bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obliterative Endophlebitis in Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) Caused by Trichobilharzia sp. (Digenea: Schistosomatidae) Infection
Authors: van Bolhuis G. H. , Rijks J. M. , Dorrestein G. M. , Rudolfova J. , van Dijk M. , Kuiken T.
Published: November 2004

Schistosome infections in mammals cause chronic proliferative vascular lesions associated with the presence of adult parasites in the lumen of mesenteric and portal veins. In birds, however, this has never been reported. In this study, we found obliterative endophlebitis associated with the presence of adult schistosomes ( Trichobilharzia sp., probably Trichobilharzia filiformis) as the main pathologic finding in five of eight mute swans ( Cygnus olor). On histologic examination, the intestinal and portal veins of these swans showed moderate to severe, diffuse, hyperplastic endophlebitis, characterized by myointimal hyperplasia, often with obliteration of the vascular lumen. In addition, moderate to severe lymphocytic and granulocytic enteritis occurred in all eight swans associated with the presence of schistosome eggs in the intestinal mucosa. Other findings included hepatic and splenic hemosiderosis and high hepatic copper levels. The vascular lesions associated with Trichobilharzia sp. infection may have contributed to the emaciation and death of those mute swans by obstruction of venous return in the intestinal and portal veins.
Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthase 2 and Cyclooxygenase-2 in Swine Experimentally Infected with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Cho W.-S. , Chae C.
Published: November 2004

The expression of inflammatory mediators was examined in pigs experimentally infected with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. The activity of nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was determined by measuring nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in response to A. pleuropneumoniae in vivo. By in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, both NOS2 and COX-2 enzymes were detected in neutrophils and macrophages that had infiltrated into alveolar spaces. The sharp increase in PGE2 concentration preceded the increase in the concentrations of NO. NO levels were highly correlated with PGE2 level ( rs = 0.7218, P < 0.05). The NO levels were positively correlated with lung lesion scores ( rs = 0.9087, P < 0.05) until 24 hours postinoculation (hpi) as were the lung lesion scores and PGE2 levels ( rs = 0.925, P < 0.01). High levels of PGE2 produced by COX-2 are generated in early infection (6 hpi). However, in later stages of infection (12–36 hpi), there is participation of NO and PGE2 accompanied by coinduction of both NOS2 and COX-2.
Pattern of Expression of HtrA1 During Mouse Development
Authors: De Luca Antonio , De Falco Maria , De Luca Luca , Penta Roberta , Shridhar Viji , Baldi Feliciano , Campioni Mara , Paggi Marco G. , Baldi Alfonso
Published: November 2004

The human HtrA family of proteases consists of four members: HtrA1, HtrA2, HtrA3, and HtrA4. In humans the four HtrA homologues appear to be involved in several important functions such as cell growth, apoptosis, and inflammatory reactions, and they control cell fate via regulated protein metabolism. In previous studies it was shown that the expression of HtrA1 was ubiquitous in normal adult human tissues. Here we examined the expression of HtrA1 protein and its corresponding mRNA during mouse embryogenesis using Northern blotting hybridization, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemical staining analyses. Our results indicate that HtrA1 is expressed in a variety of tissues in mouse embryos. Furthermore, this expression is regulated in a spatial and temporal manner. Relatively low levels of HtrA1 mRNA are detected in embryos at the beginning of organogenesis (E8), and the levels of expression increase during late organogenesis (E14-E19). Our results show that HtrA1 was expressed during embryonic development in specific areas where signaling by TGFβ family proteins plays important regulatory roles. The expression of HtrA1, documented both at mRNA and protein levels by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in the developing nervous system, is consistent with a possible role of this protein both in dividing and postmitotic neurons, possibly via its documented inhibitory effects on TGFβ proteins. An exhaustive knowledge of the different cell- and tissue-specific patterns of expression of HtrA1 in normal mouse embryos is essential for a critical evaluation of the exact role played by this protein during development.
Essential Contribution of Tumor-derived Perlecan to Epidermal Tumor Growth and Angiogenesis
Authors: Jiang Xinnong , Multhaupt Hinke , Chan En , Schaefer Liliana , Schaefer Roland M. , Couchman John R.
Published: November 2004

As a major heparan sulfate proteoglycan (PG) in basement membranes, perlecan has been linked to tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Here we produced epidermal tumors in immunocompromised rats by injection of mouse RT101 tumor cells. Tumor sections stained with species-specific perlecan antibodies, together with immuno-electron microscopy, showed that perlecan distributed around blood vessels was of both host and tumor cell origin. Tumor-derived perlecan was also distributed throughout the tumor matrix. Blood vessels stained with rat-specific PECAM-1 antibody showed their host origin. RT101 cells also expressed two other basement membrane heparan sulfate PGs, agrin and type XVIII collagen. Antisense targeting of perlecan inhibited tumor cell growth in vitro, while exogenous recombinant perlecan, but not heparin, restored the growth of antisense perlecan-expressing cells, suggesting that perlecan core protein, rather than heparan sulfate chains from perlecan, agrin, or type XVIII collagen, regulates tumor cell growth. However, perlecan core protein requirement was not related to fibroblast growth factor-7 binding because RT101 cells were unresponsive to and lacked receptors for this growth factor. In vivo, antisense perlecan-transfected cells generated no tumors, whereas untransfected and vector-transfected cells formed tumors with obvious neovascularization, suggesting that tumor perlecan rather than host perlecan controls tumor growth and angiogenesis.
Intracellular Hyaluronan in Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells: Association with Microtubules, RHAMM, and the Mitotic Spindle
Authors: Evanko Stephen P. , Parks W. Tony , Wight Thomas N.
Published: November 2004

Although considered a pericellular matrix component, hyaluronan was recently localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus of proliferating cells, supporting earlier reports that hyaluronan was present in locations such as the nucleus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and caveolae. This suggests that it can play roles both inside and outside the cell. Hyaluronan metabolism is coupled to mitosis and cell motility, but it is not clear if intracellular hyaluronan associates with cytoskeletal elements or plays a structural role. Here we report the distribution of intracellular hyaluronan, microtubules, and RHAMM in arterial smooth muscle cells in vitro. The general distribution of intracellular hyaluronan more closely resembled microtubule staining rather than actin filaments. Hyaluronan was abundant in the perinuclear microtubule-rich areas and was present in lysosomes, other vesicular structures, and the nucleolus. Partially fragmented fluorescein-hyaluronan was preferentially translocated to the perinuclear area compared with high-molecular-weight hyaluronan. In the mitotic spindle, hyaluronan colocalized with tubulin and with the hyaladherin RHAMM, a cell surface receptor and microtubule-associated protein that interacts with dynein and maintains spindle pole stability. Internalized fluorescein-hyaluronan was also seen at the spindle. Following telophase, an abundance of hyaluronan near the midbody microtubules at the cleavage furrow was also noted. In permeabilized cells, fluorescein-hyaluronan bound to RHAMM-associated microtubules. These findings suggest novel functions for hyaluronan in cellular physiology.
Immunohistochemical Characterization of Cloned Lamb Nephropathy
Authors: Dawson Andrew J. , King Tim J. , Wilmut Ian , Harkness Linda M. , Kelly Brian G. , Rhind Susan M.
Published: November 2004

Kidneys from lambs derived by nuclear transfer are frequently abnormal and are characterized by an enlarged pelvis and narrow medulla, consistent with lower urinary tract obstruction and development of variable hydronephrosis. The precise pathogenesis of this entity is unknown. Immunohistochemical staining for intermediate filaments was used to further characterize the lesions seen in this condition and was compared with age-matched control tissue. Major findings were upregulation of cytokeratin on damaged tubules, desmin and vimentin in undifferentiated mesenchyme, and smooth muscle actin in mesenchyme and on smooth muscle “collars” around dilated tubules. In addition, some cases showed reexpression of vimentin and desmin on proximal tubular epithelial cells. Taken together, these findings provide a valuable database for tracking the expression of intermediate filaments throughout renal development in sheep and have further characterized the nature of the response to injury by the developing kidney, a response that is characterized by proliferation of mesenchyme and both reexpression and upregulation of intermediate filaments within renal cells. In addition, the study has confirmed that the changes in cloned lamb nephropathy are established by day 85 of development.
Bovine Doppel (Dpl) and Prion Protein (PrP) Expression on Lymphoid Tissue and Circulating Leukocytes
Authors: Paltrinieri Saverio , Comazzi Stefano , Spagnolo Valentina , Rondena Marco , Ponti Wilma , Ceciliani Fabrizio
Published: November 2004

Doppel (Dpl) protein shares some structural features with prion protein (PrP), whose pathologic isoform (PrPsc) is considered to be the causative agent of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Dpl is mainly expressed in testes but, when ectopically expressed in the central nervous system, is neurotoxic. We have examined the expression pattern of Dpl and PrP on bovine lymphoid tissues and circulating leukocytes. A polyclonal anti-Dpl antibody along with a panel of monoclonal antibodies specific for leukocyte membrane antigens or PrP were used to examine frozen sections from spleen, lymph nodes, and bone marrow by immunohistochemistry. Blood was analyzed by flow cytometry. Double staining was used to study the possible coexpression of the two proteins and to characterize cells expressing Dpl and/or PrP. Dpl was expressed in B-cells, in dendritic cells within lymphoid follicles, bone marrow, circulating myeloid cells, and circulating B-cells. The distribution of Dpl was quite similar to that of PrP. The only differences in expression observed concerned the low number of Dpl + cells in lymph nodes and the strong Dpl positivity of circulating granulocytes. The two proteins were rarely co-expressed, suggesting an independent expression mechanism in resting cells. The role of Dpl+ leukocytes in the pathogenesis of Dpl- or PrP-induced diseases merits further investigation.
A Tracer Study with Systemically and Locally Administered Dinitrophenylated Osteopontin
Authors: Nanci Antonio , Wazen Rima M. , Zalzal Sylvia F. , Fortin Micheline , Goldberg Harvey A. , Hunter Graeme K. , Ghitescu Dorin-Lucian
Published: November 2004

Osteopontin (OPN), a major non-collagenous matrix protein of bone, is also found in tissue fluids and in the circulation. It is still not clear whether circulating OPN contributes to bone formation. To elucidate this question, rat OPN was tagged with dinitrophenol groups and administered to rats either intravenously or by infusion with an osmotic minipump through a “surgical window” in the bone of the hemimandible. Dinitrophenylated rat albumin (ALB) was used as a control. The presence and distribution of tagged proteins were revealed by immunogold labeling on sections of tibia and alveolar bone. Tagged molecules of OPN were found in mineralization foci, surfaces and interfaces, and matrix accumulations among calcified collagen fibrils. Even though dinitrophenylated ALB was administered at several-fold higher concentrations, it did not accumulate in these sites. These results show that circulating OPN can be incorporated into specific compartments of forming bone and suggest that such molecules may play a more important role than previously suspected.
Optimized Spectrophotometric Assay for the Completely Activated Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex in Fibroblasts
Authors: Schwab Marina A , Kölker Stefan , van den Heuvel Lambert P , Sauer Sven , Wolf Nicole I , Rating Dietz , Hoffmann Georg F , Smeitink Jan AM , Okun Jürgen G
Published: November 2004

Background: Analysis of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHc) activity in human skin fibroblasts is hampered by low enzyme activity in the cells. The most commonly used radiochemical method detects the formation of 14CO2, an endproduct of the E1 component of PDHc, from [1-14C]pyruvate.

Methods: We report a spectrophotometric method for the analysis of PDHc activity in fibroblasts based on detection of NADH formation via a p-iodonitrotetrazolium violet (INT)-coupled system. We investigated in detail the specific requirements of this assay, such as cofactor requirements and the effects of suggested stimulatory compounds and different cell disruption procedures. The reliability of the optimized assay was studied by investigation of patients previously diagnosed with PDHc deficiency and by comparison with results from the radiochemical method.

Results: Mean (SD) total PDHc activities were 136 (31) and 58 (21) mU/U of citrate synthase in fibroblast homogenates from 10 healthy volunteers and 7 PDHc-deficient patients, respectively, by the spectrophotometric assay. Similar results were obtained in a mitochondrial fraction. Dithiothreitol (DTT) increased the nonspecific inhibitor-insensitive rate with less pronounced effect on the specific rate of PDHc activity. Administration of DTT increased PDHc activity to 193 (3)% of control activity (without DTT), but decreased the inhibitor-sensitive rate from 99 (0.3)% (without DTT) to 69 (2)% (with 0.3 mmol/L DTT).

Conclusion: The simple, optimized spectrophotometric assay for PDHc analysis allows reliable investigation of the enzyme complex in human skin fibroblasts.
Enhancement of Sensitivity and Resolution of Surface-Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometric Records for Serum Peptides Using Time-Series Analysis Techniques
Authors: Malyarenko Dariya I , Cooke William E , Adam Bao-Ling , Malik Gunjan , Chen Haijian , Tracy Eugene R , Trosset Michael W , Sasinowski Maciek , Semmes O John , Manos Dennis M
Published: November 2004

Background: Measurement of peptide/protein concentrations in biological samples for biomarker discovery commonly uses high-sensitivity mass spectrometers with a surface-processing procedure to concentrate the important peptides. These time-of-flight (TOF) instruments typically have low mass resolution and considerable electronic noise associated with their detectors. The net result is unnecessary overlapping of peaks, apparent mass jitter, and difficulty in distinguishing mass peaks from background noise. Many of these effects can be reduced by processing the signal using standard time-series background subtraction, calibration, and filtering techniques.

Methods: Surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization (SELDI) spectra were acquired on a PBS II instrument from blank, hydrophobic, and IMAC-Cu ProteinChip® arrays (Ciphergen Biosystems, Inc.) incubated with calibration peptide mixtures or pooled serum. TOF data were recorded after single and multiple laser shots at different positions. Correlative analysis was used for time-series calibration. Target filters were used to suppress noise and enhance resolution after baseline removal and noise rescaling.

Results: The developed algorithms compensated for the electronic noise attributable to detector overload, removed the baseline caused by charge accumulation, detected and corrected mass peak jitter, enhanced signal amplitude at higher masses, and improved the resolution by using a deconvolution filter.

Conclusions: These time-series techniques, when applied to SELDI-TOF data before any peak identification procedure, can improve the data to make the peak identification process simpler and more robust. These improvements may be applicable to most TOF instrumentation that uses analog (rather than counting) detectors.
Coordinate expression of the Porphyromonas gingivalis lysine-specific gingipain proteinase, Kgp, arginine-specific gingipain proteinase, RgpA, and the heme/hemoglobin receptor, HmuR
Authors: Liu Xinyan , Sroka Aneta , Potempa Jan , Genco Caroline Attardo
Published: November 2004

Heme utilization inPorphyromonas gingivalisrequires the participation of an outer membrane hemin/hemoglobin receptor, HmuR, the lysine-specific gingipain proteinase (Kgp) and arginine-specific gingipain proteinase (Rgp). In this study, the expression ofhmuR,kgpandrgpAgenes in response to growth with different heme sources was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunoassay. Coordinate regulation ofhmuR,kgpandrgpAgene expression was evaluated through utilization ofP. gingivalis hmuRandkgpmutants or by selective inactivation of proteinases with Kgp- and Rgp-specific inhibitors. We observed that expression of thekgpandrgpAgenes was not tightly regulated by heme, but rather by the growth phase. In contrast, expression of thehmuRgene was negatively regulated by heme, while growth ofP. gingivaliswith human serum resulted in increasedhmuRexpression. AP. gingivalis kgpisogenic mutant demonstrated significantly increasedhmuRgene expression, and inactivation of Kgp and Rgp activity by specific inhibitors up-regulatedhmuRgene transcription. Moreover, inactivation of Kgp up-regulatedrgpAtranscription. Finally, aP. gingivalis hmuRmutant exhibited repressedkgpgene expression and lysine-specific proteinase activity. Collectively, these results indicate thatkgp,rgpAandhmuRgene transcription is coordinately regulated and may facilitate greater efficiency of heme utilization inP. gingivalis.
Genetic characterization of staphopain genes in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Golonka Ewa , Filipek Renata , Sabat Artur , Sinczak Anna , Potempa Jan
Published: November 2004

Staphylococcus aureus, a leading cause of bacterial infections in humans, is endowed with a wealth of virulence factors that contribute to the disease process. Several extracellular proteolytic enzymes, including cysteine proteinases referred to as the staphopains (staphopain A, encoded by thescpAgene, and staphopain B, encoded bysspB), have proposed roles for staphylococcal virulence. Here we present data regarding the distribution, copy number and genetic variability of the genes encoding the staphopains in a large number ofS. aureusstrains. The polymorphism of thescpAandsspBgenes in three laboratory strains and 126 clinical isolates was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Both genes were detected in all isolates by PCR amplification and, based on the PCR-RFLP patterns, classified as four types forscpAand six types forsspB. Those with the most divergent patterns were subjected to DNA sequencing and compared with genomic sequence data for the seven available strains ofS. aureus. Southern blot analysis of thescpAandsspBsequences indicates that they are strongly conserved as single-copy genes in the genome of eachS. aureusstrain investigated. Taken together, these data suggest that the staphopains have important housekeeping and/or virulence functions, and therefore may constitute an interesting target for the development of therapeutic inhibitors for the treatment of staphylococcal diseases.
Lipopolysaccharide binding of an exchangeable apolipoprotein, apolipophorin III, from Galleria mellonella
Authors: Pratt Cindy C. , Weers Paul M.M.
Published: November 2004

A new role of apolipophorin III (apoLp-III) as an immune activator has emerged recently. To gain insight into this novel function, the interaction of apoLp-III with lipopoly-saccharide (LPS) was investigated. ApoLp-III fromGalleria mellonellawas incubated with LPS fromEscherichia coliO55:B5, and analyzed by non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). Protein staining showed that apoLp-III mobility was significantly reduced. In addition, silver and LPS fluorescent staining demonstrated that LPS mobility was increased upon incubation with apoLp-III. This result suggests association of apoLp-III with LPS. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) PAGE analysis showed decreased apoLp-III mobility upon LPS addition, indicative of LPS apoLp-III interaction in the presence of SDS. The unique tyrosine residue that resides in apoLp-III was used to provide additional evidence for LPS binding interaction. In the absence of LPS, apoLp-III tyrosine fluorescence was relatively low. However, LPS addition resulted in a progressive increase in the fluorescence intensity, indicating tertiary rearrangement in the environment of tyrosine 142 upon LPS interaction. Other well-characterized apoLp-IIIs were also examined for LPS binding.Manduca sexta,Bombyx moriandLocusta migratoriaapoLp-III were all able to interact with LPS. The ability of apoLp-III to form complexes with LPS supports the proposed role of apoLp-III in innate immunity.
Political Islam in Indonesia: Present and Future Trajectory
Authors: Baswedan Anies Rasyid
Published: November 2004

This article examines the dynamics of political Islam in the world's largest Muslim democracy. It analyzes the changes that have taken place in an increasingly pious electorate, the performance and organizational strength of six Islam-friendly political parties, and predicts the likely future trajectory of political Islam in Indonesia.
Little Theories and Big Problems: Chicago Sociology and Ethnic Conflicts*
Authors: Deutscher Irwin
Published: November 2004

Since this society is oriented toward a specific theory, I thought I ought to say something about theories in general and our little theory in particular. Let me get that off of my chest. I am not overly fond of terms like “theory” and “theorist,” both of which seem to suggest the importance of the person who claims the identity more than anything else. They are pompous terms. To the extent that we are thoughtful about what we are doing and how we are going about it, all sociologists are theorists and methodologists. But if that is all we are, then we are literally people of no substance. We have no substantial knowledge of or concern for the empirical world. The little theory we share is extraordinarily empirical. It is, as one of its most prominent practitioners called it, a “grounded theory” (Glaser and Strauss 1967).

I confess that several years after receiving my degree I had no real sense of what symbolic interaction was and how it might differ from other theoretical orientations. Arnold Rose enlightened me on this when he asked me to submit a paper for a new collection he was editing (Rose 1962). I was pleased and flattered. Rose was a mentor of mine, and I had never before been asked to contribute to an edited volume. But I was unsure of what would be appropriate for a book about symbolic interaction. I screwed up my courage and asked Arnold: “Exactly what is symbolic interaction”” He shrugged off my ignorance, turned on his heels, and muttered over his shoulder, “It is what they do at Chicago.”
A Cartography of Passing in Everyday Life
Authors: Renfrow Daniel G.
Published: November 2004

This analysis of student narratives explores various forms of passing encounters whereby individuals are not who they claim to be. I distinguish between (a) passing along highly stigmatized identities and everyday passing across less threatening ones; and (b) proactive passing, which individuals initiate, and reactive passing, in which individuals embrace an identity others have mistakenly assigned to them. These strategies are complex processes whereby individuals interactively negotiate definitions of the situation and sometimes give idealized performances. They underscore through contrast the sense of an authentic identity that enhances the stability of self. Although theorists claim that passing is inconsequential for the individual, the narratives in this study suggest that masking a central identity can be emotionally costly.
The Nurse Clinical Trial Coordinator: Benefits and Drawbacks of the Role
Authors: Mueller Mary-Rose , Mamo Laura
Published: November 2004

It has become common for nurses to be recruited into and/or seek careers outside of the traditional domain of hospital-based work. This article draws on interview data to consider a position nurses are occupying within biomedicine, that of the nurse clinical trial coordinator. It examines and analyzes the value attributed to such positions by nurse trial coordinators. The analysis reveals that nurses identify three aspects of the position—social relations, the acquisition of skills and knowledge, and work and control—as having both advantages and disadvantages over other work roles within nursing. It concludes with suggestions for further research on the role and involvement of nurses in clinical research. cope.
Integrating Concepts for the Development of Qualitatively-Derived Theory
Authors: Morse Janice M. , Hupcey Judith E. , Penrod Janice , Mitcham Carl
Published: November 2004

The development of qualitatively-derived theory (QDT) remains a challenge for researchers wishing to retain the complexity of reality. The techniques of concept integration provide a means to link concepts according to their shared attributes and logically according to their mutual interactions, reactions, and responses. While retaining all of the advantages of qualitative induction, integrating concepts in this manner places QDT theory at the upper end of mid-range theory, or disclosive theory, to produce a theory of higher abstraction and broader scope.
Transcending the Limits of Method: Cultivating Creativity in Nursing
Authors: Hartrick Gweneth A.
Published: November 2004

In this article the author suggests that by nurturing the development of creativity in individual nurses and cultivating a culture of creativity in the profession, our knowledge and practice as a discipline could be strongly enhanced. This cultivation process, however, requires that we move beyond “using” theory to develop methods of practice. Such an approach to theory serves to solidify and constrain practice and inhibits the full contribution of nursing theory and knowledge. Drawing on the work of philosophers in the pragmatist tradition, the author considers how we might redescribe form to better support the creative process and ultimately enhance the development and contribution of nursing knowledge and theory.
Exploring the Dimensions of Access to Health Services: Implications for Nursing Research and Practice
Authors: Racher Frances E. , Vollman Ardene Robinson
Published: November 2004

Access to health services is a major concern across North America and abroad, with particular salience for the residents of rural and remote areas and the health professionals committed to providing services to them. Intrinsic to this discussion is clarification of the phenomenon of access to health services, a concept that remains nebulous and obscure to consumers, health care providers, and policymakers alike. Multiple understandings of access to health services impedes progress in the development of policy, the creation of programs, and the transformation of health services. Considerable discussion of theory concerning access to health services is articulated in public or community health literature and that of other disciplines; however, limited attention to this topic is apparent in nursing literature. This report articulates definitions, dimensions, and frameworks of access to health services from available literature and existing theory. Further, key points are identified and discussed for consideration in nursing research on the term access and implications for practice.
El Cambio de Vida: Conceptualizations of Menopause and Midlife Among Urban Latina Women
Authors: Villarruel Antonia M. , Harlow Sioban D. , Lopez Maria , Sowers MaryFran
Published: November 2004

The experience of menopause among Latina women has seldom been described. The purpose of this study was to conceptualize and contextualize the experience of menopause from the perspective of Latina women. A series of focus group sessions were conducted with postmenopausal Latina women living in a large midwestern city. Themes derived from content analysis included: (a) The primacy of health and the importance of harmony and balance; (b) El cambio de vida—something you have to go through; and (c) This time is for me: reorientation and restructuring. Rediscovery and redefinition as opposed to being defined by physical symptoms marked this life phase. Implications of study findings are discussed within the context of an emerging biopsychosocial perspective of midlife and menopause transition.
Using Nursing Science Does Not Guarantee Nursing Excellence
Authors: Flaming Don
Published: November 2004

Nursing excellence is usually defined in terms of having and applying more and more knowledge, especially from nursing science—the more nurses know, the better their practice. This conceptualization of nursing practice has similarities with the ancient Greek mode of reasoning calledtechnebut cannot adequately deal with the ambiguities of everyday nursing. Nursing excellence does occur, however, withphronetic, ontological practice in which a nurse’s morals, habits, and dispositions guide practice. Of course, nurses need a comprehensive knowledge and skill base, butphroneticnurses negotiate the “rough ground” of nursing practice because ontological dispositions are guiding practice rather than simply applying generalizable and communal knowledge from nursing science.Techne-ical practice leads to competent nursing, but onlyphroneticpractice results in nursing excellence. Included in this article is a description oftechne-ical practice, its limitations for nursing excellence, and rationale for adopting aphroneticconceptualization of nursing practice.practice.
Cancer Screening Promotion Among Medically Underserved Asian American Women: Integration of Research and Practice
Authors: Yu Mei-yu , Seetoo Amy D. , Hong Oi Saeng , Song Lixin , Raizade Rekha , Agas Weller Adelwisa L.
Published: November 2004

Mammography and Pap smear tests are known to be effective early detection measures for breast and cervical cancers, respectively, but Asian Americans are reluctant to make visits for routine preventive care. Quantitative and qualitative research conducted by the Healthy Asian Americans Project (HAAP) between 1996 and 1999 indicated that Asian residents in southeastern Michigan, like the general Asian population in the US, underutilized early cancer screening programs due to cultural, psychosocial, linguistic, and economic barriers. This article reports how the HAAP’s research findings guided the Michigan Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) promotion (conducted from 2000 to 2001 among medically underserved Asian women residing in southeastern Michigan), and how evaluation of the HAAP’s BCCCP promotion will direct future research and health promotion programs. The article presents strategies used to improve access to cancer screening programs for diverse Asian sub-groups as well as outcomes of the 2-year HAAP’s BCCCP promotion among the target population. Discussion regarding lessons and experiences gained from integration of research and practice has implications on design and implementation of the cancer screening promotion for the rapidly increasing Asian American population as well as other medically underserved minority populations in the US.
Electrochemical Machining
Authors: McGeough Joseph A.
Published: November 2004

Electrochemical machining (ECM), a metal removal process based on the laws of electrolysis, was developed for shaping high strength heat‐resistant alloys that are difficult to machine by conventional techniques. Using ECM techniques, hard metals can be shaped as reliably as soft ones and the rate of machining does not depend on hardness. Because the tool electrode used in the process does not wear, soft metals can be used as tools to form shapes on harder workpieces. Other applications include deburring, hole drilling, electrochemical grinding, and removal of fatigue cracks in steel structures. The working principles of ECM are described along with the types of electrolytes used. Parameters for various metals are discussed.
Molecular Sieves
Authors: Kresge Charles T. , Dhingra Sandeep S.
Published: November 2004

Molecular sieves are inorganic materials that possess uniform pores with diameters in the micro‐, meso‐, or macrosize range. Heterogeneous catalysis and adsorption processes make extensive use of molecular sieves. The utility of these materials is manifested in their microstructures, which allow access to large internal surfaces and cavities that enhance catalytic and adsorptive capacity. The most technologically important molecular sieves are zeolites, which are high capacity, selective adsorbents capable of separating molecules based on the size and shape of the molecule relative to the size and geometry of the main apertures of the structures. They adsorb molecules with a selectivity that is not found in other solid adsorbents. Structure, manufacture, uses, properties, health and safety factors, and economic aspects are discussed.
Genetic Engineering, Procedures
Authors: Schmidt Francis J.
Published: November 2004

Genetic engineering refers to the determination and manipulation of the information content of a cell. The contemporary meaning refers to DNA manipulation, primarily involving the construction and characterization of recombinant DNA molecules. Since the mid‐1990s it has been possible to determine the entire genomic DNA sequence of an organism, which has led to qualitatively new ways of understanding biological information and evolution.
Water Treatment of Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs
Authors: Wojtowicz John A.
Published: November 2004

The swimming pool market has grown at an average of ∼3%/year over the last 10 years. The total number of pools in 1991 was ∼6 × 106in the United States. The number of spas and hot tubs has grown rapidly since 1970, with an estimated 2.7 × 106spas and hot tubs in 1991 in the United States in a growing market. Most swimming pools are of the recirculating type. Through filtration, chemical treatment, and dilution with rain and makeup water, the water can be reused without draining and refilling. Sanitizing chemicals must be added regularly to oxidize pool contaminants and kill and control disease‐carrying bacteria and other organisms introduced by swimmers and dirt entering the water. It also is necessary to destroy algae whose spores are carried into the water by wind and rain. The pH of pool water must be maintained within a desirable range for swimmer comfort and optimal effectiveness of chlorine sanitizers. In order to control the corrosive or scaling tendencies of pool water, it also is necessary to maintain a proper balance between pH, alkalinity, and hardness. Undesirable trace metals such as iron, manganese, or copper are sometimes found in source water or formed by corrosion of pool equipment. Unless removed, these metals discolor pool water and cause stains, especially damaging to plaster pool surfaces. Filtration of pool water is necessary for removal of suspended solids which otherwise cloud water and interfere with the disinfection process.
Familial lipomyelomeningocele: A further report
Authors: Kannu Peter , Furneaux Christopher , Aftimos Salim
Published: November 2004

Lipomyelomeningocele is a form of spina bifida occulta with a distinct pathogenesis that differentiates it from open neural tube defects. Familial forms are rare and the condition may be polygenic. We report on 2 affected siblings with similar lesions and raise the possibility of an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance with implications for genetic counselling. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel COL9A3 mutation in a family with multiple epiphyseal dysplasia
Authors: Nakashima Eiji , Kitoh Hiroshi , Maeda Koichi , Haga Nobuhiko , Kosaki Rika , Mabuchi Akihiko , Nishimura Gen , Ohashi Hirofumi , Ikegawa Shiro
Published: November 2004

Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) is a common skeletal dysplasia characterized by mild to moderate short stature, early‐onset of osteoarthritis (OA) mainly in the hip and knee joints, and abnormally small and/or irregular epiphyses. MED is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Six causative genes of MED have been reported, including type IX collagen genes (COL9A1, COL9A2, COL9A3). All the type IX collagen mutations previously reported cause exon skipping that loses the COL3 domain. Here we have identified a novel COL9A3 mutation co‐segregating in a three‐generation family with MED. The mutation (IVS3 + 5G > A) was speculated to lose the COL3 domain by skipping of exon 3, which was confirmed by in vitro analysis. The patients were of normal height and had minimal complaints with phenotypes being more severe in male patients. The radiographic phenotypes of the patients were relatively milder than those of previously reported cases, and were indistinguishable to common, idiopathic OA. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A 2‐bp deletion in the GJA1 gene is associated with oculo‐dento‐digital dysplasia with palmoplantar keratoderma
Authors: van Steensel M.A.M. , Spruijt L. , van der Burgt I. , Bladergroen R.S. , Vermeer M. , Steijlen P.M. , van Geel M.
Published: November 2004

Oculo‐dento‐digital dysplasia (ODDD, OMIM no. 164210) is a pleiotropic disorder characterized mainly by ocular anomalies, varying degrees of finger and toe syndactyly, and enamel defects. It is caused by missense mutations in the gene coding for the gap junction protein connexin 43 or GJA1. Other types of mutations have so far not been reported. Here we describe a Dutch kindred with ODDD showing a new symptom, palmoplantar keratoderma, and associated with a novel 2‐bp deletion mutation of GJA1. The dinucleotide deletion 780_781delTG is located in the cytoplasmic C‐terminal loop and leads to a frameshift. This is predicted to lead to the production of a slightly truncated protein with 46 incorrect amino acids in the C‐terminal cytoplasmic loop (C260fsX307). This novel mutation may explain the presence of skin symptoms. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydrogenation of Cinnamaldehyde over Pt‐Modified Molecular Sieve Catalysts
Authors: Hájek J. , Kumar N. , Francová D. , Paseka I. , Mäki‐Arvela P. , Salmi T. , Murzin D.Yu.
Published: November 2004

The catalytic properties of various Pt‐modified molecular sieves were tested in liquid‐phase hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde and compared to Pt/MgO and commercial Pt/C catalysts. The type of support considerably influenced the catalytic properties. The superior selectivity performance of microporous catalysts was confirmed; the highest selectivity to allyl alcohol of about 40 % was obtained over the beta support whereas the mesoporous MCM‐41‐supported catalyst was unselective. The highest activity was obtained over the Pt/mordenite catalyst. In order to clarify the performance of catalysts, several characterization methods (XRD, XRF, FTIR, surface measurements) were employed.
Simulation of Detachment of Porous Filter Cakes in Surface Filtration
Authors: Wien G. , Sonnenberg J.‐P. , Schmidt E.
Published: November 2004

The simulation for the detachment of filter cakes from filter media uses a dimension‐reduced model, in which the filter cake is divided into horizontal blocks. For each block the agent forces are balanced in order to ascertain detachment behavior. The simulation accounts for frictional forces at the block borders, interparticulate frictional and adhesive forces in the filter cake and adhesive forces between filter cake and filter medium. Through the simulation a pre‐optimization takes place, which has to be verified through experiment.
Preparation of Gallium‐Containing Catalysts by Solid‐State Reaction of Acidic Zeolites with Elemental Gallium
Authors: Altwasser S. , Raichle A. , Traa Y. , Weitkamp J.
Published: November 2004

Zeolites with gallium cations on extra‐framework positions are interesting catalysts, e.g., in the conversion of methylcyclohexane to a synthetic steamcracker feed consisting mainly of light n‐alkanes. Due to the bulky hydration shell of Ga3+ cations, solid‐state ion exchange instead of ion exchange in aqueous suspension has to be used to introduce gallium cations into the pore system of medium‐pore zeolites. In this work, the solid‐state reaction of acidic zeolites with elemental gallium is presented as an alternative route towards Ga‐containing catalysts.
Ferromagnetic Interaction in μ1,3‐Cyanamido‐Derived Copper(II) Cryptates
Authors: Escuer Albert , Mc Kee Vickie , Nelson Jane , Ruiz Eliseo , Sanz Núria , Vicente Ramon
Published: November 2004

The reaction of dinuclear copper(II) cryptates with calcium cyanamide, CaNCN, and sodium dicyanamide, Na[N(CN)2] results in dinuclear compounds of formulae [Cu2(HNCN)(R3Bm)](ClO4)3 (1), [Cu2(dca)(R3Bm)](ClO4)3⋅4H2O (2), and [Cu2(NCNCONH2)(R3Bm)](CF3SO3)3 (3), in which R3Bm=N[(CH2)2NHCH2(C6H4‐m)CH2NH(CH2)2]3N and dca=dicyanamido ligand (NCNCN−). The X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals for both 1 and 3 a dinuclear entity in which the copper atoms are bridged by means of the ‐NCN‐ unit. The molar magnetic susceptibility measurements of 1–3 in the 2–300 K range indicate ferromagnetic coupling. The calculated J values, by using theoretical methods based on density functional theory (DFT) are in excellent agreement with the experimental data. Catalytic hydration of a nitrile to an amide functional group is assumed responsible for the formation of 3 from a μ1,3‐dicyanamido ligand.
A comparison of the binge eating scale, questionnaire for eating and weight patterns‐revised, and eating disorder examination questionnaire with instructions with the eating disorder examination in the assessment of binge eating disorder and its symptoms
Authors: Celio Angela A. , Wilfley Denise E. , Crow Scott J. , Mitchell James , Walsh B. Timothy
Published: November 2004

Objective

The current study assesses concordance between self‐administered measures and a diagnostic standard for assessment of binge frequency and diagnosis of binge eating disorder (BED) in a sample of binge eaters.

Method

The Questionnaire for Eating and Weight Patterns‐Revised (QEWP‐R), Binge Eating Scale (BES), two items from the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire with Instructions (EDE‐Q‐I), and the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) were administered. Participants were 157 adults volunteering for a clinical study, of whom 129 (79%) were diagnosed with BED using the EDE as the diagnostic standard.

Results

In the identification of BED, the QEWP‐R yielded a sensitivity value of .74 and a specificity value of .35. The BES yielded a sensitivity value of .85 and a specificity value of .20. Frequency of binge eating days and episodes on the EDE‐Q‐I correlated highly with the EDE (.65 and .48, respectively; p < .001).

Discussion

The accuracy of diagnosis and symptomatology among self‐administered questionnaires is variable. The BES and the QEWP‐R performed satisfactorily as initial screens for the diagnosis of BED, but were less accurate in identifying non‐BED individuals and the frequency of binge eating. The EDE‐Q‐I most accurately assessed the frequency of binge eating. © 2004 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 36: 434–444, 2004.
Cathodic Adsorptive Voltammetry of the Gallium‐Alizarin Red S Complex at a Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Li Yi‐Heng , Zhao Qiao‐Ling , Huang Mei‐hua
Published: November 2004

The adsorptive voltammetric behavior of the gallium‐alizarin red S (ARS) complex in NH4OAc‐HCl buffer at a carbon paste electrode(CPE) was investigated. The results showed that the complex can be adsorbed on the surface of the CPE, yielding one reduction peak at −0.52 V(vs. SCE), corresponding to the irreversible reduction of the ligand, ARS, bonded in the complex. The optimal experimental conditions include the use of 0.10 mol L−1 ammonium acetate buffer(pH 4.5), 1.0×10−5 mol L−1 ARS, an accumulation potential of −0.05 V, an accumulation time of 180 s ,a rest time of 10 s, a scan rate of 200 mV s−1and a second‐order derivative linear scan mode. The peak current is proportional to the concentration of gallium(III) over the range 0.02–6.0 μg L−1, with the detection limit of 0.01 μg L−1 for an accumulation time of 180 s. The method was applied to the determination of gallium in food samples with satisfactory results.
Use of an Electronic Tongue Based on All‐Solid‐State Potentiometric Sensors for the Quantitation of Alkaline Ions
Authors: Gallardo J. , Alegret S. , Munoz R. , Leija L. , Hernandez P. Ro. , del Valle M.
Published: November 2004

An array of eight nonspecific potentiometric sensors was used in combination with multivariate calibration for the simultaneous determination of NH$\rm{ {_{4}^{+}}}$, K+and Na+ions. The sensors were of the all‐solid‐state type and employed a PVC polymer membrane. Signals were processed by using a multilayer artificial neural network (ANN). The ANN configuration used was optimized by using 8 neurons in the input layer, 5 in the hidden layer and 3 in the output layer. Use of the Bayesian Regularization algorithm allowed a quick building of an accurate model, as confirmed by random multi‐starting of network weights. The system was used to analyze synthetic and river water, waste water and fertilizer samples. Correct results were obtained for the three ions in synthetic and real water samples; in fertilizers, ammonium ion can be determined, while sodium and potassium show biased results.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Rutin
Authors: Ghica Mariana‐Emilia , Brett Ana Maria Oliveira
Published: November 2004

An electrochemical investigation of rutin oxidation on a glassy carbon electrode was carried out using cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry and square‐wave voltammetry over a wide pH interval. The electrochemical oxidation is a complex process, which proceeds in a cascade mechanism, related with the 4‐hydroxyl groups of the rutin molecule. The catechol 3′,4′‐dihydroxyl group is the first to be oxidized by a two‐electron – two‐proton reversible oxidation reaction, followed by an irreversible oxidation reaction due to the 5,7‐dihydroxyl group. Both mechanisms are pH dependent. An adsorption process is also observed and the oxidation products block the electrode surface.
Determination of Phenolic Acids and Flavones in Lonicera japonica Thumb. by Capillary Electrophoresis with Electrochemical Detection
Authors: Peng Youyuan , Liu Fanghua , Ye Jiannong
Published: November 2004

Capillary electrophoresis with electrochemical detection (CE‐ED) was employed to analyze active ingredients of Lonicera japonica Thumb., an important crude herb frequently used in Chinese medicines. Hyperoside, chlorogenic acid, luteolin and caffeic acid are the major important active ingredients. Operating in a wall‐jet configuration, a 300 μm diameter carbon‐disk electrode was used as the working electrode, which exhibits a good response at +0.90 V (vs. saturated calomel electrode) for four analytes. Under the optimum conditions, the analytes were baseline separated within 20 min in a 50 mmol L−1 borax buffer (pH 8.7). Notably, excellent linearity was obtained over two orders of magnitude with detection limits (S/N=3) ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 mg L−1 for all the analytes. This method was successfully used in the analysis of Lonicera japonica Thumb. with relative simple extraction procedures, and the assay results were satisfactory.