bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Malignant Tumors of the Heart: Four Cardiovascular Hormones Decrease the Number and DNA Synthesis of Human Angiosarcoma Cells
Authors: Vesely Brian A. , Alli Abdel , Song Shijie , Sanchez-Ramos Juan , Fitz Shannon R. , Gower Jr. William R. , Vesely David L.
Published: March 2006

Background: A family of six cardiovascular hormones – atrial natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide, C-natriuretic peptide, long acting natriuretic peptide, vessel dilator and kaliuretic peptide – was investigated for the ability to decrease the number of human angiosarcoma cells. Methods and Results: Within 24 h, vessel dilator, long acting natriuretic peptide, kaliuretic peptide, atrial natriuretic peptide and their intracellular mediator cyclic GMP decreased the number of angiosarcoma cells by 61, 30, 29, 36 and 32%, respectively, and DNA synthesis by 68–85%. Brain natriuretic peptide and C-natriuretic peptide had no effect(s). The natriuretic peptide receptor C was present. Conclusions: Four cardiovascular hormones decrease the number of angiosarcoma cells within 24 h via inhibition of DNA synthesis mediated in part by cyclic GMP.
Surgical and Medical Complications following Cochlear Implantation: Comparison of Two Surgical Approaches
Authors: Migirov Lela , Yakirevitch Arkadi , Kronenberg Jona
Published: March 2006

Our study was designed to evaluate the complication rate of cochlear implantation (CI) and to compare two different surgical approaches that are currently being used for implantations in our department. This retrospective study was conducted on the patients who underwent CI in our center between 1989 and 2003 and who were followed-up for at least 18 months. The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical technique that had been used for the implantation: the mastoidectomy with posterior tympanotomy approach and the suprameatal approach (without mastoidectomy). The incidence of complications following CI was compared between the two groups and between children and adults. Facial nerve paralysis, electrode misplacement, injury to the chorda tympani nerve and mastoiditis occurred only in the mastoidectomy with posterior tympanotomy approach group. Acute middle ear infection with or without mastoiditis emerged as the most common complication in both groups, followed by vestibular and wound problems. Disequilibrium was significantly more common among the adults than among the children (p < 0.0001). The suprameatal approach was demonstrated as being a good alternative technique to the classical surgery for CI.
Effect of Penicillin Resistance on Presentation and Outcome of Nonenterococcal Streptococcal Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Hsu Ron-Bin , Lin Fang-Yue
Published: March 2006

Background and Aims: Most cases of infective endocarditis are caused by nonenterococcal streptococci. The emergence of strains resistant to penicillin is increasingly recognized worldwide. This study sought to assess the effect of penicillin resistance on presentation and outcome of streptococcal endocarditis. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a single tertiary care hospital. Results: Between August 1996 and December 2004, patients infected with nonenterococcal streptococcal endocarditis and known minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to penicillin were included in this study. A total of 62 cases were identified: 48 (77%) cases of the streptococcal endocarditis were caused by viridans streptococci. The most common species groups identified were Streptococcus mitis in 12 (19%) cases, Streptococcus oralis in 9 (15%) cases, Streptococcus sanguis in 7 (11%) cases and Streptococcus mutans in 7 (11%) cases. There were 36 male and 26 female patients with a median age of 46 years (range: 1–85). Twenty-two patients (35%) had peripheral embolization and 10 patients (16%) died in hospital. Twenty-eight (45%) of the 62 patients were infected with streptococcal strains of MICs ≧0.125 µg/ml to penicillin. Infection with streptococcal strains of MICs ≧0.125 µg/ml to penicillin was associated with a lower incidence of all-site embolization, but was not associated with higher mortality or increased frequency of surgery. Conclusions: High-level penicillin resistance of the streptococci responsible for endocarditis was increasingly common and medical therapy with vancomycin had a good response. Penicillin resistance was associated with a decreased risk of embolization, but was not associated with higher mortality.
Topographical Patterns of Lobar Atrophy in Frontotemporal Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bocti Christian , Rockel Conrad , Roy Peter , Gao FuQiang , Black Sandra E.
Published: March 2006

Background/Aims: Fronto-temporal dementia (FTD) designates a group of relatively common neurodegenerative disorders. The aim of this study was to characterize the patterns of brain atrophy in FTD compared to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: A novel semiautomatic volumetric MRI analysis method was applied to measure regional brain volumes in FTD (n = 15; behavioural variant n = 9, language variant n = 6) in contrast with AD patients (n = 15) and age-matched controls (NC) (n = 15). FTD and AD patients were matched on demographic measures and Mini Mental State Examination scores. Results: Significant atrophy was present in the frontal and anterior temporal lobes of subjects with FTD compared to AD (p = 0.02; effect size = 1.11) and compared to NC (p < 0.001; effect size = 1.86). Severe atrophy of the left anterior temporal region distinguished the language variant. AD patients, by contrast, did not differ from NC for frontal lobe volume but had smaller anterior temporal lobes (p = 0.03). Both dementia groups had medial temporal lobe atrophy of similar magnitude. A logistic regression model including 4 regional measures correctly classified 100% of subjects. Conclusion: FTD can be reliably differentiated from AD by virtue of a topographical pattern of atrophy involving the frontal lobes and anterior temporal regions. Medial temporal lobe volumes do not distinguish FTD from AD.
Sex-Specific Regional Brain Bilirubin Content in Hyperbilirubinemic Gunn Rat Pups
Authors: Cannon Carrie , Daood Monica J. , O’Day Terrence L. , Watchko Jon F.
Published: March 2006

Background: The hyperbilirubinemic j/j Gunn rat is frequently used to study the effects of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia on the developing central nervous system (CNS). Despite evidence that the cerebellar region and males are predisposed to bilirubin-induced brain injury in this animal model, there are limited regional and no sex-specific brain bilirubin content data. Objective/Methods: To characterize and contrast the regional (cortex, brainstem, cerebellum) and sex-specific CNS bilirubin contents of hyperbilirubinemic j/j Gunn rat pups and their age-matched (15–19 days) nonjaundiced J/j counterparts. Pups were injected 24 h prior to sacrifice with sulfadimethoxine (200 mg/kg i.p.) to enhance the CNS bilirubin content. Results: The CNS bilirubin contents in each region and total serum bilirubin levels were significantly greater in jaundiced j/j pups versus nonjaundiced J/j pups. Within the sulfadimethoxine-treated male j/j cohort, the mean brain bilirubin content was highest in the cerebellum (18.9 ± 7.8 µg/g), intermediate in the brainstem (10.7 ± 8.0 µg/g), and lowest in the cortex (4.7 ± 3.0 µg/g) (F = 11.31, p < 0.001 by ANOVA), and the cerebellar bilirubin level was significantly higher than in the littermate-matched sulfadimthoxine-treated j/j female pups (p < 0.02). The serum albumin levels were not different between j/j male and j/j female pups. Conclusions: We conclude that the brain bilirubin content of hyperbilirubinemic j/j Gunn rat pups is greater than in nonjaundiced J/j pups and varies as a function of CNS region and sex. We speculate that the higher cerebellar bilirubin content may preferentially predispose male j/j Gunn rat pups to bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity.
Transgenic Glucocorticoid Receptor Expression Driven by the SP-C Promoter Reduces Neonatal Lung Cellularity and Midkine Expression in GRhypo Mice
Authors: Gagnon Stéphane , Atmodjo Wayhuni , Humes Daryl , McKerlie Colin , Kaplan Feige , Sweezey Neil B.
Published: March 2006

Background: Congenital truncation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is known to lead to lethal lung immaturity in newborn mice associated with increased lung cellularity (ratio of tissue to airspace) and, as we previously showed, prolonged expression of the retinoid-responsive growth factor midkine. Objectives: We sought to determine if these changes would be reversed by transgenic expression of GR exclusively in the distal airway epithelium. Methods: Mice were generated with expression of transgenic rat (r) GR driven by the human (h) SP-C promoter, on a background of congenital GR truncation. Results: Transgenic epithelial GR expression reduced lung cellularity and midkine expression to levels comparable to wild-type littermates. Nevertheless, the newborn transgenic mice still displayed respiratory failure. Moreover, epithelial expression of the GR transgene did not alter expression of a number of important markers of lung maturation. Conclusions: Our data demonstrating normalization of the lung tissue to airspace ratio in neonatal mice expressing transgenic GR in the distal airway epithelium is consistent with the concept that normal mesenchymal cell loss is due to GR-responsive stimulation from epithelial cells. However, we could find no evidence of altered apoptotic activity between the groups of mice. We speculate that correction of the severe neonatal lung phenotype of GR-deficient mice will require expression of normal GR in non-epithelial as well as epithelial tissues.
Physiological Response to Superantigen-Adsorbing Hemoperfusion in Toxin-Concentration-Controlled Septic Swine
Authors: Miwa Keishi , Fukuyama Mayumi , Matsuno Naoto , Shimada Kaoru , Ikeda Kazumi , Ikeda Toshiaki
Published: March 2006

Background/Aims: Superantigens are suspected of being potent initiators of gram-positive sepsis, and new therapies for superantigen elimination are required. The effects of hemoadsorption with a superantigen-adsorbing device (SAAD) were evaluated in septic swine. Methods: Toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1) was infused, and blood concentration was maintained at the clinical level for 6 h. Endotoxin was then infused to induce lethal shock. All animals were hemoperfused with SAAD or a control column for 8 h and changes in pathological parameters and mortality were examined. Results: Animals perfused with SAAD had a highly significant (p < 0.01) survival advantage compared with control groups at 24 h after initiation of the TSST-1 infusion. SAAD also suppressed the increase in the arteriovenous shunt ratio and decrease of partial arterial oxygen pressure at 6 h after TSST-1 infusion initiation. Conclusion: We suggest that there is a potential application of SAAD in treating superantigen-induced respiratory dysfunction and sepsis.
Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonism Attenuates Cardiac Hypertrophy and Failure in Low-Aldosterone Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Nagata Kohzo , Obata Koji , Xu Jinglan , Ichihara Sahoko , Noda Akiko , Kimata Hirotaka , Kato Tomoko , Izawa Hideo , Murohara Toyoaki , Yokota Mitsuhiro
Published: February 2006

Chronic elevation of plasma aldosterone contributes to heart failure. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonism is cardioprotective in such a setting, but whether such protection occurs in the presence of low-aldosterone concentrations remains unclear. We investigated whether MR blockade attenuates cardiac hypertrophy and failure in rats with salt-sensitive hypertension. Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) rats fed a high-salt diet from 7 weeks develop concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy secondary to hypertension at 12 weeks followed by heart failure at 19 weeks (DS-CHF). DS rats on such a diet were treated with a non-antihypertensive dose of the selective MR antagonist eplerenone from 12 to 19 weeks. Renin activity and aldosterone concentration in plasma were decreased in DS-CHF rats compared with controls. LV hypertrophy and fibrosis, as well as macrophage infiltration around coronary vessels, were apparent in DS-CHF rats. The amounts of mRNAs for 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, MR, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and osteopontin were increased in these hearts. Treatment of DS-CHF rats with eplerenone inhibited these changes in gene expression, as well as coronary vascular inflammation and heart failure. Eplerenone attenuated both the decrease in the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione and the increase in NADPH oxidase activity apparent in DS-CHF rat hearts. MR blockade with eplerenone thus resulted in attenuation of LV hypertrophy and failure, without an antihypertensive effect, in rats with low-aldosterone hypertension. The beneficial cardiac effects of eplerenone are likely attributable, at least in part, to attenuation of myocardial oxidative stress and coronary vascular inflammation induced by glucocorticoid-activated MRs.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers Reduce Urinary Oxidative Stress Markers in Hypertensive Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Ogawa Susumu , Mori Takefumi , Nako Kazuhiro , Kato Taro , Takeuchi Kazuhisa , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: February 2006

We tested the hypothesis that blockade of angiotensin II type 1 receptors reduces oxidative stress markers in parallel with urinary albumin and type IV collagen excretions. Sixty-six diabetic patients with nephropathy were randomly assigned to either the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB; n=33) or trichlormethiazide (n=33) group. The majority of patients had been treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or calcium channel blockers for ≥1 year before the present study. Reduction of blood pressure was not different between the 2 groups, and HbA1c levels did not change over the study period (8 weeks). Treatment with ARB (candesartan 8 mg/day, n=11 or valsartan 80 mg/day, n=22) for 8 weeks reduced the levels of plasma monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, interleukin 6, urinary 8-epi-prostaglandin F2α, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, albumin, and type IV collagen, whereas the levels of these markers were not altered with trichlormethiazide (2 mg/day). Significant correlation was observed between the reduction of the urinary 8-epi- prostaglandin F2α and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and those of the urinary albumin and type IV collagen. Subjects with large oxidative stress had large reduction rates because of ARB administration and showed large urinary albumin suppression. These results suggest that ARBs reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetic patients independent of their effects on blood pressure. In addition, increases in oxidative stress caused by angiotensin II may play an important role in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Our results may help to explain the clinical observation that ARB reduces urinary albumin excretion very efficiently in some patients but not in others.
Cytochrome P450 Epoxygenase Gene Function in Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction and Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Pokreisz Peter , Fleming Ingrid , Kiss Ladislau , Barbosa-Sicard Eduardo , Fisslthaler Beate , Falck John R. , Hammock Bruce D. , Kim In-Hae , Szelid Zsolt , Vermeersch Pieter , Gillijns Hilde , Pellens Marijke , Grimminger Friedrich , van Zonneveld Anton-Jan , Collen Desire , Busse Rudi , Janssens Stefan
Published: February 2006

We assessed pulmonary cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenase expression and activity during hypoxia and explored the effects of modulating epoxygenase activity on pulmonary hypertension. The acute hypoxic vasoconstrictor response was studied in Swiss Webster mice, who express CYP2C29 in their lungs. Animals were pretreated with vehicle, the epoxygenase inhibitor (N-methylsulfonyl-6-[2-propargyloxyphenyl] hexanamide) or an inhibitor of the soluble epoxide hydrolase. Whereas the epoxygenase inhibitor attenuated hypoxic pulmonary constriction (by 52%), the soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor enhanced the response (by 39%), indicating that CYP epoxygenase-derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acids elicit pulmonary vasoconstriction. Aerosol gene transfer of recombinant adenovirus containing the human CYP2C9 significantly elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure and total pulmonary resistance indices, both of which were sensitive to the inhibitor sulfaphenazole. The prolonged exposure of mice to hypoxia increased CYP2C29 expression, and transcript levels increased 5-fold after exposure to normobaric hypoxia (FIO
2
0.07) for 2 hours. This was followed by a 2-fold increase in protein expression and by a significant increase in epoxyeicosatrienoic acid production after 24 hours. Chronic hypoxia (7 days) elicited pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary vascular remodeling, effects that were significantly attenuated in animals continually treated with N-methylsulfonyl-6-[2-propargyloxyphenyl] hexanamide (−46% and −55%, respectively). Our results indicate that endogenously generated epoxygenase products are associated with hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in mice and that selective epoxygenase inhibition significantly reduces acute hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling. These observations indicate potential novel targets for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension and highlight a pivotal role for CYP epoxygenases in pulmonary responses to hypoxia.
The Positive Inotropic Effect of Angiotensin II
Authors: Cingolani Horacio E. , Villa-Abrille María C. , Cornelli Mariana , Nolly Alejandro , Ennis Irene L. , Garciarena Carolina , Suburo Angela M. , Torbidoni Vanesa , Correa María V. , Camiliónde Hurtado María C. , Aiello Ernesto A.
Published: February 2006

Many effects believed to be because of angiotensin II (Ang II) are attributable to the action of endothelin (ET)-1, which is released/produced by Ang II. We investigated whether Ang II elicits its positive inotropic effect (PIE) by the action of endogenous ET-1, in addition to the role played by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this mechanism. Cat cardiomyocytes were used for: (1) sarcomere shortening measurements; (2) ROS measurements by epifluorescence; (3) immunohistochemical staining for preproET-1, BigET-1, and ET-1; and (4) measurement of preproET-1 mRNA by RT-PCR. Cells were exposed to 1 nmol/L Ang II for 15 minutes. This low concentration of Ang II increases sarcomere shortening by 29.2±3.7% (
P
<0.05). This PIE was abrogated by Na
+
/H
+
exchanger or Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger reverse mode inhibition. The production of ROS increased in response to Ang II treatment (ΔROS respect to control: 68±15 fluorescence units;
P
<0.05). The Ang II–induced PIE and ROS production were blocked by the Ang II type 1 receptor blocker losartan, the nonselective ET-1 receptor blocker TAK044, the selective ET
A
receptor blocker BQ-123, or the ROS scavenger N-(2-mercapto-propionyl)glycine. Exogenous ET-1 (0.4 nmol/L) induced a similar PIE and increase in ROS production to those caused by Ang II. Immunostaining for preproET-1, BigET-1, and ET-1 was positive in cardiomyocytes. The preproET-1 mRNA abundance increased from 100±4.6% in control to 241.9±39.9% in Ang II–treated cells (
P
<0.05). We conclude that the PIE after exposure to 1 nmol/L Ang II is due to endogenous ET-1 acting through the ET
A
receptor and triggering ROS production, Na
+
/H
+
exchanger stimulation, and Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger reverse mode activation.
Genome-Wide Linkage Study of Retinal Vessel Diameters in the Beaver Dam Eye Study
Authors: Xing Chao , Klein Barbara E.K. , Klein Ronald , Jun Gyungah , Lee Kristine E. , Iyengar Sudha K.
Published: February 2006

Retinal vessels can be observed noninvasively and provide a window to microvascular systems elsewhere in the body. Generalized retinal arteriolar narrowing can represent structural changes resulting from persistent high blood pressure. However, data from recent studies also suggest that generalized retinal arteriolar narrowing might precede hypertension and contribute to its pathogenesis. To determine whether vessel diameters in the eye are genetically determined, we conducted a genome-wide linkage scan on retinal vessel diameters (central retinal artery equivalent and central retinal vein equivalent) using data from the Beaver Dam Eye Study. There were 7 regions on 5 chromosomes (3q28, 5q35, 7q21, 7q32, 11q14, 11q24, and 17q11) showing linkage signals at the nominal multipoint significance level of 0.01 for either covariate-unadjusted or -adjusted central retinal artery equivalent; there were 7 regions on 6 chromosomes (1p36, 6p25, 6q14, 8q21, 11p15, 13q34, and 14q21) showing linkage signals at the nominal multipoint significance level of 0.01 for either covariate-unadjusted or -adjusted central retinal vein equivalent. The linkage results for retinal vessel diameters indicate genetic contributions that remain significant even after adjusting for hypertension and other covariates. In summary, we provide evidence demonstrating that genetic factors independent of hypertension affect retinal vessel diameters.
Brachial Blood Pressure But Not Carotid Arterial Waveforms Predict Cardiovascular Events in Elderly Female Hypertensives
Authors: Dart Anthony M. , Gatzka Christoph D. , Kingwell Bronwyn A. , Willson Kristyn , Cameron James D. , Liang Yu-Lu , Berry Karen L. , Wing Lindon M.H. , Reid Christopher M. , Ryan Philip , Beilin Lawrence J. , Jennings Garry L.R. , Johnston Colin I. , McNeil John J. , MacDonald Graham J. , Morgan Trefor O. , West Malcolm J.
Published: February 2006

Central arterial waveforms and related indices of large artery properties can be determined with relative ease. This would make them an attractive adjunct in the risk stratification for cardiovascular disease. Although they have been associated with some classical risk factors and the presence of coronary disease, their prospective value in predicting cardiovascular outcomes is unknown. The present study determined the relative predictive value for cardiovascular disease-free survival of large artery properties as compared with noninvasive brachial blood pressure alone in a population of elderly female hypertensive subjects. We measured systemic arterial compliance, central systolic pressure, and carotid augmentation index in a subset of female participants in the Second Australian National Blood Pressure Study (untreated blood pressure 169/88±12/8 mm Hg). There were a total of 53 defined events during a median of 4.1 years of follow-up in 484 women with complete measurements. Although baseline blood pressures at the brachial artery predicted cardiovascular disease-free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 2.3; 95% CI, 1.3 to 4.1 for pulse pressure ≥81 versus <81 mm Hg;
P
=0.01), no such relation was found for carotid augmentation index (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.44 to 1.44;
P
value not significant) or systemic arterial compliance (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.72 to 2.16;
P
value not significant). Blood pressure, but not noninvasively measured central arterial waveforms, predict outcome in the older female hypertensive patient. Thus, blood pressure measurement alone is superior to measurement of arterial waveforms in predicting outcome in this group.
Mechanisms Underlying Afterload-Induced Exacerbation of Myocardial Infarct Size
Authors: Mozaffari Mahmood S. , Patel Champa , Schaffer Stephen W.
Published: February 2006

One consequence of elevated afterload pressure is the activation of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor and nonspecific cation channels with subsequent Ca
2+
accumulation via the Na
+
/H
+
-Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger combination and the T-type or L-type Ca
2+
channels. Intracellular Ca
2+
overload is cytotoxic, in part, by inducing the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore. Therefore, we tested the hypotheses that: (1) increased afterload pressure worsens myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in healthy heart, (2) the Na
+
/H
+
-Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger combination and both the T-type and L-type Ca
2+
channels are involved in the exacerbating impact of high afterload pressure on infarct size, and (3) elevated afterload enhances infarct size in part via the MPT pore. Accordingly, the effect of candesartan (angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist), cariporide (inhibitor of the Na
+
/H
+
exchanger), mibefradil (T-type Ca
2+
channel blocker), diltiazem (L-type Ca
2+
channel blocker), or cyclosporine A (inhibitor of MPT pore) were examined. The elevation in afterload pressure from 80 to 160 cmH
2
O increased baseline myocardial performance but caused larger infarcts and worsened recovery of mechanical function after ischemia reperfusion. Whereas mibefradil abrogated the effect of high afterload pressure on infarct size, the other agents reduced infarct size at both afterload pressures. Hearts exposed to mibefradil, diltiazem, or cariporide displayed greater functional recovery than those exposed to candesartan or cyclosporine A, revealing that an uncoupling exists between reduced cell death and recovery of mechanical function of the viable portions of the myocardium. The data also uncovered an important link between pressure-mediated exacerbation of infarct size and T-type Ca
2+
channel activity.
Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Remodeling After Reperfused Acute Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Parodi Guido , Carrabba Nazario , Santoro Giovanni M. , Memisha Gentian , Valenti Renato , Buonamici Piergiovanni , Dovellini Emilio V. , Antoniucci David
Published: March 2006

In the thrombolytic era, hypertension has been shown to adversely affect the development of heart failure after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We sought to examine the relation between antecedent hypertension and heart failure after mechanical reperfusion and to test the impact of postinfarction left ventricular remodeling on heart failure in hypertensive patients. A series of 953 patients (324 hypertensives) with AMI treated with successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention underwent a 5-year follow-up. A subgroup of 325 subjects underwent 2D echocardiography at admission, 1 month, and 6 months. From day 1 to 6 months, despite similar improvement in regional and global left ventricular function and similar 6-month infarct artery patency rate, left ventricular end-diastolic volume increased in the normotensives (122±36 mL to 131±47 mL;
P
<0.001) but not in the hypertensives (127±41 mL to 128±31 mL;
P
=0.768). At 6 months, the incidence of left ventricular remodeling in hypertensive and normotensive patients was not different (22% versus 28%;
P
=0.210). However, at 5 years, the incidences of hospitalization for heart failure (7% versus 3%;
P
=0.014) and of New York Heart Association functional class ≥2 (53% versus 40%;
P
<0.001) were higher in hypertensive as compared with normotensive patients. Hypertension was found to be a predictor of heart failure (hazard ratio, 2.23;
P
=0.015). In conclusion, patients with antecedent hypertension are at higher risk to develop heart failure after AMI, even when successfully reperfused by primary percutaneous coronary intervention. However, the increased incidence of heart failure in hypertensive patients is not associated with a greater propensity to postinfarction left ventricular remodeling.
Deoxycorticosterone Acetate–Salt Rats
Authors: O’Donaughy Theresa L. , Brooks Virginia L.
Published: March 2006

Using deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)–salt rats, we tested the hypothesis that increased plasma NaCl concentration supports sympathetic activity and blood pressure (BP) during salt-sensitive hypertension. One day before experimentation, femoral catheters and an electrode for measurement of lumbar sympathetic nerve activity (LSNA) probe were surgically positioned in DOCA-salt and Sham-salt rats. DOCA-salt rats exhibited increased (
P
<0.05) BP and NaCl concentration (BP, 163±8 mm Hg; NaCl, 260.8±3.3 mEq/L [DOCA-salt]: BP, 106.3±4.2 mm Hg; NaCl, 254.3±1.7 mEq/L [Sham-salt]). After V
1
vasopressin blockade (Manning compound, 5 μg IV), infusion (0.12 mL/min) of 5% dextrose in water decreased NaCl concentrations, BP (−28±7 mm Hg), and LSNA (−39±5%) in DOCA-salt but not Sham-salt rats. To explain how such small (≈2%) increases in plasma NaCl could underlie the hypertension, we hypothesized that DOCA augments the pressor and sympathoexcitatory actions of NaCl. To address this hypothesis, animals with equally elevated NaCl but no DOCA (Sham-1.7% salt) and animals with increased DOCA but normal NaCl levels (DOCA-water) were prepared and administered the infusion of 5% dextrose in water. BP and LSNA were not altered in DOCA-water rats. In the Sham-1.7% salt rats, BP fell (
P
<0.05), but not LSNA, and the responses were significantly smaller than that observed in the DOCA-salt animals. Collectively, these data suggest that increased NaCl levels contribute to sympathoexcitation and hypertension in DOCA-salt rats because of amplification of the NaCl signal by DOCA.
Hemodynamic Effects of Long-Term Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Steendijk Paul , Tulner Sven A. , Bax Jeroen J. , Oemrawsingh Pranobe V. , Bleeker Gabe B. , van Erven Lieselot , Putter Hein , Verwey Harriette F. , van der Wall Ernst E. , Schalij Martin J.
Published: March 2006

Background—

Acute hemodynamic effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) were reported previously, but detailed invasive studies showing hemodynamic consequences of long-term CRT are not available.

Methods and Results—

We studied 22 patients scheduled for implantation of a CRT device based on conventional criteria (New York Heart Association class III or IV, left ventricular [LV] ejection fraction <35%, left bundle-branch block, and QRS duration >120 ms). During diagnostic catheterization before CRT, we acquired pressure-volume loops using conductance catheters during atrial pacing at 80, 100, 120, and 140 bpm. Studies were repeated during biventricular pacing at the same heart rates after 6 months of CRT. Our data show a significant clinical benefit of CRT (New York Heart Association class change from 3.1±0.5 to 2.1±0.8; quality-of-life score change from 44±12 to 31±16; and 6-minute hall-walk distance increased from 260±149 to 396±129 m; all
P
<0.001), improved LV ejection fraction (from 29±10% to 40±13%,
P
<0.01), decreased end-diastolic pressure (from 18±8 to 13±6 mm Hg,
P
<0.05), and reverse remodeling (end-diastolic volume decreased from 257±67 to 205±54 mL,
P
<0.01). Previously reported acute improvements in LV function remained present at 6 months: dP/dt
max
increased 18%, −dP/dt
min
increased 13%, and stroke work increased 34% (all
P
<0.01). Effects of increased heart rate were improved toward more physiological responses for LV ejection fraction, cardiac output, and dP/dt
max
. Moreover, our study showed improved ventricular-arterial coupling (69% increase,
P
<0.01) and improved mechanical efficiency (44% increase,
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

Hemodynamic improvements with CRT, previously shown in acute invasive studies, are maintained chronically. In addition, ventricular-arterial coupling, mechanical efficiency, and chronotropic responses are improved after 6 months of CRT. These findings may help to explain the improved functional status and exercise tolerance in patients treated with CRT.
Glycated Proteins Stimulate Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Zhang Min , Kho Ay Lin , Anilkumar Narayana , Chibber Rakesh , Pagano Patrick J. , Shah Ajay M. , Cave Alison C.
Published: February 2006

Background—

Nonenzymatic glycation that results in the production of early-glycation Amadori-modified proteins and advanced-glycation end products may be important in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. However, the effects of early-glycated proteins, such as glycated serum albumin (Gly-BSA), are poorly defined. In this study, we investigated the effects of Gly-BSA on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by cardiomyocytes.

Methods and Results—

Cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were incubated with Gly-BSA or vehicle (bovine serum albumin [BSA]) for up to 48 hours. Gly-BSA dose-dependently increased in situ ROS production (whole-cell dichlorodihydrofluorescein fluorescence), with an optimum effect at 400 μg/mL after 24-hour incubation (152±10% versus BSA 100%;
P
<0.01). Treatment with the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin, a Nox2 (gp91phox) antisense oligonucleotide (Nox2 AS), or the peptide gp91ds-tat significantly reduced Gly-BSA–induced ROS production at 24 hours (68.5±2.2%, 61.4±8.3%, and 53.2±5.4% reduction, respectively). NADPH-dependent activity in cell homogenates was also significantly increased by Gly-BSA at 24 hours (161±8% versus BSA) and was inhibited by diphenyleneiodonium, apocynin, NOX2AS, and the protein kinase C inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide I but not by a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor or mitochondrial inhibitors. Furthermore, bisindolylmaleimide I prevented Gly-BSA–stimulated Rac1 translocation, an essential step for NADPH oxidase activation. Gly-BSA–induced increases in ROS were associated with apocynin-inhibitable nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB and an increase in atrial natriuretic factor mRNA expression.

Conclusions—

Gly-BSA stimulates cardiomyocyte ROS production through a protein kinase C–dependent activation of a Nox2-containing NADPH oxidase, which results in nuclear factor-κB activation and upregulation of atrial natriuretic factor mRNA. These findings suggest that early-glycated Amadori products may play a role in the development of diabetic heart disease.
Vascular Remodeling in the Internal Mammary Artery Graft and Association With In Situ Endothelin-1 and Receptor Expression
Authors: Sutherland Allison J. , Nataatmadja Maria I. , Walker Philip J. , Cuttle Leila , Garlick R. Bruce , West Malcolm J.
Published: February 2006

Background—

The vasoconstricting peptide endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth stimulation, and intimal thickening. ET-1 binds 2 receptor subtypes, endothelin A and B, and the ET
A
receptor mediates vasoconstriction and VSMC growth. This study aims to quantitatively assess arterial remodeling variables and compare them with changes in ET-1, ET
A
, and ET
B
expression in the internal mammary artery (IMA).

Methods and Results—

Specimens from 55 coronary artery disease (CAD) patients (45 men, 10 women; mean age 65 years) and 14 control IMA specimens (from 7 men and 7 women; mean age 45 years) were collected. IMA cross sections were assessed by histochemical and immunohistochemical staining methods to quantify the levels of medionecrosis, fibrosis, VSMC growth, ET-1, ET
A
, ET
B
, and macrophage infiltration. The percentage area of medionecrosis in the patients was almost double that in the controls (31.85±14.52% versus 17.10±9.96%,
P
=0.0006). Total and type 1 collagen was significantly increased compared with controls (65.8±18.3% versus 33.7±13.7%,
P
=0.07, and 14.2±10.0% versus 4.8±2.8%,
P
=0.01, respectively). Despite ACE and/or statin therapy, ET-1 expression and cell cycling were significantly elevated in the patient IMAs relative to the controls (46.27±18.46 versus 8.56±8.42,
P
=0.0001, and 37.29±12.88 versus 11.06±8.18,
P
=0.0001, respectively). ET
A
and ET
B
staining was elevated in the patient vessels (46.88±11.52% versus 18.58±7.65%,
P
=0.0001, and 42.98±7.08% versus 34.73±5.20%,
P
=0.0067, respectively). A mild presence of macrophages was noted in all sections.

Conclusions—

Elevated distribution of collagen indicative of fibrosis coupled with increased cell cycling and high levels of ET-1 and ET
A
expression in the absence of chronic inflammation suggests altered IMA VSMC regulation is fundamental to the remodeling process.
Elephants Who Marry Mice are Very Unusual: The Use of the Relative Pronoun Who with Nonhuman Animals
Authors: Gilquin Gaëtanelle , Jacobs George
Published: March 2006

This paper explores the use of the relative pronoun (who) with nonhuman animals. The paper looks at what dictionaries, an encyclopedia, grammars, publication manuals, newspapers, and news agencies say and do relative to this issue. In addition to investigating the views and practices of these authoritative publications, the study also searched a 100-million-word collection (corpus) of spoken and written English. The study found that while some reference works reject or ignore the use of (who) with nonhuman animals, other works discuss the possibility, and (who) does occur in the corpus with nonhuman animals. Explanations for such usage include psychological closeness with particular nonhuman animals and/or features shared with humans. The paper suggests that the use of (who) with nonhuman animals might play a role in promoting human attitudes and behaviors beneficial to fellow animals. However, it cautions that the correlation between language use, on the one hand, and attitudes and behaviors, on the other hand, is not a perfect one.
Two new species of Philautus (Anura, Ranidae, Rhacophorinae) from the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Bossuyt Franky , Biju
Published: February 2006

The oriental shrubfrog genus Philautus (Anura, Ranidae, Rhacophorinae) is a large group of direct-developing frogs that still holds several undescribed species on the Indian subcontinent. Here we describe two new species, Philautus anili sp. nov. and Philautus dubois sp. nov. from Wayanad (Kerala) and Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu), respectively. Both species were collected from the township, where they are abundant in roadside vegetation and gardens, illustrating that several of the most common Western Ghats frogs are still not scientifically described. The two species are clearly distinct from all known species, but are morphologically similar to each other. However, Philautus anili differs from P. dubois by its larger snout-to-vent length, the sharp canthus rostralis, and the tibia that is longer than the femur.
The effect of water level reduction on larval duration in the red-crowned toadlet Pseudophryne australis (Anura: Myobatrachidae): Bet-hedging or predictive plasticity?
Authors: Thumm Karen , Mahony Michael
Published: February 2006

Field observations indicate that when faced with the desiccation of their ephemeral ponds, the tadpoles of Pseudophryne australis, a semi-endotrophic myobatrachid frog, do not accelerate metamorphosis, and total reproductive losses are a frequent event. In this experiment we tested whether tadpoles were able to accelerate developmental rates when subjected to a decline in the water level. Tadpoles were divided into three treatments: water was held either at a constant level, or was removed at a slow or a fast rate. There were no significant differences in the mean length of larval duration in the three groups, and the distribution of ages at metamorphosis was asynchronous in all treatments. Metamorphosis first started at day 39 and continued in similar proportions up to day 57 in all treatments, after which a higher proportion of tadpoles from the desiccation treatments metamorphosed than in the constant deep-water group. This trend was reflected in statistically significant, but minor differences in developmental stage between treatments. These results suggest a combination of diversified bet-hedging and predictive plasticity. There was a significant positive relationship between age and weight at metamorphosis.
The karyology of Vipera aspis, V. atra, V. hugyi, and Cerastes vipera
Authors: Odierna Gaetano , Gentilli Augusto , Zuffi Marco , Aprea Gennaro
Published: February 2006

In the current paper we show the results obtained using standard and banding staining methods (Ag-NOR-, CMA3-, C-banding and sequential colorations (or Alu I digestions) + CMA3 + DAPI) in specimens of Cerastes vipera, Vipera aspis, V. atra, and V. hugyi. Cerastes vipera presented chromosomal characters, primitive in snakes, as a karyotype of 2n = 36 chromosomes, with 16 biarmed macrochromosomes and 20 microchromosomes, NORs on one microchromosome pair and absence of cytologically evident sex chromosomes, at least with the methods used. The three taxa of Vipera studied showed chromosomal characters either derived, or primitive or at an initial stage of differentiation. All three species showed a karyotype (derived) of 2n = 42 chromosomes with 22 macro- and 20 micro-chromosomes; they all showed NORs on one micro-chromosome pair and presented Z and W chromosomes at an initial stage of differentiation. Sexchromosomes Z and W, were in fact homomorphic, but the former was near all euchromatic, while the W chromosome was almost completely heterochromatic. All the three taxa of Vipera resulted, however, karyologically diversified, mainly due to the number of macro-chromosomes pairs with a centromeric, CMA3 positive heterochromatin: almost all the pairs in V. aspis, two pairs in V. atra and absent in V. hugyi.
The Daily Offering Meal in the Ritual of Amenhotep I: An Instance of the Local Adaptation of Cult Liturgy
Authors: McClain J. Brett , Cooney Kathlyn
Published: March 2006

This article reexamines a limestone ostrakon of the Ramesside period, incompletely published by its previous editors, that was originally part of the Michaelides collection and is now owned by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The ostrakon contains a small portion of a long text known as the "Ritual of Amenhotep I." The ostrakon lists a "menu" of items to be presented to Amen-Re and the deified Amenhotep I as part of the offering meal (dbh htp.w) during the daily offering ritual. This ritual meal awakens the god from a wounded state, empowering his body and thus his divine agency. Through repeated and patterned actions of offering accompanied by chanted speech imbued with symbolic meaning, the participants are given experience of hidden cosmological processes that lie beyond the boundaries of normal knowledge. The ritual meal can be described as a liminal rite of awakening and healing for the god and, by extension, for the entire community of which this god is a patron. We present this ritual performance as a case study examining how mythological narrative and state rituals can be adapted for local cult use.
Were Hittite Kings Divinely Anointed? A Palaic Invocation to the Sun-God and Its Significance for Hittite Religion
Authors: Yakubovich Ilya
Published: March 2006

The aim of this paper is to improve our understanding of a difficult Palaic invocation to the Sun-god, and to elucidate its implications for the study of Hittite religion. The first part of my account contains linguistic and philological discussion that concludes with a new translation of the scrutinized fragment. According to my interpretation, the Sun-god is requested to anoint the Hittite king and to exalt him. This is the only clear evidence that the gods were thought to be personally responsible for the anointment of Hittite kings. A counterpart to this nontrivial concept is well known from the Hebrew Bible and is inherited by the Christian tradition.The second part of this paper, which is meant to be accessible to all the historians of religion, discusses the anointment as a rite of passage among the Hittites, as well as the relevant parallels in other Ancient Near Eastern cultures. I am arguing that anointment with oil was extended to both Hittite priestly kings and certain other categories of Hittite priests, and that the underlying purpose of this act was ritual cleansing. The spread of this rite to those cultures where kings were not at the head of the religious hierarchy boosted the secondary association of divine anointment with empowerment rather that purification.
Low-Level Jets over the Mid-Atlantic States: Warm-Season Climatology and a Case Study
Authors: Zhang Da-Lin , Zhang Shunli , Weaver Scott J.
Published: March 2006

Although considerable research has been conducted to study the characteristics of the low-level jets (LLJs) over the Great Plains states, little is known about the development of LLJs over the Mid-Atlantic states. In this study, the Mid-Atlantic LLJ and its associated characteristics during the warm seasons of 2001 and 2002 are documented with both the wind profiler data and the daily real-time model forecast products. A case study with three model sensitivity simulations is performed to gain insight into the three-dimensional structures and evolution of an LLJ and the mechanisms by which it developed. It is found that the Mid-Atlantic LLJ, ranging from 8 to 23 m s−1, appeared at an average altitude of 670 m and on 15–25 days of each month. About 90% of the 160 observed LLJ events occurred between 0000 and 0600 LST, and about 60% had southerly to westerly directions. Statistically, the real-time forecasts capture most of the LLJ events with nearly the right timing, intensity, and altitude, although individual forecasts may not correspond to those observed. For a selected southwesterly LLJ case, both the observations and the control simulation exhibit a pronounced diurnal cycle of horizontal winds in the lowest 1.5 km. The simulation shows that the Appalachian Mountains tend to produce a sloping mixed layer with northeasterly thermal winds during the daytime and reversed thermal winds after midnight. With additional thermal contrast effects associated with the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the daytime low-level winds vary significantly from the east coast to the mountainous regions. The LLJ after midnight tends to be peaked preferentially around 77.5°W near the middle portion of the sloping terrain, and it decreases eastward as a result of the opposite thermal gradient across the coastline from the mountain-generated thermal gradient. Although the Mid-Atlantic LLJ is much weaker and less extensive than that over the Great Plains states, it has a width of 300–400 km (to its half-peak value) and a length scale of more than 1500 km, following closely the orientation of the Appalachians. Sensitivity simulations show that eliminating the surface heat fluxes produces the most significant impact on the development of the LLJ, then topography and the land–sea contrast, with its area-averaged intensity reduced from 12 m s−1 to about 6, 9, and 10 m s−1, respectively.
Intraurban Differences of Surface Energy Fluxes in a Central European City
Authors: Offerle B. , Grimmond C. S. B. , Fortuniak K. , Pawlak W.
Published: March 2006

Surface properties, such as roughness and vegetation, which vary both within and between urban areas, play a dominant role in determining surface–atmosphere energy exchanges. The turbulent heat flux partitioning is examined within a single urban area through measurements at four locations in Łódź, Poland, during August 2002. The dominant surface cover (land use) at the sites was grass (airport), 1–3-story detached houses with trees (residential), large 2–4-story buildings (industrial), and 3–6-story buildings (downtown). However, vegetation, buildings, and other “impervious” surface coverage vary within some of these sites on the scale of the turbulent flux measurements. Vegetation and building cover for Łódź were determined from remotely sensed data and an existing database. A source-area model was then used to develop a lookup table to estimate surface cover fractions more accurately for individual measurements. Bowen ratios show an inverse relation with increasing vegetation cover both for a site and, more significant, between sites, as expected. Latent heat fluxes at the residential site were less dependent on short-term rainfall than at the grass site. Sensible heat fluxes were positively correlated with impervious surface cover and building intensity. These results are consistent with previous findings (focused mainly on differences between cities) and highlight the value of simple measures of land cover as predictors of spatial variations of urban climates both within and between urban areas.