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Terms modified by Subsequent Selected AbstractsPlasma cell tumours: cytomorphological features in a series of 12 cases diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytologyCYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2010U. Handa U. Handa, S. Chhabra and H. Mohan Plasma cell tumours: cytomorphological features in a series of 12 cases diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology Objective:, Plasma cell tumours represent autonomous proliferation of plasma cells and can manifest as multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, variants of plasma cell myeloma or plasmacytoma. Methods:, We report 12 cases of plasma cell tumours, which were initially diagnosed as plasmacytoma on fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). The patients were further subjected to bone marrow examination, serum electrophoresis, urine examination for Bence,Jones proteins, and x-ray examination of the skeleton. Results:, The cytological smears from all cases were cellular and showed numerous plasma cells in varying degrees of maturity. Subsequent to investigations, five cases were labelled as multiple myeloma with secondary extramedullary plasmacytoma, three as solitary bone plasmacytoma and two as primary extramedullary plasmacytoma. In the remaining two cases, bone marrow and urine examination findings were not available, so a conclusive diagnosis of multiple myeloma or solitary plasmacytoma could not be made. Conclusion:, The study highlights the role of FNAC in the diagnosis of plasma cell tumours. Subsequent work-up and follow-up of these patients is important to rule out the presence of multiple myeloma. [source] Role of Pap Test terminology and age in the detection of carcinoma invasive and carcinoma in situ in medically underserved California womenDIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2004Lydia P. Howell M.D. Abstract Our goals were to evaluate Pap Test findings classified by the Bethesda system, and follow up biopsies from participants in the California Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (Ca-BCCCP) for: 1) correlation in the detection of carcinoma in situ (CIS) and carcinoma invasive (CI), and 2) age-related trends, with discussion in the context of the 2001 ASCCP Management Guidelines. Women (n = 52,339) who had their initial screening Pap Tests with Ca-BCCCP between January 1995,December 1999 were followed for diagnostic services through December 2000. Descriptive and analytical methods were used in the analysis. Of the Pap results, 81.9% were negative, 10.6% showed infection, 4.7% showed an epithelial abnormality as defined by the Bethesda system (atypical squamous cells of undertermined significance (ASCUS), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), or high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL)), 0.1% showed squamous-cell cancer (SCC), and 2.7% showed other or unsatisfactory. Subsequent to the initial Pap Test, follow-up results of carcinoma in situ (CIS) and carcinoma invasive (CI) accounted for 0.36% and 0.05% of the population, respectively. Among HSIL Pap Tests (n = 285), 40.7% had follow-up showing CIS. Among SCC Pap Tests, 17.9% had follow-up results of CIS and 28.6% CI. Of the 191 patients with CIS as a follow-up finding, the initial Pap smear showed: HSIL 60.7%, SCC 2.6%, LSIL 10.5%, ASCUS 13.6%, and negative or infection 9.9%. Of the 27 patients with CI, the initial Pap Test showed: HSIL 40.7%, SCC 29.6%, LSIL 7.4%, ASCUS 7.4%, and negative or infection 11.1%. Pap diagnoses of other or unsatisfactory accounted for 2.6% of the Pap results from patients with CIS and 3.7% of Pap results from patients with CI. Except for LSIL, there was an increasing age trend in the number of cases in each of Pap results, with the exception of age 65+ yr. However, the ratio of LSIL and ASCUS to negative cases decreased with age. (P < 0.0001 and 0.0293, respectively). HSIL Pap results indicate a reasonably high probability of CIS and CI. However, approximately 1/3 of patients with CIS and 1/4 of patients with CI presented with Pap diagnoses of less severity than HSIL. When a negative Pap Test result is chosen as reference group, there is a negative age trend for LSIL and ASCUS, and no age trend for other results. These findings all have important implications in the design of follow-up strategies, and support the 2001 ASCCP Consensus Guidelines for the Management of Women with Cervical Abnormalities. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:227,234. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Hydrocarbon-induced changes to metabolic and detoxification enzymes of the Australian crimson-spotted rainbowfish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis)ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY, Issue 1 2003Carmel A. Pollino Abstract The toxicity of petroleum hydrocarbons to marine aquatic organisms has been widely investigated; however, the effects on freshwater environments have largely been ignored. Selected biomarkers were measured in a freshwater species, the crimson-spotted rainbowfish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis). Fish were exposed to either a water-accommodated fraction (WAF) of crude oil or a dispersed crude oil water-accommodated fraction (DCWAF) for 3 days and were depurated for 14 days. Generally, biomarkers were altered following the short-term exposures but recovered after 14 days of depuration. Metabolic enzymes measured in gill tissue were citrate synthase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). As a result of WAF and DCWAF exposures, citrate synthase and LDH activities increased. Enzyme activities returned to control levels following depuration. Subsequent to the WAF exposure, hepatic ethoxyresorufin- O -deethylase (EROD) activity levels were higher than controls and they returned to control levels during depuration. For the DCWAF exposure, EROD was induced by a TPH (total petroleum hydrocarbons) concentration of 14.5 mg/L; however, after depuration the 14.5 mg/L TPH group had lower EROD activity than did controls. There were no changes in liver- to body-weight ratios or the histopathological organization of gill or liver tissues. As the majority of biomarkers returned to control levels after 14 days of depuration, rainbowfish were able to recover from short-term exposures to crude oil and dispersed crude oil. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 18: 21,28, 2003. [source] Kindling Limits the Interictal Neuronal Temporal Response Properties in Cat Primary Auditory CortexEPILEPSIA, Issue 2 2005Pamela A. Valentine Summary:,Purpose: The present study examined the effect of electrical kindling on the interictal temporal response properties of single units recorded from primary auditory cortex (AI) of the adult cat. Methods: Cats were permanently implanted with electrodes in AI, kindled twice daily for 40 sessions, and the contralateral AI was subsequently mapped. Kindling stimulation consisted of 1-s trains of biphasic square-wave pulses applied at a frequency of 60 Hz, 100 ,A above the afterdischarge (AD) threshold. The EEG activity was recorded during each kindling session, and the behavioral manifestation was scored. Subsequent to kindling, multiple single-unit responses were recorded under ketamine anesthesia in response to 1-s-long periodic click trains, with click rates between 2 and 64 Hz. Neuronal responses were characterized according to their ability to respond in time-locked fashion to the clicks. Results: Kindling stimulation resulted in progression of the AD characteristics and seizure behavior, with six of 10 kindled cats reaching a fully generalized state. In the fully kindled cats, the best modulation frequencies and limiting following rates for the single-unit responses were significantly lower compared with those of naive and sham controls. Conclusions: Repeated epileptiform activity interferes with temporal processing in cat auditory cortex in the interictal state. This may have implications for people with epileptic foci in auditory-related areas. [source] Penetrating injury at the thoracic inlet in a Paint-Arab mareEQUINE VETERINARY EDUCATION, Issue 12 2009Y. R. Rojman Summary A 12-year-old Paint-Arab mare was admitted for evaluation of a penetrating chest laceration at the thoracic inlet. The left brachiocephalic muscle was transected and the recurrent laryngeal nerve was traumatised. Subsequent to the injury, the horse developed Horner's syndrome on the left side of the neck and face, Grade IV left laryngeal hemiplegia, dysphagia, cough and subcutaneous emphysema. The defect was closed in multiple layers. Antimicrobial and antiinflammatory therapy was instituted along with local wound care. The mare remained bright and responsive and the wound healed normally. The mare showed no signs of respiratory distress. Dysphagia and ptosis persisted at 30 days post trauma. [source] Apoptosis via the B cell antigen receptor requires Bax translocation and involves mitochondrial depolarization, cytochrome C release, and caspase-9 activationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 7 2004Eric Eldering Abstract Various routes to apoptosis can be active during B cell development. In a model system of mature B cells, differences in caspase-3 processing have suggested that antigen receptor (BCR)-mediated apoptosis may involve a zVAD-insensitive initiator protease(s). In search of the events leading to caspase-3 activation, we now establish that both CD95- and BCR-mediated apoptosis depend on Bax activation and cytochrome C (cytC) release. Nevertheless, the timing and caspase-dependence of mitochondrial membrane depolarization differed considerably after CD95- or BCR-triggering. To delineate events subsequent to cytC release, we compared apoptosis induced via BCR triggering and via direct mitochondrial depolarization by CCCP. In both cases, partial processing of caspase-3 was observed in the presence of zVAD. By expression in 293 cells we addressed the potential of candidate initiator caspases to function in the presence of zVAD, and found that caspase-9 efficiently processed caspase-3, while caspase-2 or ,8 were inactive. Finally, retroviral expression of dominant-negative caspase-9 inhibited both CD95- and BCR-mediated apoptosis. In conclusion, we obtained no evidence for involvement of a BCR-specific protease. Instead, our data show for the first time that the BCR-signal causes Bax translocation, followed by mitochondrial depolarization, and cytC release. Subsequent caspase-9 activation can solely account for events further downstream. [source] Requirement for Q226, but not multiple charged residues, in the class I MHC CD loop/D strand for TCR-activated CD8 accessory functionEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 3 2003Micheal Durairaj Abstract Activation of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes typically begins with recognition of class I MHC-peptide complexes by the TCR and CD8 as a coreceptor. In its coreceptor role, CD8 binds thesame class I-peptide antigen complex as the TCR, enhancing the strength of TCR-class I interaction. Subsequent to initial TCR engagement, CD8 acts as an accessory molecule by binding any properly conformed class I molecules on the target cell surface, leading to CD8-mediated adhesion and cosignaling functions. We expressed and isolated a number of mutant class I molecules in which one or moreacidic or polar residues in the class I ,3 domain CD loop and D strand region, or ,2 domain were altered. Using solid phase CTL adhesion and degranulation assays with isolated class I molecules, we demonstrate that multiple acidic residues in the ,3 domain, although involved in CD8 coreceptor interaction, are not required for TCR-activated CD8 accessory interactions. Instead, we show that Q226, a polar group on the end of the CD loop, is required for TCR-activated CD8 accessory functions. These results indicate that CD8 coreceptor and accessory interactions differ substantially and suggest that TCR activation results in changes that alter the structural constraints for CD8 accessory interactions. [source] Loss of photic entrainment at low illuminances in rats with acute photoreceptor degenerationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 8 2009Domitille L. Boudard Abstract In several species, an acute injection of N -methyl- N -nitrosourea (MNU) induces a retinal degeneration characterized principally by a rapid loss of the outer nuclear layer, the other layers remaining structurally intact. It has, however, also been reported that down-regulation of melanopsin gene expression is associated with the degeneration and is detectable soon after injection. Melanopsin is expressed by a small subset of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells and plays an important role in circadian behaviour photoentrainment. We injected MNU into Long Evans rats and investigated the ability of animals to entrain to three light/dark cycles of different light intensities (300, 15 and 1 lux). Control animals entrained their locomotor activity rhythms to the three cycles. In contrast, MNU-treated animals could only entrain properly to the 300 lux cycle. For the 15 lux cycle, their phase angle was much altered compared with control animals, and for the 1 lux cycle, MNU-injected animals were unable to photoentrain and exhibited an apparent free-run activity pattern with a period of 24.3 h. Subsequent to behavioural studies the animals were killed and rod, cone, melanopsin expression and melanopsin-expressing cells were quantified. Rod and cone loss was almost complete, melanopsin protein was reduced by 83% and melanopsin-expressing cells were reduced by 37%. Our study provides a comprehensive model of photoreceptor degeneration at the adult stage and a simple and versatile method to investigate the relation between retinal photoreceptors and the circadian system. [source] Synthesis of Diazaheterocyclic Ring-Fused 1,2,4-Benzothiadiazine 1,1-Dioxides by a Sequential Aza-Wittig/NH-Addition Cyclization/Nucleophilic Ring-Closure Methodology with N -Alkenyl-2-carbodiimidobenzenesulfonamides as Key IntermediatesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 12 2008Shinsuke Hirota Abstract Treatment of N -alkenyl-2-azidobenzenesulfonamides with triphenylphosphane and subsequent subjection of the resulting iminophosphoranes to aza-Wittig reactions with isocyanates generated functionalized carbodiimides, which spontaneously underwent cyclization to form 2-alkenyl-3-(R2 -substituted amino)-2H -1,2,4-benzothiadiazine 1,1-dioxides by internal nucleophilic addition. Subsequent (tandem) cyclizations through iodoamination or hydroamination with HgII/NaBH4 produced a variety of diazaheterocyclic ring-fused benzothiadiazine dioxides. In one case a methano-bridged benzothiatriazabicyclotridecanone was obtained. The scope and limitations of these cyclizations are reported. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008) [source] Synthesis of (R)-(,)-2-Fluoronorapomorphine , A Precursor for the Synthesis of (R)-(,)-2-Fluoro- N -[11C]propylnorapomorphine for Evaluation as a Dopamine D2 Agonist Ligand for PET InvestigationsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 20 2005Kåre Søndergaard Abstract 2-Fluoronorapomorphine, the PET labelling precursor to 2-fluoro- N -[11C]propylnorapomorphine, was prepared in 13 steps from codeine in a total yield of 10,%. Codeine was converted in four steps into N -benzylnorcodeine which was oxidised by using the Swern protocol. Subsequent acid-catalysed rearrangement afforded N -benzylnormorphothebaine which was selectively triflylated at the 2-position and pivaloylated at the 11-position. The triflate underwent palladium-catalysed amination with benzophenone imine. Amination conditions required sequential base addition to give substantial conversion of the triflate to the corresponding N -substituted benzophenone imine. After acidic hydrolysis the resulting aniline was transformed into the 2-fluoro compound via the Balz,Schiemann reaction. Hydrogenolysis of the N -benzyl group followed by deprotection of the catechol moiety using BBr3 provided 2-fluoronorapomorphine. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005) [source] Growth and albitization of K-feldspar in crystalline rocks in the shallow crust: a tracer for fluid circulation during exhumation?GEOFLUIDS (ELECTRONIC), Issue 2 2003M. B. Holness Abstract A general feature of medium- to coarse-grained, sheet-silicate bearing, quartzo-feldspathic rocks of either metamorphic or igneous affinity is the retrograde development of lenses of pure K-feldspar at the grain boundaries between sheet silicate (0 0 1) faces and original feldspar grains. The growth of these lenses acts to displace and deform the sheet silicate grain by a force of crystallization, although the substrate feldspar and adjacent quartz are not deformed. Subsequent to the growth of the lenses they are replaced to variable degrees by pure albite, which grows into the lens from the substrate feldspar behind an irregular replacement front. The composition and texture of both K-feldspar and replacive albite suggest a strong affinity with authigenic feldspars, although it is considered likely that the K-feldspar of the lenses is derived from low-temperature biotite-breakdown reactions. A model is proposed whereby the lenses grow into open pores at dilatant sites in response to infiltration of aqueous fluids as the crystalline rocks are exhumed under brittle conditions. Continued circulation of infiltrating fluids in a temperature gradient results in the replacement of K-feldspar by albite via an alkali exchange process. The lenses point to a significant grain-scale permeability in crystalline rock at shallow levels in the crust. [source] Tectonic deformation around the eastern Himalayan syntaxis: constraints from the Cretaceous palaeomagnetic data of the Shan-Thai BlockGEOPHYSICAL JOURNAL INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2 2008Kenji Tanaka SUMMARY Lower to Middle Cretaceous red sandstones were sampled at four localities in the Lanpin-Simao fold belt of the Shan-Thai Block to describe its regional deformational features. Most of the samples revealed a characteristic remanent magnetization with unblocking temperatures around 680 °C. Primary natures of magnetization are ascertained through positive fold test. A tilt-corrected formation-mean direction for the Jingdong (24.5°N, 100.8°E) locality, which is located at a distance of 25 km from the Ailaoshan,Red River Fault, revealed northerly declination with steep inclination (Dec./Inc. = 8.3°/48.8°, ,95= 7.7°, N= 13). However, mean directions obtained from the Zhengyuan (24.0°N, 101.1°E), West Zhengyuan (24.0°N, 101.1°E) and South Mengla (21.4°N, 101.6°E) localities indicate an easterly deflection in declination; such as Dec./Inc. = 61.8°/46.1°, ,95= 8.1° (N= 7), Dec./Inc. = 324.2°/,49.4°, ,95= 6.4° (N= 4) and Dec./Inc. = 51.2°/46.4°, ,95= 5.6° (N= 13), respectively. The palaeomagnetic directions obtained from these four localities are incorporated into a palaeomagnetic database for the Shan-Thai Block. When combined with geological, geochronological and GPS data, the processes of deformation in the Shan-Thai Block is described as follows: Subsequent to its rigid block clockwise rotation of about 20° in the early stage of India,Asia collision, the Shan-Thai Block experienced a coherent but southward displacement along the Red River Fault prior to 32 Ma. This block was then subjected to a north,south compressive stresses during the 32,27 Ma period, which played a key role in shaping the structure of Chongshan-Lancang-Chiang Mai Belt. Following this some local clockwise rotational motion has occurred during the Pliocene-Quaternary time in central part of the Shan-Thai Block as a result of internal block movements along the reactivated network of faults. [source] More than technology and access: primary care patients' views on the use and non-use of health information in the Internet ageHEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, Issue 2 2004Anne Rogers MSc(Econ) PhD Abstract Over the past decade, there has been considerable interest in the transmission of health information made available though the Internet with increasing confidence being placed in the potential power of the Internet to transform communication, clinical practice and relationships with patients. Subsequent to the failure of a primary-care-based initiative designed to provide free assistance and access to health information via the Internet, a survey was conducted. Findings from this survey suggested that facilitating access to e-information is necessary, but not in itself sufficient, to encourage current non-users to start exploring the Internet. The qualitative study reported here was aimed at exploring the way in which people use and perceive the utility of Internet information for managing health and illness and engaging with the health service system. Data was gathered from two sources. Interviews and observations of a sample who had used a free primary-care-based Internet service (n = 5) and interviews with a sample drawn from a survey of patient attitudes to using the Internet for health information (n = 12). The less-considered aspects of access and the use of e-information for health matters related to the varied existing relationships respondents had to computers, health information and health professionals. One of the main reasons why some respondents do not use the Internet to access health information is related to a lack of perceived utility and pertinence of such information for managing their healthcare. The optimal and equitable use of the Internet as a means of complimenting health-service utilisation will not emerge merely from increasing access to e-information. The potential for narrowing or increasing inequality between the information rich and poor needs to be viewed in a broader psychosocial context. The latter includes the nature of existing relationships which people have with the health service and the value that people place on their own capacity to make use of information in managing their healthcare. [source] ILLUSIONS OF POWER AND EMPIRE,HISTORY AND THEORY, Issue 4 2005JAMES N. ROSENAU ABSTRACT Subsequent to the end of the Cold War, analysts groped for an understanding of the overall structures of world politics that marked the emergence of a new epoch. As a result, the concept of empire became a major preoccupation, with the economic and military power of the United States considered sufficient for regarding it as an empire. Due to the proliferation of new microelectronic technologies and for a variety of other specified reasons, however, the constraints inherent in the new epoch make it seem highly unlikely that the U.S. or any other country can ever achieve the status of an empire. In effect, the substantial shrinkage of time and distance in the current period has led to the replacement of the age of the nation-state that originated with the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 with the age of the networked individual. It is an age that has developed on a global scale and that has brought an end to the history of empires. [source] Closely linked cis -acting modifier of expansion of the CGG repeat in high risk FMR1 haplotypes,HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 12 2007S. Ennis Abstract In its expanded form, the fragile X triplet repeat at Xq27.3 gives rise to the most common form of inherited mental retardation, fragile X syndrome. This high population frequency persists despite strong selective pressure against mutation-bearing chromosomes. Males carrying the full mutation rarely reproduce and females heterozygous for the premutation allele are at risk of premature ovarian failure. Our diagnostic facility and previous research have provided a large databank of X chromosomes that have been tested for the FRAXA allele. Using this resource, we have conducted a detailed genetic association study of the FRAXA region to determine any cis -acting factors that predispose to expansion of the CGG triplet repeat. We have genotyped SNP variants across a 650-kb tract centered on FRAXA in a sample of 877 expanded and normal X chromosomes. These chromosomes were selected to be representative of the haplotypic diversity encountered in our population. We found expansion status to be strongly associated with a ,50-kb region proximal to the fragile site. Subsequent detailed analyses of this region revealed no specific genetic determinants for the whole population. However, stratification of chromosomes by risk subgroups enabled us to identify a common SNP variant which cosegregates with the subset of D group haplotypes at highest risk of expansion (,=17.84, p=0.00002). We have verified that this SNP acts as a marker of repeat expansion in three independent samples. Hum Mutat 28(12), 1216,1224, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Enhanced maturation and functional capacity of monocyte-derived immature dendritic cells by the synthetic immunomodulator MurabutideIMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Vincent Vidal Summary Murabutide is a safe synthetic immunomodulator derived from muramyl dipeptide, the smallest bioactive unit of bacterial peptidoglycan. Although it is well known that muramyl peptides modulate the functions of monocytes/macrophages, their activity on dendritic cells is poorly documented. We thus investigated the effects of Murabutide on immunophenotype, endocytosis, T-cell stimulatory capacity, and cytokine secretion of human monocyte-derived immature dendritic cells (iDCs). We found that Murabutide triggers immunophenotypic changes as upon treatment, iDCs up-regulate the surface expression of the major histocompatibility complex type II molecule human leucocyte antigen-DR, the co-stimulatory molecules CD80, CD86 and CD40 and the differentiation marker CD83, and down-regulate the expression of the mannose receptor. These phenotypic changes are also mirrored by changes in their biological activity. Subsequent to treatment with the synthetic immunomodulator, DC have a decreased endocytic capacity but exhibit enhanced stimulatory capacity for both allogeneic and autologous T cells. In addition, Murabutide-stimulated iDCs have a greater cytostatic activity toward the tumour cell line THP-1. Furthermore, in the presence of Murabutide, DCs transiently increased the release of macrophage inhibitory protein-1,, tumour necrosis factor-, and interleukin-10, whereas the enhanced production of macrophage-colony stimulating factor was sustained over the 3-day period analysed. In addition, Murabutide triggers the phosphorylation of the three classes of mitogen-activated protein kinases in iDCs. Altogether our results demonstrate that Murabutide triggers the maturation and activation of monocyte-derived iDCs. As this immunomodulator is approved for administration in humans, it could be a useful adjunct to boost the efficacy of DC-based vaccines designed against tumours or virus-infected cells. [source] In vitro antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine-impregnated gutta percha points on Enterococcus faecalisINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 2 2004J. N. Lui Abstract Aim, To evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine-impregnated gutta percha points, Roeko activ point (Roeko, Langenau, Germany) on Enterococcus faecalis. Methodology, Human maxillary premolar roots were prepared with .04 rotary ProFile instruments to a master apical file size 40, autoclave-sterilized and then infected with E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) for 3 weeks. Baseline controls were carried out verifying negligible effects of plain gutta percha cones on E. faecalis. Subsequent to intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide, ,activ points' or saline (positive control) and the 2-week incubation in 54 root specimens, dentine sampling at depths of 100 and 250 µm was carried out using .04 rotary ProFile instruments at sizes 60 and 90 to assess the quantity of bacteria present. Inactivating agents were used prior to sampling and the colony-forming units (CFU) of E. faecalis were then plate-counted after culturing. Statistical analysis was completed using the paired t -test. Results, In comparison to the positive control, treatment with calcium hydroxide (P = 0.000 and 0.000) or activ points (P = 0.000 and 0.002) produced significantly lower colony counts of E. faecalis at dentine depths of 100 and 250 µm, respectively. Calcium hydroxide (2.10 × 102 CFU mL,1) was significantly more effective than activ points (1.58 × 103 CFU mL,1) at 100 µm (P = 0.013), but not at 250 µm (P = 0.353). Neither of these two medications was able to eliminate E. faecalis completely. Conclusions, Chlorhexidine-impregnated activ points did not possess an in vitro inhibitory activity strong enough to eliminate E. faecalis completely from infected dentinal tubules. [source] Vignettes in Osteoporosis: A Road Map to Successful Therapeutics,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2004Clifford J Rosen Abstract The diagnosis and management of osteoporosis have become increasingly more complex as new drugs enter the marketplace and meta-analyses of randomized trials with "other" agents become more prolific. We describe five common clinical scenarios encountered in the practice of osteoporosis medicine and various road maps that could lead to successful therapy. Introduction: The diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis have changed dramatically in the last decade. Advances in diagnostic technologies and a range of newer treatment options have provided the clinician with a wide array of choices for treating this chronic disease. Despite the issuance of several "guidelines" and practice recommendations, there still remains confusion among clinicians about basic approaches to the management of osteoporosis. This paper should be used as a case-based approach to define optimal therapeutic choices. Materials and Methods: Five representative cases were selected from two very large clinical practices (Bangor, ME; Pittsburgh, PA). Diagnostic modalities and treatment options used in these cases were selected on an evidence-based analysis of respective clinical trials. Subsequent to narrative choices by two metabolic bone disease specialists (SG and CR), calculation of future fracture risk and selection of potential alternative therapeutic regimens were reviewed and critiqued by an epidemiologist (DB). Results: A narrative about each case and possible management choices for each of the five cases are presented with references to justify selection of the various therapeutic options. Alternatives are considered and discussed based on literature and references through July 2003. The disposition of the individual patient is noted at the end of each case. Conclusions: A case-based approach to the management of osteoporosis provides a useful interface between guidelines, evidence-based meta-analyses, and clinical practice dilemmas. [source] Spontaneous "Cardiomegaly" Following PericardiectomyJOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 6 2009Jeffrey B. Geske M.D. Chest x-ray revealed development of interval "cardiomegaly." Bedside echocardiography revealed a large accumulation of pericardial fluid despite absence of pericardium. Diagnostic and therapeutic mediastinocentesis was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of mediastinal hemorrhage. Subsequent to pericardiectomy, mediastinal hemorrhage can masquerade as cardiomegaly and may require urgent intervention. [source] On the impact of uncorrelated variation in regression mathematicsJOURNAL OF CHEMOMETRICS, Issue 11-12 2008Johan Gottfries Abstract The objective of the present study is to investigate if, and if so, how uncorrelated variation relates to regression mathematics as exemplified by partial least squares (PLS) methodology. In contrast to previous methods, orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) method requires a multi-focus, in the sense that in parallel to calculation of correlation it requires an analysis of orthogonal variation, i.e. the uncorrelated structure in a comprehensive way. Subsequent to the estimation of the correlation is the remaining orthogonal variation, i.e. uncorrelated data, divided into uncorrelated structure and stochastic noise by the ,OPLS component'. Thus, it appears obvious that it is of interest to understand how the uncorrelated variation can influence the interpretation of the regression model. We have scrutinized three examples that pinpoint additional value from OPLS regarding the modelling of the orthogonal, i.e. uncorrelated, variation in regression mathematics. In agreement with the results, we conclude that uncorrelated variations do impact interpretations of regression analyses output and provides not only opportunities by OPLS but also an obligation for the user to maximize benefit from OPLS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Evaluation of window flight traps for effectiveness at monitoring dead wood-associated beetles: the effect of ethanol lure under contrasting environmental conditionsAGRICULTURAL AND FOREST ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 2 2009C. Bouget Abstract 1,Subsequent to the diversity of saproxylic beetles being proposed as a management tool in forestry, more explicit knowledge about the efficiency and selective properties of beetle sampling methods is needed. 2,We compared saproxylic beetle assemblages caught by alcohol-baited or unbaited window traps in different forest contexts. Considering that trap attractiveness depends on kairomone concentrations, we appraised whether the trap efficiency was influenced by trap environment (openness and local supply of fresh dead wood). 3,Saproxylic beetles were sampled using 48 cross-vane window flight traps, arranged in paired designs (alcohol-baited/unbaited), in eight ancient and eight recent gaps (open stands), and eight closed-canopy control stands in an upland beech forest in the French Pyrenees. 4,Baited traps were more efficient than unbaited traps in terms of abundance and richness in our deciduous forests. The ethanol lure did not have any repellent effect on the individual response of saproxylic taxa. 5,The influence of local environmental conditions on trap attractiveness was observed. Openness had a significant moderate effect on species richness. Trap attractiveness was slightly reduced in the alcohol-saturated environment of recent gaps probably due to a disruption by local fresh dead-wood concentrations of the kairomonal response of saproxylic beetles to baited traps (,alcohol disruption'). 6,Because the ethanol lure enhanced the probability of species detection, it may be useful in early-warning surveillance, monitoring and control of wood borers, despite slight influences of local conditions on baited trap efficiency. [source] Hydrothermal alteration of late- to post-tectonic Lyon Mountain Granitic Gneiss, Adirondack Mountains, New York: Origin of quartz,sillimanite segregations, quartz,albite lithologies, and associated Kiruna-type low-Ti Fe-oxide depositsJOURNAL OF METAMORPHIC GEOLOGY, Issue 1 2002J. Mclelland Abstract Quartz,sillimanite segregations, quartz,albite lithologies (Ab95,98), and Kiruna-type low-Ti iron-oxide deposits are associated with late- to post-tectonic (c. 1055 Ma) leucogranites of Lyon Mountain Gneiss (LMG) in the Adirondack Mountains, New York State. Most recent interpretations of these controversial features, which are global in occurrence, favour hydrothermal origins in agreement with results presented here. Field relations document that quartz,sillimanite veins and nodules cut, and therefore post-date, emplacement of host LMG leucogranites. Veins occur in oriented fracture networks, and aligned trains of nodules are interpreted as disrupted early veins. Late dykes of leucogranite cut veins and nodules demonstrating formation prior to terminal magmatism. Veins and nodules consist of sillimanite surrounded by quartz that commonly embays wall-rock feldspar indicating leaching of Na and K from LMG feldspar by acidic hydrothermal fluids. Subsequent, and repeated, ductile flow disrupted earlier veins into nodular fragments but produced little grain shape fabric. Geochemical and petrographic studies of quartz,albite rock indicate that it formed through metasomatic replacement (albitization) of LMG microperthite by sodic hydrothermal fluids that resulted in diagnostic checkerboard albite. Low-Ti iron-oxide ores are commonly associated with the quartz,albite sub-unit, and it is proposed that hydrothermal fluids related to albitization transported Fe as well. The regional extent of sodic alteration suggests large quantities of surface-derived hydrothermal fluids. Fluid inclusion and oxygen isotope data are consistent with high temperature, regionally extensive fluids consisting primarily of evolved surface-derived brines enriched in Na and Cl. Quartz,sillimanite veins and nodules, which are significantly more localised phenomena and require acidic fluids, were most likely formed from local magmatic fluids in the crystallizing carapaces of LMG plutons. [source] Profiling of neuropeptides released at the stomatogastric ganglion of the crab, Cancer borealis with mass spectrometryJOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 1 2005Cyrus P. Billimoria Abstract Studies of release under physiological conditions provide more direct data about the identity of neuromodulatory signaling molecules than studies of tissue localization that cannot distinguish between processing precursors and biologically active neuropeptides. We have identified neuropeptides released by electrical stimulation of nerves that contain the axons of the modulatory projection neurons to the stomatogastric ganglion of the crab, Cancer borealis. Preparations were bathed in saline containing a cocktail of peptidase inhibitors to minimize peptide degradation. Both electrical stimulation of projection nerves and depolarization with high K+ saline were used to evoke release. Releasates were desalted and then identified by mass using MALDI,TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization,time-of-flight) mass spectrometry. Both previously known and novel peptides were detected. Subsequent to electrical stimulation proctolin, Cancer borealis tachykinin-related peptide (CabTRP), FVNSRYa, carcinustatin-8, allatostatin-3 (AST-3), red pigment concentrating hormone, NRNFLRFa, AST-5, SGFYANRYa, TNRNFLRFa, AST-9, orcomyotropin-related peptide, corazonin, Ala13-orcokinin, and Ser9-Val13-orcokinin were detected. Some of these were also detected after high K+ depolarization. Release was calcium dependent. In summary, we have shown release of the neuropeptides thought to play an important neuromodulatory role in the stomatogastric ganglion, as well as numerous other candidate neuromodulators that remain to be identified. [source] Discovery and Evolutionary History of Gonadotrophin-Inhibitory Hormone and Kisspeptin: New Key Neuropeptides Controlling ReproductionJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 7 2010K. Tsutsui Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the primary hypothalamic factor responsible for the control of gonadotrophin secretion in vertebrates. However, within the last decade, two other hypothalamic neuropeptides have been found to play key roles in the control of reproductive functions: gonadotrophin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) and kisspeptin. In 2000, we discovered GnIH in the quail hypothalamus. GnIH inhibits gonadotrophin synthesis and release in birds through actions on GnRH neurones and gonadotrophs, mediated via GPR147. Subsequently, GnIH orthologues were identified in other vertebrate species from fish to humans. As in birds, mammalian and fish GnIH orthologues inhibit gonadotrophin release, indicating a conserved role for this neuropeptide in the control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis across species. Subsequent to the discovery of GnIH, kisspeptin, encoded by the KiSS-1 gene, was discovered in mammals. By contrast to GnIH, kisspeptin has a direct stimulatory effect on GnRH neurones via GPR54. GPR54 is also expressed in pituitary cells, but whether gonadotrophs are targets for kisspeptin remains unresolved. The KiSS-1 gene is also highly conserved and has been identified in mammals, amphibians and fish. We have recently found a second isoform of KiSS-1, designated KiSS-2, in several vertebrates, but not birds, rodents or primates. In this review, we highlight the discovery, mechanisms of action, and functional significance of these two chief regulators of the reproductive axis. [source] Pulmonary aspiration of a two-unit bridge during a deep sleepJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 6 2005Ö. K. BA summary, Aspiration of teeth and dental restorations is a recognized, yet an infrequent happening in the literature. Main reasons of aspiration are maxillofacial trauma, dental treatment procedures or ethanol intoxication and dementia. The present case of a 2-unit bridge aspiration is however, not related with any trauma, dental procedure or systemic disease. A 37-year-old male patient had aspirated his bridge while sleeping and the bridge remained unidentified for 1 year despite the radiographic controls. He was then referred to the Chest Diseases Department of School of Medicine, Ege University and the radio-opaque object in the right intermediate bronchus was diagnosed to be an aspirated dental prosthesis. Subsequent to the failure of the rigid bronchoscopy, the patient was referred to the Thoracic Surgery Department and had to be operated for retrieval of the foreign body. [source] Blocking Wnt/LRP5 signaling by a soluble receptor modulates the epithelial to mesenchymal transition and suppresses met and metalloproteinases in osteosarcoma Saos-2 cellsJOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 7 2007Yi Guo Abstract We previously reported the Wnt receptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) was frequently expressed in osteosarcoma (OS) tissue and correlated with metastasis and a lower disease-free survival. Subsequent in vitro analysis revealed that dominant-negative, soluble LRP5 (sLRP5) can reduce in vitro cellular invasion. In the current study, we examined the molecular mechanisms of blocking canonical Wnt signaling by sLRP5 in Saos-2 osteosarcoma cells. Transfection of sLRP5 caused a marked up-regulation of E-cadherin in this cell line. This increase in E-cadherin, seen primarily at the cell,cell contact borders, was associated with down-regulation of Slug and Twist, transcriptional repressors which mediate cancer invasion and metastasis. In contrast, N-cadherin, a mesenchymal marker, was reduced by sLRP5. In addition, blocking Wnt signaling by sLRP5 modulated other epithelial and mesenchymal markers (keratin 8 and 18, fibronectin), suggesting a reversal of epithelial,mesenchymal transition (EMT) seen during cancer progression. SLRP5 also reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and 14, consistent with a decrease in invasive capacity. SLRP5 transfection decreased both Met expression and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-induced cell motility. Taken together, these results support a role for Wnt/LRP5 signaling in invasiveness of a subset of OS cells. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:964,971, 2007 [source] Biodegradable polymers based on renewable resources.JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 17 2005Abstract Novel polycarbonates, with pendant functional groups, based on 1,4:3,6-dianhydrohexitols and L -tartaric acid derivatives were synthesized. Solution polycondensations of 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-bis- O -(p -nitrophenoxycarbonyl)hexitols and 2,3-di- O -methyl- L -threitol or 2,3- O -isopropylidene- L -threitol afforded polycarbonates having pendant methoxy or isopropylidene groups, respectively, with number average molecular weight (Mn) values up to 3.61 × 104. Subsequent acid-catalyzed deprotection of isopropylidene groups gave well-defined polycarbonates having pendant hydroxyl groups regularly distributed along the polymer chain. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated that all the polycarbonates were amorphous with glass transition temperatures ranging from 57 to 98 °C. Degradability of the polycarbonates was assessed by hydrolysis test in phosphate buffer solution at 37 °C and by biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) measurements in an activated sludge at 25 °C. In both tests, the polycarbonates with pendant hydroxyl groups were degraded much faster than the polycarbonates with pendant methoxy and isopropylidene groups. It is noteworthy that degradation of the polycarbonates with pendant hydroxyl groups was remarkably fast. They were completely degraded within only 150 min in a phosphate buffer solution and their BOD-biodegradability reached nearly 70% in an activated sludge after 28 days. The degradation behavior of the polycarbonates is discussed in terms of their chemical and physical properties. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 3909,3919, 2005 [source] DATA ANALYTICAL METHODOLOGIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A VOCABULARY FOR EVALUATION OF MEAT QUALITYJOURNAL OF SENSORY STUDIES, Issue 6 2002M.G. O'SULLIVAN ABSTRACT Pork patties from M. longissimus dorsi and M. psoas major were used by a sensory panel to develop a descriptive vocabulary to describe warmed-over flavor development. The patties were made from meat from animals supplemented with one of four dietary treatments, (I) control diet, (II) supplemental iron (7 g iron (II) sulfate/kg feed), (III) supplemental vitamin E (200 mg dl-,-tocopherol acetate/kg of feed) and (IV) supplemental vitamin E + supplemental iron. The sample set used for training reflected the variation in muscle type and degree of warmed-over flavor development (day 1 and 5). The sensory terms selected had to be relevant to the samples, discriminate between the samples, have cognitive clarity and be nonredundant. Based on these selection criteria an initial training list of 36 sensory terms consisting of odors, flavors, basic tastes and aftertastes was developed in a pretrial using experts with product knowledge. This list constituted the start of training the panel. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) and assessor suggestions were used for reducing the number of terms and after 5 days of training this list was reduced to 21 sensory terms. The discriminative ability of the sensory panel improved over the course of sensory training and was quantified by using the mean assessor signal to noise ratios (S/N) for the sensory terms for each training session. This signal to noise ratio is essentially the total initial variance divided by the residual cross-validated variance. Subsequent detailed multivariate analysis found that the bilinear descriptor leverage was a particularly efficient method for term reduction. [source] The usefulness of amplified fragment length polymorphism markers for taxon discrimination across graduated fine evolutionary levels in Caribbean Anolis lizardsMOLECULAR ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2002R. Ogden Abstract Fine-level taxon discrimination is important in biodiversity assessment and ecogeographical research. Genomic markers are often required for studies on closely related taxa, however, most existing mitochondrial and nuclear markers require prior knowledge of the genome and are impractical for use in small conservation projects. This study describes the application of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) to discriminate at four progressively finer evolutionary levels of Caribbean Anolis lizards from the central Lesser Antilles. AFLP is shown to be a rapid and effective method for discriminating between species. Separation increases with primer pair number and choice of primer combination appears to be noncritical. Initial population-level results show markedly less discriminatory power. A screening technique for the identification of population informative markers combining principal component and principal coordinate analyses is presented and assessed. Subsequent results show selected conspecific AFLP data to be remarkably congruent with those of mitochondrial DNA, microsatellite and morphological markers. The use of AFLP as a low-cost nuclear marker in species-level taxon discrimination is supported, whereas population level application demands further consideration. [source] Adverse effects associated with persistent stimulation of Leydig cells with hCG in vitroMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 11 2009Archana Aggarwal The detrimental effects of persistent stimulation with hCG were investigated in rat Leydig cells in vitro. Significant rise in lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) with concomitant attenuation in the activities of antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione- S -transferase was observed. Transcripts for catalase and superoxide dismutase were also depleted. Subsequent to each hCG challenge, the total antioxidant capacity in the target cells also declined significantly (P,<,0.05). There was an increase in cell apoptosis (23%), which was associated with a rise in caspase-3 activity, PARP cleavage, and Fas, FasL, caspase-8 expression. While Bax and Caspase-9 expression remained unchanged, Bcl-2 demonstrated a marked decline. Taken together, the above data indicate that persistent hCG stimulation of Leydig cells induced adverse effects leading to oxidative stress and apoptosis which was channeled primarily through the extrinsic pathway. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 1076,1083, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||