Rozendaal Leonard A.
Published: October 2008

Research on unperturbed stance is largely based on a one-segment inverted pendulum model. Recently, an increasing number of studies report a contribution of other major joints to postural control. Therefore this study evaluates whether the conclusions originating from the research based on a one-segment model adequately capture postural sway during unperturbed stance. High-pass filtered kinematic data (cutoff frequency 1/30 Hz) obtained over 3 min of unperturbed stance were analyzed in different ways. Variance of joint angles was analyzed. Principal-component analysis (PCA) was performed on the variance of lower leg, upper leg, and head–arms–trunk (HAT) angles, as well as on lower leg and COM angle (the orientation of the line from ankle joint to center of mass). It was found that the variance in knee and hip joint angles did not differ from the variance found in the ankle angle. The first PCA component indicated that, generally, the upper leg and HAT segments move in the same direction as the lower leg with a somewhat larger amplitude. The first PCA component relating ankle angle variance and COM angle variance indicated that the ankle joint angle displacement gives a good estimate of the COM angle displacement. The second PCA component on the segment angles partly explains the apparent discrepancy between these findings because this component points to a countermovement of the HAT relative to the ankle joint angle. It is concluded that postural control during unperturbed stance should be analyzed in terms of a multiple inverted pendulum model.
Evidence for Joint Encoding of Motion and Disparity in Human Visual Perception
Authors: Neri Peter , Levi Dennis M.
Published: October 2008

Electrophysiological recordings have established that motion and disparity signals are jointly encoded by subpopulations of neurons in visual cortex. However, the question of whether these neurons play a perceptual role has proven challenging and remains open. To answer this question we combined two powerful psychophysical techniques: perceptual adaptation and reverse correlation. Our results provide a detailed picture of how visual information about motion and disparity is processed by human observers, and how this processing is modified by prolonged sensory stimulation. We were able to isolate two perceptual components: a separable component, supported by separate motion and disparity signals, and an inseparable joint component, supported by motion and disparity signals that are concurrently represented at the level of the same neural mechanism. Both components are involved in the perception of stimuli containing motion and disparity information in line with the known existence of corresponding neuronal subpopulations in visual cortex.
Contributions of Central and Peripheral TRPV1 Receptors to Mechanically Evoked and Spontaneous Firing of Spinal Neurons in Inflamed Rats
Authors: McGaraughty Steve , Chu Katharine L. , Brown Brian S. , Zhu Chang Z. , Zhong Chengmin , Joshi Shailen K. , Honore Prisca , Faltynek Connie R. , Jarvis Michael F.
Published: October 2008

TRPV1 receptors are activated and/or modulated by noxious heat, capsaicin, protons and other endogenous agents released following tissue injury. There is a growing appreciation that this molecular integrator may also have a role in mechanosensation. To further understand this role, we investigated the systemic and site-specific effects of a selective TRPV1 receptor antagonist, A-889425, on low-intensity mechanical stimulation in inflamed rats. Systemic administration of A-889425 (30 and 100 μmol/kg po) reduced mechanical allodynia in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-inflamed rats. Systemic A-889425 (3 and10 μmol/kg iv) also decreased the responses of spinal wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons to low-intensity mechanical stimulation in CFA-inflamed but not uninjured rats. This effect of A-889425 was likely mediated via multiple sites since local injection of A-889425 into the spinal cord (1–3 nmol), ipsilateral hindpaw (200 nmol), and cerebral ventricles (30–300 nmol) all attenuated WDR responses to low-intensity mechanical stimulation. In addition to an effect on mechanotransmission, systemic administration of A-889425 reduced the spontaneous firing of WDR neurons in inflamed but not uninjured rats. Spontaneous firing is elevated after injury and may reflect ongoing pain in the animal. Local injection experiments indicated that this effect of A-889425 on spontaneous firing was mainly mediated via TRPV1 receptors in the spinal cord. Thus the current data demonstrate that TRPV1 receptors have an enhanced role after an inflammatory injury, impacting both low-intensity mechanotransmission and possibly spontaneous pain. Furthermore this study delineates the differential contribution of central and peripheral TRPV1 receptors to affect spontaneous or mechanically evoked firing of WDR neurons.
Toward Optimal Target Placement for Neural Prosthetic Devices
Authors: Cunningham John P. , Yu Byron M. , Gilja Vikash , Ryu Stephen I. , Shenoy Krishna V.
Published: October 2008

Neural prosthetic systems have been designed to estimate continuous reach trajectories (motor prostheses) and to predict discrete reach targets (communication prostheses). In the latter case, reach targets are typically decoded from neural spiking activity during an instructed delay period before the reach begins. Such systems use targets placed in radially symmetric geometries independent of the tuning properties of the neurons available. Here we seek to automate the target placement process and increase decode accuracy in communication prostheses by selecting target locations based on the neural population at hand. Motor prostheses that incorporate intended target information could also benefit from this consideration. We present an optimal target placement algorithm that approximately maximizes decode accuracy with respect to target locations. In simulated neural spiking data fit from two monkeys, the optimal target placement algorithm yielded statistically significant improvements up to 8 and 9% for two and sixteen targets, respectively. For four and eight targets, gains were more modest, as the target layouts found by the algorithm closely resembled the canonical layouts. We trained a monkey in this paradigm and tested the algorithm with experimental neural data to confirm some of the results found in simulation. In all, the algorithm can serve not only to create new target layouts that outperform canonical layouts, but it can also confirm or help select among multiple canonical layouts. The optimal target placement algorithm developed here is the first algorithm of its kind, and it should both improve decode accuracy and help automate target placement for neural prostheses.
Precise Role of Acid in Non-Erosive Reflux Disease
Authors: Wang Changcheng , Hunt Richard H.
Published: October 2008

The fundamental abnormality in gastroesophageal reflux disease is exposure of the esophageal epithelium to acidic gastric contents, resulting in histopathologic injury and/or symptoms. With increasing understanding of gastroesophageal reflux disease, non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) is found to account for >50% of cases involving gastroesophageal reflux. There is a good correlation between esophageal acid exposure (EAE) and endoscopic changes. Duration of EAE correlates with severity of erosive esophagitis (EE), and the number of prolonged acid reflux episodes and esophageal exposure to acid and pepsin is increased in more severe reflux. However, there is no convincing evidence to support a significant difference in the acid secretory capacity between patients with NERD or EE. Although acid reflux gives rise to similar symptoms in both NERD and EE patients, the underlying mechanism of acid injury may be different. Dilated intercellular spaces may be responsible for the enhanced perception of proximal acid reflux and dilated intercellular spaces are a feature of NERD patients, irrespective of EAE, and can be considered an objective, structural marker of reflux symptoms. Three different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the occurrence of heartburn in endoscopy-negative patients: esophageal visceral hypersensitivity, sustained esophageal contractions, and abnormal tissue resistance. Impaired esophageal mucosal resistance or increased sensitivity, even to small amounts of acid reflux, plays a key role in the pathophysiology of NERD. Moreover, hyperalgesia may be a predominant mechanism in eliciting symptoms in NERD patients. Increasingly seen are patients with a poor response to acid suppression treatment. Moreover, even double proton pump inhibitor dosing does not completely inhibit gastric acid secretion and relieve all symptoms. Thus, current definitions of acid reflux require review to increase the sensitivity to determine the frequency and implication of short periods of acidity in the esophagus. Analysis such as analysis of the area under the H+ activity time curve is one alternative approach for evaluating acid secretion. The precise role of acid in NERD needs further clarification.
Can We Reduce the Number of Low-Birth-Weight Babies? The Cuban Experience
Authors: Lopez Nacyra Bonet , Choonara Imti
Published: October 2008

Low-birth-weight (LBW) infants have a significantly greater mortality than other babies, not only within the neonatal period but also in infancy and early childhood. Babies are LBW either because they are preterm or they have experienced intrauterine growth retardation. Reducing the prevalence of LBW babies is important in reducing child and infant mortality. Risk factors for prematurity and intrauterine growth retardation are well established. Socioeconomic conditions and nutrition during pregnancy are two key factors. Interventions to reduce the prevalence of LBW infants in developed countries have usually been unsuccessful. A few studies in developing countries have, however, achieved positive results. Cuba has managed to reduce the prevalence of LBW infants and their model of healthcare in relation to achieving this is described. Key features of the Cuban healthcare system are that it is both free and universal, and additionally there is a strong emphasis on primary healthcare. It is likely that a similar approach in both developing countries and disadvantaged communities in developed countries would reduce the prevalence of LBW babies. This would have a major impact in relation to reducing infant mortality rates.
Status of Stat3 in an Ovalbumin-Induced Mouse Model of Asthma: Analysis of the Role of Socs3 and IL-6
Authors: Paul Bholanath , Mishra Vani , Chaudhury Bhushan , Awasthi Anjali , Das Asim Bikas , Saxena Urmila , Saxena Ashok , Chauhan Lalit K. , Kumar Pradeep , Raisuddin Sheikh
Published: October 2008

Background: Stat3, Socs3 and cytokines play an integral role in the coordination and persistence of inflammation. However, a clear understanding of the role played by the Stat3/IL-6 and Socs3 pathway in airway inflammation is lacking. We report the alteration in the status of expression and activation of Stat3 by ovalbumin (OVA), and establish its relationship with Socs3 and IL-6 in the lungs of mice with eosinophilic pulmonary inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Methods: Alterations in the expression of Stat3, Socs3 and IL-6 were determined in a murine model of asthma, where Balb/c mice were sensitized and challenged with OVA (OVA/OVA) and compared with control mice sensitized and challenged with saline (SAL) (SAL/SAL) mice. The OVA/OVA mice were characterized by a moderate increase in methacholine-induced specific airway resistance, the presence of 150 μg/ml of OVA-specific IgG and 8.93 μg/ml OVA-specific IgE antibody and elevated levels of eosinophils and Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-5) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In contrast SAL/SAL mice had low eosinophils, IL-4 and IL-5 and no OVA-specific IgG and IgE antibodies in the BALF. Stat3 and Socs3 expression profiles were monitored in OVA/OVA and Stat3- and Socs3-silenced OVA/OVA mice. Furthermore, expression of IL-6 in Stat3- and Socs3-silenced mice and the exogenous effect of IL-6 on Stat3 were studied. Results: The results show that expression and activation of Stat3 mRNA and proteins are significantly low in lung of OVA/OVA mice in comparison to SAL/SAL mice following OVA challenge. An increased pool of Socs3 mRNA is observed in OVA/OVA mice with or without OVA challenge and in SAL/SAL mice 24 h after OVA challenge. Transient in vivo blocking of Socs3 gene by Socs3 siRNA restores the expression of IL-6 mRNA and protein in OVA/OVA mice, and nasal administration of recombinant IL-6 to OVA/OVA mice enhanced Stat3 mRNA expression. Conclusions: Our data suggest that airway inflammation is associated with low expression of Stat3 and IL-6 and overexpression of Socs3 genes in a mouse model of asthma. Furthermore, IL-6 is under the influence of the Socs3 gene and may contribute to the negative regulation of Stat3 via IL-6 following a challenge with an allergen during the development of asthma.
Expression of Tissue Factor by Eosinophils in Patients with Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Cugno Massimo , Marzano Angelo V. , Tedeschi Alberto , Fanoni Daniele , Venegoni Luigia , Asero Riccardo
Published: October 2008

Background: Although several cases of chronic urticaria (CU) are currently regarded as autoimmune in origin, associated with histamine-releasing autoantibodies, an activation of blood coagulation via tissue factor (TF) and a strong expression of TF in lesional skin have been described. Eosinophils, which are involved in CU skin lesions, have recently been demonstrated as the major source of TF in human blood. We assessed whether eosinophils are the cellular source of TF in CU skin lesions. Methods: Twenty patients with severe CU were studied. Skin biopsy specimens were taken from wheals. The control group consisted of specimens of perilesional normal skin from different types of skin tumours (10) and various skin disorders with non-eosinophilic infiltrates, including leukocytoclastic vasculitis (7), lichen planus (8) and mastocytosis (3). TF expression was evaluated by immunohistochemical methods using an anti-TF monoclonal antibody. Co-localization of TF and eosinophil cationic protein, a classic cell marker of eosinophils, was investigated by double-staining studies using 2 specific monoclonal antibodies in the 4 specimens showing the highest TF reactivity scores. Results: All specimens from patients with CU clearly showed TF expression that was absent in all normal control specimens (p = 0.0001) and in the skin disorders with non-eosinophilic infiltrates (p = 0.001–0.0001). The double-staining experiments for TF and eosinophil cationic protein clearly showed that the TF-positive cells were eosinophils. Conclusions: Eosinophils are the main source of TF in CU lesional skin. This finding highlights the role of these cells in the pathophysiology of CU and might pave the way for new therapeutic strategies.
Trends in Risk Factors, Stroke Subtypes and Outcome
Authors: Arboix Adrià , Cendrós Victòria , Besa Marta , García-Eroles Luís , Oliveres Montserrat , Targa Cecília , Balcells Miquel , Comes Emili , Massons Joan
Published: October 2008

Background: Prospective stroke registries allow analyzing important aspects of the natural history of acute cerebrovascular events. Using the Sagrat Cor Hospital of Barcelona Stroke Registry, we aimed to determine trends in risk factors, stroke subtypes, prognosis and in-hospital mortality over 19 years in hospitalized stroke patients. Methods: The study population consisted of 2,416 first-ever stroke patients (ischemic stroke, n = 2,028; intracerebral hemorrhage, n = 334) included in the stroke registry up to December 31, 2004. Temporal trends in stroke patient characteristics for the periods 1986–1992, 1993–1998 and 1999–2004 were assessed. Results: Age was significantly different among the analyzed periods (p < 0.001), showing an increment in older patients throughout time. Hypertension (p = 0.001), diabetes (p = 0.004), ischemic heart disease (p = 0.002) and atrial fibrillation increased (p = 0.000) as opposed to heavy smoking (p = 0.000) and history of TIA (p = 0.025). The mortality rate and the length of hospital stay decreased (p = 0.001), whereas transfer to convalescent/rehabilitation units increased (p = 0.001). Conclusions: An improvement in acute-stroke management and possibly evolution of cerebrovascular risk factors is reflected by changes in the risk factors and outcome of first-ever stroke patients admitted to a stroke unit over a 19-year time span.
Fatty Acid Profile of Human Milk of Portuguese Lactating Women: Prospective Study from the 1st to the 16th Week of Lactation
Authors: Ribeiro M. , Balcao V. , Guimaraes H. , Rocha G. , Moutinho C. , Matos C. , Almeida C. , Casal S. , Guerra A.
Published: October 2008

Background/Aims: Fatty acid (FA) composition varies over the course of the day and during lactation. The aim of this study was to evaluate FA composition and its compositional stability in human milk, from day 7 to week 16 of lactation. Methods: Human milk was collected from all feedings over 24 h at day 7 and weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16 of lactation in 31 lactating women. FAs were analyzed through gas chromatography. Comparisons were made with analysis of variance. Results: Total monounsaturated FAs decreased from 33.04 ± 2.58% wt/wt at day 7 to 31.48 ± 3.32% wt/wt at week 16 of lactation, much at the expenses of the decrease in the major monounsaturated FA found in human milk, oleic acid. Main polyunsaturated FAs n-6 and n-3 showed fluctuations from day 7 up to week 16 of lactation, but with no statistical significance. Arachidonic acid significantly decreased from transitional to mature milk. Conclusions: The FA profile obtained throughout the study time points presented very low levels of oleic acid and very high linoleic acid/α-linoleic acid ratios which reflect recent changes in Portuguese women’s food patterns. Despite this, the ascorbate/dehydroascorbate ratio remained constant during the study, suggesting a protective metabolic mechanism.
Clinical Manifestations and Management of Acute Thallium Poisoning
Authors: Zhao Guohua , Ding Meiping , Zhang Baorong , Lv Wen , Yin Houmin , Zhang Liang , Ying Zhilin , Zhang Qiong
Published: October 2008

Clinical information regarding 3 patients diagnosed with acute thallium poisoning was collected and retrospectively analyzed. All 3 patients presented with severe burning pain in the lower limbs and the abdomen. Diffuse alopecia, hepatic dysfunction and Mees’ lines in the digits of each limb were observed between 2 and 3 weeks after onset. A physical examination demonstrated paresthesia of all 4 limbs, but normal deep tendon reflexes. Blood and urine thallium concentrations were significantly elevated. Treatment was initiated using hemoperfusion, hemodialysis, potassium supplementation, oral laxatives and B complex supplementation. Clinical symptoms improved as blood and urine thallium concentrations decreased, although a residual sensory neuropathy remained. This study demonstrated that the primary clinical manifestations of acute thallium poisoning include gastrointestinal symptoms, polyneuropathy and dermatological changes. Hemoperfusion and hemodialysis may be effective treatments for acute thallium poisoning.
Effect of the Polymorphism of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-308 G/A Gene Promoter on the Susceptibility to Ulcerative Colitis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lu Zonghai , Chen Lei , Li Hui , Zhao Yanjun , Lin Lin
Published: October 2008

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a complex polygenic disease in which gene-environment interactions are important. Some studies have reported that proinflammatory polymorphisms in tumor necrosis factor-α-308 (TNF-α-308) gene promoter (substitution G→A, designated as TNF1 and TNF2) is associated with increased UC risk. However, the results of individual studies have been inconsistent. Methods: To investigate the inconsistent findings in studies of the association of the polymorphism of TNF-α-308 gene promoter with susceptibility to UC, a systematic review of the published data was undertaken and a meta-analysis was performed. The MEDLINE database was searched for case-control studies published in English language journals from 1966 to November 2007. Data were extracted using standardized forms and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: 15 eligible studies, 7 of Europeans, 2 of Americans, and 6 of Asians including 4 East Asians, were included in the meta-analysis. An association between UC and TNF2 allele was not found in the overall population (OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.84–1.96, p = 0.25). However, stratification by ethnicity indicated that there was significant association between TNF2 allele and UC in East Asians (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.08–4.77, p = 0.03). Conversely, there was no association between TNF2 allele and UC patients from the European (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.42–1.71, p = 0.65) and Asian samples (OR 1.64, 95% CI 0.98–2.74, p = 0.06). The OR for the TNF2/2+TNF2/1 genotype versus TNF1/1 genotype in samples overall and in each ethnic group showed a similar trend to those for the TNF2 allele. Conclusion: In East Asians, the TNF2 allele confers a significant risk for developing UC. There is no association between the polymorphism of TNF-α-308 gene promoter and UC in Europeans.
Palatal Myoclonus (syn. Palatal Tremor)
Authors: Pearce J.M.S.
Published: October 2008

Symptomatic palatal tremor is caused by a lesion in the triangle of Guillain and Mollaret and is associated with hypertrophic olivary degeneration that has multiple causes. Essential palatal tremor has no currently demonstrable cause and no accompanying physical or radiological signs. But it is probable that an organic genesis will become apparent. I suggest that some examples of palatal tremor may depend on an ‘upper motor neurone type’, i.e. supranuclear, lesion in the striatum or rostral brainstem releasing medullary activation with denervation hypersensitivity of olivary neurones.
Antimicrobial Susceptibilities of 930 Haemophilus influenzae Clinical Strains Isolated from the Island of Crete, Greece
Authors: Kofteridis D.P. , Notas G. , Maraki S. , Anastasopoulos T. , Papazoglou G. , Zisiou A.T. , Mantadakis E. , Samonis G.
Published: October 2008

Background:Haemophilus influenzae is an important human pathogen. Materials and Methods: The purpose of the present retrospective study is to describe the antibiotic susceptibility to several common antibiotics of 930 consecutive clinical isolates of H. influenzae over the period of 1996–2005 in a tertiary general hospital on the island of Crete, Greece. Results: Overall, 9.5% of the isolates were β-lactamase producing. Resistance to ampicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanate was observed in 11 and 0.6% of the strains, respectively, remaining stable throughout the study period. Resistance to tetracycline increased from 1.6% in 1996 to 38% in 2005, while resistance to ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin was <1%. A significant decrease in resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was observed during the study period. No significant changes in resistance to other antimicrobials were seen. Conclusions: Amoxicillin-clavulanate and older quinolones remain potent agents against H. influenzae. Constant surveillance ofantibiotic susceptibility of H. influenzae clinical isolates is important in order to guide appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy.
Spitz Nevus: Follow-Up Study of 8 Cases of Childhood Starburst Type and Proposal for Management
Authors: Nino Massimiliano , Brunetti Bruno , Delfino Sergio , Brunetti Beniamino , Panariello Luigia , Russo Daniela
Published: October 2008

Spitz nevus is an uncommon, benign melanocytic neoplasm that shares many clinical and histological features with melanoma. It presents clinical ambiguity that makes the diagnosis and management of the patient difficult. We present our experience in the management of Spitz nevus by rigorous dermoscopic long-term follow-up of 8 Spitz nevi in patients younger than 12 years. Dermoscopic images, acquired every 6 months, show evolution and modifications of these lesions. The aim of this paper is to better understand the long-term modifications of nevi with starburst pattern to avoid surgical excision of these lesions in the pediatric age group.
Recognition and Differential Diagnosis of Erwinia herbicola Strains Isolated in the Hospital
Authors: Von Graevenitz A.
Published: October 2008

In the past 3½ years, 55 strains of gram-negative, nonfastidious, anaero-genic, facultatively anaerobic rods of the species Erwinia herbicola have been isolated from patients and other hospital sources. Characteristics, isolation, recognition, and differential diagnosis of the group are outlined. Many strains exhibit a yellow pigment which facilitates their recognition. Nonpigmented strains may present particular diagnostic problems.
Die Vermehrung eines tumoradaptierten Stammes von Influenza Ao-Virus in Suspensionen von Ehrlich-Aszites-Tumorzellen in vitro
Authors: Gerhard W.
Published: October 2008

Suspensions of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells kept in chemically defined media were shown to support the full replication cycle of a tumor-adapted strain of influenza A₀ virus. Cytohemadsorption and hemagglutinin were the main parameters measured. For the early phases of infection, i.e. up to 8–10 h, the kinetics of cytohemadsorption provided a more critical test of viral development than did hemag-glutination; however, the amount of extracellular virus eventually liberated could not be predicted from cytohemadsorption. In a simple balanced salt solution glucose seemed essential for completion of the growth cycle. The 24-hour yield of extracellular virus was, within limits, proportional to the initial glucose concentration. A maximum of about 1,600 virus particles synthesized per cell was reached at a concentration of 4 mg of glucose/ml. A further slight increase in viral yields could be obtained by adding 20% Eagle’s minimum essential medium. Glutamate was without influence; absence of Ca++ in the medium led to reduced yields.
Latex Agglutination Test for the Detection of Arbovirus Antibodies
Authors: Likar M.
Published: October 2008

Polyvinyl latex particles have been successfully used for the detection of eastern encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, dengue II and Cache Valley antibodies in human and animal sera. Antibodies detected by latex agglutination are in agreement with the results of haemagglutination inhibition tests. It is claimed that latex agglutination could be used for the detection of some arbovirus antibodies as an easier test.
The Chemical Nature of Shigella flexneri Group Antigen Factor 6
Authors: Romanowska E. , Katzenellenbogen E. , Ługowski C. , Mulczyk M.
Published: October 2008

The specific polysaccharides isolated from Shigella flexneri serotypes lb, 3c, 4b and mutant Z were found to be O-acetylated. One oligosaccharide unit of each examined polysaccharide contained one O-acetyl group. By means of complement fixation inhibition test the polysaccharides were studied before and after deacetylation. They were shown to be strong inhibitors of the group 6 system, but the removal of O-acetyl groups resulted in the complete loss of their group 6 specificity. The process of deacetylation destroys also type III specificity, but hardly affects type I and type IV systems. The polysaccharides improved their inhibitory power in the group 3, 4 system after deacetylation.
La réaction d’hémagglutination passive pour la syphilis (antigène Reiter)
Authors: Engelbrecht E. , Denis Colette
Published: October 2008

The indirect hemagglutination reaction (IHR) is compared with the classical tests and with the immunofluorescence test (FTA 200) by means of 50 syphilitic sera and 7 ‘biologic false positive’ sera (BFP). The results obtained suggest that (a) the IHR may become positive earlier than the Reiter protein complement fixation test (RPCF) and the FTA 200, (b) the IHR negativates more often after adequate treatment then the RPCF and the FTA 200, (c) the IHR is mainly positive during the evolutive phases of the disease, (d) the titers obtained in recent primary disease and treated secondary syphilis are always low, e.g. 1 : 20 to 1 : 320. However, these titers seem to be significant when heterophilic antibodies are elimininated by absorption onto non-sensitized erythrocytes. Furthermore, all the BFP gave negative results.
Studies on the Unmasking and/or Carrier Effects of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Grown in Human Lymphocytes
Authors: Rossier Edmond
Published: October 2008

Phytohemagglutinin-stimulated human lymphocytes were infected with vesicular stomatitis virus VSV and used to absorb raw and purified horse anti-lymphocyte serum ALS. The residual activity of such sera was then assayed in cytotoxicity tests, using the radiochrome release technique and target labelled lymphocytes from nine donors. In comparison with appropriate controls, the capacity of human lymphocytes to absorb out the cytotoxic activity of either type of ALS was not modified after VSV infection. It appears that, in the experimental conditions described, VSV does not exert any masking, unmasking or carrier effect of surface antigens of human lymphocytes, contrary to what has been reported in other systems.
Untersuchungen über das Vorkommen von Salmonellen bei importierten Schildkröten – Isolierung einer neuen Salmonella-Spezies (S. gallen = 11: a: 1,2)
Authors: Pagon S. , Sonnabend W. , Rohde R.
Published: October 2008

During a three-year study (1969–1971) samples of feces from turtles imported from Yugoslavia and Greece as well as from Russia were examined for the presence of Salmonella. The species examined were Testudo hermanni, Testudo graeca and Testudo horsfieldii. From the 182 specimens examined, 131 (71.97%) proved to be Salmonella positive. 38 different serotypes were isolated. 107 specimens contained single serotypes, while 23 were doubly infected and 1 specimen harbored 3 different serotypes of Salmonella. 4 of the isolated serotypes belonged to the group of 47 most frequently occurring serotypes. From the 1971 shipment of turtles we were able to isolate a new serotype, S. gallen (11:a:1,2). Attempts to eliminate fecal excretion of Salmonellae by infected turtles were made by treatment with an antibiotic, Penbritin.
Zur Identität von Neisseria septicaemiae [Onisi et al., 1960]
Authors: Berger U. , Lickfeld KG.
Published: October 2008

By biochemical, serological, light- and electronmicroscopic methods, Neisseria septicaemiae which apparently is frequent in man in Japan, could be reclassified as Streptococcus zooepidemicus. Be-sides its well-known properties, this species exhibitsa high deoxyribonuclease activity.
Pathogenicity of Mengo Virus to Mice
Authors: Zschiesche W. , Veckenstedt Anneliese
Published: October 2008

ABAFj hybrid mice were infected intraperitoneally with 10 LD50 of the MengoM strain which had been passaged serially in mouse brain. They developed an acute panencephalomyelitis and leptomeningitis and pancreatitis, resembling infections with other highly neurotropic strains of closely related enteroviruses. Myotropic properties of the Mengo virus used were completely lacking. Histological examination of the spleen revealed (a) a striking activation of reticular cells, pointing to the possible site of previously virologically detected virus multiplication, and (b) the appearance of germinal centers about 2-3 days after infection, indicating the onset of a humoral immune reaction.
Struktur und Dynamik von Membranen. Anwendung yon kernmagnetischer Resonanz und Elektronenspinresonanz
Authors: Seelig Joachim
Published: October 2008

The molecular structure of biological membranes and the principles of magnetic resonance methods are briefly summarized. Two different magnetic resonance methods – namely deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance and spin label electron paramagnetic resonance – are discussed in more detail. Both methods provide information about the conformation and rate of motion of the lipid molecules in membranes. This is illustrated for pure lipid bilayers and also for biological membranes of PM2 virus and sarcoplasmic reticulum.
Precipitation Characteristics of Trade Wind Clouds during RICO Derived from Radar, Satellite, and Aircraft Measurements
Authors: Snodgrass Eric R. , Di Girolamo Larry , Rauber Robert M.
Published: October 2008

Precipitation characteristics of trade wind clouds over the Atlantic Ocean near Barbuda are derived from radar and aircraft data and are compared with satellite-observed cloud fields collected during the Rain in Cumulus over the Ocean (RICO) field campaign. S-band reflectivity measurements Z were converted to rainfall rates R using a Z–R relationship derived from aircraft measurements. Daily rainfall rates varied from 0 to 22 mm day−1. The area-averaged rainfall rate for the 62-day period was 2.37 mm day−1. If corrected for evaporation below cloud base, this value is reduced to 2.23 mm day−1, which translates to a latent heat flux to the atmosphere of 63 W m−2. When compared with the wintertime ocean-surface latent heat flux from this region, the average return of water to the ocean through precipitation processes within the trade wind layer during RICO was 31%–39%. A weak diurnal cycle was observed in the area-averaged rainfall rate. The magnitude of the rainfall and the frequency of its occurrence had a maximum in the predawn hours and a minimum in the midmorning to early afternoon on 64% of the days. Radar data were collocated with data from the Multiangle Imaging Spectroradiometer (MISR) to develop relationships between cloud-top height, cloud fraction, 866-nm bidirectional reflectance factor (BRF), and radar-derived precipitation. The collocation took place at the overpass time of ∼1045 local time. These relationships revealed that between 5.5% and 10.5% of the cloudy area had rainfall rates that were > 0.1 mm h−1, and between 1.5% and 3.5% of the cloudy area had rainfall rates that were >1 mm h−1. Cloud-top heights between ∼3 and 4 km and BRFs between 0.4 and 1.0 contributed ∼50% of the total rainfall. For cloudy pixels having detectable rain, average rainfall rates increased from ∼1 to 4 mm h−1 as cloud-top heights increased from ∼1 to 4 km. Rainfall rates were closely tied to the type of mesoscale organization, with much of the rainfall originating from shallow (<5 km) cumulus clusters shaped as arcs associated with cold-pool outflows.
A Long-Lasting Mode Water Vortex in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Reverdin Gilles , Gascard Jean-Claude , Le Cann Bernard , Prieur Louis , Assenbaum Michel , Lherminier Pascale
Published: October 2008

An anticyclonic mode water vortex and its environment were investigated from November 2000 to September 2001 in the northeast Atlantic (near 43.5°N, 15°–19°W) with neutrally buoyant drifting floats, moored current meters, satellite altimetric sea surface height, and several hydrological surveys and sections. These observations reveal a coherent inner core (∼30 km in diameter) made of very oxygenated northeast Atlantic central waters (11°–12.7°C and 35.5–35.7 on the 1978 practical salinity scale) from 150 m down to about 750-m depth. The core presents high relative vorticity (up to approximately −0.5 times the Coriolis frequency f ) within at least 10 km of its center, near 400–700 m. Peak velocity along the core rim is located deeper than 600 m bordering the deepest and densest (σθ = 27.175 kg m−3) northeast Atlantic mode water found during the Programme Océan Multidisciplinaire Méso Echelle (POMME) project. This water likely originates north of 47°N, where it could have been in contact with the sea surface in early 1999. Below the core, large near-inertial internal waves are found. At least during spring and summer 2001, the core was embedded in a much larger anticyclonic eddy that extends to 100 km from its center, with azimuthal velocity decreasing from the sea surface to 1500 m. This eddy does not trap floats for a long time and is associated with a sea level anomaly on the order of 10 cm. From January through August 2001, both the core and the larger eddy moved anticyclonically around a shallow part of the Azores–Biscay ridge. The core trajectory also exhibits smaller anticyclonic loops on shorter time scales, suggesting that at least at times it is not located at the center of the larger eddy.
Significance of Close Surveillance of Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Barrows Robin Joyce , Krumsdorf Ulrike , Zankl Alexandra , Katus Hugo , Tiefenbacher Christiane Pia
Published: October 2008

Background.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) indicates generalized atherosclerosis but is still underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Methods.

Data were collected from patients with PAD from the Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University of Heidelberg, Germany. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and medication were documented.

Results.

Atherogenic risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease were highly prevalent. By continuous care at the university clinic, in addition to family medicine treatment, the use of platelet inhibitors, antihypertensives, and lipid-lowering therapy was increased. Ankle—brachial index and walking distance improved.

Conclusion.

Long-term treatment at the university clinic had positive effects on atherogenic risk factors. The regular use of secondary preventive medication was improved. Still, this patient population remained undertreated and showed a high incidence of vascular event rates and a need for vascular interventions. This study implies the importance of both specialists and general practitioners in the care of these individuals.
Effects of Fillers on Polyurethane Resin-based Polyurethane Elastomeric Bearing Materials for Passive Isolation
Authors: Oprea Stefan
Published: October 2008

A series of cork and black carbon filler incorporated cross-linked molded polyurethane (PU), based on polyethylene adipate diol and 4,4' diphenyl methane diisocyanate with 1,4 butane diol or 1,6 hexane diol and glycerin as chain extender, were synthesized. Mechanical properties were examined in composites that had between 1 and 15% cork and carbon black between 2 and 3%. Therefore, in order to understand the behavior of fillers, such as carbon black and cork added to cross-link polyurethane resins, several thermal and mechanical tests were conducted on samples, made of these new materials. The mechanical properties of the composites were found to depend mostly on the type and amount of filler. The results show that the polyurethane component ratios in cross-linked polymers, the types of filler, and the amount of powder added all affect the properties of the filled cross-linked polyurethanes. The addition of cork filler into polyurethane composites yields an increase in Young's modulus and a decrease in the elongation at break. This new cross-linked polyurethane—matrix and polyurethane—cork composite materials with better damping properties can be used as a bearing pad for acoustic and vibratory isolation for railway and underground lines.
Bioequivalence Studies of Tibolone in Premenopausal Women and Effects on Expression of the Tibolone‐Metabolizing Enzyme AKR1C (Aldo‐Keto Reductase) Family Caused by Estradiol
Authors: Kang Keon W. , Kim Yoon G.
Published: October 2008

This study aimed to investigate the bioequivalence of a test formulation of tibolone with the marketed reference formulation in 24 young healthy female volunteers. Tibolone is a synthetic steroid hormone for menopausal women. Volunteers were treated with the 2 formulations of tibolone (total dose of active ingredient 2.5 mg) according to a 2 × 2 crossover design with a 1‐week washout period. Plasma concentrations of 3α‐ and 3β‐hydroxytibolone, which are major metabolites of tibolone, were assayed in timed samples over a 24‐hour period with a validated gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method that had a lower limit of quantification of 0.5 ng/mL. The reference and test formulations gave a mean 3α‐hydroxytibolone Cmaxof 5.0 and 5.2 ng/mL, respectively, and a mean 3β‐hydroxytibolone Cmaxof 16.4 and 16.5 ng/mL, respectively. The mean AUCtof 3α‐hydroxytibolone was 24.7 and 24.3 ng h/mL, whereas the mean AUCtof 3β‐hydroxytibolone was 57.6 and 54.8 ng h/mL for the test and reference formulations, respectively. The authors did not find significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between the 2 formulations, but metabolite formation was different from reports in postmenopausal women. The authors therefore measured the effects of estradiol on the expression of the tibolone‐metabolizing enzymes, from the aldo‐keto reductase (AKR1C) family, using HepG2 cell (human hepatoma cells) and MCF‐7 cell (human breast cancer cells). Estradiol increased mRNA levels of AKR1C1, AKR1C2, and AKR1C3 and protein levels of total AKR1C in HepG2 cells. Estradiol selectively enhanced levels of AKR1C2 mRNA in MCF‐7 cells. Thus, changes in the major metabolites of tibolone might result from changes in AKR1C family expression by patient estrogen status.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Ambrisentan in Combination With Sildenafil in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Spence Rebecca , Mandagere Arun , Dufton Christopher , Venitz Jürgen
Published: October 2008

The pharmacokinetic interaction between sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE‐5) inhibitor, and ambrisentan, an ETA‐selective, propanoic acid—based endothelin receptor antagonist (ERA), was studied in a 2‐period crossover study in 19 healthy volunteers, with ambrisentan exposure (AUC0‐∞) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) determined over 24 hours for a 10‐mg dose of ambrisentan alone and again after 7 days of sildenafil 20 mg 3 times daily. The AUC0‐∞ and Cmax for sildenafil and N‐desmethyl sildenafil (active metabolite) were determined over 24 hours for a 20‐mg dose of sildenafil alone and again after 7 days of dosing with ambrisentan 10 mg once daily. There was no clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interaction between ambrisentan and sildenafil or N‐desmethyl sildenafil. Ambrisentan Cmax was unchanged (96.3% [90% confidence interval: 86.0%‐107.8%]), with a minor increase in AUC0‐∞(108.5% [102.6%‐111.7%]) with sildenafil coadministration. Sildenafil Cmax was increased slightly (113.4% [99.6%‐129.1%]), and AUC0‐∞ was unchanged (98.7% [91.2%‐110.5%]) with ambrisentan coadministration. N‐desmethyl sildenafil was unaltered. Dose adjustment of either drug is not necessary compared with administration alone.
The Effect of Hand Acupuncture Therapy and Hand Moxibustion Therapy on Premenstrual Syndrome Among Korean Women
Authors: Kyung Rim Shin  , Ju Young Ha  , Hyo Jung Park  , Heitkemper Margaret
Published: October 2008

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can reduce quality of life and impair daily functioning. This study examined the effects of Korean hand acupuncture therapy (HAT) and hand moxibustion therapy (HMT) on symptom severity in Korean women with PMS. This quasi-experimental pilot study based on the khi, yin, yang, and the five elements theory used a nonequivalent control group pretest—posttest design. Experimental groups received 10 sessions of either HAT or HMT treatment. Outcome measures included menstrual symptom severity as measured with the Menstrual Symptom Severity List and skin temperature change measured with Digital Infrared Thermographic Imaging. Both experimental groups had significantly reduced overall PMS symptom severity scores following therapy as compared to women in the control group. The HMT but not the HAT group showed improved flow of khi and balanced skin temperature in symmetric body areas. HAT and HMT may be effective strategies for women to reduce PMS symptoms.
A Comparison between a Retrograde Interference Screw, Suture Button, and Combined Fixation on the Tibial Side in an All-Inside Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Walsh Michael P. , Wijdicks Coen A. , Parker Josh B. , Hapa Onur , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: October 2008

Background

Effective soft tissue graft fixation to the tibial tunnel in all-inside anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions has been reported to be a problem and may lead to retrograde pullout at ultimate load testing.

Hypothesis

A combined retrograde bioabsorbable screw and cortical-cancellous suture button suspension apparatus would gain stiffness from the button and strength from the screw, thus providing for a larger pullout ultimate load, yield load, and stiffness when compared with either fixation alone in an all-inside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Eighteen porcine tibias (average bone mineral density of 1.46, measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan) and 18 bovine extensor tendon allografts were divided into 3 groups retrograde bioabsorbable screw fixation, cortical-cancellous suture button suspension apparatus fixation, and combined fixation in the tibia, with 6 specimens per group. They were biomechanically tested with cyclic (500 cycles, 50-250 N, 1 Hz) and load-to-failure (20 mm/min) parameters.

Results

During cyclic testing, the retrograde screw—only group had a larger cyclic displacement (2.98 ± 2.28 mm) than the suture button with retrograde screw combination group (1.40 ± 0.34 mm). The combination fixation group also produced a higher cyclic stiffness (161.93 ± 61.81 N/mm) than the retrograde screw—only group (91.59 ± 43.26 N/mm). In load-to-failure testing, the retrograde screw with suture button combination group withstood significantly higher initial failure forces (873.87 ± 148.74 N) than the retrograde screw—only (558.44 ± 126.33 N) and suture button—only (121.76 ± 40.57 N) groups. Additionally, ultimate loads were also significantly higher for the combination group (1027 ± 157.11 N) than either the retrograde screw group (679.00 ± 109.44 N) or the suture button group (161.00 ± 29.27 N). The retrograde screw with suture button combination group showed significantly higher pullout stiffness (152.50 ± 46.37 N/mm) than either the retrograde screw—only group (78.31 ± 12.85 N/mm) or the suture button—only group (25.79 ± 9.30 N/mm).

Conclusion

Soft tissue grafts fixed with a combination of a retrograde screw and a suture button were able to withstand higher initial failure and ultimate failure loads and were also stiffer than grafts fixed with either a retrograde screw or a suture button alone.

Clinical Relevance

These findings may prove useful in providing additional stability when using an all-inside technique in a difficult case, or in a patient with poor bone stock, and may also be useful as an alternative to more commonly used tibial tunnel soft tissue fixation techniques.