bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oral tolerance induction by mucosal administration of cholera toxin B‐coupled antigen involves T‐cell proliferation in vivo and is not affected by depletion of CD25+ T cells
Authors: George Chandy Annie , Hultkrantz Susanne , Raghavan Sukanya , Czerkinsky Cecil , Lebens Michael , Telemo Esbjörn , Holmgren Jan 
Published: May 2006

SummaryOral administration of antigens coupled to the B subunit of the cholera toxin (CTB) can dramatically reduce the amount of antigen needed for tolerance induction and has been used in several animal models to suppress conditions where the immune system overreacts to foreign and self‐antigens. In this study, the cellular events following oral administration of CTB‐coupled antigen was investigated. As a model system, limited numbers of CSFE‐labelled cells from influenza haemagglutinin peptide (HApep) T‐cell transgenic mice were transferred to wild type mice and the mice were then given CTB‐coupled HApep orally. The inductive events of CTB‐induced tolerance was characterized by extensive proliferation of HApep‐specific T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) and in the spleen. The proliferating cells up‐regulated the gut homing molecule α4β7 and down‐regulated the high endothelial venule binding molecule l‐selectin. Addition of the whole cholera toxin (CT) to CTB‐HApep showed a similar pattern as CTB‐HApep feeding, with antigen‐specific proliferation in the MLN and spleen and expression of α4β7 on the proliferating cells. However, addition of CT to CTB‐HApep, produced a stronger and faster proliferative response and abrogated CTB‐HA mediated oral tolerance. Feeding of CTB‐HApep expanded CD25+ cells in the MLNs. CTB‐induced oral tolerance could, however, not be explained by CD25+ dependent regulatory activity, as oral administration of CTB‐HApep to mice depleted of CD25+ cells still gave rise to systemic tolerance. Thus, several mechanisms might co‐orchestrate the systemic tolerance seen in response to feeding with CTB‐coupled antigen.
Critical factors influencing prion inactivation by sodium hydroxide
Authors: Bauman P. A. , Lawrence L. A. , Biesert L. , Dichtelmüller H. , Fabbrizzi F. , Gajardo R. , Gröner A. , Jorquera J. I. , Kempf C. , Kreil T. R. , Von Hoegen I. , Pifat D. Y. , Petteway S. R. , Cai K. 
Published: May 2006

Background and Objectives  Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by aberrantly folded cellular proteins (PrPSc; prions) that are generally resistant to conventional pathogen‐inactivation techniques. To ensure effective decontamination and inactivation of prions that could be present in source material, we investigated critical factors that influence prion inactivation by NaOH.Materials and Methods  A decrease in prion infectivity correlates with the disappearance of the protease‐resistant core of PrPSc (PrPRES) observed in biochemical assays. To model prion inactivation, hamster scrapie (strain 263K) brain homogenate (SBH) was incubated for specific periods of time in 0·1 m NaOH at 4 or 18 °C, with or without detergent. Neutralized samples were subjected to limited digestion with proteinase K (PK) and then analysed using an endpoint dilution western blot assay and antibody 3F4. Structural changes in prions exposed to NaOH were examined using differential immunoprecipitation.Results  Treatment of SBH with 0·1 m NaOH for 15 min, in the absence of detergent, at 4 and 18 °C caused a reduction in the PrPRES signal of 3·5 and 4·0 log10 units, respectively, with some residual signal remaining. The presence of the detergent sarkosyl during a 60‐min incubation in NaOH further enhanced PrPRES reduction to ≥ 4·5 log10 units (i.e. below the limit of detection). NaOH treatment induced conformational changes in PrP that resulted in the exposure of a hidden epitope and enabled prion immunoprecipitation by antibody 3F4.Conclusions  The use of NaOH can effectively reduce prion levels in an in vitro inactivation assay. After pretreatment of SBH with detergent, NaOH completely eliminates the PrPRES signal. Detergent may liberate lipid membrane‐protected PrPSc to improve access to NaOH, which can then inactivate PrPSc by altering its structure. In cases of unidentified exposure to PrPSc during manufacturing, sanitizing procedures combining the use of detergent and NaOH may help to ensure minimal levels of contamination carryover in products.
Changes in Semen Quality in Estonian Holstein AI Bulls at 3, 5 and 7 years of Age
Authors: Hallap T , Jaakma Ü , Rodriguez‐Martinez H 
Published: May 2006

ContentsThe predictability of semen quality of mature sires from measurements at an early age is not well established. The aim of the present study was to determine age‐dependent changes in the quality of bull semen from six Estonian Holstein (EHF) bulls, processed when the sires were 3, 5 and 7 years old. Fertility data such as 60‐day non‐return to oestrus rates (60d‐NRRs) were available for 3‐year‐old bulls. From each batch, semen straws were analysed immediately after thawing [i.e. post‐thaw (PT)] (controls) and after a swim‐up (SU) procedure. The analyses comprised subjective and computerized measurements of sperm motility using computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA) as well as estimations of sperm concentration, morphology and membrane integrity. There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the percentage of sperm motility (SU), membrane integrity (PT, SU) and normal tail and acrosome morphology (SU) with an increase in the age of the sires. The percentage of total motile spermatozoa PT measured by CASA correlated between 3‐ and 7‐, and between 5‐ and 7‐year‐old bulls (p < 0.05). In addition, the proportion of head abnormalities tended to correlate between all three age groups both PT and after SU (p < 0.1). The sperm parameters correlating with fertility were average path velocity (VAP) (p < 0.001), total motility as measured by CASA (p < 0.01), linearly motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05) and CASA‐assessed numbers of motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05), all after SU selection. The results showed that overall semen quality examined at 3 years of age is related to the semen parameters later in bulls’ life. Moreover, CASA‐assessed motility after SU seems to be a reliable marker for semen quality assessment as it shows correlation not only between the ages, but also to field fertility.
Comparative analysis between psychological and endoscopic profiles in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease: A prospective study based on screening endoscopy
Authors: LEE YI‐CHIA , WANG HSIU‐PO , CHIU HAN‐MO , LIAO SHIH‐CHENG , HUANG SHIH‐PEI , LAI YO‐PING , WU MING‐SHIANG , CHEN MING‐FONG , LIN JAW‐TOWN 
Published: May 2006

AbstractBackground:  Associations between psychological and endoscopic profiles are not clearly validated among the heterogeneous patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The purpose of the present paper was therefore to identify any associations by means of cross‐sectional study.Methods:  Consecutive participants in a health screening program were enrolled. Definition and severity of erosive esophagitis were assessed with Los Angeles classification. Frequency and severity of psychological symptoms were measured with a 30‐item Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS) and personality traits with a short form of the Maudsley Personality Inventory (MPI). Statistic analyses were performed based on the presence of GERD symptoms or endoscopic esophagitis.Results:  A total of 4600 participants were recruited. There were 1331 subjects (29%) with manifestations suggesting GERD, including non‐erosive reflux disease (NERD) in 488 (10.6%), symptomatic erosive esophagitis (SEE) in 164 (3.6%), and asymptomatic erosive esophagitis (AEE) in 679 (14.8%). The BSRS parameters were significantly higher in symptomatic subjects (i.e. NERD and SEE subjects; P < 0.001); neuroticism scores were also higher (P < 0.001), but extroversion scores (P < 0.001) were lower than those of asymptomatic subjects. Following logistic regression analysis, independent risk factors for GERD symptoms were female gender (odds ratio [OR]: 1.596; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.303–1.955) and higher neuroticism scores (OR: 1.046; 95%CI: 1.032–1.06). For erosive esophagitis, independent risk factors were male gender (OR: 2.943; 95%CI: 2.359–3.671) and higher body mass index scores (OR: 1.098; 95%CI: 1.069–1.127).Conclusions:  Psychological characteristics predict likelihood of GERD symptoms but not structural state of esophagus. Male gender and obesity are risk factors for erosive esophagitis; whereas female gender and neuroticism are more likely to be associated with GERD symptoms.
Phospholipase D2 functions as a downstream signaling molecule of MAP kinase pathway in L1‐stimulated neurite outgrowth of cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Yamazaki Masakazu , Miyazaki Hideyuki , Arikawa Chihiro , Itoh Kouichi , Sasaki Takehiko , Maehama Tomohiko , Frohman Michael A. , Kanaho Yasunori 
Published: May 2006

AbstractStimulation of the neuronal cell adhesion molecule L1 in cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) enhances neurite outgrowth and this response is inhibited by the primary alcohol ethanol. Because primary alcohols suppress the formation of the signaling lipid phosphatidic acid (PA) by phospholipase D (PLD), this observation prompted us to investigate whether PLD plays a role in the L1‐mediated neurite outgrowth in CGNs. In the cerebellum of postnatal day 8 mice, PLD2 protein was abundantly expressed, while PLD1 expression was not detected. The L1‐stimulated neurite outgrowth was inhibited by primary alcohols and by overexpression of lipase‐deficient PLD2. Increases in cellular PA levels by direct PA application or overexpression of wild‐type PLD2 mimicked the L1‐dependent stimulation of neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, it was found that L1 stimulation in CGNs increased PLD activity concomitantly with phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), both of which were inhibited by the MAP kinase‐ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor. These results provide evidence that PLD2 functions as a downstream signaling molecule of ERK to mediate the L1‐dependent neurite outgrowth of CGNs, a mechanism that may be related to alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorders.
Aging in the rat hippocampus is associated with widespread reductions in the number of glutamate decarboxylase‐67 positive interneurons but not interneuron degeneration
Authors: Stanley Dirk P. , Shetty Ashok K. 
Published: May 2006

AbstractIncreased excitability of principal excitatory neurons is one of the hallmarks of aging in the hippocampus, signifying a diminution in the number and/or function of inhibitory interneurons with aging. To elucidate this, we performed comprehensive GABA‐ergic interneuron cell counts in all layers of the dentate gyrus and the CA1 and CA3 subfields, using serial sections from adult, middle‐aged and aged Fischer 344 rats. Sections were immunostained for glutamate decarboxylase‐67 (GAD‐67, a synthesizing enzyme of GABA) and GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons were counted using an unbiased cell counting method, the optical fractionator. Substantial declines in the absolute number of GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons were found in all hippocampal layers/subfields of middle‐aged and aged animals, in comparison with the adult animals. However, the counts were comparable between the middle‐aged and aged groups for all regions. Interestingly, determination of the absolute number of interneurons using neuron‐specific nuclear antigen (NeuN) expression in the strata oriens and radiatum of CA1 and CA3 subfields revealed an analogous number of interneurons across the three age groups. Furthermore, the ratio of GAD‐67 immunopositive and NeuN positive interneurons decreased from adult age to middle age but remained relatively static between middle age and old age. Collectively, the results underscore that aging in the hippocampus is associated with wide‐ranging decreases in the number of GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons and most of the age‐related changes in GAD‐67 immunopositive interneuron numbers transpire by middle age. Additionally, this study provides novel evidence that age‐related reductions in hippocampal GAD‐67 immunopositive interneuron numbers are due to loss of GAD‐67 expression in interneurons rather than interneuron degeneration.
Transforming growth factor β‐1 signalling in canine hepatic diseases: new models for human fibrotic liver pathologies
Authors: Spee Bart , Arends Brigitte , Van Den Ingh Ted S. G. A. M. , Brinkhof Bas , Nederbragt Hubertus , Ijzer Jooske , Roskams Tania , Penning Louis C. , Rothuizen Jan 
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Background/aims:The purpose of this study was to validate spontaneous chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in dogs as a potential large animal model for fibrotic liver disease in humans by evaluating their molecular pathophysiology.Methods:Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) signalling was analysed in liver samples of dogs with acute hepatitis (AH), chronic hepatitis (CH), cirrhosis (CIRR), and a specific form of cirrhosis, lobular dissecting hepatitis (LDH), in comparison with human cirrhotic samples from alcohol abuse (ALC) and hepatitis C (HC).Results:Canine samples were investigated with quantitative real‐time PCR (Q‐PCR) and Western blotting on TGF‐β1 signalling including Smad2/3 phosphorylation. Immunohistochemistry on collagens I and III was performed. Q‐PCR showed an increase in TGF‐β1 levels and downstream effector gene products in CH, LDH, and CIRR. The same fibrotic diseases also showed an increase in phosphorylated Smad2/3 and a higher deposition of collagens I and III. In contrast, in AH neither active TGF‐β1 signalling nor collagen deposition was observed. Western blot analysis on human ALC and HC indicated a high similarity with canine samples in TGF‐β1 expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation.Conclusions:Our results demonstrate that fibrosis in spontaneous dog liver diseases is highly comparable to their human counterparts and might serve as models for anti‐fibrotic strategies.
Chronic Ethanol Exposure Impairs Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Rat Intestine
Authors: Krecsmarik Monika , Izbéki Ferenc , Bagyánszki Mária , Linke Nikolett , Bódi Nikolett , Kaszaki József , Katarova Zója , Szabó Áron , Fekete Éva , Wittmann Tibor 
Published: May 2006

Background:Nitric oxide (NO), synthesized by neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS), and inducible (iNOS) nitric oxide synthases, plays an essential role in the physiological functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Chronic ethanol intake has been shown to interfere with several of these physiological functions, leading to the pathological alterations observed in alcoholic individuals. Our aim therefore was to investigate the effects of chronic ethanol consumption on NOS isoforms in different GI segments.Methods:Rats received either 20% aqueous ethanol solution or water for 8 weeks. Tissue samples of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon of the rats were used for measurement of the NOS activity, protein content, and nNOS immunohistochemistry. Anti‐HuC/D immunohistochemistry was used to determine the total number of neurons.Results:Measurement of the physiological constitutive NOS (cNOS) activity revealed a 20 times higher activity in the colon than in the small intestine and after chronic ethanol treatment demonstrated a significant decrease in the jejunum, ileum, and colon, while in the duodenum it remained unchanged compared with the control group. The physiological iNOS activity was higher in the ileum and colon than in the duodenum and jejunum, and these levels were not significantly affected by ethanol. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase immunohistochemistry revealed a significant decrease in the numbers of immunostained cells in all investigated intestinal segments, while the total number of myenteric neurons remained constant. The nNOS protein content measured by Western blotting indicated a significant decrease in the colon after ethanol consumption, while in other intestinal segments change was not detectable.Conclusions:This study has demonstrated for the first time that chronic ethanol consumption has a differential effect on NOS activity, NOS protein content, and the number of nitrergic neurons in different intestinal segments, suggesting that chronic ethanol administration affects the NO pathways in the enteric nervous system.
Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Cognitive Status of Children at Age 10
Authors: Willford Jennifer A. , Leech Sharon L. , Day Nancy L. 
Published: May 2006

Background: The effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on measures of intelligence have been well documented in children with fetal alcohol syndrome. However, deficits in general intellectual ability in children with low to moderate PAE are less well understood. The objective of this study was to assess the association between moderate PAE and cognitive ability in children at age 10 controlling for other prenatal and birth factors, maternal and child psychosocial factors, and environmental characteristics.Methods: Data were collected as part of the Maternal Health Practices and Child Development Project, a prospective study of prenatal substance use with 636 mother–child pairs. Women were assessed during each trimester of pregnancy and with their children at birth; 8 and 18 months; and 3, 6, and 10 years. Each phase included an evaluation of growth, development, cognitive, and psychological functioning. At age 10, cognitive ability was assessed using the composite score and verbal, abstract/visual, quantitative, and short‐term memory area scores of the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Test, fourth edition. Maternal intellectual ability, maternal prenatal and current drug use, maternal and child psychosocial characteristics, demographics, and home environment were included in the analysis.Results: A significant relation was found between alcohol exposure during the first and second trimesters and the composite score of the Stanford–Binet for African American children at age 10. Significant relations were also found for the verbal, abstract/visual, and quantitative subscales. Additional predictors of IQ at age 10 included mother's IQ, home environment, and child's report of depression.Conclusions: There is a significant association between PAE and cognitive ability at age 10 among African American offspring. There was no relation between PAE and scores on the Stanford–Binet scales among the Caucasian offspring.
Many College Freshmen Drink at Levels Far Beyond the Binge Threshold
Authors: White Aaron M. , Kraus Courtney L. , Swartzwelder Harry Scott 
Published: May 2006

Background: Binge drinking is a dichotomous variable that allows researchers to sort students into categories based upon a specific threshold of consumption, commonly 4 (females) or 5 (males) drinks. Crossing the binge threshold increases the risk of negative alcohol‐related consequences. The use of such thresholds has played a vital role in the study of college drinking. While extremely valuable, the dichotomous nature of binge drinking variables removes information about how heavily students actually drink, leaving the characterization of college drinking incomplete. The present study examined patterns of alcohol use beyond the binge threshold.Methods: The data set consisted of self‐reported 2‐week drinking histories from 10,424 first‐semester freshmen at 14 schools across the United States during the fall of 2003. The number of students who reached the 4+/5+ binge‐drinking threshold was calculated, as was the number who reached 2 times (8+/10+ drinks) or 3 times (12+/15+ drinks) the binge threshold. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore gender differences and to assess whether frequent binge drinkers (3+ binges per 2 weeks) were more likely than infrequent binge drinkers (1–2 binges per 2 weeks) to reach high peak levels of consumption.Results: Roughly 1 of 5 males consumed 10+ drinks and 1 of 10 females consumed 8+ drinks, twice the binge threshold, at least once in the previous 2 weeks. Gender differences were observed at every drinking level and were particularly large at higher peak levels. Frequent binge drinkers were more likely than infrequent binge drinkers to consume 2 or 3 times the binge threshold.Discussion: A surprisingly large percentage of students, particularly males, drink at peak levels well beyond the binge threshold. Such findings suggest that schools might make additional progress in the battle against alcohol misuse by focusing on extreme drinking practices in addition to binge drinking per se.
Aquifer vulnerability assessment to heavy metals using ordinal logistic regression
Authors: Twarakavi Navin K.C. , Kaluarachchi Jagath J. 
Published: May 2006

AbstractA methodology using ordinal logistic regression is proposed to predict the probability of occurrence of heavy metals in ground water. The predicted probabilities are defined with reference to the background concentration and the maximum contaminant level. The model is able to predict the occurrence due to different influencing variables such as the land use, soil hydrologic group (SHG), and surface elevation. The methodology was applied to the Sumas‐Blaine Aquifer located in Washington State to predict the occurrence of five heavy metals. The influencing variables considered were (1) SHG; (2) land use; (3) elevation; (4) clay content; (5) hydraulic conductivity; and (6) well depth. The predicted probabilities were in agreement with the observed probabilities under existing conditions. The results showed that aquifer vulnerability to each heavy metal was related to different sets of influencing variables. However, all heavy metals had a strong influence from land use and SHG. The model results also provided good insight into the influence of various hydrogeochemical factors and land uses on the presence of each heavy metal. A simple economic analysis was proposed and demonstrated to evaluate the cost effects of changing the land use on heavy metal occurrence.
Single leg balance test to identify risk of ankle sprains
Authors: Trojian T H , McKeag D B 
Published: May 2006

Background:Ankle sprains are a common and potentially disabling injury. Successful prediction of susceptibility to ankle sprain injury with a simple test could allow ankle sprain prevention protocols to be initiated and help prevent disability in the athletic population.Objective:To investigate the ability of the single leg balance (SLB) test, carried out at preseason physical examination, to predict an ankle sprain during the autumn sports season.Design:Prospective cohort studySetting:High school varsity athletics and intercollegiate athletics.Main outcome measure:Ankle sprains in athletes with positive SLB tests.Results:The association between a positive SLB test and future ankle sprains was significant. Controlling for confounding variables, the relative risk for an ankle sprain with a positive SLB test was 2.54 (95% confidence interval, 1.02 to 6.03). Athletes with a positive SLB test who did not tape their ankles had an increased likelihood of developing ankle sprains. The relative risk for ankle sprain for a positive SLB test and negative taping was 8.82 (1.07 to 72.70). A history of previous ankle injury was not associated with future ankle sprains in this study. The κ value for interrater reliability for the SLB test was 0.898 (p<0.001).Conclusions:An association was demonstrated between a positive SLB test and ankle sprain. In athletes with a positive SLB test, not taping the ankle imposed an increased risk of sprain. The SLB test is a reliable and valid test for predicting ankle sprains.