bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization and variation of angiosperm mitochondrial genome
Authors: Kubo Tomohiko , Mikami Tetsuo
Published: September 2006

The mitochondrial genomes of angiosperms are the largest mitochondrial genomes so far reported and are highly variable in size among plant species. The comparative analysis of the angiosperm mitochondrial genomes at the nucleotide level has now become feasible for addressing long‐standing questions, owing to the publication of five dicot and three monocot genomes. Whereas the identified genes and introns are rather well conserved, intergenic regions are highly variable in sequence, even between two close relatives. Promiscuous DNA and horizontally transferred sequence constitute part of the intergenic regions, but the origin of the majority of these regions is unknown. On the other hand, duplication and extensive rearrangement of preexisting sequences may be one of the explanations for the occurrence of unknown sequences. Functional aspects of the mitochondrial genome, such as RNA editing and expression of unique open reading frames (ORFs), can be changed under certain nuclear genotypes.
Carbonic anhydrase subunits of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase complex (complex I) in plants
Authors: Braun Hans‐Peter , Zabaleta Eduardo
Published: September 2006

The mitochondrial nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced (NADH) dehydrogenase complex (complex I) of plants has a molecular mass of about 1000 kDa and is composed of more than 40 distinct protein subunits. About three quarter of these subunits are homologous to complex I subunits of heterotrophic eukaryotes, whereas the remaining subunits are unique to plants. Among them are three to five structurally related proteins that resemble an archaebacterial γ‐type carbonic anhydrase (γCA). The γCA subunits are attached to the membrane arm of complex I on the matrix‐exposed side and form an extra spherical domain. At the same time, they span the inner mitochondrial membrane and are essential for assembly of the protein complex. Expression of the genes encoding γCA subunits is reduced if plants are cultivated in the presence of elevated CO2 concentration. The functional role of these subunits within plant mitochondria is currently unknown but might be related to photorespiration. We propose that the complex I–integrated γCAs are involved in mitochondrial HCO3− formation to allow efficient recycling of inorganic carbon for CO2 fixation in chloroplasts under high light conditions.
Back to one: consequences of derived monogyny in an ant with polygynous ancestors
Authors: SCHREMPF A. , HEINZE J.
Published: September 2006

The number of queens per colony is of fundamental importance in the life history of social insects. Multiple queening (polygyny), with dependent colony founding by budding, has repeatedly evolved from ancestral single queening (monogyny) and independent founding by solitary queens in waSPS, bees and ants. By contrast, the reversal to monogyny appears to be rare, as polygynous queens often lack morphological adaptations necessary for dispersal and independent colony founding. In the ant genusCardiocondyla, monogynous species evolved from polygynous ancestors. Here, we show that queens of monogynous species found their colonies independently, albeit in an unusual way: they mate in the maternal nest, disperse on foot and forage during the founding phase. This reversal appears to be associated with the occurrence of a wing polymorphism, which reflects a trade‐off between reproduction and dispersal. Moreover, queens of monogynous species live considerably longer than queens in related polygynous taxa, suggesting that queen life span is a plastic trait.
Manipulation of oviposition choice of the parasitoid wasp,Encarsia pergandiella, by the endosymbiotic bacteriumCardinium
Authors: KENYON S. G. , HUNTER M. S.
Published: September 2006

Reproductive manipulations of hosts by maternally inherited bacterial endosymbionts often result in an increase in the proportion of infected female hosts in the population. When this involves the conversion of incipient males to genetic or functional females, it presents unique difficulties for symbionts invading hosts with sex‐specific reproductive behaviours, such as the autoparasiticEncarsia pergandiella. In sexual forms of this species, female eggs are laid in whitefly nymphs and male eggs are laid in conspecific or heterospecific parasitoids developing within the whitefly cuticle. Further, eggs laid in the ‘wrong’ host do not ordinarily complete development. This study explored the role of a bacterial symbiont,Cardinium, in manipulating oviposition behaviour in a thelytokous population ofE. pergandiella. Oviposition choice was measured by the number and location of eggs deposited by both infected and uninfected adult waSPS in arenas containing equal numbers of hosts suitable for the development of male and female waSPS. Uninfected waSPS included antibiotic‐treated female waSPS and (untreated) daughters of antibiotic‐treated female waSPS. The choices of waSPS in the thelytokous population treatments were compared with those of a conspecific sexual population. We found that offspring of antibiotic‐cured thelytokous waSPS reverted to the behaviour of unmated sexual waSPS, laying their few eggs almost exclusively in hosts appropriate for male eggs. Infected thelytokous waSPS distributed their eggs approximately evenly between host types, much like mated sexual female waSPS. The antibiotic‐treated female waSPS exhibited choices intermediate to waSPS in the other two treatments. The change in the observed behaviour appears sufficient to allow invasion and persistence ofCardiniumin sexual populations. Lastly, our results suggest a reduction in host discrimination as a possible mechanism by whichCardiniuminfluences this change.
The origins of ecotypic variation of rainbow trout: a test of environmental vs. genetically based differences in morphology
Authors: KEELEY E. R. , PARKINSON E. A. , TAYLOR E. B.
Published: September 2006

Although morphological plasticity has been observed in a variety of taxa, few experimental studies have compared the relative proportion of morphological variability that is accounted for by environmentally induced plasticity, and how much is because of genetically based differences among populations. We compared the morphology of six rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) populations from different ecotypic categories that were raised under flowing vs. standing‐water conditions. Our data indicate that both environmental conditions and ecotypic differences account for a significant proportion of variation in morphology. Among ecotype effects, however, accounted for a much larger proportion of morphological variability than environmental conditions. Rainbow trout from stream populations had deeper caudal peduncles, and longer fins than lake populations, and rainbow trout from a piscivorous population had larger mouth and head lengths than all other ecotypes. Environmentally induced differences in morphology were primarily related to differences in mouth and head lengths, as well as fin length. Relative to morphometric differences from natural rainbow trout populations, most characteristics deviated in the same direction in our experimental populations. Our data indicate that morphological differences across rainbow trout populations have a genetic basis and may represent locally adaptive characteristics and highlight the role of ecology in promoting phenotypic divergence.
Duration of pneumothorax as a complication of CT‐guided lung biopsy
Authors: Yamagami T , Kato T , Hirota T , Yoshimatsu R , Matsumoto T , Nishimura T
Published: September 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine management guidelines for biopsy‐induced pneumothorax with the assistance of manual aspiration, mainly based on the duration of complicated pneumothorax. Data from 388 consecutive percutaneous needle lung biopsies were examined. Patients with pneumothorax on postbiopsy chest CT images underwent percutaneous manual aspiration with an 18‐G i.v. catheter. Frequency and management of biopsy‐induced pneumothorax and period to its disappearance were reviewed. Postbiopsy pneumothorax occurred in 133 of 388 (34.3%) procedures. Manual aspiration in 72 of these 133 patients was carried out immediately after biopsy. The pneumothorax had resolved completely on follow‐up chest radiographs without chest tube placement in 121 of the 133 pneumothoraces (91.0%). In cases requiring chest tube, the mean period from biopsy until resolution of the pneumothorax was 6.0 ± 5.3 days, but was only 2.4 ± 2.9 days when chest tube placement was not needed. Specifically, time until recovery was short both in those not requiring manual aspiration (2.1 ± 3.4 days) and in those with a pneumothorax that disappeared completely or almost completely after manual aspiration (1.9 ± 2.0 days). The almost equally short recovery periods in patients not requiring manual aspiration and those requiring immediate manual aspiration indicates the value of rapid management.
Metastatic choriocarcinoma: A rare cause of stroke in the young adult
Authors: Saad N , Tang YM , Sclavos E , Stuckey SL
Published: September 2006

A 20‐year old woman presented with acute right hemiplegia 10 weeks after intrauterine fetal death at 34‐weeks gestation (G1P0). A brain MRI showed a typical acute infarct in the left middle cerebral artery territory. A CT pulmonary angiography carried out 1 week later for sudden cardiopulmonary deterioration showed disseminated pulmonary metastases. The CT was extended to the abdomen and pelvis, which showed a uterine mass with bilateral theca lutein cysts. The radiological diagnosis of metastatic choriocarcinoma was made and was subsequently confirmed with the markedly increased serum β‐human chorionic gonadotrophin. A serum β‐human chorionic gonadotrophin is therefore considered worthwhile in any young female adult who presents with stroke.
Echocardiogram‐gated multislice spiral CT in functionally univentricular heart following long‐lasting Waterston–Cooley anastomosis
Authors: Ruhl KM , Koos R , Mahnken AH
Published: September 2006

Waterston–Cooley anastomosis may be carried out in patients with tricuspid atresia to provide pulmonary perfusion. It is associated with several complications, including preferential blood flow to the right lung, hypoplasia of the left pulmonary artery, obstruction of the anatomosis or rupture of pulmonary aneurysms. We study a patient with thrombosis in the pulmonary arteries following surgical construction of a Waterston shunt in childhood. Imaging findings and clinical symptoms are discussed with emphasis on echocardiogram‐gated multislice spiral CT.
Leiomyosarcoma of the great saphenous vein
Authors: El Khoury M , Mesurolle B , Trassard M , Cherel P , Talma V , Hagay C
Published: September 2006

Peripheral vascular leiomyosarcomas are rare. A case of leiomyosarcoma of the great saphenous vein diagnosed pre‐surgically by MRI and fine‐needle aspiration is presented. Characteristics of the tumour and imaging features are discussed.
Ganciclovir and the treatment of Epstein‐Barr virus hepatitis
Authors: Adams Leon A , Deboer Bastiaan , Jeffrey Gary , Marley Richard , Garas George
Published: September 2006

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is part of the herpesvirus family that infects up to 90% of the population. Initial infection is often subclincal in children but will generally result in symptomatic infectious mononucleosis in adolescents and adults. Ganciclovir has been utilized in immunocompromised patients with EBV encephalitis and post‐liver transplant for EBV fulminant hepatitis. Herein, the successful use of ganciclovir in two immunocompetent patients with severe EBV hepatitis is reported.
Pharmacokinetic profile of tamsulosin OCAS
Authors: CHAPPLE CHRISTOPHER R. , CHARTIER‐KASTLER EMMANUEL
Published: September 2006

The tamsulosin oral‐controlled absorption system (OCAS®) is a new tablet formulation of the α1‐adrenoceptor (α1‐AR) antagonist tamsulosin, which is used for treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The tablet uses the OCAS technology, which was specifically designed to give a more continuous 24‐h release of tamsulosin, resulting in a more consistent and continuous 24‐h plasma concentration, a lower maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and an independence of pharmacokinetics (PKs) on food intake. It was expected that the improved PK profile would translate into a better control of day‐ and night‐time symptoms of BPH and a lower risk of adverse events. Phase I PK studies showed that tamsulosin OCAS indeed has a flattened PK profile with a lower Cmax and a more stable and consistent 24‐h concentration of tamsulosin, independent of food intake, compared to conventional tamsulosin. A study combining γ‐scintigraphy and PK analysis of blood samples confirmed that the improved PK profile of tamsulosin OCAS is attributed to the tablet being consistently and continuously released throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract, including the colon.
Visually directed high‐intensity focused ultrasound for organ‐confined prostate cancer: a proposed standard for the conduct of therapy
Authors: Illing Rowland O. , Leslie Tom A. , Kennedy James E. , Calleary John G. , Ogden Christopher W. , Emberton Mark
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To propose a standard for the conduct of visually directed transrectal high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and to offer a formal description of the changes observed on B‐mode ultrasonography (US) during this procedure. We describe our early experience of using two different treatment methods; algorithm‐based HIFU and visually directed HIFU for the treatment of organ‐confined prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between November 2004 and October 2005, 34 men were treated using the Sonablate®‐500 (Focus Surgery, Indianapolis, IN, USA) as primary therapy for T1 or T2 prostate cancer. None had had previous hormone therapy and all had ≥ 3‐month PSA nadirs recorded at the follow‐up. Nine men were treated using an algorithm‐based protocol (group 1) and 25 using visually directed therapy (group 2). The conduct of visually directed treatment was described and changes seen using B‐mode US were categorized using three ‘Uchida’ grades.

RESULTS

The mean PSA nadir achieved in group 2 was 0.15 ng/mL, vs 1.51 ng/mL in group 1 (P < 0.005). In group 2, 21 of 25 men achieved PSA nadirs of ≤ 0.2 ng/mL 3 months after treatment. Seven men achieved undetectable PSA values. The occurrence rate of treatment‐related toxicity was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Visually directed, transrectal HIFU enables clinically important and statistically significantly lower PSA nadirs to be achieved than algorithm‐based HIFU. This is the first reported experience of visually directed HIFU for the treatment of organ‐confined prostate cancer. We think that this is the first attempt to standardize the conduct of therapy; such standardization facilitates teaching it, and makes it possible to derive quality standards. The standardization of the conduct of therapy is a key step in the process of health technology assessment.
Islet antibodies associated with pancreatic B‐cell dysfunction at and 3 years after diagnosis of diabetes in subjects aged 35–64 years old: degree of impairment less severe than in those aged 0–34 years old
Authors: Berger B. , Borg H. , Fernlund P. , Stenström G. , Sundkvist G.
Published: September 2006

Aims  To determine differences in pancreatic B‐cell function in relation to islet antibodies at diagnosis of diabetes and 3 years later in subjects aged 35–64 years old compared with those aged 0–34 years.

Methods  From a population‐based diabetes register, 46 (0–34 years old) and 323 (35–64 years old) incident diabetic patients were investigated at diagnosis and 3 years later. Islet cell antibodies (ICA, GADA and IA‐2A) and fasting plasma C‐peptide were measured.

Results  Islet antibodies were found in 80% of the subjects aged 0–34 years and in 11% of those aged 35–64 years at diagnosis. ICA and GADA was the only combination of two islet antibodies detected in those aged 35–64 years and was, with or without IA‐2A, associated with significantly lower median fasting C‐peptide values than in those without or with only one antibody [0.35 nmol/l, interquartile range (IQR) 0.63 vs. 0.85 nmol/l, IQR 0.49; P = 0.0004]. However, fasting C‐peptide in subjects aged 35–64 years old with multiple islet antibodies was higher than in those aged 0–34 years with islet antibodies (median 0 nmol/l, IQR 0.16, P = 0.0019). After 3 years’ follow‐up, fasting C‐peptide was even lower in subjects aged 35–64 years old with three islet antibodies (median 0.14 nmol/l, IQR 0.27; P = 0.05).

Conclusions  Islet antibodies were common in adults at diagnosis of diabetes. The combination of ICA and GADA indicates impaired B‐cell function at diagnosis of diabetes in those aged 35–64 years old.
Six‐year follow‐up of a cohort of 203 patients with diabetes after screening for silent myocardial ischaemia
Authors: Sejil S. , Janand‐Delenne B. , Avierinos J.‐F. , Habib G. , Labastie N. , Raccah D. , Vague P. , Lassmann‐Vague V.
Published: September 2006

Aims  To determine the prognosis of patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, 6 years after screening for silent myocardial ischaemia (SMI).

Methods  Two hundred and three asymptomatic patients with diabetes underwent systematic SMI screening. From the results of this screening, they were allocated to one of three groups: patients (n = 171) with negative screening; patients (n = 32) with positive screening; and patients (n = 21) with positive screening and coronary stenosis. Six years after the initial assessment, all patients were re‐assessed. All events [death, cardiac death, non‐fatal major cardiac events (NFMCEs)—acute myocardial infarction, ventricular rhythm disorders, heart failure, unstable angina] were recorded.

Results  Fifteen patients were lost to follow‐up. Patients (n = 20) with positive SMI screening and coronary stenosis had a higher risk of NFMCEs (35% vs. 7%, P < 0.001), and a higher mortality rate (35% vs. 15%, P < 0.05) compared with patients (n = 157) with negative screening. SMI‐positive patients (n = 31) had a higher NFMCE rate compared with negative SMI screening patients, although overall mortality rate was no different. Cancer was the leading cause of death (36.4%). In multivariate analysis, major cardiac events (cardiac death and NFMCE) were related to baseline age, body mass index and coronary stenosis (P < 0.01).

Conclusions  Patients with diabetes and SMI have a very poor prognosis as assessed by cardiac events or death, especially in the presence of coronary stenosis.
Tactful or Doubtful?
Authors: Bonnefon Jean-François , Villejoubert Gaëlle
Published: September 2006

When a statement about the occurrence of a medical condition is qualified by an expression of probability, such as the word possible, listeners interpret the probability of the condition as being higher the more severe the condition. This severity bias can have serious consequences for the well-being of patients. We argue that the bias is due to a misconception of the pragmatic function served by the expression of probability. The more severe the condition, the greater the chance that the listener construes the expression as a politeness marker rather than as an uncertainty marker. When this misconception does not occur, neither should the severity bias. An analysis of interpretations of probability expressions using a membership-function approach validates this account. We discuss the consequences of this bias for the communication of risk within and outside the medical domain.
Optimal Predictions in Everyday Cognition
Authors: Griffiths Thomas L. , Tenenbaum Joshua B.
Published: September 2006

Human perception and memory are often explained as optimal statistical inferences that are informed by accurate prior probabilities. In contrast, cognitive judgments are usually viewed as following error-prone heuristics that are insensitive to priors. We examined the optimality of human cognition in a more realistic context than typical laboratory studies, asking people to make predictions about the duration or extent of everyday phenomena such as human life spans and the box-office take of movies. Our results suggest that everyday cognitive judgments follow the same optimal statistical principles as perception and memory, and reveal a close correspondence between people's implicit probabilistic models and the statistics of the world.
Effect of hypoxia on the transcription pattern of subunit isoforms and the kinetics of cytochrome c oxidase in cortical astrocytes and cerebellar neurons
Authors: Horvat Susann , Beyer Cordian , Arnold Susanne
Published: September 2006

Brain energy metabolism essentially depends on the availability of oxygen representing the energetic substrate for cytochrome c oxidase (COX). The catalytic activity of mammalian COX is regulated by binding of ATP to the N‐terminus of subunit IV. This causes an allosteric inhibition of the enzyme at a high energy level and thus plays an important role in adjusting energy production to cellular energy requirements. We have studied COX activity in cortical astrocytes and cerebellar granule cells after normoxia and hypoxia treatment. Differences in the kinetic behaviour of COX from these two brain cell types can be addressed to a differential, but cell type‐specific, expression of the COX subunit IV‐2 isoform. Besides COX isoform IV‐1, which is ubiquitously transcribed in all mammalian tissues, we also detected low levels of COX isoform IV‐2 in cerebellar neurons, but not in cortical astrocytes. Under conditions of oxygen deprivation, transcription of COX IV‐2 is induced in astrocytes and further up‐regulated in cerebellar granule cells. Elevated transcription levels of the COX IV‐2 isoform are accompanied by an abolition of the allosteric inhibition of COX by ATP. We conclude that the presence of the COX isoform IV‐2 suppresses the sensitivity of COX to its allosteric regulator ATP and overrules the regulation of COX by the cellular energy level. This suggests a pivotal role of COX as an oxygen sensor for brain function.
Isoform‐ and subcellular fraction‐specific differences in hippocampal 14‐3‐3 levels following experimentally evoked seizures and in human temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Schindler Clara K. , Heverin Maura , Henshall David C.
Published: September 2006

14‐3‐3 proteins are a family of signaling molecules involved in diverse cellular functions, which can mediate anti‐apoptotic effects. Seizure‐induced neuronal death may involve programmed (apoptotic) cell death pathways and is associated with a decline in brain 14‐3‐3 levels. Presently, we investigated the subcellular localization and effects of seizures on isoforms of 14‐3‐3 in rat hippocampus, and contrasted these to findings in human temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). All brain isoforms of 14‐3‐3 were detected in the cytoplasmic compartment of rat hippocampus, while 14‐3‐3γ and ‐ζ were also present in mitochondrial and microsome‐enriched fractions. Focally evoked seizures in rats significantly reduced 14‐3‐3γ levels within the microsome‐enriched compartment at 4 h, with similar responses for 14‐3‐3ζ, while cytoplasm‐localized 14‐3‐3β, ‐ε and ‐η remained unchanged. Analysis of human autopsy control hippocampus revealed similar 14‐3‐3 isoform expression profiles. In TLE samples, the microsome‐enriched fraction also showed differences, but here 14‐3‐3ε and ‐ζ levels were higher than controls. TLE sample 14‐3‐3 isoform abundance within the cytoplasmic fraction was not different to controls. This study defines the subcellular localization of 14‐3‐3 isoforms in rat and human hippocampus and identifies the microsome‐enriched fraction as the main site of altered 14‐3‐3 levels in response to acute prolonged and chronic recurrent seizures.
Temporal coupling of cyclic AMP and Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclase to the circadian clock in chick retinal photoreceptor cells
Authors: Chaurasia Shyam S. , Haque Rashidul , Pozdeyev Nikita , Jackson Chad R. , Iuvone P. Michael
Published: September 2006

cAMP signaling pathways play crucial roles in photoreceptor cells and other retinal cell types. Previous studies demonstrated a circadian rhythm of cAMP level in chick photoreceptor cell cultures that drives the rhythm of activity of the melatonin synthesizing enzyme arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase and the rhythm of affinity of the cyclic nucleotide‐gated channel for cGMP. Here, we report that the photoreceptor circadian clock generates a rhythm in Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity, which accounts for the temporal changes in the cAMP levels in the photoreceptors. The circadian rhythm of cAMP in photoreceptor cell cultures is abolished by treatment with the l‐type Ca2+ channel antagonist nitrendipine, while the Ca2+ channel agonist, Bay K 8644, increased cAMP levels with continued circadian rhythmicity in constant darkness. These results indicate that the circadian rhythm of cAMP is dependent, in part, on Ca2+ influx. Photoreceptor cell cultures exhibit a circadian rhythm in Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclase enzyme activity with high levels at night and low levels during the day, correlating with the temporal changes of cAMP in these cells. Transcripts encoding two of the Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclases, type 1 and type 8 (Adcy1 and Adcy8), displayed significant daily rhythms of mRNA expression under a light–dark cycle, but only the Adcy1 transcript rhythm persisted in constant darkness. Similar rhythms of Adcy1 mRNA level and Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity were observed in retinas of 2‐week‐old chickens. These results indicate that a circadian clock controls the expression of Adcy1 mRNA and Ca2+/calmodulin‐stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity; and calcium influx into these cells gates the circadian rhythm of cAMP, a key component in the regulation of photoreceptor function.
A nicotinic acetylcholine receptor mutation (Y151S) causes reduced agonist potency to a range of neonicotinoid insecticides
Authors: Liu Zewen , Williamson Martin S. , Lansdell Stuart J. , Han Zhaojun , Denholm Ian , Millar Neil S.
Published: September 2006

Neonicotinoid insecticides are potent selective agonists of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Since their introduction in 1991, resistance to neonicotinoids has been slow to develop, but it is now established in some insect field populations such as the planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, a major rice pest in many parts of Asia. We have reported recently the identification of a target‐site mutation (Y151S) within two nAChR subunits (Nlα1 and Nlα3) from a laboratory‐selected field population of N. lugens. In the present study, we have examined the influence of this mutation upon the functional properties of recombinant nAChRs expressed in Xenopus oocytes (as hybrid nAChRs, co‐expressed with a rat β2 subunit). The agonist potency of several nicotinic agonists has been examined, including all of the neonicotinoid insecticides that are currently licensed for either crop protection or animal health applications (acetamiprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, nitenpyram, thiacloprid and thiamethoxam). The Y151S mutation was found to have no significant effect on the maximal current (Imax) observed with the endogenous agonist, acetylcholine. In contrast, a significant reduction in Imax was observed for all neonicotinoids (the Imax for mutant nAChRs ranged from 13 to 81% of that observed on wild‐type receptors). In addition, nAChRs containing the Y151S mutation caused a significant rightward shift in agonist dose–response curves for all neonicotinoids, but of varying magnitude (shifts in EC50 values ranged from 1.3 to 3.6‐fold). The relationship between neonicotinoid structure and their potency on nAChRs containing the Y151S target‐site mutation is discussed.
Life‐threatening thrombocytopenia and nephrotic syndrome due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis associated with pegylated interferon α‐2b and ribavirin treatment for hepatitis C
Authors: Alves Couto Cláudia , Costa Faria Luciana , Dias Ribeiro Daniel , De Paula Farah Kátia , De Melo Couto Osvaldo Flávio , De Abreu Ferrari Teresa Cristina
Published: September 2006

Abstract: Background:Interferon‐α (IFN‐α)and ribavirin combination therapy for chronic infection with hepatitis C virus produces a number of well‐described side effects. Combination therapy with pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) yields an adverse event profile similar to that observed with the standard IFN, although the frequency of certain adverse events may vary according to the preparation.

Case report:We report the case of a 44‐year‐old man who was treated with ribavirin and PEG‐IFN‐α‐2b for chronic hepatitis C and developed two rare side effects simultaneously on the 16th week of therapy: severe thrombocytopenia and nephrotic syndrome due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. The antiviral treatment was immediately interrupted and the patient received immunosuppressive therapy. He promptly recovered from the thrombocytopenia and partially and slowly from the nephrotic syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported of the development of such complications at the same time.
Dyeing poly(lactic acid) fibres in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Bach Elke , Knittel Dierk , Schollmeyer Eckhard
Published: September 2006

A study has been conducted into the dyeing of poly(lactic acid) fibres in supercritical carbon dioxide. The fibres were completely dyed using disperse dyes at 50 °C as shown by fibre cross‐sections, although high colour depths in dark shades still prove challenging. Dye uptake increased significantly at temperatures ≥80 °C. At 95 °C in supercritical carbon dioxide, shrinkage and hardening of raw poly(lactic acid) were observed which could partly be overcome by the supercritical carbon dioxide extraction step. Afterclearing with cold supercritical carbon dioxide (to remove unfixed dye after dyeing) decreased the colour depth and led to non‐uniform dyeing results on poly(lactic acid). Wash and rub fastness was good to very good also when poly(lactic acid) was not aftercleared in supercritical carbon dioxide. Fibre damage and elongation at break in supercritical carbon dioxide were similar to water.
Comparison of the effects of various presettings on the colour of polyamide 6.6 dyed with acid dyestuffs
Authors: Atav Rıza , Çay Ahmet , Körlü Ayşegül Ekmekçi , Duran Kerim
Published: September 2006

Polymeric fibres are semicrystalline structures in which the macromolecules are rarely oriented in their equilibrium state. Further instabilities are imparted when the fibres are converted to yarns and the yarns to fabrics. Heat‐setting is an important industrial process, as it reduces the fibre strain to an acceptable limit. This paper presents results of a study on the effects of various presettings (heat‐, steam‐ and hot water‐setting processes) on the dyeing properties of polyamide 6.6 fibres with acid dyestuffs. It was found that the colour yield is lower for dyed samples after dry heat‐setting, but in the case of samples that have been hot water‐set or steam‐set, the colour yield increases slightly for light shades and remains constant for dark shades, compared with the unset dyed sample.
Analysis of the factors influencing dye uptake on jet dyeing equipment
Authors: Ferus‐Comelo Martin
Published: September 2006

Machine parameters that possibly influence the dye‐uptake rate on textile jet dyeing equipment are reviewed in this study. Some of these parameters can be adjusted on a pilot‐scale jet machine so as to reproduce bulk conditions, whereas others cannot. It was impossible, for example, to simultaneously achieve appropriate values for the nozzle flow velocity and the dyebath circulation time. The fabric–liquor interchange in the storage area of the machine was also different on pilot scale and on bulk scale. Experiments on a pilot machine with a direct dye on cotton yielded, for most cases, no influence of fabric speed and dyebath flow rate on the dye‐uptake rate despite high substantivity conditions. Only when the flow rate dropped below 50 dm3 min−1 kg−1, the exhaustion rate diminished approximately proportionally to the square root of the flow rate, probably because of dye depletion in the storage chamber. On the pilot machine, the jet nozzle did not appear to contribute to the overall fabric–liquor interchange. Implications for bulk jet dyeing machines are discussed.
Review of Analytical Techniques for Arson Residues
Authors: Pert Alastair D. , Baron Mark G. , Birkett Jason W.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT:Arson is a serious crime that affects society through cost, property damage, and loss of life. It is important that the methods and technologies applied by fire investigators in detection of evidence and subsequent analyses have a high degree of reliability, sensitivity, and be subject to rigorous quality control and assurance. There have been considerable advances in the field of arson investigation since the 1950s. Classification of ignitable liquids has been updated to include many new categories due to developments in the petroleum industry. Techniques such as steam or vacuum distillation and gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detection that may have been considered acceptable—even a benchmark—40 years ago, are nowadays generally disfavored, to the extent that their implementation may almost be considered as ignorance in the field. The advent of readily available mass spectrometric techniques has revolutionized the field of fire debris analysis, increasing the degree of sensitivity and discrimination possible considerably. Multi‐dimensional GC—particularly GC × GC—while not yet widely applied, is rapidly gaining recognition as an important technique. This comprehensive review focuses on techniques and practices used in fire investigation, from scene investigation to analysis.
Metric Assessment of the “Mastoid Triangle” for Sex Determination: A Validation Study
Authors: Kemkes Ariane , Göbel Tanja
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: Recently, a metric approach to skeletal sex determination was published by Paiva and Segre which is based on the summation of two triangular areas defined by three distinct craniometric landmarks: Porion, Mastoidale, and Asterion. According to the authors, values for the total triangle ≥1447.40 mm2 are characteristic for male crania, while values ≤1260.36 mm2 are indicative of female skulls (95% confidence). In order to evaluate the method's validity, two sex‐ and age‐documented samples of different provenience were analyzed (N=197). The results show that while the indicated measurements display significant sex differences, the technique is of little practical meaning where a single individual must be independently classified. It is hypothesized that differences in the expression of sexual dimorphism as well as a population‐specific variability of the asterion location undermine the value of the mastoid triangle as a sex determinant.
Anthropological and Radiographic Comparison of Vertebrae for Identification of Decomposed Human Remains
Authors: Mundorff Amy Z. , Vidoli Giovanna , Melinek Judy
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: This case study demonstrates the importance of involving an anthropologist in forensic situations with decomposed remains. Anthropological consultation was used in conjunction with the comparison of antemortem and postmortem radiographs to establish positive identification of unknown, decomposed remains. The remains had no traditional identifying features such as fingerprints or dental. Through anthropological analysis, it was determined the decedent was male, between 20 and 23 years at time of death and c. 5′2″ tall. This information allowed for a presumptive identification and a request for antemortem radiographs. The missing person was identified comparing the spinous processes of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae between ante‐ and postmortem radiographs.
Adult Hirschsprung's Disease Diagnosed During Forensic Autopsy
Authors: Chatelain Denis , Manaouil Cécile , Marc Bernard , Ricard Jannick , Brevet Marie , Montpellier Dominique , Defouilloy Christian , Jardé Olivier
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: We report a case of fatal Hirschsprung's disease (HD) discovered at autopsy. A 20‐year‐old man collapsed at home. Emergency medical personnel found him in cardiac arrest and all resuscitative efforts failed. He had a past history of chronic constipation since infancy. Forensic autopsy revealed a megacolon full of gas and stools. Microscopic examination showed absence of ganglion cells in a short segment of the rectum and enterocolitis in the left and transverse colon. HD is rarely described in adults. In many cases, patients complained of constipation since infancy but the affection remained misdiagnosed. The relative good tolerance of the disease is usually due to a short aganglionic bowel segment. Enterocolitis is a frequent and severe complication of HD in children but is rarely described in adults. This case suggests the importance of HD diagnosis in childhood in order to avoid fatal complications with forensic consequences.
Three Species of Insects Collected from an Adult Human Corpse Above 3300 m in Elevation: A Review of a Case from Colorado
Authors: Adair Thomas W. , Kondratieff Boris C.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: We report on the colonization of an adult human corpse by three insect species at 3350 m (11,000 ft) in elevation. The adult silphid Thanatophilus coloradensis (Wickham), adults of the blow fly Calliphora coloradensis (Hough), and larvae and adults of Lucilia silvarum (Meigen) were all collected from the victim's body which had been wrapped in plastic. The victim was found in late June in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. This paper provides additional confirmation of the taxa utilizing a human corpse at high elevations in Colorado.
Metacarpal Sexual Determination in a Spanish Population
Authors: Barrio Pedro A. , Trancho Gonzalo J. , Sánchez José A.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT:Anthropologists and forensic pathologist determine the sex of skeletons by analyzing quantitative and qualitative characters in the bone remains. Generally, the skull and os coxae are the elements most used, but they are not always preserved. In such cases, the investigator needs to have available other techniques based on different remains. The aim of the present work is to develop and describe discriminating functions for sex determination in a recent Spanish population using metacarpal morphology. A sample of bones corresponding to a contemporary Spanish population deposited at the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) was analyzed. This sample comprised 697 metacarpals, corresponding to 79 adult individuals (37 men and 42 women). These allowed us to obtain 120 unifactorial discriminant functions. We selected the 10 equations, one for each metacarpal from both hands, that provided the best sexual discrimination. The correct sex classification rank progressed from 81%, for right (R) metacarpals IV and V, to 91%, for left (L) metacarpal II. The results suggest that metacarpals are structures that can be used for sex determination in paleoanthropological and forensic identifications.
Changing Patterns of Drug and Alcohol Use in Fatally Injured Drivers in Washington State
Authors: Schwilke Eugene W. , Sampaio dos Santos Maria Isabel , Logan Barry K.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: We have previously reported on patterns of drug and alcohol use in fatally injured drivers in Washington State. Here we revisit that population to examine how drug use patterns have changed in the intervening 9 years. Blood and serum specimens from drivers who died within 4 h of a traffic accident between February 1, 2001, and January 31, 2002, were analyzed for illicit and therapeutic drugs and alcohol. Drugs when present were quantitated. Samples suitable for testing were obtained from 370 fatally injured drivers. Alcohol was detected above 0.01 g/100 mL in 41% of cases. The mean alcohol concentration for those cases was 0.17 g/100 mL (range 0.02–0.39 g/100 mL). Central nervous system (CNS) active drugs were detected in 144 (39%) cases. CNS depressants including carisoprodol, diazepam, hydrocodone, diphenhydramine, amitriptyline, and others were detected in 52 cases (14.1%), cannabinoids were detected in 47 cases (12.7%), CNS stimulants (cocaine and amphetamines) were detected in 36 cases (9.7%), and narcotic analgesics (excluding morphine which is often administered iatrogenically in trauma cases) were detected in 12 cases (3.2%). For those cases which tested positive for alcohol c. 40% had other drugs present which have the potential to cause or contribute to the driver's impairment. Our report also considers the blood drug concentrations in the context of their interpretability with respect to driving impairment. The data reveal that over the past decade, while alcohol use has declined, some drug use, notably methamphetamine, has increased significantly (from 1.89% to 4.86% of fatally injured drivers) between 1992 and 2002. Combined drug and alcohol use is a very significant pattern in this population and is probably overlooked in DUI enforcement programs.
The Successful DNA Typing of Samples Following a Thermal Cycler Power Loss*
Authors: Kokoszka Jason E. , Cline Rachel E. , Leisy Catherine , Grossweiler Lisa L. , Word Charlotte J.
Published: September 2006

ABSTRACT: An approach for generating DNA profiles when critical samples have been consumed and a power outage occurs during the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification reaction is described. This study demonstrates that a complete and accurate DNA short tandem repeat profile can be obtained: (1) when single source DNA samples are amplified for 26, 27, or 28 cycles using the Profiler Plus and COfiler Amplification Kits after an interruption in amplification, (2) from mock samples when PCR amplification has been interrupted early (after five cycles) or late (after 18 cycles) and the sample is subjected to an additional round of amplification, even after incubation of the sample at room temperature overnight, and (3) from nonprobative casework samples interrupted after approximately 18 cycles of amplification, an overnight incubation at room temperature and subjected to one or two additional rounds of PCR amplification for approximately 26 total cycles. Samples interrupted before five completed cycles and subjected to additional PCR cycles yielded variable results.
Genetic Variation for Five Short Tandem Repeat Loci in a Central China Population Sample
Authors: Ying B. W. , Fan H. , Liu T. T. , Zhao Z. H. , Liang Z. H. , Feng S. , Yuan W. A. , Yun L. B.
Published: September 2006

POPULATION: Chinese.
Allele Frequency of D13S1491 and D16S768 in Two Populations*
Authors: Jing Jia , Bin Zhou , Zhihui Yang , Gengqian Zhang , Lin Zhang
Published: September 2006

POPULATION: Chinese and Thai.
Guatemala Mestizo Population Data on 15 STR Loci (Identifiler® Kit)
Authors: Martinez‐Espin Esther , Martínez‐Gonzalez Luis J. , Fernandez‐Rosado Francisco , Entrala Carmen , Alvarez J. Carlos , Lorente Jose A. , Budowle Bruce , De Monroy Myriam Ovalle
Published: September 2006

POPULATION: Guatemala mestizo.
Population Data at Two Short Tandem Repeat Loci D2S1338 and D19S433 in the Sample of Multinational Bosnia and Herzegovina Residents
Authors: Marjanovic Damir , Pojskic Naris , Davoren Jon , Kovacevic Lejla , Durmic Adaleta , Bakal Narcisa , Drobnic Katja , Primorac Dragan , Škaro Vedrana , Bajrovic Kasim , Hadziselimovic Rifat
Published: September 2006

POPULATION: We have analyzed the distribution of allele frequencies at two short tandem repeats loci (D2S1338 and D19S433) in a multinational sample of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) residents. A total of 110 unrelated male and female individuals (Caucasians) from different regions of B&H were sampled for the analysis. We ensured that the sample reflected approximate proportional participation of the three main ethnic groups in the population of B&H (Bosniacs‐Muslim [45%], Serbs [34%], Croats [21%]).
Clinical application of tissue‐engineered transplants. Part I: mucosa
Authors: Sauerbier Sebastian , Gutwald Ralf , Wiedmann‐Al‐Ahmad Margit , Lauer Günter , Schmelzeisen Rainer
Published: September 2006

Objectives: The study series aims at testing the feasibility of the clinical application of tissue‐engineered oral mucosa. The preliminary results were gathered over a period varying from 6 months to 12 years depending on the surgical method.

Methods: Tissue‐engineered oral mucosa was used to cover defects in various surgical procedures like vestibuloplasty (n=42), freeing of the tongue (n=10), prelaminating the radial flap (n=5) and reconstruction of the urethra (n=16). In all interventions small samples of oral mucosa were harvested, cut into small pieces, resuspended in culture medium and seeded into a culture flask. Cultured keratinocytes were transferred onto membranes which then were used to cover mucosal defects in the oral cavity.

Results: To gain a graft of 15 cm2 size a mucosa biopsy of 4–8 mm2 and 40 ml autologous patients serum is needed. Tissue‐engineered oral mucosa was applied successfully in all four surgical methods. Six months after transplantation a regular epithelial layering with a histological delimitation of the stratum, epithelial crest and a strong basal membrane appeared. According to the reception site the tissue engineered oral mucosa differentiated in several ways.

Conclusion: Tissue‐engineered oral mucosa fulfils the requirements for clinical routine. With view to healing time and outcome it does not appear to be superior to regular harvested oral mucosa transplants. Because of a smaller harvesting defect and primary wound closure at the actual operation site the patients' convenience is increased. Thus this method reduces morbidity and advances the quality of life.
Activation of platelet‐activating factor receptor in SZ95 sebocytes results in inflammatory cytokine and prostaglandin E2 production
Authors: Zhang Qiwei , Seltmann Holger , Zouboulis Christos C. , Travers Jeffrey B.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Platelet‐activating factor (PAF) is a group of phosphocholines with various biological effects mediated by the PAF receptor (PAF‐R). Activation of the epidermal PAF‐R induces the expression of inflammatory mediators, including cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). The upregulation of COX‐2 expression has been shown to be involved in sebocyte proliferation, sebaceous gland inflammation and carcinogenesis. The present study was designed to investigate whether PAF‐R activation could induce the expression of COX‐2 and production of PGE2, as well as secretion of the inflammatory cytokine, interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), in the immortalized sebaceous gland cell line SZ95. Using calcium mobilization studies, we first confirmed that PAF can signal through PAF‐R in SZ95 sebocytes. We then found that the production of IL‐8 was induced following treatment with PAF‐R agonist, however blocked by a specific PAF‐R antagonist. Induction of COX‐2 expression and increased PGE2 production were observed in SZ95 sebocytes after PAF‐R activation. Finally, it was demonstrated that the production of PGE2, induced by PAF‐R activation and mediated by COX‐2 expression, was blocked following PAF‐R antagonism in SZ95 sebocytes. These studies suggest that SZ95 sebocytes express functional PAF‐Rs and PAF‐Rs are involved in regulating the expression of inflammatory mediators, including COX‐2, PGE2 and IL‐8.