bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FourU: a novel type of RNA thermometer in Salmonella
Authors: Waldminghaus Torsten , Heidrich Nadja , Brantl Sabine , Narberhaus Franz
Published: July 2007

The translation of many heat shock and virulence genes is controlled by RNA thermometers. Usually, they are located in the 5′‐untranslated region (5′‐UTR) and block the Shine‐Dalgarno (SD) sequence by base pairing. Destabilization of the structure at elevated temperature permits ribosome binding and translation initiation. We have identified a new type of RNA thermometer in the 5′‐UTR of the Salmonella agsA gene, which codes for a small heat shock protein. Transcription of the agsA gene is controlled by the alternative sigma factor σ32. Additional translational control depends on a stretch of four uridines that pair with the SD sequence. Mutations in this region affect translation in vivo. Structure probing experiments demonstrate a temperature‐controlled opening of the SD region in vitro. Toeprinting (primer extension inhibition) shows that ribosome binding is dependent on high temperatures. Together with a postulated RNA thermometer upstream of the Yersinia pestis virulence gene lcrF (virF), the 5′‐UTR of Salmonella agsA might be the founding member of a new class of RNA thermometers that we propose to name ‘fourU’ thermometers.
The response regulator SsrB activates expression of diverse Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 promoters and counters silencing by the nucleoid‐associated protein H‐NS
Authors: Walthers Don , Carroll Ronan K. , Navarre William Wiley , Libby Stephen J. , Fang Ferric C. , Kenney Linda J.
Published: July 2007

The two‐component system SsrA–SsrB activates expression of a type III secretion system required for replication in macrophages and systemic infection in mice. Here we characterize the SsrB‐dependent regulation of genes within Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 (SPI‐2). Primer extension and DNase I footprinting identified multiple SsrB‐regulated promoters within SPI‐2 located upstream of ssaB, sseA, ssaG and ssaM. We previously demonstrated that ssrA and ssrB transcription is uncoupled. Overexpression of SsrB in the absence of its cognate kinase, SsrA, is sufficient to activate SPI‐2 transcription. Because SsrB requires phosphorylation to relieve inhibitory contacts that occlude its DNA‐binding domain, additional components must phosphorylate SsrB. SPI‐2 promoters examined in single copy were highly SsrB‐dependent, activated during growth in macrophages and induced by acidic pH. The nucleoid structuring protein H‐NS represses horizontally acquired genes; we confirmed that H‐NS is a negative regulator of SPI‐2 gene expression. In the absence of H‐NS, the requirement for SsrB in activating SPI‐2 genes is substantially reduced, suggesting a role for SsrB in countering H‐NS silencing. SsrB activates transcription of multiple operons within SPI‐2 by binding to degenerate DNA targets at diversely organized promoters. SsrB appears to possess dual activities to promote SPI‐2 gene expression: activation of transcription and relief of H‐NS‐mediated repression.
Disruption of iron homeostasis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by high zinc levels: a genome‐wide study
Authors: Pagani M. Ayelen , Casamayor Antonio , Serrano Raquel , Atrian Sílvia , Ariño Joaquín
Published: July 2007

Zinc is an essential metal that, when in excess, can be deleterious to the cell. Therefore, homeostatic mechanisms for this cation must be finely tuned. To better understand the response of yeast in front of an excess of zinc, we screened a systematic deletion mutant library for altered growth in the presence of 6 mM zinc. Eighty‐nine mutants exhibited increased zinc sensitivity, including many genes involved in vacuolar assembling and biogenesis. Interestingly, a mutant lacking the Aft1 transcription factor, required for the transcriptional response to iron starvation, was found to be highly sensitive to zinc. Genome‐wide transcriptional profiling revealed that exposure to 5 mM ZnCl2 results in rapid increase in the expression of numerous chaperones required for proper protein folding or targeting to vacuole and mitochondria, as well as genes involved in stress response (mainly oxidative), sulphur metabolism and some components of the iron regulon. The effect of the lack of Aft1 both in the absence and in the presence of zinc overload was also investigated. Exposure to high zinc generated reactive oxygen species and markedly decreased glutathione content. Interestingly, zinc excess results in decreased intracellular iron content and aconitase and cytochrome c activities in stationary‐phase cultures. These findings suggest that high zinc levels may alter the assembly and/or function of iron–sulphur‐containing proteins, as well as the biosynthesis of haem groups, thus establishing a link between zinc, iron and sulphur metabolism.
Polyphosphate kinase is involved in stress‐induced mprAB‐sigE‐rel signalling in mycobacteria
Authors: Sureka Kamakshi , Dey Supratim , Datta Pratik , Singh Anil Kumar , Dasgupta Arunava , Rodrigue Sébastien , Basu Joyoti , Kundu Manikuntala
Published: July 2007

Polyphosphate kinase 1 (PPK1) helps bacteria to survive under stress. The ppk1 gene of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was overexpressed in Escherichia coli and characterized. Residues R230 and F176, predicted to be present in the head domain of PPK1, were identified as residues critical for polyphosphate (polyP)‐synthesizing ability and dimerization of PPK1. A ppk1 knockout mutant of Mycobacterium smegmatis was compromised in its ability to survive under long‐term hypoxia. The transcription of the rel gene and the synthesis of the stringent response regulator ppGpp were impaired in the mutant and restored after complementation with ppk1 of M. tuberculosis, providing evidence that PPK1 is required for the stringent response. We present evidence that PPK1 is likely required for mprAB‐sigE‐rel signalling. σE regulates the transcription of rel, and we hypothesize that under conditions of stress polyP acts as a preferred donor for MprB‐mediated phosphorylation of MprA facilitating transcription of the sigE gene thereby leading finally to the enhancement of the transcription of rel in M. smegmatis and M. tuberculosis. Downregulation of ppk1 led to impaired survival of M. tuberculosis in macrophages. PolyP plays a central role in the stress response of mycobacteria.
Vesicoureteral reflux after kidney transplantation in children
Authors: Barrero Rafael , Fijo Julia , Fernandez‐Hurtado Miguel , García‐Merino Francisco , León Eduardo , Torrubia Francisco
Published: July 2007

Abstract: We analyzed the frequency of vesicoureteral reflux and the factors that favor its appearance after kidney transplantation in pediatric patients. This retrospective analysis examined the prevalence of post‐transplant vesicoureteral reflux in a total of 181 kidney transplants performed in children at our center between 1978 and 2004. In patients who required corrective surgery for this problem, we analyzed pretransplant residual diuresis, pretransplant pathology and post‐transplant problems related to vesicoureteral reflux. We also analyzed form of presentation, whether reflux was to the graft or to the native kidney, degree of reflux, and surgical technique used to correct reflux. Ten patients (5.5%) needed surgery to correct reflux to the graft (nine children) or to the native kidney (one child). Reflux was manifested as urinary tract infection in six children and progressive graft failure in one. Urethrovesical disorders that favored vesicoureteral reflux were present in eight patients (non‐compliance bladder, detrusor overactivity, posterior urethral valves, urethral stenosis). Lengthening the submucosal tunnel stopped urinary tract infections in all 10 patients, whereas six‐month voiding cystourethrograms showed resolution in 8 patients and (only) reduction in the degree of reflux in two. The high percentage of post‐transplant vesicoureteral reflux in pediatric patients were related with higher frequencies of ureterovesical pathology in children who received the transplant. Lengthening the submucosal ureteral tunnel vesicoureteral reflux was corrected in 80%. We recommend during implantation in children with pretransplant urethrovesical abnormality an initial technique, which utilizes a longer submucosal tunnel such as the Lich–Gregoir.
Chromium nanoparticle exhibits higher absorption efficiency than chromium picolinate and chromium chloride in Caco‐2 cell monolayers
Authors: Zha L.‐Y. , Xu Z.‐R. , Wang M.‐Q. , Gu L.‐Y.
Published: July 2007

This study was conducted to determine whether chromium nanoparticle (CrNano) exhibited higher absorption efficiency and possessed unique absorption mechanism in comparison to chromium picolinate (CrPic) and chromium chloride (CrCl3), as was postulated by previous reports. Twenty‐one‐day‐old Caco‐2 cell monolayers grown on semipermeable membranes in Snapwell tissue culture bichambers were incubated with CrNano, CrPic or CrCl3 to examine their transport and uptake respectively. In the concentration range of 0.2–20 μmol/l, transport of CrNano, CrPic and CrCl3 across Caco‐2 monolayers both in apical‐to‐basolateral and basolateral‐to‐apical direction was concentration‐, and time‐dependent, and temperature independent. The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) of CrNano was between 5.89 and 7.92 × 10−6 cm/s and that of CrPic and CrCl3 was between 3.52 and 5.31 × 10−6 cm/s and between 0.97 and 1.37 × 10−6 cm/s respectively. Uptake of CrNano, CrPic and CrCl3 by both apical and basolateral membranes was concentration‐ and time‐dependent. Uptake of CrNano by apical membrane was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased when the incubation temperature was reduced from 37 °C to 4 °C. The transport efficiency of CrNano, CrPic and CrCl3 after incubation for 120 min at 37 °C was 15.83% ± 0.76%, 9.08% ± 0.25% and 2.11% ± 0.53% respectively. The uptake efficiency of CrNano, CrPic and CrCl3 was 10.08% ± 0.76%, 4.73% ± 0.60% and 0.88% ± 0.08% respectively. It was concluded that the epithelial transport of CrNano, CrPic and CrCl3 across the Caco‐2 cell monolayers was mainly via passive transport pathways. In addition, CrNano exhibited considerably higher absorption efficiency than both CrPic and CrCl3 in Caco‐2 cell monolayers.
Mineral balance in horses fed two supplemental silicon sources
Authors: O'Connor C. I. , Nielsen B. D. , Woodward A. D. , Spooner H. S. , Ventura B. A. , Turner K. K.
Published: July 2007

Numerous studies suggest that silicon (Si) supplementation is beneficial for mineral metabolism and bone health. Mineral balance studies have not been performed in horses to determine how these supplements affect absorption of other minerals. The purpose of these studies was to investigate the effects of two different Si supplements on mineral absorption and retention in horses. Eight geldings were randomly placed in one of two groups: control (CO) or supplemental Si, which was provided by one of two supplements. The first, sodium aluminium silicate (SA), contains a bioavailable form of Si and is high in aluminium (Al). The second supplement contains oligomeric orthosilicic acid (OSA). All horses received textured feed and ad libitum access to hay. Supplemented horses received either 200 g of SA or 28.6 ml of OSA per day. Following a 10‐day adaptation period, the horses underwent a 3‐day total collection. Blood samples were taken on days 0 and 13. The two balance studies were conducted 4 months apart to reduce carryover effects. Intakes of Al and Si were greater with SA supplementation (p < 0.05). Sodium aluminium silicate increased faecal and urinary Si excretion (p < 0.05). Calcium retention and apparent digestion were increased by SA (p < 0.05). It also maintained plasma Si compared with the CO which tended to have a decrease in plasma Si (p = 0.08). Supplemental OSA increased retention of Ca and B (p < 0.05) and apparent digestion of B (p < 0.01). Orthosilicic acid tended to increase Si retention (p = 0.054), apparent digestion (p < 0.065), and also increased plasma Si. Both supplements were able to alter Ca retention and B metabolism, however, only OSA was able to alter Si retention, digestibility and plasma concentration. Orthosilicic acid, an Si supplement without substantial Al, appears to be a viable option for Si supplementation as it increased Si retention and digestibility.
Reversible optic neuropathy due to metronidazole
Authors: McGrath Nicole M , Kent‐Smith Brian , Sharp Dianne M
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Metronidazole is a little known cause of drug‐induced optic neuropathy. We report a patient who developed progressive visual loss after an 8‐month course of Metronidazole. Electrophysiology confirmed a bilateral optic neuropathy. Her vision improved dramatically with cessation of the drug.
Macular hole formation, spontaneous closure, and reopening in severe hypertensive chorioretinopathy
Authors: Park Young‐Hoon , Kim Su Young , Lee Young‐Chun
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Macular hole is rarely reported in severe hypertensive chorioretinopathy, and spontaneous closure of a macular hole is uncommon. We report a case of reopening after spontaneous closure of a full‐thickness macular hole in a patient with severe hypertensive chorioretinopathy.
ENTERPRISE REFORM AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN RUSSIA: A QUANTITATIVE SURVEY
Authors: Iwasaki Ichiro
Published: July 2007

Abstract The objective of this paper is to verify the range and depth of the study on corporate governance in Russia through a comprehensive survey of 202 research works. With regard to the internal structure of Russian corporations, a great deal of research has been conducted in a relatively short time since the collapse of the Soviet Union by many highly motivated researchers, who have provided insightful perspectives. These achievements, however, place too much emphasis on the empirical analysis of the interrelation between ownership structure and corporate restructuring, leaving some critical themes open for further discussion. As the twenty‐first century begins, a well‐balanced research base should be established in this field in order to identify the reality of Russian corporations from a multifaceted perspective.
Altered face scanning and impaired recognition of biological motion in a 15‐month‐old infant with autism
Authors: Klin Ami , Jones Warren
Published: July 2007

Mounting clinical evidence suggests that abnormalities of social engagement in children with autism are present even during infancy. However, direct experimental documentation of these abnormalities is still limited. In this case report of a 15‐month‐old infant with autism, we measured visual fixation patterns to both naturalistic and ambiguous social stimuli: video scenes of a caregiver and point‐light animations of human action. Results suggested that viewing patterns of the child with autism were driven by the physical contingencies of the stimuli rather than by their social context. If corroborated in larger studies, this observation would advance the hypothesis that mechanisms of social development which rely on preferential engagement with socially contingent conspecifics – and which emerge in the very first weeks of life in typical infants – are developmentally derailed in children with autism.
Insulin resistance: central and peripheral mechanisms. The 2007 Stock Conference Report
Authors: Ye J. , Kraegen T.
Published: July 2007

Insulin resistance in peripheral tissues and in the brain are fundamental to the development of obesity and its associated type 2 diabetes. Multiple mechanisms contribute to the development of insulin resistance. The 2007 Stock Conference focused on the role of fatty acids and other lipid signals in initiating insulin resistance and the consequences of central insulin resistance to the regulation of energy balance and peripheral metabolism.
The use of vaginal antimicrobial after large loop excision of transformation zone: a prospective randomised trial
Authors: Chan KKL , Tam KF , Tse KY , Ngan HYS
Published: July 2007

Objective To investigate whether the use of an antibacterial vaginal pessary containing tetracycline and amphotericin B would reduce complications from large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ).

Design Prospective randomised controlled trial.

Setting Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong.

Population A total of 321 women who underwent LLETZ.

Methods Women were randomised to either receiving an antimicrobial vaginal pessary twice a day for 14 days after LLETZ or no medication. Before LLETZ, endocervical and high vaginal swabs were taken for the detection of Chlamydia and other pathogens. All women were given a diary to record the degree of symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, bleeding and pain for 3 weeks. These were then compared between the two groups.

Main outcome measures Bleeding, vaginal discharge and pain after LLETZ.

Results There was no significant difference in the total bleeding, vaginal discharge and pain scores between the two groups. However, for women who had positive endocervical or high vaginal swabs, the treatment group had significantly less bleeding in the second week (Z=−2.083, P= 0.037) and less overall vaginal discharge (Z=−2.024, P= 0.043).

Conclusions An antimicrobial vaginal pessary containing tetracycline and amphotericin B did not provide any significant benefit after LLETZ, except for a subgroup of women with positive vaginal or endocervical swabs. Given that this group of women cannot be identified before the procedure since swabs are not routinely taken, the use of routine prophylactic topical antibiotics cannot be recommended for the general population.
Development, characterization and transferability of microsatellite markers for the plant genus Phlox (Polemoniaceae)
Authors: FEHLBERG SHANNON D. , FORD KRISTEN A. , UNGERER MARK C. , FERGUSON CAROLYN J.
Published: July 2007

In order to study diversification and microevolution in Phlox, we developed nine polymorphic microsatellite loci. In 20 individuals of Phlox pilosa from a single population, the average number of alleles per locus was 10.0 ± 5.1, and average observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.611 ± 0.234 and 0.769 ± 0.170, respectively. Most of these markers amplified successfully in 11 additional species of Phlox, representing a broad diversity of the genus, and some also amplified in more distantly related members of the Polemoniaceae. These microsatellite markers will be valuable for investigation of evolutionary processes in this important study system.
Antioxidant properties of hesperidin in nicotine‐induced lung toxicity
Authors: Balakrishnan Annida , Menon Venugopal P.
Published: July 2007

Nicotine, the principal alkaloid in tobacco, is generally considered to be an active pharmacological agent responsible for lung‐related disorders. The actions of nicotine have been extensively investigated in animal and variety of cell systems. Nicotine is known to induce the lipid peroxidation by producing reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of hesperidin on nicotine toxicity. The parameters studied were marker enzymes and antioxidant status in blood, tissues, BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage cells) and BALF (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid). Lung damage was induced by subcutaneous injection of nicotine at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg body weight for 5 days a week. Hesperidin was administered orally at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight. The results showed an increase in the level of marker enzymes and decrease in the antioxidant status in nicotine‐treated rats. Hesperidin treatment resulted in a decreased level of all the marker enzymes and the antioxidant status was brought back to near normal. Thus the study shows that hesperidin offers protection against the lung damage caused by nicotine.
Forecasting “friends forever”: A longitudinal investigation of sustained closeness between best friends
Authors: LEDBETTER ANDREW M , GRIFFIN EM , SPARKS GLENN G.
Published: July 2007

Using data collected across 19 years, the chief goal of this study was to discover predictors of continued relational closeness between best friends. Participants were same‐sex and cross‐sex best friend pairs recruited from a small Midwestern college. In 1983, participants completed several tests and activities designed to assess facets of intimacy, with follow‐up studies in 1987 and 2002 measuring relational closeness. Regression analysis indicates that both manifest similarity and months of closeness in 1983 are associated with relational closeness in 2002. These results suggest that the investment of resources in the friendship and similarity between friends facilitate friendship longevity and that Kelley et al.’s (1983) conceptualization of closeness as related to interdependence is empirically robust.
A standardised ultrasonic diagnosis and an accurate prevalence for the retroverted uterus in general gynaecology patients
Authors: HAYLEN Bernard T. , McNALLY Glenn , RAMSAY Philippa , BIRRELL Warwick , LOGAN Vanessa
Published: July 2007

Transvaginal ultrasound with an empty bladder is recommended as a standardised ultrasonic technique for the accurate diagnosis of the retroverted uterus. Using this method, the prevalence of the retroverted uterus in 480 general gynaecological patients attending for subspecialist gynaecological ultrasound was 18%. The anteverting effect of the full bladder required for transabdominal ultrasound reduces the prevalence of the retroverted uterus to 13% (P < 0.001).
Avulsion of the pubovisceral muscle associated with large vaginal tear after normal vaginal delivery at term
Authors: DIETZ Hans Peter , GILLESPIE Alec V. L. , PHADKE Pramod
Published: July 2007

Trauma to the levator ani muscle commonly occurs during vaginal childbirth and is associated with female pelvic organ prolapse in later life. To date, such trauma was thought to be occult. We present a case of intrapartum diagnosis of levator avulsion in a patient who suffered a large vaginal tear at the time of a normal vaginal delivery at term.
GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF THE BENTHIC DIATOM NAVICULA INCERTA (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) FROM JEJU ISLAND, KOREA1
Authors: Affan Abu , Karawita Rohan , Jeon You‐Jin , Lee Joon‐Baek
Published: July 2007

Benthic diatoms are a commonly used food source in shellfish aquaculture. Diatoms of the genus Navicula are the most abundant benthic diatoms occurring year‐round on the coast of Jeju Island, Korea. We isolated an axenic strain of N. incerta Grunow; estimated its growth characteristics under 27 different combinations of temperature, salinity, and nutrients; and determined its biochemical composition and antioxidant activities. The maximum specific growth rate (μmax), defined as the increase in cell density per unit time, was 0.81–1.04 · d−1, and the maximum cell density, 7.99 × 105 cells · mL−1, was reached at 0.88 · d−1 μmax, 20°C, 30 psu salinity, and F/2 nutrient concentration on day 12 of the culture period. The approximate cellular composition was as follows: 7.0 ± 0.04% protein, 1.7 ± 0.28% lipid, 12.8 ± 0.85% carbohydrate, 68.4 ± 0.09% ash, and 10.1 ± 0.44% moisture. The antioxidant properties of N. incerta were determined for various extracts. The rates of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free‐radical scavenging for Neutrase and methanol extracts were 81.6% and 62.8%, respectively. Flavourzyme extract had a superoxide‐scavenging rate of 57.7%. Kojizyme and Ultraflo extracts had nitric‐oxide‐scavenging rates of 42.2% and 40.6%, respectively, significantly higher than commercial antioxidants, such as α‐tocopherol and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The metal‐chelating activities of the methanol, Neutrase, and Termamyl extracts were 68.5%, 45.2%, and 41.2%, respectively, four to six times higher than commercial antioxidants. The Termamyl extract showed the highest linoleic acid peroxidation inhibition, exceeding α‐tocopherol and on par with BHT.
CO2‐CONCENTRATING MECHANISMS OF THE POTENTIALLY TOXIC DINOFLAGELLATE PROTOCERATIUM RETICULATUM (DINOPHYCEAE, GONYAULACALES)1
Authors: Ratti Simona , Giordano Mario , Morse David
Published: July 2007

The low CO2 concentration in seawater poses severe restrictions on photosynthesis, especially on those species with form II RUBISCO. We found that the potentially toxic dinoflagellate Protoceratium reticulatum Clap. et J. Lachm. possesses a form II RUBISCO. To cast some light on the mechanisms this organism undergoes to cope with low CO2 availability, we compared cells grown at atmospheric (370 ppm) and high (5000 ppm) CO2 concentrations, with respect to a number of physiological parameters related to dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) acquisition and assimilation. The photosynthetic affinity for DIC was about one order of magnitude lower in cells cultivated at high [CO2]. End‐point pH‐drift experiments suggest that P. reticulatum was not able to efficiently use HCO3− under our growth conditions. Only internal carbonic anhydrase (CA) activity was detected, and its activity decreased by about 60% in cells cultured at high [CO2]. Antibodies raised against a variety of algal CAs were used for Western blot analysis: P. reticulatum extracts only cross‐reacted with anti‐ß‐CA sera, and the amount of immunoreactive protein decreased in cells grown at high [CO2]. No pyrenoids were observed under all growth conditions. Our data indicate that P. reticulatum has an inducible carbon‐concentrating mechanism (CCM) that operates in the absence of pyrenoids and with little intracellular CO2 accumulation. Calculations on the impact of the CA activity to photosynthetic growth [CO2] suggest that it is an essential component of the CCM of P. reticulatum and is necessary to sustain the photosynthetic rates observed at ambient CO2.
Blunted Rostral Anterior Cingulate Response During a Simplified Decoding Task of Negative Emotional Facial Expressions in Alcoholic Patients
Authors: Salloum Jasmin B. , Ramchandani Vijay A. , Bodurka Jerzy , Rawlings Robert , Momenan Reza , George David , Hommer Daniel W.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Alcoholism is characterized by deficits in emotional functioning as well as by deficits in cognitive functioning. However, most brain imaging research on alcoholism has focused on cognition rather than emotion.

Method:  We used an event‐related functional magnetic imaging approach to examine alcoholics’ brain blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) response to evaluation of emotional stimuli and to compare their response to that of nonalcoholic controls. The task used was a simplified variant of a facial emotion‐decoding task in which subjects determined the intensity level of a target emotion displayed as a facial expression. Facial expressions of happy, sad, anger, disgust, and fear were used as stimuli.

Results:  Alcoholics and controls did not differ in accurately identifying the intensity level on the simple emotional decoding task but there were significant differences in their BOLD response during evaluation of facial emotion. In general, alcoholics showed less brain activation than nonalcoholic controls. The greatest differences in activation were during decoding of facial expressions of fear and disgust during which alcoholics had significantly less activation than controls in the affective division of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Alcoholics also had significantly less activation than controls in the affective division of the ACC, while viewing sad faces. Only to facial expressions of anger did the alcoholics show significant activation in the affective ACC and in this case, their BOLD response did not significantly differ from that of the controls.

Conclusion:  Alcoholics show a deficit in the function of the affective division of the ACC during evaluation of negative facial emotions that can serve as cues for flight or avoidance. This deficit may underlie some of the behavioral dysfunction in alcoholism.
Altered Brain Activation by a False Recognition Task in Young Abstinent Patients With Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Akine Yoshihide , Kato Motoichiro , Muramatsu Taro , Umeda Satoshi , Mimura Masaru , Asai Yoshiyuki , Tanada Shuji , Obata Takayuki , Ikehira Hiroo , Kashima Haruo , Suhara Tetsuya
Published: July 2007

Background:  Heavy alcohol intake induces both structural and functional changes in the central nervous system. Recent research developments converged on the idea that even in patients with alcohol dependence without apparent structural brain changes, some cognitive impairment exists, and associated functional change could be visualized by neuroimaging techniques. However, these data were from old (more than 50 years) patients using working memory and response inhibition tasks. Whether young abstinent patients show aberrant signs of brain activation is a matter of interest, specifically by the long‐term memory retrieval task.

Methods:  Subjects were 9 young patients with alcohol dependence with long‐term abstinent (8 males and 1 female) and age‐ and education‐matched 9 healthy controls (7 males and 2 females). We used a modified false recognition task in a functional MRI study.

Results:  The young patients with alcohol dependence showed reduced activation in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), left pulvinar in the thalamus, and in the right ventral striatum, although behavioral performances and regional patterns of brain activation were similar between patients and controls.

Conclusions:  Long‐term memory retrieval induced altered activations in prefrontal lobes, ACC, thalamus, and ventral striatum in young patients with alcohol dependence. These findings were correspondent to deficits of goal directed behavior, monitoring the erroneous responses, memory function, and drug‐seeking behavior. Furthermore, these reduced activations can be considered as latent “lesions,” suggesting subclinical pathology in alcoholic brains.
Hitting the Jackpot or Hitting the Skids: Entertainment, Poverty, and the Demand for State Lotteries
Authors: Blalock Garrick , Just David R. , Simon Daniel H.
Published: July 2007

Abstract.  State‐sponsored lotteries are a lucrative source of revenue. Despite their low payout rates, lotteries are extremely popular, particularly among low‐income citizens. State officials laud the benefits of lottery proceeds and promote the fun and excitement of participation. This entertainment value is one explanation for lottery demand by the poor: individuals with lower incomes substitute lottery play for other entertainment. Alternatively, low‐income consumers may view lotteries as a convenient and otherwise rare opportunity for radically improving their standard of living. Bad times may cause desperation, and the desperate may turn to lotteries in an effort to escape hardship. This study tests these competing explanations. We examine lottery sales data from 39 states over 10 years and find a strong and positive relationship between sales and poverty rates. In contrast, we find no relationship between movie ticket sales, another inexpensive form of entertainment, and poverty rates.
A hedonic approach to estimating the supply of variety attributes of a subsistence crop
Authors: Edmeades Svetlana
Published: July 2007

The article extends the household hedonic model by estimating a supply function for variety attributes of a subsistence crop in a developing economy. The model is applied to bananas in Uganda, making use of disaggregated data on variety‐specific farm‐gate banana bunch prices and attributes, while accounting for the semisubsistence nature of banana‐producing households. The article is motivated by the need to understand the attribute trade‐offs made by farmers at the farm gate in light of targeted variety improvement efforts and their impact on banana markets. Whether variety improvement will pay off at the market level requires a more detailed examination of the relative worth of banana attributes within the structure of consumer preferences and production technologies related to bananas in Uganda. The results confirm the importance of consumption and production attributes in selling behavior. Quality and bunch size are found to be complements at the farm gate. Banana bunches that capture a premium at the market will be those that provide bundles of desirable consumption and production attributes simultaneously. By revealing important price–attribute relationships, the findings provide guidance for crop improvement efforts and diversification choices, while taking into account implicit market signals for output attributes.
Enhancing productivity on suburban dairy farms in China
Authors: Ma Hengyun , Rae Allan N. , Huang Jikun , Rozelle Scott
Published: July 2007

Dairy farms in China's suburban areas have been playing an important role in providing urban markets with fresh milk. With the rising demand for fluid milk and dairy products in the cities, there is a perception that small and scattered dairy farms in China's provinces are gradually disappearing and more concentrated dairy cattle farming is being formed near suburban areas. This article uses farm‐level survey data and stochastic input distance functions to make estimates of total factor productivity (TFP) on suburban dairy farms, as well as for the entire dairy sector. The results show that over the past decade TFP growth has been positive on suburban dairy farms, and this rise in productivity has been driven mostly by technological change. However, at the same time we find that, on average, the same farms have been falling behind the advancing technical frontier. We also find one of the drivers of the suburban dairy sector is the relatively robust rate of technological change of these farms, which has been more rapid than on farms in the dairy sector as a whole. The results suggest that efforts to achieve greater adoption of new technologies and better advice on how to use the technologies and manage production and marketing within the suburban dairy sector will further advance productivity growth in the sector.
The effect of information sources on technology adoption and modification decisions
Authors: Adegbola Patrice , Gardebroek Cornelis
Published: July 2007

This article focuses on adoption and modification decisions on improved maize storage technologies in southern Benin. Modification implies changing a technology to adapt to farmers' circumstances. A sample selection framework is used to account for selectivity bias as some farmers were not aware of the new technologies. Using this framework, the study investigates the effect of alternative information sources on adoption and modification decisions. Farmers are either informed by extension agents or by other farmers. The empirical results show that there are differences in adoption and modification decisions between these two groups.
Regional trade agreements and trade in agri‐food products: evidence for the European Union from gravity modeling using disaggregated data
Authors: Sarker Rakhal , Jayasinghe Sampath
Published: July 2007

The proliferation of regional trade agreements in recent years has intensified the debate on the desirability of these agreements in themselves and their coexistence with multilateral free trade under the WTO. This study contributes to this debate by analyzing trade creation and trade diversion effects of the European Union on trade flows of six major agri‐food products from 1985 to 2000. An extended gravity model is estimated employing pooled data and generalized least squares methods. The results show that the developments in the EU since the mid‐1980s have served to boost agri‐food trade significantly among the members. Some of the growth in intra‐EU trade in agri‐food products came at the expense of nonmembers as the EU reduced the degree of relative openness to trade with nonmembers during this period and diverted trade from the rest of the world into the intra‐EU channels.
Anaphylactic reaction to intralesional corticosteroid injection
Authors: Laing M. E. , Fallis B. , Murphy G. M.
Published: July 2007

We report the case of anaphylactic reaction to carboxymethylcellulose, a dispersant in corticosteroid preparation and contrast media. Skin prick testing in this patient revealed a positive response to carboxymethylcellulose at a dilution of 1/1000. Anaphylaxis secondary to carboxymethylcellulose has previously been reported. To avoid further problems, this patient was advised to alert medical staff for the presence of allergy to carboxymethylcellulose in the event of the need for further interventional procedures. Care should be taken when giving intradermal steroids to patients with a history of anaphylaxis after contrast media.
Risks and possibilities in patch testing with contaminated personal objects: usefulness of thin‐layer chromatograms in a patient with acrylate contact allergy from a chemical burn
Authors: Isaksson Marléne , Zimerson Erik
Published: July 2007

We report a case of a chemical burn from dipropylene glycol diacrylate (DPGDA) spilt on working shoes, followed by active sensitization, thus giving an occupational allergic contact dermatitis on the patient’s dorsal feet. Diagnostic tests included patch testing with acetone extracts made from the different shoe layers and thin‐layer chromatograms. An invisible spot on the thin‐layer chromatography plate gave a test eczema and was further investigated with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. DPGDA was detected in the spot.
Site variations in susceptibility to SLS
Authors: Bock Meike , Wulfhorst Britta , John Swen Malte
Published: July 2007

According to the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) guidelines on the sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) exposure test ‘the flexor side of forearm skin with cubital fossa and wrist excluded is the preferred study site’. In this study we analysed the exact anatomic region within the suggested test area in respect to the outcome of the SLS exposure test. 3 test areas at the volar forearm were chosen: ‘distal’ with a 5‐cm distance to the wrist, exact ‘midvolar’ and ‘proximal’ with a 5‐cm distance to the cubital fossa. 25 healthy volunteers were irritated for 24 hr with 1% SLS. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements were taken before and 1 and 24 hr after removal of Finn Chambers®. Median baseline TEWL showed no significant differences in the 3 test sites. However, postexposure TEWL proximal was significantly (P < 0.01) higher than midvolar and distal. The distal volar forearm showed the lowest TEWL 24 h after the irritation. The differences were in comparison to midvolar (P < 0.01) and proximal (P < 0.001) significant. The results show that it is essential to point out the exact position of the test area at the volar forearm in study reports and to randomize the irritation areas at the volar forearm if different treatments are to be compared.
Generating quiescent stem cells
Authors: Nishikawa Shin‐Ichi , Osawa Masatake
Published: July 2007

As the ability to detect and define stem cells (SCs) has increased, attention is turning towards the definition of the niche and the identification of the signals that induce SC quiescence or proliferation. The melanocyte stem–niche system, in which the SCs and their progeny occupy geographically distinct domains within the hair follicle, provides one of the best models for studying the complex interplay between environmental cues and transcription factors that underpin cell fate. This review discusses what is known of the origin and molecular characteristics of melanocyte SCs and proposes a series of temporal events that are likely to contribute to the establishment of melanocyte SCs in the hair follicle. We also highlight the possibility of in vitro systems capable of directing cultured melanocytes/melanoblasts to a SC fate in response to specific extrinsiccues.
Myotubularin Lipid Phosphatase Binds the hVPS15/hVPS34 Lipid Kinase Complex on Endosomes
Authors: Cao Canhong , Laporte Jocelyn , Backer Jonathan M. , Wandinger‐Ness Angela , Stein Mary‐Pat
Published: July 2007

Myotubularins constitute a ubiquitous family of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3‐phosphatases implicated in several neuromuscular disorders. Myotubularin [myotubular myopathy 1 (MTM1)] PI 3‐phosphatase is shown associated with early and late endosomes. Loss of endosomal phosphatidylinositol 3‐phosphate [PI(3)P] upon overexpression of wild‐type MTM1, but not a phosphatase‐dead MTM1C375S mutant, resulted in altered early and late endosomal PI(3)P levels and rapid depletion of early endosome antigen‐1. Membrane‐bound MTM1 was directly complexed to the hVPS15/hVPS34 [vacuolar protein sorting (VPS)] PI 3‐kinase complex with binding mediated by the WD40 domain of the hVPS15 (p150) adapter protein and independent of a GRAM‐domain point mutation that blocks PI(3,5)P2 binding. The WD40 domain of hVPS15 also constitutes the binding site for Rab7 and, as shown previously, contributes to Rab5 binding. In vivo, the hVPS15/hVPS34 PI 3‐kinase complex forms mutually exclusive complexes with the Rab GTPases (Rab5 or Rab7) or with MTM1, suggesting a competitive binding mechanism. Thus, the Rab GTPases together with MTM1 likely serve as molecular switches for controlling the sequential synthesis and degradation of endosomal PI(3)P. Normal levels of endosomal PI(3)P and PI(3,5)P2 are crucial for both endosomal morphology and function, suggesting that disruption of endosomal sorting and trafficking in skeletal muscle when MTM1 is mutated may be a key factor in precipitating X‐linked MTM.
Genetic analysis of seed size, yield and days to flowering in a chickpea recombinant inbred line population derived from a Kabuli × Desi cross
Authors: Cobos M.J. , Rubio J. , Fernández‐Romero M.D. , Garza R. , Moreno M.T. , Millán T. , Gil J.
Published: July 2007

Quantitative traits, seed size, yield and days to flowering were studied in a chickpea intraspecific recombinant inbred line (RIL) population (F6:7) derived from a Kabuli × Desi cross. The population was evaluated in two locations over 2 years. Days to flowering was also evaluated in the greenhouse under short‐day conditions. Seed size was the most heritable trait (0.90), followed by days to flowering (0.36) and yield (0.14). Negative and significant correlation was found between yield and seed size in the second year where environmental homogeneity was tested by analysing the controls included in each assay. During the first year, the environment was not considered homogeneous for yield in either location. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for the three characters were detected in linkage group (LG) 4. In relation to seed size, two QTLs were located in LG4 (QTLSW1) and LG8 (QTLSW2). QTLSW1 accounted 20.3% of the total phenotypic variation and QTLSW2 explained 10.1%. A QTL for yield (QTLYD) was located in LG4 explaining around 13% of variation. QTLYD might be pleiotropic with QTLSW1. For days to flowering, a QTL (QTLDF1) was located in LG4 for all environments analysed explaining around 20% of variation. QTLDF1 was closely linked to QTLSW1 and QTLYD in LG4.
Structural Characterization of Rice Starch in Rice Cake Modified by Thermus scotoductus 4‐α‐Glucanotransferase (TSαGTase)
Authors: Seo N.‐S. , Roh S.‐A. , Auh J.‐H. , Park J.‐H. , Kim Y.‐R. , Park K.‐H.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT:  Rice cake was produced with a thermostable 4‐α‐glucanotransferase from Thermus scotoductus (TSαGTase). Starch molecular fine structure, texture, and retrogradation for the enzymatically prepared rice cake were investigated and compared to those for control rice cake. The amylose content in TSαGTase‐treated rice cakes decreased, whereas branched and linear malto‐oligosaccharides ranging from maltose to maltoheptaose increased slightly. The average molecular weight of the enzyme‐treated rice starch in rice cake decreased as amylopectin macromolecules were cleaved and reorganized into small amylopectin clusters. The number of shorter side chains (degree of polymerization [DP] < 9) increased, whereas the number of longer side chains (DP > 10) decreased through the disproportionation reaction of TSαGTase. After 24 h of storage at 4 °C, the enzyme‐treated samples demonstrated significantly lower melting enthalpy of retrograded starch (0.4 mJ/mg) compared to that of the control (1.4 mJ/mg). The results indicated that TSαGTase treatment effectively inhibited starch retrogradation in rice cakes. It is suggested that the reduction of amylose content, the rearrangement of amylopectin, and the production of malto‐oligosaccharides caused by TSαGTase treatment are responsible for the ineffective molecular reassociation of rice starch in rice cake.
Artificial Intelligence for the Diagnostics of Gas Turbines—Part II: Neuro-Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Bettocchi R. , Pinelli M. , Spina P. R. , Venturini M.
Published: July 2007

In the paper, neuro-fuzzy systems (NFSs) for gas turbine diagnostics are studied and developed. The same procedure used previously for the setup of neural network (NN) models (Bettocchi, R., Pinelli, M., Spina, P. R., and Venturini, M., 2007, ASME J. Eng. Gas Turbines Power, 129(3), pp. 711–719) was used. In particular, the same database of patterns was used for both training and testing the NFSs. This database was obtained by running a cycle program, calibrated on a 255MW single-shaft gas turbine working in the ENEL combined cycle power plant of La Spezia (Italy). The database contains the variations of the Health Indices (which are the characteristic parameters that are indices of gas turbine health state, such as efficiencies and characteristic flow passage areas of compressor and turbine) and the corresponding variations of the measured quantities with respect to the values in new and clean conditions. The analyses carried out are aimed at the selection of the most appropriate NFS structure for gas turbine diagnostics, in terms of computational time of the NFS training phase, accuracy, and robustness towards measurement uncertainty during simulations. In particular, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) architectures were considered and tested, and their performance was compared to that obtainable by using the NN models. An analysis was also performed in order to identify the most significant ANFIS inputs. The results obtained show that ANFISs are robust with respect to measurement uncertainty, and, in all the cases analyzed, the performance (in terms of accuracy during simulations and time spent for the training phase) proved to be better than that obtainable by multi-input/multioutput (MIMO) and multi-input/single-output (MISO) neural networks trained and tested on the same data.
Convergent Zone-Refinement Method for Risk Assessment of Gas Turbine Disks Subject to Low-Frequency Metallurgical Defects
Authors: Millwater Harry R. , Enright Michael P. , Fitch Simeon H. K.
Published: July 2007

Titanium gas turbine disks are subject to a rare but not insignificant probability of fracture due to metallurgical defects, particularly hard α. A probabilistic methodology has been developed and implemented in concordance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Advisory Circular 33.14-1 to compute the probability of fracture of gas turbine titanium disks subject to low-frequency metallurgical (hard α) defects. This methodology is further developed here to ensure that a robust, converged, accurate calculation of the probability is computed that is independent of discretization issues. A zone-based material discretization methodology is implemented, then refined locally through further discretization using risk contribution factors as a metric. The technical approach is akin to “h” refinement in finite element analysis; that is, a local metric is used to indicate regions requiring further refinement, and subsequent refinement yields a more accurate solution. Supporting technology improvements are also discussed, including localized finite element refinement and onion skinning for zone subdivision resolution, and a restart database and parallel processing for computational efficiency. A numerical example is presented for demonstration.
TERNARY RECURSIVE FAST TRANSFORMS
Authors: FU CHENG , FALKOWSKI BOGDAN J.
Published: July 2007

This paper introduces two new classes of recursive fast transforms over GF (3). They are based on recursive equations using Kronecker products that allows to obtain simple corresponding fast transforms and regular butterfly diagrams. The computational costs to calculate both classes of new transforms and the experimental results comparing introduced transforms with ternary Reed–Muller transform are also presented.