bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen alters caveolin-1 and nitric oxide synthase-3 functions in ovine fetal and neonatal lung microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: John Theresa A. , Ibe Basil O. , Usha Raj J.
Published: September 2006

We determined the effect of oxygen [∼100 Torr (normoxia) and ∼30–40 Torr (hypoxia)] on functions of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS-3) and its negative regulator caveolin-1 in ovine fetal and neonatal lung microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs). Fetal NOS-3 activity, measured as NO production with 0.5–0.9 μM 4-amino-5-methylamino-2,7-difluorofluorescein, was decreased in hypoxia by 14.4% ( P < 0.01), inhibitable by the NOS inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine, and dependent on extracellular arginine. Caveolar function, assessed as FITC-BSA (160 μg/ml) endocytosis, was decreased in hypoxia by 13.5% in fetal and 22.8% in neonatal MVECs ( P < 0.01). NOS-3 and caveolin-1 were physically associated, as demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization, and functionally associated, as shown by cross-activation of endocytosis, by their specific antibodies and activation of NOS by albumin. Caveolin peptide, containing the sequence for the PKC phosphorylation site of caveolin, and caveolin antiserum against the site increased NO production and endocytosis by 12.3% ( P < 0.05) and 16% ( P < 0.05), respectively, in normoxia and increased endocytosis by 25% ( P < 0.001) in hypoxia. PMA decreased NO production in normoxia and hypoxia by 19.32% ( P < 0.001) and 11.8% ( P < 0.001) and decreased endocytosis in normoxia by 20.35% ( P < 0.001). PKC kinase activity was oxygen sensitive, and threonine phosphorylation was enhanced in hypoxia. Pertussis toxin increased caveolar and NOS functions. These data support our hypothesis that increased Po2at birth promotes dissociation of caveolin-1 and NOS-3, with an increase in their activities, and that PKC and an oxygen-sensitive cell surface G protein-coupled receptor regulate caveolin-1 and NOS-3 interactions in fetal and neonatal lung MVECs.
Estrogenic Regulation of Host Immunity against an Estrogen Receptor–Negative Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Curran Edward M. , Judy Barbara M. , Duru Ngozi A. , Wang Hui-Qun , Vergara Leoncio A. , Lubahn Dennis B. , Estes D. Mark
Published: September 2006

Purpose: The risk of developing breast cancer is positively correlated with exposure to increased levels of estrogen and/or an increased duration of estrogen exposure. Many different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the association of estrogens with breast cancer risk; however, the well-documented immune modulatory properties of estrogen have received little attention. In part, this is due to a lack of suitable models for studying this relationship.

Experimental Design: We have developed an animal model using estrogen receptor (ER)-negative human breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-468, xenografted into severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. We also generated the ER-α knockout (ER-αKO) mice on the SCID background and then tested the ability of 17β-estradiol to stimulate growth of xenografted ER-negative human breast cancer tumors in wild-type and ER-αKO SCID mice. We quantified vascularization of tumors, macrophage recruitment to the tumor site by immunocytochemistry, and inflammatory cytokine production.

Results: We show that estrogen treatment of C57BL/6/SCID mice promotes the growth of xenografted ER-negative tumors in wild-type mice and this estrogen-induced tumor growth is abrogated in ER-αKO mice. Tumor neovascularization of estrogen-treated mice was unchanged versus control; however, estrogen treatment of the C57BL/6/SCID host suppressed macrophage recruitment to and inflammatory cytokine production at the tumor site.

Conclusions: These data are consistent with estrogen modulation of the inflammatory response as a contributing factor in estrogen-stimulated growth of an ER-negative tumor. This effect on the host innate immune response was mediated by ER-α.
A Phase I Biological and Pharmacologic Study of the Heparanase Inhibitor PI-88 in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Basche Michele , Gustafson Daniel L. , Holden Scott N. , O'Bryant Cindy L. , Gore Lia , Witta Samir , Schultz Mary Kay , Morrow Mark , Levin Adrah , Creese Brian R. , Kangas Michael , Roberts Kaye , Nguyen Thu , Davis Kat , Addison Russell S. , Moore Jane C. , Eckhardt S. Gail
Published: September 2006

Purpose: PI-88 is a mixture of highly sulfated oligosaccharides that inhibits heparanase, an extracellular matrix endoglycosidase, and the binding of angiogenic growth factors to heparan sulfate. This agent showed potent inhibition of placental blood vessel angiogenesis as well as growth inhibition in multiple xenograft models, thus forming the basis for this study.

Experimental Design: This study evaluated the toxicity and pharmacokinetics of PI-88 (80-315 mg) when administered s.c. daily for 4 consecutive days bimonthly (part 1) or weekly (part 2).

Results: Forty-two patients [median age, 53 years (range, 19-78 years); median performance status, 1] with a range of advanced solid tumors received a total of 232 courses. The maximum tolerated dose was 250 mg/d. Dose-limiting toxicity consisted of thrombocytopenia and pulmonary embolism. Other toxicity was generally mild and included prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time and injection site echymosis. The pharmacokinetics were linear with dose. Intrapatient variability was low and interpatient variability was moderate. Both AUC and Cmax correlated with the percent increase in activated partial thromboplastin time, showing that this pharmacodynamic end point can be used as a surrogate for drug exposure. No association between PI-88 administration and vascular endothelial growth factor or basic fibroblast growth factor levels was observed. One patient with melanoma had a partial response, which was maintained for >50 months, and 9 patients had stable disease for ≥6 months.

Conclusion: The recommended dose of PI-88 administered for 4 consecutive days bimonthly or weekly is 250 mg/d. PI-88 was generally well tolerated. Evidence of efficacy in melanoma supports further evaluation of PI-88 in phase II trials.
Systemic Tumor Necrosis Factor–Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand Delivery Shows Antiatherosclerotic Activity in Apolipoprotein E–Null Diabetic Mice
Authors: Secchiero Paola , Candido Riccardo , Corallini Federica , Zacchigna Serena , Toffoli Barbara , Rimondi Erika , Fabris Bruno , Giacca Mauro , Zauli Giorgio
Published: September 2006

Background—Although in vitro studies have suggested that tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) might be involved in vascular biology, its potential role in the pathogenesis and/or treatment of atherosclerosis has not been investigated.

Methods and Results—Both recombinant human TRAIL and an adeno-associated virus vector expressing human TRAIL were used to deliver TRAIL in apolipoprotein E (apoE)–null mice in which diabetes mellitus was induced by destruction of islet cells with streptozotocin. Diabetes in apoE-null mice was associated with a significant increase in atherosclerotic plaque area and complexity in the aorta as assessed by a marked increase in interstitial collagen, cellular proliferation, and macrophage infiltration and a focal loss of endothelial coverage. Repeated intraperitoneal injections of recombinant human TRAIL and a single intravenous injection of adeno-associated virus–human TRAIL significantly attenuated the development of atherosclerotic plaques in apoE-null animals. TRAIL also markedly affected the cellular composition of plaque lesions by inducing apoptosis of infiltrating macrophages and increasing the vascular smooth muscle cell content. Moreover, TRAIL promoted the in vitro migration of cultured human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells but not of monocytes or macrophages. Conversely, TRAIL selectively induced apoptosis of human cultured macrophages but not of vascular smooth muscle cells.

Conclusions—Overall, data from the present study indicate that atherosclerosis in diabetic apoE-null mice is ameliorated by systemic TRAIL administration and that adeno-associated virus–mediated TRAIL gene delivery might represent an innovative method for the therapy of diabetic vascular diseases.
An Extended EM Algorithm for Joint Feature Extraction and Classification in Brain-Computer Interfaces
Authors: Li Yuanqing , Guan Cuntai
Published: September 2006

For many electroencephalogram (EEG)-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), a tedious and time-consuming training process is needed to set parameters. In BCI Competition 2005, reducing the training process was explicitly proposed as a task. Furthermore, an effective BCI system needs to be adaptive to dynamic variations of brain signals; that is, its parameters need to be adjusted online. In this article, we introduce an extended expectation maximization (EM) algorithm, where the extraction and classification of common spatial pattern (CSP) features are performed jointly and iteratively. In each iteration, the training data set is updated using all or part of the test data and the labels predicted in the previous iteration. Based on the updated training data set, the CSP features are reextracted and classified using a standard EM algorithm. Since the training data set is updated frequently, the initial training data set can be small (semi-supervised case) or null (unsupervised case). During the above iterations, the parameters of the Bayes classifier and the CSP transformation matrix are also updated concurrently. In online situations, we can still run the training process to adjust the system parameters using unlabeled data while a subject is using the BCI system. The effectiveness of the algorithm depends on the robustness of CSP feature to noise and iteration convergence, which are discussed in this article. Our proposed approach has been applied to data set IVa of BCI Competition 2005. The data analysis results show that we can obtain satisfying prediction accuracy using our algorithm in the semisupervised and unsupervised cases. The convergence of the algorithm and robustness of CSP feature are also demonstrated in our data analysis.
Source of trait deterioration in entomopathogenic nematodes Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema carpocapsae during in vivo culture
Authors: Bilgrami Anwar L. , Gaugler Randy , Shapiro-Ilan David I. , Adams Byron J.
Published: September 2006

The stability of traits important for biological control was studied in the
entomopathogenic nematode-bacteria complexes Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
and Steinernema carpocapsae. Five experimental lines of each species were
subcultured for 20 serial passages in Galleria mellonella larvae to assess
trait stability. Subculturing impaired performance of both H. bacteriophora
and S. carpocapsae. Virulence, heat tolerance and fecundity deteriorated in
all H. bacteriophora experimental lines, and four out of five experimental
lines deteriorated in host-finding ability. All S. carpocapsae experimental
lines deteriorated in heat tolerance and nictation, and four out of five
experimental lines declined for reproductive capacity, whereas virulence
declined in two experimental lines. Determination of whether trait
deterioration was due to changes in nematode, bacteria, or both symbiotic
partners was tested by exchanging nematodes or bacteria from control
populations with nematodes or bacteria from the most deteriorated
experimental lines and assessing trait recovery. The source of deterioration
varied according to trait, but only the bacterial partner played a role in
trait reductions for every trait and species, whereas the nematode was the
main source only for S. carpocapsae nictation. These results emphasise the
important role each symbiotic partner plays in the stability and expression
of beneficial traits.
Calcium availability influences lead accumulation in a passerine bird
Authors: Dauwe Tom , Snoeijs Tinne , Bervoets Lieven , Blust Ronny , Eens Marcel
Published: September 2006

The emission of heavy metals in the environment is often accompanied by emissions of acidifying pollutants. The acidification of terrestrial ecosystems results in the leaching of calcium and consequently a lowered concentration or availability of this essential nutrient in the environment. Calcium deficiency in the diet may lead to an increased absorption of toxic metals. In this study we investigated the effect of calcium availability on the accumulation of lead and essential metals (calcium, copper, iron and zinc) in important target tissues of zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). When exposed to 20 ppm lead via drinking water, zebra finches excluded from an additional calcium supply (i.e. oyster shell grit) accumulated significantly higher concentrations of lead in liver, kidney, muscle, brain and bone than zebra finches with access to oyster shell grit. Levels of calcium, copper, iron and zinc were not significantly affected by either the calcium availability or the increased absorption of lead. There were no significant sex related differences, suggesting that males and females have a similar demand, metabolism and/or distribution of calcium and other metals in the non-reproductive period. This study clearly illustrates the importance of calcium supply on the bioavailability of lead.
A preliminary study of development of the buccal apparatus in Pomacentridae (Teleostei, Perciformes)
Authors: Frederich  , Parmentier  , Vandewalle
Published: September 2006

This study compares, in five species of Pomacentridae (Chromis viridis, Dascyllus flavicaudus, Chrysiptera glauca, Pomacentrus pavo, Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus), the changes in cephalic skeletal structures between settling larvae and adults living on the reef. Variations were studied in the suspensorium, the opercle, the mandible, the premaxillary bone and the teeth. Comparisons of the feeding apparatus enabled two different types of feeding to be distinguished in adults: suction feeding and grazer sucking. Adult C. viridis and D. flavicaudus have a high suspensorium, a well-rounded mouth during jaw opening and caniniform teeth. These two species can be considered to be suction feeders. On the other hand, adult C. glauca, P. pavo and P. lacrymatus have less developed suspensoria, opercles and ascending process of the premaxillar, and present incisiform teeth. These three species appear to be grazer suckers. However, the larvae of all five species present an unimodal way of feeding, defined as ram-suction. Differences between larvae and adults appear clearly to be related to their ecology. The increasing variation presented in feeding apparatus during the settlement phase could be linked to diversification leading to occupancy of different ecological niches.
Diet affects reproduction and number of oocytes per ovary of the predator Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Lemos Walkymário Paulo , Ramalho Francisco Sousa , Serrão José Eduardo , Zanuncio José Cola , Bauce Eric
Published: September 2006

The effect of the type of diet consumed on the reproduction of Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) was studied. Females of P. nigrispinus fed on an artificial diet had a longer preoviposition period than those fed on 3rd or 5th instar cotton leafworm larvae [Alabama argillacea (Hübner)] or mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) larvae. P. nigrispinus females fed on 3rd or 5th instar cotton leafworm larvae or mealworm larvae had a longer oviposition period than females on an artificial diet. The numbers of egg masses per female and of egg masses per female per day were higher when P. nigrispinus was fed on 3rd or 5th instar cotton leafworm larvae than when fed on an artificial diet. Podisus nigrispinus females fed on 5th instar cotton leafworm larvae produced a greater number of eggs per female, eggs per egg mass, and eggs per female per day, had a higher nymphal hatch rate than those fed other diets and had higher numbers of oocytes per central ovariole or per ovary than those fed on 3rd instar cotton leafworm larvae, artificial diet, house fly (Musca domestica L.) larvae or mealworm larvae.
The responses of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells in the lungs of Rana ridibunda to different experimental conditions
Authors: Öztay Füsun
Published: September 2006

The study investigated the localisation and immunohistochemistry of neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) and their behaviour in the lungs of Rana ridibunda under experimental conditions and compared with control lungs. Serotonin- and bombesin-immunoreactive (IR) PNECs were observed as solitary cells or clusters of cells at the base of ciliated epithelium on the dilated apical parts of primary septa where incoming air first arrives, and in the respiratory epithelium. Serotonin-IR PNECs were predominantly present in the ciliated epithelium while bombesin-IR PNECs were found in the ciliated and respiratory epithelium. Additionally, bombesin-IR nerve fibres were found in the epithelium and among smooth muscle cells in the connective tissue. In frogs kept in a dry aquarium, serotonin- and bombesin-IR PNECs were characterised by various stages of secretion. Serotonin-IR PNECs released most of their secretory material, while bombesin-IR PNECs were stimulated for secretion. Moreover, bombesin secretions were raised. In conclusion, the cells were identified as members of the pulmonary epithelial endocrine system and can contribute to the pulmonary biology through a paracrine/endocrine pathway in the lungs of R. ridibunda.
Wide food availability favours intraspecific trophic segregation in predators: the case of a water snake in a Mediterranean river
Authors: Santos Xavier , Vilardebó Estefania , Casals Frederic , Llorente Gustavo , Vinyoles Dolors , De Sostoa Adolf
Published: September 2006

In complex aquatic ecosystems, intraspecific competition for food can evolve into dietary differences related to body size, gender, capture ability, and habitat use. The diet of the viperine snake, Natrix maura, an aquatic predator which forages on fish and amphibians, has been studied in parallel with food availability in a small locality of the Matarranya River (NE Spain). Fish abundance values in this Mediterranean river, which hosts one of the highest rates of fish diversity in Europe, were estimated through electrofishing. Natrix maura fed on four of the ten fish species available and captured the only amphibian detected. Three of these fishes were the most abundant species in the river. The fourth fish was the river blenny, a small and rare benthonic species of which the males protect eggs laid under stones at the bottom of the river during reproductive periods. This behaviour makes it easy prey for N. maura. However, the river blenny was caught mostly by small- and medium-sized snakes, while larger individuals, particularly females, fed on larger and more mobile prey that were more abundant and energetically more profitable. Similar diet differences according to size and gender have been described in other water snakes. We discuss whether this coincidence may be related to the great tropic availability in aquatic environments for fish-eating snakes.
A review of Chinese micronetine species (Araneae: Linyphiidae). Part II: Seven species of ex-Lepthyphantes
Authors: Tu Lihong , Saaristo Michael , Li Shuqiang
Published: September 2006

The present paper is the second of a series that review the known Chinese micronetine spiders and deals with seven species originally placed in the genus Lepthyphantes. A new genus is erected, Molestia gen. n. (Type species Lepthyphantes molestus Tao, Li & Zhu, 1995), and the following new combinations are presented: Tenuiphantes aduncus (Zhu, Li & Sha, 1986) comb. n.; Tenuiphantes ancatus (Li & Zhu, 1989) comb. n.; Ryojius nanyuensis (Chen & Yin, 2000) comb. n; Acanthoneta hengshanensis (Chen & Yin, 2000) comb. n.; Indophantes halonatus (Li & Zhu, 1995) comb. n.; Tchatkalophantes huangyuanensis (Zhu & Li, 1983) comb. n.; and Molestia molestus (Tao, Li & Zhu, 1995) comb. n. All species are redescribed and illustrated.
A review of Chinese micronetine species (Araneae: Linyphiidae). Part I: Species of ex-Arcuphantes and ex-Centromerus
Authors: Saaristo Michael , Tu Lihong , Li Shuqiang
Published: September 2006

The taxonomic position of five Chinese micronetine spiders currently placed in Arcuphantes and Centromerus is re-evaluated. Two new genera are established, Bifurcia gen. n. (type species Arcuphantes ramosus Li & Zhu, 1987) and Capsulia gen. n. (type species Centromerus tianmushanus Chen & Song, 1987). The following new combinations are presented: Bifurcia ramosa (Li & Zhu, 1987), comb. n., Bifurcia curvata (Sha & Zhu, 1987) comb. n., both ex-Arcuphantes; Tallusia forficala (Zhu & Tu, 1986) comb. n. and Capsulia tianmushana (Chen & Song, 1987) comb. n., both ex Centromerus. The generic placement of Centromerus trilobus Tao, Li & Zhu, 1995 is confirmed and the species belongs to the arcanus group of the genus. Redescriptions of all species are given and the male of Bifurcia curvata is described for the first time. Meanwhile, Fusciphantes Oi, 1960 is revalidated and Lepthyphantes zhejiangensis Chen, 1991 is transferred to Microlinyphia, i.e. Microlinyphia zhejiangensis (Chen, 1991) comb. n.
Early gonadal development and sex differentiation in rosy barb (Puntius conchonius)
Authors: Çek Şehriban
Published: September 2006

The main objective of this study was to describe the early gonadal development and to examine the process of sex differentiation in male and female P. conchonius under laboratory conditions. First evidence of primordial germ cells was observed on the day of hatching. The sex differentiation in leptotene, zygotene, pachytene and diplotene stages was clearly detected. Differentiation started from the mid-mid posterior part of the gonads. Actual sex differentiation occurred between 18-21 days and 36-40 days post-hatching in females and males, respectively. Histological sex differentiation differences were clear between males and females; in males, gonads had a smooth surface, were less stained, arrow-shaped, with germ cells located alone in the stroma, and number of germ cells ranging from two to ten per section, whereas in females, gonads had a rough surface, were more stained, wider, with germ cells multiplying rapidly and forming clusters, and number of germ cells ranged from 2 to 58 per section. The numbers of germ cells within the two gonad types were significantly different in favour of females (P < 0.05). Here early developmental stages of the gonads from 0 to 56 days post-hatch are explained.
Big boys on top: effects of body size, sex and reproductive state on perching behaviour in the tropical rock dragon, Psammophilus dorsalis
Authors: Radder Rajkumar , Saidapur Srinivas , Shanbhag Bhagyashri
Published: September 2006

Perching behaviour, in relation to sex, body size and reproductive phases, was studied in the field in a population of the tropical rock lizard, Psammophilus dorsalis. Adult lizards (n = 14 males and 16 females) were marked by toe clipping in November 2001. They were observed at intervals (n = 10 times) over the next 18 months encompassing post-breeding (December-early March), recrudescence (late March-April) and breeding (May-August) phases. In the post-breeding phase, males perched at lower heights. They began perching higher during the recrudescence phase with the highest perches in the breeding phase. In comparison to females, the males perched higher than females all year round and showed greater among-individual variations in perch height. The bigger males perched at greater heights compared to smaller ones during recrudescence and breeding phases. No such trend was evident during the post-breeding phase and perch height was not related to body size. Females moved within a narrow range of heights from the substrata and showed no size-specific relationship in perch selection throughout the reproductive cycle. Selection of higher perches by the males, despite high predation risk, possibly helps in territory defence, courtship displays and in advertising their presence to conspecifics. Further, size-specific perch selection prior to and during the breeding period, suggests that size vis-à-vis age and reproductive cycle also influences selection of perch height in males. In females perching close to the substrata, refuge sites and food sources, seems to be associated with escape from predators, foraging benefits and, in turn, reproductive fitness. Thus, in the seasonally breeding P. dorsalis, sex and reproductive status determine the complex pattern of perching behaviour and, possibly, circulating levels of androgens drive the bigger boys on top in accordance with their size or age.
First record of ectoparasitic African Trichodinids (Ciliophora: Peritrichida) in a cichlid fish Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters 1852) from the Churni river system, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mitra Amlan Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Probir
Published: September 2006

Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters 1852) and Oreochromis niloticus niloticus Linnaeus, 1758 are two popular freshwater fishes introduced from Africa to India. There are many records of different species of trichodinid ectoparasites infesting wild and cultured cichlids in Africa, but no such study has been conducted on this parasitic group in India. The fishes Oreochromis mossambicus and Oreochromis niloticus niloticus were investigated for the occurrence of trichodinid ciliophorans. Oreochromis mossambicus was found positive for two species, viz., Trichodina centrostrigeata Basson, Van As & Paperna, 1983 and Paratrichodina africana Kazubski & El-Tantawy, 1986. Oreochromis niloticus niloticus was found not to be infested with any species of trichodinid ciliophorans, although, interestingly, Paratrichodina africana was first discovered in this host fish. Comparative descriptions and prevalence of these two above-mentioned species are presented.
A Study of University Students' Attitudes Towards Children's Rights in Turkey
Authors: Karaman-Kepenekci Yasemin
Published: September 2006

This research was a survey. It included 350 volunteer university students. A likert type scale was developed in order to measure the attitude of university students toward children's rights. The factor analysis technique and cronbach alpha formula were used to test the validity and reliability of the scale. Item total correlation was calculated for each item. The profile of students, such as gender, faculty, grade and human rights courses taken were examined using frequency and percent. To see whether or not there was a significant difference between students' attitude according to variables, t-test was used. As a result, female students, the students from the Faculty of Educational Sciences and the students who had taken courses on human rights were found to have a positive attitude towards children's rights. Grade of students in not a discriminating factor in the attitudes towards children's rights.
Radiographic Measures of Knee Alignment in Patients with varus Gonarthrosis
Authors: Specogna Adrian V. , Birmingham Trevor B. , Hunt Michael A. , Jones Ian C. , Jenkyn Thomas R. , Fowler Peter J. , Giffin J. Robert
Published: September 2006

Background

Radiographic measures of lower limb malalignment are used to indicate abnormal loading of the knee and to plan corrective procedures.

Hypotheses

Weightbearing status during hip-to-ankle radiographs will significantly affect malalignment measures; malalignment in single-limb standing will be most highly correlated to the external knee adduction moment during gait, a proposed dynamic measure of functional knee joint load.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Mechanical axis angle was measured in 40 patients with varus gonarthrosis from hip-to-ankle radiographs taken with patients in single-limb standing, double-limb standing, and supine positions. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected during walking and used to calculate the peak adduction moment about the knee.

Results

Repeated-measures analysis of variance and Scheffé post hoc tests indicated that mechanical axis angle measured on single-limb standing radiographs (-8.7°± 4.0°) was significantly greater than on double-limb standing radiographs (-7.1°± 3.8°), which was significantly greater than on supine radiographs (-5.5°± 2.8°). The peak knee adduction moment (2.8 ± 0.8 percentage body weight × height) was only moderately correlated with mechanical axis angle on single-limb standing (r = -0.46), double-limb standing (r = -0.45), and supine (r = -0.43) radiographs.

Conclusion

Patient position significantly affects frontal plane knee alignment. However, the peak knee adduction moment is only moderately correlated to mechanical axis angle, regardless of weightbearing status.

Clinical Relevance

These findings are inconsistent with the hypothesis that mechanical axis angle measured in single-limb standing is more representative of dynamic joint load and further highlight the differences between static and dynamic measures. Results also underscore the importance of reporting patient position during radiographs and keeping positions consistent when evaluating patients over time.
Changes of Achilles Midportion Tendon Microcirculation after Repetitive Simultaneous Cryotherapy and Compression Using a Cryo/Cuff
Authors: Knobloch Karsten , Grasemann Ruth , Jagodzinski Michael , Richter Martinus , Zeichen Johannes , Krettek Christian
Published: September 2006

Background

Cryotherapy and compression have been shown to decrease pain and improve function. The dosage and timing of these options remain unclear.

Purpose

To examine the effects of a standardized compression and cryotherapy device (Cryo/Cuff) on midportion Achilles tendon microcirculation during intermittent administration.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Twenty-six subjects were included (13 men and 13 women; age, 32.3 ± 12 years; body mass index, 25.4 ± 5 kg/m2). Each underwent three 10-minute applications of the device, followed by a 10-minute recovery period. A continuous real-time assessment of parameters of Achilles tendon midportion microcirculation was performed with a laser Doppler spectrophotometry system.

Results

Superficial tendon oxygen saturation dropped significantly from 35.9 ± 21 arbitrary units (AU) to 13.5 ± 15, 15.9 ± 16, and 11.1 ± 11 AU (P =. 0001) during each period of cryo-compression, respectively. There was significant increase during the recovery period (55.4 ± 29, 65.2 ± 26, and 65.7 ± 27 AU; P =. 003), up to +83% of the baseline level. At 8-mm tendon depth, cryo-compression preserved local oxygen with -4% (P =. 001) of the baseline level and small but significant increased oxygen saturation of up to +13% (P =. 0001). Relative postcapillary venous tendon filling pressures were favorably reduced both superficially (57% ± 34%, 67% ± 27%, and 64% ± 38%, respectively; P =. 0004) and deep (76% ± 13%, 79% ± 11%, and 78% ± 18%, respectively; P =. 0002). Superficial capillary blood flow was reduced from 48.4 ± 48 to 5 ± 7, 4 ± 5, and 3 ± 4 AU at each period, respectively (–94%, P =. 0003), with increased flow during recovery periods of up to 58 ± 64, 58 ± 79, and 47 ± 71 AU, respectively (+20%, P =. 265). Deep flow was reduced from 197 ± 147 to 66.7 ± 64, 55 ± 46, and 43 ± 39 AU, respectively (–78%, P =. 0002) without increase during recovery periods.

Conclusion

Cryo/Cuff exerts beneficial effects on the microcirculatory level of the midportion Achilles tendon with decreased capillary blood flow, preserved deep tendon oxygen saturation, and facilitated venous capillary outflow.
Special Section: Chopping up the Rainbow: Quality Assurance and the Challenge to Group-Analytic Training
Authors: Campbell Jane
Published: September 2006

The discordant conjunction of irreconcilable elements which the title of this paper represents is intended to convey something of the strange nature of the relationship between the discipline of group analysis and the institutions which offer an academic accreditation today. It is a dialogue which I believe is often an uneasy one and I illustrate some of the reasons why I think that may be so. In the process, I also focus on group-analytic concepts which may help analysts to meet the challenge of Quality Assurance.
Special Section: Secrecy and Confidentiality in Groups
Authors: Behr Harold
Published: September 2006

This paper examines the concepts of secrecy and confidentiality from an intra-psychic, interpersonal and group dynamic perspective. This is illustrated with material drawn from family therapy, biography, social history and group-analytic training. The case is made for regarding secrecy as an anti-group phenomenon, in contrast with confidentiality, which is presented as a therapeutic factor.
Corrosion Behavior of a Discontinuously Reinforced Composite in Salt Water Environment
Authors: Ahmad Zaki , Aleem B. J. Abdul
Published: September 2006

In this study, the corrosion behavior of Al 6092/17.5 SiC(p) alloy is investigated. The alloy offers a good resistance to corrosion in 3.5 wt% NaCl as shown by weight loss and electrochemical studies conducted in a smoothly stirred condition up to 70 C. The alloy also offered a strong resistance to corrosion in a salt spray chamber. The corrosion behavior of the alloy, however, declined with an increase in velocity, temperature, and addition of polystyrene particles in the electrolyte. The declining corrosion resistance is attributed to the cracking and breakdown of the protective boehmite layer at elevated temperatures, higher velocities, and impact of polystyrene particles. Microanalytical studies reveal the intermetallic precipitates to be the preferred sites for initiation of pits. The alloy offers good service prospects in a marine environment at controlled flow velocities and temperatures.
Method of Recovering the Fibrous Fraction of Glass/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Yuyan Liu , Linghui Meng , Yudong Huang , Lixun Liu
Published: September 2006

This study reports the method of recovery of glass fibers from glass/epoxy composites through the solvent method. It is possible to decompose epoxy resin with a yield of more than 99 wt% soluble products in a nitric acid solution (8 M) at 90 C for 5 h. The decomposition rate of epoxy resin increases with an increase in temperature and concentration of acid solution. The glass fibers can be recovered with very little contamination and they have a tensile strength reduction of 3.5% under decomposition conditions of T = 70°C, t = 250 h, C = 6 M and α= 6 g/100 mL. These fibers can be used as reinforcement to prepare new composites. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of recovered short fiber-reinforced composites produce strength reductions of only 2.5% compared with pristine composites.
High School Students’ Career Decision-Making Process: Development and Validation of the Study Choice Task Inventory
Authors: Germeijs Veerle , Verschueren Karine
Published: September 2006

During adolescence, one important career-related decision is the choice of a study in higher education. In this article, a new set of measures for different tasks (i.e., orientation, exploration, commitment) that can be distinguished during this career decision-making process was constructed: the Study Choice Task Inventory (SCTI). A sample of 946 high school students (Grade 11 and Grade 12) participated in this study. Results provided support for the construct validity of the SCTI from (a) the examination of the internal structure of the SCTI (confirmatory factor analysis), (b) the investigation of the convergent validity through correlations between the new scales and alternative measures of decisional tasks, and (c) the comparison of the scores across samples in a known-groups validation.
Need, Awareness, and Use of Career Services for College Students
Authors: Fouad Nadya A. , Guillen Amy , Harris-Hodge Elizabeth , Henry Caroline , Novakovic Alexandra , Terry Sarah , Kantamneni Neeta
Published: September 2006

This study examined whether university students were psychologically distressed or had difficulties with career decisions to indicate whether they needed career services, whether they were aware of the services offered by the campus counseling and career services, and finally, whether they had used the services. Findings indicated that students indicated difficulties with career decisions, high levels of psychological distress, and low levels of psychological well-being and that about half of students were aware of career services but much fewer had used those services. There were relationships among psychological distress and career-related variables for undecided students. Results are discussed with implications for career services on university campuses.
The Validity of Holland’s Theory in Croatia
Authors: Šverko Iva , Babarović Toni
Published: September 2006

The validity of Holland’s theory in the Croatian sample has been tested. The Croatian version of Holland’s Self-Directed Search was applied on 1,866 Croatian adolescents from different age samples. The instrument has shown a good reliability of all RIASEC scales in all subsamples. Construct validity was also verified: The presence of circular structure of RIASEC types and two underlying dimensions was mostly confirmed, and hypothesized relations between RIASEC types and value orientations were found. Concurrent validity shows that on the basis of Holland’s RIASEC scores one can predict the educational program in which the student is enrolled. The results support the validity of Holland’s theory in the Croatian sample.
A Fourier Transformation based Method to Mine Peptide Space for Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Nagarajan Vijayaraj , Kaushik Navodit , Murali Beddhu , Zhang Chaoyang , Lakhera Sanyogita , Elasri Mohamed O , Deng Youping
Published: September 2006

Background

Naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides are currently being explored as potential candidate peptide drugs. Since antimicrobial peptides are part of the innate immune system of every living organism, it is possible to discover new candidate peptides using the available genomic and proteomic data. High throughput computational techniques could also be used to virtually scan the entire peptide space for discovering out new candidate antimicrobial peptides.

Result

We have identified a unique indexing method based on biologically distinct characteristic features of known antimicrobial peptides. Analysis of the entries in the antimicrobial peptide databases, based on our indexing method, using Fourier transformation technique revealed a distinct peak in their power spectrum. We have developed a method to mine the genomic and proteomic data, for the presence of peptides with potential antimicrobial activity, by looking for this distinct peak. We also used the Euclidean metric to rank the potential antimicrobial peptides activity. We have parallelized our method so that virtually any given protein space could be data mined, in search of antimicrobial peptides.

Conclusion

The results show that the Fourier transform based method with the property based coding strategy could be used to scan the peptide space for discovering new potential antimicrobial peptides.
Outcome of urogenital infection with Chlamydia muridarum in CD-14 gene knockout mice
Authors: Imtiaz Muhammad T , Schripsema Justin H , Sigar Ira M , Ramsey Kyle H
Published: September 2006

Background

CD14 has been postulated to play a role in chlamydial immunity and immunopathology. There is evidence to support this role in human infections but its function in a mouse model has not been investigated.

Methods

Female CD14 gene knockout and C57BL/6J wild type mice were infected intravaginally with Chlamydia muridarum. The infection course was monitored by detection of viable chlamydiae from serially collected cervical-vaginal swabs. The sequela of tubal factor infertility was assessed using hydrosalpinx formation as a surrogate marker.

Results

A significantly abbreviated infection course was observed in the CD14 gene knockout mice but hydrosalpinx formation occurred at similar rates between the two groups.

Conclusion

Involvement of CD14 during chlamydial infection impedes infection resolution but this does not affect the sequela of infertility as assessed by hydrosalpinx formation.
In vivo glioblastoma growth is reduced by apyrase activity in a rat glioma model
Authors: Morrone Fernanda B , Oliveira Diogo L , Gamermann Patrícia , Stella Joseli , Wofchuk Suzana , Wink Márcia R , Meurer Luise , Edelweiss Maria Isabel A , Lenz Guido , Battastini Ana Maria O
Published: September 2006

Background

ATP is an important signalling molecule in the peripheral and central nervous system. Both glioma growth and tumor resection induces cell death, thus liberating nucleotides to the extracellular medium. Nucleotides are hydrolyzed very slowly by gliomas when compared with astrocytes and induce neuronal cell death and glioma proliferation. The objective of the present study was to test the involvement of extracellular ATP in glioblastoma growth in a rat glioma model.

Methods

To deplete the extracellular ATP, the enzyme apyrase was tested on the treatment of gliomas implanted in the rats CNS. One million glioma C6 cells in 3 microliters of DMEM/FCS were injected in the right striata of male Wistar rats, 250–270 g. After 20 days, the rats were decapitated and the brain sectioning and stained with hematoxylin and eosine. We performed immunohistochemical experiments with Ki67, CD31 and VEGF. Total RNA was isolated from cultured glioma C6 cells and the cDNA was analyzed by Real Time-PCR with primers for the NTPDase family.

Results

C6 glioma cells effectively have a low expression of all NTPDases investigated, in comparison with normal astrocytes. The implanted glioma co-injected with apyrase had a significant reduction in the tumor size (p < 0.05) when compared with the rats injected only with gliomas or with gliomas plus inactivated apyrase. According to the pathological analysis, the malignant gliomas induced by C6 injection and co-injected with apyrase presented a significant reduction in the mitotic index and other histological characteristics that indicate a less invasive/proliferative tumor. Reduction of proliferation induced by apyrase co-injection was confirmed by counting the percentage of Ki67 positive glioma cell nuclei. According to counts with CD31, vessel density and neoformation was higher in the C6 group 20 days after implantation. Confirming this observation, rats treated with apyrase presented less VEGF staining in comparison to the control group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the participation of extracellular ATP and the ecto-nucleotidases may be associated with the development of this type of brain tumor in anin vivoglioma model.
A rare case of renal oncocytoma associated with erythrocytosis: case report
Authors: Radopoulos Demetrios , Tzakas Konstantinos , Tahmatzopoulos Anastasios
Published: September 2006

Background

Oncocytomas are benign tumors of the kidney that are usually diagnosed postoperatively due to differential diagnostic problems from renal cell carcinoma. Although the latter are neoplasms that have been associated with erythrocytosis in 3.5% of cases, there are no reports in the literature about a similar occurrence in oncocytomas.

Case presentation

In this case report we present a unique case of a right lower pole oncocytoma associated with erythrocytosis. Erythrocytosis subsided after partial nephrectomy.

Conclusion

Erythrocytosis can sometimes occur in association with renal oncocytomas.
Inhibitors of DNA methylation and histone deacetylation independently relieve AML1/ETO-mediated lysozyme repression
Authors: Claus Rainer , Fliegauf Manfred , Stock Michael , Duque Jesús A , Kolanczyk Mateusz , Lübbert Michael
Published: September 2006

The human lysozyme (LZM) gene is highly methylated in LZM-nonexpressor immature myeloid and in nonmyeloid cells and unmethylated only in LZM-expressing cells. Extended methylation analyses of the CpG-poor 5′ flanking region and of the exon 4 CpG island (both containing Alu elements) of the LZM gene were now performed. Marked demethylation was noted after treatment of AML1/ETO-positive Kasumi-1 cells with the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor 5-aza-2’-deoxycytidine (5-azaCdR), not associated with cellular differentiation. LZM mRNA in Kasumi-1, but not in several AML1/ETO-negative myeloid cell lines, was specifically and independently up-regulated upon treatment with 5-azaCdR and, to a lesser extent, with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA). Increased chromatin accessibility within the 5′ LZM gene was observed concomitantly with 5-azaCdR-induced demethylation. In contrast, TSA treatment had no effect on chromatin accessibility, but, as shown by chromatin immunoprecipitation, resulted in increased acetylation of histones H3 and H4. Repression of LZM transcription is mediated by conditional AML1/ETO expression in an inducible cell line model (U-937), and is reversed by siRNA “knock-down” of AML1/ETO in Kasumi-1 cells (Dunne et al., Oncogene 25: 2006). Antagonization of LZM repression following conditional expression of AML1/ETO was achieved by TSA. In conclusion, we demonstrate complex interactions between DNA methylation and histone modifications in mediating LZM repression, which implicate AML1/ETO as one component involved in local chromatin remodeling. Interestingly, inhibitors of DNMTs and HDACs independently relieve repression of this CpG-poor gene in AML1/ETO-positive cells.
Endotoxin fever in granulocytopenic rats: evidence that brain cyclooxygenase-2 is more important than circulating prostaglandin E2
Authors: Tavares Eva , Miñano Francisco J , Maldonado Rosario , Dascombe Michael J
Published: September 2006

PGE2 is a recognized mediator of many fevers, and cyclooxygenase (COX) is the major therapeutic target for antipyretic therapy. The source, as well as the site of action of PGE2, as an endogenous pyrogen, is widely accepted as being central, but PGE2 in the circulation, possibly from leukocytes, may also contribute to the development of fever. However, bacterial infections are important causes of high fever in patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy, and such fevers persist despite the use of COX inhibitors. In the study reported here, the febrile response to bacterial LPS was measured in rats made leukopenic by cyclophosphamide. A striking increase in LPS fever occurred in these granulocytopenic rats when compared with febrile responses in normal animals. Unlike LPS fever in normal rats, fever in granulocytopenic rats was neither accompanied by an increase in blood PGE2 nor inhibited by ibuprofen. Both leukopenic and normal rats showed LPS-induced COX-2-immunoreactivity in cells associated with brain blood vessels. Furthermore, LPS induced an increase of PGE2 in cerebrospinal fluid. Induction of COX-2-expression and PGE2 production was inhibited by ibuprofen in normal but not in leukopenic rats. Although the results presented are, in part, confirmatory, they add new information to this field and open a number of important questions as yet unresolved. Overall, the present results indicate that, in contrast to immunocompetent rats, leukocytes and/or other mechanisms other than PGE2 are implicated in the mechanisms restricting and reducing the enhanced febrile response to endotoxin in immunosuppressed hosts.