bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secretory Immunoglobulin A Antibodies against the σ1 Outer Capsid Protein of Reovirus Type 1 Lang Prevent Infection of Mouse Peyer's Patches
Authors: Hutchings Amy B. , Helander Anna , Silvey Katherine J. , Chandran Kartik , Lucas William T. , Nibert Max L. , Neutra Marian R.
Published: December 2003

Reovirus type 1 Lang (T1L) adheres to M cells in the follicle-associated epithelium of mouse intestine and exploits the transport activity of M cells to enter and infect the Peyer's patch mucosa. Adult mice that have previously cleared a reovirus T1L infection have virus-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) in serum and IgA in secretions and are protected against reinfection. Our aim in this study was to determine whether secretory IgA is sufficient for protection of Peyer's patches against oral reovirus challenge and, if so, against which reovirus antigen(s) the IgA may be directed. Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) of the IgA isotype, directed against the σ1 protein of reovirus T1L, the viral adhesin, were produced and tested along with other, existing IgA and IgG MAbs against reovirus T1L outer capsid proteins. Anti-σ1 IgA and IgG MAbs neutralized reovirus T1L in L cell plaque reduction assays and inhibited T1L adherence to L cells and Caco-2BBeintestinal epithelial cells in vitro, but MAbs against other proteins did not. Passive oral administration of anti-σ1 IgA and IgG MAbs prevented Peyer's patch infection in adult mice, but other MAbs did not. When anti-σ1 IgA and IgG MAbs were produced in mice from hybridoma backpack tumors, however, the IgA prevented Peyer's patch infection, but the IgG did not. The results provide evidence that neutralizing IgA antibodies specific for the σ1 protein are protective in vitro and in vivo and that the presence of these antibodies in intestinal secretions is sufficient for protection against entry of reovirus T1L into Peyer's patches.
Unintentional and undetermined firearm related deaths: a preventable death analysis for three safety devices
Authors: Vernick J S , O’Brien M , Hepburn L M , Johnson S B , Webster D W , Hargarten S W
Published: December 2003

Objective:To determine the proportion of unintentional and undetermined firearm related deaths preventable by three safety devices: personalization devices, loaded chamber indicators (LCIs), and magazine safeties. A personalized gun will operate only for an authorized user, a LCI indicates when the gun contains ammunition, and a magazine safety prevents the gun from firing when the ammunition magazine is removed.

Design:Information about all unintentional and undetermined firearm deaths from 1991–98 was obtained from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for Maryland, and from the Wisconsin Firearm Injury Reporting System for Milwaukee. Data regarding the victim, shooter, weapon, and circumstances were abstracted. Coding rules to classify each death as preventable, possibly preventable, or not preventable by each of the three safety devices were also applied.

Results:There were a total of 117 firearm related deaths in our sample, 95 (81%) involving handguns. Forty three deaths (37%) were classified as preventable by a personalized gun, 23 (20%) by a LCI, and five (4%) by a magazine safety. Overall, 52 deaths (44%) were preventable by at least one safety device. Deaths involving children 0–17 (relative risk (RR) 3.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1 to 5.1) and handguns (RR 8.1, 95% CI 1.2 to 53.5) were more likely to be preventable. Projecting the findings to the entire United States, an estimated 442 deaths might have been prevented in 2000 had all guns been equipped with these safety devices.

Conclusion:Incorporating safety devices into firearms is an important injury intervention, with the potential to save hundreds of lives each year.
Effect of urban closed circuit television on assault injury and violence detection
Authors: Sivarajasingam V , Shepherd J P , Matthews K
Published: December 2003

Objective:To evaluate the effect of closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance on levels of assault injury and violence detection.

Design:Intervention versus control study design.

Setting:Five town/cities with CCTV surveillance and five, matched control centres without CCTV surveillance in England.

Intervention:CCTV installation and surveillance.

Methods:Assault related emergency department attendances and violent offences recorded by the police in CCTV and control centres in the four years, 1995–99, two years before and two years after CCTV installation, were compared.

Results:Assault related emergency department attendances decreased in intervention centres (3% decrease, ratio 0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 0.99) and increased in control centres (11% increase, ratio 1.11; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.14). Overall, changes in emergency department assault attendance in CCTV and control centres were significantly different (ttest, p<0.05). Police recorded violence increased in CCTV (11% increase, ratio 1.16; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.24) and control centres (5% increase, ratio 1.06; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.13). Overall, changes in police recording in CCTV and control centres were not significantly different (ttest, p>0.05). In CCTV centres, decreases in assault related emergency department attendances and increases in police violence detection were not uniform.

Conclusion:CCTV surveillance was associated with increased police detection of violence and reductions in injury or severity of injury. CCTV centre variation deserves further study.
Increases in booster seat use among children of low income families and variation with age
Authors: Apsler R , Formica S W , Rosenthal A F , Robinson K
Published: December 2003

Objectives:To increase booster seat use among low income parents.

Design/methods:A pre-test/post-test design conducted in nine daycare centers with post-test observations four to eight weeks after the intervention.

Intervention:Parents who participated in an educational training received free seats, educational programs were provided to all daycare staff and children, and signs in parking lots informed parents about child restraints. At seven centers, new policies recommended compliance with state restraint laws. Parents at four centers randomly chosen from the seven received financial incentives if observed using booster seats.

Main outcome measure:The percent of children aged 4–8 riding in booster seats.

Results:Pre-test observations of 185 4–8 year olds found 56% riding unrestrained and fewer than 3% riding in booster seats. After the intervention, observation of 146 children found the number riding in booster seats increased to 38% and the number observed without restraints decreased to 26%. Most booster seat use occurred with 4 and 5 year olds. No 7 or 8 year olds rode in booster seats. Changing center policies to recommend compliance with state restraint laws and an offer of financial incentives appeared to have no additional impact.

Conclusions:Booster seat usage among low income families can be increased dramatically, though use decreases with age. Providing free seats accompanied by training may be sufficient without the need for additional intervention.
Comparison of urban and rural non-fatal injury: the results of a statewide survey
Authors: Leff M , Stallones L , Keefe T J , Rosenblatt R , Reeds M
Published: December 2003

Objectives:This study compared the epidemiology of non-fatal injury among urban and rural residents of Colorado.

Design:A stratified probability sample with random digit dial methods was used to survey Colorado residents by telephone regarding injuries experienced in the last 12 months. Questions on the cause of the injury, the activity at the time of the injury, and the place of injury were based on the Nordic Medico Statistical Committee’s (NOMESCO) classification of external causes of injuries.

Subjects:A total of 1425 urban and 1275 rural Colorado residents aged 18 and older were interviewed.

Results:Age, gender, marital status, and rural residency were found to increase the odds of self reported injury. The adjusted odds ratio for self reported injury was 1.3 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01 to 1.68) for rural compared with urban residents. Rural residence (odds ratio 1.02, 95% CI 0.51 to 7.01) was not a risk factor for injury among the highest risk group, those who were single and never married. No differences in injury characteristics were found by urban-rural status.

Conclusions:The increased odds of self reported injury among rural residents were not explained by differences in the causes of injury or other injury characteristics. The differences in the importance of rural residence in increased odds of injury by marital status warrants further understanding and may be important in the development of injury prevention programs. Based on comparison with a similar survey, the NOMESCO coding system appears to be a viable alternative survey tool for gathering information on injury characteristics.
Childhood injuries due to falls from apartment balconies and windows
Authors: Istre G R , McCoy M A , Stowe M , Davies K , Zane D , Anderson R J , Wiebe R
Published: December 2003

Background:Falls from balconies and windows are an important cause of childhood injury. This study investigated the circumstances around such falls and attempted to identify possible measures for their prevention.

Population:Children <15 years living in Dallas County, Texas.

Methods:Each child treated because of a fall from a building in 1997–99 had information about the injury collected, and a parent was contacted to obtain further information. For apartment related falls, an attempt was made to visit the apartment to measure windows and balcony rails.

Results:Ninety eight children were injured in falls from buildings during the three year period; 39 (40%) were admitted to hospital. Seventy five of the falls (77%) involved apartments, and most occurred around noon or evening meal times. Among apartment falls, 39 (52%) fell from windows, 34 (45%) from balconies, and two (3%) from unknown sites. For more than two thirds of balcony related falls, the child fell from between the balcony rails, all of which were spaced more than 4 inches (10 cm) apart. On-site measurement showed the rails were an average of 7.5 inches (19 cm) apart; all of these apartments were built before 1984. For more than two thirds of window related falls, the window was situated within 2 feet (61 cm) of the floor.

Conclusions:Two factors are important in falls from apartment windows and balconies: balcony rails more than 4 inches (10 cm) apart, and windows positioned low to the floor. Current building codes do not apply to older apartments, where most of these falls occurred. Nevertheless, these factors may be amenable to environmental modifications that may prevent most of these falls.
Vehicle year and the risk of car crash injury
Authors: Blows S , Ivers R Q , Woodward M , Connor J , Ameratunga S , Norton R
Published: December 2003

Objective:To quantify the association between vehicle age and risk of car crash injury.

Design and setting:Data from a population based case-control study conducted in the Auckland region in 1998/99 was used to examine the adjusted risk of car crash injury or death due to vehicle age, after controlling for a range of known confounders. Cases were all cars involved in crashes in which at least one occupant was hospitalized or killed anywhere in the Auckland region, and controls were randomly selected cars on Auckland roads. The drivers of the 571 case vehicles and 588 control vehicles completed a structured interview.

Main outcome measure:Hospitalisation or death of a vehicle occupant due to car crash injury.

Results:Vehicles constructed before 1984 had significantly greater chance of being involved in an injury crash than those constructed after 1994 (odds ratio 2.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20 to 6.91), after adjustment for potential confounders. There was also a trend for increasing crash risk with each one year increase in vehicle age after adjustment for potential confounders (odds ratio 1.05, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.11; p = 0.09).

Conclusion:This study quantifies the increased risk of car crash injury associated with older vehicle year and confirms this as an important public health issue.
Washing machine related injuries in children: a continuing threat
Authors: Warner B L , Kenney B D , Rice M
Published: December 2003

Objective:To describe washing machine related injuries in children in the United States.

Methods:Injury data for 496 washing machine related injuries documented by the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s National Electronic Injury Surveillance System and death certificate data files were analyzed. Gender, age, diagnosis, body part injured, disposition, location and mechanism of injury were considered in the analysis of data.

Results:The upper extremities were most frequently injured in washing machine related injuries, especially with wringer machines. Fewer than 10% of patients required admission, but automatic washers accounted for most of these and for both of the deaths. Automatic washer injuries involved a wider range of injury mechanism, including 23 children who fell from the machines while in baby seats.

Conclusions:Though most injuries associated with washing machines are minor, some are severe and devastating. Many of the injuries could be avoided with improvements in machine design while others suggest a need for increased education of potential dangers and better supervision of children if they are allowed access to areas where washing machines are operating. Furthermore, washing machines should only be used for their intended purpose. Given the limitations of educational efforts to prevent injuries, health professionals should have a major role in public education regarding these seemingly benign household appliances.
Missing cyclists
Authors: Langley J D , Dow N , Stephenson S , Kypri K
Published: December 2003

Objectives:(1) For crashes on a public road, to compare serious cyclist crashes involving a motor vehicle with cyclist crashes not involving a motor vehicle, in terms of threat to life and length of stay in hospital. (2) To determine the proportion of all serious crashes involving cyclists on public roads which are recorded by the police. (3) To determine the degree to which under-reporting of serious crashes involving cyclists and motor vehicles on public roads is associated with various demographic, environmental, and injury factors.

Study design:Records for the period 1995–99, of cyclists seriously injured on a public road and hospitalised were linked to the traffic crash report (TCR) database maintained by Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA).

Results:Of the 2925 cyclist crashes on public roads, only 652 (22%) could be linked to a TCR. Of the crashes involving motor vehicles (n = 1033), only 562 (54%) could be linked to the LTSA database. Age, ethnicity, injury severity, and cumulative length of stay were the only variables that predicted whether hospitalised cycle crash cases were more likely to have a corresponding TCR. There were substantial numbers of cyclist only crashes which typically are not captured in the TCR database. Nine percent of these resulted in serious or worse injury (that is,International Classification of Diseases/abbreviated injury scale score of 3+) and 7% resulted in hospital stays greater than seven days.

Conclusion:Greater effort and precision needs to be applied to routinely document the burden of cyclist crashes, especially cyclist only crashes.
Modulation of Cerebral Cortex in Acupuncture Stimulation: A Study Using Sympathetic Skin Response and Somatosensory Evoked Potentials
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Liang
Published: December 2003

Although acupuncture has been widely used for treating disorders, its therapeutic mechanism remains unclear. In order to study the physiological mechanism of acupuncture stimulation, both palm recordings of sympathetic skin response (SSR) were evoked by electrical stimulation of the right median nerve on 13 normal adult volunteers. Median nerve evoked short-latency somatosensory evoked potential (SEPs) recordings were taken at least one week after SSR recording. The latencies and amplitudes were calculated. N13 component was obtained from Cv7, and N20 and P25 were from somatosensory cortex. The control did not receive acupuncture stimulation. Acupuncture needles were inserted into both Zusanli (St-36) acupoints as follows: 1) manual acupuncture (MA): using fingers to twist the acupuncture needle until so-called Der-Qi was obtained, 2) 2 Hz eletroacupuncture (EA): 2 Hz square-wave electrical pulse were applied between the Zusanli needle and the Shangjuxu (St-37) needle bilaterally. Our results indicated that the mean latencies of SSR were largest during 2 Hz EA followed by MA stimulation, whereas the period of control exhibited the shortest mean latencies. In contrast, the mean amplitudes of SSR were smallest during the period of 2Hz EA, followed by the period of MA, and the period of control exhibited the largest mean amplitudes of SSR. The latencies of N13, N20 and P25 remained unchanged, but the amplitudes of P25 were largest during the period of 2Hz EA, followed by the period of MA; the period of control exhibited the smallest mean amplitudes of SEPs. The results suggest that acupuncture stimulation of both Zusanli acupoints inhibited SSR, which implies that the cerebral cortex contributed at least in part to this inhibition. The stimulation effect of 2Hz EA is stronger than MA.
Response of Healthy Individuals to Ninjin-Yoei-To Extract -Enhancement of Natural Killer Cell Activity
Authors: Kamei Tsutomu , Kumano Hiroaki , Beppu Kunihide , Iwata Kentaro , Masumura Sumio
Published: December 2003

After administering 15 g/day of Ninjin-Yoei-To (NYT) for one week to healthy people whose NK activity had already been increased by physiological response, a further increase in NK activity was observed after two days. This increased level of NK activity continued during the administration of NYT for a one-week period. The maintaining and reinforcing effect on the immune surveillance system by NYT may be useful for prevention of carcinogenesis.
Effects of Jen-San-Yaung-Jung-Tang on Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia in Rats
Authors: Lu Ming-Chin
Published: December 2003

The effect of Jen-San-Yaung-Jung-Tang (YJT) on scopolamine (SCOP)-induced amnesia was investigated in a step-through passive avoidance task in rats. It was observed that YJT (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg) significantly improved SCOP-induced amnesia and did not change the horizontal activity and pain threshold. YJT at 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg also did not change SCOP-treated horizontal activity and pain threshold. Furthermore, the antiamnesic effect of YJT at 1.0 g/kg on the SCOP-induced amnesia was augmented by physostigmine, but was not altered by neostigmine or scopolamine N-methylbromide. These results suggest that the antiamnesic effect of YJT could only be related to the memory-related process, and to an increase in central cholinergic neuronal activity.
Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on Impairment of Learning Induced by Cerebral Ischemia in Mice
Authors: Tadano Takeshi , Nakagawasai Osamu , Tan-no Koichi , Morikawa Yuichi , Takahashi Norio , Kisara Kensuke
Published: December 2003

The effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE) on cerebral ischemia induced by l0-min bilateral occlusion of the carotid arteries in mice was studied. Severe impairment of memory was apparent when the passive avoidance test was carried out 48 hr after bilaterally induced ischemia. When GbE at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg was given p.o. 1 hr before the l0-min occlusion, there was a significant improvement in memory. The i.p. injection of ifenprodil (30 mg/kg) also showed improvement on learning tasks. The p.o. administration of flavonoid, a fraction isolated from GbE, showed high step-through latency on scopolamine-induced amnesia. All these findings indicate that GbE is beneficial for clinical use in amnesia accompanied with cerebral vascular disease.
Anti-aging Effects of Bao-Chun-Wan on Rats: A Morphological Ultrastructure Study
Authors: Yan Yong , Li Xingdi , Yao Peifa
Published: December 2003

Bao-Chun-Wan, a Chinese prescription, is formulated according to the principle of tonifying the kidney for treatment of aging. Morphological study on the ultrastructure of laboratory albino rats treated with this formula showed an increase in thymic lymphocytes, which play an important role in the production of T cells. As to the liver cells, the formula has a protective effect and may induce enzymes enhancing oxidation and excretion of toxic substances. An increase in the Leydig's cell, which promotes reproductive hormone secretion, was also observed, but there was no obvious change in germinal cells. The above findings reported in this article have not been cited in any previous studies and are suggesting that the kidney tonifying formula may act through the mechanism of promoting body immune function, metabolism and biotransformation, and, therefore, result in anti-aging.
Effect of Lu-Duo-Wei on Scavenging Superoxide and Hydroxyl Radicals in vitro
Authors: Fang Yun-Zhong , Sun Cun-Pu , Tian Xiao-Hua , Cong Jian-Ho
Published: December 2003

Irradiation of a riboflavin-containing system by ultraviolet light was used to produce superoxide radical (•O2-). Hydroxyl radical (•OH) was generated by the system of Fe (II)-H2O2. Using electron spin resonance and spin trapping techniques, the effect of Lu-Duo-Wei, a capsule consisting extracts of green tea, Fructus Lycii and Semen Ziziphi Spinosae, on scavenging •O2- and •OH was observed. The results showed that the efficiency of scavenging •O2- and •OH by Lu-Duo-Wei was much higher than that by tea polyphenol alone. It is suggested that the synergistic action of tea polypheno1 and other components are responsible for the scavenging effect of Lu-Duo-Wei on •O2- and •OH.
Anti-inflammatory Effects of Mao-Bushi-Saishin-to in Mice and Rats
Authors: Ikeda Yoshiki , Iijima Osamu T. , lizuka Akira , Ishige Atsushi , Amagaya Sakae , Komatsu Yasuhiro , Okada Minoru , Abe Chiyuki , Fujihira Eiichi
Published: December 2003

Effects of Mao-Bushi-Saishin-to (MBS) on anti-inflammatory activities were examined in mice and rats. MBS significantly inhibited the increase in vascular permeability induced by acetic acid, the ear edema induced by arachidonic acid and phorbol ester, and the cutaneous extravasation induced by bradykinin and histamine. MBS, however, was not effective against the serotonin-induced cutaneous permeability increase in mice. MBS significantly inhibited carrageenin-induced hind foot edema and cotton pellet-induced granulation tissue growth in rats. These results show that MBS may exert anti-inflammatory effects through the underlying mechanism(s) of preventing mediator release from mast cells and macrophages.
Suppressive Activity of the Chloroform Extract of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f on Effector T Cell Activation during Hymenolepis nana Infection in Mice
Authors: Asano Kazuhito , Matsuishi Jun , Yu Ying , Nemoto Kou-ichirou , Nakazawa Masami , Kasahara Takako , Hisamitsu Tadashi
Published: December 2003

The chloroform extract of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f (TWH extract) administered into mice daily at doses of 80.0 to 200.0 μg/kg (but not 40.0 μg/kg) caused suppression of protective immunity to Hymenolepis nana when the extract was injected subcutaneously during the induction phase of protective immunity. Daily administration of 200.0 μg/kg TWH extract, during the course of larval development from challenge, also suppressed protective immunity. Inhibition of protective immunity was only observed in mice that received TWH extract for 6 days at a daily dose of 200.0 μ:g/kg and were challenged 24 h after the final injection. TWH extract did not inhibit formation of effector cells that mediate delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to H. nana egg antigen when the extract was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 200.0 μg/kg/day for 5 days before cell preparation. However, TWH extract did inhibit DTH effector cell activation when cells prepared from infected, PBS-injected mice were transferred into 200.0 μg/kg TWH extract-treated recipient mice. These results strongly indicate that TWH extract cannot inhibit the generation of effector cells but will suppress their function in vivo.
Effect of Red Ginseng on Blood Pressure in Patients with Essential Hypertension and White Coat Hypertension
Authors: Han Ki Hoon , Choe Seong Choon , Kim Hyo Soo , Sohn Dae Won , Nam Ki Yeul , Oh Byung Hee , Lee Myoung Mook , Park Young Bae , Choi Yun Shik , Seo Jung Don , Lee Young Woo
Published: December 2003

The objective of this study is to evaluate the changes of diurnal blood pressure pattern after 8 weeks of red ginseng medication (4.5 g/day) by 24 hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. In 26 subjects with essential hypertension, 24 hour mean systolic blood pressure decreased significantly (p = 0.03) while diastolic blood pressure only showed a tendency of decline (p = 0.17). The decrease in pressures were observed at daytime (8 A.M.-6 P.M.) and dawn (5 A.M.-7 A.M.). In 8 subjects with white coat hypertension, no significant blood pressure change was observed. We suggest that red ginseng might be useful as a relatively safe medication adjuvant to current antihypertensive medications.
Effects of ChunDoSunBup Qi-training on Psychological Adjustments: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Lee Myeong Soo , Jeong Seong Min , Oh Sang Woo , Ryu Hoon , Chung Hun-Taeg
Published: December 2003

This cross-sectional investigation evaluated the trend of psychological changes by ChunDoSunBup (CDSB) Qi-training using a self-report inventory of emotional distress, Symptom Check List-90-Revision (SCL-90-R). 41 normal healthy subjects (mean age = 20.98 ± 5.39) and 123 CDSB Qi-trainees (divided into three groups, Q1, Q2 and Q3) participated in this study. Group Q1 has received 1-4 months CDSB Qi-training (age 21.95 ± 7.82, n = 41); Q2 has 5-12 months Qi-training (age 20.0 ± 7.75, n = 41); and Q3 has more than 13 months Qi-training (age 22.68 ± 6.72, n = 41). Our results show that Qi-trainees over 13 months had significantly lower scores compared to controls. A significant negative correlation was found between the Qi-training period and all SCL-90-R subscales except phobic anxiety. These results suggest that CDSB Qi-training is effective in protection as well as reduction of psychological symptomatology.
The Acupuncture System and the Liquid Crystalline Collagen Fibers of the Connective Tissues
Authors: Ho Mae-Wan , Knight David P.
Published: December 2003

We propose that the acupuncture system and the DC body field detected by western scientists both inhere in the continuum of liquid crystalline collagen fibers that make up the bulk of the connective tissues. Bound water layers on the collagen fibers provide proton conduction pathways for rapid intercommunication throughout the body, enabling the organism to function as a coherent whole. This liquid crystalline continuum mediates hyperreactivity to allergens and the body's responsiveness to different forms of subtle energy medicine. It constitutes a "body consciousness" working in tandem with the "brain consciousness" of the nervous system. We review supporting evidence from biochemistry, cell biology, biophysics and neurophysiology, and suggest experiments to test our hypothesis.
Cerebral Cortex Participation in the Physiological Mechanisms of Acupuncture Stimulation: A Study by Auditory Endogenous Potentials (P300)
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Liang , Li Tsai-Chung , Lin Chien-Yu , Tang Nou-Ying , Chang Qwang-Yuen , Lin Jaung-Geng
Published: December 2003

Although acupuncture has traditionally used the acupoints formula to treat diseases, the physiological mechanisms involved and the effectiveness of therapy remain unclear. This study investigated the physiological mechanism(s) and response to acupuncture stimulation using the acupoints formula. Scalp-recorded potentials P300 were evoked by auditory stimulation of non-target and target in 13 normal adult volunteers. Latencies and amplitudes were measured. Three assessments were performed in each subject over a period of at least one week. Each assessment was divided into a control period with no acupuncture stimulation, followed by an acupuncture period and then a post-acupuncture period. Acupuncture needles were inserted into the body as follows: 1) non-acupoint: acupuncture needles were inserted 2 cm lateral to both Zusanli acupoints; 2) acupoint: acupuncture needles were inserted into both Zusanli acupoints; 3) acupoints formula: acupuncture needles were inserted into both Zusanli and Shousanli acupoints. Our results showed that both acupoint and acupoints formula assessments resulted in a significant decrease of P300 amplitudes during the acupuncture and post-acupuncture periods. However, there was significant difference in P300 amplitudes in the non-acupoint assessment during these periods. P300 changes in latencies and amplitudes were not significantly different between the acupoint assessment and the acupoints formula assessment. We concluded that acupuncture stimulation of both Zusanli acupoints resulted in a decrease of P300 amplitudes, suggesting the involvement of the cerebral cortex in sensory interaction when simultaneous sensations of the two types are received. No similar changes were observed in the non-acupoint assessment, which have been suggested to be related to so-called acupoint specificity. Results obtained using the acupoints formula were not significantly different from those using acupoints alone. These findings suggested that neuropsychological effects from stimulation of Zusanli acupoints and Shousanli acupoints are different.
Fructus corni Attenuates Oxidative Stress in Macrophages and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Peng Qiaoling , Wei Zhihua , Lau Benjamin H. S.
Published: December 2003

The antioxidant effect of a Chinese medicinal herb, Fructus corni extract (FCE), was investigated using models of oxidative stress in macrophages and vascular endothelial cells. Murine macrophages (J774) were incubated with FCE at 37°C and 5% CO2 for 1 hr. Oxidative burst was triggered by zymosan and measured with a fluorescent probe. FCE exhibited a concentration- dependent suppression of oxidative burst. Confluent monolayers of bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) were preincubated with FCE for 20 hrs, washed, and then exposed to an organic oxidant t-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) for 2 hrs. Cell viability was assessed by methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and cell injury by the release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Lipid peroxidation products of PAEC were determined by measuring thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS). Exposure of PAEC to tBHP resulted in decreased cell viability, increased LDH release, and elevated TBARS. Preincubation of PAEC with FCE significantly reversed these changes. Our results demonstrated that FCE can protect vascular endothelial cells from oxidant injury. The data thus suggest that Fructus corni may be useful for the prevention and/or treatment of disorders associated with oxidative damage.
Analysis of Inhibitory Effects of Scutellariae Radix and Baicalein on Prostaglandin E2Production in Rat C6 Glioma Cells
Authors: Nakahata Norimichi , Kutsuwa Mizuyo , Kyo Reiki , Kubo Masayoshi , Hayashi Koji , Ohizumi Yasushi
Published: December 2003

Inhibitory mechanism of the water extract of Scutellariae Radix on prostaglandin E2(PGE2) release was examined in C6 rat glioma cells. Scutellariae Radix reduced a Ca2+ionophore A23l87-induced PGE2release by inhibition of arachidonic acid (AA) liberation. Sho-saiko-to and San'o-shashin-to, which contain Scutellariae Radix, also inhibited PGE2release. A23l87 caused phospho-rylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), resulting in activation of cytosolic phospholipase A2(cPLA2). Scutellariae Radix and baicalein inhibited the phosphorylation of MAPK. Baicalein, but not baicalin, inhibited A23l87-induced PGE2release. These results suggest that baicalein in Scutellariae Radix reduces AA liberation through the inhibition of the MAPK-cPLA2pathway.
The Protective Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription, Han-Dan-Gan-Le, on CCl4-induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats
Authors: Li Cheng-Xiu , Li Ling , Lou Jung , Yang Wen-Xiou , Lei Ting-Wen , Li Yan-Hui , Liu Jie , Cheng Min-Liang , Huang Len-Hui
Published: December 2003

Han-Dan-Gan-Le, a Chinese medicine preparation composed of Salvia miltorrhiza, Radix paeoniae, Astragalus membranaceus, Stephania tetrandra, and dried leaves of Ginkgo biloba, has been used successfully to treat human liver fibrosis and cirrhosis for years. This study was designed to examine the mechanisms of the protection. Male Wistar rats were given CCI4 (1.2 ml/kg, 2 times/week), 20% fat diet, and 30% alcohol in drinking water (every other day) for 6 weeks. Han-Dan-Gan-Le (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg, p.o., daily for 6 weeks) was administered to rats simultaneously to examine the protective effects against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. The experimentally-induced liver fibrosis and other morphological alterations were significantly ameliorated by Han-Dan-Gan-Le. Han-Dan-Gan-Le treatments decreased CCl4-induced hepatic collagen accumulation by more than 50%, and significantly increased urinary excretion of hydroxyproline. The CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation in liver and serum was ameliorated as a result of Han-Dan-Gan-Le treatment, possibly by restoring the activity of superoxide dismutase activity in liver and erythrocytes, In conclusion, Han-Dan-Gan-Le is effective in protecting against liver fibrosis. The mechanisms of the protection appear to be due to its antioxidant properties and the modulation of hepatic collagen metabolism.
Effects of Garlic Compounds Diallyl Sulfide and Diallyl Disulfide on Arylamine N-Acetyltransferase Activity in Strains ofHelicobacter pylorifrom Peptic Ulcer Patients
Authors: Chung J. G. , Chen G. W. , Wu L. T. , Chang H. L. , Lin Juang G. , Yeh C. C. , Wang T. F.
Published: December 2003

Arylamine N-acctyltransferase (NAT) activities with p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and 2-aminofluorene (2-AF) were determined in the bacterium Helicobacter pylori collected from peptic ulcer patients. Two assay systems were performed, one with cellular cytosols, the other with intact cell suspensions. Cytosols or suspensions of H. pylori with or without specific concentrations of diallyl sulfide (DAS) or diallyl disulfide (DADS) co-treatment showed different percentages of 2-AF and PABA acetylation. The data indicated that there was decreased NAT activity associated with increased levels of DAS or DADS in H. pylori cytosols and suspensions. Viability studies on H. pylori demonstrated that DAS or DADS elicited dose-dependent bactericide affects on H. pylori cultures. The data also indicated that DAS and DADS decreased the apparent values of Km and Vmax of NAT enzyme from H. pylori in both systems examined. This report is the first demonstration that garlic components can affect H. pylori growth and NAT activity.
Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on Postherpetic Neuralgia
Authors: Hijikata Yasuyo , Yamada Seika
Published: December 2003

Administration of hot water soluble extracts of Ganoderma lucidum (GI) (36 to 72 g dry weight/day) decreased pain dramatically in two patients with postherpetic neuralgia recalcitrant to standard therapy and two other patients with severe pain due to herpes zoster infection.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN PHYSICS BEYOND THE STANDARD MODEL
Authors: GIUDICE GIAN F.
Published: December 2003

In this talk I discuss what I believe are the most interesting recent developments in physics beyond the Standard Model. After some initial comments on neutrino masses, I discuss the status of low-energy supersymmetry and finally turn to describing some recent work in theories with extra spatial dimensions.
DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES: THE SETTLEMENT MODEL, DESIGN SOLUTION AND MATTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Authors: DEAKIN MARK
Published: December 2003

Sustainable communities are seen as offering the opportunity to manage growth in plan-led and environmentally friendly patterns of settlement. This paper examines the settlement model put forward for the development of sustainable communities in the United Kingdom and shows that while in Scotland, the growth management strategy is clearly plan-led, the degree to which the design solution can be seen to be environmentally friendly is questionable. The paper suggests this is because in its current form, the model is not able to show whether the design solution advanced is ecologically sound. Whether, in particular, the solution is ecologically sound and because of this, not only efficient in greening economic development, but in also making it financially viable for plan-led experiments of this kind to produce environmentally friendly patterns of settlement.
3.5 Years of Insulin Therapy With Insulin Glargine Improves In Vivo Endothelial Function in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vehkavaara Satu , Yki-Järvinen Hannele
Published: December 2003

Objective—

To determine long-term effects of insulin glargine on vascular function in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods and Results—

A total of 49 in vivo endothelial function tests, intrabrachial artery infusions of endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine [ACh]) and endothelium-independent (sodium nitroprusside [SNP]) vasoactive agents, were performed in 11 patients with type 2 diabetes (age: 59±2 years; BMI: 29.7±0.9 kg/m
2
; fasting plasma glucose: 226±14 mg/dL) and 16 matched normal subjects. The tests in the type 2 diabetic patients were performed before and after 6 months and 3.5 years of combination therapy with insulin glargine and metformin. A control group of type 2 diabetic patients not treated with insulin was studied twice at 6-month intervals. Before treatment, blood flow during infusions of low and high doses of ACh were significantly lower in the type 2 diabetic patients than in the normal subjects (
P
=0.021 for ANOVA). In the patients with type 2 diabetes, blood flow during infusion of the low dose of ACh averaged 7.1±0.8 mL/dL per minute at baseline, 8.8±1.0 mL/dL per minute at 6 months (NS), and then increased compared with baseline by 87±29% to 11.6±1.4 mL/dL per minute at 3.5 years (
P
<0.02 versus baseline). Blood flow during infusion of the high dose of ACh increased from 8.8±0.9 at baseline to 13.0±1.9 mL/dL per minute at 6 months (
P
<0.05) and by 86±25% to 14.7±1.6 mL/dL per minute at 3.5 years (
P
<0.01 versus baseline), which was not different from normal subjects. Blood flow during infusion of low (blood flow at 0 months: 7.7±0.5; at 6 months: 9.9±0.6;
P
<0.01 for 6 versus 0 months; and 3.5 years: 11.6±1.1 mL/dL per minute;
P
<0.02 for 3.5 years versus 0 months) and high (blood flow at 0 months: 10.7±0.9; 6 months: 13.4±1.0;
P
<0.05 for 6 versus 0 months; and 3.5 years: 16.6±1.5 mL/dL per minute;
P
<0.05 for 3.5 years versus 0 months) doses of SNP also increased significantly during insulin therapy.

Conclusions—

We conclude that insulin glargine therapy improves endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasodilatation. These data support the idea that long-term insulin therapy has beneficial rather than harmful effects on vascular function in type 2 diabetes.
Differences Between Mainstream and Sidestream Cigarette Smoke Extracts and Nicotine in the Activation of Platelets Under Static and Flow Conditions
Authors: Rubenstein David , Jesty Jolyon , Bluestein Danny
Published: December 2003

Background—

Cigarette smoke is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Enhanced function of the hemostatic system, in which platelets play a major role, is a significant underlying mechanism in cardiovascular disease and its progression. Epidemiological studies, complemented by physiological and biochemical data, show that cigarette smoke adversely affects platelet function, both in smokers and in nonsmokers exposed to sidestream smoke.

Methods and Results—

The thrombogenic potential of platelets subjected to mainstream smoke extracts, sidestream extracts, and nicotine was measured in vitro under static and dynamic flow conditions. Platelet activation state was measured with a modified prothrombinase-based method. Mainstream and sidestream smoke extracts caused increased platelet activation. Although low-tar mainstream extracts activated platelets less than high-tar extracts, the sidestream extracts were almost equally potent. Modification of the filters of low-tar cigarettes, by blocking the air-bypass holes, raised activation rates by mainstream extracts to the level of high-tar extracts. Nicotine (50 nmol/L and 5 μmol/L) inhibited platelet activation under both flow and static conditions.

Conclusions—

Cigarette smoke extracts directly cause platelet activation but also markedly increase the susceptibility of platelets to activation by shear stress. In contrast, nicotine, although also a constituent of cigarette smoke, significantly reduces platelet susceptibility to shear stress.
Chronic Arterial Responses to Polymer-Controlled Paclitaxel-Eluting Stents
Authors: Tanabe Kengo , Serruys Patrick W. , Degertekin Muzaffer , Guagliumi Giulio , Grube Eberhard , Chan Charles , Munzel Thomas , Belardi Jorge , Ruzyllo Witold , Bilodeau Luc , Kelbaek Henning , Ormiston John , Dawkins Keith , Roy Louis , Strauss Bradley H. , Disco Clemens , Koglin Jörg , Russell Mary E. , Colombo Antonio
Published: December 2003

Background—

Polymer-controlled paclitaxel-eluting stents have shown a pronounced reduction in neointimal hyperplasia compared with bare metal stents (BMS). The aim of this substudy was to evaluate local arterial responses through the use of serial quantitative intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) analyses in the TAXUS II trial.

Methods and Results—

TAXUS II was a randomized, double-blind study with 536 patients in 2 consecutive cohorts comparing slow-release (SR; 131 patients) and moderate-release (MR; 135 patients) paclitaxel-eluting stents with BMS (270 patients). This IVUS substudy included patients treated with one study stent who underwent serial IVUS examination after the procedure and at 6-month follow-up (BMS, 152 patients; SR, 81; MR, 81). The analyzed stented segment (15 mm) was divided into 5 subsegments in which mean vessel area (VA), stent area (SA), lumen area (LA), intrastent neointimal hyperplasia area (NIHA), and peristent area (VA−SA) were measured. NIHA was significantly reduced in SR (0.7±0.9 mm
2
,
P
<0.001) and MR (0.6±0.8 mm
2
,
P
<0.001) compared with BMS (1.9±1.5 mm
2
), with no differences between the two paclitaxel-eluting release formulations. Longitudinal distribution of neointimal hyperplasia throughout the paclitaxel-eluting stent was uniform. Neointimal growth was independent of peristent area at postprocedure examination in all groups. There were progressive increases in peristent area from BMS to SR to MR (0.5±1.7, 1.0±1.8, and 1.4±2.0 mm
2
, respectively;
P
<0.001). The increase in peristent area was directly correlated with increases in VA.

Conclusions—

Both SR and MR paclitaxel-eluting stents prevent neointimal formation to the same degree compared with BMS. However, the difference in peristent remodeling suggests a release-dependent effect between SR and MR.
Endothelin A Receptor Antagonism in Experimental Congestive Heart Failure Results in Augmentation of the Renin-Angiotensin System and Sustained Sodium Retention
Authors: Schirger John A. , Chen Horng H. , Jougasaki Michihisa , Lisy Ondrej , Boerrigter Guido , Cataliotti Alessandro , Burnett John C.
Published: December 2003

Background—

While both the endothelin-1 (ET-1) and renin-angiotensin systems (RAS) are activated in congestive heart failure (CHF), the temporal sequence of this activation remains unclear. Understanding this pattern of neurohumoral activation may aid in understanding the significance of ET-1 in CHF and provide strategies for ET-1 antagonism. Although acute endothelin (ET) receptor antagonism improves systemic hemodynamics in CHF, clinical trials with chronic ET receptor antagonism report worsening CHF symptoms.

Methods and Results—

In a canine model of progressive left ventricular dysfunction, we demonstrated activation of myocardial and plasma ET-1 without activation of the RAS during transition to overt CHF, suggesting that ET-1 contributes to this transition. We next evaluated the effects of chronic oral ET-A receptor antagonism on neurohumoral function, renal hemodynamics, and sodium excretion in pacing-induced CHF. After 7 days of treatment (n=7) with ET-A receptor antagonism (with LU135252), sodium excretion did not improve in treated versus untreated CHF (n=6). Furthermore, both plasma renin activity and plasma ET-1 increased with ET-A receptor blockade.

Conclusions—

Activation of the myocardial and plasma ET-1 systems precedes activation of the myocardial and plasma RAS in CHF. ET-A receptor antagonism in experimental CHF further activates the RAS without improving sodium excretion. These findings suggest an important role for ET-1 in the progression of CHF and a potential mechanism for the exacerbation of CHF symptoms observed in clinical trials with chronic ET receptor antagonism. Further studies with combined modulation of the ET and other neurohumoral systems in CHF are required.
Focal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Higa Satoshi , Tai Ching-Tai , Lin Yenn-Jiang , Liu Tu-Ying , Lee Pi-Chang , Huang Jin-Long , Hsieh Ming-Hsiung , Yuniadi Yoga , Huang Bien-Hsien , Lee Shih-Huang , Ueng Kwo-Chang , Ding Yu-An , Chen Shih-Ann
Published: December 2003

Background—

This study investigated the electrophysiologic characteristics, atrial activation pattern, and effects of radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation guided by noncontact mapping system in patients with focal atrial tachycardia (AT).

Methods and Results—

In 13 patients with 14 focal ATs, noncontact mapping system was used to map and guide ablation of AT. AT origins were in the crista terminalis (n=8), right atrial (RA) free wall (n=3), Koch triangle (n=1), anterior portion of RA–inferior vena cava junction (n=1), and superior portion of tricuspid annulus (n=1); breakout sites were in the crista terminalis (n=5), RA free wall (n=5), middle cavotricuspid isthmus (n=2), and RA–superior vena cava junction (n=2). ATs arose from the focal origins (11 ATs inside or at the border of low-voltage zone), with preferential conduction, breakout, and spread to the whole atrium. After applications of RF energy on the earliest activation site or the proximal portion of preferential conduction from AT origin, 13 ATs were eliminated without complication. During the follow-up period (8±5 months), 11 (91.7%) of the 12 patients with successful ablation were free of focal ATs.

Conclusions—

Focal AT originates from a small area and spreads out to the whole atrium through a preferential conduction. Application of RF energy guided by noncontact mapping system was effective and safe in eliminating focal AT.