bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular and antibody mediated cytotoxicity in autoimmune thyroid disease
Authors: Bogner Ulrich , Wall Jack R. , Schleusener Horst
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytotoxicity was measured in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and Graves' disease (GD) using a cytotoxicity assay against thyroid target cells. In the ADCC assay, mean ± sd specific lysis produced by sera from patients with HT was 21.7 ± 10% compared t 6.2 ± 3.9% from normal subjects. In the NK assay, cytotoxicity was significantly increased using lymphocytes from HT patients as effector cells. At effector: target (E:T) cell ratios of 50:1 and 25:1, mean specific lysis ± sd was 18.3 ± 14.3% and 14 ± 11.6%, respectively, compared to 3.7 ±2.1 and 3.1 ± 2.1, respectively, for normals. In Graves' disease, 9 of 19 patients had elevated cytotoxicity, whereas no significant changes of ADCC could be found either, as determined in thyrotoxic patients, after 6 months and at the end of a one-year antithyroid drug treatment. Eight of 19 patients showed normal cytotoxicity (mean % specific lysis 2.5 ± 3.1% compared to 2 ± 2.9% in normal controls) and low titres of microsomal antibodies (Mab), 3 patients had significantly increased cytotoxicity (mean specific lysis 27.6 ± 10%) in the presence of high titres of Mab, whereas 8 patients evidenced high values for cytoxicity (mean specific lysis 24.5 ± 14.1%) but low titres of Mab. NK cell activity, determined in euthyroid Graves' disease patients either under antithyroid drug therapy or in remission, was not significantly different than that of normal subjects at all E:T cell ratios. In conclusion, we demonstrated increased ADCC and NK cell activity in Hashimoto's thyroiditis but normal NK cell activity in euthyroid Graves' disease. Like in HT, ADCC is associated with titres of Mab in sera of Graves' disease patients but was also detectable in Mab-negative sera, which led us to suggest that a hitherto unknown cytotoxic antibody exists which is not measurable by passive haemagglutination for Mab.
Characterization of monoclonal antibodies directed against the TSH receptor, as revealed with the cytochemical bioassay
Authors: Marshall N.J. , Kohn L. D. , Ealey P. A.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. The monoclonal antibody 11E8 (Kohn et al. 1984) is a novel proof of the actions of thyroid stimulator, since it is not only a potent stimulator of thyroid cells but also an inhibitor for TSH-binding. This might reflect an interaction of 11E8 with a discrete domaine of the TSH receptor, which is an essential component for TSH but not for TSab actions. These unique properties of 11E8 can be applied to the characterization of other thyroid stimulators which may interact with different domaines of the receptor. Moreover, 'TSab-like' stimulators, such as the sheep anti-TSH antiserum, could potentially be identified by 11E8.
Inhibition of cAMP formation by EGF in thyroid follicles is mediated by intracellular Ca++
Authors: Greil W. , Niedernhuber G. , Stübner D. , Gärtner R.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. The mechanism of cAMP-inhibition by EGF was studied in isolated porcine thyroid follicles. EGF inhibited TSH-induced cAMP-formation maximally by 40%, this effect remained up to 1 h of pre-incubation. The calcium-ionophore A 23 187 also inhibited cAMP-formation, but its effect was relieved after 1 h. The phorbolester TPA had a biphasic influence on cAMP-formation, with a transient increase (5 min) before a sustained inhibition (60 min); the inhibitory effect was mimicked by the diacylglycerol 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-glycerol. Exogenous arachidonic acid had only a small and transient inhibitory effect on cAMP-formation. We conclude, that EGF inhibits cAMP-formation by a raise of intracellular Ca++, as well as by the direct activation of proteinkinase C, indicating, that a phosphorylated product could be a mediator for the inhibition of adenylate cyclase.
Thyrostatic drugs act through modulation of thyroid cell activity to induce remissions in Graves' disease
Authors: Volpé Robert , Karlsson Anders , Jansson Rolf , Dahlberg Per Anders
Published: October 2009

Abstract. It has been proposed elsewhere that antithyroid drugs (ATD) bring about remissions in Graves' disease (GD) by directly suppressing the immune system. The decline in thyroid stimulating antibody (TSAb) and other thyroid autoantibodies, and the reduction in intra-thyroidal lymphocytes has been attributed to this effect, which has been considered to be via interference with oxidative reactions within the antigen-presenting cell. However, if ATD exert an immunosuppressive effect, one might expect that this would be a pharmacological action, paralleling the overall pharmacological effect of normalizing thyroid function. Moreover, there is evidence that in Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) thyroid autoantibodies do not decline as a result of such treatment. We propose herein that ATD act through modulation of thyroid cell activity, which in turn has an effect on the immune system so as to induce immunological remissions in GD. It has been shown that hyperthyroidism itself has a deleterious effect on generalized suppressor T (Ts) lymphocyte function which is additive to the organ-specific defect in Ts function. Normalization of thyroid function tends to normalize non-specific Ts function; suppression of the thyroid-specific helper T cell (Th) population is thus brought about, in that subset of patients who do not have a severe organ specific Ts defect. This results in a reduction of interferon γ production, as well as reduced Th stimulation of B lymphocytes to produce TSAb. The combined reduction of TSAb and interferon γ will then reduce thyroid antigen and HLA-DR expression, i.e. antigen presentation by the thyroid cell, as well as a further reduction in thyroid hormone production. The latter will further reduce Ts inhibition, reducing Th activity; reduced antigen presentation will also reduce Th activity. This beneficial cycle will then lead to remissions, except in those patients with a more severe organ specific Ts defect.
Do HLA-DR-typing and measurement of TSH-receptor antibodies help in the prediction of the clinical course of Graves' thyrotoxicosis after antithyroid drug treatment?
Authors: Schleusener H. , Schwander J. , Holl G. , Badenhoop K. , Hensen J. , Finke R. , Schernthaner G. , Mayr W. R. , Kotulla P.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. In patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism, the relapse rate after antithyroid drug treatment is in the range of about 30–70%. Different attempts have been made to obtain criteria for the prediction of the clinical outcome after drug therapy, especially HLA-DR typing and measurement of TSH receptor antibodies. So far, very conflicting results have been reported. This is not surprising in view of the many genetically controlled and environmental factors that play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Moreover, most reports are based on retrospective studies with a relatively small number of patients. Our own data, obtained in a prospective multicenter study, yield strong evidence against the relevance of HLA-DR3 typing (n = 187, sensitivity = 0.38, specificity = 0.67) or measurement of TSH receptor antibodies at the end of therapy (n = 269, sensitivity = 0.49, specificity = 0.72) for the prediction of the clinical course after drug treatment.
The specificity of autoantibodies in Graves' ophthalmopathy
Authors: Kendall-Taylor P. , Jones D. , Atkinson S.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. An autoantibody to orbital antigens is found in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy. This autoantibody also binds to skeletal muscle antigen. Occasional positive responses have been seen in patients with Hashimoto's disease and with non-organ-specific autoimmune disease. Eye muscle has a higher innervation ratio than skeletal muscle and may be of different embryological origin, but it is nevertheless closely related to skeletal muscle and it is perhaps not surprising that the antibody should interact with both these types of muscle. What remains quite unexplained, is why the disease process apparently affects eye muscle only. The antigen appears to be distinct from thyroidal antigens, but further work with a larger patient population is necessary before one can be certain of this. To date it has been possible to exclude the cytoskeletal proteins, myosin and actin, and also the TSH receptor as possible candidates for the responsible antigens. Further studies are in progress to elucidate the nature of this muscle antigen.
Evidence of autoimmune pathogenesis in autonomous thyroid adenoma
Authors: Sellschopp Ch. , Derwahl M. , Schaube H. , Hamelmann H.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Using an immunohistochemical attempt to immunostain thyroid related autoantibodies, 30 specimens of autonomous adenomas of the thyroid were investigated. Twelve out of 23 inflammatory infiltrates surrounding the 'hot' nodules contained plasma cells, which gave a positive staining reaction for thyroid related autoantibodies. Seven adenomas showed no significant lymphoplasmacellular infiltration. It is concluded that this phenomenon might be due to an autoimmune pathogenesis in a part of patients with autonomous adenomas, indicating that there is no sharp line between autoimmune and non autoimmune thyroid disorder.
Long-term treatment of acromegaly with Sandostatin (SMS 201-995)
Authors: Pieters G. F. F. M. , van Liessum P. A. , Smals A. G. H. , van Gennep J. A. , Benraad Th.J. , Kloppenborg P. W. C.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Twelve patients with active acromegaly were treated with the long-acting somatostatin analogue SMS 201-995 (SMS), at a dose of 50 μg sc twice daily in the first 2 weeks of treatment and 100 μg sc thereafter. Four h after the first injection of SMS, GH levels became normal in 8 of the 12 patients. Basal glucose levels were significantly lower at the 28th day of treatment. This glucose lowering effect was stronger in the diabetic than in the nondiabetic patients. The post-prandial rise of insulin levels was reversed by SMS, leading to a more pronounced postprandial rise of glucose, whereas the postprandial secretion of glucagon was also reversed by SMS. The rise of glucose levels during oral glucose loading was similar before and during SMS, despite a strong inhibitory effect of the drug on the insulin rise after glucose loading. Basal TSH levels were not influenced by SMS, the TRHinduced TSH response, however, was significantly blunted. Although the basal PRL levels were significantly reduced by SMS, the TRH-induced PRL rise was similar before and during administration of the analogue. Paradoxical GH responses to TRH disappeared in 7 out of 8 patients during SMS. Paradoxical GH responses to GnRH, however, persisted in 4 out of 4 patients. Paradoxical responses of GH after glucose loading disappeared in 2 out of 2 patients. The GH response after GHRH administration was strongly suppressed by SMS. During long-term treatment (up to 2 years), the GH level obtained within 5 h after the last injection of SMS remained normal in the patients whose GH levels normalized at the first day of treatment. There was a good response of the disease to this treatment, and no serious adverse reactions were observed. We conclude that SMS normalizes most anomalous growth hormone kinetics in acromegaly. The drug offers a new tool in the treatment of this disease.
SMS 201-995 and variceal haemorrhage
Authors: Baxter J. N. , Jenkins S. A. , Shields R.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Sandostatin (SMS 201-995) was evaluated in the treatment of variceal bleeding in 9 patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension who were undergoing injection sclerotherapy following a variceal haemorrhage. SMS 201-995 reduced directly recorded intravariceal pressure by 38%, whereas reductions in the wedged hepatic venous pressure were around 17%. These observations suggest that SMS 201-995 may prove useful in treating bleeding oesophageal varices in the acute situation. Preliminary, promising data are shown in the results of a randomized controlled clinical trial in which SMS 201-995 plus injection sclerotherapy vs injection sclerotherapy are compared in patients with bleeding oesophageal varices. Furthermore, in experimental work associated stimulating effects of SMS 201-995 are shown on the function of the reticulo-endothelial system both in the liver and peripherally. These effects may prove useful by reducing the effects of endotoxaemia and possibly result in arresting further liver damage.
Long-acting somatostatin analogue (Sandostatin) reduces late night insulinopenic ketogenesis in diabetic teenagers
Authors: Aarsen R.S.R. , Bruining G.J. , Grose W.F.A. , van Strik R. , Lamberts S.W.J. , Harris A.G.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Ten diabetic teenagers were admitted into our hospital for two nights, separated by one week. In a double-blind cross-over randomized study they received either 50 μg of the new long-acting somatostatin analogue Sandostatin sc or placebo. All patients were between 12 and 16 years of age, C-peptide negative with a duration of diabetes of at least four years. They had either conventional therapy or insulin pump therapy. Insulin doses and diets were kept unchanged. Blood samples were taken half hourly from 17.00 h until 09.30 h the next morning from an indwelling venous catheter. Hormonal and metabolic profiles on the two nights were evaluated by means of a distribution free time sequential co-movement analysis and by the paired Wilcoxon's signed rank test. After Sandostatin was given at 22.00 h, GH levels were significantly suppressed during 4 h. During that period blood glucose was slightly but significantly lower than after placebo. The free-insulin profiles from both nights were very comparable. Co-movement analysis showed a significant correlation between glucose and free insulin variations with a 30-min backward shift of the glucose curve. However, after Sandostatin administration this relation was lost in the period between 22.00 and 07.00 h, indicating a different effect of insulin on glucose levels during the nights Sandostatin was given. Early morning glucose rises were associated with free insulin levels below 20 mU/l. This association was not altered during the Sandostatin nights. Glucagon was not suppressed by Sandostatin except at 120 min after injection, and remained unchanged during the rest of the observation period. Triglyceride levels as well as 3-OH-butyrate values were significantly lower after Sandostatin. Plasma levels of FFA, free glycerol, alanine and cortisol were not significantly reduced. It is concluded that a single sc injection of 50 μg of Sandostatin given at 22.00 h is a potent GH inhibitor and lowers blood glucose concentrations for up to 4 h after injection. Early morning blood glucose rise is not prevented, but overnight hepatic ketogenesis as reflected by 3-OH--butyrate levels appears suppressed by Sandostatin up to the next morning injection of insulin.
DESENSITIZING EFFECT OF EXOAND ENDOGENOUS RELAXIN ON THE IMMEDIATE UTERINE RESPONSE TO RELAXIN
Authors: Wiqvist Nils
Published: October 2009

The immediate motility inhibiting effect of relaxin was studied in non-pregnant and pregnant mice and rats with in vitro and in vivo techniques.

The non-pregnant uterus is refractory to the immediate effect of relaxin during the first 3 hours after a single subcutaneous injection of relaxin in vivo.

Uteri from normal pregnant animals are sensitive to the motility inhibiting effect of relaxin on day 6–8 of gestation but completely refractory during the latter stages of pregnancy. The uterine sensitivity is restored approximately 24 hours postpartum.

The non-pregnant horn from unilaterally pregnant mice did react to relaxin on day 18–20 after bilateral oophorectomy but did not react after hemioophorectomy. The pregnant horn was refractory regardless of the presence of ovaries and also after removal of foetuses.

12–24 hours following parturition myometrial strips from non-treated animals excised at the site of the placental insertions were refractory, however, strips taken opposite to the site of the placental insertions became sensitive to relaxin in vitro.
MicroRNAs: a complex regulatory network drives the acquisition of malignant cell phenotype
Authors: Santarpia Libero , Nicoloso Milena , Calin George A
Published: October 2009

Several lines of evidence indicate that tumorigenesis is a complex multistep process, and that most, if not all, cancers acquire the same set of functional capabilities during development and progression, albeit through various mechanistic strategies. Increasing data show an important role of microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) in regulating various aspects of cancer biology. This review describes the role of microRNAs during the multiple steps that drive the progressive transformation of normal cells into highly malignant derivatives, outlining the role of microRNAs in regulating the common hallmarks of tumorigenesis: self-sufficiency in growth signals, insensitivity to antigrowth signals, abnormal apoptosis, limitless replicative potential, induction and sustained angiogenesis, and tissue invasion and metastasis. Recent evidence suggests an important role of microRNAs in the regulation of the expression of most genes regulating and coordinating a wide variety of processes in endocrine glands. We will highlight microRNAs of potential relevance to endocrine tumors and hormone-dependent cancers. Through this overview of how microRNAs regulate multiple targets and entire pathways, we will provide insight into the potential to develop new molecular microRNA-targeted therapies for endocrine tumors.
Considerations in Evaluating Human Spermatogenesis on the Basis of Total Sperm per Ejaculate
Authors: Amann Rupert P.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Total number of sperm per ejaculate (TSperm) is an important measure for clinicians to provide advice to patient couples. However, TSperm per hour of abstinence (TSperm/h) is a better measure for epidemiologist‐andrologist teams or clinicians to evaluate spermatogenesis because it is a rate function. This review looks at the interplay and impacts of rate of sperm accumulation in the excurrent duct system, abstinence interval, sexual arousal, and masturbation vs intercourse on observed TSperm. It also examines why and when TSperm/h might provide a meaningful quantitative evaluation of spermatogenesis (ie, rate of sperm production). There is no doubt that TSperm increases with longer abstinence, and in different men plateaus after 2–9 days. Clinicians wishing to maximize number of fully functional sperm available during intercourse, or for artificial insemination, might wish to recommend 6–7 days of abstinence. Diagnostically, the important feature is TSperm/h. After abstinence interval exceeds 64–72 hours, TSperm/h has started to decline in most nonoligozoospermic men as rate of sperm accumulation in the excurrent ducts approaches zero; apparently increasingly more sperm are voided in urine. Clinicians or epidemiologist‐andrologist teams wishing to have optimal distinction among individuals with high, typical, or low sperm production (ie, normal or abnormal spermatogenesis) should accurately measure TSperm/h for samples provided after 42–54 hours' abstinence (never ≤36 or >64 hours). Longer abstinence intervals reward men with poor sperm production, because sperm accumulate in the excurrent ducts for 7 days or more of abstinence, and penalize men with good sperm production, because after 3 days or less of abstinence their excurrent ducts probably are full.
Longer (TA)n Repeat but Not A49T and V89L Polymorphisms in SRD5A2 Gene May Confer Prostate Cancer Risk in South Indian Men
Authors: Rajender Singh , Vijayalakshmi Krishnaswamy , Pooja Singh , Madhavi Sakhamuri , Paul Solomon F. D. , Vettriselvi V. , Shroff Sunil , Singh Lalji , Thangaraj Kumarasamy
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Testosterone is converted to 5 α‐dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by 5 α‐reductase enzyme, which is encoded by the SRD5A2 gene. DHT is the main androgen responsible for prostate growth. We have analyzed the complete coding region of the SRD5A2 gene in 87 histologically confirmed prostate cancer (PC) patients, 40 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) cases, and 96 control samples from southern parts of India. The study revealed the A49T site to be monomorphic, the V89L site to be highly polymorphic, and the (TA)n repeat site to be polymorphic with only 2 alleles in our populations. The distribution of V89L alleles between PC cases and controls was not significantly different; however, (TA)9 alleles distributed differently between the 2 groups. BPH cases exhibited alleles similar to controls at all polymorphic sites. The sequencing of the whole coding region did not reveal any other known or novel polymorphism in this gene. Our study emphasizes that the (TA)9 allele might confer certain PC risk but that A49T and V89L polymorphisms do not confer PC risk in South Indian men.
Understanding the partitioning processes of mobile lead in soakaway sediments using sequential extraction and isotope analysis
Authors: Kumar Manish , Furumai Hiroaki , Kurisu Futoshi , Kasuga Ikuro
Published: October 2009

Lead (Pb) isotopic data were used in this study to first distinguish the partitioning of anthropogenic and natural lead in different fractions, obtained by BCR sequential extraction, and then to anticipate their mixing process in the soakaway sediment of artificial infiltration facilities (AIF). Total metal content was found higher in soakaway sediment samples than that of soil. The lowest 206Pb/207Pb ratios were mostly observed in exchangeable fractions of soil and sediment samples, while residual fractions mostly showed the highest 206Pb/207Pb and 208Pb/207Pb ratios than those of other fractions. In general, both ratios were higher in the soil than those of sediments. Further among soil samples, residual fraction of bottom soil exhibited higher ratios than surface soil indicating higher contribution of natural lead with depth. In addition, the difference in Pb content, partitioning and its isotope signature among four sediment samples were also investigated considering their sampling locations. The plot of 206Pb/207Pb versus 208Pb/207Pb showed two well demarcated cluster formations by soil and sediments samples that describe the partitioning between anthropogenic and natural lead; and some points falling in between soil and sediment samples pertinently illustrated the mixing processes between these two different pools of lead.
Development of instrumentation systems as a base for control of digestion process stability in full-scale agricultural and industrial biogas plants
Authors: Kujawski O. , Steinmetz H.
Published: October 2009

This article deals with the analysis of instrumentation from three modern German full-scale biogas plants with different inputs and typical process engineering concepts for German conditions. The measured results from each plant and the suitability of the instrumentation used are evaluated and assessed. Conclusions are also made about improving the use and architecture of the instrumentation. The analysis results show which benefits and optimum combination of on-line and off-line instrumentation could result for the control and automation of industrial and agricultural biogas plants.
Application of water quality index for assessment of surface water quality surrounding integrated industrial estate-Pantnagar
Authors: Banerjee Tirthankar , Srivastava Rajeev Kumar
Published: October 2009

Water pollution as a consequence of accelerated industrial growth has drawn concerns over public health and environment. In order to assess the extent of environmental impact due to integrated industrial estate-Pantnagar (IIE-Pantnagar), surface water was monitored for duration of one year. Grab surface water samples from 12 locations were collected, processed and analyzed for 11 pre-identified variables. Besides providing the raw baseline data, the information was normalized and integrated by applying Water Quality Index (WQI). The average surface water quality surrounding IIE-Pantnagar was found to be satisfactory in terms of its potability after conventional treatment and disinfection. During summer season, the WQI of Baigul River at Haldi Road illustrated good water quality (83.3), which however, deteriorates in its downstream at Rudrapur (55.5), signifying moderate quality. The WQI inside IIE-Pantnagar varied from 47.4 to 66.6, revealing moderate to good surface water quality. However, in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, WQI demonstrated a modest increase in quality for all sampling points, with a few exceptions due to dilution caused by monsoonal rainfall. In this period, average WQI varied from 49.6 to 81.7. During winter season, WQI further declined due to cumulative effects of industrial discharge from IIE-Pantnagar and other adjacent industrial set-ups coupled with municipal waste water from Rudrapur city. The lowest WQI for entire sampling network was found within IIE-Pantnagar as 37.1, revealing poor water quality. The application of WQI to assess temporal variations in surface water quality was therefore found satisfactory.
Design and configuration criteria for wetland systems treating greywater
Authors: Paulo P. L. , Begosso L. , Pansonato N. , Shrestha Roshan R. , Boncz M. A.
Published: October 2009

Design and configuration for wetlands treating greywater are usually based on literature data obtained from domestic wastewater operating wetlands. It is very important to determine proper criteria for design and configuration to provide efficiency and minimum maintenance, avoiding bad odour and clogging amongst others, ensuring the acceptance of householders. The aim of this work was to design a wetland system treating greywater for a household and determine whether the chosen criteria were appropriate. Some of the criteria taken into consideration for design and configuration were: quantitative and qualitative characteristics, desired removal of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and suspended solids (TSS), substrate and ornamental aspect of the system. The system was composed of a grease trap (kitchen), sedimentation tank, a horizontal flow constructed wetland (HF-CW), intermittent feeding system, and a vertical flow constructed wetland (VF-CW). The results showed that the suggested design and configuration were in accordance with the expected efficiency. Being a compact system, it was susceptible to peak flows, temporarily deteriorating the performance of the HF-CW. The hybrid system, however, showed to cope well with influent fluctuations. The overall performance of the system shows that the removal of turbidity, TSS, COD and BOD were over 88%, reaching 95% removal for both BOD and turbidity.
An empirical model for treatment of arsenic contaminated underground water by electrocoagulation process employing a bipolar cell configuration with continuous flow
Authors: García-Lara A. M. , Montero-Ocampo C. , Martínez-Villafañe F.
Published: October 2009

Arsenic (As) was removed electrochemically from underground water (GW) by electrocoagulation (EC) process employing a bipolar cell configuration with continuous flow using iron electrodes. A kinetic model derived from the Lagergren equation was applied to specify the kinetics of the arsenic removal reaction. Elucidation of the effect of the liquid flow rate on the treatment time and on the simulation results of the model was achieved. The results showed that treatment times decreased from 10.50 min to 0.75 min as the flow rate decreased from 3.500 to 0.875 L min−1 and the current density varied from 15 to 45 A m−2 respectively. The used sorption kinetic model successfully describes the arsenic removal by this process. The coefficients of determination were found to be very high in all cases (R2>0.99) indicating a good fit of the experimental data to Lagergren model.
The Effect of Nitrate and Sulfate on Mediator‐Less Microbial Fuel Cells with High Internal Resistance
Authors: Yi Taewoo , Harper Willie F.
Published: October 2009

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) simultaneously provide waste treatment while capturing energy in the form of electricity. Although these devices are being used in engineered and natural environments where nitrate or sulfate may inhibit power production, the effects of these electron acceptors have not been fully explored. This research investigated the effect of nitrate and sulfate on MFC power production when these chemicals are present at the anode. Nitrate decreased the maximum current and power density by 15 and 17%, respectively, when present at 20 mg/L, and sulfate caused the maximum current and power density to decrease by 4 and 7%, respectively (also at 20 mg/L). Stronger inhibition was observed at higher nitrate and sulfate concentrations, but power production persisted. Coulombic efficiency decreased as nitrate and sulfate levels increased, although this was not primarily due to the biochemical reduction of nitrate or sulfate; rather, it was probably because of the inhibition of exoelectrogens.
Biodegradation of Malachite Green by Brevibacillus laterosporus MTCC 2298
Authors: Gomare Sushama S. , Parshetti Ganesh K. , Govindwar Sanjay P.
Published: October 2009

Brevibacillus laterosporus MTCC 2298 was screened for the decolorization of eight triphenylmethane dyes. Decolorization of malachite green was found to be fastest (87% within 3 hours, at the concentration 0.1 g/L) among the screened dyes. Various triphenylmethane dyes showed differential induction patterns of the dye‐degrading enzymes. The activities of the laccase, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide‐dichlorophenolindophenol reductase (NADH‐DCIP reductase), malachite green reductase, and aminopyrine N‐demethylase were increased in the cell‐free extract obtained after decolorization of malachite green. Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis indicated formation of N‐demethylated products, including primary and secondary aryl amines. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis confirmed the transformation of malachite green into new metabolites rather than its reduced form, leucomalachite green. Gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy analysis detected new degradation products, such as reduced tetradesmethyl leucomalachite green (m/z 283) and [4‐(1‐cyclohexyl)‐(1'‐phenyl)‐methyl]‐2, 4‐hexenoic acid (m/z 282). Complete decolorization of malachite green also was observed by the partially purified laccase from B. laterosporus.
Modeling the Performance of Hazardous Wastes Removal in Bioaugmented Activated Sludge Processes
Authors: Leu Shao‐Yuan , Babcock Roger W. , Tzeng Chwen‐Jeng , Stenstrom Michael K.
Published: October 2009

An enricher‐reactor process in which acclimated biomass is grown in an offline reactor on high concentrations of enrichment substrates was used to bioaugment a conventional activated sludge process to a toxic compound, 1‐amino naphthalene. Various levels of bioaugmentation, ranging from 1 to 16% mass ratio of augmented cells to indigenous cells, were evaluated in laboratory‐scale reactors. The experimental results showed that bioaugmentation can enhance toxic compound removal, increase resistance to shock loading, and reduce the time required for acclimation to the toxic compound. A process model was developed and calibrated using the experimental data. This model was then used to compare the process to an in‐situ bioaugmentation process using a reaeration reactor that receives a portion of the recycle activated sludge. The model predicted experimentally observed removals of toxic compound and decreasing relative benefits of bioaugmentation at higher levels. The model suggests that augmented biomass suffers higher decay, which likely is due to the effects of its removal from a substrate‐rich to substrate‐poor environment. The model shows that the enricher‐reactor‐process has advantages at lower mean cell retention time (MCRT), and the in‐situ process is superior at higher MCRT. Both processes can remove the toxic compound when operating below the washout MCRT that would occur in an unaugmented activated sludge process.
Polishing Treatment of Molasses Wastewater with Iron Salts: the Role of Counter‐ions
Authors: Liang Zhen , Wang Yanxin , Zhou Yu , Liu Hui , Wu Zhenbin
Published: October 2009

The effect of counter‐ions on the coagulation of biologically treated molasses wastewater using iron‐based coagulants was investigated. Parameters such as removals of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color, and residual turbidity, were measured to evaluate coagulation performance. Experimental results showed that ferric chloride and ferric nitrate were more effective than ferric sulfate at optimal dosages, achieving 89 to 90% and 98 to 99% of COD and color removals, respectively, with residual turbidity of less than 5 NTU. High‐performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC) results revealed differences in the removal of the molecular weight fraction of organic compounds using iron salts. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed randomly formed coagulated flocs characterized with irregular, sheet‐like shapes. Nitrate and chloride counter‐ions had similar effects on coagulation performance compared to sulfate. Both FeCl3 and Fe(NO3)3 yielded better results than Fe(SO4)2 under underdosed and optimum dosage conditions. Coagulation efficiency was less adversely affected in the overdosed regions, however, if sulfate rather than chloride or nitrate was present.
Virtuous or Vicious?: Agency and Representation in Biotechnology's Virtuous Cycle
Authors: Sunderland Naomi
Published: October 2009

This article provides a fresh examination of claims that biotechnology and other high profile areas of scientific research and development create a “virtuous cycle” that delivers benefits to society and ecology through an array of consumer products. Specifically, the article investigates who and what has agency in this virtuous cycle and who and what does not. I argue that official discourses on and definitions of biotechnology create strict demarcations not only on who can act in relation to biotechnology research development options, but also on where and at which stages of the virtuous cycle these agents can act. For example, scientists are presented as passive rather than active agents whose influence is limited to the laboratory context despite rhetorical use of their identity and credibility across all contexts of product development and consumption explored. Agency is highly significant in biotechnology and other areas of scientific advance because it determines who or what has moral decision making power regarding the place of new technologies in society. The article concludes with a discussion of the social and ethical impacts of these demarcations of agency in biotechnology's virtuous cycle.
Coherence in Workplace Instant Messages
Authors: MacKiewicz Jo , Lam Christopher
Published: October 2009

In our case study, we examined the instant messaging (IM) workplace discourse of a pair of expert IM users. We found that the participants maintained discourse cohesion and thus coherence via short, rapidly sent transmissions that created uninterrupted transmission sequences. Such uninterrupted transmission sequences allowed each participant to maintain the floor. Also, the participants used topicalizations and performative verbs to maintain coherence. We also found that the participants' use of short transmissions may have ambiguated their enactment of their institutional roles and the rights afforded to them by those roles.
Impact of Differing Frequencies of PETTLEP Imagery on Netball Shooting Performance
Authors: Wakefield Caroline J , Smith Dave
Published: October 2009

This study examined the effects of differing frequencies of PETTLEP imagery on netball shooting performance. Thirty-two female participants were divided into four groups: PETTLEP imagery once per week (1x/wk), PETTLEP imagery twice per week (2x/wk), PETTLEP imagery three times per week (3x/wk) and a control. During the pre-test and post-test participants were required to complete a total of twenty shots from five different points within the shooting zone. They were awarded points (out of five) for each shot, giving a possible total of 100 points. The numbers of shots scored was also recorded. Following the pre-test, the imagery participants imaged the twenty shots the required number of times per week. The control group completed some netball specific stretching. Transfer tests were also completed to assess the transferability of the intervention to related tasks. Group x test ANOVAs for performance score and shots scored revealed a significant interaction effect (p<.01). Tukey tests revealed that the 3x/wk imagery group improved performance on both measures, whereas the 2x/wk, 1x/wk and control group did not. These results support the notion that PETTLEP imagery may be more effective if completed at least three times per week.
Inhibition of Glycan Shedding and Leukocyte‐Endothelial Adhesion in Postcapillary Venules by Suppression of Matrixmetalloprotease Activity with Doxycycline
Authors: Mulivor Aaron W. , Lipowsky Herbert H.
Published: October 2009

Objective: The aims of this study were to examine the role of matrixmetalloproteinases (MMPs) in causing shedding of glycan components of the endothelial glycocalyx and delineate the efficacy of doxycycline as an inhibitor of white blood cell–endothelial cell (WBC‐EC) adhesion and glycan shedding in postcapillary venules.

Methods: WBC‐EC adhesion in postcapillary venules of mesentery (rat) was examined in response to superfusion with the chemoattractant, f‐Met‐Leu‐Phe (fMLP). Glycan shedding was delineated by using fluorescently labeled microspheres (FLMs; 0.1 μm in diameter) coated with lectins and infused into the systemic circulation. The shedding of FLMs in response to fMLP was examined during superfusion with graded concentrations of doxycycline and the zinc chelator, ilomastat.

Results: Superfusion of mesentery with 10−7 M of fMLP caused a reduction in FLM adhesion due to shedding of the glycocalyx and a rise in WBC‐EC adhesion. WBC‐EC adhesion and FLM shedding were reduced with subantimicrobial concentrations of doxycycline equal to or greater than 0.5 μM with an EC50 value of 0.15 μM. MMP activation was verified by inhibition of shedding and attenuation of circulating MMP substrate cleavage at the venular wall with the zinc chelator, ilomastat (GM6001, 2.6 μM; US Biological, Swampscott, Massachusetts, USA).

Conclusions: MMPs play a significant role in glycan shedding and WBC‐EC adhesion, and doxycycline may stabilize the endothelial glycocalyx by inhibition of MMP activation.
Independent roles of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor and endogenous, but not exogenous glucocorticoids in regulating leukocyte trafficking
Authors: Gregory Julia L. , Hall Pam , Leech Michelle , Morand Eric F. , Hickey Michael J.
Published: October 2009

Objectives: Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) promotes leukocyte recruitment and antagonizes the anti‐inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids (GC). The aim of this study was to examine whether interaction between MIF and GC underlies the ability of MIF to promote leukocyte– endothelial cell (EC) interactions.

Methods: Intravital microscopy was used to assess leukocyte‐EC interactions in wild‐type and MIF−/− mice following treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the GC dexamethasone, and inhibition of endogenous GC, using the GC‐receptor antagonist, RU486.

Results: Dexamethasone reduced LPS‐induced leukocyte interactions in wild‐type mice to levels similar to those observed in MIF −/− mice not treated with dexamethasone, whereas in MIF −/− mice, leukocyte interactions were not further inhibited by dexamethasone. RU486 increased LPS‐induced leukocyte adhesion and emigration to a similar extent in both wild‐type and MIF −/− mice, indicating that endogenous GC exert a similar inhibitory effect on leukocyte trafficking in wild‐type and MIF −/− mice. Both MIF deficiency and RU486 treatment reduced VCAM‐1 expression, while neither treatment modulated expression of ICAM‐1 or chemokines CCL2, KC, and MIP‐2.

Conclusions: These results suggest that endogenous MIF and GC regulate leukocyte‐EC interactions in vivo reciprocally but through predominantly independent mechanisms, and that the anti‐inflammatory effect of MIF deficiency is comparable to that of exogenous GC.
Prevalence and Determinants of Smoking among the College Students in Selected District of Bangladesh
Authors: Tarafdar Md Monowar Ahmad , Nahar Shamsun , Rahman Md Mizanur , Hussain Syed Md Akram , Zaki Mahbub
Published: October 2009

Cigarette smoking is an intractable public health problem that poses threat to the health of the entire population. Smoking is considered as the single largest risk factor for a variety of malignancies, including lung cancer. The prevalence of smoking is gradually increasing among the students in Bangladesh. Considering this view, this cross sectional study was conducted in a selected higher secondary college of Moulvibazar district under Sylhet division. The objectives of the study were to determine the proportion of current smokers and its determinants among the college students. A total of 719 students were interviewed using self administered questionnaire. The mean age (SD) of the students was 17.1 (SD 1.5) years ranging from 15 to 22 years. Majority of the respondents were male (57.4%) and 42.6% were female with male-female ratio of 1.3:1. Out of 719 students, 22% were current smokers and the rest 78% were non smokers. Half of the students reportedly mentioned that they started smoking due to peer pressure followed by curiosity (34%), to avoid anxiety and tension (28%), feeling of maturity (14%, symbol of manliness (9%) etc. The most frequent form of smoking was cigarette (56%) followed by Bidi (37%), Hukkah (6%) and 2% hand made cigarette. The mean age of starting smoking was 13(SD 2.9) years ranging from 9 to 20 years. More than one third (35%) of the student's father were smokers, whereas 11.5% of their brothers were smokers. Logistic analysis revealed that only age, sex and educational attainment appeared to be important predictors of smoking (p<0.001). This indicates that the smoking was 4.26 times high among male students than their female counterparts. It was 2.1 times higher among the students aged 18 years and above than below 18 years. It was also 2 times higher among students of twelve grades than eleven grades. The smoking among the young population as a whole and also among female students is alarming. This should be addressed properly to create awareness among them and proper measures should be taken to prevent smoking among young population. Key words: Smoking, Higher secondary school, Bangladesh   DOI: 10.3329/bmj.v38i1.3579 Bangladesh Medical Journal 38(1) 2009 3-8
Ethical Issues in Assisted Conception
Authors: Habib Shahin Akter Jahan , Sultana Sayeeda , Yasmin Nahid
Published: October 2009

DOI: 10.3329/bmj.v38i1.3584 Bangladesh Medical Journal 38(1) 2009 31-34
Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Associated with Delivery after Intrauterine Fetal Death
Authors: Habib Shahin Akter Jahan , Sultana Sayeeda
Published: October 2009

To determine the maternal morbidity and mortality associated with delivery after intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) and to find out the place of fetal destructive procedures and cesarean section. The study design was Cross-sectional. The place of study was conducted in the Labour Room, Dhaka Medical College Hospital Dhaka from January 2005 to December 2005.Patients and Methods: All women were included in the present study who presented before the onset of labour pains, after intrauterine fetal death at 26 weeks or onward with singleton pregnancy. Assessment of maternal demographic characteristics, gestational age at fetal demise, delivery -IUFD interval, mode of delivery; vaginal with or without fetal destructive procedures/cesarean section and maternal complications were the main outcome measures. There were 5,502 live birth and 189 deliveries with intrauterine fetal death. Mode of delivery was vaginal in 87.4% and cesarean section in 12.6% of the cases. Thirty six (21%) of the vaginal deliveries were complication by lower urogenital tract injuries in certain cases, whereas 75% (18/24) of patients delivered by cesarean section developed major postoperative complications like postpartum haemorrhage , shock, endometritis, peritonitis and wound dehiscence. No maternal death was identified. Rate of delivery with intrauterine fetal death was 34.3/1000 live -birth deliveries. Maternal morbidity like perineal tear, urinary tract infection, menstrual disorder and even secondary infertility may follow after vaginal mode of delivery by forceps and destructive procedures. The frequency and severity of complications after cesarean delivery are quite higher and may rarely lead to even maternal death. Key Words: Intrauterine fetal death. Maternal morbidity.   DOI: 10.3329/bmj.v38i2.3571 Bangladesh Medical Journal 38(2) 2009 39-43
Effect of Cardiopulmonary Bypass on Postoperative Nutrition of Cardiac Surgery Patients
Authors: Hosain Suman Nazmul , Akter Sayeda Jarina , Rasheed Haroon , Maruf Fazle , Ahmed Nasiruddin
Published: October 2009

Introduction: Nutrition is an important factor for recovery following cardiac surgery. Most patients loose appetite and have reduced nutrition following cardiac surgery. Several factors including pain, anxiety, medications, whole body inflammatory response, Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) have role in postoperative anorexia and reduced nutrition. Objective: Objective of this study is to find out the role of CPB in postoperative anorexia and nutrition. Methodology: This prospective study was conducted at NICVD. 30 randomly selected adult patients who had undergone open heart surgical procedures were compared to same number of closed heart surgery patients. The daily food intake was calculated from the ICU data-sheets and calorie value obtained. The values were compared between the open and closed heart surgery patients. Results: It was noted that the open heart surgery patients took significantly less amount of food and calorie compared to the closed heart surgery patients. Conclusion: Open heart surgery is a situation where post operative nutrition plays a very significant role in patient's recovery. But unfortunately there is a tendency of the patient's taking low calorie intake for various reasons. This may have a critical role postoperatively. So adequate measures should be adopted to ensure proper postoperative nutrition following open heart surgery.   DOI: 10.3329/bmj.v38i2.3574 Bangladesh Medical Journal 38(2) 2009 53-55
Organotin Polyethers as Biomaterials
Authors: Carraher Charles E. , Roner Michael R.
Published: October 2009

Organotin polyethers are easily synthesized employing interfacial polymerization systems involving the reaction of hydroxyl-containing Lewis bases and organotin halides. A wide variety of organotin-containing polymeric products have been synthesized including those derived from natural and synthetic polymers such as lignin, xylan, cellulose, dextran, and poly(vinyl alcohol). Others have been synthesized employing known drug diols such as dicumarol, DES, and dienestrol and a wide variety of synthetic diols. Included in these materials are the first water soluble organotin polymers. The organotin polyethers exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Some selectively inhibit a number of unwanted bacteria, including Staph. MRSA, and unwanted yeasts such as Candida albicans. Some also inhibit a variety of viruses including those responsible for herpes infections and smallpox. Others show good inhibition of a wide variety of cancer cell lines including cell lines associated with ovarian, colon, lung, prostrate, pancreatic and breast cancer. The synthesis, structural characterization, and biological characterization of these materials is described in this review.