bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer of [Flexibacter] sancti, [Flexibacter] filiformis, [Flexibacter] japonensis and [Cytophaga] arvensicola to the genus Chitinophaga and description of Chitinophaga skermanii sp. nov.
Authors: Kämpfer Peter , Young Chiu-Chung , Sridhar K. R. , Arun A. B. , Lai Wei An , Shen Fo Ting , Rekha P. D.
Published: September 2006

Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of species currently assigned to the genus Flexibacter has shown extensive intrageneric phylogenetic heterogeneity. It has been shown in previous studies that the species [Flexibacter] sancti, [Flexibacter] filiformis and [Flexibacter] japonensis were most closely related to Chitinophaga pinensis. In addition, [Cytophaga] arvensicola and species of the genus Terrimonas also clustered into this phylogenetic group. Although the similarities of 16S rRNA gene sequences were low (88.5–96.4 %), there is no evidence for clear phenotypic differences between these organisms that justify assignment to different genera. A proposal is made to transfer these species to the genus Chitinophaga as Chitinophaga sancti comb. nov., Chitinophaga filiformis comb. nov., Chitinophaga japonenis comb. nov. and Chitinophaga arvensicola comb. nov. on the basis of phylogenetic and phenotypic data. Furthermore, a novel species is described within this genus, Chitinophaga skermanii sp. nov., with strain CC-SG1BT (=CCUG 52510T=CIP 109140T) as the type strain.
Rubritalea marina gen. nov., sp. nov., a marine representative of the phylum ‘Verrucomicrobia’, isolated from a sponge (Porifera)
Authors: Scheuermayer Matthias , Gulder Tobias A. M. , Bringmann Gerhard , Hentschel Ute
Published: September 2006

A marine bacterium, strain Pol012T, was isolated from the Mediterranean sponge Axinella polypoides and subsequently characterized as belonging to subphylum 1 of the phylum ‘Verrucomicrobia’. Strain Pol012T was non-motile, Gram-negative, coccoid or rod-shaped and red in colour. The menaquinones MK-8 and MK-9 were detected. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 50.9 mol%. Growth was possible at temperatures between 8 and 30 °C and at pH values between 6.8 and 8.2. The closest cultured relative of strain Pol012T was Akkermansia muciniphila (83 % sequence similarity), while the closest environmental 16S rRNA gene sequence was the marine clone Arctic96BD-2 (95 % sequence similarity). Strain Pol012T is the first marine pure-culture representative of ‘Verrucomicrobia’ subphylum 1 and represents a novel genus and species, for which the name Rubritalea marina gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is Pol012T (=DSM 177716T=CIP 108984T).
Pseudonocardia oroxyli sp. nov., a novel actinomycete isolated from surface-sterilized Oroxylum indicum root
Authors: Gu Qiang , Luo Hongli , Zheng Wen , Liu Zhiheng , Huang Ying
Published: September 2006

A high-G+C-content, Gram-positive bacterium, strain D10T, was isolated from the root ofOroxylum indicum, a Chinese medicinal plant. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain D10Twas a member of the genusPseudonocardiaand was most closely related, albeit loosely, toPseudonocardia halophobica. Morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics support the affiliation of strain D10Tto the genusPseudonocardia. Results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain D10Tfrom relatedPseudonocardiaspecies. Strain D10T(=CGMCC 4.3143T=DSM 44984T) therefore represents a novel species, for which the namePseudonocardia oroxylisp. nov. is proposed.
Health preferences and decision‐making needs of disadvantaged women
Authors: Bunn Helen , Lange Ilta , Urrutia Mila , Sylvia Campos Maria , Campos Solange , Jaimovich Sonia , Campos Cecilia , Jacobsen Mary Jane , Gaboury Isabelle
Published: September 2006

Aim.  This paper reports the results of a survey of disadvantaged women in La Pintana, a municipality of Santiago, Chile, to determine their health decision‐making needs.

Background.  Research is needed as there is no published community‐based study focusing specifically on health decision‐making needs of disadvantaged women.

Methods.  From April to November 1999, we conducted a cross‐sectional interview survey of women registered at primary healthcare centres in La Pintana, an impoverished municipality of Santiago, Chile.

Results.  The survey participants were 554 adult women over 15 years of age. Seventy‐five percent reported making current health‐related decisions. Types of decisions were primarily about navigation: where, when and from whom to seek care. The most common role in decision‐making was sharing the decision with others, specifically husbands and other family members. Fifty‐four percent experienced decisional conflict or uncertainty about options. Those reporting more manifestations of decisional conflict were more likely to lack information on available options, pros and cons of the options, and chances of benefits and harms associated with the options; they were also more likely to be unclear about what was important to them, to feel pressure from others, lack skill or ability in decision‐making and be older. The most common strategies used when making all types of decisions were obtaining information on options and recommendations, and getting support from others. Participants preferred to receive information about options through counselling from their physicians, rather than nurses, from printed materials and from discussion groups of people facing the same decision.

Conclusion.  The majority of disadvantaged women were actively involved in decision‐making and needed decision support to navigate the healthcare system. Nurses should play a more pivotal role in providing health decision support. This study needs to be replicated in other countries and cultural contexts.
Mucosal permeability of water‐soluble drugs in the equine jejunum: a preliminary investigation
Authors: DAVIS J. L. , LITTLE D. , BLIKSLAGER A. T. , PAPICH M. G.
Published: September 2006

Ussing chambers have been used to study the mucosal permeability of drugs in humans, rats and other species. This data can then be used to developin vitro/in vivocorrelations (IVIVC) for drugs based on the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS). Due to the poor oral bioavailability of many drugs in the horse, this method may be useful for screening drugs before development to determine if they warrant further study. Cephalexin (CPX), marbofloxacin (MAR), metronidazole (MTZ) and fluconazole (FCZ) were chosen for this study based on the wide range of physicochemical properties and bioavailability in the horse. Permeability was ranked as follows: MTZ > FCZ > MAR > CPX. This correlated with the bioavailability (R2 = 0.633447), the Log P (R2 = 0.648517), as well as the molecular weight (R2 = 0.851208) of the drugs. Metronidazole induced a decrease in the tissue transepithelial resistance, suggestive of the possibility of tissue toxicity, which may have falsely increased its permeability. The low permeability of cephalexin across the tissue may indicate a lack of active transporters that are found in other species. From this study, we can conclude that the Ussing chamber is a promising method for determining mucosal permeability in the horse.
Assessment of endothelium‐dependent vasodilation in equine digital resistance vessels
Authors: BERHANE Y. , ELLIOTT J. , BAILEY S. R.
Published: September 2006

Haemodynamic disturbances leading to ischaemia and reperfusion injury of the digit are thought to be involved in the pathophysiology of acute equine laminitis. Identification of physiological regulators of blood flow through the equine digit is important in identifying factors, which may predispose animals to laminitis. A method was developed to assess endothelium‐dependent responses of the isolated Krebs‐perfused equine digit by co‐administration of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) with vasodilator agents, carbachol (CCh), bradykinin (BK) and substance P (SP). Bolus co‐administration of CCh (0.02–2 μmol), BK and SP (0.02–0.2 nmol), caused inhibition of the 5‐HT pressor response by 50–60%. The vasodilator responses were abolished by the detergent, CHAPS, indicating endothelium dependency; whereas vasoconstrictor responses to 5‐HT were potentiated. CCh‐induced relaxation was significantly reduced by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitorl‐NAME (79.7 ± 3.4% inhibition), whereas a large proportion of BK and SP‐induced relaxation remained (34.1 ± 6.3% and 33.6 ± 5.3% inhibition).l‐NAME potentiated vasoconstrictor responses to 5‐HT. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that endothelium‐derived NO modulates the response to vasoconstrictors such as 5‐HT and is likely to be an important regulator of blood flow in the digital resistance vascular bed. Other factor(s) released by the endothelium are also important in regulating blood flow, whose identity remains to be established.
Pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin in Korean catfish (Silurus asotus)
Authors: KIM M.‐S. , LIM J.‐H. , PARK B.‐K. , HWANG Y.‐H. , YUN H.‐I.
Published: September 2006

The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profile of enrofloxacin and its active metabolite, ciprofloxacin, in Korean catfish after intravenous and oral administrations. Enrofloxacin was administered to Korean catfish by a single intravenous and oral administrations at the dose of 10 mg/kg body weight. The plasma concentrations from intravenous and oral administrations of enrofloxacin were determined by LC/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters from both routes were described to have a two‐compartmental model. After intravenous and oral administrations of enrofloxacin, the elimination half‐lives (t1/2,β), area under the drug concentration–time curves (AUC), oral bioavailability (F) were 17.44 ± 4.66 h and 34.13 ± 11.50 h, 48.1 ± 15.7 μg·h/mL and 27.3 ± 12.4 μg·h/mL, and 64.59 ± 4.58% respectively. The 3.44 ± 0.81 h maximum concentration (Cmax) of 1.2 ± 0.2 μg/mL. Ciprofloxacin, an active metabolite of enrofloxacin, was detected at all the determined time‐points from 0.25 to 72 h, with theCmaxof 0.17 ± 0.08 μg/mL for intravenous dose. After oral administration, ciprofloxacin was detected at all the time‐points except 0.25 h, with theCmaxof 0.03 ± 0.01 μg/mL at 6.67 ± 2.31 h. Ciprofloxacin was eliminated with terminal half‐lifet1/2,βof 52.08 ± 17.34 h for intravenous administration and 52.43 ± 22.37 h for oral administration.
Interspecies allometric scaling: prediction of clearance in large animal species: Part II: mathematical considerations
Authors: MARTINEZ M. , MAHMOOD I. , HUNTER R. P.
Published: September 2006

Interspecies scaling is a useful tool for the prediction of pharmacokinetic parameters from animals to humans, and it is often used for estimating a first‐time in human dose. However, it is important to appreciate the mathematical underpinnings of this scaling procedure when using it to predict pharmacokinetic parameter values across animal species. When cautiously applied, allometry can be a tool for estimating clearance in veterinary species for the purpose of dosage selection. It is particularly valuable during the selection of dosages in large zoo animal species, such as elephants, large cats and camels, for which pharmacokinetic data are scant. In Part I, allometric predictions of clearance in large animal species were found to pose substantially greater risks of inaccuracies when compared with that observed for humans. In this report, we examine the factors influencing the accuracy of our clearance estimates from the perspective of the relationship between prediction error and such variables as the distribution of body weight values used in the regression analysis, the influence of a particular observation on the clearance estimate, and the ‘goodness of fit’ (R2) of the regression line. Ultimately, these considerations are used to generate recommendations regarding the data to be included in the allometric prediction of clearance in large animal species.
Elevation and connectivity define genetic refugia for mountain sheep as climate warms
Authors: EPPS CLINTON W. , PALSBØLL PER J. , WEHAUSEN JOHN D. , RODERICK GEORGE K. , MCCULLOUGH DALE R.
Published: September 2006

Global warming is predicted to affect the evolutionary potential of natural populations. We assessed genetic diversity of 25 populations of desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) in southeastern California, where temperatures have increased and precipitation has decreased during the 20th century. Populations in low‐elevation habitats had lower genetic diversity, presumably reflecting more fluctuations in population sizes and founder effects. Higher‐elevation habitats acted as reservoirs of genetic diversity. However, genetic diversity was also affected by population connectivity, which has been disrupted by human development. Restoring population connectivity may be necessary to buffer the effects of climate change on this desert‐adapted ungulate.
Antifungal efficacy and pharmacodynamics of posaconazole in experimental models of invasive fungal infections
Authors: Groll Andreas H. , Walsh Thomas J.
Published: September 2006

Posaconazole is a novel lipophilic antifungal triazole with potent and broad‐spectrum activity against opportunistic, endemic and dermatophytic fungi. This activity extends to organisms that are often refractory to existing triazoles, amphotericin B or echinocandins such as Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Aspergillus terreus, Fusarium spp. and the Zygomycetes. A large number of experimental animal models of invasive fungal infections has demonstrated the potent and broad‐spectrum efficacy of posaconazole in vivo, both in normal and in immunocompromised animals. Consistent with these preclinical data, posaconazole showed strong a antifungal efficacy in phase II and phase III clinical trials in immunocompromised patients with oropharyngeal and oesophageal candidiasis and as salvage therapy in patients with invasive fungal infections, and was effective as antifungal prophylaxis in high‐risk patients. This paper reviews the preclinical disposition, antifungal efficacy and pharmacodynamics of posaconazole in and its implications for treatment and prevention of invasive fungal infections.
Rhinocerebral zygomycosis in a young girl undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation for severe aplastic anaemia
Authors: Sörensen Jan , Becker Martina , Porto Luciana , Lambrecht Evelyn , Schuster Tobias , Beske Florian , Rickerts Volker , Klingebiel Thomas , Lehrnbecher Thomas
Published: September 2006

We report on a 10‐year‐old girl with severe aplastic anaemia who developed rhinocerebral infection caused by Absidia corymbifera and a possible co‐infection caused by Alternaria alternata. Despite prolonged neutropenia, therapy with liposomal amphotericin B and posaconazole improved the clinical condition. Subsequently, the girl underwent allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for the underlying disease, but the fungal infection remained under control with the antifungal treatment. No severe side effect of the antifungal drugs was noted. Unfortunately, the girl died 5 months after HSCT due to disseminated adenovirus infection.
Troglitazone inhibits synthesis of transforming growth factor‐β1 and reduces matrix production in human peritoneal mesothelial cells
Authors: PENG YOUMING , LIU HONG , LIU FUYOU , LIU YINGHONG , LI JUN , CHEN XING
Published: September 2006

Aim:  Peritoneal matrix accumulation is a characteristic of peritoneal fibrosis (PF). Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients with up‐regulation of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) in their drained effluent show an increased risk of PF. Inhibition of TGF‐β1 expression in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) may provide a potential treatment for PF. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ) agonists are increasingly used in patients with diabetes, but their effects on extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover are unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of the PPAR‐γ agonist troglitazone on TGF‐β1 expression and matrix production in HPMC.

Methods:  Human peritoneal mesothelial cells were cultured from human omentum by an enzyme digestion method, grown in a medium containing 30 mmol/L D‐glucose. TGF‐β1 expression and matrix production and turnover were measured in HPMC in the presence and absence of 15 µmol/L troglitazone. The mRNA expressions of TGF‐β1, Collagen I (Col I) and fibronectin (FN) were determined by semiquantification reverse‐transcriptive polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The protein of TGF‐β1 was determined by ELISA and proteins of Col I, FN were determined by western blot.

Results:  The mRNA expression and protein of TGF‐β1, Col I, FN were significantly increased in HPMC stimulated with 30 mmol/L D‐glucose compared to the control group with F12 media (P < 0.01), which was reversed in the presence of troglitazone (15 µmol/L). Obvious decrease of TGF‐β1 was found in troglitazone‐treated groups as compared to groups stimulated with GS (P < 0.05). Exposure of HPMC to troglitazone reduced collagen I secretion (P < 0.05), and fibronectin secretion (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Troglitazone reduce the expression of TGF‐β1 in HPMC stimulated by 30 mmol/L D‐glucose, and reduces ECM production. These studies suggest that the PPAR‐γ agonists may have a specific role in ameliorating the course of progressive peritoneal fibrosis under long‐term peritoneal dialysis states.
Knowledge and attitude towards suicide among medical students in Japan: Preliminary study
Authors: SATO RYOKO , KAWANISHI CHIAKI , YAMADA TOMOKI , HASEGAWA HANA , IKEDA HARUKA , KATO DAIJI , FURUNO TAKU , KISHIDA IKUKO , HIRAYASU YOSHIO
Published: September 2006

Abstract  Japan has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Suicides numbered 32 863 in 1998 and have exceeded 30 000 in every subsequent year. Education of those involved in general and psychosocial patient care can contribute greatly to suicide prevention. The authors administered a brief knowledge and attitude assessment questionnaire concerning suicide to students in their first, third, and fifth years at a Japanese medical school. Participants numbered 160 (94 men with a mean age of 21.8 years, SD = 3.01, and 66 women with a mean age of 21.2 years, SD = 2.64); 59 first year, 52 third year, and 49 in their fifth year. The questionnaire consists of eight multiple‐choice questions asking knowledge of suicide and one open‐ended question asking attitude. In the knowledge part, only about half of the items were answered correctly (mean score was 4.21, SD = 1.28). A significant difference was observed in prevalence of attitudes as categorical variables between student years (P = 0.001). Sympathetic comments increased along with student years, while critical comments decreased. Given the frequent and interventional opportunities of primary‐care medical contacts, poor understanding of suicide from the medical viewpoint was of concern. Moreover, judgmental attitudes were common, especially in earlier school years. Better informed, more understanding physicians and other health professionals could contribute greatly to prevention.
Study of stress and vulnerability in patients with somatoform and dissociative disorders in a psychiatric clinic in North India
Authors: IRPATI ANAND S. , AVASTHI AJIT , SHARAN PRATAP
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The authors compared perceived stress in subgroups of patients defined by vulnerability (high and low) and disorder (somatoform and dissociative). A total of 30 patients each of somatoform and dissociative disorders diagnosed according to the classification of mental and behavioral disorders criteria were assessed with Presumptive Stressful Life Event Scale, The Hassles Scale, Psychoticism Extraversion Neuroticism Inventory, Dissociative Experience Scale, Twenty‐Item Toronto Alexithyma Scale, and Illness Behavior Questionnaire. Somatoform and dissociative disorder groups had comparable scores on measures of perceived stress and vulnerability. Two‐way anova showed significant main effect of neuroticism (F = 13.65, d.f. = 1.56, P < 0.01), psychoticism (F = 7.92, d.f. = 1.56, P < 0.01), illness behavior (F = 5.82, d.f. = 1.56, P < 0.05), and dissociative experience (F = 8.45, d.f. = 1.56, P < 0.01) on total hassles score, but no significant main effect of disorder groups or interaction effect for disorder and vulnerability was seen on total hassles score. No significant main or interaction effect was seen on life events score. Similarities were seen in stress and vulnerability factors in the two disorders. Neuroticism, psychoticism, dissociative experience, and abnormal illness behavior were significantly related to stress (daily hassles) perceived by the patient, irrespective of the disorder.
Efficacy of milnacipran on cognitive dysfunction with post‐stroke depression: Preliminary open‐label study
Authors: SATO SHINJI , YAMAKAWA YURIKO , TERASHIMA YASUSHI , OHTA HITOSHI , ASADA TAKASHI
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of the serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), milnacipran, on both cognitive impairment and depression in post‐stroke depression (PSD) patients. A total of 18 PSD patients, approximately 3 months after stroke, were divided into two groups, milnacipran and control. A total of 10 patients were assigned to the milnaciprane group and eight were assigned to control group. Their cognitive impairment and mood symptoms were measured using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM‐D) both at the time of admission and at discharge, an interval of approximately 3 months. This study examined the changes in both MMSE and HAM‐D scores during the study period. A significant time‐by‐group interaction for results of the MMSE was observed, although there was no significant difference between the two groups on the HAM‐D. Amelioration of cognitive impairment was greater in the milnacipran group than the control group. For PSD patients, milnacipran is effective in improving cognitive dysfunction.
Clinical application of paroxetine for tapering benzodiazepine use in non‐major‐depressive outpatients visiting an internal medicine clinic
Authors: NAKAO MUTSUHIRO , TAKEUCHI TAKEAKI , NOMURA KYOKO , TERAMOTO TAMIO , YANO EIJI
Published: September 2006

Abstract  Chronic benzodiazepine (BDZ) users often have difficulty with BDZ withdrawal. To examine clinical effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) on tapering BDZ use in non‐depressive patients, 97 outpatients with a history of BDZ use for at least 3 months were recruited at an internal medicine clinic of a university hospital. After the 4th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM‐IV) clinical interviews for screening major depression, 66 outpatients (68%) without the DSM‐IV major depression were randomly assigned to one of three groups: SSRI‐assisted BDZ‐reduction group (10–20 mg of paroxetine, n = 22), simple BDZ‐reduction group (no paroxetine, n = 23), and reference group (no BDZ‐reduction, n = 21). A standardized 8‐week program involving gradual BDZ discontinuation was performed in the two BDZ‐reduction groups. The Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression (HAM‐D) and Anxiety (HAM‐A) and the BDZ Withdrawal Symptom Questionnaire were assessed during the intervention period. Those with major depression were excluded from the BDZ‐reduction intervention and treated with a different protocol of medication. In total, 10 (45.5%) in the SSRI‐assisted BDZ‐reduction group (n = 22) succeeded in becoming BDZ‐free after completing the program, whereas only four (17.4%) in the simple BDZ‐reduction group (n = 23) succeeded. The assistance of the SSRI significantly predicted the success of becoming BDZ‐free (P = 0.023), controlling for the effects of age, gender, period of BDZ use, and baseline HAM‐D and HAM‐A scores. The score changes on the three questionnaires were comparable (all P > 0.05) among the three groups during the intervention period. The use of SSRI may have beneficial effects on BDZ withdrawal without the worsening of mood states in cases without major depression.
Clinical features of soft bipolarity in major depressive inpatients
Authors: UTSUMI TAKESHI , SASAKI TSUKASA , SHIMADA IWAO , MABUCHI MAYUKO , MOTONAGA TAKURO , OHTANI TOSHIYUKI , TOCHIGI MAMORU , KATO NOBUMASA , NANKO SHINICHIRO
Published: September 2006

Abstract  Because of the difficulties of ascertaining episode of hypomania by past history of the patients, it is of clinical value to find variables which predict the development of bipolar II disorder in depressive patients. Taking advantage of relatively long hospitalization, the authors tried to elucidate fine clinical features of the soft bipolarity. The subjects were 39 patients with Major Depressive Episode, diagnosed according to the 4th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual criteria. Among them, 15 patients were diagnosed as bipolar II disorder (BPII), whereas 24 patients were with unipolar depression (UP), using a structured clinical interview to assess the mood spectrum (SCI‐MOODS). In addition to ordinary clinical and demographic variables, the authors studied fine symptomatology of depression, premorbid personality, and interpersonal relationship. Continuous variables were analyzed by t‐test. Categorical variables were tested by χ2 analysis. In terms of premorbid personality, manic type (Zerssen) was found more frequently in BPII (UP 2/24, BPII 9/15, P < 0.05). Patients with BPII tended to show apparently quick disappearance of depressive symptoms (UP 2/24, BPII 9/15, P = 0.01). The most prominent result was a high prevalence of comorbidity of borderline personality disorder (BPD) among BPII (UP 0/24, BPII 6/15, P = 0.02). As Akiskal indicated that mood lability represents the most powerful predictor of hypomanias, patients with BPII showed quick response in mood to admission. The current subjects with BPII had high frequency of manic type of premorbid personality, indicating the usefulness of this variable for the prediction of hypomanias. Finally, the authors could observe development of BPD during hospitalization exclusively among BPII, to support the possibility of BPD as a state effect of BPII.
Over‐expression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α increases the invasive potency of LNCaP cells in vitro
Authors: Luo Yong , He Da‐Lin , Ning Liang , Shen Shu‐Lin , Li Lei , Li Xiang , Zhau Haiyen E. , Chung Leland W.K.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) over‐expression on the invasion‐associated proteins in human prostate cancer cells, as HIF‐1α is a transcriptional factor that could activate genes involved in the response to hypoxia, but might also enhance the invasive potency of prostate cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prostate cancer (LNCaP) cells were transfected with recombinant plasmid pcDNA3.1(–)/HIF‐1α and pcDNA3.1(–) control vector using a commercial system, designated as LNCaP/HIF‐1α and LNCaP/pcDNA3.1, respectively. The positive clones were selected with G418 and confirmed by Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence labelling. A polycarbonate filter, coated with a matrix gel, was used to analyse the invasive potency. The expression of E‐cadherin, vimentin, cathepsin D, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP2) and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) was detected by Western blot.

RESULTS

The expression level of HIF‐1α in LNCaP/HIF‐1α was distinctly higher than that in LNCaP/pcDNA3.1 and LNCaP. Many more cells of LNCaP/HIF‐1α penetrated through the polycarbonate filter than those of LNCaP/pcDNA3.1 and LNCaP. Compared with the LNCaP/pcDNA3.1 and LNCaP cells, the expression of vimentin, cathepsin D, MMP‐2 and uPAR were up‐regulated in LNCaP/HIF‐1α, whereas the expression of E‐cadherin was down‐regulated.

CONCLUSION

These results show that over‐expression of HIF‐1α directly stimulates the invasive potency of human prostate carcinoma LNCaP cells through the matrix gel. The expression of E‐cadherin, vimentin, cathepsin D, MMP‐2 and uPAR, which are proteins with established roles in the pathophysiology of invasion, could be regulated by HIF‐1α in human prostate cancer cells.
Management of incidental impalpable intratesticular masses of ≤ 5 mm in diameter
Authors: Müller Tilko , Gozzi Christian , Akkad Thomas , Pallwein Leo , Bartsch Georg , Steiner Hannes
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To gain more insight into the histology of small incidental intratesticular lesions and evaluate the need for surgical management, as exploratory surgery is the only way to exclude malignancy in testicular tumours.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between September 2000 and April 2005, incidental intratesticular masses of ≤ 5 mm in diameter were found in 20 men undergoing scrotal ultrasonography for reasons other than suspected testicular tumour. After staging, an organ‐sparing approach including frozen‐section analysis was used to obtain histological data.

RESULTS

The mean diameter of the detected tumour masses was 3.5 mm, and the mean (range) age of the patients was 36.4 (26–58) years. Four men (20%) had orchidectomy because the tumours were found to be malignant; the resected specimens yielded multifocal testicular intraepithelial neoplasia (TIN) in all patients and additional seminomatous tumour cells elsewhere in the testis in one. Frozen‐section results were false‐negative in one patient and he had orchidectomy after having established the definitive histological diagnosis. The 16 patients with benign lesions were correctly diagnosed and their testicles were not removed.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced and innovative ultrasonography technology allows the detection of increasingly small testicular masses. In the present series, most incidental intratesticular lesions were benign. In patients with malignant lesions, multifocal TIN and/or distant seminomatous foci were present despite the tumour being small. Therefore, it is essential to perform exploratory surgery as it is the only way to obtain accurate histological findings, thus providing oncological efficacy and precluding removal of a testicle bearing a benign lesion.
Pre‐clinical evidence for the use of phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Tinel Hanna , Stelte‐Ludwig Beatrix , Hütter Joachim , Sandner Peter
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential of sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil, all phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE‐5) inhibitors used for treating erectile dysfunction, for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mRNA expression of the PDE‐5 was determined in rat LUT tissues. The PDE‐5 inhibitors were also tested in organ‐bath experiments and in a partial bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) rat model in vivo.

RESULTS

The highest PDE‐5 mRNA expression was in the bladder, followed by the urethra and prostate. PDE‐5 inhibitors dose‐dependently reduced the contraction of the isolated bladder, urethral and prostate strips. The rank order of potency was vardenafil > sildenafil > tadalafil. In human prostate stromal cells vardenafil inhibited cell proliferation and was more effective than tadalafil and sildenafil. In the BOO model, there was a reduction in the non‐voiding contractions after bolus intravenous administration of 3 mg/kg sildenafil and vardenafil.

CONCLUSION

These results show that PDE‐5 is expressed in LUT tissues. PDE‐5 inhibitors induced significant relaxation of these tissues, inhibited the proliferation of human prostate stromal cells and reduced the irritative symptoms of BPH/LUTS in vivo. Therefore, PDE‐5 inhibitors could be used as an effective treatment for BPH/LUTS.
Economic Integration of Yunnan with the Greater Mekong Subregion*
Authors: Poncet Sandra
Published: September 2006

This paper examines the process of economic integration between the Chinese province of Yunnan and its riparian areas of the Mekong region. The gravity model of trade is used to investigate the evolution of Yunnan's international trade integration between 1988 and 1999. Although Greater Mekong Subregion cooperation efforts have had a positive effect on trade, trade has progressively decreased from an above‐standard level to a normal level, according to the gravity model of trade. During this process, Yunnan's trade has increased with other countries such as Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. This evolution is in line with Yunnan's development and indicates a progressive re‐orientation of its trade toward more developed partners. The results suggest that the Mekong cooperation project has to broaden its perspective, taking into consideration Yunnan's expanding trade relations with countries outside the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Third‐party effects of water trading and potential policy responses*
Authors: Heaney Anna , Dwyer Gavan , Beare Stephen , Peterson Deborah , Pechey Lili
Published: September 2006

A key feature of water policy reform in Australia has been the separation of water access entitlements from land titles and the establishment of markets for water. However, the separation of water entitlements from land failed to account for a number of characteristics that were implicit in the joint right. This has given rise to a number of third party effects as water is traded in an incomplete market. This paper describes four third‐party effects of water trade; reliability of supply, timeliness of delivery, storage and delivery charges, and water quality and examines policy responses to address these effects. The discussion draws on the concepts of exclusiveness and rivalry to determine the applicability of property rights and other solutions to the third‐party effects of trade. It is likely that many of the third‐party effects of trade discussed in this paper do not warrant policy intervention at the national or state level, but intervention at the local level may be warranted. The costs of addressing some third‐party effects may outweigh the benefits. Where there are significant gains from trade, the existence of these third‐party effects should not been seen as a reason to impede trade.
Repurchase of renewal rights: a policy option for the National Water Initiative*
Authors: Quiggin John
Published: September 2006

Management of the Murray–Darling river system involves a large number of users with imprecisely defined rights, and an aggregate rate of resource use that is environmentally unsustainable. One possible policy response is to make formal or informal contracts with users, under which users receive current benefits in return for a commitment to forgo usage rights in future. In this paper, this issue is explored with specific reference to the possibility of repurchasing the renewal rights for irrigation licenses.
Water policy reform in Australia: lessons from the Victorian seasonal water market*
Authors: Brennan Donna
Published: September 2006

The nature of the seasonal water market is examined using a theoretical model and empirical evidence from the Victorian market. Drivers of the seasonal opportunity cost of water include the underlying nature of investment in the industry made in the context of risky entitlement yields; and the timing and nature of information regarding seasonal water availability and rainfall. Seasonal water markets facilitate the re‐allocation of water availability according to this short‐run opportunity cost. Evidence from the market suggests that transactions costs are low and most of the existing constraints to trade in seasonal allocations are the result of hydrological conditions. Analysis of market data suggests that the price response of the market to water availability is much more pronounced in years of low rainfall. The implications of the paper for wider policy reform are that attention should be paid to improving property rights for the management of intertemporal risk before other reforms, such as broadening of permanent water markets and institutionalising environmental flows, are implemented. This is because these other reforms will change the spatial and temporal pattern of water use and thus affect reliability, which underpins the value of water in irrigated agriculture.
QUANTUM REALITY, THE EMERGENCE OF COMPLEX ORDER FROM VIRTUAL STATES, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE UNIVERSE
Authors: Schäfer Lothar
Published: September 2006

Abstract. I review some characteristic aspects of quantum reality and make the connection to Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's vision and a generally new quantum perspective of biological evolution. The quantum phenomena make it possible to conclude that the basis of the material world is nonmaterial; that the nature of reality is that of an indivisible wholeness; and that elementary particles possess aspects of consciousness in a rudimentary way. The quantum perspective of evolution makes it possible to conclude that the emergence of complex order in the biosphere is not from nothing (ex nihilo) but by the actualization of virtual quantum states—that is, by actualizing empty states which are part of the mathematical structure of material systems, representing a logical order that is not real in a material sense but, predetermined by system conditions, has the potential to become real in quantum jumps. I show how the existence of virtual states makes it possible to suggest that a transcendent reality underlies the visible order of the world and is immanent to it; and constantly new forms evolve from it.
QUANTUM INTERACTIVE DUALISM: AN ALTERNATIVE TO MATERIALISM
Authors: Stapp Henry P.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. René Descartes proposed an interactive dualism that posits an interaction between the mind of a human being and some of the matter in his or her brain. However, the classical physical theories that reigned during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries are based exclusively on the material/physical part of Descartes' ontology, and they purport to give, in principle, a completely deterministic account of the physically described properties of nature, expressed exclusively in terms of these physically described properties themselves. Orthodox contemporary physical theory violates this condition in two separate ways. First, it injects random elements into the dynamics. Second, it requires psychophysical events, called Process 1 interventions by John von Neumann. Neither the content nor the timing of these events is determined, even statistically, by any known law. Orthodox quantum mechanics considers these events to be instigated by choices made by conscious agents. This quantum conception of the mind‐brain connection allows many psychological and neuropsychological findings associated with the apparent physical effectiveness of our conscious volitional efforts to be explained in a causal and practically useful way. According to this quantum approach, conscious human beings are invested with degrees of freedom denied to the mechanistic automatons to which classical physics reduced us.
SPIRIT AND CREATION
Authors: Bonting Sjoerd L.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. The theology of the Third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, is not only a rather neglected but also a very diffuse subject. The neglect stems from the priority that was given in the early centuries to Christology. The diffuseness of pneumatology may well be a result of the bewildering variety of ways in which “spirit” or “Spirit” (Hebrew ruach, Greek pneuma) appears in the Bible. I attempt to bring the various activities ascribed to the Spirit under one heading, transmission of information, and then to see what can be learned from modern science about the role of the Spirit in creation. I suggest a distinct role of the Spirit in creation, jointly with but different from that of the Logos. Other occasions of a concerted action of Spirit and Logos are seen in the birth of Christ and the eschatological event. All of this leads to a trinitarian definition of creation.
KANT ON RELIGION AND SCIENCE: INDEPENDENCE OR INTEGRATION?
Authors: McGaughey Douglas R.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. Immanuel Kant's theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge tempt conclusion that natural science and religion are two independent discourses of a dualistic system. To be sure, knowledge is anchored in two kinds of causality. Theoretical knowledge is governed by physical causality. Practical knowledge is concerned with the human capacity to initiate a sequence of events that nature could not accomplish on its own—although in conformity with, not independent of, natural causality. Furthermore, the two realms presuppose a common totality of order not of humanity's creation. Without these presuppositions, we could not experience the world as we do, and it would never occur to us to engage in a scientific investigation of the natural world. Hence, we should first exhaust our attempts at explanation on the basis of physical causality before turning to the aid of teleology. The anomalous becomes an occasion to seek a physical law not yet known whereas the miraculous hinders search for a natural law. However, higher than knowledge of “what is” is our capacity to discern “what should be.” This is an inclusive moral capacity that establishes what it means to be human and unites all moral agents in an invisible kingdom of ends that constitutes a moral culture in the physical world uniting religion and science.
THE EVOLUTIONARY BASIS OF RELIGIOUS ETHICS
Authors: Teehan John
Published: September 2006

Abstract. I propose that religious ethical traditions can be understood as cultural expressions of underlying evolutionary processes. I begin with a discussion of evolutionary theories of morality, specifically kin selection and reciprocal altruism, and then discuss some recent work on the evolution of religion, setting out those features of religion that prepare it to take on a moral function in society. Having established the theoretical framework for the thesis, I turn to a close reading of early Jewish and Christian ethical teachings, as found in the Bible, in order to set out preliminary support for the proposal. My goal is to argue for the plausibility of the thesis and to indicate how, if correct, it provides new insight into Judeo‐Christian moral traditions and into the phenomenon of religious violence. Such an approach to religious ethics has important metaethical implications. In the last section I consider issues such as the foundation of ethics and the possibilities and limitations of a secular ethics.
Impact of an exceptional winter flood on the population dynamics of bearded tits (Panurus biarmicus)
Authors: Wilson J. , Peach W.
Published: September 2006

Mark–recapture data are used to investigate the impact of an exceptional winter flood on the population dynamics of an isolated bearded tit Panurus biarmicus population in north‐west England. Adult numbers increased threefold (from 60 to 180 individuals) between 1992 and 2000, but declined by 94% during 2000/2001. This large reduction in numbers was caused by severe over‐winter mortality associated with a prolonged flood of the Phragmites litter layer, the main winter foraging habitat of bearded tits, followed immediately by cold weather. At the end of the flood, bearded tits were 20% lighter than during previous winters. Population changes in other years were accurately predicted by annual variation in recruitment, and there was evidence that recruitment was higher following the introduction of artificial nest boxes and was density dependent. This study highlights the potential threat to bearded tits in Europe of predicted increases in the frequency and extent of winter flooding, and the potential utility of measures like artificial nest boxes that aim to promote recruitment. Recent extensions of methodology now permit a detailed exploration of animal population dynamics from mark–recapture data alone.
MtDNA diversity of the critically endangered Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas Chevey, 1913) and closely related species: implications for conservation
Authors: Na‐Nakorn U. , Sukmanomon S. , Nakajima M. , Taniguchi N. , Kamonrat W. , Poompuang S. , Nguyen T. T. T.
Published: September 2006

Catfishes of the family Pangasiidae are an important group that contributes significantly to the fisheries of the Mekong River basin. In recent times the populations of several catfish species have declined, thought to be due to overfishing and habitat changes brought about by anthropogenic influences. The Mekong giant catfish Pangasianodon gigas Chevey, 1913 is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. In the present study, we assessed the level of genetic diversity of nine catfish species using sequences of the large subunit of mitochondrial DNA (16S rRNA). Approximately 570 base pairs (bp) were sequenced from 672 individuals of nine species. In all species studied, haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity ranged from 0.118±0.101 to 0.667±0.141 and from 0.0002±0.0003 to 0.0016±0.0013, respectively. Four haplotypes were detected among 16 samples from natural populations of the critically endangered Mekong giant catfish. The results, in spite of the limited sample size for some species investigated, indicated that the level of genetic variation observed in wild populations of the Mekong giant catfish (haplotype diversity=0.350±0.148, nucleotide diversity=0.0009±0.0008) is commensurate with that of some other related species. This finding indicates that (1) wild populations of the Mekong giant catfish might be more robust than currently thought or (2) present wild populations of this species carry a genetic signature of the historically larger population(s). Findings from this study also have important implications for conservation of the Mekong giant catfish, especially in designing and implementing artificial breeding programme for restocking purposes.
Iron chelators may help prevent photoaging
Authors: Kitazawa M , Iwasaki K , Sakamoto K
Published: September 2006

For years, cosmetic ingredients for anti‐aging treatments have attracted consumers. Skin aging is accelerated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated by exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR), in a process known as photoaging. Because cutaneous iron catalyses ROS generation, it is thought to play a key role in photoaging. Iron is essential to almost all forms of life. However, excess iron is potentially toxic as its catalytic activity induces the generation of ROS. Iron‐catalysed ROS generation is involved in numerous pathological conditions, including cutaneous damage.

When skin is directly exposed to UVR, cutaneous intracellular catalytic iron levels increase because of the release of iron from iron‐binding proteins such as ferritin. Consequently, the subsequent ROS generation may overwhelm cutaneous defense systems such as the cellular iron sequestration and ROS scavenging capacity.

The harmful role of excess cutaneous iron implies that there may be a potential for topical iron chelator treatments. We now consider cutaneous photodamage skin photoaging as the result of iron‐catalysed ROS generation and discuss preventative strategies based on iron chelators.
Local Concerns: Suicide and Jury Behavior in Medieval England
Authors: Butler Sara M.
Published: September 2006

When confronted with cases of self‐killing, medieval jurors had to contend with a vast array of often conflicting concerns, from religious and folkloric condemnations of the act of suicide, to fears for the welfare of the family of the dead, and to coping with royal confiscations of a felon's goods. All of these factors had a profound impact on the verdicts put forward by members of the jury during the various stages of the legal process. While these elements form the base of jury verdicts relating to self‐killings, it must nevertheless be acknowledged that medieval juries did not respond uniformly to cases of suicide. Rather, jurors at various stages of the process differed widely in their familiarity with the dead and this familiarity had an impact on their judgments. Members of the coroners’ inquest juries were often neighbors of the dead, and thus their verdicts reflected a more local resolution to the death of a community member than the verdicts of presentment or trial juries.