bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiogenic network formation in the developing vertebrate trunk
Authors: Isogai Sumio , Lawson Nathan D. , Torrealday Saioa , Horiguchi Masaharu , Weinstein Brant M.
Published: September 2003

We have used time-lapse multiphoton microscopy of living Tg(fli1:EGFP)y1 zebrafish embryos to examine how a patterned, functional network of angiogenic blood vessels is generated in the early vertebrate trunk. Angiogenic vascular sprouts emerge from the longitudinal trunk axial vessels (the dorsal aorta and posterior cardinal vein) in two spatially and temporally distinct steps. Dorsal aorta-derived sprouts form an initial primary network of vascular segments, followed by emergence of vein-derived secondary vascular sprouts that interact and interconnect dynamically with the primary network to initiate vascular flow. Using transgenic silent heart mutant embryos, we show that the gross anatomical patterning of this network of vessels does not require blood circulation. However, our results suggest that circulatory flow dynamics play an important role in helping to determine the pattern of interconnections between the primary network and secondary sprouts, and thus the final arterial or venous identity of the vessels in the functional network. We discuss a model to explain our results combining genetic programming of overall vascular architecture with hemodynamic determination of circulatory flow patterns.
Mutations in the motor domain modulate myosin activity and myofibril organization
Authors: Wang Qun , Moncman Carole L. , Winkelmann Donald A.
Published: September 2003

We have investigated the functional impact on cardiac myofibril organization and myosin motor activity of point mutations associated with familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathies (FHC). Embryonic chicken cardiomyocytes were transfected with vectors encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused to a striated muscle myosin heavy chain (GFP-myosin). Within 24 hours of transfection, the GFP-myosin is found co-assembled with the endogenous myosin in striated myofibrils. The wild-type GFP-myosin had no effect on the organization of the contractile cytoskeleton of the cardiomyocytes. However, expression of myosin with the R403Q FHC mutation resulted in a small but significant decrease in myofibril organization, and the R453C and G584R mutations caused a more dramatic increase in myofibril disarray. The embryonic cardiomyocytes beat spontaneously in culture and this was not affected by expression of the wild-type or mutant GFP-myosin. For the biochemical analysis of myosin motor activity, replication defective adenovirus was used to express the wild-type and mutant GFP-myosin in C2C12 myotubes. The R403Q mutation enhanced actin filament velocity but had no effect on the myosin duty ratio. The R453C and G584R mutations impaired actin filament movement and both increased the duty ratio. The effects of these mutations on myosin motor activity correlate with changes in myofibril organization of live cardiomyocytes. Thus, mutations associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathies that alter myosin motor activity can also impair myofibril organization.
Merotelic kinetochore orientation occurs frequently during early mitosis in mammalian tissue cells and error correction is achieved by two different mechanisms
Authors: Cimini Daniela , Moree Ben , Canman Julie C. , Salmon E. D.
Published: September 2003

Merotelic kinetochore orientation is an error that occurs when a single kinetochore becomes attached to microtubules from two spindle poles rather than just to one pole. We obtained the first evidence that merotelic kinetochore orientation occurs very frequently during early mitosis in mammalian tissue cells and that two different correction mechanisms are critical for accurate chromosome segregation in cells possessing bipolar spindles and unperturbed chromosomes. Our data show that about 30% of prometaphase PtK1 cells possess one or more merotelically oriented kinetochores. This frequency is increased to over 90% in cells recovering from a nocodazole-induced mitotic block. A delay in establishing spindle bipolarity is responsible for the high frequency of merotelic orientations seen in cells recovering from nocodazole, but not in untreated cells. The frequency of anaphase cells with merotelically oriented lagging chromosomes is 1% in untreated cells and 18% in cells recovering from nocodazole. Prolonging metaphase by 2 hours reduced the frequency of anaphase cells with lagging chromosomes both for untreated and for nocodazole-treated cells. Surprisingly, anaphase lagging chromosomes represented a very small fraction of merotelic kinetochore orientations present in late metaphase. Our data indicate that two correction mechanisms operate to prevent chromosome missegregation due to merotelic kinetochore orientation. The first, a pre-anaphase correction mechanism increases the ratio of kinetochore microtubules attached to the correct versus incorrect pole and might eventually result in kinetochore reorientation before anaphase onset. The increase in microtubule ratio to opposite poles is the groundwork for a second mechanism, active in anaphase, that promotes the segregation of merotelically oriented chromosomes to the correct pole.
Coordination of medial gastrocnemius and soleus forces during cat locomotion
Authors: Kaya Motoshi , Leonard Tim , Herzog Walter
Published: September 2003

We studied force-sharing behavior between the cat medial gastrocnemius (MG)and soleus (SOL) muscles by direct measurement of the muscle forces and electromyographic activities (EMGs), muscle lengths, speeds of contraction,joint kinematics and kinetics, for a variety of locomotor conditions. Previous studies suggested that the modulation of MG force and activation is associated with movement demands, while SOL force and activation remain nearly constant. However, no systematic, quantitative analysis has been done to evaluate the degree of (possible) modulation of SOL force and activation across a range of vastly different locomotor conditions. In the present study, we investigated the effects of speed and intensity of locomotion on the modulation of SOL force and EMG activity, based on quantitative, statistical analyses. We also investigated the hypothesis that MG forces are primarily associated with MG activation for changing movement demands, while SOL forces are primarily associated with the contractile conditions, rather than activation. Seven cats were trained to walk, trot and gallop at different speeds on a motor-driven treadmill, and to walk up and down different slopes on a walkway. Statistical analysis suggested that SOL activation (EMG activity) significantly increased with increasing speeds and intensities of locomotion, while SOL forces remained constant in these situations. MG forces and EMG activities, however,both increased with increasing speeds and intensities of locomotion. We conclude from these results that SOL is not maximally activated at slow walking, as suggested in the literature, and that its force remains nearly constant for a range of locomotor conditions despite changes in EMG activity. Therefore, SOL forces appear to be affected substantially by the changing contractile conditions associated with changing movement demands. In contrast,MG peak forces correlated well with EMG activities, suggesting that MG forces are primarily associated with activation while its contractile conditions play a minor role for the movement conditions tested here.
Hypoxia induces adaptive and reversible gross morphological changes in crucian carp gills
Authors: Sollid Jørund , De Angelis Paula , Gundersen Kristian , Nilsson Göran E.
Published: September 2003

We show that crucian carp (Carassius carassius) living in normoxic(aerated) water have gills that lack protruding lamellae, the primary site of O2 uptake in fish. Such an unusual trait leads to a very small respiratory surface area. Histological examination showed that the lamellae(secondary lamellae) of these fish were embedded in a cell mass (denoted embedded lamellae). When the fish were kept in hypoxic water, a large reduction in this cell mass occurred, making the lamellae protrude and increasing the respiratory surface area by ∼7.5-fold. This morphological change was found to be reversible and was caused by increased apoptosis combined with reduced cell proliferation. Carp with protruding lamellae had a higher capacity for oxygen uptake at low oxygen levels than fish with embedded lamellae, but water and ion fluxes appeared to be increased, which indicates increased osmoregulatory costs. This is, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of an adaptive and reversible gross morphological change in the respiratory organ of an adult vertebrate in response to changes in the availability of oxygen.
Phenotypic flexibility in cutaneous water loss and lipids of the stratum corneum
Authors: Haugen Michael J. , Tieleman B. Irene , Williams Joseph B.
Published: September 2003

When vertebrates invaded land during the Carboniferous period, they were exposed not only to new ecological opportunities but also to a desiccating environment. To maintain cellular water homeostasis, natural selection modified the integument of pioneering terrestrial animals, enabling them to reduce water loss through the skin. In desert environments, where ambient temperatures (Ta) can reach 50°C, relative humidities are low and drinking water is scarce, integumentary modifications that reduce cutaneous water loss (CWL) could be fundamental to survival. Previous research has shown that hoopoe larks (Alaemon alaudipes) from the Arabian desert reduced CWL when acclimated to 35°C compared with individuals at 15°C, but skylarks (Alauda arvensis) and woodlarks (Lullula arborea), from The Netherlands, and Dunn's larks (Eremalauda dunni), also from the Arabian desert, did not. Here, we test the idea that hoopoe larks acclimated to 35°C would alter the lipid composition of their stratum corneum (SC), resulting in a decrease in CWL, but that skylarks,woodlarks and Dunn's larks would not. Specifically, we hypothesized that hoopoe larks, acclimated to 35°C, would increase the proportions of polar ceramide content and decrease the proportions of free fatty acids in their SC compared with individuals acclimated to 15°C. Results showed that hoopoe larks at 35°C had lower CWL and higher proportions of total ceramides but lower proportions of free fatty acids and sterols in their SC. We demonstrate that adjustments in ratios of lipid classes in the SC are associated with changes in CWL in hoopoe larks.
Evidence for nest-odour recognition in two species of diving petrel
Authors: Bonadonna Francesco , Cunningham Gregory B. , Jouventin Pierre , Hesters Florence , Nevitt Gabrielle A.
Published: September 2003

In nearly every procellariiform species, the sense of smell appears to be highly adapted for foraging at sea, but the sense of smell among the diving petrels is enigmatic. These birds forage at considerable depth and are not attracted to odour cues at sea. However, several procellariiform species have recently been shown to relocate their nesting burrows by scent, suggesting that these birds use an olfactory signature to identify the home burrow. We wanted to know whether diving petrels use smell in this way. We tested the common diving petrel Pelecanoides urinatrix and the South-Georgian diving petrel Pelecanoides georgicus to determine whether diving petrels were able to recognise their burrow by scent alone. To verify the efficacy of the method, we also tested a bird that is known to use olfaction for foraging and nest recognition, the thin-billed prion Pachyptila belcheri. In two-choice T-maze trials, we found that, for all species,individuals significantly preferred the odour of their own nest material to that of a conspecific. Our findings strongly suggest that an individual-specific odour provides an olfactory signature that allows burrowing petrels to recognize their own burrow. Since this ability seems to be well developed in diving petrels, our data further implicate a novel adaptation for olfaction in these two species that have been presumed to lack a well-developed sense of smell.
Urea synthesis in the African lungfishProtopterus dolloi-hepatic carbamoyl phosphate synthetase III and glutamine synthetase are upregulated by 6 days of aerial exposure
Authors: Chew Shit F. , Ong Tan F. , Ho Lilian , Tam Wai L. , Loong Ai M. , Hiong Kum C. , Wong Wai P. , Ip Yuen K.
Published: September 2003

Like the marine ray Taeniura lymma, the African lungfish Protopterus dolloi possesses carbamoyl phosphate III (CPS III) in the liver and not carbamoyl phosphate I (CPS I), as in the mouse Mus musculus or as in other African lungfish reported elsewhere. However,similar to other African lungfish and tetrapods, hepatic arginase of P. dolloi is present mainly in the cytosol. Glutamine synthetase activity is present in both the mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions of the liver of P. dolloi. Therefore, we conclude that P. dolloi is a more primitive extant lungfish, which is intermediate between aquatic fish and terrestrial tetrapods, and represents a link in the fish-tetrapod continuum. During 6 days of aerial exposure, the ammonia excretion rate in P. dolloi decreased significantly to 8-16% of the submerged control. However, there were no significant increases in ammonia contents in the muscle, liver or plasma of specimens exposed to air for 6 days. These results suggest that (1) endogenous ammonia production was drastically reduced and (2)endogenous ammonia was detoxified effectively into urea. Indeed, there were significant decreases in glutamate, glutamine and lysine levels in the livers of fish exposed to air, which led to a decrease in the total free amino acid content. This indirectly confirms that the specimen had reduced its rates of proteolysis and/or amino acid catabolism to suppress endogenous ammonia production. Simultaneously, there were significant increases in urea levels in the muscle (8-fold), liver (10.5-fold) and plasma (12.6-fold) of specimens exposed to air for 6 days. Furthermore, there was an increase in the hepatic ornithine-urea cycle (OUC) capacity, with significant increases in the activities of CPS III (3.8-fold), argininosuccinate synthetase + lyase(1.8-fold) and, more importantly, glutamine synthetase (2.2-fold). This is the first report on the upregulation of OUC capacity and urea synthesis rate in an African lungfish exposed to air. Upon re-immersion, the urea excretion rate increased 22-fold compared with that of the control specimen, which is the greatest increase among fish during emersion-immersion transitions and suggests that P. dolloi possesses transporters that facilitate the excretion of urea in water.
Fatigue life prediction for a barrelled spline coupling under torque overload
Authors: Leen S B , McColl I R , Ratsimba C H H , Williams E J
Published: September 2003

Aeroengine spline couplings experience a wide range of loading conditions leading to contrasting service life limiting phenomena, including fatigue, fretting fatigue and fretting wear. Highly loaded couplings may employ incomplete contact axial profiles, while the contact geometry transverse to the spline axis is nominally complete with theoretical stress singularities at the contact edges. Life assessment of such components is consequently complex. The effect of torque overload conditions on the fatigue life of a barrelled, aeroengine type spline coupling is investigated experimentally. The experimental results are interpreted using three-dimensional finite element analyses, incorporating frictional contact and elastic-plastic material behaviour and the results of simple tension-tension fatigue tests. Torque-life and finite element predicted stress-life relationships are generated for spline life prediction purposes. Good correlation is obtained between the spline coupling and simple tension-tension fatigue test results, interpreted via the finite element predicted stress ranges.
A Strongly Antiferromagnetically Coupled Dinickel(II) Center Bridged by One Azido and One Alkoxo
Authors: Fujii Mie , Goto Shoko , Nakao Yasuo , Shiro Motoo , Sato Tomohiko , Mori Wasuke
Published: September 2003

The dinuclear nickel(II) complexes [Ni2(L-Et)(μ-1,3-N3)(N3)(H2O)]·[Ni2(L-Et)(μ-1,3-N3)(N3)(CH3OH)](NO3)2·H2O, (1) and [Ni2(L-Et)(μ-1,3-N3)(N3)(H2O)]NO3·H2O, (1′) (HL-Et = N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis[(1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolyl)methyl]-2-hydroxy-1,3-diaminopropane) bridged by one alkoxo of L-Et− and one azido were prepared and the crystal structure of 1 was determined by X-ray crystallography. Magnetic susceptibility measurements for 1′ from liquid helium temperature to room temperature showed an antiferromagnetically strong interaction (2J = −187 cm−1, H = −2JS1·S2).
Perspectives on HAART: switch maintenance therapy
Authors: Leen C L S
Published: September 2003

Switch studies have been carried out to explore changes in side effects in adherence. Discontinuing the protease inhibitor (PI) component of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen is often associated with improved adherence and improved quality of life. Following switching from a PI to a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor or abacavir, there is however a clear trend toward an improved metabolic profile particularly in insulin resistance and triglyceride levels when patients discontinue their PI. Peripheral wasting is likely to be associated with nucleoside analogues and for individuals with isolated fat accumulation, modification of HAART is not recommended.

Virological suppression can be maintained following switch if adequate suppression of the virus has been achieved for at least six months prior to switch and the patient has not been previously exposed to suboptimal HAART. Discontinuing the PI preserves this class of agents for future use. Switching however may be associated with other side effects; hypersensitivity, skin rashes, hepatic or neuropsychiatric events.
Predictors of consistent condom use: a hierarchical analysis of adults from Kenya, Tanzania and Trinidad
Authors: Norman L R
Published: September 2003

The two regions hardest hit by the HIV/AIDS epidemic are sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean. It is estimated that more than 28 million persons within these regions are currently living with HIV/AIDS. Therefore, it is imperative that more effective models of protective behaviour change be developed and implemented. Data from 4293 adults from Kenya, Tanzania and Trinidad who agreed to participate in the Voluntary Counseling and Testing Efficacy Study were examined employing hierarchical regression modelling. Only 19% reported consistent condom use with most recent sex partner. Factors associated with consistent condom use were relation to most recent sex partner, gender, study site, perceived difficulty in requesting condom use and actually making requests for condom use. Interventions that are grounded in theory and consider the relationship between the various independent variables along with the dependent variable may be more effective in promoting HIV protective behaviour change, such as consistent condom use, than current prevention efforts.
Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection in migrant female sex workers in Italy
Authors: Matteelli Alberto , Beltrame Anna , Carvalho Anna C C , Casalini Caterina , Forleo Maria Antonietta , Gulletta Maurizio , El-Hamad Issa , Pollara Caterina , Tedoldi Simona , Carasi Sergio , Carosi Giampiero
Published: September 2003

We have assessed prevalence, incidence, and factors associated with increased risk for Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection among female migrant sex workers in Italy. In a prospective, observational study, women were offered free screening for sexually transmitted diseases and C. trachomatis was tested by a commercial ligase chain reaction assay in endocervical specimens. Of the 101 women tested, 14 (14%) were positive. The odds ratio (OR) for C. trachomatis infection was significantly higher for females under 24 years (OR = 4.31), women from Eastern Europe (OR = 4.80), and migrants less than 12 months in Italy (OR = 4.41). In a multivariate logistic regression model, only origin from Eastern Europe remained independently associated to a higher risk for C. trachomatis infection (OR = 6.05). This study provides evidence for high prevalence and incidence of C. trachomatis genital infection in migrant sex workers. Women from Eastern Europe have a significantly higher risk. These data reinforce the need for targeted control interventions.
Correlates of knowledge of prevention of sexually transmitted diseases among primary school pupils in Tanzania
Authors: Mbago Maurice C Y , Sichona Francis J
Published: September 2003

In this paper we attempt to identify factors that determine knowledge on prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among primary school pupils in Tanzania using data extracted from the Family Life Education KAP Survey conducted in 1999. The data used consist of a sample of 18,564 pupils (about 50% males and 50% females) from all the 20 regions of Tanzania mainland. There were significant differences between boys and girls as regards knowledge of family life education in general. Boys tended to be more knowledgeable than girls about many aspects of family life education. The findings show that only 40.1% of the respondents were able to identify all the three STDs given in the questionnaire namely gonorrhoea, syphilis and AIDS. As regards modes of HIV transmission only 37.5% had full knowledge of these, while 48.8% knew condom use and abstinence as methods of STD prevention. The bivariate analysis showed significant relationships between knowledge of condom use and abstinence as methods of STD prevention with knowledge of STDs, HIV transmission, education level of the respondents, residence and parents' education for both boys and girls. However, knowledge of STDs, HIV transmission and residence came out clearly in the logistic regression as predictors of knowledge of condom use as a method of STD prevention for both sexes. For males, mother's education was also a significant predictor of knowledge of condom use as a method of STD prevention. Furthermore, a significant predictor of knowledge of condom use for female respondents was found to be the respondent's educational level. On the other hand, predictors of knowledge of abstinence as a method of STD prevention were knowledge of STDs and HIV transmission.
Symptomatic primary HIV infection or risk experiences? Circumstances surrounding HIV testing and diagnosis among recent seroconverters
Authors: Burchell Ann N , Calzavara Liviana , Ramuscak Nancy , Myers Ted , Major Carol , Rachlis Anita , Gough Kevin , Raboud Janet , Remis Robert S ,   The Polaris HIV Seroconversion Study Team
Published: September 2003

Our objective was to understand the circumstances surrounding HIV testing among recent HIV seroconverters ( n = 80) compared to HIV-negative controls ( n = 106) in Ontario, Canada using self-reported interview data. Diagnosis of symptomatic primary HIV infection (SPHI) was defined as diagnosis by the participant's physician. Testing in response to symptoms was reported by 42% of seroconverters vs 12% of controls. More controls than seroconverters tested in response to risk behaviour (70% vs 50%) or from a desire to know their status (34% vs 12%). Among seroconverters, 76% reported 'flu-like' illness during the time period of infection, 66% had symptoms consistent with SPHI, and 35% reported a physician's diagnosis of SPHI. Compared to seroconverters with undiagnosed SPHI, more of those diagnosed with SPHI had rash (odds ratio = 4.5). SPHI plays a significant role in HIV testing and subsequent early diagnosis in this population. More seroconversions could be diagnosed with better patient and physician awareness of its symptoms.
High rates of sexually transmitted diseases among male transvestites in Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Joesoef M R , Gultom M , Irana I D , Lewis J S , Moran J S , Muhaimin T , Ryan C A
Published: September 2003

Many male transvestites ( waria) in Jakarta, Indonesia engage in unprotected receptive anal and oral intercourse with homosexual and bisexual men for pay. Although this behaviour clearly puts them at risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV infection, little is known about the prevalence of STD among them. To learn the STD prevalence and its risk factors, we conducted an STD prevalence survey among waria in North Jakarta, Indonesia. From August to December 1999 we offered screening for rectal and pharyngeal infections with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng), Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) by DNA probe (GenProbe PACE 2) and for Treponema pallidum (Tp) by non-treponemal and treponemal serological tests. Of 296 participants (median age 28 years), 93% reported having been paid for sex. A total of 96% reported having had oral sex (median five times/week) and/or anal sex (median three times/week) in the last week. Ng was found in the rectum of 12.8% and the pharynx of 4.2%; Ct was found in 3.8% and 2.4%, respectively. A total of 43.6% had reactive non-treponemal and treponemal tests. Of the 129 with positive treponemal tests, 42.6% had non-treponemal test titres greater than 1:8. In the logistic regression model, waria who were younger (≥25 years old) had a significantly 3.5 times risk of Ng and/or Ct infections than older waria (>25 years old). Because only 12% of waria stated that they consistently used condoms during any sex act, it is important to warn them that STD/HIV transmission can occur with either anal or oral sex and that the risk of either anal or oral transmission can be reduced by condom use. In addition, high rates of asymptomatic syphilis and rectal gonorrhoea warrant a periodic screening and treatment for these infections in this population. Because waria have the highest rates of HIV and their clients consist of homosexual and bisexual men, successful prevention efforts in waria could help curb the spread of the epidemic.
Sexually transmitted infections prevalence rates in slum communities of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Sabin K M , Rahman M , Hawkes S , Ahsan K , Begum L , Black R E , Baqui A H
Published: September 2003

The study objective was to estimate the prevalence of selected sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and associated factors among Dhaka slum dwellers. Blood and urine specimens were collected from 1534 men and women. Participants in this cross-sectional study responded to a questionnaire, providing socioeconomic data, symptomatology and treatment-seeking behaviour. Specimens were tested for syphilis, hepatitis B (HBsAg), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and HIV. Serologic evidence of syphilis infection was found in 6.0% of respondents, HBsAg in 3.8%. Prevalence rates of gonorrhoea and chlamydia were 1.7% and <1%, respectively. No HIV infections were found. Men were more than twice as likely as women to be infected with syphilis or HBsAg carriers. Behaviours facilitating STI transmission were common among men. Syphilis infection is prevalent enough to warrant the initiation of screening programmes in this population. The prevalence rate of hepatitis B carriage suggests that this population would benefit from universal vaccination against hepatitis B.
Southwest Regional Genitourinary Physicians' Audit Group: setting regional benchmarks for patient satisfaction
Authors: Challenor Rachel
Published: September 2003

The Southwest Regional Genitourinary Physicians' Audit Group conducted a survey to determine regional benchmarks for patient satisfaction with quality of care received in genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics. Eight clinics participated, producing 1747 responses. Most patients were very satisfied with the standard of care in southwest GUM clinics resulting in high regional averages (74-90% very satisfied - score 5 on linear analogue scale 1-5). Revalidation/appraisal guidance suggests that physicians should actively participate in validated surveys relevant to their practice to provide evidence of relationships with patients. This questionnaire (with suggested improvements) may be used as part of that monitoring process.
Gonorrhoea in a south London genitourinary medicine department
Authors: Newell A , Herbert E , Vigus J , Grieg A , MRCOG M E Rodgers
Published: September 2003

The management and outcome of all cases of gonorrhoea which presented to a south London genitourinary medicine clinic during 1999 were assessed and compared with published national guidelines. The incidence of penicillin resistance was calculated, as was the rate of co-infection with chlamydia and trichomonas. Information regarding demographic data, microscopy, culture results, test of cure, antibiotic use, sensitivity and health adviser contact was examined.

A total of 257 cases of gonorrhoea were diagnosed in 238 patients. Heterosexual men constituted 52.9% of cases, 6.6% were in homosexual men and 40.5% in women. Direct microscopy was positive in 88.8% of men and in 40.5% of women. In women, the rate of gonorrhoea co-infection with chlamydia was 34.7% and with trichomonas was 11.5%. In men the rate of chlamydia co-infection was only 3.3%, however, we do not believe this to be an accurate figure as we are unable to routinely screen all men for chlamydia due to financial restrictions.

Amoxicillin with probenecid were the most commonly used antibiotics in line with local guidelines. Penicillin resistance was demonstrated in 4.6% of infected cases. Health advisers saw 73.2% of patients.
Audit of gonorrhoea test of cure at the genitourinary medicine department in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
Authors: Holland T M , Hussey J , Pattman R S , Sankar K N , Faldon C M
Published: September 2003

The aim of the audit was to assess the need for a microbiological test of cure for gonorrhoea when a sensitive antibiotic has been used. All cases of gonorrhoea attending our clinic in 2001 were reviewed. One hundred and seventy-three cases were diagnosed, 137 men and 36 women. Of the 126 cases where tests of cure were taken, none were positive from an infective site when a sensitive antibiotic was used. Cases of gonorrhoea from year 2000 were then analysed for test of cure. Of 125 tests of cure again none were positive. These results question the need for routine tests of cure which current national guidelines state are usually performed in UK practice. The implications of abandoning a test of cure visit are discussed.
Offering the vaccine and accepting it: an audit of hepatitis B vaccination in West Midlands region
Authors: Jaleel Henna , Allan P S , Huengsberg Mia , Natin D ,   On behalf of the West Midlands Regional Audit Committee
Published: September 2003

The practice of hepatitis B screening and vaccination in genitourinary medicine clinics in the West Midlands Region is audited against the standards set by 1999 Medical Society for the Study of Venereal Disease National Guidelines.
Psychiatric side effects of ofloxacin used in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease
Authors: Hall C E , Keegan H , Rogstad K E
Published: September 2003

The Clinical Effectiveness Group of the Medical Society for the Study of Venereal Diseases and the Association of Genitourinary Medicine published guidelines on the management of pelvic inflammatory disease in 1999. Subsequently, the use of ofloxacin has increased in our department. However, ofloxacin can cause serious psychiatric side effects, particularly in those with a past psychiatric history. This is of relevance to genitourinary medicine (GUM) physicians as there is a high prevalence of psychiatric illness amongst patients attending GUM clinics. We present two cases of ofloxacin causing severe psychiatric symptomatology, in one case causing an acute psychotic reaction. It is recommended a psychiatric history is taken prior to prescribing ofloxacin and that consideration is given to alternative therapy for those with previous psychiatric illness.
Multiple opportunistic AIDS-associated disorders strictly related to immunodeficiency levels, in a girl with congenital HIV infection
Authors: Manfredi Roberto , Calza Leonardo , Chiodo Francesco
Published: September 2003

A 16-year-old girl with vertical HIV disease treated since birth suffered from six different AIDS-defining disorders until now. Even during the highly active antiretroviral therapy, multiple AIDS-related opportunistic infections may complicate the course of long-term congenital HIV disease, showing a strict relationship with immunological deterioration, which occurs shortly after virologic failure, due to an extensive genotypic resistance to all available antiretroviral compounds.
Environmental adult education: Critique and creativity in a globalizing world
Authors: Clover Darlene E.
Published: September 2003

This chapter explores the links between war, social unrest, natural resources, and globalization and raises
contemporary issues of environmental racism and sexism. Environmental adult education provides a space to examine
the negative environmental impacts experienced by people worldwide and to refocus on democracy, accountability,
creativity, and action.
Environmental adult education and community sustainability
Authors: Sumner Jennifer
Published: September 2003

Local communities face many challenges in an increasingly globalized world. A new framework for sustainability
that includes environmental adult education can help them survive, and even thrive, in the age of
globalization.
Environmental adult education: Women living the tensions
Authors: Karlovic Lee , Patrick Kathryn
Published: September 2003

When women who share common concerns for the environment come together, powerful learning occurs through
critical reflection on tensions between daily‐life decisions and emotional connections to social and
ecological concerns.
Words for the world: Creating critical environmental literacy for adults
Authors: Clair Ralf St.
Published: September 2003

Strategies for developing critical and active environmental literacy in adults are discussed in the context
of developing and participating in the social practices likely to change the way our societies think about and
act on ecological issues.
Learning environments and environmental education
Authors: Bélanger Paul
Published: September 2003

This chapter explores the use of ecological language and proposes a framework for environmental lifelong
learning that fosters the empowerment of people and communities in relationship to a changing environment.
Learning patterns of landscape and life
Authors: Clover Darlene E. , Hill Lilian H.
Published: September 2003

This final chapter summarizes the important themes of environmental adult education as they are conceptualized
in this volume, and provides suggestions for further reading.
Organic Microcavity Photodiodes
Authors: Lupton J.M. , Koeppe R. , Müller J.G. , Feldmann J. , Scherf U. , Lemmer U.
Published: September 2003

The interaction of light and matter lies at the heart of the principle of optoelectronic devices. By tuning the strength of the electric field component of the light wave, one can gain control over this interaction. A simple way of achieving this is by employing microcavities, which are one‐dimensional photonic structures. These give rise to an effective quantization of the light field in one direction. The largest enhancements in the strength of light–matter coupling are achieved for cavities with dimensions on the order of the effective wavelength of light. As organic materials have the very large oscillator strengths required for light–matter coupling, as well as excellent thin film forming properties, they are ideal materials with which to exploit tunable electron–photon coupling. We demonstrate the influence of the optical field strength in organic microcavity photodiodes. Besides allowing tunability of the response spectrum by varying the effective resonator thickness, a large increase in the photocurrent sensitivity is observed below the absorption threshold of the optically active material. The microcavity induced field enhancement plays a particularly important role under two‐photon excitation. In this case we observe a 500‐fold increase in the photocurrent response with respect to a non‐cavity device. This opens up a range of applications for organic microcavity photodiodes as nonlinear detector elements.
Electron Holography of Organic and Biological Materials
Authors: Simon P. , Lichte H. , Drechsel J. , Formanek P. , Graff A. , Wahl R. , Mertig M. , Adhikari R. , Michler G.H.
Published: September 2003

Electron holography offers the advantage of high resolution imaging of electric and magnetic fields, which is rarely achieved by other microscopic techniques. The variety of scientific tasks investigated by electron holography extends from subatomic‐resolution imaging of inorganic crystal structures up to morphological studies of polymers or biological samples by making use of subtle differences in their chemical composition or density. In this paper, we discuss basic prospects and applications of holography in the field of organic semiconductor devices and biological samples, as well as in polymer science.
Lanthanum–Cerium Oxide as a Thermal Barrier‐Coating Material for High‐Temperature Applications
Authors: Cao X. , Vassen R. , Fischer W. , Tietz F. , Jungen W. , Stöver D.
Published: September 2003

La2Ce2O7is proposed as a new material for thermal barrier coatingthat has a higher thermal expansion coefficient and a lower thermal conductivity than traditional coating materials. After long‐term annealing at 1400 °C, the crystal structure of La2Ce2O7was maintained (see Figure). Below 300 °C, thermal contraction occurs, and the material has a comparable thermal cycling life to yttria‐stabilized zirconia coatings.
Submicrometer Functionalization of Porous Silicon by Electron Beam Lithography
Authors: Rocchia M. , Borini S. , Rossi A.M. , Boarino L. , Amato G.
Published: September 2003

Functionalization of porous silicon (PS) by an innovative method based on electron beam (EB) irradiation is reported. It is shown that EB irradiation induces hydrogen desorption from PS, leaving a very reactive surface, and that this PS surface undergoes local modification when treated with unsaturated hydrocarbons immediately after EB exposure. Finally, the authors demonstrate that different molecules can be attached to the same chip in different regions with the resolution typical of EB lithography, i.e., submicrometer patterning is possible.
A p‐Type Amorphous Oxide Semiconductor and Room Temperature Fabrication of Amorphous Oxide p–n Heterojunction Diodes
Authors: Narushima S. , Mizoguchi H. , Shimizu K. , Ueda K. , Ohta H. , Hirano M. , Kamiya T. , Hosono H.
Published: September 2003

Oxide electronics, which together with amorphous semiconductors could become a rapid‐growth field, have come a step closer with the first report of a p‐type amorphous oxide semiconductor, ZnO·Rh2O3. The thin‐film deposition of this material at room temperature and the fabrication of p–n heterojunction diodes on flexible plastic sheets (see Figure) are demonstrated.
KSb5S8: A Wide Bandgap Phase‐Change Material for Ultra High Density Rewritable Information Storage
Authors: Kyratsi T. , Chrissafis K. , Wachter J. , Paraskevopoulos K.M. , Kanatzidis M.G.
Published: September 2003

A well defined, congruently melting stoichiometric system, KSb5S8 (see Figure), with a wide optical energy gap that undergoes rapid reversible crystal–glass transformation is described. The activation energy of crystallization Ec was calculated to be ∼ 167 kJ mol–1. The kinetic parameters and energy bandgaps of KSb5S8 suggest a new inexpensive phase‐change material for possible ultra high density data storage applications.
Color Tunable Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Pentafluorophenyl‐Substituted Iridium Complexes
Authors: Tsuzuki T. , Shirasawa N. , Suzuki T. , Tokito S.
Published: September 2003

Novel iridium complexes with perfluorophenyl‐substituted phenylpyridine ligands have been developed. The Figure shows the photoluminescence (PL) spectra of four complexes in the doped films. By changing the position of substitution, the peaks in the PL spectra are tuned in the wavelength region 513–578 nm. Light‐emitting diodes using these complexes as the emitting material show an external quantum efficiency of 10–17 %.
Hierarchically Mesostructured Titania Materials with an Unusual Interior Macroporous Structure
Authors: Yuan Z.‐Y. , Ren T.‐Z. , Su B.‐L.
Published: September 2003

Outside mesoporous, inside macroporous. Mesoporous titania samples with an internal macroporous structure (see Figure) are reported to have been synthesized by a one‐step templating process. The materials have a thick shell and a sponge‐like macrostructured core with a uniform pore gradient. The synthesis conditions, particularly water content, are demonstrated to affect the pore structure crucially.
Optically Amplified RNA–Protein Detection Methods Using Light‐Harvesting Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Wang S. , Bazan G.C.
Published: September 2003

A sensor is described that takes advantage of highly specific RNA–protein interactions and the light‐harvesting properties of conjugated polymers. Coordination between a cationic conjugated polymer (CP+) and a negatively charged protein–RNA complex results in efficient Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from CP+ to a protein‐bound chromophore (see Figure and inside cover). This sensor was used to detect the transactivation responsive RNA sequence of HIV‐1.
Light‐Induced Reorganization in Self‐Assembled Liquid Crystal Gels: Electrically Switchable Diffraction Gratings
Authors: Zhao Y. , Tong X.
Published: September 2003

Electrically switchable diffraction gratings can be formed in the self‐assembled cholesteric liquid crystal gels prepared using an azobenzene‐containing gelator. The grating formation (see Figure) results from a light‐induced reorganization process in these materials, which leads to the removal of the nanometer‐sized fibrous aggregates of the gelator from the irradiated area to the non‐irradiated area.
Stable Photopatterned Cholesteric Layers Made by Photoisomerization and Subsequent Photopolymerization for Use as Color Filters in Liquid‐Crystal Displays
Authors: Lub J. , van de Witte P. , Doornkamp C. , Vogels J.P.A. , Wegh R.T.
Published: September 2003

Very stable cholesteric layers with patterned reflection colors are made by coating a monomeric cholesteric mixture on a substrate followed by photoisomerization in air to tune the reflection color and photopolymerization to stabilize the layer. The layers can be used as color filters in liquid‐crystal displays (see Figure). The photopolymerization is performed in N2, resulting in rapid crosslinking, preventing unwanted additional color changes.
Rare Earth Compound Nanotubes
Authors: Wang X. , Sun X.‐M. , Yu D. , Zou B.‐S. , Li Y.
Published: September 2003

A series of rare earth compound nanotubes, including hydroxides, oxides, oxysulfides, and hydroxyfluorides, have been synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method. Owing to their excellent hydrophilicity, the nanotubes can be easily functionalized, and should offer new opportunities in areas such as optoelectronic and nanoscale devices, low dimensional physics and material science, molecular catalysts, and biological technology.
A Novel Macromolecular Complex: Fabrication of Monodisperse Colloidal Microspheres by Precipitation Polymerization of Imine Chains and Concomitant Transition Metal Binding
Authors: Houjou H. , Shimizu Y. , Koshizaki N. , Kanesato M.
Published: September 2003

A series of monodisperse colloidal microspheres has been fabricated by precipitation polymerization of imine chains and concomitant transition metal binding. The resulting metal‐bound polyimine microspheres (M‐PIMSs, M = Co, Ni, Cu, or Zn, see Figure, which shows Zn‐PIMSs) have characteristic diameters in the range from 0.5 to 1.4 μm, depending on the metal used, and are of interest for applications in photonic devices.
The Chiroptical Properties of a Thermally Annealed Film of Chiral Substituted Polyfluorene Depend on Film Thickness
Authors: Craig M.R. , Jonkheijm P. , Meskers S.C.J. , Schenning A.P.H.J. , Meijer E.W.
Published: September 2003

The degree of circular polarization in the absorption of light by a thermally annealed film of chirally substituted polyfluorene depends strongly on the film thickness. This indicates that the exceptionally high dissymmetry ratios observed for these films originate on a nanoscopic level and are related to the long‐range correlation in the polymer chain orientation. Circular polarizations (see Figure) of up to 50 % can be reached.
Preparation of Highly Ordered Monolithic Super‐Microporous Lamellar Silica with a Room‐Temperature Ionic Liquid as Template via the Nanocasting Technique
Authors: Zhou Y. , Antonietti M.
Published: September 2003

A special room‐temperature ionic liquid, 1‐hexadecyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium chloride, is used as a template to prepare monolithic super‐microporous silica with lamellar order (monolith in Figure) via a nanocasting technique. The silica walls of the synthesized product are arranged parallel to each other, displaying a regular structure with an interlayer distance, pore diameter, and wall system thickness of about 2.7 nm, 1.3 nm, and 1.4 nm, respectively.
Micropatterning of Metal Nanoparticles via UV Photolithography
Authors: Horiuchi S. , Fujita T. , Hayakawa T. , Nakao Y.
Published: September 2003

The patterning metal nanoparticles by a combination of conventional UV irradiation on PMMA and the reduction of PdII bis(acetylacetonato) is reported. PMMA does not reduce the metal complex as much as other polymers do, but exposure to UV enhances the reducing power against the metal complex and enables Pd particles to be patterned on PMMA films when irradiated through a photomask (see Figure).
Hydrophilic Interface‐Directed Self‐Assembly of Bola‐Form Amide into Hollow Spheres
Authors: Matsuzawa Y. , Kogiso M. , Matsumoto M. , Shimizu T. , Shimada K. , Itakura M. , Kinugasa S.
Published: September 2003

Stable submicrometer‐sized hollow spheres of bola‐form amide (see Figure) are formed in aqueous solution via non‐covalent interactions induced by the presence of a hydrophilic substrate. Rod‐like micelles self‐assemble to form spherical vesicles, which, in the presence of the substrate, gather to form spherical hollow particles. In contrast, when no substrate is present, the spherical vesicles to self‐assemble into fibers.
Versatile Nanopatterned Surfaces Generated via Three‐Dimensional Colloidal Crystals
Authors: Chen X. , Chen Z. , Fu N. , Lu G. , Yang B.
Published: September 2003

Surfaces with two‐dimensional nanoring or nanoporous arrays and nanopatterned SAMs have been fabricated via the “colloidal crystal‐assisted capillary nanofabrication” (CCACN) method. The Figure shows the two‐dimensional poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanoring arrays generated using a delicate template and the controllable capillary and dewetting actions in the CCACN process.
Rectangular Single‐Crystal Mullite Microtubes
Authors: Kong X.Y. , Wang Z.L. , Wu J.
Published: September 2003

A novel single‐crystalline microtubular structure of Al‐rich mullite has been synthesized via a simple solid–vapor process. The microtubes have perfect rectangularly framed cross‐sections (see Figure and cover) as defined by the ± (110) and ± (1$\bar 1$0) facets. The microtubes have a [001] growth axis, a dislocation‐free volume, a large, completely hollow interior channel 0.5–3 μm in width, and thin walls of 50–100 nm.