bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transintestinal Expulsion of Surgically Implanted Dummy Transmitters by Bluefin Trevally—Implications for Long‐Term Movement Studies
Authors: Meyer Carl G. , Honebrink Randy R.
Published: May 2005

The feasibility of long‐term acoustic monitoring of coral reef fish movements was evaluated by quantifying transmitter retention times for captive bluefin trevally Caranx melampygus and detection patterns of transmitter‐implanted free‐ranging bluefin trevally. Wax‐coated dummy transmitters (9 × 22 mm; 3.6 g) were surgically implanted into the gut cavity of four captive bluefin trevally. The fish retained the dummy transmitters for 17–22 months, but at the end of the study transintestinal expulsion was in progress in one individual. Five bluefin trevally captured at Honokohau, Hawaii, were surgically implanted with long‐life (1‐year) coded transmitters and released. Their movements were monitored with the use of 27 underwater receivers deployed along a 115‐km stretch of coastline. The five bluefin trevally were detected by the receivers over periods ranging from 1 to 173 d (mean, 60 d), and their movements spanned up to 10.2 km of coastline. Daily movements were consistent with those observed by previous short‐term active tracking studies and consisted of crepuscular migrations of 1–2 km between separate daytime and nighttime habitats. These data suggest that passive monitoring of bluefin trevally movements for periods of up to 22 months is theoretically possible and that transmitter expulsion is not necessarily the cause of shorter detection periods.
Testing for Evidence of Maternal Effects among Individuals and Populations of White Crappie
Authors: Bunnell David B. , Scantland Matthew A. , Stein Roy A.
Published: May 2005

For an increasing number of species, maternal characteristics have been correlated with the characteristics of their eggs or larvae at the individual level. Documenting these maternal effects at the population level, however, is uncommon. For white crappies Pomoxis annularis, we evaluated whether individual maternal effects on eggs existed and then explored whether incorporating maternal effects explained additional variation in recruitment, a population‐level response. Individual egg quality (measured as ovary energy density) increased with maternal length among individuals from seven Ohio reservoirs in 1999 and three in 2000. Among these same individuals, egg quality increased with maternal condition factor (measured as residual wet mass for a given length) in 1999 but not in 2000. In 2000 we estimated somatic energy density, an improved measure of condition; egg quality increased with somatic energy density, but somatic energy density was also strongly correlated with maternal length. Hence, we could not determine whether maternal length or condition was the primary factor influencing white crappie egg quality. Across seven populations, the relative population fecundity (i.e., stock size) of the 1999 year‐class was unable to explain the variation in recruitment to age 2 (Ricker model r2 = 0.04 and Beverton and Holt model r2 = 0.02). Mean ovary energy density (i.e., egg quality), however, was unable to explain additional recruitment variability in either model. Hence, we documented evidence of maternal effects on individual ovaries but not on population‐level recruitment. Nonetheless, we recommend that future studies seeking to understand white crappie recruitment continue to consider maternal effects as a potential factor, especially those studies that may have greater sample sizes at the population level and, in turn, a greater probability of documenting a population‐level effect.
Influence of Diporeia Density on Diet Composition, Relative Abundance, and Energy Density of Planktivorous Fishes in Southeast Lake Michigan
Authors: Hondorp Darryl W. , Pothoven Steven A. , Brandt Stephen B.
Published: May 2005

The benthic amphipod Diporeia spp. is an important prey for many fish in offshore areas of the Great Lakes, but its abundance has been rapidly decreasing. To assess the influence of Diporeia availability on the food habits, relative abundance, and energetics of planktivorous fish, the diet composition, catch per unit effort (CPUE), and energy density of plantkivorous fish in southeast Lake Michigan during 2000–2001 were compared among locations with different Diporeia densities. Diporeia densities at St. Joseph, Michigan, were near 0/m2 over much of the bottom but averaged more than 3,800/m2 at Muskegon and Little Sable Point, Michigan. Consistent with these differences in Diporeia density, fish diet composition, CPUE, and energy density varied spatially. For example, alternative prey types comprised a larger fraction of the diets of bloater Coregonus hoyi, large (>100 mm total length) alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, and slimy sculpin Cottus cognatus at St. Joseph than at Muskegon and Little Sable Point. This pattern was seasonally dependent for alewives and bloaters because Diporeia were eaten mainly in June. Food biomass per stomach was not lower at St. Joseph than elsewhere, suggesting that the spatial variation in diet composition was due to greater consumption of alternative prey by fish at St. Joseph. Although slimy sculpin and bloaters were able to feed on alternative prey, the CPUE of these species at certain depths was considerably lower at St. Joseph than at Muskegon or Little Sable Point, indicating that Diporeia availability may also influence fish abundance and distribution. Finally, a link between Diporeia density and fish energetics was suggested by the comparatively low energy density of deepwater sculpin Myoxocephalus thompsonii and large alewives at St. Joseph, a result that may reflect the low energy content of other prey relative to Diporeia.
Relative Effects of Biotic and Abiotic Processes: A Test of the Biotic–Abiotic Constraining Hypothesis as Applied to Cutthroat Trout
Authors: Quist Michael C. , Hubert Wayne A.
Published: May 2005

The Biotic–Abiotic Constraining Hypothesis (BACH) suggests that biotic interactions can have an overriding negative influence on a fish species, even when abiotic conditions are suitable. The abundance of a fish species is predicted to be largely regulated by abiotic habitat characteristics when densities of predators or competitors are low. However, when predator or competitor densities are high, the abundance of the fish species is suppressed by biotic interactions regardless of environmental conditions. We used data from the Salt River basin (Idaho–Wyoming) to investigate whether the BACH could be used to explain patterns in the density of cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii across a watershed. Using a combination of principal components and nonlinear multiple‐regression analyses, we determined that the BACH was useful for explaining patterns in cutthroat trout density. When brown trout Salmo trutta and brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis densities were low, cutthroat trout density was highly variable and was best explained by habitat characteristics. High cutthroat trout densities were found in high‐gradient reaches with little fine substrate and a low proportion of deep‐pool habitat (i.e., reaches with a diversity of pools, riffles, and runs). When brown trout and brook trout densities were high, cutthroat trout density was always low despite favorable habitat conditions. Brown trout density was highest in low‐elevation reaches with warm water temperatures and abundant instream cover, whereas brook trout density was highest in high‐elevation reaches with low water temperatures. This study suggests that the influence of brown trout and brook trout densities overrode the influence exerted by habitat conditions on cutthroat trout density in the Salt River basin and that the BACH is useful for explaining biotic and abiotic influences on lotic cutthroat trout populations.
Effects of Introduced Fishes on Wild Juvenile Coho Salmon in Three Shallow Pacific Northwest Lakes
Authors: Bonar Scott A. , Bolding Bruce D. , Divens Marc , Meyer William
Published: May 2005

Declines in Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. have been blamed on hydropower, overfishing, ocean conditions, and land use practices; however, less is known about the impacts of introduced fish. Most of the hundreds of lakes and ponds in the Pacific Northwest contain introduced fishes, and many of these water bodies are also important for salmon production, especially of coho salmon O. kisutch. Over 2 years, we examined the predation impacts of 10 common introduced fishes (brown bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus, black crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus, bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas, green sunfish L. cyanellus, largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, pumpkinseed L. gibbosus, rainbow trout O. mykiss, warmouth L. gulosus, and yellow perch Perca flavescens) and two native fishes (cutthroat trout O. clarkii and prickly sculpin Cottus asper) on wild juvenile coho salmon in three shallow Pacific Northwest lakes, all located in different watersheds. Of these species, largemouth bass were responsible for an average of 98% of the predation on coho salmon in all lakes, but the total impact to each run varied among lakes and years. Very few coho salmon were eaten by black crappies, brown bullheads, cutthroat trout, prickly sculpin, or yellow perch, whereas other species were not observed to eat coho salmon. Juvenile coho salmon growth in all lakes was higher than in nearby streams. Therefore, food competition between coho salmon and introduced fishes in lakes was probably not limiting coho salmon populations. Largemouth bass are widespread and are present in 85% of lowland warmwater public‐access lakes in Washington (n = 421), 84% of those in Oregon (n = 179), and 74% of those in the eight northwesternmost counties in California (n = 19). Future research would help to identify the impact of largemouth bass predation across the region and prioritize lakes where impacts are most severe. Nevertheless, attempts to transplant or increase largemouth bass numbers in lakes important to coho salmon would be counterproductive to coho salmon enhancement efforts.
Unwanted Mental Intrusions in Clinical Disorders: An Introduction
Authors: Clark David A.
Published: May 2005

This series of articles discusses the nature, persistence, and treatment of unwanted, distressing intrusive thoughts, images and impulses in depression, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, primary insomnia, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Each of the contributors considers various misinterpretations of an unwanted intrusion and futile efforts to intentionally suppress these thoughts as critical processes involved in the escalation and salience of these cognitive phenomena. Specific treatment recommendations are proposed for dealing with repetitive, unwanted distressing thoughts in each of the clinical disorders.
Worry, Metacognition, and GAD: Nature, Consequences, and Treatment
Authors: Wells Adrian
Published: May 2005

Worrying can be distinguished from other forms of negative thinking, and it is a central feature of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). It is argued that both the occurrence and the appraisal of worrying have potentially damaging consequences for emotional well-being. Worrying is part of a cognitive-attentional syndrome maintaining emotional disturbance, and negative appraisal of worrying is central in GAD. The maintenance of pathological worrying can be linked to particular metacognitive beliefs about worry. In the metacognitive model of GAD (Wells, 1995), erroneous metacognitive beliefs and negative appraisals concerning worry, and resulting responses, are an engine driving specific disorder maintenance loops. The model has important treatment implications, and has led to the development of a metacognitive-focused treatment for GAD which is described.
Haunting Thoughts: The Problem of Obsessive Mental Intrusions
Authors: Wang Adrienne , Clark David A.
Published: May 2005

Unwanted, ego-alien distressing intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses (i.e., obsessions) are a hallmark of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Until recently the psychological processes involved in the origin, persistence, and treatment of these perplexing intrusive mental repetitions have not been well understood. Over the past decade, a new cognitive perspective on OCD has emerged that has provided new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of obsessions. In this article we briefly consider recent findings on normal and abnormal obsessions, their relationship to mood disturbance, and the status of key cognitive processes implicated in the pathogenesis of obsessions as discussed in publications by Salkovskis, Rachman, Freeston, Clark, Purdon, and others. We conclude with a discussion of treatment implications and whether the inclusion of cognitive strategies that directly targets change in dysfunctional beliefs and appraisals will enhance standard behavioral treatment of OCD.
History and Happenstance: How Motivational Interviewing Got Its Start
Authors: Moyers Theresa B.
Published: May 2005

Examining the intellectual roots of motivational interviewing, as well as the sometimes surprising events that led to its development, can be useful as a context for framing questions about the importance and rationale of the various elements of this clinical method. The origin of clinical components in motivational interviewing, such as empathy and the emphasis on client language, is explored as well as personal collaborations that led to the growth of this approach. Exploration of this developmental path may prove especially important as hypotheses about causal mechanisms of motivational interviewing are developed.
The Emerging Evidence Base for Motivational Interviewing: A Meta-Analytic and Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Burke Brian L. , Dunn Christopher W. , Atkins David C. , Phelps Jerry S.
Published: May 2005

This article offers a meta-analytic, qualitative, and process review of the empirical literature for adaptations of motivational interviewing (AMIs), a promising approach to treating problem behaviors. AMIs are equivalent to other active treatments and yield moderate effects (from 0.35 to 0.56) compared to no-treatment/placebo for problems involving alcohol, drugs, and diet and exercise. Results do not support the efficacy of AMIs for smoking or HIV-risk behaviors. Conclusions regarding the mechanisms of action for AMIs are limited by methodological problems: confounding motivational interviewing with feedback, unclear definitions of the AMI interventions used, difficulties in therapist training, and limited use of treatment integrity rating scales. Extant research suggests that AMIs are equivalent in efficacy to and briefer than cognitive behavioral skills training (CBST) approaches. Since AMIs focus on readiness to change while CBST targets the change process, AMIs may be useful as preludes or additions to CBST.
Integrating Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Arkowitz Hal , Westra Henny A.
Published: May 2005

Many clients engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression and anxiety are ambivalent about change, and about taking necessary actions to bring about change such as exposure or behavioral activation exercises. Given the focus of motivational interviewing (MI) on enhancing readiness for change, it is of great interest to investigate applications of MI to prevalent disorders such as depression and anxiety. After exploring the rationale for integrating MI with CBT for these disorders, we outline unique features of MI that may render it a useful complement to CBT, such as its focus on resolving ambivalence for change and specific strategies for responding to resistance. We suggest several possible ways in which MI may be combined with CBT. Finally, we discuss our clinical experience with adapting MI to the treatment of depression and anxiety, including case illustrations of each, and discuss some of the unique issues arising in generalizing MI for use with these populations.
Expanding the Cognitive Therapy Model: Imagery, Meditation, and Hypnosis
Authors: Dowd Thomas E.
Published: May 2005

This article describes various types of imagery-based interventions, including meditation, variations of imagery, and hypnosis. Comparisons and contrasts are made among the different techniques developed over the years and examples of each are given. The techniques are conceptually based on a model of individual differences in hypnotic ability or susceptibility. Implications for therapeutic practice are discussed.
Intramuscular Testosterone Enanthate Plus Very Low Dosage Oral Levonorgestrel Suppresses Spermatogenesis Without Causing Weight Gain in Normal Young Men: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Anawalt Bradley D. , Amory John K. , Herbst Karen L. , Coviello Andrea D. , Page Stephanie T. , Bremner William J. , Matsumoto Alvin M.
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT: The development of a safe, well‐tolerated, effective, and reversible male hormonal contraceptive would be a major clinical advance for couples planning their family size and for control of population growth. High‐dosage parenteral testosterone (T) esters alone or in combination with a progestogen (eg, depot medroxyprogesterone) have been shown to confer effective and reversible male contraception in clinical trials, but these regimens are associated with weight gain and suppression of serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels. We have previously demonstrated that intramuscular T enanthate 100 mg weekly plus oral levonorgestrel (LNG) 125, 250, or 500 μg daily suppresses spermatogenesis to levels associated with effective contraception, but there is a LNG‐dosage‐dependent effect of weight gain and HDL suppression. We hypothesized that intramuscular T enanthate 100 mg weekly plus a very low dosage of oral LNG would effectively suppress spermatogenesis in normal men without inducing weight gain or HDL suppression. We conducted a randomized trial comparing 6 months of intramuscular T enanthate (100 mg weekly) plus 31.25 μg of oral LNG daily (T+LNG 31; n = 20) or 62.5 μg of oral LNG daily (T+LNG 62; n = 21). The 2 regimens were equally effective in suppressing spermatogenesis to azoospermia, fewer than 1 million sperm/mL and fewer than 3 million sperm/mL (T+LNG 31 [60%, 85%, and 90%] vs T+LNG 62 [62%, 91%, and 95%] for azoospermia, fewer than 1 million and fewer than 3 million, respectively; P = NS). The T+LNG 31 group did not gain weight (0.25 ± 1.08 kg; P = NS compared with baseline), but the T+LNG 62 group gained 2.5 ± 0.77 kg (P < .05 compared with baseline). Serum HDL cholesterol levels declined significantly in both groups (percentage decline month 6 of treatment vs baseline: 12.0% ± 2.6% and 15.1% ± 3.0%; P < .05 for T+LNG 31 and 62 respectively). Serum low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels also declined in both groups (percentage decline month 6 of treatment vs baseline: 6.9 ± 3.9 and 6.0% ± 4.1%; P < .05 for T+LNG 31 and P = NS for T+LNG 62). There were no clinically significant adverse events or significant changes in hematology or chemistry profiles in either group during the study. We conclude that 1) intramuscular T plus oral LNG has a very potent synergistic effect in suppressing spermatogenesis at LNG dosages equal to or lower than dosages used in common female oral contraceptive regimens and 2) large, long‐term contraceptive efficacy trials should be conducted with a variety of androgen‐progestogen combinations including long‐acting T formulations such as depot T pellets or intramuscular T undecanoate plus depot LNG or very low dosage oral LNG.
Reduction of the Incidence of Sperm DNA Fragmentation by Oral Antioxidant Treatment
Authors: Greco Ermanno , Iacobelli Marcello , Rienzi Laura , Ubaldi Filippo , Ferrero Susanna , Tesarik Jan
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT: Sperm DNA fragmentation is known to compromise male fertility. Previous findings have suggested the implication of oxidative stress in the etiology of this pathological condition. The present study was conducted to find out if the pathologically increased incidence of DNA fragmentation in ejaculated spermatozoa can be reduced by oral treatment with two antioxidants, vitamins C and E. Sixty‐four men with unexplained infertility and an elevated (≥15%) percentage of DNA‐fragmented spermatozoa in the ejaculate were randomized between an antioxidant treatment (1 g vitamin C and 1 g vitamin E daily for 2 months) group and a placebo group. Sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated by terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling assay before and after treatment. No differences in basic sperm parameters were found between the antioxidant treatment and the placebo group before or after treatment. However, the percentage of DNA‐fragmented spermatozoa was markedly reduced (P < .001) in the antioxidant treatment group after the treatment (9.1 ± 7.2) as compared with the pretreatment values (22.1 ± 7.7). No difference in the pretreatment and posttreatment incidence of sperm DNA fragmentation was observed in the placebo group. These data show that sperm DNA damage can be efficiently treated with oral antioxidants administered during a relatively short time period.
Effects of Various Extenders and Permeating Cryoprotectants on Cryopreservation of Cynomolgus Monkey (Macaca fascicularis) Spermatozoa
Authors: Li Ya‐Hui , Cai Ke‐Jun , Kovacs Andras , Ji Wei‐Zhi
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT: The cryoprotective effects of 11 different extenders, TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, G‐DM, TCG, TEST, TSM, Test‐M, Test‐H, and LM, on sperm cryopreservation of cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) have been compared with glycerol as cryoprotectant. Sperm motility, plasma membrane, and acrosomal integrity were examined to evaluate frozen‐thawed sperm function. The results showed that TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, G‐DM, and TCG exhibited the best and similar protective efficiencies for cynomolgus monkey sperm cryopreservation in terms of sperm motility and plasma membrane integrity (P > .05). The acrosomal integrity for spermatozoa cryopreserved in TCG was statistically lower than that of TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, and G‐DM (P < .05) but was significantly higher than that of TEST, TSM, Test‐M, Test‐H, and LM (P < .05). The postthaw sperm motility for 5 other extenders (TEST, TSM, Test‐M, Test‐H, and LM) did not exceed 30%, and the 3 sperm parameters evaluated for them were significantly lower than that of TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, G‐DM, and TCG (P < .05). On the basis of these findings, 5 commonly used permeating cryoprotectants, glycerol, ethylene glycol, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetamide and propylene glycol have further been tested for their effectiveness on sperm cryopreservation in extenders of TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, G‐DM, and TCG. The results showed that the sperm cryoprotective efficiencies of glycerol and ethylene glycol were similar and best among 5 permeating cryoprotectant treatments (P > .05). Dimethyl sulfoxide or acetamide resulted in average cryoprotection for cynomolgus monkey spermatozoa: poorer than glycerol or ethylene glycol but better than that of propylene glycol (P < .05). In addition, the action of permeating cryoprotectant appeared to be independent of extenders. The results in the present study demonstrate that 1) TTE, DM, mDM, LG‐DM, G‐DM, and TCG are excellent extenders and suitable for cynomolgus monkey sperm cryopreservation; 2) the mechanism of action of permeating cryoprotectants are not affected by extender composition; 3) ethylene glycol has a similar cryoprotective efficacy to glycerol that makes it a successful cryoprotectant for sperm cryopreservation in cynomolgus monkeys.
Cooling and Freezing of Boar Spermatozoa: Supplementation of the Freezing Media With Reduced Glutathione Preserves Sperm Function
Authors: Gadea Joaquín , García‐Vazquez Francisco , Matás Carmen , Gardón Juan C. , Cánovas Sebastián , Gumbao David
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT:In this study, we evaluated the effects of glutathione (l‐γ‐glutamyl‐l‐cysteinylglycine; GSH) supplementation of the freezing extender on semen parameters during the cooling (2 hours at 5°C) and freezing phases of the cryopreservation process to compensate for the decrease in GSH content observed during sperm freezing. To fully address these questions, we incorporated a new set of functional sperm tests. These included tests of mitochondrial function, inducibility of the acrosome reaction, in vitro penetration (IVP) of oocytes, changes in sulfhydryl group content in membrane proteins, and capacitation status. The main findings emerging from this study were that the addition of GSH to the freezing media resulted in 1) an improvement in percent motility (%MOT) and motion parameters of thawed spermatozoa, as measured by both microscopic analysis and computer‐assisted semen analysis (CASA); 2) a higher number of total viable spermatozoa; 3) a higher number of noncapacitated viable spermatozoa; and 4) a decrease in the number of spermatozoa with changes in the sulfhydryl groups in membrane proteins. This protective effect on sperm function was more pronounced with 1 mM of GSH than with 5 mM of GSH.
Cell Growth Effects of Triiodothyronine and Expression of Thyroid Hormone Receptor in Prostate Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Hsieh Ming‐Li , Juang Horng‐Heng
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT: Thiiodothyronine (T3) plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation. In this study, we show the different effects of T3 on cell growth response and expression of the thyroid hormone receptor in human prostate cell lines from normal to hormonal refractory metastatic cancer cells. Although the thyroid hormone receptor (TRβ1) ubiquitously express in human prostatic epithelium cell lines (PZ‐HPV‐7, CA‐HPV‐10, LNCaP, DU145, PC‐3), T3 did not show any effect on the cell proliferation of prostatic cell lines except LNCaP cells in vitro. Immunoblot assay revealed that PZ‐HPV‐7 and CA‐HPV‐10 cells express 5‐10‐fold of TRβ1 more than LNCaP cells; however, the immunocytochemical staining and immunoblot assay of cellular fractions suggested the TRβ1 is located on the cell nuclear membrane of PZ‐HPV‐7 and CA‐HPV‐10 cells. Our results suggested that T3 upregulates cellular proliferation on LNCaP cells but not other prostatic carcinoma cells and PZ‐HPV‐7 and CA‐HPV‐10 cells express the novel TRβ1, which locates at cell nuclear membrane.
Biological Activity Assessment of a Novel Contraceptive Antimicrobial Agent
Authors: Garg A. , Anderson R. A. , Zaneveld L. J. D. , Garg S.
Published: May 2005

ABSTRACT: Microbicides are a new category of compounds being developed as a prophylactic approach for the prevention of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These are primarily being developed as women‐controlled methods, with the target of designing new compounds or formulations that can be used without the knowledge of a male partner. Microbicide screening can be initially based on their hyaluronidase‐inhibiting (HI) activity, as this enzyme plays a major role in the sperm and microbe penetration into the substrate. Derivatives of hesperidin, a citrus flavonoid glycoside, have been reported in the literature for their HI effects. Hesperidin was thereby sulphonated under strictly controlled conditions and the active fraction isolated and characterized, based on its HI activity. This derivative was screened for antimicrobial and enzyme‐inhibitory activities, specifically for the reproductive tract. Sulphonated hesperidin (SH) was found to completely inhibit the sperm enzymes hyaluronidase, giving an indication toward its contraceptive effects. It was also been found to inhibit various sexually transmitted pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoea, HIV, and Herpes Simplex virus type 2 (HSV‐2). Its safety assessment was based on its noninterference in sperm motility and its penetration through the cervical mucus, and no effect on the growth of lactobacilli, the normal vaginal flora. It was also found to be nontoxic to the HIV substrate cells (MT2 cells). The study concludes that sulphonated hesperidin can be developed as a potential microbicide for a dual prophylaxis of contraception and transmission of STDs and AIDS.
Is Time on Your Side?
Authors: Hess Rex A.
Published: May 2005

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2005, and best of luck to all of you. For those of you who are still knee‐deep in the trenches of training, ask yourself these important questions: How often do you find yourself behind on deadlines? Do many days pass and leave you wishing you had a few extra hours before the sun went down? Is organization something you are always striving for, but just can't seem to fully achieve? In this issue's Trainee Page, Rex A. Hess, Professor at the University of Illinois, offers some very helpful tips for those of us who could use assistance managing our time more effectively.
Preparation of magnetic polystyrene microspheres with a narrow size distribution
Authors: Yang Chengli , Guan Yueping , Xing Jianmin , Liu Junguo , Shan Guobin , An Zhentao , Liu Huizhou
Published: May 2005

A spraying suspension polymerization process for preparation of magnetic polystyrene microspheres with a narrow size distribution was proposed. The magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles with hydrophobic shell were first prepared by a modified chemical coprecipitation method. Then the oil solution, composed of monomer styrene, crosslinker divinylbenzene, Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and initiator benzoyl peroxide, was sprayed into the poly(vinyl alcohol) aqueous solution by a pressure of nitrogen gas to form droplets. Finally, the droplets would be polymerized rapidly to magnetic polystyrene microspheres at the polymerization temperature. The morphology and magnetic properties of microspheres were examined using a scanning electron microscope and a vibrating sample magnetometer. The results showed that the magnetic microspheres had a narrow size distribution with mean diameter of around 10 μm and smooth surface, and the magnetic microspheres with saturation magnetization of 15.6 emu/g exhibited distinct superparamagnetic characteristics. Powder X‐ray diffraction was used to investigate the structure of the magnetite nanoparticles dispersed in the polystyrene matrix. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2005
Elevated CXCL16 expression by synovial macrophages recruits memory T cells into rheumatoid joints
Authors: Van Der Voort Robbert , Van Lieshout Antoine W. T. , Toonen Liza W. J. , Slöetjes Annet W. , Van Den Berg Wim B. , Figdor Carl G. , Radstake Timothy R. D. J. , Adema Gosse J.
Published: May 2005

Objective

Directional migration of leukocytes is orchestrated by the regulated expression of chemokine receptors and their ligands. The receptor CXCR6 is abundantly expressed by Th1‐polarized effector/memory lymphocytes accumulating at inflammatory sites. This study was undertaken to examine the presence of CXCR6+ T cells and of CXCL16, the only ligand for CXCR6, in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Flow cytometry analysis of the expression of CXCR6 by peripheral blood and synovial fluid (SF) T cells. In addition, by performing conventional and real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, we determined the expression of CXCL16 and its protease ADAM‐10 within synovium and by cultured macrophages. SF T cell migration was studied with the Transwell system.

Results

Accumulation of CXCR6+ T cells within RA SF coincided with highly elevated levels of CXCL16+ macrophages. In vitro studies revealed that monocytes started to express CXCL16 upon differentiation into macrophages, and that RA SF and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) enhanced CXCL16 expression. Moreover, RA patients responding to anti‐TNF therapy showed a strongly decreased CXCL16 expression, whereas nonresponding patients did not. Interestingly, ADAM‐10, a recently identified protease of CXCL16, was abundantly expressed by CXCL16+ macrophages in vitro and in RA in vivo, which resulted in increased levels of cleaved CXCL16 in RA SF relative to controls. Finally, CXCR6+ T cells from RA SF were attracted by CXCL16.

Conclusion

These data provide evidence that enhanced production of CXCL16 in RA synovia leads to recruitment of CXCR6+ memory T cells, thereby contributing to the inflammatory cascade associated with RA pathology.
ADAMTS‐9 is synergistically induced by interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor α in OUMS‐27 chondrosarcoma cells and in human chondrocytes
Authors: Demircan Kadir , Hirohata Satoshi , Nishida Keiichiro , Hatipoglu Omer F. , Oohashi Toshitaka , Yonezawa Tomoko , Apte Suneel S. , Ninomiya Yoshifumi
Published: May 2005

Objective

To compare induction of the aggrecanases (ADAMTS‐1, ADAMTS‐4, ADAMTS‐5, ADAMTS‐8, ADAMTS‐9, and ADAMTS‐15) by interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in chondrocyte‐like OUMS‐27 cells and human chondrocytes, and to determine the mechanism of induction of the most responsive aggrecanase gene.

Methods

OUMS‐27 cells were stimulated for different periods of time and with various concentrations of IL‐1β and/or TNFα. Human chondrocytes obtained from osteoarthritic joints and human skin fibroblasts were also stimulated with IL‐1β and/or TNFα. Total RNA was extracted, reverse transcribed, and analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Northern blotting. ADAMTS‐9 protein was examined by Western blotting, and the role of the MAPK signaling pathway for ADAMTS9 induction in IL‐1β–stimulated OUMS‐27 cells was investigated.

Results

IL‐1β increased messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, and ADAMTS9 but not ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS8. The fold increase for ADAMTS9 mRNA was greater than that for mRNA of the other aggrecanase genes. The increase of ADAMTS9 mRNA by IL‐1β stimulation was greater in chondrocytes than in fibroblasts. The combination of IL‐1β and TNFα had a synergistic effect, resulting in a considerable elevation in the level of ADAMTS9 mRNA. ADAMTS‐9 protein was also induced in IL‐1β–stimulated OUMS‐27 cells. The MAPK inhibitors SB203580 and PD98059 decreased ADAMTS9 up‐regulation in OUMS‐27 cells.

Conclusion

ADAMTS9 is an IL‐1β– and TNFα‐inducible gene that appears to be more responsive to these proinflammatory cytokines than are other aggrecanase genes. Furthermore, these cytokines had a synergistic effect on ADAMTS9. Together with the known ability of ADAMTS‐9 to proteolytically degrade aggrecan and its potential to cleave other cartilage molecules, the data suggest that ADAMTS‐9 may have a pathologic role in arthritis.
Type I collagen α1 Sp1 transcription factor binding site polymorphism is associated with reduced risk of hip osteoarthritis defined by severe joint space narrowing in elderly women
Authors: Lian K. , Zmuda J. M. , Nevitt M. C. , Lui L. , Hochberg M. C. , Greene D. , Li J. , Wang J. , Lane N. E.
Published: May 2005

Objective

A common G/T substitution at an Sp1 binding site in intron 1 of the COL1A1 gene has been reported to be associated with reduced bone mineral density and increased risk of osteoporotic fracture. The purpose of this study was to examine whether there is an association between COL1A1 Sp1 polymorphism and radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip in elderly women in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures.

Methods

Radiographic hip OA status of subjects was defined by the presence of 1 of the following criteria in either hip: a joint space narrowing (JSN) score of ≥3, a Croft summary grade of ≥3, or both definite (score ≥2) osteophytes and JSN in the same hip. Cases of radiographic OA of the hip were further subdivided into those with JSN score ≥3 and those with a femoral osteophyte score ≥2 and JSN score ≤2. The COL1A1 Sp1 polymorphism was genotyped using allele‐specific kinetic polymerase chain reaction in 4,746 women. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

Radiographic OA of the hip was present in 571 women (12%). Of these patients, 325 (57%) had severe JSN (score ≥3), and 131 (23%) had moderate or moderate‐to‐severe femoral osteophytosis (score ≥2). There was no association of the T/T genotype with either radiographic hip OA or radiographic hip OA characterized by osteophytosis. For radiographic OA of the hip characterized by moderate‐to‐severe JSN, the odds of disease were significantly reduced among subjects with the T/T compared with the G/G genotype (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.11–0.81, P = 0.02) and did not change after adjustment for potential confounders (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13–0.99, P = 0.048).

Conclusion

The T/T genotype of the COL1A1 Sp1 polymorphism was associated with a reduced risk of radiographic OA of the hip characterized by JSN. This association should be confirmed in other populations to determine if mechanistic studies are warranted.
Reversal of the immunosuppressive properties of mesenchymal stem cells by tumor necrosis factor α in collagen‐induced arthritis
Authors: Djouad Farida , Fritz Vanessa , Apparailly Florence , Louis‐Plence Pascale , Bony Claire , Sany Jacques , Jorgensen Christian , Noël Danièle
Published: May 2005

Objective

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent promising tools for therapeutic applications such as tissue engineering and cellular therapy. Recent data suggest that, due to their immunosuppressive nature, MSCs may be of interest to enhance allogeneic hematopoietic engraftment and prevent graft‐versus‐host disease. Using a murine model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), this study investigated whether the immunosuppressive properties of MSCs could be of therapeutic value to inhibit reactive T cells in autoimmune diseases such as RA.

Methods

In mice with collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA), we injected various doses of C3 MSCs at the time of immunization or booster injection, and subsequently evaluated the clinical and immunologic parameters. The immunosuppressive properties of MSCs were determined in vitro in mixed lymphocyte reactions with or without the addition of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα).

Results

In the CIA model of arthritis, MSCs did not confer any benefit. Both the clinical and the immunologic findings suggested that MSCs were associated with accentuation of the Th1 response. Using luciferase‐expressing MSCs, we were unable to detect labeled cells in the articular environment of the knee, suggesting that worsening of the symptoms was unlikely due to the homing of MSCs in the joints. Experiments in vitro showed that the addition of TNFα was sufficient to reverse the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs on T cell proliferation, and this observation was associated with an increase in interleukin‐6 secretion.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that environmental parameters, in particular those related to inflammation, may influence the immunosuppressive properties of MSCs.
Association between single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in the SEC8L1 gene, which encodes a subunit of the exocyst complex, and rheumatoid arthritis in a Japanese population
Authors: Hamada Daisuke , Takata Yoichiro , Osabe Dai , Nomura Kyoko , Shinohara Syuichi , Egawa Hiroshi , Nakano Syunji , Shinomiya Fumio , Scafe Charles R. , Reeve Vincent M. , Miyamoto Tatsuro , Moritani Maki , Kunika Kiyoshi , Inoue Hiroshi , Yasui Natsuo , Itakura Mitsuo
Published: May 2005

Objective

To identify rheumatoid arthritis (RA) susceptibility genes in a Japanese population by conducting a large‐scale case–control association analysis and linkage disequilibrium (LD) mapping on chromosome 7q31–34, a candidate susceptibility locus identified in a preliminary genome‐wide scan in 53 Japanese families, using single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Methods

We prepared 728 dense, evenly spaced SNPs with a minor allele frequency >0.15 in each gene locus on chromosome 7q31–34. Using these SNPs, a 2‐stage case–control analysis was performed on 760 RA patients (157 men and 603 women) and 806 non‐RA controls (189 men and 617 women). Haplotypes and LD mapping results were assessed based on SNP genotypes in 380 controls.

Results

Forty‐eight SNPs showed allele associations (P < 0.05) in the first set of DNA samples (380 RA cases and 380 non‐RA controls; first‐stage analysis). For 4 of the SNPs in the SEC8L1 gene, the association was replicated (P < 0.05) in the second, independent set of DNA samples (an additional 380 RA cases and 380 non‐RA controls; second‐stage analysis). When data from the 2 groups were combined, the most significant allele association was observed with SNP 441, an intronic SNP of the SEC8L1 gene (P = 0.000059). The SEC8L1 SNPs with significant allele associations were all located in a single conserved LD block (block 4). Haplotype analysis revealed the disease‐risk (P = 0.0015) and disease‐protective (P = 0.0000062) haplotypes. Resequencing of coding exons within block 4 did not identify any nonsynonymous SNPs. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that SEC8L1 was expressed ubiquitously in human tissues, including fibroblast‐like synoviocytes from RA patients.

Conclusion

Our locus‐wide association and LD analyses identified intronic SNPs and haplotypes in the SEC8L1 gene that are strongly associated with RA. We propose that SEC8L1, which encodes a component of the exocyst complex, is a candidate susceptibility gene for RA in the Japanese population.
A 48‐week, randomized, double‐blind, double‐observer, placebo‐controlled multicenter trial of combination methotrexate and intramuscular gold therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: Results of the METGO study
Authors: Lehman Allen J. , Esdaile John M. , Klinkhoff Alice V. , Grant Eric , Fitzgerald Avril , Canvin Janice ,   The METGO Study Group
Published: May 2005

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding intramuscular (IM) gold to the treatment regimen of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have a suboptimal response to methotrexate (MTX).

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, double‐observer, placebo‐controlled multicenter trial of 48 weeks was conducted. Sixty‐five RA patients who had a suboptimal response to ≥12 weeks of MTX therapy were randomly assigned to receive weekly IM gold or placebo in addition to MTX. Gold was administered according to a standard protocol developed for the study. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients who met the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20% improvement criteria (achieved an ACR20 response) at week 48. Secondary outcomes included the percentages of patients achieving ACR50 and ACR70 responses, the individual criteria that make up the primary outcome, quality of life, direct and indirect health care costs, intraarticular steroid use, and adverse events, among other measures. Statistical analyses were based on an intent‐to‐treat strategy.

Results

Sixty‐one percent of patients receiving gold achieved an ACR20 response compared with 30% of patients receiving placebo (χ2 = 6.04, P = 0.014; logistic regression odds ratio 3.64 [95% confidence interval 1.3, 10.4], P = 0.016). Twenty‐six percent of patients receiving gold achieved an ACR50 response compared with 4% of patients receiving placebo (P = 0.017), and 21% of patients receiving gold achieved an ACR70 response compared with 0% of patients receiving placebo (P = 0.011). From both clinical and cost‐effectiveness perspectives, gold was the preferred and dominant strategy. Study treatment was discontinued in 23 patients (14 in the placebo group compared with 9 in the gold group; P = 0.022) due to loss to followup, adverse events, or lack of efficacy.

Conclusion

In RA patients with a suboptimal response to MTX, adding weekly IM gold causes significant clinical improvement. Adverse events were minor, and IM gold–related adverse events led to discontinuation in only 11% of the gold group over 48 weeks.
Evidence for a role of the genomic region of the gene encoding for the α1 chain of type IX collagen (COL9A1) in hip osteoarthritis: A population‐based study
Authors: Alizadeh B. Z. , Njajou O. T. , Bijkerk C. , Meulenbelt I. , Wildt S. C. De , Hofman A. , Pols H. A. P. , Slagboom P. E. , Duijn C. M. Van
Published: May 2005

Objective

Type IX collagen proteoglycan is an important protein in collagen networks and has been implicated in hip osteoarthritis (OA). We studied 2 COL9A1 markers (509‐8B2 and 509‐12B1) in relation to radiographic OA, within the framework of the Rotterdam Study, a population‐based study of 7,983 subjects ages 55 years and older.

Methods

We used 2 different designs, as follows: 1) a linkage study of 83 probands with multiple joints affected with radiographic OA and their 221 siblings, yielding 445 sibpairs who participated in the study, and 2) an association study in a series of 71 patients with radiographic hip OA and 269 controls without radiographic OA. All subjects were characterized for the 2 COL9A1 markers, 509‐8B2 and 509‐12B1. The mean test was used to assess the proportion of alleles shared in concordantly affected and unaffected sibpairs. The chi‐square test was used to compare the allele distributions in patients and controls.

Results

Affected sibpairs with radiographic hip OA shared alleles identical by descent at markers 8B2 and 12B1 significantly more often than expected (mean ± SD 0.66 ± 0.07 and 0.65 ± 0.08, respectively; P < 0.05). No excess sharing for radiographic OA was observed at other joint sites. When comparing the frequency of marker 8B2 and 12B1 alleles in subjects with radiographic OA and controls, the frequency of 8B2 alleles in subjects with radiographic OA differed significantly(P = 0.01) from that in controls.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that susceptibility for hip OA is conferred within or close to the COL9A1 gene in linkage disequilibrium with the COL9A1 509‐8B2 marker.