bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Neuroserpin Is Linked to Neuroendocrine Cell Activation
Authors: de Groot Dorien M. , Martens Gerard J. M.
Published: May 2005

Inhibitors of serine proteases (serpins) are important regulators of intracellular and extracellular proteolytic pathways, and they function by forming an irreversible complex with their substrate. Neuroserpin represents a neuroendocrine-specific serpin family member that is expressed in brain regions displaying synaptic plasticity. In this study, we explored the biosynthesis of endogenous neuroserpin in a neuroendocrine model system, namely the melanotrope cells of Xenopus intermediate pituitary. The biosynthetic activity of these cells can be physiologically manipulated (high and low production of the prohormone proopiomelanocortin in black and white animals, respectively), resulting from a synaptic plasticity in innervating hypothalamic neurons. We found that neuroserpin was also differentially expressed in the Xenopus intermediate, but not anterior, pituitary with a 3-fold higher mRNA and more than 30-fold higher protein expression in the active vs. the inactive melanotrope cells. Two newly synthesized glycosylated forms of the neuroserpin protein (47 and 50 kDa) were produced and secreted by the active cells. Intriguingly, neuroserpin was found in an approximately 130-kDa sodium dodecyl sulfate-stable complex in the active, but not in the inactive, melanotrope cells, which correlated with the high and low proopiomelanocortin expression levels, respectively. In conclusion, we report on the biosynthesis of neuroserpin in a physiological context, and we find that the induction of neuroserpin expression and the formation of the 130-kDa neuroserpin-containing complex are linked to neuroendocrine cell activation.
Suppression of Leptin Receptor Messenger Ribonucleic Acid and Leptin Responsiveness in the Ventromedial Nucleus of the Hypothalamus during Pregnancy in the Rat
Authors: Ladyman S. R. , Grattan D. R.
Published: May 2005

Pregnancy in the rat is a state of leptin resistance associated with impaired leptin signal transduction in the hypothalamus. The aim of this study was to determine whether this leptin-resistant state is mediated by a change in the level of leptin receptors in the hypothalamus. Real-time RT-PCR was used to determine levels of mRNA for the various leptin receptor isoforms in a number of microdissected hypothalamic nuclei and the choroid plexus. To investigate the functional activation of the leptin receptor, immunohistochemistry for phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3) was examined in the arcuate nucleus and the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) of fasted diestrous and d-14 pregnant rats after an intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of either leptin (4 μg) or vehicle. A significant reduction of Ob-Rb mRNA levels was observed in the VMH during pregnancy compared with the nonpregnant controls. Furthermore, in pregnant rats the number of cells positive for leptin-induced pSTAT3 in the VMH was greatly reduced during pregnancy compared with nonpregnant rats. There were no differences in the level of Ob-Rb mRNA or in the number of leptin-induced pSTAT3-positive cells in the arcuate nucleus of nonpregnant and pregnant rats. These data implicate the VMH as a key hypothalamic site involved in pregnancy-induced leptin resistance. There were also reduced levels of mRNA for Ob-Ra, a proposed leptin transporter molecule, in the choroid plexus on d 7 and 21 of pregnancy. Hence, diminished transport of leptin into the brain may also contribute to pregnancy-induced leptin resistance.
Differential Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) and GnRH Receptor Messenger Ribonucleic Acid Expression Patterns in Different Tissues of the Female Rat across the Estrous Cycle
Authors: Schirman-Hildesheim Tamar D. , Bar Tzachi , Ben-Aroya Nurit , Koch Yitzhak
Published: May 2005

GnRH, the main regulator of reproduction, is produced in a variety of tissues outside of the hypothalamus, its main site of synthesis and release. We aimed to determine whether GnRH produced in the female rat pituitary and ovaries is involved in the processes leading to ovulation. We studied the expression patterns of GnRH and GnRH receptor (GnRH-R) in the same animals throughout the estrous cycle using real-time PCR. Hypothalamic levels of GnRH mRNA were highest at 1700 h on proestrus, preceding the preovulatory LH surge. No significant changes in the level of hypothalamic GnRH-R mRNA were detected, although fluctuations during the day of proestrus are evident. High pituitary GnRH mRNA was detected during the day of estrus, in the morning of diestrus 1, and at noon on proestrus. Pituitary GnRH-R displayed a similar pattern of expression, except on estrus, when its mRNA levels declined. Ovarian GnRH mRNA levels increased in the morning of diestrus 1 and early afternoon of proestrus. Here, too, GnRH-R displayed a somewhat similar pattern of expression to that of its ligand. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a GnRH expression pattern in the pituitary and ovary of any species. The different timings of the GnRH peaks in the three tissues imply differential tissue-specific regulation. We believe that the GnRH produced in the anterior pituitary and ovary could play a physiological role in the preparation of these organs for the midcycle gonadotropin surge and ovulation, respectively, possibly via local GnRH-gonadotropin axes.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein Regulation of Early Osteoblast Genes in Human Marrow Stromal Cells Is Mediated by Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Signaling
Authors: Osyczka Anna M. , Leboy Phoebe S.
Published: May 2005

Bone marrow stromal cells (MSC) are the major source of osteoblasts for bone remodeling and repair in postnatal animals. Rodent MSC cultured with bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) differentiate into osteoblasts, but most human MSC show a poor osteogenic response to BMPs. In this study we demonstrate that BMP-induced osteogenesis in poorly responsive human MSC requires modulation of ERK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) pathways. Either treating human MSC cultures with the MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitor PD98059 or transferring them to serum-free medium with insulin or IGF-I permits BMP-dependent increases in the expression of the early osteoblast-associated genes, alkaline phosphatase and osteopontin. Increased expression of these genes in BMP-treated, serum-free cultures correlates with increased nuclear levels of activated Smads, whereas serum-free cultures of human MSC expressing constitutively active MAPK/ERK kinase show decreased expression of early osteoblast genes and decreased nuclear translocation of BMP-activated Smads. Inhibiting ERK activity in human MSC also elevates the expression of Msx2, a transcription factor that is directly regulated by Smad-binding elements in its promoter. Therefore, growth factor stimulation leading to high levels of ERK activity in human MSC results in suppressed BMP-induced transcription of several early osteoblast genes, probably because levels of BMP-activated nuclear Smads are decreased. In contrast, inhibiting the insulin/IGF-I-activated PI3-K/AKT pathway decreases BMP-induced alkaline phosphatase and osteopontin expression in serum-free cultures of human MSC, but increases BMP activation of Smads; thus, PI3-K signaling is required for BMP-induced expression of early osteoblast genes in human MSC either downstream or independent of the BMP-activated Smad signaling pathway.
Nonpeptide and Peptide Growth Hormone Secretagogues Act Both as Ghrelin Receptor Agonist and as Positive or Negative Allosteric Modulators of Ghrelin Signaling
Authors: Holst Birgitte , Brandt Erik , Bach Anders , Heding Anders , Schwartz Thue W.
Published: May 2005

Two nonpeptide (L692,429 and MK-677) and two peptide [GH-releasing peptide (GHRP)-6 and ghrelin] agonists were compared in binding and in signal transduction assays: calcium mobilization, inositol phosphate turnover, cAMP-responsive element (CRE), and serum-responsive element (SRE) controlled transcription, as well as arrestin mobilization. MK-677 acted as a simple agonist having an affinity of 6.5 nm and activated all signal transduction systems with similar high potency (0.2–1.4 nm). L-692,429 also displayed a very similar potency in all signaling assays (25–60 nm) but competed with a 1000-fold lower apparent affinity for ghrelin binding and surprisingly acted as a positive allosteric receptor modulator by increasing ghrelin’s potency 4- to 10-fold. In contrast, the potency of GHRP-6 varied 600-fold (0.1–61 nm) depending on the signal transduction assay, and it acted as a negative allosteric modulator of ghrelin signaling. Unexpectedly, the maximal signaling efficacy for ghrelin was increased above what was observed with the hormone itself during coadministration with the nonendogenous agonists. It is concluded that agonists for the ghrelin receptor vary both in respect of their intrinsic agonist properties and in their ability to modulate ghrelin signaling. A receptor model is presented wherein ghrelin normally only activates one receptor subunit in a dimer and where the smaller nonendogenous agonists bind in the other subunit to act both as coagonists and as either neutral (MK-677), positive (L-692,429), or negative (GHRP-6) modulators of ghrelin function. It is suggested that an optimal drug candidate could be an agonist that also is a positive modulator of ghrelin signaling.
Prospective audit of the quality of ENT emergency clinic notes before and after introduction of a computerized template
Authors: Hobson Jonathan C , Khemani Sameer , Singh Arvind
Published: May 2005

This study evaluated the accuracy of notes in an ENT urgent referral clinic, based on a standard of note keeping established within the trust. The results initially failed to meet the set standard and a change of practice was initiated by introduction of a computerized template that allowed for easier and more accurate data entry. After re-evaluation, the notes were found to be accurate and to contain relevant demographic data in more than 90 per cent of cases.
Is there a role for more day-case septal surgery?
Authors: Philpott Carl M , Banerjee Anil R
Published: May 2005

A significant number of patients requiring septal surgery are still undergoing in-patient procedures at a time when pressures on in-patient beds are increasing.

A retrospective audit of 109 patient case notes was performed to assess the potential for day-case surgery amongst patients undergoing septal surgery in the ENT department at Leicester Royal Infirmary. The other aims of the audit were to assess the overall complication rates, because these have implications for day-case surgical patients, and to see which patients should be selected.

Overall, the study group had a haemorrhage rate of six per cent and a potential for 92 per cent of cases to be performed as day-case procedures.

Day-case septal surgery, if utilized appropriately, has great potential in reducing the pressure on inpatient beds.
Allergen-Specific IgE Measured by a Continuous Random-Access Immunoanalyzer: Interassay Comparison and Agreement with Skin Testing
Authors: Ollert Markus , Weissenbacher Stephanie , Rakoski Jürgen , Ring Johannes
Published: May 2005

Background: Our aims were to evaluate the performance of a fully automated system for measuring circulating allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) against an established in vitro assay and to assess the system’s diagnostic accuracy against objective clinical criteria for identifying sensitization to specific allergens.

Methods: Using both the IMMULITE® 2000 Allergy system (IML) and an assay based on the widely used ImmunoCAP® technology (CAP), we measured sIgE in serum samples from 169 persons with suspected allergies to airborne or insect venom allergens. Skin testing outcome served as the clinical comparison method.

Results: Interassay classification agreement between the IML and CAP, relative to the usual allergen-specific IgE cutoff of 0.35 kIU/L, ranged from 76% (yellow jacket venom) to 95% (orchard grass); agreement was 88.3% for all 9 allergens combined (766 results). The 90 discordant results, when resolved by skin testing, showed better agreement with the IML (72%) than with the CAP (28%). Compared with skin testing, for each of the 9 allergens studied, the area under the ROC curve was at least as large for the IML as for the CAP, reflecting in part the more extensive working range of the IML (0.10–100 kIU/L vs 0.35–100 kIU/L for CAP).

Conclusion: Laboratory testing for sIgE can be performed on a fully automated, random-access system with an extended working range and with diagnostic accuracy for representative allergens equivalent to or better than that of the semiautomated CAP technology.
Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase −786T>C, but Not 894G>T and 4a4b, Polymorphism Influences Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations in Persons with Normal Vitamin Status
Authors: Fatini Cinzia , Sofi Francesco , Gori Anna Maria , Sticchi Elena , Marcucci Rossella , Lenti Meri , Casini Alessandro , Surrenti Calogero , Abbate Rosanna , Gensini Gian Franco
Published: May 2005

Background: Nitric oxide (NO) plays a relevant role in various events during atherogenesis. In vitro data suggest that NO may modulate homocysteine (Hcy) concentrations. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) −786T>C, 894G>T, and 4a4b polymorphisms in influencing Hcy concentrations.

Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 1287 unrelated persons. Plasma Hcy was measured by fluorescence polarization immunoassay, folate and vitamin B12 by RIA, vitamin B6 by HPLC, and eNOS and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms by PCR with restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.

Results: MTHFR 677C>T polymorphism significantly influenced Hcy concentrations after adjustment for all confounding variables (P <0.0001 for trend). Univariate analysis showed that the eNOS −786T>C polymorphism, but not 894G>T and 4a4b, was significantly associated with the risk of having Hcy in the third tertile [>13.4 μmol/L; odds ratio (OR) = 1.2; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–1.5; P = 0.03]. After adjustment for all variables known to influence Hcy, the −786T>C polymorphism still influenced Hcy concentrations (OR = 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1–3.2; P = 0.01). By analyzing the influence of eNOS polymorphisms on plasma Hcy concentrations according to vitamin concentrations (folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12), age, and smoking habits, we found a significant association between the eNOS −786T>C polymorphism and Hcy in nonsmokers, in persons with normal vitamin status, and in persons <60 years.

Conclusion: The eNOS −786T>C polymorphism, but not 894G>T and 4a4b, influences plasma Hcy concentrations mildly but significantly and independently.
Clinical Vitamin B6 Analysis: An Interlaboratory Comparison of Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate Measurements in Serum
Authors: Rybak Michael E , Jain Ram B , Pfeiffer Christine M
Published: May 2005

Background: Recent investigations into the role vitamin B6 plays in reducing risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease have heightened interest in vitamin B6 intake and its relationship to clinical status indicators. Because a true reference method and certified reference materials are lacking, little is known about the relative analytical performance of clinical vitamin B6 assays.

Methods: Ten laboratories experienced in clinical vitamin B6 analysis participated in a 3-day analysis of 69 serum and 3 aqueous specimens for pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP). Laboratories used either HPLC-based or enzymatic assays. Results were analyzed for imprecision, recovery, and bias relative to consensus means.

Results: Among laboratories, mean within-day CVs (3 specimens × 3 measurements/day) were 0.6%–37% and between-day CVs (20 specimens × 1 measurement/day × 3 days) were 1.4%–26%. Mean recoveries of added PLP were 53%–144%, and mean sample pool mixing recoveries were 75%–119%. Consensus means calculated for 20 serum specimens gave mean relative biases between measurement of −10.0% to 24.3% among participating laboratories over a range of 15.8–319 nmol/L PLP. Measurement imprecision and biases were evaluated against empirically derived performance criteria based on biological variation. Three of 10 laboratories met optimum imprecision requirements and had 90% or more of measurements satisfy optimum criteria for biases among methods. All 10 laboratories met minimum imprecision requirements, but 25%–53% of the results reported by 4 of the 7 suboptimal laboratories failed to satisfy the minimum criteria for bias.

Conclusion: Agreement among vitamin B6 methods is good, but large differences in laboratory proficiency exist, pointing to the need for vitamin B6 reference materials and external quality assurance programs.
On the Calculation of the Elastic Buckling Load of Structures from Experimental Data
Authors: Zhou L , Chen J
Published: May 2005

In this paper the characteristics of the P-δ testing curves of a buckling structure are analyzed. A method of deducing the buckling load of the structure by means of the concept of maximum curvature is presented and the corresponding equation is established. The method is proved to be both accurate and simple by comparing the theoretical values with the experimentally measured values of the elastic stability tests of struts and frames. The buckling loads can be calculated directly with the formula when failure experiments of the structures and models are not allowed.
Rapid Determination of Swelling Pressure of Clay Minerals
Authors: Thakur VKS , Singh DN
Published: May 2005

The present study deals with development of a rapid and easy way to apply methodology that can be employed to determine the swelling pressure of clay minerals, and hence, expansive soils. Conventional oedometer tests were performed to determine the swelling characteristics of montmorillonite and bentonite clay minerals corresponding to various molding water contents, maintaining the same dry density. With the help of a dew point potentiameter, which can be used for measuring very high suction (≅90 MPa), the suction of these minerals was measured. The results obtained were used to correlate suction with the swelling pressure and the correlation was validated using data reported in the literature. The study demonstrates the usefulness of the methodology for quickly determining the swelling pressure of various clay minerals and soils.
Predicting Collapse Times for Corrugated Boxes Under Constant Top Load Using Short-Term Creep Tests
Authors: Burgess G , Singh SP , Srinangyam M
Published: May 2005

The ability of a corrugated box to withstand the weight of other packages on top of it is determined by its compression strength. The compression strength of a box is measured by squeezing it in a compression test machine following the standard procedure, ASTM D 642. The loss of strength over time is substantial and can be estimated by applying empirical strength retention factors. But most published factors came from long-term stacking tests done decades ago, when corrugated board was made from paper that had virtually no recycled content. The use of recycled paper has increased significantly since then, making the accuracy of these data questionable. The accuracy of published strength retention factors was checked by placing weights on top of test boxes and measuring the time it took for the boxes to collapse. The results show that these published factors greatly overestimated failure times. A new method for predicting failure times using creep tests is presented here. Using the compression test machine, a constant load equal to a fraction of the ASTM D 642 compression strength was placed on a test box and the deflection was recorded over a 12 h time period. The failure time in long-term storage under the same load was estimated from a simple extrapolation of the creep data. The results show a marked improvement in predictability using this method.
Effect of Additional Mass on the Young's Modulus of a Wooden Beam
Authors: Kubojima Y , Tonosaki M , Yoshihara H
Published: May 2005

We investigated the influence of an additional mass bonded on a wooden beam on its Young's modulus based on Euler-Bernoulli's elementary theory of bending. Thin rectangular beams of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis Carr.) were used as the experimental materials. After bonding an iron piece on a beam, a free-free flexural vibration test was performed to obtain Young's modulus. The Young's modulus decreased with an increase in the resonance mode number without iron pieces, but there was no such tendency when the iron piece was bonded on the specimen. This was because the constants that are needed for the Euler-Bernoulli theory are changed by the additional mass. We developed an equation that contains the effects of the weight and position of the iron piece on the constants. The Young's moduli calculated by this equation were very similar to experimental values without an iron piece.
Air Permeability of Asphalt Concrete Made with Shredded-Tire Rubber-Modified Binders and its Relationship with Porosity
Authors: Çelik ON
Published: May 2005

Permeability of bituminous mixtures has been recognized as an important parameter that affects directly the performance and durability of materials. The permeability of bituminous mixtures and their durability are assumed to be more or less proportional to the porosity. Some researchers suggested that the permeability of bituminous mixtures is a better indicator of durability than the porosity, because permeability measures the capacity of the porous medium to transmit fluids, while porosity says nothing about their exposure to the forces producing disintegration.

Ideally, a mix should contain disconnected voids. Dimensions of the individual voids and their lack of interconnection could produce a specimen whose void content is relatively high but of low permeability. A wearing course with low permeability will resist the ingress of air and water and hence will slow down the process of binder hardening due to oxidation and evaporation.

This paper presents the relationship between the measured permeability values using the Leeds Air Permeameter and measured porosity values of asphalt concrete made with different binders.
Novel Method of Evaluating Residual Stress in Vicinal Welds Based on the Magnetostrictive Technique
Authors: Wang X-S , Li S-S , Xie D-J , Tao S
Published: May 2005

Welding is widely used in engineering structural components and residual stress almost always exists in vicinal welds. In most cases, residual stress impairs the reliability and service life of the welded structure. Therefore, the investigation of residual stress is key to determining the quality of the welding technique. In this paper, a novel method of evaluating residual stress based on the magnetostrictive technique is proposed. Investigations with cruciform specimens and by the hole-drilling method were carried out in order to clarify the reliability of this new method. These results show that the magnetostrictive technique provides accuracy matching that of the hole-drilling method without damage. At the same time, it is more economical compared with the ultrasonic, X-ray, and neutron diffraction methods. Therefore, it is suitable for practical engineering applications. Finally, the results of a practical application are given.
Performance Evaluation Test of Automatic Ultrasonic Testing Systems for Welded Joints of Steel Bridges
Authors: Miki C , Kazuhiro N , Hiromi S , Minoru T
Published: May 2005

The automatic ultrasonic test can be applied to welded joints of steel bridges instead of the radiographic test. However, there are not appropriate specifications for automatic ultrasonic testing. In order to establish specifications, a collaborative study was organized by the Ministry of Construction. A round robin test was conducted twice for this objective. This paper describes the details of the round robin tests.
Fracture and Adiabatic Heating of Thick-Section Weldment in Fe-24Cr-15Ni-4Mn-0.32N Stainless Steel with Ni-Base Filler Metals at 4 K
Authors: Horiguchi K , Shindo Y
Published: May 2005

Type JN1, a nitrogen-strengthened austenitic stainless steel [Fe-24Cr-15Ni-4Mn-0.32N (wt%)], is emerging as the preferred structural material for superconducting fusion magnet casings to operate in liquid helium at 4 K. In order to evaluate the fracture toughness and the adiabatic heating of thick-section (200 mm) weldment in JN1 forged stainless-steel plate with Ni-base filler metals, elastic-plastic fracture toughness tests were performed with 25-mm-thick compact tension specimens at 4 K. Thermocouples were used to measure the temperature rise near the crack tip. The effect of specimen location and nitrogen content on the fracture toughness parameters, and the temperature rise during dynamic crack growth, are discussed.
Weibull Analysis Effective Volume and Effective Area for a Ceramic C-Ring Test Specimen
Authors: Duffy SF , Baker EH , Wereszczak AA , Swab JJ
Published: May 2005

C-ring specimen geometries are used to ascertain Weibull parameters for spatially distributed flaw populations in ceramic gun barrels. A review of previously published results used to compute effective areas and effective volumes for this test specimen geometry is presented along with deficiencies associated with these computations. In addition, the results of the numerical analyses presented utilizing finite-element analysis and component level reliability algorithms clearly indicate that geometric constraints called out in the current ASTM standard for C-ring testing must be revised.
Analysis of Variability in Pay Factor Systems and Sampling Methods
Authors: Kvasnak AN , Williams RC
Published: May 2005

Many state departments of transportation (DOTs) have incorporated a pay factor system into their quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) programs. Currently, there is no standard sampling method for QA/QC programs nor for pay factor systems. This paper examines dissimilar types of sampling processes and their effects on pay factors along with different pay factor methods. The results can aid in establishing a pay factor system and selecting an appropriate sampling method based on the volumetric characteristics and a chosen type of pay factor system. A pay factor system based on sample means and a pay factor system based on risk analysis of hot mix asphalt (HMA) quality characteristics were examined. Hot mix asphalt mixtures standard in Michigan were used for the case study, along with five Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) sampling methods. The final analysis indicated that using a measured asphalt binder content probability-based pay factor system sampled via a Plate and Shovel method was the most precise system. Using a consistent sampling method ensures that pay factor systems are fair. A sampling method that is consistent in measuring results will be beneficial to contractors and owner/agencies by making payment based on HMA qualities that are representative.
Application of 3-D Laser Scanning Technique to Slope Movement Monitoring
Authors: Kwong AKL , Tham LG , King BA
Published: May 2005

A full-scale field test was carried out on a loosely-compacted fill slope that had been installed with soil nails. The slope was brought to limit equilibrium by subjecting it to a surcharge at the slope crest in combination with induced rise in phreatic surface and precipitation. Heavy instrumentation comprised of in-place inclinometer, vibrating wire piezometers, vibrating wire extensometer, earth pressure cell, tensiometer, and strain gages along the soil nails had been monitored throughout the test. Surface movement was monitored using a GPS system and a 3-D laser scanning technique.

This paper focuses on the use of a 3-D laser scanner in capturing the formation of cracks and surface movement during the failure. It is demonstrated that with the use of this technique, the surface movement of the slope can be accurately recorded without the need of physically accessing the slope surface.
Incorporation of Competitive Effects in Forest Tree or Animal Breeding Programs
Authors: Muir William M
Published: May 2005

Competition among domesticated plants or animals can have a dramatic negative impact on yield of a stand or farm. The usual quantitative genetic model ignores these competitive interactions and could result in seriously incorrect breeding decisions and acerbate animal well-being. A general solution to this problem is given, for either forest tree breeding or penned animals, with mixed-model methodology (BLUP) utilized to separate effects on the phenotype due to the individuals' own genes (direct effects) and those from competing individuals (associative effects) and thereby to allow an optimum index selection on those effects. Biological verification was based on two lines of Japanese quail selected for 6-week weight; one line was selected only for direct effects (D-BLUP) while the other was selected on an optimal index for both direct and associative effects (C-BLUP). Results over 23 cycles of selection showed that C-BLUP produced a significant positive response to selection (b = 0.52 ± 0.25 g/hatch) whereas D-BLUP resulted in a nonsignificant negative response (b = −0.10 ± 0.25 g/hatch). The regression of percentage of mortality on hatch number was significantly different between methods, decreasing with C-BLUP (b = −0.06 ± 0.15 deaths/hatch) and increasing with D-BLUP (b = 0.32 ± 0.15 deaths/hatch). These results demonstrate that the traditional D-BLUP approach without associative effects not only is detrimental to response to selection but also compromises the well-being of animals. The differences in response show that competitive effects can be included in breeding programs, without measuring new traits, so that costs of the breeding program need not increase.
On the Evolutionary Stability of Mendelian Segregation
Authors: Úbeda Francisco , Haig David
Published: May 2005

We present a model of a primary locus subject to viability selection and an unlinked locus that causes sex-specific modification of the segregation ratio at the primary locus. If there is a balanced polymorphism at the primary locus, a population undergoing Mendelian segregation can be invaded by modifier alleles that cause sex-specific biases in the segregation ratio. Even though this effect is particularly strong if reciprocal heterozygotes at the primary locus have distinct viabilities, as might occur with genomic imprinting, it also applies if reciprocal heterozygotes have equal viabilities. The expected outcome of the evolution of sex-specific segregation distorters is all-and-none segregation schemes in which one allele at the primary locus undergoes complete drive in spermatogenesis and the other allele undergoes complete drive in oogenesis. All-and-none segregation results in a population in which all individuals are maximally fit heterozygotes. Unlinked modifiers that alter the segregation ratio are unable to invade such a population. These results raise questions about the reasons for the ubiquity of Mendelian segregation.
Extending Xu's Bayesian Model for Estimating Polygenic Effects Using Markers of the Entire Genome
Authors: ter Braak Cajo J F , Boer Martin P , Bink Marco C A M
Published: May 2005

In 2003, Xu obtained remarkably precise estimates of QTL positions despite the many markers simultaneously in his Bayesian model. We extend his model and Gibbs algorithm to ensure a valid posterior distribution and convergence to it, without changing the attractiveness of the method.
Untersuchungen zur anionischen Copolymerisation von Acrylnitril mit Acrylaten und Methylmethacrylat in Dimethylformamid
Authors: Berger W. , Morgenstern U. , Adler H.‐J. , Erussalimsky B. L.
Published: May 2005

Die anionische copolymerisation von Acrylnitril mit Acrylaten und Methylmethacrylat, initiiert durch Lithium‐tertbutoxid in Dimethylformamid, wurde im Temperaturbereich −30°C und +10°C untersucht. Aus dem Einbauverhalten der Ester, der chemischen Uneinheitlichkeit und der Struktur der Copolymerisate werden die nach dem Modell von Mayo und Lewis berechneten Copolymerisationsparameter hinsichtlich ihrer Gültigkeit für diesen anionischen Prozeß überprüft.
Ethylen‐Polymerisation mit trägerfixierten Organometallverbindungen. II. Polymerisationskinetik und Einfluß von Wasserstoff
Authors: Sommer H. , Giesemann J. , Ulbricht J.
Published: May 2005

Die Polymerisation des Ethylens wurde mit Trägerkatalysatoren, hergestellt aus γ‐Aluminiumoxid und Tetrabenzylzirkonium, kinetisch untersucht und die Reaktionsordnung bestimmt. In Abhängigkeit von der Zusammensetzung der metallorganischen Oberflächenverbindungen der Katalysatoren wurden unterschiedliche Polymerisationsgeschwindigkeiten gefunden. Während der Polymerisation werden die Polymerisationsaktiven Zentren allmählich gebildet. Zusatz von Wasserstoff vermindert die Polymerisationsgeschwindigkeit und die Molmassen der gebildeten Polymere. In diesem Fall liegen die aktiven Zentren bereits bei Reaktionsbeginn vor. Durch Vorbehandlung der Katalysatoren mit Ethylen oder Wasserstoff werden Benzylgruppen von den fixierten Zirkoniumverbindungen abgespalten.
German Materials Science: A self‐portrait
Authors: Gregory Peter
Published: May 2005

An influential and refreshingly frank report on the state of health of non‐university materials research in Germany has recently been published. National Research Centers, Max Planck Institutes, and Fraunhofer Institutes are among the organizations covered. Recommendations are made on the basis of materials type, and on the performances of the individual institutes. The conclusions of this self‐portrait, painted by representatives of the organizations themselves along with participants from the universities, industry, and state, will provide food for thought for both German materials scientists and those in other European countries concerned with the future development of this crucial economic sector.
Mass‐sensitive detection of solvent vapors: Predicting sensor effects
Authors: Dickert Franz L. , Stathopulos Helen , Reif Martin
Published: May 2005

An understanding of analyte–coating interactions is needed in order to be able to predict the sensitivity and selectivity of coating materials considered for use in mass‐sensitive devices such as the quartz microbalance. Models are reviewed for the sensor response based on solubility parameters and calculated energies for functionalized coatings and supramolecular cavities (e.g., the substituted tetraazaparacyclophane shown in the Figure).

magnified image
Langmuir–Blodgett films of a benzothiazolium dye containing a crown ether ring
Authors: Lednev Igor K. , Petty Micael C.
Published: May 2005

The structure of Langmuir–Blodget (LB) films built up from a novel benzothiazolium steryl dye containing a 1, 10‐dithia‐18‐crown‐6 ether group has been investigated using ellipsometry and polarised absorption spectroscopy. The Y‐type deposition results in a uniaxial film with a thickness of 2.18 ± 0.08 nm per monolayer and an index of refraction of 1.57 ± 0.03. the chromophore parts of the moelcule exhibit an in‐Plane orientation. The influence of mercury vapouron the LB films has been investigated using the technique of surface plasmon resonance.
Subacute sensory neuropathy: A remote effect of carcinoma
Authors: Horwich Mark S. , Cho Lucy , Porro Robert S. , Posner Jerome B.
Published: May 2005

Seven patients with subacute sensory neuropathy are described and the findings in 29 previously reported patients are reviewed. The presence of this characteristic neurological disorder strongly suggests an accompanying neoplasm. Five of 7 patients had cancer, and 4 died. Autopsy was performed on 3, and pathological analysis revealed inflammation and degeneration of dorsal root ganglia and degeneration of posterior roots and posterior columns of the spinal cord. The dorsal root ganglion was biopsied in 4 patients and showed similar inflammatory lesions. Electron microscopical studies showed inflammation and neuronal degneration. No viral particles were seen. Viral cultures of the biopsied ganglia from 4 patients were negative. Antineuronal antibodies were not detected in 2 patients. The cause of this syndrome is unknown, and no treatment has been successful.
Periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDS) and nystagmus retractorius
Authors: Young G. Bryan , Brown John D. , Bolton Charles F. , Sibbald William M.
Published: May 2005

A 57‐year‐old diabetic woman presented with focal right‐sided seizures and hyperglycemia. She later showed periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDs), originating in the left hemisphere, which were temporally associated with nystagmus retractorius. It appears that the left hemisphere epileptiform activity diffusely excited brainstem structures via polysynaptic pathways to produce the nystagmus.
Fisher's syndrome: A pharmacological study of the pupils
Authors: Okajima Toru , Imamura Shigehiro , Kawasaki Shoichiro , Ideta Toru , Tokuomi Haruhiko
Published: May 2005

A pharmacological study was performed in the involved pupils to demonstrate the site of lesion in a patient with Fisher's syndrome who showed marked ptosis, complete external ophthalmoplegia, pupillary involvement with anisocoria, facial paresis, ataxia, areflexia, and albuminocytological dissociation in the cerebrospinal fluid. The instillation of 2.5% methacholine produced mild constriction of one pupil. This response was not detectable in the recovery stage. The instillation of 1.25% l‐epinephrine produced marked bilateral dilation of the pupils, in both the early and recovery stages. Instillation of 5% tyramine produced pupillary dilation as in the normal pupil. The response to 5% cocaine, tested only in the recovery stage, was weak in one pupil.

These results imply that the pupillary involvement was due to peripheral involvement of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The lesion in the sympathetic nervous system was preganglionic, but in the parasympathetic nervous system the precise localization could not be determined.
L‐dopa effects on H‐reflex recovery in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Sax Daniel S. , Johnson Timothy L. , Feldman Robert G.
Published: May 2005

Conditioning of Hoffman's reflex in 7 normal and 7 parkinsonian subjects before and after L‐dopa therapy was tested using standard methods. Features of the raw data, including timing, duration, and magnitude of facilitation, were estimated optimally with nonlinear least‐squares for each test sequence on each subject. For each parkinsonian subject there was a consistent trend with treatment for several features to return to the average features of the normal group; to varying degrees, clinical reduction in bradykinesia and rigidity was also observed in all cases. These results are in general agreement with similar previous studies reported by other investigators but offer stronger statistical evidence and differ in certain finer details.
Paraparesis after renal transplantation
Authors: Jablecki Charles K. , Aguilo Juan J. , Piepgras David G. , Zincke Horst , Goldstein Norman P.
Published: May 2005

A diabetic patient suffered paraparesis immediately after renal transplantation. Distal spinal cord infarction was diagnosed clinically. The infarction was probably caused by interruption of blood flow through the branches of the right internal iliac artery to the spinal cord when the vessel was divided for anastomosis to the transplanted kidney. This case report emphasizes the potential importance of the blood supply to the distal spinal cord derived from branches of the aorta below its bifurcation.
Chronic hexosaminidase A and B deficiency
Authors: Goldie William D. , Holtzman David , Suzuki Kunihiko
Published: May 2005

The leukocytes and fibroblasts from a mildly retarded 10‐year‐old girl who had a slowly progressive motor dysfunction showed absence of hexosaminidase A and B activities. Leukocytes from her asymptomatic mother and sister contained half the normal levels of both enzymes. This child is the second patient reported with a chronic form of hexosaminidase A and B deficiency, an enzyme deficiency previously described only in infants with rapidly progressive psychomotor deterioration (Sandhoff's disease).
Determination of serum catecholamine metabolites in neuroblastoma by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection
Authors: Tang Qin‐Mei , Xu Xiu‐Rong , Shi Ying‐Qiang , Jin Bai‐Xiang
Published: May 2005

A method for determining serum catecholamine metabolites such as vanillylmandelic acid (VMA), 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenyl glycol (MHPG) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in neuroblastoma by using high performance liquid chromatography and electrochemical detector is described. The separation of catecholamine metabolites was performed on a reverse phase column with an eluting system containing citric acid‐potassium hydrogen phosphate buffer and methanol as the organic modifier. The experimental results showed that VMA and HVA levels in the serum of neuroblastoma patients were 15–30 times higher than that of the normal control group. The same phenomenon also occurred in patients with stage II neuroblastoma. Serum VMA, MHPG and HVA levels reduced to normal in patients suffering from neuroblastoma after surgery. Serum catecholamine metabolites analysed by using HPLC/ECD is more simple, sensitive and reliable than that by usual urine assay and might be used for the diagnosis of neuroblastoma even in early stage.
The determination of nivacortol in plasma using HPLC
Authors: Honour J. W. , Sudan H. L. , Lovell G.
Published: May 2005

A high performance liquid chromatographic method with ultraviolet detection was developed for the determination of nivacortol (WIN 27914) in biological samples. The drug was isolated from human plasma by using a solid‐phase extraction and eluted with ethanol. The solvent was evaporated and the residue dissolved in the chromatographic eluent. The sample was subjected to chromatography on a C8 silica column and eluted with a gradient of acetonitrile in 0.1 M sodium acetate buffer, pH 6.5. A single concentration of a structural analogue (WIN 31338) was used as internal standard for the quantitative determination of the analyte. The plasma concentrations were below that needed to suppress ACTH secretion by pituitary cells in culture and did not suppress plasma ACTH in Nelson's syndrome.
HPLC electrochemical fluorometric detection of amino acids including tryptophan using 4‐fluoro‐7‐nitrobenzo‐2‐oxa‐1, 3‐diazole
Authors: Watanabe Noriyuki , Toyo'oka Toshimasa , Imai Kazuhiro
Published: May 2005

It has been shown that by electrochemical oxidation 7‐nitrobenzo‐2‐oxa‐1,3‐diazole‐tryptochan (NBD‐T) is converted to fluorophores having the same emission and excitation spectra as those for other NBD‐amino acids, NBD‐dioxindolylalanine was tentatively assumed to be a main electrochemical oxidation product of NBD‐tryptophan. A coulochemical cell placed between an analytical column and a fluorometer showed no detrimental effect on the separation of NBD‐amino acids by reversed phase HPLC. Highly sensitive fluorescence detection was achieved for amino and imino acids at 10–100 fmol levels. The detection limit for tryptophan was 50 fmol.
Liquid chromatographic analysis of metoclopramide with fluorescence detection in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Albani Fiorenzo , Riva Roberto , Contin Manuela , Baruzzi Agostino
Published: May 2005

Metoclopramide extracted from plasma and urine has been analysed using reversed phase HPLC with acetic acid/acetonitrile/triethylamine as eluent and fluorescence detection. This method exploits the natural fluorescence of metoclopramide for its detection in patients on multiple drug therapies.
Improved HPLC determination of urinary neopterin
Authors: Dewitte J. D. , Berthou F. , Dreano Y. , Floch H. H.
Published: May 2005

In order to improve the urinary neopterin measurement, the reversed‐phase HPLC method has been reevaluated. The parameters which influence the chromatographic behavior of 12 pteridines were studied: nature of buffer, pH,ionic strength, addition of organic modifier to the mobile phase. Accordingly, an isocratic HPLC method is described which offers a good compromise between specificity and analysis time. This method is well‐suited to automation in routine clinical laboratory use. Using this HPLC method, urinary neopterin related to creatinine was determined in lung diseases (neoplasm, sarcoïdosis and bronchial asthma) and in kidney allografts. This method was shown to be useful in the diagnosis and in the monitoring of treatment of rejection episodes.
Determination of Δ1‐tetrahydrocannabinol in human fat biopsies from marihuana users by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Johansson Eva , Norén Koidu , Sjövall Jan , Halldin Magnus M.
Published: May 2005

A gas chromatographic–mass spectrometric (GC/MS) method for analysis of Δ1‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ1‐THC) in human fat samples is described. The fat sample, obtained from heavy marihuana users 1 week before and 4 weeks after smoking, is homogenized in hexane + 2‐propanol, centrifuged, and the supernatant mixed with Lipidex 5000. The solvent is evaporated and the dried gel is packed in a glass column. Δ1 ‐THC is eluted from the column with methanol + water + acetic acid, diluted with water and the eluent is passed through a bed of Octadecylsilanebonded silica. After washing and drying, the retained Δ1‐THC is eluted with hexane, derivatized with N‐methyl‐N‐(t‐butyl‐dimethysilyl)trifluoroacetamide (MTBSTFA) and finally purified by HPLC on an Octadecyl SI 100 column in methanol. The amount of Δ1‐THC is determined by GC/MS, using selected ion monitoring, and a deuterated internal standard. The recovery of Δ1‐THC is about 80%, and the concentration of Δ1‐THC in the fat samples analysed ranged between 0.4 and 193 ng/g wet tissue.
Simultaneous measurement of ethosuximide and phenobarbital in brain tissue, serum and urine by HPLC
Authors: Galan‐Valiente Josefa , Soto‐Otero Ramon , Sierra‐Marcuño German
Published: May 2005

A simple rapid method for simultaneous ethosuximide and phenobarbital assay in brain tissue, serum and urine has been developed. Extraction of samples from brain tissue and serum were performed with dichloromethane at low pH in the presence of an excess of ammonium sulfate. Glucuronide conjugates in urine samples were hydrolyzed by enzymatic cleavage with β‐glucuronidase and then extracted with dichloromethane. The extracts were analyzed using a Spherisorb 5 ODS column and a mixture of acetonitrile, methanol and phosphate buffer (21: 24: 55, v/v) as eluent. No interference was encountered and the method is both precise and reproducible.
Quantification of midodrine and its active metabolite in plasma using a high performance liquid chromatography column switching technique
Authors: Posch Werner , Lindner Wolfgang
Published: May 2005

An automated column‐switching HPLC system is described for the simultaneous determination of midodrine, an alpha‐adrenergic stimulating drug, and its active metabolite, ST‐1059. Serum or plasma (850 μ L) is directly injected onto a RP 18 (30 μm particle size) pre‐column (9 × 4 mm ID) which acts as an on‐line liquid‐solid extractor and analyte enrichment system. The injection is followed by washing steps. The fraction containing the analytes is transferred onto an analytical RP18 column via step gradient elution where the final analysis is performed. Fluorescence detection is used (λex 290 nm and λem 322 nm), and method detection limits of 0.8 ng/mL plasma were reached. These were sufficiently low to determine the plasma concentration‐time profiles for both compounds following oral administration of 2.5 mg and 5 mg midodrine hydrochloride. The assay in serum or plasma was linear in the range of 1 to 15 ng analyte/mL, the recovery was >95%, and the reproducibility was sufficient. The assay was rugged and was maintained by routinely changing the home‐made, dry packed pre‐column every 20th serum injection.