bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic Analysis of Proteins Differentially Expressed in Preeclamptic Trophoblasts
Authors: Sun Li-zhou , Yang Na-na , De Wei , Xiao Yun-shan
Published: December 2006

Aims: To identify differential trophoblastic proteins associated with preeclampsia (PE) by proteomic analysis. Methods: We isolated and purified placental trophoblasts from normotensive pregnant women and patients with PE by a continuous Percoll gradient. The expression of proteins was determined by sliver staining after two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE). Proteins of interest were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Results: The overall trophoblastic protein expression patterns in preeclamptic and corresponding normotensive placentas were quite similar except for some areas. Of 34 differentially expressed protein spots (p < 0.05 by paired t-test), seven differential proteins from nine spots were identified by MALDI-TOF-MS. The expression of the following proteins was repressed (p < 0.01): disulfide isomerase ER-60, peroxiredoxin 2, and Δ3,5-Δ2,4-dienoyl-CoA isomerase. Four proteins (protein disulfide isomerase precursor, endoplasmic reticulum resident protein, dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase and TIM21-like protein) were found to be significantly upregulated in PE (p < 0.01). Conclusion: We identified several proteins with significant altered expression in PE using 2D-PAGE. This method is a powerful technique with which to search for not only quantitative but also qualitative changes in a biological process of interest.
In Vivo Actions of Angiopoietins on Quiescent and Remodeling Blood and Lymphatic Vessels in Mouse Airways and Skin
Authors: Eun Kim Kyung , Cho Chung-Hyun , Kim Hak-Zoo , Baluk Peter , McDonald Donald M. , Young Koh Gou
Published: December 2006

Objective—

We investigated and compared the in vivo effects of all four angiopoietins (COMP-Ang1, Ang2, Ang3, and Ang4) on blood and lymphatic vascular remodeling in adult mice. We analyzed the microvasculature of trachea and ear skin, and compared quiescent skin microvasculature with that during wound healing.

Methods and Results—

We were able to achieve similar levels of relatively long-term and sustained circulating expression of each angiopoietin using an adenoviral delivery system. Two weeks after treatment, we observed tracheal blood and lymphatic vascular enlargement, and lymphatic filopodia formation, with the following order of potency: COMP-Ang1>Ang3=Ang4>Ang2. Co-treatment with Ang2 attenuated Ang1-induced tracheal blood and lymphatic remodeling. In the normal ear skin, all angiopoietins induced blood vessel enlargement, whereas none induced lymphatic vascular remodeling. However, in the healing margin of ear skin wounds, all angiopoietins strongly induced lymphatic vascular enlargement and formation of lymphatic sprouts and filopodia, while they potentiated blood vascular enlargement. Co-treatment of Ang2 with Ang1 produced an additive effect on these changes.

Conclusion—

This study, one of the first to our knowledge to characterize the in vivo actions of all 4 angiopoietins, may expand the current concepts for use of angiopoietins for therapeutic angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
Phagocytic NADPH Oxidase-Dependent Superoxide Production Stimulates Matrix Metalloproteinase-9
Authors: Zalba Guillermo , Fortuño Ana , Orbe Josune , San José Gorka , Moreno María U. , Belzunce Miriam , Rodríguez José Antonio , Beloqui Oscar , Páramo José Antonio , Díez Javier
Published: December 2006

Objective—

Data suggest that matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) has a role in atherosclerosis. The phagocytic NADPH oxidase has been also associated with atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the association between phagocytic NADPH oxidase and MMP-9 in human atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

In vitro experiments performed in human monocytes showed that NADPH oxidase activation enhanced MMP-9 secretion and activity, determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and zymography, respectively. Immunohistochemical study showed that phagocytic NADPH oxidase localized with MMP-9 in endarterectomies from patients with carotid stenosis. In addition, a positive relationship (
P
<0.001) was found between phagocytic NADPH oxidase-dependent superoxide production determined with lucigenin and plasma MMP-9 levels in 188 asymptomatic subjects free of overt clinical atherosclerosis. In multivariate analysis, this association remained significant after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. Interestingly, subjects in the upper quartile of superoxide production exhibited the highest values of MMP-9, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, nitrotyrosine, carotid intima media thickness, and an increased presence of carotid plaques.

Conclusions—

Enhanced NADPH oxidase-dependent ·O
2
−
production stimulates MMP-9 in monocytes and this relationship may be relevant in the atherosclerotic process. Moreover, MMP-9 emerges as an important mediator of the phagocytic NADPH oxidase-dependent oxidative stress in atherosclerosis.
Genomics of Foam Cells and Nonfoamy Macrophages From Rabbits Identifies Arginase-I as a Differential Regulator of Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Thomas Anita C. , Sala-Newby Graciela B. , Ismail Yasmin , Johnson Jason L. , Pasterkamp Gerard , Newby Andrew C.
Published: December 2006

Objective—Conversion of macrophages to foam cells is a critical step in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. We sought to identify genes differentially regulated in foam cells, since these are likely to include new targets for intervention.

Methods and Results—We used suppression subtraction hybridization to compare foam cells and nonfoamy macrophages isolated from subcutaneous granulomas of rabbits fed a cholesterol-rich or normal chow diet and confirmed upregulation of 3 genes, including matrix metalloproteinase-12 (mRNA 2.0-fold,P<0.005; protein 3.9-fold,P<0.03). Arginase-I mRNA showed the biggest decrease among 11 downregulated genes in foam cells (2.7-fold,P<0.001) and was accompanied by significantly reduced arginase enzymatic activity (60-fold,P<0.01). Arginase-I competes for substrate L-arginine with nitric oxide synthase and consequently nitric oxide production was significantly increased (3-fold,P<0.02) in foam cells compared with nonfoamy macrophages despite no difference in nitric oxide synthase isoenzyme expression. We validated upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-12 and downregulation of arginase-1 in foam cells of rabbit and human atherosclerotic plaques.

Conclusions—Our study identified several differentially expressed genes in foam cells and nonfoamy macrophages derived from live rabbits. The altered pattern of gene expression in foam cells is likely to influence atherosclerosis formation and stability.
Is Diabetic Retinopathy an Independent Risk Factor For Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Cheung Ning , Rogers Sophie , Couper David J. , Klein Ronald , Sharrett A. Richey , Wong Tien Y.
Published: December 2006

Background and Purpose—

The relationship between diabetic retinopathy and ischemic stroke is uncertain and examined in this study.

Methods—

A population-based, prospective cohort study of 1617 middle-aged persons with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy signs were ascertained from retinal photographs, and incident ischemic stroke events were prospectively identified and validated.

Results—

Over an average follow-up of 7.8 years, there were 75 ischemic stroke events. After adjustment for age, gender, race, center, 6-year mean arterial blood pressure, anti-hypertensive treatment use, fasting glucose, insulin treatment, duration of diabetes, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and cigarette smoking status, diabetic retinopathy was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke (hazard rate ratio, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.13 to 4.86).

Conclusions—

Diabetic retinopathy predicts incident ischemic stroke in people with diabetes, independent of other risk factors.
Neurological Symptoms in Type A Aortic Dissections
Authors: Gaul Charly , Dietrich Wenke , Friedrich Ivar , Sirch Joachim , Erbguth Frank J.
Published: December 2006

Background and Purpose—

Aortic dissection typically presents with severe chest or back pain. Neurological symptoms may occur because of occlusion of supplying vessels or general hypotension. Especially in pain-free dissections diagnosis can be difficult and delayed. The purpose of this study is to analyze the association between type A aortic dissection and neurological symptoms.

Methods—

Clinical records of 102 consecutive patients with aortic dissection (63% male, median age 58 years) over 7.5 years were analyzed for medical history, preoperative clinical characteristics, treatment and outcome with main emphasis on neurological symptoms.

Results—

Thirty patients showed initial neurological symptoms (29%). Only two-thirds of them reported chest pain, and most patients without initial neurological symptoms experienced pain (94%). Neurological symptoms were attributable to ischemic stroke (16%), spinal cord ischemia (1%), ischemic neuropathy (11%), and hypoxic encephalopathy (2%). Other frequent symptoms were syncopes (6%) and seizures (3%). In half of the patients, neurological symptoms were transient. Postoperatively, neurological symptoms were found in 48% of all patients encompassing ischemic stroke (14%), spinal cord ischemia (4%), ischemic neuropathy (3%), hypoxic encephalopathy (8%), nerve compression (7%), and postoperative delirium (15%). Overall mortality was 23% and did not significantly differ between patients with and without initial neurological symptoms or complications.

Conclusion—

Aortic dissections might be missed in patients with neurological symptoms but without pain. Neurological findings in elderly hypertensive patients with asymmetrical pulses or cardiac murmur suggest dissection. Especially in patients considered for thrombolytic therapy in acute stroke further diagnostics is essential. Neurological symptoms are not necessarily associated with increased mortality.
Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases in People With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Buse John B. , Ginsberg Henry N. , Bakris George L. , Clark Nathaniel G. , Costa Fernando , Eckel Robert , Fonseca Vivian , Gerstein Hertzel C. , Grundy Scott , Nesto Richard W. , Pignone Michael P. , Plutzky Jorge , Porte Daniel , Redberg Rita , Stitzel Kimberly F. , Stone Neil J.
Published: December 2006

The American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) have each published guidelines for cardiovascular disease prevention: The ADA has issued separate recommendations for each of the cardiovascular risk factors in patients with diabetes, and the AHA has shaped primary and secondary guidelines that extend to patients with diabetes. This statement will attempt to harmonize the recommendations of both organizations where possible but will recognize areas in which AHA and ADA recommendations differ.
Prediction and Diagnosis of Tropical Cyclone Formation in an NWP System. Part I: The Critical Role of Vortex Enhancement in Deep Convection
Authors: Tory K. J. , Montgomery M. T. , Davidson N. E.
Published: December 2006

This is the first of a three-part investigation into tropical cyclone (TC) genesis in the Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s Tropical Cyclone Limited Area Prediction System (TC-LAPS), an operational numerical weather prediction (NWP) forecast model. The primary TC-LAPS vortex enhancement mechanism is presented in Part I, the entire genesis process is illustrated in Part II using a single TC-LAPS simulation, and in Part III a number of simulations are presented exploring the sensitivity and variability of genesis forecasts in TC-LAPS.

The primary vortex enhancement mechanism in TC-LAPS is found to be convergence/stretching and vertical advection of absolute vorticity in deep intense updrafts, which result in deep vortex cores of 60–100 km in diameter (the minimum resolvable scale is limited by the 0.15° horizontal grid spacing). On the basis of the results presented, it is hypothesized that updrafts of this scale adequately represent mean vertical motions in real TC genesis convective regions, and perhaps that explicitly resolving the individual convective processes may not be necessary for qualitative TC genesis forecasts. Although observations of sufficient spatial and temporal resolution do not currently exist to support or refute this proposition, relatively large-scale (30 km and greater), lower- to midlevel tropospheric convergent regions have been observed in tropical oceanic environments during the Global Atmospheric Research Programme (GARP) Atlantic Tropical Experiment (GATE), the Equatorial Mesoscale Experiment (EMEX), and the Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment (TOGA COARE), and regions of extreme convection of the order of 50 km are often (remotely) observed in TC genesis environments. These vortex cores are fundamental for genesis in TC-LAPS. They interact to form larger cores, and provide net heating that drives the system-scale secondary circulation, which enhances vorticity on the system scale akin to the classical Eliassen problem of a balanced vortex driven by heat sources. These secondary vortex enhancement mechanisms are documented in Part II.

In some recent TC genesis theories featured in the literature, vortex enhancement in deep convective regions of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) has largely been ignored. Instead, they focus on the stratiform regions. While it is recognized that vortex enhancement through midlevel convergence into the stratiform precipitation deck can greatly enhance midtropospheric cyclonic vorticity, it is suggested here that this mechanism only increases the potential for genesis, whereas vortex enhancement through low- to midlevel convergence into deep convective regions is necessary for genesis.
Lower-Stratospheric and Upper-Tropospheric Disturbances Observed by Radiosondes over Thailand during January 2000
Authors: Ogino Shin-Ya , Sato Kaoru , Yamanaka Manabu D. , Watanabe Akira
Published: December 2006

Lower-stratospheric and upper-tropospheric disturbances over Thailand during 12–21 January 2000 were studied using the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) Asian Monsoon Experiment-Tropics (GAME-T) intensive rawinsonde observations with fine temporal sampling intervals of 3 h. Analysis was focused on the wind disturbances with a period shorter than about 10 days. Frequency spectra showed three distinct peaks: a 1-day period above a height of 20 km, a near-inertial period around 19 and 27 km, and periods of 2.5–9 days (or longer) in the height range of 12–17 km.

The wave with a 1-day period was interpreted as a diurnal tide. A comparison with the migrating tide in the global-scale wave model showed that the observational results had larger amplitude and shorter vertical wavelength than the model. The difference between the observation and the model may be caused by the superposition of the nonmigrating tide.

The wave with the near-inertial period was interpreted as an internal inertial gravity wave. A hodograph analysis was performed in order to investigate the wave properties. It was found that the wave, which appeared at a height around 19 km (just above the tropopause level), propagated southwestward with a ground-based group velocity of about 1.4 m s−1.

The longer period disturbances, which appeared at heights of 12–17 km, had layered structures with the vertical scales of 2–4 km. They were considered to be due to inertial instability, based on the fact that the potential vorticity of the background atmosphere was nearly zero and that their phase structures were consistent with theory. It was shown by a backward trajectory analysis that the air parcel with negative potential vorticity had its origin in equatorial Indonesia. It was also shown by a forward trajectory analysis that the air parcel was transported to the Pacific south of Japan. This is consistent with the existence of similar layered disturbances that are shown using rawinsonde data at a station there.
Accelerated Iterative Method for Solving Steady Problems of Linearized Atmospheric Models
Authors: Watanabe Masahiro , Jin Fei-fei , Pan Lin
Published: December 2006

A new approach, referred to as the accelerated iterative method (AIM), is developed for obtaining steady atmospheric responses with a zonally varying basic state. The linear dynamical operator is divided into two parts, one associated with the zonally symmetric component and the other with the asymmetric component of the basic state. To ensure an accelerated convergence of the iteration to the true solution, the two parts of the operator are modified by adding and subtracting an identical “accelerating” operator. AIM is shown to be an efficient scheme well suited for computing the higher-resolution, steady atmospheric response of barotropic and more so of baroclinic numerical models linearized about a zonally varying basic state.

A preliminary application of AIM to the T42 baroclinic model linearized about the observed winter (December–February) climatology is presented. A series of steady responses forced by the diabatic heating and transient eddy forcing, both estimated from reanalysis data for individual winters during 1960–2002, captures a certain part of the observed interannual variability associated with dominant teleconnection patterns, such as the North Atlantic Oscillation and the Pacific–North American pattern.

Thus, AIM should be a useful tool for the diagnostic studies of the low-frequency variability of the atmosphere.
Opposing Effects of Reflective and Nonreflective Planetary Wave Breaking on the NAO
Authors: Abatzoglou John T. , Magnusdottir Gudrun
Published: December 2006

Planetary wave breaking (PWB) over the subtropical North Atlantic is observed over 45 winters (December 1958–March 2003) using NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data. PWB is manifested in the rapid, large-scale and irreversible overturning of potential vorticity (PV) contours on isentropic surfaces in the subtropical upper troposphere. As breaking occurs over the subtropical North Atlantic, an upper-tropospheric PV tripole anomaly forms with nodes over the subtropical, midlatitude, and subpolar North Atlantic. The northern two nodes of this tripole are quite similar to the spatial structure of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), with positive polarity.

Nonlinear reflection is identified in approximately a quarter of all PWB events. Following breaking, two distinct circulation regimes arise, one in response to reflective events and the other in response to nonreflective events. For reflective events, anomalies over the North Atlantic rapidly propagate away from the breaking region along a poleward arching wave train over the Eurasian continent. The quasi-stationary wave activity flux indicates that wave activity is exported out of the Atlantic basin. At the same time, the regional poleward eddy momentum flux goes through a sign reversal, as does the polarity of the NAO. For nonreflective events, the dipole anomaly over the North Atlantic amplifies. Diagnostics for nonreflective events suggest that wave activity over the Azores gets absorbed, allowing continued enhancement of both the regional poleward eddy momentum flux and the positive NAO.
Racism and Psychological and Emotional Injury
Authors: Carter Robert T.
Published: December 2006

The purpose of this article is to discuss the psychological and emotional effects of racism on people of Color. Psychological models and research on racism, discrimination, stress, and trauma will be integrated to promote a model to be used to understand, recognize, and assess race-based traumatic stress to aid counseling and psychological assessment, research, and training.
Continuing Injuries of Racism
Authors: Thompson-Miller Ruth , Feagin Joe R.
Published: December 2006

In this reaction article, the authors support and extend Robert T. Carter’s excellent analysis of the impact of racism today on Americans of color. Drawing on their own data, they suggest important extensions of his arguments in regard to the cumulative and long-term effects of racial discrimination and other racial oppression—as well as in regard to the ways in which both the accumulating pain of, and the developed coping strategies for, racial discrimination are passed across several generations of those racially oppressed. The authors argue that a major reality underlying individual coping with racial discrimination is a huge energy loss for individuals, families, and communities. In conclusion, they strongly urge that all educators dealing with the training of clinicians first consider and counter the old and mostly White-generated racist framing of society that is imbedded to some degree in most of the minds of those who seek to join the counseling professions.
A Forensic and Ethics-Based View of Carter’s “Racism and Psychological and Emotional Injury”
Authors: Griffith Ezra E. H.
Published: December 2006

The psychological effect that racism has on individuals is of significant interest to mental health professionals. But it is of particular interest to those professionals who treat the clinical dimensions of the trauma to those who are involved in the assessment of the trauma for forensic purposes. Robert T. Carter provides a systematic, disciplined, science-based review of the evidence bearing on this subject in his article in this issue. He also adds to his review and synthesis some novel and creative recommendations that will have considerable impact on the field. This commentary focuses on certain aspects of Carter’s work from an ethics-based and forensic dimension. I also suggest slight modifications of his contributions in an attempt to make them more user-friendly for the forensic specialist.
Internalized Racism
Authors: Speight Suzette L.
Published: December 2006

In this issue, Robert T. Carter has made an important contribution to the literature in clinical psychologists’ understanding of the psychological injury caused by experiences of racism. However, Carter’s focus on specific encounters with racism might be narrow and limited. The author of this reaction contends that racial incidents (i.e., discrimination, racial harassment, and discriminatory harassment) represent only one of the ways that racism injures its victims. The internalization of racism might be even more damaging. Accordingly, she herein examines the concept of internalized racism as one more piece of the puzzle necessary for elucidating psychological injury that is due to racism.
Clarification and Purpose of the Race-Based Traumatic Stress Injury Model
Authors: Carter Robert T.
Published: December 2006

The author responds to the four reactions authored by Thompson-Miller and Feagin, Griffin, Speight, and Bryant-Davis in this issue. In responding, he clarifies the purpose of the model presented in his major contribution and adds information about the model's legal and forensic applications that he did not touch on with any detail. He also discusses the purpose of the use of “injury” to describe the harm of racism, the intersection of psychology and law, and how legal definitions are not useful in the effort to understand the mental health effects of racism. He further points out that both objective and subjective stressors are harmful since, where racism is concerned, there seems to be a tendency to discount subjective experience. Lastly, the author acknowledges points made by the reaction authors that extend and expand the model of race-based traumatic stress injury he presented.
Healing Requires Recognition
Authors: Bryant-Davis Thema
Published: December 2006

Race-based traumatic stress has been studied in the literature under various names including but not limited to insidious trauma, intergenerational trauma, racist incident-based trauma, psychological trauma, and racism. This article reviews and analyzes R. T. Carter’s article in this issue. The author underscores and reacts to the trauma of racism as discussed in Carter’s article, and also highlights efforts that should be directed to racist incident-based trauma counseling. Counselors have to be trained to effectively conduct assessment and interventions with clients who have been victimized by race-based traumas. In addition, counselors should be aware that intersecting identities can result in multiple traumas or forms of oppression, such as 1 client experiencing racism, sexism, poverty, and heterosexism. While it is important to study the dynamics of race-based traumatic stress within the United States, as Carter comprehensively does, it is also essential for counselors to examine and respond to race-based traumatic stress internationally.
Results of Arthroscopic Fixation of Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesion of the Knee with Cylindrical Autogenous Osteochondral Plugs
Authors: Miura Kazutomo , Ishibashi Yasuyuki , Tsuda Eiichi , Sato Hideki , Toh Satoshi
Published: December 2006

Background

In situ fixation of unstable lesions of osteochondral dissecans of the knees with cylindrical osteochondral autograft transplantation has been reported to provide excellent results with healing of the osteochondral dissecans fragment.

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical results and magnetic resonance imaging findings of the osteochondral dissecans of knees treated with in situ fixation of the osteochondral fragments with osteochondral autograft transplantation.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Twelve knees (12 patients; mean age, 16.0 years) with osteochondral dissecans lesions were treated with in situ fixation with autogenous osteochondral plugs. The mean lesion size was 2.4 cm2 (range, 1.0-4.9 cm2). The osteochondral dissecans lesions were located on the medial femoral condyle in 10 patients and on the lateral femoral condyle in 2 patients. Seven lesions were located in the weightbearing area. The International Cartilage Repair Society classification in arthroscopic findings was grade II in 1 patient, grade III in 8 patients, and grade IV in 3 patients. All patients were evaluated with the Hughston Rating Scale form with the mean follow-up at 4.5 years (range, 2.8-5.9 years). The interface between the osteochondral fragment and subchondral bone and changes in donor site of the osteochondral graft were evaluated with T2-weighted magnetic resonance image up to 12 months postoperatively.

Results

The Hughston Rating Scale scored 8 knees as excellent, 3 as good, and 1 as fair. The interface between the osteochondral fragment and subchondral bone had disappeared on magnetic resonance image by 3 months postoperatively in all cases. No complications arising from the donor site area were observed. Signal intensity of donor site changed from high signal preoperatively to homogeneous surrounding cancellous bone by 1 year postoperatively.

Conclusion

Biological fixation of the osteochondral dissecans lesion with cylindrical osteochondral autograft provided healing of the osteochondral fragments.
Relationship of Chronic Ankle Instability to Muscle Activation Patterns during the Transition from Double-Leg to Single-Leg Stance
Authors: Van Deun Sara , Staes Filip F. , Stappaerts Karel H. , Janssens Luc , Levin Oron , Peers Koen K.H.
Published: December 2006

Background

Impaired muscle activation may predispose subjects to develop chronic ankle instability. It has been suggested that impairments are found not only in structures around the injured ankle but also around the more proximal joint complexes.

Hypothesis

Subjects with chronic ankle instability were expected to show later onset times for lower limb and trunk muscle activation when compared with control subjects. They were expected to show less variability in muscle activation patterns compared with the control group.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Thirty control subjects and 10 subjects with chronic ankle instability participated in the study. The onset of muscle activity of 14 muscles of the lower limb and trunk was measured during the transition from a double-leg stance position to a single-leg stance position in eyes-open and eyes-closed test conditions.

Results

Subjects with chronic ankle instability showed significantly later onset times for the ankle, hip, and hamstring muscles compared with control subjects. They used a similar muscle activation pattern in both test conditions, whereas control subjects adjusted their activation pattern according to the condition.

Conclusions

Differences in muscle activation patterns between subjects with chronic ankle instability and control subjects occur not only around the ankle but also around other joints. Subjects with chronic ankle instability show less variability in muscle activation patterns between test conditions.

Clinical Relevance

Knowledge of muscle activation patterns in the whole lower limb and trunk in noninjured subjects and the differences found in chronic ankle instability subjects broadens the physical therapy approach to the treatment of chronic ankle instability.
Biomechanical Evaluation of 4 Techniques of Distal Biceps Brachii Tendon Repair
Authors: Mazzocca Augustus D. , Burton Kevin J. , Romeo Anthony A. , Santangelo Stephen , Adams Douglas A. , Arciero Robert A.
Published: December 2006

Background

Recent technical improvements have led the way to a resurgence of the single-incision approach for repair of distal biceps tendon injuries. There has been no biomechanical evaluation of all these techniques with comparison to the standard 2-incision bone tunnel technique.

Hypothesis

There will be no difference under cyclic loading and ultimate failure between the 2-incision bone tunnel technique, suture anchor repair, interference screw, and EndoButton techniques for the repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Sixty-three fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups (bone tunnel, EndoButton, suture anchor, interference screw). Cyclic loading was then performed from 0° to 90° at 0.5 Hz for 3600 cycles with a 50-N load. A differential variable reductance transducer was placed between the radius and distal tendon to determine displacement. The construct was then pulled to failure at 120 mm/min.

Results

A multiple analysis of variance revealed no statistically significant difference for displacement among the 4 repair techniques. Displacement using the bone tunnel was 3.55 mm, EndoButton was 3.42 mm, suture anchor was 2.33 mm, and interference screw was 2.15 mm. There was a statistically significant greater load to failure with EndoButton (440 N) than suture anchor (381 N), bone tunnel (310 N), or interference screw (232 N) (P < .001).

Conclusion

The EndoButton technique had the highest load to failure.

Clinical Relevance

These data demonstrate the EndoButton to be the strongest repair technique, with no failures during cycling at physiologic loads and with the largest load to failure. These findings are important in maximizing surgical results and stability and suggest that the construct can tolerate early postoperative active range of motion.
Eccentric Training and an Achilles Wrap Reduce Achilles Tendon Capillary Blood Flow and Capillary Venous Filling Pressures and Increase Tendon Oxygen Saturation in Insertional and Midportion Tendinopathy
Authors: Knobloch Karsten , Schreibmueller Louisa , Kraemer Robert , Jagodzinski Michael , Richter Martinus , Zeichen Johannes , Vogt Peter M.
Published: December 2006

Background

Eccentric training has been demonstrated to decrease pain in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. Whether an Achilles wrap in addition to eccentric training changes parameters of tendon microcirculation in insertional and midportion tendinopathy is not known.

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

One hundred twelve subjects were recruited. A laser Doppler system assessed capillary blood flow, tissue oxygen saturation, and postcapillary venous filling pressure. Group A performed daily eccentric training for 12 weeks with additional daily Achilles wrap (AirHeel™, 54 tendons of 54 patients), while group B performed the same eccentric training only (64 tendons of 59 patients).

Results

Ninety-one patients (81%) completed the 12-week training period. Tendon oxygen saturation increased significantly in group A at the insertion (70% ± 11% to 75% ± 7%, P = .001) and distal midportion (68% ± 12% to 73% ± 9%, P = .006); this increase was greater than that in group B (69% ± 11% vs 68% ± 15%, P = .041 vs A). Postcapillary venous filling pressures were significantly reduced in group A at 5 of 8 positions at 2 and 8 mm tendon depths (up to 26%, P = .003), while only in 3 of 8 positions in group B (up to 20%, P = .001). Pain on the visual analog scale was 5.1 ± 2.1 vs 3.2 ± 2.7 (A,–37.3%, P = .0001) and 5.5 ± 2.1 vs 3.6 ± 2.4 (B, P = .0001,–34.6%) (P = .486 for A vs B).

Conclusion

Tendon oxygen saturation was increased, and capillary venous clearance facilitated using an Achilles wrap in addition to a daily 12-week eccentric training program. Achilles wrap and eccentric training increased subjective assessment of Achilles tendinopathy, while pain level reduction remained the same in both groups.
Thermal models and clay diagenesis in the Tertiary-Cretaceous sediments of the Alava block (Basque-Cantabrian basin, Spain)
Authors: Arostegui J. , Sangüesa F. J. , Nieto F. , Uriarte J. A.
Published: December 2006

Diagenesis in the Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments of the Alava Block (Basque- Cantabrian basin) has been studied using the clay mineralogy (X-ray diffraction) of cuttings from three representative wells of a N—S cross-section. More than 5500 m of various lithologies (marls, mudstones and sandstones) have been drilled in the northern part of the domain, and 2100 m in the southern zone. The illitization of smectite and the disappearance of kaolinite, due to diagenesis, are the most characteristic features in the northern well. Evolution of smectite to illite has been differentiated into four zones, from top to bottom of the series, each showing specific I-S interstratified clay assemblages. The disappearance of smectite and the distribution of kaolinite in the other two wells are explained based on source-area considerations. Burial and thermal history have been reconstructed, revealing a northward increase in thermal flow until the Oligocene (Alpine orogeny paroxysm). In the northern well, the thermal model suggests temperatures of 160 and 270°C for the disappearance of smectite (R0) and illite-smectite (I-S) mixed-layer R1 clay minerals, respectively. The disappearance of kaolinite is related to a temperature of 230°C, a temperature never attained in the other two wells. Retardation of these processes, in relation to temperature values in the literature, is a consequence of the poor reactivity of marly lithologies, due to the low availability of cations. In this regard, the scarcity of reactants (K-bearing phases) and the absence of pathways (low permeability) for their access and circulation imply that illitization could have taken place in a closed system, by diffusion, on a very small scale, i.e. that of the original smectite grains.
A new kaolinite order index based on XRD profile fitting
Authors: Aparicio P. , Galán E. , Ferrell R. E.
Published: December 2006

The determination of kaolinite order-disorder by X-ray diffraction is problematic due to overlapping peaks from associated kaolin minerals and X-ray amorphous phases. This paper presents a new index (Aparicio-Gala´n-Ferrell index — AGFI), measured on 02land 11lreflections after decomposing individual peaks in the complex diffraction band in an effort to reduce interferences. The new index was tested with three kaolins, of varying structural order, and their admixtures containing different percentages of quartz, feldspar, illite, smectite, chlorite, halloysite and Fe hydroxides and silica gels. The AGFI is highly correlated with the percentage of low-defect kaolinite and the Hinckley Index. It is not as prone to interference by associated minerals and X-ray amorphous phases as other indices. The AGFI can be used to determine kaolinite order-disorder in a wide variety of kaolins and kaolinitic rocks; the only prerequisite is that the kaolinite content should be >10 wt.% in order for the results to be reproducible.
Elemental behaviour during the process of corrosion of sekishu glazed roof-tiles affected by Lecidea s.lat. sp. (crustose lichen)
Authors: Watanabe K. , Ohfuji H. , Ando J. , Kitagawa R.
Published: December 2006

Elemental behaviour, during the process of weathering of glazed sekishu roof-tiles affected by Lecidea s.lat. sp. (a crustose lichen), was investigated using optical and fluorescence microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy. Sekishu roof tiles have an opaque reddish brown glaze on their surfaces which consist of an alkali feldspar-type X-ray amorphous glass recrystallized at 1200°C. Optical and fluorescence microscopy revealed the presence of corrosion pits (at a depth of ∼50 μm) at the lichen-glaze interface. Elemental mapping by FE-SEM identified the concentrations of Ti and Fe in the section of the glazed tile analysed. The behaviour of C was correlated with those elements, suggesting the possibility of biomineralization.
Prediction of cation exchange capacity from soil index properties
Authors: Yukselen Y. , Kaya A.
Published: December 2006

In many areas of geotechnical engineering it is necessary to have an estimate of the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of a soil in order to allow preliminary design estimates. Standard methods of CEC determination are time-consuming and involve several steps (e.g. displacement of the saturating cation requires several washings with alcohol). Therefore, a rapid method of CEC estimation would be very useful. During preliminary site investigations, the soil engineering parameters can be estimated from the considerable number of correlations available in the literature. In this study, relationships between CEC and various other soil engineering properties have been investigated, resulting in a quick method for estimating CEC.

Simple correlations were developed between CEC and specific surface area (SSA), soil organic matter (OM), clay fraction (CF), activity (A), Atterberg limits (liquid (LL), plastic (PL), and shrinkage (SL)), and modified free swell index (MFSI) of the soils. Strong correlations are observed between the CEC values and those for ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (EGME) uptake and methylene blue (MB) titration. However, no significant correlation was found between CEC and N2_SSA. No unique relationship was seen between CEC and CF (r2<0.5). No relationship was observed between CEC and OM in this study. The best correlation coefficient between the CEC and Atterberg limits exists between CEC and LL (r2= 0.61). No significant relationship was seen between CEC and PL or SL. The correlation coefficient between CEC and MFSI was 0.65. Multiple linear regression analyses were developed to investigate the contributions of different soil parameters to CEC. These analyses show that EGME_SSA, in combination with LL, accounted for 91% of the variation in CEC. Correlations between CEC and EGME_SSA, MB_SSA and LL appear to be sufficiently good to enable an indication of CEC to be estimated from these parameters.
Stratigraphic variations in mudstone mineral assemblages from a submarine fan-complex: Karoo Basin, South Africa
Authors: Andersson P. O. D. , Worden R. H.
Published: December 2006

Despite the high-grade diagenesis experienced by the Skoorsteenberg Formation mudstones, Tanqua Karoo basin, South Africa, geochemical data have been interpreted to reveal primary mineralogy and so help understand provenance evolution. The geochemical signatures show systematic variations related to stratigraphy. The main changes in mudstones from the lower to the upper part of the section include: (1) an increase in the feldspar content of the primary sediment and a decrease in the content of Al-rich clay (probably dioctahedral smectite); (2) a decrease in the degree of chemical weathering of the sediment, representing a change to a dryer and/or cooler climate; (3) an increase in TiO2/Al2O3 representing increasing mafic sources; (4) an increase in CaO/(K2O+CaO) also possibly representing increasing mafic sources. Mass flux and differential diagenesis are unlikely to be responsible for the depth-related changes since the rocks have undergone the same degree of high-grade diagenesis and the mudstones are interrupted by other lithologies, so disturbing any sort of diffusion gradient. These variations could plausibly be the result of one or more of differential weathering, evolving provenance characteristics or variable hydrodynamic fractionation of the sediment. The ratio of Zr/Y, a possible indicator of hydrodynamic fractionation, increases only slightly and irregularly up-section. There is no relationship between the silica content, representative of the quartz-silt content of the sediment, and TiO2/Al2O3 showing that the amount of quartz, and so the degree of hydrodynamic fractionation, has not controlled mudstone geochemistry. The stratigraphic increase in feldspar content, the decrease in Al-rich clay content and increase of both TiO2/Al2O3 and CaO/(K2O+CaO) must be due to a combination of marginally evolving provenance characteristics (more mafic and felsic rocks exposed to weathering with time) and changes in the degree of rock weathering (less chemical weathering with time).
The effects of electrolyte concentration, ion species and pH on the zeta potential and electrokinetic charge density of montmorillonite
Authors: Saka E. E. , Güler C.
Published: December 2006

In this study, the influence of pH, electrolyte concentration and type of ionic species (such as LiCl, NaCl, KCl, RbCl, CsCl, CaCl2, AlCl3) on the electrokinetic properties (zeta potential and electrokinetic charge density) of montmorillonite has been quantified. The zeta potential of montmorillonite particles did not change significantly with change in pH. The valencies of the ions have proven to have a great influence on the electrokinetic behaviour of the suspension. There is a gradual decrease in the zeta potential (from —24 mV to —12 mV) with increase in monovalent electrolyte concentration (from 10-4 M to 10-1 M). At any monovalent electrolyte concentration, the magnitude of the zeta potential increased with the electrolytes in the order Li+ > Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+. The zeta potential of the montmorillonite minerals in CaCl2 solutions illustrated the same behaviour as the monovalent cations. Less negative values were obtained for the CaCl2 electrolyte (∼–10 mV) due to the greater valence of the ions. A sign reversal was observed at an AlCl3 concentration of 5 x 10-4 M, and, at greater concentrations, zeta potential values had a positive sign (∼20 mV).

The electrokinetic charge density of montmorillonite showed similar trends of variation in mono and divalent electrolyte solutions. Up to concentrations of ∼10-3 M, it remained practically constant at ∼0.5 x 10-3Cm-2, while for greater electrolyte concentrations the negative charge produced more negative values (–16 x 10-3Cm-2). The electrokinetic charge density of montmorillonite particles was constant at low AlCl3 concentrations, but at certain concentrations it increased rapidly and changed sign to positive.
Summary of recommendations of nomenclature committees relevant to clay mineralogy: report of the Association Internationale pour l'Etude des Argiles (AIPEA) Nomenclature Committee for 2006
Authors: Guggenheim S. , Adams J. M. , Bain D. C. , Bergaya F. , Brigatti M. F. , Drits V. A. , Formoso M. L. L. , Galán E. , Kogure T. , Stanjek H.
Published: December 2006

Brindleyet al.(1951) reported the earliest efforts to obtain international collaboration on nomenclature and classification of clay minerals, initiated at the International Soil Congress in Amsterdam in 1950. Since then, national clay groups were formed, and they proposed various changes in nomenclature at group meetings of the International Clay Conferences. Most of the national clay groups have representation on the Nomenclature Committee of the Association Internationale pour l'Etude des Argiles (AIPEA, International Association for the Study of Clays), which was established in 1966. The precursor committee to the AIPEA Nomenclature Committee was the Nomenclature Subcommittee of the Comité International pour l'Etude des Argiles (OPEA, International Committee for the Study of Clays).
Stimulation of P2 receptors causes release of IL-1β–loaded microvesicles from human dendritic cells
Authors: Pizzirani Cinzia , Ferrari Davide , Chiozzi Paola , Adinolfi Elena , Sandonà Dorianna , Savaglio Erika , Di Virgilio Francesco
Published: December 2006

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells that initiate the immune response by activating T lymphocytes. DCs express plasma membrane receptors for extracellular nucleotides named P2 receptors (P2Rs). Stimulation of P2Rs in these cells is known to cause chemotaxis, cytokine release, and cell death and to modulate LPS-dependent differentiation. Here we show that stimulation of the P2X7 receptor subtype (P2X7R) causes fast microvesicle shedding from DC plasma membrane. Vesicle release occurs from both immature and mature DCs; however, only vesicles from mature DCs, due to their previous exposure to LPS, contain IL-1β. Microvesicles, whether from immature or mature DCs, also contain caspase-1 and -3 and cathepsin D. They also express the P2X7R in addition to other P2Rs and known markers of immune cells such as major histocompatibility complex II (MHC II) and CD39. Activation of the P2X7R by extracellular ATP causes IL-1β release from the vesicle lumen. Previous studies demonstrated that high extracellular K+ inhibits IL-1β processing and release; here we show that high ionic strength reduces microvesicle shedding when compared with a low ionic strength medium but strongly increases microvesicle IL-1β loading.
Abcb7, the gene responsible for X-linked sideroblastic anemia with ataxia, is essential for hematopoiesis
Authors: Pondarre Corinne , Campagna Dean R. , Antiochos Brendan , Sikorski Lindsay , Mulhern Howard , Fleming Mark D.
Published: December 2006

X-linked sideroblastic anemia with ataxia (XLSA/A) is a rare syndromic form of inherited sideroblastic anemia associated with spinocerebellar ataxia, and is due to mutations in the mitochondrial ATP-binding cassette transporter Abcb7. Here, we show that Abcb7 is essential for hematopoiesis and formally demonstrate that XLSA/A is due to partial loss of function mutations in Abcb7 that directly or indirectly inhibit heme biosynthesis.