bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of UCP3 Gene –55C>T Polymorphism and Obesity in a Spanish Population
Authors: Alonso Alvaro , Martí Amelia , Corbalán María Soledad , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Forga Luis , Martínez J. Alfredo
Published: July 2005

Background/Aims: The uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) gene has been suggested as a possible determinant affecting obesity risk given its function in the regulation of energy metabolism. However, available genetic association studies have been inconsistent, which could be attributable to not considering individual lifestyle patterns, such as physical activity, a factor that affects UCP3 expression. The objective of this study was to assess the association between the UCP3 –55C>T polymorphism and the risk of obesity. Methods: Case-control study conducted in a sample of Spanish adults. 157 obese subjects (BMI ≧30) and 150 controls (BMI <25) participated in the study. UCP3 –55C>T polymorphism was identified by the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism methodology. Results: The odds ratio (OR) for obesity (95% confidence interval [CI]) according to the presence of UCP 3 gene –55C>T polymorphism (heterozygotes and homozygotes merged together), adjusting for age, sex, and recreational physical activity, was 0.61 (0.37–1.00), p = 0.05. Interestingly, this association was only manifest among those with higher recreational physical activity (OR: 0.46, 95% CI 0.21–0.99, p = 0.05) and not among those with lower physical activity (OR: 0.84, 95% CI 0.41–1.70, p = 0.84). Conclusion: UCP3 –55C>T polymorphism carriers have apparently a lower risk of obesity when taking into consideration recreational energy expenditure. Interestingly, this inverse beneficial association may only occur in people with a high level of physical activity.
Representation of Somatosensory Modalities in Pathways Ascending from the Spinal Anterolateral Funiculus to the Thalamus Demonstrated by Lesions in Man
Authors: Bowsher David
Published: July 2005

Patients with cordotomies (16), and brainstem (17) or thalamic (30) infarcts, all except cordotomies verified by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have been subjected to quantitative sensory perception threshold testing (QST) for touch (von Frey), mechanical pain, sharpness, innocuous warmth and cold, and heat pain in the maximally affected body area and its unaffected contralateral mirror image region. Some patients were tested twice at widely spaced time intervals; no qualitative differences were found. Results show that all modalities are dissociable from one another by lesions at all levels tested, so that there must be separable representation for each of the six modalities tested. In the lower (crossed symptoms and signs), but not the upper (uncrossed symptoms), deficits for all modalities (except for touch) were more marked than at higher levels. At the level of the thalamus, deficits for innocuous and noxious thermal modalities but not for mechanical pain were recorded in the case of lesions of the principal somatosensory relay nucleus (VPL/Vc), while more medial thalamic lesions resulted in deficits for mechanical pain but not for heat pain or innocuous thermal modalities; there is a marked deficit for sharpness caused by lesions at both thalamic sites.
Hyperinnervation of Mesenteric Arteries in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats by Sympathetic but Not Primary Afferent Axons
Authors: Luff Susan E. , Young Simone B. , McLachlan Elspeth M.
Published: July 2005

Hypertrophy of the perivascular plexus is thought to play a role in the development of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, it is not known whether the sympathetic varicosities are more numerous or larger, or form more neurovascular junctions. Further, a parallel hypertrophy of primary afferent terminals around the vessels might modulate any effects of hypertrophied sympathetic terminals. We have investigated the perivascular plexus around second-order mesenteric arteries of SHR and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats by electron microscopy. Noradrenergic terminals were identified by the presence of small granular vesicles after chromaffin fixation, and substance P (SP+) afferent axons were identified by immunohistochemistry. The numbers of noradrenergic axon and varicosity profiles were higher (48 and 25%, respectively) in SHR than in WKY rats, and the majority lay closer to the medio-adventitial border. In contrast, there was no difference in the numbers of SP+ axons. Sympathetic and SP+ varicosities were indistinguishable in size, shape, vesicle content and mitochondrion content between each other and between the strains. However, both the number of neuromuscular junctions and the proportion of varicosities that formed them in SHR arteries were more than double those in WKY vessels. The data clearly show that hyperinnervation in SHR is specific for noradrenergic axons.
Induction of Apoptosis of Human Tumor Cells by a 4,9-Diazapyrenium Derivative and Its Affects on Topoisomerase-II Action
Authors: Marczi S. , Glavaš-Obrovac Lj. , Karner I.
Published: July 2005

Background: 5,10-Diphenyl-4,9-dimethyl-4,9-diazapyrenium hydrogensulfate (FDAP) is a newly synthesized DNA intercalator with strong antiproliferative activity against various human tumor cells. In this study, FDAP’s potential to induce apoptosis in human pancreatic (MIAPaCa-2) and colon (Caco-2) carcinoma cells and its effects on topoisomerase-II activity were investigated. Methods: Cytotoxicity was analyzed using the MTT assay. Antiproliferative activity was measured using a radioactive precursor incorporation assay. DNA fragmentation was analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Apoptosis was detected using annexin-V fluorescein. To screen the topoisomerase-II-targeted effects of FDAP, cell-free assays were used. Results: FDAP at concentrations of 10 and 1 µM caused a strong cytotoxic effect on MIAPaCa-2 cells, but only a slight effect on WI38 cell viability. Inhibition of the DNA, RNA and protein synthesis of the treated tumor cells was dependent on cell type. The DNA of the treated MIAPaCa-2 cells was fragmented. Phosphatidylserine externalization was detected in both tumor cell lines investigated. FDAP caused generation of DNA strand breaks due to interaction with human topoisomerase-IIα. Conclusion: 1 µM FDAP caused apoptotic cell death of treated tumor cells. FDAP stimulated topoisomerase-II-mediated DNA cleavage and could be considered a topoisomerase-II poison.
Pathological Opening of the Blood-Brain Barrier to Horseradish Peroxidase and Amyloid Precursor Protein following Ischemia-Reperfusion Brain Injury
Authors: Pluta Ryszard
Published: July 2005

This study was performed to test the hypothesis that fragments of amyloid precursor protein are able to enter the injured blood-brain barrier (BBB) following brain ischemia. We observed chronic disruption of the BBB after ischemia. The BBB changes did not increase in intensity and frequency with longer periods of recirculation. As an effect of BBB injury, we noted a visible connection of diffuse amyloid plaques with neurovasculature in rats. This pathology appears to have a similar distribution as in Alzheimer’s disease, hippocampal and cortical changes being most severe.
Pitted Keratolysis: New Ultrastructural Insight in Keratohyalin Granule and Corneodesmosome Alterations
Authors: Hermanns-Lê Trinh , Garcia Roy , Arrese Jorge E. , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: July 2005

Background: Pitted keratolysis (PK) is a superficial cutaneous infection caused by different species of bacteria. It is characterized by discrete crateriform and malodorous pits and erosions coalescing to form bizarre figures on the soles. Objective: To investigate the process of corneocyte shedding in PK. Method: Biopsies from typical lesions of 3 patients were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Results: Microorganisms were found both inter- and intracellularly in corneocytes and keratinocytes of the upper layers of the stratum spinosum. Bacteria exhibited different morphologic aspects related to their localization in the epidermis. Keratohyalin granules were strikingly abnormal, showing sharp segregation between rounded dense areas and more electron-translucent areas. Some keratohyalin granules exhibited only alveolar dense areas. These altered keratohyalin granules were still present inside corneocytes. The corneodesmosomes at the bottom of the pits were in part cleaved leading to partial corneocyte dissociation. Conclusion: It is suggested that proteases secreted by the bacteria alter the structure of both the corneodesmosomes and the keratohyalin granules. The latter appeared more resistant to the normal processing of profilaggrin inside the corneocytes.
Transmural Heterogeneity of Na
+
–Ca
2+
Exchange
Authors: Xiong Wei , Tian Yanli , DiSilvestre Deborah , Tomaselli Gordon F.
Published: July 2005

Spatial electrical heterogeneity has a profound effect on normal cardiac electrophysiology and genesis of cardiac arrhythmias in diseased hearts. The Na
+
–Ca
2+
exchanger (NCX) is a key linker, through Ca
2+
signaling, between contractility and arrhythmias. Here we characterize the differential transmural expression of NCX in normal and rapid pacing-induced failing canine hearts. Significant transmural heterogeneity of NCX was present in normal hearts, as NCX current density measured at +80 mV was significantly (
P
<0.05) greater in epicardial (EPI) (5.49 pA/pF) than mid-myocardial (MID) (2.84 pA/pF) and endocardial (ENDO) (2.21 pA/pF) cells. Interestingly, heart failure caused a selective increase in NCX current density (
P
<0.05) limited to ENDO (by 202%) and MID (by 76%) but not EPI myocytes (
P
=not significant). The differences in functional expression were associated with changes in both mRNA and protein levels. The normal EPI layer exhibited the greatest NCX mRNA and protein levels compared with MID and ENDO layers, whereas the ENDO layer underwent the most pronounced increase in mRNA (by 185%) and protein (by 207%) levels in heart failure. The transmural NCX gradient, from EPI (greatest) to ENDO (least), is disrupted in heart failure. A selective upregulation of NCX expression in MID and ENDO in heart failure markedly redirects the orientation of the transmural functional gradient of NCX and may lead to enhanced vulnerability to cardiac arrhythmias.
Phospholemman-Phosphorylation Mediates the β-Adrenergic Effects on Na/K Pump Function in Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Despa Sanda , Bossuyt Julie , Han Fei , Ginsburg Kenneth S. , Jia Li-Guo , Kutchai Howard , Tucker Amy L. , Bers Donald M.
Published: July 2005

Cardiac sympathetic stimulation activates β-adrenergic (β-AR) receptors and protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylation of proteins involved in myocyte Ca regulation. The Na/K-ATPase (NKA) is essential in regulating intracellular [Na] ([Na]
i
), which in turn affects [Ca]
i
via Na/Ca exchange. However, how PKA modifies NKA function is unknown. Phospholemman (PLM), a member of the FXYD family of proteins that interact with NKA in various tissues, is a major PKA substrate in heart. Here we tested the hypothesis that PLM phosphorylation is responsible for the PKA effects on cardiac NKA function using wild-type (WT) and PLM knockout (PLM-KO) mice. We measured NKA-mediated [Na]
i
decline and current (I
Pump
) to assess β-AR effects on NKA function in isolated myocytes. In WT myocytes, 1 μmol/L isoproterenol (ISO) increased PLM phosphorylation and stimulated NKA activity mainly by increasing its affinity for internal Na (K
m
decreased from 18.8±1.4 to 13.6±1.5 mmol/L), with no significant effect on the maximum pump rate. This led to a significant decrease in resting [Na]
i
(from 12.5±1.8 to 10.5±1.4 mmol/L). In PLM-KO mice under control conditions K
m
(14.2±1.5 mmol/L) was lower than in WT, but comparable to that for WT in the presence of ISO. Furthermore, ISO had no significant effect on NKA function in PLM-KO mice. ATPase activity in sarcolemmal vesicles also showed a lower K
m
(Na) in PLM-KO versus WT (12.9±0.9 versus 16.2±1.5). Thus, PLM inhibits NKA activity by decreasing its [Na]
i
affinity, and this inhibitory effect is relieved by PKA activation. We conclude that PLM modulates the NKA function in a manner similar to the way phospholamban affects the related SR Ca-ATPase (inhibition of transport substrate affinity, that is relieved by phosphorylation).
Heterodimerization of β
1
- and β
2
-Adrenergic Receptor Subtypes Optimizes β-Adrenergic Modulation of Cardiac Contractility
Authors: Zhu Wei-Zhong , Chakir Khalid , Zhang Shengjun , Yang Dongmei , Lavoie Catherine , Bouvier Michel , Hébert Terence E. , Lakatta Edward G. , Cheng Heping , Xiao Rui-Ping
Published: July 2005

Intermolecular interactions between members of both similar and divergent G protein-coupled receptor subfamilies have been shown in various experimental systems. Here, we demonstrate heterodimerization of predominant β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) subtypes expressed in the heart, β
1
AR, and β
2
AR, and its physiological relevance. In intact adult-mouse cardiac myocytes lacking native β
1
AR and β
2
AR, coexpression of both βAR subtypes led to receptor heterodimerization, as evidenced by their coimmunoprecipitation, colocalization at optical resolution, and markedly increased binding affinity for subtype-selective ligands. As a result, the dose-response curve of myocyte contraction to βAR agonist stimulation with isoproterenol (ISO) was shifted leftward by ≈1.5 orders of magnitude, and the response of cellular cAMP formation to ISO was enhanced concomitantly, indicating that intermolecular interactions of βAR subtypes resulted in sensitization of these receptors in response to agonist stimulation. In contrast, the presence of β
1
AR greatly suppressed ligand-independent spontaneous activity of coexisting β
2
ARs. Thus, heterodimerization of β
1
AR and β
2
AR in intact cardiac myocytes creates a novel population of βARs with distinct functional and pharmacological properties, resulting in enhanced signaling efficiency in response to agonist stimulation while silencing ligand-independent receptor activation, thereby optimizing β-adrenergic modulation of cardiac contractility.
Dual Serotonergic Regulation of Ventricular Contractile Force Through 5-HT
2A
and 5-HT
4
Receptors Induced in the Acute Failing Heart
Authors: Qvigstad Eirik , Sjaastad Ivar , Brattelid Trond , Nunn Caroline , Swift Fredrik , Birkeland Jon Arne Kro , Krobert Kurt A. , Andersen Geir Øystein , Sejersted Ole M. , Osnes Jan-Bjørn , Levy Finn Olav , Skomedal Tor
Published: July 2005

Cardiac responsiveness to neurohumoral stimulation is altered in congestive heart failure (CHF). In chronic CHF, the left ventricle has become sensitive to serotonin because of appearance of G
s
-coupled 5-HT
4
receptors. Whether this also occurs in acute CHF is unknown. Serotonin responsiveness may develop gradually or represent an early response to the insult. Furthermore, serotonin receptor expression could vary with progression of the disease. Postinfarction CHF was induced in male Wistar rats by coronary artery ligation with nonligated sham-operated rats as control. Contractility was measured in left ventricular papillary muscles and mRNA quantified by real-time reverse-transcription PCR. Myosin light chain-2 phosphorylation was determined by charged gel electrophoresis and Western blotting. Ca
2+
transients in CHF were measured in field stimulated fluo-4-loaded cardiomyocytes. A novel 5-HT
2A
receptor-mediated inotropic response was detected in acute failing ventricle, accompanied by increased 5-HT
2A
mRNA levels. Functionally, this receptor dominated over 5-HT
4
receptors that were also induced. The 5-HT
2A
receptor-mediated inotropic response displayed a triphasic pattern, shaped by temporally different activation of Ca
2+
-calmodulin-dependent myosin light chain kinase, Rho-associated kinase and inhibitory protein kinase C, and was accompanied by increased myosin light chain-2 phosphorylation. Ca
2+
transients were slightly decreased by 5-HT
2A
stimulation. The acute failing rat ventricle is, thus, dually regulated by serotonin through G
q
-coupled 5-HT
2A
receptors and G
s
-coupled 5-HT
4
receptors.
Causes and Predictors of Death in Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Canhão Patrícia , Ferro José M. , Lindgren Arne G. , Bousser Marie-Germaine , Stam Jan , Barinagarrementeria Fernando
Published: July 2005

Background and Purpose—

The causes of death of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) have not been systematically addressed in previous studies. We aimed to analyze the causes and predictors of death during the acute phase of CVT in the International Study on Cerebral Vein and Dural Sinus Thrombosis (ISCVT) to identify preventable or treatable causes.

Methods—

ISCVT is a multinational, prospective, observational study including 624 patients with CVT occurring between May 1998 and May 2001, in which 27 patients (4.3%) died during the acute phase, 21 (3.4%) within 30 days from symptom onset. Inclusion forms and a questionnaire assessing the causes of death were analyzed. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of death within 30 days from symptom onset of CVT.

Results—

Median time between onset of symptoms and death was 13 days and between diagnosis and death, 5 days. Causes of death were mainly transtentorial herniation due to a unilateral focal mass effect (10 patients) or to diffuse edema and multiple parenchymal lesions (10 patients). Independent predictors of death were coma (odds ratio [OR], 8.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.8 to 27.7), mental disturbance (OR, 2.5; 95% CI 0.9 to 7.3), deep CVT thrombosis (OR, 8.5; 95% CI, 2.6 to 27.8), right intracerebral hemorrhage (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.1 to 10.6), and posterior fossa lesion (OR, 6.5; 95% CI, 1.3 to 31.7). Worsening of previous focal or de novo focal deficits increased the risk of death.

Conclusions—

The main causes of acute death were neurologic, the most frequent mechanism being transtentorial herniation.
Association Between Alcohol Consumption and Subclinical Carotid Atherosclerosis
Authors: Schminke Ulf , Luedemann Jan , Berger Klaus , Alte Dietrich , Mitusch Rolf , Wood William G. , Jaschinski Anke , Barnow Sven , John Ulrich , Kessler Christof
Published: July 2005

Background and Purpose—

Epidemiologic studies have shown a J-shaped association between alcohol consumption and vascular diseases. However, only few studies have reported on the association between alcohol intake and subclinical atherosclerosis. The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between alcohol intake and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) in participants of the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania.

Methods—

In 1230 men and 1190 women, the mean IMT of the right and left common carotid arteries was measured by B-mode ultrasonography. Alcohol consumption was assessed with a computer-assisted face-to-face interview.

Results—

In men, carotid IMT as a function of alcohol intake was depicted as a J-shaped curve with a nadir for the alcohol intake category of 61 to 80g/d. Linear regression models controlled for age, diabetes, systolic blood pressure, leisure time physical activity, food frequency patterns, smoking status, and education revealed a significant inverse association between IMT and alcohol intake ≤80g/d in men (β=−0.009,
P
<0.02), which became insignificant after further controlling for HDL cholesterol and fibrinogen (β=−0.007,
P
=NS). In women, neither a J-shaped relation nor significant differences in IMT between the drinking and nondrinking groups were found.

Conclusions—

Alcohol consumption is inversely correlated with carotid IMT in men but not in women. However, the total daily level of alcohol intake that shows a maximum protective effect against atherosclerosis is above the threshold where severe alcohol related comorbidity and organ damage have been reported.
New Detected Aneurysms on Follow-Up Screening in Patients With Previously Clipped Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: van der Schaaf I.C. , Velthuis B.K. , Wermer M.J.H. , Majoie C. , Witkamp T. , de Kort G. , Freling N.J. , Rinkel G.J.E.
Published: July 2005

Background and Purpose—

Patients with a history of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage may have aneurysms on screening several years after the hemorrhage. For determining the benefits of follow-up screening, it is important to know whether these aneurysms have developed after the hemorrhage or are visible in retrospect, and if so, whether the size has increased.

Methods—

Aneurysms were categorized into de novo aneurysms and aneurysms visible in retrospect (already present) with increased or stable size. We studied aneurysm characteristics for these 3 categories: the relation between aneurysm development or enlargement and duration of follow up and the relation between enlargement and initial size of the aneurysm.

Results—

In 87 of 495 patients (17.6%), aneurysms were detected; for 51 of these patients with 62 aneurysms, the original catheter or computed tomographic angiogram was available for comparison. Of the 62 aneurysms, 19 were de novo and 43 were visible in retrospect, 10 with increased size and 33 with stable size. De novo aneurysms were mainly ≤5 mm (95%) and located at the middle cerebral artery (63%). For aneurysms visible in retrospect, the most frequent location was the posterior communicating artery (21%). There was no relation between the development of de novo aneurysms or enlargement and the duration of follow-up or between enlargement and the initial size of the aneurysm.

Conclusions—

Of aneurysms detected at screening, one third were de novo and two thirds were missed at the time of the initial hemorrhage. One quarter of initially small aneurysms had enlarged during follow-up.
Acute Hyperglycemia State Is Associated With Lower tPA-Induced Recanalization Rates in Stroke Patients
Authors: Ribo Marc , Molina Carlos , Montaner Joan , Rubiera Marta , Delgado-Mederos Raquel , Arenillas Juan F. , Quintana Manuel , Alvarez-Sabín José
Published: July 2005

Background and Purpose—

Hyperglycemia (HG) has a deleterious effect in stroke patients by accelerating ischemic brain damage; moreover, its antifibrinolytic effect may also influence reperfusion. We aimed to study the effect of acute/chronic HG on tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA)–induced recanalization.

Methods—

We studied 139 consecutive stroke patients with documented intracranial artery occlusion treated with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Admission glucose levels were recorded (in mg/dL). The existence of previous chronic HG was determined by plasma levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c, %) and fructosamine (in μmol/L). Transcranial Doppler monitoring assessed complete recanalization 2 hours after tPA bolus. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores were obtained at baseline and 48 hours.

Results—

On admission, the median NIHSS score was 18 and mean glucose value was140±63 mg/dL. At 2 hours, 32% of patients(n=44) achieved complete recanalization. Patients who recanalized showed lower admission glucose levels (127 vs 146 mg/dL;
P
=0.039) but no differences in HbA1c (6.3% vs 6.3%;
P
=0.896) or fructosamine (292 vs 293 μmol/L;
P
=0.957) were observed. Other variables associated with recanalization were initial distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (
P
=0.011) and platelet count (
P
=0.015). Patients with an admission glucose level >158 mg/dL had lower recanalization rates (16% vs 36.1%;
P
=0.035) and a higher NIHSS score at 48 hours (7 vs 14.5;
P
=0.04). After adjustment for stroke etiology, age, and risk factors, the only independent predictors on admission of no recanalization were glucose value >158 mg/dL (odds ratio [OR], 7.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 42.3;
P
=0.027), proximal middle cerebral artery occlusion (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 6.5;
P
=0.034), and platelet count <219 000/mL (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 6.1;
P
=0.029).

Conclusions—

In tPA-treated patients, the acute but not chronic HG state may hamper the fibrinolytic process, delaying reperfusion of the ischemic penumbra. Early measures to reduce HG may favor early recanalization.
Glucose-6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency Decreases the Vascular Response to Angiotensin II
Authors: Matsui Reiko , Xu Shanqin , Maitland Karlene A. , Hayes Antoinette , Leopold Jane A. , Handy Diane E. , Loscalzo Joseph , Cohen Richard A.
Published: July 2005

Background—

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) regulates production of the reduced form of NADPH through the pentose phosphate pathway. G6PD may therefore affect superoxide anion production via vascular NADPH oxidase, which is key in mediating the vascular response to angiotensin II (Ang II). We determined the hypertensive and vascular hypertrophic response to Ang II in G6PD-deficient mice.

Methods and Results—

Ang II (0.7 mg/kg per day) was infused via subcutaneous osmotic pumps for 6 days in male hemizygote G6PD mutant (G6PD
mut
) and wild-type (WT) C3H mice. (1) Compared with WT, G6PD
mut
mouse aorta had 10% to 20% of G6PD activity and 50% less NADPH. (2) Basal systolic blood pressure was not significantly different in G6PD
mut
mice (WT 88±4 mm Hg versus G6PD
mut
95±4 mm Hg), but Ang II increased blood pressure to a lower level in G6PD
mut
mice (WT 139±4 mm Hg versus G6PD
mut
123±5 mm Hg;
P
<0.05). (3) Ang II increased aortic medial thickness less in G6PD
mut
mice (WT 71±2 μm versus G6PD
mut
62±1 μm;
P
<0.01). (4) 3-
o
-Nitrotyrosine staining and dihydroethidium oxidation in the aorta was increased by Ang II less in G6PD
mut
mice. (5) Smooth muscle cells isolated from G6PD
mut
mice showed less Ang II–induced phosphorylation of Akt and p42/44 ERK.

Conclusions—

G6PD deficiency may reduce vascular superoxide anion production by limiting production of the substrate for NADPH oxidase, thereby inhibiting oxidant-mediated Ang II–induced signaling pathways that contribute to hypertension and smooth muscle hypertrophy.
Tree Traversal and Word Order
Authors: Kural Murat
Published: July 2005

This article looks at how the two-dimensional organization of a syntactic tree is translated into a one-dimensional string. It proposes a method of linearization that extracts the terminal string by visiting the nodes of a tree systematically in a predetermined order, either preorder, inorder, or postorder traversal. Crucially, it also argues that given a particular formulation of the extraction process, the traversal method chosen by individual languages produces the well-known crosslinguistic variations in word order typology (SVO, SOV, VSO, etc.) without having to resort to remnant movement.
Zur religiösen Codierung moderner Ernährung. Ayurvedische Koch- und Ernährungsbücher als Lebensratgeber
Authors: Koch Anne
Published: July 2005

The article surveys German-language ayurvedic cooking and nutrition books from 1990 until today. The semantic analysis reveals a market diversification that corresponds to the following categories: health, diet, spirituality, and individualism. These are main attractors of Ayurveda along with its promises of holistic balance and cosmological integration. Because this development can be interpreted as a reaction to the Western scientific formation of "Ayurveda" within popular life advice literature, this essay uses the concept of reflexive nutrition as derived from M. Stausberg's reflexive ritualization (ZRGG 1/2003). Furthermore, the success of these books indicates an absence of Christian dietetics in Germany's religion landscape.
Revision Surgery for Failed Thermal Capsulorrhaphy
Authors: Park Hyung Bin , Yokota Atsushi , Gill Harpreet S. , El Rassi George , McFarland Edward G.
Published: July 2005

Background

With the failure of thermal capsulorrhaphy for shoulder instability, there have been concerns with capsular thinning and capsular necrosis affecting revision surgery.

Purpose

To report the findings at revision surgery for failed thermal capsulorrhaphy and to evaluate the technical effects on subsequent revision capsular plication.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Fourteen patients underwent arthroscopic evaluation and open reconstruction for a failed thermal capsulorrhaphy. The cause of the failure, the quality of the capsule, and the ability to suture the capsule were recorded. The patients were evaluated at follow-up for failure, which was defined as recurrent subluxations or dislocations.

Results

The origin of the instability was traumatic (n = 6) or atraumatic (n = 8). At revision surgery in the traumatic group, 4 patients sustained failure of the Bankart repair with capsular laxity, and the others experienced capsular laxity alone. In the atraumatic group, all patients experienced capsular laxity as the cause of failure. Of the 14 patients, the capsule quality was judged to be thin in 5 patients and ablated in 1 patient. A glenoid-based capsular shift could be accomplished in all 14 patients. At follow-up (mean, 35.4 months; range, 22 to 48 months), 1 patient underwent revision surgery and 1 patient had a subluxation, resulting in a failure rate of 14%.

Conclusions

Recurrent capsular laxity after failed thermal capsular shrinkage is common and frequently associated with capsular thinning. In most instances, the capsule quality does not appear to technically affect the revision procedure.
Age and Gender Effects on Lower Extremity Kinematics of Youth Soccer Players in a Stop-Jump Task
Authors: Yu Bing , McClure Scott B. , Onate James A. , Guskiewicz Kevin M. , Kirkendall Donald T. , Garrett William E.
Published: July 2005

Background

Gender differences in lower extremity motion patterns were previously identified as a possible risk factor for non-contact anterior cruciate ligament injuries in sports.

Hypothesis

Gender differences in lower extremity kinematics in the stop-jump task are functions of age for youth soccer players between 11 and 16 years of age.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Three-dimensional videographic data were collected for 30 male and 30 female adolescent soccer players between 11 and 16 years of age performing a stop-jump task. The age effects on hip and knee joint angular motions were compared between genders using multiple regression analyses with dummy variables.

Results

Gender and age have significant interaction effects on standing height (P = .00), body mass (P = .00), knee flexion angle at initial foot contact with the ground (P = .00), maximum knee flexion angle (P = .00), knee valgus-varus angle (P = .00), knee valgus-varus motion (P = .00), and hip flexion angle at initial foot contact with the ground (P = .00).

Conclusion

Youth female recreational soccer players have decreased knee and hip flexion angles at initial ground contact and decreased knee and hip flexion motions during the landing of the stop-jump task compared to those of their male counterparts. These gender differences in knee and hip flexion motion patterns of youth recreational soccer players occur after 12 years of age and increase with age before 16 years.

Clinical Relevance

The results of this study provide significant information for research on the prevention of noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
The Resisted Supination External Rotation Test
Authors: Myers Thomas H. , Zemanovic Jason R. , Andrews James R.
Published: July 2005

Purpose

To evaluate a new clinical test, the resisted supination external rotation test, for the diagnosis of superior labral anterior posterior lesions of the shoulder.

Study Design

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Forty athletes (average age, 23.9 years) with activity-related shoulder pain were enrolled in the study. The patients underwent 3 different tests designed specifically to detect superior labral anterior posterior lesions (the resisted supination external rotation test, the crank test, and the active compression test); the tests were performed in a random order on the affected shoulder. The results of the tests were compared with arthroscopic findings.

Results

Out of 40 athletes, 29 (72.5%) had superior labral anterior posterior tears. The resisted supination external rotation test had the highest sensitivity (82.8%), specificity (81.8%), positive predictive value (92.3%), negative predictive value (64.3%), and diagnostic accuracy (82.5%) of all tests performed.

Conclusion

By re-creating the peel-back mechanism, the resisted supination external rotation test is more accurate than 2 other commonly used physical examination tests designed to diagnose superior labral anterior posterior tears in overhead-throwing athletes. By using this test in the context of a thorough clinical history and physical examination, lesions of the superior labrum can be more reliably diagnosed.
Comparison of Home versus Physical Therapy-Supervised Rehabilitation Programs after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Grant John A. , Mohtadi Nicholas G. H. , Maitland Murray E. , Zernicke Ronald F.
Published: July 2005

Background

Because of health care funding and policy changes, there is a need to examine the effects of an evolution toward patient-directed (ie, home-based) rehabilitation programs on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Hypothesis

There will be no difference in the effectiveness of a home-based rehabilitation program and a standard physical therapy-supervised rehabilitation program in patients 3 months after nonacute anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone grafts.

Study Design

Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

There were 145 patients (16-59 years) who attended a presurgery education class. Home-based patients attended 4 physical therapy sessions, and physical therapy-supervised patients attended 17 physical therapy sessions over the first 12 weeks after surgery. All patients followed the same standardized rehabilitation program. Study outcome measures included active-assisted knee flexion and passive knee extension range of motion, knee range of motion during walking, KT computerized arthrometer results, and isokinetic quadriceps and hamstrings strength. Patient outcomes were dichotomized as either clinically acceptable or unacceptable. Rehabilitation programs were compared by the proportion of acceptable patients in each group.

Results

The home-based group had a significantly higher percentage of patients with acceptable flexion and extension range of motion compared to the standard physical therapy group (flexion, 67% vs 47%; extension, 97% vs 83%). There were no significant differences between the groups in range of motion during walking, ligament laxity, and strength.

Conclusion

A structured, minimally supervised rehabilitation program was more effective in achieving acceptable knee range of motion in the first 3 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction than a standard physical therapy-based program.

Clinical Relevance

Recreational athletes undergoing nonacute anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction can successfully reach acceptable rehabilitation goals in the first 3 months after surgery with a limited number of purposeful physical therapy education sessions, allowing recreational athletes more flexibility when integrating the necessary postoperative rehabilitation into their daily activities.
Medial Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Using Autogenous Hamstring Tendons
Authors: Yoshiya Shinichi , Kuroda Ryosuke , Mizuno Kiyonori , Yamamoto Tetsuji , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: July 2005

Background

Although various surgical procedures that attempt to restore the function of the medial collateral ligament have been reported, none have achieved consistently satisfactory results.

Hypothesis

Our reconstructive procedure using autogenous semitendinosus and gracilis tendons yields improved results compared with conventional procedures.

Study Design

Case series. Level of evidence, 4.

Method

In our surgical procedure, autogenous semitendinosus and gracilis tendons were used to anatomically reconstruct the anterior longitudinal component of the superficial medial collateral ligament. From April 1995 through December 2000, 27 patients with symptomatic medial instability underwent this surgical procedure. The majority of the subjects were diagnosed with combined cruciate ligament injuries, necessitating concomitant cruciate ligament reconstructions. Of these 27 patients, 24 were evaluated after a minimum period of 2 years, with a mean follow-up period of 27 months (range, 24-48 months).

Results

At follow-up, medial stability, as well as postoperative range of motion in all patients, was graded as normal or nearly normal according to the International Knee Documentation Committee evaluation system. No significant postoperative complications were encountered.

Conclusion

Although this is a short-term follow-up study involving a small number of cases, we considered our procedure to be an effective method of surgically restoring the function of the medial collateral ligament.
Prevalence and Variance of Shoulder Injuries in Elite Collegiate Football Players
Authors: Kaplan Lee D. , Flanigan David C. , Norwig John , Jost Patrick , Bradley James
Published: July 2005

Background

Shoulder injuries are the fourth most common musculoskeletal injury encountered in American football players. There is little information in the literature on the role of playing position in the type of shoulder injuries seen.

Hypothesis

There is a high prevalence of shoulder injuries in elite collegiate American football players, with type of injury varying by playing position.

Study Design

Cohort study (prevalence); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

A total of 336 elite collegiate American football players were invited to the National Football League Combine for physical testing and medical evaluation. Current and historical data were evaluated for the purpose of this study, and all players underwent radiographic examinations, including plain radiographs and/or magnetic resonance imaging when necessary. All shoulder pathological conditions and shoulder surgical procedures were recorded. Players were categorized by position for the analysis of position-specific trends.

Results

Of the players, 50% had a history of shoulder injuries, with a total of 226 shoulder injuries (1.3 injuries per player injured); 56 players (34%) had a total of 73 surgeries. The most common injuries were acromioclavicular separation (41%), anterior instability (20%), rotator cuff injury (12%), clavicle fracture (4%), and posterior instability (4%). The most common surgeries performed were anterior instability reconstruction (48%), Mumford/Weaver-Dunn surgery (15%), posterior instability surgery (10%), and rotator cuff surgery (10%). Shoulder injuries were more common in quarterbacks and defensive backs. Surgery was more common in linebackers or linemen. A history of anterior instability was more common in defensive players, with surgery required 76% of the time. Linemen had more rotator cuff injuries and posterior instability than players in other positions.

Conclusion

Shoulder injuries are common injuries in elite collegiate football players, with one-third undergoing surgical procedures. There are definitive trends in the types of injuries per player position.
Functional Outcome and Health-Related Quality of Life after Surgical Repair of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear Using a Mini-Open Technique
Authors: Baysal Deniz , Balyk Robert , Otto David , Luciak-Corea Charlene , Beaupre Lauren
Published: July 2005

Background

Rotator cuff tear, a common shoulder injury, can lead to shoulder pain and functional loss.

Hypothesis

Surgical repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears using the mini-open surgical technique will improve shoulder function and health-related quality of life.

Study Design

Cohort study. Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Patients with a full-thickness rotator cuff tear who underwent a mini-open repair were evaluated for (1) active shoulder range of motion preoperatively, and 6 months and 12 months postoperatively and (2) health-related quality of life preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and annually up to 5 years postoperatively. Satisfaction with the repair and return to work status were ascertained 1 year postoperatively. A subgroup analysis of tear size and patient age was also undertaken.

Results

Of the subjects, 61 (73%) were men, and the average age was 53.2 (±9.9) years. According to repeated-measures analysis of variance, shoulder range of motion (flexion and external rotation) improved significantly from before surgery to 1 year after surgery (P < .001). The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores improved from 53.3 (±20.6) preoperatively to 90.6 (±11.7) 1 year postoperatively (P < .001). The mean Western Ontario Rotator Cuff scores also improved from 43.2 (±20.2) preoperatively to 87.2 (±14.3) 1 year postoperatively (P < .001). No differences were seen in either the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores or Western Ontario Rotator Cuff scores between the 1-year examination and the last follow-up assessment undertaken at a median of 5 years postoperatively (P > .05). Ninety-six percent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the results of their repair; 78% of patients who were working before surgery returned to work without modification by 1 year postoperatively. For the most part, patient age and size of tear did not influence postoperative range of motion or health-related quality of life.

Conclusion

Mini-open rotator cuff repair led to improved shoulder function and health-related quality of life up to 5 years postoperatively.
The kinetics of clonal dominance in myeloproliferative disorders
Authors: Catlin Sandra N. , Guttorp Peter , Abkowitz Janis L.
Published: July 2005

To study clonal evolution in myeloproliferative disorders, we used stochastic models of hematopoiesis for mouse and cat, species for which the in vivo kinetics of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) have been experimentally defined. We determined the consequence if 1 HSC became able to survive without the support of a microenvironmental niche while the rest of its behavior did not change. Neoplastic cells persisted and dominated hematopoiesis in 14% of mice and 17% of cats, requiring mean times of 2.5 ± 0.5 and 7.0 ± 1.2 years, respectively (n = 1000 simulations/species). In both species, when the number of neoplastic HSCs exceeded 0.5% of all HSCs, clonal dominance was inevitable. Our results can explain the absence of clonal myeloproliferative disorders in mice (lifetime, 2 years), are consistent with clinical observations in cats, and provide insight into the progression of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in humans. They also demonstrate that competition for microenvironmental support can lead to the suppression of normal hematopoiesis as neoplasia evolves. Toxic or immunologic suppression of normal HSCs is not required.
A specific role of integrin Mac-1 in accelerated macrophage efflux to the lymphatics
Authors: Cao Chunzhang , Lawrence Daniel A. , Strickland Dudley K. , Zhang Li
Published: July 2005

In response to injury, monocytes migrate to the site of inflammation, where they differentiate into macrophages and participate in various biologic processes. However, their fate during the resolution of acute inflammation is not fully understood. Here, we show that inflammatory macrophages do not die locally by apoptosis; rather, they migrate across the peritoneal mesothelium to the lymphatics, through which they further migrate to the lymph nodes and to the blood circulation. Macrophage efflux is enhanced considerably on cell activation, and such accelerated macrophage migration is dependent specifically on integrin Mac-1, and can be blocked by addition of its antagonist. Thus, genetic inactivation of Mac-1 in mice inhibits the accelerated macrophage efflux from the inflammatory site to the lymphatics, but it does not compromise the accumulation of blood monocytes into the inflammatory site. Together, our study demonstrates that Mac-1 is involved specifically in the efflux of activated macrophages to the lymphatics, suggesting that Mac-1 may play an important role in the removal of local inflammatory macrophages and in their subsequent migration to the lymph nodes, a process that is critical to the development of the adaptive immunity.
Sodium channel Nav1.8 immunoreactivity in painful human dental pulp
Authors: Renton T , Yiangou Y , Plumpton C , Tate S , Bountra C , Anand P
Published: July 2005

Background

The tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.8 (SNS1/PN3) is expressed by nociceptors and may play a role in pain states.

Methods

Using specific antibodies for immunohistochemistry, we studied Nav1.8 – immunoreactivity in human dental pulp in relation to the neuronal marker neurofilament. Human tooth pulp was extracted from teeth harvested from a total of twenty-two patients (fourteen without dental pain, eight patients with dental pain).

Results

Fibres immunoreactive for Nav1.8, were significantly increased on image analysis in the painful group: median (range) Nav1.8 to Neurofilament % area ratio, non-painful 0.059 (0.006–0.24), painful 0.265 (0.13–0.5), P = 0.0019.

Conclusion

Nav1.8 sodium channels may thus represent a therapeutic target in trigeminal nerve pain states.
Experiencing neutropenia: Quality of life interviews with adult cancer patients
Authors: Fortner Barry V , Tauer Kurt W , Okon Ted , Houts Arthur C , Schwartzberg Lee S
Published: July 2005

Background

Neutropenia is a common toxicity in chemotherapy but detailed information about how neutropenia is associated with changes in patients' quality of life is not readily available. This prospective study interviewed patients with grade 4 neutropenia to provide qualitative information on patients' experience of developing and coping with grade 4 neutropenia during a cycle of chemotherapy.

Methods

A sample of 34 patients who developed grade 4 neutropenia during the first cycle of chemotherapy completed a total of 100 structured clinical interviews. Interviews were transcribed, and 2 raters inductively developed 5 broad categories comprising 80 specific complaint domains nominated by patients. Thirty-five patient-nominated problems were mentioned in 5% or more of the interviews.

Results

Fatigue was the most common physical symptom. Interference in daily routine, negative self-evaluation, negative emotion, and social isolation were other common complaints associated with neutropenia.

Conclusion

Neutropenia is associated with a number of negative experiences among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and these negative experiences have an adverse effect on the patient's quality of life. Oncology nurses can play a key role in helping patients manage adverse effects to maintain their quality of life.