bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Redistribution and unmasking of Annexin V binding sites in apoptotic Raji cells
Authors: di Certo Maria Grazia , Faggioni Alberto , Barile Giuseppe 
Published: June 2003

AbstractThe complement receptor type 2 (CR2) associates with other surface antigens and proteins and its redistribution and/or unmasking occurs through still unknown mechanism(s). The data presented demonstrate that high‐density cultured CR2‐positive cells undergo apoptosis and that the redistribution and unmasking of Annexin V binding sites occurs in a fashion similar to the redistribution and unmasking of CR2. Therefore, apoptotic and non apoptotic cells from the same lineage may share a similar mechanism for the exposition of neo‐surface markers
Differential gene expression of bone‐related proteins in epithelial and fibroblastic cells derived from human periodontal ligament
Authors: Mouri Yoshihiro , Shiba Hideki , Mizuno Noriyoshi , Noguchi Takuji , Ogawa Tetsuji , Kurihara Hidemi 
Published: June 2003

AbstractHertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) is involved in the differentiation of cementoblasts. The cells of epithelial rests of Malassez (ERM) may contribute to that process. However, little is known about the role of these epithelial cells in cementum repair. In the present study, we investigated the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALPase), osteopontin (OPN), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2 and BMP‐4 in epithelial cells (E cells) and fibroblastic cells (F cells) derived from the same human periodontal ligament. E cells were identified by immunoblotting with anti‐cytokeratin 5 and 8 antibody. Reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that E cells have lower ALPase and BMP‐4 mRNA levels than F cells. On the other hand, the expression of OPN mRNA in E cells was stronger than in F cells. No significant difference was observed in BMP‐2 expression between E and F cells. Thus, they have different expression patterns of ALPase, BMP‐4 and OPN, suggesting that ERM and mesenchymal cells in periodontal ligament may be cooperatively involved in cementum repair. Furthermore, E cell cultures will be useful in elucidating the role of ERM.
Differential effects of Matrigel and its components on functional activity of CFTR and ENaC in mouse endometrial epithelial cells
Authors: Yang Jian Zhi , Ho Alice Lok Sze , Ajonuma Louis Chukwuemeka , Lam Sun Yee , Tsang Lai Ling , Tang Ning , Rowlands Dewi Kenneth , Gou Yu Lin , Chung Yiu Wa , Chan Hsiao Chang 
Published: June 2003

AbstractOur previous studies have observed an effect of Matrigel, a solubilized basement membrane preparation extracted from the Engelbreth—Holm—Swarm (EHS) mouse sarcoma, on the expression of ion channels in mouse endometrial epithelia; namely the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a cAMP‐dependent Cl−channel, and the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). The present study further investigated the effects of Matrigel and its individual components on the functional expression of CFTR and ENaC using the short‐circuit current (Isc) technique. The results showed that different components of Matrigel, namely growth factors, laminin and collagen, had differential effects on the functional activity of the two ion channels in murine endometrial epithelium. The information obtained may be useful for designing future in vitro culture models to investigate the functional roles of these ion channels in the endometrium.
Effect of BAP and IAA on the expression of G1 and G2 control points and G1‐S and G2‐M transitions in root meristem cells of Vicia faba
Authors: Polit Justyna T. , Maszewski Janusz , Kaźmierczak Andrzej 
Published: June 2003

AbstractExcised, carbohydrate‐starved root meristems of Vicia faba subsp. minor have been used to investigate the impact of the auxin indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and the cytokinin benzyl‐6‐aminopurine (BAP) on (1) the expression of Principal Control Points (PCPs) during the G1‐ and G2‐phases of the cell cycle, and (2) the dynamics of sucrose‐mediated resumption of DNA replication and mitosis (G1‐to‐S and G2‐to‐M transitions). Compared with the excised root tips starved in mineral medium without hormones, stationary phase meristems induced during continuous treatment with BAP, IAA, or a mixture of BAP+IAA, increased the number of G2 cells, producing characteristic profiles of nuclear DNA content. In medium containing 2% sucrose, BAP accelerated PCP1→S and PCP2→M, whereas continuous treatment with IAA resulted in marked prolongation of both transitions. Since the PCPs regulate progression through the key events of interphase and mitosis by interacting with cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs), these results seem to correspond with current data indicating functional connections between phytohormones, nutritional signals, gene expression and the cell division cycles in plants.
Inflammation: a novel mechanism for the transport of extracellular nucleotide‐induced arachidonic acid by S100A8/A9 for transcellular metabolism
Authors: Kannan Subburaj 
Published: June 2003

AbstractExtracellular nucleotides cause neutrophil degranulation by activating the purinergic receptor subtype P2Y. However, the molecular mechanism involved in the signal pathway remains unknown. A hypothetical scheme suggesting that leukotriene(s) and leukotriene receptor(s) activation is required for extracellular nucleotide‐mediated neutrophil degranulation is presented here. Subsequent to the extracellular nucleotide binding to its receptors, intracellular arachidonic acid (AA) levels are elevated. Although AA is a known substrate of the lipoxygenase pathway mediated by 5‐lipoxygenase, excess AA could form a complex with S100A8/A9 for transport to the extracellular milieu. Extracellular availability of the S100A8/A9+AA complex could potentially be used for transcellular metabolism by resting and/or activated leukocytes (PMN, MN), vascular endothelium and smooth muscle cells at the inflammatory foci. Once imported into the resting and/or activated leukocytes, AA derived from the S100A8/A9+AA complex could serve as a substrate in the 5‐lipoxygenase‐mediated leukotriene pathway. Essentially, in addition to extracellular nucleotide‐induced leukotrienes, AA derived from the S100A8/A9+AA complex could also be utilized for the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as leukotriene B4(LTB4), which in turn could trigger leukocyte degranulation, as well as cellular damage to vascular endothelium and smooth muscle cells, thereby exacerbating inflammation.
Immortalisation of a mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIC fibroblast cell line via expression of SV40 T antigen
Authors: Nelson Kathy , Melville Elizabeth L , Meikle Peter J , Anson Donald S 
Published: June 2003

AbstractMucopolysaccharidosis type IIIC is caused by a deficiency of acetyl—CoA: α‐glucosaminidase‐N‐acetyltransferase activity. This enzyme is unique among enzymes involved in the lysosomal degradation of glycosaminoglycans in that it catalyses an anabolic reaction, the addition of an acetyl group to glucosamine at the non‐reducing terminus of heparan sulphate. We have identified a mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIC skin fibroblast cell line with undetectable levels of residual acetyl—CoA: α‐glucosaminidase‐N‐acetyltransferase activity and immortalised it via expression of simian virus 40 large T antigen. Enzymatic analysis of two immortalised cell lines demonstrated that they both retained the original mucopolysaccharidosis IIIC phenotype. Variable number tandem repeat analysis confirmed that both were derived from the parental cell line.
Slow internal dynamics of membrane proteins in mechanisms of protease‐induced aggregation of platelets
Authors: Mazhul V , Chernovets T , Zaitseva E , Shcharbin D 
Published: June 2003

AbstractRoom temperature tryptophan phosphorescence (RTTP) of suspensions of human platelets was studied. RTTP spectra and decay kinetics of both intact platelets and those after short‐term incubation with low concentrations of thrombin or trypsin (0.3–50 μg/ml) were investigated. Protease‐induced changes in the RTTP lifetime of platelets were observed, and interpreted in terms of the slow internal dynamics of membrane protein modification. The functional role of membrane protein internal dynamics is discussed in the context of platelet aggregation and signal transduction processes.
Cellular aspects of elastogenesis in the elastic tendon of the chicken wing
Authors: Pimentel Silvia Borges , Carvalho Hernandes F. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractMorphological, immunocytochemical and ultrastructural methods were used to investigate the role of cells during elastogenesis in the elastic tendon of the chicken wing. Intimate contact of the cell processes with elastic fibers was observed in adult birds. During development there was a sequential appearance of microfibril bundles that became progressively impregnated with amorphous elastin, which eventually predominated in fully developed elastic fibers. The growing elastic fibers were usually enveloped by recesses of the cell surface. The tendon cells were polarized in their association with fibrous components of the extracellular matrix. This arrangement suggests that these cells secrete and organize elastic and collagen fibers to different extracellular compartments. These results show that cells are intimately involved in producing components of different extracellular matrix fibers, in controlling their assembly, and in defining their borders and associations during development.
Stimulation of lipocalin‐type prostaglandin D synthase by retinoic acid coincides with inhibition of cell proliferation in human 3AO ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Su Bing , Guan Ming , Xia Jing , Lu Yuan 
Published: June 2003

AbstractLipocalin‐type prostaglandin D synthase (LPGDS; PGH2D‐isomerase; EC 5.3.99.2) is a bifunctional protein first identified in the mammalian brain. It acts as a PGD2‐producing enzyme and a retinoid transporter. Recent studies have shown that LPGDS is anomalously expressed in ovarian tumors and that retinoid may have a role as an ovarian cancer chemotherapeutic agent. To determine whether there is a relationship between retinoid and LPGDS in ovarian tumors, we examined the regulation of the gene encoding LPGDS by all‐trans retinoic acid (RA). Real‐time quantitative RT—PCR analysis showed that RA strongly induced the accumulation of LPGDS mRNA in human 3AO ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, treatment of the cells with RA induced the synthesis and secretion of LPGDS into the culture medium. This increased expression of LPGDS was accompanied by an inhibition of cell proliferation in the ovarian cancer cells. Prostaglandin D synthase, ovarian cancer, retinoic acid, real‐time quantitative RT—PCR.
The diagnosis of heart failure in general practice: implications for the UK National Service Framework
Authors: Sparrow Nigel , Adlam David , Cowley Alan , Hampton John R. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractBackground:The UK National Service Framework recommends patients with suspected heart failure undergo echocardiography. Selection of patients for this investigation in primary care is difficult. It is not clear which clinical features best identify patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction.Aim:Using echocardiography, to establish the accuracy of primary care diagnosis of left ventricular systolic dysfunction. To investigate the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of clinical features in the diagnosis of left ventricular systolic dysfunction.Study:A cross‐sectional study of 621 patients from a population prescribed loop diuretics in 7 general practices.Method:Clinical diagnoses were extracted from general practice records. Symptoms, clinical signs, ECG features, brain natriuretic peptide levels and echocardiographic findings were studied in a research clinic.Results:Left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction <40%) was present in 50% of 621 patients prescribed loop diuretics in primary care. General practice diagnoses showed high false positive rates. Individual or combinations of clinical features did not accurately predict left ventricular systolic dysfunction.Conclusion:These results suggest the clinical diagnosis of left ventricular systolic dysfunction is inaccurate in this population. General practitioners should have a low threshold for referring patients prescribed loop diuretics for echocardiography. Increased open access echocardiography facilities will be needed.
Difficulties of introducing the National Service Framework for heart failure into general practice in the UK
Authors: Sparrow Nigel , Adlam David , Cowley Alan , Hampton John R. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractBackground:The National Service Framework (NSF) sets standards for the management of heart failure in the UK. Loop diuretics are commonly first prescribed in primary care. Some patients taking these drugs have heart failure and may benefit from other treatments including ACE inhibitors. Accurate diagnosis in primary care is essential for the aims of the NSF to be realised.Aims:To investigate loop diuretic prescribing in general practice, to analyse recorded clinical features, patient investigations and ACE inhibitor use in this population.Method:One thousand three hundred and one patients taking loop diuretics were identified from prescription records of seven general practices. Demographic details, clinical features, investigations and drug treatments were extracted from patient records.Results:The prevalence of loop diuretic prescribing increased with age. Twenty percent of patients were attributed a diagnosis of heart failure but relevant clinical features were recorded in less than 50% of patient records. Open access echocardiography was used in 8.9% of patients. ACE inhibitors were prescribed in 39.8% of patients considered to have heart failure. 18.2% of these were taking the recommended target dose.Conclusion:Loop diuretics are prescribed commonly, particularly in the elderly. There is no clear pattern of documented clinical features that leads to prescription of these drugs. Open access echocardiography is rarely used to aid diagnosis. ACE inhibitors are under‐prescribed and under‐dosed in patients diagnosed with heart failure in this study population.
The heart failure revascularisation trial (HEART): rationale, design and methodology
Authors: Cleland J.G.F. , Freemantle N. , Ball S.G. , Bonser R.S. , Camici P. , Chattopadhyay S. , Dutka D. , Eastaugh J. , Hampton J. , Large S. , Norell M.S. , Pennell D.J. , Pepper J. , Sanda S. , Senior R. , Smith D. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractBackground:Most patients with heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) secondary to coronary artery disease (CAD) have evidence of myocardium in jeopardy (reversible ischaemia and/or stunning hibernation). It is not known whether revascularisation in such cases is safe or beneficial.AimsTo determine whether revascularisation will improve the survival of patients with LVSD and heart failure secondary to CAD and myocardium in jeopardy.Methods:This is a randomised controlled trial comparing revascularisation or not, in addition to optimal medical therapy with ACE inhibitors, beta‐blockers, aldosterone antagonists and an anti‐thrombotic agent. Patients must have heart failure requiring treatment with diuretics, a left ventricular ejection fraction <35% and evidence of coronary disease. Myocardial viability and ischaemia are assessed by a broad range of techniques including stress echocardiography and nuclear imaging. All imaging tests are reviewed in core laboratories to ensure uniform reporting. Any conventional revascularisation technique is permitted. The primary outcome measure is all cause mortality. Symptoms, quality of life and health economic issues will also be explored. Assuming an annual mortality of 10% in the control group and allowing for substantial cross‐over rates, a study of 800 patients followed for 5 years has 80% power with an alpha of 0.05 (two‐sided) to show a 25% reduction in mortality with revascularisation.Results:At the time of writing 180 patients have been screened for inclusion, 111 have consented to participate and 70 have been randomised. The results of viability testing are awaited in 22 patients. Twenty‐six patients had been investigated for myocardial viability and/or by angiography prior to consent, as part of the routine practice in that cardiology department. Of 68 patients who have completed assessment only after consent, 47 (69%) were included. The principal reason for drop‐out between consent and randomisation was lack of evidence of myocardial ischaemia or hibernation.Conclusion:The HEART trial will help to determine whether investigation of myocardial ischaemia and/or viability with a view to revascularisation should become part of the routine care of patients with heart failure due to LVSD and CAD.
Conceptualizing and Assessing Heterosexism in High Schools: A Setting‐Level Approach
Authors: Chesir-Teran Daniel 
Published: June 2003

AbstractHeterosexism is defined as a setting‐level process that systematically privileges heterosexuality relative to homosexuality, based on the assumption that heterosexuality, as well as heterosexual power and privilege are the norm and the ideal. The many ways heterosexism is manifest in the physical–architectural, program–policy, suprapersonal, and social features of high schools are described followed by a proposal for a comprehensive assessment strategy. Strategies used in previous research are reviewed in terms of what is assessed, how it is assessed, and how it is analyzed. The author advocates for more comprehensive assessments and for school‐level analyses to enable comparisons between schools, facilitate research on the effects of heterosexism, and provide a basis for evaluating interventions. Additional issues include reliability and validity, links between heterosexism and other forms of oppression, heterosexism in other contexts or at other levels, and implications for theory and practice in community psychology.
Community Building with Aging and Old Lesbians
Authors: Nystrom Nancy M. , Jones Teresa C. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractDescriptions of innovative methods of responding to the concerns and needs of aging and old lesbians are scarce in research literature. This paper describes the creation of the Elder Initiative, a community building effort for aging and old lesbians in a major northwest city. With the aims of providing support networks for the women and ensuring their involvement in the development of the local lesbian community, the Elder Initiative adopted the Kretzmann and McKnight model of community building to guide its objectives. In the 3 years since the group formed, membership has grown to over 550 women and several successful projects have been undertaken. The importance of the Elder Initiative and similar groups for successful aging among lesbians and areas of future research are discussed.
Stressor and Resilience Factors for Lesbians, Gay Men, and Bisexuals Confronting Antigay Politics
Authors: Russell Glenda M. , Richards Jeffrey A. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractWhen lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people encounter antigay campaigns and elections, they face explicit and implicit homophobic attacks. In order to understand the points of stress and the bases for resilience in the face of these attacks, we developed a 130‐item quantitative survey on the basis of results of an earlier qualitative study. Three hundred, sixteen Colorado LGB people endorsed items representing sources of stress and sources of resilience associated with the campaign for and passage of an antigay referendum. Factor analyses of the results suggested 5 sources of stressors and 5 sources of resilience for LGB persons and their communities.
Coming Out in Community Psychology: Personal Narrative and Disciplinary Change
Authors: D'Augelli Anthony R. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractCommunity psychology as a discipline has not focused its attention on the lives of lesbians, gay men, and bisexual (LGB) people, despite the field's potential to collaborate with this population in dealing with the many psychosocial challenges they face. Professional and personal barriers that community psychologists must confront conducting research and developing interventions with the LGB community are described. Community psychology work with LGB communities is often a “coming out” experience for LGB community psychologists, and a questioning of sexual orientation fot heterosexual community psychologists. Conceptual analyses and empirical reports are presented that exemplify how community psychologist can contribute to decreasing the pervasive stigma LGB people face. The use of an ecological model, a focus on the development and evaluation of preventive interventions, and a recognition of the diversity within the LGB population are core perspectives that can direct future work by community psychologists. Issues ranging from testing ways to empower young LGB people to analyses of the impact of the sociopolitical climate on LGB lives demonstrate the rich range of contributions community psychologists can make.
Working Pasteur's Quadrant: Harnessing Science and Action for Community Change
Authors: Price Richard H. , Behrens Teresa 
Published: June 2003

AbstractCommunity psychology in general and the field of prevention in particular has unquestioningly accepted the assumption that the research process should proceed in a linear fashion from a search for basic knowledge to application in the community context. This ignores the compelling insight offered by Stokes (1997) that the drive for new knowledge and the pursuit of application can be combined in a single effort. If research in community psychology pursues the drive for application without an equal commitment to the development of knowledge about underlying community processes of social cooperation and change, it will become a field less capable of innovative and enduring contributions to community well‐being and effectiveness. Opportunities abound in community psychology for the simultaneous pursuit of new knowledge and more effective practice. We offer the example of a community leadership development program to promote collective efficacy as a case in point.
An Applied Collaborative Training Program for Graduate Students in Community Psychology: A Case Study of a Community Project Working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Youth
Authors: Stanley Jeanne L. 
Published: June 2003

AbstractThe following case study offers a detailed description of a university–organization partnership, the basis for a collaborative outreach training program between community psychology graduate students and a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth center. Students and youth collaborated over 2 semesters on the creation of a social meeting venue within an urban LGBTQ youth‐operated center as part of a community outreach project in the students' course in community psychology. Semistructured interviews with the youth and the students provide first‐person accounts and perspectives of the project as an effective learning tool for training students in community psychology and in working with LGBTQ youth.