bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trans-Pacific migrations of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) demonstrated with mitochondrial DNA markers.
Authors: Bowen B W , Abreu-Grobois F A , Balazs G H , Kamezaki N , Limpus C J , Ferl R J
Published: May 2006

Juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) have recently been documented in the vicinity of Baja California and thousands of these animals have been captured in oceanic fisheries of the North Pacific. The presence of loggerhead turtles in the central and eastern North Pacific is a prominent enigma in marine turtle distribution because the nearest documented nesting concentrations for this species are in Australia and Japan, over 10,000 km from Baja California. To determine the origin of the Baja California feeding aggregate and North Pacific fishery mortalities, samples from nesting areas and pelagic feeding aggregates were compared with genetic markers derived from mtDNA control region sequences. Overall, 57 of 60 pelagic samples (95%) match haplotypes seen only in Japanese nesting areas, implicating Japan as the primary source of turtles in the North Pacific Current and around Baja California. Australian nesting colonies may contribute the remaining 5% of these pelagic feeding aggregates. Juvenile loggerhead turtles apparently traverse the entire Pacific Ocean, approximately one-third of the planet, in the course of developmental migrations, but mortality in high-seas fisheries raises concern over the future of this migratory population.
The Wsh and Ph mutations affect the c-kit expression profile: c-kit misexpression in embryogenesis impairs melanogenesis in Wsh and Ph mutant mice.
Authors: Duttlinger R , Manova K , Berrozpe G , Chu T Y , DeLeon V , Timokhina I , Chaganti R S , Zelenetz A D , Bachvarova R F , Besmer P
Published: May 2006

The receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) c-kit and platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha chain (PDG-FRa) are encoded at the white spotting (W) and patch (Ph) loci on mouse chromosome 5. While W mutations affect melanogenesis, gametogenesis, and hematopoiesis, the Ph mutation affects melanogenesis and causes early lethality in homozygotes. W-sash (Wsh) is an expression mutation and blocks c-kit expression in certain cell types and enhances c-kit expression in others, including at sites important for early melanogenesis. We have determined the effect of Ph on c-kit expression during embryogenesis in Ph heterozygotes. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed enhanced c-kit expression in several cell types, including sites important for early melanogenesis. We propose that in both Wsh and Ph mutant mice c-kit misexpression affects early melanogenesis and is responsible for the pigment deficiency. Moreover, we have defined the organization of the RTKs in the W/Ph region on chromosome 5 and characterized the Wsh mutation by using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Whereas the order of the RTK genes was determined as Pdgfra-c-kit-flk1, analysis of the Wsh mutation revealed that the c-kit and Pdgfra genes are unlinked in Wsh, presumably because of an inversion of a small segment of chromosome 5. The Ph mutation consists of a deletion including Pdgfra and the 3' deletion endpoint of Ph lies between Pdgfra and c-kit. Therefore, positive 5' upstream elements controlling c-kit expression in mast cells and some other cell types are affected by the Wsh mutation and negative elements are affected by both the Wsh and the Ph mutation.
Oxygen as a key developmental regulator of Rhizobium meliloti N2-fixation gene expression within the alfalfa root nodule.
Authors: Soupène E , Foussard M , Boistard P , Truchet G , Batut J
Published: May 2006

The symbiotic pattern of expression of Rhizobium meliloti N2-fixation genes is tightly coupled with the histological organization of the alfalfa root nodule and thus is under developmental control. N2-fixation gene expression is induced very sharply at a particular zone of the nodule called interzone II-III that precedes the zone where N2 fixation takes place. We show here that this coupling can be disrupted, hereby resulting in ectopic expression of N2-fixation genes in the prefixing zone II of the nodule. Uncoupling was obtained either by using a R. meliloti strain in which a mutation rendered N2-fixation gene expression constitutive with respect to oxygen in free-living bacterial cultures or by placing nodules induced by a wild-type R. meliloti strain in a microoxic environment. These results implicate oxygen as a key determinant of the symbiotic pattern of N2-fixation gene expression.
Potent interleukin 3 receptor agonist with selectively enhanced hematopoietic activity relative to recombinant human interleukin 3.
Authors: Thomas J W , Baum C M , Hood W F , Klein B , Monahan J B , Paik K , Staten N , Abrams M , McKearn J P
Published: May 2006

A systematic evaluation of structure-activity information led to the construction of genetically engineered interleukin 3 (IL-3) receptor agonists (synthokines) with enhanced hematopoietic potency. SC-55494, the most extensively characterized member of this series, exhibits 10- to 20-fold greater biological activity than recombinant human IL-3 (rhIL-3) in human hematopoietic cell proliferation and marrow colony-forming-unit assays. In contrast, SC-55494 is only twice as active as rhIL-3 in priming the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as leukotriene C4 and triggering the release of histamine from peripheral blood leukocytes. The enhanced hematopoietic activity of SC-55494 correlates with a 60-fold increase in IL-3 alpha-subunit binding affinity and a 20-fold greater affinity for binding to alpha/beta receptor complexes on intact cells relative to rhIL-3. SC-55494 demonstrates a 5- to 10-fold enhanced hematopoietic response relative to its ability to activate the priming and release of inflammatory mediators. Therefore, SC-55494 may ameliorate the myeloablation of cancer therapeutic regimens while minimizing dose-limiting inflammatory side effects.
Scrambling of the actin I gene in two Oxytricha species.
Authors: DuBois M , Prescott D M
Published: May 2006

The DNA in a germ-line nucleus (a micronucleus) undergoes extensive processing when it develops into a somatic nucleus (a macronucleus) after cell mating in hypotrichous ciliates. Processing includes destruction of a large amount of spacer DNA between genes and excision of gene-sized molecules from chromosomes. Before processing, micronuclear genes are interrupted by numerous noncoding segments called internal eliminated sequences (IESs). The IESs are excised and destroyed, and the retained macro-nuclear-destined sequences (MDSs) are spliced. MDSs in some micronuclear genes are not in proper order and must be reordered during processing to create functional gene-sized molecules for the macronucleus. Here we report that the micronuclear actin I gene in Oxytricha trifallax WR consists of 10 MDSs and 9 IESs compared to the previously reported 9 MDSs and 8 IESs in the micronuclear actin I gene of Oxytricha nova. The MDSs in the actin I gene are scrambled in a similar pattern in the two species, but the positions of MDS-IES junctions are shifted by up to 14 bp for scrambled and 138 bp for the nonscrambled MDSs. The shifts in MDS-IES junctions create differences in the repeat sequences that are believed to guide MDS splicing. Also, the sizes and sequences of IESs in the micronuclear actin I genes are different in the two Oxytricha species. These observations give insight about the possible origins of IES insertion and MDS scrambling in evolution and show the extraordinary malleability of the germ-line DNA in hypotrichs.
Polyadenylylation destabilizes the rpsO mRNA of Escherichia coli.
Authors: Hajnsdorf E , Braun F , Haugel-Nielsen J , Régnier P
Published: May 2006

The rpsO mRNA, encoding ribosomal protein S15, is only partly stabilized when the three ribonucleases implicated in its degradation--RNase E, polynucleotide phosphorylase, and RNase II--are inactivated. In the strain deficient for RNase E and 3'-to-5' exoribonucleases, degradation of this mRNA is correlated with the appearance of posttranscriptionally elongated molecules. We report that these elongated mRNAs harbor poly(A) tails, most of which are fused downstream of the 3'-terminal hairpin at the site where transcription terminates. Poly(A) tails are shorter in strains containing 3'-to-5' exoribonucleases. Inactivation of poly(A) polymerase I (pcnB) prevents polyadenylylation and stabilizes the rpsO mRNA if RNase E is inactive. In contrast polyadenylylation does not significantly modify the stability of rpsO mRNA undergoing RNase E-mediated degradation.
Cyclin-dependent protein kinase and cyclin homologs SSN3 and SSN8 contribute to transcriptional control in yeast.
Authors: Kuchin S , Yeghiayan P , Carlson M
Published: May 2006

The SSN3 and SSN8 genes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were identified by mutations that suppress a defect in SNF1, a protein kinase required for release from glucose repression. Mutations in SSN3 and SSN8 also act synergistically with a mutation of the MIG1 repressor protein to relieve glucose repression. We have cloned the SSN3 and SSN8 genes. SSN3 encodes a cyclin-dependent protein kinase (cdk) homolog and is identical to UME5. SSN8 encodes a cyclin homolog 35% identical to human cyclin C. SSN3 and SSN8 fusion proteins interact in the two-hybrid system and coimmunoprecipitate from yeast cell extracts. Using an immune complex assay, we detected protein kinase activity that depends on both SSN3 and SSN8. Thus, the two SSN proteins are likely to function as a cdk-cyclin pair. Genetic analysis indicates that the SSN3-SSN8 complex contributes to transcriptional repression of diversely regulated genes and also affects induction of the GAL1 promoter.
Maintenance of protective immunity against malaria by persistent hepatic parasites derived from irradiated sporozoites.
Authors: Scheller L F , Azad A F
Published: May 2006

Immunization of rodents and humans with irradiation-attenuated malaria sporozoites confers preerythrocytic stage-specific protective immunity to challenge infection. This immunity is directed against intrahepatic parasites and involves T cells and interferon gamma, which prevent development of exoerythrocytic stages and subsequent blood infection. The present study was undertaken to determine how protective immunity is achieved after immunization of rodent hosts with irradiated Plasmodium berghei sporozoites. We present evidence that irradiated parasites persist in hepatocytes of rats and mice for up to 6 months after immunization. A relationship between the persistence of parasites and the maintenance of protective immunity was observed. Protective immunity was abrogated in irradiated-sporozoite-immunized rats following the application of chemotherapy to remove preexisting liver parasites. Additionally, protective immunity against sporozoite challenge was established in rats vaccinated with early and late hepatic stages of irradiated parasites. These results show that irradiation-attenuated sporozoites produce persistent intrahepatic stages in vivo necessary for the induction and maintenance of protective immunity.
Stenotrophomonas dokdonensis sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kang So-Jung , Oh Hyun Woo , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: May 2006

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped,Stenotrophomonas-like bacterial strain, DS-16T, was isolated from soil from Dokdo, Korea, and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. Strain DS-16Tgrew optimally at pH 6.0–7.0 and 30 °C in the presence of 0.5 % (w/v) NaCl. It contained Q-8 as the predominant ubiquinone and iso-C16 : 0, iso-C15 : 0and iso-C17 : 1ω9cas the major fatty acids. The DNA G+C content was 65.1 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain DS-16Tjoined the cluster comprisingStenotrophomonasspecies. The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between strain DS-16Tand the type strains ofStenotrophomonasspecies ranged from 95.5 to 97.5 %. DNA–DNA relatedness data and differential phenotypic properties, together with the phylogenetic distinctiveness of strain DS-16T, demonstrated that this novel strain differs fromStenotrophomonasspecies with validly published names. On the basis of phenotypic, phylogenetic and genetic data, strain DS-16T(=KCTC 12543T=CIP 108839T) should be classified in the genusStenotrophomonasas a member of a novel species, for which the nameStenotrophomonas dokdonensissp. nov. is proposed.
Thalassomonas agarivorans sp. nov., a marine agarolytic bacterium isolated from shallow coastal water of An-Ping Harbour, Taiwan, and emended description of the genus Thalassomonas
Authors: Jean Wen Dar , Shieh Wung Yang , Liu Tung Yen
Published: May 2006

A marine agarolytic bacterium, designated strain TMA1T, was isolated from a seawater sample collected in a shallow-water region of An-Ping Harbour, Taiwan. It was non-fermentative and Gram-negative. Cells grown in broth cultures were straight or curved rods, non-motile and non-flagellated. The isolate required NaCl for growth and exhibited optimal growth at 25 °C and 3 % NaCl. It grew aerobically and was incapable of anaerobic growth by fermenting glucose or other carbohydrates. Predominant cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0(17.5 %), C17 : 1ω8c(12.8 %), C17 : 0(11.1 %), C15 : 0iso 2-OH/C16 : 1ω7c(8.6 %) and C13 : 0(7.3 %). The DNA G+C content was 41.0 mol%. Phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic data accumulated in this study revealed that the isolate could be classified in a novel species of the genusThalassomonasin the familyColwelliaceae. The nameThalassomonas agarivoranssp. nov. is proposed for the novel species, with TMA1T(=BCRC 17492T=JCM 13379T) as the type strain.
Dermacoccus abyssi sp. nov., a piezotolerant actinomycete isolated from the Mariana Trench
Authors: Pathom-aree Wasu , Nogi Yuichi , Sutcliffe Iain C. , Ward Alan C. , Horikoshi Koki , Bull Alan T. , Goodfellow Michael
Published: May 2006

The taxonomic status of an actinobacterial strain isolated from Mariana Trench sediment was determined using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. The strain, isolate MT1.1T, formed a distinct clade in theMicrococcineae16S rRNA gene tree together withDermacoccus nishinomiyaensisDSM 20448T. The organism had chemical and phenotypic properties consistent with its classification in the genusDermacoccusand could be distinguished fromD. nishinomiyaensisDSM 20448Tusing DNA–DNA relatedness and phenotypic data. The G+C content of the DNA of isolate MT1.1Twas 65.2 mol%. It is evident that the organism merits recognition as a novel species in the genusDermacoccus. The name proposed for this taxon isDermacoccus abyssisp. nov.; the type strain is MT1.1T(=DSM 17573T=NCIMB 14084T). The organism grows well at 40 MPa and hence is piezotolerant.
PROPER SELECTION OF COLONOSCOPE ACCORDING TO GENDER, AGE AND BMI OF THE PATIENT
Authors: Matsushima Masashi , Suzuki Takayoshi , Tokiwa Kayoko , Teraoka Hiromichi , Ushiyama Atsushi , Saitoh Tetsuro , Watanabe Ken‐ichi , Sakamoto Ichiko , Kobayashi Kenji , Watabe Reiko , Shirai Takayuki , Mine Tetsuya
Published: May 2006

Background and Aim:  Various types of colonoscope are available for total colonoscopy, including those with variable stiffness (VS) and/or magnetic endoscope imaging (MEI). Factors related to the patient, such as gender, age and body mass index (BMI), also affect the degree of technical difficulty associated with the procedure. The present study investigated, using retrospective analyses, which type of colonoscope was appropriate, in relation to gender, age and BMI, in order to overcome procedural difficulties.

Methods:  Three types of colonoscope (CF‐240I, fixed stiffness type; CF‐240AI, VS type; CF‐240DI, VS type with MEI) were used for a total of 433 consecutive patients who underwent total colonoscopy by five experienced endoscopists at Tokai University Hospital from August 2001 to August 2003. Cases with a history of abdominal surgery, requests by physicians for a particular type of colonoscope, or sedation during the procedure were excluded. Age, gender, body height and weight, and cecal intubation time (primary endpoint) were recorded.

Results:  Use of the VS scope resulted in a shorter intubation time in the subgroups of female, younger (age < 40 years) or older (age ≥  60 years), and thin (BMI < 20 kg/m2) patients when compared with a conventional scope. There was no significant difference between results obtained with VS and VS + MEI in any subgroup.

Conclusion:  The VS type of colonoscope seems to be the best choice for an easier procedure in particular patient subgroups. In the present study, no advantage was demonstrated for VS + MEI over VS alone.
LESIONS WITH A HIGH RISK OF CARCINOGENESIS IN THE GALLBLADDER OF PATIENTS WITH A LONG COMMON CHANNEL
Authors: Kamisawa Terumi , Kuwata Go , Yui Chen Pong , Tu Yuyang , Fujiwara Takashi , Endoh Junko , Arakawa Takeo , Koizumi Kouichi , Nakajima Hitoshi , Egawa Naoto
Published: May 2006

Background:  Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM) is characterized by a markedly long common channel. In this condition, the sphincter of Oddi does not functionally affect the junction of the pancreatic and bile ducts. Reflux of pancreatic juice into the biliary duct of patients with PBM occurs, resulting in a high incidence of carcinogenesis in the gallbladder. Hence, the gallbladder mucosa of PBM appears to be in a precancerous state. However, the relationship between a relatively long common channel and precancerous lesions of the gallbladder is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate histopathological changes in the gallbladder of patients with a relatively long common channel.

Methods:  High confluence of pancreaticobiliary ducts (HCPBD) was defined as presence of a common channel ≥ 6 mm in which communication between the pancreatic and bile ducts was disrupted with sphincter contraction. We histopathologically examined the resected or autopsied gallbladder specimens from patients with HCPBD (n = 20), PBM without biliary dilatation (n = 15) and controls (n = 10); focusing on mucosal height and hyperplastic change. Proliferation activity was also examined with Ki‐67 immunostaining.

Results:  The gallbladder mucosa was significantly higher in PBM and HCPBD than in controls. Hyperplastic mucosal changes were detected more frequently in PBM (73.3%, P < 0.01 vs controls) and in HCPBD (45.0%, P < 0.05 vs controls). Ki‐67 labeling index of the gallbladder epithelium was significantly higher in both PBM and HCPBD than in controls (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  In HCPBD, the gallbladder mucosa displayed hyperplastic changes with increased cellular kinetics and appeared precancerous, with a similar appearance to that in PBM.
SAFETY MEASURES AND CURRENT PREFERENCES FOR SEDATION DURING COLONOSCOPY: HOW TO ENSURE REPEAT CUSTOMERS IN THE AGING SOCIETY
Authors: Imatake Kazuhiro , Matsui Teruaki , Arakawa Yasuyuki
Published: May 2006

Background:  It is important to establish an endoscopy protocol that maximizes safety and comfort (ensuring repeat customers) by analyzing the current procedure for sedation during colonoscopy at our institution.

Methods:  The effectiveness of sedation for colonoscopy was compared in patients younger than 65 years relative to patients 65 years or older. Oxyhemoglobin saturation levels (O2 sat), the type and amount of sedative drugs and the frequency of complications were also compared between groups exhibiting cardiovascular disease versus healthy controls. Among patients recommended for a 1‐year follow up due to positive findings such as a colon polyp, we compared the revisit rate between patients who were sedated during the first procedure versus those who received no sedation.

Results:  There were no complications associated with the use of sedative drugs, with flunitrazepam given to 95.9% of patients. Among patients who received sedation, the 1‐year revisit rate was 68.1%, whereas the revisit rate was only 31.9% for patients who were not sedated. Although there was no difference in O2 sat between young and old groups, O2 sat was significantly lower in old patients with cardiovascular disease relative to healthy old patients.

Conclusion:  To ensure repeat customers for colonoscopy, we therefore suggest that sedation is used to manage patient discomfort, but that elderly patients with cardiovascular disease are monitored carefully throughout the procedure.
Sperm characteristics in perch Perca fluviatilis L.
Authors: Wirtz S. , Steinmann P.
Published: May 2006

Sperm densities in perch Perca fluviatilis males showed a positive correlation with the amount of stripped milt. Sperm flagellum length did not correlate with body mass, but a significant correlation between flagellum length and the total number of sperm produced was found.
Comparison of the spectral sensitivity of three species of juvenile salmonids
Authors: Hasegawa E. I.
Published: May 2006

The spectral sensitivity of chum Oncorhynchus keta, pink Oncorhynchus gorbuscha and masu Oncorhynchus masou masou salmon was measured by the optomotor reaction index in monochromatic light of 400, 440, 480, 520, 560, 600 and 620 nm using an interference filter. The reaction rate of chum salmon was highest at 520 nm but the rates of pink and masu salmon were highest at 560 nm. In addition, a high reaction rate at 400 nm was also observed in masu salmon, suggesting that masu salmon are sensitive to ultraviolet light.
High serum levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐8 in severe asthma: markers of systemic inflammation?
Authors: Silvestri M. , Bontempelli M. , Giacomelli M. , Malerba M. , Rossi G. A. , Di Stefano A. , Rossi A. , Ricciardolo F. L. M.
Published: May 2006

Background
Severe asthma is characterized by elevated levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and neutrophilic inflammation in the airways. Blood cytokines, markers of ‘systemic’ inflammation, may be a feature of amplified inflammation in severe asthma.

Objective
To detect differences in IL‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐16 and IL‐13 levels in the serum(s) of stable severe and mild–moderate asthmatics related to blood leucocytes proportion, airway calibre and exhaled nitric oxide (NO) levels.

Methods
We assessed cytokine serum levels by ELISA and blood leucocyte counts by an alkaline peroxidase method in 20 healthy controls, 22 mild–moderate [forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)(%pred): 89±3] and 14 severe asthmatics [FEV1(%pred): 49±2].

Results
IL‐8 and TNF‐α levels were higher in severe asthmatics than in mild–moderate asthmatics or in controls (P<0.05). No differences in IL‐16 and IL‐13 levels were detected. Severe asthmatics showed higher circulating neutrophil and eosinophil number than controls (P<0.05). In severe asthmatics, exhaled NO levels were superior than in controls (P<0.05), but inferior than in mild–moderate asthmatics (P<0.05). We found positive correlation between TNF‐α levels and exhaled NO (r=0.67; P=0.01) or circulating neutrophil counts (r=0.57; P=0.03) in severe asthmatics.

Conclusion
sTNF‐α and sIL‐8 are markers of ‘systemic’ inflammation in severe asthmatics, in conjunction with augmented circulating neutrophils, suggesting the involvement of neutrophil‐derived cytokine pattern in severe asthma.
The effect of a synergistic concentration of a Piper nigrum extract used in conjunction with pyrethrum upon gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Jensen H. R. , Scott I. M. , Sims S. R. , Trudeau V. L. , Arnason J. T.
Published: May 2006

An ethyl acetate extract of Piper nigrum L. (Piperaceae) peppercorns was tested as a synergist for the botanical insecticide pyrethrum. A high synergist ratio of 11.6 against Drosophila melanogaster was obtained for the combination of pyrethrum supplemented with P. nigrum. The effect of this combination was investigated using cDNA microarray analysis of gene expression profiles in D. melanogaster. Treatment of D. melanogaster with pyrethrum alone resulted in a large number of differentially expressed genes, principally associated with stress responses. Seven genes were identified as being commonly expressed in D. melanogaster treated with at least two of the following treatments: P. nigrum, pyrethrum or P. nigrum plus pyrethrum. These are likely implicated in Drosophila defence responses to toxins.
A systematic review of multivitamin and multimineral supplementation for infection
Authors: Stephen A. I. , Avenell A.
Published: May 2006

Background  Infections are major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Micronutrients have important functions in the body's immune system. This systematic review examined the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on whether multivitamin and multimineral supplementation is effective in reducing infection.

Methods  Electronic databases searched: Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, EMBASE, MEDLINE, BIOSIS, CAB abstracts. Hand searching of nutrition journals and reference lists was carried out. RCTs and quasi‐randomized trials of supplementation of adults with at least two vitamins or minerals or a combination were selected. Study results were combined in meta‐analysis plots where appropriate.

Results  Twenty studies were included in the review. Small numbers were available for each meta‐analysis. Results are presented here without the Chandra group studies. No significant difference was found in the number of episodes of infection in older people (≥65 years) between those supplemented and those not supplemented; (WMD) 0.06 [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.04, 0.16], P = 0.25. In other adults groups, there were significantly less episodes of infection in those supplemented; (WMD) −1.20 (95% CI −2.08, −0.32), P = 0.008. There was no significant difference between those older people supplemented and those not supplemented in the number with at least one infection; relative risk (RR) 0.98 (95% CI 0.86, 1.11), P = 0.77. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the numbers in other adult groups who had at least one episode of infection between those supplemented and those taking placebo; (RR) 0.81 (95% CI 0.65, 1.00), P = 0.06. Subgroup analyses suggested that supplemented people aged 65 years or over may benefit more if they are undernourished and supplemented for over 6 months, WMD −0.67 infections (95% CI −1.24, −0.10), P = 0.02.

Conclusion  Further large trials are needed, particularly in undernourished older people. Trials of supplementation periods of over 6 months are recommended.
Effect of Pentoxifylline on Levels of Pro‐inflammatory Cytokines During Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Gutierrez‐Reyes G. , Lopez‐Ortal P. , Sixtos S. , Cruz S. , Ramirez‐Iglesias M. T. , Gutierrez‐Ruiz M. C. , Sanchez‐Avila F. , Roldan E. , Vargas‐Vorackova F. , Kershenobich D.
Published: May 2006

The cellular and humoral natural immune response induced by hepatitis C virus (HCV) is commonly unable to eradicate the virus. HCV is a highly mutable, hepatotropic RNA virus that causes acute and chronic hepatitis, an infection that involves the production of various cytokines. The aim of the study is to analyse the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, TNF‐α, IFN‐γ and the chemokine CXCL8 (IL‐8) in liver tissue and their expression and secretion in PBMC of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), in response to pentoxyfilline (PTX). We studied six CHC patients, naive to treatment. Patients received PTX 400 mg twice a day/8 weeks. Pentoxyfilline resulted in decreased expression of mRNA of liver IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IFN‐γ: 144.2 versus 83.5 molecules of IL‐1β (P < 0.05), TNF‐α 194.3 versus 17.6 molecules (P = 0.03) and IFN‐γ 26.1 versus 0.5 molecules (P = 0.04). Following PTX, PBMC exhibited a decrease in IFN‐γ mRNA 12.2 versus 1.5 molecules (P = 0.028) and CXCL8 4.2 versus 2.5 molecules (P = 0.027). In PBMC, only the secretion of TNF‐α was decreased 1109 versus 933.5 pg/ml, P = 0.046. Production of cytokines both locally (within the liver) and systemically (PBMC) may serve as biomarkers of the infection with hepatitis C. PTX inhibits the expression of several pro‐inflammatory cytokines in the liver. These results indicate that it is worth exploring PTX in hepatitis in future clinical trials in nonresponders to antiviral treatment.
Sequential Analysis of Anti‐αGal Natural Antibody‐Producing B Cells in GalT Knockout Mice in Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Tolerance
Authors: Shimizu Ichiro , Tomita Yukihiro , Iwai Toshiro , Kajiwara Takashi , Okano Shinji , Nomoto Kikuo , Tominaga Ryuji
Published: May 2006

Previously, we have shown that cyclophosphamide (CP)‐induced tolerance, marked by permanent acceptance of donor skin graft and establishment of donor mixed chimerism, was readily induced with treatment with donor spleen cells (SC), CP, busulfan (BU) and donor bone marrow cells (BMC). Here, we investigated the mechanism of anti‐donor natural antibody (nAb) producing B‐cell tolerance in our CP‐induced tolerance systems in α1,3‐galactosyltransferase‐deficient knockout mice (GalT KO; GalT–/–, H‐2b/d). After induction of tolerance using donor AKR SC and BMC, survival of donor heart and skin grafts and production of anti‐Galα1‐3Galβ1‐4GlcNAc (anti‐αGal) Ab in recipient GalT KO mice were analyzed. In addition, the production of anti‐αGal Ab and the presence of Gal‐BSA binding B cells in GalT KO mice were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM) after treatments with rabbit red blood cells (RRBC) and CP. Permanent acceptance of donor skin and heart grafts and abrogation of anti‐αGal Ab were achieved in GalT KO mice treated with donor SC + CP/BU + BMC. However, in the GalT KO mice treated with donor SC and CP, donor skin grafts were acutely rejected, even though anti‐αGal Ab was undetectable. Similarly, anti‐αGal Ab was undetectable in GalT KO mice treated with RRBC and CP. Our data strongly indicated the following mechanisms: the clonal destruction in the early stage and the clonal anergy or ignorance in the late stage after conventional conditioning with RRBC and CP. In conclusion, our drug‐induced tolerance protocols are effective to induce tolerance in recipients that produce anti‐donor nAb.
Epigenetics of lung cancer
Authors: BOWMAN Rayleen V. , YANG Ian A. , SEMMLER Annalese B.T. , FONG Kwun M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression that occur without changes in DNA sequence. It has a role in determining when and where a gene is expressed during development. Perhaps the most well known epigenetic mechanism is DNA methylation whereby cytosines at position 5 in CpG dinucleotides are methylated. Histone modification is another form of epigenetic control, which is quite complex and diverse. Histones and DNA make up the nucleosome which is the structural unit of chromatin which are involved in packaging DNA. Apart from the crucial role epigenetics plays in embryonic development, transcription, chromatin structure, X chromosome inactivation and genomic imprinting, its role in an increasing number of human diseases is more and more recognized. These diseases include cancer, and lung cancer in particular has been increasingly studied for the potential biological role of epigenetic changes with the promise of better and novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
Effects of oral alpha‐tocopherol on lung response in rat model of allergic asthma
Authors: SUCHANKOVA Jana , VOPRSALOVA Marie , KOTTOVA Martina , SEMECKY Vladimir , VISNOVSKY Peter
Published: May 2006

Objective and background:  Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease in which an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance plays an important role. d‐alpha‐tocopherol (biologically the most active form of vitamin E) has redox properties and by scavenging the free radicals can act as an antioxidant. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of orally administered alpha‐tocopherol in a rat model of allergic asthma.

Methodology:  Actively sensitized rats (OA) were treated with alpha‐tocopherol (400 mg/kg/day for 10 days) or vehicle; 1 h after the last dose, they were challenged with antigen aerosol. The antigen‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness to direct bronchoconstrictor (serotonin), the inflammatory cell infiltrate and histological changes were determined 1 or 24 h after the antigen challenge.

Results:  Alpha‐tocopherol pretreatment was not significantly effective at reducing the studied parameters when compared with controls, even though there was a tendency to a reduction in bronchial responsiveness and in eosinophil and neutrophil infiltration.

Conclusion:  Alpha‐tocopherol when administered in the chosen study design in an animal model of asthma had no major effect on airway inflammation. The effect of antioxidants deserves further evaluation.
Subarachnoid‐pleural fistula as a complication of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: HEYER Christoph M. , THEILE Anja , WEISSER Heike , REICHERT Joseph , HORCH Christoph , MUELLER Klaus‐M. , BAUER Torsten T.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  We report a 62‐year‐old male patient with asbestos‐related malignant pleural mesothelioma who developed recurrent pleural effusions after surgical resection of paravertebral tumour masses. Pleural effusions were drained on several occasions with the patient suffering severe headaches and vascular dysregulation. Cytological studies of the pleural fluid showed no evidence of inflammatory or malignant cells. The fluid was interpreted as seroma despite its unusual transparency until magnetic resonance imaging was suggestive of a subarachnoid‐pleural fistula; its presence was confirmed when beta‐trace protein—a specific marker for cerebrospinal fluid—was added to the standard laboratory testing of the pleural effusion. A subarachnoid‐pleural fistula has to be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with recurrent pleural effusions after surgical debulkment of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The beta‐trace protein may help to establish this diagnosis especially in cases where important therapeutic consequences may need to be drawn.
Glutamatergic autoinhibition of quantal release augments the early phase of releases after a depolarization pulse
Authors: Dudel Josef
Published: May 2006

At the crayfish neuromuscular junction, glutamatergic autoinhibition of quantal excitatory postsynaptic current (qEPSC) release is mediated by a presynaptic dl‐glutamate transporter and its associated Cl– conductance. I investigated whether it also affects the time course of release. qEPSCs were recorded with a perfused macroelectrode through which depolarization pulses and d‐ or l‐glutamate could be applied to a terminal. In order to represent the time course of release, cumulative delays of qEPSCs were determined and scaled to a common final value. At 10 °C, on the application of d‐ or l‐glutamate, release increased relative to the controls especially during its first millisecond, taking the mean of 20 experiments (P < 0.01). Also, in many single experiments the respective shifts in the time courses of release were highly significant. The relative surplus of early releases decreased with time constants τ1 of 86 µs and τ2 of 0.75 ms. At 0 °C, in the presence of glutamate, the surplus of early delays was increased relative to the controls to a significantly greater extent and for a longer time than at 10 °C. The τ1 of 240 µs was almost three times larger than at 10 °C. Autoinhibition was inactivated in Cl–‐free solution. In such solutions the surplus of early releases also disappeared and the shortening of early delays reverted to a lengthening. Interaction of the inhibitory autoreceptor and its associated Cl– flow with the release machinery is discussed.
Differential modulation of sodium channel Nav1.6 by two members of the fibroblast growth factor homologous factor 2 subfamily
Authors: Rush Anthony M. , Wittmack Ellen K. , Tyrrell Lynda , Black Joel A. , Dib‐Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: May 2006

FHF2A and FHF2B are two members of the fibroblast growth factor homologous factor 2 (FHF2) subfamily with distinct N termini. Using a generic antibody and electrophysiological methods, we previously showed that FHF2 is expressed in hippocampus and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and is colocalized with sodium channel Nav1.6 at sensory but not motor nodes of Ranvier, and that FHF2B associates with Nav1.6, causing an increase in current density and a small depolarizing shift in availability of channels. Using immunolabeling of adult rat tissue, we demonstrate that FHF2A is present within DRG but not in hippocampal or cerebellar neurons or at nodes of Ranvier in sciatic nerve, and that Nav1.6 and FHF2A are colocalized in nonmyelinated fibers. We also show that FHF2A binds directly to Nav1.6, and that the two proteins coimmunoprecipitate from transfected HEK293 cells. Because Nav1.6 has been associated with rapid firing rates, we examined the possible effects of FHF2B and the sister isoform, FHF2A, on electrophysiological properties of this channel in the DRG‐derived ND7/23 cell line. We show that FHF2B inhibits accumulation of inactivation in response to trains of stimulation at high frequencies. In marked contrast, FHF2A causes an accumulation of inactivated channels at all frequencies tested due to a slowing of recovery from inactivation. Thus different FHF2 subfamily members have different functional effects on Nav1.6 and are differentially distributed in DRG neurons and their axons. This suggests that FHF2A and FHF2B may selectively alter firing behaviour of specific neuronal compartments via differential modulation of Nav1.6.
The role of the basolateral amygdala in stimulus–reward memory and extinction memory consolidation and in subsequent conditioned cued reinstatement of cocaine seeking
Authors: Fuchs Rita A. , Feltenstein Matthew W. , See Ronald E.
Published: May 2006

The consolidation of cue–cocaine associations and extinction learning (i.e. cue–no cocaine associations) into long‐term memory probably regulates the long‐lasting control of conditioned stimuli (CS) over cocaine‐seeking behaviour, and the basolateral amygdala (BLA) may play a role in this phenomenon. To test this hypothesis, rats previously trained to self‐administer cocaine underwent a single classical conditioning (CC) session, during which they received passive pairings of cocaine infusions and a novel light + tone stimulus complex. After additional self‐administration sessions in the absence of CS presentation and subsequent extinction training sessions, the ability of the CS to reinstate cocaine‐seeking on five test days was assessed. Rats received intra‐BLA microinfusions of vehicle or the Na+‐channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX) immediately after CC (consolidation of CS–cocaine associations) or immediately after reinstatement testing (consolidation of extinction learning). TTX administered immediately after CC attenuated subsequent CS‐induced reinstatement. In contrast, TTX administered after the first reinstatement test impaired the extinction of cocaine‐seeking behaviour during a second reinstatement test by disrupting extinction memory. Overall, these findings suggest that Na+ channel‐mediated mechanisms within the BLA mediate the consolidation of both cocaine–stimulus association and extinction learning, two processes that have opposite effects on subsequent cue‐induced cocaine‐seeking behaviour.
Self‐Regulation and Personality Science: Reply to the Commentaries
Authors: Cervone Daniel , Shadel William G. , Smith Ronald E. , Fiori Marina
Published: May 2006

The authors reply to commentaries on their target article “Self‐Regulation: Reminders and Suggestions from Personality Science”. Substantial consensus is evident across the target article and multiple commentaries. The message conveyed is that personality science and the study of self‐regulation are mutually complementary and that applied efforts to enhance people's self‐regulatory capacities can be enhanced via study of the intra‐individual architecture of social‐cognitive and affective personality systems.
Effect of moderate red wine intake on cardiac prognosis after recent acute myocardial infarction of subjects with Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Marfella R. , Cacciapuoti F. , Siniscalchi M. , Sasso F. C. , Marchese F. , Cinone F. , Musacchio E. , Marfella M. A. , Ruggiero L. , Chiorazzo G. , Liberti D. , Chiorazzo G. , Nicoletti G. F. , Saron C. , D’Andrea F. , Ammendola C. , Verza M. , Coppola L.
Published: May 2006

Background  Oxidative stress and increased inflammation have been reported to be increased in subjects with diabetes and to be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications after myocardial infarction (MI). It is well recognized that red wine has antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. We examined the effects of moderate red wine intake on echocardiographic parameters of functional cardiac outcome in addition to inflammatory cytokines and nitrotyrosine (oxidative stress marker), in subjects with diabetes after a first uncomplicated MI.

Methods  One hundred and fifteen subjects with diabetes who had sustained a first non‐fatal MI were randomized to receive a moderate daily amount of red wine (intervention group) or not (control group). Echocardiographic parameters of ventricular dys‐synchrony, circulating levels of nitrotyrosine, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were investigated at baseline and 12 months after randomization.

Results  After 1 year of diet intervention, concentrations of nitrotyrosine (P < 0.01), CRP (P < 0.01), TNF‐α (P < 0.01), IL‐6 (P < 0.01) and IL‐18 (P < 0.01) were increased in the control group compared with the intervention group. In addition, myocardial performance index (P < 0.02) was higher, and transmitral Doppler flow (P < 0.05), pulmonary venous flow analysis (P < 0.02) and ejection fraction (P < 0.05) were lower in the control group, indicating ventricular dys‐synchrony. The concentrations of nitrotyrosine, CRP, TNF‐α and IL‐6 were related to echocardiographic parameters of ventricular dys‐synchrony.

Conclusions  In subjects with diabetes, red wine consumption, taken with meals, significantly reduces oxidative stress and pro‐inflammatory cytokines as well as improving cardiac function after MI. Moderate red wine intake with meals may have a beneficial effect in the prevention of cardiovascular complications after MI in subjects with diabetes.
Solidarity and Difference: A Contemporary Reading of Paul’s Ethics – David G. Horrell
Authors: Hadsell Heidi
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Solidarity and Difference: A Contemporary Reading of Paul’s Ethics, David G. Horrell, T&T Clark International 2005 (0‐5670‐4322‐3), xvi + 338 pp., pb £49.95
I Corinthians Interpreted by Early Christian Commentators – Judith L. Kovacs
Authors: Bash Anthony
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

I Corinthians Interpreted by Early Christian Commentators, Judith L. Kovacs (tr. & ed.), Eerdmans 2005 (0‐8028‐2577‐X), xxix + 370 pp., hb $35/£19.99
The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story – Frank Anthony Spina
Authors: Bury Benjamin
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story, Frank Anthony Spina, Eerdmans Publishing Company 2005 (0‐8028‐2864‐7), x + 206 pp., pb £9.99/$16.00
Eve’s Revenge: Women and a Spirituality of the Body – Lilian Calles Barger
Authors: Hornsby Teresa J.
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Eve’s Revenge: Women and a Spirituality of the Body, Lilian Calles Barger, Brazos Press 2003 (ISBN 1‐58743‐040‐1), 224 pp., pb $14.99
Loving the Questions, an Exploration of the Nicene Creed – Marianne H. Micks
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Loving the Questions, an Exploration of the Nicene Creed, Marianne H. Micks, Church Publishing Incorporated 2005 (1‐59628‐008‐5), xii + 115 pp., pb $14.00
The Birth of Christianity: The First Twenty Years – Paul Barnett
Authors: Myhre Paul O.
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

The Birth of Christianity: The First Twenty Years, Paul Barnett, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. 2005 (0‐8028‐2781‐0), x + 229 pp., pb $15.00
Christology in Dialogue with Muslims: A Critical Analysis of Christian Presentations of Christ for Muslims from the Ninth and Twentieth Centuries – Mark Beaumont
Authors: Abraham Ibrahim
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Christology in Dialogue with Muslims: A Critical Analysis of Christian Presentations of Christ for Muslims from the Ninth and Twentieth Centuries, Mark Beaumont, Regnum Books International 2005 (1‐870345‐46‐0), xxiv + 227 pp., pb £19.99
Mohawk Saint, Catherine Tekakwitha and the Jesuits – Allan Greer
Authors: Loomis Woorth
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Mohawk Saint, Catherine Tekakwitha and the Jesuits, Allan Greer, Oxford University Press 2005 (0‐19‐517487‐9), xiv + 249 pp., hb £18.50
Race – Kenneth Leech
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Race, Kenneth Leech, Church Publishing Inc 2005 (0‐89869‐495‐7), xi + 160 pp., pb $20.00
The Suspended Middle: Henri de Lubac and the Debate concerning the Supernatural – John Milbank
Authors: McCosker Philip
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

The Suspended Middle: Henri de Lubac and the Debate concerning the Supernatural, John Milbank, SCM/Eerdmans 2005 (0‐334‐04045‐0), x + 117 pp., pb £16.99/$20.00
The SCM Press A–Z of Evangelical Theology – Roger E. Olson
Authors: ‘Gene’ Mills D.E.
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

The SCM Press A–Z of Evangelical Theology, Roger E. Olson, SCM Press 2005 (0‐334‐04011‐6), 328 pp., pb £22.99
Benjamin B. Warfield and Right Reason: The Clarity of General Revelation and Function of Apologetics – Owen Anderson
Authors: Walsh Jason
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Benjamin B. Warfield and Right Reason: The Clarity of General Revelation and Function of Apologetics, Owen Anderson, University Press of America 2005 (0‐7618‐3288‐2), v + 69 pp., pb $19.95
A–Z of Thomas Aquinas – Joseph P. Wawrykow
Authors: Cross Richard
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

A–Z of Thomas Aquinas, Joseph P. Wawrykow, SCM Press 2005 (0‐334‐04012‐4), xviii + 190 pp., pb £22.99
Karl Barth, the Church and the Churches – Edited by William G. Rusch (ed.)
Authors: Webb Stephen H.
Published: May 2006

Book reviewed:

Karl Barth, the Church and the Churches, William G. Rusch (ed.), William B. Eerdmans 2005 (0‐8028‐2970‐8), xi + 59 pp., pb $12.00
Verification of the motion fields over Southeast Asia by the Florida State University (FSU) superensemble forecast
Authors: Mahmud Mastura , Ross Robert S.
Published: May 2006

The Florida State University (FSU) multimodel superensemble forecast is evaluated against several other operational weather models for the Southeast Asia region. The superensemble technique has demonstrated its exceptional skills in forecasting precipitation, motion and mass fields compared to either individual global operational or ensemble mean forecasts. The motion field investigation for the season of 2001 reveals that the superensemble forecasts are closer to the observed data compared to the other global member operational models through its low systematic errors at the 850 hPa level. The FSU multimodel superensemble forecasts exhibit the lowest root mean square errors (RSMEs), the highest correlation against the best observed data and the lowest systematic errors compared to the other operational model members. These forecasts have the potential to provide better daily weather predictions over the Southeast Asia region, particularly during the early northeast monsoon that often causes heavy rainfall in the equatorial part of the Southeast Asia region.