bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction between hepatitis B and C viruses in hepatocellular carcinogenesis
Authors: Kew M. C.
Published: January 2006

Summary.  Although hepatitis B (HBV) and C viruses (HCV) are, individually, major causes of hepatocellular carcinoma, the interaction, if any, between the carcinogenic effects of the two viruses is uncertain. Equal numbers of published studies have reported no risk interaction or a synergistic risk interaction. These conflicting results are explained by the rarity of concurrent infection with HBV and HCV in individuals without clinically evident liver disease, which severely limits the ability to accurately estimate the hepatocarcinogenic risk of dual infection compared with that of either infection alone. In an attempt to circumvent this difficulty, two meta‐analyses have been performed, one based on studies published from a number of countries and the other on studies confined to Chinese patients. Both analyses concluded that a synergistic carcinogenic interaction existed between the two viruses and that the increased risk was super‐additive but not multiplicative. If confirmed, this risk interaction will occur against a background of negative confounding effects on viral replication between HBV and HCV, which may be reciprocal. The mechanisms responsible for the carcinogenic interaction between the viruses are unknown. One possibility is that the increased incidence of cirrhosis with concurrent HBV and HCV infections acts as an even more potent tumour promoter than occurs with either virus alone. Synergism between the direct hepatocarcinogenic effects of the two viruses is another possible mechanism, but proof will have to await a fuller understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms involved with the individual viruses.
Interferon gamma‐1b for the treatment of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C infection
Authors: Muir A. J. , Sylvestre P. B. , Rockey D. C.
Published: January 2006

Summary.  Given that the complications of hepatitis C are due to fibrosis, we hypothesized that the antifibrotic effects of interferon gamma on stellate cells would lead to beneficial effects in patients with hepatitis C. Thus, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of interferon gamma‐1b in patients with hepatitis C. A cohort of 20 patients with chronic hepatitis C who failed or were intolerant to previous interferon‐alpha‐based regimens received 200 μg of interferon gamma‐1b subcutaneously three times weekly for 24 weeks. Liver biopsy was performed prior to and at the end of treatment. Biopsies were evaluated by a single blinded pathologist using the Knodell system modified by Ishak, and fibrosis was also quantitated by morphometric analysis. The study population was 75% male and 70% Caucasian. Mean age was 47.9 ± 7.5 years. Eighteen of 20 patients completed therapy. One patient discontinued therapy because of constitutional symptoms. One patient discontinued therapy because of elevated aminotransferases greater than twice baseline. No serious adverse events occurred. Morphometric analysis revealed that six patients (30%) had >1% absolute reduction in fibrosis score. Four of 20 (20%) patients had improvement in Ishak fibrosis scores after treatment. In conclusion, interferon gamma therapy is safe and well tolerated in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Although we did not detect an overall reduction in fibrosis, interferon gamma‐1b treatment led to a reduction in fibrosis in selected patients. These data provide a basis for further study of interferon gamma‐1b in patients with chronic fibrosing liver disease.
Associations between Tomicus destruens and Leptographium spp. in Pinus pinea and P. pinaster stands in Tuscany, central Italy
Authors: Peverieri G. Sabbatini , Capretti P. , Tiberi R.
Published: January 2006

The association between Tomicus destruens and fungi of the genus Leptographium was studied in Pinus pinea and P. pinaster forests in Tuscany, central Italy. Fungi were isolated from adult beetles and from pine tissues from infested trees. On average, Leptographium spp. were associated with 18% of beetles in breeding galleries, 35% of emergent brood beetles and 18% of beetles undergoing maturation feeding in pine twigs. The fungal species most frequently identified were Leptographium wingfieldii and L. lundbergii while L. guttulatum and L. serpens were also found.
Population structure of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus within single Pinus thunbergii trees inoculated with two nematode isolates
Authors: Aikawa T. , Kikuchi T. , Kosaka H.
Published: January 2006

A study was performed to clarify the population structure of the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, within single Pinus thunbergii trees after double infection of nematode populations using the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method. Two nematode isolates, which had different levels or the same level of virulence, were inoculated into 6‐year‐old trees at the same or different times and then the propagated nematodes were collected from the trees after 1, 6 and 9 months. When a virulent and an avirulent isolate were inoculated into a single tree, an overwhelming propagation of the virulent isolate was observed there irrespective of the inoculation order of isolates or collection time of nematodes. However, when two virulent isolates were inoculated, propagation through the interbreeding between the two isolates was observed. In the case of the staggered inoculations with two virulent isolates, the frequency of nematodes with a PCR‐RFLP pattern of the primarily inoculated isolate increased with the time after nematode inoculations. This suggested that the population structure of B. xylophilus within a single tree varied by the virulence level of nematode populations transmitted and their transmission order.
Molecular‐based identification and phylogeny of Armillaria species from Serbia and Montenegro
Authors: Keča N. , Bodles W. J. A. , Woodward S. , Karadžić D. , Bojović S.
Published: January 2006

Armillaria causes problems of root rot, kill trees and decay wood in the forests of Serbia and Montenegro, but the species involved have not hitherto been identified. The aim of this study was to identify field isolates collected on 25 localities. Identification was based on restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of intergenic spacer 1 (IGS1) region and comparisons of IGS1 sequence with those available on NCBI database. Phylogenetic analysis was performed on sequence information from selected isolates to determine possible interrelationships between isolates with different banding patterns and previously identified tester isolates of five European Armillaria species. Five Armillaria species were identified in 90 isolates obtained from forests in Serbia and Montenegro. Armillaria gallica was most frequently isolated, followed by A. cepistipes, A. mellea, A. ostoyae and A. tabescens; two isolates remained unidentified. Restriction digestion of IGS1 amplification products with AluI produced 10 RFLP patterns. Patterns G4 (400, 250, 180) for A. gallica and pattern X (400, 180, 140) for isolates 74 and 79 are reported for the first time in European isolates. Eight RFLP patterns were observed after restriction with TaqI. Two patterns each were observed for A. ostoyae and A. gallica, and one each for A. cepistipes, A. mellea, A. tabescens and isolates 74 and 79. Parsimony analyses based on the IGS1 region placed the isolates into four clades: one including A. mellea, the second containing A. gallica–A. cepistipes isolates, while isolates of A. ostoyae and A. borealis were in the third clade. Armillaria tabescens differed from all annulate species. Phylogenetic analysis supported the conclusion that European Armillaria species are closely related and separated from a common ancestor in the near past. According to this survey five European Armillaria species are present in the forests of Serbia and Montenegro, while A. borealis is not present in the studied ecosystems.
Cysteinyl leukotrienes and leukotriene B4 mediate vasoconstriction to arginine vasopressin in rat basilar artery
Authors: Trandafir Cristina C , Nishihashi Tsuyoshi , Ji Xu , Wang Aimin , Kurahashi Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2006

1. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been reported to be involved in the development of cerebral vasospasm after haemorrhage and cerebral oedema following ischaemia. Endogenously produced 5‐lipoxygenase metabolites are able to contract isolated endothelium‐preserved arterial strips and modulate vascular permeability. The present study addresses the role of 5‐lipoxygenase and its products, namely cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) and leukotriene (LT) B4, in the contraction induced by AVP in rat basilar artery.

2. Contractile responses to LTD4, LTC4, LTB4 or AVP were assessed in spiral preparations of rat endothelium‐intact basilar artery. Contractions to AVP were determined in the absence or presence of 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitors or CysLT1 or BLT receptor antagonists. Contractile responses to leukotrienes and AVP are expressed as a percentage of the contraction induced by 80 mmol/L KCl.

3. Leukotriene D4, LTC4 and LTB4 acted as vasoconstrictor agents in rat basilar artery, causing contractions (all at concentrations of 1 µmol/L) of 42 ± 13, 54 ± 15 and 25 ± 6% of the response to 80 mmol/L KCl, respectively. A concentration–response curve was constructed for AVP over the range 1 pmol/L to 10 nmol/L and an EC50 value of 0.19 ± 0.02 nmol/L (n = 30) was determinted. The presence of the 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitors ZM 230487 (10 nmol/L and 0.1 and 1 µmol/L) and AA 861 (1, 3, 10, and 30 µmol/L), the CysLT1 receptor antagonist MK 571 (3, 10 and 30 µmol/L) or the BLT receptor antagonists CP 105696 and LY 255283 (3, 10 and 30 µmol/L for both) in the organ bath significantly attenuated the contractions induced by AVP in rat basilar artery (P < 0.05).

4. The experimental results of the present study provide the first evidence for the involvement of CysLTs and LTB4 in the in vitro constriction induced by AVP in rat basilar artery. In the context of previously reported involvement of AVP in the development of cerebral vasospasm and oedema, the present study draws attention to the potential role played by the 5‐lipoxygenase pathway in these pathological processes.
The neuroprotective agent sipatrigine blocks multiple cardiac ion channels and causes triangulation of the ventricular action potential
Authors: Gao Zhan , Milnes James T , Choisy Stéphanie C M , Leach Michael J , Hancox Jules C , James Andrew F
Published: January 2006

1. Sipatrigine (BW 619C89), a blocker of neuronal Na+ and Ca2+ channels that is structurally related to lamotrigine, has been shown to be neuroprotective in models of cortical ischaemia. Although associated with cardiovascular effects in animal models in vivo, there is no published information concerning the effects of sipatrigine on cardiac ion currents and action potentials (AP).

2. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of sipatrigine on the delayed rectifier currents (IKr and IKs), the inward rectifier current (IK1), the L‐type Ca2+ current (ICa,L) and the fast Na+ current (INa), as well as on AP duration at 30% (APD30) and 90% (APD90) repolarization, in guinea‐pig isolated ventricular myocytes.

3. Each of the currents was inhibited by sipatrigine, demonstrating the drug to be a relatively broad‐spectrum blocker of cation channels in the heart. However, sipatrigine was a comparatively more potent inhibitor of IKr (IC50 = 0.85 µmol/L) and IKs (IC50 = 0.92 µmol/L) than of IK1 (IC50 = 5.3 µmol/L), ICa,L (IC50 = 6.0 µmol/L) and INa (IC50 = 25.5 µmol/L).

4. Consistent with block of IKr, IKs and IK1, sipatrigine (1–30 µmol/L) produced a concentration‐dependent prolongation of APD90. Although lower concentrations of sipatrigine (≤ 3 µmol/L) caused APD30 prolongation, higher concentrations (≥ 10 µmol/L) shortened APD30, consistent with an involvement of ICa,L blockade. The contrasting effects of sipatrigine on APD30 and APD90 at higher concentrations resulted in a marked concentration‐dependent triangulation of the AP.

5. The results of the present study demonstrate that sipatrigine, at concentrations previously shown to be neuroprotective in vitro, modulates cardiac K+, Ca2+ and Na+ currents and repolarization of the cardiac ventricular action potential.
Prevalence of Obesity in Sweden
Authors: Neovius M. , Janson A. , Rössner S.
Published: January 2006

Although the prevalence of obesity in Sweden still is low in an international perspective, the development during the last decades is alarming in adults, adolescents and children alike. The prevalence of obesity [body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg m−2] in adults has doubled during the last two decades and is now approximately 10% in both men and women, according to estimates based on self‐reported BMI from repeated random samples of the population. However, prevalence estimates based on measured BMI from the WHO MONICA study indicate that the self‐reported data result in underestimates. In military conscripts, the prevalence of obesity (BMI > 30 kg m−2) almost quadrupled to 3.2% from 1971 to 1995, while the overweight fraction (BMI > 25 kg m−2) more than doubled to 16.3%. The development in younger age groups seems to be similar; the prevalence of overweight [International Obesity Task Force (IOTF)/Cole] in children aged 10 years in Gothenburg has doubled to 18% (2.9% obese) during the last decade, and similar figures have been reported in other studies. However, most reports on childhood overweight stem from the larger metropolitan areas, and hence may be underestimates because of the urban–rural influence on obesity‐status. Recent data from non‐urban areas in the northern part of Sweden estimate the prevalence of overweight (BMI > 20 kg m−2) in 10‐year‐olds to above 30%. In the most comprehensive study in children, including both rural and urban areas, BMI was measured among all children aged 10 years (n = 5517; 92.7% of the population) in the county of Ostergotland, and the prevalence of overweight (IOTF/Cole) was 22% in both boys and girls, of which 4% and 5% were obese respectively.
Development of microsatellite markers for the barley stem gall midge, Mayetiola hordei (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)
Authors: MEZGHANI‐KHEMAKHEM MAHA , VANLERBERGHE‐MASUTTI FLAVIE , MAKNI MOHAMED , CHAVIGNY PASCAL , MARRAKCHI MOHAMED , MAKNI HANEM
Published: January 2006

Ten microsatellites were isolated from the barley stem gall midge, Mayetiola hordei. Polymorphism at each locus was tested on 40 individual midges, among which 34 were collected on barley and six on wheat crops in Tunisia. Six loci were polymorphic with the number of alleles ranging from two to seven. The observed heterozygosity varied between 0.025 and 0.2. These microsatellite loci revealed a strong effect of host plant on the population genetic structure of M. hordei.
Microsatellite DNA markers for Plasmopara viticola, the causal agent of downy mildew of grapes
Authors: DELMOTTE F. , CHEN W. J. , RICHARD‐CERVERA S. , GREIF C. , PAPURA D. , GIRESSE X. , MONDOR‐GENSON G. , CORIO‐COSTET M. F.
Published: January 2006

Microsatellite loci were isolated from Plasmopara viticola (Oomycetes), the causal agent of downy mildew of grape, one of the most damaging fungal diseases of grapevine worldwide. Seven polymorphic loci were obtained from an enriched partial genomic library. A low genetic diversity was observed at all loci, with a mean observed allele number of 3.75 and an observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.074 to 0.547. Cross‐amplification tests on three closely related taxa indicated that two loci could be used in other Oomycetes species. These microsatellite loci were proved to be useful for population genetic analysis.
An integrated vendor–buyer inventory model with perfect and monopolistic competitions: an educational note
Authors: Yang P. C. , Wee H. M. , Wee K. P.
Published: January 2006

Customers encountering shortages will respond differently according to the type of commodity and the market environment. Complete backordering is only likely to occur in a monopolistic competition, whereas a complete lost sale is only likely to occur in a perfect competition. In reality, neither market environment exists. Therefore, in an environment with perfect and monopolistic markets, the consideration of partial backordering is a practical approach. In this study, we develop an integrated vendor–buyer inventory model with perfect and monopolistic competitions. Significant cost reduction can be achieved when partial backordering is considered. The inventory model can therefore be used to study the effect of partial backordering in a competitive market.
Plexiform Fibrohistiocytic Tumor in Three Children
Authors: Jafarian Fatemeh , McCuaig Catherine , Kokta Victor , Hatami Afshin , Savard Pascal
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor is a very rare fibrohistiocytic tumor of intermediate malignancy. It can occur at any age but is more prevalent in children and in young adults. Here we present the clinicopathologic findings of three girls with this tumor. The patients were 8 months, 14 months, and 7 years of age. They each presented with a solitary, nontender, subcutaneous nodule or plaque. Light microscopy and immunohistochemical study findings were compatible with plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor. We also review the previously published cases in the English‐language literature.
The Epidemiology of Childhood Alopecia Areata in China: A Study of 226 Patients
Authors: Xiao Feng‐Li , Yang Sen , Liu Jiang‐Bo , He Ping‐Ping , Yang Jie , Cui Yong , Yan Kai‐Lin , Gao Min , Liang Yan‐Hua , Zhang Xue‐Jun
Published: January 2006

Abstract:  To study the clinical and epidemiologic profile of childhood alopecia areata, we performed a survey in which a total of 226 childhood patients less than 16 years old were enrolled. Statistical analysis and heritability were performed using EPI INFO 6.0, SPSS10.0, and the Falconer method. The median age of onset was 10 years. The majority of patients (84.96%) presented with limited alopecia. The male : female ratio was 1.4:1. Boys appeared to have more severe involvement. The earlier the age of onset, the greater the severity of the disease. Sixty‐seven patients (29.65%) had previous episodes of alopecia areata. Greater severity and longer duration were seen in the relapsing patients than in the primary patients. Six patients (2.65%) had an associated disease. A positive family history was reported in 25 patients (11.06%). The prevalence figures for alopecia areata in first‐, second‐, and third‐degree relatives of the probands were 2.87%, 0.40%, and 0.13%, respectively. The heritabilities of AA in first‐, second‐, and third‐degree relatives were 51.20%, 46.25%, and 25.65%, respectively. It can be speculated that the effect of genetic factors is important in the occurrence of this disease.
Community in Cyber Space?: The Role of the Internet in Facilitating and Maintaining a Community of Live Music Collecting and Trading
Authors: Nieckarz Peter P.
Published: January 2006

The interactions based around the taping, trading, and collecting of live music performances have evolved into a phenomenon that may aptly be referred to as a community. What is most remarkable about this is that the vast majority of these activities now take place over the Internet. The emergence of virtual community is addressed by sociological theories that address the increasingly disembedded nature of social structure. This article is a participant observation that specifically examines if trading is indeed a community, and demonstrates how this is facilitated through the proliferation of the Internet and other technologies. The findings reveal a phenomenon that does exhibit many characteristics of a traditional community; though acceptance or rejection of the notion of virtual community is contingent upon which definition of community one uses.
Strategy for Safe Performance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging on a Patient with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: NAEHLE CLAAS PHILIP , SOMMER TORSTEN , MEYER CARSTEN , STRACH KATHARINA , KREUZ JENS , LITT HAROLD , LEWALTER THORSTEN , SCHILD HANS , SCHWAB JOERG OTTO
Published: January 2006

Clinically indicated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was safely performed at 1.5 T on a patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). The ICD was reprogrammed to detection only, and imaging hardware and protocols were modified to minimize radiofrequency power deposition to the ICD system. The integrity of the ICD system was verified immediately post‐MRI and after 6 weeks, including an ICD test with induction of ventricular fibrillation. This case demonstrates that in exceptional circumstances, in carefully selected patients, and using special precautions, an MRI exam of the brain may be possible in patients with ICDs.
Wide‐QRS‐Complex Tachycardia with a Negative Concordance Pattern in the Precordial Leads: Are the ECG Criteria Always Reliable?
Authors: KAPPOS KOSTAS G. , ANDRIKOPOULOS GEORGE K. , TZEIS STYLIANOS E. , MANOLIS ANTONIS S.
Published: January 2006

We present a case of wide‐complex tachycardia with negative concordance in the precordial leads and a qR pattern in V6, in a 42‐year‐old man with risk factors for coronary artery disease, in whom the electrocardiogram criteria were apparently fallible. This case highlights the key contribution of the electrophysiological study in rendering correct diagnosis.
Slow Pathway Ablation for Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry Using a Right Internal Jugular Vein Approach: A Case Series
Authors: SALEM YASSER S. , BURKE MARIN C. , KIM SUSAN S. , MORADY FRED , KNIGHT BRADLEY P.
Published: January 2006

Background: Inferior venous access to the right heart is not possible in some patients due to congenital or acquired obstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Although right‐sided electrophysiology procedures have been performed successfully in patients with a previously placed IVC filter by direct placement of catheters through the filter, an alternative approach is necessary in some patients.

Methods: This case series describes three patients with an IVC filter who underwent successful ablation of the slow pathway for typical atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentrant tachycardia using a superior vena cava (SVC) approach via the right internal jugular (IJ) vein. Two separate introducer sheaths were placed into the IJ vein using separate punctures. This permitted placement of a standard deflectable ablation catheter and an additional catheter in the right atrium to monitor for ventriculoatrial conduction during the junctional rhythm associated with ablation of the slow AV nodal pathway.

Results: Catheter ablation was successful in each patient. The number of radiofrequency current applications was 7, 17, and 27. There were no procedural complications and no patient had recurrent tachycardia during follow‐up.

Conclusions: Catheter ablation of the slow AV nodal pathway can be performed successfully and safely in patients with inferior venous barriers to the right heart using an SVC approach via the right IJ vein.
Narrow band Ultraviolet B 311 nm in the treatment of vitiligo: two right–left comparison studies
Authors: El Mofty M. , Mostafa W. , Esmat S. , Youssef R. , Azzam O. , Hunter N. , El Hanafi G. , Fawzi M.
Published: January 2006

Aim: Evaluation of narrow band ultraviolet B (NB UVB 311 nm) in the treatment of vitiligo by two independent studies. The first study compared NB UVB with a well‐established therapeutic modality, psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA), and the second study was conducted to find out whether psoralen might add to its efficacy.

Methods: In the first study, 15 patients were exposed on the left half of their body to UVB 311 nm and then exposed on their right half to UVA after ingestion of psoralen. In the second study, 20 patients were exposed to UVB 311 nm on the left side of the body, followed by ingestion of psoralen and exposure to NB UVB 311 nm 90 min later to the right side of the body. In both studies, while exposing one side, the other was protected by an UV‐proof gown. Thus two right–left comparative studies were carried out simultaneously, namely: UVB 311 nm vs. PUVA and UVB 311 nm vs. PUVB 311 nm.

Results: In the first study, comparison of PUVA and NB UVB 311 nm showed no difference either in the degree of response or in the incidence of complications. In the second study, comparison of PUVB and UVB showed equal clinical improvement on both sides. The cumulative dose needed to achieve the same response on the PUVB side was lower than that on the UVB side, but the difference was not statistically significant. The incidence of phototoxic reactions was significantly higher on the PUVB treated body half.

Conclusion: NB UVB 311 nm has similar repigmentary effects as PUVA. The addition of psoralen does not increase its efficacy.
Relationship between dementia and length of stay of general medical patients admitted to acute care
Authors: King Bellinda , Jones Catherine , Brand Caroline
Published: January 2006

Objective:  To determine the contributing factors that lead to increased length of stay (LOS) of patients with dementia.

Methods:  A case‐controlled study in a tertiary metropolitan hospital general medical unit was conducted. Patients were aged 65 and over, 26 cases with dementia were identified and 26 controls without dementia were randomly selected.

Results:  The mean (± SD) LOS for patients with dementia was significantly longer than for those without dementia (20.59 ± 15.38 days vs. 9.6 ± 6.45 days, P = 0.02). In addition to dementia, severity of illness, referral to the aged care assessment team, and day of week admitted were also significant independent predictors of increased LOS.

Conclusion:  Reasons for increased LOS of patients with dementia remain unclear. Cognitive impairment due to dementia is likely to increase within the context of an increasing and ageing population. Specific strategies may be required within in‐hospital clinical pathways to assist the needs of this group.
The Resident Classification Scale: Is it a valid measure of functional dependence?
Authors: Stepien Jacqueline M , White Helen , Wundke Rachel , Giles Lynne C , Whitehead Craig H , Crotty Maria
Published: January 2006

Objectives:  To determine the validity of the Resident Classification Scale (RCS) in measuring functional dependence.

Methods:  Participants newly assessed in hospital as requiring residential care were randomised to receive either transitional care or traditional inpatient hospital care. At the 4 month follow‐up, the RCS and modified Barthel Index were administered. Inter‐ (n = 21) and intrarater (n = 10) reliability of the RCS was assessed.

Results:  A total of 317 participants were recruited. Interrater reliability for the RCS was high (ICC = 0.93) as was the intrarater reliability (Spearman's r = 0.84). There was strong agreement between the RCS and the modified Barthel Index.

Conclusions:  The RCS has been specifically designed to assess the needs of individuals requiring long‐term residential care. With minor modifications, the RCS has the potential to be a useful research tool.
Arsenic‐Induced Cell Death in Liver and Brain of Experimental Rats
Authors: Bashir Somia , Sharma Yukti , Irshad M. , Gupta S. Dutta , Dogra T. D.
Published: January 2006

Abstract: Arsenic is a well established human carcinogen and is ubiquitous in the environment. The present study demonstrates the effect of acute arsenic administration at three different doses in liver and brain of Wistar rats. Sodium arsenite was administered orally at doses of 6.3 mg/kg, 10.5 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg of body weight on the basis of a lethal dose 50% (LD50) for 24 hr. After administration of arsenites, liver and brain were analyzed for various parameters of oxidative stress, histopathological changes and caspase‐3 activity. Glutathione levels were decreased significantly in the liver at all doses. In liver the following biochemical changes were observed, a significant lipid peroxidation and cytochrome‐P450 induction along with significant decrease in catalase and superoxide dismutase was observed at 10.5 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg. The activity of glutathione peroxidase was increased significantly at all doses. In brain, no significant change was observed at 6.3 mg/kg. However, a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and glutathione peroxidase activity along with significant decrease in the activity of glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase was observed at 10.5 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg. The activity of glutathione‐S‐transferase was decreased significantly in both liver and brain at 10.5 and 12.6 mg/kg. No significant alteration in the activity of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and glutathione reductase was observed in either liver or brain at any dose. Dose‐dependent histopathological changes, observed in both liver and brain are also described. A significant increase in caspase‐3 activity was observed at all doses in liver and at 10.5 and 12.6 mg/kg in brain. Sodium arsenite caused DNA cleavage into fragments and manifested as “DNA laddering”, a hallmark of apoptosis.
Trimidox Induces Apoptosis via Cytochrome c Release in NALM‐6 Human B Cell Leukaemia Cells
Authors: Kanno Syu‐ichi , Uwai Kohji , Tomizawa Ayako , Hiura Takako , Osanai Yuu , Ujibe Mayuko , Takeshita Mitsuhiro , Ohtake Takaharu , Kimura Katsuhiko , Ishikawa Masaaki
Published: January 2006

Abstract: Trimidox (3,4,5‐trihydroxybenzamidoxime) has been shown to reduce the activity of ribonucleotide reductase accompanied by growth inhibition and the differentiation of mammalian cells. Here we examine the induction of apoptosis by trimidox in several human leukaemia cell lines, focusing on the release of cytochrome c and the activation of caspase proteases in the human B cell line NALM‐6. Induction of apoptosis by trimidox (300 μM) was detected in NALM‐6, HL‐60 (premyelocytic leukaemia cells), MOLT‐4 (an acute lymphoblastic leukaemia cells), Jurkat (a T‐cell leukaemia cells), U937 (expressing many monocyte‐like characteristics), and K562 (erythroleukaemia). NALM‐6 was most affected by trimidox among leukaemia cells; therefore, we employed NALM‐6 cells in the subsequent experiments. The cells showed a time‐dependent increase in DNA damage after trimidox (250 μM) treatment. A significant increase in the amount of cytochrome c release was detected after treatment with trimidox. Bcl‐2 and Bax protein expressions were not changed by trimidox. Caspase‐3 and ‐9 were activated by incubation with trimidox, whereas caspase‐8 was not. Furthermore, trimidox‐induced apoptosis was prevented by a broad‐spectrum caspase inhibitor, a caspase‐3, and a caspase‐9 inhibitor, but not by a caspase‐8 inhibitor. Inhibition of c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) by SP600125 appreciably protected cells from trimidox‐induced apoptosis, but no effect inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) by SB203580. In contrast, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitors U0126 and PD98059 strongly potentiated the apoptotic effect of trimidox. This report shows that the induction of apoptosis by trimidox occurs through a cytochrome c‐dependent pathway, which sequentially activates caspase‐3 and caspase‐9.
Effects of Coeloglossum. viride var. bracteatum Extract on Memory Deficits and Pathological Changes in Senescent Mice
Authors: Zhang Dan , Liu Geng‐tao , Shi Jian‐gong , Zhang Jian‐jun
Published: January 2006

Abstract: Previous studies have shown that injection of D‐galactose could result in senescent performances in animals, that injection of NaNO2 could cause ischaemia and hypoxia in many organs, and combined injection of D‐galactose and NaNO2 make normal mice taking on senescent performances in a shorter period. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CE, an extract from a Tibetan medicinal herb, Coeloglossum. viride(L.)Hartm. var. bracteatum(Willd.), on senescent mice. The step‐down test was performed to evaluate the learning and memory function of mice. The activities of superoxide dismutase, adenosine triphosphatase, monoamine oxydase and the content of malondialdehyde were measured to determine the impairment of brain. The expressions of Bcl‐2, Bax, and caspase‐3 proteins in mouse hippocampus were studied by immunohistochemical staining. The data demonstrated that D‐galactose and NaNO2 treated mice had significant deficits in learning and memory function. The reduced activities of superoxide dismutase, adenosine triphosphatase, increased activities of monoamine oxydase and level of malondialdehyde were also found. Bax and caspase‐3 positive cells increased while Bcl‐2 positive cells decreased remarkably. Treatment of CE (2.5, 5 mg · kg−1) ameliorated the memory impairment; rectified the biochemistry and neural system changes in mice. These results suggest that CE offers promise as a tool for treatment of senescence‐related diseases.
Positive Inotropic Effect of Levosimendan is Correlated to its Stereoselective Ca2+‐Sensitizing Effect but not to Stereoselective Phosphodiesterase Inhibition
Authors: Kaheinen Petri , Pollesello Piero , Hertelendi Zita , Borbély Attila , Szilágyi Szabolcs , Nissinen Erkki , Haikala Heimo , Papp Zoltán
Published: January 2006

Abstract:In order to clarify the mechanisms of the positive inotropic actions of levosimendan and its optical isomer, dextrosimendan, we compared their concentration‐dependent effects in intact papillary muscles, permeabilized cardiomyocytes and in purified phosphodiesterase enzyme preparations of guinea‐pig hearts. In papillary muscles twitch tension increased with EC50values of 60 nM and 2.8 μM for levosimendan and dextrosimendan, respectively. Hence, the two enantiomers exhibited a 47 times potency difference in their positive inotropic effects in a preparation where theoretically Ca2+‐sensitization and phosphodiesterase inhibition could both contribute to the positive inotropic effects. In guinea‐pig cardiomyocytes, levosimendan and dextrosimendan increased isometric force production (at pCa 6.2) due to Ca2+‐sensitization with EC50values of 8.4 nM and 0.64 μM, respectively, with a similar relative potency difference of 76. A major difference appeared in their relative pharmacological potencies, however, when the inhibitory effects of the two enantiomers were assayed on phosphodiesterase III, purified from guinea pig left ventricle (i.e. the phosphodiesterase isoenzyme which is dominant in that tissue). Levosimendan was a 427 times more potent phosphodiesterase inhibitor than dextrosimendan, with IC50values of 7.5 nM, and 3.2 μM, respectively. Taken together, our data support the hypothesis that levosimendan and dextrosimendan exert their positive inotropic effects via a stereoselective Ca2+‐sensitizing mechanism and not via stereoselective inhibition of phosphodiesterase III in the myocardium.
Do People Value The Welfare Of Farm Animals?
Authors: Burgess Diane , Hutchinson W. George.
Published: January 2006

Public concern over farm animal welfare has led to the banning of a number of intensive farming methods such as sow stalls, battery cages (by 2012) and veal crates, and the development of high welfare status products sold at a price premium. This indicates that consumers value farm animal welfare. In addition satisfaction can also be derived, by consumers and non‐consumers of animal products, from the knowledge that all animals are experiencing welfare‐enhancing husbandry practices. Consequently farm animal welfare can be considered a complex good, sought partly for private consumption and as a public good. However, improving the welfare of all farm animals through legislation incurs costs ‐ are these increased costs of food production justified? We use contingent valuation to determine the economic value of improving the welfare of farm animals and find that people are willing to pay extra on their weekly food bill to ensure that laying hens, broiler chickens dairy cows and pigs have improved welfare conditions. The benefits of improving animal welfare are shown to exceed the costs of implementing these schemes. We conclude that improving the standards of legislation for farm animal welfare so thatallfarm animals experience higher standards of welfare can be economically justified.
Poverty, Inequality And Ethnicity: A Note to Policy Makers on Latin America
Authors: Poole Nigel
Published: January 2006

During 2005 the international policy agenda, including that of the EU, has come to include the fight against global poverty. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have catalysed the interest of policy makers, public and media in poverty reduction, partly because of the simplicity and ease of communication of the ‘one‐dollar‐a‐day’ income target for poverty reduction. However, there is more to poverty reduction than reaching the one‐dollar‐a‐day threshold: other MDG indicators which matter are the poverty gap ratio and the share of the poorest 20 per cent in national consumption ‐ because they are indicators not just of poverty but of inequality. Of the major regions of the world, inequality is greatest in Latin America. At a time when the focus of attention is on poverty reduction in Africa and Asia, it is important that Latin America should not fall off the poverty map. The high levels of inequality associated with Latin American poverty are politically and socially divisive, particularly because of the disproportionately high ethnic representation among the poorest. Because of the geographic, cultural, social, demographic context, such poverty is highly intractable. For reasons of equity, therefore, EU researchers and policymakers need to retain a broad view of the poverty‐reduction agenda.
Intestinal phosphate absorption and the effect of vitamin D: a comparison of rats with mice
Authors: Marks Joanne , Srai Surjit K. , Biber Jürg , Murer Heini , Unwin Robert J. , Debnam Edward S.
Published: January 2006

Previously, it was thought that intestinal phosphate transport occurred exclusively in the proximal small intestine of rodents and humans. However, a recent study has demonstrated that the ileum of mice contributes significantly to the absorption of dietary phosphate, but it is not known whether this region is also an important site of phosphate absorption in the rat. In the present study, we have investigated the mRNA and protein levels of the sodium–phosphate cotransporter, NaPi‐IIb, in three regions of rat and mouse small intestine, and related its expression levels to the rate of net phosphate absorption, as measured using the in situ intestinal loop technique. 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 is an important physiological regulator of intestinal phosphate absorption that increases phosphate transport in both the duodenum and jejunum of the rat. Based on the recently proposed regional profile of phosphate absorption along the mouse small intestine, we have re‐evaluated the effects of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 using three distinct regions of the mouse and rat small intestine. Our studies have revealed important differences in the intestinal handling of phosphate between mice and rats. In mice, maximal phosphate absorption occurs in the ileum, which is paralleled by the highest expression levels of NaPi‐IIb mRNA and protein. In contrast, in rats maximal absorption occurs in the duodenum with very little absorption occurring in the ileum, which is similar to the pattern reported in humans. However, in both rodent species only the jejunum shows an increase in phosphate absorption in response to treatment with 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3.
The Comparison on Changes of the Body Heats in Electroacupuncture Analgesia and Anesthesia by Ketamine Hydrochloride in Dogs
Authors: Lee Sang-Eun , Seo Ji-Min , Liu Jianzhu , Hong Min-Sung , Lee Young-Won , Lee Jung-Yeon , Song Kun-Ho , Kim Duck-Hwan
Published: January 2006

This study was performed to clarify the differences of the body heats between electroacupuncture analgesia (EA) and anesthesia by ketamine hydrochloride (ketamine anesthesia) in dogs. Nine clinically healthy dogs were divided into ketamine anesthesia (control: 5 heads) and EA (experimental: 4 heads) groups, respectively. The acupoints GV-5 and Bai-Hui were used. The infrared thermographic system was used to determine the body heats. The body heats was determined at areas such as the dorsocranial (DCr), dorsocaudal (DCd), ventrocranial (VCr) and ventrocaudal (VCd) regions, on pretreatment, 10, 20, 30, 50 and 90 minutes after treatments, respectively in control and experimental groups. The body heats showed decreasing tendency until 30 minutes after ketamine injection, and then showed increasing pattern until 90 minutes after at all areas investigated in the control group. However, no significant differences of the body heats in the DCr, DCd, VCr and VCd regions were found in the control group. On the other hand, the body heats showed increasing tendency until 30 minutes, and then showed decreasing pattern until 90 minutes after EA, in the experimental group. The significant difference was observed at 30 minutes in the DCr region, and also at 10, 20 and 30 minutes in the DCd regions in the experimental group ( p < 0.05). The significant differences of the body heats were detected at 20 minutes in the DCr region, at 30 minutes in the DCd region and at 30 minutes in the VCd region between the experimental and control groups ( p < 0.05).

In conclusion, EA increases of the body heat in the contrary to that of ketamine anesthesia.
STRUCTURAL STUDY OF x(Fe2O3·V2O5)·(100-x)[P2O5·Li2O] GLASS SYSTEM BY FTIR SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: ARDELEAN I. , ANDRONACHE C. , CÎMPEAN C. , PǍŞCUŢǍ P.
Published: January 2006

Glasses of the x( Fe 2 O 3· V 2 O 5)·(100-x)[ P 2 O 5· Li 2 O ] system, with 0≤x≤50 mol %, were prepared and investigated by FTIR spectroscopy in an attempt to determine the local structure of glasses. The interpretation of the obtained IR spectra revealed the presence and the dependence of the local structural units in the studied glasses on the iron and vanadium ions content. The results showed that phosphate units are the main structural units of the glass system and the iron and vanadium ions are located in the network. The increasing of iron and vanadium ions content indicate a gradual decreasing in the number of bridging oxygen ions and an increasing in the number of nonbridging oxygen ions.
CLOCK JITTER EFFECT ON SWITCHED-CAPACITOR FILTER DESIGN
Authors: EL OUALKADI A. , PAILLOT J.-M. , FLANDRE D.
Published: January 2006

This paper proposes the study of clock jitter effect on high-Q switched-capacitor filter behavior. A command circuit made up by a ring voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) with XOR gates is used to generate the command signals. According to the correlation of these signals the jitter effect on the signal constellation has been studied. A good agreement between measured and simulation results has been achieved which validate our design methodology.
Increase in S6K1 phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle following resistance exercise occurs mainly in type II muscle fibers
Authors: Koopman René , Zorenc Antoine H. G. , Gransier Rudy J. J. , Cameron-Smith David , van Loon Luc J. C.
Published: January 2006

To investigate the in vivo effects of resistance exercise on translational control in human skeletal muscle, we determined the phosphorylation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein (4E-BP1), p70/p85-S6 protein kinase (S6K1), and ribosomal S6 protein (S6). Furthermore, we investigated whether changes in the phosphorylation of S6K1 are muscle fiber type specific. Eight male subjects performed a single high-intensity resistance exercise session. Muscle biopsies were collected before and immediately after exercise and after 30 and 120 min of postexercise recovery. The phosphorylation statuses of AMPK, 4E-BP1, S6K1, and S6 were determined by Western blotting with phospho-specific and pan antibodies. To determine fiber type-specific changes in the phosphorylation status of S6K1, immunofluorescence microscopy was applied. AMPK phosphorylation was increased approximately threefold immediately after resistance exercise, whereas 4E-BP1 phosphorylation was reduced to 27 ± 6% of preexercise values. Phosphorylation of S6K1 at Thr421/Ser424 was increased 2- to 2.5-fold during recovery but did not induce a significant change in S6 phosphorylation. Phosphorylation of S6K1 was more pronounced in the type II vs. type I muscle fibers. Before exercise, phosphorylated S6K1 was predominantly located in the nuclei. After 2 h of postexercise recovery, phospho-S6K1 was primarily located in the cytosol of type II muscle fibers. We conclude that resistance exercise effectively increases the phosphorylation of S6K1 on Thr421/Ser424, which is not associated with a substantial increase in S6 phosphorylation in a fasted state.
Comparative Antihypertensive Effects of Hydrochlorothiazide and Chlorthalidone on Ambulatory and Office Blood Pressure
Authors: Ernst Michael E. , Carter Barry L. , Goerdt Chris J. , Steffensmeier Jennifer J.G. , Phillips Beth Bryles , Zimmerman M. Bridget , Bergus George R.
Published: January 2006

Low-dose thiazide-type diuretics are recommended as initial therapy for most hypertensive patients. Chlorthalidone has significantly reduced stroke and cardiovascular end points in several landmark trials; however, hydrochlorothiazide remains favored in practice. Most clinicians assume that the drugs are interchangeable, but their antihypertensive effects at lower doses have not been directly compared. We conducted a randomized, single-blinded, 8-week active treatment, crossover study comparing chlorthalidone 12.5 mg/day (force-titrated to 25 mg/day) and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg/day (force-titrated to 50 mg/day) in untreated hypertensive patients. The main outcome, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring, was assessed at baseline and week 8, along with standard office BP readings every 2 weeks. Thirty patients completed the first active treatment period, whereas 24 patients completed both. An order–drug–time interaction was observed with chlorthalidone; therefore, data from only the first active treatment period was considered. Week 8 ambulatory BPs indicated a greater reduction from baseline in systolic BP with chlorthalidone 25 mg/day compared with hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/day (24-hour mean = −12.4±1.8 mm Hg versus −7.4±1.7 mm Hg;
P
=0.054; nighttime mean = −13.5±1.9 mm Hg versus −6.4±1.8 mm Hg;
P
=0.009). Office systolic BP reduction was lower at week 2 for chlorthalidone 12.5 mg/day versus hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg/day (−15.7±2.2 mm Hg versus −4.5±2.1 mm Hg;
P
=0.001); however, by week 8, reductions were statistically similar (−17.1±3.7 versus −10.8±3.5;
P
=0.84). Within recommended doses, chlorthalidone is more effective in lowering systolic BPs than hydrochlorothiazide, as evidenced by 24-hour ambulatory BPs. These differences were not apparent with office BP measurements.
Participation,Truth and Partiality
Authors: Lundy Patricia , McGovern Mark
Published: January 2006

The article assesses some methodological and ethical issues raised by a Participatory Action Research (PAR) ‘truth-telling’ project conducted in Northern Ireland.The authors reflect on their role in the Ardoyne Commemoration Project (ACP), a community-based study that recorded and published relatives’ testimonies of victims of the Northern Ireland conflict.The article addresses two major areas of concern. First, it explores the potential value for post-conflict transition in carrying out PAR-informed, single-identity, community-based research work in a violently divided society.The authors argue that such ‘insider’ research can make an important contribution to developing strategies of conflict resolution, although significant limits need also to be recognized. Second, the article critically assesses the validity of claims to telling the ‘truth’ that such a project involves.The end of legitimating popular knowledge is key to a PAR-based approach and this can have important consequences for post-conflict transition. However, in a divided society such a goal also raises significant questions concerning the issue of partiality and the limits this sets for the nature of the ‘truth’ that may be told.