bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freshwater selenium‐methylating bacterial thiopurine methyltransferases: diversity and molecular phylogeny
Authors: Favre‐Bonté S. , Ranjard L. , Colinon C. , Prigent‐Combaret C. , Nazaret S. , Cournoyer B.
Published: January 2005

The diversity of bacterial thiopurine methyltransferases (bTPMT) among five natural Se‐methylating freshwaters was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screenings and sequencings. DNA sequence analyses confirmed the cloned products’ identity and revealed a broad diversity of freshwater TPMTs. Neighbour‐joining (NJ) phylogenetic analyses combining these sequences, all GenBank entries closely related to these sequences and deduced TPMTs obtained in this work from selected γ‐proteobacteria showed TPMTs to form a distinct radiation, closely related to UbiG methyltransferases. Inside the TPMT phylogenetic cluster, eukaryote sequences diverged early from the bacterial ones, and all the bacterial database entries belonged to a subgroup of γ‐proteobacteria, with an apparent lateral transfer of a particular allele to β‐proteobacteria of Bordetella. The NJ phylogenetic tree revealed 22 bTPMT lineages, 10 of which harboured freshwater sequences. All lineages showed deep and long branches indicative of major genetic drifts outside regions encoding highly conserved domains. Selected residues among these highly variable domains could reflect adaptations for particular ecological niches. PCR lineage‐specific primers differentiated Se‐methylating freshwaters according to their ‘tpm lineage’ signatures. Most freshwater tpm alleles were found to be distinct from those available in the databases, but a group of tpm was found encoding TPMTs identical to an Aeromonas veronii TPMT characterized in this work.
Rarity associated with specific ecological niches in the bacterial world: the ‘Synergistes’ example
Authors: Godon Jean‐Jacques , Morinière Jeanne , Moletta Marina , Gaillac Marianne , Bru Valérie , Delgènes Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2005

The ‘Synergistes’ group, which apparently represents an as yet unnamed division of the bacteria, was explored in 93 anaerobic environments (guts, soils, digestors, etc.). From 16S rDNA gene‐targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, this group appeared to be present in 90% of the anaerobic microbial ecosystems analysed. The phylogeny of 103 16S rDNA sequences from 30 ecosystems showed a strong link between 16S rDNA sequences and given ecosystems. ‘Synergistes’ 16S rDNA sequences from animal sources (termites, guinea pigs, pigs, birds, etc.) formed clustered phylogenetical groups. ‘Synergistes’ groups were also associated either with anaerobic digestors and soils or with thermophilic conditions. Sequences available from the DNA database were consistent with the results. These results show the wide diversity of the ‘Synergistes’ division as well as the specific ecological niche of each 16S rDNA sequences.
The microbial community structure of different permeable sandy sediments characterized by the investigation of bacterial fatty acids and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Bühring S. I. , Elvert M. , Witte U.
Published: January 2005

This study describes the microbial community structure of three sandy sediment stations that differed with respect to median grain size and permeability in the German Bight of the Southern North Sea. The microbial community was investigated using lipid biomarker analyses and fluorescence in situ hybridization.  For  further  characterization  we  determined the stable carbon isotope composition of the biomarkers. Biomarkers identified belong to different bacterial groups such as members of the Cytophaga‐Flavobacterium cluster and sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB). To support these findings, investigations using different  fluorescent  in  situ hybridization  probes were performed, specifically targeting Cytophaga‐Flavobacterium, γ‐Proteobacteria and different members of the SRB. Depth profiles of bacterial fatty acid relative abundances revealed elevated subsurface peaks for the fine sediment, whereas at the other sandy sediment stations the concentrations were less variable with depth. Although oxygen penetrates deeper into the coarser and more permeable sediments, the SRB biomarkers are similarly abundant, indicating suboxic to anoxic niches in these environments. We detected SRB in all sediment types as well as in the surface and at greater depth, which suggests that SRB play a more important role in oxygenated marine sediments than previously thought.
Therapy of ocular and visceral leishmaniasis in a cat
Authors: Leiva Marta , Lloret Albert , Peña Teresa , Roura Xavier
Published: January 2005

An 8‐year‐old, spayed female Domestic Short‐haired cat was referred for further evaluation of chronic lymphocytic–plasmacytic stomatitis and bilateral ocular disease. The cat had been treated with systemic glucocorticoids for several months. Initial ophthalmic examination revealed bilateral deep stromal corneal ulcers, exudative panuveitis and secondary glaucoma. Mature mild neutrophilia and monocytosis were detected on complete blood cell count. Abnormalities in the serum profile were hyperglycemia, mild azotemia, hyperglobulinemia and moderate polyclonal gammapathy. Urinalysis revealed glucosuria without ketonuria. Diabetes mellitus was diagnosed and treatment with long‐acting insulin was started. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was highly positive for leishmaniasis, and treatment with allopurinol was started. Although specific topical treatment was applied, melting ulcers progressed to corneal perforation and both eyes were enucleated. Ocular histology showed large numbers of intracellular organisms compatible with amastigotes of the genusLeishmanialocated in the uveal tract, cornea, sclera and retina. Results of inmunohistochemistry staining on ocular samples were positive forLeishmania. Bone marrow cytology demonstrated numerous macrophages with intracytoplasmaticLeishmania.Polymerase chain reaction results on bone marrow forLeishmaniawere positive. Three weeks later, hypoglycemic episodes permitted withdrawal of the insulin therapy. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first case of ocular and visceral leishmaniasis diagnosedin vivoand under systemic treatment in a cat.
Immunohistochemical characterization of a malignant intraocular teratoid medulloepithelioma in a cockatiel
Authors: Bras I. Dineli , Gemensky‐Metzler Anne J. , Kusewitt Donna F. , Colitz Carmen M. H. , Wilkie David A.
Published: January 2005

A 3‐year‐old cockatiel was presented for evaluation of a buphthalmic right eye (OD). The history included a traumatic event 5 months prior to presentation, and the referring veterinarian diagnosed cataract and secondary glaucoma. Computed tomography of the bird's orbital region revealed a large right orbital soft tissue mass that extended lateral to the orbital rim with obliteration of the globe without bone involvement. There was also no evidence of metastatic disease within the lungs or any abnormalities within the celomic cavity, therefore enucleation was recommended to achieve a histopathologic diagnosis and prognosis, and to palliate the clinical signs. Final diagnosis was malignant intraocular teratoid medulloepithelioma.
Unicentric extranodal lymphoma of the upper eyelid conjunctiva in a dog
Authors: Vascellari Marta , Multari Domenico , Mutinelli Franco
Published: January 2005

A case of conjunctival lymphoma in a 4‐year‐old Siberian husky is reported. A large red mass protruding from the conjunctiva of the upper eyelid of the right eye was present. Irritation, blepharospasm and epiphora were revealed on initial ophthalmic examination. After anti‐inflammatory treatment, surgery was performed. Histologically, the mass consisted of large polygonal cells with a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio, moderate amounts of slightly eosinophilic cytoplasm, pleomorphic nuclei with vesicular chromatin and prominent multiple nucleoli. Mitotic figures were frequent. Approximately 70% of the neoplastic cells were CD3 positive and CD79α negative. On the basis of histologic and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of intermediate‐grade, diffuse large‐cell lymphoma with T‐cell immunophenotype was made. The surgical area healed uneventfully and, although chemotherapy was not received, after 12 months the dog exhibited no recurrence. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of unicentric extranodal conjunctival lymphoma in a dog.
How do morphotypes and chemotypes relate to genotypes? The colonial ascidianCystodytes(Polycitoridae)
Authors: López‐Legentil Susanna , Turon Xavier
Published: January 2005

Intraspecies variability is widespread in marine invertebrates. Size, colour, texture, general shape and secondary chemistry can differ quite drastically from one individual to another.Cystodytes dellechiajei(Polycitoridae) is a cosmopolitan colonial ascidian with several morphotypes, most of which differ in colour and spicular composition. New molecular tools enable us to assess the taxonomic status of these morphotypes. To determine whether variation observed in MediterraneanCystodyteshas a genetic basis, we sequenced 45 specimens from eight locations of the western Mediterranean and one from Mayotte (Indian Ocean), and obtained a 617 bp fragment of the mitochondrial gene COI. Fifteen different colour morphs were recorded and four kinds of spicules were found: disk‐shaped, sphere‐shaped, star‐shaped and discoidal, thick spicules with a toothed margin. Zooid morphology was remarkably uniform in the whole sample set. Different tree construction methods (distance‐based, parsimony‐based, and maximum‐likelihood‐based) yielded consistent results, and recognized six major clades, which had no correspondence with spicule shape and were only partially consistent with colour morphs. Results are discussed in the light of previous knowledge of the chemistry of blue, green, brown and purple colour morphs. In spite of the different colour patterns and spicular variability we concluded, on the basis of chemical and genetic data, that the morphological traits analysed were not consistent enough to be used to differentiate betweenCystodytesspecies. We point out the importance of genetics and chemistry in assessing the taxonomic status of species with variable morphology.
Larval morphology and biology of oxycorynine weevils and the higher phylogeny of Belidae (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea)
Authors: Marvaldi Adriana E.
Published: January 2005

Phylogenetic relationships among members of the family Belidae (Curculionoidea) were reconstructed through cladistic analysis using 58 characters and 17 terminals. The characters were from larval morphology (30), adult morphology (25) and biology regarding larval host‐plants and feeding habits (three). They were scored for exemplar taxa in 17 genera, representing different belid subfamilies and tribes, plus two outgroup taxa in Megalopodidae and Nemonychidae. The sampled genera included all those for which larval and adult information is available, and two known only from adults. New information on the larvae and biology of two oxycorynines is provided. These are the Chilean Oxycraspedus cribricollis, whose larvae live in decayed female strobili of the gymnosperm Araucaria araucana, and Hydnorobius hydnorae from Argentina, whose larvae, described and illustrated in the present paper, develop inside the flower and fruit bodies of Prosopanche americana (Hydnoraceae), a root‐parasitic angiosperm. The relationships proposed by the single optimal cladogram resulting from simultaneous analysis of all taxa and characters are recovered by one of three optimal cladograms based on the larval data set alone. The cladogram justifies a revised classification of Belidae in two sister subfamilies: Belinae (with tribes Pachyurini, Agnesiotidini and Belini) and Oxycoryninae (with tribes Oxycorynini and Aglycyderini). It summarizes larval and adult synapomorphies defining the family Belidae, subfamilies and tribes. Based on the phylogenetic tree, the evolution of biological traits is traced. Larval development in vegetative organs of conifers is ancestral in Belidae. A shift to reproductive structures characterizes the Oxycorynini, a habit which was conserved while several shifts to distantly related host‐plant groups occurred.
Phylogeny of Capitata and Corynidae (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) in light of mitochondrial 16S rDNA data
Authors: Collins Allen G. , Winkelmann Silke , Hadrys Heike , Schierwater Bernd
Published: January 2005

New sequences of the partial rDNA gene coding for the mitochondrial large ribosomal subunit, 16S, are derived from 47 diverse hydrozoan species and used to investigate phylogenetic relationships among families of the group Capitata and among species of the capitate family Corynidae. Our analyses identify a well‐supported clade, herein named Aplanulata, of capitate hydrozoans that are united by the synapomorphy of undergoing direct development without the ciliated planula stage that is typical of cnidarians. Aplanulata includes the important model organisms of the group Hydridae, as well as species of Candelabridae, Corymorphidae, and Tubulariidae. The hypothesis that Hydridae is closely related to brackish water species of Moerisiidae is strongly controverted by 16S rDNA data, as has been shown for nuclear 18S rDNA data. The consistent phylogenetic signal derived from 16S and 18S data suggest that both markers would be useful for broad‐scale multimarker analyses of hydrozoan relationships. Corynidae is revealed as paraphyletic with respect to Polyorchidae, a group for which information about the hydroid stage is lacking. Bicorona, which has been classified both within and outside of Corynidae, is shown to have a close relationship with all but one sampled species of Coryne. The corynid genera Coryne, Dipurena, and Sarsia are not revealed as monophyletic, further calling into question the morphological criteria used to classify them. The attached gonophores of the corynid species Sarsia lovenii are confirmed as being derived from an ancestral state of liberated medusae. Our results indicate that the 16S rDNA marker could be useful for a DNA‐based identification system for Cnidaria, for which it has been shown that the commonly used cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene does not work.
Assessing species boundaries and evolutionary relationships in a group of south‐western European species ofIsotomurus(Collembola, Isotomidae) using allozyme data
Authors: Carapelli Antonio , Frati Francesco , Fanciulli Pietro P. , Nardi Francesco , Dallai Romano
Published: January 2005

In this study allozyme data were used to examine evolutionary relationships in the cosmopolitan collembolan genusIsotomurus. Fifty‐six south‐western European populations from 13 species were compared, with the aim of delimiting species boundaries and testing the robustness of the most frequently used morphological characters for species identification. Observed allozyme variability suggests that genetic differentiation is more pronounced than the amount of morphological variability among and within species. Convergence in models of pigmentation pattern may lead to erroneous taxonomic identification when this is the only feature used for species diagnosis. In this respect, this study confirms that diagnosis is greatly improved when assisted by biochemical or molecular analyses. Allozyme data have also been used to reconstruct evolutionary hypotheses for relationships at the species and population level. The monophyly ofIsotomurus maculatus,I. unifasciatus,I. fucicolus,I. nebulosusandI. pseudopalustriswas confirmed on molecular grounds. Conversely, the monophyly ofI. ghibellinusandI. palustriswas rejected, suggesting the presence of cryptic species.
Comparative morphology of terminal‐instar larvae of Cynipoidea: phylogenetic implications
Authors: Nieves‐Aldrey José Luis , Vårdal Hege , Ronquist Fredrik
Published: January 2005

We describe the external morphology of the terminal‐instar larvae of 30 species of Cynipoidea (Hymenoptera), with special reference to the head capsule and mouthparts. Twenty‐five of the species belong to the Cynipidae and are gall inducers or phytophagous inquilines (guests) in galls, while five represent different insect‐parasitic lineages of the Cynipoidea. Although we find only limited variation in body shape, the head sclerites and mandibles offer many characters of potential phylogenetic value. For instance, the mandibles of the parasitoids have one large pointed tooth, with several smaller dents along the inner margin in core figitids, whereas the phytophagous gall inducers and inquilines have mandibles with two or three blunt teeth of subequal size. The mandibles of inquiline larvae are unique in being covered by vertical striations and in having a dominating, broad second tooth. We summarize the qualitative variation among the studied terminal‐instar larvae in terms of 33 morphological characters and one life‐history trait and examine the phylogenetic implications of these data by running parsimony analyses under uniform character weights and under implied weights (Goloboff weights). The analysis under uniform weights is poorly resolved but the relationships suggested by the implied‐weights analysis are largely congruent with previous analyses of adult morphology and molecular data. The larval data support inclusion of the genus Liposthenes in the Neaylax–Isocolus clade, in agreement with the molecular data but in weak conflict with adult morphology. However, the larval data agree with adult morphology and conflict with the molecular data in supporting monophyly of the inquilines.
The Early Cambrian Halkieria is a mollusc
Authors: Vinther Jakob , Nielsen Claus
Published: January 2005

Halkieria evangelista was originally interpreted as a stem‐group brachiopod. It was later proposed that the brachiopods evolved from a halkieriid ancestor that curved ventrally, lost the foot and radula, developed a lophophore as a new feeding organ, and modified the sclerites to chaetae. Molluscan affinities have been discussed by a number of authors. We have studied some of the original material of Halkieria and found that all the characters that can be observed with certainty are compatible with characters in living molluscs. The combination of characters observed in Halkieria does not fit with any of the living classes of molluscs, so we propose placing it in a new class, Diplacophora. Living polyplacophorans have hairs secreted by a number of epithelial cells and containing nerve cells; they are clearly not homologous with annelid chaetae. Thus, there is no support for theories that regard Halkieria as belonging to the stem group of either the annelids or brachiopods.
Psychiatric Patient and Informant Reports of Patient Behavior
Authors: Ready Rebecca E. , Clark Lee Anna
Published: January 2005

Abstract
Informant reports of psychiatric patient behavior are collected routinely during intake interviews and to monitor therapeutic interventions. We investigated agreement between informant and adult psychiatric patient reports of patient behaviors (N=110). Behaviors were about substance use, physical and mental health, employment, illegal behavior, and recreational and social activities. Informant agreement with patients regarding whether or not a particular behavior occurred recently and also behavior frequency ratings were moderate overall (M r=.47 for frequency) and highly variable (rs=−.09 to .80). No informant, patient, or relationship characteristics were found consistently to moderate agreement. Thus, informants can report very accurately about the presence and frequency of some, but not all, patient behaviors. Low patient‐informant agreement may be due to informants having relatively less detailed knowledge of patient behavior over time or patients not reporting accurately about certain behaviors.
Stress and Mood: The Moderating Role of Activity Inhibition
Authors: Langens Thomas A. , Stucke Tanja S.
Published: January 2005

The present research tested the hypothesis that activity inhibition (as measured by the picture story exercise) moderates the relationship between stress and mood. Based on prior research that shows that (a) individuals high in activity inhibition restrain emotional and motivational impulses and (b) inhibiting negative emotion may lead to further emotional impairments, we assumed that individuals high in activity inhibition show evidence of increased negative mood when they are confronted with stressful events. Study 1 found evidence of increased negative mood‐relevant thought among individuals high in activity inhibition who were confronted with the threat of social rejection. Study 2 found high negative mood among individuals high in activity inhibition who experienced many daily hassles. Also, participants high in activity inhibition reported a disproportionally higher amount of daily hassles in the middle (but not at the beginning) of a university semester. We suggest that this pattern of results can be accounted for by Wegner's (1994) theory of ironic effects of the suppression of thought and emotion.
The Socioemotional Costs and Benefits of Social‐Evaluative Concerns: Do Girls Care Too Much?
Authors: Rudolph Karen D. , Conley Colleen S.
Published: January 2005

Abstract
This research investigated the hypothesis that girls' heightened concerns about social evaluation contribute to sex differences in depression and interpersonal competence during early adolescence. A short‐term longitudinal study was conducted with 474 adolescents to examine the consequences of heightened social‐evaluative concerns. Adolescents reported on their levels of social‐evaluative concerns and depressive symptoms. Teachers provided ratings of adolescents' competence with peers (displays of prosocial and aggressive behavior). As anticipated, girls demonstrated higher levels of social‐evaluative concerns, depressive symptoms, and interpersonal competence than did boys. Moreover, path analysis confirmed that heightened social‐evaluative concerns were associated both concurrently and over time with higher levels of depression, as well as with higher levels of interpersonal competence. Notably, social‐evaluative concerns accounted fully for the sex difference in depression and partially for the sex difference in interpersonal competence. These findings highlight the need to consider both the socioemotional costs and benefits of sex‐linked relational orientations.
Searching for a Developmental Typology of Personality and Its Relations to Antisocial Behavior: A Longitudinal Study of a Representative Sample of Men
Authors: Morizot Julien , Le Blanc Marc
Published: January 2005

Abstract The search for an empirically based personality typology has regained the interest of researchers. To date, however, the empirical inquiries were mainly cross‐sectional. In this study, an empirically based developmental typology of personality was identified using data from a prospective longitudinal study of a representative sample of men assessed on four occasions from adolescence to midlife. Cluster analyses were performed on measures of Disinhibition, Negative Emotionality, and Extraversion. Four developmental types of personality were identified. The first was characterized by average scores in the three traits in adolescence that decreased rapidly until midlife (38%). The second was similar, but, instead, displayed increases in Extraversion during adulthood (32%). The third type showed high scores in Disinhibition and Negative Emotionality in adolescence that decreased progressively until midlife (23%). The fourth type was characterized by average scores in the three traits during adolescence followed by important increases in Negative Emotionality and decreases in Extraversion during adulthood (7%). These four developmental types of personality seemed to be related to known antisocial behavior trajectories.
Psychological Responses to Outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome: A Prospective, Multiple Time‐Point Study
Authors: Cheng Cecilia , Cheung Mike W. L.
Published: January 2005

Abstract This study examined anxiety and coping responses to the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in Hong Kong. Trait anxiety, situation‐specific coping strategies, and coping flexibility were proposed as predictors of state anxiety during the early phase of the SARS epidemic. Seven‐two Hong Kong undergraduates (31 men, 41 women) participated in a prospective, multiple time‐point study. Participants' trait anxiety and coping flexibility had been assessed in an earlier study. Five months later, they reported their anxiety and coping at each of the four time points during the outbreak. Results revealed fluctuations in state anxiety across time points. Results from hierarchical linear modeling showed that trait anxiety as well as the situation‐appropriate coping strategies of avoidance and personal hygiene practice accounted for changes in state anxiety.
Adiponectin: action, regulation and association to insulin sensitivity
Authors: Lihn A. S. , Pedersen S. B. , Richelsen B.
Published: January 2005

Adiponectin is a novel adipocyte‐specific protein, which, it has been suggested, plays a role in the development of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Although it circulates in high concentrations, adiponectin levels are lower in obese subjects than in lean subjects. Apart from negative correlations with measures of adiposity, adiponectin levels are also reduced in association with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Visceral adiposity has been shown to be an independent negative predictor of adiponectin. Thus, most features of the metabolic syndrome's negative associations with adiponectin have been shown. Adiponectin levels seem to be reduced prior to the development of type 2 diabetes, and administration of adiponectin has been accompanied by lower plasma glucose levels as well as increased insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, reduced expression of adiponectin has been associated with some degree of insulin resistance in animal studies indicating a role for hypoadiponectinaemia in relation to insulin resistance. The primary mechanisms by which adiponectin enhance insulin sensitivity appears to be through increased fatty acid oxidation and inhibition of hepatic glucose production. Adiponectin levels are increased by thiazoledinedione treatment, and this effect might be important for the enhanced insulin sensitivity induced by thiazolidinediones. In contrast, adiponectin levels are reduced by pro‐inflammatory cytokines especially tumour necrosis factor‐α. In summary, adiponectin in addition to possible anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atherogenic effects appears to be an insulin enhancer, with potential as a new pharmacologic treatment modality of the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
Prevalence of obesity in Great Britain
Authors: Rennie K. L. , Jebb S. A.
Published: January 2005

Since 1980 the prevalence of obesity in Great Britain in adults has almost trebled. Latest figures show that 23% of men and 25% of women were obese in 2002. In children, obesity prevalence is lower but the increase in the prevalence of overweight is similar to the rise in obesity in adults. Data from national surveys also show that there are marked differences in the prevalence of obesity that underpin health inequalities. Obesity is higher in low social classes, some ethnic minority groups particularly from South Asia and in Scotland and Wales relative to England.
A review of psychosocial pre‐treatment predictors of weight control
Authors: Teixeira P. J. , Going S. B. , Sardinha L. B. , Lohman T. G.
Published: January 2005

Prompted by the large heterogeneity of individual results in obesity treatment, many studies have attempted to predict weight outcomes from information collected from participants before they start the programme. Identifying significant predictors of weight loss outcomes is central to improving treatments for obesity, as it could help professionals focus efforts on those most likely to benefit, suggest supplementary or alternative treatments for those less likely to succeed, and help in matching individuals to different treatments. To date, however, research efforts have resulted in weak predictive models with limited practical usefulness. The two primary goals of this article are to review the best individual‐level psychosocial pre‐treatment predictors of short‐ and long‐term (1 year or more) weight loss and to identify research needs and propose directions for further work in this area. Results from original studies published since 1995 show that few previous weight loss attempts and an autonomous, self‐motivated cognitive style are the best prospective predictors of successful weight management. In the more obese samples, higher initial body mass index (BMI) may also be correlated with larger absolute weight losses. Several variables, including binge eating, eating disinhibition and restraint, and depression/mood clearly do not predict treatment outcomes, when assessed before treatment. Importantly, for a considerable number of psychosocial constructs (e.g. eating self‐efficacy, body image, self‐esteem, outcome expectancies, weight‐specific quality of life and several variables related to exercise), evidence is suggestive but inconsistent or too scant for an informed conclusion to be drawn. Results are discussed in the context of past and present conceptual and methodological limitations, and several future research directions are described.
Who succeeds in maintaining weight loss? A conceptual review of factors associated with weight loss maintenance and weight regain
Authors: Elfhag K. , Rössner S.
Published: January 2005

Weight loss is difficult to achieve and maintaining the weight loss is an even greater challenge. The identification of factors associated with weight loss maintenance can enhance our understanding for the behaviours and prerequisites that are crucial in sustaining a lowered body weight. In this paper we have reviewed the literature on factors associated with weight loss maintenance and weight regain. We have used a definition of weight maintenance implying intentional weight loss that has subsequently been maintained for at least 6 months. According to our review, successful weight maintenance is associated with more initial weight loss, reaching a self‐determined goal weight, having a physically active lifestyle, a regular meal rhythm including breakfast and healthier eating, control of over‐eating and self‐monitoring of behaviours. Weight maintenance is further associated with an internal motivation to lose weight, social support, better coping strategies and ability to handle life stress, self‐efficacy, autonomy, assuming responsibility in life, and overall more psychological strength and stability. Factors that may pose a risk for weight regain include a history of weight cycling, disinhibited eating, binge eating, more hunger, eating in response to negative emotions and stress, and more passive reactions to problems.
Obesity prevention: a proposed framework for translating evidence into action
Authors: Swinburn B. , Gill T. , Kumanyika S.
Published: January 2005

Obesity as a major public health and economic problem has risen to the top of policy and programme agendas in many countries, with prevention of childhood obesity providing a particularly compelling mandate for action. There is widespread agreement that action is needed urgently, that it should be comprehensive and sustained, and that it should be evidence‐based. While policy and programme funding decisions are inevitably subject to a variety of historical, social, and political influences, a framework for defining their evidence base is needed. This paper describes the development of an evidence‐based, decision‐making framework that is particularly relevant to obesity prevention. Building upon existing work within the fields of public health and health promotion, the Prevention Group of the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) developed a set of key issues and evidence requirements for obesity prevention. These were presented and discussed at an IOTF workshop in April 2004 and were then further developed into a practical framework. The framework is defined by five key policy and programme issues that form the basis of the framework. These are: (i) building a case for action on obesity; (ii) identifying contributing factors and points of intervention; (iii) defining the opportunities for action; (iv)evaluating potential interventions; and (v) selecting a portfolio of specific policies, programmes, and actions. Each issue has a different set of evidence requirements and analytical outputs to support policy and programme decision‐making. Issue 4 was identified as currently the most problematic because of the relative lack of efficacy and effectiveness studies. Compared with clinical decision‐making where the evidence base is dominated by randomized controlled trials with high internal validity, the evidence base for obesity prevention needs many different types of evidence and often needs the informed opinions of stakeholders to ensure external validity and contextual relevance.
A Complete Decomposition of Unemployment Dynamics using Longitudinal Grouped Duration Data*
Authors: Dejemeppe Muriel
Published: January 2005

In this paper, we study the unemployment dynamics in the Belgian regions, Flanders and Wallonia, on the basis of aggregate stratified data covering the period 1973–93. We decompose the aggregate exit probability from unemployment into calendar time and, both observed and unobserved, compositional effects. We find that changes in the inflow composition affect the cyclical fluctuations in unemployment duration only marginally. However, the long‐run improvement in the quality of entrants into unemployment, notably in terms of educational attainment, mitigates the strong upward trend in this duration. This is a new result as none of the existing studies purges the trend in the aggregate outflow rate of the variation in its composition. We also conclude that in Belgium, incidence explains as much as 45% of the evolution of unemployment. Finally, the diverging evolution of unemployment across Flanders and Wallonia predominantly results from a stronger decline in the exit rates from unemployment in Wallonia.
Interpretation of Cointegrating Coefficients in the Cointegrated Vector Autoregressive Model*
Authors: Johansen Søren
Published: January 2005

Regression coefficients are interpreted by a counterfactual experiment. For simultaneous equations this experiment can be implemented if the coefficients are identified, and throws some light on the role of instruments and the method of indirect least squares. This paper discusses another counterfactual experiment in the vector autoregressive model in order to interpret the coefficients of an identified cointegrating relation. The dynamics of the model is used to implement a long‐run change by changing the current values. The counterfactual experiment can be conducted precisely when the cointegrating relation is identified.
A Note on the Selection of Time Series Models
Authors: Ng Serena , Perron Pierre
Published: January 2005

We consider issues related to the order of an autoregression selected using information criteria. We study the sensitivity of the estimated order to (i) whether the effective number of observations is held fixed when estimating models of different order, (ii) whether the estimate of the variance is adjusted for degrees of freedom, and (iii) how the penalty for overfitting is defined in relation to the total sample size. Simulations show that the lag length selected by both the Akaike and the Schwarz information criteria are sensitive to these parameters in finite samples. The methods that give the most precise estimates are those that hold the effective sample size fixed across models to be compared. Theoretical considerations reveal that this is indeed necessary for valid model comparisons. Guides to robust model selection are provided.
Bilateral and subcutaneous palmar nodules in a 2‐year‐old child suggesting deep granuloma annulare
Authors: Mur EC , Fernández CM , Hermosa JMH
Published: January 2005

Granuloma annulare is a benign, relatively common dermatosis in childhood. The subcutaneous form is rare, and lesions typically occur on the legs, buttocks and scalp. We report a case of a deep granuloma annulare confined to the palms of the hands in a 2‐year‐old child.
Dermal fibrosis and cutaneous necrosis after recombinant interferon‐β1a injection in a multiple sclerosis patient
Authors: Ozden MG , Erel A , Erdem O , Oztas MO
Published: January 2005

The most commonly reported side‐effects of recombinant interferon‐β1a and 1b include local inflammatory injection site reactions, headache, fever, myalgia and a flu‐like syndrome. In this case report, we describe the occurrence of cutaneous necrosis and dermal fibrosis following intramuscular interferon‐β1a injections in a multiple sclerosis patient.
Dyskeratosis follicularis disease: case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Zeglaoui F , Zaraa I , Fazaa B , Houimli S , El Fekih N , Ezzine N , Kamoun MR
Published: January 2005

Background  Dyskeratosis follicularis (Darier's disease) is rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by the loss of adhesion between epidermal cells and by abnormal keratinization.

Methods  We performed a retrospective study of all the patients diagnosed with Darier's disease at the Department of Dermatology of Charles Nicolle Hospital of Tunis, between 1971 and 2002.

Results  During the observation period, we identified 12 patients with Darier's disease; five males and seven females with a mean age of 17.36 years. No family history was found in eight patients. Skin lesions in the form of keratotic papules were noted in seborrhoeic areas, essentially the face (nine patients), chest and scalp. Seven patients had nail lesions. UV light exposure exacerbated the disease symptoms in seven cases. The patients were treated with topical and systemic retinoids (six cases).

Conclusion  Although Darier's disease has a chronic course, most patients manage to lead a relatively normal life. Treatment is usually unsatisfactory despite much progress in understanding of the underlying abnormalities in Darier's disease.
Angioma serpiginosum: report of two unusual cases
Authors: Sandhu K , Gupta S
Published: January 2005

Angioma serpiginosum (AS) is a rare vascular naevoid disorder due to ectatic dilation of capillaries in the papillary dermis. The condition is found almost exclusively in females who have grouped erythematous punctate lesions usually on the lower limbs or buttocks. We report two rare cases of AS, each representing a different and unusual clinical feature of AS: one with familial involvement and the other with an extensive distribution of lesions.
Different properties of the central and peripheral forms of human tryptophan hydroxylase
Authors: McKinney Jeffrey , Knappskog Per M. , Haavik Jan
Published: January 2005

Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) catalyses the rate‐limiting reaction in the biosynthesis of serotonin. In humans, two different TPH genes exist, located on chromosomes 11 and 12, respectively, and encoding two enzymes (TPH1 and TPH2) with an overall sequence identity of 71%. We have expressed both enzymes as various fusion proteins in Escherichia coli and using an in vitro transcription/translation system, and compared their solubility and kinetic properties. TPH2 is more soluble than TPH1, has a higher molecular weight and different kinetic properties, including a lower catalytic efficiency towards phenylalanine than TPH1. Both enzymes are phosphorylated by cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A. TPH2 was phosphorylated at Ser19, a phosphorylation site not present in TPH1. The differences between TPH1 and TPH2 have important implications for the regulation of serotonin production in the brain and the periphery and may provide an explanation for some of the diverging results reported for TPH from different sources in the past.
Molecular mechanisms involved in the adenosine A1 and A2A receptor‐induced neuronal differentiation in neuroblastoma cells and striatal primary cultures
Authors: Canals Meritxell , Angulo Ester , Casadó Vicent , Canela Enric I. , Mallol Josefa , Viñals Francesc , Staines William , Tinner Barbro , Joelle Hillion  , Agnati Luigi , Fuxe Kjell , Ferré Sergi , Lluis Carmen , Franco Rafael
Published: January 2005

Adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs) and adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs) are the major mediators of the neuromodulatory actions of adenosine in the brain. In the striatum A1Rs and A2ARs are mainly co‐localized in the GABAergic striatopallidal neurons. In this paper we show that agonist‐induced stimulation of A1Rs and A2ARs induces neurite outgrowth processes in the human neuroblastoma cell line SH‐SY5Y and also in primary cultures of striatal neuronal precursor cells. The kinetics of adenosine‐mediated neuritogenesis was faster than that triggered by retinoic acid. The triggering of the expression of TrkB neurotrophin receptor and the increase of cell number in the G1 phase by the activation of adenosine receptors suggest that adenosine may participate in early steps of neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, protein kinase C (PKC) and extracellular regulated kinase‐1/2 (ERK‐1/2) are involved in the A1R‐ and A2AR‐mediated effects. Inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) activity results in a total inhibition of neurite outgrowth induced by A2AR agonists but not by A1R agonists. PKA activation is therefore necessary for A2AR‐mediated neuritogenesis. Co‐stimulation does not lead to synergistic effects thus indicating that the neuritogenic effects of adenosine are mediated by either A1 or A2A receptors depending upon the concentration of the nucleoside. These results are relevant to understand the mechanisms by which adenosine receptors modulate neuronal differentiation and open new perspectives for considering the use of adenosine agonists as therapeutic agents in diseases requiring neuronal repair.
Alzheimer's disease β‐secretase BACE1 is not a neuron‐specific enzyme
Authors: Roßner Steffen , Lange‐Dohna Christine , Zeitschel Ulrike , Perez‐Polo J. Regino
Published: January 2005

The brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients are morphologically characterized by neurofibrillar abnormalities and by parenchymal and cerebrovascular deposits of β‐amyloid peptides. The generation of β‐amyloid peptides by proteolytical processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) requires the enzymatic activity of the β‐site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1). The expression of this enzyme has been localized to the brain, in particular to neurons, indicating that neurons are the major source of β‐amyloid peptides in brain. Astrocytes, on the contrary, are known to be important for β‐amyloid clearance and degradation, for providing trophic support to neurons, and for forming a protective barrier between β‐amyloid deposits and neurons. However, under certain conditions related to chronic stress, the role of astrocytes may not be beneficial. Here we present evidence demonstrating that astrocytes are an alternative source of BACE1 and therefore may contribute to β‐amyloid plaque formation. While resting astroyctes in brain do not express BACE1 at detectable levels, cultured astrocytes display BACE1 promoter activity and express BACE1 mRNA and enzymatically active BACE1 protein. Additionally, in animal models of chronic gliosis and in brains of AD patients, there is BACE1 expression in reactive astrocytes. This would suggest that the mechanism for astrocyte activation plays a role in the development of AD and that therapeutic strategies that target astrocyte activation in brain may be beneficial for the treatment of AD. Also, there are differences in responses to chronic versus acute stress, suggesting that one consequence of chronic stress is an incremental shift to different phenotypic cellular states.
Presenilin 2 familial Alzheimer's disease mutations result in partial loss of function and dramatic changes in Aβ 42/40 ratios
Authors: Walker Emily S. , Martinez Maribel , Brunkan Anne L. , Goate Alison
Published: January 2005

Gene knockout studies in mice suggest that presenilin 1 (PS1) is the major γ‐secretase and that it contributes disproportionately to amyloid β (Aβ) peptide generation from β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP), whereas PS2 plays a more minor role. Based on this and other observations we hypothesized that familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) mutations in PS2 would have a dramatic effect on function in order to have an observable effect on Aβ levels in the presence of normal PS1 alleles. Only four of the eight reported FAD mutations in PS2 have altered function in vitro suggesting that the other variants represent rare polymorphisms rather than disease‐causing mutations. In support of our hypothesis, the four verified PS2 FAD mutations cause substantial changes in the Aβ 42/40 ratio, comparable with PS1 mutations that cause very‐early‐onset FAD. Most of the PS2 mutations also cause a significant decrease in Aβ 40, APP C‐terminal fragment (CTF)γ and Notch intracellular domain (NICD) production suggesting that they are partial loss of function mutations. PS2 M239V, its PS1 homolog M233V, and other FAD mutations within transmembrane (TM) 5 of PS1 differentially affect CTFγ and NICD production suggesting that TM5 of PS are important for γ‐secretase cleavage of APP but not Notch.
An RNAi strategy for treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caused by mutant Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase
Authors: Xia Xu Gang , Zhou Hongxia , Zhou Sili , Yu Yingping , Wu Rui , Xu Zuoshang
Published: January 2005

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor neuron degeneration, paralysis and death. One cause of this disease is mutations in the Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) gene. As mutant SOD1 acquires a toxic property that kills motor neurons, by reducing the mutant protein the disease progression may be slowed or prevented. While mutant SOD1 is toxic, the wild‐type SOD1 is indispensable for motor neuron health. Therefore, the ideal therapeutic strategy would be to inhibit selectively the mutant protein expression. Previously we have demonstrated that RNA interference (RNAi) can selectively inhibit some mutant SOD1 expression. However, more than 100 SOD1 mutants can cause ALS and all mutants cannot be inhibited selectively by RNAi. To overcome this obstacle, we have designed a replacement RNAi strategy. Using this strategy, all mutants and wild‐type genes are inhibited by RNAi. The wild‐type SOD1 function is then replaced by designed wild‐type SOD1 genes that are resistant to the RNAi. Here we demonstrate the concept of this strategy.
Thyroid hormone regulates Gαi1 gene expression in the rat cerebellar cortex during post‐natal development
Authors: Alvarez Maria , Perez‐Castillo Ana , Santos Angel
Published: January 2005

Thyroid hormone regulates the expression of G protein in tissues such as fat and heart. In the brain, very little information is available relative to the regulation by thyroid hormone of G proteins. Here, we show that the expression of the Gαi1 gene is induced by thyroid hormones in the rat cerebellum during development. Hence, the levels of Gαi1 transcripts and protein were decreased in the cerebellum of hypothyroid neonates. In situ hybridization studies showed that the neurons of the cerebellar cortex, particularly Purkinje cells, were affected. Surprisingly, and in contrast with the in vivo stimulatory effect described above, thyroid hormone repressed the activity of the rat Gαi1 promoter in vitro, suggesting that the effect of this hormone in the cerebellum is indirect. In this regard, we present data suggesting that the transcription factor C/EBPβ could be implicated. First, there are active CEBP binding sites in the Gαi1 promoter. Second, we have found a diminished DNA binding activity of hypothyroid nuclear proteins to a Gαi1 promoter sequence containing a C/EBP binding site. Third, this complex is likely to contain C/EBPβ protein as it is displaced by specific anti‐C/EBPβ antibodies. Finally, there is a significant decrease in the C/EBPβ protein content in the hypothyroid cerebellar cortex.