bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
History of protein crystallography in China
Authors: Rao Zihe
Published: February 2007

China has a strong background in X-ray crystallography dating back to the 1920s. Protein crystallography research in China was first developed following the successful synthesis of insulin in China in 1966. The subsequent determination of the three-dimensional structure of porcine insulin made China one of the few countries which could determine macromolecular structures by X-ray diffraction methods in the late 1960s and early 1970s. After a slow period during the 1970s and 1980s, protein crystallography in China has reached a new climax with a number of outstanding accomplishments. Here, I review the history and progress of protein crystallography in China and detail some of the recent research highlights, including the crystal structures of two membrane proteins as well as the structural genomics initiative in China.
Corticolimbic dysregulation and chronic methamphetamine abuse
Authors: Baicy Kate , London Edythe D.
Published: February 2007

Aims  This review aims to present and interpret evidence that methamphetamine dependence is associated with disorder of brain function that is required for top‐down control of behavior.

Approach  Presented here are findings from brain imaging studies of human research participants with histories of chronic methamphetamine abuse in the context of functional consequences and implications for treatment of their dependence on methamphetamine.

Findings  Brain imaging studies have revealed differences in the brains of research participants who have used methamphetamine chronically and then abstained from taking the drug, compared with healthy control subjects. These abnormalities are prominent in cortical and limbic systems, and include deficits in markers of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems, differences in glucose metabolism and deficits in gray matter. These abnormalities accompany cognitive deficits, including evidence of impaired inhibitory control.

Conclusion  Cortical deficits in abstinent methamphetamine abusers can affect a wide range of functions that can be important for success in maintaining drug abstinence. These include but are not limited to modulation of responses to environmental stimuli as well as internal triggers that can lead to craving and relapse. Potential therapies may combine behavioral approaches with medications that can improve cognitive control.
Methamphetamine‐induced neural and cognitive changes in rodents
Authors: Marshall John F. , Belcher Annabelle M. , Feinstein Erin M. , O'Dell Steven J.
Published: February 2007

Aims Although psychostimulant drug abuse carries with it several potential health risks, the chronic abuse of amphetamines carries the danger of permanent brain injury. The purpose of these experiments is to develop animal models to understand the long‐lasting influences of methamphetamine exposure on cerebral cortex and cognitive function.

Methods The approach taken is to administer a regimen of methamphetamine known to be neurotoxic to dopamine and serotonin nerve terminals in the rat, and to investigate the influences of that dosing regimen on (i) cortical neuron integrity and function using anatomical stains and (ii) novel object recognition memory.

Results In rodents, repeated administration of methamphetamine during a single day produces long‐lasting damage to striatal dopamine and forebrain serotonin terminals as well as degeneration of somatosensory cortical neurons. The degeneration of somatosensory cortical neurons may represent only the most visible form of long‐term deleterious effects on cerebral cortex, as exposure of rats to methamphetamine can reduce the immediate early gene responses of neurons in widespread cortical areas, even long after exposure to the drug. Together with the death and long‐lasting functional impairments of cortical neurons, rats exposed to methamphetamine have impaired cognitive function. When tested for object recognition memory, methamphetamine‐treated rats show deficiencies lasting for at least 3 weeks after drug exposure.

Conclusions Using a rodent model, these findings provide an avenue to study the cortical influences of methamphetamine and their cognitive sequelae.
Methamphetamine‐induced alterations in monoamine transport: implications for neurotoxicity, neuroprotection and treatment
Authors: Volz Trent J. , Fleckenstein Annette E. , Hanson Glen R.
Published: February 2007

Aim To review studies delineating the neurotoxic effects of methamphetamine on monoamine transport in dopaminergic neurons of the striatum and nucleus accumbens.

Method The scope of this review includes the English language dopamine transporter and vesicular monoamine transporter‐2 primary literature to April 2006 identified by Pubmed, Science Citation Index and SciFinder Scholar literature searches.

Results Changes in the function of the plasmalemmal dopamine transporter and the vesicular monoamine transporter‐2 are key components of methamphetamine‐induced persistent dopaminergic deficits. These deficits include persistent reductions in dopamine content, dopamine transporter density and tyrosine hydroxylase activity. The striatum is susceptible to these effects of methamphetamine while the nucleus accumbens is resistant. Differences in dopamine transporter density and activity, extracellular dopamine levels and antioxidant levels in these two brain regions may, in part, account for the resistance of the nucleus accumbens.

Conclusion These findings concerning the nature of methamphetamine‐induced changes in plasmalemmal and vesicular dopamine transport have very important implications for drug targets and for understanding the etiology of dopaminergic neurodegenerative processes, such as those associated with methamphetamine addiction and Parkinson's disease.
A radiation hybrid map of sheep chromosome 23 based on ovine BAC‐end sequences
Authors: Tetens J. , Goldammer T. , Maddox J. F. , Cockett N. E. , Leeb T. , Drögemüller C.
Published: February 2007

More than 375 000 BAC‐end sequences (BES) of the CHORI‐243 ovine BAC library have been deposited in public databases. blastn searches with these BES against HSA18 revealed 1806 unique and significant hits. We used blastn‐anchored BES for an in silico prediction of gene content and chromosome assignment of comparatively mapped ovine BAC clones. Ovine BES were selected at approximately 1.3‐Mb intervals of HSA18 and incorporated into a human–sheep comparative map. An ovine 5000‐rad whole‐genome radiation hybrid panel (USUoRH5000) was typed with 70 markers, all of which mapped to OAR23. The resulting OAR23 RH map included 43 markers derived from BES with high and unique BLAST hits to the sequence of the orthologous HSA18, nine EST‐derived markers, 16 microsatellite markers taken from the ovine linkage map and two bovine microsatellite markers. Six new microsatellite markers derived from the 43 mapped BES and the two bovine microsatellite markers were linkage‐mapped using the International Mapping Flock (IMF). Thirteen additional microsatellite markers were derived from other ovine BES with high and unique BLAST hits to the sequence of the orthologous HSA18 and also positioned on the ovine linkage map but not incorporated into the OAR23 RH map. This resulted in 24 markers in common and in the same order between the RH and linkage maps. Eight of the BES‐derived markers were mapped using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), to thereby align the RH and cytogenetic maps. Comparison of the ovine chromosome 23 RH map with the HSA18 map identified and localized three major breakpoints between HSA18 and OAR23. The positions of these breakpoints were equivalent to those previously shown for syntenic BTA24 and HSA18. This study presents evidence for the usefulness of ovine BES when constructing a high‐resolution comprehensive map for a single sheep chromosome. The comparative analysis confirms and refines knowledge about chromosomal conservation and rearrangements between sheep, cattle and human. The constructed RH map demonstrates the resolution and utility of the newly constructed ovine RH panel.
Resistance to malignant catarrhal fever in American bison (Bison bison) is associated with MHC class IIa polymorphisms
Authors: Traul D. L. , Li H. , Dasgupta N. , O'Toole D. , Eldridge J. A. , Besser T. E. , Davies C. J.
Published: February 2007

The Rhadinovirus ovine herpesvirus‐2 (OvHV‐2) is the most common causative agent of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) in clinically susceptible ruminants including cattle and bison. American bison (Bison bison) are highly susceptible to clinical MCF. Nevertheless, approximately 20% of bison on ranches or in feedlots become infected with the virus without developing clinical disease. Defining the genetic basis for differences in susceptibility between bison could facilitate development of improved control strategies for MCF. One genetic region that influences susceptibility to infectious diseases is the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). In this study, a Bison bison (Bibi) DRB3 oligonucleotide microarray was used to type 189 bison from 10 herds where MCF outbreaks had occurred. Binary logistic regression was used to classify DRB3 alleles as resistant (R), susceptible (S) or neutral (N). Animals were reclassified using six DRB3 genotype categories: N/N, N/R, N/S, R/S, R/R and S/S. Analysis of homogeneity across herds showed that there was a herd effect. Consequently, a penalized logistic regression model was run with herd and genotype categories as the explanatory variables. The R/R genotype was associated with resistance to MCF (P = 0.0327), while the S/S genotype was associated with clinical MCF (P = 0.0069). This is the first evidence that MHC class IIa polymorphism is associated with resistance or susceptibility to OvHV‐2‐induced MCF.
Age‐related differences in the pharmacokinetics of stavudine in 272 children from birth to 16 years: a population analysis
Authors: Jullien V. , Raïs A. , Urien S. , Dimet J. , Delaugerre C. , Bouillon‐Pichault M. , Rey E. , Pons G. , Blanche S. , Tréluyer J. M.
Published: February 2007

Aims

To develop a population pharmacokinetic model for stavudine in children and to investigate the consistency of the currently recommended dose based on adult target concentrations.

Methods

The pharmacokinetics of stavudine were investigated using a population approach. Individual estimates of CL/F were used to calculate the stavudine dose required to achieve the area under the concentration‐time curve reported in adults given recommended doses.

Results

Stavudine pharmacokinetics were well described by a one‐compartment model with zero‐order absorption. Typical population estimates (% interindividual variability) of the apparent distribution volume (V/F) and plasma clearance (CL/F) were 40.9 l (32%) and 16.5 l h−1 (38%), respectively. Stavudine V/F and CL/F were similarly related to age. Mean calculated doses (0.61 mg kg−1 for children less than 2 weeks, 1.23 mg kg−1 for children more than 2 weeks with bodyweight less than 30 kg, and 31.5 mg for children with a bodyweight between 30 and 60 kg) were in agreement with the current paediatric doses (0.5 mg kg−1, 1 mg kg−1, and 30 mg, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings support the current recommended paediatric dosage regimens for stavudine, as they result in the same exposure to the drug as in adults.
Follow‐up of avidity and titre of anti‐myeloperoxidase antibodies in sera from patients with propylthiouracil‐induced vasculitis
Authors: Gao Ying , Chen Min , Ye Hua , Guo Xiao‐hui , Zhao Ming‐hui , Wang Hai‐yan
Published: February 2007

Objective  Propylthiouracil (PTU) has been known to induce myeloperoxidase‐antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO‐ANCA) positive vasculitis. Our previous study indicated that the increase of avidity of MPO‐ANCA might be associated with the occurrence of clinical vasculitis in patients with PTU‐induced ANCA. The current study aimed to follow‐up the avidity and titre of anti‐MPO antibodies in sequential sera from patients with PTU‐induced ANCA‐associated systemic vasculitis (AASV).

Methods  Six patients with PTU‐induced vasculitis were enrolled in the current study. Serial sera in both active phase and in remission were collected. MPO‐ANCA avidity was assessed by antigen‐inhibition enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), and avidity constant (aK) was determined as the reciprocal value of the MPO molar concentration in the liquid phase resulting in 50% inhibition of anti‐MPO antibody binding to MPO in solid phase ELISA. Titres of MPO‐ANCA were determined by using serial serum dilutions in MPO‐ELISA.

Results  After cessation of PTU and initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, the avidity and titre of MPO‐ANCA decreased significantly during follow‐up in sera from all the patients, and the avidity decreased much more quickly than the titres.

Conclusion  Our study indicates that avidity of anti‐MPO antibodies might be more closely associated with clinical vasculitis than titre.
Influence and interaction of diabetes and lipoprotein (a) serum levels on mortality of patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Maca T. , Mlekusch W. , Doweik L. , Budinsky A.C. , Bischof M. , Minar E. , Schillinger M.
Published: February 2007

Background  Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for early complications and mortality in patients with peripheral artery disease. Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is also suggested to be a marker of increased cardiovascular risk. We investigated the association and interaction between diabetes mellitus, lipoprotein(a) and mortality in high risk patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Methods  We studied 700 consecutive patients [median age 73 years, interquartile range (IQR) 62–80, 393 male (56%)] with PAD from a registry database. Atherothrombotic risk factors (diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidaemia, arterial hypertension) and Lp(a) serum levels were recorded. We used stratified multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses to assess the mortality risk at a given patient's age with respect to the presence of diabetes and Lp(a) serum levels (in tertiles).

Results  Patients with Lp(a) levels above 36 mg dL−1 (highest tertile) and insulin‐dependent type II diabetes had a 3·01‐fold increased adjusted risk for death (95% confidence interval 1·28–6·64, P = 0·011) compared to patients without diabetes or patients with non‐insulin‐dependent type II diabetes. In patients with Lp(a) serum levels below 36 mg dL−1 (lower and middle tertile), diabetes mellitus was not associated with an increased risk for death.

Conclusion  Insulin‐dependent type II diabetes mellitus seems to be associated with an increased risk for mortality in PAD patients with Lp(a) serum levels above 36 mg dL−1. PAD patients with non‐insulin‐dependent type II diabetes, and patients with diabetes and Lp(a) levels below 36 mg dL−1 showed survival rates comparable to PAD patients without diabetes.
Calcium‐sensing receptor and recovery from hypocalcaemia in thyroparathyroidectomized rats
Authors: Huan J. , Martuseviciene G. , Olgaard K. , Lewin E.
Published: February 2007

Background  Plasma ionized calcium (p‐Ca2+) is kept within a very narrow range and deviations are rapidly corrected by flux of Ca2+ between extracellular fluid and the labile calcium pool at the quiescent bone surface. The calcium sensing at the bone surface represents a physiological interesting model for the rapid minute‐to‐minute regulation of p‐Ca2+. Our aim was to study whether the calcium‐sensing receptor (CaR) has a role in the rapid recovery of p‐Ca2+ from acute induced hypocalcaemia.

Material and methods  Male Wistar rats were thyroparathyroidectomized (TPTX). Acute hypocalcaemia in the animals was induced by infusion of EGTA (40–50 mm EGTA, 3·0 mL h−1 for 30 min). Thereafter the recovery of p‐Ca2+ was followed. Vehicle or the CaR activators, R‐568 (2 mg as a bolus twice) or gentamycin were administrated intravenously.

Results  EGTA infusion resulted in significantly lower nadir of hypocalcaemia in R‐568‐ or gentamycin‐treated rats compared to vehicle‐treated rats (P < 0·01). During recovery phase p‐Ca2+ remained significantly lower in R‐568 rats (P < 0·001). As such p‐Ca2+ levels recovered to basal levels in the vehicle group within 70 min after stopping EGTA, while R‐568 or gentamycin rats remained significantly hypocalcaemic.

Conclusions  The CaR activators R‐568 and gentamycin, both significantly delayed the recovery of p‐Ca2+ from acute EGTA‐induced hypocalcaemia in TPTX rats. This novel finding suggests the existence of calcium sensing by bone of importance for the rapid minute‐to‐minute regulation of p‐Ca2+.
Endovascular stent implantation for treatment of peripheral artery disease
Authors: Schillinger M. , Minar E.
Published: February 2007

Endovascular stent implantation is a rapidly emerging technology for treatment of arterial obstructions in the entire circulation. During recent years, several randomized studies evaluated the effects of stenting in lower limb arteries. We herein provide an overview on data of trials in the iliac and femoropopliteal vessel area discussing the benefits and limitations of endovascular stents. In the iliac arteries, midterm and long‐term data from one randomized trial including analysis on patency, clinical outcomes, cost‐effectiveness and quality of life indicate that balloon angioplasty with selective stenting remains the therapy of choice for endovascular revascularization. In the femoropopliteal arteries, balloon‐expanding stents were not superior to balloon angioplasty for treatment of short lesions, and self‐expanding nitinol stents also failed to show a beneficial effect in short lesions below 5 cm. However, including longer lesions, one randomized trial indicated a beneficial effect of nitinol stents in lesions with a median length around 10–12 cm. Further studies and longer follow‐up intervals are needed to confirm these data. Meanwhile, balloon angioplasty with optional stenting also remains the recommended endovascular approach for the femoropopliteal segment.
Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate and FTY720 as anti‐atherosclerotic lipid compounds
Authors: Tölle M. , Levkau B. , Kleuser B. , Van Der Giet M.
Published: February 2007

All stages of atherosclerosis have been identified as a chronic vascular inflammatory disease. In the last few years there is increasing evidence that endogenous lysophospholipids such as sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) have potent anti‐inflammatory properties. The S1P analogue FTY720 that has been developed as a potent, orally active, immunosuppressant in the field of transplantation and autoimmune disease has interesting effects on inflammatory processes in the arterial vessel wall. S1P targets five specific S1P receptors (S1P1−5), which are ubiquitously expressed. S1P1−3 receptor expression is identified in arterial vessels. S1P and FTY720 show potent silencing effects on some vascular proinflammatory mechanisms in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. In addition, the interaction of monocytes with the vessel wall is inhibited. As shown recently, FTY720 can effectively reduce the progression of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice having a high‐cholesterol diet. It is not entirely clear which S1P receptor subtype is mainly involved in this process. However, it is currently speculated that the S1P3 and probably the S1P1 is involved in the anti‐atherosclerotic effects of FTY720. This review summarizes the current knowledge about S1P‐ and FTY720‐effects on mechanisms of vascular inflammatory disease. In addition S1P receptor subtypes are identified which might be interesting for molecular drug targeting.
Sealing properties of two contemporary single‐cone obturation systems
Authors: Monticelli F. , Sword J. , Martin R. L. , Schuster G. S. , Weller R. N. , Ferrari M. , Pashley D. H. , Tay F. R.
Published: February 2007

Aim  To compare the sealing of root canals filled with two single‐cone obturation systems and a warm vertical compaction technique.

Methodology  Forty‐two single‐rooted teeth were decoronated to obtain 17‐mm‐long root segments. The root canals were cleaned and shaped to size 40, 0.06 taper and filled with: (i) warm vertical compaction with AH Plus (control); (ii) ActiV GP and (iii) GuttaFlow with single master cones. Leakage was evaluated by fluid filtration at 10 psi before root resection, and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 mm apical resections. Repeated measures anovas on ranks and Dunn's multiple comparison tests were performed to examine differences in fluid flow rates amongst different resection lengths for each filling technique. The surface and interior aspects of glass–ionomer filler‐coated ActiV GP gutta‐percha cones was evaluated with SEM.

Results  No statistical difference amongst the filling techniques was seen at 0 and 3 mm root resections. ActiV GP and GuttaFlow exhibited more leakage than AH Plus at 6, 9 and 12 mm resections. AH Plus recorded the best overall results. A nonhomogeneous coating of glass–ionomer fillers on the surface of ActiV GP cones was detected.

Conclusions  The two single‐cone techniques examined are as effective in sealing the apex as AH Plus when the latter was used with warm vertical compaction. It is further hypothesized that the inferior coronal seal of these single‐cone techniques may be improved with the placement of accessory cones to reduce sealer thickness or an immediate coronal adhesive restoration.
Measurement of pressure and flow rates during irrigation of a root canal ex vivo with three endodontic needles
Authors: Boutsioukis C. , Lambrianidis T. , Kastrinakis E. , Bekiaroglou P.
Published: February 2007

Aim  To monitor ex vivo intra‐canal irrigation with three endodontic needles (25, 27 and 30 gauge) and compare them in terms of irrigant flow rate, intra‐barrel pressure, duration of irrigation and volume of irrigant delivered.

Methodology  A testing system was constructed to allow measurement of selected variables with pressure and displacement transducers during ex vivo intra‐canal irrigation with a syringe and three different needles (groups A, B, C) into a prepared root canal. Ten specialist endodontists performed the irrigation procedure. Each operator performed ten procedures with each needle. Data recorded by the transducers were analysed using Friedman's test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, Mann–Whitney U‐test and Kendall's Tb test. The level of significance was set to 95%.

Results  Significant differences were detected among the three needles for most variables. Duration of delivery and flow rates significantly decreased as the needle diameter increased, whilst pressure increased up to 400–550 kPa. Gender of the operator had a significant impact on the results. Experience of the operators (years) were negatively correlated to volume of irrigant (all groups), to the duration of delivery (groups A, B) and to the average flow rate (group A).

Conclusions  Finer diameter needles require increased effort to deliver the irrigant and result in higher intra‐barrel pressure. The syringe and needles used tolerated the pressure developed. Irrigant flow rate should be considered as a factor directly influencing flow beyond the needle. Wide variations of flow rate were observed among operators. Syringe irrigation appears difficult to standardize and control.
Abandonment of farmland and vegetation succession following the Eurasian plague pandemic of ad 1347–52
Authors: Yeloff Dan , Van Geel Bas
Published: February 2007

Aim  This paper reviews the available documentary, archaeological and palaeoecological evidence for the abandonment of agricultural land and consequent regeneration of the forest in Europe after the Black Death.

Location  Western and northern Europe.

Methods  This review is the result of an exhaustive search of the historical, archaeological and palaeoecological literature for evidence indicating agricultural decline and forest regeneration in Eurasia during the 14th century. The available evidence for landscape change can be divided into two categories: (1) documentary and archaeological sources, and (2) palaeoecological reconstructions of past vegetation. In the past few years, several pollen diagrams from north‐west Europe have been reported with precise chronologies (decadal and even annual scale) showing the abandonment of farmland and consequent ecological change in the late medieval period.

Results and main conclusions  There is strong evidence of agricultural continuity at several sites in Western Europe at the time of the Black Death. The effects of the Black Death on the European rural landscape varied geographically, with major factors probably including the impact of the plague on the local population, and soil quality. At two sites in western and northern Ireland, the late medieval decline in cereal agriculture was probably a direct result of population reduction following the Black Death. In contrast, the decline in cereal production began at sites in Britain and France before the Black Death pandemic of ad 1347–52, and was probably due to the crisis in the agricultural economy, exacerbated by political instability and climate deterioration. Much of the abandoned arable land was probably exploited for grazing during the period between the decline in cereal farming and the Black Death. In the aftermath of the Black Death, grazing pressure was greatly reduced owing to reductions in the grazing animal population and a shortage of farmers. Vegetation succession on the abandoned grazing land resulted in increased cover of woody tree species, particularly Betula and Corylus, by the late 14th century. The cover of woodland was greatest at c.ad 1400, before forest clearance and agriculture increased in intensity.
Nurses relate the contributing factors involved in medication errors
Authors: Tang Fu‐In , Sheu Shuh‐Jen , Yu Shu , Wei Ien‐Lan , Chen Ching‐Huey
Published: February 2007

Aims and objectives.  Understanding the processes by which nurses administer medication is critical to the minimization of medication errors. This study investigates nurses’ views on the factors contributing to medication errors in the hope of facilitating improvements to medication administration processes.

Design and methods.  A focus group of nine Registered Nurses discussed medication errors with which they were familiar as a result of both their own experiences and of literature review. The group, along with other researchers, then developed a semi‐structured questionnaire consisting of three parts: narrative description of the error, the nurse's background and contributing factors. After the contributing factors had been elicited and verified with eight categories and 34 conditions, additional Registered Nurses were invited to participate by recalling one of the most significant medication errors that they had experienced and identifying contributing factors from those listed on the questionnaire. Identities of the hospital, patient and participants involved in the study remain confidential.

Results.  Of the 72 female nurses who responded, 55 (76·4%) believed more than one factor contributed to medication errors. ‘Personal neglect’ (86·1%), ‘heavy workload’ (37·5%) and ‘new staff’ (37·5%) were the three main factors in the eight categories. ‘Need to solve other problems while administering drugs,’‘advanced drug preparation without rechecking,’ and ‘new graduate’ were the top three of the 34 conditions. Medical wards (36·1%) and intensive care units (33·3%) were the two most error‐prone places. The errors common to the two were ‘wrong dose’ (36·1%) and ‘wrong drug’ (26·4%). Antibiotics (38·9%) were the most commonly misadministered drugs.

Conclusions.  Although the majority of respondents considered nurse's personal neglect as the leading factor in medication errors, analysis indicated that additional factors involving the health care system, patients’ conditions and doctors’ prescriptions all contributed to administration errors.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Identification of the main factors and conditions contributing to medication errors allows clinical nurses and administration systems to eliminate situations that promote errors and to incorporate changes that minimize them, creating a safer patient environment.
Women's conception of the menopausal transition – a qualitative study
Authors: Lindh‐Åstrand Lotta , Hoffmann Mikael , Hammar Mats , Kjellgren Karin I
Published: February 2007

Aim.  To explore, with a qualitative approach, whether the conception of menopause varies between women seeking medical advice because of climacteric symptoms and, if so, to describe these different conceptions.

Background.  For many women, the menopausal transition is a troublesome period of life, often associated with decreased well‐being and a number of symptoms. Besides the hormonal changes, many other factors such as psychological, sociological and lifestyle factors affect how women perceive their menopause.

Method.  Semi‐structured interviews were held with 20 women after their first‐time visits at outpatient clinics of gynaecology for discussion of climacteric symptoms. The interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed and analysed using a phenomenographic approach.

Results.  A wide variation of conceptions was revealed. Two main categories were identified including different physical changes with varying symptoms and both positive and negative psychological changes. The menopausal transition was also described as a natural process and as a developmental phase of life.

Conclusion.  Women's conceptions of the menopausal transition were individual and contained both physical and psychological symptoms but also expressed a more holistic view of the menopausal transition. The transition was described as a natural process affected by endocrine and life‐style factors as well as by the psychosocial situation and by ageing per se.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important that health care providers are aware of women's conceptions about the menopausal transition to be able to communicate optimally, support and empower middle‐aged women in different health care situations and thereby optimize the result of care.
Bowel function among people 75+ reporting faecal incontinence in relation to help seeking, dependency and quality of life
Authors: Stenzelius Karin , Westergren Albert , Hallberg Ingalill R
Published: February 2007

Aims and objectives.  The aim was to compare faecal incontinence and related bowel symptoms among men and women and being dependent or not (aged ≥75 years) and furthermore to identify which bowel symptoms predicted help seeking, dependency and low quality of life (QoL).

Background.  Faecal incontinence (FI) in old age is a common condition and influences daily life to a great extent, although few actually seek medical help.

Methods.  A total of 248 people with reported difficulties controlling faeces answered a postal questionnaire or were interviewed with questions about FI‐related bowel symptoms. A factor analysis resulted in four areas of bowel symptoms and was used in logistic regression with help seeking, dependency and low QoL as dependent variables.

Results.  Of all the subjects, 56·4% had leakage, 54·7% did not reach the toilet in time, 55·6% had incomplete emptying, 27·9% had hard stool, 36·8% bother from moisture from the anus, 32·2% could not withstand urgency for five minutes and 17% had red skin or wounds in the genital region. Women and those dependent were most affected. Totally 40·8% had sought help and 30·1% used protective aids. Leakage, discomfort, consistency and contractibility symptoms were the categories of bowel symptoms related to FI. Discomfort predicted help seeking (OR 3·0), dependency (OR 1·5) and physical QoL (OR 1·7). Leakage predicted help seeking (OR 1·9) but not dependency and QoL.

Conclusions.  Overall bowel function was disturbed among those with FI and unmet needs seem problematic especially for women and those needing help in Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Encouragement to seek and get medical help and to use protective aids may improve the very low quality of life in this group.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Older people with FI should be asked about, assessed for and examined for overall bowel function to get adequate treatment and be encouraged to use protection.
Health beliefs and expectations implicit in decision‐making in a Hong Kong Chinese surgical population
Authors: Henderson Amanda , Chien Wai‐Tong
Published: February 2007

Aims and objectives.  This study was undertaken to explore health beliefs and expectations implicit in decision‐making preferences of Chinese patients admitted for a surgical procedure in a regional hospital in Hong Kong.

Background.  Patient participation in decision‐making about healthcare options is presently being advocated; however, its nature is complex and inadequately explored and understood.

Method.  Twenty surgical patients, 10 who desired active participation and 10 who desired passive participation, were interviewed about their reasons for their decision‐making preference.

Results.  From thematic analysis of the interviews, ‘trust’ and ‘certainty’ emerged as important concepts. Of particular interest is how ‘certainty’ was construed differently by participants: participants who desired to be passive and have minimal participation in decision‐making did not focus on ‘certainty’ as meaning the predictability of the treatment outcome, but rather ‘certainty’ related to trust and belief in the ability of the doctor to choose the best option for them. Alternatively, participants who desired greater participation in decision‐making spoke much more about the ‘certainty’ of the treatment outcome.

Conclusions.  These findings suggest that patients’ desire for participation in decision‐making about surgery may be related to beliefs, expectations and understanding about certainty.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It could potentially benefit patients if this concept was explored further prior to patients undertaking decisions about undergoing surgery.
Health promotion for people aged over 65 years in hospitals: nurses’ perceptions about their role
Authors: Kelley Kate , Abraham Charles
Published: February 2007

Aim.  To identify nurses’ beliefs about health promotion and its delivery in routine care of people aged over 65 years.

Background.  Regardless of age, health promotion interventions can enhance health and, in general, older people are motivated to take such preventive action. The National Service Framework for Older People sets the promotion of healthy living as a standard for UK National Health Service Trusts. However, the delivery of health promotion is ‘haphazard’; patients aged over 65 years rarely report receiving health promotion, and reports from nurses suggest they are unsure how to deliver effective health promotion.

Method.  A theory‐based survey of all nurses working in a department specializing in the care of people aged over 65 years, 41% of questionnaires were returned.

Results.  The majority of nurses identified examples of health promotion and 88% judged health promotion to be effective and worthwhile. Three quarters of the sample viewed health promotion as part of their role and most of the respondents were confident in their ability to provide health promotion. However, the respondents also reported that health promotion was not appropriate for all their patients and considered it an increasingly difficult task as people got older. Organizational barriers to the routine provision of health promotion were identified.

Conclusion.  Nurses working on wards for people aged over 65 years are mostly positive about integrating health promotion into their everyday work. However, for health promotion to be routinely implemented, all nursing staff need to feel confident in undertaking the task and believe it is worthwhile. Health promotion needs to be awarded greater importance by hospital management to ensure that it does not conflict with other work priorities. Until this happens the provision of health promotion in hospitals will remain sporadic and lack conviction.

Relevance to clinical practice.  With an increasing older population nurses need to be confident and proficient at implementing health promotion to patients aged over 65 years. This survey demonstrates that nurses need more training and support to achieve this.
Automated high‐resolution three‐dimensional fluorescence imaging of large biological specimens
Authors: KAZAKIA G. J. , LEE J. J. , SINGH M. , BIGLEY R. F. , MARTIN R. B. , KEAVENY T. M.
Published: February 2007

We describe a novel automated technique for visualizing the three‐dimensional distribution of fluorochrome‐labelled components, in which image resolution is uncoupled from specimen size. This method is based on computer numerically controlled milling technology and combines an arrayed imaging technique with fluorescence capabilities. Fluorescent signals are segmented by emission spectra such that multiple fluorochromes present within a single specimen may be reconstructed and visualized individually or as a group. The automated nature of the system minimizes the workload and time involved in image capture and volume reconstruction. As an application, the system was used to image zones of fluorochrome‐labelled microdamage within an 8‐mm diameter cylinder of trabecular bone at a voxel size of 3 × 3 × 8 μm3. Our reconstruction of this specimen provides a visual map and quantitative measures of the volume of damage present throughout the cylinder, clearly demonstrating the interpretive power afforded by three‐dimensional visualization. The three‐dimensional nature of this highly automated and adaptable system has the potential to facilitate new diagnostic tools and techniques with application to a wide range of biological and medical research fields.
In situobservations of early oxide formation in steel under hot‐rolling conditions
Authors: MELFO W. M. , DIPPENAAR R. J.
Published: February 2007

A technique was developed to studyin situthe early stages of the reaction between iron and air. Using a high‐temperature microscope, we observed at temperatures between 1000°C and 1050°C and within the first 30 s of reaction, the formation of iron‐oxide layers on the surface of low‐carbon steel. We observed the nucleation and growth of a first layer of iron oxide and the consecutive formation in sequence, of higher iron oxides sweeping over the surface of the former oxide. The grain boundaries of the steel substrate remain visible for quite some time following exposure to an oxidizing atmosphere indicating that diffusion through steel grain boundaries may have a determining influence on the formation of oxides. These findings emphasize the importance of conducting further studies to better understand the kinetics and mechanisms by which iron‐oxide layers form in the early stages of oxidation.
Large‐scale expression profiling and physiological characterization of jasmonic acid‐mediated adaptation of barley to salinity stress
Authors: WALIA HARKAMAL , WILSON CLYDE , CONDAMINE PASCAL , LIU XUAN , ISMAIL ABDELBAGI M. , CLOSE TIMOTHY J.
Published: February 2007

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a salt‐tolerant member of the Triticeae. Recent transcriptome studies on salinity stress response in barley revealed regulation of jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis and JA‐responsive genes by salt stress. From that observation and several other physiological reports, it was hypothesized that JA is involved in the adaptation of barley to salt stress. Here we tested that hypothesis by applying JA to barley plants and observing the physiological responses and transcriptome changes. Photosynthetic and sodium ion accumulation responses were compared after (1) salinity stress, (2) JA treatment and (3) JA pre‐treatment followed by salinity stress. The JA‐pre‐treated salt‐stressed plants accumulated strikingly low levels of Na+ in the shoot tissue compared with untreated salt‐stressed plants after several days of exposure to stress. In addition, pre‐treatment with JA partially alleviated photosynthetic inhibition caused by salinity stress. Expression profiling after a short‐term exposure to salinity stress indicated a considerable overlap between genes regulated by salinity stress and JA application. Three JA‐regulated genes, arginine decarboxylase, ribulose 1·5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) activase and apoplastic invertase are possibly involved in salinity tolerance mediated by JA. This work provides a reference data set for further study of the role of JA in salinity tolerance in barley and other plants species.
PRECLINICAL STUDY: The effects of p‐chloroamphetamine, methamphetamine and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) on the gene expression of cytoskeletal proteins in the rat brain
Authors: Putzke Jörg , Spina Mariarosa G. , Büchler Jochen , Kovar Karl‐Artur , Wolf Gerald , Smalla Karl‐Heinz
Published: February 2007

Repeated administration of β‐phenylalkylamines is known to produce neuronal changes in the central and peripheral nervous systems of mammals. It is suggested that various components of the cytoskeleton undergo profound alterations after amphetamine use and misuse, contributing to behavioral changes and neurotoxicity. Here we studied the expression of microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2) and β‐actin after repeated intraperitoneal applications with equimolar doses of p‐chloroamphetamine (PCA), methamphetamine (METH) and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in the brain of male Wistar rats. Effective (molecular) pharmacological doses (ED) were derived and used for the calculation of (molecular) pharmacological indices (PI). Besides clear but different dose–response curves on the toxicity of the drugs, in situ hybridization and Western blot analysis revealed that repeated administration of these compounds resulted in different substance‐ and dose‐dependent changes in MAP2 gene expression, e.g. in the frontoparietal somatosensoric cortex. In contrast, the expression of β‐actin was not influenced by any of the compounds at the dose levels tested. Lethal doses were determined with 2.1 (PCA), >5.1 (METH) and 8.4 mg/kg/day (MDMA). Linear and non‐linear repeat‐dose lethality was observed for MDMA and PCA, respectively, whereas METH was non‐lethal in the dose range used. Values for EDMAP2 were 0.3, 0.52 and >16.8 mg/kg/day, and therefore those for PIMAP2 were 20, 4, and 0.5 for METH, PCA and MDMA, respectively. Although the results on mortality did not reflect changes in MAP2 gene expression, they suggest a remarkable difference for those amphetamines without substituents or with a halogen atom at the paraposition of the benzene ring, such as METH or PCA, when compared with MDMA‐like substances.
PRECLINICAL STUDY: Correlation between serum ghrelin levels and cocaine‐seeking behaviour triggered by cocaine‐associated conditioned stimuli in rats
Authors: Tessari Michela , Catalano Antonio , Pellitteri Michele , Di Francesco Carla , Marini Francesca , Gerrard Philip A. , Heidbreder Christian A. , Melotto Sergio
Published: February 2007

Ghrelin is a brain–gut peptide with growth hormone‐releasing and appetite‐inducing activities. A growing body of evidence suggests that ghrelin may affect the central reward system and modulate the activity of the mesolimbic system. Recent clinical studies also showed a significant positive correlation between plasma ghrelin levels and craving in alcoholics. Accordingly, the present study investigated the potential role of serum ghrelin levels in the reinstatement of cocaine‐seeking behaviour triggered by cocaine‐associated cues. In addition, serum corticosterone levels were determined in the light of evidence suggesting that corticosterone plays a modulatory role in cocaine‐seeking behaviour. Male Lister Hooded rats under a restricted diet regime were first trained to intravenously self‐administer cocaine under a fixed ratio‐1 schedule of reinforcement. Conditioned stimuli (CS: tone and cue‐light on for 5 seconds) were presented contingently with cocaine delivery. Once a stable baseline of cocaine self‐administration was observed, lever presses were extinguished to less than 30% of baseline rates by removing both cocaine and CS. Reinstatement of responding was then induced by re‐exposure to cocaine‐associated CS. Blood samples for the enzyme immunoassay determination of serum ghrelin and the radioimmunoassay determination of serum corticosterone levels were collected 30 minutes before the beginning of reinstatement sessions. Rats significantly reinstated their responding when exposed to CS. A positive and significant correlation was observed between ghrelin levels (r = 0.64; P < 0.05), but not corticosterone (r = 0.37; NS), and the increased active lever presses only in animals exposed to CS. These findings suggest a potential role of ghrelin in the modulation of cue‐triggered reinstatement of cocaine‐seeking behaviour.
SELF‐EXPANDABLE METALLIC STENT FOR PATIENTS WITH NON‐RESECTABLE MALIGNANT COLORECTAL STRICTURE: REVIEW OF 102 CASES IN THE JAPANESE LITERATURE
Authors: Saida Yoshihisa , Nagao Jiro , Nakamura Yasushi , Nakamura Yoichi , Katagiri Miwa , Enomoto Toshiyuki , Kusachi Shinya , Watanabe Manabu , Sumiyama Yoshinobu
Published: February 2007

Alternative procedures using endoscopy have been developed, one of which is treatment with self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMS). In Japan, as SEMS for colorectal stricture has not been approved by the public insurance system, esophageal stent is used for colon and rectum exceptionally as a colonic SEMS after obtaining informed consent from the patient. This situation is very different to other countries. In the present study, we review the Japanese medical literature to determine the current status, feasibility, and challenges remaining for SEMS to show the current status of SEMS usage for colonic strictures in Japan. We investigated SEMS for patients with non‐resectable malignant colorectal stricture in 102 Japanese case reports. Primary colorectal cancer comprised half of the cases. The insertion success rate was 100% and the clinical effectiveness rate was 93%. Restricture occurred in 12 cases (12%), and half of those cases were treated by stent in stent. Stent migration occurred in eight cases (8%) and perforation in two cases (2%). The range of SEMS insertion duration was 1 to 576 days (mean: 132 days, median 142 days). There were no deaths related to the procedure. This procedure allows patients to forgo colostomy and is cheap, safe and effective, with a short treatment time. This procedure is a viable palliative alternative to colostomy for patients with inoperative malignant colorectal stricture. Widespread application of the procedure has been hampered.
Hemangiosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma in the third eyelid of a horse
Authors: Gearhart Patricia M. , Steficek Barbara A. , Peteresen‐Jones Simon M.
Published: February 2007

A 12‐year‐old Belgian draft horse presented for a right eye third eyelid mass and red‐tinged ocular discharge of 3 months’ duration. The third eyelid was excised and submitted for histopathology. On histopathologic examination, the mass was composed of both hemangiosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The horse developed thickened eyelids and hemorrhagic ocular discharge from the right eye approximately 16 months following surgery, and was euthanized. Necropsy and histopathology confirmed local recurrence and regional metastasis of the hemangiosarcoma. This was an unusual case because there were two distinct neoplastic processes composing the same mass that could not be differentiated grossly.
Propofol modulates inner retina function in Beagles
Authors: Kommonen Bertel , Hyvätti Eira , Dawson William W.
Published: February 2007

Purpose  To further understand a common veterinary anesthetic, propofol (2,6‐ di‐isopropylphenol) and effects of infusion rates on the retinal neurons in Beagle dogs.

Methods  Standard full‐field blue xenon‐flash stimulation elicited responses of dark‐adapted eyes, which were recorded from dogs before and after a propofol infusion rate increase.

Results  Electroretinogram b‐waves increased significantly after the infusion rate increase and decreased with decline (P < 0.0001). Also, a weak significance (P = 0.041) for a‐wave peak amplitude increase was found after infusion rate increase. The initial part (first 18 ms) of the leading edge of the a‐wave remained unchanged. No significant differences in times to a‐ and b‐wave peaks were found.

Conclusion  Enhanced b‐wave response and decline is due to sensitivity of postreceptoral cells, possibly interplexiform and amacrine cells, to propofol concentration.