bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of hepatic mast cells and expression of a different mast cell protease phenotype in regenerating rat liver after 70%‐hepatectomy
Authors: Zweifel Martin , Breu Karin , Matozan Katja , Renner Eberhard , Welle Monika , Schaffner Thomas , Clavien Pierre‐Alain
Published: October 2005

Mast cells (MC) can undergo significant changes in number and phenotype; these alterations result in the differential expression of growth factors and cytokines. Kit ligand (KL; stem cell factor) is produced by mesenchymal cells, and in the liver by biliary epithelial cells. Recent studies suggest that KL, and its receptor c‐kit, may be involved in liver regeneration after loss of liver mass. However, KL is also the major growth, differentiating, chemotactic, and activating factor for MC. The aim of our study was to elucidate the dynamics and phenotype of hepatic MC and KL/c‐kit expression during liver regeneration after partial (70%) hepatectomy in the rat. Regenerating livers were harvested after 1, 3, 7, and 14 days, respectively (n = 6 each day). MC were stained for naphthol‐AS/D‐chloroacetate esterase and counted as MC per bile ductule. MC phenotype was assessed by rat MC protease (RMCP)‐1 and ‐2 immunofluorescence staining, in order to distinguish RMCP‐1 positive connective tissue MC (CTMC) from RMCP‐2 positive mucosa MC (MMC). mRNA expression of RMCP, c‐kit, and the differentially spliced variants of KL was quantified by RT‐PCR. MC counts per bile ductule decreased in regenerating rat liver tissue at day 3, compared with native livers, and became normal thereafter. Hepatic MC were predominantly of a CTMC phenotype expressing RMCP‐1, as previously published; after hepatectomy, between 76 and 99% of all MC double‐expressed RMCP‐1 and ‐2, compatible with an MMC phenotype. The ratio of the two alternatively spliced mRNAs for KL (KL‐1 : KL‐2), and c‐kit mRNA expression did not differ significantly between regenerating livers and the livers of sham operated animals. These results suggest that hepatic mast cells are restored during liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in the rat. Restored MC express an MMC phenotype, suggesting migration from outside into the regenerating liver. Alternative splicing of KL is affected by the surgical procedure in general, and, together with its receptor c‐kit, doesn't seem to be involved in liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in the rat. Further functional studies, and studies in regenerating human livers might offer the possibility of elucidating the role of the hepatic mast cell, and its different protease phenotypes during liver regeneration after surgical loss of liver mass.
Characteristics of protein–carbohydrate interactions as a basis for developing novel carbohydrate‐based antirejection therapies
Authors: Holgersson Jan , Gustafsson Anki , Breimer Michael E
Published: October 2005

The relative shortage of human organs for transplantation is today the major barrier to a broader use of transplantation as a means of treating patients with end‐stage organ failure. This barrier could be partly overcome by an increased use of blood group ABO‐incompatible live donors, and such trials are currently underway at several transplant centres. If xenotransplantation can be used clinically in the future, the human organ shortage will, in principle, be eradicated. In both these cases, carbohydrate antigens and the corresponding anti‐carbohydrate antibodies are the major primary immunological barriers to overcome. Refined carbohydrate‐based therapeutics may permit an increased number of ABO‐incompatible transplantations to be carried out, and may remove the initial barriers to clinical xenotransplantation. Here, we will discuss the chemical characteristics of protein–carbohydrate interactions and outline carbohydrate‐based antirejection therapies as used today in experimental as well as in clinical settings. Novel mucin‐based adsorbers of natural anti‐carbohydrate antibodies will also be described.
Three‐dimensional structures of carbohydrate determinants of Lewis system antigens: Implications for effective antibody targeting of cancer
Authors: Yuriev Elizabeth , Farrugia William , Scott Andrew M , Ramsland Paul A
Published: October 2005

Lewis system carbohydrate antigens have been shown to be expressed at high levels in many cancers of epithelial cell origin, including those of colon, breast, lung, prostate and ovary. The type 1 (Lea and Leb) antigens are important histo‐blood groups, while type 2 (Lex and Ley) antigens in healthy individuals are only expressed, at relatively low levels, by a few tissues, including some epithelial cells. Thus, the type 2 antigens are considered to be tumour‐associated antigens and are promising targets for cancer treatment, including antibody‐based immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the conformational characteristics of the free and bound forms of Lewis oligosaccharides and the 3D structures of antibodies in complex with Ley and Lex antigens. Collectively, the structural studies have demonstrated that the Lewis determinants are rigid structures, which generally maintain the same conformation in the free and bound states. The rigid nature and similarities in shape of type 1 and 2 Lewis oligosaccharides appear to make them perfectly suited to driving a structurally convergent immune response (at least in the case of Ley specific antibodies) toward a highly specific recognition of individual carbohydrate determinants, which is a goal in the development of effective antibody‐based cancer treatments.
Lymphocytes and MHC class II positive cells in the female rabbit reproductive tract before and after ovulation
Authors: Gu Wenyi , Janssens Peter , Holland Michael , Seamark Robert , Kerr Peter
Published: October 2005

In this study, we identified lymphocytes and MHC class II positive (MHC‐II+) cells in the reproductive tract of female rabbits both before and after ovulation. CD43+ T cells were frequently present in the mucosa of the oviduct, cervix, and vagina, but far fewer positive cells were seen in the endometrium. The induction of ovulation did not change the cell density in these regions. KEN‐5+ T cells and MHC‐II+ cells were also frequently seen in the mucosa of the oviduct, cervix, and vagina both before and after ovulation. However, in the uterus, there were very few positive cells before ovulation, but the number increased dramatically after ovulation. Associated with the increase of KEN‐5+ T cells, IL‐2 mRNA expression in the uterus also increased after ovulation, suggesting that the uterus experienced an increase of T‐cell activation. IgM‐ and IgA‐positive B cells were not commonly seen in the reproductive tract and the induction of ovulation did not alter this. Our results suggest that the reproductive tract of female rabbits has the capacity to mount an immune response and that the immune cell distribution of the rabbit reproductive tract has some distinctive features compared with that found in other species.
α1,3‐Galactosyltransferase knockout pigs are available for xenotransplantation: Are glycosyltransferases still relevant?
Authors: Milland Julie , Christiansen Dale , Sandrin Mauro S
Published: October 2005

In the early 1990s, the Galα(1,3)Gal carbohydrate linkage was found to be the major xenoepitope causing hyperacute rejection. This carbohydrate, the antibodies that bind to it, and the enzyme that produces it (α1,3‐galactosyltransferase) were the foci of research by many groups. Nearly a decade later, α1,3‐galactosyltransferase knockout pigs were finally produced; hyperacute rejection could be avoided in these pigs. Having achieved this goal, enthusiasm declined for the study of glycosyltransferases and their carbohydrate products. To examine whether this decline was premature, we evaluate whether gene deletion has indeed solved the initial rejection problem or, in fact, created new problems. This review addresses this by examining the impact of the gene deletion on cell surface carbohydrate. Surprisingly, Galα(1,3)Gal is still present in α1,3‐galactosyltransferase knockout animals: it is possibly synthesized on lipid by iGb3 synthase. Furthermore, removal of αGal resulted in the exposure of the N‐acetyllactosamine epitope. This exposed epitope can bind natural antibodies and perhaps should be capped by transgenic expression of another transferase. We believe the continued study of glycosyltransferases is essential to examine the new issues raised by the deletion of α1,3‐galactosyltransferase.
CELL SIGNALLING IN VASCULAR INFLAMMATION
Authors: Holmes Andrew , Xia Pu
Published: October 2005

Immunology and Cell Biology (2005) 83, 718; doi:10.1111/j.1440‐1711.2005.01401.x
Double‐blind, randomized, multicentre study of the efficacy and safety of gliclazide‐modified release in the treatment of Chinese type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Lu C.‐H. , Chang C.‐C. , Chuang L.‐M. , Wang C. Y. , Jiang Y. D. , Wu H. P.
Published: October 2005

Background and Aim:  Gliclazide‐modified release (gliclazide MR) is a new formulation of the sulfonylurea gliclazide designed for once‐daily administration. The hydrophilic matrix of hypromellose‐based polymer in the new formulation induces a progressive drug release, which parallels the 24‐h glycaemic profile in type 2 diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of gliclazide MR (once‐daily administration) versus gliclazide (twice‐daily administration) in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.

Materials and Methods:  Sixty‐three type 2 diabetic Chinese patients who had been on diet control alone or on treatment with metformin or on low dose of sulfonylurea were randomized to either gliclazide MR taken once daily or gliclazide taken twice daily. Dosage of metformin was maintained throughout the study, and the sulfonylurea was stopped. The dose of gliclazide MR was increased at 1‐month intervals from 30 mg to 120 mg, while that of gliclazide from 80 mg to 320 mg until metabolic control was achieved [fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≤7.7 mmol/l] or the maximum dose reached. Efficacy was mainly evaluated by levels of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and FPG.

Results:  The mean baseline characteristics of the full analysis set 1 (FAS1) (HbA1c, n = 58) and the FAS2 (FPG, n = 61) were comparable in both groups. The levels of HbA1c decreased similarly in both groups over the treatment period: −1.6 ± 1.6% (p < 0.001) on gliclazide MR (n = 31) and −1.6 ± 1.4% (p < 0.001) on gliclazide (n = 27). Decrease in HbA1c was observed irrespective of pre‐existing therapy for diabetes: −2.3 ± 1.5% for patients on diet alone; −0.6 ± 1.3% for patients switched from sulfonylurea to study drug and −1.4 ± 0.8% for patients on metformin in combination with study drug. FPG decreased significantly from 177.5 ± 63.5 to 136.7 ± 42.2 (p < 0.001, n = 32) on gliclazide MR and not significant from 188.2 ± 62.6 to 163.7 ± 67.9 (p = 0.059, n = 29) on gliclazide. Both treatments were very well tolerated with no major hypoglycaemic episodes requiring external assistance; only three patients experienced mild hypoglycaemic episodes.

Conclusions:  Once‐daily gliclazide MR showed a better trend in improving blood glucose control in comparison with gliclazide in type 2 diabetic Chinese patients irrespective of the pre‐existing anti‐diabetic treatment. The safety profiles of gliclazide MR and gliclazide were similar with a small number of patients having reported hypoglycaemic episodes. Once‐daily dosing with gliclazide MR should improve patient compliance, an important factor in long‐term glycaemic control.
Training for renal ablative technique using an agarose‐based renal tumour‐mimic model
Authors: TAYLOR GRANT D. , CADEDDU JEFFREY A.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether a recently developed porcine tumour‐mimic model can serve as a training model for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of renal masses, as the increased diagnosis of small occult renal masses has led to the development of nephron‐sparing treatments, including RFA, and the techniques required for effective tumour ablation can be difficult to master.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tumour mimics were created by injecting 0.7 mL of an agarose mixture into the parenchyma of a porcine kidney, producing 1‐cm spherical lesions which were hyperechoic on ultrasonography (US). The ex vivo experiment included creating 40 tumour mimics followed by RFA using US‐guided needle placement. The ablation diameter was set to 15 mm to produce a margin of grossly ablated tissue around the mimic lesions. The in vivo portion involved creating 20 tumour mimics and ablating them under direct laparoscopic vision with US‐guided probe placement. In each case, the mimic lesion size by US and gross examination, ablation diameter, and completion (accuracy) of ablations were recorded.

RESULTS

Accurate placing of the RFA needle by US guidance was difficult to learn, as all tumour‐mimic lesions were either endophytic or completely intraparenchymal. The ex vivo model required ≈ 15 ablations before the needle was placed consistently into the lesions. The in vivo model was equally difficult to learn, with five positive margins by gross examination in the first 10 ablations, while the subsequent 10 had no positive margins.

CONCLUSION

The agarose‐based tumour mimic is a useful target model for learning and improving US‐guided ablative techniques in both the ex vivo and in vivo settings. The tumour‐mimic allows the surgeon to assess targeting accuracy in an animal model. Further studies are needed to determine this model's utility as a clinical training aid.
Twelve‐month self‐reported quality of life after retropubic radical prostatectomy: a prospective study with Rand 36‐Item Health Survey (Short Form‐36)
Authors: FICARRA VINCENZO , NOVARA GIACOMO , GALFANO ANTONIO , STRINGARI CARLO , BALDASSARRE ROBERTO , CAVALLERI STEFANO , ARTIBANI WALTER
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) for clinically localized prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From February 2002 to September 2003 all patients undergoing RRP in our department were invited to participate in the study; the data from 75 of them comprised the present analysis. For evaluating HRQoL the RAND 36‐Item Health Survey (SF‐36) was used.

RESULTS

Comparing the baseline scores of the SF‐36 domains to those at 3, 6 and 12 months, there was a statistically significant difference in ‘physical function’, ‘role limitations due to physical health problems’, ‘role limitations due to emotional problems’, and ‘energy/fatigue’. There were no statistically significant changes in the follow‐up values for the other scales of the questionnaire. However, the baseline scores overlapped the 12‐month follow‐up values for all the SF‐36 scales. The mean SF‐36 scores reported by incontinent patients were lower than those of the continent patients, although this trend was not statistically significant. At the 12‐month follow‐up some variables were independent predictors of lower mean scores of some SF‐36 scales, i.e. age >65 years, education level less than secondary school, pathological extracapsular extension of cancer and erectile dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

At 1 year after RRP, HRQoL levels in each of the SF‐36 domains overlapped those of the baseline in >80% of patients. The age, educational level of patients, local extension of the tumour, and erectile dysfunction could significantly affect the HRQoL scores.
Amplification of the urokinase gene and the sensitivity of prostate cancer cells to urokinase inhibitors
Authors: HELENIUS MERJA A. , SAVINAINEN KIMMO J. , BOVA G. STEVEN , VISAKORPI TAPIO
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the frequency of the urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA) gene amplification and the sensitivity of prostate cancer cells to uPA inhibition, as we previously found one hormone‐refractory prostate tumour with high‐level amplification of the uPA (alias PLAU) gene, and also showed that a uPA inhibitor, amiloride, can effectively reduce the invasion potential of the PC‐3 prostate cancer cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty‐three locally recurrent hormone‐refractory tumours and 78 hormone‐refractory metastases from 29 patients who died from prostate cancer were analysed for uPA gene‐copy number using fluorescence in situ hybridization. The Matrigel invasion assay was used to study the influence of uPA inhibitors on the invasive potential of prostate cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

Of the locally recurrent hormone‐refractory tumours, 21% had an increased copy number of uPA, but no high‐level amplifications were found; 31% of the metastases had increased copy number and one high‐level amplification of the uPA. Matrigel invasion assays with two specific uPA inhibitors, B428 and p‐aminobenzamidine, showed that invasion of a prostate cancer cell line containing uPA gene amplification was inhibited by these small‐molecule uPA inhibitors, while invasion of prostate cell lines without uPA gene amplification were not.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that selective inhibition of the uPA pathway in individuals whose tumours contain uPA gene amplification may provide therapeutic benefit.
Triple nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor‐ vs. nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor‐containing regimens as first‐line therapy: efficacy and durability in a prospective cohort of French HIV‐infected patients
Authors: Cuzin L , Pugliese P , Bugnon F , Delpierre C , Cua E , Billaud E , Massip P , Raffi F , Dellamonica P
Published: October 2005

Objective

Based on the short‐term results of the AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) A5095 trial, zidovudine (ZDV)/lamivudine (3TC)/abacavir (ABC) is no longer recommended as a first‐line antiretroviral regimen. Data on the efficacy of this triple nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) combination compared with the gold‐standard nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) regimen could provide important information.

Methods

Patients were selected from three prospective cohorts of patients who received first‐line therapy with ZDV/3TC plus an NNRTI or ABC, started after January 1998. Immunovirological changes and the proportion of treatment discontinuations were compared between groups.

Results

Of the 380 patients, 190 started on ABC [the triple‐NRTI group (3N)] and 190 on NNRTI. At baseline, there was no statistical difference between the NNRTI and 3N groups for age (mean=38 years), sex (66% male) or CD4 cell count (mean=305 cells/μL). Mean baseline plasma HIV‐1 viral load (pVL) was higher in the 3N group (4.6 vs. 4.3 log10 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL: P<0.01). Lower and higher estimates of median pVL decrease at month 24 were 2.05 and 4.76 log10 copies/mL in the 3N group, and 1.73 and 4.31 log10 copies/mL in the NNRTI group (not significant). CD4 cell count evolution did not differ between groups. Treatment discontinuation occurred in 45% vs. 44% of patients in the NNRTI and 3N groups, respectively, after median durations of 9 and 4 months, respectively (P=0.02).

Conclusions

In this prospective cohort, 3N and NNRTI regimens as first‐line therapy produced similar immunovirological responses.
Indinavir/ritonavir 800/100 mg bid and efavirenz 600 mg qd in patients failing treatment with combination nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors: 96‐week outcomes of HIV‐NAT 009
Authors: Boyd MA , Siangphoe U , Ruxrungtham K , Duncombe CJ , Stek M , Lange JMA , Cooper DA , Phanuphak P
Published: October 2005

Objective

Nucleoside reverse transcriptase (NRTI) sparing is a favourable option for patients with NRTI failure or toxicity.

Methods

Patients judged to be failing NRTI therapy were enrolled in a single‐arm, open‐label study of indinavir/ritonavir (IDV/r) 800/100 mg twice a day (bid)+efavirenz (EFV) 600 mg once a day (qd). The primary endpoint was the change in time‐weighted average HIV RNA from baseline. The initial 48‐week protocol was extended to 96 weeks by a single amendment. Analysis was by intention to treat.

Results

Sixty‐one patients (23 female) were enrolled in the study. Baseline median inter‐quartile range (IQR) NRTI exposure was 4.4 (3.9–4.7) years; baseline median viral load was 4.09 log10 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL (range 3.75–4.61 log10 copies/mL); baseline median CD4 count was 169 cells/μL (range 60–277 cells/μL). The mean (SD) change in time‐weighted average HIV RNA from baseline at 48 and 96 weeks was −2.1 (0.7) and −2.1 (0.8) log10 copies/mL respectively, resulting in 87% and 69% of patients with HIV RNA <50 copies/mL. Sixteen per cent of patients permanently ceased therapy and 26% underwent temporary drug interruptions because of study drug‐related adverse events. Fasted‐lipid values rose significantly over the 96 weeks of study, as did median blood glucose and median serum creatinine levels. Twelve (20%) patients underwent IDV dose reduction, mainly because of nephrotoxicity (nine of 12 patients). Blood pressure values deteriorated following switch, but markers of nucleoside toxicity improved.

Conclusions

IDV/r 800/100 mg bid+EFV 600 mg qd gave a potent, durable response in these NRTI failures and was reasonably well tolerated. However, we observed adverse effects on renal, metabolic and blood pressure parameters. Lower doses of boosted IDV might improve toxicity while maintaining efficacy, and this possibility warrants further investigation.
Finns and functional foods: socio‐demographics, health efforts, notions of technology and the acceptability of health‐promoting foods
Authors: Niva Mari , Mäkelä Johanna
Published: October 2005

Eating is increasingly characterized by concerns over health and well‐being. New types of foods designed to promote health or to reduce the risk of diseases, known as functional foods, have been entering the market since the 1990s. This article focuses on the appropriation of functional foods among Finnish consumers from the perspective of acceptability. We analyse the relationship between consumers’ views of functional foods and their socio‐demographic backgrounds, health efforts and notions of food, health and technology. The article is based on a survey of a representative sample of Finnish consumers (n = 1210). The data were collected by using computer‐assisted telephone interviews and analysed by factor analysis and analysis of variance. The factor analysis resulted in four dimensions of acceptability: (1) experiences of functional foods; (2) views on product quality and safety; (3) societal concerns over current developments; and (4) views on regulation and research. According to the results, the differences in consumer views of functional foods were to some extent linked with age and education but better explained by the differing roles of food and health in people’s lives and the acceptability of modern food technologies. Efforts to lower blood cholesterol and/or blood pressure, the use of dietary supplements, regarding healthy eating as very important and having an optimistic outlook on the use of technology in food production were all related to more optimistic views of functional foods. Finns seem to have a relatively trusting position on functional foods. Familiarity of functional foods in Finland, absence of serious food scandals, the health‐oriented Finnish culture and the generally high level of societal trust may account for this optimism.
Relationships among fashion consumer groups, locus of control, boredom proneness, boredom coping and intrinsic enjoyment
Authors: Workman Jane E. , Studak Cathryn M.
Published: October 2005

Fashion change agents and fashion followers differ in their need for mental stimulation. Within a context of fashion diffusion theory, this study examined the effects of locus of control and fashion consumer group on three attributes linked to mental stimulation – boredom proneness, intrinsic enjoyment, and boredom coping. For this US sample of young women, an internal locus of control orientation was associated with a higher level of fashion innovativeness and opinion leadership. Fashion change agents, with either an internal or external locus of control orientation, and fashion followers with an external locus of control orientation, were similar in their heightened ability to entertain themselves (internal stimulation). Fashion followers with an external locus of control orientation were less able to entertain themselves than the other three groups.
Status consumption and ethnicity in Bolivia: evidence from durables ownership
Authors: Van Kempen Luuk
Published: October 2005

The ‘compensatory consumption’ hypothesis advanced by Caplovitz in 1967 predicts that households facing racial or ethnic discrimination tend to spend heavily on socially visible consumption goods to make up for their low‐status position in society. This paper provides an empirical test of this prediction in Bolivia, where people of indigenous origin face social exclusion. Using recent household survey data, we examine whether low‐income households of indigenous origin overspend on socially visible durable goods relative to equally poor, non‐indigenous households. We find a marked difference in the propensity for compensatory consumption between the two largest indigenous groups in Bolivia.
The Value of Biodiversity in Reserve Selection: Representation, Species Weighting, and Benefit Functions
Authors: ARPONEN ANNI , HEIKKINEN RISTO K. , THOMAS CHRIS D. , MOILANEN ATTE
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The limited availability of resources for conservation has led to the development of many quantitative methods for selecting reserves that aim to maximize the biodiversity value of reserve networks. In published analyses, species are often considered equal, although some are in much greater need of protection than others. Furthermore, representation is usually treated as a threshold: a species is either represented or not, but varying levels of representation over or under a given target level are not valued differently. We propose that a higher representation level should also have higher value. We introduce a framework for reserve selection that includes species weights and benefit functions for under‐ and overrepresentation (number of locations for each species). We applied the method to conservation planning for herb‐rich forests in southern Finland. Our use of benefit functions and weighting changed the identity of about 50% of the selected sites at different funding levels and improved the representation of rare and threatened species. We also identified a small area of additional land that would substantially enhance the existing reserve network. We suggest that benefit functions and species weighting should be considered as standard options in reserve‐selection applications.
Discrepancies in Reported Levels of International Wildlife Trade
Authors: BLUNDELL ARTHUR G. , MASCIA MICHAEL B.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The international wildlife trade is a principal cause of biodiversity loss, involving hundreds of millions of plants and animals each year, yet wildlife trade records are notoriously unreliable. We assessed the precision of wildlife trade reports for the United States, the world's largest consumer of endangered wildlife, by comparing data from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) with U.S. Customs data. For both U.S. imports and exports, CITES and Customs reported substantially different trade volumes for all taxa in all years. Discrepancies ranged from a CITES‐reported volume 376% greater than that reported by Customs (live coral imports, 2000) to a Customs' report 5202% greater than CITES (conch exports, 2000). These widely divergent data suggest widespread inaccuracies that may distort the perceived risk of targeted wildlife exploitation, leading to misallocation of management resources and less effective conservation strategies. Conservation scientists and practitioners should reexamine assumptions regarding the significance of the international wildlife trade.
Assessing Conservation Management's Evidence Base: a Survey of Management‐Plan Compilers in the United Kingdom and Australia
Authors: PULLIN ANDREW S. , KNIGHT TERI M.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  Conservation management is becoming increasingly resource intensive as threats to biodiversity grow through habitat destruction, habitat disturbance, and overexploitation. To achieve successful conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, we need to scientifically evaluate the effectiveness of conservation interventions and provide an efficient framework through which scientific evidence can be used to support decision making in policy and practice. We conducted the first formal assessment of the extent to which scientific evidence is used in conservation management through a questionnaire survey and follow‐up interviews of compilers of protected‐area management plans from major conservation organizations within the United Kingdom and Australia. Our survey results show that scientific information is not being used systematically to support decision making largely because it is not easily accessible to decision makers. This, in combination with limited monitoring and evaluation of effectiveness of management interventions, results in the majority of decisions being based on experience rather than on evidence. To address this problem we propose using an evidence‐based framework adapted from that used in the health services and explain how we are currently putting an equivalent framework into practice by establishing review and dissemination units to serve the conservation sector.
Thrombin‐free Fibrin Coating on Small Caliber Vascular Prostheses Has High Antithrombogenicity in Rabbit Model
Authors: Hasegawa Tomomi , Okada Kenji , Takano Yoshihito , Hiraishi Yoshiaki , Okita Yutaka
Published: October 2005

Abstract: Fibrin coatings on prosthetic vascular graft, which are conventionally produced by fibrinogen and thrombin, are expected to improve antithrombogenicity and healing characteristics. Thrombin is one of the factors of blood coagulation cascade; however, it has a possibility to play a negative role in the graft antithrombogenicity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of our new grafts, thrombin‐free fibrin‐coated small caliber vascular prostheses. Knitted polyester fabric vascular prostheses 2 mm in internal diameter were coated with fibrin coating with thrombin (Graft I) or without thrombin (Graft II). Both grafts were implanted in bilateral common carotid arteries of 35 Japanese white rabbits, with Graft I in one side and Graft II in the contralateral side. Graft patency, histology, thrombin activity, and platelet deposition were compared between both grafts on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 30, and 60. Both grafts were patent without thrombus or stenosis at each end point (maximal period, POD 60). Macro‐ and microscopic findings revealed that no obvious difference was observed between both grafts. Before graft implantation, thrombin activities in Grafts I and II were 0.711 ± 0.086 and 0.009 ± 0.007 optical density at 405 nm, respectively. Thrombin activity of Graft II was significantly less than that of Graft I in every period after graft implantation, and platelet deposition of Graft II was significantly less than that of Graft I until POD 30. Thrombin‐free fibrin‐coated vascular prostheses have superior performance of antithrombogenicity to conventional fibrin‐coated vascular prostheses with thrombin.
Effect of Temperature Increase on the Distensibility of Porcine Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Tsatsaris Athanasios
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The objective of the study was to investigate the temperature impact on the elasticity of porcine thoracic aorta. Under general anesthesia, 16 Landrace pigs were subjected to thoracotomy, and the descending thoracic aorta was removed and stored in normal saline. Serial sections of the vessel created cylindrical aortic specimens which were tested in a uniaxial tension device to determine the elastic properties of the aortic wall. In the control, Group A (n = 8), the aortic tissues were tested while immersed in normal saline bath of temperature TA = 37.0 ± 0.5°C, while in Group B, the temperature was TB = 40.0 ± 0.5°C. Each experiment took place only after the tissues had remained for 15 min in temperature TA or TB. For the results, the stiffness modulus of Group B showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) at medium strain level deformation (e = 1, SB1 = 114 ± 8 Pa) as well as at high strain level deformation (e = 2, SB1 = 1182 ± 48 Pa) in comparison with the control, Group A (e = 1, SA1 = 147 ± 15 Pa; e = 2, SA1 = 1479 ± 64 Pa). It is concluded that temperature increase facilitates, in vitro, the expansion of descending thoracic aorta. We assume that thermal treatment may be another means against the stiffening of aorta, which calls for further research.
Attitude Toward Organ Donation: A Survey in Pakistan
Authors: Ashraf Omer , Ali Saad , Li Sumbul A. A , Ali Hina , Alam Mehrulnisa , Ali Arshad , Ali Talaha M.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  This study was conducted to get an insight into the knowledge, attitude, and practices of the people of Pakistan regarding organ donation (OD), and to understand the various factors that influence these. Systematic sampling was used to generate a sample size of 357. Data collection was carried out via a questionnaire in the outpatient units of our hospital. All kinds of medical and surgical patients were interviewed. Knowledge of ODs that occur in Pakistan and the rest of the world was found to be 65.5 and 72.8%, respectively. The percentage of those willing to donate their organ/s was 59.9%. Knowledge of OD was significantly associated with education and socioeconomic status. Willingness to donate had a significant association with gender. It also had a moderate association with education and socioeconomic status. Awareness of OD and the knowledge that OD can save lives was also significantly associated with the willingness to donate.
Design of a Perfusion Bioreactor Specific to the Regeneration of Vascular Tissues Under Mechanical Stresses
Authors: Bilodeau Katia , Couet Frédéric , Boccafoschi Francesca , Mantovani Diego
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The objective of this work was to design a bioreactor to stimulate the three‐dimensional regeneration of arterial tissue on a cylindrical scaffold with a methodological approach. Once seeded, the scaffold is perfused internally and the externally with culture medium with two independent perfusion systems at different flow rates. The horizontal position and the rotation of the construct ensure the uniformity of the arterial growth and of the endothelial cell spreading. During cell culture, the parameters, such as internal flow and stretching of the vessel, can evolve gradually from the fetal stage to the adult stage. The bioreactor will also be useful for investigating the influence of mechanical stresses and strains on the properties of mature arteries (rigidity, burst strength, adhesion of endothelial cells, etc.).
Hepatocyte Function in a Radial‐flow Bioreactor Using a Perfluorocarbon Oxygen Carrier
Authors: Nieuwoudt Martin J. , Moolman Sean F. , Van Wyk Kobus J. , Kreft Elke , Olivier Brenda , Laurens J.B. , Stegman Frik G. , Vosloo Joanne , Bond Robert , Van Der Merwe Schalk W.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The aims of this study were, first, to indicate the metabolic activity of hepatocytes in a radial‐flow polyurethane foam matrix bioreactor relative to monocultures, and second, to evaluate the effect on the hepatocytes of including a synthetic perfluorocarbon (PFC) oxygen carrier to the recirculating medium. The efficient O2‐carrying ability of PFCs may be beneficial to bioreactors employed in stressed cellular environments. Thus, they may also be useful in the treatment of an acute liver failure patient with a bioartificial liver support system (BALSS). Data on the function of three‐dimensional (3‐D) hepatocyte cultures exposed to emulsified PFCs are lacking. Results: the metabolic functions of the 3‐D hepatocyte cultures were improved relative to monocultures. Three‐dimensional cultures with and without PFC behaved similarly, and no adverse effects could be detected when PFC was included in the recirculating medium. The addition of PFC significantly improved lidocaine clearance possibly due to the presence of higher O2 tension in the medium. Imaging indicated that large aggregates formed and that seeding had followed flow through the matrix. Simulations indicated first, that the cell numbers used in this study had been insufficient to challenge the bioreactor O2 supply explaining the similarity in performance of the 3‐D cultures, and second, that the benefit of adding PFC would be more pronounced at the cell densities likely to be used in a BALSS bioreactor.
Enhancement of the Transmesothelial Resistance of the Parietal Sheep Peritoneum by Epinephrine In Vitro: Ussing‐type Chamber Experiments
Authors: Stefanidis Ioannis , Zarogiannis Sotirios , Hatzoglou Chrissi , Liakopoulos Vasilios , Kourti Panagiota , Poultsidi Antigoni , Mertens Peter R. , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos , Molyvdas Paschalis‐Adam
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The peritoneal mesothelium constitutes an ion transport barrier that is taken advantage of in peritoneal dialysis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of epinephrine on the electrical transmesothelial resistance (RTM) of the isolated parietal sheep peritoneum by means of Ussing‐type chamber experiments. Intact parietal (diaphragmatic) peritoneal samples were obtained from adult sheep immediately after sacrifice and transferred within 0.5 h to the laboratory in a cooled Krebs–Ringer bicarbonate solution (4°C, pH 7.5), bubbled with 95% O2−5% CO2. A parietal peritoneal planar sheet was mounted in a Ussing‐type chamber. Epinephrine (10−7 M) was added to the apical and the basolateral side. The RTM was measured before and serially after the addition of epinephrine for 30 min. As active ion transport is temperature‐dependent, all measurements were performed at 37°C. The results were calculated as means with standard errors (x ± SE) of six independent experiments. The control RTM was 20.05 ± 0.61 Ω·cm2. The addition of epinephrine to the basolateral side within 1 min induced an increase of RTM to 21.8 ± 0.45 Ω·cm2, which decreased thereafter progressively to reach control values again after 15 min. A similar effect of epinephrine on the apical side was apparent with a rapid rise of RTM to 22.5 ± 0.66 Ω·cm2 and a subsequent decrease (P < 0.05). A clear association between the RTM and active ion transport was established from previous studies. The results of our study indicate a rapid action of epinephrine on the parietal peritoneum permeability.
Development of the Pulsation Device for Rotary Blood Pumps
Authors: Yambe Tomoyuki , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Sekine Kazumitsu , Shibata Mune‐ichi , Yamaguchi Tasuku , Jian Liu Hong , Yoshizawa Makoto , Tanaka Akira , Matsuki Hidetoshi , Sato Fumihiro , Haga You‐ichi , Esashi Masayoshi , Tabayashi Kouichi , Mitamura Yoshinori , Sasada Hiroshi , Nitta Shin‐ichi
Published: October 2005

Abstract A rotary blood pump (RP) is desirable as a small ventricular assist device (VAD). However, an RP is nonpulsatile. We tried to develop a device that attaches a pulse to the RP. We also tried to develop a pulse‐generating equipment that was not air‐pressure driven. The ball screw motor was considered a candidate. The application of a small‐sized shape memory alloy was also attempted. An electrohydraulic system was adopted, and actuator power was connected to the diaphragm. The diaphragm was placed on the outer side of the ventricle. Most RPs that have been developed all over the world drain blood from the ventricle. The wave of a pulse should be generated if a pulse is added by the drawn part. The output assistance from the outer side of the ventricle was attempted in animal experiments, and the device operated effectively. This device can be used during implantable operation of RP. This may serve as an effective device in patients experiencing problems in peripheral circulation and in the function of internal organs.
Calcium‐Dependent Regulation of Genetically Determined Spike and Waves by the Reticular Thalamic Nucleus of Rats
Authors: Avanzini Giuliano , Vergnes Marguerite , Spreafico Roberto , Marescaux Christian
Published: October 2005

Summary: The pathophysiologic role of the reticular thalamic nucleus (RT) in rat generalized nonconvulsive epilepsy was investigated in the selected strain GAERS (genetic absence epilepsy rats from Strasbourg). After the RT was lesioned by the excitotoxic agent ibotenic acid stereotaxically injected in previously callosotomized rats, a disruption of ipsilateral spike and wave discharges (SWD) was observed in freely moving animals. In a second group of animals Cd2+ (0.5–1.5 μl, 1 mM), which is known to block Ca2+ and Ca2+‐dependent K+ conductances (gK+ (Ca2+), was injected into the thalamus. Cd2+reversibly suppressed ipsilateral SWD when injected in RT, whereas it slightly reduced SWD expression when injected in the ventrobasal (VB) complex. The difference was highly significant. We conclude that Ca2+‐dependent oscillatory properties of the RT are critical for expression of genetically determined SWD in GAERS.
Recovery of Susceptibility to Audiogenic Seizure in Mice
Authors: Reid Howard M. , Collins Robert L.
Published: October 2005

Summary: The applicability of the auditory fatigue and anoxia hypotheses for the refractory period observed after sound‐induced seizure was examined in SJL/J mice. Duration of auditory stimulation was varied independent of attainment of clonic seizure activity by use of an acoustic interruption technique. Duration of the recovery period affected the pattern of preconvulsive running. Furthermore, the motor asymmetries exhibited during clonus remained consistent across tests. Because duration of acoustic stimulation and attainment of clonus did not affect recovery rate, we conclude that neither the auditory fatigue nor the anoxia hypothesis provides a complete account for the refractory period after audiogenic seizure. We suggest that an inhibitory process, activated before clonus occurs and perhaps linked to depletion of excitatory amino acids in the inferior colliculus, may also be involved.
Comparison of the Effects of Increased Potassium and of Adenosine on Hippocampal Neurons from Normal and Genetically Epileptic tg/tg Mice
Authors: Psarropoulou Caterina , Kostopoulos George
Published: October 2005

Summary: Tottering mice are an experimental model of genetically determined generalized epilepsy of the absence type. We investigated possible mechanisms underlying epileptogenic hyperexcitability in these mice by studying input/output (I/O) curves of the extracellular response of CA1 neurons to stratum radiatum stimulation in hippocampal slices maintained in vitro. Increases in extracellular potassium are considered to contribute to epileptogenesis, whereas adenosine has been proposed to be an endogenous antiepileptic agent. Moderate elevations (+ 2 mM) of extracellular K+ concentrations induced a significantly smaller increase of this response (leftward shift of the input/output curves) in slices from epileptic mice as compared with controls. Perfusion of slices with adenosine 10 |μM decreased excitability in both groups of slices, especially with regard to response threshold. Adenosine more effectively decreased the responses elicited by low‐intensity stimulation than those elicited by high intensity. No significant difference between the groups of slices was observed. On the basis of the present data, it is unlikely that the previously observed hyperexcitability of hippocampal neurons of tottering mice results from a genetically altered sensitivity to moderate increases in [K+]0 or to adenosine.
Effect of Sustained Pyridoxine Treatment on Seizure Susceptibility and Regional Brain Amino Acid Levels in Genetically Epilepsy‐Prone BALB/c Mice
Authors: Dolina S. , Peeling J. , Sutherland G. , Pillay N. , Greenberg A.
Published: October 2005

Summary: Epilepsy‐prone and epilepsy‐resistant substrains were selectively bred from a strain of BALB/c mice; audiogenic‐sensitive epilepsy‐prone animals showed enhanced sensitivity to chemical convulsants. Treatment with pyridoxine (100 mg/L in drinking water) initiated at mating and continued throughout pregnancy and the life of the offspring abolished the enhanced sensitivity to chemical convulsants and reduced the severity of audiogenic seizures. Withdrawal of pyridoxine restored the enhanced seizure sensitivity. [1H] Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy of perchloric acid extracts of tissue was used to determine the concentrations of several compounds [N‐acetylaspartate (NAA), GABA, glutamate, aspartate, alanine, taurine, creatine, cholines, inositol] in the hippocampus, neocortex, brainstem, and cerebellum of untreated and pyridoxine‐treated 6‐week‐old female animals. The ratios of the concentrations of excitatory to inhibitory putative neurotransmitteramino acids tended to be higher in epilepsy‐prone animals, with the most pronounced difference being a significantly elevated glutamate/GABA ratio in every brain region examined. Pyridoxine treatment abolished this imbalance in the hippocampus, brainstem, and cerebellum, but not in the neocortex. Treatment of epilepsy‐resistant animals with pyridoxine using the same protocol decreased the glutamate/GABA concentration ratio in the hippocampus, brainstem, and neocortex and resulted in impaired development of the animals. The amino acid imbalance and the accompanying seizure susceptibility in these genetically epilepsy prone mice may originate from an inborn error in pyridoxine metabolism or in a pyridoxine‐dependent enzyme system.
Rapid Cessation of Focally Induced Generalized Seizures in Rats Through Microinfusion of Lidocaine Hydrochloride into the Focus
Authors: Smith Douglas C. , Krahl Scott E. , Browning Ronald A. , Barea Edwin J.
Published: October 2005

Summary: An experimental animal model of complex partial seizures which become secondarily generalized is produced by microinfusion of the GAB A antagonist bicuculline (BIC) into the deep prepiriform cortex (DPC) of rats. In the present study, we investigated the effects of microinfusion of the local anesthetic, lidocaine hydrochloride, directly into the BIC focus in the DPC and demonstrated that direct inactivation of the focus arrested a focal seizure that was in progress. A measure of the integrated amplitude of the electrocorticogram (ECoG) and behavioral seizure scores from unanesthetized and freely moving rats were used to address this question quantitatively. Microinfusion of 2% lidocaine hydrochloride into the BIC focus significantly reduced the integrated amplitude of the ECoG to levels that did not differ from baseline in either hemisphere (mean = 112% ipsilateral, 99% contralateral), whereas saline microinfusion had no effect Epilepsy is an important neurologic disorder which affects about two million people in the United States alone (Delgado‐Escueta et al., 1986). Although many persons with epilepsy have their seizures controlled with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), an estimated 20% of patients continue to have seizures despite AED therapy (Rimmer and Richens, 1988; Porter and Pitlick, 1989). Furthermore, even for patients for whom AED therapy is effective, drug side effects can become a significant factor (Rasmussen, 1975). Patients with complex partial seizures (CPS) are often refractory to the available pharmacologic in terventions. Such seizures begin in a localized area, usually in the temporal lobe, and involve impairment of consciousness. CPS can also become sec (mean = 175% ipisilateral, 125% contralateral). Moreover, ECoG reductions after lidocaine were present assoon as the microinfusion was complete. Behaviorally, clonic seizure severity was assessed on a rating scale of 0–5. Lidocaine microinfusion significantly reduced the seizure scores to values not different from baseline during the first postinfusion measurement period (i.e., 30 s). Microinfusion of saline alone also significantly reduced behavioral seizure severity, although to a lesser degree and not as rapidly as lidocaine. This effect suggests the need for caution in interpretation and design of studies investigating the anticonvulsant effects of various pharmacologic agents when microinfusions are used.