bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Sucrose on the Selection of Mutans Streptococci and Lactobacilli in Dental Biofilm Formedin situ
Authors: Tenuta L.M.A. , Ricomini Filho A.P. , Del Bel Cury A.A. , Cury J.A.
Published: October 2006

Microorganisms are selected in dental biofilm by the acidic environment created by sugar fermentation, but the effect of extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) on the counts of cariogenic bacteria is not clear. Dental biofilm was formed in situ for 13 days under exposure 8 times a day to distilled-deionized water, glucose + fructose or sucrose solutions. Mutans streptococci (MS) counts were not different among the groups, but lactobacilli (LB) were significantly higher in glucose + fructose and sucrose groups, without significant difference between them, irrespective of the higher insoluble EPS concentration in the sucrose biofilm matrix. The data suggest that exposure to sugar is more relevant for the predominance of LB in dental biofilm than for MS and that insoluble EPS does not change the counts of these microorganisms in the biofilm.
A Module Map Showing Interaction between Apolipoprotein E and Phospholipase A2 Polymorphism in Lipid Profiles
Authors: Lung For-Wey , Kao Wei-Tsung , Shu Bih-Ching , Yen Yung-Chieh , Tzeng Dong-Sheng
Published: October 2006

Objective: Establish a possible conceptual relationship among Apo E and PLA2 polymorphism and lipid profiles. Methods: Five hundred subjects aged 65 to 74 years were randomly selected from a community in southern Taiwan to assess the relationship between Apo E and PLA2 polymorphisms and lipid profiles. Two hundred fifty-six participants agreed to have venous blood drawn for DNA studies. Results: By multiple linear regression, the PLA2 A2 allele showed a statistically significant influence on LDL-C (p = 0.0097), and the ApoΕ2 allele showed a statistically significant influence on HDL-C (p = 0.0004), however, the interaction between the PLA2 A2 allele and the ApoΕ2 allele was found to be significant in the blood fraction of HDL-C (p = 0.0388) and LDL-C (p = 0.0002). Decreasing HDL-C and increasing LDL-C were found when the PLA2 A2 and ApoΕ2 allele co-existed. Conclusion: The presence of a physiologic balance contributes significantly to homeostatic and compensatory responses regulating blood HDL-C and LDL-C profiles. A module map of the generation-control cycle and conditional activity among Apo E, PLA2, and lipid levels is presented, and both behaviours and biological perspectives under the consilience model may suggest a new approach to many kinds of complex disorders.
Long-Term Survival of Patients with Apparent Early-Stage (FIGO I–II) Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Petignat Patrick , de Weck Daniel , Goffin Frederic , Vlastos Georges , Obrist Reto , Luthi Jean-Christophe
Published: October 2006

Background: Women with presumed early-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) who have not received comprehensive surgical staging are at risk for recurrence. The aim of our study was to analyze the overall long term survival of EOC patients with a presumed early stage EOC. Methods: A population-based cancer registry was used to identify patients with an early-stage EOC cancer diagnosed between 1989 and 1997. The area under study has no surgical gynecologic oncologist and no tertiary referral center. We categorized patients into two subgroups: low-risk (Ia-Ib well and moderately differentiated) and high-risk (Ia-Ib poorly differentiated or IC-II). Survival curves were calculated from the time of surgery using Kaplan-Meier methods and statistical comparisons were performed using the log-rank test and the Cox proportional hazards regression model. Results: Fifty patients having an apparent early-stage disease (FIGO I–II) were evaluated. Forty-one patients have been operated by obstetrician-gynecologists and 9 by general surgeons. Twenty-one (42%) have been categorized as low-risk and 29 (58%) as high-risk. An optimal, modified, minimal and inadequate surgical staging was performed in 6, 10, 26 and 58, respectively. The median follow-up time was 147 months (range: 2.5–165). The 5- and 10-year overall survival was 95 and 89% for low-risk and 72 and 33% for high-risk subgroups, respectively. Conclusions: The surgical staging is frequently incomplete when performed in small hospitals with few patients by nonspecialists. Women in the high-risk group and incompletely staged have a less favorable prognosis than those reported in the literature.
Mixed Clear Cell and Endometrioid Carcinoma Arising in Parietal Endometriosis
Authors: Razzouk Kais , Roman Horace , Chanavaz-Lacheray Isabella , Scotté Michel , Verspyck Eric , Marpeau Loïc
Published: October 2006

Aim: We report a case of a mixed clear cell and endometrioid carcinoma arising in parietal endometriosis. Methods: A 46-year-old woman presented a second recurrence of parietal endometriosis. An extensive surgical resection of the tumor was then carried out. Results: Histological analysis revealed heterogeneous tissues including clear cell and endometrioid carcinoma fields arising from a large benign endometriosis lesion. Despite chemotherapy, the patient died 6 months after the diagnosis. Conclusions: Clear cell carcinoma and endometrioid carcinoma have been rarely found in parietal endometriosis. Clinicians should learn to suspect a cancerous transformation of a parietal endometriosis, when rapid recurrence and extensive development are observed.
Vitamin C and E Suppress Mitogen-Stimulated Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in vitro
Authors: Winkler C. , Schroecksnadel K. , Schennach H. , Fuchs D.
Published: October 2006

Background/Aims: The antioxidant properties of vitamin C and E are considered to be important for their anti-inflammatory activity. Recently, antioxidant resveratrol was found to suppress neopterin production and tryptophan degradation in mitogen-treated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Methods: In this study, the effects of vitamin C and E were investigated in unstimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and in cells stimulated with the mitogens phytohaemagglutinin and concanavalin A in vitro. Results: The mitogens induced a significant production of neopterin and a degradation of tryptophan. Vitamin C (0.1–10 µM) and E (5–100 µM) suppressed these immunobiological pathways in a dose-dependent way (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Neopterin production and tryptophan degradation in monocyte-derived macrophages are both triggered by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon-γ. Thus, their concurrent suppression by vitamin C and E suggests an effect on the formation and release of this cytokine by stimulated T cells. These findings may be related to the general health benefits which are associated with the antioxidant nature of these vitamins.
Antigens Drive Memory IgE Responses in Human Allergy via the Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Niederberger Verena , Ring Johannes , Rakoski Jürgen , Jäger Siegfried , Spitzauer Susanne , Valent Peter , Horak Friedrich , Kundi Michael , Valenta Rudolf
Published: October 2006

Background: Natural allergen contact induces an increase of IgE levels and sensitivity but the mechanisms underlying the allergen-specific memory responses are poorly understood. Furthermore, it has not been studied whether allergen exposure affects the molecular reactivity profiles in patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of nasal allergen encounter on the molecular profile and magnitude of memory IgE responses and on systemic sensitivity. Methods: We investigated allergen-specific IgE, IgG subclass and IgM responses to defined allergen molecules (grass pollen: Phl p 1, Phl p 2 and Phl p 5; birch pollen: Bet v 1 and Bet v 2) in allergic patients in response to natural as well as to controlled nasal and dermal allergen exposure. Changes in systemic sensitivity were monitored by skin prick testing and by basophil histamine release experiments. Results: Respiratory antigen exposure boosted IgE levels to a pre-established profile of allergen molecules without inducing significant IgM responses or new IgE specificities in allergic individuals. The importance of the route of allergen contact is demonstrated by an increase of systemic IgE levels and sensitivity after nasal exposure. In vitro sensitisation of basophils with pre- and post-seasonal serum samples suggests an allergen-induced elevation of specific IgE as a cause for the increased allergen-specific sensitivity. Conclusion: The characteristics of the allergen-driven antibody responses indicate a direct activation of an established pool of IgE memory cells with defined specificities as an underlying mechanism. Our finding that nasal allergen contact is a major factor for the boosting of memory IgE and systemic sensitivity may open new therapeutic possibilities.
Health Capital, Life Course and Ageing
Authors: Guimarães Renato Maia
Published: October 2006

Background: The difference in individual ageing remains a not fully understood subject. Objective: To discuss the use of the health capital concept and its application to the life course approach as an alternative to understand factors involved on individual ageing and identify genetic, socioeconomic, psychological and biological influences. Results: The initial capital (genetics and development in uterus) and other lifelong assets like education, social status, locus of control, cognitive reserve, and humor are important modulators of ageing. The biological assets like basal metabolism, aerobic capacity, and insulin sensitivity also play a major role. Conclusions: Health stock at any time will derive from health capital, the depreciative effect of ageing, positive health inputs and negative inputs that increase depreciation. A high health stock increases the chance of successful ageing and a low health stock is compatible with disability and lack of independence.
Spontaneous Bilateral Internal Carotid Artery Dissection with Acute Stroke in Young Patients
Authors: Wu Hsiu-Chuan , Chen Yi-Chun , Chen Chi-Jen , Chen Sien-Tsong , Lee Tsong-Hai
Published: October 2006

We studied the clinical and neuroradiological features of 41 cases with spontaneous bilateral internal carotid artery dissection (ICAD), including 3 cases in our hospital and 38 retrieved from the English literature. Bilateral ICAD accounts for 15.8% of young stroke patients with ICAD in our hospital. The most common presentations are head and/or neck pain, cerebral ischemia, carotid bruit and Horner’s syndrome. The cerebral ischemic symptoms are extremely variable in bilateral ICAD, including unilateral hemisphere, bilateral hemisphere or brainstem-like symptoms. Although the underlying pathogenesis remains uncertain, good vascular and clinical outcomes are achieved for spontaneous bilateral ICAD.
Genetic Ablation of Angiotensinogen in the Subfornical Organ of the Brain Prevents the Central Angiotensinergic Pressor Response
Authors: Sinnayah Puspha , Lazartigues Eric , Sakai Koji , Sharma Ram V. , Sigmund Curt D. , Davisson Robin L.
Published: October 2006

The subfornical organ (SFO) of the brain has long been considered a critical integrating center for the cardiovascular actions of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Early reports of angiotensin II (Ang II) immunoreactivity in the SFO and its neural projections to downstream cardiovascular nuclei raised the possibility that Ang II is produced locally and functions as a putative neurotransmitter in these circuits. However, evidence of functionally significant de novo synthesis of Ang II in the SFO has been lacking. Here, implementing spatiotemporally restricted gene ablation by way of the Cre recombinase/loxP system, we provide the first direct evidence that the local RAS in the SFO has a critical role in blood pressure regulation. Using a transgenic mouse harboring an angiotensinogen (AGT) gene modified for Cre-mediated deletion (hAGT
flox
), in combination with gene transfer of an adenovirus encoding Cre targeted to the SFO, we show that deletion of the Ang II substrate in this brain region nearly abolishes the pressor and bradycardic effects of renin infused in the CNS. Immunohistochemical analyses verified intense and restricted expression of Cre in the SFO, which paralleled the decrease in AGT expression selectively in this site. Further physiological studies confirmed the integrity of central angiotensinergic and nonangiotensinergic cardiovascular response systems in the Cre-treated mice. In addition to establishing that AGT expression in the SFO and its local conversion to Ang II has a profound effect on blood pressure, this study provides proof-of-principle of the utility of this approach for dissecting the brain RAS and other complex systems in CNS cardiovascular circuits.
The Charter School Allure
Authors: May Judy Jackson
Published: October 2006

The school choice debate evokes compelling arguments by advocates and opponents alike. As the controversy continues, urban school districts are losing significant resources to charter schools. Districts seeking to compete in the race to reclaim dollars lost to the school choice battle should emulate the factors that have propelled parents to seek alternative schools for their children. This study queried 260 urban parents who have withdrawn their children from the public school to attend charter schools in the past 2 years. Results show that despite the lack of statistically significant evidence of academic gains, parents perceive an enhanced educational experience. The author surmises that the chasm between perceived charter school success and traditional school failure is a “perception gap” with definable constructs that can be addressed through all levels of the traditional school organization. Traditional schools can successfully compete with charter schools by aggressively emulating the variables that define that chasm.
Restaurant Eating in Nonpurge Binge-Eating Women
Authors: Timmerman Gayle M.
Published: October 2006

This study describes restaurant-eating behaviors for nonpurge binge-eating women in comparison to dieters. Restaurant-eating behaviors were determined from a content analysis of 14-day food diaries using a convenience sample of 71 women who reported binging without purging and 46 dieters without a recent binge history. Comparing bingers to dieters, there were no significant differences in frequency of eating out, dessert consumption at restaurants, or fast food eating. Bingers more often perceived restaurant eating to be uncontrolled and excessive. Both bingers and dieters consumed significantly more calories (226-253 kcal) and fat (10.4-16.0 gm) on restaurant days. Extra calories consumed on restaurant-eating days may contribute to weight gain over time, especially with frequent restaurant eating. Restaurants may present a high-risk food environment for bingers and dieters, contributing to loss of control and excess consumption.
The paralogous hematopoietic regulators Lyl1 and Scl are coregulated by Ets and GATA factors, but Lyl1 cannot rescue the early Scl–/– phenotype
Authors: Chan Wan Y. I. , Follows George A. , Lacaud Georges , Pimanda John E. , Landry Josette-Renee , Kinston Sarah , Knezevic Kathy , Piltz Sandie , Donaldson Ian J. , Gambardella Laure , Sablitzky Fred , Green Anthony R. , Kouskoff Valerie , Göttgens Berthold
Published: October 2006

Transcription factors are key regulators of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), yet the molecular mechanisms that control their expression are largely unknown. Previously, we demonstrated that expression of Scl/Tal1, a transcription factor required for the specification of HSCs, is controlled by Ets and GATA factors. Here we characterize the molecular mechanisms controlling expression of Lyl1, a paralog of Scl also required for HSC function. Two closely spaced promoters directed expression to hematopoietic progenitor, megakaryocytic, and endothelial cells in transgenic mice. Conserved binding sites required for promoter activity were bound in vivo by GATA-2 and the Ets factors Fli1, Elf1, Erg, and PU.1. However, despite coregulation of Scl and Lyl1 by the same Ets and GATA factors, Scl expression was initiated prior to Lyl1 in embryonic stem (ES) cell differentiation assays. Moreover, ectopic expression of Scl but not Lyl1 rescued hematopoietic differentiation in Scl−/− ES cells, thus providing a molecular explanation for the vastly different phenotypes of Scl−/− and Lyl1−/− mouse embryos. Furthermore, coregulation of Scl and Lyl1 later during development may explain the mild phenotype of Scl−/− adult HSCs.
Fluorescence in situhybridization (FISH) analysis of primary ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma
Authors: Tanimoto Kazuki , Sekiguchi Naohiro , Yokota Yukiko , Kaneko Akihiro , Watanabe Takashi , Maeshima Akiko Miyagi , Matsuno Yoshihiro , Harada Mine , Tobinai Kensei , Kobayashi Yukio
Published: October 2006

Background

It remains unknown whether primary ocular adnexal extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) is a homogeneous entity, as there are few reports of the results of cytogenetic or molecular analyses of these tumors.

Methods

We performed interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis to detect translocations and aneuploidy in 34 cases of primary ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma, and reviewed the histopathological findings. Correlations between the results of FISH analysis, the histopathological features and the clinical data were also analyzed.

Results

Among the 34 cases, FISH analysis revealed t(14;18)(q32;q21) in one case, trisomy 3 in 21 cases (62%), and trisomy 18 in 16 cases (47%). The cases with trisomy 18 had significantly more prominent lymphoepithelial lesions (LELs) and less nodularity in the tumors. In regard to the clinical correlations, tumors with trisomy 18 were observed predominantly in females and younger patients; also, in the majority of the cases, the tumor was of conjunctival origin. All the cases with recurrence showed trisomy 18 in the tumor.

Conclusion

Primary ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma is a significantly heterogeneous entity. Cases with trisomy 18 may have unique clinicopathological features.
Human immunodeficiency virus infection and macrophage cholesterol metabolism
Authors: Bukrinsky Michael , Sviridov Dmitri
Published: October 2006

Macrophages play a central role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and are also a host for a number of viruses, most importantly, HIV. Many viruses, including HIV, require cholesterol for their replication and as a structural element. Cholesterol also plays a pivotal role in innate antiviral immune responses. Although impairing innate immune response by increasing cell cholesterol content may be a deliberate strategy used by a pathogen to improve its infectivity, enhancing the risk of atherosclerosis is likely a byproduct. Consistent association between HIV infection and elevated risk of atherosclerosis suggested a connection between virus-induced changes in cholesterol metabolism and atherogenesis, but the mechanisms of such connection have not been identified. We describe in this review various mechanisms enabling viruses to exploit macrophage pathways of cholesterol metabolism, thus diverting cholesterol for a purpose of increasing viral replication and/or for altering innate immune responses. To alter the cellular cholesterol content, viruses “hijack” the pathways responsible for maintaining intracellular cholesterol metabolism. The damage to these pathways by viral infection may result in the inability of macrophages to control cholesterol accumulation and may lead to formation of foam cells, a characteristic feature of atherosclerosis. Further elucidation of the mechanisms connecting viral infection and macrophage cholesterol metabolism may be fruitful for developing approaches to treatment of atherosclerosis and viral diseases.
Thyroid Hormones Induce Sumoylation of the Cold Shock Domain-Containing Protein PIPPin in Developing Rat Brain and in Cultured Neurons
Authors: Bono Epifania , Compagno Vincenza , Proia Patrizia , Raimondi Lavinia , Schiera Gabriella , Favaloro Vincenzo , Campo Valerio , Donatelli Maria , Liegro Italia Di
Published: October 2006

We previously identified a cold shock domain (CSD)-containing protein (PIPPin), expressed at high level in brain cells. PIPPin has the potential to undergo different posttranslational modifications and might be a good candidate to regulate the synthesis of specific proteins in response to extracellular stimuli. Here we report the effects of T3 on PIPPin expression in developing rat brain. We found that a significant difference among euthyroid and hypothyroid newborn rats concerns sumoylation of nuclear PIPPin, which is abolished by hypothyroidism. Moreover, T3 dependence of PIPPin sumoylation has been confirmed in cortical neurons purified from brain cortices and cultured in a chemically defined medium (Maat medium), with or without T3. We also report that about one half of unmodified as well as all the sumoylated form of PIPPin could be extracted from nuclei with HCl, together with histones. Moreover, this HCl-soluble fraction remains in the nucleus even after treatment with 0.6 m KCl, thus suggesting strong interaction of PIPPin with nuclear structures and perhaps chromatin.
A Gray Zone Assigned to Inconclusive Results of Quantitative Diagnostic Tests: Application to the Use of Brain Natriuretic Peptide for Diagnosis of Heart Failure in Acute Dyspneic Patients
Authors: Coste Joël , Jourdain Patrick , Pouchot Jacques
Published: October 2006

Background: Most quantitative diagnostic tests do not perfectly differentiate between persons with and without a given disease. We present a simple method to construct a 3-zone partition for quantitative tests results, including positive and negative zones and a gray zone between, and we describe its use in the diagnosis of heart failure by brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) measurement in acute dyspneic patients.

Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of 699 consecutive patients with acute dyspnea who were treated at the emergency department of 3 participating hospitals. Heart failure (acute or decompensated) was assessed independently at discharge by cardiologists blind to the results of BNP measurements.

Results: The discriminatory performance of BNP was insufficient to provide a single cutoff value that could be used to correctly diagnose heart failure in clinical practice. Also, the discriminatory performance differed between patients with and without a history of chronic heart failure. The gray zone of inconclusive results was 167–472 ng/L for those without and 0–334 ng/L for those with such a history. Diagnosis of the current episode of heart failure by BNP results and history of heart failure was not enhanced by data from any other sources, including electrocardiography.

Conclusions: The gray zone approach applied to the diagnosis of heart failure by BNP might allow sensible cutoff values to be determined for clinical practice according to relevant subgroups of patients. The gray zone approach might be usefully applied to many other quantitative tests and clinical diagnostic or screening problems.
Investigation into the Effects of Materials and Mixing Procedures on Air Void Characteristics of Fresh Concrete Using Air Void Analyzer (AVA)
Authors: Zhang S , Wang K
Published: October 2006

The air void analyzer (AVA) was used to investigate the effects of concrete materials and mixing procedures on air void characteristics of fresh concrete. Twenty-seven batches of concrete were made with three mix proportions (with and without Class C fly ash or water reducer), and they were mixed with five mixing procedures (one-step mixing for 1, 2, or 4 min, two-step mixing for 4 min and ASTM C 192 lab mixing procedures) and two sizes of pan mixers (0.014 and 0.042 m3 or 0.5 and 1.5 ft3). The air content, size distribution, specific surface, and spacing factor of all the batch mixtures were examined. The results indicated that incorporating 15 % Class C fly ash replacement or recommended dosage of a lignin-based water reducer into concrete generally reduced the spacing factor of air voids. The two-step mixing method (mixing mortar for 2 min first, and then mixing the mortar with coarse aggregate for another 2 min) produced a lower air void spacing factor than the one-step, 4-min mixing method (mixing all concrete materials together at once). For concrete mixed with the one-step mixing method, the air void spacing factor reduced with mixing time. For a given concrete mixture and mixing procedure, use of different sizes of mixers provided the mixtures with different air content and different spacing factor. The air void characteristics of the corresponding fresh and hardened concrete were also examined using the Type B pressure meter and RapidAir test methods, respectively. The correlations between the results from AVA, Type B pressure meter, and RapidAir tests were studied.
Long‐Term Changes in the Perception of Job Characteristics: Results from the Belstress II—Study
Authors: Clays Els , De Bacquer Dirk , Leynen Francoise , Kornitzer Marcel , Kittel France , De Backer Guy
Published: October 2006

Long‐Term Changes in the Perception of Job Characteristics: Results from the Belstress II—Study: Els Clays, et al. Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Belgium—The aim was to explore long‐term changes in the perception of job characteristics—based on the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ)—in view of the changing labor market in Western societies. A total number of 2,821 workers from nine companies were involved in the longitudinal Belstress‐project. Data were gathered on two occasions with a mean time interval of 6.6 yr. At both times, participants completed the JCQ which measures the perception of job demands, job control and social support. In addition, the instrument contains questions regarding physical job demands, job insecurity and impact of world market competition (WMC). Changes over time in the perception of the different dimensions of the JCQ were evaluated within a sample of 2,490 respondents who remained in the same job. A statistically significant long‐term stability of all JCQ scales was found. As far as intra‐individual changes over time are concerned, the population showed a modest average increase in the perception of job demands, control and support of approximately 3%. Long‐term changes in the other scales were larger, with an average increase of 10.3% in job insecurity and 15.5% in impact of WMC. Substantial variation in these two scales was found at the level of the company and in some socio‐demographic factors. While perceived job characteristics remained relatively stable over an average period of 6.6 yr, a substantial increase was noted in job insecurity and the impact of WMC. These dimensions are becoming increasingly important within the context of economic globalization and labor market flexibility.
Cancer Incidence among Australian Nuclear Industry Workers
Authors: Habib Rima R. , Abdallah Samer M. , Law Matthew , Kaldor John
Published: October 2006

Cancer Incidence among Australian Nuclear Industry Workers: Rima R. Habib, et al. Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Lebanon—To assess whether workers at Lucas Heights Science and Technology Centre (LHSTC) had different levels of cancer incidence from the New South Wales (NSW) population in Australia. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken at LHSTC. Data on 7,076 workers employed between 1957–98 were abstracted from personnel, dosimetry, and medical files. An inception cohort was defined which included 4,523 workers in employment between 1972–96 to examine cancer incidence. Cancer registrations in the inception cohort were identified to 1996 through electronic linkage of records with the NSW and the Australian national registers of cancer incidence. Allcancer incidence in workers at LHSTC was 15% below the NSW rates [SIR=0.85; 95% CI=(0.75, 0.95)]. Of 37 specific cancers and groups of cancers examined, statistically significant excesses relative to NSW rates were observed only for pleural cancer incidence [SIR=17.71; 95%=(7.96, 39.43)], and for incidence of cancer of the small intestine [SIR=4.34; 95% CI=(1.40, 13.46)]. This study gives little evidence of an increased risk of cancers associated with radiation exposure in a cohort of nuclear workers in Australia. The observed increase in the risk of cancer of the pleura was probably due to unmeasured exposures, given the lack of an established association with radiation exposure, and the strong link to asbestos exposure. Findings for cancers of the small intestine were based on small numbers and were likely to be due to chance.
The Influence of Workplace Environment on Lung Function of Flour Mill Workers in Jalgaon Urban Center
Authors: Wagh Nilesh D. , Pachpande Bhushan G. , Patel Vijay S. , Attarde Sanjay B. , Ingle Sopan T.
Published: October 2006

The Influence of Workplace Environment on Lung Function of Flour Mill Workers in Jalgaon Urban Center: Nilesh D. Wagh, et al. School of Environmental Sciences, North Maharashtra University, India—The workplace environment affects the health of workers. Unhygienic conditions are observed in the workplace environment of flour mills as fine organic flour dust gets airborne in the indoor environment of the flour mills. The present work was undertaken to study the health problems related to the workplace environment of flour mill workers. The results show that flour mill workers are receiving a heavy dose (average exposure concentration, 624 µg/ m3) of flour dust. To determine the impact of flour dust on the lung function of the workers spirometric analysis was conducted. Significant declines in forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were observed in the flour mill workers as compared to expected values. This study reveals reduced lung efficiency of flour mill workers due to excessive exposure to fine organic dust prevalent in the workplace environment. The impairment in lung efficiency was increased with duration of exposure in the flour mill workers. The analysis of questionnaires used to generate information on self‐reported problems reveals that most of the workers were suffering from asthma and respiratory problems. Furthermore, the data shows that 42% of the flour mill workers were having shortness of breath problems, 34% of workers were having frequent coughing, and 19% workers were having respiratory tract irritation. We recommend the compulsory use of personal protective equipment (nose mask) by flour mill workers during working hours. This would help to protect the workers health from the flour dust prevalent in the workplace environment. A regular periodic examination is necessary to measure the impact of particulate matter on the health of the flour mill workers.
Especificidade de anti-soro policlonal à Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli
Authors: Carneiro Jr Josil B. , Silveira Silvaldo F. da , Souza Filho Gonçalo A. de , Olivares Fabio L. , Giglioti Éder A.
Published: October 2006

Detectar a presença da bactéria Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli em material de propagação da cana-de-açúcar (Saccharum sp.) é importante para direcionar o controle do raquitismo-da-soqueira. Neste trabalho, objetivou-se produzir anticorpo policlonal específico contra Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli (Lxx), visando utilizá-lo em método sorológico para detecção do patógeno. Para isso, o antígeno foi preparado a partir de células intactas, após lavagem por centrifugação de cultura-pura em tampão fosfato salino 0,01 M (PBS) e diálise em glutaraldeido 2% em PBS. O plano de imunização em coelho consistiu de duas injeções intramusculares da mistura 1:1 do antígeno com adjuvante Freund (completo e incompleto, a intervalos de 21 dias) e duas injeções subcutâneas do antígeno puro, a intervalos de dez dias. O anti-soro foi testado pelo método de Dot Blot com revelação por peroxidase para se determinar: (i) título do anticorpo e (ii) reação contra Lxx, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vesicatoria e bactérias endofíticas de cana-de-açúcar (Azospirillum brasilense, A. lipoferum, Herbaspirillum rubrisubalbicans, H. seropedicae e Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus). A maior diluição analisada do anti-soro 1:20.000 mostrou reação fortemente positiva e específica contra Lxx e ausência de reação contra as demais bactérias. A purificação da fração IgG (Imunoglobulina G) não resultou em melhoria na reatividade e especificidade do anti-soro. Estimou-se o nível de detecção do método a partir de suspensão bacteriana em 2x10(6) células/ml.
Análise da variabilidade genética de duas cultivares Raminad Str. 3 utilizadas como diferenciadoras de raças de Pyricularia grisea
Authors: Maciel João L. Nunes , Rodrigues Paula C. Silvério , Gomes Paulo A. , Moraes Marcelo Gravina
Published: October 2006

O conhecimento sobre a ocorrência e distribuição de raças do fungo Pyricularia grisea é um importante aspecto a ser considerado em programas de melhoramento genético de arroz (Oryza sativa). No entanto, para que a identificação das raças seja correta e passível de comparações com outros levantamentos é necessário que os genótipos utilizados apresentem as mesmas características genéticas. O presente trabalho foi realizado com os objetivos de comparar a variação genética entre dois genótipos identificados como pertencentes à cultivar Raminad Str. 3, que é uma das oito cultivares utilizadas como direnciadoras de raças de P. grisea, e examinar a composição de raças deste fungo no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Constatou-se a amplificação de fragmentos polimórficos em 20 dos 39 marcadores microssatélites utilizados para verificar a pureza genética de dois genótipos de arroz identificados como sendo a cultivar Raminad Str. 3. A identificação das raças baseou-se na reação das oito cultivares diferenciadoras de raças submetidas à inoculação com 85 isolados monospóricos de P. grisea, provenientes de 14 municípios produtores de arroz no Rio Grande do Sul. A avaliação do grau de infecção foi realizada de acordo com a escala preconizada pelo sistema internacional de avaliação de doenças do arroz, 14 dias após a inoculação.
Ocorrência de Bipolaris maydis causando mancha foliar em Paspalum atratum cv. Pojuca no Brasil
Authors: Anjos José R. N. , Charchar Maria J. A. , Teixeira Rogério N. , Anjos Sérgio S. N.
Published: October 2006

Bipolaris maydis was consistently isolated from infected Paspalum atratum cv. Pojuca plants showing leaf spot symptoms in the Cerrado of Brazil, in 2002. Pathogenicity tests under greenhouse conditions and subsequent reisolations of B. maydis from artificially inoculated Pojuca seedlings confirmed the hypothesis that this fungus was the causal agent of the disease. Symptoms of leaf spot appeared four days after inoculation in 100% of the inoculated Pojuca plants. All seven species of grasses evaluated were susceptible to B. maydis. The occurrence of leaf spot of Pojuca caused by B. maydis is reported for the first time in Brazil.
Minimum number of assessment times to compare chemical control treatments for papaya fruit anthracnose
Authors: Liberato José R. , Cruz Cosme D. , Tatagiba Joseli S. , Zambolim Laércio
Published: October 2006

The chemical treatment evaluation in the field to control post-harvest fruit anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) requires a suitable disease incidence assessment on harvested papaya (Carica papaya) fruits. The minimum number of papaya fruit harvests was determined for valid treatment comparison in field trials for anthracnose chemical control. Repeatability analysis was done using previously published data. The coefficient determination (R²) estimate range, using four methods, and based on means of 12 assessment times, was 92.58 < R² < 94.45%. The number of assessment times required for R²=90% varied from seven to nine. The R² values of 85.1 < R² < 91.3% estimated by ANOVA suggested that any seven successive assessment times were sufficient for treatment comparison.
Identificação sorológica de espécies de potyvirus em melancia, no estado de Roraima
Authors: Halfeld-Vieira Bernardo A. , Ramos Najara F. , Rabelo Filho Francisco A.C. , Gonçalves M. Fátima B. , Nechet Katia L. , Pereira Paulo R.V.S. , Lima J. Albersio A.
Published: October 2006

No período de maio de 2003 a março de 2004, foram coletadas amostras foliares de plantas de melancia (Citrullus lanatus) de 21 campos de cultivo de cucurbitáceas, no Estado de Roraima. As amostras exibiam diferentes sintomas de vírus e foram levadas para o Laboratório de Virologia Vegetal da Universidade Federal do Ceará para serem testadas por "enzyme linked immunosorbent assay" (Elisa)-indireto, contra anti-soros específicos para Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Papaya ringspot virus estirpe melancia (PRSV-W), Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) e Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). Nos testes de Elisa, utilizou-se o conjugado universal, anti-imunoglobulina (IgG) de coelho produzida em cabra conjugada à enzima fosfatase alcalina. Todas as amostras foram testadas, também, por dupla difusão contra o anti-soro para Squash mosaic virus (SqMV). Os resultados indicaram a presença do PRSV-W em 84,2% das amostras coletadas em maio de 2003, em 7,1% das amostras coletadas em dezembro de 2003 e em 55,6% das amostras coletadas em março de 2004. A presença do ZYMV foi observada em 10,5% das amostras coletadas em maio de 2003, 21,4% das amostras coletadas em dezembro de 2003 e em 25,9% das amostras de março de 2004. O WMV foi detectado somente em oito das amostras coletadas em março de 2004 (29,6%). Os resultados desta pesquisa confirmam a ampla dispersão do PRSV-W em cultivos de cucurbitáceas no território brasileiro e a preocupante expansão do ZYMV em razão dos elevados prejuízos que o mesmo tem causado em outras partes do mundo.
Efficient Induction of Oligodendrocytes from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Kang Sang-Moon , Cho Myung Soo , Seo Hyemyung , Yoon Chul Jong , Oh Sun Kyung , Choi Young Min , Kim Dong-Wook
Published: October 2006

Oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths around axons to support rapid nerve conduction in the central nervous system (CNS). Damage to myelin can cause severe CNS disorders. In this study, we attempted to devise a protocol for the induction of oligodendrocytes from human embryonic stem (ES) cells to treat demyelinated axons. Four days after embryoid body formation, human ES cells were differentiated into neural precursors through selection and expansion procedures. Neural precursors were then grown in the presence of epidermal growth factor and then platelet-derived growth factor to generate oligodendrocyte precursor cells. After withdrawal of the growth factors, the cells were treated with thyroid hormone to induce differentiation into oligodendrocytes. This method resulted in ∼81%–91% oligodendrocyte precursor cells and ∼81% oligodendrocytes among total cells. The ability of the oligodendrocyte precursors to myelinate axons has been verified by coculturing with rat hippocampal neurons, confirming their biological functionality.
Polymer‐Assisted Solution‐Phase Synthesis and Neurite‐Outgrowth‐Promoting Activity of 15‐Deoxy‐Δ12,14‐PGJ2 Derivatives
Authors: Tanaka Hiroshi , Hasegawa Tsuyoshi , Kita Narumi , Nakahara Hiroko , Shibata Takahiro , Oe Sho , Ojika Makoto , Uchida Koji , Takahashi Takashi
Published: October 2006

An efficient solution‐phase synthesis of rac‐15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐PGJ2 (15dPGJ2) derivatives that contain variable α and ω chains based on a polymer‐assisted strategy and their neurite‐outgrowth‐promoting activity are described. The strategy for the synthesis of PGJ2 derivatives involves the use of a vinyl iodide bearing cyclopentenone as a key intermediate, which undergoes Suzuki–Miyaura coupling and subsequent Lewis acid catalyzed aldol condensation for incorporation of the ω and α chains, respectively. For easy access to the PGJ2 derivatives, a polymer‐supported catalyst and scavengers were adapted for use in these four diverse steps, in which workup and purification can be performed by simple filtration of the solid‐supported reagents. By using this methodology, we succeeded in the synthesis of 16 PGJ2 derivatives with four alkyl boranes and four aldehydes. The neurite‐outgrowth‐promoting activity of the 16 synthetic compounds in PC12 cells revealed that the side‐chains play a major role in modulating their biological activity. The carboxylic acid on the α chain improved the biological activity, although it was not absolutely required. Furthermore, a PGJ2 derivative with a phenyl moiety on the ω chain was found to exhibit an activity comparable to that of natural 15dPGJ2.
Synthesis of Urea‐Tethered Disaccharides in Water
Authors: Ichikawa Yoshiyasu , Matsukawa Yohei , Tamura Mari , Ohara Fumiyo , Isobe Minoru , Kotsuki Hiyoshizo
Published: October 2006

A new method for the synthesis of urea‐linked disaccharides in aqueous media has been developed. The key feature of our approach is two strained Steyermark‐type gluco‐ and galactopyranosyl oxazolidinones. Each oxazolidinone is attached to a pyranose ring in a di‐equatorial trans‐annulation framework. Reaction of these oxazolidinones with 4‐aminohexopyranose in water proceeded smoothly to afford the urea‐tethered cellobiose and lactose analogues. The galactose‐type oxazolidinone proved to be more reactive than the glucose‐type, which is explained by the presence of an axial hydroxy group at C4 in the former.
High cell density fed batch and perfusion processes for stable non‐viral expression of secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) using insect cells: Comparison to a batch Sf‐9‐BEV system
Authors: Jardin Barbara Ann , Montes Johnny , Lanthier Stephane , Tran Rosa , Elias Cynthia
Published: October 2006

The development of insect cells expressing recombinant proteins in a stable continuous manner is an attractive alternative to the BEV system for recombinant protein production. High cell density fed batch and continuous perfusion processes can be designed to maximize the productivity of stably transformed cells. A cell line (Sf‐9SEAP) expressing high levels of the reporter protein SEAP stably was obtained by lipid‐mediated transfection of Sf‐9 insect cells and further selection and screening. The expression of the Sf‐9SEAP cells was compared with the BEVS system. It was observed that, the yield obtained in BEVS was similar to the batch Sf‐9SEAP at 8 and 7 IU/mL, respectively. The productivity of this foreign gene product with the stable cells was enhanced by bioprocess intensification employing the fed‐batch and perfusion modes of culture to increase the cell density in culture. The fed batch process yielded a maximum cell density of 28 × 106 cells/mL and 12 IU/mL of SEAP. Further improvements in the productivity could be made using the perfusion process, which demonstrated a stable production rate for extended periods of time. The process was maintained for 43 days, with a steady‐state cell density of 17–20 × 106 cells/mL and 7 IU/mL SEAP. The total yield obtained in the perfusion process (394 IU) was approximately 22 and 8 times higher than that obtained in a batch (17.6 IU) and fed batch (46.1 IU) process, respectively. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;97: 332–345. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oxygen uptake rates and liver‐specific functions of hepatocyte and 3T3 fibroblast co‐cultures
Authors: Cho Cheul H. , Park Jaesung , Nagrath Deepak , Tilles Arno W. , Berthiaume François , Toner Mehmet , Yarmush Martin L.
Published: October 2006

Bioartificial liver (BAL) devices have been developed to treat patients undergoing acute liver failure. One of the most important parameters to consider in designing these devices is the oxygen consumption rate of the seeded hepatocytes which are known to have oxygen consumption rates 10 times higher than most other cell types. Hepatocytes in various culture configurations have been tested in BAL devices including those formats that involve co‐culture of hepatocytes with other cell types. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, oxygen uptake rates (OUR)s of hepatocytes co‐cultured with 3T3‐J2 fibroblasts at various hepatocyte to fibroblast seeding ratios. OURs were determined by measuring the rate of oxygen disappearance using a ruthenium‐coated optical probe after closing and sealing the culture dish. Albumin and urea production rates were measured to assess hepatocyte function. Lower hepatocyte density co‐cultures demonstrated significantly higher OURs (2 to 3.5‐fold) and liver‐ specific functions (1.6‐fold for albumin and 4.5‐fold for urea production) on a per cell basis than those seeded at higher densities. Increases in OUR correlated well with increased liver‐specific functions. OURs (Vm) were modeled by fitting Michaelis–Menten kinetics and the model predictions closely correlated with the experimental data. This study provides useful information for predicting BAL design parameters that will avoid oxygen limitations, as well as maximize metabolic functions. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;97: 188–199. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Large scale dielectrophoretic construction of biofilms using textile technology
Authors: Abidin Zurina Z. , Downes Les , Markx Gerard H.
Published: October 2006

Arrays of microelectrodes for AC electrokinetic experiments were fabricated by weaving together stainless steel wires (weft) and flexible polyester yarn (warp) in a plain weave pattern. The cloth produced can be used to collect cells in low conductivity media by dielectrophoresis (DEP). The construction of model biofilms consisting of a yeast layer on top of a layer of M. luteus is demonstrated, using polyethylenimine (PEI) as the flocculating agent. This technique offers an alternative to the formation of biofilms at microelectrodes made by photolithography, and would allow the construction of biofilms with defined internal architectures by DEP at much larger scales than was possible previously. Futhermore, the flexibility of the cloth would also allow it to be distorted or folded into various shapes. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;96:1222–1225. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phase II study of daily oral perifosine in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Bailey Howard H. , Mahoney Michelle R. , Ettinger David S. , Maples William J. , Fracasso Paula M. , Traynor Anne M. , Erlichman Charles , Okuno Scott H.
Published: October 2006

BACKGROUND.

A multicenter Phase II study was performed to evaluate the clinical activity of an initial loading (150 mg every 6 hours × 4 doses) dose followed by continuous daily oral dosing (100 mg/day) of perifosine in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STSs).

METHODS.

Patients with measurable metastatic STS received perifosine as first‐, second‐, or third‐line treatment and underwent disease assessment every 8 weeks until disease progression, excessive toxicity, or patient refusal.

RESULTS.

Twenty‐three patients received 66 cycles (1 cycle = 4 weeks) of perifosine. One partial response of 9 months duration was observed. The overall 3 and 6 month progression‐free survival was 22% and 9%. NCI CTC (v2.0) Grade 1 to 2 gastrointestinal toxicity or fatigue were the most common (>50% of subjects) toxicities observed. The steady‐state plasma perifosine levels (Css) were similar to prior experience (mean 6 μg/mL). Patients with Css levels >6 μg/mL appeared more likely to remain on study past 2 months than those with levels <6 μg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS.

Despite not achieving the primary objective of ≥40% 6‐month progression‐free survival rate, optimism remains for this agent in STS patients. Prolonged responses in heavily pretreated STS patients continue to be observed with perifosine treatment. Continued assessment of perifosine in STS appears warranted, with special attention to specific histologies or tumor characteristics that might identify a more sensitive population and achieving perifosine Css levels >6 μg/mL. Cancer 2006 © 2006 American Cancer Society.