bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kidney function in mice lacking aldosterone
Authors: Makhanova Natalia , Lee Gene , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Sequeira Lopez Maria L. , Gomez R. Ariel , Kim Hyung-Suk , Smithies Oliver
Published: August 2005

To explore the effects of decreased amounts or absence of aldosterone, we have disrupted the gene coding for aldosterone synthase (AS) in mice and investigated blood pressure and kidney function in AS+/+, AS+/−, and AS−/−mice. AS+/−mice have normal blood pressures and show no abnormalities in electrolytes or kidney gene expression, but they have significantly higher than normal urine volume and lower urine osmolality. In contrast, the AS−/−mice have low blood pressure, abnormal electrolyte homeostasis (increased plasma concentrations of K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+and decreased concentrations of HCO3−and Cl−but no difference in the plasma Na+level), and disturbances in water metabolism (higher urine output, decreased urine osmolality, and impaired urine concentrating and diluting ability). Absence of aldosterone in the AS−/−mice induced several compensatory changes: an increased food intake-to-body weight ratio, an elevated plasma concentration of glucocorticoids, and strong activation of the renin-angiotensin system. Parallel with the markedly increased synthesis and release of renin, the AS−/−mice showed increased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in macula densa. On salt supplementation, plasma electrolyte concentrations and kidney renin and COX-2 levels became similar to those of wild-type mice, but the lower blood pressure of the AS−/−mice was not corrected. Thus absence of aldosterone in AS−/−mice results in impairment of Na+reabsorption in the distal nephron, decreased blood pressure, and strong renin-angiontensin system activation. Our data show the substantial correction of these abnormalities, except the low blood pressure, by high dietary salt does not depend on aldosterone.
Limbal Graft and/or Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in the Treatment of Ocular Burns
Authors: Ivekovic Renata , Tedeschi-Reiner Eugenia , Novak-Laus Katia , Andrijevic-Derk Biljana , Cima Ivan , Mandic Zdravko
Published: August 2005

Limbal stem cell transplantation (LSCT) and amniotic membrane transplantation may improve corneal recovery after a chemical burn. Amniotic membrane was applied as a patch in 5 eyes; LSCT from healthy contralateral eye was performed in 6 eyes, and a combination of these techniques was performed in 4 eyes. There were no complications during surgical procedure. Epithelization was completed after 2 weeks in patients with LSCT, and after 3 weeks in the amniotic membrane transplantation group. Visual acuity improved in all patients. No complication was observed on either the donor or the recipient eye during a follow-up period of >13 months in all groups. Amniotic membrane is effective in promoting re-epithelization and reducing inflammation when applied alone in patients with 3- to 6-hour limbal involvement, as well as combined with LSCT in patients with >6-hour limbal ischemia. LSCT is an effective procedure for rehabilitation after severe chemical trauma of the eye with more than 50% limbal involvement.
Pigment Epithelial Detachments with Retinal Vascular Anomalous Complex in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Schneider Ulrike , Gelisken Faik , Inhoffen Werner , Bartz-Schmidt Karl Ulrich
Published: August 2005

Purpose: To analyze and compare the angiographic features of retinal vascular anomalous complex (RVAC) in patients with a vascularized pigment epithelial detachment (PED) secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Methods: Retrospective evaluation of fluorescein and indocyanine green angiographies of 180 patients with occult choroidal neovascularization and PED. Results: On indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), RVAC demonstrated as a focal hyperfluorescence in connection with retinal choroidal anastomosis was identified in 12 of the 180 eyes (6.7%) with a vascularized PED. In comparison, fluorescein angiography revealed RVAC in 6 of the 12 eyes. Associated clinical and angiographic features were intraretinal hemorrhage in all 12 eyes, cystoid macular edema in 6 eyes and preretinal hemorrhage in 4 eyes. Conclusions: RVAC is better delineated on ICGA than on fluorescein angiography. In clinically suspected cases with a vascularized PED in connection with intraretinal hemorrhage and/or cystoid macular edema, ICGA should be performed to enhance management considerations.
Immune and Autoimmune Enteropathies
Authors: Sherman Philip M. , Cutz Ernest , Goulet Olivier
Published: August 2005

Autoimmune enteropathy characteristically presents in infancy with protracted diarrhea. Underlying disorders of immune function, including regulatory T cells, must be excluded. Treatment options include nutritional rehabilitation, immune suppression, and, in select cases, bone marrow transplant.
Is Fournier’s Gangrene Severity Index Useful for Predicting Outcome of Fournier’s Gangrene?
Authors: Lin Eugene , Yang Stone , Chiu Allen W. , Chow Yung-Chiong , Chen Marcelo , Lin Wen-Chou , Chang Hung-Kuang , Hsu Jong-Ming , Lo King-Yik , Hsu Hsi-Hsien
Published: August 2005

Objectives: Fournier’s gangrene (FG) is a rare but life-threatening disease. Although antibiotics and aggressive debridement have been broadly accepted as the standard treatment, the mortality rate remains high. We conducted a retrospective study to analyze the outcome and identify the risk factors and prognostic indicators. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 25 patients diagnosed with FG between July 1993 and August 2003. Data collected included age, predisposing factors, treatment modalities, length of hospital stay, surgical debridement times, and outcome. The FG severity index was used to predict outcome. Univariate analysis of the different prognostic factors was performed using t test and Fisher’s exact probability test. Results: All patients were male, 60% were diabetic, and the mean age was 55.8 years. The mean hospital stay was 20 days and the mortality rate was 32%. The mean age of 53.8 ± 18.3 (SD) years in the survival group (n = 17) was significantly lower than the 59.9 ± 10.2 years (n = 8) of the non-survival group (p < 0.05). Non-survival group patientshad lower serum hematocrit (mean 28.9, p = 0.019) and albumin (mean 1.93, p = 0.024) levels. In our series, the mean FG severity index for survivors was 4.41 ± 2.45 (range 2–9) compared to 12.75 ± 2.82 (range 9–18) for those who died (t test, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The survival rate of younger patients with FG was higher. We agree that a FG severity index cutoff value of 9 is an excellent predictor of outcome.
Urological Complications in Renal Transplantation from Cadaveric Donor Grafts: A Retrospective Analysis of 20 Years
Authors: Praz V. , Leisinger H.-J. , Pascual M. , Jichlinski P.
Published: August 2005

Introduction: This study is a retrospective analysis of ureteral complications and their management from a monocenter series of 277 consecutive renal transplantations. Materials and Methods: From September 1979 to June 1999, 277 renal transplantations (cadaveric origin) were performed in 241 patients. The ureter from the kidney graft was inserted into the bladder according to the technique of extravesical implantation described by Lich-Gregoir and Campos-Freire. The study analyzed the time of occurrence and the type of complications observed. The different procedures to restore the transplanted urinary tract are presented. Results: Complications occurred in 43/277 renal transplantations (15.5%). Anastomotic urine leakage or ureteral stricture were the most frequent. The time to appearance of these complications was either short (<1 month) or late (>1 month) in a similar number of cases. Most cases were managed surgically: 33/43 cases (76.7%). The most frequent surgical repair was ureterovesical reimplantation (n = 13), followed by: ureteroureteral end-to-end anastomosis (native ureter–ureter transplant, n = 5); pyeloureteral anastomosis (native ureter–renal pelvis transplant, n = 5); simple revision of ureterovesical implantation (n = 4); resection and end-to-end anastomosis of the transplant ureter (n = 2); calico-vesicostomy (graft-bladder, n = 1); implantation according to Boari (n = 1); pyelovesicostomy with bipartition of bladder (n = 1), and pyeloileocystoplasty with detubularized ileal graft (n = 1). No deaths related to any of the urological complications were reported. However, 2 consecutive vesico-renal refluxes led to the loss of the kidney graft in the long-term. Conclusion: The rate of complications observed in this retrospective analysis is similar to the experience of other studies, ranging from 2 to 20%. If the classical extravesical ureteral bladder implantation is to remain an attractive technique due to its simplicity, the surgical team at the training center should be aware of all the means to prevent any ureteral complications, such as the choice of another implantation technique and/or insertion of a transient ureteral stent.
Antiangiogenic Effect of ZD1839 against Murine Renal Cell Carcinoma (RENCA) in an Orthotopic Mouse Model
Authors: Oh Hea Young , Kwon Soo Mee , Kim Sun Il , Jae Yang Won , Hong Sung Joon
Published: August 2005

Introduction: ZD1839 (IressaTM) is a selective epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI). We evaluated the antitumor and antiangiogenesis activities of ZD1839 in a murine renal cell carcinoma (RENCA) model. Materials and Methods: The effect of ZD1839 on the cellular proliferation of RENCA cells in vitro was measured by colorimetric assay. For the in vivo studies, RENCA cells were adsorbed in Gelfoam and implanted into BALB/cJ mouse parenchyma with an agarose bar. Mice were treated with ZD1839 (40 mg/kg/day s.c.), genistein or saline for 14 days. Western blot analysis was performed to observe EGFR expression in RENCA cells and tumor tissues. Microvessel density (MVD) was quantified by immunostaining for factor VIII-related antigens and VEGF level was assayed by ELISA. Results: ZD1839 showed a dose-dependent inhibition of RENCA cellular proliferation. ZD1839 treatment resulted in a marked decrease in tumor growth compared with saline treatment. The MVD and VEGF in the RENCA tumors were decreased significantly by ZD1839 (p < 0.01 and p >0.05, respectively). Genistein also suppressed tumor growth and decreased MVD and VEGF level, but the efficacies were less than with ZD1839. Conclusion: The suppressive activity of ZD1839 on RENCA tumor growth was accompanied by decreases in the MVD and VEGF production. These results suggest that the antitumor effect of ZD1839 in a RENCA model is mediated partially by the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis.
Clinical Predictors of Late-Onset Seizures and Epilepsy in Patients with Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: de Reuck J. , Goethals M. , Vonck K. , van Maele G.
Published: August 2005

Background: Seizures and epilepsy are harmful and worsen the disability of stroke patients. There are currently no good clinical predictors of late-onset seizures and epilepsy in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD). Patients and Methods: 110 patients with delayed seizures after an ischaemic or a haemorrhagic stroke, a transient ischaemic attack or a subarachnoid haemorrhage (60 with a single seizure and 50 with epilepsy) and 366 without seizures were included in this retrospective study. The clinical syndrome, the stroke aetiology and the vascular risk factors were compared. The groups with a single seizure and with epilepsy were also analysed separately. Results: There were no differences in age, gender, aetiology and vascular risk factors between the groups with and without seizures. When comparing the incidence of the clinical syndromes, ischaemic partial anterior circulation syndrome (PACS) was significantly more and transient ischaemic attack less frequent in the group with seizures compared to the control group. The severity of the neurological impairment on admission and the degree of disability on discharge after a PACS was similar in those who developed late-onset seizures compared with those who did not. Also on the Cox proportional hazards analysis, PACS appeared to be the only clinical risk factor for development of seizures and epilepsy in patients with CVD. No differences were observed in clinical predictors between patients with a single seizure and those with epilepsy. Conclusion: PACS is the only independent predictor for the occurrence of late-onset seizures in patients with CVD.
Cognition-Enhancing Effects of Donepezil in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Khateb Asaid , Ammann Jussara , Annoni Jean-Marie , Diserens Karin
Published: August 2005

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of donepezil, a cholinergic agent, on chronic cognitive impairment due to traumatic brain injury (TBI). Chronic patients underwent two standardized neuropsychological evaluations – one before and the other 3 months following treatment with donepezil. Together with global inventories that appraised behaviour, fatigue, anxiety and depression, these evaluations also assessed executive functioning, memory and attention. Of the 10 patients who followed the therapy, 8 reported subjective improvement in at least one cognitive domain following therapy and most of them reported better functioning in everyday activities. This effect was supported by a slight global improvement when considering the global score of the different affectivo-behavioural scales. At the neuropsychological level, although we could observe a slight improvement in the majority of the considered tests, significant positive changes were mainly found in tests assessing speed of processing, learning and divided attention. These findings suggest that donepezil may lead to better general functioning and improve attentional skills in patients with chronic TBI.
A Phase II Trial of Docetaxel and Carboplatin as First-Line Chemotherapy for Metastatic Breast Cancer: NCCTG Study N9932
Authors: Perez Edith A. , Suman Vera J. , Fitch Tom R. , Mailliard James A. , Ingle James N. , Cole John T. , Veeder Michael H. , Flynn Patrick J. , Walsh Daniel J. , Addo Ferdinand K.
Published: August 2005

Objective: A phase II multi-institutional clinical trial conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of docetaxel and carboplatin as first-line therapy for women with metastatic breast cancer. Methods: Patients had histologically confirmed metastatic breast cancer with at least one measurable lesion. Prior adjuvant chemotherapy was permitted, provided that at least 12 months had elapsed between any prior taxane and platinum therapy. Patients received docetaxel 75 mg/m2 with carboplatin AUC 6 mg/ml·min every 21 days until disease progression or prohibitive toxicity. Results: All 53 patients enrolled were evaluable for response and toxicity. Median number of cycles delivered was 6. Overall response rate was 60%, with 3 complete responses (6%) and 29 partial responses (54%). Median time to disease progression was 9.6 months. Median survival time was 20.4 months. Myelosuppression was the predominant toxicity, with grade 3 or 4 neutropenia occurring in 94% of patients and 15% of patients experiencing febrile neutropenia. The overall incidence (grades 1–3) of neurosensory toxicity was 57% and neuromotor toxicity was 25%, respectively, with grade 3 toxicity occurring in 4% of patients each. Conclusions: The combination of docetaxel and carboplatin is highly active in metastatic breast cancer. Prophylactic growth factor support is recommended in any further evaluation of this combination in the treatment of patients with breast cancer.
Simulation of GMAW thermal process based on string heat source model
Authors: Wang H. X. , Sun J. S. , Wei Y. H. , Zheng Y. Y.
Published: August 2005

A 3-D string heat source model was developed to simulate the thermal process for gas metal arc welding (GMAW) with a new transient solution of heat transfer. Reflection heat sources, the imaginary heat source and the imaginary heat sink were introduced to make the solution more reliable. The moving welding heat input during GMAW welding process was presented with a moving 3-D string heat source model made up of a group of elementary point heat sources along the moving coordinate axes. Using established models, the whole process from arc starting, quasi-steady state (QSS), to arc extinguishing during welding Q195 steel has been simulated. Meanwhile, some calculations and experiments for JG590 steel have also been made. The predicted weld cross-sections and welding thermal cycles show a good agreement with experimental measurements.
Influence of beam oscillation patterns on the structure and mechanical properties of Ti–6Al–4V electron beam weldments
Authors: Babu N. K. , Raman S. G. S. , Murthy C. V. S. , Reddy G. M.
Published: August 2005

The present study deals with the effect of beam oscillation patterns on the structure and mechanical properties of Ti–6Al–4V electron beam weldments. Electron beam welding of Ti–6Al–4V sheets was done with beam oscillation in various patterns (sinusoidal, square, triangular and elliptical). Welding without beam oscillation was also done for comparison. Room temperature hardness and tensile properties at different temperatures (room temperature, 150, 300 and 450°C) of the weldments in both as welded and post-welding heat treated conditions were observed and their correlations with the microstructure studied. The beam oscillated weldments showed higher ductility and lower strength (hardness) compared with those without being beam oscillated. This was attributed to wider diffusional α plates in the beam oscillated welds owing to slower cooling rates. Elliptical oscillation pattern produced weldments possessing the highest ductility and lowest strength values compared with other oscillation patterns. The oscillating patterns of sinusoidal, square or triangular forms resulted in weldments with almost the same structure and properties.
BH3-only proteins Puma and Bim are rate-limiting for γ-radiation– and glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis of lymphoid cells in vivo
Authors: Erlacher Miriam , Michalak Ewa M. , Kelly Priscilla N. , Labi Verena , Niederegger Harald , Coultas Leigh , Adams Jerry M. , Strasser Andreas , Villunger Andreas
Published: August 2005

Numerous p53 target genes have been implicated in DNA damage–induced apoptosis signaling, but proapoptotic Bcl-2 (B-cell leukemia 2) family members of the BH3 (Bcl-2 homolog region [BH] 3)–only subgroup appear to play the critical initiating role. In various types of cultured cells, 3 BH3-only proteins, namely Puma (p53 up-regulated modulator of apoptosis), Noxa, and Bim (Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death), have been shown to initiate p53-dependent as well as p53-independent apoptosis in response to DNA damage and treatment with anticancer drugs or glucocorticoids. In particular, the absence of Puma or Bim renders thymocytes and mature lymphocytes refractory to varying degrees to death induced in vitro by growth factor withdrawal, DNA damage, or glucocorticoids. To assess the in vivo relevance of these findings, we subjected mice lacking Puma, Noxa, or Bim to whole-body γ-radiation or the glucocorticoid dexamethasone and compared lymphocyte survival with that in wild-type and BCL2–transgenic mice. Absence of Puma or Bcl-2 overexpression efficiently protected diverse types of lymphocytes from the effects of γ-radiation in vivo, and loss of Bim provided lower but significant protection in most lymphocytes, whereas Noxa deficiency had no impact. Furthermore, both Puma and Bim were found to contribute significantly to glucocorticoid-induced killing. Our results thus establish that Puma and Bim are key initiators of γ-radiation– and glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis in lymphoid cells in vivo.
Differential roles of microtubule assembly and sliding in proplatelet formation by megakaryocytes
Authors: Patel Sunita R. , Richardson Jennifer L. , Schulze Harald , Kahle Eden , Galjart Niels , Drabek Ksenija , Shivdasani Ramesh A. , Hartwig John H. , Italiano Joseph E.
Published: August 2005

Megakaryocytes are terminally differentiated cells that, in their final hours, convert their cytoplasm into long, branched proplatelets, which remodel into blood platelets. Proplatelets elongate at an average rate of 0.85 μm/min in a microtubule-dependent process. Addition of rhodamine-tubulin to permeabilized proplatelets, immunofluorescence microscopy of the microtubule plus-end marker end-binding protein 3 (EB3), and fluorescence time-lapse microscopy of EB3–green fluorescent protein (GFP)–expressing megakaryocytes reveal that microtubules, organized as bipolar arrays, continuously polymerize throughout the proplatelet. In immature megakaryocytes lacking proplatelets, microtubule plus-ends initiate and grow by centrosomal nucleation at rates of 8.9 to 12.3 μm/min. In contrast, plus-end growth rates of microtubules within proplatelets are highly variable (1.5-23.5 μm/min) and are both slower and faster than those seen in immature cells. Despite the continuous assembly of microtubules, proplatelets continue to elongate when net microtubule assembly is arrested. One alternative mechanism for force generation is microtubule sliding. Triton X-100–permeabilized proplatelets containing dynein and its regulatory complex, dynactin, but not kinesin, elongate with the addition of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at a rate of 0.65 μm/min. Retroviral expression in megakaryocytes of dynamitin (p50), which disrupts dynactindynein function, inhibits proplatelet elongation. We conclude that while continuous polymerization of microtubules is necessary to support the enlarging proplatelet mass, the sliding of overlapping microtubules is a vital component of proplatelet elongation.
Enzyme estimates of infarct size correlate with functional and clinical outcomes in the setting of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Turer Aslan T , Mahaffey Kenneth W , Gallup Dianne , Weaver W Douglas , Christenson Robert H , Every Nathan R , Ohman E Magnus
Published: August 2005

Background

Cardiac biomarkers are routinely obtained in the setting of suspected myocardial ischemia and infarction. Evidence suggests these markers may correlate with functional and clinical outcomes, but the strength of this correlation is unclear. The relationship between enzyme measures of myocardial necrosis and left ventricular performance and adverse clinical outcomes were explored.

Methods

Creatine kinase (CK) and CK-MB data were analyzed, as were left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by angiogram, and infarct size by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging in patients in 2 trials: Prompt Reperfusion In Myocardial-infarction Evolution (PRIME), and Efegatran and Streptokinase to Canalize Arteries Like Accelerated Tissue plasminogen activator (ESCALAT). Both trials evaluated efegatran combined with thrombolysis for treating acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Results

Peak CK and CK area-under-the-curve (AUC) correlated significantly with SPECT-determined infarct size 5 to 10 days after enrollment. Peak CK had a statistically significant correlation with LVEF, but CK-AUC and LVEF correlation were less robust. Statistically significant correlations exist between SPECT-determined infarct size and peak CK-MB and CK-MB AUC. However, there was no correlation with LVEF for peak CK-MB and CK-MB AUC. The combined outcome of congestive heart failure and death were significantly associated with CK AUC, CK-MB AUC, peak CK, and peak CK-MB measurements.

Conclusion

Peak CK and CK-MB values and AUC calculations have significant correlation with functional outcomes (LVEF- and SPECT-determined infarct size) and death or CHF outcomes in the setting of STEMI. Cardiac biomarkers provide prognostic information and may serve as valid endpoint measurements for phase II clinical trials.
G2D: a tool for mining genes associated with disease
Authors: Perez-Iratxeta Carolina , Wjst Matthias , Bork Peer , Andrade Miguel A
Published: August 2005

Background

Human inherited diseases can be associated by genetic linkage with one or more genomic regions. The availability of the complete sequence of the human genome allows examining those locations for an associated gene. We previously developed an algorithm to prioritize genes on a chromosomal region according to their possible relation to an inherited disease using a combination of data mining on biomedical databases and gene sequence analysis.

Results

We have implemented this method as a web application in our site G2D (Genes to Diseases). It allows users to inspect any region of the human genome to find candidate genes related to a genetic disease of their interest. In addition, the G2D server includes pre-computed analyses of candidate genes for 552 linked monogenic diseases without an associated gene, and the analysis of 18 asthma loci.

Conclusion

G2D can be publicly accessed at http://www.ogic.ca/projects/g2d_2/.
Quantitative PCR for detection of the OT-1 transgene
Authors: Wright Kate O , Murray Debbie A , Crispe Nicholas I , Pierce Robert H
Published: August 2005

Background

Transgenic TCR mice are often used experimentally as a source of T cells of a defined specificity. One of the most widely used transgenic TCR models is the OT-1 transgenic mouse in which the CD8+ T cells express a TCR specific for the SIINFEKL peptide of ovalbumin presented on kb. Although OT-1 CD8+ can be used in a variety of different experimental settings, we principally employ adoptive transfer and peptide-driven expansion of OT-1 cells in order to explore the distribution and fate of these antigen-specific OT-1 T cells. We set out to develop a quantitative PCR assay for OT-1 cells in order to assess the distribution of OT-1 CD8+ T cells in tissues that are either intrinsically difficult to dissociate for flow cytometric analysis or rendered incompatible with flow cytometric analysis through freezing or fixation.

Results

We show excellent correlation between flow cytometric assessment of OT-1 cells and OT-1 signal by qPCR assays in cell dilutions as well as inin vivoadoptive transfer experiments. We also demonstrate that qPCR can be performed from archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections. In addition, the non-quantitative PCR using the OT-1-specific primers without the real-time probe is a valuable tool for OT-1 genotyping, obviating the need for peripheral blood collection and subsequent flow cytometric analysis.

Conclusion

An OT-1 specific qPCR assay has been developed to quantify adoptively transferred OT-1 cells. OT-1 qPCR to determine cell signal is a valuable adjunct to the standard flow cytometric analysis of OT-1 cell number, particularly in experimental settings where tissue disaggregation is not desirable or in tissues which are not readily disassociated
Design and fabrication of adjustable red-green-blue LED light arrays for plant research
Authors: Folta Kevin M , Koss Lawrence L , McMorrow Ryan , Kim Hyeon-Hye , Kenitz J Dustin , Wheeler Raymond , Sager John C
Published: August 2005

Background

Although specific light attributes, such as color and fluence rate, influence plant growth and development, researchers generally cannot control the fine spectral conditions of artificial plant-growth environments. Plant growth chambers are typically outfitted with fluorescent and/or incandescent fixtures that provide a general spectrum that is accommodating to the human eye and not necessarily supportive to plant development. Many studies over the last several decades, primarily in Arabidopsis thaliana, have clearly shown that variation in light quantity, quality and photoperiod can be manipulated to affect growth and control developmental transitions. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) has been used for decades to test plant responses to narrow-bandwidth light. LEDs are particularly well suited for plant growth chambers, as they have an extraordinary life (about 100,000 hours), require little maintenance, and use negligible energy. These factors render LED-based light strategies particularly appropriate for space-biology as well as terrestrial applications. However, there is a need for a versatile and inexpensive LED array platform where individual wavebands can be specifically tuned to produce a series of light combinations consisting of various quantities and qualities of individual wavelengths. Two plans are presented in this report.

Results

In this technical report we describe the practical construction of tunable red-green-blue LED arrays to support research in plant growth and development. Two light fixture designs and corresponding circuitry are presented. The first is well suited for a laboratory environment for use in a finite area with small plants, such as Arabidopsis. The second is expandable and appropriate for growth chambers. The application of these arrays to early plant developmental studies has been validated with assays of hypocotyl growth inhibition/promotion and phototropic curvature in Arabidopsis seedlings.

Conclusion

The presentation of these proven plans for LED array construction allows the teacher, researcher or electronics aficionado a means to inexpensively build efficient, adjustable lighting modules for plant research. These simple and effective designs permit the construction of useful tools by programs short on electronics expertise. These arrays represent a means to modulate precise quality and quantity in experimental settings to test the effect of specific light combinations in regulating plant growth, development and plant-product yield.
Self-reported parkinsonian symptoms in the EPIC-Norfolk cohort
Authors: Ishihara Lianna S , Khaw Kay-Tee , Luben Robert , Bingham Sheila , Welch Ailsa , Day Nicholas , Brayne Carol
Published: August 2005

Background

Parkinsonian symptoms have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Several studies have reported on the prevalence of signs and symptoms. Symptoms questionnaires can identify potential PD cases for further neurological examination to save resources. They can also provide information about how much of the population reports specific signs and symptoms. The objective of the study was to determine the self-reported prevalence of parkinsonian symptoms from a questionnaire, and to examine their association with age and self-reported Parkinson's disease in a large cohort.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted within a sub-cohort of the EPIC-Norfolk (European Prospective Investigation of Cancer) cohort study.

Results

The prevalence of six self-reported parkinsonian symptoms are reported for 11539 individuals who answered all symptoms questions (62% of sub-cohort): rest tremor (4%), difficulty starting to walk (4%), difficulty getting out of a chair (6%), slower walking (34%), smaller handwriting (micrographia- 9%), and less acute sense of smell (olfactory dysfunction- 9%). The presence of individual symptoms increased with age except for difficulty getting out of a chair.

Conclusion

The results support previous findings that the presence of self-reported parkinsonian symptoms is strongly associated with age and self-reported PD diagnosis. The data also provide information regarding the prevalence of symptoms in a large, younger population of adults than previously reported in the literature.
Distinctive serum protein profiles involving abundant proteins in lung cancer patients based upon antibody microarray analysis
Authors: Gao Wei-Min , Kuick Rork , Orchekowski Randal P , Misek David E , Qiu Ji , Greenberg Alissa K , Rom William N , Brenner Dean E , Omenn Gilbert S , Haab Brian B , Hanash Samir M
Published: August 2005

Background

Cancer serum protein profiling by mass spectrometry has uncovered mass profiles that are potentially diagnostic for several common types of cancer. However, direct mass spectrometric profiling has a limited dynamic range and difficulties in providing the identification of the distinctive proteins. We hypothesized that distinctive profiles may result from the differential expression of relatively abundant serum proteins associated with the host response.

Methods

Eighty-four antibodies, targeting a wide range of serum proteins, were spotted onto nitrocellulose-coated microscope slides. The abundances of the corresponding proteins were measured in 80 serum samples, from 24 newly diagnosed subjects with lung cancer, 24 healthy controls, and 32 subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Two-color rolling-circle amplification was used to measure protein abundance.

Results

Seven of the 84 antibodies gave a significant difference (p < 0.01) for the lung cancer patients as compared to healthy controls, as well as compared to COPD patients. Proteins that exhibited higher abundances in the lung cancer samples relative to the control samples included C-reactive protein (CRP; a 13.3 fold increase), serum amyloid A (SAA; a 2.0 fold increase), mucin 1 and α-1-antitrypsin (1.4 fold increases). The increased expression levels of CRP and SAA were validated by Western blot analysis. Leave-one-out cross-validation was used to construct Diagonal Linear Discriminant Analysis (DLDA) classifiers. At a cutoff where all 56 of the non-tumor samples were correctly classified, 15/24 lung tumor patient sera were correctly classified.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a distinctive serum protein profile involving abundant proteins may be observed in lung cancer patients relative to healthy subjects or patients with chronic disease and may have utility as part of strategies for detecting lung cancer.
High risk of HIV in non-brothel based female sex workers in India
Authors: Dandona Rakhi , Dandona Lalit , Gutierrez Juan Pablo , Kumar Anil G , McPherson Sam , Samuels Fiona , Bertozzi Stefano M ,   the ASCI FPP Study Team
Published: August 2005

Background

Heterosexual contact is the most common mode of HIV transmission in India that is largely linked to sex work. We assessed the non-use of condoms in sex work and with regular sex partners by female sex workers (FSWs), and identified its associations that could assist in planning HIV prevention programmes.

Methods

Detailed documentation of various aspects of sex work, and sexual behaviour with regular sex partners, was done through confidential interviews for 6648 FSWs in 13 districts in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Multivariate analysis was done to understand condom non-use with clients.

Results

5010 (75.4%), 1499 (22.5%), and 139 (2.1%) FSWs were street-, home-, and brothel-based, respectively. Of the total 6648 FSWs, 6165 (92.7%) had penetrative vaginal/anal sex with at least one client in the last 15 days, and of these 2907 (47.2%; 95% CI 41.2–53.2%) reported non-use of condom with at least one of her last three clients. Lack of knowledge that HIV could be prevented (odds ratio 5.01; 95% CI 4.38–5.73), no access to free condoms (odds ratio 3.45; 95% CI 2.99–3.98), being street-based as compared with brothel-based (odds ratio 3.36; 95% CI 1.87–6.04), and no participation in FSW support groups (odds ratio 2.02; 95% CI 1.50–2.70) were the most significant predictors of condom non-use with clients. Other associations included lower social support, lower income, age >24 years, illiteracy, and living in medium-size urban or rural areas. Of the 2582 who had penetrative sex with regular sex partner within the last 7 days, 2428 (94%; 95% CI 92.1–95.9%) had not used condom at last sex, and 1032 (41.8%) had neither used condom consistently with clients nor with regular sex partner.

Conclusion

About half the FSWs do not use condom consistently with their clients in this Indian state putting them at high risk of HIV infection. Non-brothel-based FSWs, who form the majority of sex workers in India, were at a significantly higher risk of HIV infection as compared with brothel-based FSWs. With their high vulnerability, the success of expansion of HIV prevention efforts will depend on achieving and sustaining an environment that enables HIV prevention with the non-brothel based FSWs.
Knee disorders in primary care: design and patient selection of the HONEUR knee cohort
Authors: Heintjes Edith M , Berger Marjolein Y , Koes Bart W , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M
Published: August 2005

Background

Knee complaints are a frequent reason for consultation in general practice. These patients constitute a specific population compared to secondary care patients. However, information to base treatment decisions on is generally derived from specialistic settings. Our cohort study is aimed at collecting knowledge about prognosis and prognostic factors of knee complaints presented in a primary care setting. This paper describes the methods used for data collection, and discusses potential selectiveness of patient recruitment.

Methods

This is a descriptive prospective cohort study with one-year follow-up. 40 Dutch GPs recruited consecutive patients with incident knee complaints aged 12 years and above from October 2001 to October 2003. Patients were assessed with questionnaires and standardised physical examinations. Additional measurements of subgroups included MRI for recent knee traumas and device assessed function measurements for non-traumatic patients.

After the inclusion period we retrospectively searched the computerized medical files of participating GPs to obtain a sample to determine possible selective recruitment. We assessed differences in proportions of gender, traumatic onset of injury and age groups between participants and non-participants using Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

We recruited 1068 patients. In a sample of 310 patients visiting the GP, we detected some selective recruitment, indicating an underrepresentation of patients aged 12 to 35 years (OR 1.70; 1.15–2.77), especially among men (OR 2.16; 1.12–4.18). The underrepresentation of patients with traumatic onset of injury was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This cohort is unique in its size, setting, and its range of both age and type of knee complaints. We believe the detected selective recruitment is unlikely to introduce significant bias, as the cohort will be divided into subgroups according to age group or traumatic onset of injury for future analyses. However, the underrepresentation of men in the age group of 12 to 35 years of age warrants caution. Based on the available data, we believe our cohort is an acceptable representation of patients with new knee complaints consulting the GP, and we expect no problems with extrapolation of the results to the general Dutch population.
A combined nucleocapsid vaccine induces vigorous SARS-CD8+ T-cell immune responses
Authors: Azizi Ali , Aucoin Susan , Tadesse Helina , Frost Rita , Ghorbani Masoud , Soare Catalina , Naas Turaya , Diaz-Mitoma Francisco
Published: August 2005

Several studies have shown that cell-mediated immune responses play a crucial role in controlling viral replication. As such, a candidate SARS vaccine should elicit broad CD8+ T-cell immune responses. Several groups of mice were immunized alone or in combination with SARS-nucleocapsid immunogen. A high level of specific SARS-CD8+ T-cell response was demonstrated in mice that received DNA encoding the SARS-nucleocapsid, protein and XIAP as an adjuvant. We also observed that co-administration of a plasmid expressing nucleocapsid, recombinant protein and montanide/CpG induces high antibody titers in immunized mice. Moreover, this vaccine approach merits further investigation as a potential candidate vaccine against SARS.
The place of physical activity in the WHO Global Strategy on Diet and Physical Activity
Authors: Bauman Adrian , Craig Cora L
Published: August 2005

In an effort to reduce the global burden of non-communicable disease, the World Health Organization released a Global Strategy for Diet and Physical Activity in May 2004. This commentary reports on the development of the strategy and its importance specifically for physical activity-related work of NGOs and researchers interested in increasing global physical activity participation.

Sparked by its work on global efforts to target non-communicable disease prevention in 2000, the World Health Organization commissioned a global strategy on diet and physical activity. The physical activity interest followed efforts that had led to the initial global "Move for Health Day" in 2002. WHO assembled a reference group for the global strategy, and a regional consultation process with countries was undertaken. Underpinning the responses was the need for more physical activity advocacy; partnerships outside of health including urban planning; development of national activity guidelines; and monitoring of the implementation of the strategy.

The consultation process was an important mechanism to confirm the importance and elevate the profile of physical activity within the global strategy. It is suggested that separate implementation strategies for diet and physical activity may be needed to work with partner agencies in disparate sectors (e.g. urban planning for physical activity, agriculture for diet). International professional societies are well situated to make an important contribution to global public health by advocating for the importance of physical activity among risk factors; developing international measures of physical activity and global impacts of inactivity; and developing a global research and intervention agenda.
Microglial responses to amyloid β peptide opsonization and indomethacin treatment
Authors: Strohmeyer Ronald , Kovelowski Carl J , Mastroeni Diego , Leonard Brian , Grover Andrew , Rogers Joseph
Published: August 2005

Background

Recent studies have suggested that passive or active immunization with anti-amyloid β peptide (Aβ) antibodies may enhance microglial clearance of Aβ deposits from the brain. However, in a human clinical trial, several patients developed secondary inflammatory responses in brain that were sufficient to halt the study.

Methods

We have used an in vitro culture system to model the responses of microglia, derived from rapid autopsies of Alzheimer's disease patients, to Aβ deposits.

Results

Opsonization of the deposits with anti-Aβ IgG 6E10 enhanced microglial chemotaxis to and phagocytosis of Aβ, as well as exacerbated microglial secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. Indomethacin, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), had no effect on microglial chemotaxis or phagocytosis, but did significantly inhibit the enhanced production of IL-6 after Aβ opsonization.

Conclusion

These results are consistent with well known, differential NSAID actions on immune cell functions, and suggest that concurrent NSAID administration might serve as a useful adjunct to Aβ immunization, permitting unfettered clearance of Aβ while dampening secondary, inflammation-related adverse events.
Head & Face Medicine – a new journal for 'intra-interdisciplinary' science. Why? When? Where?
Authors: Stamm Thomas
Published: August 2005

The human head and face is the target structure of a large number of medical disciplines which are subject to a continuing trend in medical science – 'ongoing fragmentation' or, to use a better established term, 'opening up new fields'. An adverse side effect of this trend is the separation of scientists, which contributes to a breakdown in communication. Specialization is necessary, but who is able to recombine the pieces of knowledge gained in different branches of science? Who is able to trace back an effect to its cause through the whole system? What is the instrument that enables scientists to think 'laterally', or across disciplines?

To be one of these instruments is the vision of Head & Face Medicine. To induce 'intra-interdisciplinary' thinking of scientists by bringing together the findings achieved by different researchers from various specialties, all exploring the same target structure – the human head and face. Head & Face Medicine's objective is to support scientists in gaining new insights from different views, to recognize patterns, to extract new thoughts, to recombine them and bring new visions to life.

Evolving tools like the internet, e-publishing, Open Access and open peer review make Head & Face Medicine a cross between a traditional journal and a data stream which can be queried, analyzed and processed with the aim of increasing medical knowledge in the area of head and face medicine. These tools represent several advantages: fast publication, increase of a paper's scientific impact and ethical superiority.

Head & Face Medicine looks forward to receiving your contributions.
A rapid and versatile combined DNA/RNA extraction protocol and its application to the analysis of a novel DNA marker set polymorphic between Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes Col-0 and Landsberg erecta
Authors: Berendzen Kenneth , Searle Iain , Ravenscroft Dean , Koncz Csaba , Batschauer Alfred , Coupland George , Somssich Imre E , Ülker Bekir
Published: August 2005

Background

Many established PCR-based approaches in plant molecular biology rely on lengthy and expensive methods for isolation of nucleic acids. Although several rapid DNA isolation protocols are available, they have not been tested for simultaneous RNA isolation for RT-PCR applications. In addition, traditional map-based cloning technologies often use ill-proportioned marker regions even when working with the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, where the availability of the full genome sequence can now be exploited for the creation of a high-density marker systems.

Results

We designed a high-density polymorphic marker set between two frequently used ecotypes. This new polymorphic marker set allows size separation of PCR products on agarose gels and provides an initial resolution of 10 cM in linkage mapping experiments, facilitated by a rapid plant nucleic acid extraction protocol using minimal amounts of A. thaliana tissue. Using this extraction protocol, we have also characterized segregating T-DNA insertion mutations. In addition, we have shown that our rapid nucleic acid extraction protocol can also be used for monitoring transcript levels by RT-PCR amplification. Finally we have demonstrated that our nucleic acid isolation method is also suitable for other plant species, such as tobacco and barley.

Conclusion

To facilitate high-throughput linkage mapping and other genomic applications, our nucleic acid isolation protocol yields sufficient quality of DNA and RNA templates for PCR and RT-PCR reactions, respectively. This new technique requires considerably less time compared to other purification methods, and in combination with a new polymorphic PCR marker set dramatically reduces the workload required for linkage mapping of mutations in A. thaliana utilizing crosses between Col-0 and Landsberg erecta (Ler) ecotypes.
The contact-mediated response of peripheral-blood monocytes to preactivated T cells is suppressed by serum factors in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Rossol Manuela , Kaltenhäuser Sylke , Scholz Roger , Häntzschel Holm , Hauschildt Sunna , Wagner Ulf
Published: August 2005

Stimulation of monocytes/macrophages after cell contact with preactivated T cells has been suggested to contribute to the excessive TNF-α production in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, T cell-contact-dependent TNF-α production by peripheral-blood monocytes in vitro was investigated and found to be significantly lower in treated and untreated patients with RA than in healthy controls. This suppression was not due to a general deficiency of monocytes to respond, because responses to lipopolysaccharide were comparable in patients and controls. In agreement with the pivotal role of TNF-α in RA, T cell-dependent induction of TNF-α in synovial macrophages was fivefold to tenfold higher than in peripheral-blood monocytes from either patients or controls. The decreased response of peripheral-blood monocytes from patients with RA was found to be mediated by inhibitory serum factors, because the addition of patient sera to monocytes from healthy controls suppressed TNF-α response in the co-culture assay. Preincubation of monocytes from healthy controls with RA serum was sufficient to suppress the subsequent TNF-α response in T cell co-cultures, indicating that inhibitory factors do indeed bind to monocyte surfaces, which might represent a regulatory counter-action of the immune system to the long-standing and consuming autoimmune process in RA. There are some indications that apolipoprotein A-1 might be part of this regulatory system.