bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 2–Mediated Tumor Suppression Is Nitric Oxide Dependent and Involves Angiostasis
Authors: Zhao Xueqiang , Mohaupt Mariette , Jiang Jing , Liu Shubai , Li Bing , Qin Zhihai
Published: May 2007

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) binds to two different receptors. Although most of its functions are attributed to TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1), the independent role of TNFR2 is still largely unknown. Using TNFR single or double knock-out mice, we show here that the expression of TNFR2 alone on host cells was sufficient to suppress the growth of TNF-secreting tumors in both immune competent and T/B lymphocyte–deficient severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. Histologic studies showed that TNF recruited, via TNFR2, large numbers of macrophages and efficiently inhibited angiogenesis in the tumor. In vitro, TNF activated TNFR1-deficient macrophages to produce nitric oxide (NO). Treatment of TNFR1 knock-out mice with L-NAME, a specific NO synthase inhibitor, almost completely eliminated TNF-induced angiostasis and tumor suppression. Moreover, L-NAME acted only during the first few days of tumor growth. Our results show for the first time that TNFR2 expressed on host innate immune cells is sufficient to mediate the antitumor effect of TNF, and NO is necessary for this process, possibly by inhibition of angiogenesis in the tumor. [Cancer Res 2007;67(9):4443–9]
Clinical Experience with Autofluorescence Imaging System in Patients with Lung Cancers and Precancerous Lesions
Authors: Ueno Kiyonobu , Kusunoki Yoko , Imamura Fumio , Yoshimura Mana , Yamamoto Suguru , Uchida Junji , Tsukamoto Yoshitane
Published: May 2007

Background: It is important to detect preinvasive bronchial lesions before they become invasive cancer, because detection of early cancer is expected to lead to a cure. Autofluorescence bronchoscopy is a useful device in the detection of preinvasive and cancerous lesions. Recently, a new autofluorescence bronchoscopic system, autofluorescence imaging (AFI) system, has been developed. Objectives: We evaluated the efficacy of AFI in the diagnosis of precancerous and cancerous lesions. Methods: A total of 31 patients underwent both conventional white-light bronchoscopy (WLB) and AFI from January 2002 to September 2004. We evaluated autofluorescence findings using a four-point scale: AFI-I, II, III, and B. The findings in WLB were evaluated on a three-point scale: WLB-I, II, and III. Abnormal areas by WLB and AFI were biopsied for histopathological examinations. Results: A total of 64 lesions were evaluated. When the AFI-III finding was regarded as positive in AFI and WLB-III as positive in WLB, sensitivity for severe dysplasia or worse was 94.7% with AFI and 73.7% with WLB, respectively. Conclusions: AFI is an effective system for the detection of precancerous and cancerous lesions.
Maximum Number of Collaterals Developed by One Axon during Peripheral Nerve Regeneration and the Influence of That Number on Reinnervation Effects
Authors: Jiang Bao Guo , Yin Xiao Feng , Zhang Dian Yin , Fu Zhong Guo , Zhang Hong Bo
Published: May 2007

This study investigated the maximum number of collaterals that can be maintained by 1 axon during regeneration of rat peripheral nerve. The tibial nerve was transected, the proximal residual, with its variable number of axons, was fixed to the distal stump and served as the donor nerve. The number of myelinated axons was calculated after 12 weeks. An increasing ratio of distal stump axon numbers to proximal donor nerve axon numbers of 1.0, 1.83, 3.64 and 7.97 yielded ratios of regenerative myelinated axon numbers to proximal donor axon numbers of 0.98, 1.51, 2.39, 2.89, respectively, with an estimated maximum value of approximately 3.3 using the Hill function. The tibial function indexes and nerve conduction velocities of the regenerated tibial nerve were –44.1 ± 5.1 and 43.2 ± 5.3 m/s, –57.5 ± 4.7 and 18.6 ± 4.3 m/s, –80.2 ± 7.1 and 12.7 ± 3.7 m/s, and –85.4 ± 5.7 and 10.5 ± 3.9 m/s, respectively. It has been suggested that 1 axon can regenerate and maintain up to 3 or 4 collaterals in regenerated rat peripheral nerve.
Physiology of Motor Control in Man
Authors: Eccles John C.
Published: May 2007

The physiology of motor control is considered in hierarchical terms. In that way it is possible to gain insight into the complex superimposed systems of motor control. In the execution of a voluntary movement the neural machinery is called into operation at all of the hierarchical levels: (1) the motor unit; (2) spinal reflex mechanisms; (3) brain stem mechanisms; (4) cerebellar vermis controls; cerebrocerebellar controls, (5) via the pars intermedia and (6) via the cerebellar hemispheres and also of the basal ganglia. At level 6 there is design for reverberatory loop operation within the association cortex and with the subcortical structures, which gives opportunity for preprogramming movements by motor memories. This is especially important for ballistic movements that are too fast for updating by feedback from the periphery. Reverberatory loop operation both within the neocortex and with cortico-subcortical circuits presumably is occurring during the readiness potential preceding a voluntary movement.
Multiple-Lead Spinal Cord Stimulation: Technique
Authors: Waltz Joseph M. , Andreesen Wayne H.
Published: May 2007

This report is a continuation of our previous report on chronic spinal cord stimulation in disorders of the motor system. Improved statistics were observed following changing from the early conventional two-electrode system to a newly developed four-electrode system. The success of the four-electrode system lies in the analysis of both the electrode combinations and the frequency of stimulation. These are carried out on each patient and remain the most critical aspects of the technique. The details of the multiple lead system – the technique of implantation and protocols for carrying out electrode and frequency analysis – are presented.
Electrical Spinal Cord Stimulation for Spastic Movement Disorders
Authors: Siegfried J. , Lazorthes Y. , Broggi G.
Published: May 2007

Clinical results of electrical stimulation of the spinal cord at three different clinics are reported for 53 patients suffering from different spastic movement disorders out of a series of 164 cases tested transitorily. Two-thirds of the cases were multiple sclerosis patients. The difficulty of objective assessment is emphasized. Motor function was principally evaluated and surprisingly showed a marked improvement 1–5 years after the implantation of an electrical device. Other criteria are analyzed and compared with literature. Dorsal cord stimulation seems to be a valuable method for improving the quality of life in a limited percentage of cases of neurological motor disorders.
Remarks on Spinal Cord Stimulation and the Placebo Effect
Authors: Sharkey P.C. , Dimitrijevic M.M. , Campos R.J. , Dimitrijevic M.R.
Published: May 2007

Spinal cord stimulation, which has been shown to be beneficial in multiple sclerosis as well as in sustained spinal cord injury, works through modification of specific motor mechanisms. This modification occurs through regional recruitment of spinal cord activity in posterior aspects of the spinal cord. Substantial involvement of the placebo effect can be ruled out by noting the persistence of beneficial effects observed in spinal cord injury patients and by the fact that the effects are related only to depolarization of posterior structures of the spinal cord, rather than to perception of a ''tingling'' sensation caused by spinal cord stimulation. Such a sensation can also occur when electrodes are over anterior or lateral structures of the spinal cord, when the stimulation is not effective in alleviating motor symptoms.
Biomedical Engineering Aspects of Spinal Cord Stimulation
Authors: Sherwood A.M.
Published: May 2007

Problems of spinal cord stimulation for modification of motor performance are discussed, based on presentations by representatives of the major stimulator manufacturers. Addressed were problems of electrode fixation, durability, energy requirements, and size. Trade-offs involved in the design and manufacture of various systems were also discussed. Design features and parameters identified were small size, totally implantable, good control of stimulus current, rates of stimulation variable from 20 to 1,400 Hz, current range of 2–12 mA, and a pulse width of 100–500 ms. Improvements are needed in all aspects of system performance, but particularly with respect to lead durability and electrode design. Future units may utilize feedback of physiological parameters for more optimal stimulus control.
Transdermal Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation for Pain: The Search for an Optimal Waveform
Authors: Jenkner F.L. , Schuhfried F.
Published: May 2007

A search has been made for an optimal wave form for transcutaneous nerve stimulation for pain. The effect of electrical stimulation of sympathetic nerves was studied as a model because (1) this system has small diameter axons, as do nociceptive fibers, and (2) alteration of activity in sympathetic fibers may be evaluated objectively by observing the effects upon circulation. A transcutaneously applied waveform was found which influenced circulation maximally, suggesting that sympathetic nerves were affected by the transdermal stimulation. The hypothesis that these stimulation parameters might be optimal for pain relief was tested. Relief of 40% or more was obtained in 68% of 2,800 patients suffering from chronic pain of diverse origin, utilizing this waveform.
Radial Nerve Conduction in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Smith Jollyon
Published: May 2007

Orthodromic sensory nerve conduction was studied in the distal segment of the superficial radial nerve in 50 cases of carpal tunnel syndrome in 41 patients. In patients aged 50 years or less, the mean conduction velocity was 48.6 m/s (SD ± 4.8), and the mean amplitude of the sensory action potential was 9.7 µV (SD ± 4.0). For patients aged over 50 years, the corresponding values were 46.4 m/s (SD ± 5.5) and 7.5 µV (SD ± 3.5). It is important to demonstrate normal radial nerve conduction in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome in order to exclude peripheral neuropathy or cervical radiculopathy. Spread of activity from the radial nerve may be mistaken for a median nerve potential.
Position and Organization of Thalamic Cellular Activity during Diencephalic Recording
Authors: Hardy Tyrone L. , Bertrand Gilles , Thompson C.J.
Published: May 2007

With the aid of a computer graphic display technique, data gathered from exploratory diencephalic recordings in 130 stereotactic operative procedures are presented to show the location and somatotopography of ''pressure''-evoked cellular responses. In addition, the variable position of these responses in relation to common diencephalic landmarks is presented. Our findings indicate that response points are more compact when related to a common posterior commissure (PC) and lie in a sickle-shaped zone 14–16 mm lateral to the midline and 2–8 mm rostral to the PC. No definite conclusion could be made with regard to whether this area is anatomically the nucleus ventralis caudalis or the nucleus ventralis intermedius. Somatotopographically, face responses were medial to the leg.
Effects of Postural Change of the Shoulder on EMG Reaction Time of Triceps Brachii
Authors: Taniguchi Reiji , Nakamura Ryuichi , Yokochi Fusako , Narabayashi Hirotaro
Published: May 2007

Postural dependence of electromyographic reaction time (EMG-RT) of triceps brachii in normal subjects was examined at neutral (N) and facilitating (F) positions. EMG-RT was faster at F than at N; moreover, the slower one''s EMG-RT, the larger the difference of EMG-RTs. F position of arms causes the shifting of EMG-RT through two biasing systems. The action of one system arises from either arm and acts on both arms, as the facilitation and its intensity depend on one''s EMG-RT. The other system arises from one arm, and facilitates the ipsilateral arm but inhibits the contralateral arm; its intensity is independent of one''s EMG-RT. The amount of the shift is determined by the added contribution of those two actions.
Cerebellar Stimulation in Four Patients with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Reynolds Arden F. , Hardy Tyrone L.
Published: May 2007

Six Medtronic 1743 dual-channel cerebellar stimulators were implanted in 4 patients between September 1977 and January 1979. Evaluations were conducted in both a blind and nonblind fashion. Significant differences between the evaluations occurred. The operating surgeon, physical therapists, referring neurologist and the patients'' families all overestimated the degree of improvement, compared to a blind evaluation by a noninvolved group of neurologists. The concomitant occurrence of significant complications raised serious questions of the advisability of cerebellar stimulation for cerebral palsy.
Characteristics of Spinal Cord-Evoked Responses in Man
Authors: Dimitrijevic M.R. , Lehmkuhl L.D. , Sedgwick E.M. , Sherwood A.M. , McKay W.B.
Published: May 2007

The averaged electrical potentials evoked by the stimulation of the peripheral nerves were recorded with surface electrodes over the lumbosacral, lower thoracic and cervical spine and with epidurally placed electrodes in the cervical area. The waveforms of the lumbosacral and cervical spinal cord potentials show similar complexity reflecting peripheral and central generators. The larger negative wave with at least two components is followed by a slower positive deflection. Evoked potentials recorded over the cervical segments of the spinal cord with epidural electrodes are of much higher amplitude and more complex waveform than those recorded with surface electrodes.
CT Localization in Stereotactic Surgery
Authors: Boëthius J. , Bergström M. , Greitz T. , Ribbe T.
Published: May 2007

A stereotactic system is described. It is built around a baseplate which is fastened to the head of the patient and to various diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. In principle this system can function as an interface between most diagnostic (CT scanners, PET scanners, conventional X-ray instrumentation for angiograms and pneumoencephalograms) and therapeutic (stereotactic instruments, linear accelerators) instruments. It has been in practical use since 1976 and used in a number of ‘diagnostic-therapeutic’ combinations.
Effect of L-Carnitine and Propionyl-L-Carnitine on Endothelial Function of Small Mesenteric Arteries from SHR
Authors: Alvarez de Sotomayor Maria , Bueno Rosario , Pérez-Guerrero Concepción , Herrera Maria Dolores
Published: May 2007

Background:The effect of treatment with either 200 mg·kg–1 of L-carnitine (LC) or propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) was studied on endothelial dysfunction of small mesenteric arteries (SMA) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Methods: Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured and endothelial and vascular functions were assessed by the effect of carbachol (CCh) and phenylephrine (Phe). O2– produced by SMA and eNOS expression were evaluated by chemiluminescence and Western blot, respectively. Results: Although SBP was not affected, endothelial relaxation increased in both LC- and PLC-treated SHR. Nevertheless, the CCh-induced contraction remained sensitive to indomethacin in these rats. On the contrary, NO participation was increased in all the groups except for LC-treated WKY. Furthermore, high concentrations of Phe produced NO-dependent relaxation of SMA from PLC-treated rats. Both compounds decreased basal and NADPH-stimulated O2– in SHR toward values observed in WKY. Only PLC increased eNOS protein expression in SHR. Neither LC nor PLC affected endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-induced relaxation. Conclusions: LC and its propionate improved endothelial responses of SMA from SHR by decreasing O2– production and thus increasing NO availability. PLC also increased NO synthesis by enhancing eNOS expression.
Single Neuron Analysis of the Human Midbrain Tegmentum
Authors: Amano Keiichi , Tanikawa Tatsuya , Iseki Hiroshi , Kawabatake Hiroko , Notani Masao , Kawamura Hirotsune , Kitamura Koiti
Published: May 2007

Rostral mesencephalic reticulotomy (RMR) has been performed since 1973 for relief of intractable pain. The target area is in the midbrain reticular formation (MRF) bordering the periaqueductal gray matter at the superior collicular level. The target of RMR is 13–16 mm posterior to the midpoint of the AC-PC line and 5–8 mm below the AC-PC line. The laterality of the target is measured from the center of the aqueduct, ranging 5 to 8 mm from the midline. The rationale for this procedure is based upon the previous findings that the brain stem reticular formation plays a more important role above the spinal cord level than the lateral spinothalamic tract in the central conduction of nociceptive impulse. In the present study, intraoperative single neuron recording was made with tungsten microelectrodes from the human midbrain tegmentum in response to peripheral pinprick stimulation. These nociceptive neurons were classified into three groups in regard to the unit latency from the peripheral pinprick stimulation.
Stereotactic Cingulumotomy for Drug Addiction
Authors: Kanaka T.S. , Balasubramaniam V.
Published: May 2007

This paper analyzes the results of surgical treatment of 73 patients with drug addiction. They were treated by lesions in the anterior cingulum. Morphine, Pethidine (meperidine) and alcohol were the common drugs of addiction. Selection of cases, rationale for surgery and operative technique are discussed. Follow-up varied from 1 to 6 years. Results of surgery indicate this procedure as the most promising one for cure of drug addiction.
Influence of Stereotactic Hypothalamotomy on Alcohol and Drug Addiction
Authors: Dieckmann G. , Schneider H.
Published: May 2007

2 or 3 years follow-up of 13 hypothalamotomy patients with alcohol and drug addiction reveals that the addicted patients regained their self-control, the severe preoperative social deterioration was removed, and the tendency to social stabilisation was clearly in evidence.
Spinal Cord Stereotactic Techniques re Trigeminal Nucleotomy and Extralemniscal Myelotomy
Authors: Schvarcz Jorge R.
Published: May 2007

The application of stereotactic techniques to the spinal cord as a logical sequel to percutaneous procedures have produced significant developments by enabling the functional exploration of different cord structures. Radiofrequency lesions were placed either at the spinal trigeminal nucleus, for facial pain of central origin such as postherpetic neuralgia or anesthesia dolorosa as well as for neoplastic pain of extensive craniofacial distribution, or at the central cord region to interrupt preferentially multisynaptic nonspecific pathways mainly for midline and/or bilateral pain but also for patients with respiratory inadequacy or for certain central pain states. Technical aspects are reported, and physiological correlates relevant to surgery are analyzed. Results, indications and limitations are discussed.
Combined Stereotactic and Peripheral Surgical Approach for Spasmodic Torticollis
Authors: Bertrand C. , Molina-Negro P. , Martinez S.N.
Published: May 2007

Thalamotomy with or without pallidotomy and peripheral denervation, if necessary, was performed in 14 cases of spasmodic torticollis or other late dystonias. Of 4 bilateral procedures, 2 had a good result, in 1 there was little change and in another the patient remained with a pseudobulbar syndrome, the only complication in this group. 1 patient only required peripheral denervation with a good result. Of the 9 patients who underwent unilateral thalamotomy, with or without pallidotomy, the result was excellent in 6 and good in 2 others, but in 4 of these 8 patients peripheral denervation was also performed.
Application of Stereotactic Principles to the Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Tew Jr. John M. , Keller Jeffrey T. , Williams David S.
Published: May 2007

The application of neuroanatomical and neurophysiological principles to the functional surgery of the trigeminal nerve is discussed. Particular attention has been directed toward correlating the three-dimensional anatomical features of the trigeminal nerve and the surrounding structures to the two-dimensional radiograph of this same region. In this regard, 20 trigeminal nerves, including the surrounding neurovascular structures from 10 cadaver sphenoid blocks, were examined. Measurements of the third, fourth and sixth cranial nerves in relation to the profile of the clivus were made from lateral radiographs of the sphenoid blocks. The position of the internal carotid artery in relation to these structures was also noted. These neurovascular relationships are of clinical importance when using the percutaneous thermocoagulation technique for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.
Computer-Assisted Stereotactic Brain Operations by Means Including Computerized Axial Tomography
Authors: Mundinger F. , Birg W. , Klar M.
Published: May 2007

With a computerized program system for stereotactic brain operations it becomes possible for the first time to react even before running a possible risk, e.g., in case of punctures in the midbrain, the brain stem, or in the hypothalamus, by simulating the operative procedure even before starting the operation itself. This is effected by the ability to change the penetration angle of the electrode or by choosing a different point of trepanation. The inclusion of computerized axial tomography, especially through the presentation of the CT scan, made to measure with the help of the linear transformation, and of the input of the cranial and ventricular coordinates through a digitizer, together with the coordinates resulting from the X-ray picture, brings the definition of the target point to a still greater optimum. Thus the safety and the precision of the stereotactic operation have been improved even further.
Thalamic Control of Spontaneous Alpha-Rhythm and Evoked Responses
Authors: Ohmoto T. , Mimura Y. , Baba Y. , Miyamoto T. , Matsumoto Y. , Nishimoto A. , Matsumoto K.
Published: May 2007

EEG, depth recordings from the thalamus, visual-evoked potentials, and readiness motor potentials were analyzed with a computer in 40 patients with involuntary movements and intractable pain who underwent stereotactic thalamotomy. It was demonstrated that there were significant correlations in α-rhythms between the ventrolateral (VL) nucleus and the frontocentral cortex, and also between the centromedian nucleus and the centroparietal cortex, with the phase difference of the cortex lagging behind the thalamus. Relationships between the thalamic VL nucleus and the frontocentral cortex were significant not only in α-rhythms, but also in evoked responses following photic stimulations, voluntary movements, and electrical thalamic stimulation. Thalamotomy produced a bilaterally decreased synchronization of the cortical α-rhythms, which recovered within 6 months.
Chronic Paleocerebellar Stimulation for the Treatment of Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Manrique M. , Oya S. , Vaquero J. , Lozano A.P. , Herrero J. , Bravo G.
Published: May 2007

4 patients suffering severe neuromuscular diseases were subjected to a subtentorial implantation of electrodes over the anterior cerebellar lobe surface. Chronic stimulation was applied for 90 min to 7 h daily, with a rate of 20–180 Hz, 6–10 V and a schedule of 15 min ‘on’, 15 min ‘off’. Some improvement was observed in 3 patients treated with high frequency stimulation. 1 patient suffered seizures after 3 months of chronic stimulation. In 2 cases, posterior fossa explorations were necessary for revision of the stimulation apparatus and marked meningeal proliferation surrounding the electrodes was observed. Light and electron microscopic examination of the biopsies showed loss of Purkinje cells and gliofibrillar reaction. Effectiveness and side effects of chronic stimulation of the cerebellum are discussed.
Follow-Up Study of Epileptic Patients Following Forel-H-Tomy
Authors: Yoshii Nobuo
Published: May 2007

Stereotactic Forel-H-tomy has been performed in 20 cases of epilepsy refractory to medication of which 15 have been followed from 2 to 7 years. The outcome of operation in 7 cases is judged as ‘markedly effective’ or ‘effective’. In 3 cases the operation was ineffective. Effectiveness was greater in bilateral operation. Improvement of EEG was indicated by disappearance or marked reduction of spikes (or sharp waves) or spike and wave complex. Grand mal seizures alone or cases of minor seizure alone have responded more favorably than other clinical types. Six cases demonstrated improvement of personality and emotions.
Bilateral Cervical Posterior Rhizotomy: Effects on Dystonia and Athetosis, on Respiration and Other Autonomic Functions
Authors: Fraioli Bernardo , Nucci Franco , Baldassarre Lucia
Published: May 2007

Bilateral cervical posterior rhizotomy of C1 through C4, C5 or C6 was performed in 16 patients affected by dystonia and athetosis resulting from infantile cerebral palsy. The majority showed decreased muscle spasms and athetoid movements, with some improvements in their posture and voluntary mobility. 5 patients suffered from uneven and irregular breathing associated with lethargy immediately postoperatively, and 4 also showed reduced diaphragmatic activity; all 4 of these patients developed pneumonia, transitory in 3, but fatal to the other. Urinary retention lasting for a maximum of 3 months occurred in 4 of the 5 patients. The authors suggest that the lesion of ascending reticular fibers in the cervical posterior roots could have been responsible for the observations.
Extended Posterior Cervical Rhizotomy for Severe Spastic Syndromes with Dyskinesias
Authors: Benedetti A. , Carbonin C. , Colombo F.
Published: May 2007

A tetraspastic patient with upper limb dyskinesias was subjected to a two-stage bilateral complete C1–C3 and selective C4–C7 posterior cervical rhizotomy. The operation was successful in that it markedly reduced the spasticity and ensured recovery of fine motor functions of the hands without noteworthy sensory deficits.
Experience with Implanted Electrodes at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital
Authors: McNeal Donald R. , Waters Robert , Reswick James
Published: May 2007

Implanted units, manufactured by Medtronic, Inc., have been implanted in 31 patients for treatment of drop-foot. The principal problem encountered in this series is inflammatory reaction, which was observed in 7 patients and was serious enough in 5 to require removal. There have been no failures of the implanted equipment for periods of up to 7.3 years, although there is currently a question in 1 patient. There has also been no documented damage to the nerve due to chronic stimulation. Fine wire electrodes have been implanted intraneurally in a series of animals and in 3 patients. Preliminary results look encouraging, and this approach seems to hold considerable promise for a new generation of electrode design.
Salt Appetite in Sodium-Depleted or Sodium-Replete Conditions: Possible Role of Opioid Receptors
Authors: Lucas Louis R. , Grillo Claudia A. , McEwen Bruce S.
Published: May 2007

Background/Aims: Acute sodium depletion by the combination of pharmacological natriuresis via furosemide administration and a sodium-deficient diet results in a strong induction of salt appetite in rats. Recent evidence suggests that acute furosemide decreases both dopamine uptake and striatal dopamine transporter density and increases enkephalin mRNA levels in the nucleus accumbens (Acb). Therefore, it has been hypothesized that the motivational/attentional circuit in the brain is activated in salt-appetitive rats. Methods: To determine which loci along the dopaminergic circuit are responsible for this behavior, 10–15 min before furosemide-treated adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were allowed 2-hour access to 2% salt solution (2-bottle choice), we pharmacologically blocked dopamine receptor subtype 1 (D1r) and subtype 2 (D2r) with SCH23390 or raclopride, respectively, and stimulated D1r with SKF81297 or D2r with quinpirole in the shell of the Acb (AcbSh). Furthermore, delta opioid receptors were blocked with naltrindole in the AcbSh or ventral tegmental area (VTA). Results: We found that microinjections (1 µg) of SCH23390, raclopride, SKF81297, quinpirole, or naltrindole into the AcbSh had no effect. However, infusion of naltrindole into the VTA attenuated salt intake, whereas [D-Ser2,Leu5,Thr6]-enkephalin had no effect. Additionally, in rats previously primed with furosemide to crave salt in a ‘need-free’ manner, salt intake was augmented in the VTA and reduced in the AcbSh after infusion of [D-Ser2,Leu5,Thr6]-enkephalin. Conclusion: These data provide evidence that mesolimbic opioid systems are involved in the facilitation of salt-appetitive behavior.
Serum Cellular Fibronectin and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 as Screening Biomarkers for the Prediction of Parenchymal Hematoma After Thrombolytic Therapy in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Castellanos Mar , Sobrino Tomás , Millán Mónica , García María , Arenillas Juan , Nombela Florentino , Brea David , Perez de la Ossa Natalia , Serena Joaquín , Vivancos José , Castillo José , Dávalos Antoni
Published: May 2007

Background and Purpose—

Plasma levels of cellular fibronectin (c-Fn) ≥3.6 μg/mL and of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) ≥140 ng/mL have been associated with parenchymal hematoma (PH) after treatment with tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In this prospective study, we sought to validate the predictive capacity of the preestablished cutoff values of these biomarkers for PH in a larger series of patients.

Methods—

We studied 134 patients treated with t-PA within 3 hours from symptom onset according to the SITS-MOST criteria (median time to infusion, 152 minutes; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, 14) in 4 university hospitals. Hemorrhagic transformation was classified according to the European-Australasian Acute Stroke Study II definitions on computed tomography scans performed 24 to 36 hours after treatment. Relevant hemorrhagic transformation was defined as hemorrhagic infarction type 2 or any PH. Serum c-Fn and MMP-9 levels were determined by an ELISA om blood samples obtained before treatment.

Results—

Cranial computed tomography showed hemorrhagic transformation in 27 patients (20%), hemorrhagic infarction in 15 (type 2 in 8 patients), and PH in 12 patients (symptomatic in 4). Serum c-Fn and MMP-9 concentrations at baseline were significantly higher in patients with relevant hemorrhagic transformation and PH than in those without (all
P
<0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for PH by c-Fn levels ≥3.6 μg/mL were 100%, 60%, 20%, and 100%, respectively, whereas corresponding values were 92%, 74%, 26%, and 99% for MMP-9 levels ≥140 ng/mL. When both biomarkers were at levels above the cutoff points, specificity increased to 87% and the positive predictive value increased to 41%.

Conclusions—

This prospective study confirmed the high sensitivity and negative predictive value, with retained good specificity, of c-Fn and MMP-9 for the prediction of PH in patients treated with t-PA. Development of faster analytic methods will prove the applicability of these biomarkers in routine clinical practice.
Divine Justice across the Mediterranean: Hittite Arkuwars and the Trial Scene in Aeschylus' Eumenides
Authors: Bachvarova Mary
Published: April 2007

A survey of Bronze Age Akkadian prayers and Hittite arkuwars, and Iron Age Anatolian, Greek and Latin curses shows a wide-spread conflation of prayer and forensic speech. The evidence is sufficiently abundant to allow us to trace an evolution in the conventions of prayer which keeps pace with changes in judicial procedure. Furthermore, the Hittite prayers in particular, with their detailed descriptions of the imagined court scenario, provide context to the trial scene in Aeschylus' Eumenides, allowing us to separate traditional elements from innovations.
Lyre Gods of the Bronze Age Musical Koine
Authors: Franklin John Curtis
Published: April 2007

That the Late Bronze Age cultural koine included a musical dimension is suggested by the Mesopotamian and Hurrian/Ugaritic musical tablets. This paper presents a selective survey and analysis of evidence for a parallel phenomenon, the deification of lyres/harps, which seemingly originated in late third millennium Mesopotamia and spread abroad in the second. Deified lyres are considered as both a ritual reality and an inducement to poetic elaboration by the same poetpriests who used them; much of the textual evidence thus represents remnants of a professional repertoire. At the same time, the motif also commonly centers on kingship, which is explained in terms of the dual office of priest-kingship; as such, there is some involvement of the deified lyre with the ritual of sacred marriage (hieros gamos). Relevant material comes from Ugarit and Cyprus, especially in the figure of Kinyras. In Greek evidence, 'lyre heroes' like Orpheus, Amphion, Cadmus and Linus are seen as late mythological derivatives of the pattern, Archaic survivals of Mycenaean ritual-poetics. Finally, Old Testament evidence for musical prophecy is considered in light of the foregoing.
Golden Fetters and Economies of Cultural Exchange
Authors: Moyer Ian
Published: April 2007

In W. Burkert's Orientalizing Revolution, itinerant craftsmen and other specialists moving from East to West are the primary vector for the movement of Near Eastern ideas and practices to the Greek world in the archaic period. In this model, the incentive for movement is a choice between western economic freedom and the despotism of eastern palace-centered economies. When set in the context of theoretical debates over the ancient economy, and particularly the important studies of C. Grottanelli and C. Zaccagnini on the mobility of specialists, Burkert's model appears to accept that modern divisions between eastern and western economies were also salient for ancient actors. This supposition is tested through a reexamination of Herodotus' story of the Greek doctor Democedes and the golden fetters awarded to him by Darius (Histories 3.125, 129-137). Though Herodotus uses the symbol of "golden fetters" as a focal point for the construction of cultural difference, parallel Greek and Egyptian evidence of specialists in royal service suggests that such gifts could also function as cross-cultural prestige items, and that the royal economies in which they circulated could facilitate and even stimulate the adoption and dissemination of notionally foreign ideas and practices.
Ino-Leukothea between East and West
Authors: Finkelberg Margalit
Published: April 2007

Until recently it has generally been taken for granted that cultural contacts between the Aegean and the Near East invariably proceeded in one direction, from East to West. It seems, however, that recent archaeological discoveries are about to change this picture. As these discoveries demonstrate, with the collapse of the Mycenaean civilization some Bronze Age populations of Greece migrated to the Levant and settled along the Mediterranean coast from Tarsos in the north to Ashkelon in the south, eventually to be assimilated into the native population. This fact suggests a much more complex network of relations between the Aegean and the Near East than the simple one-sided cultural dependence which has usually been postulated.
Some Oriental Elements in Hesiod and the Orphic Cosmogonies
Authors: López-Ruiz Carolina
Published: April 2007

This paper examines the oriental background of the so-called Orphic cosmogonies of ancient Greece. The first section explores the relationship between the motif of Zeus' swallowing the phallus of Uranos and a corresponding feature in the Hurrian-Hittite Song of Kumarbi. The second section examines the complex figure of Kronos, arguing all aspects of his personality can be understood better if we take account of the figure of El in Ugaritic mythology; in particular, the relationship between Kronos and the virtually homophonous and often related-figure of Khronos ("Time") can be better understood if we take account of West Semitic mythology.
Pigs at the Gate: Hittite Pig Sacrifice in its Eastern Mediterranean Context
Authors: Collins Billie Jean
Published: April 2007

The consumption of pork in Hittite Anatolia is unlikely to have been a simple matter of geography or ethnicity, but was governed by a complex set of principles involving determiners like status, gender, and the level of cultic influence from religious sanctuaries. On the few occasions that the Hittite texts refer directly to eating pork, the context is highly ritualized, suggesting that special religious significance was sometimes attached to the eating of pig's flesh. Further, drawing on evidence from the societies surrounding the Mediterranean basin, a case can be made for the private nature of pig sacrifice in Hittite Anatolia. They were killed to ensure the wellbeing of the community and the fertility of humans and crops. A festival performed in Istanuwa to reaffirm the human-divine relationship may parallel the practice of sacrificing a pig at the ratification of treaties in the classical world. Finally, this animal's unique place among the domesticates extends to its role as a substitute for humans, a ritual motif that can be found throughout the Mediterranean in antiquity.
Personal Need for Structure and Creative Performance: The Moderating Influence of Fear of Invalidity
Authors: Rietzschel Eric F. , De Dreu Carsten K. W. , Nijstad Bernard A.
Published: May 2007

Previous research has suggested that personal need for structure (PNS) is negatively related to creative performance. In this article, it is argued that this relation, in fact, depends on another personality variable: personal fear of invalidity (PFI). When PFI is high, PNS should indeed be negatively associated with creativity. However, PNS should be positively associated with creativity when PFI is low, because this combination enables people to take a structured approach to creative tasks and this can be helpful to overcome their reliance on conventional and accessible task strategies. In four studies, this hypothesis is tested using different measures of creative performance. The expected interaction effect is found for measures of ideational fluency and measures of originality but not for measures of flexibility. Moreover, it is shown that the interaction effect between PNS and PFI is mediated by perseverance within thought categories.
Self-Harm Experiences Among Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White Young Adults
Authors: Croyle Kristin L.
Published: May 2007

Very little research exists on self-harm in Hispanic populations, although there is a strong literature that addresses suicidality in Hispanics. This study compares self-reported rates of self-harm in 255 non-Hispanic White (NHW) and 187 Hispanic (predominantly Mexican American) undergraduate students. Results indicated that self-harm is relatively common, with 31% of the sample reporting some history of self-harm. Rates and specific types of self-harm did not significantly differ between the NHW and Hispanic groups. A global measure of Mexican American acculturation was not related to reports of self-harm. However, a more specific scale assessing Mexican orientation was significantly and negatively related to self-harm for Hispanic men, suggesting that Mexican orientation may be a protective factor with regard to self-harm for men.
Postsecondary Education Among Mexican American Youth
Authors: Hurtado-Ortiz Maria T. , Gauvain Mary
Published: May 2007

This study investigated how experiences in the family context contribute to the postsecondary educational attainment of Mexican American youth. The sample consisted of 104 recent high school graduates. One half of the sample was attending a 2-year college, and the other one half was not enrolled in any postsecondary institution. This study examined the relationships among family (i.e., parents' and older siblings' educational experiences, family income, and parental involvement) and education variables (i.e., high school and college grade point average, college attendance, and college aspirations). Variations within the Mexican American community, in particular acculturation and generational status, were examined in relation to youths' educational experiences.
Value What You Hear
Authors: Roweton William E.
Published: May 2007

This essay explores the lingering afterthoughts of a meeting between two professional representatives from a “White” college, a middle school counselor, and a small group of Native American and Latina middle school adolescents. Ostensibly, the meeting occurred to discuss how one state college in the rural Midwest could enroll more underrepresented students. Experiential results suggested that listening attentively to personal stories provided promising insights to change institutional practices.
In vivo p53 response and immune reaction underlie highly effective low-dose radiotherapy in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Knoops Laurent , Haas Rick , de Kemp Sanne , Majoor Donné , Broeks Annegien , Eldering Eric , de Boer Jan Paul , Verheij Marcel , van Ostrom Conny , de Vries Annemieke , van't Veer Laura , de Jong Daphne
Published: May 2007

Very low-dose irradiation (2 × 2 Gy) is a new, effective, and safe local treatment for follicular lymphoma. To understand the biologic mechanisms of this extremely effective response, we compared by microarray the gene-expression profile of patients' biopsies taken before and after radiation. In all patients, a major and consistent induction of p53 target genes was seen. p53 targets involved in cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis showed the same mode of regulation, indicating that, in vivo, both are activated simultaneously. p53 up-regulation and p53-mediated proliferation arrest and apoptosis were substantiated using immunohistochemistry, with activation of both the intrinsic and the extrinsic apoptotic pathways. The other induced genes revealed a whole set of biologically meaningful genes related to macrophage activation and TH1 immune response. Immunohistochemical analysis suggested a specific activation or differentiation of resident macrophages by apoptotic cells. These biologic insights are important arguments to advocate the use of low-dose radiotherapy as an effective palliative treatment for follicular lymphoma. Moreover, this study is the first in vivo report of the radiation-induced p53 apoptotic response in patients and suggests that this apoptotic response is not immunologically silent.
Associations between HLA Class I alleles and the prevalence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) among Tunisians
Authors: Li Xin , Ghandri Nahla , Piancatelli Daniela , Adams Sharon , Chen Deborah , Robbins Fu-Meei , Wang Ena , Monaco Alessandro , Selleri Silvia , Bouaouina Noureddine , Stroncek David , Adorno Domenico , Chouchane Lotfi , Marincola Francesco M
Published: May 2007

The high prevalence of nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) in Southern Asia and Mediterranean Northern Africa suggests genetic predisposition among other factors. While Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) haplotypes have been conclusively associated with NPC predisposition in Asians, Northern African Maghrebians have been less intensely studied. However, low resolution serological methods identified weak positive associations with HLA-B5, B13 and B18 and a negative with HLA-B14. Using sequence based typing (SBT), we performed a direct comparison of HLA class I frequencies in a cohort of 136 Tunisian patients with NPC matched for gender, age and geographical residence to 148 normal Tunisians. The bimodal age distribution of NPC in Maghrebians was also taken into account. HLA frequencies in normal Tunisians were also compared with those of Northern Moroccan Berbers (ME) to evaluate whether the Tunisian population in this study could be considered representative of other Maghrebian populations. HLA-B14 and -Cw08 were negatively associated with NPC (odd ratio = 0.09 and 0.18 respectively, Fisher p2-value = 0.0001 and = 0.003). Moreover, positive associations were observed for HLA-B-18, -B51 (split of -B5) and -B57 (p2-value < 0.025 in all) confirming previous findings in Maghrebs. The HLA-B14/Cw*08 haplotype frequency (HF) was 0.007 in NPC patients compared to 0.057 in both Tunisian (OR = 0.12; p2-value = 0.001) and Moroccan controls. This study confirms several previous associations noted by serologic typing between HLA class I alleles and the prevalence of NPC in Maghrebians populations. In addition, we identified a putative haplotype rare in Tunisian patients with NPC that may serve as a genetic marker for further susceptibility studies.
CD39 activity correlates with stage and inhibits platelet reactivity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Pulte Dianne , Olson Kim E , Broekman M Johan , Islam Naziba , Ballard Harold S , Furman Richard R , Olson Ashley E , Marcus Aaron J
Published: May 2007

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by accumulation of mature appearing lymphocytes and is rarely complicated by thrombosis. One possible explanation for the paucity of thrombotic events in these patients may be the presence of the ecto-nucleotidase CD39/NTDPase-1 on the surface of the malignant cells in CLL. CD39 is the major promoter of platelet inhibitionin vivovia its metabolism of ADP to AMP. We hypothesize that if CD39 is observed on CLL cells, then patients with CLL may be relatively protected against platelet aggregation and recruitment and that CD39 may have other effects on CLL, including modulation of the disease, via its metabolism of ATP.

Methods

Normal and malignant lymphocytes were isolated from whole blood from patients with CLL and healthy volunteers. Enzyme activity was measured via radio-TLC assay and expression via FACS. Semi-quantititative RT-PCR for CD39 splice variants and platelet function tests were performed on several samples.

Results

Functional assays demonstrated that ADPase and ATPase activities were much higher in CLL cells than in total lymphocytes from the normal population on a per cell basis (p-value < 0.00001). CD39 activity was elevated in stage 0–2 CLL compared to stage 3–4 (p < 0.01). FACS of lymphocytes demonstrated CD39 expression on > 90% of normal and malignant B-lymphocytes and ~8% of normal T-lymphocytes. RT-PCR showed increased full length CD39 and splice variant 1.5, but decreased variant 1.3 in CLL cells. Platelet function tests showed inhibition of platelet activation and recruitment to ADP by CLL cells.

Conclusion

CD39 is expressed and active on CLL cells. Enzyme activity is higher in earlier stages of CLL and decreased enzyme activity may be associated with worsening disease. These results suggest that CD39 may play a role in the pathogenesis of malignancy and protect CLL patients from thrombotic events.