bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cochlear gain control
Authors: van der Heijden Marcel
Published: March 2005

The nonlinear auditory phenomena of compression, suppression, and distortion are known to have a cochlear-mechanical origin. An instantaneous nonlinear transfer function is often assumed to underlie these phenomena, but there are experimental indications that auditory nonlinearity is sluggish rather than instantaneous. This study analyzes the consequences of such sluggishness, using automatic gain control (AGC) as a model noninstantaneous nonlinearity. The distinctive characteristic of AGC, its delayed action, is shown to produce a number of observable and measurable effects that distinguish AGC from instantaneous nonlinearities. A major class of such AGC-specific effects concerns the phase of aural distortion products. For example, the phase of the cancellation tone in the classical psychoacoustic cancellation paradigm is linearly related to the frequency spacing of the primary tones in an AGC, as opposed to the square-law relationship produced by an instantaneous nonlinearity. These and other predictions are confronted with experimental data from the literature. The impact of putative AGC-related delays on the interpretation of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) is discussed. Detailed suggestions are made for experiments specifically aimed at determining whether cochlear nonlinearity is instantaneous or delayed.
Use of a curved reflector to amplify ultrasonic standing waves in an air-filled channel
Authors: Anderson Michael J. , Cluff Andrew C. , Lemmon E. Clark , Putnam Gabriel C.
Published: March 2005

The application of a slightly curved reflector to increase the amplitude of an ultrasonic standing wave in a semi-infinite rectangular channel was explored. Air was assumed to be the acoustic medium in the channel. Excitation of the standing wave was assumed to be provided by a square transducer flush-mounted to one wall of the channel. A slight curvature was placed in the reflecting wall of the channel. A finite element analysis was used to predict the amplitude of the standing wave that would be excited in the channel. A perfectly matched layer was used to model the semi-infinite channel geometry. At frequencies near 50 kHz, for source ka ranging from 6.6 to 26.6, and channel depths necessary to excite standing waves at one-half and one wavelength resonance, the computations predicted that an increase in acoustic pressure amplitude from 2 to 11 dB could be achieved with a reflector whose depth of curvature was 16% of the channel depth. Much of this increase could be obtained with curvatures of smaller depth. Experiments with a channel and reflector of representative geometry gave a measured increase in acoustic pressure amplitude of 4.86 dB.
NUCLEAR PHYSICS WITH STATISTICS
Authors: ERICH ORMAND W.
Published: March 2005

Properties of shell model Hamiltonians, and in particular the tri-diagonal matrices obtained with the Lanczos procedure are exploited to determine the density of states and to estimate the ground-state energies. It will be shown that with a few parameters that are adjusted to the moments up to fourth order of the Hamiltonian, one can model the resultant tri-diagonal matrices. An estimate of the ground state energy can quickly be obtained from the modeled matrices, and the density of states for the full matrix can quickly be obtained using the WKB approximation. The accuracy of the ground state is dependent on high moments, six and greater.
ELECTROMAGNETIC TRANSITIONS WITH EFFECTIVE OPERATORS
Authors: STETCU IONEL , BARRETT BRUCE R. , NAVRÁTIL PETR , JOHNSON CALVIN W.
Published: March 2005

In the no-core shell model formalism we compute effective one- and two-body operators, using the Lee–Suzuki procedure within the two-body cluster approximation. We evaluate the validity of the latter through calculations in reduced model spaces. In particular, we test the results for the two-body system and find that indeed the effective operators in the reduced space reproduce the expectation values or transition strengths computed in the full space. On the other hand, the renormalization for operators in the case of 6Li is very weak, suggesting the need for higher-body clusters in computing the effective interaction.
PSEUDOSPIN SYMMETRY AND SUPERSYMMETRY
Authors: VON BRENTANO PETER
Published: March 2005

The role of a nearly decoupled pseudospin is investigated. A model of supersymmetry with three kinds of bosons is discussed and compared to data for 194 Pt and 195 Pt . Supersymmetry applied to identical bands is discussed.
REQUIREMENTS TRACEABILITY ISSUES: GENERIC MODEL, METHODOLOGY AND FORMAL BASIS
Authors: SAHRAOUI ABD-EL-KADER
Published: March 2005

This paper focuses on the traceability issue as key element in systems design and management of system. The work is presented through the system engineering framework with a main emphasis on requirements process. Effectively in decision making, the need for traceability model is often required in order to find out the link for a considered decision and often the semantics of such link. With the advent for information technology and integrating technical needs and business goal, the traceability find its essence and many models can now be easily implemented automatically. The paper is based on many experiences carried out ranging from audit to requirement evolution issues for impact analysis.
Gender-specific patterns of left ventricular and myocyte remodeling following myocardial infarction in mice deficient in the angiotensin II type 1a receptor
Authors: Bridgman Paul , Aronovitz Mark A. , Kakkar Rahul , Oliverio Michael I. , Coffman Thomas M. , Rand William M. , Konstam Marvin A. , Mendelsohn Michael E. , Patten Richard D.
Published: March 2005

Left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI) results from hypertrophy of myocytes and activation of fibroblasts induced, in part, by ligand stimulation of the ANG II type 1 receptor (AT1R). The purpose of the present study was to explore the specific role for activation of the AT1aR subtype in post-MI remodeling and whether gender differences exist in the patterns of remodeling in wild-type and AT1aR knockout (KO) mice. AT1aR-KO mice and wild-type littermates underwent coronary ligation to induce MI or sham procedures; echocardiography and hemodynamic evaluation were performed 6 wk later, and LV tissue was harvested for infarct size determination, morphometric measurements, and gene expression analysis. Survival and infarct size were similar among all male and female wild-type and AT1aR-KO mice. Hemodynamic indexes were also similar except for lower systolic blood pressure in the AT1aR-KO mice compared with wild-type mice. Male and female wild-type and male AT1aR-KO mice developed similar increases in LV chamber size, LV mass corrected for body weight (LV/BW), and myocyte cross-sectional area (CSA). However, female AT1aR-KO mice demonstrated no increase in LV/BW and myocyte CSA post-MI compared with shams. Both male and female wild-type mice demonstrated higher atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels after MI, with female wild types being significantly greater than males. However, male and female AT1aR-KO mice developed no increase in ANP gene expression with MI despite an increase in LV mass and myocyte size in males. These data support that gender-specific patterns of LV and myocyte hypertrophy exist after MI in mice with a disrupted AT1aR gene, and suggest that myocyte hypertrophy post-MI in females relies, in part, on activation of the AT1aR. Further work is necessary to explore the potential mechanisms underlying these gender-based differences.
Overexpression of lunatic fringe does not affect epithelial cell differentiation in the developing mouse lung
Authors: van Tuyl Minke , Groenman Freek , Kuliszewski Maciek , Ridsdale Ross , Wang Jinxia , Tibboel Dick , Post Martin
Published: March 2005

The Notch/Notch-ligand pathway regulates cell fate decisions and patterning in various tissues. Several of its components are expressed in the developing lung, suggesting that this pathway is important for airway cellular patterning. Fringe proteins, which modulate Notch signaling, are crucial for defining morphogenic borders in several organs. Their role in controlling cellular differentiation along anterior-posterior axis of the airways is unknown. Herein, we report the temporal-spatial expression patterns of Lunatic fringe (Lfng) and Notch-regulated basic helix-loop-helix factors, Hes1 and Mash-1, during murine lung development. Lfng was only expressed during early development in epithelial cells lining the larger airways. Those epithelial cells also expressed Hes1, but at later gestation Hes1 expression was confined to epithelium lining the terminal bronchioles. Mash-1 displayed a very characteristic expression pattern. It followed neural crest migration in the early lung, whereas at later stages Mash-1 was expressed in lung neuroendocrine cells. To clarify whether Lfng influences airway cell differentiation, Lfng was overexpressed in distal epithelial cells of the developing mouse lung. Overexpression of Lfng did not affect spatial or temporal expression of Hes1 and Mash-1. Neuroendocrine CGRP and protein gene product 9.5 expression was not altered by Lfng overexpression. Expression of proximal ciliated (β-tubulin IV), nonciliated ( CCSP), and distal epithelial cell ( SP-C, T1α) markers also was not influenced by Lfng excess. Overexpression of Lfng had no effect on mesenchymal cell marker (α-sma, vWF, PECAM-1) expression. Collectively, the data suggest that Lunatic fringe does not play a significant role in determining cell fate in fetal airway epithelium.
Rac and Rho play opposing roles in the regulation of hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced permeability changes in pulmonary artery endothelial cells
Authors: Wojciak-Stothard Beata , Tsang Lillian Yen Fen , Haworth Sheila G.
Published: March 2005

Hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced changes in endothelial permeability are accompanied by endothelial actin cytoskeletal and adherens junction remodeling, but the mechanisms involved are uncertain. We therefore measured the activities of the Rho GTPases Rac1, RhoA, and Cdc42 during hypoxia/reoxygenation and correlated them with changes in endothelial permeability, remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton and adherens junctions, and production of ROS. Dominant negative forms of Rho GTPases were introduced into cells by adenoviral gene transfer and transfection, and inhibitors of NADPH oxidase, PI3 kinase, and Rho kinase were used to characterize the signaling pathways involved. In some experiments constitutively activated forms of RhoA and Rac1 were also used. We show for the first time that hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced changes in endothelial permeability result from coordinated actions of the Rho GTPases Rac1 and RhoA. Rac1 and RhoA rapidly respond to changes in oxygen tension, and their activity depends on NADPH oxidase- and PI3 kinase-dependent production of ROS. Rac1 acts upstream of RhoA, and its transient inhibition by acute hypoxia leads to activation of RhoA followed by stress fiber formation, dispersion of adherens junctions, and increased endothelial permeability. Reoxygenation strongly activates Rac1 and restores cortical localization of F-actin and VE-cadherin. This effect is a result of Rac1-mediated inhibition of RhoA and can be prevented by activators of RhoA, L63RhoA, and lysophosphatidic acid. Cdc42 activation follows the RhoA pattern of activation but has no effect on actin remodeling, junctional integrity, or endothelial permeability. Our results show that Rho GTPases act as mediators coupling cellular redox state to endothelial function.
An RNA interference model of RPS19 deficiency in Diamond-Blackfan anemia recapitulates defective hematopoiesis and rescue by dexamethasone: identification of dexamethasone-responsive genes by microarray
Authors: Ebert Benjamin L. , Lee Michele M. , Pretz Jennifer L. , Subramanian Aravind , Mak Raymond , Golub Todd R. , Sieff Colin A.
Published: March 2005

Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA), a congenital erythroblastopenia, is a model disease for the study of erythroid differentiation but is poorly understood. RPS19 is the only gene yet to have been associated with DBA, but its relevance to erythroid differentiation is unclear. The molecular basis for the stimulation of erythropoiesis by glucocorticoids in patients with DBA has not been identified. We demonstrate that targeted degradation of the RPS19 transcript, through retroviral expression of short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), blocks the proliferation and differentiation of erythroid progenitor cells in cultured human CD34+ cells. Treatment of RPS19-deficient cells with dexamethasone restores erythroid differentiation to normal levels. We investigated the molecular basis of pharmacologic therapies for DBA using oligonucleotide microarrays to survey gene expression in CD34+ cells treated with combinations of dexamethasone, erythropoietin, stem cell factor, and interleukin-3. Dexamethasone did not alter expression of RPS19 but activated a genetic program that includes a set of key hematopoietic regulatory genes. Genes specific to erythroid progenitor cells were up-regulated by dexamethasone, while genes specific to nonerythroid lineages were down-regulated. Deficiency of RPS19 therefore blocks proliferation of immature erythroid progenitor cells, and dexamethasone activates proliferation of the same cell population through mechanisms independent of RPS19. (Blood. 2005;105:4620-4626)
In vivo studies of genomic packaging in the dsRNA bacteriophage Φ8
Authors: Qiao Jian , Qiao Xueying , Mindich Leonard
Published: March 2005

Background

Φ8 is a bacteriophage containing a genome of three segments of double-stranded RNA inside a polyhedral capsid enveloped in a lipid-containing membrane. Plus strand RNA binds and is packaged by empty procapsids. Whereas Φ6, another member of the Cystoviridae, shows high stringency, serial dependence and precision in its genomic packaging in vitro and in vivo, Φ8 packaging is more flexible. Unique sequences (pac) near the 5' ends of plus strands are necessary and sufficient for Φ6 genomic packaging and the RNA binding sites are located on P1, the major structural protein of the procapsid.

Results

In this paper the boundaries of the Φ8 pac sequences have been explored by testing the in vivo packaging efficacy of transcripts containing deletions or changes in the RNA sequences. The pac sequences have been localized to the 5' untranslated regions of the viral transcripts. Major changes in the pac sequences are either tolerated or ameliorated by suppressor mutations in the RNA sequence. Changes in the genomic packaging program can be established as a result of mutations in P1, the major structural protein of the procapsid and the determinant of RNA binding specificity.

Conclusion

Although Φ8 is distantly related to bacteriophage Φ6, and does not show sequence similarity, it has a similar genomic packaging program. This program, however, is less stringent than that of Φ6.
Family physicians' involvement and self-reported comfort and skill in care of children with behavioral and emotional problems: a population-based survey
Authors: Miller Anton R , Johnston Charlotte , Klassen Anne F , Fine Stuart , Papsdorf Michael
Published: March 2005

Background

Little is known about general and family practitioners' (GP/FPs') involvement and confidence in dealing with children with common psychosocial problems and mental health conditions. The aims of this study were to ascertain GP/FPs' preferred level of involvement with, and perceived comfort and skill in dealing with children with behavioral problems, social-emotional difficulties, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and mood disorders; and to identify factors associated with GP/FPs' involvement, comfort and skill.

Methods

Postal survey of a representative sample of 801 GP/FPs in British Columbia, Canada, which enquired about level of involvement (from primarily refer out to deal with case oneself); ratings of comfort/skill with assessment/diagnosis and management; beliefs regarding psychosocial problems in children; basic demographics; and practice information.

Results

Surveys were completed by 405 of 629 eligible GP/FPs (64.4%). Over 80% of respondents reported collaborative arrangements with specialists across problem and condition types, although for children with behavior problems or ADHD, more physicians primarily refer (χ2 (1) = 9.0; P < 0.005; and χ2 (1) = 103.9; P < 0.001, respectively). Comfort/skill levels (mean ± s.d) were higher for mood disorders (4.4 ± 1.3) than behavior problems (3.6 ± 1.1; F [3, 1155] = 84.0, P < .0001; effect size = 0.67), but not different from social-emotional difficulties (3.8 ± 1.1) or ADHD (3.9 ± 1.3). Taking primary responsibility for a case was consistently related to self-reported comfort/skill with each condition type (34% to 61% of variance across condition types), while comfort/skill ratings for each condition were related to exposure to relevant continuing medical education (all P ≤ 0.001), and beliefs that these problems are significant and that GP/FPs have a role to play in dealing with them (P values ranged from 0.01 to <0.001).

Conclusion

Supporting GP/FPs in their care for children with common psychosocial and mental health problems should include efforts to bolster their confidence and modify attitudes in relation towards these problems, especially behavior problems and ADHD, possibly within innovative continuing education programs.
Role of axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with pure ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast
Authors: Zavagno Giorgio , Carcoforo Paolo , Marconato Renato , Franchini Zeno , Scalco Giuliano , Burelli Paolo , Pietrarota Paolo , Lise Mario , Mencarelli Roberto , Capitanio Giovanni , Ballarin Andrea , Pierobon Maria Elena , Marconato Giorgia , Nitti Donato
Published: March 2005

Background

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is an effective tool for axillary staging in patients with invasive breast cancer. This procedure has been recently proposed as part of the treatment for patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), because cases of undetected invasive foci and nodal metastases occasionally occur. However, the indications for SLN biopsy in DCIS patients are controversial.

The aim of the present study was therefore to assess the incidence of SLN metastases in a series of patients with a diagnosis of pure DCIS.

Methods

A retrospective evaluation was made of a series of 102 patients who underwent SLN biopsy, and had a final histologic diagnosis of pure DCIS. Patients with microinvasion were excluded from the analysis. The patients were operated on in five Institutions between 1999 and 2004.

Subdermal or subareolar injection of 30–50 MBq of 99 m-Tc colloidal albumin was used for SLN identification. All sentinel nodes were evaluated with serial sectioning, haematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemical analysis for cytocheratin.

Results

Only one patient (0.98%) was SLN positive. The primary tumour was a small micropapillary intermediate-grade DCIS and the SLN harboured a micrometastasis. At pathologic revision of the specimen, no detectable focus of microinvasion was found.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that SLN metastases in pure DCIS are a very rare occurrence. SLN biopsy should not therefore be routinely performed in patients who undergo resection for DCIS. SLN mapping can be performed, as a second operation, in cases in which an invasive component is identified in the specimen. Only DCIS patients who require a mastectomy should have SLN biopsy performed at the time of breast operation, since in these cases subsequent node mapping is not feasible.
Necrotic gangrenous intrathoracic appendix in a marfanoid adult patient: a case report
Authors: Barakat Mohannad J , Vickers Jon H
Published: March 2005

Background

A diaphragmatic hernia is defined as a defect in part of the diaphragm through which abdominal contents can protrude into the thorax. It may be congenital or acquired. In this case report, we aim to demonstrate a congenital diaphragmatic hernia in an adult marfanoid patient which required emergency treatment

Case presentation

A 43 year old woman was admitted with classical appendicitis requiring surgery. She incidentally had Marfan's clinical features with a positive family history for the syndrome. At operation she had grossly abnormal abdominal anatomy. Radiological investigations demonstrated a large right congenital diaphragmatic hernia with an intrathoracic hernial sac containing a perforated gangrenous appendix. The hernial sac was opened surgically and the appendix excised. The patient made a full recovery.

Conclusion

Diaphragmatic hernias are usually congenital in nature often requiring early corrective surgery for future survival. We have demonstrated the presence of an unusually large diaphragmatic defect, almost a hemidiaphragmatic defect, of unknown direct etiology, but of some possible association with Marfan's syndrome in an adult patient presenting with an acute perforated gangrenous appendix requiring emergency life-saving surgery.
Discordance in diagnosis of osteoporosis using spine and hip bone densitometry
Authors: Moayyeri Alireza , Soltani Akbar , Tabari Nasibeh Khaleghnejad , Sadatsafavi Mohsen , Hossein-neghad Arash , Larijani Bagher
Published: March 2005

Background

Diagnostic discordance for osteoporosis is the observation that the T-score of an individual patient varies from one key measurement site to another, falling into two different diagnostic categories identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) classification system. This study was conducted to evaluate the presence and risk factors for this phenomenon in a large sample of Iranian population.

Methods

Demographic data, anthropometric measurements, and risk factors for osteoporosis were derived from a database on 4229 patients referred to a community-based outpatient osteoporosis testing center from 2000 to 2003. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was performed on L1–L4 lumbar spine and total hip for all cases. Minor discordance was defined as present when the difference between two sites was no more than one WHO diagnostic class. Major discordance was present when one site is osteoporotic and the other is normal. Subjects with incomplete data were excluded.

Results

In 4188 participants (3848 female, mean age 53.4 ± 11.8 years), major discordance, minor discordance, and concordance of T-scores were seen in 2.7%, 38.9% and 58.3%, respectively. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age, menopause, obesity, and belated menopause were recognized as risk factors and hormone replacement therapy as a protective factor against T-score discordance.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of T-score discordance may lead to problems in interpretation of the densitometry results for some patients. This phenomenon should be regarded as a real and prevalent finding and physicians should develop a particular strategy approaching to these patients.
Antibiotic activity of telithromycin and comparators against bacterial pathogens isolated from 3,043 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
Authors: Sethi Sanjay , Anzueto Antonio , Farrell David J
Published: March 2005

Background

Antimicrobial therapy is considered an important component in the medical management of most patients with acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (AECB). The three predominant bacterial species isolated are nontypeableHaemophilus influenzae,Moraxella catarrhalis, andStreptococcus pneumoniae.Staphylococcus aureusis also frequently isolated while atypical bacteria are thought to cause up to 10% of exacerbations. Antibacterial resistance is increasing worldwide and little surveillance data exist concerning pathogens isolated from patients with AECB.

Methods

This study examines the prevalence of antibacterial resistance in isolates obtained from patients with clinically diagnosed AECB. A total of 3043 isolates were obtained from 85 centres in 29 countries, between 1999–2003, and were tested against the new ketolide telithromycin and a panel of commonly used antibiotics.

Results and Discussion

Of theS. pneumoniaeisolates, 99.9% were susceptible to telithromycin, but only 71% were susceptible to erythromycin and 75.3% to penicillin. Of theH. influenzaeisolates, 99.6% were susceptible to telithromycin. 11.7% of these isolates produced β-lactamase. Almost 10% ofS. pneumoniaewere multidrug-resistant; 99.0% of these isolates were susceptible to telithromycin. Telithromycin also demonstrated goodin vitroactivity againstM. catarrhalis(MIC90= 0.12 mg/L) and was the most active compound against methicillin-susceptibleS. aureus(98.9% susceptible).

Conclusion

Telithromycin demonstrated similar or better activity against the bacterial species investigated than the other agents, with the most complete coverage overall. These species are the predominant causative bacterial pathogens in AECB and thus the spectrum of activity of telithromycin makes it a potential alternative for the empirical treatment of AECB.
Influence of Body Mass Index and Gender on Growth Hormone (GH) Responses to GH-Releasing Hormone Plus Arginine and Insulin Tolerance Tests
Authors: Qu Xiao-Dan , Gaw Gonzalo Irene T. , Al Sayed Mohammed Y. , Cohan Pejman , Christenson Peter D. , Swerdloff Ronald S. , Kelly Daniel F. , Wang Christina
Published: March 2005

The aim of this study is to assess whether gender and body mass index (BMI) should be considered in developing thresholds to define GH deficiency, using GH responses to GHRH + arginine (ARG) stimulation and insulin tolerance test (ITT). Thirty-nine healthy subjects (19 males, 20 females; ages 21–50 yr) underwent GHRH + ARG, and another 27 subjects (19 males, 8 females; ages 20–49 yr) underwent ITT. Peak GH response was significantly higher (P = 0.005) after GHRH + ARG than with ITT, and this difference could not be explained by age, gender, or BMI. Peak GH response was negatively correlated with BMI in both tests (GHRH + ARG, r = −0.76; and ITT, r = −0.65). Peak GH response to GHRH + ARG was higher in females than males (P = 0.004; ratio = 2.4), but it was attenuated after eliminating the influence of BMI (P = 0.13; ratio = 1.6). No significant gender differences were found in peak GH responses to ITT, which could be due to the smaller number of female subjects studied. GH response to GHRH + ARG and ITT stimulation is sensitive to BMI differences and less so to gender differences. A higher BMI is associated with a depressed GH response to both stimulation tests. BMI should therefore be considered as a factor when defining the diagnostic cut-off points in the assessment of GH deficiency, whereas whether gender should be likewise used is inconclusive from this study.
The Association between Abdominal Visceral Fat and Carotid Stiffness Is Mediated by Circulating Inflammatory Markers in Uncomplicated Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Diamant Michaela , Lamb Hildo J. , van de Ree Marcel A. , Endert Edwin L. , Groeneveld Ymte , Bots Michiel L. , Kostense Piet J. , Radder Jasper K.
Published: March 2005

Central obesity, insulin resistance, inflammation, as well as vascular changes are common in patients with type 2 diabetes. In this study we assessed the relationship among stiffness of the carotid artery, visceral fat, and circulating inflammatory markers in type 2 diabetic subjects. Carotid stiffness, quantified as the distensibility coefficient (DC), was measured by ultrasound in asymptomatic, normotensive patients with uncomplicated, well-controlled type 2 diabetes and in controls. Body fat distribution was quantified by magnetic resonance imaging. In patients, the carotid DC was inversely associated with visceral fat area (r = −0.660; P = 0.005) and plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP; r = −0.687; P = 0.002), but most strongly with plasma IL-6 (r = −0.766; P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, the association between DC and visceral fat disappeared after adjustment for CRP and IL-6. Correction for age, body mass index, blood pressure, glycosylated hemoglobin, or fasting plasma glucose did not affect the association between carotid DC and inflammatory markers. Thus, carotid stiffness is associated with visceral obesity in patients with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes, but this association seems to be mediated by circulating IL-6 and CRP, of which IL-6, at least in part, originates from adipose tissue and stimulates hepatic CRP production.
Regulation of Interleukin-8 Expression in Human Endometrial Endothelial Cells: A Potential Mechanism for the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis
Authors: Luk Janelle , Seval Yasemin , Kayisli Umit A. , Ulukus Murat , Ulukus Cagnur E. , Arici Aydin
Published: March 2005

The elevation of the proinflammatory chemoattractant cytokine levels in ectopic and eutopic endometrium of endometriosis implies an inflammatory basis for this disease. The relationship between endothelial cells and leukocytes is likely to be important in the regulation of inflammatory mediators of endometriosis. The aim of this study was to describe the temporal and spatial expression of IL-8 in human endometrial endothelial cells (HEEC) in vivo and to compare the in vitro regulation of IL-8 expression by sex steroids in HEEC from women with or without endometriosis. Eutopic endometrial tissues and endometriosis implants were grouped according to menstrual cycle phase and examined by immunohistochemistry for IL-8 expression. Endothelial cells of endometriotic implants expressed higher IL-8 immunoreactivity compared with endothelial cells of eutopic endometrium from women with or without endometriosis (P < 0.02). For in vitro studies, HEEC were isolated from women with or without endometriosis and grown to preconfluence. The purity of cultured HEEC (90–95%) was confirmed by immunocytochemistry using endothelium-specific markers, CD31 and CD146. The effects of estradiol (5 × 10−8m), progesterone (10−7m), or both on IL-8 mRNA and protein levels were analyzed by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Sex steroids reduced the expression of IL-8 mRNA and protein in HEEC from women without endometriosis. In contrast, both estradiol and progesterone stimulated IL-8 mRNA and protein expression in HEEC from women with endometriosis. We postulate that the stimulation of chemokine expression by sex steroids in HEEC of women with endometriosis may play a role in the inflammatory aspect of this disease.
Nuclear localization of HTLV-I bZIP factor (HBZ) is mediated by three distinct motifs
Authors: Hivin Patrick , Frédéric Mélissa , Arpin-André Charlotte , Basbous Jihane , Gay Bernard , Thébault Sabine , Mesnard Jean-Michel
Published: March 2005

The genome of the human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I) codes for a basic leucine zipper protein, HBZ, capable of repressing JUN activity and viral transcription. Transient expression in mammalian cells showed that HBZ was targeted to the nucleus, where it accumulated in nuclear speckles. By using a complementary set of deletion mutants, we report here that the nuclear targeting of HBZ is mediated by three distinct nuclear localization signals and that at least two are necessary for the translocation of HBZ to the nucleus. Moreover, the resulting mutant proteins distribute throughout the nucleoplasm and/or into the nucleoli, whereas the wild-type HBZ exclusively accumulates in nuclear speckles, suggesting that the integrity of the protein is required for its speckle localization. We also demonstrate that the HBZ-containing speckles do not correspond to Cajal bodies, splicing factor compartments, or promyelocytic leukemia oncoprotein bodies. Unexpectedly, by using immunogold electron microscopy, we found HBZ localized to heterochromatin. Until now, such characteristics had never been described for a transcription factor and could explain the inhibitory activity of HBZ.
Towards the Principled Reception of Expert Evidence of Witness Credibility in Criminal Trials
Authors: Roberts Paul
Published: March 2005

R v MacKenney and Pinfold (1981) has for some 20 years been a well-known authority on the admissibility of expert evidence, more particularly with regard to expert evidence of witness credibility. In that case, the trial judge refused to receive expert evidence challenging a prosecution witness's credibility proffered at trial on behalf of the accused, a decision upheld on appeal. Belatedly, on a recent reference from the Criminal Cases Review Commission, the Court of Appeal has quashed the appellants' convictions, prompting reconsideration of the original determination of inadmissibility. Notwithstanding the Court of Appeal's apparent change of heart, however, it is submitted that the principles rehearsed in R v Pinfold and MacKenney (2003) are entirely consistent with the ‘helpfulness’ test of admissibility adumbrated in Turner, and that the court's latest remarks on this topic serve chiefly to clarify and reinforce established legal orthodoxy.
Bad Character Evidence and Non-Party Witnesses under the Criminal Justice Act 2003
Authors: Durston Gregory
Published: March 2005

The current extent to which a non-party witness in criminal proceedings can be cross-examined about previous ‘bad character’ is both broad and uncertain in its limits. The Criminal Justice Act 2003 will replace the common law rules governing this area with a new statutory regime, contained in s. 100 of the Act. This provision may slightly limit the theoretical extent to which witnesses can be cross-examined about their past behaviour; however, its boundaries remain unclear and will need to be elucidated by judicial decision.
Organic Explosives Analysis Using On Column-Ion Trap EI/NICI GC-MS with an External Source
Authors: Calderara S , Gardebas D , Martinez F , Khong SP
Published: March 2005

In this study, a standard method by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for the analysis of classical organic explosives was developed. This method was validated in the EI mode, based on the XPT 90-210 standard method (1). Detection limits (LOD) and quantitation limits (LOQ) were both determined using electronic impact (EI) and negative ion chemical ionization (NICI) modes. These were compared and results showed that in the NICI mode, detection limits were lower than in the EI mode, thus NICI mode appeared to be the best way to analyze nitrate esters. Results of ion trap MS detection were then compared with those obtained in a previous study (2) with single quadrupolar technology. Major ions that were obtained using ion trap MS detection in these two modes were reported.
Stable Isotope Ratios as a Tool in Microbial Forensics—Part 1. Microbial Isotopic Composition as a Function of Growth Medium?
Authors: Kreuzer-Martin HW , Chesson LA , Lott MJ , Dorigan JV , Ehleringer JR
Published: March 2005

The stable isotope ratios of a seized pathogen culture could potentially reveal information about the environment in which the agent was produced. In this paper we describe general relationships between stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen in bacteriological culture media and spores of Bacillus subtilis, an endospore-forming soil bacterium. In numerous media that varied both in nutrient composition and water stable isotope ratios, medium to spore enrichment in carbon isotopes was 0.3 ± 2.0% (parts per thousand), and in nitrogen, 4.5 ± 0.7%. We achieved mass balance for the contribution of hydrogen isotopes from nutrients (70%) and water (30%) to spores in independent experiments by varying the isotope ratios of nutrients or water. A model was derived for predicting the isotope ratio values of spores from those in nutrients and water.
Enhanced Kinship Analysis and STR-based DNA Typing for Human Identification in Mass Fatality Incidents: The Swissair Flight 111 Disaster
Authors: Leclair B , Frégeau CJ , Bowen KL , Fourney RM
Published: March 2005

A bioinformatic tool was developed to assist with the victim identification initiative that followed the Swissair Flight 111 disaster. Making use of short tandem repeat (STR) DNA typing data generated with AmpF/STR® Profiler Plus™ (PP) and AmpF/STR® COfiler™(CO) kits, the software systematically compared each available STR genotype with every other genotype. The matching algorithm was based on the search for: (i) direct matches to genotypes derived from personal effects; and (ii) potential kinship associations between victims and next-of-kin, as measured by allele sharing at individual loci. The software greatly assisted parentage analysis by enabling kinship evaluation in situations where complete parentage trios were unavailable and, in some situations, with distantly related relatives. Exclusion of fortuitous kinship associations (FKA) was made possible through the recovery at the disaster site of at least one remains for every sought-after victim, and was incorporated into the kinship software. The data from the 13 combined STR loci produced 6 and 23 times fewer FKAs when compared with PP alone and AmpF/STR® Profiler™ (PR) alone, respectively. Identification leads or confirmations of identification were obtained for 218 victims for which DNA reference samples (personal effects and kin) had been submitted. Confirmation of an inferred kinship association was sought through frequency and likelihood calculations, as well as corroborative data from other identification modalities. The use of a simple, yet powerful, automated genotype comparison approach and the use of megaplexes with high power of discrimination (PD) values extended considerably the identification capabilities in the case of the Swissair disaster. The DNA typing identification modality proved to be a valuable component of the large arsenal of identification tools deployed in the aftermath of this disaster.
Ear Piercing Affects Earprints: The Role of Ear Piercing in Human Identification
Authors: Abbas A , Rutty GN
Published: March 2005

Previous research conducted into the use of the human ear in the fizeld of forensic identification has focused upon the use of grids and manual methods to measure and catalogue the different anatomical features of the ear. To date, few have considered the importance of the presence of ear piercings and their possible role in human identification. This study aims to highlight the common distribution of piercings of both ears in both genders and to explore the effect of piercings on earprints. The presence of a piercing may, in part, help to explain why partial and not whole earprints are sometimes recovered from a scene of crime (suggesting that the offender's ears may be pierced). The presence of piercings through the tragus and the superior part of the helix are shown to be infrequent and thus may be used to assist the identification of a body, due to its relative rarity with respect to piercings found in other areas of the ear.
A Case Study on Forensic Polymer Analysis by DIOS-MS: The Suspect Who Gave Us the SLIP®
Authors: Shen Z , Thomas JJ , Siuzdak G , Blackledge RD
Published: March 2005

New technology was used to identify traces of a commercial barrier/spermicide in evidence from a case of a man accused of rape of a minor. Examination of vaginal swabs performed by another laboratory had been negative for seminal fluid or other sources of DNA from the suspect and we were asked to examine the remaining swabs for any traces that might have originated from the commercial product. Encare® consists of vaginal inserts having a suppository-like shape. They contain the spermicide, nonoxynol-9, in a matrix consisting of approximately two parts polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1000 to one part PEG 1450, plus minor inorganic components added to produce foaming. Portions of the cotton from vaginal swabs from the victim and penile swabs from the suspect were extracted with methanol and subsequently examined by desorption ionization on silicon time-of-flight mass spectrometry (DIOS TOF MS). Low levels of PEG in the same mass range as Encare® were found on two separate vaginal swabs from the victim and one penile swab from the suspect. Subsequent to these findings, the suspect (through his attorneys) provided us with a sample of SLIP® Plus, a commercial sexual lubricant that also contains nonoxynol-9. Traces of PEG in the same mass range as Encare® were found in this sample, while no PEG was found in a sealed sample of SLIP® Plus provided by the manufacturer At trial the suspect's attorneys stipulated that their client had added some Encare® to the SLIP® Plus sample he had provided.
Comparison of Gasolines Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Target Ion Response
Authors: Barnes AT , Dolan JA , Kuk RJ , Siegel JA
Published: March 2005

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to compare gasoline samples obtained from different sources based on the difference in amounts of certain components found in the headspace of gasoline using target response data. Many suspected arson cases involve comparing an ignitable liquid extracted from fire debris to a liquid found in a suspect's possession to determine if they could have had a common source. Various component ratios are proposed for determining if an unevaporated gasoline sample could have originated from the same source as an evaporated gasoline extracted from fire debris. Fifty and 75% evaporated gasoline samples were both found to contain similar ratios of certain components when compared with its unevaporated source gasoline. The results of the comparisons in this study demonstrate that for cases involving gasoline that has been evaporated up to 50% and extracted from pine, it is possible to eliminate comparison samples as originating from the same source. The results of the 75% comparisons suggest it may be possible to apply the same type of comparison to cases involving 75% evaporated gasoline.
A Comparison of Smokeless Powders and Mixtures by Capillary Zone Electrophoresis
Authors: Hopper KG , McCord BR
Published: March 2005

The analysis of inorganic ions present in smokeless and muzzleloading powders has been performed using capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). Previous publications have examined inorganic low explosives using CZE, but have not looked at the ion profiles from smokeless powders. In this report, seven commercially available smokeless powders were analyzed as unburned powder and burned residue. The results demonstrate that ionic profiles can be used to characterize smokeless powders. Our analysis also included a smokeless powder/ Pyrodexê combination to determine if smokeless powder ions are distinguishable in a mixture; however, the high concentration of ions present in Pyrodexê RS prevented its detection. In addition, five different smokeless powder samples as well as Pyrodexê RS were collected for analysis subsequent to deflagration in fifteen plastic pipe bombs. The relative ion concentrations between these powders can be used to illustrate the differences between open burning and pipe bomb deflagration.
Allelic Frequencies of Three X-Y Homologous STR Loci in Chinese Population
Authors: Shi MS , Deng JQ , Jia ZJ , Ying BW , Li YB , Wu J , Hou YP , Zhang J
Published: March 2005

We have analyzed the distribution of allele frequencies at three X-Y homologous short tandem repeat (STR) loci (DXS9900, DXS9905, DXS9906) among individuals (n= 385) in Chengdu, China
A Comparative Reliability Analysis of Computer-Generated Bitemark Overlays
Authors: McNamee AH , Sweet D , Pretty I
Published: March 2005

This study compared the reliability of two methods used to produce computer-generated bitemark overlays with Adobe Photoshop® (Adobe Systems Inc., San Jose, CA). Scanned images of twelve dental casts were sent to 30 examiners with different experience levels. Examiners were instructed to produce an overlay for each cast image based on the instructions provided for the two techniques. Measurements of the area and the x-y coordinate position of the biting edges of the anterior teeth were obtained using Scion Image® software program (Scion Corporation, Frederick, MD) for each overlay. The inter- and intra-reliability assessment of the measurements was performed using an analysis of variance and calculation of reliability coefficients. The assessment of the area measurements showed significant variances seen in the examiner variable for both techniques resulting in low reliability coefficients. Conversely, the results for the positional measurements showed no significant differences in the variances between examiners with exceptionally high reliability coefficients. It was concluded that both techniques were reliable methods to produce bitemark overlays in assessing tooth position.
Drug and Alcohol Use as Determinants of New York City Homicide Trends From 1990 to 1998
Authors: Tardiff AKJ , Wallace Z , Tracy M , Piper TM , Vlahov D , Galea S
Published: March 2005

In this population-level study, we analyzed how well changes in drug and alcohol use among homicide victims explained declining homicide rates in New York City between 1990 and 1998. Victim demographics, cause of death, and toxicology were obtained for all homicide (N = 12573) and accidental death victims (N = 6351) between 1990 and 1998 from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of New York (OCME). The proportion of homicide and accident decedents positive for cocaine fell between 1990 and 1998 (13% and 9% respectively); the proportion of homicide and accident decedents positive for opiates and/or alcohol did not change significantly. Changing patterns of drug and alcohol use by homicide victims were comparable to changing patterns of drug and alcohol use in accident victims, suggesting that changes in drug and alcohol use among homicide victims between 1990 and 1998 cannot solely explain the decline in NYC homicide rates.
Review of: Crime Scene to Court: The Essentials of Forensic Science, Second Edition
Authors: Bisbing R
Published: March 2005

Peter White describes this book as primarily for support of the teaching of forensic science; but, I agree with him that it should appeal to a much wider readership including police ivestigators, forensic science practitioners, and students of the courts. Chapters are authored by experienced forensic scientists, many of whom have authored more extensive works within their specialty.
Cover Picture: Calix[n]bispyrrolylbenzenes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Preliminary Anion Binding Studies (Chem. Eur. J. 7/2005)
Authors: Sessler Jonathan L. , An Deqiang , Cho Won‐Seob , Lynch Vincent , Marquez Manuel
Published: March 2005

Wing‐like molecules…︁ are produced when the basic calixpyrrole skeleton is expanded by the use of bispyrrolylbenzene building blocks. These folded species display shape‐selective anion‐binding properties in solution and in the solid state. The extent of folding depends on the size of the system involved and the nature of the bound anion, with the most elegant “butterfly‐like” behavior being seen in the case of the systems containing three pyrrole and three bispyrrolylbenzene subunits as highlighted by the X‐ray structure included within this cover picture illustration. For more information, see the article by J. L. Sessler et al. on page 2001 ff. The artwork was generated by Suzi Eller (www.mindfracture.net) using Adobe Photoshop software.
Preparation, Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties of Ruddlesden—Popper Phases La1.2Sr1.8Mn2‐xRuxO7 (x: 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5).
Authors: Schuepp Barbara , Doerr Kathrin , Ruck Kirsten , Nenkov Konstantin , Mueller Karl‐Hartmut , Krabbes Gernot
Published: March 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Trisilver Oxoruthenate(V), Ag3RuO4.
Authors: Klein Wilhelm , Jansen Martin
Published: March 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Intramolecular Nucleophilic Carbonyl Trapping of α‐Ketenyl Radicals by an Amino Group.
Authors: Tojino Mami , Uenoyama Yoshitaka , Fukuyama Takahide , Ryu Ilhyong
Published: March 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Michael Addition Reactions with η2‐Coordinated Anisoles: Controlling the Stereochemistry of the para and Benzylic Carbons.
Authors: Smith Philip L. , Keane Joseph M. , Shankman Sarah E. , Chordia Mahendra D. , Harman W. Dean
Published: March 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Direct Intramolecular Asymmetric Catalytic Aldol Cyclodehydration of meso‐3,4‐Disubstituted‐1,6‐dialdehydes.
Authors: Kurteva Vanya B. , Afonso Carlos A. M.
Published: March 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.