bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of occult metastases of medullary thyroid carcinoma by pentagastrin‐stimulated intravenous calcitonin sampling followed by targeted surgery
Authors: Schott Matthias , Willenberg Holger S. , Sagert Cornelia , Nguyen Thi‐Bang‐Tam , Schinner Sven , Cohnen Mathias , Cupisti Kenko , Eisenberger Claus F. , Knoefel Wolfram T. , Scherbaum Werner A.
Published: January 2007

Background  High calcitonin (CT) serum levels suggest metastatic spread in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) after thyroidectomy. In limited disease stages, however, morphological investigations including ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F‐FDG positron emission tomography ([18F]FDG‐PET) may often fail to identify exact tumour sites.

Objective  The aim of the present study was to establish an improved strategy to identify small cervical tumours by combining pentagastrin stimulation with bilateral cervical intravenous CT sampling followed by high‐resolution ultrasound.

Design and patients  Six MTC patients were examined, of whom five patients already had bilateral neck dissection. Five patients had sporadic MTC, and one patient suffered from MEN2a.

Results  Retrospective analysis of all patients revealed a highly sensitive positive correlation between an early calcitonin peak (20–40 s after pentagastrin injection) and site of cervical tumour affection. Postinterventional ultrasound examination of the affected regions of the neck revealed suspicious presence; in some cases small lymph nodes of less than 1 cm in size were then surgically excised. On histology, small tumours could be identified in four patients. Postsurgical examination revealed a clear decline of basal serum calcitonin levels in four patients (between −41% and −100%). In two patients CT normalized to baseline levels (< 10 pg/ml) and in another two patients CT rendered to near normal (14 and 17 pg/ml).

Conclusion  Pentagastrin stimulation‐based intravenous catheter sampling may be beneficial in the diagnostic work‐up of MTC after thyroidectomy. Our data show that an early calcitonin peak (20–40 s after administration of pentagastrin) helps to identify tumour‐affected regions.
Association of COX‐2 expression with corresponding active and chronic inflammatory reactions in Barrett's metaplasia and progression to cancer
Authors: Ling F C , Baldus S E , Khochfar J , Xi H , Neiss S , Brabender J , Metzger R , Drebber U , Dienes H P , Bollschweiler E , Hoelscher A H , Schneider P M
Published: January 2007

Aims:  Risk reduction for Barrett's cancer in individuals taking non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs has been reported. Cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2, one of the inhibited enzymes, is putatively involved in Barrett's cancer pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine a possible association between COX‐2 protein expression and the development and progression of the Barrett's metaplasia–dysplasia–carcinoma sequence and the type and degree of associated inflammatory reaction.

Methods and results:  Squamous epithelium, metaplastic, low‐grade, high‐grade dysplastic lesions and tumour tissue of 49 resection specimens from patients with Barrett's adenocarcinoma were immunohistochemically analysed. Active and chronic inflammatory reactions were classified according to the Updated Sydney System. Within the Barrett's sequence, a significant progressive increase in COX‐2 expression was identified (P < 0.0001). The most significant differences were detected between squamous epithelium and Barrett's metaplasia (P < 0.001) and from low‐ to high‐grade dysplasia (P < 0.0001). Active and chronic inflammation were significantly different between squamous epithelium and Barrett's metaplasia (P < 0.0001), but not during further progression in the sequence.

Conclusions:  Increasing COX‐2 expression in Barrett's metaplasia is significantly associated with a change in the local inflammatory reaction, but not during further progression through dysplasia to cancer. This supports the potential of a chemoprevention strategy using COX‐2 inhibitors independent of the extent and type of the inflammatory reaction in Barrett's oesophagus.
Additive effect of ethanol and HCV subgenomic replicon expression on COX‐2 protein levels and activity
Authors: Trujillo‐Murillo K. , Álvarez‐Martínez O. , Garza‐Rodríguez L. , Martínez‐Rodríguez H. , Bosques‐Padilla F. , Ramos‐Jiménez J. , Barrera‐Saldaña H. , Rincón‐Sánchez A. R. , Rivas‐Estilla A. M.
Published: January 2007

Summary. The mechanisms by which alcohol exacerbates liver injury in patients with hepatitis C are unknown. We used the hepatitis C virus (HCV) subgenomic replicon cell system to evaluate the effect of ethanol on HCV replication and viral protein synthesis. Our results demonstrate that alcohol stimulates HCV replicon expression at both HCV‐RNA and protein levels. Furthermore, we observed that ethanol treatment showed an additive effect in cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein expression and activity already induced by HCV viral proteins, and in turn increased HCV viral expression. Our results suggest that COX‐2 activity is involved in ethanol‐induced HCV‐RNA and NS5A protein expression, because acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), a COX‐1/2 inhibitor, blocked this induction and downregulated COX‐2 protein expression and activity. Therefore, we suggest that ethanol increases HCV replication expression, at least in part, by upregulating a key cellular regulator of oxidative stress pathway known as COX‐2 or its products.
Efficacy of topical eprinomectin in the treatment ofChorioptessp. infestation in alpacas and llamas
Authors: Plant Jon D. , Kutzler Michelle A. , Cebra Christopher K.
Published: January 2007

Chorioptessp. mite infestation is increasingly recognized as a cause of skin disease in New World camelids and there is a need for an effective treatment protocol to eliminate herd infestation. In this field trial, eprinomectin applied topically at the rate of 0.5 mg kg−1weekly for 10 weeks was found to be ineffective in a herd of 12 llamas and 16 alpacas.
Staphylococcal and micrococcal adherence to canine and feline corneocytes: quantification using a simple adhesion assay
Authors: Lu Yi‐Fang , McEwan Neil A.
Published: January 2007

In this paper a simple adhesion assay suitable for the assessment of bacterial adhesion to both canine and feline corneocytes is described. Using this assay Staphylococcus intermedius, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus chromogenes were shown to adhere well to both canine and feline corneocytes. The numbers of adherent bacteria were, however, generally lower for feline corneocytes. Both Staphylococcus hominis and a Micrococcus species adhered poorly to canine and feline corneocytes. This is the first report documenting bacterial adhesion to feline corneocytes.
Effect of caffeine and testosterone on the proliferation of human hair follicles in vitro
Authors: Fischer T. W. , Hipler U. C. , Elsner P.
Published: January 2007

Background  Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common problem in men of all ages, affecting approximately 50% at 50 years of age. The underlying cause is an androgen‐dependent miniaturization of genetically predetermined hair follicles. Here, the hair organ culture model was used to investigate the effects of testosterone and caffeine; the latter being a promising candidate for hair growth stimulation.

Methods  Hair follicles from 14 biopsies, taken from the vertex areas from male AGA patients, were cultivated for 120–192 h in vitro with normal William's E medium (control) or William's E medium containing different concentrations of testosterone and/or caffeine. Hair shaft elongation was measured daily and at the end of cultivation, cryosections of follicles were stained with Ki‐67 to evaluate the degree and localization of keratinocyte proliferation.

Results  Significant growth suppression was found in hair follicles treated with 5 µg/ml testosterone. This was counteracted by caffeine in concentrations of 0.001% and 0.005%. Moreover, caffeine alone led to a significant stimulation of hair follicle growth. These results were confirmed immunohistochemically by Ki‐67 staining.

Conclusions  Androgen‐dependent growth inhibition of ex vivo hair follicles from patients suffering from AGA was present in the human hair organ culture model, a constellation which may serve for future studies to screen new substances against androgen‐dependent hair loss. Caffeine was identified as a stimulator of human hair growth in vitro; a fact which may have important clinical impact in the management of AGA.
Evaluation of Fertilizing Potential of Frozen‐thawed dog Spermatozoa Diluted in ACP‐106®using anIn VitroSperm–Oocyte Interaction Assay
Authors: Cardoso RCS , Silva AR , Silva LDM , Chirinéa VH , Souza FF , Lopes MD
Published: January 2007

Contents

The aim of present study was to evaluate frozen canine semen with ACP‐106®(Powder Coconut Water) using anin vitrosperm–oocyte interaction assay (SOIA). Ten ejaculates from five stud dogs were diluted in ACP‐106®containing 20% egg yolk, submitted to cooling in a thermal box for 40 min and in a refrigerator for 30 min. After this period, a second dilution was performed using ACP‐106®containing 20% egg yolk and 12% glycerol. Samples were thawed at 38°C for 1 min. Post‐thaw motility was evaluated by light microscopy and by using a computer aided semen analysis (CASA). Plasma membrane integrity and sperm morphology/acrosomal status were evaluated by fluorescent probes (C‐FDA/PI) and Bengal Rose respectively. Moreover, frozen‐thawed semen was analysed by a SOIA. Subjective post‐thaw motility was 52.0 ± 14.8% and it was significant higher than the total motility estimated by CASA (23.0 ± 14.8%) because this system considered the egg yolk debris as immotile spermatozoa. Although normal sperm rate and acrosomal integrity evaluated by Bengal Rose stain was 89.6 ± 3.1% and 94.3 ± 3.1%, respectively, post‐thaw percentage of intact plasma membrane was only 35.1 ± 14.3%. Regarding SOIA, the percentage of interacted oocytes (bound, penetrated and bound and/or penetrated) was 75.3%. Using regression analysis, it was found significant relations between some CASA patterns and data for SOIA. In conclusion, the freezing‐thawing procedure using ACP‐106®was efficient for maintain thein vitrofertility potential of dog spermatozoa.
Insemination with Sex Sorted Fresh Bovine Spermatozoa Processed in the Presence of Antioxidative Substances
Authors: Klinc P , Frese D , Osmers H , Rath D
Published: January 2007

Contents

Flow cytometrically sex sorted spermatozoa are reduced in their fertilizing capacity, particularly when stored either in cooling extender or after freezing in liquid nitrogen. So far, preservation methods for sorted spermatozoa have differed only marginally from procedures used for unsorted semen. In the present study, a TRIS extender was modified to balance major cell damage caused by the sorting process and by liquid storage of the sorted spermatozoa. The new extender, containing a combination of antioxidants (AO) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), significantly increased the lifespan and fertilizing capacity of sex sorted spermatozoa. No significant differences were observed between unsorted controls and sorted samples for motility and status of sperm membranes as tested by fluorescein‐isothiocyanat‐peanut agglutinin/propidium iodide (FITC‐PNA/PI). Acrosome integrity of spermatozoa was significantly better when semen was stored at 15°C for 24 and 48 h in an extender containing AO with or without BSA as compared with controls (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences, in pregnancy rates of heifers inseminated at a natural oestrus, between unsorted controls (16/24, 66.7%) and both sorted groups (AO + BSA: 18/31, 58.1% and AO−BSA: 12/22, 54.5%). Additionally, it was shown for the first time that artificial insemination (AI) with liquid sexed bull spermatozoa stored for 72 h after sorting can result in pregnancy rates similar to AI with non‐sorted semen.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress in Bovine Spermatozoa During Flow Cytometric Sorting
Authors: Klinc P , Rath D
Published: January 2007

Contents

The goal of the study was to investigate the effect of antioxidant supplementation on the quality of frozen‐thawed flow cytometrically sorted bull spermatozoa. Twelve ejaculates from two Holstein Friesian bulls were sorted according to the Beltsville Sperm Sexing Technology. Each ejaculate was divided into three parts and processed as (i) unsorted controls, (ii) according to a standard sorting protocol and (iii) in the presence of different antioxidants (S‐AO). Cooling and freezing of the samples were performed in the same way for all three groups, except that antioxidants were added to the TRIS‐egg‐yolk freezing extender for those semen samples that were already sorted in the presence of antioxidants. The semen quality in frozen‐thawed samples was determined by morphology analysis immediately after thawing, motility estimation in a thermo‐resistance test after 0, 6, 12 and 24 h incubation at 37°C and Fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated PNA/propidium iodide (FITC‐PNA/PI) staining after 0, 12 and 24 h of incubation at 37°C. There was a significantly higher (p < 0.05) percentage of motile spermatozoa in S‐AO samples in comparison to unsorted frozen‐thawed control at 0, 6 and 24 h after thawing and compared with normally sorted samples at all times after thawing. The percentage of damaged acrosomes was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in S‐AO samples than in the unsorted controls (20.8 ± 6.9% vs 30.3 ± 12.0%). The percentage of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa in this group was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than in the unsorted controls and normally sorted samples (25.8 ± 5.2%, 36.0 ± 12.5% and 35.1 ± 7.4%, respectively). Analysis of frozen‐thawed spermatozoa with FITC/PI revealed no significant difference in membrane integrity at 0 and 12 h after sorting, but after 24 h of incubation the S‐AO samples had a significantly higher (p < 0.001) percentage of spermatozoa with intact membranes in comparison to unsorted controls and normally sorted semen (40.7 ± 6.3%, 7.8 ± 4.7% and 7.4 ± 4.6%, respectively). The percentage of acrosome‐reacted spermatozoa was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the S‐AO samples than in the unsorted controls (14.1 ± 7.5%, 23.4 ± 5.4% and 28.8 ± 6.3% vs 25.9 ± 14.4%, 38.5 ± 16.7% and 79.8 ± 4.1%, for 0, 12 and 24 h after thawing, respectively) and in comparison to normally sorted semen 24 h after thawing (67.3 ± 10.0%). This study demonstrates the highly protective effects of antioxidants on the quality of flow cytometrically sorted frozen‐thawed bull spermatozoa.
Management of the newborn infant affected by maternal opiates and other drugs of dependency
Authors: Oei Julee , Lui Kei
Published: January 2007

Abstract: Illicit drug use during pregnancy is common and probably underestimated in the majority of published studies. The infant exposed to opiates or other drugs of dependency during intrauterine development is at risk for post‐natal withdrawal as well as to long‐term problems that are associated with drug‐effects and often, adverse social circumstances. This article examines the early management of the infant and mother for detection and monitoring of drug‐exposure, pharmacological intervention for withdrawal and the management of associated, particularly infective and psychosocial, problems. Practical concerns surrounding these issues are discussed and further research on psychosocial intervention to improve long‐term outcome are much needed.
Follow up of patients with colorectal polyps: are the BSG guidelines being adhered to?
Authors: Pickard M. , Dewar E. P. , Kapadia R. C. , Khan R. B. N. , Hutchinson I. F. , Nejim A.
Published: January 2007

Objective  The publication of the BSG guidelines in 2002 provided a framework for the follow up of patients with colorectal polyps. The aim of the present study was to determine whether they had, or were being correctly adhered to in a moderately sized District General Hospital.

Method  A total of 598 patients were on the waiting list for colonoscopy at Airedale General Hospital (AGH) in February 2005. Of these, 203 were being followed up as a result of the previous finding of a polyp.

Results  Only 14.8% of patients had been or were being followed up according to the BSG guidelines. The majority of the 85.2% of patients who did not comply with follow up did so as a result of over investigation. Seventy‐eight per cent of the low‐risk group and 55% of the intermediate‐risk group had been colonoscoped, or were waiting to have colonoscopy, too soon or too frequently according to the BSG guidelines. Twenty‐four patients with hyperplastic polyps were being followed up incorrectly, as were 17 patients discovered to have a polyp pathology on flexible sigmoidoscopy. It was established that 131 extra colonoscopies had been, or were planned to be performed unnecessarily.

Conclusion  These data have major implications with regard to patient safety, service provision and cost to the NHS.
Flexible Integration? Mandatory and Minimum Participation Rules
Authors: Harstad Bård
Published: January 2007

For a club such as the European Union, an important question is whether a subset of the members should be allowed to form “inner clubs” and enhance cooperation. Flexible cooperation allows members to participate if and only if they benefit, but it leads to free‐riding when externalities are positive. I show that flexible cooperation is better if the heterogeneity is large and the externality small, but that rigid cooperation is the political equilibrium too often. Both regimes, however, are extreme variants of a more general system combining mandatory and minimum participation rules. For each rule, I characterize the optimum and the equilibrium.
Effect of fluorocitrate on cerebral oxidation of lactate and glucose in freely moving rats
Authors: Ronald Zielke H. , Zielke Carol L. , Baab Peter J. , Tyson Tildon J.
Published: January 2007

Glucose is the primary carbon source to enter the adult brain for catabolic and anabolic reactions. Some studies suggest that astrocytes may metabolize glucose to lactate; the latter serving as a preferential substrate for neurons, especially during neuronal activation. The current study utilizes the aconitase inhibitor fluorocitrate to differentially inhibit oxidative metabolism in glial cells in vivo. Oxidative metabolism of 14C‐lactate and14C‐glucose was monitored in vivo using microdialysis and quantitating 14CO2 in the microdialysis eluate following pulse labeling of the interstitial glucose or lactate pool. After establishing a baseline oxidation rate, fluorocitrate was added to the perfusate. Neither lactate nor glucose oxidation was affected by 5 μmol/L fluorocitrate. However, 20 and 100 μmol/L fluorocitrate reduced lactate oxidation by 55 ± 20% and 68 ± 12%, respectively (p < 0.05 for both). Twenty and 100 μmol/L fluorocitrate reduced 14C‐glucose oxidation by 50 ± 14% (p < 0.05) and 24 ± 19% (ns), respectively. Addition of non‐radioactive lactate to 14C‐glucose plus fluorocitrate decreased 14C‐glucose oxidation by an additional 29% and 38%, respectively. These results indicate that astrocytes oxidize about 50% of the interstitial lactate and about 35% of the glucose. By subtraction, neurons metabolize a maximum of 50% of the interstitial lactate and 65% of the interstitial glucose.
The pharmacological activity of nicotine and nornicotine on nAChRs subtypes: relevance to nicotine dependence and drug discovery
Authors: Papke Roger L. , Dwoskin Linda P. , Crooks Peter A.
Published: January 2007

Cigarette smoking and other forms of tobacco use deliver an array of pharmacologically active alkaloids, including nicotine and ultimately various metabolites of these substances. While nornicotine is a significant component in tobacco as well as a minor systemic metabolite of nicotine, nornicotine appears to be N‐demethylated locally in the brain where it accumulates at relatively high levels after chronic nicotine administration. We have now examined the effects of nornicotine on specific combinations of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunits expressed inXenopusoocytes and compared these responses to those evoked by acetylcholine and nicotine. Of the nAChR subtypes studied, we have found that α7 receptors are very responsive to nornicotine (EC50 ≈ 17 μmol/LImax50%, compared with acetylcholine (ACh)). nAChRs containing the ligand‐binding domain of the α6 subunits (in the form of an α6/α3 chimera) are also strongly responsive to nornicotine (EC50≈ 4 μmol/LImax50%, compared with ACh). α7‐type nAChRs have been suggested to be potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia and possibly other pathologies. nAChRs containing α6 subunits have been suggested to have a role in nicotine‐evoked dopamine release. Thus, understanding the actions of nornicotine in the brain may have significance for both emerging therapeutics and the management of nicotine dependence.
The Founding of the American Epilepsy Society: 1936–1971
Authors: Goodkin Howard P.
Published: January 2007

Summary: In December 1946, a joint meeting devoted to epilepsy research and care was held by the Association for the Research in Nervous and Mental Disease and the American Chapter of the International League Against Epilepsy. The American Epilepsy Society (AES) has chosen this date and this meeting to mark its founding and recognizes Dr. Charles D. Aring as the organization's first president. However, the founding process of the AES actually began a decade earlier with a dinner meeting held during the American Medical Association's annual meeting. Based on this historical review, it is recommended that the AES recognize 1936 as the year of its founding and Dr. William G. Lennox as its founder and first president.
Anticonvulsant Mechanisms of the Ketogenic Diet
Authors: Bough Kristopher J. , Rho Jong M.
Published: January 2007

Summary:  The ketogenic diet (KD) is a broadly effective treatment for medically refractory epilepsy. Despite nearly a century of use, the mechanisms underlying its clinical efficacy remain unknown. In this review, we present one intersecting view of how the KD may exert its anticonvulsant activity against the backdrop of several seemingly disparate mechanistic theories. We summarize key insights gleaned from experimental and clinical studies of the KD, and focus particular attention on the role that ketone bodies, fatty acids, and limited glucose may play in seizure control. Chronic ketosis is anticipated to modify the tricarboxcylic acid cycle to increase GABA synthesis in brain, limit reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and boost energy production in brain tissue. Among several direct neuro‐inhibitory actions, polyunsaturated fatty acids increased after KD induce the expression of neuronal uncoupling proteins (UCPs), a collective up‐regulation of numerous energy metabolism genes, and mitochondrial biogenesis. These effects further limit ROS generation and increase energy production. As a result of limited glucose and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation, reduced glycolytic flux is hypothesized to activate metabolic KATP channels and hyperpolarize neurons and/or glia. Although it is unlikely that a single mechanism, however well substantiated, will explain all of the diet's clinical benefits, these diverse, coordinated changes seem poised to stabilize synaptic function and increase the resistance to seizures throughout the brain.
Systemic Uptake and Clearance of Chloroform by Hairless Rats Following Dermal Exposure. I. Brief Exposure to Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Islam Mohammad S. , Zhao Luhua , Zhou Joseph , Dong Lilly , McDougal James N. , Flynn Gordon L.
Published: January 2007

The systemic uptake of chloroform from dilute aqueous solutions into live hairless rats under conditions simulating dermal environmental exposure was studied. Whole blood was sampled during a 30‐min immersion of an animal within water containing a known concentration of chloroform and then for 5.5 h following its removal from the bath. The amount of chloroform systemically absorbed was determined by comparing the AUCs of the blood concentration vs. time plots from dermal exposure to that obtained after IV infusion (for a period of 30 min) of an aqueous solution containing a known amount of chloroform (positive control). Although dermal data implied two‐compartment disposition characteristics, IV infusion data fit best to a three‐compartment disposition. Linear pharmacokinetics was observed both by IV administration and percutaneous absorption at the dose levels studied. Chloroform was detected in the rat blood as early as 4 min following exposure. Our findings suggest that about 10.2 mg of chloroform was systemically absorbed after dermal exposure of a rat to an aqueous solution of 0.44 mg/ml. This amount is substantially higher than the predictions of mathematical risk‐models put forth by some investigators. However, when expressed as the “effective” permeability coefficient (Kpeff), close agreement was noticed between our value and those estimated by others using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models. Also, in terms of Kpeff, reasonable agreement existed between our and another investigator's past estimates of uptake based on depletion of bath level of chloroform and the actual uptake measured in our current experiments. The estimated onset of systemic entry seen here is entirely consistent with our estimate of how long it takes to establish the diffusion gradient across the stratum comeum based on tape stripping.
Attraction of the grapevine moth to host and non‐host plant parts in the wind tunnel: effects of plant phenology, sex, and mating status
Authors: Masante‐Roca Ingwild , Anton Sylvia , Delbac Lionel , Dufour Marie‐Cécile , Gadenne Christophe
Published: January 2007

In the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), it has recently been shown that volatiles emitted from the main host plant, grapevine, are attractive to adult females. Here, using wind tunnel experiments, we tested the attractiveness of various grapevine, Vitis vinifera L. (Vitaceae), plant parts at different phenological stages, including ripe berries infested with the pathogenic fungus Botrytis cinerea (Persoon: Fries) (Sclerotiniaceae) to laboratory‐reared virgin and mated male and female moths. We also tested the attractiveness of the non‐host plant, tansy [Tanacetum vulgare (L.) (Asteraceae)], as flowers and flower volatiles were previously shown to be attractive to L. botrana females in the field. Mated female moths were the only adults to exhibit upwind orientation to grape plant parts in the flight tunnel. The most attractive parts of the grapevine plants were leaves, flower buds, and ripe berries. No attraction was observed to flowers. This corresponds to the phenological stages available when females of the 2–3 generations during a year are present in the field. No attraction was observed to leaves and flowers of tansy.
Sweat gland epithelial and myoepithelial cells are vitamin D targets
Authors: Koike Nobuo , Stumpf Walter E.
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Nuclear receptor binding of 1,25(OH)2‐vitamin D3 (vitamin D) in skin keratinocytes of epidermis, hair sheaths and sebaceous glands was discovered through receptor microscopic autoradiography. Extended experiments with 3H‐1,25(OH)2‐vitamin D3 and its analog 3H‐oxacalcitriol (OCT) now demonstrate nuclear receptor binding in sweat gland epithelium of secretory coils and ducts as well as in myoepithelial cells, as studied in paws of nude mice after i.v. injection. The results suggest genomic regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation, as well as of secretory and excretory functions, indicating potential therapies for impaired secretion as in hypohidrosis of aged and diseased skin.
Transdermal Testosterone Gel prn Application for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Premenopausal Women: A Controlled Pilot Study of the Effects on the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale for Females and Sexual Function Questionnaire
Authors: Chudakov Bella , Ben Zion Itzhak Z. , Belmaker R.H.
Published: January 2007

Introduction

Several studies suggest that increased plasma testosterone can improve sexual function and desire in post-oophorectomy or postmenopausal women. However, side effects of chronic daily testosterone raise questions about the generalizability of this treatment approach. Sublingual testosterone was reported to cause testosterone levels to peak after 15 minutes and then decline to baseline levels within 90 minutes. Three to 4 hours after reaching testosterone peak, increased genital sensations and sexual lust were reported.

Aim

We hypothesized that a singe dose of testosterone given 4–8 hours prior to planned intercourse in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) might increase desire without side effects associated with chronic use.

Methods

The design was randomized double-blind crossover. Premenstrual women with HSDD received eight packets of gel or identical placebo for use before intercourse twice weekly for 1 month. For a second month, the alternate treatment was given.

Main Outcome Measures

Ratings were performed using the patient-rated Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale for females and the clinician-rated Sexual Function Questionnaire (SFQ-V1).

Results

Ten patients completed the study. On the five-item self-report Arizona, the item “How easily are you aroused?” was significantly improved on testosterone gel vs. placebo, P =0.03. There were similar trends on the physician-rated SFQ-V1 “arousal–sensation” cluster.

Conclusion

These preliminary results suggest that testosterone gel given prn before intercourse has effects on sexual arousal, and further research is needed to define dosage and time schedule to optimize this effect and determine its clinical relevance.
Robust experiment design for estimating myocardial adrenergic receptor concentration using PET
Authors: Salinas Cristian , Muzic Raymond F. , Ernsberger Paul , Saidel Gerald M.
Published: January 2007

Myocardial adrenergic receptor concentration can substantially decrease in congestive heart failure and significantly increase in chronic volume overload, such as in severe aortic valve regurgitation. Positron emission tomography (PET) with an appropriate ligand‐receptor model can be used for noninvasive estimation of myocardial concentration in vivo. An optimal design of the experiment protocol, however, is needed for sufficiently precise estimates of concentration in a heterogeneous population. Standard methods of optimal design do not account for a heterogeneous population with a wide range of concentrations and other physiological parameters and consequently are inadequate. To address this, we have developed a methodology to design a robust two‐injection protocol that provides reliable estimates of myocardial concentration in normal and pathologic states. A two‐injection protocol of the high affinity antagonist ‐fluorocarazolol was designed based on a computer‐generated (or synthetic) population incorporating a wide range of concentrations. Timing and dosage of the ligand injections were optimally designed with minimax criterion to provide the least bad estimates for the worst case in the synthetic population. This robust experiment design for PET was applied to experiments with pigs before and after upregulation by chemical sympathectomy. Estimates of concentration were found by minimizing the difference between the model‐predicted and experimental PET data. With this robust protocol, estimates of concentration showed high precision in both normal and pathologic states. The increase in concentration after sympathectomy predicted noninvasively with PET is consistent with the increase shown by in vitro assays in pig myocardium. A robust experiment protocol was designed for PET that yields reliable estimates of concentration in a population with normal and pathologic states. This methodology is applicable in general to optimal estimation of parameters in heterogeneous populations.
Rapid Expression of
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
Recombinant Proteins for Antigen Discovery
Authors: Li Lingling , Munir Shirin , Bannantine John P. , Sreevatsan Srinand , Kanjilal Sagarika , Kapur Vivek
Published: January 2007

Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
is the causative agent of Johne's disease, a chronic granulomatous enteritis of ruminants and other species. Detection of infection in animals is hampered by the lack of sensitive and specific diagnostic assays. We describe here an approach that utilizes translationally active PCR fragments for the rapid in vitro transcription and translation of recombinant proteins for antigen discovery in
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
. The investigations showed that the MAP1272c protein selectively reacts with sera from Johne's disease-positive cattle and represents an antigen of potential utility in
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
immunodiagnostics.
Impact of Spiramycin Treatment and Gestational Age on Maturation ofToxoplasma gondiiImmunoglobulin G Avidity in Pregnant Women
Authors: Lefevre-Pettazzoni M. , Bissery A. , Wallon M. , Cozon G. , Peyron F. , Rabilloud M.
Published: January 2007

The objective of the present study was to investigate the maturation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) avidity afterToxoplasma gondiiseroconversion during pregnancy and the factors that affect IgG avidity over time. The study used 309 serum samples from 117 women and a multiple linear mixed regression analysis to show the patterns of variation of IgG avidity throughout gestation. The IgG avidity ratios and the patterns of their evolution with time were quite diverse among the women and were statistically heterogeneous (P= 0.011); however, the trend was toward a statistically significant increase (P< 0.0001). On average, a 1.0167-fold increase was observed for each additional gestational week after the putative date of infection. At 12 weeks after putative infection (the expected IgG avidity maturation time), the mean avidity ratio was 16.6% (95% confidence interval, 15.4 to 17.9%). At all times, the avidity ratio remained significantly heterogeneous among the women (P< 0.05); for 95% of them, that ratio ranged from 7.8 to 35.3% at 12 weeks after putative infection. Maternal age at the putative time of infection did not influence the maturation of IgG avidity. However, on average, a 1.009-fold decrease (P= 0.03) in that avidity was observed for each additional week of gestational age before infection and a 1.03-fold increase (P= 0.0003) was observed for each additional week of delay to the onset of spiramycin treatment. The rate of increase in the avidity ratio was lower if infection occurred late in pregnancy and higher if the delay to treatment was long. This information cannot allow accurate determination of the delay since the time of infection. The present results provide support for interpretation of the assay and caution against overinterpretation.
Association between Mannose-Binding Lectin Deficiency and Septic Shock following Acute Pyelonephritis Due toEscherichia coli
Authors: Smithson Alex , Muñoz Ana , Suarez Belen , Soto Sara Maria , Perello Rafael , Soriano Alex , Martinez Jose Antonio , Vila Jordi , Horcajada Juan Pablo , Mensa Jose , Lozano Francisco
Published: January 2007

Structural and promoterMBL2gene polymorphisms responsible for low MBL levels are associated with increased risk of infection. The objective of this study was to assess the possible association between polymorphisms of theMBL2gene and the incidence of septic shock and bacteremia in patients with acute pyelonephritis due toEscherichia coli. The study included 62 female patients with acute pyelonephritis due toE. coliwho required hospital admission, as well as 133 healthy control subjects. Six single-nucleotide polymorphisms (−550 G/C, −221 C/G, +4 C/T, codon 52 CGT/TGT, codon 54 GGC/GAC, and codon 57 GGA/GAA) in theMBL2gene were genotyped by using a sequence-based typing technique. No significant differences were observed in the frequencies for low-expressionMBL2genotypes (O/O and LXA/O) between patients with acute pyelonephritis and healthy controls. Patients with acute pyelonephritis and septic shock had a higher incidence of low-expressionMBL2genotypes than patients with acute pyelonephritis without septic shock (odds ratio = 9.019, 95% confidence interval = 1.23 to 65.93;P= 0.03). No association was found between bacteremic acute pyelonephritis and low-expressionMBL2genotypes. We found that low-expressionMBL2genotypes predispose to septic shock but not to bacteremia in patients withE. coli-induced acute pyelonephritis. Determination ofMBL2polymorphisms could be useful for assessing the risk of septic shock in women undergoing acute pyelonephritis.
First Case of Osteomyelitis Caused by “
Staphylococcus pettenkoferi
”
Authors: Loïez Caroline , Wallet Frédéric , Pischedda Patricia , Renaux Emilie , Senneville Eric , Mehdi Nazim , Courcol René J.
Published: January 2007

“
Staphylococcus pettenkoferi
” (proposed name) was identified as an unusual agent of osteomyelitis in a diabetic foot infection. The phenotypical tests used failed to give a good identification. Molecular 16S rRNA gene and
rpoB
sequencing allowed us to correctly identify this new species of coagulase-negative staphylococcus responsible for this chronic infection.
SURFACES IN Sn WITH PRESCRIBED GAUSS MAP AND MEAN CURVATURE VECTOR FIELD
Authors: TANAKA AYAKO
Published: January 2007

We give relations between the Gauss map and the mean curvature vector field of a surface in the Euclidean unit n-sphere Sn. These relations are necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a surface in Sn with prescribed Gauss map and mean curvature vector field. We show that such surfaces can be expressed explicitly by using given data.
Bayesian Feature Selection for Clustering Problems
Authors: Hruschka Eduardo R. , Hruschka Estevam R. , Covões Thiago F. , Ebecken Nelson F. F.
Published: January 2007

Bayesian methods have been successfully used for feature selection in many supervised learning tasks. In this paper, the adaptation of such methods for unsupervised learning (clustering) is investigated. We adopt an algorithm that iterates between clustering (assuming that the number of clusters is unknown a priori) and feature selection. From this standpoint, two Bayesian approaches for feature selection are addressed: (i) Naïve Bayes Wrapper (NBW), and (ii) Markov Blanket Filter (MBF) obtained from the construction of Bayesian networks. Experiments in ten datasets illustrate the performance of each proposed method. Advantages of feature selection are demonstrated by comparing the results obtained from Bayesian feature selection with the results achieved without any kind of feature selection, i.e., using all the available features. In most of the performed experiments, NBW and MBF have allowed reducing the number of features, while providing good quality partitions in relation to those found by means of the full set of features. Also, NBW has outperformed its Bayesian feature selection counterpart (MBF) in most of the assessed datasets, mainly when the cardinality of the selected feature subset is taken into consideration.
Complete Pattern Matching for DNA Computing
Authors: Nedjah Nadia , De Macedo Mourelle Luiza
Published: January 2007

Pattern matching is essential in many applications such as information retrieval, logic programming, theorem-proving, term rewriting and DNA-computing. It usually breaks down into two categories: root and complete pattern matching. Root matching determines whether a subject term is an instance of a pattern in a pattern set while complete matching determines whether a subject term contains a sub-term that is an instance of a pattern in a pattern set. For the sake of efficiency, root pattern matching need to be deterministic and lazy. Furthermore, complete pattern matching also needs to be parallel. Unlike root pattern matching, complete matching received little interest from the researchers of the field. In this paper, we present a novel deterministic multi-threaded complete matching method. This method subsumes a deterministic lazy root matching technique that was developped by the authors in an earlier work. We evaluate the performance of proposed method using theorem-proving and DNA-computing applications.
Evaluation of Radar Multiple-Scattering Effects from a GPM Perspective. Part II: Model Results
Authors: Battaglia A. , Ajewole M. O. , Simmer C.
Published: January 2007

Multiple-scattering effects as sensed by radars in configurations useful in the context of the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) are evaluated for a range of meteorological profiles extracted from four different cloud-resolving model simulations. The multiple-scattering effects are characterized in terms of both the reflectivity enhancement and the linear depolarization ratio. When considering the copolarized reflectivity in spaceborne configurations, the multiple-scattering enhancement becomes a real issue for Ka-band radars, though it is generally negligible at the Ku band, except in meteorologically important situations such as when high rain rates and a considerable amount of ice are present aloft. At Ka band it can reach tens of decibels when systems of heavy cold rain are considered, that is, profiles that include rain layers with high-density ice particles aloft. On the other hand, particularly at 35 GHz, high values of the linear depolarization ratio are predicted even in airborne configurations because of multiple-scattering effects. This result should allow the observation of these features in field campaigns.
The Impact of Anonymity on Perceptions of Source Credibility and Influence in Computer-Mediated Group Communication: A Test of Two Competing Hypotheses
Authors: Rains Stephen A.
Published: January 2007

As scholars and practitioners have endeavored to develop computer-based tools that foster effective communication and collaboration in groups, anonymity has played a key role. Anonymity purportedly minimizes status differences, liberates team members from a fear of retribution, and makes members feel more comfortable contributing to discussions. Yet these benefits may be outweighed by the impact of anonymity on receiver perceptions and behavior. Two competing hypotheses, drawn from adaptive structuration theory, were tested in this study to determine the impact of anonymity on receiver perceptions of sources and messages in computer-mediated group communication. The results of the multilevel models offer evidence in support of the discounting hypothesis and suggest that anonymity provided by electronic meeting systems may undermine source credibility and influence.
Synthesis of an Intumescent Flame Retardant (IFR) Agent and Application in a Natural Rubber (NR) System
Authors: Jincheng Wang , Yuehui Chen
Published: January 2007

This investigation focuses on the synthesis and characterization of an intumescent flame-retardant (IFR) agent. Three steps are used in the synthesis process. Meanwhile, the structure is characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR) 13C spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The addition of this IFR agent in a natural rubber (NR) system leads to an improvement in its flame-retardant (FR) properties. The second part focuses on the evaluation of some characteristics such as FR property, thermal stability, cure characteristics, and tensile properties of IFR/NR systems.
Colonial culture in the Pacific, in Robert Louis Stevenson and Jack London
Authors: Phillips Lawrence
Published: January 2007

One intriguing aspect of western colonisation at the turn of the nineteenth century in the South Pacific is the development within the US of a distinctly ‘Old World’ imperial imaginary. This happened after the Spanish-American War of 1898 through which the US acquired extra-territorial possessions in the Caribbean and the Pacific-the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s poem ‘The White Man’s Burden’. This essay explores this transition from one phase of colonialism to another through the work of two prominent authors who lived and worked in the region during this tumultuous period: Robert Louis Stevenson and Jack London.
Eighteenth-century geography: texts, practices, sites
Authors: Withers Charles W.J.
Published: January 2007

This essay examines recent work on geography in the eighteenth century. Although it principally considers Britain, the paper also incorporates evidence from other countries and, in its concentration upon the eighteenth century rather than ‘early modern geography’ (the period c. 1600-1850), the essay offers a focus different from much other work. It is argued that, although geography may in its books have been understood by contemporaries as a consistently defined textual practice, significant variations existed in the cognitive content, purposive nature and institutional setting of geography. That this is so has important implications both for what we take geography in the eighteenth century to have been and for the nature of further research on the subject’s historical, intellectual and geographical dimensions.
Perceptions of Victimization Risk and Fear of Crime Among Lesbians and Gay Men
Authors: Otis Melanie D.
Published: January 2007

Research on fear of crime has evolved to suggest the existence of a complex relationship between individual, lifestyle, and contextual factors. Past work generally focuses on predominantly heterosexual populations; this study examines correlates of fear of crime and perceptions of risk among a sample of 272 self-identified lesbians and gay men. Higher levels of perceived risk and fear of victimization were found among females, persons in neighborhoods characterized by incivility, and persons who had experienced previous victimization. Perceived risks of personal and property victimization were similar for males and females. Contrary to past research, women did not seem to view all types of potential victimization as opportunities for sexual assault. Instead, fear of victimization was offense specific—past personal victimization predicted fear of future personal victimization, and past property victimization predicted fear of future property victimization. Similarities and differences between current findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Understanding the Factors That Affect the Severity of Juvenile Stranger Sex Offenses
Authors: Woodhams Jessica , Gillett Raphael , Grant Tim
Published: January 2007

Understanding factors that affect the severity of a juvenile-stranger sexual assault has implications for crime prevention, and potentially, the assessment and treatment of juvenile sex offenders. This study investigated how victim characteristics and the number of suspects affected the use of physical violence and weapons and the occurrence of penetration in 495 allegations of sexual assault committed by juveniles against strangers. Statistically significant interactions between victim age and gender were found for occurrence of penetration and use of violence. Differences in offense characteristics were also found between offenses with varying victim-suspect age differences. When comparing the rate of penetration in the presence and absence of violence, little change was observed for lone suspects. However, the rate of penetration increased significantly for groups in the presence of physical violence, suggesting that violence in this context may be more expressive than instrumental. Theoretical explanations and practical implications are considered.