bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TRPV1b overexpression negatively regulates TRPV1 responsiveness to capsaicin, heat and low pH in HEK293 cells
Authors: Vos Melissa H. , Neelands Torben R. , McDonald Heath A. , Choi Won , Kroeger Paul E. , Puttfarcken Pamela S. , Faltynek Connie R. , Moreland Robert B. , Han Ping
Published: October 2006

Transient receptor potential channel type V (TRPV) 1 is a non‐selective cation channel that can be activated by capsaicin, endogenous vanilloids, heat and protons. The human TRPV1 splice variant, TRPV1b, lacking exon 7, was cloned from human dorsal root ganglia (DRG) RNA. The expression profile and relative abundance of TRPV1b and TRPV1 in 35 different human tissues were determined by quantitative RT‐PCR using isoform‐specific probes. TRPV1b was most abundant in fetal brain, adult cerebellum and DRG. Functional studies using electrophysiological techniques showed that recombinant TRPV1b was not activated by capsaicin (1 µm), protons (pH 5.0) or heat (50°C). However, recombinant TRPV1b did form multimeric complexes and was detected on the plasma membrane of cells, demonstrating that the lack of channel function was not due to defects in complex formation or cell surface expression. These results demonstrate that exon 7, which encodes the third ankyrin domain and 44 amino acids thereafter, is required for normal channel function of human TRPV1. Moreover, when co‐expressed with TRPV1, TRPV1b formed complexes with TRPV1, and inhibited TRPV1 channel function in response to capsaicin, acidic pH, heat and endogenous vanilloids, dose‐dependently. Taken together, these data support the hypothesis that TRPV1b is a naturally existing inhibitory modulator of TRPV1.
Down‐regulation of WNK1 protein kinase in neural progenitor cells suppresses cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Sun Xutong , Gao Luoyi , Yu Robert K. , Zeng Guichao
Published: October 2006

WNK1, a Ser/Thr protein kinase, is widely expressed in many tissues. Its biological functions are largely unknown. Disruption of the WNK1 gene in mice leads to embryonic lethality at day 13, implicating a critical role of WNK1 in embryonic development. To investigate this potential function, we used antisense strategy to knock down the expression of WNK1 in a mouse neural progenitor cell line, C17.2. Down‐regulation of WNK1 in C17.2 cells greatly reduced cell growth. Addition of epidermal growth factor (EGF), a mitogen for C17.2 cells, had no effect on growth. The WNK1‐knockdown cells showed a flat and rounded morphology, characteristic of the immature and non‐differentiated phenotype of the progenitor cells; this was further demonstrated by immunostaining for the progenitor and neuronal markers. Migration of the WNK1‐knockdown C17.2 cells was reduced as tested in culture dishes or Matrigel‐covered chambers. Moreover, activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1)/2 and ERK5 by EGF in the WNK1‐knockdown cells was suppressed. These results demonstrate a novel function of WNK1 in proliferation, migration, and differentiation of neural progenitor cells, likely by mechanisms involving activation of the mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase ERK1/2 and/or ERK5 pathways.
Regulation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases by glutamate receptors
Authors: Wang John Q. , Fibuch Eugene E. , Mao Limin
Published: October 2006

Glutamate receptors regulate gene expression in neurons by activating intracellular signaling cascades that phosphorylate transcription factors within the nucleus. The mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade is one of the best characterized cascades in this regulatory process. The Ca2+‐permeable ionotropic glutamate receptor, mainly the NMDA receptor subtype, activates MAPKs through a biochemical route involving the Ca2+‐sensitive Ras‐guanine nucleotide releasing factor, Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II, and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase. The metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR), however, activates MAPKs primarily through a Ca2+‐insensitve pathway involving the transactivation of receptor tyrosine kinases. The adaptor protein Homer also plays a role in this process. As an information superhighway between surface glutamate receptors and transcription factors in the nucleus, active MAPKs phosphorylate specific transcription factors (Elk‐1 and CREB), and thereby regulate distinct programs of gene expression. The regulated gene expression contributes to the development of multiple forms of synaptic plasticity related to long‐lasting changes in memory function and addictive properties of drugs of abuse. This review, by focusing on new data from recent years, discusses the signaling mechanisms by which different types of glutamate receptors activate MAPKs, features of each MAPK cascade in regulating gene expression, and the importance of glutamate/MAPK‐dependent synaptic plasticity in memory and addiction.
Of scalar hierarchies and welfare redesign: child care in three Canadian cities
Authors: Mahon Rianne
Published: October 2006

Scalar theory has recently come under attack for its emphasis on hierarchy. Yet the notion of scalar hierarchies cannot be abandoned if we want to understand actually‐existing social relations and the governance structures in which they are enmeshed. The conception of hierarchy employed by political economists is also more complex than that suggested by the ‘Russian dolls’ metaphor. A multiplicity of diversely structured, overlapping interscalar hierarchies operate in and across diverse policy fields. While these arrangements clearly influence what happens at the local scale, sufficient room often exists for local actors to modify the effects. The complexity of scalar hierarchies is illustrated through an analysis of the governance of child care provision in Canada. Child care arrangements are becoming integral to social reproduction in post‐industrial economies, where women form an increasingly important part of the labour force. This paper focuses on child care in three of Canada's largest cities, each of which is subject to a distinct provincial regime through which federal contributions are filtered. Yet, as we shall see, these cities are more than ‘puppets on a string.’
Effectiveness and Tolerability of Acupuncture Compared With Metoprolol in Migraine Prophylaxis
Authors: Streng Andrea , Linde Klaus , Hoppe Andrea , Pfaffenrath Volker , Hammes Michael , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Weidenhammer Wolfgang , Melchart Dieter
Published: October 2006

Objectives.—In a randomized controlled multicenter trial extending over 24 weeks, we investigated whether acupuncture is as effective and safe as metoprolol in the prophylactic treatment of migraine under conditions similar to routine care.

Methods.—One hundred fourteen migraine patients could be randomized to treatment over 12 weeks either with acupuncture (8 to 15 sessions) or metoprolol (100 to 200 mg daily). Main outcome measure was the difference in the number of migraine days between baseline and the weeks 9 to 12 after randomization (derived from a headache diary).

Results.—Two of 59 patients randomized to acupuncture withdrew prematurely from the study compared to 18 of 55 randomized to metoprolol. The number of migraine days decreased by 2.5 ± 2.9 days (baseline 5.8 ± 2.5 days) in the acupuncture group compared to 2.2 ± 2.7 days (baseline 5.8 ± 2.9 days) in the metoprolol group (P= .721). The proportion of responders (reduction of migraine attacks by ≥50%) was 61% for acupuncture and 49% for metoprolol. Both physicians and patients reported fewer adverse effects in the acupuncture group.

Conclusions.—Due to missing the recruitment target (480 patients) and the high drop‐out in the metoprolol group the results must be interpreted with caution. Still, they suggest that acupuncture might be an effective and safe treatment option for patients unwilling or unable to use drug prophylaxis.
Prevalence of Self‐Reported Epilepsy or Seizure Disorder and Its Associations with Self‐Reported Depression and Anxiety: Results from the 2004 Healthstyles Survey
Authors: Kobau Rosemarie , Gilliam Frank , Thurman David J.
Published: October 2006

Summary:  Purpose: To examine the prevalence of self‐reported epilepsy or seizure disorder and its association with self‐reported recent depression and anxiety in a large sample of the U.S. adult population.

Methods: We analyzed data from adults aged 18 years or older (n = 4,345) who participated in the 2004 HealthStyles Survey, a large mail panel survey designed to be representative of the U.S. population.

Results: Among U.S. adults aged 18 years or older, we estimated that 2.9% have been told by a doctor that they had epilepsy or seizure disorder, and an estimated 1.6% and 0.9% had active and inactive epilepsy, respectively. After controlling for demographic characteristics, we estimated that adults with self‐reported epilepsy were twice as likely to self‐report depression or anxiety in the previous year as were adults without epilepsy, and adults with active epilepsy were 3 times as likely to self‐report depression and twice as likely to have anxiety in the previous year as were adults without epilepsy.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight the burden of self‐reported depression and anxiety among adults with self‐reported epilepsy or seizure disorder, and suggest that healthcare providers should attempt to determine whether adult patients with epilepsy have any psychiatric comorbidity potentially to improve health outcomes. Questions about epilepsy and related factors should be routinely included on population‐based surveys so that we can better understand the epilepsy distribution in the U.S. population and identify the unmet health and psychosocial needs of people with epilepsy.
The Frequency of Reversible Parkinsonism and Cognitive Decline Associated with Valproate Treatment: A Study of 364 Patients with Different Types of Epilepsy
Authors: Ristić Aleksandar J. , Vojvodić Nikola , Janković Slavko , Sindelić Aleksandra , Sokić Dragoslav
Published: October 2006

Summary:  Purpose: We report the frequency of parkinsonism and cognitive decline (P/CD) in patients treated with valproate (VPA) after 1 year of treatment and at least 1 year of follow‐up.

Methods: Three hundred sixty‐four patients with various epileptic syndromes and seizure types were treated with VPA mono‐ or polytherapy for more than 1 year.

Results: We found five cases of P/CD (1.37%; 95% CI, 0.18–2.56%). Among 140 patients with different adverse effects (AEs) of VPA, P/CD were among the rarest in frequency but significant in terms of drug discontinuation (five of 17).

Conclusions: Early identification of this type of AE and discontinuation of the drug led to complete recovery in affected patients.
SiAlON‐Based Ceramics from Filled Preceramic Polymers
Authors: Bernardo E. , Colombo P. , Hampshire S.
Published: October 2006

Commercial polysiloxanes filled with alumina nanoparticles and AlN and Si3N4 micropowders have been used for the preparation of β‐SiAlON in nitrogen, at 1450°–1550°C. SiAlON was preceded by intermediate alumino‐silicate phases like mullite and sillimanite. Although reduction and nitridation to β‐SiAlON finally occurred, the SiAlON yield at high temperatures was lowered by corundum contaminations. The yield was also possibly affected by phase separation in the SiOC glass residue derived from silicones. A composition refinement reduced contamination and provided a promising route for SiAlON from filled preceramic polymers.
Ultrastructural Analysis of ESCRT Proteins Suggests a Role for Endosome‐Associated Tubular–Vesicular Membranes in ESCRT Function
Authors: Welsch Sonja , Habermann Anja , Jäger Stefanie , Müller Barbara , Krijnse‐Locker Jacomine , Kräusslich Hans‐Georg
Published: October 2006

The endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) is thought to support the formation of intralumenal vesicles of multivesicular bodies (MVBs). The ESCRT is also required for the budding of HIV and has been proposed to be recruited to the HIV‐budding site, the plasma membrane of T cells and MVBs in macrophages. Despite increasing data on the function of ESCRT, the ultrastructural localization of its components has not been determined. We therefore localized four proteins of the ESCRT machinery in human T cells and macrophages by quantitative electron microscopy. All the proteins were found throughout the endocytic pathway, including the plasma membrane, with only around 10 and 3% of the total labeling in the cytoplasm and on the MVBs, respectively. The majority of the labeling (45%) was unexpectedly found on tubular–vesicular endosomal membranes rather than on endosomes themselves. The ESCRT labeling was twice as concentrated on early and late endosomes/lysosomes in macrophages compared with that in T cells, where it was twice more abundant at the plasma membrane. The ESCRT proteins were not redistributed on HIV infection, suggesting that the amount of ESCRT proteins located at the budding site suffices for HIV release. These results represent the first systematic ultrastructural localization of ESCRT and provide insights into its role in uninfected and HIV‐infected cells.
Maurer’s Clefts‐Restricted Localization, Orientation and Export of a Plasmodium falciparum RIFIN
Authors: Khattab Ayman , Klinkert Mo‐Quen
Published: October 2006

RIFINs are clonally variant antigens expressed in Plasmodium falciparum. Transfection and the green fluorescence protein (GFP) tagged either internally or C‐terminally to the 3D7 PFI0050c RIFIN gene product were used to investigate protein localization, orientation and trafficking. Green fluorescence pattern emerging from live transfectant parasites expressing each of the RIFIN–GFP chimera was different. The internally GFP‐tagged protein was exported to Maurer’s clefts (MC) in the erythrocyte cytosol, whereas the C‐terminally GFP‐tagged full‐length RIFIN chimera was not trafficked out of the parasite. Interestingly, when some RIFIN‐specific C‐terminal amino acid sequences were removed, the resulting truncated molecule reached the MC. Using anti‐RIFIN and anti‐GFP antibodies to probe both live and fixed transfectants, staining was confined to MC and was not detected on the erythrocyte surface, a location previously suggested for this protein family. From selective permeabilization experiments, the highly variable portion of the RIFIN–GFP‐insertion chimera appeared to be exposed to the erythrocyte cytosol, presumably anchored in the MC membrane via the two transmembrane domains. Trafficking of both chimeras in young ring stages was sensitive to Brefeldin A (BFA), although older rings showed differential sensitivity to BFA.
Effects of Nitrogen Source and Bacterial Elicitor on Isoflavone Accumulation in Root Cultures of Albizzia kalkora (Roxb.) Prain
Authors: Park So‐Young , Lee Wi‐Young , Park Youngki , Ahn Jin‐Kwon
Published: October 2006

Changes in cellular isoflavone (daidzein and genistein) contents were monitored in root cultures of Albizzia kalkora (Roxb.) Prain after feeding different ratios of NH4+/NO3− and treatment with a biotic elicitor (three strains of Rhizobium sp.). The NH4+/NO3− ratio appears to be positively correlated with daidzein content in the roots and shows a negative correlation with genistein. Among the three different strains of Rhizobium used, the strain ATCC 15834 caused a 35% increase in daidzein production by infection. In the case of genistein, maximum production (94%) was obtained when cultures were treated on Day 6 by the strains ATCC 15834 and KCTC 1541. The biosynthetic pathway of the two isoflavones apparently reacts differently to the same culture conditions and the same strains of Rhizobium. Therefore, the present data suggest that the production of daidzein and genistein could be modulated by changing the NH4+/NO3− ratio and the application of Rhizobium.

(Managing editor: Wei Wang)
A High‐throughput Genomic Tool: Diversity Array Technology Complementary for Rice Genotyping
Authors: Xie Yong , McNally Kenneth , Li Cheng‐Yun , Leung Hei , Zhu You‐Yong
Published: October 2006

Diversity array technology (DArTTM) was a genotyping tool characterized gel‐independent and high throughput. The main purpose of present study is to validate DArT for rice (Oryza sativa L.)genotyping in a high throughput manner. Technically, the main objective was to generate a rice general purpose gene pool, and optimize this genomic tool in order to evaluate rice germplasm genetic diversity. To achieve this, firstly, a general‐purpose DArT array was developed. Ten representatives from 24 varieties were hybridized with the general‐purpose array to determine the informativeness of the clones printed on the array. The informative 1 152 clones were re‐arrayed on a slide and used to fingerprint 17 of 24 germplasms. Hybridizing targets prepared from the germplasm to be assayed to the DNA array gave DNA fingerprints of germplasms. Raw data were normalized and transformed into binary data, which were then analyzed by using NTSYSpc (Numerical taxonomy system for cluster and ordination analysis, v. 2.02j) software package. The graphically displayed dendrogram derived from the array experimental data was matched with simple sequence repeats genotyping outline and varieties' pedigree deviation of the different varieties. Considering DArT is a sequence‐independent genotyping approach, it will be applied in studies of the genetic diversity and the gene mapping of diverse of organisms, especially for those crops with less‐developed molecular markers.

(Managing editor: Ya‐Qin Han)
Progress in the Study of Molecular Genetic Improvements of Poplar in China
Authors: Lin Shan‐Zhi , Zhang Zhi‐Yi , Zhang Qian , Lin Yuan‐Zhen
Published: October 2006

The poplar is one of the most economically important and intensively studied tree species owing to its wide application in the timber industry and as a model material for the study of woody plants. The natural resource of poplars in China is replete. Over the past 10 years, the application of molecular biological techniques to genetic improvements in poplar species has been widely studied in China. Recent advances in molecular genetic improvements of poplar, including cDNA library construction, gene cloning and identification, genetic engineering, gene expression, genetic linkage map construction, mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) and molecular‐assisted selection, are reviewed in the present paper. In addition, the application of modern biotechnology to molecular improvements in the genetic traits of the poplar and some unsolved problems are discussed.

(Managing editor: Li‐Hui Zhao)
New Diterpenoids from Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Qi , Wang Guo‐Cai , Ye Wen‐Cai , Li Qian , Zhou Guang‐Xiong , Yao Xin‐Sheng
Published: October 2006

To investigate diterpenoids from the aerial parts of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees, three new ent‐labdane diterpenoids, namely 19‐norandrographolides A‐C (compounds 1–3), were isolated from the ethanolic extract of A. paniculata. Their structures were established by HRESIMS and NMR spectral data in combination with X‐ray crystallographic analysis.

(Managing editor: Wei Wang)
Genetic Diversity of Landraces in Gossypium arboreum L. Race sinense Assessed with Simple Sequence Repeat Markers
Authors: Guo Wang‐Zhen , Zhou Bao‐Liang , Yang Lu‐Ming , Wang Wei , Zhang Tian‐Zhen
Published: October 2006

Asiatic cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) is an “Old World” cultivated cotton species, the sinense race of which is planted extensively in China. This species is still used in the current tetraploid cotton breeding program as an elite germplasm line, and is also used as a model for genomic research in Gossypium. In the present study, 60 cotton microsatellite markers, averaging 4.6 markers for each A‐genome chromosome, were chosen to assess the genetic diversity of 109 accessions. These included 106 G. arboreum landraces, collected from 18 provinces throughout four Asiatic cotton‐growing regions in China. A total of 128 alleles were detected, with an average of 2.13 alleles per locus. The largest number of alleles, as well as the maximum number of polymorphic loci, was detected in the A03 linkage group. No polymorphic alleles were detected on chromosome 10. The polymorphism information content for the 22 polymorphic microsatellite loci varied from 0.52 to 0.98, with an average of 0.89. Genetic diversity analysis revealed that the landraces in the Southern region had more genetic variability than those from the other two regions, and no significant difference was detected between landraces in the Yangtze and the Yellow River Valley regions. These findings are consistent with the history of sinense introduction, with the Southern region being the presumed center of origin for Chinese Asiatic cotton, and with subsequent northeastward extension to the Yangtze and Yellow River Valleys. Cluster analysis, based on simple sequence repeat data for 60 microsatellite loci, clearly differentiated Vietnamese and G. herbaceum landraces from the sinense landrace. No relationship between inter‐variety similarity and geographical ecological region was observed. The present findings indicate that the Southern region landraces may have been directly introduced into the provinces in the middle and lower Yangtze River Valley, where Asiatic cotton was most extensively grown, and further race sinense crops were subsequently produced.

(Managing editor: Ya‐Qin Han)
Nutritional Composition and Assessment of Gracilaria lemaneiformis Bory
Authors: Wen Xue , Peng Changlian , Zhou Houcheng , Lin Zhifang , Lin Guizhu , Chen Shaowei , Li Ping
Published: October 2006

The chemical composition, mineral elements, vitamins, free fatty acids and amino acid content of the edible red alga Gracilaria lemaneiformis Bory, grown in the sea near Nan'ao island, Guangdong Province, were analyzed in the present study. Gracilaria lemaneiformis Bory showed a total sugar content of 14.65%. The protein content was 21%, of which approximately 41% was determined to be essential amino acids (EAA). The major amino acid components were glutamic acid, leucine, arginine, and alanine. Of the EAA assayed, methionine and cysteine appeared to be the most limiting amino acids compared with the EAA pattern provided by Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. The total lipids content was 0.87% and comprised a high composition of unsaturated fatty acids (61%), mainly as linoleic acid and oleic acid, and a little amount of polyunsaturated fatty acid; palmitic acid was the main component (39%) of saturated acids. Relatively high levels of vitamin C, iodine, phosphorus, and zinc were also present in G. lemaneiformis. The nutritional composition between G. lemaneiformis and Nostoc flagelliforme, a rare alga that is widely eaten in Chinese society, was compared. The results suggest that N. flagelliforme can be substituted for by G. lemaneiformis, not only because of their similar shape, but also because of their approximate nutritional composition. Gracilaria lemaneiformis may possibly serve as a potential healthy food in human diets in the future.

(Managing editor: Ping He)
Genes encoding a group of related small secreted proteins from the gut of Hessian fly larvae [Mayetiola destructor (Say)]
Authors: CHEN MING‐SHUN , LIU XIANG , ZHU YU‐CHENG , REESE JOHN C. , WILDE GERALD E.
Published: October 2006

Abstract
A group of related genes has been isolated and characterized from the gut of Hessian fly larvae [Mayetiola destructor (Say)]. Members in this group appear to encode proteins with secretary signal pep tides at the N‐terminals. The mature putative proteins are small, acidic proteins with calculated molecular masses of 14.5 to 15.3 kDa, and isoelectric points from 4.56 to 4.88. Northern blot analysis revealed that these genes are expressed predominantly in the gut of Hessian fly larvae and pupae. Two related genes, G10K1 and G10K2, were isolated as tandem repeats. Both genes contain three exons and two introns. The intron/exon boundaries were conserved in terms of amino acid encoding, suggesting that they arose by gene duplication. The fact that the frequency of this group of clones in a gut cDNA library higher than that of total cDNA clones encoding digestive enzymes suggested that this group of proteins may perform an important function in the gut physiology of this insect. However, the exact functions of these proteins are as yet known since no sequence similarity could be identified between these proteins and any known sequences in public databases using standard methods.
Expression and immunocytochemical analysis of Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) orf74 gene
Authors: AN SHI‐HENG , GUO ZHONG‐JIANG , YIN XIN‐MING
Published: October 2006

Abstract
Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus orf74 (Ac74) is located between 62 311 and 63 108bp in the AcMNPV genome, which encodes 265 amino acid residues with a predicted 31 kDa molecular weight. The homologues of Ac74 were searched using BLASTP in protein databases, GenBank/EMBL and SWISS‐PROT. The result revealed that deduced Ac74 protein was homologous to the predicted products from 10 lepidoptera NPV ORFs. The multiple sequence alignments of Ac74 and its 10 homologues manifested only one amino acid residue was completely conserved. The transcript analysis revealed that the transcript of Ac74 was detected from 24–72 hours post‐infection (hpi). The product of Ac74 was detected at 24 hpi and lasted until 72 hpi by Western blot using anti‐Ac74 antiserum, consistent with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction results. These results suggested Ac74 was expressed during the later stages of infection. The product of Ac74 was 31 kDa in size, consistent with predicted molecular weight. The subcellular localization of Ac74 proteins manifested Ac74 protein in the cytoplasm, and was hardly present in the nucleus at 24 hpi. The fluorescence was also observed in polyhedra, except cytoplasm at 72 hpi. Together, Ac74 is a functional protein with 3 1kDa molecular weight and is located in the cytoplasm and the polyhedra.
How we do it: Transoral suction diathermy adenoid ablation under direct vision using a 45 degree endoscope
Authors: Lo S. , Rowe‐Jones J.
Published: October 2006

Keypoints

• Adenoid ablation using suction diathermy is associated with a number of difficulties, mainly associated with the use of the mirror. Transoral and transnasal 0 degree endoscopes have also been utilised but again have limitations. We describe a technique that overcomes the above problems.

• A prospective case series of patients undergoing suction diathermy adenoidectomy under direct vision using a transoral 45 degree endoscope connected to a monitor was conducted, performed by surgical trainees and under direct supervision of the consultant trainer (J.R.‐J.).

• Intra‐operatively, trainees had to demonstrate to the trainer the appropriate anatomy, completed adenoid ablation, and haemostasis.

• Fifty‐six cases have been performed. In every case, it was possible for the trainer to monitor the trainee's technique throughout the entire procedure. No complications have been reported.

• We describe a modified technique which overcomes the disadvantages previously encountered by conventional suction diathermy adenoid ablation.
How we do it: Changes in thyroid and salivary gland surgery since 1989: who's doing it and what are they doing?
Authors: Hughes J.P. , Tatla T. , Farrell R.
Published: October 2006

Keypoints

• The aim of this study was to identify changes in the provision of parotid, submandibular and thyroid gland surgery between surgical specialties since 1989, as well as changes in surgical practice.

• Data from the Department of Health's Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) was extracted from 1989/1990 and 2003/2004 records by operation and surgical specialty in England.

• The data reveals a considerable decline in the amount of parotid and submandibular surgery performed by General surgeons; with the majority of this surgery currently being performed by ENT surgeons, and to a lesser extent, Oral and Maxillo‐Facial surgeons.

• Thyroid surgery has undergone less radical change, with General surgeons continuing to perform the majority of cases; however, an increasing proportion is now provided by ENT surgeons.

• There also seems to be changes in the types of thyroid operation being performed; with large increases in total thyroidectomy and reductions in subtotal thyroidectomies.
The national comparative audit of surgery for nasal polyposis and chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Hopkins C. , Browne J.P. , Slack R. , Lund V. , Topham J. , Reeves B. , Copley L. , Brown P. , Van Der Meulen J.
Published: October 2006

Objectives: This study summarises the results of a National Audit of sino‐nasal surgery carried out in England and Wales. It describes patient and operative characteristics as well as patient outcomes up to 36 months after surgery.

Design: Prospective cohort study.

Setting: NHS hospitals in England and Wales.

Participants: Consecutive patients undergoing surgery for nasal polyposis and/or chronic rhinosinusitis.

Main outcome measure: The total score derived from a 22‐item version of the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22). Lower scores represent better health‐related quality of life.

Results: A total of 3128 consecutive patients at 87 NHS hospitals were enrolled. There is a large improvement in SNOT‐22 scores from the pre‐operative period (mean = 42.0) to 3 months after surgery (mean = 25.5). The scores for patients undergoing nasal polypectomy improved from 41.0 before surgery to 23.1 at 3 months after surgery, while the scores for patients undergoing surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis alone improved from 44.2 to 31.2. The SNOT‐22 scores reported at 12 and 36 months after surgery were similar to those reported at 3 months. Excessive bleeding occurred in 5% of patients during the operation and in 1% of patients after the operation. Intra‐orbital complications were reported in 0.2%. Of those patients undergoing primary surgery for bilateral grade I or II polyposis, 18% had not received a pre‐operative course of steroid treatment. At the 36‐month follow‐up, 11.4% of patients had undergone revision surgery.

Conclusions: The audit confirms that sino‐nasal surgery is generally safe and effective. There is some evidence that patient selection for surgery could be improved.
Evidence for Conformational Changes within DsbD: Possible Role for Membrane-Embedded Proline Residues
Authors: Hiniker Annie , Vertommen Didier , Bardwell James C. A. , Collet Jean-Francois
Published: October 2006

The mechanism by which DsbD transports electrons across the cytoplasmic membrane is unknown. Here we provide evidence that DsbD's conformation depends on its oxidation state. Our data also suggest that four highly conserved prolines surrounding DsbD's membrane-embedded catalytic cysteines may have an important functional role, possibly conferring conformational flexibility to DsbD.
Differential Effects of
yfgL
Mutation on
Escherichia coli
Outer Membrane Proteins and Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Charlson Emily S. , Werner John N. , Misra Rajeev
Published: October 2006

YfgL together with NlpB, YfiO, and YaeT form a protein complex to facilitate the insertion of proteins into the outer membrane of
Escherichia coli
. Without YfgL, the levels of OmpA, OmpF, and LamB are significantly reduced, while OmpC levels are slightly reduced. In contrast, the level of TolC significantly increases in a
yfgL
mutant. When cells are depleted of YaeT or YfiO, levels of all outer membrane proteins examined, including OmpC and TolC, are severely reduced. Thus, while the assembly pathways of various nonlipoprotein outer membrane proteins may vary through the step involving YfgL, all assembly pathways in
Escherichia coli
converge at the step involving the YaeT/YfiO complex. The negative effect of
yfgL
mutation on outer membrane proteins may in part be due to elevated sigma E activity, which has been shown to downregulate the synthesis of various outer membrane proteins while upregulating the synthesis of periplasmic chaperones, foldases, and lipopolysaccharide. The data presented here suggest that the
yfgL
effect on outer membrane proteins also stems from a defective assembly apparatus, leading to aberrant outer membrane protein assembly, except for TolC, which assembles independent of YfgL. Consistent with this view, the simultaneous absence of YfgL and the major periplasmic protease DegP confers a synthetic lethal phenotype, presumably due to the toxic accumulation of unfolded outer membrane proteins. The results support the hypothesis that TolC and major outer membrane proteins compete for the YaeT/YfiO complex, since mutations that adversely affect synthesis or assembly of major outer membrane proteins lead to elevated TolC levels.
Physiological Analysis of the Stringent Response Elicited in an Extreme Thermophilic Bacterium,Thermus thermophilus
Authors: Kasai Koji , Nishizawa Tomoyasu , Takahashi Kosaku , Hosaka Takeshi , Aoki Hiroyuki , Ochi Kozo
Published: October 2006

Guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) is a key mediator of stringent control, an adaptive response of bacteria to amino acid starvation, and has thus been termed a bacterial alarmone. Previous X-ray crystallographic analysis has provided a structural basis for the transcriptional regulation of RNA polymerase activity by ppGpp in the thermophilic bacteriumThermus thermophilus. Here we investigated the physiological basis of the stringent response by comparing the changes in intracellular ppGpp levels and the rate of RNA synthesis in stringent (rel+; wild type) and relaxed (relAandrelC; mutant) strains ofT. thermophilus. We found that in wild-typeT. thermophilus, as in other bacteria, serine hydroxamate, an amino acid analogue that inhibits tRNASeraminoacylation, elicited a stringent response characterized in part by intracellular accumulation of ppGpp and that this response was completely blocked in arelA-null mutant and partially blocked in arelCmutant harboring a mutation in the ribosomal protein L11. Subsequent in vitro assays using ribosomes isolated from wild-type andrelAandrelCmutant strains confirmed that (p)ppGpp is synthesized by ribosomes and that mutation of RelA or L11 blocks that activity. This conclusion was further confirmed in vitro by demonstrating that thiostrepton or tetracycline inhibits (p)ppGpp synthesis. In an in vitro system, (p)ppGpp acted by inhibiting RNA polymerase-catalyzed 23S/5S rRNA gene transcription but at a concentration much higher than that of the observed intracellular ppGpp pool size. On the other hand, changes in the rRNA gene promoter activity tightly correlated with changes in the GTP but not ATP concentration. Also, (p)ppGpp exerted a potent inhibitory effect on IMP dehydrogenase activity. The present data thus complement the earlier structural analysis by providing physiological evidence thatT. thermophilusdoes produce ppGpp in response to amino acid starvation in a ribosome-dependent (i.e., RelA-dependent) manner. However, it appears that inT. thermophilus, rRNA promoter activity is controlled directly by the GTP pool size, which is modulated by ppGpp via inhibition of IMP dehydrogenase activity. Thus, unlike the case ofEscherichia coli, ppGpp may not inhibitT. thermophilusRNA polymerase activity directly in vivo, as recently proposed forBacillus subtilisrRNA transcription (L. Krasny and R. L. Gourse, EMBO J.23:4473-4483, 2004).
The Genome Sequence of
Mannheimia haemolytica
A1: Insights into Virulence, Natural Competence, and
Pasteurellaceae
Phylogeny
Authors: Gioia Jason , Qin Xiang , Jiang Huaiyang , Clinkenbeard Kenneth , Lo Reggie , Liu Yamei , Fox George E. , Yerrapragada Shailaja , McLeod Michael P. , McNeill Thomas Z. , Hemphill Lisa , Sodergren Erica , Wang Qiaoyan , Muzny Donna M. , Homsi Farah J. , Weinstock George M. , Highlander Sarah K.
Published: October 2006

The draft genome sequence of
Mannheimia haemolytica
A1, the causative agent of bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC), is presented. Strain ATCC BAA-410, isolated from the lung of a calf with BRDC, was the DNA source. The annotated genome includes 2,839 coding sequences, 1,966 of which were assigned a function and 436 of which are unique to
M. haemolytica
. Through genome annotation many features of interest were identified, including bacteriophages and genes related to virulence, natural competence, and transcriptional regulation. In addition to previously described virulence factors,
M. haemolytica
encodes adhesins, including the filamentous hemagglutinin FhaB and two trimeric autotransporter adhesins. Two dual-function immunoglobulin-protease/adhesins are also present, as is a third immunoglobulin protease. Genes related to iron acquisition and drug resistance were identified and are likely important for survival in the host and virulence. Analysis of the genome indicates that
M. haemolytica
is naturally competent, as genes for natural competence and DNA uptake signal sequences (USS) are present. Comparison of competence loci and USS in other species in the family
Pasteurellaceae
indicates that
M. haemolytica
,
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
, and
Haemophilus ducreyi
form a lineage distinct from other
Pasteurellaceae
. This observation was supported by a phylogenetic analysis using sequences of predicted housekeeping genes.
Adaptive Gene Expression in
Bacillus subtilis
Strains Deleted for
tetL
Authors: Wei Yi , Deikus Gintaras , Powers Benjamin , Shelden Victor , Krulwich Terry A. , Bechhofer David H.
Published: October 2006

The growth properties of a new panel of
Bacillus subtilis tetL
deletion strains and of a derivative set of strains in which
tetL
is restored to the chromosome support earlier indications that deletion of
tetL
results in a range of phenotypes that are unrelated to tetracycline resistance. These phenotypes were not reversed by restoration of a
tetL
gene to its native locus and were hypothesized to result from secondary mutations that arise when multifunctional
tetL
is deleted. Such genetic changes would temper the alkali sensitivity and Na
+
sensitivity that accompany loss of the monovalent cation/proton activity of TetL. Microarray comparisons of the transcriptomes of wild-type
B. subtilis
, a
tetL
deletion strain, and its
tetL
-restored derivative showed that 37 up-regulated genes and 13 down-regulated genes in the deletion strain did not change back to wild-type expression patterns after
tetL
was returned to the chromosome. Up-regulation of the
citM
gene, which encodes a divalent metal ion-coupled citrate transporter, was shown to account for the Co
2+
-sensitive phenotype of
tetL
mutants. The changes in expression of
citM
and genes encoding other ion-coupled solute transporters appear to be adaptive to loss of TetL functions in alkali and Na
+
tolerance, because they reduce Na
+
-coupled solute uptake and enhance solute uptake that is coupled to H
+
entry.
QUANTUM TRANSPORT THROUGH A MESOSCOPIC AB RING WITH THREE LEADS
Authors: GAO YINGFANG , LIANG J.-Q. , ZHANG G.-F.
Published: October 2006

We study the quantum transport through a mesoscopic AB ring with three leads. An exact solution for the quantum transport is obtained and it is shown that the transmitted currents j1 and j2 in the outgoing leads are modulated by the AB phase respectively and oscillate with the magnetic flux. We demonstrate that the corresponding probability currents I1, I2 and I3 in the three arms l1, l2 and l3 also oscillate with the magnetic flux ΦAB for the cases l1=l2=l3=L and l1=L, l2=l3=2L.
EFFECT OF COMPOSITIONAL MODIFICATIONS ON DIELECTRIC, FERROELECTRIC AND PYROELECTRIC RESPONSE OF PMN-PT SOLID SOLUTIONS NEAR MPB
Authors: KUMAR PAWAN , SINGH SARABJIT , THAKUR O. P. , PRAKASH CHANDRA , GOEL T. C.
Published: October 2006

Morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) compositions of (1-x) PMN- (x) PT system, where x=0.30, 0.32 and 0.34, were prepared in single perovskite phase by the B-site Columbite precursor method. Temperature dependence of dielectric behavior, measured at different frequencies, revealed the transformation of the system from relaxor to normal ferroelectric behavior and decrease in dielectric dispersion near transition temperature (Tc) with the increase in PT content. Appearance of an abnormal hump in the dielectric behavior of PMNT 68/32 composition confirms the MPB nature of the system. Remnant polarization, Pr was found to be ~ 23, 22 and 27 μC/cm2, whereas coercive field, Ec was found to be ~ 3.3, 3.9 and 3.6 kV/cm for PMNT 70/30, 68/32 and 66/34 compositions respectively. Strain versus electric field (S-E) behavior revealed the piezoelectric nature of these compositions with a maximum strain ~ 0.75% at 31 kV/cm applied electric field in PMNT 68/32 composition. Temperature variation of the pyroelectric coefficient, Pi, confirms Tc, as obtained by dielectric measurements.
YIELD CURVE ESTIMATION IN THE ILLIQUID MARKET: FRAMEWORK, MODELS AND EMPIRICAL STUDY
Authors: XIE CHI , CHEN HUI , YU XIANG
Published: October 2006

In this paper, we propose a framework to estimate the yield curve in the illiquid market. Within this framework, seven different curve-fitting models are compared from four aspects with the trading data of government bonds listed in the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) of China. We find that the exponential spline model is optimal for this market. The characteristics and reasons underlying SSE interest rate fluctuations in the past two years are also analyzed.
Iron Homeostasis
Authors: Andrews Nancy C. , Schmidt Paul J.
Published: October 2006

Iron is needed by all mammalian cells but is toxic in excess. Specialized transport mechanisms conduct iron across cellular membranes. These are regulated to ensure homeostasis both systemically in living organisms and within individual cells. Over the past decade, major advances have been made in identifying and characterizing the proteins involved in the transport, handling, and homeostatic regulation of iron. Molecular understanding of these processes has provided important insights into the pathophysiology of human iron disorders.
Neuronal Control of Skin Function: The Skin as a Neuroimmunoendocrine Organ
Authors: Roosterman Dirk , Goerge Tobias , Schneider Stefan W. , Bunnett Nigel W. , Steinhoff Martin
Published: October 2006

This review focuses on the role of the peripheral nervous system in cutaneous biology and disease. During the last few years, a modern concept of an interactive network between cutaneous nerves, the neuroendocrine axis, and the immune system has been established. We learned that neurocutaneous interactions influence a variety of physiological and pathophysiological functions, including cell growth, immunity, inflammation, pruritus, and wound healing. This interaction is mediated by primary afferent as well as autonomic nerves, which release neuromediators and activate specific receptors on many target cells in the skin. A dense network of sensory nerves releases neuropeptides, thereby modulating inflammation, cell growth, and the immune responses in the skin. Neurotrophic factors, in addition to regulating nerve growth, participate in many properties of skin function. The skin expresses a variety of neurohormone receptors coupled to heterotrimeric G proteins that are tightly involved in skin homeostasis and inflammation. This neurohormone-receptor interaction is modulated by endopeptidases, which are able to terminate neuropeptide-induced inflammatory or immune responses. Neuronal proteinase-activated receptors or transient receptor potential ion channels are recently described receptors that may have been important in regulating neurogenic inflammation, pain, and pruritus. Together, a close multidirectional interaction between neuromediators, high-affinity receptors, and regulatory proteases is critically involved to maintain tissue integrity and regulate inflammatory responses in the skin. A deeper understanding of cutaneous neuroimmunoendocrinology may help to develop new strategies for the treatment of several skin diseases.
Human Multidrug Resistance ABCB and ABCG Transporters: Participation in a Chemoimmunity Defense System
Authors: Sarkadi Balázs , Homolya László , Szakács Gergely , Váradi András
Published: October 2006

In this review we give an overview of the physiological functions of a group of ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter proteins, which were discovered, and still referred to, as multidrug resistance (MDR) transporters. Although they indeed play an important role in cancer drug resistance, their major physiological function is to provide general protection against hydrophobic xenobiotics. With a highly conserved structure, membrane topology, and mechanism of action, these essential transporters are preserved throughout all living systems, from bacteria to human. We describe the general structural and mechanistic features of the human MDR-ABC transporters and introduce some of the basic methods that can be applied for the analysis of their expression, function, regulation, and modulation. We treat in detail the biochemistry, cell biology, and physiology of the ABCB1 (MDR1/P-glycoprotein) and the ABCG2 (MXR/BCRP) proteins and describe emerging information related to additional ABCB- and ABCG-type transporters with a potential role in drug and xenobiotic resistance. Throughout this review we demonstrate and emphasize the general network characteristics of the MDR-ABC transporters, functioning at the cellular and physiological tissue barriers. In addition, we suggest that multidrug transporters are essential parts of an innate defense system, the “chemoimmunity” network, which has a number of features reminiscent of classical immunology.
Calcium Signaling and Exocytosis in Adrenal Chromaffin Cells
Authors: García Antonio G. , García-De-Diego Antonio M. , Gandía Luis , Borges Ricardo , García-Sancho Javier
Published: October 2006

At a given cytosolic domain of a chromaffin cell, the rate and amplitude of the Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]c) depends on at least four efficient regulatory systems: 1) plasmalemmal calcium channels, 2) endoplasmic reticulum, 3) mitochondria, and 4) chromaffin vesicles. Different mammalian species express different levels of the L, N, P/Q, and R subtypes of high-voltage-activated calcium channels; in bovine and humans, P/Q channels predominate, whereas in felines and murine species, L-type channels predominate. The calcium channels in chromaffin cells are regulated by G proteins coupled to purinergic and opiate receptors, as well as by voltage and the local changes of [Ca2+]c. Chromaffin cells have been particularly useful in studying calcium channel current autoregulation by materials coreleased with catecholamines, such as ATP and opiates. Depending on the preparation (cultured cells, adrenal slices) and the stimulation pattern (action potentials, depolarizing pulses, high K+, acetylcholine), the role of each calcium channel in controlling catecholamine release can change drastically. Targeted aequorin and confocal microscopy shows that Ca2+entry through calcium channels can refill the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to nearly millimolar concentrations, and causes the release of Ca2+(CICR). Depending on its degree of filling, the ER may act as a sink or source of Ca2+that modulates catecholamine release. Targeted aequorins with different Ca2+affinities show that mitochondria undergo surprisingly rapid millimolar Ca2+transients, upon stimulation of chromaffin cells with ACh, high K+, or caffeine. Physiological stimuli generate [Ca2+]cmicrodomains in which the local subplasmalemmal [Ca2+]crises abruptly from 0.1 to ∼50 μM, triggering CICR, mitochondrial Ca2+uptake, and exocytosis at nearby secretory active sites. The fact that protonophores abolish mitochondrial Ca2+uptake, and increase catecholamine release three- to fivefold, support the earlier observation. This increase is probably due to acceleration of vesicle transport from a reserve pool to a ready-release vesicle pool; this transport might be controlled by Ca2+redistribution to the cytoskeleton, through CICR, and/or mitochondrial Ca2+release. We propose that chromaffin cells have developed functional triads that are formed by calcium channels, the ER, and the mitochondria and locally control the [Ca2+]cthat regulate the early and late steps of exocytosis.