bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Differentially Activated Cell-Signaling Networks Associated with Pichinde Virus Pathogenesis by Using Systems Kinomics
Authors: Bowick Gavin C. , Fennewald Susan M. , Scott Erin P. , Zhang LiHong , Elsom Barry L. , Aronson Judith F. , Spratt Heidi M. , Luxon Bruce A. , Gorenstein David G. , Herzog Norbert K.
Published: December 2006

Phosphorylation plays a key role in regulating many signaling pathways. Although studies investigating the phosphorylated forms of signaling pathways are now commonplace, global analysis of protein phosphorylation and kinase activity has lagged behind genomics and proteomics. We have used a kinomics approach to study the effect of virus infection on host cell signaling in infected guinea pigs. Delineating the host responses which lead to clearance of a pathogen requires the use of a matched, comparative model system. We have used two passage variants of the arenavirus Pichinde, used as a biosafety level 2 model of Lassa fever virus as it produces similar pathologies in guinea pigs and humans, to compare the host cell responses between infections which lead to either a mild, self-limiting infection or lethal disease. Using this model, we can begin to understand the differences in signaling events which give rise to these markedly different outcomes. By contextualizing these data using pathway analysis, we have identified key differences in cellular signaling matrices. By comparing these differentially involved networks, we have identified a number of key signaling “nodes” which show differential phosphorylations between mild and lethal infections. We believe that these nodes provide potential targets for the development of antiviral therapies by acting at the level of the host response rather than by directly targeting viral proteins.
Replication and Propagation of Attenuated Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Vectors In Vivo: Vector Spread Correlates with Induction of Immune Responses and Persistence of Genomic RNA
Authors: Simon Ian D. , Publicover Jean , Rose John K.
Published: December 2006

Live-attenuated vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) vectors expressing foreign antigens induce potent immune responses and protect against viral diseases in animal models. Highly attenuated (VSV-CT1) or single-cycle VSV (VSVΔG) vectors induce immune responses lower than those generated by attenuated wild-type VSV vectors when given intranasally. We show here that reduced spread of the more highly attenuated or single-cycle vectors to other organs, including lymph nodes, correlates with the reduction in the immune responses. A reverse transcription, real-time PCR assay for VSV genomic RNA (gRNA) sequences showed long-term persistence of gRNA from replicating vectors in lymph nodes, long after viral clearance. Such persistence may be important for induction of potent immune responses by VSV vectors.
Hydroboration of 1,1'-Bi(cyclopent-1-ene) and 3,3'-Biindene: Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Kvíčala Jaroslav , Baszczyňski Ondřej , Krupková Alena , Stránská Denisa
Published: December 2006

Hydroboration of bi(cyclopent-1-ene) (1) or 3,3'-biindene (2) with borane, thexylborane or (-)-isopinocampheylborane afforded, regardless of reaction conditions, meso-isomers of polycyclic 1,4-diols 3a, 4a as the main products. No reaction was observed with 9-BBN. The structure of the major product 4a, as well as of the minor racemic product 4b was assigned based on 1H NMR spectra of the corresponding Mosher's diesters 5a-5c. Finally, the stereochemistry of the product 4a was confirmed by a single-crystal X-ray analysis of the corresponding dimesylate 6. To elucidate preferential formation of the meso-isomers, complexes of monohydroborated intermediate with borane were studied theoretically by DFT methods.
Conformational Transitions of Ferricytochrome c in Strong Inorganic Acids
Authors: Stupák Marek , Bágeľová Jaroslava , Fedunová Diana , Antalík Marián
Published: December 2006

Conformational transitions of horse heart ferricytochromec(ferricytc) have been investigated in the presence of strong inorganic acids and their salts by optical absorption spectroscopy, magnetic circular dichroism and circular dichroism. In the presence of acids (HClO4or H2SO4, pH 2) or their salts (1 M NaClO4or Na2SO4, pH 2, 25 °C), the three ligation states of ferricytcheme were identified. One is the high-spin state: His18-Fe-H2O (40-50%), and two are the low-spin states: His18-Fe-Met80 (30-25%) and His18-Fe-His (30-25%). Under these conditions low temperatures facilitate native heme coordination of ferricytc. Transition from low-spin to high-spin heme coordination of ferricytcis complete in 1 M HClO4or 3 M H2SO4. At the concentration of HClO4and H2SO4above 3 M, different behavior in spectral transitions of ferricytcnear the heme is observed. High-spin pentacoordinated ferricytcwith the heme ligand of His18-Fe is formed in 8 M H2SO4. This state is unstable at higher concentration of H2SO4and porphyrin ferricytcis formed. At HClO4concentration higher than 3 M, the new, until this time not observed heme coordination structure of ferricytcoriginates.
Regulation of proteinl-isoaspartyl methyltransferase by cell–matrix interactions: involvement of integrin αvβ3, PI 3-kinase, and the proteasome
Authors: Lanthier Julie , Desrosiers Richard R.
Published: December 2006

The enzyme l-isoaspartyl methyltransferase (PIMT) is known to repair damaged proteins that have accumulated abnormal aspartyl residues during cell aging. However, little is known about the mechanisms involved in the regulation of PIMT expression. Here we report that PIMT expression in bovine aortic endothelial cells is regulated by cell detachment and readhesion to a substratum. During cell detachment, the PIMT level was rapidly and strongly increased and correlated with a stimulation of protein synthesis. Aside from endothelial cells, PIMT levels were also regulated by cell adhesion in various cancer cell lines. The upregulation of PIMT expression could be prevented by an anti-αvβ3 antibody (LM609) or by a cyclic RGD peptide (XJ735) specific to integrin αvβ3, indicating that this integrin was likely involved in PIMT regulation. Moreover, we found that PIMT expression returned to the basal level when cells were replated on a substratum after detachment, though downregulation of PIMT expression could be partly prevented by the PI3K inhibitors LY294002 and wortmannin, as well as by the proteasome inhibitors MG-132, lactacystin, and β-lactone. These findings support the assumption that the PIMT level was downregulated by proteasomal degradation, involving the PI3K pathway, during cell attachment. This study reports new insights on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the regulation of PIMT expression in cells. The regulation of PIMT level upon cell-substratum contact suggests a potential role for PIMT in biological processes such as wound healing, cell migration, and tumor metastasis dissemination.
Parasiticidal activity of bovine lactoperoxidase against Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Tanaka Tetsuya , Murakami Shin , Kumura Haruto , Igarashi Ikuo , Shimazaki Kei-ichi
Published: December 2006

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular parasitic protozoan transmitted via the ingestion of raw, infected meat that causes congenital infections. In a cell-free environment, virulent Toxoplasma was strikingly resistant to H2O2. The activity of H2O2 or H2O2 generated by glucose – glucose oxidase against the resistant tachyzoite stage of pathogenic T. gondii was enhanced by adding KI and bovine lactoperoxidase (bLPO), referred to here as the bLPO system. Replacing bLPO (heme content, 90%) with recombinant bLPO (heme content, 6%) did not enhance the parasiticidal activity with KI and H2O2. These results indicated that heme contributed to the enzyme activity and resulted in the killing of tachyzoites of T. gondii. Tachyzoites treated with the bLPO system also lost the ability to penetrate the mouse fibroblast cell line (NIH/3T3), and could be killed intracellularly after exposure by bLPO to a mouse macrophage cell line (J774A.1). These findings suggested that toxicity was mediated through small amounts of H2O2 generated by phagocytic events in naive macrophages, and by the peroxidative activity of bLPO. Our observations suggest that the bLPO system could help prevent the development of Toxoplasmosis in humans after ingesting raw, infected meat.
Generation of Two Self-Pumped Phase-Conjugated Waves Transporting Different Information Using Single Photorefractive Crystal
Authors: Takeda Takahiro , Wakui Mihoko , Miyakawa Kazuhiro , Yamashita Masafumi
Published: December 2006

Two optical configurations for generating two self-pumped phase-conjugated waves from two signal laser beams transporting different information were presented: one in which the two signal laser beams were directed at two opposite faces [(100) and (100)] of the crystal and the other in which both beams were directed at the same (100) face. Using a barium titanate (BaTiO3) single crystal as a self-pumped phase-conjugated mirror, the generation conditions of two discrete self-pumped phase-conjugated waves of high quality with reduced interference were investigated. Successfully self-pumped phase-conjugated images were observed to be more readily achievable by changing the incident beam power than by changing the incident position onto a single face.
Amplitude Saturation of Coherent Phonon Excited by Field Screening in CdTe
Authors: Ishioka Kunie , Kitajima Masahiro , Irisawa Jun , Hironaka Yoichiro , Ushida Kiminori , Nakamura Kazutaka G.
Published: December 2006

Femtosecond dynamics of 5.00-THz coherent longitudinal optical phonons in CdTe is reported. Polarization dependence indicates that, as in III–V semiconductors, field screening in the depletion layer is the main generation mechanism. The amplitude of the coherent phonons shows saturation with increasing photoexcitation density. This counterintuitive behavior is interpreted as saturation in the screening of surface potential.
Photovoltaic Effect of Crystalline-Oriented Lead Lanthanum Zirconate Titanate in Layered Film Structure
Authors: Ichiki Masaaki , Furue Harumi , Kobayashi Takeshi , Morikawa Yasushi , Nonaka Kazuhiro , Nakada Takeshi , Wang Zhan Jie , Maeda Ryutaro
Published: December 2006

Photovoltaic (Pb,La)(Zr,Ti)O3(PLZT) films in a layered structure of different crystallographic orientations are fabricated by optimized metalorganic deposition (MOD). Such films of (001) orientation exhibit a photovoltaic electrical power approximately 20 times higher than that of random films. The anisotropic optical properties of the oriented films, including dark conductivity, photoconductivity and photovoltaic tensors, are obtained quantitatively. These results show that the photovoltaic output current and power of the oriented films are highly improved to be comparable to those of semiconductors and suitable for application in the optical sensor of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS).
Phase Transition in Bi-Layered Oxides with Five Perovskite Layers
Authors: Onodera Akira , Mouri Seiko , Fukunaga Masanori , Hiramatsu Shogo , Takesada Masaki , Yamashita Haruyasu
Published: December 2006

The dielectric behavior of the Bi-layered perovskite oxides Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 and Pb2Bi4Ti5O18 with five perovskite-like units (m=5) was studied. A new anomaly was found at T
1=428 K for Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 and 480 K for Pb2Bi4Ti5O18, in addition to the previously reported phase transition at T
c. The dielectric constant does not show the Curie–Weiss behavior in both Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 and Pb2Bi4Ti5O18 crystals: the anomaly around T
c is diffuse and broad, whereas those at T
1 are clearly shoulderlike. These two isomorphous layered-oxide ferroelectrics undergo a new intermediate phase transition at T
1. The transition temperatures show a linear dependence on the ionic radii of A-site ions in these layered perovskites.
Dielectric Constants on Mixture Thin Films of Barium Carbide and Barium Nitrate Deposited on Silicon Wafers by Barium Carbonate Electron Beam Evaporation Using Nitrogen Molecular and Ion Beams
Authors: Yokota Katsuhiro , Teramoto Yuuki
Published: December 2006

Thin barium carbide (BaC6) films were deposited on Si substrates by the electron beam evaporation of barium carbonate (BaCO3). Mixture films of BaC6 and barium nitrate (BaN2O4) were deposited on Si substrates using N2 molecules and ion beams during the evaporation of BaCO3 by electron beams. The fraction of BaN2O4 in the mixture films increased with increasing intensity of N2 molecular and nitrogen ion beams. The prepared films had a large number of C–O bonds, because the BaCO3 used was a source material. Highly O-doped BaC6 films had very low dielectric constants of (1–2)ε
0. However, the dielectric constants of the mixture films varied from 1.3 to 5.8ε
0 with increasing proportion of BaN2O4.
Diachronous late-stage exhumation across the western Alpine arc: constraints from apatite fission-track thermochronology between the Pelvoux and Dora-Maira Massifs
Authors: TRICART PIERRE , VAN DER BEEK PETER , SCHWARTZ STEPHANE , LABRIN ERIKA
Published: December 2006

We present new apatite fission-track (AFT) data from the central western Alps that confirm the synchronicity and high cooling rates during Latest Miocene–Pliocene final exhumation of the External Crystalline Massifs but also provide evidence for diachronous Neogene evolution along and across the internal arc. To the SE of the Pelvoux Massif, across the front of the internal arc (Penninic Frontal Thrust), the jump in AFT ages (
c
. 22 Ma) and in final cooling rates is significantly larger than further north. This difference results from reversal of movement along a major Oligocene thrust. In its hanging wall, the western Briançonnais Zone provides a mean AFT age of
c
. 27 Ma, which is older than further north. Early cooling in the southern Briançonnais Zone would result from rapid erosion of the compressional fan structure built during the Oligocene. Across the entire Briançonnais and Piémont nappe stack, with the exception of the Dora-Maira Massif, AFT ages young eastward and span the entire Miocene, a period during which this structure underwent extension. Further north a reverse gradient with ages younging northwestward has been described, prompting the question of the asymmetry of the internal western Alpine arc during its late-stage tectonic and morphological evolution.
A quantitative model for deposition of thin fluvial sand sheets
Authors: Fisher John A. , Waltham David , Nichols Gary J. , Krapf Carmen B.E. , Lang Simon C.
Published: December 2006

Sheetfloods are typically invoked as the mechanism responsible for the kilometre-scale transport of sand-sized sediment grains in shallow-gradient fluvial systems. This concept is based on the lateral extent of ancient thin, sheet sandstone deposits rather than on fluid dynamics, which has resulted in a loosely constrained model for sheetfloods. This study tested the conceptual mechanism by developing a depth-averaged, 2D computational fluid dynamics model. The model results compare well against observations from modern deposits at Lake Eyre to provide a quantitative, physically sound basis for sheetfloods that can be applied in ancient and modern settings to constrain otherwise qualitative interpretations.
Syntectonic monazite in low-grade mudrocks: a potential geochronometer for cleavage formation?
Authors: Wilby P.R. , Page A.A. , Zalasiewicz J.A. , Milodowski A.E. , Williams M. , Evans J.A.
Published: December 2006

Monazite paragenesis during low-grade metamorphism is poorly understood. The first unequivocal instance of the mineral having crystallized synchronously with compressional cleavage formation is reported. Compositionally, these monazites resemble diagenetic forms but differ texturally by displaying syntectonic microfabrics. Their predominant association with organic-walled fossils implies that organic material may play an important role in controlling the behaviour of light rare earth elements (LREE) during low-grade metamorphism, probably by releasing diagenetically sequestered LREE and organically bound phosphorus during thermal maturation (devolatilization), and/or by promoting a favourable environment for monazite precipitation. Potentially, such monazites could provide a powerful geochronometer for cleavage formation.
Church-Based Health Promotion Interventions: Evidence and Lessons Learned
Authors: Campbell Marci Kramish , Hudson Marlyn Allicock , Resnicow Ken , Blakeney Natasha , Paxton Amy , Baskin Monica
Published: December 2006

Church-based health promotion (CBHP) interventions can reach broad populations and have great potential for reducing health disparities. From a socioecological perspective, churches and other religious organizations can influence members' behaviors at multiple levels of change. Formative research is essential to determine appropriate strategies and messages for diverse groups and denominations. A collaborative partnership approach utilizing principles of community-based participatory research, and involving churches in program design and delivery, is essential for recruitment, participation, and sustainability. For African Americans, health interventions that incorporate spiritual and cultural contextualization have been effective. Evidence indicates that CBHP programs have produced significant impacts on a variety of health behaviors. Key elements of CBHP are described with illustrations from the authors' research projects.
The Ca2+-activated K+ channel KCa3.1 compartmentalizes in the immunological synapse of human T lymphocytes
Authors: Nicolaou Stella A. , Neumeier Lisa , Peng YouQing , Devor Daniel C. , Conforti Laura
Published: December 2006

T cell receptor engagement results in the reorganization of intracellular and membrane proteins at the T cell-antigen presenting cell interface forming the immunological synapse (IS), an event required for Ca2+ influx. KCa3.1 channels modulate Ca2+ signaling in activated T cells by regulating the membrane potential. Nothing is known regarding KCa3.1 membrane distribution during T cell activation. Herein, we determined whether KCa3.1 translocates to the IS in human T cells using YFP-tagged KCa3.1 channels. These channels showed electrophysiological and pharmacological properties identical to wild-type channels. IS formation was induced by either anti-CD3/CD28 antibody-coated beads for fixed microscopy experiments or Epstein-Barr virus-infected B cells for fixed and live cell microscopy. In fixed microscopy experiments, T cells were also immunolabeled for F-actin or CD3ε, which served as IS formation markers. The distribution of KCa3.1 was determined with confocal and fluorescence microscopy. We found that, upon T cell activation, KCa3.1 channels localize with F-actin and CD3ε to the IS but remain evenly distributed on the cell membrane when no stimulus is provided. Detailed imaging experiments indicated that KCa3.1 channels are recruited in the IS shortly after antigen presentation and are maintained there for at least 15–30 min. Interestingly, pretreatment of activated T cells with the specific KCa3.1 blocker TRAM-34 blocked Ca2+ influx, but channel redistribution to the IS was not prevented. These results indicate that KCa3.1 channels are a part of the signaling complex that forms at the IS upon antigen presentation.
Beyond lipids, pharmacological PPARα activation has important effects on amino acid metabolism as studied in the rat
Authors: Sheikh Kashif , Camejo Germán , Lanne Boel , Halvarsson Torbjörn , Landergren Marie Rydén , Oakes Nicholas D.
Published: December 2006

PPARα agonists have been characterized largely in terms of their effects on lipids and glucose metabolism, whereas little has been reported about effects on amino acid metabolism. We studied responses to the PPARα agonist WY 14,643 (30 μmol·kg−1·day−1for 4 wk) in rats fed a saturated fat diet. Plasma and urine were analyzed with proton NMR. Plasma amino acids were measured using HPLC, and hepatic gene expression was assessed with DNA arrays. The high-fat diet elevated plasma levels of insulin and triglycerides (TG), and WY 14,643 treatment ameliorated this insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, lowering plasma insulin and TG levels. In addition, treatment decreased body weight gain, without altering cumulative food intake, and increased liver mass. WY 14,643 increased plasma levels of 12 of 22 amino acids, including glucogenic and some ketogenic amino acids, whereas arginine was significantly decreased. There was no alteration in branched-chain amino acid levels. Compared with the fat-fed control animals, WY 14,643-treated animals had raised plasma urea and ammonia levels as well as raised urine levels of N-methylnicotinamide and dimethylglycine. WY 14,643 induced changes in a number of key genes involved in amino acid metabolism in addition to expected effects on hepatic genes involved in lipid catabolism and ketone body formation. In conclusion, the present results suggest that, in rodents, effects of pharmacological PPARα activation extend beyond control of lipid metabolism to include important effects on whole body amino acid mobilization and hepatic amino acid metabolism.
Restoration of Acoustic Orienting Into a Cortically Deaf Hemifield by Reversible Deactivation of the Contralesional Superior Colliculus: The Acoustic “Sprague Effect”
Authors: Lomber Stephen G. , Malhotra Shveta , Sprague James M.
Published: December 2006

Removal of all contiguous visual cortical areas of one hemisphere results in a contralateral hemianopia. Subsequent deactivation of the contralesional superior colliculus (SC) nullifies the effects of the visual cortex ablation and restores visual orienting responses into the cortically blind hemifield. This deficit nullification has become known as the “Sprague Effect.” Similarly, in the auditory system, unilateral ablation of auditory cortex results in severe sound localization deficits, as assessed by acoustic orienting, to stimuli in the contralateral hemifield. The purpose of this study was to examine whether auditory orienting responses can be restored into the impaired hemifield during deactivation of the contralesional SC. Three mature cats were trained to orient toward and approach an acoustic stimulus (broadband, white noise burst) that was presented centrally, or at one of 12 peripheral loci, spaced at 15° intervals. After training, a cryoloop was chronically implanted over the dorsal surface of the right SC. During cooling of the cooling loop to temperatures sufficient to deactivate the superficial and intermediate layers (SZ, SGS, SO, SGI), auditory orienting responses were eliminated into the left (contracooled) hemifield while leaving acoustic orienting into the right (ipsicooled) hemifield unimpaired. This deficit was temperature-dependently graded from periphery to center. After the effectiveness of the SC cooling loop was verified, auditory cortex of the middle and posterior ectosylvian and anterior and posterior sylvian gyri was removed from the left hemisphere. As expected, the auditory cortex ablation resulted in a profound deficit in orienting to acoustic stimuli presented at any position in the right (contralesional) hemifield, while leaving acoustic orienting into the left (ipsilesional) hemifield unimpaired. The ablations of auditory cortex did not have any impact on a visual detection and orienting task. The additional deactivation of the contralesional SC to temperatures sufficient to cool the superficial and intermediate layers nullified the deficit caused by the auditory cortex ablation and acoustic orienting responses were restored into the right hemifield. This restoration was temperature-dependently graded from center to periphery. The deactivations were localized and confirmed with reduced uptake of radiolabeled 2-deoxyglucose. Therefore deactivation of the right superior colliculus after the ablation of the left auditory cortex yields a fundamentally different result from that identified during deactivation of the right superior colliculus before the removal of left auditory cortex in the same animal. Thus the “Sprague Effect” is not unique to a particular sensory system and deactivation of the contralesional SC can restore either visual or acoustic orienting responses into an impaired hemifield after cortical damage.
Smoking Relapse during the First Year after Treatment for Early-Stage Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Walker Mark S. , Vidrine Damon J. , Gritz Ellen R. , Larsen Randy J. , Yan Yan , Govindan Ramaswamy , Fisher Edwin B.
Published: December 2006

Background: Non–small-cell lung cancer patients who continue to smoke after cancer diagnosis are more likely to experience disease recurrence, decreased treatment efficacy, and treatment complications. Despite this, many continue to smoke, with estimates ranging from 13% to ∼60%.

Methods: Participants were 154 early-stage, non–small-cell lung cancer patients who had smoked within 3 months before surgery. Patients were followed for 12 months after surgery to assess smoking status and duration of continuous abstinence after surgery. Predictors included medical, smoking history, psychosocial, and demographic characteristics.

Results: At some point after surgery, 42.9% of patients smoked; at 12 months after surgery, 36.9% were smoking. Sixty percent of patients who lapsed did so during the first 2 months after surgery. Smoking at follow-up was predicted by shorter quit duration before surgery, more intense Appetitive cravings (expectation of pleasure from smoking), lower income, and having a higher level of education. Time until the first smoking lapse was predicted by shorter quit duration before surgery, more intense Appetitive cravings to smoke, and lower income. Among those who lapsed, greater delay before the lapse was associated with abstinence at the 12-month follow-up assessment.

Conclusions: Nearly half of non–small-cell lung cancer patients return to smoking after surgery if they have recent smoking histories. Most initial lapses happen within 2 months and occur in response to more recent smoking and more intense cravings. Findings suggest that interventions to prevent relapse should target those who wait until cancer surgery to quit smoking and should be started as soon as possible after treatment. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(12):2370–7)
Intakes of Fruits, Vegetables, Vitamins A, C, and E, and Carotenoids and Risk of Renal Cell Cancer
Authors: Lee Jung Eun , Giovannucci Edward , Smith-Warner Stephanie A. , Spiegelman Donna , Willett Walter C. , Curhan Gary C.
Published: December 2006

Background: Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants have been proposed to reduce the risk of renal cell cancer. However, few prospective studies have examined the intakes of fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant vitamins in relation to the risk of renal cell cancer.

Methods: We prospectively examined the associations between the intakes of fruits, vegetables, vitamins A, C, and E, and carotenoids and risk of renal cell cancer in women and men. We followed 88,759 women in the Nurses' Health Study from 1980 to 2000, and 47,828 men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study from 1986 to 2000. We assessed dietary intake every 2 to 4 years using a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate study-specific multivariate relative risks (RR), which were pooled using a random effects model.

Results: A total of 248 (132 women and 116 men) incident renal cell cancer cases were ascertained during 2,316,525 person-years of follow-up. The consumption of fruits and vegetables was associated with a decreased risk of renal cell cancer in men (multivariate RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.25-0.81, for ≥6 servings of fruit and vegetable intake/d versus <3 servings/d; P test for trend = 0.02), but not in women (multivariate RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.66-2.07, for the same contrast; P test for trend = 0.25; P test for between-studies heterogeneity = 0.02). Intakes of vitamins A and C from food and carotenoids were inversely associated with the risk of renal cell cancer in men only, but we cannot exclude the possibility that this was due to other factors in fruit and vegetables. No clear association was observed for vitamin E in women or men.

Conclusions: Fruit and vegetable consumption may reduce the risk of renal cell cancer in men. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;12(24):2445–52)
Cigarette Smoking and Survival after Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Nagle Christina M. , Bain Christopher J. , Webb Penelope M.
Published: December 2006

We have examined the association between cigarette smoking and ovarian cancer survival in 676 women with invasive epithelial ovarian cancer, recruited into a case-control study in the early 1990s. Information about cigarette smoking and other personal and reproductive factors was obtained from a personal interview at the time of diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between cigarette smoking and time to ovarian cancer death. Current smokers at diagnosis were more likely to die early than women who had never smoked [adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 1.36; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.01-1.84]. Increased risks of dying were greater among those who had accumulated more pack-years of smoking (HR for 30+ pack-years compared with never smokers, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.41-2.66) and smoked more cigarettes per day (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.37-2.73). All these associations were stronger among women with late-stage disease (HR for current versus never smokers, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.15-2.18). Time since quitting had little effect on survival after adjusting for lifetime smoking exposure. These results validate and extend recent findings and suggest that premorbid cigarette smoking is related to worse outcome in ovarian cancer patients. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(12):2557–60)
Physical Activity and Risk of Colon and Rectal Cancers: The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Friedenreich Christine , Norat Teresa , Steindorf Karen , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Pischon Tobias , Mazuir Mathieu , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Linseisen Jakob , Boeing Heiner , Bergman Manuela , Johnsen Nina Fons , Tjønneland Anne , Overvad Kim , Mendez Michelle , Quirós J. Ramón , Martinez Carmen , Dorronsoro Miren , Navarro Carmen , Gurrea Aurelio Barricarte , Bingham Sheila , Khaw Kay-Tee , Allen Naomi , Key Tim , Trichopoulou Antonia , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Orfanou Natassa , Krogh Vittorio , Palli Domenico , Tumino Rosario , Panico Salvatore , Vineis Paolo , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Peeters Petra H.M. , Monninkhof Evelyn , Berglund Göran , Manjer Jonas , Ferrari Pietro , Slimani Nadia , Kaaks Rudolf , Riboli Elio
Published: December 2006

We investigated several aspects of the role of physical activity in colon and rectal cancer etiology that remain unclear in the European Prospective Investigation into Nutrition and Cancer. This cohort of 413,044 men and women had 1,094 cases of colon and 599 cases of rectal cancer diagnosed during an average of 6.4 years of follow-up. We analyzed baseline data on occupational, household, and recreational activity to examine associations by type of activity, tumor subsite, body mass index (BMI), and energy intake. The multivariate hazard ratio for colon cancer was 0.78 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.59-1.03] among the most active participants when compared with the inactive, with evidence of a dose-response effect (Ptrend = 0.04). For right-sided colon tumors, the risk was 0.65 (95% CI, 0.43-1.00) in the highest quartile of activity with evidence of a linear trend (Ptrend = 0.004). Active participants with a BMI under 25 had a risk of 0.63 (95% CI, 0.39-1.01) for colon cancer compared with the inactive. Finally, an interaction between BMI and activity (Pinteraction = 0.03) was observed for right-sided colon cancers; among moderately active and active participants with a BMI under 25, a risk of 0.38 (95% CI, 0.21-0.68) was found as compared with inactive participants with BMI >30. No comparable decreased risks were observed for rectal cancer for any type of physical activity for any subgroup analyses or interactions considered. We found that physical activity reduced colon cancer risk, specifically for right-sided tumors and for lean participants, but not rectal cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(12):2398–407)
Taurine Attenuates Acute Hyperglycaemia-Induced Endothelial Cell Apoptosis, Leucocyte-Endothelial Cell Interactions and Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Casey Rowan G. , Gang Chen , Joyce Myles , Bouchier-Hayes David J.
Published: December 2006

Objectives: Hyperglycaemia is implicated in microvascular inflammatory injury and subsequent cardiac injury/dysfunction. Leucocyte adhesion to the endothelium, migration into tissue and toxic metabolite release are early critical steps. Taurine is a semi-essential amino acid that is endothelial protective and restrains excess leucocyte activity by the formation of less toxic inflammatory mediators. The aim was to establish if taurine reduces acute hyperglycaemia-induced endothelial cell apoptosis and leucocyte interactions and associated cardiac abnormalities. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (190–250 g) were randomised to control, hyperglycaemia, and hyperglycaemia plus taurine pre-treated groups. Taurine was gavaged (200 mg/kg body weight) for 5 days. Intravenous hyperglycaemia was established which was 4 times that of baseline for the 3-hour experiment. Using intravital microscopy, mesenteric post-capillary venules were examined for leucocyte rolling, adhesion and migration every 30 min from baseline. Endothelial cell apoptosis and intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) expression were assessed. In a separate experiment, blood pressure, pulse rate, cardiac injury marker (troponin T), cardiac tissue injury and oedema were also assessed. Results: Hyperglycaemia significantly increased leucocyte adhesion and migration. Blood pressure and troponin T were also elevated significantly. Taurine prevented these cardiac changes, endothelial cell apoptosis and ICAM-1 expression. Conclusions: Taurine may have a therapeutic role in reducing diabetic microvascular inflammatory injury and concomitant cardiac dysfunction.
Circadian Intraocular Pressure Control with Dorzolamide versus Timolol Maleate Add-On Treatments in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients Using Latanoprost
Authors: Tamer Cengaver , Öksüz Hüseyin
Published: December 2006

Purpose: To compare the 24-hour efficacy of dorzolamide and timolol maleate administered twice daily to primary open-angle glaucoma patients whose intraocular pressure (IOP) could not be adequately controlled with latanoprost monotherapy. Methods: In this double-blind prospective crossover clinical comparison trial, 36 primary open-angle glaucoma patients with uncontrolled IOP despite treatment with latanoprost applied once daily were administered timolol and dorzolamide twice daily. The treatment sequence was randomized. All patients underwent measurements for four 24-hour tonometric curves: at baseline and after each 4-week period of treatment. The IOP measurements were taken at 06:00, 09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00, 21:00, 24:00 and 03:00 h. The between-group differences were tested for significance by means of parametric analysis of variance at each time point and circadian curve. The peak values within circadian curve were defined. The mean of the exact amount and percentage of additional IOP reductions from baseline were evaluated and success rates (a minimum of 10% reduction) were determined for both drug regimens. Results: The mean peak/circadian curve IOPs were 23.4 ± 2.2/21.8 ± 2.2 mm Hg at dorzolamide baseline, 23.3 ± 2.2/21.7 ± 2.1 mm Hg at timolol baseline, and reduced to 20.2 ± 1.7/18.7 ± 1.7 mm Hg and 20.7 ± 2.4/19.4 ± 1.6 mm Hg, respectively. When added to latanoprost, both dorzolamide and timolol lowered IOP at circadian curve significantly (p < 0.05). Dorzolamide reduced baseline IOP values at each time point. Timolol also significantly reduced baseline IOP values at all time points except at 03:00. The mean of the exact amount and percentage of reduction in IOP at circadian curve and 5 out of 8 time points were significantly greater with dorzolamide add-on treatment (p < 0.05). The successful reduction rates were 86% for the dorzolamide group and 61% for the timolol group (p = 0.016; χ2 test). Conclusion: Both of the combinations are effective in lowering IOP, the exact amount and percentage of reduction is greater with the latanoprost + dorzolamide regimen, especially at night-time.
Effects of Combined UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1*28 and 1A6*2 on Paracetamol Pharmacokinetics in β-Thalassemia/HbE
Authors: Tankanitlert Jeeranut , Morales Noppawan Phumala , Howard Thad A. , Fucharoen Pranee , Ware Russell E. , Fucharoen Suthat , Chantharaksri Udom
Published: December 2006

In addition to pathophysiological changes, genetic variations can alter drug pharmacokinetics in patients with thalassemia. Numerous drugs are metabolized by UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) including paracetamol (PCM), a widely used analgesic. Co-occurrence of the UGT1A1 polymorphism (UGT1A1*28) and the UGT1A6 polymorphism (UGT1A6*2) may affect PCM glucuronidation. To elucidate the effect of these combined polymorphisms on the PCM metabolism in thalassemic patients, 15 β-thalassemia/hemoglobin E subjects with three different UGT1A genotypes received a single oral dose of 1,000 mg PCM. Drug disposition was determined by HPLC. Patients who have UGT1A6*2 without UGT1A1*28 showed a significant, lower area under concentration-time curve (AUC₀→∞) of PCM, PCM-glucuronide and PCM-sulfate than those of the patients with wild-type UGT1A1 and UGT1A6 (p < 0.05). In addition, a high elimination rate constant and clearance of PCM and its metabolites were also found in these patients (p < 0.05). Ourstudy suggests that a subtherapeutic level of PCM may occur in patients who have UGT1A6*2 without UGT1A1*28.
Microvascular Decompression vs. Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Typical Trigeminal Neuralgia: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Brisman Ronald
Published: December 2006

Background: Patients with typical trigeminal neuralgia were treated by one neurosurgeon with either microvascular decompression (MVD) or Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) and were prospectively evaluated with a uniform protocol. Method: GKRS was done with 75 Gy maximum to the cisternal trigeminal nerve near the pons. MVD was done without cauterizing or cutting the trigeminal nerve. Results: Twenty-four patients were treated with MVD and 61 with GKRS. Complete pain relief (no pain no medicines) occurred at 12 and 18 months in 68 and 68% of patients treated with MVD and 58 and 24% with GKRS (p = 0.089), and ≧90% pain relief (with or without medicine) at 12 and 18 months in 90 and 78% with MVD and 75 and 48% with GKRS (p = 0.171). There were no permanent complications. Conclusion: Although many trigeminal neuralgia patients treated with either MVD or GKRS have pain relief, MVD is more likely than GKRS to result in complete pain relief.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Enteral versus Parenteral Feeding in Patients with Predicted Severe Acute Pancreatitis Shows a Significant Reduction in Mortality and in Infected Pancreatic Complications with Total Enteral Nutrition
Authors: Petrov Maxim S. , Kukosh Mikhail V. , Emelyanov Nikolay V.
Published: December 2006

Background: Infectious complications are the main cause of late death in patients with acute pancreatitis. Routine prophylactic antibiotic use following a severe attack has been proposed but remains controversial. On the other hand, nutritional support has recently yielded promising clinical results. The aim of study was to compare enteral vs. parenteral feeding for prevention of infectious complications in patients with predicted severe acute pancreatitis. Methods: We screened 466 consecutive patients with acute pancreatitis. A total of 70 patients with objectively graded severe acute pancreatitis were randomly allocated to receive either total enteral nutrition (TEN) or total parenteral nutrition (TPN), within 72 h of onset of symptoms. Baseline characteristics were well matched in the two groups. Results: The incidence of pancreatic infectious complications (infected pancreatic necrosis, pancreatic abscess) was significantly lower in the enterally fed group (7 vs. 16, p = 0.02). In the TEN group, 7 patients developed multiple organ failure whereas 17 parenterally fed patients developed multiple organ failure (p = 0.02). Overall mortality was 20% with two deaths in the TEN group and twelve in the TPN group (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Early TEN could be used as prophylactic therapy for infected pancreatic necrosis since it significantly decreased the incidence of pancreatic infectious complications as well as the frequency of multiple organ failure and mortality.
Short-Term Outcomes after Laparoscopic Ileocolic Resection for Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Polle Sebastiaan W. , Wind Jan , Ubbink Dirk T. , Hommes Daan W. , Gouma Dirk J. , Bemelman Willem A.
Published: December 2006

Background: No consensus exists whether ileocolic resection for Crohn’s disease (CD) should be carried out by a laparoscopic or open approach. A systematic review was conducted to assess the evidence for short-term advantages of laparoscopic compared to open resection for ileocolic CD. Methods: The literature search was conducted over the period 01/1991 to 02/2006. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs), clinical controlled trials and comparative studies comparing laparoscopic with open resection for ileocolic CD were included. A quality assessment was performed for all retrieved articles. The main outcome parameters were operating times, conversion rates, major and minor morbidity and hospital stays. Results: 14 publications encompassing 729 patients were included – 2 were RCTs, 12 were non-RCTs of which 2 were case-matched studies. Although pooling data of operating times was statistically not possible, they were longer for the laparoscopic procedure in the individual studies ranging from 75 to 185 min. Conversions varied between 0 and 16.7%. Postoperative complications requiring reoperation or reported overall morbidity were not different (risk difference –0.01 and –0.05, respectively). Hospital stay after the laparoscopic procedure was 1.90 days shorter (95% CI: 0.83–2.97). Conclusion: There is evidence that laparoscopic ileocolic resection for CD is associated with shorter hospital stay compared to open ileocolic resection, while morbidity rates are equal and conversion rates are acceptable
Microphysical and Optical Properties of Atmospheric Ice Crystals at South Pole Station
Authors: Lawson R. Paul , Baker Brad A. , Zmarzly Patrick , O’Connor Darren , Mo Qixu , Gayet Jean-Francois , Shcherbakov Valery
Published: December 2006

In early February 2001 (during the austral summer), over 900 000 digital images of ice crystals were recorded at the South Pole using two ground-based cloud particle imagers (CPIs). Of these, 721 572 crystals >50 μm were classified into crystal habits. When sorted by number, 30% of the crystals were rosette shaped (mixed-habit rosettes, platelike polycrystals, and rosette shapes with side planes), 45% were diamond dust (columns, thick plates, and plates), and 25% were irregular. When sorted by area, rosette shapes comprised 50%, diamond dust 30% and irregular 20%. By mass, the percentages were 57% rosette shapes, 23% diamond dust, and 20% irregular. Particle size distributions as a function of maximum dimension and equivalent radius are compared with previous studies. Particles are generally found to be slightly larger than previous austral wintertime studies. In 2002, a polar nephelometer (PN) that measures scattering phase function was incorporated with one of the CPIs. Correlated measurements between the two instruments showed that 22° and 46° peaks in the phase function were present when diamond dust was recorded by the CPI, but not when rosette shapes were present. Visual observations confirmed the presence of 22° and 46° atmospheric halos in some, but not all, of the diamond dust events. No visual halos were observed when rosette shapes were precipitating. Average PN phase functions are presented for diamond dust and rosette shapes. The diamond dust and rosette-shaped ice crystals appear to be very similar in shape to those observed by CPIs in cirrus clouds. Cloud conditions at the South Pole that were associated with various crystal types are discussed, as are some effects of blowing snow.
A Critical Analysis of Grade 3 Testing in Ontario
Authors: Toplak Maggie , Wiener Judith
Published: December 2006

The recent re-introduction of province-wide group achievement testing in Ontario has placed new demands, challenges, and some stresses on students, parents, and teachers. As consultants, school psychologists are in a position to meet these challenges because of their advanced knowledge about standardized testing and their knowledge of what can be reasonably expected from students based on the students' cognitive development. This paper uses multiple perspectives to evaluate the Grade 3 Assessment, with the main focus on the degree to which the items reflect current curriculum guidelines. We also examine whether the demands placed on the children are consistent with what we know about the cognitive development of 8-9 year-old-children. Although the Grade 3 Assessment is based on the Ontario Curriculum (1997), many items exceed what should be expected from a typical Grade 3 student when children's cognition is considered. Given the political implications of province-wide testing, tests need to be impeccably constructed. This analysis is intended to provide school psychologists with a framework for disseminating information about the value and limitations of the Grade 3 Assessment.
Contributions to Theory, Research, and Practice of School Psychology
Authors: Andrews Jac J.W. , Violato Claudio
Published: December 2006

This special issue presents the work of Canadian graduate students on theoryr, research, and practice of school psychology. A “Call for Papers” resulted in a number of submissions that reflect current views and endeavors in the application of psychology in schools and education. While these submissions include a wide range of topics, they also provide a collective focus on salient professional issues and contemporary practices of school psychology.
Search for New Meaning: Adolescent Bereavement after the Sudden Death of a Sibling
Authors: Forward Debbie R. , Garlie Norman
Published: December 2006

Many adolescents experience the sudden death of a brother or sister, yet little is known about the bereavement process. The purpose of this study was to use a grounded theory approach to examine the bereavement process for adolescents who experienced the sudden death of a sibling. Interviews conducted with six adolescents, within seven years of their sibling's death, provided the major sources of data. The findings of this study indicate that the bereavement process is variable and encompasses five stages: (a) finding out, (b) avoiding realityr, (c) facing reality, (d) turning the corner, and (e) finding new meaning versus ending the search. In each of these stages the adolescent focuses on the basic psychological process of the ‘search for new meaning’. Findings from this study may give new insights into interventions for helping teens through this bereavement process that is grounded in scientific rationale and is age sensitive, addressing adolescents' unique experiences and concerns.