bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence That the ZNT3 Protein Controls the Total Amount of Elemental Zinc in Synaptic Vesicles
Authors: Linkous David H. , Flinn Jane M. , Koh Jae Y. , Lanzirotti Antonio , Bertsch Paul M. , Jones Blair F. , Giblin Leonard J. , Frederickson Christopher J.
Published: August 2007

The ZNT3 protein decorates the presynaptic vesicles of central neurons harboring vesicular zinc, and deletion of this protein removes staining for zinc. However, it has been unclear whether only histochemically reactive zinc is lacking or if, indeed, total elemental zinc is missing from neurons lacking the Slc30a3 gene, which encodes the ZNT3 protein. The limitations of conventional histochemical procedures have contributed to this enigma. However, a novel technique, microprobe synchrotron X-ray fluorescence, reveals that the normal 2- to 3-fold elevation of zinc concentration normally present in the hippocampal mossy fibers is absent in Slc30a3 knockout (ZNT3) mice. Thus, the ZNT3 protein evidently controls not only the “stainability” but also the actual mass of zinc in mossy-fiber synaptic vesicles. This work thus confirms the metal-transporting role of the ZNT3 protein in the brain.
Planar Spindle Orientation and Asymmetric Cytokinesis in the Mouse Small Intestine
Authors: Fleming Elizabeth S. , Zajac Mark , Moschenross Darcy M. , Montrose David C. , Rosenberg Daniel W. , Cowan Ann E. , Tirnauer Jennifer S.
Published: August 2007

A major feature of epithelial cell polarity is regulated positioning of the mitotic spindle within the cell. Spindles in cells of symmetrically expanding tissues are predicted to align parallel to the tissue plane. Direct measurement of this alignment has been difficult in mammalian tissues. Here, we analyzed the position of spindles in intact mouse intestinal epithelium using microtubule immunofluorescence and three-dimensional confocal imaging. Mitotic cells were identified in the proliferative zone of intestinal crypts. Spindle angle relative to the apical cell surface was determined either by direct measurement from confocal images or with a computational algorithm. Angles averaged within 10° of parallel to the apical surface in metaphase and anaphase cells, consistent with robust planar spindle positioning, whereas spindles in prometaphase cells showed much greater angle variability. Interestingly, cytokinetic furrows appeared to extend from the basal cell surface toward the apical surface. This type of image analysis may be useful for studying the regulation of spindle position during tissue remodeling and tumor formation.
Interaction of Membrane Skeletal Protein, Protein 4.1B and p55, and Sodium Bicarbonate Cotransporter1 in Mouse Renal S1-S2 Proximal Tubules
Authors: Terada Nobuo , Ohno Nobuhiko , Saitoh Sei , Seki George , Komada Masayuki , Suzuki Tatsuo , Yamakawa Hisashi , Soleimani Manoocher , Ohno Shinichi
Published: August 2007

Our recent studies demonstrated the localization of protein 4.1B, a member of the 4.1 skeletal membrane proteins, to the basolateral membranes of the S1-S2 renal proximal tubules. In the present studies, we investigated the presence of binding partners that could form a molecular complex with the 4.1B protein. Immunohistochemistry revealed the localization of p55, a membrane-associated guanylate kinase, and the sodium bicarbonate cotransporter1 (NBC1), to the basolateral membrane domain of S1-S2 in mouse renal proximal tubules. Using immunoprecipitation of kidney lysates with anti-p55 antibody, a positive band was blotted with anti-4.1B antibody. GST fusion proteins including the NBC1 and 4.1B regions were confirmed to bind with each other by electrophoresis after mixing. Both NBC1- and 4.1B-specific bands were detected in renal protein mixtures immunoprecipated by either anti-4.1B- or NBC1-specific antibodies. It is likely that NBC1, 4.1B, and p55 form a molecular complex in the basolateral membrane of the kidney S1-S2 proximal tubules. We propose that the 4.1B-containing membrane skeleton may play a role in regulating the Na+ and HCO3- reabsorption in S1-S2 proximal tubules.
To Do or Not to Do: The Neural Signature of Self-Control
Authors: Brass Marcel , Haggard Patrick
Published: August 2007

Voluntary action is fundamental to human existence. Recent research suggests that volition involves a specific network of brain activity, centered on the fronto-median cortex. An important but neglected aspect of intentional action involves the decision whether to act or not. This decision process is crucial in daily life because it allows us to form intentions without necessarily implementing them. In the present study, we investigate the neural correlates of intentionally inhibiting actions using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Our data show that a specific area of the fronto-median cortex is more strongly activated when people prepare manual actions but then intentionally cancel them, compared with when they prepare and then complete the same actions. Our results suggest that the human brain network for intentional action includes a control structure for self-initiated inhibition or withholding of intended actions. The mental control of action has an enduring scientific interest, linked to the philosophical concept of “free will.” Our results identify a candidate brain area that reflects the crucial decision to do or not to do.
GABAAReceptor-Mediated Signaling Alters the Structure of Spontaneous Activity in the Developing Retina
Authors: Wang Chih-Tien , Blankenship Aaron G. , Anishchenko Anastasia , Elstrott Justin , Fikhman Michael , Nakanishi Shigetada , Feller Marla B.
Published: August 2007

Ambient GABA modulates firing patterns in adult neural circuits by tonically activating extrasynaptic GABAAreceptors. Here, we demonstrate that during a developmental period when activation of GABAAreceptors causes membrane depolarization, tonic activation of GABAAreceptors blocks all spontaneous activity recorded in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and starburst amacrine cells (SACs). Bath application of the GABAAreceptor agonist muscimol blocked spontaneous correlated increases in intracellular calcium concentration and compound postsynaptic currents in RGCs associated with retinal waves. In addition, GABAAreceptor agonists activated a tonic current in RGCs that significantly reduced their excitability. Using a transgenic mouse in which green fluorescent protein is expressed under the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 2 promoter to target recordings from SACs, we found that GABAAreceptor agonists blocked compound postsynaptic currents and also activated a tonic current. GABAAreceptor antagonists reduced the holding current in SACs but not RGCs, indicating that ambient levels of GABA tonically activate GABAAreceptors in SACs. GABAAreceptor antagonists did not block retinal waves but did alter the frequency and correlation structure of spontaneous RGC firing. Interestingly, the drug aminophylline, a general adenosine receptor antagonist used to block retinal waves, induced a tonic GABAAreceptor antagonist-sensitive current in outside-out patches excised from RGCs, indicating that aminophylline exerts its action on retinal waves by direct activation of GABAAreceptors. These findings have implications for how various neuroactive drugs and neurohormones known to modulate extrasynaptic GABAAreceptors may influence spontaneous firing patterns that are critical for the establishment of adult neural circuits.
Metabotropic Glutamate 2/3 Receptors in the Ventral Tegmental Area and the Nucleus Accumbens Shell Are Involved in Behaviors Relating to Nicotine Dependence
Authors: Liechti Matthias E. , Lhuillier Loic , Kaupmann Klemens , Markou Athina
Published: August 2007

The motivation to maintain nicotine self-administration and dependence may involve alterations in glutamatergic neurotransmission. Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) 2/3 receptors regulate glutamate and dopamine release in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell, two brain areas critically involved in reward and motivational processes. We found that acute systemic, as well as intra-VTA or intra-NAc, administration of the mGlu2/3 receptor agonist LY379268 [(−)-2-oxa-4-aminobicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-4,6-dicarboxylate] decreased nicotine, but not food, self-administration in rats. In addition, nicotine self-administration downregulated mGlu2/3 receptor function in corticolimbic rat brain sites including the VTA and the NAc, demonstrated by decreased coupling of mGlu2/3 receptors to G-proteins in the [35S]GTPγS binding assay. Furthermore, repeated treatment with LY379268 reduced nicotine self-administration at the beginning of a 14 d treatment period; however, the number of nicotine infusions earned gradually returned to baseline levels, indicating tolerance to the effects of repeated LY379268 treatment. Finally, LY379268 administration decreased both cue-induced reinstatement of nicotine- and food-seeking behavior. Together, these findings indicate an important role for mGlu2/3 receptors in the posterior VTA and the NAc shell in the mediation of the rewarding effects of nicotine and potentially in cue-induced nicotine-seeking behavior.
Activation of Presynaptic GABAAReceptors Induces Glutamate Release from Parallel Fiber Synapses
Authors: Stell Brandon M. , Rostaing Philippe , Triller Antoine , Marty Alain
Published: August 2007

The parallel fibers relay information coming into the cerebellar cortex from the mossy fibers, and they form synapses with molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) and Purkinje cells. Here we show that activation of ionotropic GABA receptors (GABAARs) induces glutamate release from parallel fibers onto both MLIs and Purkinje cells. These GABA-induced EPSCs have kinetics and amplitudes identical to random spontaneous currents (sEPSCs), but, unlike sEPSCs, they occur in bursts of between one and five successive events. The variation in amplitude of events within bursts is significantly less than the variation of all sEPSC amplitudes, suggesting that the bursts result from repetitive activation of single presynaptic fibers. Electron microscopy of immunogold-labeled α-1 subunits revealed GABAARs on parallel fiber terminals. We suggest that the activation of these receptors underlies the increased amplitude of parallel fiber-evoked Purkinje cell EPSCs seen with application of exogenous GABA or after the release of GABA from local interneurons. These results occur only when molecular layer GABAARs are activated, and the effects are abolished when the receptors are blocked by the GABAAR antagonist gabazine (5 μm). From these data, we conclude that GABAARs located on parallel fibers depolarize parallel fiber terminals beyond the threshold for Na+channel activation and thereby induce glutamate release onto MLIs and Purkinje cells.
Angiotensin II Controls Occludin Function and Is Required for Blood–Brain Barrier Maintenance: Relevance to Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Wosik Karolina , Cayrol Romain , Dodelet-Devillers Aurore , Berthelet France , Bernard Monique , Moumdjian Robert , Bouthillier Alain , Reudelhuber Timothy L. , Prat Alexandre
Published: August 2007

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) restricts molecular and cellular trafficking between the blood and the CNS. Although astrocytes are known to control BBB permeability, the molecular determinants of this effect remain unknown. We show that angiotensinogen (AGT) produced and secreted by astrocytes is cleaved into angiotensin II (AngII) and acts on type 1 angiotensin receptors (AT1) expressed by BBB endothelial cells (ECs). Activation of AT1restricts the passage of molecular tracers across human BBB-derived ECs through threonine-phosphorylation of the tight junction protein occludin and its mobilization to lipid raft membrane microdomains. We also show that AGT knock-out animals have disorganized occludin strands at the level of the BBB and a diffuse accumulation of the endogenous serum protein plasminogen in the CNS, compared with wild-type animals. Finally, we demonstrate a reduction in the number of AGT-immunopositive perivascular astrocytes in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, which correlates with a reduced expression of occludin similarly seen in the CNS of AGT knock-out animals. Such a reduction in astrocyte-expressed AGT and AngII is dependent,in vitro, on the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ. Our study defines a novel physiological role for AngII in the CNS and suggests that inflammation-induced downregulation of AngII production by astrocytes is involved in BBB dysfunction in MS lesions.
Amplitude Modulation Patterns of Local Field Potentials Reveal Asynchronous Neuronal Populations
Authors: Díaz Javier , Razeto-Barry Pablo , Letelier Juan-Carlos , Caprio John , Bacigalupo Juan
Published: August 2007

Neural oscillations, which appear in several areas of the nervous system and cover a wide frequency range, are a prominent issue in current neuroscience. Extracellularly recorded oscillations are generally thought to be a manifestation of a neural population with synchronized electrical activity resulting from coupling mechanisms. The vertebrate olfactory neuroepithelium exhibits β-band oscillations, termed peripheral waves (PWs), in their population response to odor stimulation. Here, we examine PWs in the channel catfish and propose that their properties could be explained as the superposition of asynchronous oscillators. Our model shows that the intriguing random pattern of amplitude-modulated PWs could be explained by Rayleigh fading, an interference phenomenon well known in physics and recognizable using statistical methods and signal analysis. We are proposing a mathematical fingerprint to characterize neural signals generated by the addition of random phase oscillators. Our interpretation of PWs as arising from asynchronous oscillators could be generalized to other neuronal populations, because it suggests that neural oscillations, detected in local field potential recordings within a narrow frequency band, do not necessarily originate from synchronization events.
INFLUENCES OF SECONDARY DISTURBANCES ON LODGEPOLE PINE STAND DEVELOPMENT IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Authors: Sibold Jason S. , Veblen Thomas T. , Chipko Kathryn , Lawson Lauren , Mathis Emily , Scott Jared
Published: August 2007

Although high‐severity fire is the primary type of disturbance shaping the structure of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) stands in the southern Rocky Mountains, many post‐fire stands are also affected by blowdown, low‐severity surface fires, and/or outbreaks of mountain pine beetle (MPB; Dendroctonus ponderosae). The ecological effects of these secondary disturbances are poorly understood but are potentially important in the context of managing for ecological restoration and fire hazard mitigation. We investigated the effects of blowdown, surface fires, and MPB outbreaks on demographic processes in post‐fire lodgepole pine stands in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA. We used dendroecological methods to reconstruct stand characteristics prior to and following secondary disturbances for paired stands with and without secondary disturbances. Surface fire events do not kill canopy trees or trigger pulses of recruitment and as such do not have detectable influences on stand development. In contrast, both MPB and blowdown kill canopy trees and trigger pulses of tree regeneration of lodgepole pine and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa). The amount and species composition of post‐disturbance regeneration is dependent on the severity of the disturbance and on the time since stand initiation. Secondary disturbances of higher severity (i.e., killing >50% of the canopy trees) that occur in younger post‐fire stands favor new establishment of lodgepole pine. In contrast, secondary disturbances of lower severity in older stands (>250 years) trigger a pulse of establishment of subalpine fir. The results of this study demonstrate that the high tree densities characteristic of lodgepole pine stands in the southern Rockies (southern Wyoming to northern New Mexico) are the result of dense regeneration following stand‐replacing fires and that surface fires had little or no thinning effect on tree densities. Thus, current high stand densities in the study area are not the result of suppression of surface fires. Moreover, the strong pulses of regeneration following forest thinning by MPB and blowdowns imply that, depending on the degree of thinning, thinning prescriptions to reduce fuels in the lodgepole pine forest type may have the unintended consequence of increasing ladder fuels 15–20 years following treatments.
GRAPH THEORY AS A PROXY FOR SPATIALLY EXPLICIT POPULATION MODELS IN CONSERVATION PLANNING
Authors: Minor Emily S. , Urban Dean L.
Published: August 2007

Spatially explicit population models (SEPMs) are often considered the best way to predict and manage species distributions in spatially heterogeneous landscapes. However, they are computationally intensive and require extensive knowledge of species' biology and behavior, limiting their application in many cases. An alternative to SEPMs is graph theory, which has minimal data requirements and efficient algorithms. Although only recently introduced to landscape ecology, graph theory is well suited to ecological applications concerned with connectivity or movement. This paper compares the performance of graph theory to a SEPM in selecting important habitat patches for Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina) conservation. We use both models to identify habitat patches that act as population sources and persistent patches and also use graph theory to identify patches that act as stepping stones for dispersal. Correlations of patch rankings were very high between the two models. In addition, graph theory offers the ability to identify patches that are very important to habitat connectivity and thus long‐term population persistence across the landscape. We show that graph theory makes very similar predictions in most cases and in other cases offers insight not available from the SEPM, and we conclude that graph theory is a suitable and possibly preferable alternative to SEPMs for species conservation in heterogeneous landscapes.
HABITAT CLASSIFICATION MODELING WITH INCOMPLETE DATA: PUSHING THE HABITAT ENVELOPE
Authors: Zarnetske Phoebe L. , Edwards Thomas C. , Moisen Gretchen G.
Published: August 2007

Habitat classification models (HCMs) are invaluable tools for species conservation, land‐use planning, reserve design, and metapopulation assessments, particularly at broad spatial scales. However, species occurrence data are often lacking and typically limited to presence points at broad scales. This lack of absence data precludes the use of many statistical techniques for HCMs. One option is to generate pseudo‐absence points so that the many available statistical modeling tools can be used. Traditional techniques generate pseudo‐absence points at random across broadly defined species ranges, often failing to include biological knowledge concerning the species–habitat relationship. We incorporated biological knowledge of the species–habitat relationship into pseudo‐absence points by creating habitat envelopes that constrain the region from which points were randomly selected. We define a habitat envelope as an ecological representation of a species, or species feature's (e.g., nest) observed distribution (i.e., realized niche) based on a single attribute, or the spatial intersection of multiple attributes. We created HCMs for Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis atricapillus) nest habitat during the breeding season across Utah forests with extant nest presence points and ecologically based pseudo‐absence points using logistic regression. Predictor variables were derived from 30‐m USDA Landfire and 250‐m Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) map products. These habitat‐envelope‐based models were then compared to null envelope models which use traditional practices for generating pseudo‐absences. Models were assessed for fit and predictive capability using metrics such as kappa, threshold‐independent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) plots, adjusted deviance (), and cross‐validation, and were also assessed for ecological relevance. For all cases, habitat envelope‐based models outperformed null envelope models and were more ecologically relevant, suggesting that incorporating biological knowledge into pseudo‐absence point generation is a powerful tool for species habitat assessments. Furthermore, given some a priori knowledge of the species–habitat relationship, ecologically based pseudo‐absence points can be applied to any species, ecosystem, data resolution, and spatial extent.
ENDANGERED LIGHT‐FOOTED CLAPPER RAIL AFFECTS PARASITE COMMUNITY STRUCTURE IN COASTAL WETLANDS
Authors: Whitney Kathleen L. , Hechinger Ryan F. , Kuris Armand M. , Lafferty Kevin D.
Published: August 2007

An extinction necessarily affects community members that have obligate relationships with the extinct species. Indirect or cascading effects can lead to even broader changes at the community or ecosystem level. However, it is not clear whether generalist parasites should be affected by the extinction of one of their hosts. We tested the prediction that loss of a host species could affect the structure of a generalist parasite community by investigating the role of endangered Light‐footed Clapper Rails (Rallus longirostris levipes) in structuring trematode communities in four tidal wetlands in southern California, USA (Carpinteria Salt Marsh, Mugu Lagoon) and Mexico (Estero de Punta Banda, Bahia Falsa–San Quintín). We used larval trematode parasites in first intermediate host snails (Cerithidea californica) as windows into the adult trematodes that parasitize Clapper Rails. Within and among wetlands, we found positive associations between Clapper Rails and four trematode species, particularly in the vegetated marsh habitat where Clapper Rails typically occur. This suggests that further loss of Clapper Rails is likely to affect the abundance of several competitively dominant trematode species in wetlands with California horn snails, with possible indirect effects on the trematode community and changes in the impacts of these parasites on fishes and invertebrates.
SERIAL DEPLETION OF MARINE INVERTEBRATES LEADS TO THE DECLINE OF A STRONGLY INTERACTING GRAZER
Authors: Salomon Anne K. , Tanape Nick M. , Huntington Henry P.
Published: August 2007

We investigated the relative roles of natural factors and shoreline harvest leading to recent declines of the black leather chiton (Katharina tunicata) on the outer Kenai Peninsula, Alaska (USA). This intertidal mollusk is a strongly interacting grazer and a culturally important subsistence fishery for Sugpiaq (Chugach Alutiiq) natives. We took multiple approaches to determine causes of decline. Field surveys examined the significant predictors ofKatharinadensity and biomass across 11 sites varying in harvest pressure, and an integrated analysis of archaeological faunal remains, historical records, traditional ecological knowledge, and contemporary subsistence invertebrate landings examined changes in subsistence practices through time. Strong evidence suggests that current spatial variation inKatharinadensity and biomass is driven by both human exploitation and sea otter (Enhydra lutris) predation. Traditional knowledge, calibrated by subsistence harvest data, further revealed that several benthic marine invertebrates (sea urchin, crab, clams, and cockles) have declined serially beginning in the 1960s, with reduced densities and sizes ofKatharinabeing the most recent. The timing of these declines was coincident with changes in human behavior (from semi‐nomadic to increasingly permanent settlement patterns, improved extractive technologies, regional commercial crustacean exploitation, the erosion of culturally based season and size restrictions) and with the reestablishment of sea otters. We propose that a spatial concentration in shoreline collection pressure through time, increased harvest efficiency, and the serial depletion of alternative marine invertebrate prey have led to intensified per capita predator impacts onKatharinaand thus its recent localized decline.
FOREST PRODUCTIVITY DECLINE CAUSED BY SUCCESSIONAL PALUDIFICATION OF BOREAL SOILS
Authors: Simard Martin , Lecomte Nicolas , Bergeron Yves , Bernier Pierre Y. , Paré David
Published: August 2007

Long‐term forest productivity decline in boreal forests has been extensively studied in the last decades, yet its causes are still unclear. Soil conditions associated with soil organic matter accumulation are thought to be responsible for site productivity decline. The objectives of this study were to determine if paludification of boreal soils resulted in reduced forest productivity, and to identify changes in the physical and chemical properties of soils associated with reduction in productivity. We used a chronosequence of 23 black spruce stands ranging in postfire age from 50 to 2350 years and calculated three different stand productivity indices, including site index. We assessed changes in forest productivity with time using two complementary approaches: (1) by comparing productivity among the chronosequence stands and (2) by comparing the productivity of successive cohorts of trees within the same stands to determine the influence of time independently of other site factors.

Charcoal stratigraphy indicates that the forest stands differ in their fire history and originated either from high‐ or low‐severity soil burns. Both chronosequence and cohort approaches demonstrate declines in black spruce productivity of 50–80% with increased paludification, particularly during the first centuries after fire. Paludification alters bryophyte abundance and succession, increases soil moisture, reduces soil temperature and nutrient availability, and alters the vertical distribution of roots. Low‐severity soil burns significantly accelerate rates of paludification and productivity decline compared with high‐severity fires and ultimately reduce nutrient content in black spruce needles. The two combined approaches indicate that paludification can be driven by forest succession only, independently of site factors such as position on slope. This successional paludification contrasts with edaphic paludification, where topography and drainage primarily control the extent and rate of paludification. At the landscape scale, the fire regime (frequency and severity) controls paludification and forest productivity through its effect on soil organic layers. Implications for global carbon budgets and sustainable forestry are discussed.
Clinical Trial of 3 Days of Treatment with Oral Pseudoephedrine for the Common Cold in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Latte Jenny , Taverner David
Published: August 2007

Background

Single-dose studies indicate that pseudoephedrine (PSE) provides moderate relief for congestion in coryza, but there is a lack of repeated-dose studies.

Methods

Two hundred sixteen subjects participated in this double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial over 3 days. Measurements included posterior rhinomanometry, acoustic rhinometry, and subjective measures of congestion using a categorical scale and visual analog scale (VAS). Treatment was with one 60-mg PSE tablet four times daily or matching placebo.

Results

After the first dose, PSE relative to placebo consistently showed small improvements for all objective assessments of nasal congestion. The prespecified primary efficacy outcome (day 1 nasal airway resistance area under the curve) was not significantly different between groups. PSE produced a 5.5% (p = 0.031) increase in total nasal volume for 0.5–3 hours after dosing. A pooled analysis of days 1 and 3 data showed a VAS score decrease of 7.0% (p = 0.072) for the 0.5- to 3-hour period on PSE.

Conclusion

PSE showed small but nonsignificant improvements in objective assessments of nasal congestion relative to placebo after a single dose.
Correlation between Computed Tomography and Bone Single Photon Emission-Computed Tomography Scintigraphy in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Catalano Peter J. , Payne Spencer C. , Choi Ellen , Shah Rashmikant
Published: August 2007

Background

Computed tomography (CT) has been the imaging study of choice for evaluating chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). 99mTc-MDP bone single photon emission-computed tomography (SPECT) has proven useful at identifying inflammation of bone and its use in CRS has been discussed recently. No studies, however, have documented the correlation between these two imaging modalities in CRS.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of 30 patients with CRS who underwent CT and SPECT scan of the paranasal sinuses. Increased radiotracer uptake during SPECT scan was compared with CT findings graded on the Lund-Mackay score (LMS). The findings of the two imaging modalities were compared and evaluated for standard correlative statistics for diagnostic tests.

Results

SPECT imaging was abnormal in 25/30 patients, and CT was abnormal in 27/30 patients. Correlation between the two was highest for the ethmoid sinuses at 73.3%. SPECT had a high positive predictive value for mucosal inflammation on CT of 84.1%. Approximately 25% of individual sinuses with a positive SPECT in patients without prior surgery were not positive in corresponding sinuses on CT. There was a positive correlation between the LMS and the number of SPECT positive sinuses within the same patient (r = 0.486; p = 0.006).

Conclusion

99mTc-MDP SPECT scan in patients with CRS is shown to be a useful indicator of bone involvement. The relatively high rate of bone involvement in the absence of mucosal inflammation as seen in this study warrants additional research and the potential need for different therapies than are currently available.
Office Procedures for Quantitative Assessment of Olfactory Function
Authors: Doty Richard L.
Published: August 2007

Background

Despite the importance of the sense of smell for establishing the flavor of foods and beverages, as well as protecting against environmental dangers, this primary sensory system is commonly ignored by the rhinologist.

Methods

In this article basic issues related to practical measurement of olfactory function in the clinic are described and examples of the application of the two most common paradigms for such measurement—odor identification and detection–are presented. A listing is made of the 27 olfactory tests currently used clinically, along with their strengths and weaknesses. A brief review of common nasosinus-related disorders for which quantitative olfactory testing has been performed is provided.

Results

Although many psychophysical tests are available for quantifying olfactory loss, it is apparent that a number are limited in terms of practicality, sensitivity, and reliability. In general, sensitivity and reliability are positively correlated with test length. Given the strengths of the more reliable forced-choice pyschophysical tests and the limitations of electrophysiological tests, the common distinction between “subjective” and “objective” tests is misleading and should not be used. Complete recovery of olfactory function, as measured quantitatively, rarely follows surgical or medical interventions in patients with rhinosinusitis.

Conclusion

Given the availability of practical clinical olfactory tests, the modern rhinologist can easily quantify cranial nerve (CN) I function. The application of such tests has led to a new understanding of the effects of nasal disease on olfactory function. Except in cases of total or near-total nasal obstruction, olfactory and airway patency measures usually are unrelated, in accord with the concept that rhinosinusitis primarily influences olfactory function by apoptotic pathological changes within the olfactory neuroepithelium.
Possible Role of Transforming Growth Factor Beta and Interleukin-4 in the Up-Regulation of CLC-2 and CLC-3 in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Li Huabin , Jiang Hongyan , Cheng Lei , Oh Yun , Xu Geng
Published: August 2007

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) may cover different disease entities, and the pathogenic mechanism remains unclear.

Methods

The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of chloride channel protein CLC-2 and CLC-3 in CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and evaluate the roles of interleukin (IL)-4 and transforming growth factor (TGF) beta in the up-regulation of CLC-2 and CLC-3. We detected expression of CLC-2 and CLC-3 in 17 patients with CRSsNP by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and we examined the concentration of TGF-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and interferon (IFN) γ in ethmoid sinus mucosa by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

We found that CLC-2 and CLC-3 is up-regulated in CRSnNP and located in submucosal glands and epithelium of the ethmoid sinus. CLC-2 and CLC-3 mRNA correlated with IL-4 in CRSsNP (r = 0.57 and 0.65; p < 0.05). CLC-2 and CLC-3 mRNA correlated negatively with mucosal TGF-beta in CRSsNP (r = -0.49 and -0.54; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

We concluded that CLC-2 and CLC-3 is up-regulated in ethmoid mucosa and may affect the development of CRSsNP. TGF-beta and IL-4 may modulate the expression of CLC-2 and CLC-3 in CRSsNP.
American Rhinologic Society Member Survey on “Maximal Medical Therapy” for Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Dubin Marc G. , Liu Cindy , Lin Sandra Y. , Senior Brent A.
Published: August 2007

Background

“Maximal medical therapy” is the standard of care for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) treatment before the recommendation for surgery. However, this therapy is not consistent. Therefore, as a first step in determining the role of the disparate “maximal medical” treatments for CRS, American Rhinologic Society (ARS) members were surveyed.

Methods

A survey was mailed to all nonresident members of the ARS (n = 723). Focusing on the time period before surgical intervention is first considered for CRS patients, the survey assessed types of therapies, frequency of use, details on antibiotic and steroid usage, use of computed tomography (CT), and demographic data of respondents. All responses were anonymous.

Results

Three hundred eight surveys were returned (43%). A majority of respondents used oral antibiotics and nasal steroids “almost always (>90%).” Oral antibiotics, oral steroids, nasal steroids, saline irrigation, and allergy testing were most commonly used at least “usually (50–90%).” The median antibiotic length was 3.1–4 weeks. The mean peak prednisone dose was 51.7 mg when oral steroids were used. Therapies that were rarely or never used by the majority included oral antifungals, antifungal spray, antibiotic spray, antibiotic nebulizer, steroid nebulizer, and i.v. antibiotics.

Conclusion

Oral antibiotics (median, 3.1–4 weeks) and nasal steroids are used >90% of the time by a majority of ARS members for maximal medical treatment of CRS.
Organ Culture at the Air–Liquid Interface Maintains Structural and Functional Integrities of Inflammatory and Fibrovascular Cells of Nasal Polyps
Authors: Park Seong Kook , Lee Woo Jeong , Yang Young Il
Published: August 2007

Background

Both inflammatory and fibrovascular cells play an important role in development of nasal polyps (NPs). In this study, we have developed a culture system to maintain structural and functional integrities of submucosal cells in vitro.

Methods

NP tissue was cultured on a gelatin sponge at air–liquid (AL) interface or was cultured in submerging. Tissues were analyzed for survival, structural integrity, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression.

Results

Most cells of NPs cultured in submerging died within 3 days. In culture at the AL interface, epithelium as well as submucosa kept structural integrity during the culture period. RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry showed that submucosa cells displayed VEGF expression, which is a major inducer of angiogenesis and edema of NPs.

Conclusion

Our study is the first demonstration that organ culture of NPs at the AL interface retains integrity of both epithelium and submucosa and this culture method possibly will be used to study the pathogenesis of NPs.
Comparison of Fast-Setting Calcium Phosphate Bone Cement and Fat Autograft in a Rabbit Model of Frontal Sinus Obliteration
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Altman Jason I. , Hoch Benjamin L. , Munoz Carla M. , Shohet Michael R.
Published: August 2007

Background

Traditionally, chronic obstruction of the frontal recess is managed by frontal sinus obliteration (FSO). This often requires the harvest of abdominal fat as a filler with all of its associated morbidity. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of calcium phosphate bone cement (Craniofacial Repair System [CRS]) as a material for FSO.

Methods

Eighteen New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups and carried out to two time periods. Six rabbits underwent FSO with fat autograft (control group) and 12 rabbits underwent FSO with CRS (study groups 1 and 2, respectively). At 52 weeks, six control and six study rabbits were killed. The remaining six rabbits were killed at 78 weeks. All specimens underwent radiological evaluation with spiral computed tomography (CT) followed by gross inspection. Histological evaluation was then performed to assess bony growth and to evaluate the interface of the sinus wall with the obliterative material.

Results

Sinuses obliterated with CRS showed complete obliteration radiographically. This was apparent at 52 weeks and remained static at 78 weeks. Histological analysis indicated persistent obliteration of the sinus cavity from 52 to 78 weeks and signs of osteoinduction. There were no complications observed as a result of the operative procedure or the materials used.

Conclusion

CRS is an alternative to fat autograft for FSO in this noninfected animal model. Further studies are needed to evaluate its long-term efficacy as well as its behavior in chronically infected sinuses.
Onset of Action of Azelastine Nasal Spray Compared with Mometasone Nasal Spray and Placebo in Subjects with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis Evaluated in an Environmental Exposure Chamber
Authors: Patel Piyush , D'Andrea Carrie , Sacks Harry J.
Published: August 2007

Background

The objective of this study was to determine the onset of action of azelastine hydrochloride nasal spray compared with placebo and an intranasal steroid, mometasone furoate, in subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR).

Methods

Subjects with a history of SAR and symptomatic while exposed to ragweed pollen in an environmental exposure chamber (EEC) were randomized to azelastine nasal spray (n = 150), mometasone nasal spray (n = 150), or placebo (n = 150) and recorded total nasal symptom scores (TNSS), consisting of sneezing, nasal pruritus, rhinorrhea, and congestion, during an 8-hour study period.

Results

Azelastine nasal spray showed a statistically significant improvement in the TNSS at 15 minutes compared with placebo. The effect was durable at each time point during the 8-hour study. Azelastine nasal spray also was significantly more effective than mometasone at each time point.

Conclusion

Azelastine nasal spray has a rapid (15 minute) onset of action. Azelastine nasal spray was superior to both placebo and mometasone nasal spray in reducing nasal symptoms of SAR occurring within 8 hours after an allergen challenge.
University Science Students’: Knowledge of Fats
Authors: Mazier M.J. Patricia , McLeod Sheena L.
Published: August 2007

Purpose: Students entering university often lack knowledge about fats; whether students gain such information during four years at university is unclear. Students’ knowledge of fat in the first and fourth years was measured and compared. The effect of a nutrition course on knowledge was also examined.

Methods: A total of 215 science students at a small undergraduate university completed a 15-item, closed-ended questionnaire concerning knowledge of fats in the diet.

Results: Fourth-year science students have greater nutrition knowledge of fats than do first-year science students (p<0.005). Given that the majority of first-year students reside on campus and the majority of fourth-year students reside off campus, the purchasing of food and preparation of meals may explain the senior students’ greater knowledge of fat. Students who have taken a nutrition course know more about fats than do those who have not (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Taking even one course in nutrition greatly increases nutrition knowledge. Universities could encourage undergraduate students to take a basic nutrition course, which should emphasize the identification and understanding of different types of dietary fats.
Heritability of cognitive functions in families with bipolar disorder
Authors: Antila Mervi , Tuulio‐Henriksson Annamari , Kieseppä Tuula , Soronen Pia , Palo Outi M. , Paunio Tiina , Haukka Jari , Partonen Timo , Lönnqvist Jouko
Published: August 2007

Bipolar disorder is highly heritable. Cognitive dysfunctions often observed in bipolar patients and their unaffected relatives implicate that these impairments may be associated with genetic predisposition to bipolar disorder and thus fulfill the criteria of a valid endophenotype for the disorder. However, the most fundamental criterion, their heritability, has not been directly studied in any bipolar population. This population‐based study estimated the heritability of cognitive functions in bipolar disorder. A comprehensive neuropsychological test battery and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV were administered to a population‐based sample of 110 individuals from 52 families with bipolar disorder. Heritability of cognitive functions as assessed with neuropsychological test scores were estimated using the Solar package. Significant additive heritabilities were found in verbal ability, executive functioning, and psychomotor processing speed. Genetic contribution was low to verbal learning functions. High heritability, in executive functioning and psychomotor processing speed suggest that these may be valid endophenotypic traits for genetic studies of bipolar disorder. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Refinement of the Crystal Structures of Palladium‐Rich In‐Pd Compounds by X‐Ray and Neutron Powder Diffraction.
Authors: Kohlmann Holger , Ritter Clemens
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Chemical Bonding and Physical Properties of Yb5Bi3.
Authors: Liang Ying , Cardoso‐Gil Raul , Schnelle Walter , Schmidt Marcus , Zhao Jing Tai , Grin Yuri
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Crystal and Electronic Structures of the New Carbomolybdates(III), Ln2[Mo2C3] with Ln: Ce, Sm, Tb, and Dy.
Authors: Dashjav Enkhtsetseg , Kreiner Guido , Wagner Frank R. , Schnelle Walter , Kniep Ruediger
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Experimental Investigation and Thermodynamic Modeling of the Gd—Si System.
Authors: Huang Mianliang , Schlagel Deborah L. , Schmidt Frederick A. , Lograsso Thomas A.
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
SSOH and HSSO Radicals: An Experimental and Theoretical Study of [S2OH]0/+/‐ Species.
Authors: de Petris Giulia , Rosi Marzio , Troiani Anna
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
[AuGe18{Si(SiMe3)3}6] ‐: A Soluble Au—Ge Cluster on the Way to a Molecular Cable?
Authors: Schenk Christian , Schnepf Andreas
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Asymmetric Direct Vinylogous Carbon—Carbon Bond Formation Catalyzed by Bifunctional Organocatalysts.
Authors: Jiang Lin , Zheng Hong‐Ting , Liu Tian‐Yu , Yue Lei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Unexpected Formation of 4‐Hydroxy‐6‐nitroindoles in the Intramolecular Cyclization of O‐(3‐Amino‐5‐nitrophenyl)ketoximes.
Authors: Vorob'ev Sergei S. , Dutov Mikhail D. , Vatsadze Irina A. , Kachala Vadim V. , Strelenko Yuri A. , Sedov Andrei V. , Shevelev Svyatoslav A.
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Studies on the Intramolecular Cyclizations of Bicyclic δ‐Hydroxynitriles Promoted by Triflic Anhydride.
Authors: Justribo Valeria , Pellegrinet Silvina C. , Colombo Maria I.
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Reaction of Sarcosine with Chromone‐3‐carbaldehyde and 6,6′‐(Polymethylenedioxy)di(chromone‐3‐carbaldehyde).
Authors: Ghosh Tarun , Bandyopadhyay Chandrakanta
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A New and Efficient N‐Alkylation Procedure for Semicarbazides/Semicarbazones Derivatives.
Authors: Brondani Dalci Jose , Moreira Diogo Rodrigo de Magalhaes , de Farias Maria Patricia A. , Souza Flavio Ricardo da S. , Barbosa Fabio Fernandes , Leite Ana Cristina Lima
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
2,3‐Bis[(trimethylsilyl)methyl]‐1,3‐butadiene as a Versatile Bis‐nucleophilic Reagent for the Preparation of Polyfunctional 1,3‐Diene Derivatives.
Authors: Antipova Anna O. , Tumanov Vasily V. , Smit William A.
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
An Expedient Variant of Heck Reaction of Alkenyl Nonaflates: Homogeneous Ligand‐Free Palladium Catalysis at Room Temperature.
Authors: Vogel Michael A. K. , Stark Christian B. W. , Lyapkalo Ilya M.
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Titanocene(II)‐Promoted Stereoselective Alkenylation Utilizing (Z)‐Alkenyl Sulfones.
Authors: Ogata Akitoshi , Nemoto Masami , Kobayashi Kenji , Tsubouchi Akira , Takeda Takeshi
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Trifluoroacetylation of Arylamines Using Poly‐Phosphoric Acid Trimethylsilylester (PPSE).
Authors: Lopez Simon E. , Perez Yelsi , Restrepo Jelem , Salazar Jose , Charris Jaime
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Alkylation of Ammonium Salts Catalyzed by Imidazolium‐Based Ionic Liquid Catalysts.
Authors: Zheng Zhuo Qun , Wang Jie , Wu Ting Hua , Zhou Xiao Ping
Published: August 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.