bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of anti-phospholipid antibodies with parity in placental malaria
Authors: Owens S , Chamley L W , Ordi J , Brabin B J , Johnson P M
Published: September 2005

Anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) are autoantibodies associated with both infections and the pathogenesis of certain pregnancy complications. In the latter, but not the former, aPL are dependent on a co-factor, β2 glycoprotein I (β2GPI), which can also be used as an antigen for detection of such aPL in pregnancy. A cross-sectional study was carried out on serum samples from Kumasi, Ghana, to determine the occurrence and β2GPI-dependence of aPL in placental malaria. Anti-cardiolipin, anti-phosphatidylserine and anti-β2GPI enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were performed on sera from 103 HIV-non-infected gravid women. Placental malaria, both active and past infection, was diagnosed in 33/103 (32%) based on placental histology. In multiparae, β2GPI-independent IgM antibodies to cardiolipin (P = 0·018) and phosphatidylserine (P = 0·009) were observed, which were most pronounced in past placental malaria infection. In primiparae, no association emerged between aPL and placental malaria. Trends for improved clinical parameters were identified in infected women with levels of anti-cardiolipin beyond the 99th multiple of the median for a healthy, non-malarious population. This study in placental malaria reports parity associations of β2GPI-independent aPL profiles, and does not support a role for β2GPI-dependent aPL. It is of significance in the context of the known parity differences in pregnancy malaria immunity.
Modelling the basin‐scale demography of Calanus finmarchicus in the north‐east Atlantic
Authors: SPEIRS DOUGLAS C. , GURNEY WILLIAM S.C. , HEATH MICHAEL R. , WOOD SIMON N.
Published: September 2005

In this paper, we report on a coupled physical–biological model describing the spatio‐temporal distribution of Calanus finmarchicus over an area of the North Atlantic and Norwegian Sea from 56°N, 30°W to 72°N, 20°E. The model, which explicitly represents all the life‐history stages, is implemented in a highly efficient discrete space–time format which permits wide‐ranging dynamic exploration and parameter optimization. The underlying hydrodynamic driving functions come from the Hamburg Shelf‐Ocean Model (HAMSOM). The spatio‐temporal distribution of resources powering development and reproduction is inferred from SeaWiFS sea‐surface colour observations. We confront the model with distributional data inferred from continuous plankton recorder observations, overwintering distribution data from a variety of EU, UK national and Canadian programmes which were collated as part of the Trans‐Atlantic Study of Calanus (TASC) programme, and high‐frequency stage‐resolved point time‐series obtained as part of the TASC programme. We test two competing hypotheses concerning the control of awakening from diapause and conclude that only a mechanism with characteristics similar to photoperiodic control can explain the test data.
Spatial patterns of genetic structure among populations of a stone‐cased caddis (Trichoptera: Tasimiidae) in south‐east Queensland, Australia
Authors: SCHULTHEIS ALICIA S. , HUGHES JANE M.
Published: September 2005

1. Gene flow and dispersal among populations of a stone‐cased caddis (Tasimiidae: Tasimia palpata) were estimated indirectly using a 460 bp region of the cytochrome oxidase I gene of mitochondrial DNA.

2. There was no significant differentiation at the largest spatial scale (between catchments) and no correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance. These results are consistent with widespread adult dispersal.

3. Conversely, significant genetic differentiation was detected at the smallest spatial scale examined (among reaches within streams). This pattern was primarily because of significant FST values in a single stream (Bundaroo Creek).

4. Bundaroo Creek also had the lowest mean number of haplotypes per population (n = 7) suggesting that a limited number of females may be responsible for recruitment at these sites. Significant FST's at the reach scale may be a result of this ‘patchy’ recruitment. However, additional evidence regarding the long‐range dispersal ability and fecundity of T. palpata females is needed to test this hypothesis fully.
A novel pathway determining multidrug sensitivity in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Thornton Gemma , Wilkinson Caroline R. M. , Toone W. Mark , Jones Nic
Published: September 2005

In this study, we show that a mutation isolated during a screen for determinants of chemosensitivity in S. pombe results in loss of function of a previously uncharacterized protein kinase now named Hal4. Hal4 shares sequence homology to Hal4 and Hal5 in S. cerevisiae, and previous evidence indicates that these kinases positively regulate the major potassium transporter Trk1,2 and thereby maintain the plasma membrane potential. Disruption of this ion homeostasis pathway results in a hyperpolarized membrane and a concomitant increased sensitivity to cations. We demonstrate that a mutation in hal4+ results in hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane. In addition to the original selection agent, the hal4‐1 mutant is sensitive to a variety of chemotherapeutic agents and stress‐inducing compounds. Furthermore, this wider chemosensitive phenotype is also displayed by corresponding mutants in S. cerevisiae, and in a trk1Δtrk2Δ double deletion mutant in S. pombe. We propose that this pathway and its role in regulating the plasma membrane potential may act as a pleiotropic determinant of sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents.
The rich hill of Potosi
Authors: Waltham Tony
Published: September 2005

Silver mining in Bolivia exploited the richest hill on Earth to finance the imperial Spanish in the 16th century. The mines still operate at Potosi today, with primitive conditions underground, but silver production may be boosted by new geological understanding.
Problems in using statistical analysis of replacement and silent mutations in antibody genes for determining antigen‐driven affinity selection
Authors: Bose Biplab , Sinha Subrata
Published: September 2005

The analysis of molecular signatures of antigen‐driven affinity selection of B cells is of immense use in studies on normal and abnormal B cell development. Most of the published literature compares the expected and observed frequencies of replacement (R) and silent (S) mutations in the complementarity‐determining regions (CDRs) and the framework regions (FRs) of antibody genes to identify the signature of antigenic selection. The basic assumption of this statistical method is that antigenic selection creates a bias for R mutations in the CDRs and for S mutations in the FRs. However, it has been argued that the differences in intrinsic mutability among different regions of an antibody gene can generate a statistically significant bias even in the absence of any antigenic selection. We have modified the existing statistical method to include the effects of intrinsic mutability of different regions of an antibody gene. We used this method to analyse sequences of several B cell‐derived monoclonals against T‐dependent antigens, T‐independent antigens, clones derived from lymphoma and amyloidogenic clones. Our sequence analysis indicates that even after correcting for the intrinsic mutability of antibody genes, statistical parameters fail to reflect the role of antigen‐driven affinity selection in maturation of many clones. We suggest that, contrary to the basic assumption of such statistical methods, selection can act both for and against R mutations in the CDR as well as in the FR regions. In addition we have identified different methodological difficulties in the current uses of such statistical analysis of antibody genes.
Lipopolysaccharide‐induced elevation and secretion of interleukin‐1β in the submandibular gland of male mice*
Authors: Yao Chenjuan , Li Xuefei , Murdiastuti Kwartarini , Kosugi‐Tanaka Chisato , Akamatsu Tetsuya , Kanamori Norio , Hosoi Kazuo
Published: September 2005

The intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (400 µg/kg body weight) induced the expression of mRNAs of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in the submandibular gland (SMG) of C3H/HeN mice but not that of C3H/HeJ mice, a mutant strain for Toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR‐4– mutant). The mRNA levels of these cytokines in the SMG of the wild‐type mice increased as early as 3 hr after injection, peaked at 3–6 hr, and had decreased again by 24 hr. In this study, we particularly focused on IL‐1β, and induction by this endotoxin was investigated in detail. Denervation of the superior cervical trunk and chorda tympani nerve did not diminish the LPS‐induced elevation of IL‐1β mRNA in the SMG, indicating the irrelevance of the central nervous system in this induction. TLR‐4 mRNA and protein were shown to be strongly expressed in the SMG, suggesting the direct action of LPS on this gland. IL‐1β proteins were localized in the secretory granules of granular convoluted tubular (GCT) cells, and their molecular weights in the gland were 17·5 and 20 kDa. IL‐1β of the same size appeared in the saliva 6 hr after LPS injection in C3H/HeN but not in C3H/HeJ mice. The present study thus suggests that IL‐1β, an inflammation cytokine, is induced and secreted into the saliva in response to endotoxin injected intraperitoneally.
Without nerves, immunology remains incomplete –in vivo veritas
Authors: Shepherd Andrew J. , Downing James E. G. , Miyan Jaleel A.
Published: September 2005

Interest in the interactions between nervous and immune systems involved in both pathological and homeostatic mechanisms of host defence has prompted studies of neuroendocrine immune modulation and cytokine involvement in neuropathologies. In this review we concentrate on a distinct area of homeostatic control of both normal and abnormal host defence activity involving the network of peripheral c‐fibre nerve fibres. These nerve fibres have long been recognized by dermatologists and gastroenterologists as key players in abnormal inflammatory processes, such as dermatitis and eczema. However, the involvement of nerves can all too easily be regarded as that of isolated elements in a local phenomenon. On the contrary, it is becoming increasingly clear that neural monitoring of host defence activities takes place, and that involvement of central/spinal mechanisms are crucial in the co‐ordination of the adaptive response to host challenge. We describe studies demonstrating neural control of host defence and use the specific examples of bone marrow haemopoiesis and contact sensitivity to highlight the role of direct nerve fibre connections in these activities. We propose a host monitoring system that requires interaction between specialized immune cells and nerve fibres distributed throughout the body and that gives rise to both neural and immune memories of prior challenge. While immunological mechanisms alone may be sufficient for local responsiveness to subsequent challenge, data are discussed that implicate the neural memory in co‐ordination of host defence across the body, at distinct sites not served by the same nerve fibres, consistent with central nervous mediation.
Germ cell atypia in undescended testes hinges on the aetiology of cryptorchidism but not the abdominal location per se
Authors: RAO VEERAMACHANENI D. N.
Published: September 2005

Testicular carcinoma in situ (CIS), which precedes germ cell tumours, has been associated with coexistence or a history of testicular maldescent in 20–30% of human cases. The objective of this study was to determine if the abdominal location of the testis by itself affects differentiation of germ cells and why only some undescended testes manifest atypical germ cells. Groups (n = 4–6) of pregnant Dutch‐Belted rabbits were treated on alternate days between gestation days 15 and 30 with anti‐androgenic chemicals – p,p′ 1,1‐dichloro‐2,2‐bis(p‐chlorophenyl)ethylene (DDE; 100 mg/kg bw; oral), or flutamide (50 mg/kg; s.c.); oestrogenic chemical octylphenol (150 mg/kg; oral); or nothing. Groups (n = 4) of neonatal male pups from untreated litters were either implanted with oestradiol (0.5 mg; 60‐day release), surgically rendered cryptorchid before testes transcended inguinal canal, or left untreated. Of the pups exposed in utero, four of the 12 DDE, two of the nine flutamide and one of the four octylphenol pups were unilaterally cryptorchid. All animals treated with oestradiol were bilaterally cryptorchid. Light and electron microscopic evaluation at 24–26 weeks revealed presence of atypical germ cells in the undescended testes of DDE‐, octylphenol‐, and oestradiol‐exposed animals but not in flutamide‐treated or surgical cryptorchids. These atypical cells exhibited morphological hallmarks of CIS, which included large nuclei with irregular contours, meandering nucleoli, swollen mitochondria, unusual cytoplasmic inclusions and occasional mitotic figures. As transformation of germ cells to CIS‐like cells did not occur in flutamide or surgical groups, this phenomenon seems to be directly associated with the type of the chemical assault but not with the abdominal location of the testis per se.
N‐terminal region of progesterone receptor B isoform in human spermatozoa
Authors: SHAH CHIRAG , MODI DEEPAK , SACHDEVA GEETANJALI , GADKAR SUSHAMA , D'SOUZA SERENA , PURI CHANDER
Published: September 2005

Progesterone is known to act on human spermatozoa by an unidentified membrane receptor. Previous studies have demonstrated the existence of transcripts of conventional progesterone receptor (PR) in sperm RNA; antibodies directed against the C‐terminal region of the conventional PR recognize a protein in sperm extracts. The present study aimed at characterizing the sperm PR using probes unique to the N‐terminal region of the PR‐B isoform. PR‐B transcripts that were homologous to the conventional PR were detected in sperm RNA and localized in the midpiece region. Using specific antibody against the N‐terminal region of PR‐B, strong immunoreactivity was observed on the acrosomal region of digitonin‐treated spermatozoa; Western blot analysis revealed a single band of ∼ 55 kDa. Immunogold labelling studies using the same antibody localized the protein at the inner acrosomal membrane of testicular spermatids. This antibody blocked the binding of fluorescent‐tagged progesterone to digitonin‐treated spermatozoa and inhibited the progesterone‐mediated kinase activation. The results of the present study gives an insight to speculate that the sperm membrane PR may have homology at the N‐terminal region of the conventional PR‐B isoform, or the membrane PR protein may share structural motifs that allows progesterone binding and interactions with the antibodies against the conventional PR.
Human exposure to phthalates via consumer products
Authors: SCHETTLER TED
Published: September 2005

Phthalate exposures in the general population and in subpopulations are ubiquitous and widely variable. Many consumer products contain specific members of this family of chemicals, including building materials, household furnishings, clothing, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, medical devices, dentures, children's toys, glow sticks, modelling clay, food packaging, automobiles, lubricants, waxes, cleaning materials and insecticides. Consumer products containing phthalates can result in human exposures through direct contact and use, indirectly through leaching into other products, or general environmental contamination. Historically, the diet has been considered the major source of phthalate exposure in the general population, but all sources, pathways, and their relative contributions to human exposures are not well understood. Medical devices containing di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate are a source of significant exposure in a susceptible subpopulation of individuals. Cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies and insecticides, may result in significant but poorly quantified human exposures to dibutyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, or dimethyl phthalate. Oven baking of polymer clays may cause short‐term, high‐level inhalation exposures to higher molecular weight phthalates.
The Life Satisfaction Matrix: an instrument and procedure for assessing the subjective quality of life of individuals with profound multiple disabilities
Authors: Lyons G.
Published: September 2005

Background  Assessing and measuring subjective quality of life (QOL) for individuals with profound multiple disabilities (PMD) remain amongst the most difficult challenges for theorists and practitioners in the field. The usual approaches using proxy reporting by familiar others have been demonstrated to be of questionable reliability and validity for persons with PMD.

Method  The author's continuing research into understanding the nature of subjective QOL of these individuals has led to the development and evaluating the Life Satisfaction Matrix (LSM), an instrument and procedure for assessing the subjective QOL of these individuals.

Results  Qualitative research that provides empirical evidence to support the assumptions underpinning, and face validity of, the LSM is described in this article.

Conclusion  Results of the study described herein demonstrate some potential to meet and overcome the above‐mentioned challenges to assess and measure the subjective QOL of individuals with PMD.
Growth Hormone‐Releasing Peptide‐6 Increases Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐I mRNA Levels and Activates Akt in RCA‐6 Cells as a Model of Neuropeptide Y Neurones
Authors: Frago L. M. , Pañeda C. , Argente J. , Chowen J. A.
Published: September 2005

Chronic systemic administration of growth hormone (GH)‐releasing peptide‐6 (GHRP‐6), an agonist for the ghrelin receptor, to normal adult rats increases insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I mRNA and phosphorylated Akt (pAkt) levels in various brain regions, including the hypothalamus. Because neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurones of the arcuate nucleus express receptors for ghrelin, we investigated whether these neurones increase their IGF‐I and p‐Akt levels in response to this agonist. In control rats, immunoreactive pAkt was practically undetectable; however, GHRP‐6 increased p‐Akt immunoreactivity in the arcuate nucleus, with a subset of neurones also being immunoreactive for NPY. Immunoreactivity for IGF‐I was detected in NPY neurones in both experimental groups. To determine if activation of this intracellular pathway is involved in modulation of NPY synthesis RCA‐6 cells, an embryonic rat hypothalamic neuronal cell line that expresses NPY was used. We found that GHRP‐6 stimulates NPY and IGF‐I mRNA synthesis and activates Akt in this cell line. Furthermore, inhibition of Akt activation by LY294002 treatment did not inhibit GHRP‐6 induction of NPY or IGF‐I synthesis. These results suggest that some of the effects of GHRP‐6 may involve stimulation of local IGF‐I production and Akt activation in NPY neurones in the arcuate nucleus. However, GHRP‐6 stimulation of NPY production does not involve this second messenger pathway.
A role for nonphysical barriers to gene flow in the diversification of a highly vagile seabird, the masked booby (Sula dactylatra)
Authors: STEEVES TAMMY E. , ANDERSON DAVID J. , FRIESEN VICKI L.
Published: September 2005

To test the hypothesis that nonphysical barriers to gene flow play a role in the divergence of low‐latitude seabird populations, we applied phylogeographic methods to mitochondrial control region sequence variation in a global sample of masked boobies (Sula dactylatra). In accord with previous studies, we found that Indo‐Pacific and Atlantic haplotypes form two divergent lineages, excluding one haplotype previously attributed to secondary contact between the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Within the Indo‐Pacific and the Atlantic, we found a relatively large number of haplotypes, many of which were unique to a single population. Although haplotypes from most populations were found in more than one higher‐level clade, nested clade analysis revealed a significant association between clades and geography for the majority of higher‐level clades, most often interpreted as a consequence of isolation by distance. We found low levels of gene flow within Indo‐Pacific and Atlantic populations, and a significant correlation between gene flow and geographical distance among Indo‐Pacific populations. We estimate that Indo‐Pacific masked boobies experienced rapid population growth ∼180 000 years ago and that the majority of Indo‐Pacific and Atlantic populations diverged within the last ∼115 000 years. These combined data suggest that the predominant pattern between Indo‐Pacific and Atlantic populations is long‐term isolation by physical barriers to gene flow. In contrast, populations within these regions appear to have diverged despite few obvious physical barriers to gene flow, perhaps as a consequence of limited natal dispersal combined with local adaptation and/or genetic drift.
Pathogenicity of the root‐knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica on potato
Authors: Vovlas N. , Mifsud D. , Landa B. B. , Castillo P.
Published: September 2005

Host–parasite relationships and pathogenicity of Meloidogyne javanica on potatoes (newly recorded from Malta) were studied under glasshouse and natural conditions. Potato cvs Cara and Spunta showed a typical susceptible reaction to M. javanica under natural and artificial infections, respectively. In potato tubers, M. javanica induced feeding sites that consisted of three to four hypertrophied giant cells per adult female. Infection of feeder roots by the nematode resulted in mature large galls which usually contained at least one mature female and egg mass. In both tubers and roots, feeding sites were characterized by giant cells containing granular cytoplasm and many hypertrophied nuclei. Cytoplasm in giant cells was aggregated alongside the thickened cell walls. Stelar tissues within galls appeared disorganized. The relationship between initial nematode population density (P) [0–64 eggs + second‐stage juveniles (J2s) per cm3 soil] and growth of cv. Spunta potato seedlings was tested under glasshouse conditions. A Seinhorst model [y = m + (1 − m)z(P−T)] was fitted to fresh shoot weight and shoot height data of nematode‐inoculated and control plants. Tolerance limits (T) for fresh shoot weight and shoot height of cv. Spunta plants infected with M. javanica were 0·50 and 0·64 eggs + J2s per cm3 soil, respectively. The m parameter in that model (i.e. the minimum possible y‐values) for fresh shoot weight and shoot height were 0·60 and 0·20, respectively, at P = 64 eggs + J2s per cm3 soil. Root galling was proportional to the initial nematode population density. Maximum nematode reproduction rate was 51·2 at a moderate initial population density (P = 4 eggs + J2s per cm3 soil).
Competition and interactions among stripe rust pathotypes in wheat‐cultivar mixtures
Authors: Lannou C. , Hubert P. , Gimeno C.
Published: September 2005

A series of experiments was conducted with wheat stripe rust to analyse competition between simple and complex pathotypes in host mixtures. Two different pathotype combinations were tested, with different host components. Each combination included a complex (able to infect two host components) and two simple pathotypes. For one of the combinations, induced resistance was tested in a separate experiment as a possible interaction among pathotypes. Disease severity and pathotype frequencies were measured three times during the epidemic, on each host component grown in pure stands and in mixtures. In one of the experiments, pathotype frequencies were also measured within secondary foci. One of the complex pathotypes appeared to have a low fitness on one of the host components and did not significantly increase in frequency in host mixtures relative to pure stands. The average frequency of the other complex pathotype increased during the first epidemic cycles, but remained stable afterwards, below expected values. The results suggest that the development of complex pathotypes in host mixtures may be influenced by differential aggressiveness on the host components, by induced resistance and by random effects resulting from the formation of disease foci, and depends on pathogen autoinfection rate and dispersal mechanisms.
The accuracy of human population maps for public health application
Authors: Hay S. I. , Noor A. M. , Nelson A. , Tatem A. J.
Published: September 2005

Objectives  Human population totals are used for generating burden of disease estimates at global, continental and national scales to help guide priority setting in international health financing. These exercises should be aware of the accuracy of the demographic information used.

Methods  The analysis presented in this paper tests the accuracy of five large‐area, public‐domain human population distribution data maps against high spatial resolution population census data enumerated in Kenya in 1999. We illustrate the epidemiological significance, by assessing the impact of using these different human population surfaces in determining populations at risk of various levels of climate suitability for malaria transmission. We also describe how areal weighting, pycnophylactic interpolation and accessibility potential interpolation techniques can be used to generate novel human population distribution surfaces from local census information and evaluate to what accuracy this can be achieved.

Results  We demonstrate which human population distribution surface performed best and which population interpolation techniques generated the most accurate bespoke distributions. Despite various levels of modelling complexity, the accuracy achieved by the different surfaces was primarily determined by the spatial resolution of the input population data. The simplest technique of areal weighting performed best.

Conclusions  Differences in estimates of populations at risk of malaria in Kenya of over 1 million persons can be generated by the choice of surface, highlighting the importance of these considerations in deriving per capita health metrics in public health. Despite focussing on Kenya the results of these analyses have general application and are discussed in this wider context.
Infection of Arceuthobium americanum by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and its potential for inundative biological control
Authors: Ramsfield T. D. , Shamoun S. F. , van der Kamp B. J.
Published: September 2005

Inundative biological control of Arceuthobium americanum occurring on Pinus contorta var. latifolia with the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides was investigated. Isolates of C. gloeosporioides were collected throughout British Columbia, Canada, and one isolate was selected for assessment based on its growth and sporulation in culture. The fungus was formulated using the ‘Stabileze’ method and inoculated onto A. americanum under field conditions. It became established on some replicates and there was a higher incidence of C. gloeosporioides on treated replicates than controls. In some replicates, the treatment reduced fruit production, leading to a decrease in the reproductive capacity of the dwarf mistletoe plant; however, the efficacy was highly variable and not significant.
Bile duct varices presenting as a porta hepatis mass
Authors: House MK , Gibson RN
Published: September 2005

Bile duct varices are a rare manifestation of portal vein cavernous transformation. They can present as an apparent enhancing, vascular mass in the porta hepatis and are readily diagnosed using ultrasound and CT modalities. Diagnosis is important to avoid unnecessary intervention and concomitant risk of haemobilia.
Computed tomography of intrathoracic extramedullary haematopoiesis occurring as a complication of osteopetrosis
Authors: Hennessy OF , Salanitri JC
Published: September 2005

Intrathoracic extramedullary haematopoiesis occurring as a complication of osteopetrosis is uncommon. The combination of classic plain film and CT findings should suggest the diagnosis, which can be non‐invasively confirmed with bone marrow scintigraphy.
COMPARISON OF SODIUM PHOSPHATE, POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL AND SENNA SOLUTIONS IN BOWEL PREPARATION: A PROSPECTIVE, RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED CLINICAL STUDY
Authors: Bektas Hasan , Balik Emre , Bilsel Yilmaz , Yamaner Sumer , Bulut Turker , Bugra Dursun , Buyukuncu Yilmaz , Akyuz Ali , Sokucu Necmettin
Published: September 2005

Background: Low volume oral solutions for colon cleansing before colonoscopy are gaining popularity over large volume oral lavage solutions. Therefore, we aimed to compare three oral solutions for colonoscopy to determine any changes in either patient compliance or cleansing ability.

Methods: One hundred and seventy patients referred for colonoscopy were randomized into three groups (sodium phosphate: group 1; polyethylene glycol: group 2; and senna solution: group 3). Bodyweight and arterial blood pressure measurements and blood biochemistry analysis were performed prior to and following bowel preparation. Subsequently, the patients were asked to fill out a patient questionnaire for the evaluation of side‐effects and patient satisfaction. Then endoscopists classified the efficacy of colon cleansing as clean, suboptimal or dirty.

Results: There were no clinically significant changes in weight or assessed laboratory parameters. No difference was seen in the incidence of side‐effects, with the exception of crampy abdominal pain, where the group 3 patients had an incidence of 27.3% (P = 0.008). When the patients were asked which method they would choose if re‐cleansing was required, the rate of preference of the same method was highest in group 1 (59%), and lowest in group 3 (6.8%,P = 0.0001). While the three methods of preparation were equivalent in the overall quality of cleansing, group 3 had the highest rate of fecal contamination (17.8%).

Conclusions: When compared with respect to their efficacies in colon cleansing, safety of application, ease of usage, and side‐effects, no significant differences were noted between sodium phosphate, polyethylene glycol and senna solutions. Nevertheless, due to its greater tolerability, requirement of a shorter period of time in colon cleansing, and lower cost, we recommend the use of sodium phosphate in bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy.
Expression of A‐type K+ channel α subunits Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 in rat spinal lamina II excitatory interneurons and colocalization with pain‐modulating molecules
Authors: Huang Hsin‐Yi , Cheng Jen‐Kun , Shih Yang‐Hsin , Chen Pei‐Hsuan , Wang Chin‐Lin , Tsaur Meei‐Ling
Published: September 2005

Voltage‐gated K+ channel α subunits Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 are the major contributors of somatodendritic A‐type K+ currents in many CNS neurons. A recent hypothesis suggests that Kv4 subunits may be involved in pain modulation in dorsal horn neurons. However, whether Kv4 subunits are expressed in dorsal horn neurons remains unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 immunoreactivity was concentrated in the superficial dorsal horn, mainly in lamina II. Both Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 appeared on many rostrocaudally orientated dendrites, whereas Kv4.3 could be also detected from certain neuronal somata. Kv4.3(+) neurons were a subset of excitatory inerneurons with calretinin(+)/calbindin(–)/PKCγ(–) markers, and a fraction of them expressed µ‐opioid receptors. Kv4.3(+) neurons also expressed ERK2 and mGluR5, which are molecules related to the induction of central sensitization, a mechanism mediating nociceptive plasticity. Together with the expression of Kv4.3 in VR1(+) DRG neurons, our data suggest that Kv4 subunits could be involved in pain modulation.
Prevention of aspiration under general anesthesia by use of the size 2½ ProSealTM laryngeal mask airway in a 6‐year‐old boy: a case report
Authors: GOLDMANN KAI , JAKOB CHRISTIAN
Published: September 2005

We report a case where use of the size 2 ProSealTM laryngeal mask airway helped to prevent pulmonary aspiration of regurgitated gastric fluid. We describe the management of this case and discuss the potential advantages of this modified laryngeal mask airway for supraglottic airway management in pediatric patients.
Laurel Wax as a New Natural Cosmetic Raw Material: Characterization, Stability, Sensorial Studies and Safety Evaluation
Authors: Jiménez J. , García L. , Calle J.
Published: September 2005

Colombia has the third greatest biodiversity in the world and many plants have yet to be studied. Laurel wax is obtained from the fruit of Myrica pubescens, a small tree that can be found in some rural zones in the Nariño department. The main objective of this investigation is to contribute to the development of sustainability of the communities that produce laurel wax in Colombia by proposing possible uses in personal care products. This work involves: 1. Determining the physicochemical properties of wax obtained from the fruit of Myrica pubescens, which is known in the region as laurel wax, 2. Proposing applications and uses of this wax in personal care products on the basis of the results of comparative stability and sensory studies with other natural waxes. 3. Performing a safety evaluation using the Het‐Cam test and thereby avoiding animal experiments. Emulsions and color cosmetics can be developed with laurel wax. Replacement of beeswax with laurel wax in lipsticks was studied using analytical sensory techniques with the help of a trained panel; this change improved the slipperiness and uniformity. According to a safety evaluation based on the Het‐Cam test, laurel wax should not be an irritant in vivo.
The effectiveness of family interventions in people with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review
Authors: Armour T. A. , Norris S. L. , Jack L. , Zhang X. , Fisher L.
Published: September 2005

Aims  To conduct a systematic review of reports of published literature to assess which family interventions are effective in improving diabetes‐related outcomes in people with diabetes and family members (blood or non‐blood relatives) residing in their homes.

Methods  We searched computerized bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, WOS, ERIC, Cochrane, CDP, and SocAbs) for randomized clinical trials published in any language that evaluated the effectiveness of family‐based interventions with no age restriction. Only studies focused on interventions in young populations (< 18 years) and involving a parent were combined in a meta‐analysis for glycated haemoglobin (GHb) using DerSimonian and Laird random effects model. Effect sizes for knowledge outcomes were estimated using the Cohen's d (standardized mean differences) formula.

Results  Our searches identified 19 randomized controlled trials. Positive effect sizes of family interventions on knowledge for five studies (N = 217) were demonstrated {0.94 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67, 1.82]}. A beneficial effect of interventions on GHb for eight studies (N = 505) was also observed using meta‐analysis [−0.6 (95% CI −1.2, −0.1)].

Conclusions  Evidence suggests that family interventions in family or household members of people with diabetes may be effective in improving diabetes‐related knowledge and glycaemic control.
Fulminant lactic acidosis in two patients with Type 2 diabetes treated with metformin
Authors: Brassøe R. , Elkmann T. , Hempel M. , Gravholt C. H.
Published: September 2005

Lactic acidosis is a known adverse risk of metformin treatment. We report two cases in whom fulminant lactic acidosis developed during treatment. There were no contraindications to metformin treatment and both were admitted with abdominal discomfort for some days, causing dehydration. Both patients had renal failure on admission, developed multiple organ failure and both suffered a massive stroke. One patient died and the other survived but is severely disabled. We suggest, in both cases, that acute renal failure developed as a result of dehydration, causing metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis. We recommend that all patients on metformin should consider discontinuation of metformin treatment in the event of a severe medical condition causing dehydration.
Searching for Common Ground between Supporters and Opponents of Affirmative Action
Authors: Reyna Christine , Tucker Amanda , Korfmacher William , Henry P. J.
Published: September 2005

Supporters and opponents of affirmative action are often characterized as debating about a single, consensually understood type of affirmative action. However, supporters and opponents instead may have different types of policies in mind when thinking about affirmative action and may actually agree on specific manifestations of affirmative action policies more than is commonly believed. A survey conducted using a student sample and a sample from the broader Chicago‐area community showed that affirmative action policies can be characterized into merit‐violating versus merit‐upholding manifestations. Supporters of affirmative action in general were more likely to think of affirmative action in its merit‐upholding manifestations, whereas opponents were more likely to think of the merit‐violating manifestations. However, both supporters and opponents showed more support for merit‐upholding rather than merit‐violating manifestations of affirmative action. The same pattern of results was upheld even when splitting the samples into those who endorsed negative racial attitudes versus those who did not, suggesting that even those who may be considered racist will endorse affirmative action policies that uphold merit values. The results are discussed in terms of the importance of clarifying the political discourse about what affirmative action is and what it is designed to do.
Are moderate parties rewarded in multiparty systems? A pooled analysis of Western European elections, 1984–1998
Authors: EZROW LAWRENCE
Published: September 2005

Abstract. We present cross‐national analyses – both cross‐sectional and longitudinal – estimating the vote shares for approximately 80 parties across Western Europe from 1984 to 1998. The results indicate that parties’ vote shares increase with their proximity to the centre of the voter distribution, although the effects are relatively small. These findings corroborate the theoretical results reported by Lin et al. in their article ‘Equilibrium in Multicandidate Probabilistic Spatial Voting’ (Public Choice, Vol. 98, pp. 59–82), and provide support for conclusions reported by other authors who rely on simulations of individual‐level data from national election surveys.
Cross‐Functional Team Processes and Patient Functional Improvement
Authors: Alexander Jeffrey A. , Lichtenstein Richard , Jinnett Kimberly , Wells Rebecca , Zazzali James , Liu Dawei
Published: September 2005

Objective. To test the hypothesis that higher levels of participation and functioning in cross‐functional psychiatric treatment teams will be related to improved patient outcomes.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Primary data were collected during the period 1992–1999. The study was conducted in 40 teams within units treating seriously mentally ill patients in 16 Veterans Affairs hospitals across the U.S.

Study Design. A longitudinal, multilevel analysis assessed the relationship between individual‐ and team‐level variables and patients' ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) over time. Team data were collected in 1992, 1994, and 1995. The number of times patient data were collected was dependent on the length of time the patient was treated and varied from 1 to 14 between 1992 and 1999. Key variables included: patients' ADL scores (the dependent variable); measures of team participation and team functioning; the number of days from baseline on which a patient's ADLs were assessed; and several control variables.

Data Collection Methods. Team data were obtained via self‐administered questionnaires distributed to staff on the study teams. Additional team data were obtained via questionnaires completed by unit directors contemporaneously with the staff survey. Patient data were collected by trained clinicians at regular intervals using a standard assessment instrument.

Principal Findings. Results indicated that patients treated in teams with higher levels of staff participation experienced greater improvement in ADL over time. No differences in ADL change were noted for patients treated in teams with higher levels of team functioning.

Conclusions. Findings support our premise that team process has important implications for patient outcomes. The results suggest that the level of participation by the team as a whole may be a more important process attribute, in terms of patient improvements in ADLs, than the team's smooth functioning. These findings indicate the potential appropriateness of managerial interventions to encourage member investment in team processes.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase is not essential for the development of fibrosis and portal hypertension in bile duct ligated mice
Authors: Koshy Abraham , De Gottardi Andrea , Ledermann Monika , Saegesser Hans , Shaw Sidney G. , Zimmermann Arthur , Reichen Jürg
Published: September 2005

Abstract: Background/Aims: It is postulated that nitric oxide (NO) is responsible for the hyperdynamic circulation of portal hypertension. Therefore, we investigated induction of fibrosis and hyperdynamic circulation in endothelial NO synthase knock‐out (KO) mice.

Methods: Fibrosis was induced by bile duct ligation. Hemodynamic studies were performed after portal vein ligation. All studies were performed in wild‐type (WT) and KO mice.

Results: Three to 4 weeks after bile duct ligation (BDL), both WT and KO groups had similar degrees of portal hypertension, 12 (9–14) and 11(8–15) mmHg, median (range), and liver function. Fibrosis increased from 0.0% in sham operated to 1.0 and 1.1% in WT and KO mice, respectively. Cardiac output was similar after portal vein ligation (20 and 17 ml/min in WT and KO mice, respectively). There was no difference in liver of mRNA for endothelin 1, inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and hem‐oxygenase 1 (HO1); proteins of iNOS, HO1 and HO2; nor in endothelin A and B (EtA and EtB) receptor density between WT and KO mice after BDL.

Conclusions: These results suggest that endothelial NO synthase is neither essential for the development of fibrosis and portal hypertension in bile duct ligated mice, nor for the hyperdynamic circulation associated with portal hypertension in the portal vein ligated mice.
Choosing the location for non‐image guided abdominal paracentesis
Authors: Sakai Hideki , Sheer Todd A. , Mendler Michel H. , Runyon Bruce A.
Published: September 2005

Abstract: Objectives: The optimal location for paracentesis has not been studied scientifically. The evolving obesity epidemic has changed the physique of many patients with cirrhosis and ascites such that needles inserted into the abdominal wall may not reach fluid. We aimed to determine the location for paracentesis that would have the thinnest abdominal wall and the deepest amount of fluid.

Methods: Ultrasound measurements of abdominal wall thickness and depth of ascites were recorded in two locations, the infraumbilical midline (ML) and the left lower quadrant (LLQ), in 52 patients with cirrhosis and ascites admitted to a single inpatient liver unit.

Results: The abdominal wall was significantly thinner (1.8 vs. 2.4 cm; P<0.001) and the depth of ascites greater (2.86 vs. 2.29 cm; P=0.017) in the LLQ as compared with the infraumbilical ML position. In the left lateral oblique position, the difference in the depth of ascites was more pronounced when comparing the LLQ with the infraumbilical ML (4.57 vs. 2.78 cm; P<0.0001).

Conclusions: The LLQ is preferable to the ML infraumbilical location for performing paracentesis.
Cerebral Diffusion‐Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Tool to Monitor the Thrombogenicity of Left Atrial Catheter Ablation
Authors: LICKFETT LARS , HACKENBROCH MATTHIAS , LEWALTER THORSTEN , SELBACH STEPHANIE , SCHWAB JÖRG O. , YANG ALEXANDER , BALTA OSMAN , SCHRICKEL JAN , BITZEN ALEXANDER , LÜDERITZ BERNDT , SOMMER TORSTEN
Published: September 2005

Introduction: Cerebral embolism and stroke are feared complications of left atrial catheter ablation such as pulmonary vein (PV) ablation. In order to assess the thrombogenicity of left atrial catheter ablation, knowledge of both clinically evident as well as silent cerebral embolism is important. The aim of the current study was to examine the use of diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) for detection of cerebral embolism, apparent as well as silent, caused by PV catheter ablation.

Methods and Results: Twenty consecutive patients without structural heart disease undergoing lasso catheter‐guided ostial PV ablation using an irrigated‐tip ablation catheter were studied. Cerebral MRI including DW single‐shot spin echo echoplanar, turbo fluid attenuated inversion recovery, and T2‐weighted turbo spin echo sequences were performed the day after the ablation procedure. Ten patients also underwent preprocedure cerebral MRI. All ablation procedures were performed without acute complications. A mean of 3.2 ± 0.6 PVs were ablated per patient. No patient had neurological symptoms following the procedure. In 2 of 20 patients (10%), DW‐MRI revealed new embolic lesions, which were located in the right periventricular white matter in one and in the left temporal lobe in the other patient. There was no statistically significant difference in age, history of hypertension, left atrial volume, and procedure duration between the 2 patients with and the 18 patients without cerebral embolism following AF ablation.

Conclusion: This is the first study using highly sensitive DW‐MRI of the brain to detect asymptomatic cerebral embolism after left atrial catheter ablation. Even small, clinically silent, embolic lesions can be demonstrated with this technique. DW‐MRI can be used to monitor and compare the thrombogenicity of different AF ablation approaches.
Thermal Expansion of Polycrystalline Ti3SiC2 in the 25°–1400°C Temperature Range
Authors: Manoun Bouchaib , Saxena Surendra K. , Liermann Hanns‐Peter , Barsoum Michel W.
Published: September 2005

We measured the volume thermal expansion of Ti3SiC2 from 25° to 1400°C using high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction using a resistive heated cell. A piece of molybdenum foil with a 250 μm hole contained the sample material (Ti3SiC2+Pt). Thermal expansion of the polycrystalline sample was measured under a constant argon flow to prevent oxidation of Ti3SiC2 and the molybdenum heater. From the lattice parameters of platinum (internal standard), we calculated the temperature by using thermal expansion data published in the literature. The molar volume change of Ti3SiC2 as a function of temperature in °C is given by: VM (cm3/mol)=43.20 (2)+9.0 (5) × 10−4T+1.8(4) × 10−7T2. The temperature variation of the volumetric thermal expansion coefficient is given by: αv (°C−1)=2.095 (1) × 10−5+7.700 (1) × 10−9T. Furthermore, the results indicate that the thermal expansion anisotropy of Ti3SiC2 is quite mild in accordance with previous work.
Concentrated Barium Titanate Colloidal Gels Prepared by Bridging Flocculation for Use in Solid Freeform Fabrication
Authors: Nadkarni Sarosh S. , Smay James E.
Published: September 2005

Concentrated, aqueous colloidal gels of barium titanate (BT) have been formulated for use as ink in a direct write, solid freeform fabrication process. Micron‐sized BT particles were stabilized by ammonium polyacrylate (APA) and then gelled by salt or cationic poly(electrolyte) additions to achieve shear thinning with yield‐stress rheology. Monovalent cation salts were found to simply increase the ionic strength, whereas divalent cation‐gelled suspensions displayed evidence of bridging flocculation. Suspensions gelled with cationic poly(ethylenimine) (PEI), likewise, exhibited high gel strengths, indicating bridging flocculation. Oscillatory shear measurements revealed that equilibrium and dynamic visco‐elastic properties depended on both the concentration and the molecular weight of the PEI, with higher molecular weight species providing more efficient gelation. PEI and divalent salt flocculated BT gels were evaluated for their performance in the direct write process by printing three‐dimensional lattices.