bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial pattern of the density of Armillaria epiphytic rhizomorphs on tree collar in an oak stand
Authors: Marçais B. , Caël O.
Published: January 2006

The density of Armillaria gallica epiphytic rhizomorphs on tree collar was mapped in a young stand of pedunculate oaks (Quercus robur). A quick method to estimate the rhizomorph density was developed, investigating 19 trees, and was used in the subsequent study. The method consists of measuring the frequency of rhizomorphs present on a grid applied to an exposed small area of the tree collar. The pattern in tree collar rhizomorph density was closely related to the pattern of stump colonization by Armillaria and stumps were therefore important as inoculum sources. Rhizomorph density on tree collar showed a strong aggregated spatial pattern which could not be explained by variability in the soil characteristics, in particular waterlogging, or by a spatial pattern in tree vigour. Moreover, rhizomorph density on tree collar did not depend on their dominance status.
Cardiac mitochondrial alterations induced by insulin deficiency and hyperinsulinaemia in rats: Targeting membrane homeostasis with trimetazidine
Authors: Ovide‐Bordeaux Stéphanie , Bescond‐Jacquet Anne , Grynberg Alain
Published: January 2006

1. The present study investigated the ability of trimetazidine (TMZ) to maintain cardiac mitochondrial function during the development of insulin deficiency and hyperinsulinaemia. The anti‐ischaemic drug TMZ is known to increase phospholipid synthesis in cardiac membranes and to have a cardioprotective effect.

2. Insulin deficiency was obtained by streptozotocin injection and hyperinsulinaemia was achieved via a fructose diet. Trimetazidine was incorporated into the diet (7.8 mg/day) and mitochondrial function was evaluated in skinned cardiac fibres.

3. Insulin deficiency decreased mitochondrial affinity for ADP and the index of creatine kinase functional activity. This last alteration was partially prevented by TMZ treatment. Insulin deficiency strongly decreased n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content, in cardiac and mitochondrial membranes, inducing a strong increase in the n‐6/n‐3 ratio. Trimetazidine treatment limited the increase in the n‐6/n‐3 ratio and prevented the decrease in DHA content in mitochondrial membranes. Insulin deficiency decreased glutamate‐ and palmitoylcarnitine‐supported respiration.

4. Hyperinsulinaemia affected neither mitochondrial affinity for ADP nor the index of creatine kinase functional activity. Hyperinsulinaemia slightly and significantly affected mitochondrial fatty acid composition, by a small increase the n‐6/n‐3 ratio. Trimetazidine did not modify membrane‐bound mitochondrial function but increased the n‐6/n‐3 ratio. Moreover, hyperinsulinaemia decreased glutamate‐supported respiration.

5. In conclusion, modification of membrane homeostasis with TMZ partially prevented the alterations in fatty acid composition and function in cardiac mitochondria induced by insulin deficiency. Three months of hyperinsulinaemia did not modify membrane‐bound mitochondrial function and had only slight effects on fatty acid composition.
Effects of trans‐resveratrol on hypertension‐induced cardiac hypertrophy using the partially nephrectomized rat model
Authors: Liu Zhaoping , Song Yan , Zhang Xiaopeng , Liu Zeqing , Zhang Wenzhong , Mao Weifeng , Wang Wei , Cui Wenming , Zhang Xin , Jia Xudong , Li Ning , Han Chi , Liu Changxing
Published: January 2006

1. trans‐Resveratrol (resveratrol) has been shown to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system in a number of studies. It is, however, unclear whether this naturally occurring compound can protect against cardiac hypertrophy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of resveratrol on cardiac hypertrophy in vivo and the potential underlying mechanisms involving endothelin (ET), angiotensin (Ang) II and nitric oxide (NO) in partially nephrectomized rats.

2. Animal models bearing cardiac hypertrophy were replicated in male Sprague‐Dawley rats following partial nephrectomy (PNX). Resveratrol (10 or 50 mg/kg) was administered to rats by gavage for 4 weeks. Simultaneous PNX and sham operation controls were simultaneously established in the present study. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) of rats was measured at baseline and, along with heart weight, after 4 weeks treatment. Serum ET‐1, AngII and NO concentrations were determined.

3. In the present study, it was shown that, compared with rats in the sham‐operated group, rats in the PNX group had significantly higher SBP (154.1 ± 22.7 mmHg), heart weight (1.69 ± 0.24 g) and serum ET‐1 (125.70 ± 26.27 pg/mL) and AngII serum concentrations (743.63 ± 86.50 pg/mL), whereas serum NO concentrations were lower (21.1 ± 6.9 μmol/L; all P < 0.05). These values in the sham control group were 114 ± 10 mmHg, 1.28 ± 0.13 g, 52.44 ± 21.85 pg/mL, 528.7 ± 158.5 pg/mL and 53.21 ± 23.87 µmol/L, respectively. After 4 weeks treatment with 50 mg/kg resveratrol, SBP, heart weight and ET‐1 and AngII concentrations had decreased to 135.4 ± 15.8 mmHg, 1.39 ± 0.15 g, 97.11 ± 26.74 pg/mL and 629.64 ± 116.18 pg/mL, respectively. However, the serum NO concentration had increased to 40.1 ± 14.6 μmol/L. These values were significantly different from those obtained for the PNX group.

4. In conclusion, trans‐resveratrol appears to be able to protect against the increase in SBP and subsequent cardiac hypertrophy in vivo and the mechanisms responsible may involve, at least in part, modulation of NO, AngII and ET‐1 production.
Inhibition of mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase enhances apoptosis induced by arsenic trioxide in human breast cancer MCF‐7 cells
Authors: Ye Jian , Li Aiping , Liu Qizhan , Wang Xinru , Zhou Jianwei
Published: January 2006

1. Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) has recently been used to treat acute promyelocytic leukaemia and has activity in vitro against several solid tumour cell lines where the induction of differentiation and apoptosis are the prime effects. The mechanism of As2O3‐induced cell death has yet to be clarified, especially in solid cancers.

2. In the present study, the human breast cancer cell line MCF‐7 was examined as a cellular model for As2O3 treatment. The involvement of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38 and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) was investigated in As2O3‐induced cell death.

3. It was found that As2O3 activates the prosurvival mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/ERK pathway in MCF‐7 cells, which, conversely, may compromise the efficacy of As2O3. Hence, a combination treatment of As2O3 and MEK inhibitors was investigated to determine whether this treatment could lead to enhanced growth inhibition and apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells.

4. Inhibition of MEK/ERK with the pharmacological inhibitors U0126 (10 µmol/L) or PD98059 (20 µmol/L) together with As2O3 (2 and 5 µmol/L) resulted in a significant enhancement of growth inhibition in breast cancer MCF‐7 cells as determined by the 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2 thiazoyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide assay and [Methyl‐3H]‐thymidine incorporation. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that combined treatment with As2O3 and the MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 could augment breast cancer MCF‐7 cell apoptosis approximately twofold compared with the effects of the two drugs alone, as determined by Hoechst 33258 or annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry.

5. In addition, As2O3 activated p38 in a dose‐dependent manner, but had no effect on JNK1/2. Treatment with a p38 inhibitor did not prevent As2O3‐induced apoptosis.

6. In conclusion, the results of the present study showed that enhanced apoptosis is detected in breast cancer MCF‐7 cells in the presence of As2O3 and an MEK inhibitor, which may be a new promising adjuvant to current breast cancer treatments.
Inhibitory effects of glucosamine on lipopolysaccharide‐induced activation in microglial cells
Authors: Yi Hyon‐Ah , Yi Sang‐Doe , Jang Byeong‐Churl , Song Dae‐Kyu , Shin Dong‐Hoon , Mun Kyo‐Chul , Kim Sang‐Pyo , Suh Seong‐Il , Bae Jae Hoon
Published: January 2006

1. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of glucosamine on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced cellular activation in microglia and to evaluate the inhibitory mechanisms involved.

2. Lipopolysaccharide (100 ng/mL) was used for the activation of primary cultured rat microglial or BV2 microglial cells. Changes in intracellular Ca2+levels and outward K+currents were measured using fura‐2/AM and whole‐cell patch‐clamp methods, respectively. Lipopolysaccharide‐induced expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α mRNA was analysed by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction.

3. Lipopolysaccharide transformed cell morphology into an amoeboid shapein vitroand induced microglial activationin vivo, as measured by immunohistochemical staining, but glucosamine inhibited this activation. Glucosamine also inhibited LPS‐induced Ca2+influx, outward K+currents and TNF‐α mRNA expression, which are typically representative of microglial activation.

4. The results suggest that the inhibitory mechanisms of glucosamine on LPS‐induced microglial activation include inhibition of Ca2+influx and outward K+currents, as well as downregulation of the microglial activator gene TNF‐α.
Hypoxia–reoxygenation‐induced apoptosis in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocyets and the protective effect of prostaglandin E1
Authors: Ma Xiang‐qin , Fu Run‐fang , Feng Guo‐qing , Wang Zhen‐ji , Ma Shou‐guo , Weng Shi‐ai
Published: January 2006

1. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of prostaglandin (PG) E1on hypoxia/re‐oxygenation (H/R) apoptosis and the expression of bcl‐2 and bax in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes.

2. The H/R model was made using the first generation of cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Hypoxia/re‐oxygenation apoptosis was studied by electron microscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis. The percentage of apoptotic cells was measured by terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP–digoxigenin nick end‐labeling (TUNEL). The expression of bcl‐2 and bax was detected byin situhybridization and immunohistochemical staining.

3. Most cells of the H/R group tested by electron microscopy showed cytoplasmic concentration, nuclear chromatin condensation and margination. Prostaglandin E1(5, 15 and 45 μg/L) relieved the injury. The results of DNA electrophoresis in the H/R group showed a typical DNA ladder and the DNA ladder decreased gradually corresponding with increasing doses of PGE1.

4. The TUNEL staining showed that the total number of apoptotic cells in the H/R group was much more than that in the PGE1(45 μg/L) group.

5. The results ofin situhybridization and immunohistochemical staining showed that the bcl‐2 content in the H/R group was lower than that in the control group; bax content showed the reverse. Compared with the H/R group, bcl‐2 content was significantly higher in the PGE1(5, 15 and 45 μg/L) groups. However, bax content in the PGE1(5, 15 and 45 μg/L) groups was significantly lower than that in the H/R group.

6. In conclusion, H/R injury can induce cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Prostaglandin E1obviously has anti‐apoptotic effects on cardiomyocytes and the mechanisms probably involve the inhibition of bax expression and increased expression of bcl‐2.
BAY 41‐2272, a potent activator of soluble guanylyl cyclase, stimulates calcium elevation and calcium‐activated potassium current in pituitary GH3cells
Authors: Liu Yen‐Chin , Wu Sheng‐Nan
Published: January 2006

1. The effects of BAY 41‐2272, a nitric oxide‐independent activator of soluble guanylyl cyclase, on Ca2+signalling and ion currents were investigated in pituitary GH3cells.

2. Intracellular Ca2+concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in these cells were increased by BAY 41‐2272. Removing extracellular Ca2+abolished the BAY 41‐2272‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i. After [Ca2+]iwas elevated by BAY 41‐2272 (300 nmol/L), subsequent application of 1‐benzyl‐3‐(5′‐hydroxymethyl‐2′‐furyl) indazole (YC‐1; 1 μmol/L) did not increase [Ca2+]ifurther.

3. In whole‐cell recordings, BAY 41‐2272 reversibly stimulated Ca2+‐activated K+current (IK(Ca)) with an EC50of 225 ± 8 nmol/L. At 3 μmol/L, BAY 41‐2272 slightly and significantly decreased L‐type Ca2+current.

4. In the cell‐attached configuration, BAY 41‐2272 (300 nmol/L) enhanced the activity of large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+(BKCa) channels. After BKCachannel activity was stimulated by spermine NONOate (30 μmol/L) or YC‐1 (10 μmol/L) in cell‐attached patches, subsequent application of BAY 41‐2272 (300 nmol/L) further increased the channel open probability.

5. In the inside‐out configuration, BAY 41‐2272 applied to the intracellular surface of excised patches enhanced BKCachannel activity. Unlike 1 µmol/L paxilline, 1H‐[1,2,4]oxadiazolol‐[4,3a] quinoxalin‐1‐one (ODQ; 10 μmol/L) or heme (10 μmol/L) had no effect on BAY 41‐2272‐stimulated channel activity. BAY 41‐2272 caused no shift in the activation curve of BKCachannels; however, it did increase the Ca2+sensitivity of these channels.

6. At 300 nmol/L, BAY 41‐2272 reduced the firing rate of spontaneous action potentials stimulated by thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (10 μmol/L). The BKCachannel activity was also enhanced by 300 nmol/L BAY 41‐2272 in neuroblastoma IMR‐32 cells.

7. Therefore, the BAY 41‐2272‐induced increase in [Ca2+]iis primarily explained by an increase in Ca2+influx. The BAY 41‐2272‐mediated simulation of IK(Ca)may result from direct activation of BKCachannels and indirectly as a result of elevated [Ca2+]i.
Influence of surface condition on the fatigue behaviour of specimens made of a SAE 5115 case‐hardened steel
Authors: LAUE S. , BOMAS H. , HOFFMANN F.
Published: January 2006

The effect of different surface conditions on the fatigue properties of cyclically loaded bending specimens of the case‐hardened steel SAE 5115 (Material Number 1.7131) was investigated. The aim of the investigations was to achieve further knowledge of the processes that finally lead to the failure of case‐hardened and cyclically loaded bending specimens. Surface roughness, microstructure and residual stress distribution were regarded as parameters that govern the fatigue process. On the basis of a well‐defined adjustment of different surface conditions the effect of internal oxidation, surface roughness and residual stresses on fatigue crack initiation and growth were assessed. The effect of different parameters on the endurance limit has been quantified by the application of a fracture mechanics and a weakest‐link approach. The calculations contributed to a deeper insight into the complex interaction between the parameters governing the fatigue process.
A Validation of a Computer-Assisted Randomized Response Survey to Estimate the Prevalence of Fraud in Social Security
Authors: Lensvelt-Mulders Gerty J. L. M. , Van Der Heijden Peter G. M. , Laudy Olav , Van Gils Ger
Published: January 2006

In the Netherlands, there is a research tradition that measures fraud against regulations by interviewing eligible individuals using a survey. In these studies the sensitive questions about fraud are posed by using a randomized response method. The paper describes the results of a Dutch study into the consequences of replacing home interviews by trained interviewers with Internet-delivered interviews in a survey on fraud in the area of disability benefits. Both surveys used computer-assisted self-interviews with randomized response questions. This study has three goals: first to present the research tradition that makes use of randomized response, second to compare the results of home interviews and the Internet survey and finally to introduce an adapted weighted logistic regression method to test the relationship between the probability of fraud and explanatory variables. The results show that there are no systematic differences between modes of interview, either for estimates of the prevalence of fraud or for the identification of associated variables. These outcomes result in the conclusion that the Internet survey is a useful and cost-effective instrument for measuring fraud in a population, and that it is unlikely that replacing home interviews with the Internet survey will result in a significant break with tradition.
Using Number of Failed Contact Attempts to Adjust for Non-Ignorable Non-Response
Authors: Wood Angela M. , White Ian R. , Hotopf Matthew
Published: January 2006

We present a general method of adjustment for non-ignorable non-response in studies where one or more further attempts are made to contact initial non-responders. A logistic regression model relates the probability of response at each contact attempt to covariates and outcomes of interest. We assume that the effect of these covariates and outcomes on the probability of response is the same at all contact attempts. Knowledge of the number of contact attempts enables estimation of the model by using only information from the respondents and the number of non-responders. Three approaches for fitting the response models and estimating parameters of substantive interest and their standard errors are compared: a modified conditional likelihood method in which the fitted inverse probabilities of response are used in weighted analyses for the outcomes of interest, an EM procedure with the Louis formula and a Bayesian approach using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. We further propose the creation of several sets of weights to incorporate uncertainty in the probability weights in subsequent analyses. Our methods are applied as a sensitivity analysis to a postal survey of symptoms in Persian Gulf War veterans and other servicemen.
Analysis of a Long-Term Study of Neurotic Disorder, with Insights into the Process of Non-Response
Authors: Longford Nicholas T. , Tyrer P. , Nur U. A. M. , Seivewright H.
Published: January 2006

The paper studies the non-response process in a long-term study of neurotic dis-order by comparing the analysis based on the responses that were collected by the established practice of interviewing the subjects, at dates arranged in advance (appointments), with the analysis of the nearly complete set of responses that were collected by an extensive effort that involved attempts to interview without seeking a prior agreement. The method of multiple imputation is applied, and its properties are explored in a setting that is not perfectly suited for its application: a relatively small sample size, ordinal score outcomes and the likelihood that the outcomes are missing not at random.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in Alasmidonta heterodon (Bivalvia: Unionidae)
Authors: SHAW KRISTINE M. , KING TIM L. , LELLIS WILLIAM A. , EACKLES MICHAEL S.
Published: January 2006

We developed 13 species‐specific microsatellite markers for the federally endangered Atlantic slope unionid Alasmidonta heterodon. Four to 18 alleles per locus were observed among 30 individuals. Observed heterozygosity throughout the loci ranged from 26.9 to 86.2% and averaged 63.6%. Estimates of individual pairwise genetic distances indicated that levels of genetic diversity among loci were sufficient to produce unique multilocus genotypes for all animals surveyed. Randomization tests showed that genotypes for this collection were consistent with Hardy–Weinberg expectations, and no significant linkage disequilibrium was observed between loci. These loci therefore appear suitable for population surveys, kinship assessment and other such applications.
Direct shipping logistic planning for a hub‐and‐spoke network with given discrete intershipment times
Authors: Chong Libby , Kennedy Damian , Chan Weng Meng
Published: January 2006

This paper proposes a heuristic procedure to solve the problem of scheduling and routing shipments in a hybrid hub‐and‐spoke network, when a given set of feasible discrete intershipment times is given. The heuristic procedure may be used to assist in the cooperative operational planning of a physical goods network between shippers and logistics service provider, or to assist shippers in making logistics outsourcing decisions. The objective is to minimise the transportation and inventory holding costs. It is shown through a set of problem instances that this heuristic procedure provides better solutions than existing economic order quantity‐based approaches. Computational results are presented and discussed.
A Midline Cyst Containing Clear Fluid in an Infant and Review of Management
Authors: Scheinfeld Noah
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  A 3‐month‐old healthy girl had a cyst present from birth, located in the midline, in the area of the anterior fontanel. A magnetic resonance imaging was performed at age 7 months, which did not show communication between the cyst and the central nervous system. At a subsequent examination, while the cyst was being probed, it broke and expressed clear fluid. The cyst was subsequently removed surgically and was found histopathologically to be an epidermal inclusion cyst without communication with the central nervous system. Epidermal inclusion cysts very rarely occur on the midline in the area of the anterior fontanel, and none have been reported to contain clear fluid. Their proper management requires focused clinical assessment, noninvasive imaging, and consideration of surgical removal, in particular, if they communicate with the intracranial space.
Automatic Ventricular Threshold Measurement in Children with Epicardial Pacing Leads
Authors: HIIPPALA ANITA , CLAUSSON EVA , EKBLAD HENRIK , LESKINEN MARKKU , HAPPONEN JUHA‐MATTI
Published: January 2006

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and reliability of automatic ventricular pacing threshold measurement, the Medtronic Capture Management™ (CM), in children with epicardial pacing leads. CM has not been recommended for use with epicardial leads due to lack of pertinent data.

Methods: During a 2‐year study period, 34 children (mean age 6.1 years, range 0 days to 17.7 years) with epicardial leads were prospectively enrolled. The CM measurements were compared with in‐office ventricular pacing threshold measurements. Thirty bipolar and five unipolar epicardial leads were assessed.

Results: CM measurements were successful and reliable in 30 out of 35 leads (86%). The mean threshold with CM was 1.16 V (95% CI 1.07–1.26 V), and with standard measurement was 1.18 V (95% CI 1.09–1.28 V), at a pulse width of 0.40 ms. The reasons for failure were evoked response undersensing in two cases (5.7%), and high intrinsic rate in one case. High pacing thresholds prevented accurate CM measurements in two cases.

Conclusions: CM automatic threshold measurements are consistent with standard ventricular pacing threshold measurements in children with epicardial leads. We recommend a period of monitoring CM performance before programming it to adjust output according to automatic threshold measurements, in order to find the patients in whom it does not work. The CM feature provides increased pacing safety when it measures well (86% of leads). A larger study is needed to prove the tendency for extending battery life in children with epicardial leads.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis with a Single Dose of Cefazolin During Pacemaker Implantation: Incidence of Long‐Term Infective Complications
Authors: BERTAGLIA EMANUELE , ZERBO FRANCESCA , ZARDO SUSANNA , BARZAN DANIELA , ZOPPO FRANCO , PASCOTTO PIETRO
Published: January 2006

Objective:Systemic and localized infections related to permanent pacemaker implantation are not common, but are serious and potentially life‐threatening complications. The aims of this prospective observational study were: (1) to assess the safety and long‐term efficacy of a simplified scheme of antibiotic prophylaxis, and (2) to identify the predictors of long‐term infective complications, in patients undergoing pacemaker implantation or replacement.

Methods and Results:From October 1998 to July 2001, 852 patients (mean age 77.0 ± 9.2 years; 474 men) who underwent new permanent pacemaker implantation (69.6%) or pulse generator replacement (30.4%) received a mini‐bag of 2 g of cefazolin diluted in 50 mL of saline solution, administered intravenously in 20 minutes before the beginning of the procedure. Early (within 2 months of implantation) and late major and minor infective complications were recorded. During the earlier phase, minor complications were observed in 9 patients (1%). During the long‐term phase of the surveillance (mean 25.6 ± 11.0 months, range 12–55 months) major infective complications were observed in 6 patients (0.7%). On multivariate analysis, no clinical or procedural variable predicted the occurrence of long‐term infective complications.

Conclusions:Our data indicate the safety and efficacy of a single, intravenous 2 g dose of cefazolin in preventing infective complications related to pacemaker implantation or replacement. No clinical or procedural variable predicted the occurrence of long‐term infective complications.
Differential Inhibition of Cytochrome P450 3A4, 3A5 and 3A7 by Five Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitorsin vitro
Authors: Granfors Marika T. , Wang Jun‐Sheng , Kajosaari Lauri I. , Laitila Jouko , Neuvonen Pertti J. , Backman Janne T.
Published: January 2006

Abstract:The effects of five HIV protease inhibitors (amprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir) on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4, 3A5 and 3A7 activities were studiedin vitrousing testosterone 6β‐hydroxylation in recombinant CYP3A4, CYP3A5 and CYP3A7 enzymes. The protease inhibitors showed differential inhibitory effects on the three CYP3A forms. Ritonavir and saquinavir were non‐selective and preferential inhibitors of CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 (Ki0.03 μM and 0.6–0.8 μM for ritonavir and saquinavir, respectively), and weaker inhibitors of CYP3A7 (Ki0.6 μM and 1.8 μM, respectively). Nelfinavir was a potent and non‐selective inhibitor of all three CYP3A forms (Ki0.3–0.4 μM). Amprenavir and indinavir preferentially inhibited CYP3A4 (Ki0.1 μM and 0.2 μM, respectively), with weaker inhibitory effects on CYP3A5 (Ki0.5 μM and 2.2 μM, respectively) and CYP3A7 (Ki2.1 μM and 10.6 μM, respectively). In conclusion, significant differences exist in the inhibitory potency of protease inhibitors for different CYP3A forms. Ritonavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir and amprenavir seem to be prone to drug‐drug interactions by inhibiting both CYP3A4 and CYP3A5. Especially nelfinavir and ritonavir also have a potential to inhibit foetal CYP3A7–mediated drug metabolism and some endogenous pathways that may be crucial to normal foetal development, while indinavir has the lowest potential to inhibit CYP3A5 and CYP3A7.
Increasing Intracellular Calcium of Guinea Pig Ventricular Myocytes Induced by Platelet Activating Factor through IP3 Pathway
Authors: Chu Wen‐Feng , Sun Hong‐Li , Dong De‐Li , Qiao Guo‐Fen , Yang Bao‐Feng
Published: January 2006

Abstract: We used Fluo‐3/AM to examine the effect of platelet‐activating factor on the intracellular Ca2+([Ca2+]i) levels in isolated myocytes of guinea pig ventricle. Myocytes were isolated with Langendorff perfusion technique and were challenged with platelet‐activating factor. Addition of platelet‐activating factor (1 pM to 10 nM) significantly increased the [Ca2+]i in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. The notion that increases in intracellular Ca2+ induced by platelet‐activating factor is the result of stimulation of intracellular Ca2+ pool rather than increasing Ca2+ influx was further supported by the whole cell patch‐clamp experiments in which the platelet‐activating factor did not alter the activity of L‐type of Ca2+ channels (ICa‐L). Treatment of myocytes with ryanodine failed to abolish the stimulatory effect of platelet‐activating factor on [Ca2+]i. In contrast, inhibition of IP3‐sensitive Ca2+ release pool with 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2‐APB) blocked the effect of platelet‐activating factor. We conclude that the platelet‐activating factor‐induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ is mediated by stimulation of IP3 receptor but not by stimulation of ICa‐L and ryanodine‐sensitive receptor.
Short‐Term Responses of Birds to Forest Gaps and Understory: An Assessment of Reduced‐Impact Logging in a Lowland Amazon Forest1
Authors: Wunderle Joseph M. , Henriques Luiza Magalli Pinto , Willig Michael R.
Published: January 2006

We studied physiognomy‐specific (i.e., gaps vs. understory) responses of birds to low harvest (18.7 m3/ha), reduced‐impact logging by comparing 3500 mist net captures in control and cut blocks of an Amazonian terra firme forest in Brazil at 20–42 mo postharvest. Species richness did not differ significantly between control (92 species) and cut (85) forest based on rarefaction to 1200 captures. Fifty‐six percent of all species were shared between control and cut forest, compared to the 64 percent shared between control blocks. Higher captures of nectarivores and frugivores in cut forest likely occurred as a consequence of postharvest resource blooms. Higher captures of some insectivores in cut as compared to control forest were unexpected, attributable to increased wandering or shifts from association with midstory to understory as a consequence of habitat alteration. Logging influenced capture rates for 21 species, either consistently, or via positive interaction with physiognomy or time (13 species higher in cut forest and 8 species higher in control forest). Cut understory sites had lower diversity (H′) and scaled dominance than understory and gap sites in control forest. Temporal changes in captures may have resulted from successional dynamics in cut forest: two guilds and three species increased in abundance. Increases in abundances of guilds and particular species were more prevalent in control than in cut forest, suggesting that logging displaced birds to control forest. In general, the effects of logging were relatively minor; low harvest rates and reduced‐impact methods may help to retain aspects of avian biodiversity in Amazon forest understories.
Changes in Serum Leptin and Beta Endorphin Levels with Weight Loss by Electroacupuncture and Diet Restriction in Obesity Treatment
Authors: Cabıoğlu Mehmet Tuğrul , Ergene Neyhan
Published: January 2006

This study aims to investigate the role of changes in leptin and beta endorphin (BE) levels in weight loss following electroacupuncture (EA) application in obesity treatment. EA was applied to 20 females who were 41.45 ± 4.71 years old and had a body mass index of 36.00 ± 2.66; and a diet program was applied to 20 females who were 42.30 ± 4.35 years old and had a body mass index of 34.90 ± 3.21. There was a 4.5% weight reduction in the patients with EA application, whereas patients on diet restriction had a 3.1% weight reduction. A decrease of loss of body weight was observed in the EA group ( p < 0.000) when compared against the diet restricted group. A decrease of serum leptin levels ( p < 0.000) and an increase in the serum BE ( p < 0.05) levels were observed in the EA group compared to the diet restricted group. In this study, reduced serum leptin levels paralleling to weight loss were observed in the EA group. Furthermore, it is thought that in the EA applied group, increasing serum BE level probably enhanced the lipolitic activity which may have caused weight loss in obese people by mobilizing energy stores. It may be considered that the EA application with diet restriction in obesity treatment is more effective than the diet restriction alone.
Effects of Chan-Chuang Qigong on Improving Symptom and Psychological Distress in Chemotherapy Patients
Authors: Lee Tsoy-Ing , Chen Hsing-Hsia , Yeh Mei-Ling
Published: January 2006

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of Chan-Chuang qigong on symptoms distress and psychological distress of breast cancer patients who underwent chemotherapy. A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Subjects were recruited from breast cancer outpatients receiving chemotherapy at an 1800-bed medical center in Taipei, Taiwan. Of these subjects, 35 were assigned to the control group and 32 to the experimental group in which Chan-Chuang qigong was administered. Assignment was not random. The instruments included a 21-item symptom distress scale and psychological distress with the symptom checklist-90-revised. Data of the symptoms and psychological distress were collected on the day before chemotherapy as baseline values, and also collected on days 8, 15 and 22 of chemotherapy. The results showed that the overall severity of symptom distress in the experimental group was significantly lower than the control group on day 22 ( p < 0.05). The symptoms with significant improvement included pain, numbness, heartburn and dizziness ( p < 0.05). With regard to psychological distress, the difference of overall severity between the two groups was not statistically significant ( p > 0.05). However, the items of "unwillingness to live" ( p < 0.05) and "hopelessness about the future" ( p < 0.05) were significantly improved in the experimental group. In conclusion, Chan-Chuang qigong had the effect of attenuating the symptom distress and probably some part of the psychological distress of chemotherapy patients.
Effect ofPolygala tenuifoliaRoot Extract on Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion
Authors: Park Jin-Hyuk , Kim Jin Sook , Jang Dae Sik , Lee Sun-Mee
Published: January 2006

In this study, the effects of Polygala tenuifolia root extract on brain ischemia/reperfusion injury in Mongolian gerbils were investigated. The gerbils were administered ethanol extract of P. tenuifolia and its four sub-fractions orally 2 hours prior to ischemia, and were subjected to a 20-minute no-flow cerebral ischemia in vivo. Thirty minutes and 72 hours after reperfusion, the brain was removed and the ATP, lactate and lipid peroxide levels were determined, and the neurons in the hippocampal CA1 subfield were examined. In the vehicle-treated ischemic gerbils, the brain ATP levels decreased significantly, but this decrease was prevented by pre-treatment with an n-butanol fraction of P. tenuifolia. In contrast, both the lactate content and lipid peroxidation levels were elevated in the vehicle-treated ischemic animals, but this elevation was inhibited by ethanol extract and n-butanol fraction of P. tenuifolia, respectively. Both the ethanol extract and n-butanol fraction of P. tenuifolia attenuated post-ischemic neuronal necrosis in the hippocampal CA1 subfield. Our findings suggest that both ethanol extract and n-butanol fraction of P. tenuifolia root can reduce brain damage during ischemia and reperfusion, and prevent lipid peroxidation and preserve the energy metabolism.
ESSENTIAL FACTORS INFLUENCING TUNNELING GIANT MAGNETORESISTANCE OF GRANULAR FILMS
Authors: WANG CHANGZHENG , RONG YONGHUA , HSU T. Y.
Published: January 2006

A series of ferromagnetic-insulator granular films were prepared at room temperature with a spc350 multi-target magnetron controlled sputtering system and all of the tunneling giant magnetoresistences were measured with the conventional four probes method. Experimental results revealed that TMR depends strongly on the magnetic granule, matrix and the size distribution of magnetic granules. Accordingly, a modified phenomenological theory is presented to investigate comprehensively the effect of the magnetic granule, matrix and the size distribution of magnetic granules on the TMR. In this theory, the size distribution of granules was described by the log-normal function and all granules can be divided into three categories which have different contributions on TMR by two critical sizes: D1(T) as the critical size distinguishing superparamagnetic granules from single domain ferromagnetic granules and D2(T) as the critical size distinguishing the single domain from the multi-domain. The calculated results, including TMR versus applied magnetic field, measured temperature, granule size or volume fraction, are in agreement with the experiments when the single domain ferromagnetic granules play a key role in TMR for granular films, which indicates that our modified model is reasonable.
SHOT NOISE FOR ELECTRON PAIRS WITH RASHBA INTERACTIONS
Authors: ZHAO HUI , ZHAO XUEAN
Published: January 2006

We study shot noise for electron pairs in a 4-lead beam-splitter with each incoming lead driven by a Rashba interaction. The Rashba phases modify the symmetry of the spin part of the wavefunction. Hence, intermediate degrees of bunching and antibunching can be induced.
TELEPORTATION OF ANY FORM OF SINGLE-MODE QUANTUM STATES
Authors: SONG TONG-QIANG
Published: January 2006

By using the two-mode Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen (EPR) pair eigenstates or the two-mode squeezed vacuum as quantum channel we study the quantum teleportation of any form of single-mode quantum states (which include discrete and continuous variable quantum states). The elegant properties of the EPR pair eigenstates bring much convenience to our discussion.
LOCALIZATION AND GLASSY DYNAMICS IN THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Authors: SUN JUN , EARL DAVID J. , DEEM MICHAEL W.
Published: January 2006

We discuss use of the generalized NK model to examine evolutionary dynamics within the immune system. We describe how randomness and diversity play key roles in the immune response and how their effects are captured by this hierarchical spin glass model. We discuss analytical aspects of the model as well as practical applications to design of the annual influenza vaccine. We discuss the subtle role that the glassy evolutionary dynamics plays in suppressing autoimmune disease.
Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index Derived From 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Ji-Guang , Dolan Eamon , Gao Ping-Jin , Guo Hui-Feng , Nawrot Tim , Stanton Alice V. , Zhu Ding-Liang , O’Brien Eoin , Staessen Jan A.
Published: January 2006

We hypothesized that 1 minus the slope of diastolic on systolic pressure during 24-hour ambulatory monitoring (ambulatory arterial stiffness index [AASI]) might reflect arterial stiffness. We compared AASI with established measures of arterial stiffness and studied its distribution in Chinese and European populations. We used 90207 SpaceLabs monitors and the SphygmoCor device to measure AASI, central and peripheral pulse pressures, the central (CAIx) and peripheral (PAIx) systolic augmentation indexes, and aortic pulse wave velocity. In 166 volunteers, the correlation coefficient between AASI and pulse wave velocity was 0.51 (
P
<0.0001). In 348 randomly recruited Chinese subjects, AASI correlated (
P
<0.0001) with CAIx (
r
=0.48), PAIx (
r
=0.50), and central pulse pressure (
r
=0.50). AASI increased with age and mean arterial pressure but decreased with body height. Both before and after adjustment for arterial wave reflections by considering height and heart rate as covariates, AASI correlated more (
P
<0.0001) closely with CAIx and PAIx than 24-hour pulse pressure. Among normotensive subjects, the 95th percentile of AASI was 0.55 in Chinese and 0.57 in 1617 Europeans enrolled in the International Database on Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring. The upper boundary of the 95% prediction interval of AASI in relation to age ranged from 0.53 at 20 years to 0.72 at 80 years. In conclusion, AASI is a new index of arterial stiffness that can be easily measured under ambulatory conditions. Pending additional validation in outcome studies, normal values of AASI are probably <0.50 and 0.70 in young and older subjects, respectively.
Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Mortality in the Dublin Outcome Study
Authors: Dolan Eamon , Thijs Lutgarde , Li Yan , Atkins Neil , McCormack Patricia , McClory Sean , O’Brien Eoin , Staessen Jan A. , Stanton Alice V.
Published: January 2006

We hypothesized that the dynamic relation between diastolic and systolic blood pressure over 24 hours provides a measure of arterial stiffness and might, therefore, predict cardiovascular mortality over and above pulse pressure. At baseline, while not on antihypertensive medication, 11 291 patients (mean age, 54.6 years; 5965 women) underwent ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Using all of the blood pressure readings, we plotted diastolic against systolic blood pressure from each individual and calculated the regression slope. The ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) was defined as 1 minus this regression slope. Over a median follow-up of 5.3 years, 566 cardiovascular deaths occurred, including 151 from stroke and 358 from cardiac disorders. Before and after adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors, AASI and pulse pressure significantly predicted total cardiovascular mortality. AASI was a stronger predictor than pulse pressure for stroke (mutually adjusted relative hazard ratios for 1 SD increase, 1.21 versus 1.04;
P
=0.02 versus 0.66) with the opposite trend for cardiac mortality (relative hazard ratios, 1.03 versus 1.21;
P
=0.63 versus 0.002). In subjects with normal daytime ambulatory blood pressure (<135/<85 mm Hg), AASI was more predictive than pulse pressure of cardiovascular mortality (1.26 versus 0.96;
P
=0.04 versus 0.70) and of stroke mortality (1.81 versus 1.12;
P
=0.007 versus 0.58), whereas neither independently predicted cardiac mortality (1.11 versus 0.89;
P
=0.47 versus 0.40). AASI is a novel measure of arterial stiffness, which can be readily determined from ambulatory blood pressure recordings and which independently predicts cardiovascular mortality, even in normotensive subjects.
Moderate Ascorbate Deficiency Increases Myogenic Tone of Arteries From Pregnant but Not Virgin Ascorbate–Dependent Rats
Authors: Ramirez Rolando J.J. , Hubel Carl A. , Novak Jacqueline , DiCianno Jennifer R. , Kagan Valerian E. , Gandley Robin E.
Published: January 2006

Plasma ascorbic acid is decreased in women with the pregnancy disorder preeclampsia. We used a mutant strain of rats (Osteogenic Disorder Shionogi), dependent on dietary sources of vitamin C, to investigate whether reduced intake of the vitamin would differentially affect vascular function in late-pregnant (day 19) and age-matched virgin rats. The animals were given either 1 mg/mL of ascorbic acid ad libitum in drinking water [fully supplemented (FS)] or 0.25 mg/mL [marginally supplemented (MS)]. Fetal weights were 21% lower in MS than FS rats, whereas mean maternal weights and pup numbers did not differ. Small mesenteric arteries (diameter, 268±7 μm) were mounted in a pressurized arteriograph. Myogenic reactivity (contractile response to step increases in intraluminal pressure) was increased in arteries from MS pregnant compared with FS pregnant rats to levels observed in virgin rats. Ascorbic acid intake did not affect myogenic responses of arteries from virgin rats. Hence, the normal pregnancy-induced reduction in myogenic reactivity was abrogated in MS pregnant animals. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase had no effect on the myogenicity of arteries from virgin or MS pregnant rats but increased myogenicity of FS pregnant rats to the level of MS pregnant rats. Free radical scavengers reversed the accentuated myogenicity of MS pregnant rats without affecting FS pregnant or virgin rat arteries. These data indicate that moderate ascorbate deprivation increases mesenteric artery myogenic responsiveness during pregnancy. This increase may result from a decrease in nitric oxide–mediated modulation of the myogenic contractile response.
Cardiac Metallothionein Induction Plays the Major Role in the Prevention of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Zinc Supplementation
Authors: Wang Jianxun , Song Ye , Elsherif Laila , Song Zhenyuan , Zhou Guihua , Prabhu Sumanth D. , Saari Jack T. , Cai Lu
Published: January 2006

Background—

Our previous studies showed that transgenic mice that overexpress cardiac-specific metallothionein (MT) are highly resistant to diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy. Zinc is the major metal that binds to MT under physiological conditions and is a potent inducer of MT. The present study therefore explored whether zinc supplementation can protect against diabetic cardiomyopathy through cardiac MT induction.

Methods and Results—

Diabetes was induced in mice (C57BL/6J strain) by a single injection of streptozotocin. Half were supplemented intraperitoneally with zinc sulfate (5 mg/kg) every other day for 3 months. After zinc supplementation, mice were maintained for 3 more months and then examined for cardiomyopathy by functional and morphological analysis. Significant increases in cardiac morphological impairment, fibrosis, and dysfunction were observed in diabetic mice but not in diabetic mice supplemented with zinc. Zinc supplementation also induced a significant increase in cardiac MT expression. The role of MT in cardiac protection by zinc supplementation was examined in cultured cardiac cells that were directly exposed to high levels of glucose (HG) and free fatty acid (FFA) (palmitate), treatment that mimics diabetic conditions. Cell survival rate was significantly decreased for cells exposed to HG/FFA but did not change for cells exposed to HG/FFA and pretreated with zinc or low-dose cadmium, each of which induces significant MT synthesis. When MT expression was silenced with the use of MT small-interfering RNA, the preventive effect of pretreatment with zinc or low-dose cadmium was abolished.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that the prevention of diabetic cardiomyopathy by zinc supplementation is predominantly mediated by an increase in cardiac MT.
Israel and the Exile of Intellectual Caliber
Authors: Yair Gad , Apeloig Noa
Published: January 2006

Jews have played a decisive role in the history of sociological theory. Paradoxically, Israeli sociologists – who came from similar Jewish social backgrounds, and shared the same intellectual traditions – have not left a mark on general sociological discourse. This study sets out to solve this paradox and explain why Israeli sociologists have had a negligible impact on the development of general sociological theories. Israeli sociologists have proved to play no significant role in the development of general sociological theory because they exhibited a specific mode of thought: (a) their theoretical questions were contextual; (b) their cognitive interest was to solve practical problems; (c) their theoretical perspective reflected national priorities; and (d) they exhibited a fragmented mode of thought.The article argues that the extreme local position of Israeli sociologists in the collective Zionist project propelled them to adopt the aforementioned intellectual features and therefore marginalized their contribution to general sociological theory.
Challenging Classes?
Authors: Archer Louise , Francis Becky
Published: January 2006

British Chinese identities remain under-theorized within sociology and the sociology of education – and yet they offer a potentially interesting angle to debates around the (re)production of privileges/inequalities given the growing phenomenon of Chinese educational ‘success’. British Chinese pupils’ educational success is especially interesting given the ‘working-class’ positionings of many Chinese families in Britain. In this article we explore the utility of Bourdieuian-influenced theories of social class as a lens through which to examine the identities, educational experiences and achievement of British Chinese pupils. In so doing, we aim to extend existing class theories through a more detailed consideration of the racialized context of class. We suggest that British Chinese families can be read as employing particular forms of family capital (cultural, social and economic), together with a diasporic discourse of ‘Chinese valuing of education’, to promote educational achievement. However, structural inequalities/injustices remain key concerns.