bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological analysis of the hindlimb in apes and humans. II. Moment arms
Authors: Payne R. C. , Crompton R. H. , Isler K. , Savage R. , Vereecke E. E. , Günther M. M. , Thorpe S. K. S. , D’Août K.
Published: May 2006

Flexion/extension moment arms were obtained for the major muscles crossing the hip, knee and ankle joints in the orang‐utan, gibbon, gorilla (Eastern and Western lowland) and bonobo. Moment arms varied with joint motion and were generally longer in proximal limb muscles than distal limb muscles. The shape of the moment arm curves (i.e. the plots of moment arm against joint angle) differed in different hindlimb muscles and in the same muscle in different subjects (both in the same and in different ape species). Most moment arms increased with increasing joint flexion, a finding which may be understood in the context of the employment of flexed postures by most non‐human apes (except orang‐utans) during both terrestrial and arboreal locomotion. When compared with humans, non‐human great apes tended to have muscles better designed for moving the joints through large ranges. This was particularly true of the pedal digital flexors in orang‐utans. In gibbons, the only lesser ape studied here, many of the moment arms measured were relatively short compared with those of great apes. This study was performed on a small sample of apes and thus differences noted here warrant further investigation in larger populations.
Deformation and failure of cartilage in the tensile mode
Authors: Sasazaki Yoshihiro , Shore Roger , Seedhom Bahaa B.
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was to visualize, at the ultrastructural level, the deformation and failure mechanism of cartilage matrix in the tensile mode. Full‐thickness dumbbell‐shaped specimens were prepared from adult bovines. There were two specimen groups; in the ‘parallel’ group the specimen axis was parallel to the split lines defining the preferential orientation of the collagen in the articular surface, and in the ‘perpendicular’ group the specimen axis was perpendicular to the split lines. Specimens were placed with the articular surface uppermost and subjected to a graded series of strain within individual mini‐tension devices, while observed with stereomicroscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Thereafter, the changes in the ultrastructure were observed with both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The mechanism of cartilage failure in the tensile mode comprised the following stages, whether the strain was applied parallel or perpendicular to the split line. (1) At 0% strain a fibrillar meshwork within the articular surface was predominantly orientated in the direction of the split line. (2) As strain increased, the fibrillar meshwork became more orientated in the parallel group and reorientated in the perpendicular group in the direction of the applied strain. (3) After complete reorientation of the fibrillar meshwork in the direction of the applied strain, the initial sign of failure was rupture of the fibrillar meshwork within the articular surface. (4) Subsequently, the rupture rapidly propagated into the deeper layers. Greater strains were required for fibrillar reorientation and complete rupture in the ‘perpendicular group’ than in the parallel group.
Food habits and habitat selection of suburban badgers (Meles meles) in Japan
Authors: Kaneko Y. , Maruyama N. , Macdonald D. W.
Published: May 2006

A study of the Japanese badger Meles meles anakuma was undertaken in Hinode, a suburb of Tokyo, between 1992 and 1998. Faecal analysis, based on 82 samples, revealed that during spring and summer, earthworms (Megaseolocidae spp.) occurred at high frequency in the diet, with berries (Rubus spp.), beetles and persimmon Dymopyrus kaki also eaten during summer months. Scavenged food was eaten in early spring when earthworm availability was low, and badgers switched from worms when persimmon became abundant in autumn. Twenty‐one Japanese badgers (14 males and seven females) were radio‐tracked. Adult badger home ranges were stable, and those of males [40±19 (sd) ha, n=7] were larger than those of females [11±6 (sd) ha, n=4]. Badger resting sites in each home range were located within 630 m of each other and categorized as setts or couches. Setts were sited within core areas (30% adaptive kernel method) of home ranges. Most setts were on a sub‐ridge and avoided west‐facing slopes. Couches, mainly in deciduous forest and forest edge, were generally sited towards the periphery of home ranges. Most badger foods were distributed along ecotones between forestry plantations and farmland; earthworms, their main food from late spring to summer, and berry thickets were both concentrated at the edge of conifer plantations. Persimmon trees, the main food source for badgers in autumn, were also found in agricultural land bordering forest edge. Badger home range size was related to forest edge density.
Caffeine inhibition of rat carotid body chemoreceptors is mediated by A2Aand A2Badenosine receptors
Authors: Conde S. V. , Obeso A. , Vicario I. , Rigual R. , Rocher A. , Gonzalez C.
Published: May 2006

Caffeine, an unspecific antagonist of adenosine receptors, is commonly used to treat the apnea of prematurity. We have defined the effects of caffeine on the carotid body (CB) chemoreceptors, the main peripheral controllers of breathing, and identified the adenosine receptors involved. Caffeine inhibited basal (IC50, 210 µm) and low intensity (PO2 ≈ 66 mm Hg/30 mmK+) stimulation‐induced release of catecholamines from chemoreceptor cells in intact preparations of rat CBin vitro. Opposite to caffeine, 5′‐(N‐ethylcarboxamido)adenosine (NECA; an A2agonist) augmented basal and low‐intensity hypoxia‐induced release. 2‐p‐(2‐Carboxyethyl)phenethyl‐amino‐5′‐N‐ethylcaboxamido‐adenosine hydrochloride (CGS21680), 2‐hexynyl‐NECA (HE‐NECA) and SCH58621 (A2Areceptors agents) neither affected catecholamine release nor altered the caffeine effects. The 8‐cycle‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine (DPCPX; an A1/A2Bantagonist) and 8‐(4‐{[(4‐cyanophenyl)carbamoylmethyl]‐oxy}phenyl)‐1,3‐di(n‐propyl)xanthine (MRS1754; an A2Bantagonist) mimicking of caffeine indicated that caffeine effects are mediated by A2Breceptors. Immunocytochemical A2Breceptors were located in tyrosine hydroxylase positive chemoreceptor cells. Caffeine reduced by 52% the chemosensory discharges elicited by hypoxia in the carotid sinus nerve. Inhibition had two components with pharmacological analysis indicating that A2Aand A2Breceptors mediate, respectively, the low (17 × 10−9 m) and high (160 × 10−6 m)IC50effects. It is concluded that endogenous adenosine, via presynaptic A2Band postsynaptic A2Areceptors, can exert excitatory effects on the overall output of the rat CB chemoreceptors.
Correlation and the Pension Protection Fund*
Authors: Sweeting Paul
Published: May 2006

In this paper, I use a stochastic approach to model the effect that correlations between pension scheme assets and firm values should have on the premiums chargeable by the Pension Protection Fund. In particular, I look at the effect on the aggregate premium that should be charged considering a representative universe of companies and their pension schemes. I find that ignoring the correlations, even if the volatility of pension scheme assets is allowed for, leads to potentially serious underestimation of the aggregate premium due.
Population Ageing, Fiscal Pressure and Tax Smoothing: A CGE Application to Australia*
Authors: Guest Ross
Published: May 2006

This paper analyses the fiscal pressure from population ageing using an intertemporal CGE model, applied to Australia, and compares the results with those of a recent government‐commissioned study. The latter study uses an alternative modelling approach based on extrapolation rather than optimising behaviour of consumers and firms. The deadweight losses from the fiscal pressure caused by population ageing are equivalent to an annual loss of consumption of $260 per person per year in 2003 dollars in the balanced‐budget scenario. A feasible degree of tax smoothing would reduce this welfare loss by an equivalent of $70 per person per year. Unlike the extrapolation‐based model, the CGE approach takes account of feedback effects of ageing‐induced tax increases on consumption and labour supply, which in turn impact on the ultimate magnitude of fiscal pressure and therefore tax increases. However, a counterfactual simulation suggests that the difference in terms of deadweight losses between the two modelling approaches is modest, at about $30 per person per year.
The Potential Impact of Reforms to the Essential Parameters of the Council Tax*
Authors: Jones Colin , Leishman Chris , Orr Allison M.
Published: May 2006

Council tax was introduced in Britain in 1993 and represents a unique international property tax. There is a growing belief that it is time to reform the number and structure of council tax bands, but such views have a minimal empirical base. This paper sets out to assess the impact of changing the bands on personal and local government finances, and extends the analysis to the role of the tax multipliers linked to each band. The research is based on the experience of a representative sample of local authorities in Scotland. A statistical revaluation for 2000 is estimated for the existing eight‐band system, and from this base a 10‐band system is calculated. Financial implications are then simulated for each local authority, taking account of central resource equalisation mechanisms. The results indicate that increases in the number of bands will have little impact on the burden of the council tax compared with regular revaluations. Changing the tax multiplier range has the greatest impact on local authority finances and council tax payments.
Retrospective evaluation of total parenteral nutrition in cats: 40 cases (1991–2003)
Authors: Crabb Sara E. , Freeman Lisa M. , Chan Daniel L. , Labato Mary A.
Published: May 2006

Objective:The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the use of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in cats, to determine the frequency of complications, and to evaluate risk factors for complications.

Design:The medical records of all cats receiving TPN at Tufts University between 1991 and 2003 were reviewed using a standardized data sheet.

Setting:University hospital.

Animals:Forty cats that received TPN were included in the analysis.

Measurements and main results:Complications were classified as metabolic (e.g., hyperglycemia, hypokalemia), mechanical (e.g., catheter dislodgement, cellulitis), or septic (e.g., clinical suspicion of sepsis, in combination with a positive catheter culture). The most common underlying diseases were hepatic disease (n=16), gastrointestinal disorders (n=10), and pancreatitis (n=8). Median duration of TPN administration was 3.7 days (range, 0.3–9.5 days). Of the 40 cats receiving TPN, 26 experienced at least one complication with a total of 45 complications overall. These included metabolic (n=33) and mechanical (n=12). No cases of sepsis were documented. The most common metabolic complication was hyperglycemia (n=9). Most complications were mild and did not require discontinuation of TPN or adjustment of formula. Cats provided with energy above the resting energy requirement (RER) were more likely to develop hyperglycemia than those using RER as the initial calorie goal (P=0.02). Neither the presence nor number of complications impacted the duration of hospitalization or outcome.

Conclusions:A more conservative estimate of energy requirements was associated with a lower risk of hyperglycemia. Future studies are warranted to determine the optimal formula and efficacy of TPN in cats.
Management of prolonged food deprivation, hypothermia, and refeeding syndrome in a cat
Authors: Armitage‐Chan Elizabeth A. , O'Toole Therese , Chan Daniel L.
Published: May 2006

Objective: To describe complications associated with the management of prolonged food deprivation and hypothermia in a cat.

Case summary: A 5‐year old, spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented, after being missing for 7 weeks, showing signs of prolonged starvation and marked hypothermia. Cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic complications arose during resuscitation and refeeding, and these complications resolved following supportive care and changes in refeeding strategy. The cat made a complete recovery with minimal long‐term effects.

New or unique information provided: This is the first report of successful management of severe prolonged food deprivation in a cat. The case also illustrates management and complications of hypothermia and refeeding syndrome, and demonstrates considerations for nutritional replacement after prolonged starvation.
Comparison of the modified Seldinger and through‐the‐needle jugular catheter placement techniques in the dog
Authors: Portillo Erin , Mackin Andrew , Hendrix P. K. , Boyle Carolyn , Chrestman Lisa
Published: May 2006

Objectives:

To compare the ease of placement of central intravenous catheters in the dog using 2 techniques: the modified Seldinger jugular catheter placement technique and the through‐the‐needle jugular catheter placement technique.

To evaluate the ease and effectivness of teaching the 2 jugular catheter placement techniques.

To determine the utility of a synthetic vascular access model for teaching the 2 techniques to veterinary students.

Design: Students were taught 2 jugular catheter placement techniques using a synthetic jugular venipuncture model and were then observed placing catheters using each technique in live dogs enrolled in a terminal surgery laboratory. Time taken for catheter placement, success or failure of catheter insertion, indicators of catheter viability (time required for blood to be collected through the catheter and for fluid to flow through the catheter), and complications associated with catheter insertion (hematoma presence/size post‐mortem) were objectively evaluated by the authors, and ease of catheter placement was subjectively evaluated by the students.

Setting: Surgical techniques laboratory in a veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals: Dogs destined for a terminal student surgery laboratory (n=35).

Intervention:

Jugular catheterization.

Measurements and main results: Catheter placement was successful for 27/35 (77.1%) first attempts on a live dog with the modified Seldinger technique, and for 26/35 (74.3%) first attempts on a live dog with the through‐the‐needle technique. The modified Seldinger technique took significantly longer (mean 452 seconds) than the through‐the‐needle technique (mean 273 seconds). There was no significant difference in time taken to aspirate 5 mL of blood through catheters placed by either technique. Time required to flow 25 mL of fluid through the catheter was slightly longer for the modified Seldinger technique (mean 133 seconds) than for the through‐the‐needle technique (mean 113 seconds). Post‐mortem hematomas were detected at 26/26 (100%) of through‐the‐needle insertion sites and at 24/27 (89%) of modified Seldinger insertion sites. Hematoma diameter at the through‐the‐needle insertion site (mean 2.2 cm) was significantly greater than at the modified Seldinger insertion site (mean 1.1 cm). Student assessments of the comparable difficulties of the 2 jugular catheter placement techniques were not significantly different, and both techniques were assessed to be only slightly more difficult than placement of a cephalic catheter.

Conclusions: Jugular catheter placement by either the modified Seldinger or through‐the‐needle technique can be relatively easily mastered by entry‐level veterinarians. Hematoma formation is common with both techniques. The teaching of jugular catheter placement is facilitated by the use of a synthetic jugular venipuncture model.
Clinical and HLA phenotypes of type 1 autoimmune hepatitis in North American patients outside DR3 and DR4
Authors: Czaja Albert J. , Carpenter Herschel A. , Moore S. Breanndan
Published: May 2006

Abstract:
Aims: To determine the clinical phenotype and outcome of patients with definite type 1 autoimmune hepatitis, who lack human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DR3 and DR4, and to assess the importance of HLA DR7 and DR13.

Methods: Two hundred and seven adult patients were typed for DR3, DR4, DR7, and DR13 by DNA‐based techniques. One hundred and two blood donors constituted a normal population.

Results: Twenty‐six patients lacked DR3 and DR4 (13%). Treatment failure occurred more commonly in these individuals than in the 68 patients with DR4 (20% vs. 3%, P=0.03), and relapse after drug withdrawal was less frequent than in the 84 patients with DR3 (55% vs. 87%, P=0.03). HLA DR13 occurred more often than in those with DR3 (54% vs. 15%, P=0.0002) or DR4 (54% vs. 12%, P=0.00005), and it was more frequent than in normal adults (54% vs. 22%, P=0.003), including those without DR3 or DR4 (54% vs. 27%, P=0.03). HLA DR7 was not associated with susceptibility or outcome.

Conclusions: White North American patients who lack DR3 and DR4 respond differently to corticosteroid treatment than patients with classical HLA phenotypes. HLA DR13 is common in these adult patients, and it may affect treatment outcome.
Transplantation of Reconstructed Corneal Layer Composed of Corneal Epithelium and Fibroblasts on a Lyophilized Amniotic Membrane to Severely Alkali‐burned Cornea
Authors: Jang In‐Keun , Ahn Jae‐Il , Shin Jun‐Seop , Kwon Young‐Sam , Ryu Yang‐Hwan , Lee Jeong‐Kyu , Park Jung‐Keug , Song Kye‐Yong , Yang Eun‐Kyung , Kim Jae‐Chan
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  The purpose of this article was to evaluate the graft efficacy of reconstructed corneal layer, composed of autologous corneal epithelium and fibroblasts on a lyophilized amniotic membrane (LAM), in a severely alkali‐burned corneal model. After biopsy specimens were obtained from the left eyes of 24 rabbits, the corneal epithelial cells and fibroblasts were expanded in vitro and the corneal layer was reconstructed on LAM. Thirty‐six eyes of rabbits underwent alkali burn (1 N NaOH, 30 s) to create a limbal deficiency and a deeply damaged corneal stroma. Four weeks later, group 1 underwent a graft of the reconstructed corneal layer composed of autologous corneal epithelium and fibroblasts on LAM. Group 2 was transplanted with a graft of the reconstructed autologous corneal epithelium, and group 3 served as a control without surgery. Wound healing and stabilization of the ocular surfaces occurred much faster in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. The eyes in group 3 revealed typical limbal deficiencies with conjuctivalization and persistent corneal epithelial defects. However, the corneas in group 1 developed only mild peripheral neovascularization. Immunohistochemical staining in group 1 demonstrated that p63, cytokeratin 3, E‐cadherin, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, and collagen IV were expressed strongly in the corneal epithelium and basement membrane. On the basis of these results, transplantation of the reconstructed corneal layer, composed of autologous corneal epithelium and fibroblasts on LAM, partially accelerated the recovery of the alkali‐injured rabbit ocular surface, and might be useful therapeutically for the treatment of patients with severely damaged cornea.
Influence of Flow Design on Microcirculation in Conditions of Undulation Pump‐Left Ventricle Assist Device Testing
Authors: Dobšák Petr , Novakova Marie , Baba Atsushi , Vasku Jaromir , Isoyama Takashi , Saito Itsuro , Abe Yusuke , Chinzei Tsuneo , Imachi Kou
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  To study the microvessels in bulbar conjunctiva, we conducted an experiment in goat with a pneumatically driven left heart bypass pump, which was replaced with an undulation pump‐left ventricle assist device for 9 days. Three flow patterns were tested: complete pulsatile, continuous, and percentage of pulsatile. We studied the morphology of arterioles and venules of the bulbar conjunctiva using photograph records. The setting up of continuous flow caused global vasoconstriction (significant in venules—P < 0.05). During the pumping in the pulsatile and percentage of pulsatile modes, no significant changes of microvessel morphology were observed. The findings described could point to some disturbances in the microcirculatory bed in conditions of continuous flow.
FROM ELECTRON TO BIOMASS: A MECHANISTIC MODEL TO DESCRIBE PHYTOPLANKTON PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND STEADY‐STATE GROWTH RATES1
Authors: Kroon Bernd M. A. , Thoms Silke
Published: May 2006

A system of differential equations was presented which describes the rate of linear and cyclic electron flow through photosystems II and I. The system describes the rate of photochemistry in terms of electrons generated that are available for cellular metabolism, and results in a realistic description of photosynthesis as a function of irradiance without implicit assumptions for the relationship. The system allows a concise and detailed simulation of fluorescence kinetics. The derivation of the general degree of reduction (γx) and its application to translate the rates of photochemistry (or measured fluorescence yields) to steady‐state rates of carbon fixation and growth was shown. The efficiency of light‐limited photosynthesis (α) was shown to depend on the cellular ratio of carbon to nitrogen. For any given antenna size, α increases with nitrate as N‐source, and decreases with ammonium as N‐source, if the cellular carbon to nitrogen ratio of the phytoplankton increases. Cyclic electron transport around photosystem I increases the ratio of ATP generated relative to linear electron (e−) flow. The increase of ATP/e− is larger under extreme light‐limiting conditions. The long‐known fact that protein synthesis saturates at lower light intensities than carbonate synthesis was explained in terms of the decrease of ATP/e− with increasing irradiance and the higher ATP demand of protein synthesis.
PHOTO‐ACCLIMATION RESPONSE OF BENTHIC STREAM ALGAE ACROSS EXPERIMENTALLY MANIPULATED LIGHT GRADIENTS: A COMPARISON OF GROWTH RATES AND NET PRIMARY PRODUCTIVITY1
Authors: Rier Steven T. , Stevenson R. Jan , LaLiberte Gina D.
Published: May 2006

The objective of this study was to measure the photo‐acclimation response of stream algae inhabiting thin biofilms across a range of light treatments comparing both growth rates and net primary productivity (NPP). Algae were grown on clay tiles incubated in artificial stream channels where light levels were manipulated by layering a neutral‐density shade cloth over each channel. We measured NPP and algal growth rates in the early stages of community development and compared assemblages that were either acclimated or unacclimated to a given light treatment. Algal growth rates did acclimate to light treatment, with saturation occurring at light levels that were substantially lower for the acclimated communities. Growth efficiency calculated from algal biovolume increased by a factor of 3. However, algal NPP showed a weaker photo‐acclimation response, with only a 30% increase in photosynthetic efficiency. Our results indicate that diatom‐dominated periphyton in thin biofilms are probably not light limited in many shaded streams with respect to growth rates, but are light limited with respect to NPP.
ULTRASTRUCTURE OF THE GLAND CELLS OF THE RED ALGA ASPARAGOPSIS ARMATA (BONNEMAISONIACEAE)1
Authors: Paul Nicholas A. , Cole Louise , De Nys Rocky , Steinberg Peter D.
Published: May 2006

Localization of natural products in the gland cells of the tetrasporophyte of Asparagopsis armata Harvey was examined using light microscopy, epifluorescence microscopy, and TEM. A. armata produces a range of halogenated metabolites that deter herbivores and inhibit bacterial fouling. The halogenated metabolites accumulate as a refractile inclusion inside specialized gland cells and this inclusion was no longer produced when the alga was cultured without bromine. Gland cells are formed soon after the apical division and can occupy a large portion of the algal volume, up to 10% of some parts of the filament. TEM was carried out on cryofixed and freeze‐substituted samples. Ultrastructure studies revealed that gland cells are positioned inside the pericentral cell, originating from the axial cell wall. The refractile inclusion of these gland cells is comprised of numerous electron‐translucent vacuoles enclosed by an electron‐opaque matrix. Some contents of the inclusion autofluoresced under UV excitation by epifluorescence microscopy. Light microscopy further revealed that stalk‐like structures connected the gland cell to the outer wall of the pericentral cell. These stalk‐like structures may provide the mechanism for metabolite transfer to the algal surface. Gland cell walls are relatively thin, which in turn would aid the transfer of metabolites to the stalk‐like structure. These features of the gland cells provide essential clues to the production and storage of the halogenated metabolites in A. armata and offer new insights into a possible mechanism for their release.
Vein of Marshall Activity During Sustained Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: KAMANU SANTOSH , TAN ALEX Y. , PETER C. THOMAS , HWANG CHUN , CHEN PENG‐SHENG
Published: May 2006

Background: The human vein of Marshall (VOM) activation patterns during sustained (persistent or permanent) atrial fibrillation (AF) have not been studied in detail.

Methods: VOM was cannulated via coronary sinus in six patients (67.3 ± 7.5 years old) having either persistent (N = 4) or permanent (N = 2) AF presenting for radiofrequency catheter ablation.

Results: At sinus rhythm in patients with persistent AF, there were frequent ectopic beats from the VOM as well as from left and right pulmonary veins (PVs). The ectopic activity originating from the VOM was highly fragmented. The P wave morphology associated with VOM ectopy was isoelectric in leads I and aVL, positive in leads II, III, aVF, and V2‐V5, which is similar to the P wave morphology associated with left PV ectopic beats. During AF the activation cycle length at VOM was 140 ± 31 msec, which was significantly shorter than that in other atrial sites (P < 0.05). Similarly, the dominant frequency at VOM (9.71 Hz ± 1.52 Hz) was significantly higher than that at other atrial sites (P < 0.0001). In one patient, VOM ablation was associated with AF termination during radiofrequency energy application.

Conclusions: Ectopic activity with complex local electrogram originating from VOM is commonly seen in patients with sustained AF. The P wave morphology associated with the ectopic beats from VOM and from the left PVs was similar. The rate of activation at VOM is significantly faster than other atrial and PV sites during AF. These findings show that rapid activation is present in the VOM during sustained AF in human patients.
Proceedings of the TCT: Endovascular Interventional Care Evolves into Multidisciplinary Field
Authors: GRAY WILLIAM A.
Published: May 2006

The creation, and expansion, of the heretofore nonexistent field of endovascular intervention has progressed quickly over the past 10–15 years. In a relatively short period of time, it has been instrumental in transforming both the care of the vascular patient and the practice of vascular surgery and cardiology.
Percutaneous Left and Right Heart Catheterization in Fully Anticoagulated Patients Utilizing the Radial Artery and Forearm Vein: A Two‐Center Experience
Authors: LO TED S. N. , BUCH ASHESH N. , HALL IAN R. , HILDICK‐SMITH DAVID J. , NOLAN JAMES
Published: May 2006

Background: Stopping oral anticoagulants prior to cardiac catheterization is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism. Performing the procedures via the femoral artery and vein without interruption of anticoagulation is associated with a high rate of major access site complications. The transradial technique for left heart catheterization is safe in fully anticoagulated patients but few data are available on the percutaneous right and left heart catheterization utilizing a combination of the radial artery and antecubital vein in this group of patients.

Methods: We report our experience in 28 consecutive patients that underwent left and right heart catheterizations via this percutaneous arm approach without interruption of anticoagulation. These were compared to 31 consecutive non‐anticoagulated patients that underwent the procedure via a conventional femoral artery and vein approach.

Results: Arterial and venous accesses were achieved and complete angiographic and hemodynamic data obtained in all patients. There were no access site complications in the anticoagulated patients despite an International normalized ratio (INR) of 2.5 ± 0.5. Procedural duration was longer in the anticoagulated group of patients, but fluoroscopy time and patient radiation dose were similar in both groups.

Conclusion: Our experience suggests that left and right heart catheterization can be safely performed in most fully anticoagulated patients using this technique with a low bleeding and thromboembolic risk and no increase in radiation exposure.
FX MiniRAIL™ Catheter Usage for Treatment of De Novo Complex Coronary Lesions: Results from the “OFFAR”
Authors: VITRELLA GIANCARLO , SANGIORGI GIUSEPPE , KORNOWSKI RAN , MOSSERI MORRIS , ALMAGOR YARON , ISCHINGER THOMAS , PAVLIDIS GREGORY , RODERMANN JORG , BARTORELLI ANTONIO , WIJNS WILLIAM , GRUBE EBERHARD , COLOMBO ANTONIO ,   For the OFFAR Investigators
Published: May 2006

Introduction: Gradual prolonged balloon angioplasty may cause less arterial trauma, higher success rates, and fewer complications than conventional angioplasty (POBA). The OFFAR aimed to determine the safety and effectiveness of the FX MiniRAIL™ (FX) catheter, used with a slow, stepwise inflation protocol.

Methods and Results: From June to December 2003, 181 consecutive patients (age 61.9 ± 10.6 years) with de novo coronary artery lesions (n = 217) were treated by FX and stent implantation in 11 European centers. Fifty‐one patients (28.2%) had diabetes, and 70 (38.7%) had prior MI; 73 patients (40.3%) presented with stable angina and 85 (47.0%) with unstable angina. Fifty‐five lesions (25.3%) were in small vessels (<2.5 mm), 40 (18.6%) were highly calcific, and 133 (62%) were long lesions (>18 mm). Stenosis resolution pressure was 7.17 ± 4.2 atm; inflation time was 116.5 ± 54.6 seconds. FX technical success (residual stenosis <50% post‐FX) was obtained in 191 lesions (88.0%), and FX optimal success (residual stenosis <20% post‐FX) in 117 (54.9%). Dissection was observed in 34 lesions (15.9%), 27 (79.3%) of which were type A or B. No coronary ruptures occurred. Nine (5.0%) in‐hospital events occurred, all non‐Q‐wave MI. During 6‐month follow‐up, major adverse clinical events occurred in 14.4% of cases (n = 26; 3 cardiac deaths, 1 Q‐wave MI, 2 non‐Q‐wave MI, 3 CABG, and 17 re‐PTCA).

Conclusion: The results of the OFFAR suggest that FX utilization for treatment of de novo complex coronary lesions is safe and effective.
Long‐Term Mortality, Cause of Death, and Temporal Trends in Complications after Percutaneous Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty for Calcific Aortic Stenosis
Authors: KLEIN ANDREW , LEE KEANE , GERA ATUL , PORTS THOMAS A. , MICHAELS ANDREW D.
Published: May 2006

We sought to assess survival, predictors of adverse outcomes, and complication rates in a more recent series of adults undergoing percutaneous aortic balloon valvuloplasty (PABV) for symptomatic calcific aortic stenosis. While aortic valve replacement is the treatment of choice for adults with symptomatic calcific aortic stenosis, PABV has been used in selected patients who are not good surgical candidates. Registries of patients who underwent PABV over 15 years ago have shown poor long‐term survival and high procedural complication rates. This single‐center cohort study enrolled consecutive adults undergoing PABV between 1989 and 2005 for calcific aortic stenosis. Demographic, hemodynamic, and procedural data, as well as vital status, were collected by chart review and query of the National Death Index. The study included 78 patients: mean age 78 ± 11 years, 51% female, 90% heart failure, 61% coronary disease, and 8% end‐stage renal disease. While 22% had a major procedural complication, this rate tended to decrease over time (P=0.068). In the cohort, 87% died with a median survival of 6.6 months. According to NDI records, the primary cause of death was cardiac in 54% of deaths. Survival was significantly higher in patients ≤70 years and those bridged to aortic valve replacement. PABV in patients who are elderly and not candidates for bridge to aortic valve replacement is associated with poor long‐term survival. The decrease in the complication rate over the past 15 years has important implications regarding the morbidity associated with percutaneous aortic valve replacement techniques.
Synthesis of Nanostructured Hydroxides and Oxides of Iron: Control Over Morphology and Physical Properties
Authors: Baruwati Babita , Reddy K. Madhusudan , Manorama Sunkara V , Madhavendra S. S.
Published: May 2006

This paper reports on the surfactant‐assisted synthesis of nanotubes and nanorods of β‐FeOOH and hence α‐Fe2O3 (hematite) with remarkable stability against temperature under different reaction conditions. Characterization and a comprehensive study of their nanosized properties are carried out by powder X‐ray diffraction, thermal analysis, transmission electron microscope, and vibrating sample magnetometer. Upon calcination at 300°C, β‐FeOOH nanostructures transform to α‐Fe2O3 with some change in morphology. The samples convert to layered rod‐like structures and further into some sort of a disc resembling stacked structures upon heat treatment. Even for magnetic fields up to 10 000 G, the magnetization curves for the nanotubes/nanorods of hematite do not attain the saturation magnetization. All the materials exhibit a very low coercivity even at room temperature and hence are potential materials for magnetic applications.
Effects of Heating Rate on Stress Evolution in Alkoxide‐Derived Silica Gel‐Coating Films
Authors: Kurisu Tadaomi , Kozuka Hiromitsu
Published: May 2006

Silica gel films were deposited by spin coating on single‐crystal Si wafers using an acid‐catalyzed Si(OC2H5)4 solution as a coating solution. The gel films were heated at various rates, where in situ stress measurement was conducted. In‐plane tensile stress developed during the course of heating, and was found to be larger at lower heating rates at temperatures up to 350°C. The larger stress was thought to cause cracking at lower temperatures, which was previously observed at lower heating rates in in situ observation. The larger stress at lower heating rates was basically ascribed to the larger degrees of densification, which was revealed in the larger extent of reduction in thickness as well as in Si–OH/Si–O–Si and O–H/Si–O–Si infrared absorption band area ratios at lower heating rates. The difference in stress at different heating rates appeared to originate mainly in the difference observed at low temperatures below 130°C, suggesting that the heating rate particularly affects the densification that occurs via solvent evaporation. The increment in stress was reduced over 400°C when the heating rate was low, which was thought to result from the higher degree of densification already achieved below 400°C as well as the structural relaxation occurring at such high temperatures.
Delineation and Modelling of a Nucleolar Retention Signal in the Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Reed Mark L. , Dove Brian K. , Jackson Richard M. , Collins Rebecca , Brooks Gavin , Hiscox Julian A.
Published: May 2006

Unlike nuclear localization signals, there is no obvious consensus sequence for the targeting of proteins to the nucleolus. The nucleolus is a dynamic subnuclear structure which is crucial to the normal operation of the eukaryotic cell. Studying nucleolar trafficking signals is problematic as many nucleolar retention signals (NoRSs) are part of classical nuclear localization signals (NLSs). In addition, there is no known consensus signal with which to inform a study. The avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), coronavirus nucleocapsid (N) protein, localizes to the cytoplasm and the nucleolus. Mutagenesis was used to delineate a novel eight amino acid motif that was necessary and sufficient for nucleolar retention of N protein and colocalize with nucleolin and fibrillarin. Additionally, a classical nuclear export signal (NES) functioned to direct N protein to the cytoplasm. Comparison of the coronavirus NoRSs with known cellular and other viral NoRSs revealed that these motifs have conserved arginine residues. Molecular modelling, using the solution structure of severe acute respiratory (SARS) coronavirus N‐protein, revealed that this motif is available for interaction with cellular factors which may mediate nucleolar localization. We hypothesise that the N‐protein uses these signals to traffic to and from the nucleolus and the cytoplasm.
Clathrin Light Chain: Importance of the Conserved Carboxy Terminal Domain to Function in Living Cells
Authors: Wang Jingshan , Wang Yanqin , O'Halloran Theresa J.
Published: May 2006

Clathrin triskelions assemble into coats capable of packaging membrane and receptors for transport to intracellular destinations. A triskelion is formed from three heavy chains bound to three light chains. All clathrin light chains (clc) contain an acidic amino terminal domain, a central coiled segment, and a carboxy terminal domain conserved in amino acid sequence. To assess their functional contribution in vivo, we expressed tagged segments of the Dictyostelium clcA in clc‐minus Dictyostelium (clc null) cells. We examined the ability of these clcA fragments to rescue clathrin phenotypic deficiencies, to cluster into punctae on membranes, and to bind to the heavy chain. When expressed in clc null cells, a clcA fragment containing the amino terminal domain and the central coiled domain bound heavy chain but was dispensable for clathrin function. Instead, the carboxy terminal domain of clcA was a critical determinant for association with punctae, for clathrin function and for robust binding to the heavy chain. A 70 amino acid carboxy terminal fragment was necessary and sufficient for full function, and for localization into punctae on intracellular membranes. A shorter 49 amino acid carboxy terminal fragment could distribute into punctae but failed to rescue developmental deficiencies. These results reveal the importance of the carboxy terminal domain of the light chain in vivo.
Recognition and Delivery of Effector Proteins into Eukaryotic Cells by Bacterial Secretion Systems
Authors: Cambronne Eric D. , Roy Craig R.
Published: May 2006

The direct transport of virulence proteins from bacterium to host has emerged as a common strategy employed by Gram‐negative pathogens to establish infections. Specialized secretion systems function to facilitate this process. The delivery of ‘effector’ proteins by these secretion systems is currently confined to two functionally similar but mechanistically distinct pathways, termed type III and type IV secretion. The type III secretion pathway is ancestrally related to the multiprotein complexes that assemble flagella, whereas the type IV mechanism probably emerged from the protein complexes that support conjugal transfer of DNA. Although both pathways serve to transport proteins from the bacterium to host, the recognition of the effector protein substrates and the secretion information contained in these proteins appear highly distinct. Here, we review the mechanisms involved in the selection of substrates by each of these transport systems and secretion signal information required for substrate transport.
PKCζ Is Required for Microtubule‐Based Motility of Vesicles Containing the ntcp Transporter
Authors: Sarkar Souvik , Bananis Eustratios , Nath Sangeeta , Anwer M. Sawkat , Wolkoff Allan W. , Murray John W.
Published: May 2006

Intracellular trafficking regulates the abundance and therefore activity of transporters present at the plasma membrane. The transporter, Na+‐taurocholate co‐transporting polypeptide (ntcp), is increased at the plasma membrane upon treatment of cells with cAMP, for which microtubules (MTs) are required and the PI3K pathway and PKCζ have been implicated. However, trafficking of ntcp on MTs has not been demonstrated directly and the regulation and intracellular localization of ntcp is not well understood. Here, we utilize in vitro and whole‐cell immunofluorescence microscopy assays to demonstrate that ntcp is present on intracellular vesicles that bind MTs and move bidirectionally, using kinesin‐1 and dynein. These vesicles co‐localize with markers for recycling endosomes and early but not late endosomes. They frequently undergo fission, providing a mechanism for the exclusion of ntcp from late endosomes. PI(3,4,5)P3 activates PKCζ and enhances motility of the ntcp vesicles and overcomes the partial inhibition produced by a PI3‐kinase inhibitor. Specific inhibition of PKCζ blocks the motility of ntcp‐containing vesicles but has no effect on late vesicles as shown both in vitro and in living cells transfected with ntcp‐GFP. These data indicate that PKCζ is required specifically for the intracellular movement of vesicles that contain the ntcp transporter.
Neuroendocrine mechanism mediating energetic regulation of gonadotropin release in female rats
Authors: TSUKAMURA Hiroko , KINOSHITA Mika , MAEDA Kei‐Ichiro
Published: May 2006

Energy level is a critical factor controlling gonadal activity at various phases of reproduction. A female rat model has revealed that fasting‐induced luteinizing hormone (LH) suppression is mediated by a specific neural pathway, such as noradrenergic neurons originating in the A2 region and projecting to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and corticotropin‐releasing hormone neurons. The pathway is shared with that mediating glucoprivic suppression of LH pulses. Among the peripheral signals altered by energy deficiency, glucose could be a signal molecule conveying the peripheral information to the brain to regulate feeding and gonadotropin‐releasing hormone/LH release through the noradrenergic pathway during undernutrition. The brain detects the energy availability to control feeding and reproductive function at various phases of an animal’s life. It is most likely that the central glucose‐sensing mechanism could be similar to the pancreatic one, involving a glucokinase‐mediated process to detect glucose availability. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism integrating the energy signals.
Influences of major histocompatibility complex class I haplotypes on avian influenza virus disease traits in Thai indigenous chickens
Authors: BOONYANUWAT Kalaya , THUMMABUTRA Sawat , SOOKMANEE Neramit , VATCHAVALKHU Voravit , SIRIPHOLVAT Voravit
Published: May 2006

Natural infections with influenza viruses have been reported in a variety of animal species including humans, pigs, horses, sea mammals, mustelids and birds. Occasionally, devastating pandemics occur in domestic chickens (broiler and layers) and in humans. From November 2003 to March 2004 in many countries in Asia, there were outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza virus, causing death of infected patients, and devastating the poultry industry. Some groups of Thai indigenous chickens survived and were therefore classified as resistant. These traits were related to immunogenetics, in particular, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and class II molecules. The chicken MHC class I were investigated as candidate genes for avian influenza virus disease resistance. Seven hundred and thirty Thai indigenous chickens from smallholder farms in the rural area of avian influenza virus disease outbreaks in the central part of Thailand were used in the present study. They were separated into two groups, 340 surviving chickens and 390 dead chickens (resistant and susceptible). Genomic DNA were precipitated from blood samples and feathers. The DNA were used to amplify the MHC class I gene. Data were analyzed using χ2 analysis to test significant differences of influences of MHC class I haplotypes on avian influenza virus disease traits. The results represented nine MHC class I haplotypes: A1, B12, B13, B15, B19, B21, B2, B6, and BA12, and included 10 of their heterozygotes. The homozygous B21 from these collected samples had a 100% survival rate and they were the major survival group. In addition, the heterozygous B21 also had a high survival rate because of co‐dominant expression of these genes. In contrast, the homozygous B13 had a 100% mortality rate and they were the major mortality group. These results confirmed that MHC class I haplotypes influence avian influenza virus disease‐resistant traits in Thai indigenous chicken. The MHC genes can be used as genetic markers to improve disease‐resistant traits in chicken.
Effect of farm household income levels and rice‐based diet or water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) supplementation on growth/cost performances and meat indexes of growing and finishing pigs in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam
Authors: MEN Le Thi , YAMASAKI Seishi , CALDWELL John S. , YAMADA Ryuichi , TAKADA Ryozo , TANIGUCHI Toshiaki
Published: May 2006

An on‐farm trial was carried out to improve the current low‐income farmers’ diet and to assess farm conditions that could accept the new ingredients using locally available feed resources in the Mekong Delta region. A total of 42 local Large White‐type pigs, comprising 20 barrows and 22 gilts with initial‐to‐final mean live weight of 34.2–93.0 kg, were used. The trial was designed as a 3 × 3 factorial with three agricultural gross income levels of seven farm households and three dietary treatments. The annual income levels were high income (HI; $US2355 on average), medium income (MI; $US1439) and low income (LI; $US1116). The three types of diets were farmers’ common diet (FCD), rice‐based diet (RBD) and water‐hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)‐supplemented diet (WHD). A total of 12 pigs, consisting of two barrow–gilt couples in each diet treatment, were slaughtered at the end of the trial. The daily weight gain (DG) was higher and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower in the MI and LI pigs than in the HI pigs over the entire fattening period (P < 0.01). No significant effect of the diet treatments was observed on the aforementioned two parameters, but the backfat thickness was least in WHD (16.8 mm) and next least in RBD (17.1 mm), compared with that of FCD pigs (19.4 mm; P < 0.05). The iodine values of RBD and WHD backfat were lower (P < 0.001) than those of FCD backfat. The cost performance, defined as feed cost per kg weight gain, was lowest for MI, intermediate for LI and highest for HI levels (P < 0.05). Therefore, the benefit was highest at the MI level and lowest at the HI level (P < 0.05). In contrast, cost performance of the diet treatments tended to be higher in FCD, and lower in RBD and WHD (P < 0.1). Then, the benefit tended to be higher in RBD and WHD than in the FCD diet (P < 0.1). Overall, these results suggest that the RBD and WHD diets be recommended especially to households with medium and low agricultural incomes.