bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen incorporation during metal organic chemical vapor deposition of ZnO films using a remote Ar∕N2 plasma
Authors: Volintiru I. , Creatore M. , van Helvoort W. H. , Linden J. L. , van de Sanden M. C. M.
Published: July 2006

Nitrogen-containing zinc oxide films were deposited by the metal organic chemical vapor deposition technique from oxygen/diethylzinc mixtures injected in an argon/nitrogen expanding thermal plasma. Infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry measurements suggest that nitrogen is incorporated mostly as –CN and segregated at grain boundaries. The correlation between the presence of nitrile bonds and the formation of HCN in the plasma phase points towards an inherent limitation during such deposition process, i.e., when using carbon-rich precursors in a highly reactive nitrogen environment, such as an Ar∕N2 expanding thermal plasma.
Effect of heat stress on the fertility of male mice in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Yaeram J. , Setchell B. P. , Maddocks S.
Published: July 2006

A study was conducted to determine whether following exposure of male mice to high temperatures, the ability of their spermatozoa to fertilise ova was reduced, especially during the period before the males became completely infertile. Male mice placed in a microclimate chamber at 36°C for two periods, each of 12 h on successive days, were less able to fertilise control females in vivo when mated and, even in those females that became pregnant, litter size was reduced. However, these effects were associated with falls in testis weight and numbers of spermatozoa in the testis and epididymis. To determine whether the effect on fertility was a result of the decreased spermatozoa numbers, spermatozoa were collected from the epididymides of heated and control males. Equal numbers of motile spermatozoa from an unselected sample or those subjected to a swim-up procedure to separate those that were motile from the immotile ones in the sample were then mixed in vitro with oocytes from superovulated normal females. Similar numbers of spermatozoa from both control and heated males bound to the zona pellucida but smaller percentages of the oocytes were fertilised by spermatozoa from the heated males and fewer of these spermatozoa penetrated the ova. The effects were first seen 7 days after the heat exposure and became more obvious after 10 or 14 days.
Sucrose-exposed chemically enucleated mouse oocytes support blastocyst development of reconstituted embryos
Authors: Elsheikh Adil Salim , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Katagiri Seiji , Kanagawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2006

This study was carried out to test the ability of sucrose-exposed chemically enucleated mouse oocytes to support the development of reconstituted embryos in vitro. Cumulus-enclosed germinal-vesicle-stage mouse oocytes were matured in vitro to metaphase I stage and were chemically enucleated with 50 µg mL–1 etoposide in tissue culture medium 199. The chemically enucleated oocytes were grouped into two groups. Group I was exposed to 0.75 m sucrose and group II was not exposed to sucrose. The zonae pellucidae of the chemically enucleated oocytes were removed with acid Tyrode’s solution (pH 2.7). They were then aggregated into couplets with karyoplasts from pronuclear-stage embryos using phytohemagglutinin-P. The couplets were electrically fused to form reconstituted embryos. The reconstituted embryos were activated with 7% ethanol and cultured in vitro in simplex optimisation medium to test their developmental ability to the blastocyst stage. Some of the reconstituted embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage were used for chromosome counts to test their ploidy. The results of the present study showed that chemically enucleated oocytes exposed to sucrose supported the development of reconstituted embryos to the blastocyst stage (21.5%), whereas those not exposed to sucrose did not. The chromosome counts showed that the reconstituted embryos had normal ploidy (40 chromosomes). It is concluded that sucrose exposure improves the quality of chemically enucleated mouse oocytes. Thus they can be used as recipients for mouse embryo cloning and nucleocytoplasmic interaction studies.
Role of platelet-derived growth factor-B, vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-II, mitogen-activated protein kinase and transforming growth factor-β1 in expansion-induced lung growth in fetal sheep
Authors: Wallace Megan J. , Thiel Alison M. , Lines Andrea M. , Polglase Graeme R. , Sozo Foula , Hooper Stuart B.
Published: July 2006

Increased fetal lung expansion induces lung growth, cell differentiation and extracellular matrix remodelling, although the mechanisms involved are unknown. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II are mitogens activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, whereas transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 induces differentiation and extracellular matrix remodelling. In the present study, we investigated the mRNA levels of PDGF-B, VEGF, IGF-II and TGF-β1, as well as active MAPK levels, during increased fetal lung expansion induced by tracheal obstruction (TO) in sheep for 0 (controls), 36 h or 2, 4, or 10 days (n = 5 in each group). The 3.7-kb VEGF transcript increased by 30% (P < 0.05) at 36 h TO. The expression of PDGF-B decreased by approximately 25% (P < 0.01) at 2–10 days TO. In contrast, TGF-β1 mRNA increased by 96% (P < 0.05) at 10 days TO, when bioactive TGF-β1 decreased by 55% (P < 0.05). Insulin-like growth factor-II mRNA tended to increase at 10 days TO (37% above controls; P = 0.07), whereas mRNA for its receptor, IGF1R, was reduced by TO. There was no change in active MAPK levels preceding or at the time of a TO-induced 800% increase in cell proliferation. We conclude that VEGF is likely to promote expansion-induced endothelial cell proliferation, but the mechanisms underlying expansion-induced proliferation of fibroblasts and alveolar epithelial cells are unlikely to be mediated by increases in PDGF-B or IGF-II expression or activation of the MAPK pathway.
Imaging peptidoglycan biosynthesis in
Bacillus subtilis
with fluorescent antibiotics
Authors: Tiyanont Kittichoat , Doan Thierry , Lazarus Michael B. , Fang Xiao , Rudner David Z. , Walker Suzanne
Published: July 2006

The peptidoglycan (PG) layers surrounding bacterial cells play an important role in determining cell shape. The machinery controlling when and where new PG is made is not understood, but is proposed to involve interactions between bacterial actin homologs such as Mbl, which forms helical cables within cells, and extracellular multiprotein complexes that include penicillin-binding proteins. It has been suggested that labeled antibiotics that bind to PG precursors may be useful for imaging PG to help determine the genes that control the biosynthesis of this polymer. Here, we compare the staining patterns observed in
Bacillus subtilis
using fluorescent derivatives of two PG-binding antibiotics, vancomycin and ramoplanin. The staining patterns for both probes exhibit a strong dependence on probe concentration, suggesting antibiotic-induced perturbations in PG synthesis. Ramoplanin probes may be better imaging agents than vancomycin probes because they yield clear staining patterns at concentrations well below their minimum inhibitory concentrations. Under some conditions, both ramoplanin and vancomycin probes produce helicoid staining patterns along the cylindrical walls of
B. subtilis
cells. This sidewall staining is observed in the absence of the cytoskeletal protein Mbl. Although Mbl plays an important role in cell shape determination, our data indicate that other proteins control the spatial localization of the biosynthetic complexes responsible for new PG synthesis along the walls of
B. subtilis
cells.
Mammalian monogamy is not controlled by a single gene
Authors: Fink Sabine , Excoffier Laurent , Heckel Gerald
Published: July 2006

Complex social behavior in
Microtus
voles and other mammals has been postulated to be under the direct genetic control of a single locus: the arginine vasopressin 1a receptor (
avpr1a
) gene. Using a phylogenetic approach, we show that a repetitive element in the promoter region of
avpr1a
, which reportedly causes social monogamy, is actually widespread in nonmonogamous
Microtus
and other rodents. There was no evidence for intraspecific polymorphism in regard to the presence or absence of the repetitive element. Among 25 rodent species studied, the element was absent in only two closely related nonmonogamous species, indicating that this absence is certainly the result of an evolutionarily recent loss. Our analyses further demonstrate that the repetitive structures upstream of the
avpr1a
gene in humans and primates, which have been associated with social bonding, are evolutionarily distinct from those in rodents. Our evolutionary approach reveals that monogamy in rodents is not controlled by a single polymorphism in the promoter region of the
avpr1a
gene. We thus resolve the contradiction between the claims for an evolutionarily conserved genetic programming of social behavior in mammals and the vast evidence for highly complex and flexible mating systems.
α-Herpesvirus glycoprotein D interaction with sensory neurons triggers formation of varicosities that serve as virus exit sites
Authors: De Regge Nick , Nauwynck Hans J. , Geenen Kristin , Krummenacher Claude , Cohen Gary H. , Eisenberg Roselyn J. , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Favoreel Herman W.
Published: July 2006

α-Herpesviruses constitute closely related neurotropic viruses, including herpes simplex virus in man and pseudorabies virus (PRV) in pigs. Peripheral sensory neurons, such as trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons, are predominant target cells for virus spread and lifelong latent infections. We report that in vitro infection of swine TG neurons with the homologous swine α-herpesvirus PRV results in the appearance of numerous synaptophysin-positive synaptic boutons (varicosities) along the axons. Nonneuronal cells that were juxtaposed to these varicosities became preferentially infected with PRV, suggesting that varicosities serve as axonal exit sites for the virus. Viral envelope glycoprotein D (gD) was found to be necessary and sufficient for the induction of varicosities. Inhibition of Cdc42 Rho GTPase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways strongly suppressed gD-induced varicosity formation. These data represent a novel aspect of the cell biology of α-herpesvirus infections of sensory neurons, demonstrating that virus attachment/entry is associated with signaling events and neuronal changes that may prepare efficient egress of progeny virus.
BDNF mobilizes synaptic vesicles and enhances synapse formation by disrupting cadherin–β-catenin interactions
Authors: Bamji Shernaz X. , Rico Beatriz , Kimes Nikole , Reichardt Louis F.
Published: July 2006

Neurons of the vertebrate central nervous system have the capacity to modify synapse number, morphology, and efficacy in response to activity. Some of these functions can be attributed to activity-induced synthesis and secretion of the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF); however, the molecular mechanisms by which BDNF mediates these events are still not well understood. Using time-lapse confocal analysis, we show that BDNF mobilizes synaptic vesicles at existing synapses, resulting in small clusters of synaptic vesicles “splitting” away from synaptic sites. We demonstrate that BDNF's ability to mobilize synaptic vesicle clusters depends on the dissociation of cadherin–β-catenin adhesion complexes that occurs after tyrosine phosphorylation of β-catenin. Artificially maintaining cadherin–β-catenin complexes in the presence of BDNF abolishes the BDNF-mediated enhancement of synaptic vesicle mobility, as well as the longer-term BDNF-mediated increase in synapse number. Together, this data demonstrates that the disruption of cadherin–β-catenin complexes is an important molecular event through which BDNF increases synapse density in cultured hippocampal neurons.
Uncoupling global and fine-tuning replication timing determinants for mouse pericentric heterochromatin
Authors: Wu Rong , Singh Prim B. , Gilbert David M.
Published: July 2006

Mouse chromocenters are clusters of late-replicating pericentric heterochromatin containing HP1 bound to trimethylated lysine 9 of histone H3 (Me3K9H3). Using a cell-free system to initiate replication within G1-phase nuclei, we demonstrate that chromocenters acquire the property of late replication coincident with their reorganization after mitosis and the establishment of a global replication timing program. HP1 dissociated during mitosis but rebound before the establishment of late replication, and removing HP1 from chromocenters by competition with Me3K9H3 peptides did not result in early replication, demonstrating that this interaction is neither necessary nor sufficient for late replication. However, in cells lacking the Suv39h1,2 methyltransferases responsible for K9H3 trimethylation and HP1 binding at chromocenters, replication of chromocenter DNA was advanced by 10–15% of the length of S phase. Reintroduction of Suv39h1 activity restored the later replication time. We conclude that Suv39 activity is required for the fine-tuning of pericentric heterochromatin replication relative to other late-replicating domains, whereas separate factors establish a global replication timing program during early G1 phase.
Regulation of lymph node vascular growth by dendritic cells
Authors: Webster Brian , Ekland Eric H. , Agle Lucila M. , Chyou Susan , Ruggieri Regina , Lu Theresa T.
Published: July 2006

Lymph nodes grow rapidly and robustly at the initiation of an immune response, and this growth is accompanied by growth of the blood vessels. Although the vessels are critical for supplying nutrients and for controlling cell trafficking, the regulation of lymph node vascular growth is not well understood. We show that lymph node endothelial cells begin to proliferate within 2 d of immunization and undergo a corresponding expansion in cell numbers. Endothelial cell proliferation is dependent on CD11c+ dendritic cells (DCs), and the subcutaneous injection of DCs is sufficient to trigger endothelial cell proliferation and growth. Lymph node endothelial cell proliferation is dependent on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and DCs are associated with increased lymph node VEGF levels. DC-induced endothelial cell proliferation and increased VEGF levels are mediated by DC-induced recruitment of blood-borne cells. Vascular growth in the draining lymph node includes the growth of high endothelial venule endothelial cells and is functionally associated with increased cell entry into the lymph node. Collectively, our results suggest a scenario whereby endothelial cell expansion in the draining lymph node is induced by DCs as part of a program that optimizes the microenvironment for the ensuing immune response.
UNESCO and the WTO: a Clash of Cultures?
Authors: Voon Tania
Published: July 2006

The rights and obligations of Parties … include a series of policies and measures aimed at protecting and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions, approaching creativity and all it implies in the context of globalization, where diverse expressions are circulated and made accessible to all via cultural goods and services.
An archaic crested plesiosaur in opal from the Lower Cretaceous high-latitude deposits of Australia
Authors: Kear Benjamin P , Schroeder Natalie I , Lee Michael S.Y
Published: July 2006

Umoonasaurus demoscyllus
gen. et sp. nov. is a new small-bodied (approx. 2.5 m) pliosauroid plesiosaur from the Lower Cretaceous (Aptian–Albian) of southern Australia. It is represented by several partial skeletons (one with a near complete skull is the most complete opalized vertebrate fossil yet known), and is unique in having large crests on the skull midline and above the orbits.
Umoonasaurus
is surprisingly archaic despite its relatively late age (approx. 115 Myr ago)—being simultaneously the most basal (primitive) and last surviving rhomaleosaurid. Notably, it lacks the ‘pliosauromorph’ features (large head, short neck, gigantism) typically characterizing many more derived Jurassic rhomaleosaurids; thus, reinforcing the suspected convergent evolution of the ‘pliosauromorph’ hypercarnivore body plan.
Umoonasaurus
inhabited an Early Cretaceous high-latitude (approx. 70° S) inland seaway subject to seasonally near-freezing climatic conditions. This extreme environment supported a diverse range of plesiosaur taxa, suggesting that these marine reptiles might have possessed adaptations (e.g. heightened metabolic levels) to cope with cold-water temperatures. Indeed, survival of ancient endemic lineages such as
Umoonasaurus
is a common phenomenon in Australian Cretaceous vertebrate assemblages and might have been facilitated by isolation in low-temperature high-latitude regions.
Biomechanics of the cardiovascular system: the aorta as an illustratory example
Authors: Kassab Ghassan S
Published: July 2006

Biomechanics relates the function of a physiological system to its structure. The objective of biomechanics is to deduce the function of a system from its geometry, material properties and boundary conditions based on the balance laws of mechanics (e.g. conservation of mass, momentum and energy). In the present review, we shall outline the general approach of biomechanics. As this is an enormously broad field, we shall consider a detailed biomechanical analysis of the aorta as an illustration. Specifically, we will consider the geometry and material properties of the aorta in conjunction with appropriate boundary conditions to formulate and solve several well-posed boundary value problems. Among other issues, we shall consider the effect of longitudinal pre-stretch and surrounding tissue on the mechanical status of the vessel wall. The solutions of the boundary value problems predict the presence of mechanical homeostasis in the vessel wall. The implications of mechanical homeostasis on growth, remodelling and postnatal development of the aorta are considered.
Acceptance and relationship context: a model of substance use disorder treatment outcome
Authors: Gifford Elizabeth V. , Ritsher Jennifer B. , McKellar John D. , Moos Rudolf H.
Published: July 2006

Aims  This study presented and tested a model of behavior change in long‐term substance use disorder recovery, the acceptance and relationship context (ARC) model. The model specifies that acceptance‐based behavior and constructive social relationships lead to recovery, and that treatment programs with supportive, involved relationships facilitate the development of these factors.

Design  This study used a prospective longitudinal naturalistic design and controlled for baseline levels of study variables.

Setting and participants  The model was tested on a sample of 2549 patients in 15 residential substance use disorder treatment programs.

Measurements  Acceptance‐based responding (ABR), social relationship quality (SRQ), treatment program alliance (TPA) and substance use‐related impairment were assessed using interviews and self‐report questionnaires.

Findings  TPA predicted ABR and SRQ and, in turn, ABR predicted better 2‐year and 5‐year treatment outcomes. The baseline‐controlled model accounted for 41% of the variance in outcome at 2‐year follow‐up and 28% of the variance in outcome at 5‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions  Patients from treatment programs with an affiliative relationship network are more likely to respond adaptively to internal states associated previously with substance use, develop constructive social relationships and achieve long‐term treatment benefits.
The activity budgets and activity patterns of sympatric grey rhebok and mountain reedbuck in a highveld grassland area of South Africa
Authors: Taylor W. A. , Skinner J. D. , Krecek R. C.
Published: July 2006

Behavioural observations were carried out on grey rhebok and mountain reedbuck at Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve, South Africa, for a period of 1 year between May 2001 and April 2002. Four harem herds of grey rhebok, five territorial male mountain reedbuck and female mountain reedbuck (herds grouped as one individual) were monitored to determine activity budgets and activity patterns. Both species spent more time feeding in the late afternoon during relatively cool temperatures, and more time resting in the middle of the day during relatively high temperatures. Statistical comparisons between the two species of the percentage time feeding and resting found no differences between them, although mountain reedbuck spent more time resting overall than grey rhebok. Both species were active at night.
Early indicators of immunodeficiency in adults and children: protocols for screening for primary immunological defects
Authors: Sewell W A C , Khan S , Doré P C
Published: July 2006

Early recognition of primary immunodeficiency is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality, and yet failure to recognize these conditions is still a major problem for clinicians around the world. The problem is that general practitioners, physicians and paediatricians lack familiarity with these rare disorders, and lack guidance regarding the appropriate use of immunological investigations. A working party from the European Society for Immunodeficiencies (ESID) has published screening protocols for these rare disorders, which aim to help select which tests should be done in which patients. The success of these proposals will depend on all immunologists disseminating this information in a format that is suitable for the busy generalist, who may not be familiar with these immunological tests and concepts. Laboratories should expect increasing requests for these screening investigations, and should make themselves familiar with these protocols so that appropriate second-line investigations can be arranged in a timely fashion. Speedy and effective communication between the laboratory and clinician is essential, and clinically interpreted reports are mandatory. Although these protocols are part of a screening process, their effectiveness in practice remains to be established, and further refinement will be required over time. The early involvement of the clinical immunologist in cases of suspected immunodeficiency is key.
Anti-C1q antibodies in hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Saadoun D , Sadallah S , Trendelenburg M , Limal N , Sene D , Piette J C , Schifferli J A , Cacoub P
Published: July 2006

Autoantibodies against C1q have been described in many immune-complex diseases including hypocomplementaemic urticarial vasculitis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). No study has focused on the role of anti-C1q antibodies in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was (i) to evaluate the prevalence of anti-C1q antibodies in HCV infection; and (ii) to analyse the association of anti-C1q antibodies with clinical and biological features of HCV–mixed cryoglobulinaemia (MC) vasculitis. We searched for anti-C1q antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test in 111 HCV patients (75 had cryoglobulin and 23 systemic vasculitis), 60 SLE patients and 109 blood donors. Anti-C1q antibodies were detected in 26% of HCV patients compared to 10% of healthy donors (P < 0·01), and 38% in patients with SLE. Although there was a higher prevalence of anti-C1q antibodies among HCV patients with type III cryoglobulin (50%, P < 0·01), the overall prevalence of anti-C1q antibodies was similar in HCV patients being cryoglobulin-positive or cryoglobulin-negative (26%versus 25%, P = 0·98). A significant association was found between anti-C1q antibodies and low C4 fraction of complement (P < 0·05). No association was found between anti-C1q antibodies and HCV genotype, severity of liver disease or with specific clinical signs of HCV–MC vasculitis. This study shows an increased prevalence of anti-C1q antibodies in HCV-infected patients. Anti-C1q antibodies were associated with low C4 levels. No association was found between anti-C1q antibodies and HCV–MC vasculitis, nor between anti-C1q antibodies and cryoglobulinaemia.
The BRAF mutation is useful for prediction of clinical recurrence in low‐risk patients with conventional papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kim Tae Yong , Kim Won Bae , Rhee Yoon Soo , Song Ja Young , Kim Jung Min , Gong Gyungyub , Lee Seungkoo , Kim Sang Yoon , Kim Seong Chul , Hong Suck Joon , Shong Young Kee
Published: July 2006

Background  The activating BRAFV600E mutation is the most common genetic alteration reported in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). While some reports suggest the BRAFV600E mutation is associated with factors predicting a poor prognosis and recurrence, this remains a controversial issue.

Aim  To determine whether the presence of the BRAFV600E mutation is a prognostic indicator for clinical recurrence in low‐risk patients with conventional PTC.

Patients and methods  The study involved 203 conventional PTC patients who underwent total or near‐total thyroidectomy followed by immediate 131I ablation of the remnants. Patients with antithyroglobulin antibodies and those with extracervical metastases at presentation were excluded. DNA was extracted from paraffin‐embedded tumour specimens, and the presence of the BRAFV600E mutation was evaluated using PCR amplification and direct sequencing.

Results  The BRAFV600E mutation was found to be present in 149 (73·4%) of 203 patients. The BRAFV600E mutation was correlated with male gender (P = 0·006) and with tumour size (P = 0·005). While there appeared to be an association between the BRAFV600E mutation and extrathyroid extension, this did not reach statistical significance (P = 0·062). During follow‐up of the 203 patients (median 7·3 years; range 0·7–10·0 years), 36 (18%) patients experienced recurrence. While univariate analysis showed the BRAFV600E mutation was associated with tumour recurrence (21% with mutation vs 7% without mutation; P = 0·037), this association was not shown following multivariate analyses adjusting for the clinicopathological prognostic factors of age, gender, tumour size, extrathyroid extension, multifocality and lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions  Although the BRAFV600E mutation was found to be associated with a higher clinical recurrence of disease in low‐risk conventional PTC patients, it was not an independent predictor.
Pituitary–ovarian response to the gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone‐agonist test in anovulatory patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: predictive role of ovarian stroma
Authors: Fulghesu A. M. , Angioni S. , Belosi C. , Apa R. , Selvaggi L. , Ciampelli M. , Iuculano A. , Melis G. B. , Lanzone A.
Published: July 2006

Objective  To evaluate the influence of ovarian stroma on basal and poststimulus androgen secretion in patients affected by secondary amenorrhoea and polycystic ovaries (PCO) at ultrasound (US).

Design  Prospective study.

Patients  Fifty‐one patients with PCO selected from a group of 72 normal weight women aged 20–25 years affected by secondary amenorrhoea and 10 normal ovulatory controls.

Methods  All subjects underwent US to evaluate volume, area, stromal area and stromal/total area ratio of both ovaries. Plasma levels of gonadotrophins, oestradiol (E2) and androgens were measured before and 24 h after GnRH‐a injection. 60 min after stimulus LH and FSH were also assayed.

Results  Thirty patients had increased ovarian stroma (IS) and 21 patients normal ovarian stroma (NS). Significantly higher LH levels characterized the IS group, both basally and after GnRH‐a stimulation compared with NS and controls (P < 0·01). Baseline levels of androstenedione, testosterone and 17‐OHprogesterone (17‐OHP) were significantly higher in IS group. Moreover, 17‐OHP hyper‐response to GnRH‐a was demonstrated in IS group in comparison to NS and control groups (P < 0·005).

Conclusions  Stroma evaluation may be of use in discriminating between different pathogenic factors in secondary amenorrhoea. This criterion may be applied to support the correct diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Indeed, in line with the most recently proposed guidelines, patients affected by multifollicular ovaries could be classified as PCOS. The possibility of taking into account more than one US criterion or of carefully reanalysing the significance of increased stroma volume should be considered.
Integrated 18F‐FDG PET/CT for the initial evaluation of cervical node level of patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma: comparison with ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced CT
Authors: Jeong Han‐Sin , Baek Chung‐Hwan , Son Young‐Ik , Choi Joon‐Young , Kim Hyung‐Jin , Ko Young‐Hyeh , Chung Jae‐Hoon , Baek Hye‐Jin
Published: July 2006

Objective  To compare the diagnostic accuracy of integrated 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT with ultrasonography (US) and contrast enhanced CT (CECT) alone in the initial evaluation of cervical lymph node levels of patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma.

Patients and measurements  From July 2004 to March 2005, 26 consecutive patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma, confirmed by aspiration cytology analysis, underwent US, CECT and PET/CT. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of the US, CECT and PET/CT studies for the final status of 312 cervical node levels (levels I–V: 260, level VI: 52) were compared by employing a generalized estimating equation test. The final status of cervical node levels was determined by the surgical pathology and follow‐up data.

Results  At all lymph node levels (levels I–VI), PET/CT showed a sensitivity of 30·4%, a specificity of 96·2% and a diagnostic accuracy of 86·9%. The corresponding values for US and CECT were 41·3%, 97·4%, 89·1% (US) and 34·8%, 96·2%, 87·2% (CECT). Considering only the lateral cervical node group (levels I–V), PET/CT showed a sensitivity of 50·0%, a specificity of 97·0% and a diagnostic accuracy of 92·3%. The corresponding values for US and CECT were 53·9%, 97·9%, 93·5% (US) and 42·3%, 96·6%, 91·2% (CECT). The diagnostic results for US, CECT and PET/CT upon initial evaluation of the cervical lymph nodes did not differ significantly on a level‐by‐level basis.

Conclusion  Our preliminary results suggest that integrated PET/CT does not provide any additional benefit when compared to US and CECT for the initial evaluation of cervical node levels in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Cancer immunosuppression and autoimmune disease: beyond immunosuppressive networks for tumour immunity
Authors: Kim Ryungsa , Emi Manabu , Tanabe Kazuaki
Published: July 2006

Cancer immunosuppression evolves by constitution of an immunosuppressive network extending from a primary tumour site to secondary lymphoid organs and peripheral vessels and is mediated by several tumour‐derived soluble factors (TDSFs) such as interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). TDSFs induce immature myeloid cells and regulatory T cells in accordance with tumour progression, resulting in the inhibition of dendritic cell maturation and T‐cell activation in a tumour‐specific immune response. Tumour cells grow by exploiting a pro‐inflammatory situation in the tumour microenvironment, whereas immune cells are regulated by TDSFs during anti‐inflammatory situations—mediated by impaired clearance of apoptotic cells—that cause the release of IL‐10, TGF‐β, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by macrophages. Accumulation of impaired apoptotic cells induces anti‐DNA antibodies directed against self antigens, which resembles a pseudo‐autoimmune status. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a prototype of autoimmune disease that is characterized by defective tolerance of self antigens, the presence of anti‐DNA antibodies and a pro‐inflammatory response. The anti‐DNA antibodies can be produced by impaired clearance of apoptotic cells, which is the result of a hereditary deficiency of complements C1q, C3 and C4, which are involved in the recognition of phagocytosis by macrophages. Thus, it is likely that impaired clearance of apoptotic cells is able to provoke different types of immune dysfunction in cancer and autoimmune disease in which some are similar and others are critically different. This review discusses a comparison of immunological dysfunctions in cancer and autoimmune disease with the aim of exploring new insights beyond cancer immunosuppression in tumour immunity.
Nickel–titanium rotary instrument fracture: a clinical practice assessment
Authors: Di Fiore P. M. , Genov K. A. , Komaroff E. , Li Y. , Lin L.
Published: July 2006

Aim  To prospectively determine the incidence of nickel–titanium rotary instrument fracture in an endodontic clinical practice setting.

Methodology  Eleven second year endodontic residents, using four nickel–titanium rotary instrument systems (ProFile, ProTaper, GTRotary and K3Endo) according to the recommendations of the manufacturers, instrumented 3181 canals in 1403 teeth of 1235 patients, in a dental school post‐graduate endodontic clinic, in 1 year. The incidence of instrument fracture was determined based on the number of instruments used. When fracture occurred, data were collected concerning the type, size, taper and prior use of the fractured instruments, the length and location of the fragment within the root canal and the curvature of the canal.

Results  The overall incidence of instrument fracture was 0.39%. The incidence of fracture for ProFile, ProTaper, GTRotary and K3Endo files was 0.28%, 0.41%, 0.39% and 0.52%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between instrument systems. The percentage of teeth in which instruments fractured was 1.9% (0.28% for anterior teeth, 1.56% for pre‐molars and 2.74% for molars). A total of 26 instruments fractured, of which 23 had tapers of 0.06 or greater. Most of the fragments were located in the apical third of the root canal, and both the median and mode amongst the fragment lengths were 2 mm.

Conclusions  The low incidence of nickel–titanium rotary instrument fracture supports the continued use of these instruments in root canal treatment.
Comparative study between Hfe‐/‐ and β2m‐/‐ mice: progression with age of iron status and liver pathology
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro , Lopes Célia , Mascarenhas Claudia , Arosio Paolo , Porto Graça , Sousa Maria De
Published: July 2006

Hepatic iron overload in hemochomatosis patients can be highly variable but in general it develops in older patients. The purpose of this study was to compare development of iron load in of β2m‐/‐ and Hfe‐/‐ mice paying special attention to liver pathology in older age groups. Liver iron content of β2m‐/‐, Hfe‐/‐ and control B6 mice of different ages (varying from 3 weeks to 18 months) was examined. Additional parameters (haematology indices, histopathology, lipid content and ferritin expression) were also studied in 18‐month‐old mice. The β2m‐/‐ strain presents higher hepatic iron content, hepatocyte nuclear iron inclusions, mitochondria abnormalities. In addition, hepatic steatosis was a common observation in this strain. In the liver of Hfe‐/‐ mice, large mononuclear infiltrates positive for ferritin staining were commonly observed. The steatosis commonly observed the β2m‐/‐ mice may be a reflection of its higher hepatic iron content. The large hepatic mononuclear cell infiltrates seen in Hfe‐/‐ stained for ferritin, may point to the iron sequestration capacity of lymphocytes and contribute to the clarification of the differences found in the progression of hepatic iron overload and steatosis in older animals from the two strains.
Congenital double lower lip: report of a case
Authors: CHIDZONGA M. M. , MAHOMVA L.
Published: July 2006

Summary.  A case of the management of a congenital double lower lip in a 2‐week‐old female child: is described. The mother stated that the child was having difficulties when suckling and was also worried about the unsightly appearance. The redundant lower lip was excised under general anaesthesia. The child made an uneventful recovery.
Evidence for elective replacement of peripheral intravenous catheter to prevent thrombophlebitis: a systematic review
Authors: Idvall Ewa , Gunningberg Lena
Published: July 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a review of the scientific evidence for elective replacement of peripheral intravenous catheters in adults in the absence of any clinical complications, with the aim being to reduce the incidence and severity of thrombophlebitis.

Background.  The incidence of thrombophlebitis associated with peripheral intravenous catheters has been reported to range from 5·3% to 77·5%. Many factors that increase the risk for thrombophlebitis have been reported, of which time in situ is one. In Sweden, the recommended guideline is elective replacement of peripheral intravenous catheters every 12–24 hours.

Method.  A systematic literature review was carried out in 2005 using the Cochrane Library, OvidMedline and CINAHL databases and hand searching of reference lists and with keywords catheterization, peripheral, thrombophlebitis and parenteral nutrition. The review included randomized controlled trials of elective replacement of peripheral intravenous catheters in adults. Three reviewers assessed the data found according to predetermined criteria.

Finding.  Three randomized control trials met the inclusion criteria and were retrieved for critical appraisal. The samples in two of the trials included patients requiring total parenteral nutrition. Patients in the third trial were receiving crystalloid and drugs. Time intervals for elective replacement varied. Study quality and relevance were rated as ‘medium’ in two of the trials and as ‘low’ in the third trial.

Conclusion.  Limited scientific evidence suggests that elective replacement of peripheral intravenous catheters reduces the incidence and severity of thrombophlebitis.
New Graduate Nurses’ Perceptions of Mentoring: six‐year programme evaluation
Authors: Beecroft Pauline C. , Santner Susan , Lacy Mary Lee , Kunzman Lucy , Dorey Frederick
Published: July 2006

Aim.  This paper reports data from an evaluation study to determine whether new graduate nurses: (1) were satisfactorily matched with mentors; (2) received guidance and support; (3) attained socialization into the nursing profession; (4) benefited from having a role model for acquisition of professional behaviours; (5) maintained contact with mentors; and (6) were satisfied with the mentorship.

Background.  The literature indicates that mentorship facilitates transition of new graduate nurses into the workplace and social culture of the organization. In addition, mentoring increases staff retention by decreasing stress and promoting positive self‐esteem and confidence.

Methods.  Data were generated from participant responses to survey items about mentoring from 1999 to 2005. Item responses were summarized with descriptive statistics, and then logistic regression was performed to see whether demographic variables predicted successful programme outcomes. In addition, content analysis was performed on respondents’ comments on survey items.

Results.  For participants who met with their mentors on a regular basis (54%), the mentor provided guidance and support for more than 90% and facilitated stress reduction for the majority. On the other hand, comments raised several concerns that apparently contributed to lack of connection between mentor and mentee. These included possible lack of commitment and time, and scheduling constraints of mentor and mentee. Inadequacy of both mentor and mentee in their roles was also apparent, especially in relation to socialization/career advice. Diversity of new graduates, including educational level, age and choice of nursing unit, were shown to add or decrease stress and influence the mentoring relationship.

Conclusion.  A successful relationship between mentor and resident‐mentee requires adequate time for the connection to grow through face‐to‐face meetings on a regular basis. Obstacles to meeting regularly and adequate role training of both mentors and mentees must be addressed in mentorship programmes for new graduate nurses.
Deconstruction of a complex tailored intervention to assess and treat discomfort of people with advanced dementia
Authors: Kovach Christine R. , Cashin Jeffrey R. , Sauer Linda
Published: July 2006

Aim.  This paper describes the use of components of the Serial Trial Intervention (STI), which is designed to address problems of physical and affective discomfort in people with late‐stage dementia.

Background.  Nursing intervention studies frequently test the efficacy of tailored interventions that contain multidimensional assessment and diverse treatment components. Describing differences in the intervention as planned in the research design and as delivered under study conditions increases understanding of what really contributed to outcomes achievement, Type III error and improves the validity of conclusions regarding intervention effectiveness.

Method.  Data from 57 participants in the treatment arm of a randomized experiment testing the intervention are used to describe the assessments and treatments actually delivered, to evaluate the effectiveness of specific components, and to compare differences between those receiving and not receiving the intervention.

Discussion.  While targeted treatment in response to positive physical assessment was effective for 86% of those receiving treatment, 70% of participants with a positive assessment finding did not receive treatment during this step of the STI. Trials of non‐pharmacological treatments were effective for 62% and trials of analgesics were effective for 75% of participants. Those treated at the not‐for‐profit facilities received a higher dose of the intervention and had statistically significant less discomfort after treatment than those at for‐profit facilities (effect size of 0·963).

Conclusion.  Components of the STI were effective for many participants and this supports the use of a multidimensional approach to resolve the unmet needs of people with dementia who no longer communicate their needs through spoken language. Treating the intervention as both a categorical and continuous variable in experimental studies allows the effect of group assignment as well as dosage delivered to be examined.
Profilin tyrosine phosphorylation in poly‐l‐proline‐binding regions inhibits binding to phosphoinositide 3‐kinase in Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Aparicio‐Fabre Rosaura , Guillén Gabriel , Estrada Georgina , Olivares‐Grajales Juan , Gurrola Georgina , Sánchez Federico
Published: July 2006

The profilin family consists of a group of ubiquitous highly conserved 12–15 kDa eukaryotic proteins that bind actin, phosphoinositides, poly‐l‐proline (PLP) and proteins with proline‐rich motifs. Some proteins with proline‐rich motifs form complexes that have been implicated in the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton and processes such as vesicular trafficking. A major unanswered question in the field is how profilin achieves the required specificity to bind such an array of proteins. It is now becoming clear that profilin isoforms are subject to differential regulation and that they may play distinct roles within the cell. Considerable evidence suggests that these isoforms have different functional roles in the sorting of diverse proteins with proline‐rich motifs. All profilins contain highly conserved aromatic residues involved in PLP binding which are presumably implicated in the interaction with proline‐rich motif proteins. We have previously shown that profilin is phosphorylated on tyrosine residues. Here, we show that profilin can bind directly to Phaseolus vulgaris phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) type III. We demonstrate that a new region around Y72 of profilin, as well as the N‐ and C‐terminal PLP‐binding domain, recognizes and binds PLP and PI3K. In vitro binding assays indicate that PI3K type III forms a complex with profilin in a manner that depends on the tyrosine phosphorylation status within the proline‐rich‐binding domain in profilin. Profilin–PI3K type III interaction suggests that profilin may be involved in membrane trafficking and in linking the endocytic pathway with actin reorganization dynamics.
The effect of altitude on parasite density case definitions for malaria in northeastern Tanzania
Authors: Chandler Clare I. R. , Drakeley Chris J. , Reyburn Hugh , Carneiro Ilona
Published: July 2006

Objectives  Malaria clinical trials need precise endpoints to measure efficacy. In endemic areas where asymptomatic parasitaemia is common, ‘fever plus parasitaemia’ may not differentiate between malaria cases and non‐cases. Case definitions based on parasite cut‐off densities may be more appropriate but may vary with age and transmission intensity. This study examines appropriate case definitions from parasitological surveys conducted over a broad range of transmission intensities, using altitude as a proxy for transmission intensity.

Methods  Cross‐sectional data collected from 24 villages at different altitudes in an endemic area of northeastern Tanzania were used to calculate malaria‐attributable fractions using a modified Poisson regression method. We modelled fever as a function of parasite density and determined the optimum cut‐off densities of parasites to cause fever using sensitivity and specificity analyses.

Results  The optimum cut‐off density varied by altitude in children aged under 5 years: a case definition of 4000 parasites per μl at altitudes <600 m (high transmission intensity) was most appropriate, compared with 1000 parasites per μl at altitudes >600 m (low transmission intensity). In children aged over 5 years and adults, there was little variation by altitude and a case definition of any parasites plus fever was the most appropriate.

Conclusions  Locally appropriate case definitions of malaria should be used for research purposes. In our setting, these varied independently with age and transmission intensity.