bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Clean Water Act Section 316(b) Policy Options
Authors: Kadvany John
Published: March 2005

This paper develops a comparative framework for policy proposals involving fish protection and Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act (CWA). Section 316(b) addresses the impingement and entrainment of fish by cooling-water intake structures used principally by steam electric power plants. The framework is motivated by examining the role of adverse environmental impacts (AEIs) in the context of Section 316(b) decision making. AEI is mentioned in Section 316(b), but not defined. While various AEI options have been proposed over the years, none has been formalized through environmental regulations nor universally accepted. Using a multiple values approach from decision analysis, AEIs are characterized as measurement criteria for ecological impacts. Criteria for evaluating AEI options are identified, including modeling and assessment issues, the characterization of ecological value, regulatory implementation, and the treatment of uncertainty. Motivated by the difficulties in defining AEI once and for all, a framework is introduced to compare options for 316(b) decision making. Three simplified policy options are considered, each with a different implicit or explicit AEI approach: (1) a technology-driven rule based on a strict reading of the 316(b) regulatory text, and for which any impingement and entrainment count as AEI, (2) a complementary, open-ended risk-assessment process for estimating population effects with AEI characterized on a site-specific basis, and (3) an intermediate position based on proxy measures such as specially constructed definitions of littoral zone, sensitive habitat, or water body type. The first two proposals correspond roughly to responses provided, respectively, by the Riverkeeper environmental organization and the Utility Water Act Group to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s proposed 316(b) new facilities rule of August 2000; the third example is a simplified form of the EPA’s proposed August 2000 new facilities rule itself. The simplified policy positions are compared using the three dimensions of the comparative policy framework: (1) the role of CWA philosophy or vision, such as the use of technology-forcing rules, (2) regulatory policy implementation, and (3) the role for scientific information and the knowledge base. Strengths and weaknesses of all three 316(b) policy approaches are identified. The U.S. EPA’s final new facilities rule of November 2001 is briefly characterized using the comparative policy framework and used to further illustrate the approach.
Uncertainty and Conservatism in Assessing Environmental Impact under §316(b): Lessons from the Hudson River Case
Authors: Young John R. , Dey William P.
Published: March 2005

Initially, regulation of cooling water intakes under §316(b) was extremely conservative due to the rapid increase predicted for generating capacity, and to the uncertainty associated with our knowledge of the effects of entrainment and impingement. The uncertainty arose from four main sources: estimation of direct plant effects; understanding of population regulatory processes; measurement of population parameters; and predictability of future conditions. Over the last quarter-century, the uncertainty from the first three sources has been substan-tially reduced, and analytical techniques exist to deal with the fourth. In addition, the dire predictions initially made for some water bodies have not been realized, demonstrating that populations can successfully withstand power plant impacts. This reduced uncertainty has resulted in less conservative regulation in some, but not all venues. New York appears to be taking a more conservative approach to cooling water intakes. The conservative approach is not based on regulations, but in a philosophy that power plant mortality is an illegitimate use of the aquatic resources. This philosophy may simplify permitting decisions, but it does not further the development of a science-based definition of adverse environmental impact.
Polar Organic Pollutants in Groundwater: Experimental Approaches to Biodegradation During Subsoil Passage
Authors: Knepper T.P.
Published: March 2005

A selection of polar organic compounds was investigated for their biodegradation on a laboratory scale fixed-bed bioreactor and the decline of the parent compounds besides the formation of metabolites was monitored. Of particular interest was the investigation into the degradation of pesticides, especially isoproturon (IPU), surfactants and industrial by-products of chemical synthesis. The results from the laboratory degradation experiments are compared to findings in groundwater.
Isotope Fractionation of Toluene: A Perspective to Characterise MicrobialIn SituDegradation
Authors: Richnow H.H. , Vieth A. , Kastner M. , Gehre M. , Meckenstock R.U.
Published: March 2005

A concept to assessin situbiodegradation of organic contaminants in aquifers is presented. The alteration of the carbon isotope composition of contaminants along the groundwater flow path indicates microbial degradation processes and can be used as an indicator forin situbiodegradation. The Rayleigh equation was applied to calculate the percentage of thein situbiodegradation (B[%]) using the change in the isotopic composition of contaminants (Rt/R0) along the ground water flow path and a kinetic carbon isotope fractionation factor (αC) derived from defined biodegradation experiments in the laboratory. When the groundwater hydrology is known and a representative source concentration (C0) for a groundwater flow path can be determined, the extent ofin situbiodegradation can be quantified.
Immobilized Native Bacteria as a Tool for Bioremediation of Soils and Waters: Implementation and Modeling
Authors: Lobo C. , Sanchez M. , Garbi C. , Ferrer E. , Martinez-Iñigo M.J. , Allende J.L. , Martinez C. , Casasas L. , Alonso R. , Gibello A. , Martin M.
Published: March 2005

Based on 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate (3,4-DHPA) dioxygenase amino acid sequence and DNA sequence data for homologous genes, two different oligonucleotides were designed. These were assayed to detect 3,4-DHPA related aromatic compound—degrading bacteria in soil samples by using the FISH method. Also, amplification by PCR using a set of ERIC primers was assayed for the detection ofPseudomonasGCH1 strain, which used in the soil bioremediation process. A model was developed to understand and predict the behavior of bacteria and pollutants in a bioremediation system, taking into account fluid dynamics, molecular/cellular scale processes, and biofilm formation.
Fate of MTBE and DCPD Compounds Relative to BTEX in Gasoline-Contaminated Aquifers
Authors: Olivella L. , Figueras M. , Fraile J. , Vilanova M. , Ginebreda A. , Barceló D.
Published: March 2005

The aim of this communication is to provide preliminary results on MTBE monitoring, and at the same time to propose some new tracers of gasoline pollution in groundwater. An overview is presented on benzene-toluene-ethylbenzene-xylene (BTEX), methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), and dicyclopentadienes (DCPD) contents in gasoline formulations. Their specific fate in gasoline-contaminated aquifers are consistent with their physical-chemical properties.
Nonylphenol, Octyphenol, and Bisphenol A in Groundwaters as a Result of Agronomic Practices
Authors: Lacorte Sílvia , Latorre Anna , Guillamon Míriam , Barceló Damià
Published: March 2005

Due to increasing concern about the assessment and protection of the quality of groundwater as a limited natural resource, an extensive monitoring program has been carried out, covering a highly agricultural area of Catalonia where different types of crops have been grown during the last 5–10 years. The paper reports the analytical protocol used (sampling, filtration, preconcentration, and analysis) and the most relevant organic compounds present in groundwaters from agricultural areas as well as the concentration levels found.
Indicators of AEI Applied to the Delaware Estuary
Authors: Barnthouse Lawrence W. , Heimbuch Douglas G. , Anthony Vaughn C. , Hilborn Ray W. , Myers Ransom A.
Published: March 2005

We evaluated the impacts of entrainment and impingement at the Salem Generating Station on fish populations and communities in the Delaware Estuary. In the absence of an agreed-upon regulatory definition of “adverse environmental impact” (AEI), we developed three independent benchmarks of AEI based on observed or predicted changes that could threaten the sustainability of a population or the integrity of a community.

Our benchmarks of AEI included: (1) disruption of the balanced indigenous community of fish in the vicinity of Salem (the “BIC” analysis); (2) a continued downward trend in the abundance of one or more susceptible fish species (the “Trends” analysis); and (3) occurrence of entrainment/impingement mortality sufficient, in combination with fishing mortality, to jeopardize the future sustainability of one or more populations (the “Stock Jeopardy” analysis).

The BIC analysis utilized nearly 30 years of species presence/absence data collected in the immediate vicinity of Salem. The Trends analysis examined three independent data sets that document trends in the abundance of juvenile fish throughout the estuary over the past 20 years. The Stock Jeopardy analysis used two different assessment models to quantify potential long-term impacts of entrainment and impingement on susceptible fish populations. For one of these models, the compensatory capacities of the modeled species were quantified through meta-analysis of spawner-recruit data available for several hundred fish stocks.

All three analyses indicated that the fish populations and communities of the Delaware Estuary are healthy and show no evidence of an adverse impact due to Salem. Although the specific models and analyses used at Salem are not applicable to every facility, we believe that a weight of evidence approach that evaluates multiple benchmarks of AEI using both retrospective and predictive methods is the best approach for assessing entrainment and impingement impacts at existing facilities.
Wastewater Minimization in Indirect Electrochemical Synthesis of Phenylacetaldehyde
Authors: Sun Zhirong , Hu Xiang , Zhou Ding
Published: March 2005

Wastewater minimization in phenylacetaldehyde production by using indirect electrochemical oxidation of phenylethane instead of the seriously polluting traditional chemical process is described in this paper. Results show that high current efficiency of Mn(III) and high yield of phenylacetaldehyde can be obtained at the same sulfuric acid concentration (60%). The electrolytic mediator can be recycled and there will be no waste discharged.
Effect of 910-MHz Electromagnetic Field on Rat Bone Marrow
Authors: Demsia George , Vlastos Dimitris , Matthopoulos Demetrios P.
Published: March 2005

Aiming to investigate the possibility of electromagnetic fields (EMF) developed by nonionizing radiation to be a noxious agent capable of inducing genotoxicity to humans, in the current study we have investigated the effect of 910-MHz EMF in rat bone marrow. Rats were exposed daily for 2 h over a period of 30 consecutive days. Studying bone marrow smears from EMF-exposed and sham-exposed animals, we observed an almost threefold increase of micronuclei (MN) in polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs) after EMF exposure. An induction of MN was also observed in polymorphonuclear cells. The induction of MN in female rats was less than that in male rats. The results indicate that 910-MHz EMF could be considered as a noxious agent capable of producing genotoxic effects.
The Effects of 910-MHz Electromagnetic Field on Rat Cranial Arachnoid and Dura Mater Collagen. The Axial Periodicity of Collagen Fibrils
Authors: Tzaphlidou Margaret , Fotiou Evangelos
Published: March 2005

The axial periodicity of rat arachnoid and dura mater collagen fibrils exposed to 910 MHz for 2 h/day for 30 consecutive days was measured by means of image analysis of electron-optical data. Such measurements were compared with those from sham-exposed animals. These measurements reveal that on exposure, the intermolecular interactions during collagen fibril assembly are affected.
Urethral Foreign Body Management: A Case Report
Authors: Chang Andy Y. , Koh Chester J. , Stein John P.
Published: March 2005

The management of urethral foreign bodies may require the use of various surgical techniques in a urologist's armamentarium. We report a unique case of a urethral foreign body requiring percutaneous and endoscopic techniques for removal.
Urinoma: A Rare Complication of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery
Authors: Cheng Koon-Sung , Hashim Hashim , Tsui Janice , Osborne Caroline , Law Nickolas
Published: March 2005

Urinoma or para-renal pseudocyst generally occurs as a result of trauma to the pelvi-ureteric system. It consists of an encapsulated collection of extravasated urine and is usually located in the peri-renal space or more uncommonly in the peritoneal, pleural or mediastinal cavities. There is only one previously reported case of urinoma secondary to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) surgery. We report a case of symptomatic urinoma after infra-renal AAA repair and discuss the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of this unusual condition.
Spinning Top Urethra and Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in a Young Female
Authors: Dogra P.N. , Ansari M.S.
Published: March 2005

Spinning top urethra (STU) denotes a particular urethral configuration that is a dilated posterior urethra mainly seen in young girls or women. STU deformity arises secondary to detrusor instability, leading to a rise the intravesical pressure against a closed sphincter. We describe a case of spinning top urethra in a 30-year-old woman who presented with lower urinary tract symptoms and left flank pain.
Erectile Dysfunction Under Age 40: Etiology and Role of Contributing Factors
Authors: Karadeniz Tahir , Topsakal Medih , Aydogmus Ahmet , Basak Dogan
Published: March 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate the etiology of erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients under the age of 40 years. Eighty one patients were included in this study. All patients underwent a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach by color Doppler ultrasonography, dynamic pharmacocavernosometry (optional), selective pudendal pharmaco-arteriography (optional) and nocturnal penile tumescence monitoring by a Rigi-Scan (optional). Mean age of the population was 32 years. Psychogenic impotence was diagnosed in 50% of the patients and organic impotence was diagnosed in 45%. After the 3rd decade of life, a vasculogenic etiology was the most common cause of impotence. Smoking and hypertension played a major role as chronic contributing factors in the overall study population. Primary impotence was diagnosed in 11 patients who were unmarried. The rate of organic causes was 45% in this group (all vasculogenic in nature). Erectile dysfunction in younger patients and in patients with primary impotence is due mainly to organic causes, usually vascular in origin.
Spermatic Vein Tumor Thrombus In Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mabjeesh Nicola J. , Bar-Yosef Yuval , Schreiber-Bramante Letizia , Kaver Issac , Matzkin Haim
Published: March 2005

Renal cell carcinoma has the tendency to form venous thrombi. This may involve the renal veins or the inferior vena cava and may extend cephalad/antegrade into the right atrium. We report a patient with renal cell carcinoma who had an intracaval tumor thrombus that had extended into the right spermatic vein. We believe this to be the first description in English literature of a histologically proven renal cell carcinoma thrombus in the spermatic vein.
Outcomes of Extravesical Versus Intravesical Ureteral Reimplantation
Authors: McMann Leah P. , Joyner Byron D.
Published: March 2005

Purpose: The purpose of our study was to examine outcomes and compare length of stay after extravesical and intravesical ureteral reimplantation at our institution. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review was performed of 30 patients (55 ureters) with vesicoureteral reflux who underwent either the Cohen (intravesical) cross-trigonal procedure or the extravesical (detrusorrhaphy) approach. Each patient had documented follow-up consisting of a postoperative renal ultrasound and/or a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Inclusion criteria was the presence of primary vesicoureteral reflux. Exclusion criteria were patients who had undergone a previous repair and patients in whom results of neither the renal ultrasound nor the VCUG were available. Results: There were no significant cases of obstruction or wound infection with either approach. Two patients who underwent the extravesical approach had persistent reflux on VCUG three months postoperatively, but both resolved by fifteen months. Average length of stay was only 3.00 ± 1.33 days for the extravesical approach, compared to 5.36 ± 1.75 days for the intravesical approach ( P = .0003 ). Conclusions: Given that by fifteen months success rates were the same with either approach, the extravesical approach is comparable to the intravesical technique and is a viable option in terms of outcome and economics given the shorter length of hospital stay.
Spontaneous Perinephric Hemorrhage Associated with Urolithiasis in Pregnancy
Authors: McMann Leah P. , Peterson Andrew C. , Ahuja Sunil A.
Published: March 2005

Spontaneous perinephric hematoma in the absence of anticoagulation, arteritis, or trauma is uncommon. We report the case of a postpartum patient with nephrolithiasis who initially presented to the obstetric service with a spontaneous perinephric hemorrhage.
Splenogonadal Fusion Diagnosed by Doppler Ultrasonography
Authors: Netto Jose Murillo B. , Pérez Luis M. , Kelly David R. , Joseph David B. , Royal Stuart A.
Published: March 2005

Splenogonadal fusion usually presents as a left scrotal mass but rarely is the diagnosis suspected preoperatively. Herein, we present the first report of a left splenogonadal fusion which was suspected preoperatively by doppler ultrasonography in a 2 year old boy.
Combined Effects of Estrogen and Mechanical Loading on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Fibroblast Biosynthesis
Authors: Liu Xuhui , Luo Zong-Ping
Published: March 2005

For some time, estrogen has been suspected to play a negative role in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) fibroblast biosynthesis; however, reports on this issue have been controversial. In a recent study, our group demonstrated a negative combined effect of estrogen and mechanical loading on the gene expression of major extracellular matrix component molecules in ACL fibroblasts.
Side‐chain flexibility in protein–ligand binding: The minimal rotation hypothesis
Authors: Zavodszky Maria I. , Kuhn Leslie A.
Published: March 2005

The goal of this work is to learn from nature about the magnitudes of side‐chain motions that occur when proteins bind small organic molecules, and model these motions to improve the prediction of protein–ligand complexes. Following analysis of protein side‐chain motions upon ligand binding in 63 complexes, we tested the ability of the docking tool SLIDE to model these motions without being restricted to rotameric transitions or deciding which side chains should be considered as flexible. The model tested is that side‐chain conformational changes involving more atoms or larger rotations are likely to be more costly and less prevalent than small motions due to energy barriers between rotamers and the potential of large motions to cause new steric clashes. Accordingly, SLIDE adjusts the protein and ligand side groups as little as necessary to achieve steric complementarity. We tested the hypothesis that small motions are sufficient to achieve good dockings using 63 ligands and the apo structures of 20 different proteins and compared SLIDE side‐chain rotations to those experimentally observed. None of these proteins undergoes major main‐chain conformational change upon ligand binding, ensuring that side‐chain flexibility modeling is not required to compensate for main‐chain motions. Although more frugal in the number of side‐chain rotations performed, this model substantially mimics the experimentally observed motions. Most side chains do not shift to a new rotamer, and small motions are both necessary and sufficient to predict the correct binding orientation and most protein–ligand interactions for the 20 proteins analyzed.
The flexibility in the proline ring couples to the protein backbone
Authors: Ho Bosco K. , Coutsias Evangelos A. , Seok Chaok , Dill Ken A.
Published: March 2005

In proteins, the proline ring exists predominantly in two discrete states. However, there is also a small but significant amount of flexibility in the proline ring of high‐resolution protein structures. We have found that this side‐chain flexibility is coupled to the backbone conformation. To study this coupling, we have developed a model that is simply based on geometric and steric factors and not on energetics. We show that the coupling between ϕ and χ1 torsions in the proline ring can be described by an analytic equation that was developed by Bricard in 1897, and we describe a computer algorithm that implements the equation. The model predicts the observed coupling very well. The strain in the Cγ‐Cδ‐N angle appears to be the principal barrier between the UP and DOWN pucker. This strain is relaxed to allow the proline ring to flatten in the rare PLANAR conformation.
T‐cell tolerance and autoimmunity to systemic and tissue‐restricted self‐antigens
Authors: Lohr Jens , Knoechel Birgit , Nagabhushanam Vijaya , Abbas Abul K.
Published: March 2005

Summary:  We have used transgenic mouse models to examine the mechanisms of tolerance in CD4+ T lymphocytes to soluble, systemic and cell‐associated, tissue‐restricted self‐antigens. Anergy to an islet antigen, as a model of a tissue antigen, is dependent on the inhibitory receptor cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4), and tissue‐restricted autoimmunity is inhibited by regulatory T lymphocytes. Anergy to a circulating systemic antigen can occur independently of CTLA‐4 signals, and it is induced primarily by a block in proximal receptor‐initiated signals. CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells are generated in response to both forms of self‐antigens, but the induction is much more efficient with the tissue antigen. Receptor desensitization can be induced by the systemic antigen even in the absence of regulatory T cells, but tolerance can be broken by immunization much more easily if these cells are absent. Deletion of mature T cells is striking with the systemic antigen; there is little evidence to support peripheral deletion as a mechanism of tolerance to the tissue antigen. Thus, both distinct and overlapping mechanisms account for unresponsiveness to different forms of self‐antigens. These results establish a foundation for searching for genetic influences and pathogenic mechanisms in organ‐specific and systemic autoimmune diseases.
The B7/CD28 costimulatory family in autoimmunity
Authors: Keir Mary E. , Sharpe Arlene H.
Published: March 2005

Summary:  Host defense is dependent on the appropriate induction of immune responses. A central concept in immunology is the ability of the immune system to differentiate foreign from self‐antigens. The failure of the immune response to recognize foreign pathogens can result in infection and disease in the host. The inappropriate response of the immune system to self‐antigens is equally problematic, leading to autoimmune disease. Central and peripheral tolerance mechanisms control self‐reactive T‐cell responses and protect peripheral tissues from autoimmune attack. This review examines the roles of B7/CD28 family members, which can augment or antagonize T‐cell receptor signaling, in the regulation of central and peripheral T‐cell tolerance. We also discuss how B7/CD28 pathways influence both T‐cell‐intrinsic and ‐extrinsic mechanisms of regulation.
AIRE and APECED: molecular insights into an autoimmune disease
Authors: Villaseñor Jennifer , Benoist Christophe , Mathis Diane
Published: March 2005

Summary:  Mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) protein are the causative factor in development of the human disease autoimmune polyendocrinopathy‐candidiasis‐ectodermal dystrophy (APECED). In mice, the absence of the analogous protein aire influences ectopic expression of peripheral tissue antigens in thymic medullary epithelial cells (MECs), resulting in the development of an autoimmune disorder similar to APECED and establishing aire/AIRE as an important player in the induction of central tolerance. However, the molecular mechanism of AIRE's function, in particular its ability to specifically control the expression of peripheral tissue antigens in MECs, is still unclear. Here, we review current evidence relating to the molecular mechanism of AIRE.
Regulatory T cells and autoimmune disease
Authors: Paust Silke , Cantor Harvey
Published: March 2005

Summary:  Although T‐cell clones bearing T‐cell receptors with high affinity for self‐peptide major histocompatibility complex (MHC) products are generally eliminated in the thymus (recessive tolerance), the peripheral T‐cell repertoire remains strongly biased toward self‐peptide MHC complexes and includes autoreactive T cells. A search for peripheral T cells that might exert dominant inhibitory effects on autoreactivity has implicated a subpopulation of CD4+CD25+ T cells called regulatory T cells (Tregs). Here, we discuss the role of cytokines and costimulatory molecules in the generation, maintenance, and function of Tregs. We also summarize evidence for the involvement of Tregs in controlling autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Last, we discuss our recent definition of the potential role of B7 expressed on activated T‐effector cells as a target molecule for Treg‐dependent suppression. These observations suggest that the engagement of B7 on effector T cells transmits an inhibitory signal that blocks or attenuates effector T‐cell function. We restrict our comments to the suppression mediated by cells within the CD4 lineage; the impact of the cells within the CD8 lineage that may suppress via engagement of Qa‐1 on effector T cells is not addressed in this review.
Protein arrays for studying blood cells and their secreted products
Authors: Utz Paul J.
Published: March 2005

Summary:  Protein microarrays have been developed and partially validated for studying blood cells, which play a role in many human diseases. Arrays of capture antibodies are commercially available for analyzing cytokines and intracellular signaling proteins. Several academic laboratories have developed antigen microarrays for characterizing autoimmune and allergic diseases, with a goal toward using such arrays to profile antibodies found in blood or other biological fluids. Arrays composed of major histocompatibility complex tetramers have been constructed and validated for analysis of immune responses in mice, paving the way toward studying antigen‐specific T‐lymphocyte responses. Finally, reverse‐phase protein lysate microarray technology, first developed for analyzing cancer cells from tissue sections, has now been demonstrated for studying living cells, including knockout cells, cells treated with drugs such as kinase inhibitors, and rare populations of lymphocytes such as regulatory T cells. The goal of this review is to focus on advances in and future uses of arrays of proteins that can be printed on glass microscope slides using traditional microarray robots that are commonly found at academic medical centers. Dissemination of protein array technology will occur in the next decade and will markedly change how immunology research, particularly in the fields of autoimmunity and inflammation, is conducted.
Regulation of YKL‐40 expression during genotoxic or microenvironmental stress in human glioblastoma cells
Authors: Junker Nanna , Johansen Julia S. , Hansen Lasse T. , Lund Eva L. , Kristjansen Paul E.G.
Published: March 2005

YKL‐40 is a 40 kDa secreted glycoprotein belonging to the family of ‘mammalian chitinase‐like proteins’, but without chitinase activity. YKL‐40 has a proliferative effect on fibroblasts, chondrocytes and synoviocytes, and chemotactic effect on endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells. Elevated YKL‐40 levels are found in serum of patients with diseases characterized by inflammation, fibrosis and tissue remodeling. Several studies have reported that high serum YKL‐40 levels in patients with cancer are associated with poor prognosis. YKL‐40 expression is strongly elevated in serum and biopsy material from glioblastomas patients. We investigated the expression of YKL‐40 in three human malignant glioma cell lines exposed to different types of stress. Whereas a polymerase chain reaction transcript was detectable in all three cell lines, only U87 produced measurable amounts of YKL‐40 protein. In U87, hypoxia and ionizing radiation induced a significant increase in YKL‐40 after 24–48 h. The hypoxic induction of YKL‐40 was independent of HIF1. Etoposide, ceramide, serum depletion and confluence all led to elevated YKL‐40. Inhibition of p53 augmented the YKL‐40 expression indicating that YKL‐40 is attenuated by p53. In contrast, both basic fibroblast growth factor and tumor necrosing factor‐α repressed YKL‐40. These are the first data on regulation of YKL‐40 in cancer cells. Diverse types of stress resulted in YKL‐40 elevation, which strongly supports an involvement of YKL‐40 in the malignant phenotype as a cellular survival factor in an adverse microenvironment. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 183–190)
Helicobacter pylori‐dependent NF‐kappa B activation in newly established Mongolian gerbil gastric cancer cell lines
Authors: Nozaki Koji , Tanaka Harunari , Ikehara Yuzuru , Cao Xueyuan , Nakanishi Hayao , Azuma Takeshi , Yamazaki Shiho , Yamaoka Yoshio , Shimizu Nobuyuki , Mafune Ken‐ichi , Kaminishi Michio , Tatematsu Masae
Published: March 2005

Mongolian gerbils are an ideal animal model to explore the role of H. pylori on cancer development. However, there have been no established adenocarcinoma cell lines from this model animal. In the present study, we have established cancer cell lines from a primary gastric cancer tissue of a Mongolian gerbil. The derived cells could be stably attached with H. pylori, revealed under a scanning electron microscope, and easily transplanted to the nude mice. Rapid phosphorylation of IκB, Erk1/2, and AKT of these cells was observed by Interleukin‐1 beta stimulation, and luciferase reporter gene assay on transcriptional activation of Nuclear Factor kappa B after challenging with either H. pylori NCTC11637 or its isogenic cagE‐knockout mutant, H. pylori revealed the cagE‐dependent NF‐κB transcriptional activation. The newly established cancer cell lines from the in vivo gastric carcinogenesis model animal, the Mongolian gerbil, can be used to develop effective therapeutic strategies against gastric cancer, especially in exploring the effect of H. pylori, and thus might greatly contribute to gastric cancer prevention and treatment in humans. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 170–175)
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) as therapeutic cytoreagents for gene therapy
Authors: Hamada Hirofumi , Kobune Masayoshi , Nakamura Kiminori , Kawano Yutaka , Kato Kazunori , Honmou Osamu , Houkin Kiyohiro , Matsunaga Takuya , Niitsu Yoshiro
Published: March 2005

We developed human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) lines that could differentiate into various tissue cells including bone, neural cells, bone marrow (BM) stromal cells supporting the growth of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC), and so‐called ‘tumor stromal cells’ mixing with tumor cells. We investigated the applicability of MSC as therapeutic cell transplanting reagents (cytoreagents). Telomerized human BM derived stromal cells exhibited a prolonged lifespan and supported the growth of hematopoietic clonogenic cells. The gene transfer of Indian hedgehog (Ihh) remarkably enhanced the HSC expansion supported by the human BM stromal cells. Gene‐modified MSC are useful as therapeutic tools for brain tissue damage (e.g. brain infarction) and malignant brain neoplasms. MSC transplantation protected the brain tissue from acute ischemic damage in the midcerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) animal model. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)‐gene transduction further enhanced the protective efficacy against the ischemic damage. MSC possessed excellent migratory ability and exerted inhibitory effects on the proliferation of glioma cells. Gene‐modification of MSC with therapeutic cytokines clearly augmented the antitumor effect and prolonged the survival of tumor‐bearing animals. Gene therapy employing MSC as a tissue‐protecting and targeting cytoreagent would be a promising approach. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 149–156)
Correlation between subjective and objective measures of outcome in staffed community housing
Authors: Perry J. , Felce D.
Published: March 2005

Background  A distinction is made between objective and subjective assessment when quality of life evaluation is considered. The aim was to explore the association between objective and subjective appraisals within similar quality of life domains.

Methods  Correlations between scores on objective and subjective quality of life measures concerning choice, activity and integration were investigated by administering measures to the residents of a random sample of 47 small community housing services. Correlations between the measures and resident adaptive behaviour were also investigated.

Results  All objective measures were significantly correlated with adaptive behaviour but only one subjective measure was. With level of adaptive behaviour controlled, 6/7 correlations between pairs of objective measures were significant. Fifteen of the 16 correlations between objective and subjective measures were insignificant.

Conclusions  Assessments of objective life conditions and personal satisfaction appear to be distinct. Their suitability for different purposes and the notion that subjective appraisal of life may be under homeostatic regulation are discussed.
Dispersal, habitat differences, and comparative phylogeography of Southeast Asian seahorses (Syngnathidae:Hippocampus)
Authors: LOURIE S. A. , GREEN D. M. , VINCENT A. C. J.
Published: March 2005

Four distinct phylogeographical patterns across Southeast Asia were observed for four species of seahorse (genusHippocampus) with differing ecologies. For all species, genetic differentiation (based on cytochromebsequence comparisons) was significantly associated with sample site (ΦST = 0.190–0.810,P < 0.0001) and with geographical distance (Mantel'sr = 0.37–0.59,P < 0.019). Geographic locations of genetic breaks were inconsistent across species in 7/10 comparisons, although some similarities across species were also observed. The two shallow‐water species (Hippocampus barbouriandHippocampus kuda) have colonized the Sunda Shelf to a lesser degree than the two deeper‐water species (Hippocampus spinosissimusandHippocampus trimaculatus). In all species the presence of geographically restricted haplotypes in the Philippines could indicate past population fragmentation and/or long‐distance colonization. A nested clade analysis (NCA) revealed that long‐distance colonization and/or fragmentation were likely the dominant forces that structure populations of the two shallow‐water species, whereas range expansion and restricted dispersal with isolation by distance were proportionally more important in the history of the two deeper‐water species.H. trimaculatushas the most widespread haplotypes [average clade distance (Dc) of nonsingleton haplotypes = 1169 km], indicating potentially high dispersal capabilities, whereasH. barbourihas the least widespread haplotypes (averageDc = 67 km) indicating potentially lower dispersal capabilities. Pleistocene separation of marine basins and postglacial flooding of the Sunda Shelf are extrinsic factors likely to have contributed to the phylogeographical structure observed, whereas differences among the species appear to reflect their individual ecologies.
Phylogeography of the Russian flying squirrel (Pteromys volans): implication of refugia theory in arboreal small mammal of Eurasia
Authors: OSHIDA TATSUO , ABRAMOV ALEXEI , YANAGAWA HISASHI , MASUDA RYUICHI
Published: March 2005

A phylogeographical study of the Russian (Siberian) flying squirrel (Pteromys volans) was carried out using the complete mitochondrial (mt) cytochrome b gene sequences with special reference to the refugia theory for the arboreal traits of this species. We examined 31 specimens from 24 localities, resulting in 28 haplotypes. One breeding specimen with a unique haplotype from Hokkaido, Japan was included in the phylogenetic analysis. There were three mtDNA lineages: Hokkaido, Far Eastern, and northern Eurasia. Divergence data among lineages demonstrated that the Hokkaido group separated from the other groups during the Holsteinian interglacial. The phylogeographical pattern of P. volans is different from that previously reported for terrestrial rodents associated with treeless habitats. Unlike grasslands, forests decreased during glaciation and moved southward because of the cold and arid environmental conditions. The glacial refugia of P. volans would have been associated with forest dynamics in the Pleistocene.
Microsatellite variation and structure of 28 populations of the common wetland plant, Lychnis flos‐cuculi L., in a fragmented landscape
Authors: GALEUCHET D. J. , PERRET C. , FISCHER M.
Published: March 2005

Habitat fragmentation is known to cause genetic differentiation between small populations of rare species and decrease genetic variation within such populations. However, common species with recently fragmented populations have rarely been studied in this context. We investigated genetic variation and its relationship to population size and geographical isolation of populations of the common plant species, Lychnis flos‐cuculi L., in fragmented fen grasslands. We analysed 467 plants from 28 L. flos‐cuculi populations of different sizes (60 000–54 000 flowering individuals) in northeastern Switzerland using seven polymorphic microsatellite loci. Genetic differentiation between populations is small (FST = 0.022; amova; P < 0.001), suggesting that gene flow among populations is still high or that habitat fragmentation is too recent to result in pronounced differentiation. Observed heterozygosity (HO = 0.44) significantly deviates from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, and within‐population inbreeding coefficient FIS is high (0.30–0.59), indicating a mixed mating breeding system with substantial inbreeding in L. flos‐cuculi. Gene diversity is the only measure of genetic variation which decreased with decreasing population size (R = 0.42; P < 0.05). While our results do not indicate pronounced effects of habitat fragmentation on genetic variation in the still common L. flos‐cuculi, the lower gene diversity of smaller populations suggests that the species is not entirely unaffected.
Laser capture microdissection for the analysis of gene expression during embryogenesis of Arabidopsis
Authors: Casson Stuart , Spencer Matthew , Walker Katherine , Lindsey Keith
Published: March 2005

It is during embryogenesis that the body plan of the developing plant is established. Analysis of gene expression during embryogenesis has been limited due to the technical difficulty of accessing the developing embryo. Here we demonstrate that laser capture microdissection can be applied to the analysis of embryogenesis. We show how this technique can be used in concert with DNA microarray for the large‐scale analysis of gene expression in apical and basal domains of the globular‐stage and heart‐stage embryo, respectively, when critical events of polarity, symmetry and biochemical differentiation are established. This high resolution spatial analysis shows that up to approximately 65% of the genome is expressed in the developing embryo, and that differential expression of a number of gene classes can be detected. We discuss the validity of this approach for the functional analysis of both published and previously uncharacterized essential genes.
Substrate and cofactor requirements for RNA editing of chloroplast transcripts in Arabidopsis in vitro
Authors: Hegeman Carla E. , Hayes Michael L. , Hanson Maureen R.
Published: March 2005

None of the macromolecular components of the chloroplast RNA editing apparatus has yet been identified. In order to facilitate biochemical purification and characterization of the chloroplast RNA editing apparatus, we have identified conditions suitable for production of chloroplast extracts from the model plant Arabidopsis that are capable of editing exogenous substrates produced by in vitro transcription. A simple poisoned primer extension assay readily quantified editing extent of mutated and wild‐type substrates. Maximum editing efficiency typically varied from 10 to 40% with different chloroplast preparations. Substrates carrying as little as 47 nt surrounding the psbE editing site were as efficiently edited as longer substrates. Editing activity was stimulated when either ATP, CTP, or dCTP was provided to the extract, an unusual observation also recently seen with plant mitochondrial editing extracts. Editing was sensitive to a zinc chelator, also a characteristic of the mammalian APOBEC editing enzyme, which is a zinc‐dependent cytidine deaminase.
The Ligaments and Sesamoid Bones of Knee Joint in New Zealand Rabbits
Authors: Orhan I. O. , Haziroglu R. M. , Gultiken M. E.
Published: March 2005

This study has been conducted on the knee joints of the New Zealand rabbits. A total of 20 knee joints from 10 (five female, five male) adult New Zealand rabbits were studied in the study. Fourteen ligaments and four sesamoid bones including the patellar bone, the infrapatellar adipose body, and the suprapatellar cartilage specifically present in rabbits were grossly observed. The caudal meniscotibial ligaments of the lateral meniscus were noted to be lacking in these rabbits. Moreover, the medial collateral ligament did not have a capsular character in nature. Thus, adipose tissue was determined at a point where the suprapatellar cartilage and patella fused.
Stereological Study of the External Urethral Sphincter in the Female Urethra of the Lamb: A New Model for Studies on Urinary Continence
Authors: Rodríguez‐Veiga E. , Mestre‐Nieto L. , Martínez‐Sainz P. , García‐Pascual A. , Martín‐Palacios S. , Marín‐García P. , González‐Soriano J.
Published: March 2005

Some of the morphometrical features and functional properties of the lamb external urethral sphincter (EUS) were determined by means of ATPase histochemistry. In this study, eight female urethras of 2‐ to 3‐month‐old lambs were used. The samples were studied by using an unbiased stereological design and were statistically evaluated with a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Additionally, the mechanical activity of the different fibre types was analysed by measuring the isometric changes in tension induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS) of intrinsic nerves. The lamb EUS has an average fibre density of 1142.37 fibres/mm2 (SD = 279.33). Our data showed the predominance of fast‐twitch fibres or type II fibres, with a proportion of 30% (type I) and 70% (type II) in all cases. These percentages remained the same along the length of the EUS. However, a clear tendency to increase the number of both fibre types in the mid‐EUS was observed. Interestingly, type I and II fibres are intermingled throughout the whole lamb EUS. Dynamic parameters of the contraction induced in lamb EUS preparations by EFS of intramural nerves, were intermediate between fast‐ and slow‐twitch muscles. Furthermore, contractile activity showed no decrease in amplitude upon repetitive stimulation, suggesting the presence of a mixture of fibre types, in which fast but fatigue‐resistant fibres (probably type IIA) seem to predominate. Our results indicate that lambs could be suggested as a new biological model to study those pathological processes, which involve the sphincteric regulation of the EUS.
Morphology and Histology of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Adrenal Gland with Emphasis on the Medulla
Authors: Clark L. S. , Pfeiffer D. C. , Cowan D. F.
Published: March 2005

This study provides the first detailed description of the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) adrenal gland with emphasis on the medulla. Thirty‐one dolphins of varying age and sex were used in this study. No statistical differences were found between the right and left gland mass, however, the left was typically greater. Mean mass for the right and left adrenal glands were 4.99 ± 0.513 and 5.36 ± 0.558 g, respectively. No statistical differences were found between average gland mass and sexual maturity or sex. The average cortex/medulla ratio was 1.22 ± 0.060 meaning approximately 48% is cortex, 41% is medulla, and 11% was categorized as other (i.e. blood vessels, connective tissue, etc.). The cortex contained pseudolobules and the typical zonation. A medullary band, consisting of highly basophilic staining cells was found at the periphery of the medulla. Projections of the medulla to the gland capsule were noted. Immunolabelling with polyclonal antibodies against the enzymes dopamineβhydroxylase and phenylethanolamine N‐methyl transferase indicated that noradrenaline producing cells are found throughout the medulla including the medullary band while adrenaline producing cells are only found within the medullary band. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of two distinct cell populations within the medullary band and a single cell population throughout the medulla.
Absence of hypercoagulability in acute Kawasaki disease
Authors: Lin Ming‐Tsan , Tsao Lon‐Yen , Cheng Ming‐Lin , Chang Yu‐Jun , Chiu Han‐Yao , Chen Hsiao‐Neng , Kuo Su‐Feng , Chiou Shwu‐Jin
Published: March 2005

Abstract
Background
: Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis syndrome with the striking feature of cardiovascular involvement. Endothelial cell (EC) damage has been suggested to predispose individuals to the development of coronary vascular disorders. When EC are perturbed, prethrombotic complications ensue. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical relevance of EC activation and hypercoagulability in the pathogenesis of KD and to determine if plasma levels of these markers are correlated with the development of coronary aneurysms.

Methods
: EC function and coagulation status were assessed in 52 patients with acute KD, 20 febrile control subjects, and 20 healthy control subjects. Biological markers of EC and hypercoagulability were measured and included thrombomodulin, tissue factor, tissue factor pathway inhibitor, von Willebrand factor (vWF), coagulation factor VII (FVII), activated factor VII, prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (F1 + 2), and D‐dimer.

Results
: Transient dilatation of coronary arteries was the most common complication (55.8%), and coronary aneurysm was noted in five patients (9.6%). Levels of vWF, FVII, F1 + 2 and D‐dimer were higher in acute KD patients compared with healthy controls but not febrile controls. Markers of EC and hypercoagulability were not different between patients with cardiac complications and those without cardiac complications. Biological and immunological assays did not demonstrate the prethrombotic state in acute KD.

Conclusions
: Our results suggest that hypercoagulability does not occur during the acute stage of KD. Markers of EC damage and hypercoagulability are not predictive of coronary aneurysms in KD.
Revision of diagnostic guidelines for Kawasaki disease (the 5th revised edition)
Authors: Ayusawa Mamoru , Sonobe Tomoyoshi , Uemura Shigeru , Ogawa Shunnichi , Nakamura Yoshikazu , Kiyosawa Nobuyuki , Ishii Masahiro , Harada Kensuke
Published: March 2005

Abstract  Diagnostic guidelines for Kawasaki Disease was revised to meet the present situation in 2002. This issue intends to explain new guidelines and their backgrounds. Major alterations are interpretation of cases with 4 or fewer febrile days shortened by early intravenous immunoglobulin treatment, and the clinical importance of atypical (incomplete, or suspected) cases.