bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat shocking of Philippine green mussels, Perna viridis
Authors: Azanza Ma. Patricia V. , Azanza Rhodora V. , Ventura Sharon R.
Published: July 2005

The use of different methods of heat shocking for green mussels was evaluated. These methods were heat treatment at 60 and 100 °C either in a hot water bath, in water‐saturated air or in dry heat. It was established that relaxation of the adductor muscles, which facilitates shucking, was quickest for the hot water bath treatment at both test temperatures. This treatment caused 100% of the mussels to be open at either 60 or 100 °C in 3–5 and 0.33–1 min exposure times respectively. The sensory acceptability of all the heat‐shocked mussel meats ranged from dislike slightly to like slightly. Generally, the increase in pH and water activity of the heat‐treated mussels, relative to the untreated mussels, was not statistically significant at the 5% level of significance.
Validation and cross‐comparison of MRI temperature mapping against fibre optic thermometry for microwave heating of foods
Authors: Nott Kevin P. , Hall Laurance D.
Published: July 2005

The heating of a 5% starch gel in a standard domestic microwave oven has been measured using a combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ‘offline’, and fibre optic thermometry ‘online’. MRI was used to locate potential hot and cold spots for optimal placement of the fibre optic probes used to measure temperatures both during microwave heating and for the subsequent 100 s which is the time required for transfer of the sample to the magnet (38–48 s) and the acquisition of the 32 × 32 × 128 pixel MRI temperature map (52 s). The MRI data have a systematic offset because of the finite transferral time and duration of the MRI scan, but not to the detriment of high spatial resolution which is necessary to resolve the high temperature gradients induced. It is believed that 3D MRI temperature mapping will be invaluable to further studies of microwave heating as optimized placement of fibre optic thermometry probes is difficult, and the spatial distribution of microwave absorption is highly variable.
Characterization of a novel temperature‐sensitive allele of the CUL1/AXR6 subunit of SCF ubiquitin‐ligases
Authors: Quint Marcel , Ito Hironori , Zhang Wenjing , Gray William M.
Published: July 2005

Selective protein degradation by the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway has emerged as a key regulatory mechanism in a wide variety of cellular processes. The selective components of this pathway are the E3 ubiquitin‐ligases which act downstream of the ubiquitin‐activating and ‐conjugating enzymes to identify specific substrates for ubiquitinylation. SCF‐type ubiquitin‐ligases are the most abundant class of E3 enzymes in Arabidopsis. In a genetic screen for enhancers of the tir1‐1 auxin response defect, we identified eta1/axr6‐3, a recessive and temperature‐sensitive mutation in the CUL1 core component of the SCFTIR1 complex. The axr6‐3 mutation interferes with Skp1 binding, thus preventing SCF complex assembly. axr6‐3 displays a pleiotropic phenotype with defects in numerous SCF‐regulated pathways including auxin signaling, jasmonate signaling, flower development, and photomorphogenesis. We used axr6‐3 as a tool for identifying pathways likely to be regulated by SCF‐mediated proteolysis and propose new roles for SCF regulation of the far‐red light/phyA and sugar signaling pathways. The recessive inheritance and the temperature‐sensitive nature of the pleiotropically acting axr6‐3 mutation opens promising possibilities for the identification and investigation of SCF‐regulated pathways in Arabidopsis.
Cell adhesion inArabidopsis thalianais mediated by ECTOPICALLY PARTING CELLS 1 – a glycosyltransferase (GT64) related to the animal exostosins
Authors: Singh Sunil Kumar , Eland Cathlene , Harholt Jesper , Scheller Henrik Vibe , Marchant Alan
Published: July 2005

Despite the fact that several hundred glycosyltransferases have been identified from sequencing of plant genomes, the biological functions of only a handful have been established to date. A Poplar glycosyltransferase 64 (GT64) family member that is differentially expressed during the cell division and elongation phases of cambial growth was identified from previously generated transcript profiling of cambium tissues. The predicted Poplar GT64 protein has a closely related Arabidopsis homolog ECTOPICALLY PARTING CELLS (EPC1). Mutation of theEPC1gene, one of three Arabidopsis GT64 family members, results in plants with a dramatically reduced growth habit, defects in vascular formation and reduced cell–cell adhesion properties in hypocotyl and cotyledon tissues. Secondary growth is enhanced inepc1hypocotyl tissues and it is proposed that this results from the abnormal cell–cell adhesion within the cortical parenchyma cell layers. Loss of cell–cell contacts within cotyledon and leaf tissues is also proposed to account for vascular patterning defects and the fragile nature ofepc1tissues. The EPC1 protein thus plays a critical role during plant development in maintaining the integrity of organs via cell–cell adhesion, thereby providing mechanical strength and facilitating the movement of metabolites throughout the plant.
A new seed‐based assay for meiotic recombination in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Melamed‐Bessudo Cathy , Yehuda Elizabeth , Stuitje Antoine R. , Levy Avraham A.
Published: July 2005

Meiotic recombination is a fundamental biological process that plays a central role in the evolution and breeding of plants. We have developed a new seed‐based assay for meiotic recombination in Arabidopsis. The assay is based on the transformation of green and red fluorescent markers expressed under a seed‐specific promoter. A total of 74 T‐DNA markers were isolated, sequenced and mapped both physically and genetically. Lines containing red and green markers that map 1–20 cM apart were crossed to produce tester lines with the two markers linked in cis yielding seeds that fluoresced both in red and green. We show that these lines can be used for efficient scoring of recombinant types (red only or green only fluorescing seeds) in a seed population derived from a test cross (backcross) or self‐pollination. Two tester lines that were characterized during several generations of backcross and self‐pollination, one in the background of ecotype Landsberg and one in the ecotype Columbia, are described. We discuss the number of plants and seeds to be scored in order to obtain reliable and reproducible crossing over rate values. This assay offers a relatively high‐throughput method, with the benefit of seed markers (similar to the maize classical genetic markers) combined with the advantages of Arabidopsis. It advances the prospect to better understand the factors that affect the rate of meiotic crossover in plants and to stimulate this process for more efficient breeding and mapping.
Optimization of biometry for intraocular lens implantation using the Zeiss IOLMaster
Authors: Madge Simon N. , Khong C. H. , Lamont Meon , Bansal Atul , Antcliff Richard J.
Published: July 2005

Purpose:  To compare the accuracy of biometry using conventional A‐scan ultrasonography and partial coherence interferometry, and to improve the accuracy of biometry by sequential audit of postoperative refractive error.

Methods:  The study was performed in three phases. In phase 1, 20 consecutive patients undergoing routine phacoemulsification underwent biometry using both A‐scan ultrasonography and the Zeiss IOLMaster (ZIOLM). A single experienced optometrist refracted all patients 2 weeks after surgery. The errors between expected and achieved refraction were calculated and compared between the two methods. In phases 2 and 3, a further 22 and 20 patients, respectively, were recruited and only the ZIOLM was used for biometry. The manufacturer's suggested A‐constant was refined and the error between expected and achieved refraction was calculated.

Results:  In phase 1, the median unexpected error for the ZIOLM was +0.63 (interquartile range +0.368 to +1.015) and for A‐scan biometry was − 0.24 (interquartile range − 1.335 to +0.802). In phase 1 65% of patients' postoperative refractions were found to be within 1.0 D of emmetropia using the ZIOLM (55% using A‐scan biometry). Refinements to the A‐constant improved this to 95% by phase 3.

Conclusion:  An error was identified in IOL power estimation with the ZIOLM, when using the manufacturer's recommended A‐constant (recommended and previously optimized ultrasound A‐constant 118.0; ZIOLM optimized A‐constant 118.6). Serial modifications to the A‐constant were successful in reducing the unexpected error to well within the tolerance limits of published international standards.
Long‐term macular function in eyes with central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Baran Nergis V , Gürlü Vuslat P , Esgin Haluk
Published: July 2005

Abstract

Background:  This study aimed to investigate the long‐term effects of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) on macular function.

Methods:  Sixty‐two eyes of 31 patients were included in this study. All patients were diagnosed with unilateral CSCR at the Retina Unit of the Ophthalmology Department, Trakya University Medical Faculty, and had a post‐attack bilateral visual acuity of 6/6 and a follow‐up period of a minimum of 6 months. Visual function was assessed using the Amsler grid, 40‐hue colour discrimination test, visual field examination by means of Octopus automatic perimeter and Cambridge contrast sensitivity tests.

Results:  Of the 31 patients, 71% were men and 29% were women, with a mean age of 39.3 ± 7.6 years. The patients had a mean follow‐up period of 50.6 ± 40.5 months after the acute attack. Metamorphopsia was observed in 67.7% of the cases with CSCR. A colour discrimination defect was found in 48.4% of the CSCR eyes and in 54.8% of the fellow eyes. As compared with the fellow eyes, the mean deviation in the central 10° of visual field was significantly higher (t = 2.9, P = 0.007) and the mean contrast sensitivity score was significantly lower (t = −3.2, P = 0.004) in the CSCR eyes.

Discussion:  Patients with unilateral CSCR were observed to have long‐term bilateral colour discrimination defects, and eyes with clinical CSCR were determined to have central relative scotoma and loss of contrast sensitivity.
Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma: atypical presentation of HIV
Authors: De Silva Don Julian , Tumuluri Krishna , Joshi Naresh
Published: July 2005

Abstract

Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the conjunctiva is uncommon in Western countries. A Nigerian patient who presented with right lower lid swelling treated as a chalazion is described here. She re‐presented 5 months later with widespread metastatic conjunctival SCC and positive HIV serology. Conjunctival SCC may be difficult to distinguish on clinical appearance alone and in an era of increasing global travel, young patients with a history of high ultraviolet‐B radiation exposure and from countries with a high HIV prevalence should be given a low threshold for excision biopsy.
Orbital cellulitis following cataract surgery
Authors: Sharma Vidushi , Benger Ross , Wechsler Alfred W , Kaufman Greg , Burfitt‐Williams Grosvenor CT
Published: July 2005

Abstract

Orbital cellulitis is an extremely uncommon complication following cataract surgery. Herein, a patient who developed orbital cellulitis less than 24 h after undergoing cataract surgery is described. She responded well to systemic antibiotic treatment and ultimately achieved good visual acuity in the affected eye. The most likely mode of pathogen entry in such cases is considered to be the anaesthetic block given before the cataract surgery. It has been suggested that a careful skin antiseptic preparation before the block is given could prevent this occurrence, but such a preparation did not do so in our case.
Scrg1 is induced in TSE and brain injuries, and associated with autophagy
Authors: Dron Michel , Bailly Yannick , Beringue Vincent , Haeberlé Anne‐Marie , Griffond Bernadette , Risold Pierre‐Yves , Tovey Michael G. , Laude Hubert , Dandoy‐Dron Françoise
Published: July 2005

We have previously identified Scrg1, a gene with increased cerebral mRNA levels in transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) such as scrapie, bovine spongiform encephalopathy and Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease. In this study, Scrg1‐immunoreactive cells, essentially neurons, were shown to be widely distributed throughout the brain of scrapie‐infected mice, while only rare and weakly immunoreactive cells could be detected in the brain of non‐infected normal mice. Induction of the protein was confirmed by Western blot analysis. At the ultrastructural level, Scrg1 protein was associated with dictyosomes of the Golgi apparatus and autophagic vacuoles in the central neurons of the scrapie‐infected mice. These results suggested a role for Scrg1 in the pathological changes observed in TSE. We have generated transgenic mice specifically expressing Scrg1 in neurons. No significant differences in the time course of the disease were detected between transgenic and non‐transgenic mice infected with scrapie prions. However, tight association of Scrg1 with autophagic vacuoles was again observed in brain neurons of infected transgenic mice. High levels of the protein were also detected in degenerating Purkinje cells of Ngsk Prnp0/0 mice overexpressing the Prnd gene coding for doppel, a neurotoxic paralogue of the prion protein. Furthermore, induction of Scrg1 protein was observed in the brain of mice injured by canine distemper virus or gold thioglucose treatment. Taken together, our results indicate that Scrg1 is associated with neurodegenerative processes in TSE, but is not directly linked to dysregulation of prion protein.
Reciprocal interactions between oscillatory activities of different frequencies in the subthalamic region of patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Fogelson Noa , Pogosyan Alek , Kühn Andrea A. , Kupsch Andreas , Van Bruggen Gerard , Speelman Hans , Tijssen Marina , Quartarone Angelo , Insola Angelo , Mazzone Paolo , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo , Limousin Patricia , Brown Peter
Published: July 2005

Synchronization of neuronal activity evident in the local field potential (LFP) recorded in the subthalamic region of patients with Parkinson's disease occurs at low frequencies (< 30 Hz) and, in some patients following treatment with levodopa, at high frequencies between 65 and 85 Hz. Here we investigate the functional relationship between these different activities by determining whether spontaneous fluctuations in their strength are correlated across time. To this end, we analysed recordings of LFPs from macroelectrodes inserted in the subthalamic area of 16 patients with Parkinson's disease, after treatment with anti‐parkinsonian medication. Time‐evolving autospectra of LFPs with significant 65–85 Hz peaks (from 21 sides) were computed and correlations between frequency components determined over time. LFP activity in the 5–32 Hz band was significantly negatively correlated with that in the 65–85 Hz band in data averaged across all 21 sides, as well as in 15 (71%) of the individual records. Negative correlations were relatively selective for interactions between these frequency bands and occurred over time epochs of as little as 40 s. They occurred about 50 min after levodopa and were recorded concurrently with contralateral levodopa‐induced dyskinesias in all but four cases. Positive correlations were not seen between activities in the 5–32 Hz and 65–85 Hz bands. The spontaneous negative correlations suggest a reciprocal relationship between population synchrony in the high‐ and low‐frequency ranges, and raise the possibility that spontaneous fluctuations in the balance between these activities may contribute to levodopa‐induced dyskinesias.
Minocycline blocks bilirubin neurotoxicity and prevents hyperbilirubinemia‐induced cerebellar hypoplasia in the Gunn rat
Authors: Lin Suizhen , Wei Xing , Bales Kelly R. , Paul Aaron B. C. , Ma Zhizhong , Yan Guangmei , Paul Steven M. , Du Yansheng
Published: July 2005

Encephalopathy induced by hyperbilirubinemia in infants has been described in the medical literature for over a century but neither the cellular nor molecular mechanisms underlying bilirubin neurotoxicity are well understood. In this study, we have demonstrated that minocycline potently protects primary cultured rat cerebellar granule neurons against bilirubin neurotoxicity (IC50 ≈ 2 µm) and almost completely blocks cerebellar hypoplasia and the profound loss of Purkinje and granule neurons observed in homozygous Gunn rats, a genetic model of hyperbilirubinemia‐induced neurotoxicity. Minocycline‐treated newborn Gunn rats had nearly equivalent numbers of viable Purkinje and granule neurons in the cerebellum as did control animals. Moreover, minocycline inhibits the bilirubin‐induced phosphorylation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase both in vivo as well as in vitro. Taken together our data demonstrate that minocycline is able to greatly reduce bilirubin‐induced neurotoxicity and suggest that minocycline's neuroprotective effects may be due in part to an inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase activity. Our findings may lead to novel approaches for treating bilirubin‐induced encephalopathy.
Matrix metalloproteinase induction by EMMPRIN in experimental focal cerebral ischemia
Authors: Burggraf Dorothe , Liebetrau Martin , Martens Helge K. , Wunderlich Nathalie , Jäger Gabriele , Dichgans Martin , Hamann Gerhard F.
Published: July 2005

Focal cerebral ischemia leads to the gradual disruption of the extracellular matrix. A key role in the turnover of the extracellular matrix is played by the system of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In this study we describe changes of the MMP inducer protein (EMMPRIN) following experimental cerebral ischemia (induced for 3 h and followed by 24 h reperfusion, suture model) in rats. Extracellular EMMPRIN was measured by Western blot of the ischemic and nonischemic basal ganglia and cortex separately. Compared with the contralateral nonischemic area, the ischemic hemisphere showed a significant increase in EMMPRIN: basal ganglia, 158% ± 4% (P < 0.05); cortex, 128% ± 25% (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry was used to localize EMMPRIN on cerebral microvessels. EMMPRIN‐positive microvascular structures were quantified by automatic morphometric video‐imaging analysis and a significant increase in the number of cerebral microvessels staining positive for EMMPRIN in the ischemic basal ganglia was shown. The significant loss of microvascular basal lamina antigen collagen type IV in ischemic cortex and basal ganglia was calculated by Western blot. Measured by gelatin zymography, we demonstrated an MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 increase in the ischemic brain regions (P < 0.05). For the first time the MMP activation system EMMPRIN was shown to be relevant in cerebral ischemia. These results raise the possibility that the increased expression of EMMPRIN, the increase in MMPs and the damage of the basal lamina following cerebral ischemia are connected and part of a network of related changes.
Dopamine depletion alters phosphorylation of striatal proteins in a model of Parkinsonism
Authors: Brown Abigail M. , Deutch Ariel Y. , Colbran Roger J.
Published: July 2005

Nigrostriatal dopamine depletion disrupts striatal medium spiny neuron morphology in Parkinson's disease and modulates striatal synaptic plasticity in animal models of parkinsonism. We demonstrate that long‐term nigrostriatal dopamine depletion in the rat induces evolving changes in the phosphorylation of striatal proteins critical for synaptic plasticity. Dopamine depletion increased the phosphorylation of the alpha isoform of calcium–calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKIIα) at Thr286, a site associated with enhanced autonomous kinase activity, but did not alter total levels of CaMKIIα or other synaptic proteins. Dopamine depletion decreased CaMKIIα levels in postsynaptic density‐enriched fractions without significant changes in other proteins. The activity of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1), a postsynaptic phosphatase that dephosphorylates CaMKII, is regulated by DARPP‐32 (dopamine‐ and cAMP‐regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa). Dopamine depletion had no effect on DARPP‐32 phosphorylation at Thr34, but increased DARPP‐32 phosphorylation at Thr75. Levodopa administration reversed the increased phosphorylation of both CaMKIIα and DARPP‐32. Normal ageing increased the levels of PP1(γ1 isoform) but decreased levels of the PP1γ1‐targeting proteins spinophilin and neurabin. Elevated phosphorylations of CaMKIIα and DARPP‐32 were maintained for up to 20 months after dopamine depletion. However, phosphorylation of the CaMKII–PP1 substrate, Ser831in the glutamate receptor GluR1 subunit, was increased only after sustained (9–20 months) dopamine depletion. Interaction of ageing‐related changes in PP1 with the dopamine depletion‐induced changes in CaMKIIα may account for enhanced GluR1 phosphorylation only after long‐term dopamine depletion. These evolving changes may impact striatal synaptic plasticity, Parkinson's disease progression and the changing efficacy and side‐effects associated with dopamine replacement therapy.
Levodopa‐induced dyskinesia in MPTP‐treated macaques is not dependent on the extent and pattern of nigrostrial lesioning
Authors: Guigoni Céline , Dovero Sandra , Aubert Incarnation , Li Qin , Bioulac Bernard H. , Bloch Bertrand , Gurevich Eugenia V. , Gross Christian E. , Bezard Erwan
Published: July 2005

The extent of nigrostriatal denervation is presumed to play a role in the genesis of levodopa‐induced dyskinesia. Yet some parkinsonian patients who have been treated over a long period do not develop dyskinesia, raising the possibility that the pattern of denervation is as important as the extent of lesioning as a risk factor. Here we study the extent and pattern of nigrostriatal denervation in a homogeneous population of parkinsonian macaque monkeys chronically treated with levodopa. Based on the characteristics of the lesioning, non‐dyskinetic animals could not be differentiated from those with dyskinesia. Indeed, the number of tyrosine‐hydroxylase (TH)‐immunopositive neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) binding and TH immunostaining, as well as the overall TH striatal content measured by Western blotting were identical. Moreover, the patterns of lesioning assessed by a detailed analysis of the TH‐ and DAT‐immunopositive striatal fibers were comparable in all functional quadrants and at all rostro‐caudal levels considered. These data indicate that neither the extent nor the pattern of nigrostriatal lesioning are sufficient to explain the occurrence of levodopa‐induced dyskinesia.
Spontaneous recurrent network activity in organotypic rat hippocampal slices
Authors: Mohajerani Majid H. , Cherubini Enrico
Published: July 2005

Organotypic hippocampal slices were prepared from postnatal day 4 rats and maintained in culture for >6 weeks. Cultured slices exhibited from 12 days in vitro spontaneous events which closely resembled giant depolarizing potentials (GDPs) recorded in neonatal hippocampal slices. GDP‐like events occurred over the entire hippocampus with a delay of 30–60 ms between two adjacent regions as demonstrated by pair recordings from CA3–CA3, CA3–CA1 and interneurone–CA3 pyramidal cells. As in acute slices, spontaneous recurrent events were generated by the interplay of GABA and glutamate acting on AMPA receptors as they were reversibly blocked by bicuculline and 6,7‐dinitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione but not by dl‐2‐amino‐5‐phosphonopentaoic acid. The equilibrium potentials for GABA measured in whole cell and gramicidin‐perforated patch from interconnected interneurones–CA3 pyramidal cells were −70 and −56 mV, respectively. The resting membrane potential estimated from the reversal of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate‐induced single‐channel currents in cell‐attach experiments was −75 mV. In spite of its depolarizing action, in the majority of cases GABA was still inhibitory as it blocked the firing of principal cells. The increased level of glutamatergic connectivity certainly contributed to network synchronization and to the development of interictal discharges after prolonged exposure to bicuculline. In spite of its inhibitory action, in a minority of cells GABA was still depolarizing and excitatory as it was able to bring principal cells to fire, suggesting that a certain degree of immaturity is still present in cultured slices. This was in line with the transient bicuculline‐induced block of GDPs and with the isoguvacine‐induced increase of GDP frequency.
The intracerebral application of the PPARγ‐ligand pioglitazone confers neuroprotection against focal ischaemia in the rat brain
Authors: Zhao Yi , Patzer Andreas , Gohlke Peter , Herdegen Thomas , Culman Juraj
Published: July 2005

The present study addresses the neuroprotective function of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) application of pioglitazone, a selective ligand of the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) in the rat brain after ischaemia. Pioglitazone or vehicle were i.c.v. infused via osmotic minipumps over a 5‐day period before, and 2 days after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 min. This i.c.v. application of pioglitazone in the brain significantly reduced the infarct size and brain oedema, and attenuated in the peri‐infarct cortical regions the invasion of activated microglia and macrophages. Moreover, pioglitazone improved the recovery of sensory deficits 48 h after MCAO. Our data demonstrate for the first time that it is the activation of intracerebral PPARγ that can confer neuroprotection, anti‐inflammatory and neurological improvement following ischaemic injury.
Tuning for shape dimensions in macaque inferior temporal cortex
Authors: Kayaert Greet , Biederman Irving , Op de Beeck Hans P. , Vogels Rufin
Published: July 2005

It is widely assumed that distributed bell‐shaped tuning (e.g. Radial Basis functions) characterizes the shape selectivity of macaque inferior temporal (IT) neurons, analogous to the orientation or spatial frequency tuning found in early visual cortex. Demonstrating such tuning properties requires testing the responses of neurons for different values along dimensions of shape. We recorded the responses of single macaque IT neurons to variations of a rectangle and a triangle along simple shape dimensions, such as taper and axis curvature. The neurons showed systematic response modulation along these dimensions, with the greatest response, on average, to the highest values on the dimensions, e.g. to the most curved shapes. Within the range of values tested, the response functions were monotonic rather than bell‐shaped. Multi‐dimensional scaling of the neural responses showed that these simple shape dimensions were coded orthogonally by IT neurons: the degree and direction of responses modulation (i.e. the increase or decrease of responses along a dimension) was independent for the different dimensions. Furthermore, for combinations of curvature‐related and other simple shape dimensions, the joint tuning was separable, that is well predicted by the product of the tuning for each of the dimensions. The independence of dimensional tuning may provide the neural basis for the independence of psychophysical judgements of multidimensional stimuli.
Cell‐type specific GABA synaptic transmission and activity‐dependent plasticity in rat hippocampal stratum radiatum interneurons
Authors: Patenaude Christian , Massicotte Guy , Lacaille Jean‐Claude
Published: July 2005

In hippocampal pyramidal cells, the efficacy of synaptic transmission at γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic synapses, is modulated by activity. However, whether such plasticity occurs at inhibitory synapses on interneurons remains largely unknown. Using whole‐cell voltage‐clamp recordings of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in Sprague–Dawley rat hippocampal slices, we examined whether GABA synapses of stratum radiatum interneurons were affected by stimulation protocols known to alter efficacy at inhibitory synapses of CA1 pyramidal cells. Monosynaptically evoked IPSCs (eIPSCs) exhibited different properties with significantly faster kinetics, higher coefficients of variation, a current–voltage (I–V) relationship shifted to depolarized values and a smaller paired‐pulse depression, in interneurons than in pyramidal cells. GABA synapses on interneurons also showed a different capacity for plasticity. Indeed, theta‐burst stimulation induced a long‐term potentiation of eIPSCs in both cell types, but the induction mechanisms differed in interneurons, as it was not affected by antagonists of GABAB receptors and group I/II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Furthermore, 100‐Hz tetanization selectively elicited a short‐term depression of eIPSCs in pyramidal cells. A postsynaptic depolarization produced a transient suppression of eIPSCs (depolarization‐induced suppression of inhibition) in pyramidal cells but not in interneurons. Spontaneous IPSCs were similarly reduced following depolarization in pyramidal cells, but not in interneurons. These results indicate that GABA synapses of stratum radiatum interneurons exhibit different properties and capacity for activity‐dependent plasticity than those of pyramidal cells. This cell‐type specific mode of transmission and adaptive regulation of GABA synapses may contribute to hippocampal plasticity and functions.
Memory consolidation of Pavlovian fear conditioning requires nitric oxide signaling in the lateral amygdala
Authors: Schafe Glenn E. , Bauer Elizabeth P. , Rosis Svetlana , Farb Claudia R. , Rodrigues Sarina M. , LeDoux Joseph E.
Published: July 2005

Nitric oxide (NO) has been widely implicated in synaptic plasticity and memory formation. In studies of long‐term potentiation (LTP), NO is thought to serve as a ‘retrograde messenger’ that contributes to presynaptic aspects of LTP expression. In this study, we examined the role of NO signaling in Pavlovian fear conditioning. We first show that neuronal nitric oxide synthase is localized in the lateral nucleus of the amygdala (LA), a critical site of plasticity in fear conditioning. We next show that NO signaling is required for LTP at thalamic inputs to the LA and for the long‐term consolidation of auditory fear conditioning. Collectively, the findings suggest that NO signaling is an important component of memory formation of auditory fear conditioning, possibly as a retrograde signal that participates in presynaptic aspects of plasticity in the LA.
Antagonism of the interleukin‐1 receptor following traumatic brain injury in the mouse reduces the number of nitric oxide synthase‐2‐positive cells and improves anatomical and functional outcomes
Authors: Jones Nigel C. , Prior Malcolm J. W. , Burden‐Teh Esther , Marsden Charles A. , Morris Peter G. , Murphy Sean
Published: July 2005

Interleukin (IL)‐1β plays an important role in the inflammatory response that results from traumatic brain injury and antagonism of the actions of this cytokine can affect outcome. We subjected male mice to aseptic cryogenic injury and assessed recovery through anatomical, histological and functional measures following treatment with recombinant mouse IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1ra). A single dose (1 µg, i.c.v.) at the time of injury reduced lesion volume 3 days later, as assessed by Nissl staining, and also the number (30%) of FluoroJade‐positive degenerating neurones. Mice treated with IL‐1ra performed better on the beam balance and in the grid test as compared with vehicle‐treated animals. Furthermore, IL‐1ra‐treated animals showed fewer (40%) nitric oxide synthase‐2‐positive cells in and around the lesion. These data suggest that activation of the IL‐1 receptor following trauma contributes to the pathology and that antagonism can reduce both anatomical and functional consequences of neuroinflammation.
Responses of summer cereal aphid populations to reduced rate aphicide applications in field plots of winter wheat
Authors: Oakley J. N. , Ellis S. A. , Watling M. , Walters K. F. A. , Young J. E. B.
Published: July 2005

Abstract  1 Recommended and reduced rate applications of pirimicarb and alpha‐cypermethrin were applied to winter wheat crops to control summer infestations of grain aphid (Sitobion avenae) and rose‐grain aphid (Metopolophium dirhodum).

2 Aphid numbers were assessed weekly and the yield response to treatment application was compared with accumulated aphid days on the crop.

3 Responses to aphicide treatment varied between sites according to variations in the subsequent development of aphid populations under varying weather conditions and differential pressures from aphid natural enemies.

4 Alpha‐cypermethrin treatment reduced spider density at most sites, and also resulted in a resurgence of aphid populations at three sites.
Health, quality of life and cancer
Authors: Sægrov S.
Published: July 2005

Background: One in every three persons in Norway will be afflicted with some form of cancer during their lifetime.

Aim: This article discusses the self‐evaluations of health and quality of life by 86 people who were diagnosed with cancer 6 months to 3 years previously.

Method: The Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form 36 (SF‐36), developed to measure health status and outcome for both clinical practice and research, was sent to 199 cancer patients in a rural Norwegian county‐municipality. Eighty‐six questionnaires were returned with a response rate of 43%. Of the respondents, 44 were women and 42 were men. Their average age was 58 years. The majority had been diagnosed with cancer 2 years earlier, and 49 responded that they had been declared cured.

Results: Respondents scored lowest on the scale of ‘physical role functions’, which indicates the degree to which poor physical health influences daily activities, and on ‘vitality’, which reflects their perception of energy.

Conclusions: Cancer victims in this study felt drained of energy for a long period after they had received their diagnosis. Those who had not been declared cured scored lower on all scales than those who have been declared healthy. These respondents apparently have poor health and quality of life. When compared with a nationally available study, the persons who have cancer are far more drained of energy than the population as a whole.

Implications for practice: Health personnel need to take more responsibility for the follow‐up of persons with cancer throughout all stages of illness. More concern should be paid particularly to psychosocial needs.
Addressing the challenges of the global nursing community
Authors: Swenson M. J. , Salmon M. E. , Wold J. , Sibley L.
Published: July 2005

Aim:  To describe both the initial and the subsequent impact of the 2001 Global Nursing Partnerships Conference: ‘Strategies for a Sustainable Workforce’, the first ever forum of its type, on the key challenges facing the global nursing community.

Design:  Identification of short‐ and long‐term outcomes through descriptive review of immediate post‐conference evaluations and follow‐up questionnaires sent out 13 months later to nursing leaders in the participating countries.

Methods:  Content analysis of quantitative data from 61 immediate post‐conference evaluations and 13 follow‐up questionnaires, as well as qualitative data from participant comments on the evaluation forms and questionnaires.

Findings:  Analysis indicated conference participants viewed the conference as a beneficial forum to collaboratively examine nursing workforce issues and trends, develop country‐specific nursing action plans, establish and strengthen national and international partnerships, and build stronger international nursing bodies.

Conclusion:  The Global Nursing Partnerships Conference was an international success – addressing the unique challenges facing nursing leaders in developed and developing countries and the needs of nurses throughout the world.
Using the worldwide web to improve children's pain care
Authors: Bruce E. , Franck L.
Published: July 2005

Aim:  This paper describes a three‐year project, the aims of which were to disseminate information regarding the assessment and management of children's pain, to reach consensus on the essential elements of pain assessment for children and to track nurses’ perceived changes in pain assessment and management practices in hospital settings over time.

Background:  Despite the availability of research, guidelines and standards, paediatric nurses inconsistently practice evidence‐based pain management.

Project methods:  Nurses attending the 5th International Symposium on Paediatric Pain were invited to a workshop to discuss best practices and consider ways to share information regarding the assessment and management of children's pain. A website was designed and participants provided hospital guidelines, exchanged information via the Internet and completed periodic surveys.

Conclusion:  Web‐based resources were positively received. Consensus regarding the essential elements of pain management was achieved, but nurses identified organizational and resource restraints as barriers to achieving best practices. Surveys identified perceived increases in some hospital and ward level resources and activities to improve children's pain care. Sharing of information related to children's pain management and benchmarking of practice should be encouraged. Consensus building and networking may facilitate change, but organizational commitment is also required for successful implementation of new practices.
Loss of available lysine during processing of different dulce de leche formulations
Authors: MALEC LAURA S , LLOSA RICARDO A , NARANJO GABRIELA B , VIGO MARÍA S
Published: July 2005

Dulce de leche is a dairy‐based confectionery product prepared by heat concentration of milk and sugar, which can be partially replaced by other sugars. The effect of different formulations commonly used in the manufacture of this product on the rate of available lysine loss by Maillard reactions was examined. The replacement of 10% of sucrose by glucose increased by 90% the rate of lysine glycation, while the rise with fructose was only 30%. The use of skim milk led to a low fat product with the same available lysine content as the traditional one. Dulce de leche prepared with lactose‐hydrolysed milk had a very low available lysine value.
The effects of different incubation temperatures on the acetaldehyde content and viable bacteria counts of bio‐yogurt made from ewe's milk
Authors: GÜLER‐AKIN MUTLU B
Published: July 2005

Yogurt and bio‐yogurt were manufactured from ewe's milk using a starter culture and a probiotic culture. Incubation was carried out at 37°C and 42°C until pH 4.6 was reached and the yogurts were stored at 4 +1°C for 14 days. Analysis after 1, 7 and 14 days showed that incubation temperature and storage time significantly influenced overall properties of the samples. During the storage, whey separation and pH decreased, but titratable acidity, lactic acid and volatile fatty acid contents increased. Viable bacterial counts in all bio‐yogurts were above 107 cfu g−1 at the end of storage.
The effect of inulin as a fat replacer on the quality of set‐type low‐fat yogurt manufacture
Authors: GUVEN M , YASAR K , KARACA O B , HAYALOGLU A A
Published: July 2005

The influence of different levels of inulin on the quality of fat‐free yogurt production was investigated. Inulin was added to milk containing 0.1% of milk fat to give inulin levels of 1, 2 and 3%. The experimental yogurts were compared with control yogurt produced from whole milk. The total solids content of milk was standardized to 14% by adding skim milk powder to the experimental yogurt. The chemical composition, pH, titratable acidity, whey separation, consistency, acetaldehyde and volatile fatty acidity contents were determined in the experimental yogurts after 1, 7 and 15 days. Sensory properties of the yogurts were evaluated during storage. The addition of inulin at more than 1% increased whey separation and consistency. Acetaldehyde, pH and titratable acidity were not influenced by addition of inulin. Tyrosine and volatile fatty acidity levels were negatively affected by inulin addition. With respect to the organoleptic quality of yogurt, inulin addition caused a decrease in organoleptic scores: the control yogurt had the highest score, and the lowest score was obtained in yogurt samples containing 3% of inulin. Overall, the yogurt containing 1% of inulin was similar in quality characteristics to control yogurt made with whole milk.
An alternative cost effectiveness analysis of ThinPrep in the Australian setting
Authors: NEVILLE A. Munro , QUINN Michael A.
Published: July 2005

Objective:  To assess the clinical and economic impacts of the use of liquid based cytology (LBC) in the Australian average risk population from the perspective of the public health care budget.

Background:  Concerns over the evaluation of medical technologies in Australia, which are assessed by the Medicare Services Advisory Committee (MSAC), have been raised recently. We report on the evaluation of LBC, which although being widely adopted in other parts of the world, has, despite substantial uptake in the private sector in Australia, been rejected for public funding by MSAC.

Methods:  We used the health economic model developed by MSAC, but populated the model with the best available international data, sourced from a published review article. The economic model considered the clinical benefits and the costs arising from a biennial cervical screening programme. Net costs divided by life years saved is the cost per life year saved and this is reported as the incremental cost effectiveness.

Results:  Populating the MSAC model with data on test performance showed that one type of LBC (ThinPrep) ‘dominates’ the conventional Pap smear in the screening of average risk women in the Australian setting.

Conclusion:  The health economic model created by MSAC predicts that ThinPrep dominates the conventional Pap as a screening test for cervical cancer. An additional 2240 high‐grade lesions could be detected, resulting in 480 life years gained and delivering an expected saving to the health care system of $5 536 000 per annum if liquid based cytology replaced the conventional Pap.
Peri‐operative physiotherapy improves outcomes for women undergoing incontinence and or prolapse surgery: Results of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: JARVIS Sherin K. , HALLAM Taryn K. , LUJIC Sanja , ABBOTT Jason A. , VANCAILLIE Thierry G.
Published: July 2005

Background:  Urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are common complaints in women. Physiotherapy and surgery to correct these conditions are often seen as mutually exclusive. No study has yet investigated their synergistic potential.

Aim:  This study aimed to investigate the role of peri‐operative physiotherapy in women undergoing corrective surgery for pelvic organ prolapse and/or incontinence.

Methods:  In this randomised controlled trial, 30 women underwent preoperative physiotherapy and 30 others had no physiotherapy prior to their incontinence and or prolapse surgeries. Comparison was performed on the basis of the following tests: paper towel test, urinary symptom specific health and quality of life questionnaire, frequency/volume chart and pelvic floor muscle manometry. Women were followed up for 3 months.

Results:  Both groups showed improvement in urinary continence. Significant group differences were noted in the quality of life questionnaire (P = 0.004), urinary symptoms (P = 0.017) and maximum pelvic floor muscle squeeze on manometry (P = 0.022). Diurnal frequency analysis indicates that there is a significant difference in favour of the treatment group (P = 0.024).

Conclusion:  Routine pre and post operative physiotherapy interventions improve physical outcomes and quality of life in women undergoing corrective surgery for urinary incontinence and or pelvic organ prolapse.
Concomitant tension‐free vaginal tape for urinary incontinence during laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: LIN Yi‐Hao , LIANG Ching‐Chung , LO Tsia‐Shu , SOONG Yung‐Kuei , CHANG Shuenn‐Dhy , CHANG Yao‐Lung
Published: July 2005

Objective:  To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of placing tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) during a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) in women with stress urinary incontinence and coexistent benign gynaecological disease.

Design:  Retrospective clinical study (Canadian Task Force classification II‐2).

Sample:  Thirty patients diagnosed with genuine stress incontinence and benign gynaecological disease were studied.

Methods:  All the patients underwent LAVH and concomitant TVT procedure.

Results:  There was no significant difference in urodynamic parameters before and after surgery. All patients were followed postoperatively for a mean duration of 24.6 ± 11.5 months (range 12–40). The cure rate of stress urinary incontinence was 96.7%.

Conclusions:  Concomitant placement of tension‐free vaginal tape during a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy proved to be an efficacious and safe procedure for women with benign gynaecological disease and coexistent stress urinary incontinence.
Cost savings from use of emergency contraceptive pills in Australia
Authors: TRUSSELL James , CALABRETTO Helen
Published: July 2005

Background:  Emergency contraception, which prevents pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse, has the potential to reduce significantly the incidence of unintended pregnancy and the consequent need for abortion and to reduce medical care costs.

Aim:  To determine the savings generated by use of Postinor‐2, the levonorgestrel regimen of emergency hormonal contraception, in Australia.

Methods:  We modelled the cost savings when women obtain Postinor‐2 directly from a pharmacist where cost savings are measured as the cost of pregnancies averted by use of Postinor‐2 per dollar spent on Postinor‐2.

Results:  Each dollar spent on a single treatment with Postinor‐2 saves $A2.27–$A3.81 in direct medical care expenditures on unintended pregnancy depending on assumptions about savings from costs avoided by preventing mistimed births. Postinor‐2 is cost‐saving even under the least favourable assumption that mistimed births when prevented today occur 2 years later. Results are robust even to large changes in model input parameters.

Conclusion:  Emergency contraception is cost saving. More extensive use of emergency contraception could save considerable medical and social costs by reducing unintended pregnancies, which are expensive.
Introduction of early medical abortion in New Zealand: An audit of the first 67 cases
Authors: SHAND Carol , ROSE Sally B. , SIMMONS Ann , SPARROW Margaret J.
Published: July 2005

Background:  In New Zealand, mifepristone became available in 2001, but because of uncertainty about the law, the first 67 cases were carried out under a very strict protocol. Once the prostaglandin had been administered it was necessary that the woman remain in the unit until the products of conception (POC) had been passed and, if this had not occurred within 8 h, she underwent suction curettage.

Aims:  To demonstrate that an early medical termination of pregnancy (EMTOP) service could be offered as a safe option for women, despite the constraints of the law.

Methods:  An audit of patient notes was carried out on the first 67 patients undergoing an EMTOP at the Level J Unit (LJU), Wellington Hospital. Data collected included age, ethnicity, parity, previous abortions, gestational age, length of time between the administration of mifepristone and misoprostol, length of time after administration of misoprostol to the completion of abortion, whether a fetal sac was seen, analgesia required, extent of heavy bleeding and any adverse effects. Patient characteristics were compared with those of the 3052 women who underwent surgical termination during the same time period. Data were analysed using EpiInfo 2000 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA) and Chi square tests for significance.

Results:  Successful completion of EMTOP occurred in 63 of 67 cases (94%). Only four cases (6%) required completion by suction curettage and this was performed for legal and financial reasons, rather than for medical reasons. Clinical events requiring management, mainly bleeding problems, occurred in 11 patients (16%).

Conclusions:  EMTOP with mifepristone and misoprostol was successfully introduced and the experience provides useful data for others contemplating a similar service.