bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cost of medical care for patients with diabetes, hypertension and both conditions: does alcohol use play a role?
Authors: FRENCH M. T. , MUNDT M. P. , FLEMING M. , ZAVALA S. K.
Published: June 2005

Objective.  To estimate and compare the medical costs of individuals with diabetes and/or hypertension relative to a matched sample of individuals with neither condition, and determine if these costs are significantly influenced by alcohol use.

Research design and methods.  Data were obtained from a sample of 799 patients from eight primary care clinics in south‐central Wisconsin between 2001 and 2002. Medical care costs were calculated within four categories [hospital and emergency room (ER) costs, clinic costs, medication costs and total cost] for three chronic disease samples [diabetes only (n = 89), hypertension only (n = 299), and both diabetes and hypertension (n = 209)] as well as a matched sample with neither diabetes nor hypertension (n = 202). Annual medical care costs were estimated using a combination of insurance billing records, self‐reported information and chart review. All cost data pertain to a 12‐month period in 2001–2002. In addition to a descriptive analysis of costs across medical service categories and samples, we also conducted multivariate analyses of total cost, controlling for patient demographics, education, employment, smoking, and comorbidities, such as heart disease, hyperlipidaemia, liver disease, chronic back pain, asthma, depression, anxiety and bronchitis.

Results.  The estimated differential in total annual medical cost (relative to the control group) was $2183 for diabetes only, $724 for hypertension only and $3402 for diabetes and hypertension. Alcohol use did not significantly impact medical care costs amongst individuals with diabetes and/or hypertension.

Conclusions.  These cost estimates can serve as an important and useful reference source for doctors, insurance companies, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and policy makers as they try to anticipate the future medical care needs and associated costs for diabetic and hypertensive patients.
Plasmodium berghei ookinetes bind to Anopheles gambiae and Drosophila melanogaster annexins
Authors: Kotsyfakis Michalis , Ehret‐Sabatier Laurence , Siden‐Kiamos Inga , Mendoza Jaqueline , Sinden Robert E. , Louis Christos
Published: June 2005

Using a proteomic approach we identified polypeptides from Anopheles gambiae and Drosophila melanogaster protein extracts that selectively bind purified Plasmodium berghei ookinetes in vitro; these were two and three distinct polypeptides, respectively, with an apparent molecular weight of about 36 kDa. Combining two‐dimensional electrophoresis and MALDI‐TOF (matrix‐associated laser desorption ionization time of flight) mass spectrometry we determined that the polypeptides correspond to isomorphs of the annexin B11 protein of the fruit fly. When protein extracts derived from A. gambiae and D. melanogaster tissue culture cells were further fractionated, the binding activity matching the annexin protein could be localized in the fraction derived from cell membranes in both diptera. Antibody staining showed that annexin also binds to ookinetes during the invasion of the mosquito midgut. Finally, inclusion of antiannexin antisera in a mosquito blood meal impaired parasite development, suggesting a facilitating role for annexins in the infection of the mosquito by Plasmodium.
Inactivation of patS and hetN causes lethal levels of heterocyst differentiation in the filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Borthakur Pritty B. , Orozco Christine C. , Young‐Robbins Shirley S. , Haselkorn Robert , Callahan Sean M.
Published: June 2005

In the filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 patS and hetN suppress the differentiation of vegetative cells into nitrogen‐fixing heterocysts to establish and maintain a pattern of single heterocysts separated by approximately 10 undifferentiated vegetative cells. Here we show that the patS‐ and hetN‐dependent suppression pathways are the only major factors that prevent vegetative cells from differentiating into heterocysts when a source of ammonia is not present. The patS and hetN pathways are independent of each other, and inactivation of both patS and hetN leads to differentiation of almost all cells of a filament in the absence of a source of fixed nitrogen, compared with approximately 9% in the wild type. Complete differentiation of filaments also occurs when nitrate is supplied as a source of fixed nitrogen, conditions that do not induce differentiation of wild‐type filaments. However, ammonia is still capable of suppressing differentiation. The percentage of cells that differentiate into heterocysts appears to be a function of time when a source of fixed nitrogen is absent or a function of growth phase when nitrate is supplied. Although differentiation proceeds unchecked in the absence of patS and hetN expression, differentiation is asynchronous and non‐random.
Post‐transcriptional control of a glucoamylase gene from Trichoderma harzianum under stress conditions
Authors: Dana María de las Mercedes , Pintor‐Toro José A.
Published: June 2005

We have examined the regulation of Trichoderma harzianum glucoamylase gene (Gla66) in response to different growth conditions. Transcription of the Gla66 gene is initiated from two different sites, yielding two transcripts of 2.1 kb and 2.6 kb respectively. The 2.1 kb mRNA (ST) encodes for an extracellular glucoamylase of 66 kDa. This protein shows the domains conserved in other fungal glucoamylases: a signal peptide responsible for protein secretion and a catalytic domain, both joined by a linker region. The longest transcript (LT) is untranslated, it contains an unusually extended 5′‐untranslated region and is transcribed under stress and growth limiting conditions. The translational control of LT could be defined by the presence of four upstream open reading frames (uORFs) in its 5′‐leader sequence. The analysis of these uORFs in a yeast heterologous system shows that two of these uORFs prevent the Gla66 translation under unfavourable growth conditions, when the LT transcript is accumulated.
Protein O‐mannosylation is crucial for cell wall integrity, septation and viability in fission yeast
Authors: Willer Tobias , Brandl Martin , Sipiczki Matthias , Strahl Sabine
Published: June 2005

Protein O‐mannosyltransferases (PMTs) initiate the assembly of O‐mannosyl glycans, which are of fundamental importance in eukaryotes. The PMT family, which is classified into PMT1, PMT2 and PMT4 subfamilies, is evolutionarily conserved. Despite the fact that PMTs are crucial for viability of baker's yeast as well as of mouse, recent studies suggested that there are significant differences in the organization and properties of the O‐mannosylation machinery between yeasts and mammals. In this study we identified and characterized the PMT family of the archaeascomycete Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Unlike Saccharomyces cerevisiae where the PMT family is highly redundant, in S. pombe only one member of each PMT subfamily is present, namely, oma1+ (protein O‐mannosyltransferase), oma2+ and oma4+. They all act as protein O‐mannosyltransferases in vivo. oma1+ and oma2+ form heteromeric protein complexes and recognize different protein substrates compared to oma4+, suggesting that similar principles underlie mannosyltransfer reaction in S. pombe and budding yeast. Deletion of oma2+, as well as simultaneous deletion of oma1+ and oma4+ is lethal. Characterization of the viable S. pombe oma1Δ and oma4Δ single mutants showed that a lack of O‐mannosylation results in abnormal cell wall and septum formation, thereby severely affecting cell morphology and cell–cell separation.
Translating knowledge of genetics and pharmacology into improving everyday practice
Authors: Yatham Lakshmi N
Published: June 2005

Bipolar disorder is associated with significant morbidity and mortality; however, many aspects of this disorder remain poorly understood. It is likely that rapid advances in molecular genetics and neuroimaging will play a major role in advancing our understanding of bipolar disorder in future.

Molecular genetics studies have already identified some candidate genes; for example, the BDNF, G72 and XBP1 genes, and chromosomal ‘hot spots’, which may confer a predisposition to development of bipolar disorder. Such advances may facilitate earlier, easier and more accurate diagnosis and provide novel targets for the treatment of this condition.

Brain imaging studies using positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography have shown that reduction in brain 5‐hydroxytryptamine type 2 (5‐HT2) receptors may be associated with prevention of or relief from depressive symptoms. Similarly, other imaging studies suggest that increased dopamine levels in the synapse mediate the symptoms of bipolar mania and that reduction in dopamine transmission through reduction in dopamine synthesis or blockade of dopamine D2 receptors may be associated with antimanic effects. The ability of atypical antipsychotics to block both 5‐HT2 and D2 receptors and downregulate 5‐HT2 receptors may explain how these drugs treat both the depressive and manic symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Although molecular genetics and imaging techniques are not yet used as clinical tools for bipolar disorder, they provide valuable data to improve the understanding of the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder and should lead to new treatments and potentially episode prevention.
Use of a new local anesthesia – intracorpus spongiosum anesthesia – in procedures on anterior urethra
Authors: YE GANG , SHAN‐HONG YI , XIANG‐WEI WANG , HUA‐QI YANG , RONG‐GUI ZHANG
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Background:  Urologists often perform procedures on anterior urethra, which is one of the most sensitive parts in male patients. The aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of intracorpus spongiosum anesthesia during procedures on anterior urethra in the outpatient clinic.

Methods:  A dosage of 3 mL of 1% lidocaine was slowly injected into the glans penis of 51 male patients. Immediately following injection, they underwent different procedures on anterior urethra. The subjective experience of pain in the patients was assessed by questionnaire according to a pain scale.

Results:  Forty‐seven patients (92.16%, 47/51) had zero pain and four cases (7.84%) had either minor or moderate discomfort, which was limited and tolerable. The anesthetic effect is immediate and has been very satisfactory. All the procedures (mean duration, 33 min), were successfully completed under the intracorpus spongiosum anesthesia. The act of injection into the glans caused instantaneous minor pain in 45 patients (88.23%, 45/51), moderate pain in four patients and no pain in two patients. There were no serious complications with this anesthetic technique, although two cases had instantaneous trance during injection of lidocaine.

Conclusions:  Minor procedures on anterior urethra in an outpatient setting with intracorpus spongiosum anesthesia are generally painless, safe, simple, successful and inexpensive compared to those performed in a hospital.
Anatomical and histological studies of so‐called Müllerian duct cyst
Authors: KATO HARUAKI , HAYAMA MASAYOSHI , FURUYA SEIJI , KOBAYASHI SHINYA , ISLAM AHM MANJURUL , NISHIZAWA OSAMU
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Background: We examined so‐called Müllerian duct cysts both histologically and immunohistochemically with anatomical observation to investigate the etiology of the ‘Müllerian duct cyst’.

Methods: Five cystic lesions located in the prostatic midline were obtained from surgical specimens. A communication between the cystic lesion and the urethra via the utricular orifice was looked for and the specimens were subjected to histological and immunohistochemical testing.

Results: A communication between the cyst and the urethra was confirmed in four cases, but not in one case. Histological and immunohistochemical examinations of the epithelium lining indicated that its characteristics were identical to those of the prostatic utricle in all cases.

Conclusions: The so‐called Müllerian duct cyst exhibits features comparable to those previously described in the prostatic utricle. There is no evidence that these cystic lesions originate from the Müllerian duct remnant, at least in the epithelial lining. We suggest that they should be termed a prostatic utricular cyst or cystic dilation of the prostatic utricle, depending on whether an outlet to the urethra is absent or present, respectively.
Granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor producing urothelial carcinoma of renal pelvis
Authors: TERAO SHUJI , YAMADA YUJI , SHIRAKAWA TOSHIRO , HARA ISAO , KANOMATA NAOKI , KAMIDONO SADAO
Published: June 2005

Abstract  We report a case of granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) producing urothelial carcinoma of the renal pelvis in a 39‐year old man. The patient was admitted to Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan, complaining of macrohematuria and a 6‐month history of left abdominal swelling. Abdominal computed tomography showed a large mass in the left kidney and para‐aortic lymph node enlargement. A remarkable degree of leukocytosis was detected without any acute infectious disease. Enzyme immunoassay of the serum demonstrated a remarkable high concentration of G‐CSF. The patient underwent left nephroureterectomy and para‐aortic lymphadenectomy. Histochemical examination revealed urothelial carcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining with an anti‐G‐CSF antibody demonstrated G‐CSF secreting cells. The patient died 8 weeks after the surgical operation. To our knowledge, this is the second case of G‐CSF producing urothelial carcinoma of renal pelvis reported in the English literature.
Adenomatoid tumor of the tunica albuginea
Authors: BARRY PIERS , CHAN KEVIN G , HSU JOSHUA , QUEK MARCUS L
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Adenomatoid tumors are benign mesothelial tumors most commonly found in the paratesticular structures, especially the epididymis. Herein, we report a case of adenomatoid tumor originating in the tunica albuginea and mimicking an intratesticular neoplasm. We review the ultrasonographic presentation and literature regarding adenomatoid tumors originating in the tunica albuginea and testicular parenchyma.
Characterization, expression and function of c‐Met in canine spontaneous cancers
Authors: Liao A. T. , McMahon M. , London C.
Published: June 2005

Aberrant expression of the proto‐oncogene c‐Met has been noted in a variety of human cancers. To better define the potential role of Met dysregulation in canine cancer, the canine Met, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and HGF activator were cloned. Inappropriate expression of Met was present in canine tumour cell lines derived from a wide variety of cancers. Furthermore, both HGF and HGF activator were also expressed in several of these cell lines, providing evidence of a possible autocrine loop of Met activation. Stimulation of tumour cell lines with recombinant human HGF induced Met autophosphorylation, as well as activation of the downstream signalling elements Gab‐1, Akt and Erk1/2. Scattering of tumour cells and migration across a defect occurred in response to HGF stimulation. The Met inhibitor PHA665752 blocked both HGF‐induced phosphorylation of canine Met and HGF‐mediated cell cycling, scattering and migration. These studies provide evidence that Met dysregulation may play a role in the biology of canine cancer and lay the groundwork for future studies employing Met inhibitors.
Differential gene expression of collagen‐binding small leucine‐rich proteoglycans and lysyl hydroxylases, during mineralization by MC3T3‐E1 cells cultured on titanium implant material
Authors: Takashi Matsuura , Tsubaki Satoshi , Tsuzuki Takashi , Duarte Wagner R. , Yamauchi Mitsuo , Sato Hironobu
Published: June 2005

Titanium implants create a unique ultrastructure (composed of a collagenous zone with relatively disorganized fibril morphology) at the bone–implant interface. The objective of this study was to investigate the temporal mRNA expression patterns, using real‐time polymerase chain reaction, of type I collagen (COLI) and regulators for collagen fibrillogenesis, collagen‐binding small leucine‐rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) and lysyl hydroxylases (LHs), during mineralization, by MC3T3‐E1 cells cultured on titanium (Ti). Lysates of the cultures on Ti and on plastic wells (Pl) for 10–50 d were used for the quantification of calcium and mRNA. Although the onset of calcium accumulation in the cultures on Ti (30–40 d) was slower than that of cultures on Pl (20–30 d), the gene expression patterns during mineralization were similar in cells cultured on either material. COLI and fibromodulin were up‐regulated just before the onset of mineralization and then down‐regulated. Lumican and LH1 were up‐regulated just before the onset of mineralization and then returned to the baseline level. Decorin and LH2 were up‐regulated at the late mineralization stage. Biglycan was down‐regulated once at the early mineralization stage and then returned to the original level. LH3 was maintained at a steady level throughout. This study suggests actual but distinct roles of SLRPs and LHs in the formation of a unique ultrastructure at the bone–implant interface.
Fluoride release and secondary caries inhibition by adhesive systems on root dentine
Authors: Hara Anderson T. , Queiroz Celso S. , Freitas Patricia M. , Giannini Marcelo , Serra Mônica C. , Cury Jaime A.
Published: June 2005

This study tested the fluoride‐release rate and the root caries inhibitory effect of dental adhesives. In phase 1, the fluoride released from samples (n = 5) of the adhesives A (Optibond Solo), B (One‐up Bond F), C (Prime & Bond NT), D (Tenure Quick), and also of the controls [+] (glass‐ionomer cement) and [‐] (non‐fluoride releasing adhesive), was quantified on a daily basis during a pH‐cycling, caries‐simulating phenomenon. In phase 2, restorations were made in bovine root dentine slabs (n = 16) with the same adhesives associated with a non‐fluoridated composite. Control [+] restorations were made entirely with glass‐ionomer cement. Specimens were thermocycled and submitted to the pH‐cycling regimen. Demineralization areas and the presence of the wall lesion (WL) and the inhibition zone (IZ) were determined by polarizing light microscopy in dentine adjacent to the restoration. The highest concentration of fluoride was released by the control [+]; adhesives A, B and C, also released fluoride. No detectable amount of fluoride was released by D or [‐]. Smaller areas of demineralization were found with control [+], whereas the demineralization areas of adhesives A–D and [‐] did not differ from each other. No WL was detected, and higher percentages of IZ were recorded to [+] and to adhesive A. Although some dental adhesives were able to release fluoride, they could not inhibit secondary caries development as well as the glass‐ionomer cement.
Representation of facial muscles in human motor cortex
Authors: Paradiso Guillermo O. , Cunic Danny I. , Gunraj Carolyn A. , Chen Robert
Published: June 2005

Whether there is a projection from the primary motor cortex (M1) to upper facial muscles and how the facial M1 area is modulated by intracortical inhibitory and facilitatory circuits remains controversial. To assess these issues, we applied transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to the M1 and recorded from resting and active contralateral (C‐OOc) and ipsilateral orbicularis oculi (I‐OOc), and contralateral (C‐Tr) and ipsilateral triangularis (I‐Tr) muscles in 12 volunteers. In five subjects, the effects of stimulating at different scalp positions were assessed. Paired TMS at interstimulus intervals (ISIs) of 2 ms were used to elicit short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and ISI of 10 ms for intracortical facilitation (ICF). Long interval intracortical inhibition (LICI) was evaluated at ISIs between 50 and 200 ms, both at rest and during muscle activation. The silent period (SP) was also determined. C‐OOc and I‐OOc responses were recorded in all subjects. The optimal position for eliciting C‐OOc responses was lateral to the hand representation in all subjects and MEP amplitude markedly diminished when the coil was placed 2 cm away from the optimal position. For the I‐OOc, responses were present in more scalp sites and the latency decreased with more anterior placement of the coil. C‐Tr response was recorded in 10 out of 12 subjects and the I‐Tr muscle showed either no response or low amplitude response, probably due to volume conduction. SICI and ICF were present in the C‐OOc and C‐Tr, but not in the I‐OOc muscle. Muscle activation attenuated SICI and ICF. LICI at rest showed facilitation at 50 ms ISI in all muscles, but there was no significant inhibition at other ISIs. There was no significant inhibition or facilitation with the LICI protocol during muscle contraction. The SP was present in the C‐OOc, C‐Tr and I‐OOc muscles and the mean durations ranged from 92 to 104 ms. These findings suggest that the I‐OOc muscle response is probably related to the first component (R1) of the blink reflex. There is M1 projection to the contralateral upper and lower facial muscles in humans and the facial M1 area is susceptible to cortical inhibition and facilitation, similar to limb muscles.
Selective recruitment of single motor units in human flexor digitorum superficialis muscle during flexion of individual fingers
Authors: Butler T. J. , Kilbreath S. L. , Gorman R. B. , Gandevia S. C.
Published: June 2005

Flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) is an extrinsic multi‐tendoned muscle which flexes the proximal interphalangeal joints of the four fingers. It comprises four digital components, each with a tendon that inserts onto its corresponding finger. To determine the degree to which these digital components can be selectively recruited by volition, we recorded the activity of a single motor unit in one component via an intramuscular electrode while the subject isometrically flexed each of the remaining fingers, one at a time. The finger on which the unit principally acted was defined as the ‘test finger’ and that which flexed isometrically was the ‘active’ finger. Activity in 79 units was recorded. Isometric finger flexion forces of 50% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) activated less than 50% of single units in components of FDS acting on fingers that were not voluntarily flexed. With two exceptions, the median recruitment threshold for all active–test finger combinations involving the index, middle, ring and little finger test units was between 49 and 60% MVC (60% MVC being the value assigned to those not recruited). The exceptions were flexion of the little finger while recording from ring finger units (median: 40% MVC), and vice versa (median: 2% MVC). For all active–test finger combinations, only 35/181 units were activated when the active finger flexed at less than 20% MVC, and the fingers were adjacent for 28 of these. Functionally, to recruit FDS units during grasping and lifting, relatively heavy objects were required, although systematic variation occurred with the width of the object. In conclusion, FDS components can be selectively activated by volition and this may be especially important for grasping at high forces with one or more fingers.
Phenylephrine acts via IP3‐dependent intracellular NO release to stimulate L‐type Ca2+ current in cat atrial myocytes
Authors: Wang Y. G. , Dedkova E. N. , Ji X. , Blatter L. A. , Lipsius S. L.
Published: June 2005

This study determined the effects of α1‐adrenergic receptor (α1‐AR) stimulation by phenylephrine (PE) on L‐type Ca2+ current (ICa,L) in cat atrial myocytes. PE (10 μm) reversibly increased ICa,L (51.3%; n= 40) and shifted peak ICa,L activation voltage by −10 mV. PE‐induced stimulation of ICa,L was blocked by each of 1 μm prazocin, 10 μml‐NIO, 10 μm W‐7, 10 μm ODQ, 2 μm H‐89 or 10 μm LY294002, and was unaffected by 10 μm chelerythrine or incubating cells in pertussis toxin (PTX). PE‐induced stimulation of ICa,L also was inhibited by each of 10 μm ryanodine or 5 μm thapsigargin, by blocking IP3 receptors with 2 μm 2‐APB or 10 μm xestospongin C or by intracellular dialysis of heparin. In field‐stimulated cells, PE increased intracellular NO (NOi) production. PE‐induced NOi release was inhibited by each of 1 μm prazocin, 10 μml‐NIO, 10 μm W‐7, 10 μm LY294002, 2 μm H‐89, 10 μm ryanodine, 5 μm thapsigargin, 2 μm 2‐APB or 10 μm xestospongin C, and unchanged by PTX. PE (10 μm) increased phosphorylation of Akt, which was inhibited by LY294002. Confocal microscopy showed that PE stimulated NOi release from subsarcolemmal sites and this was prevented by 2 mm methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin, an agent that disrupts caveolae formation. PE also increased local, subsarcolemmal SR Ca2+ release via IP3‐dependent signalling. Electron micrographs of atrial myocytes show peripheral SR cisternae in close proximity to clusters of caveolae. We conclude that in cat atrial myocytes PE acts via α1‐ARs coupled to PTX‐insensitive G‐protein to release NOi, which in turn stimulates ICa,L. PE‐induced NOi release requires stimulation of both PI‐3K/Akt and IP3‐dependent Ca2+ signalling. NO stimulates ICa,L via cGMP‐mediated cAMP‐dependent PKA signalling. IP3‐dependent Ca2+ signalling may enhance local SR Ca2+ release required to activate Ca2+‐dependent eNOS/NOi production from subsarcolemmal caveolae sites.
Ant Nestmate and Non-Nestmate Discrimination by a Chemosensory Sensillum
Authors: Ozaki Mamiko , Wada-Katsumata Ayako , Fujikawa Kazuyo , Iwasaki Masayuki , Yokohari Fumio , Satoji Yuji , Nisimura Tomoyosi , Yamaoka Ryohei
Published: June 2005

In animal societies, chemical communication plays an important role in conflict and cooperation. For ants, cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) blends produced by non-nestmates elicit overt aggression. We describe a sensory sensillum on the antennae of the carpenter ant
Camponotus japonicus
that functions in nestmate discrimination. This sensillum is multiporous and responds only to non-nestmate CHC blends. This suggests a role for a peripheral recognition mechanism in detecting colony-specific chemical signals.
Heat Flux Anomalies in Antarctica Revealed by Satellite Magnetic Data
Authors: Maule Cathrine Fox , Purucker Michael E. , Olsen Nils , Mosegaard Klaus
Published: June 2005

The geothermal heat flux is an important factor in the dynamics of ice sheets; it affects the occurrence of subglacial lakes, the onset of ice streams, and mass losses from the ice sheet base. Because direct heat flux measurements in ice-covered regions are difficult to obtain, we developed a method that uses satellite magnetic data to estimate the heat flux underneath the Antarctic ice sheet. We found that the heat flux underneath the ice sheet varies from 40 to 185 megawatts per square meter and that areas of high heat flux coincide with known current volcanism and some areas known to have ice streams.
NONLINEAR EXTENSIONS OF SCHRÖDINGER–VON NEUMANN QUANTUM DYNAMICS: A SET OF NECESSARY CONDITIONS FOR COMPATIBILITY WITH THERMODYNAMICS
Authors: BERETTA GIAN PAOLO
Published: June 2005

We propose a list of conditions that consistency with thermodynamics imposes on linear and nonlinear generalizations of standard unitary quantum mechanics that assume a set of true quantum states without the restriction ρ2 = ρ even for strictly isolated systems and that are to be considered in experimental tests of the existence of intrinsic (spontaneous) decoherence at the microscopic level. As part of the discussion, we present a general description of nonequilibrium states.
BOUND ON THE TIME VARIATION OF THE FINE STRUCTURE CONSTANT DRIVEN BY QUINTESSENCE
Authors: LEE DA-SHIN , LEE WOLUNG , NG KIN-WANG
Published: June 2005

The bound on the time variation of the fine structure constant (α) driven by the dynamics of quintessence scalar field which is coupled to electromagnetism is discussed using phenomenological quintessential models constrained by SNIa and CMB observations. We find that those models allowing early quintessence give the largest variation Δα at the decoupling epoch. Furthermore, the fifth force experiments imply that Δα/α is less than about 0.1%.
Maturation of guinea pig tracheal strip stiffness
Authors: Wang Lu , Chitano Pasquale , Murphy Thomas M.
Published: June 2005

Previously, we showed the shortening velocity of guinea pig tracheal strips was the greatest in juvenile (3-wk-old) compared with infant (1-wk-old) and adult animals (3-mo-old). The greatest shortening velocity was associated with the least resistance to shortening calculated from force-velocity curves among the three age groups. It remained to be verified if the stiffness of tracheal tissue, a measure of tissue response to geometrical deformations, is different among the three age groups. We hypothesized that stiffness of intact tracheal strips is lowest in the juvenile group and that this can explain the ontogeny of airway smooth muscle resistance to shortening and shortening velocity. Static stiffness measured through stepwise deformations showed no age-related differences. Evaluation of tissue response to oscillatory deformations showed that the dynamic stiffness of unstimulated tracheal strips was 8.35 ± 0.88, 4.15 ± 1.09, and 8.21 ± 1.57 kPa, and the phase angle was 10.3 ± 2.93, 2.46 ± 0.67, and 7.87 ± 1.77° in infant, juvenile, and adult, respectively. Unstimulated juvenile strips were significantly lower in dynamic stiffness and phase angle compared with unstimulated infant or adult strips. This maturational profile was independent of muscle strip preset length or oscillation mode/amplitude but was abolished at peak of contraction to either carbachol or electric field stimulation. These results suggest that the noncontractile components of tracheal strips are less stiff and contain fewer viscous/frictional elements in juvenile than in other age groups. This may provide a functional basis for reduced resistance to length changes in juvenile airway smooth muscle.
Aging reduces responsiveness to BSO- and heat stress-induced perturbations of glutathione and antioxidant enzymes
Authors: Morrison Joanna P. , Coleman Mitchell C. , Aunan Elizabeth S. , Walsh Susan A. , Spitz Douglas R. , Kregel Kevin C.
Published: June 2005

Aging alters cellular responses to both heat and oxidative stress. Thiol-mediated metabolism of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is believed to be important in aging. To begin to determine the role of thiols in aging and heat stress, we depleted liver glutathione (GSH) by administering l-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) in young (6 mo) and old (24 mo) Fisher 344 rats before heat stress. Animals were given BSO (4 mmol/kg ip) or saline (1 ml ip) 2 h before heat stress and subsequently heated to a core temperature of 41°C over a 90-min period. Liver tissue was collected before and 0, 30, and 60 min after heat stress. BSO inhibited glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL, the rate-limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis) catalytic activity and resulted in a decline in liver GSH and GSSG that was more pronounced in young compared with old animals. Catalase activity did not change between groups until 60 min after heat stress in young BSO-treated rats. Young animals experienced a substantial and persistent reduction in Cu,Zn-SOD activity with BSO treatment. Mn-SOD activity increased with BSO but declined after heat stress. The differences in thiol depletion observed between young and old animals with BSO treatment may be indicative of age-related differences in GSH compartmentalization that could have an impact on maintenance of redox homeostasis and antioxidant balance immediately after a physiologically relevant stress. The significant changes in antioxidant enzyme activity after GSH depletion suggest that thiol status can influence the regulation of other antioxidant enzymes.
Contractile abilities of normal and “mini” triceps surae muscles from mice (Mus domesticus) selectively bred for high voluntary wheel running
Authors: Syme Douglas A. , Evashuk Kristin , Grintuch Benjamin , Rezende Enrico L. , Garland Theodore
Published: June 2005

As reported previously, artificial selection of house mice caused a 2.7-fold increase in voluntary wheel running of four replicate selected lines compared with four random-bred control lines. Two of the selected lines developed a high incidence of a small-muscle phenotype (“mini muscles”) in the plantar flexor group of the hindlimb, which apparently results from a simple Mendelian recessive allele. At generations 36–38, we measured wheel running and key contractile characteristics of soleus and medial gastrocnemius muscles from normal and mini muscles in mice from these selected lines. Mice with mini muscles ran faster and a greater distance per day than normal individuals but not longer. As expected, in mini-muscle mice the medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles were ∼54 and 45% the mass of normal muscles, respectively, but the plantaris muscles were not different in mass and soleus muscles were actually 30% larger. In spite of the increased mass, contractile characteristics of the soleus were unchanged in any notable way between mini and normal mice. However, medial gastrocnemius muscles in mini mice were changed markedly toward a slower phenotype, having slower twitches; demonstrated a more curved force-velocity relationship; produced about half the mass-specific isotonic power, 20–50% of the mass-specific cyclic work and power (only 10–25% the absolute power if the loss in mass is considered); and fatigued at about half the rate of normal muscles. These changes would promote increased, aerobically supported running activity but may compromise activities that require high power, such as sprinting.
Prior exposure to hypoxic-induced apnea impairs protective responses of newborn rats in an exposure-dependent fashion: influence of normoxic recovery time
Authors: Fewell James E. , Ng Vienna K. Y. , Zhang Chunfen
Published: June 2005

Experiments were carried out to determine whether prior exposure to hypoxic-induced apnea impairs protective responses of newborn rats. Ninety-five, 5- to 6-day-old rat pups were instrumented for respiratory measurements and placed prone in a metabolic chamber regulated to 37.0°C. The time to first and last gasp as well as the number of gasps were determined on exposure to unrelenting hypoxia after each pup had experienced 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, or 14 hypoxic-induced apnea/autoresuscitation cycles (HIA/AR) at 5-min intervals. Prior exposure to HIA/AR did not significantly alter the time to first gasp, but it decreased the time to last gasp after two HIA/AR and the number of gasps after three HIA/AR on exposure to unrelenting hypoxia. When the normoxic recovery time after 9 HIA/AR was varied from 5 to 120 min, the time to last gasp as well as the total number of gasps increased on exposure to unrelenting hypoxia but only at 120 min (i.e., the number of gasps was similar but the time to last gasp was still decreased compared with that observed in naive animals exposed to unrelenting hypoxia). Thus prior exposure to hypoxic-induced apnea as may occur during obstructive sleep apnea or positional asphyxia decreases the number and duration of potential autoresuscitation producing gasps on exposure to unrelenting hypoxia for a period of up to and exceeding 120 min, respectively. The mechanism by which prior exposure to hypoxic-induced apnea influences the duration and number of hypoxic-induced gasps is unknown.
Autodestructive Syndromes
Authors: Kocalevent Rüya-Daniela , Fliege Herbert , Rose Matthias , Walter Marc , Danzer Gerhard , Klapp Burghard F.
Published: June 2005

Background: The phenomenon ‘autodestructive behaviour’ is becoming an increasingly serious disease and cost factor in a wide range of medical fields. The present paper presents a survey of the literature on autodestructive behaviour, excluding psychotic, substance-induced or organic brain disorders. Starting out with a conceptual overview, the paper goes on to look into the epidemiology of autodestructive behaviour and the forms in which it manifests itself. Method: A literature search was conducted in Medline, Psycinfo and Psyndex using the search terms ‘artifact’, ‘artificially induced’, ‘autodestructive’, ‘self-mutilation’, ‘factitious’, ‘self-harm’, ‘self-induced’, ‘self-inflicted’, ‘self-injuring’ and ‘self-mutilation’ for the period from 1977 to 2003. Results: Five of a total of 18 empirical studies describe the simultaneous occurrence of direct and indirect forms of autodestructive behaviour. Reported prevalence rates range from 0.032% to 9.36%. The ratio of females to males was found to be 2:1 (average age: 31.5 years; SD: 9.3 years); in contrast, the gender ratio was reversed for Munchausen’s syndrome. The case history data presented are patchy and differ in terms of their priorities. We found a large number of codiagnoses, which seems to indicate that personality and dependence disorders, or substance misuse, are characteristic of both direct and indirect forms of autodestructive behaviour. Conclusions: The task at hand is to use a yet-to-be-developed nomenclature and adequately operational diagnostic criteria to work out standardised survey instruments that do justice to the heterogeneity of this disorder complex.
Cognitive Behaviour Group Therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Non-Randomised Waiting List Controlled Study
Authors: Bazelmans E. , Prins J.B. , Lulofs R. , van der Meer J.W.M. , Bleijenberg G.
Published: June 2005

Background: It has been demonstrated that individual cognitive behaviour therapy is an effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive behaviour group therapy (CBGT) in an unselected group of CFS patients. Additionally, pretreatment characteristics of CFS patients who improve after CBGT were explored. Methods: In a non-randomised waiting list controlled design, 31 patients were allocated to CBGT and 36 to the waiting list condition. CBGT consisted of 12 two-hour sessions during 6 months. Main outcome measures were fatigue (Checklist Individual Strength) and functional impairment (Sickness Impact Profile). Results: A moderate effect on fatigue in favour of CBGT was found. For functional impairment, the effect was opposite to what was expected. Patients who improved after CBGT had less complaints at baseline compared to patients who did not improve. Conclusions: An explanation for the moderate effect might be that during CBGT, rest and relaxation were too much emphasised. Furthermore, an unselected group of CFS patients and therapists inexperienced in CB(G)T for CFS participated. Suggestions to improve CBGT for future research are given.
Childhood Body-Focused Behaviors and Social Behaviors as Risk Factors of Eating Disorders
Authors: Mangweth Barbara , Hausmann Armand , Danzl Claudia , Walch Thomas , Rupp Claudia I. , Biebl Wilfried , Hudson James I. , Pope Jr. Harrison G.
Published: June 2005

Background: The risk factors for adolescent eating disorders are poorly understood. It is generally agreed, however, that interactions with one’s body and interactions with others are two important features in the development of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Therefore, we assessed a variety of childhood body-focused behaviors and childhood social behaviors in eating-disordered patients as compared to non-eating-disordered subjects. Method: We compared 50 female inpatients with eating disorders (anorexia or bulimia nervosa), 50 female inpatients with polysubstance dependence, and 50 nonpatient female control subjects with no history of eating or substance abuse disorders (all defined by DSM-IV criteria), using a semi-structured interview of our own design. We asked questions about (1) childhood body-focused behaviors (e.g. thumb-sucking) and body-focused family experiences (e.g. bodily caresses), and (2) childhood social behaviors (e.g. numbers of close friends) and family social styles (e.g. authoritarian upbringing). Results: Many body-focused measures, such as feeding problems, auto-aggressive behavior, lack of maternal caresses, and family taboos regarding nudity and sexuality, characterized eating-disordered patients as opposed to both comparison groups, as did several social behaviors, such as adjustment problems at school and lack of close friends. However, nail-biting, insecure parental bonding, and childhood physical and sexual abuse were equally elevated in both psychiatric groups. Conclusion: It appears that eating-disordered patients, as compared to substance-dependent patients and healthy controls, show a distinct pattern of body-focused and social behaviors during childhood, characterized by self-harm, a rigid and ‘body-denying’ family climate, and lack of intimacy.
Ptosis Secondary to Anterior Segment Surgery and Its Repair in a Two-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Altieri Michele , Truscott Eleanor , Kingston Amy E.H. , Bertagno Roberta , Altieri Gianguido
Published: June 2005

Objective: Aponeurotic blepharoptosis is a postoperative complication of anterior segment surgery with a reported incidence of 1–2% and a variable aetiology. In this 2-year follow-up study, we investigated the incidence of this postoperative complication in our experience of anterior segment surgery and propose a modified technique of aponeurosis advancement for its repair. Methods: 200 consecutive patients undergoing anterior segment surgery in our eye clinic were enrolled in the study. Patients who developed any other operative or postoperative complication were excluded from the study. In all patients, the following upper lid parameters were calculated to determine whether postoperative blepharoptosis had occurred: margin-reflex distance, upper eyelid crease, use of frontalis muscle and levator function. A questionnaire was submitted to all blepharoptosis patients investigating mainly their subjective judgement of the impact of blepharoptosis on their quality of life and if they had been informed accurately about the incidence of this postoperative complication. Results: 163 patients were included in our study. 11 had postoperative blepharoptosis (6.7%). 9 patients wanted ptosis repair and were operated on with our modified technique. None of the 11 ptosis patients had been informed about the possible occurrence of the blepharoptosis as postoperative complication. Our modified technique shows good, long-lasting results. Conclusions: Postoperative blepharoptosis is a well-known postoperative complication of anterior segment surgery. It can be successfully treated surgically by aponeurosis advancement. It is our opinion that all patients should be informed of the possibility of postoperative blepharoptosis when consenting for anterior segment surgery.
Long-Term Vitreous Replacement with Perfluorohexyloctane and Silicone Oil: Preliminary Reports of a Multicentric Study
Authors: Rizzo Stanislao , Genovesi-Ebert Federica , Belting Claudia , Foltran Flavio , Gandolfo Enrico , Lesnoni Guido , Dell’Omo Ermanno , Zenoni Stefano , Azzolini Marco , De Molfetta Vito
Published: June 2005

Aim: To report on the use of a combined intra-ocular tamponade with silicone oil and perfluorohexyloctane (F6H8) in the treatment of complex retinal detachment. Design: A prospective consecutive interventional case series from seven study centres. Participants: 69 patients presenting a retinal detachment with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) and retinal breaks of the inferior two quadrants of the fundus. Method: Patients were divided into two groups: (1) 28 eyes which had not been operated on before; (2) 41 eyes affected by recurrent retinal detachment that had had unsuccessful previous surgery with silicone oil or gas tamponade. A pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peeling and – when necessary – a retinotomy were performed; the vitreous cavity was filled with two thirds of F6H8 and one third of silicone oil 1,000 mPas (double filling, DF). The endotamponade was removed after 30–45 days (median 38) and replaced by balanced salt solution or silicone oil according to the condition of the retina. Results: Retinal reattachment was achieved in 52 out of 69 cases (75%) 6 months after removal of the DF without any endotamponade. Conclusion: The DF with F6H8 and silicone oil allows a good endotamponading to the inferior retina and the posterior pole. The DF appeared to be well tolerated. Further studies are necessary to evaluate whether a DF is advantageous in respect to silicone oil filling alone in case of retinal breaks and PVR of the inferior retina.
Depression following Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Dryden Donna M. , Saunders L. Duncan , Rowe Brian H. , May Laura A. , Yiannakoulias Niko , Svenson Lawrence W. , Schopflocher Donald P. , Voaklander Donald C.
Published: June 2005

Objectives: To describe the epidemiology of depression following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and identify risk factors associated with depression. Methods: This population-based cohort study followed individuals from date of SCI to 6 years after injury. Administrative data from a Canadian province with a universal publicly funded health care system and centralized databases were used. A Cox proportional hazards model was developed to identify risk factors. Results: Of 201 patients with SCI, 58 (28.9%) were treated for depression. Individuals at highest risk were those with a pre-injury history of depression [hazard rate ratio (HRR) 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1–2.3], a history of substance abuse (HRR 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.3) or permanent neurological deficit (HRR 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.1). Conclusion: Depression occurs commonly and early in persons who sustain an SCI. Both patient and injury factors are associated with the development of depression. These should be used to target patients for mental health assessment and services during initial hospitalization and following discharge into the community.
Association between Impaired Insulin Sensitivity and Stroke
Authors: Bravata Dawn M. , Wells Carolyn K. , Kernan Walter N. , Concato John , Brass Lawrence M. , Gulanski Barbara I.
Published: June 2005

Background: Prior research has indicated an association between insulin resistance and stroke; we sought to determine if this association persists after adjusting for stroke risk factors, including glycemic control. Methods: We used data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Survey (1988–1994), including participants aged ≧40 years. We assessed insulin sensitivity using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA): HOMA = (FPGSI × FPI)/22.5, where FPGSI refers to fasting plasma glucose (mmol/l) and FPI refers to fasting plasma insulin (µU/l). Increasing HOMA indicates decreasing insulin sensitivity. We used glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to measure glycemic control. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors that were independently associated with stroke. Results: Among 3,844 participants, 168 (4%) reported a stroke history. Participants with stroke had lower insulin sensitivity than participants without stroke: HOMA mean ± standard deviation, 4.0 ± 4.0 vs. 3.3 ± 3.0; p = 0.022. HOMA was independently associated with stroke (odds ratio 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.12; adjusted for age, hypertension, myocardial infarction, claudication, activity, and HbA1c). The strength of the association between HOMA and stroke was similar to the association between claudication and stroke (index R2: 0.0032 vs. 0.0036). Conclusions: Impaired insulin sensitivity is independently associated with stroke, even after adjustment for glycemic control.