bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Genealogical Imagination: The Inheritance of Interracial Identities
Authors: Tyler Katharine
Published: July 2005

The aim of this article is to examine ethnographically how ideas of descent, biology and culture mediate ideas about the inheritance of racial identities. To do this, the article draws upon interviews with the members of interracial families from Leicester, a city situated in the East Midlands region of England. The article focuses upon the genealogical narratives of the female members of interracial families who live in an ethnically diverse inner-city area of Leicester. Attention is paid to the ways in which the women mobilise and intersect ideas about kinship, ancestry, descent, belonging, place, biology and culture when they think about the inheritance of their own and/or their children's interracial identities. The article's emphasis upon the constitution of interracial identities contributes to the sociological study of race and genealogy by exploring the racialised fragmentation of ideas of inheritance and descent across racial categories and generations.
Social Exclusion, Mobility and Access
Authors: Cass Noel , Shove Elizabeth , Urry John
Published: July 2005

Much of the literature on social exclusion ignores its ‘spatial’ or ‘mobility’ related aspects. This paper seeks to rectify this by examining the mobile processes and infrastructures of travel and transport that engender and reinforce social exclusion in contemporary societies. To the extent to which this issue is addressed, it is mainly organized around the notion of ‘access’ to activities, values and goods. This paper examines this discourse in some detail. It is argued that there are many dimensions of such access, that improving access is a complex matter because of the range of human activities that might need to be ‘accessed’, that in order to know what is to be accessed the changing nature of travel and communications requires examination, and that some dimensions of access are only revealed through changes in the infrastructure that ‘uncover’ previously hidden social exclusions. Claims about access and socio-spatial exclusion routinely make assumptions about what it is to participate effectively in society. We turn this question around, also asking how mobilities of different forms constitute societal values and sets of relations, participation in which may become important for social inclusion. This paper draws upon an extensive range of library, desk and field research to deal with crucial issues relating to the nature of a fair, just and mobile society.
Regulated expression of endothelial lipase by porcine brain capillary endothelial cells constituting the blood–brain barrier
Authors: Sovic Andrea , Panzenboeck Ute , Wintersperger Andrea , Kratzer Ingrid , Hammer Astrid , Levak‐Frank Sanja , Frank Sasa , Rader Daniel J. , Malle Ernst , Sattler Wolfgang
Published: July 2005

Normal neurological function depends on a constant supply of polyunsaturated fatty acids to the brain. A considerable proportion of essential fatty acids originates from lipoprotein‐associated lipids that undergo uptake and/or catabolism at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This study aimed at identifying expression and regulation of endothelial lipase (EL) in brain capillary endothelial cells (BCEC), major constituents of the BBB. Our results revealed that BCEC are capable of EL synthesis and secretion. Overexpression of EL resulted in enhanced hydrolysis of extracellular high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐associated sn‐2‐labeled [14C]20 : 4 phosphatidylcholine. [14C]20 : 4 was recovered in cellular lipids, indicating re‐uptake and intracellular re‐esterification. To investigate local regulation of EL in the cerebrovasculature, BCEC were cultured in the presence of peroxisome‐proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)‐ and liver X receptor (LXR)‐agonists, known to regulate HDL levels. These experiments revealed that 24(S)OH‐cholesterol (a LXR agonist), bezafibrate (a PPARα agonist), or pioglitazone (a PPARγ agonist) resulted in down‐regulation of EL mRNA and protein levels. Our findings implicate that EL could generate fatty acids at the BBB for transport to deeper regions of the brain as building blocks for membrane phospholipids. In addition PPAR and LXR agonists appear to contribute to HDL homeostasis at the BBB by regulating EL expression.
Serotonin 5‐HT1Areceptor blockade enhances Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II function and membrane expression of AMPA receptor subunits in the rat hippocampus: implications for memory formation
Authors: Schiapparelli Lucio , Del Río Joaquín , Frechilla Diana
Published: July 2005

Stimulation of hippocampal 5‐HT1Areceptors impairs memory retention. The highly selective 5‐HT1Aantagonist, WAY‐100635, prevents the cognitive deficits induced not only by 5‐HT1Astimulation but also by cholinergic or NMDA receptor blockade. On this basis, the effects of WAY‐100635 on molecular events associated with memory storage were explored. In rat hippocampus, WAY‐100635 produced a rapid increase in phosphorylated Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and in Ca2+‐independent CaMKII and protein kinase A (PKA) enzyme activity. This increase was followed a few hours later by an enhanced membrane expression of AMPA receptor subunits, especially of the GluR1 subunit phosphorylated at the CaMKII site, pGluR1(Ser831). The same qualitative effects were found with the weaker 5‐HT1Aantagonist NAN‐190. The effects of both antagonists were no longer apparent in rats with a previous 5‐HT depletion induced by the tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitorp‐chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), suggesting that 5‐HT1Areceptor blockade removes the tonic inhibition of 5‐HT through 5‐HT1Areceptor stimulation on excitatory hippocampal neurons, with the consequent increase in PKA activity. In addition, administration of WAY‐100635 potentiated the learning‐specific increase in the hippocampus of phospho‐CaMKII, Ca2+‐independent CaMKII activity, as well as the phosphorylation of either the CaMKII or the PKA site on the AMPA receptor GluR1 subunit. This study suggests that blockade of hippocampal 5‐HT1Areceptors favours molecular events critically involved in memory formation, and provides anin vivomolecular basis for the proposed utility of 5‐HT1Areceptor antagonists in the treatment of cognitive disorders.
Gap junction blockage limits intercellular spreading of astrocytic apoptosis induced by metabolic depression
Authors: Nodin Christina , Nilsson Michael , Blomstrand Fredrik
Published: July 2005

Astrocytes are highly coupled by gap junction channels, which allow transfer of intracellular signalling molecules and metabolites between connected cells. Astrocytic gap junctions remain open during ischemic conditions as previously demonstrated in vitro and in situ. In this study, we investigated the effect of gap junction blockage on iodoacetate‐induced ATP depression and cell death progression in astrocytes in primary rat hippocampal cultures. We demonstrated that blockage of gap junctions during iodoacetate‐induced inhibition of the glycolysis induced an earlier onset of the ATP depression. Moreover, initiation of apoptotic processes, demonstrated by binding of Annexin V, was critically dependent on the ATP levels. The apoptotic event was also shown to spread and involve neighbouring cells, a process that was inhibited by blockage of gap junction communication. Chelating intracellular calcium using BAPTA‐AM decelerated the iodoacetate‐induced ATP depression. The chelation also decelerated the spreading of apoptotic processes. Inhibition of caspases did not alter the expansion of cell groups being Annexin V positive. However, the proportion of Annexin V positive cells also being propidium iodide positive was increased after caspase inhibition. The results show that inhibition of gap junctions during cellular metabolic depression interferes with the metabolic status and cell death progression in astrocytes.
Probing the infiltrating character of brain tumors: inhibition of RhoA/ROK‐mediated CD44 cell surface shedding from glioma cells by the green tea catechin EGCg
Authors: Annabi Borhane , Bouzeghrane Mounia , Moumdjian Robert , Moghrabi Albert , Béliveau Richard
Published: July 2005

Glioma cell‐surface binding to hyaluronan (HA), a major constituent of the brain extracellular matrix (ECM) environment, is regulated through a complex membrane type‐1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP)/CD44/caveolin interaction that takes place at the leading edges of invading cells. In the present study, intracellular transduction pathways required for the HA‐mediated recognition by infiltrating glioma cells in brain was investigated. We show that the overexpression of the GTPase RhoA up‐regulated MT1‐MMP expression and triggered CD44 shedding from the U‐87 glioma cell surface. This potential implication in cerebral metastatic processes was also observed in cells overexpressing the full‐length recombinant MT1‐MMP, while the overexpression of a cytoplasmic domain truncated from of MT1‐MMP failed to do so. This suggests that the cytoplasmic domain of MT1‐MMP transduces intracellular signaling leading to RhoA‐mediated CD44 shedding. Treatment of glioma cells with the Rho‐kinase (ROK) inhibitor Y27632, or with EGCg, a green tea catechin with anti‐MMP and anti‐angiogenesis activities, antagonized both RhoA‐ and MT1‐MMP‐induced CD44 shedding. Conversely, overexpression of recombinant ROK stimulated CD44 release. Taken together, our results suggest that RhoA/ROK intracellular signaling regulates MT1‐MMP‐mediated CD44 recognition of HA. These molecular processes may partly explain the diffuse brain‐infiltrating character of glioma cells within the surrounding parenchyma and thus be a target for new approaches to anti‐tumor therapy.
Blockade of L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channel inhibits ischemia‐induced neurogenesis by down‐regulating iNOS expression in adult mouse
Authors: Luo Chun Xia , Zhu Xin Jian , Zhang Ai Xia , Wang Wei , Yang Xiao Min , Liu Shu Hong , Han Xiao , Sun Jin , Zhang Shu Gang , Lu YouMing , Zhu Dong Ya
Published: July 2005

Neurogenesis in the adult mammalian hippocampus may contribute to repairing the brain after injury. The signals that regulate neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus following ischemic stroke insult are not well known. We have previously reported that inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression is necessary for ischemia‐stimulated neurogenesis in the adult dentate gyrus. Here, we show that mice subjected to 90 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) significantly increased the number of new neurons and up‐regulated iNOS expression in the dentate gyrus. Blockade of the L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channel (L‐VGCC) prevented neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and subventricular zone (SVZ), and down‐regulated iNOS expression in the dentate gyrus after cerebral ischemia. This study suggests that Ca2+ influx through L‐VGCC is involved in ischemia‐induced neurogenesis by up‐regulating iNOS expression.
Complexities of the Dombrock blood group system revealed
Authors: Reid Marion E.
Published: July 2005

The Doa antigen was discovered after I began my career in immunohematology and I have been fortunate to be involved in several fascinating discoveries in the Dombrock blood group system. The Doa antigen and its antithetical antigen, Dob, have a prevalence that makes them useful as genetic markers. The paucity of reliable anti‐Doa and anti‐Dob has prevented this potential from being realized; however, our ability to type for DO alleles at the DNA level has made it possible to test cohorts from different populations. In 1992, the Dombrock blood group system was expanded to include three phenotypically related antigens, Gya, Hy, and Joa, when it was discovered that the Gy(a–) phenotype was the null of the Dombrock system. Based on the knowledge that the Dombrock glycoprotein is attached to the RBC membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol linkage and subsequent to the assignment of the corresponding gene to the short arm of chromosome 12, expressed sequence tags from terminally differentiating human erythroid cells were analyzed in silico to identify the DO gene. This allowed determination of the molecular basis of the various Do phenotypes and the realization that DO is identical to the gene encoding a mono‐ADP‐ribosyltransferase, ART4. No enzymatic activity in RBCs has been demonstrated and the function of this glycoprotein, on the outside surface of RBCs, has yet to be determined. This review is a synthesis of our current knowledge of the Dombrock blood group system.
Radioisotopic reflections
Authors: AuBuchon James P.
Published: July 2005

The transfusion of radiolabeled red cells and platelets (PLTs) allows for the accurate determination of in vivo recovery and survival after subjecting the cells to an experimental collection, processing, or storage system. The techniques utilized in these protocols have undergone refinement over the past several decades, and these improvements have reduced interlaboratory variability and improved the accuracy of the techniques. At present, the field is evolving toward new applications of these radiolabeling techniques, including, for PLTs, the use of freshly collected autologous PLTs as the standard‐setting PLTs against which the “test” PLTs can be compared. The contribution of the National Blood Foundation in supporting research in these fields is acknowledged with appreciation because its efforts have helped advance not only the science involved but also the scientists engaged in this research.
Ameloblastoma ex calcifying odontogenic cyst (dentinogenic ghost cell tumor)
Authors: Ide F. , Obara K. , Mishima K. , Saito I.
Published: July 2005

Calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC) has shown to be of extensive diversity in its clinical and histopathological features, as well as in its biological behavior. In this report, a rare case is described of ameloblastoma ex COC (dentinogenic ghost cell tumor) and the relevant literature is briefly reviewed.
Extracellular matrix remodeling in oral submucous fibrosis: its stage‐specific modes revealed by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization
Authors: Utsunomiya Hiroko , Tilakaratne Wanninayake M. , Oshiro Kazufumi , Maruyama Satoshi , Suzuki Makoto , Ida‐Yonemochi Hiroko , Cheng Jun , Saku Takashi
Published: July 2005

Background:  Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chewing habit‐related pre‐cancerous condition of the oral mucosa affecting predominantly south Asians. It is histopathologically characterized by epithelial atrophy and fibrosis of the subepithelial connective tissue. Fibrosis extends all the way into the muscle layer, leading to difficulty in mouth opening. However, the dynamics of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling with OSF progression is largely unknown.

Methods:  Forty biopsy specimens of OSF and 10 of normal buccal mucosa were examined for expression/deposition modes of eight ECM molecules by histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization.

Results:  In the early stage of OSF, tenascin, perlecan, fibronectin, collagen type III were characteristically enhanced in the lamina propria and the submucosal layer. In the intermediate stage, the ECM molecules mentioned above and elastin were extensively and irregularly deposited around muscle fibers. In the advanced stage, such ECM depositions decreased and were entirely replaced with collagen type I only. Their gene expression levels varied with progression of fibrosis, but the mRNA signals were confirmed in fibroblasts in the submucosal fibrotic areas.

Conclusions:  The results indicate that the ECM remodeling steps in OSF are similar to each phase of usual granulation tissue formation. Restricted mouth opening may be a result of loss of variety of ECM molecules including elastin into the homogeneity of collagen type I replacing muscle fibers.
Chromosomal aberrations in squamous cell carcinomas of the upper aerodigestive tract: biologic insights and clinical opportunities
Authors: Wreesmann V. B. , Singh B.
Published: July 2005

Oncogenesis results from a progressive accumulation of genetic aberrations consequent to a complex interplay between carcinogenic factors and innate infidelity of DNA surveillance mechanisms. Although the development of genetic aberrations is random, those conferring survival advantages are selected for in a Darwinian manner, thus allowing continuous adaptation to selection pressures. Chromosomal aberrations are a prominent manifestation of genetic damage, which can be closely linked with tumor behavior and outcome as exemplified by curative treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia resulting from targeting the BCR‐ABL translocation. In the case of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), chromosomal changes are detectable at all stages of tumor development, providing excellent opportunities for genomic prognostication and therapy. Several studies have shown that the overall genomic profile of HNSCC is highly consistent, but individual tumors vary significantly in their complement of genetic alterations, thereby confounding clinical correlation. The application of modern genetic and bioinformatic analytic approaches has facilitated the identification of critical genomic changes in HNSCC, many of which have been linked to clinical outcome. These genetic aberrations represent excellent targets for novel therapeutics, but require validation. The initiation of phase III trials evaluating the therapeutic utility of genetic aberrations suggests a promising future for genome‐based treatment of HNSCC.
Late effects of chronic graft‐vs.‐host disease in minor salivary glands
Authors: Alborghetti M. R. , Corrêa M. E. P. , Adam R. L. , Metze K. , Coracin F. L. , de Souza C. A. , Cintra M. L.
Published: July 2005

Background:  The established pathologic criteria for minor salivary gland (MSG) involvement in chronic graft‐vs.‐host disease (cGVHD) could play a role in monitoring response to therapy.

Methods:  We evaluated MSG sequential biopsies during cGVHD therapy in 14 allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) patients. Nine patients that did not develop GVHD after BMT entered the control group. Biopsies were examined using hematoxylin‐eosin, Periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) and leukocyte common antigen staining.

Results:  A significant loss of PAS+ acinar volume was observed at the diagnosis of cGVHD as much as at the end of treatment when compared with the control group. In the second evaluation, the inflammatory infiltrate was still greater than control group.

Conclusions:  The results suggest that persistent xerostomia after cGVHD treatment is because of maintenance of lymphocytic infiltrate and consequent absence of MSG secretory unit recovery. This data may be useful to provide improved insight into the histopathology of this organ involvement.
Pemphigus mimicking aphthous stomatitis
Authors: Femiano Felice , Gombos Fernando , Nunziata Monica , Esposito Vincenzo , Scully Crispian
Published: July 2005

Background:  The aim of this report is to highlight the case that pemphigus vulgaris (PV) may mimic aphthous stomatitis. Pemphigus classically causes persistent oral ulceration.

Methods and results:  We report five patients from southern Europe, who presented with recurrent oral ulceration mimicking aphthous stomatitis, but who proved by histology, immunostaining and antibodies against epithelial intercellular substance to have PV.

Conclusion:  It is advisable to assay antibodies against desmoglein 3 in patients who appear to suffer recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) with atypical ulceration for location and in adulthood.
The relationship between shear stress and flow‐mediated dilatation: implications for the assessment of endothelial function
Authors: Pyke Kyra E. , Tschakovsky Michael E.
Published: July 2005

Endothelium‐dependent flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) describes the vasodilatory response of a vessel to elevations in blood flow‐associated shear stress. Nitric oxide (NO), one of many vasoactive substances released by the endothelium in response to shear stress, is of particular interest to researchers as it is an antiatherogenic molecule, and a reduction in its bioavailability may play a role in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. The goal of many human studies is to create a shear stress stimulus that produces an NO‐dependent response in order to use the FMD measurements as an assay of NO bioavailability. The most common non‐invasive technique is the ‘reactive hyperaemia test’ which produces a large, transient shear stress profile and a corresponding FMD. Importantly, not all FMD is NO mediated and the stimulus creation technique is a critical determinant of NO dependence. The purpose of this review is to (1) explain that the mechanisms of FMD depend on the nature of the shear stress stimulus (stimulus response specificity), (2) provide an update to the current guidelines for FMD assessment, and (3) summarize the issues that surround the clinical utility of measuring both NO‐ and non‐NO‐mediated FMD. Future research should include (1) the identification and partitioning of mechanisms responsible for FMD in response to various shear stress profiles, (2) investigation of stimulus response specificity in coronary arteries, and (3) investigation of non‐NO FMD mechanisms and their connection to the development of vascular disease and occurrence of cardiovascular events.
Erythropoietin regulates hypoxic ventilation in mice by interacting with brainstem and carotid bodies
Authors: Soliz Jorge , Joseph Vincent , Soulage Christophe , Becskei Csilla , Vogel Johannes , Pequignot Jean Marc , Ogunshola Omolara , Gassmann Max
Published: July 2005

Apart from its role in elevating red blood cell number, erythropoietin (Epo) exerts protective functions in brain, retina and heart upon ischaemic injury. However, the physiological non‐erythroid functions of Epo remain unclear. Here we use a transgenic mouse line (Tg21) constitutively overexpressing human Epo in brain to investigate Epo's impact on ventilation upon hypoxic exposure. Tg21 mice showed improved ventilatory response to severe acute hypoxia and moreover improved ventilatory acclimatization to chronic hypoxic exposure. Furthermore, following bilateral transection of carotid sinus nerves that uncouples the brain from the carotid body, Tg21 mice adapted their ventilation to acute severe hypoxia while chemodenervated wild‐type (WT) animals developed a life‐threatening apnoea. These results imply that Epo in brain modulates ventilation. Additional analysis revealed that the Epo receptor (EpoR) is expressed in the main brainstem respiratory centres and suggested that Epo stimulates breathing control by alteration of catecholaminergic metabolism in brainstem. The modulation of hypoxic pattern of ventilation after i.v. injection of recombinant human Epo in WT mice and the dense EpoR immunosignal observed in carotid bodies showed that these chemoreceptors are sensitive to plasma levels of Epo. In summary, our results suggest that Epo controls ventilation at the central (brainstem) and peripheral (carotid body) levels. These novel findings are relevant to understanding better respiratory disorders including those occurring at high altitude.
ELLIPTIC THERMAL CORRELATION FUNCTIONS AND MODULAR FORMS IN A GLOBALLY CONFORMAL INVARIANT QFT
Authors: NIKOLOV NIKOLAY M. , TODOROV IVAN T.
Published: July 2005

Global conformal invariance (GCI) of quantum field theory (QFT) in two and higher space-time dimensions implies the Huygens' principle, and hence, rationality of correlation functions of observable fields [29]. The conformal Hamiltonian H has discrete spectrum assumed here to be finitely degenerate. We then prove that thermal expectation values of field products on compactified Minkowski space can be represented as finite linear combinations of basic (doubly periodic) elliptic functions in the conformal time variables (of periods 1 and τ) whose coefficients are, in general, formal power series in q½ = eiπτ involving spherical functions of the "space-like" fields' arguments. As a corollary, if the resulting expansions converge to meromorphic functions, then the finite temperature correlation functions are elliptic. Thermal 2-point functions of free fields are computed and shown to display these features. We also study modular transformation properties of Gibbs energy mean values with respect to the (complex) inverse temperature [Formula: see text]. The results are used to obtain the thermodynamic limit of thermal energy densities and correlation functions.
THE LINEAR BOLTZMANN EQUATION AS THE LOW DENSITY LIMIT OF A RANDOM SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION
Authors: ENG DAVID , ERDŐS LÁSZLÓ
Published: July 2005

We study the long time evolution of a quantum particle interacting with a random potential in the Boltzmann–Grad low density limit. We prove that the phase space density of the quantum evolution defined through the Husimi function converges weakly to a linear Boltzmann equation. The Boltzmann collision kernel is given by the full quantum scattering cross-section of the obstacle potential.
Doppler tissue imaging in assessment of pulmonary hypertension-induced right ventricle dysfunction
Authors: Boissiere Julien , Gautier Mathieu , Machet Marie-Christine , Hanton Gilles , Bonnet Pierre , Eder Veronique
Published: July 2005

We aimed to assess the accuracy of Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) in detecting right ventricle (RV) dysfunction and electromechanical coupling alteration following pulmonary hypertension (PHT) in rat. PHT was induced by chronic hypoxia exposure (hypoxic PHT) or monocrotaline treatment (monocrotaline PHT). In both PHT models, we observed transparietal RV pressure increase and remodeling, including hypertrophy and dilation. Conventional echocardiography provided evidence for pulmonary outflow impairment with midsystolic notch and acceleration time decrease in PHT groups (21.7 ± 1.6 and 13.2 ± 2.9 ms in hypoxic and monocrotaline PHT groups vs. 28.1 ± 1.0 ms in control). RV shortening fraction was decreased in the monocrotaline PHT group compared with the hypoxic PHT and control groups. Combining conventional Doppler and DTI was more helpful to detect RV diastolic dysfunction in the monocrotaline PHT group (E/Ea ratio = 17.0 ± 1.4) compared with the hypoxic PHT and control groups (11.5 ± 0.7 and 10.2 ± 0.4, respectively). Tei index measured using DTI highlighted global RV dysfunction in the monocrotaline PHT group (1.36 ± 0.24 vs. 0.92 ± 0.05 and 0.86 ± 0.05 in the hypoxic PHT and control groups, respectively). Q-Sm time measured from the onset of Q wave to the onset of DTI Sm wave was increased in both PHT groups. PHT-induced electromechanical coupling alteration was confirmed by in vitro activation-contraction delay measurements on isolated RV papillary muscle, and both Q-Sm time and activation-contraction delay were correlated with PHT severity. We demonstrated that Q-Sm time measured in DTI was an easily and convenient index to detect early RV electromechanical coupling alteration in both moderate and severe PHT.
Human sulfate kinetics
Authors: Hoffer L. John , Hamadeh Mazen J. , Robitaille Line , Norwich Kenneth H.
Published: July 2005

Electrospray tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine steady-state serum and urinary inorganic sulfate and sulfate ester kinetic profiles of nine normal men after intravenous injection of the stable isotope sodium [34S]sulfate. Sulfate ester appearance was traced by eliminating inorganic sulfate from samples, followed by hydrolysis of sulfate esters to inorganic sulfate for analysis. Whole body inorganic sulfate turnover in steady state was calculated using standard tracer techniques. Rate of appearance and disappearance of inorganic sulfate was 841 ± 49 μmol/h. Average urinary inorganic sulfate excretion was 609 ± 41 μmol/h, and the whole body sulfation rate (total rate of disappearance minus rate of urinary excretion) was 232 ± 36 μmol/h. Tracer-labeled sulfate esters appeared in serum and urine within 1 h of tracer injection. The kinetics of inorganic sulfate and sulfate esters were linked by means of a compartmental model. The appearance and excretion of sulfate esters accounted for ∼ 50% of the total sulfation rate. These results indicate that human whole body sulfation accounts for ∼ 27% of inorganic sulfate turnover and that extracellular inorganic sulfate is an important pool for intracellular sulfation. A substantial fraction of newly synthesized sulfate esters promptly enters the extracellular space for excretion in the urine.
Exercise by lifelong voluntary wheel running reduces subsarcolemmal and interfibrillar mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide production in the heart
Authors: Judge Sharon , Jang Young Mok , Smith Anthony , Selman Colin , Phillips Tracey , Speakman John R. , Hagen Tory , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan
Published: July 2005

Evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidant production, in association with an accumulation of oxidative damage, contribute to the aging process. Regular physical activity can delay the onset of morbidity, increase mean lifespan, and reduce the risk of developing several pathological states. No studies have examined age-related changes in oxidant production and oxidative stress in both subsarcolemmal (SSM) and interfibrillar (IFM) mitochondria in combination with lifelong exercise. Therefore, we investigated whether long-term voluntary wheel running in Fischer 344 rats altered hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production, antioxidant defenses, and oxidative damage in cardiac SSM and IFM. At 10–11 wk of age, rats were randomly assigned to one of two groups: sedentary and 8% food restriction (sedentary; n = 20) or wheel running and 8% food restriction (runners; n = 20); rats were killed at 24 mo of age. After the age of 6 mo, running activity was maintained at an average of 1,145 ± 248 m/day. Daily energy expenditure determined by doubly labeled water technique showed that runners expended on average ∼70% more energy per day than the sedentary rats. Long-term voluntary wheel running significantly reduced H2O2production from both SSM (−10.0%) and IFM (−9.6%) and increased daily energy expenditure (kJ/day) significantly in runners compared with sedentary controls. Additionally, MnSOD activity was significantly lowered in SSM and IFM from wheel runners, which may reflect a reduction in mitochondrial superoxide production. Activities of the other major antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and catalase) and glutathione levels were not altered by wheel running. Despite the reduction in mitochondrial oxidant production, no significant differences in oxidative stress levels (4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-modified proteins, protein carbonyls, and malondialdehyde) were detected between the two groups. The health benefits of chronic exercise may be, at least partially, due to a reduction in mitochondrial oxidant production; however, we could not detect a significant reduction in several selected parameters of oxidative stress.
Chimpanzees Use Tools to Harvest Social Insects at Fongoli, Senegal
Authors: McGrew W.C. , Pruetz J.D. , Fulton S.J.
Published: July 2005

Use of flexible probes to fish for macrotermitine termites and manufactured wands to dip for doriline ants is reported for a new site of chimpanzee field study. The flexible probes of vegetation used in termite fishing and ant dipping by the chimpanzees of Fongoli, in southeastern Senegal, are similar to those used at Assirik (Senegal) and Gombe (Tanzania). Based on the principle that form reflects function, we predict that ant dipping when seen will prove to be the two-handed technique.
Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Clinical Diagnosis of the Temporomandibular Joint
Authors: Larheim Tore A.
Published: July 2005

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) abnormalities cannot be reliably assessed by a clinical examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may depict joint abnormalities not seen with any other imaging method and thus is the best method to make a diagnostic assessment of the TMJ status. In patients with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) referred for diagnostic imaging the predominant TMJ finding is internal derangement related to disc displacement. This finding is significantly more frequent than in asymptomatic volunteers, and occurs in up to 80% of patients consecutively referred for TMJ imaging. Moreover, certain types of disc displacement seem to occur almost exclusively in TMD patients, namely complete disc displacements that do not reduce on mouth opening. Other intra-articular abnormalities may additionally be associated with the disc displacement, predominantly joint effusion (which means more fluid than seen in any asymptomatic volunteer) and mandibular condyle marrow abnormalities (which are not seen in volunteers). These conditions seem to be closely related. Nearly 15% of TMD patients consecutively referred for TMJ MRI will have joint effusion, of whom about 30% will show bone marrow abnormalities. In a surgically selected material of joints with histologically documented bone marrow abnormalities nearly 40% showed joint effusion. Disc displacement is mostly bilateral, but joint effusion seems to be unilateral or with a lesser amount of fluid in the contralateral joint. Abnormal bone marrow is also mostly unilateral. Many patients have unilateral pain or more pain on one side. In a regression analysis the self-reported in-patient TMJ pain side difference was positively dependent on TMJ effusion and condyle marrow abnormalities, but negatively dependent on cortical bone abnormalities. Of the joints with effusion only one fourth showed osteoarthritis. Thus, there seems to be a subgroup of TMD patients showing more severe intra-articular pathology than disc displacement alone, and mostly without osteoarthritis. It should, however, be emphasized that patients with TMJ effusion and/or abnormal bone marrow in the mandibular condyle seem to constitute only a minor portion (less than one fourth) of consecutive TMD patients referred for diagnostic TMJ imaging. The majority of patients have internal derangement related to disc displacement, but without accompanying joint abnormalities. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other arthritides TMJ involvement may mimick the more common TMDs. Using MRI it is possible, in most cases, to distinguish these patients from those without synovial proliferation.
Sensitivity and Specificity in a Longitudinal Temporomandibular Disease Study
Authors: Dibbets J.M.H. , van der Weele L.Th.
Published: July 2005

A longitudinal prospective study on the development of temporomandibular disease (TMD) in children was initiated in 1970. The study ended in 1990. One of several diagnostic TMD criteria applied was osteoarthrosis, defined as a ‘morphological and/or structural deformity of the condyle’ diagnosed on radiographs. Although these radiographic techniques are suspect in terms of falsenegative findings, ‘morphological and/or structural deformity of the condyle’ has been shown to be associated with a characteristic craniofacial form. As such, it has confirmed diagnostic significance. The present study will test the reliability of this diagnosis using cross-sectional and longitudinal findings for objective signs and subjective symptoms that are attributed to TMD. Signs and symptoms of TMD performed poorly as predictors for ‘morphological and/or structural deformity of the condyle’. Thirty-seven percent of the participants had a ‘morphological and/or structural deformity of the condyle’ diagnosed at least once during the 20-year study period. In two thirds of the cases, ‘morphological and/or structural deformity of the condyle’ was not a stable characteristic through time. Normal radiographic anatomy of the condyle was often associated with signs and symptoms. We arrive at the conclusion that TMD is an umbrella, housing several overlapping problems that may manifest themselves at irregular intervals or even may disappear completely.
Soft Tissue Mechanics of the Temporomandibular Joint
Authors: Sindelar Betty J. , Herring Susan W.
Published: July 2005

Direct measurement of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissue deformation requires animal experimentation. Most of the available data pertain to the mechanical strain on the bone surfaces around the joint. However, bone is rarely the first joint tissue to show injury, being affected after damage to collagenous tissues such as the disc or capsule. Capsular ligaments guide or limit movement, while the intra-articular disc may also distribute joint loads. However, these tissues are difficult to visualize dynamically and not suitable for strain gage attachment, so in vivo deformations are poorly understood. Using pigs as the best nonprimate model for human TMJ function, we implanted differential variable reluctance transducers to measure antero-posterior strain in the lateral aspect of the intra-articular disc. The results were compared to previously published data on the TMJ capsule. Passive manipulation in anesthetized animals indicated that opening, protrusion, and contralateral movements caused the disc to elongate. On the contrary, closing, retrusion and ipsilateral movements caused disc shortening. These strains are opposite to those observed in the capsule and are expected on anatomical grounds. Surprisingly, disc strain during mastication differed from that during manipulation. The disc elongated during jaw closure, more on the retruding balancing side (16% ± 1) than on the working side (8% ± 2). This anomalous behavior may reflect compressive loading, such that the disc elongates as a result of the Poisson effect rather than condylar movement. Because the capsule also elongates during the power stroke, especially on the balancing side, both disc and capsule are maximally loaded on the same side at the same moment.
Stopping Bacterial Adhesion: A Novel Approach to Treating Infections
Authors: Bavington C. , Page C.
Published: July 2005

Adhesion and colonization are prerequisites for the establishment of bacterial pathogenesis. The prevention of adhesion is an attractive target for the development of new therapies in the prevention of infection. Bacteria have developed a multiplicity of adhesion mechanisms commonly targeting surface carbohydrate structures, but our ability to rationally design effective antiadhesives is critically affected by the limitations of our knowledge of the human ‘glycome’ and of the bacterial function in relation to it. The potential for the future development of carbohydrate-based antiadhesives has been demonstrated by a significant number of in vitro and in vivo studies. Such therapies will be particularly relevant for infections of mucosal surfaces where topical application or delivery is possible.
Lack of an Association between Interleukin-12 Receptor β1 Polymorphisms and Tuberculosis in Koreans
Authors: Lee Hye Won , Lee Hee Seok , Kim Deog Kyeom , Ko Dong Seok , Han Sung Koo , Shim Young-Soo , Yim Jae-Joon
Published: July 2005

Background: The fact that only 10% of people infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis develop clinical tuberculosis (TB) suggests the presence of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of TB. To date, a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in several candidate genes have been proposed as genetic risk factors of TB; however, reports are conflicting. Objectives: We investigated whether SNPs in the interleukin (IL)-12 receptor β1 gene are associated with TB in Koreans. Methods: One hundred and fifteen patients with bacteriologically or pathologically confirmed TB and 151 healthy anonymous blood donors were enrolled. The genotypes of 5 SNPs on IL-12 receptor β1 gene, +705A/G (Q214R), +1158T/C (M365T), +1196G/C (G378R), +1637G/A (A525T) and +1664 C/T (P534S), were determined by PCR-RFLP. Results: No difference was observed between TB patients and controls in terms of the genotype frequencies of the 5 SNPs of the IL-12 receptor β1 gene or of their haplotypes. Conclusions: In view of the finding that these SNPs have been reported to be associated with TB in the Japanese and Moroccan populations, our results may reflect racial differences in genetic susceptibility to TB.
Total Antioxidant Status and Severity of Community-Acquired Pneumonia: Are They Correlated?
Authors: Katsoulis K. , Kontakiotis T. , Baltopoulos G. , Kotsovili A. , Legakis I.N.
Published: July 2005

Background: Oxidant/antioxidant imbalance has been reported in various respiratory diseases including pneumonia. However, the role of blood antioxidants has not been fully discussed. Objectives: The aim of this exploratory study was to assess serum total antioxidant status (TAS) in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and the probable correlation with the severity of the disease. Methods: Thirty patients (22 men, 8 women; mean age of 48 ± 21 years) and 10 healthy nonsmokers (mean age 44 ± 16 years) were studied. Clinical, laboratory and radiological findings were recorded on the day of admission and on the 7th day. A severity score was calculated using the Fine scale. Serum TAS was measured at the same time points using a colorimetric method. Results: On admission, TAS (TAS1) was significantly lower than on the 7th day (TAS2) (0.84 ± 0.13 mmo/l vs. 1.00 ± 0.17 mmo/l; p = 0.0001) and compared with the healthy subjects (0.84 ± 0.13 vs. 1.19 ± 0.09 mmol/l; p < 0.001). TAS change (TAS2 – TAS1) was statistically significantly more marked in smokers (0.17 vs. 0.28, p = 0.001), in patients with factors predisposing to CAP (0.12 vs. 0.37; p = 0.000) and in patients with gram-negative pneumonia (0.16 vs. 0.35; p = 0.000). On the other hand, change in TAS was statistically significantly less marked in patients with lobar pneumonia (0.27 vs. 0.17; p = 0.001). Additionally, TAS change was positively correlated to white blood count on admission (r = 0.39; p = 0.029). Conclusions: It is concluded that serum TAS is decreased in patients with CAP, suggesting the presence of oxidative stress, and that change in TAS seems to be influenced by disease severity. TAS measurement may be useful in estimating the severity of CAP and is a probable indication for the administration of antioxidants in the management of the disease.
The Role of Routine Culture for Tuberculosis during Bronchoscopy Examination of Lung Masses
Authors: Shitrit David , Dekel Shlomi , Bar-Gil Shitrit Ariella , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: July 2005

Background: Many centers routinely culture bronchoscopy samples for mycobacteria even when tuberculosis (TB) is not strongly suspected. The value of this practice has hardly been investigated. Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the utility of routine culture of bronchoscopy samples of lung masses for mycobacteria in a region where TB is not endemic. Patients and Methods: The study group consisted of 168 patients who underwent bronchoscopy for investigation of lung masses in a major tertiary-care, university-affiliated facility in central Israel. The findings on acid-fast bacillus staining and culture were reviewed, and data on demographic characteristics were collected from the files. Results: There were 97 men (58%) and 71 women with a mean age of 62 ± 25 years. One culture (0.6%) grew Mycobacterium tuberculosis. There were no cases of positive acid-fast bacillus smear or positive nontuberculous mycobacteria culture. Sixty USD (5.45%) would be saved per patient without clinical suspicion of TB. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need to formulate new guidelines for the performance of mycobacterial cultures of bronchoscopy specimens in areas with a low prevalence of TB.
Imidapril-Induced Eosinophilic Pleurisy
Authors: Yoshida Hiromichi , Hasegawa Ritsuko , Hayashi Haruyuki , Irie Yasubumi
Published: July 2005

We describe an unusual case of a patient with eosinophilic pleurisy associated with long-term administration of imidapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI). An 81-year-old woman who had been given imidapril for the treatment of essential hypertension was admitted to our hospital for investigation of persistent low-grade fever, dry cough and difficulty in breathing. Left-sided eosinophilic pleurisy was diagnosed based on eosinophilic pleural effusion and peripheral eosinophilia. Soon after administration of imidapril was discontinued, her clinical symptoms subsided, and there was improvement in both diagnostic imaging and laboratory findings. So far, to our knowledge, this is the first reported case in which ACEI induced eosinophilic pleurisy.
Review of Epidemiological Studies on the Occupational Risk of Tuberculosis in Low-Incidence Areas
Authors: Seidler Andreas , Nienhaus Albert , Diel Roland
Published: July 2005

This review summarizes the epidemiological evidence for occupationally acquired tuberculosis and considers the implications for the prevention of tuberculosis. The relevant epidemiological studies were identified on the basis of the Medline data bank, starting with the year 1966. The evaluation of occupational groups with an elevated tuberculosis risk is exclusively based on epidemiologic studies of good or acceptable quality, applying clearly defined criteria of methodological quality. In summary, the availableepidemiological evidence suggests that the risk of tuberculosis is elevated in the following occupational groups: hospital employees in wards with tuberculosis patients; nurses in hospitals; nurses attending HIV-positive or drug-addicted patients; pathology and laboratory workers; respiratory therapists and physiotherapists; physicians in internal medicine, anaesthesia, surgery and psychiatry; non-medical hospital personnel in housekeeping and transport work; funeral home employees, and prison employees. However, the epidemiological evidence is limited for all these occupations, with the exception of the nurses, because of the lack of methodologically adequate studies that have got the statistical power to differentiate between specific work tasks. There is a need for large population-based studies with precise definition of exposure, which should include molecular epidemiologic methods in the investigation of occupational risk factors of tuberculosis.
Complex Segregation Analysis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Families with Pediatric Probands
Authors: Hanna Gregory L. , Fingerlin Tasha E. , Himle Joseph A. , Boehnke Michael
Published: July 2005

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the mode of inheritance for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in families ascertained through pediatric probands. Methods: We ascertained 52 families (35 case and 17 control families) through probands between the ages of 10 and 17 years. Direct interviews were completed with 215 individuals. Family informant data were collected on another 450 individuals without direct interviews, forming two data sets with one contained within the other. Complex segregation analyses were performed using regressive models as programmed in REGTL in the S.A.G.E. package.All models used in the analyses included sex-specific age and type parameters. Results: All models that excluded a residual effect of an affected parent were rejected. With that parameter included, the environmental and sporadic models were rejected in comparisons with the most general model in both data sets (all p < 0.005). With the direct interview data, the general codominant Mendelian model was not rejected when compared with the most general model (p = 0.140). We could not distinguish between any of the simple Mendelian models using either data set. However, the dominant Mendelian model provided a somewhat better fit than the other Mendelian models to the direct interview data. Conclusions: The results provide evidence for a major susceptibility locus in families with OCD when age at onset is incorporated into the model. Mendelian factors at most partially explained the familial aggregation of the phenotype, and residual familial effects were necessary to fit the data adequately. The results support the importance of linkage efforts by suggesting that a major locus is segregating within a proportion of families with OCD ascertained through pediatric probands.