bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using mouse models to explore genotype–phenotype relationship in Down syndrome
Authors: Salehi Ahmad , Faizi Mehrdad , Belichenko Pavel V. , Mobley William C.
Published: October 2007

Down Syndrome (DS) caused by trisomy 21 is characterized by a variety of phenotypes and involves multiple organs. Sequencing of human chromosome 21 (HSA21) and subsequently of its orthologues on mouse chromosome 16 have created an unprecedented opportunity to explore the complex relationship between various DS phenotypes and the extra copy of ∼300 genes on HSA21. Advances in genetics together with the ability to generate genetically well‐defined mouse models have been instrumental in understanding the relationships between genotype and phenotype in DS. Indeed, elucidation of these relationships will play an important role in understanding the pathophysiological basis of this disorder and helping to develop therapeutic interventions. A successful example of using such a strategy is our recent studies exploring the relationship between failed nerve growth factor (NGF) transport and amyloid precursor protein (App) overexpression. We found that increased dosage of the gene for App is linked to failed NGF signaling and cholinergic neurodegeneration in a mouse model of DS. Herein, we discuss several mouse models of DS and explore the emergence of exciting new insights into genotype–phenotype relationships, particularly those related to nervous system abnormalities. An important conclusion is that uncovering these relationships is enhanced by working from carefully defined phenotypes to the genes responsible. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2007;13:207–214.
Organoaluminum‐mediated polymerization of diazoketones
Authors: Ihara Eiji , Kida Masami , Itoh Tomomichi , Inoue Kenzo
Published: October 2007

Polymerization of diazoketones mediated by organoaluminum compounds was investigated. Trialkylaluminum R3Al (R = iBu, Et, Me) and diisobutylaluminum hydride (DIBAL) polymerized (E)‐1‐diazo‐3‐nonen‐2‐one (1) to give polymers with Mn = 2000–3500, which contained nearly 33 mol % of azo group (NN) along with the dominant acylmethylene unit in the main chain. On the other hand, when (E)‐1‐diazo‐4‐phenyl‐3‐buten‐2‐one (2) was used as a monomer for the organoaluminum‐mediated polymerization, the resulting polymers had ethylidene (CH[CH3]) units in the main chain along with acylmethylene and azo group, as a result of reductive cleavage of the acyl group during the polymerization. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 5209–5214, 2007
Developing a hybrid emulsion polymerization system to synthesize Fe3O4/polystyrene latexes with narrow size distribution and high magnetite content
Authors: Cui Longlan , Xu Hong , He Ping , Sumitomo Keiko , Yamaguchi Yoshinori , Gu Hongchen
Published: October 2007

A hybrid emulsion polymerization was formulated for synthesizing Fe3O4/polystyrene composite latex. This system, containing binary droplets that are magnetic (Mag)‐droplets with a diameter of 100–200 nm and styrene (St)‐droplets with a diameter of 3–4 μm, was obtained by mixing Mag‐miniemulsion and St‐macroemulsion. With extremely low surfactants concentration (≪critical micelle concentration, CMC), the nucleated loci are selectively controlled in the Mag‐droplets, as the result of smaller droplet size and larger surface ratio. Both water‐soluble potassium persulfate (KPS) and oil‐soluble 2,2′‐azobis(2‐isobutyronitrile) was adopted to initiate the polymerization. In the presence of KPS, magnetic polystyrene latices with particles size of 60–200 nm, narrow size distribution, and high magnetite content (86 wt % measured by TGA) were attained successfully. The synthesized magnetic Fe3O4/polystyrene latices assembled into well‐ordered hexagonal structure in the surface of a carbon supported copper grid. The influence of various parameters on various aspects of the as‐synthesized Fe3O4/polystyrene was investigated in detail: type of initiator on composite morphology, feed ratio of Mag‐miniemulsion and St‐macroemulsion on magnetite content, and hydrophobic agent or amount of surfactant on size and size distribution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 5285–5295, 2007
Quantification of allele E198A in beta‐tubulin conferring benzimidazole resistance in Monilinia fructicola using real‐time PCR
Authors: Luo Yong , Ma Zhonghua , Michailides Themis J
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: Thiophanate‐methyl, a member of the benzimidazole class of fungicides, is used in California to control brown rot of stone fruit caused by Monilinia fructicola (G. Wint.) Honey. The goal of this study was to develop a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay as an efficient method to quantify the E198A allele of β‐tubulin that confers benzimidazole resistance.

RESULTS: Using the real‐time PCR assay, the frequency of allele E198A (FEA) in a population was determined from the quantities of DNA amplified with the E198A allele‐specific primer pair HRF/HRR and the M. fructicola—specific primer pair MfF6/MfR6. The average proportions of highly resistant isolates determined with the conventional fungicide sensitivity method were within the range of average FEA values determined with the real‐time PCR assay. We also determined the FEAs of M. fructicola populations sampled from 21 stone fruit orchards in California. Only one orchard showed a high FEA over 0.20, seven orchards had values between 0.01 and 0.1, and 13 orchards had values less than 0.01.

CONCLUSION: The real‐time PCR assay developed in this study provides a potentially useful tool to efficiently quantify benzimidazole resistance for large M. fructicola populations. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Strobilurin fungicides induce changes in photosynthetic gas exchange that do not improve water use efficiency of plants grown under conditions of water stress
Authors: Nason Mark A , Farrar John , Bartlett David
Published: October 2007

The effects of five strobilurin (beta‐methoxyacrylate) fungicides and one triazole fungicide on the physiological parameters of well‐watered or water‐stressed wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and soya (Glycine max Merr.) plants were compared. Water use efficiency (WUE) (the ratio of rate of transpiration, E, to net rate of photosynthesis, An) of well‐watered wheat plants was improved slightly by strobilurin fungicides, but was reduced in water‐stressed plants, so there is limited scope for using strobilurins to improve the water status of crops grown under conditions of drought. The different strobilurin fungicides had similar effects on plant physiology but differed in persistence and potency. When applied to whole plants using a spray gun, they reduced the conductance of water through the epidermis (stomatal and cuticular transpiration), gsw, of leaves. Concomitantly, leaves of treated plants had a lower rate of transpiration, E, a lower intercellular carbon dioxide concentration, ci, and a lower net rate of photosynthesis, An, compared with leaves of control plants or plants treated with the triazole. The mechanism for the photosynthetic effects is not known, but it is hypothesised that they are caused either by strobilurin fungicides acting directly on ATP production in guard cell mitochondria or by stomata responding to strobilurin‐induced changes in mesophyll photosynthesis. The latter may be important since, for leaves of soya plants, the chlorophyll fluorescence parameter Fv/Fm (an indication of the potential quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry) was reduced by strobilurin fungicides. It is likely that the response of stomata to strobilurin fungicides is complex, and further research is required to elucidate the different biochemical pathways involved. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Behaviour of sulcotrione and mesotrione in two soils
Authors: Chaabane Hanène , Vulliet Emmanuelle , Calvayrac Christophe , Coste Camille‐Michel , Cooper Jean‐François
Published: October 2007

The behaviour of sulcotrione, a recently introduced triketone herbicide, in various soil types was studied under laboratory conditions. In particular, degradation and sorption processes were examined on Ghent and Perpignan soils. Kinetics showed that the degradation of sulcotrione was influenced by biotic and/or abiotic factors. Half‐lives ranged between 45 and 65 days. Among the degradation compounds identified were 1,3‐cyclohexanedione (CHD) and 2‐chloro‐4‐mesyl benzoic acid (CMBA), previously described as hydrolysis products, and, under special conditions, a derivative of phenylheptanoic acid (PHD). This new degradation product suggested that sulcotrione could follow two possible pathways in the soil, as in water. During the sorption study, a moderate retention of sulcotrione and CMBA relative to CHD and PHD, which were highly adsorbed whatever the soil type, was reported. Experiments carried out under the same conditions for sulcotrione and mesotrione, another triketone herbicide recommended in maize culture, made it possible to compare the two triketones and to conclude that they exhibited relatively similar behaviour in the soil, i.e. that their leaching potential needs to be properly addressed and risks evaluated. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Metabolism of imidacloprid and DDT by P450 CYP6G1 expressed in cell cultures of Nicotiana tabacum suggests detoxification of these insecticides in Cyp6g1‐overexpressing strains of Drosophila melanogaster, leading to resistance
Authors: Joußen Nicole , Heckel David G , Haas Matthias , Schuphan Ingolf , Schmidt Burkhard
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: With the worldwide use of insecticides, an increasing number of pest insect species have evolved target‐site or metabolism‐based resistance towards some of these compounds. The resulting decreased efficacy of pesticides threatens human welfare by its impact on crop safety and further disease transmission. Environmental concentrations of some insecticides are so high that even natural populations of non‐target, non‐pest organisms such as the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster Meig. have been selected for resistance. Cyp6g1‐overexpressing strains of D. melanogaster are resistant to a wide range of chemically diverse insecticides, including DDT and imidacloprid. However, up to now there has been no evidence that the CYP6G1 enzyme metabolises any of these compounds.

RESULTS: Here it is shown, by heterologous expression in cell suspension cultures of Nicotiana tabacum L. (tobacco), that CYP6G1 is capable of converting DDT (20 µg per cell culture assay) by dechlorination to DDD (18% of applied amount in 48 h), and imidacloprid (400 µg) mainly by hydroxylation to 4‐hydroxyimidacloprid and 5‐hydroxyimidacloprid (58 and 19% respectively in 48 h).

CONCLUSION: Thus, the gap between the supposed resistance gene Cyp6g1 and the observed resistance phenomenon was closed by the evidence that CYP6G1 is capable of metabolising at least two insecticides. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Susceptibility of lesser mealworm (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) adults and larvae exposed to two commercial insecticides on unpainted plywood panels
Authors: Kaufman Phillip E , Strong Colleen , Rutz Donald A
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: The susceptibilities of adult and larval lesser mealworms, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer), to two commercially formulated insecticides, cyfluthrin and tetrachlorvinphos, were examined through exposure on treated plywood panels. Lesser mealworms were collected from four caged‐layer poultry farms, three in New York and one in Maine. An additional strain was obtained from an infestation occurring in a cricket colony.

RESULTS: In all poultry farm derived strains, a portion of the population (1.8–16.2%) survived cyfluthrin exposure. The Maine and cricket colony strains were tolerant of tetrachlorvinphos exposure as both larvae and adults, with 55–74% mortality, whereas nearly 100% mortality was observed with New York strains. The cricket colony adult beetles were highly susceptible to cyfluthrin, with 100% mortality following exposure, but larvae were considerably less susceptible (87.7%). Pesticide use histories for the poultry farms and their impact on the results are discussed.

CONCLUSION: The results document that tetrachlorvinphos, an active ingredient with a long use history, may be losing its effectiveness against lesser mealworms in some poultry operations; however, it is still effective in many others. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Interactions of aminomethylphosphonic acid and sarcosine with montmorillonite interlayer surfaces
Authors: Rennig Amanda , Slutter Annette , Tribe Lorena
Published: October 2007

The smectite clay, montmorillonite, can be found in many soils throughout the world. In addition to its importance in agriculture and soil remediation, montmorillonite has extensive applications in industry both in its natural form and as a component of composite materials. The adsorptive properties of montmorillonite have been explored in relation to its interactions with the common herbicide glyphosate. This herbicide, when exposed to microorganisms in the soil is degraded, forming two products: aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) and sarcosine. The atomic‐level interactions of these compounds with the montmorillonite interlayer surfaces are studied here using molecular mechanics. The final outcomes of these calculations are analyzed in terms of the proximity of the montmorillonite surface to the moieties of the degradation products. The phosphonate moiety was found to be the most important source of interactions for AMPA, while for sarcosine there was an even distribution between the amino and carboxylic moieties, and Na+ ion mediated surface complexes. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Changes in Plasma LDL and HDL Composition in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Hacquebard M. , Ducart A. , Schmartz D. , Malaisse W. J. , Carpentier Y. A.
Published: October 2007

Changes of lipoprotein composition have been mainly reported in conditions of sepsis. This study characterized compositional changes in LDL and HDL during the acute phase response following cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Twenty‐one patients undergoing cardiac surgery were included in this study. Blood samples were drawn before operation and on day 2 post‐surgery. In parallel to plasma lipids and antioxidant status, lipoproteins were analyzed for lipid, apolipoprotein (apo), hydroperoxide and alpha‐tocopherol content. Beyond decreases in lipid concentrations and antioxidant defenses, cardiac surgery induced substantial modifications in plasma lipoproteins. ApoB decrease in LDL fraction (−46%; P < 0.0001) reflected a marked reduction in the circulating particle number. LDL cholesteryl ester content relative to apoB concentration remained unchanged post‐surgery while triglyceride (+113%; P < 0.001), free cholesterol (+22%; P < 0.05) and phospholipid (+23%; P < 0.025) were raised relative to apoB indicating increased particle size. In HDL, an abrupt rise of apoSAA (P < 0.05) was observed together with a decrease of apoA1 (−22%; P < 0.005). Cholesteryl ester content in HDL fraction decreased in parallel to apoA1 concentration while triglycerides, free cholesterol and phospholipids increased relative to apoA1. In contrast to unchanged alpha‐tocopherol content, hydroperoxide content was increased in LDL and HDL. By comparison to sepsis, cardiac surgery induces a comparable reduction in circulating LDL but a more limited decrease in HDL particles. Furthermore, in contrast, cardiac surgery induces an increase in polar and non‐polar lipids, as well as of particle size in both LDL and HDL.
Vaccenic Acid and cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA in the Rumen and Different Tissues of Pasture‐ and Concentrate‐Fed Beef Cattle
Authors: Shen Xiangzhen , Nuernberg Karin , Nuernberg Gerd , Zhao Ruqian , Scollan Nigel , Ender Klaus , Dannenberger Dirk
Published: October 2007

The objective of present study was the comparison of trans‐11 18:1 (VA) and cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA concentrations in the rumen and different tissues in beef cattle, and to examine the diet and breed effects on the compound concentration and deposition. Sixty‐four German Holstein and German Simmental bulls were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments, based on concentrate or pasture. The concentration of cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA and VA in rumen, duodenal digesta and different tissues was determined by gas chromatography. The results showed that pasture relative to concentrate feeding significantly increased the concentration of VA in duodenal digesta, plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids. Pasture‐based feeding resulted in a significant enrichment of cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA in plasma lipids and erythrocyte phospholipids, but not in rumen and duodenal digesta, compared to concentrate‐fed diet. Diet did not affect the cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA concentrations (mg/100 g fresh tissue) in semitendinosus muscle and subcutaneous fat. There was a breed effect on the deposition of cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA in longissimus muscle with lower concentration in pasture‐fed German Simmental bulls compared to concentrate‐fed bulls. However, pasture feeding significantly increased both, the VA and cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA concentrations in liver and heart tissues. Both diet and breed effects on Δ9‐desaturase index was observed in muscle and subcutaneous fat tissues. There was a linear relationship between the concentration of VA and cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA and the coefficients of determination (R2) varied between 0.29 and 0.87 from rumen to the different tissues.
Spinal cord stimulation in adolescents with complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS‐I)
Authors: Olsson Gunnar L. , Meyerson Björn A. , Linderoth Bengt
Published: October 2007

Complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS‐I) is not uncommon in children, particularly in adolescent girls. Most often, the condition involves a foot and is characterized by spontaneous pain, tactile allodynia and dysautonomic signs. There is usually a history of a minor, local trauma but sometimes no reasonable cause can be identified, and there are no signs of persistent tissue injury giving rise to ongoing nociception.

Common analgesics are generally of no benefit, and the standard treatment includes sociopsychological support, physiotherapy, tricyclic antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs, sympathetic blocks (SB), and cognitive‐behavioural therapy. For a minority of patients who prove to be resistant to such therapies, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may be tried.

The present study comprises seven girls, 11–14 years of age, presenting with severe, incapacitating and therapy‐resistant CRPS‐I, who were subjected to SCS. In two of them, percutaneous electrode implantation had to be performed in general anaesthesia. Trial stimulation was performed in all, but one. In two cases, it was not possible to produce paraesthesias that entirely covered the pain area. A pain relieving effect of SCS was usually not reported until after 1–2 weeks of trial stimulation. After another 2–6 weeks, pain alleviation was complete in five of the seven patients, one to eight years after the intervention. In one case, a local infection necessitated the removal of the electrode; nevertheless a few days of trial stimulation produced substantial pain relief that still persists. In four patients, the SCS use was gradually diminished and eventually the device could be removed.

The favourable outcome in all seven cases with no or minor remaining symptoms and without severe recurrences illustrates that SCS may also be an efficient treatment in paediatric cases with exceptionally therapy resistant forms of CRPS I.
Body dysmorphic disorder and cosmetic surgery: Evolution of 24 subjects with a minimal defect in appearance 5 years after their request for cosmetic surgery
Authors: Tignol Jean , Biraben-Gotzamanis Louise , Martin-Guehl Corinne , Grabot Denis , Aouizerate Bruno
Published: October 2007

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of cosmetic surgery and the stability of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) diagnosis in patients with a minimal defect in appearance, with and without BDD, 5 years after their request for plastic surgery.

Subjects and methods

Thirty patients requesting cosmetic surgery with minimal defect in appearance, of whom 12 had BDD and 18 did not, were re-evaluated 5 years later by telephone interview regarding their cosmetic surgery interventions, satisfaction with the intervention, BDD diagnosis, handicap, and psychiatric comorbidity.

Results

Of the 30 patients, we were able to re-evaluate 24 subjects (80%), 10 with BDD and 14 non-BDD. Seven BDD subjects had undergone cosmetic surgery vs 8 non-BDD. Patient satisfaction with the intervention was high in both groups. Nevertheless at follow-up, 6 of the 7 operated BDD patients still had a BDD diagnosis and exhibited higher levels of handicap and psychiatric comorbidity compared to their non-BDD counterparts. Moreover, 3 non-BDD patients had developed a BDD at follow-up.

Conclusion

This prospective study confirms that cosmetic surgery is not efficient on BDD despite declared patient satisfaction. Cosmetic surgery had no significant effects on BDD diagnosis, handicap or psychiatric comorbidity in BDD patients at 5-year follow-up. Furthermore, BDD appeared at follow-up in some initially non-BDD diagnosed subjects. Patients' declared satisfaction with surgery may contribute to explain why some plastic surgeons may not fully adhere to the contraindication of cosmetic surgery in BDD.
Symptomatic remission and social/vocational functioning in outpatients with schizophrenia: Prevalence and associations in a cross-sectional study
Authors: San Luis , Ciudad Antonio , Álvarez Enrique , Bobes Julio , Gilaberte Inmaculada
Published: October 2007

Purpose

Progress in therapeutic options for schizophrenia has revived long-term expectations of researchers, practitioners and patients. At present, definitions of therapeutic outcome include both maintained symptomatic remission and appropriate functioning in a conceptual framework that targets patient's recovery as the ultimate goal. We aimed to know the prevalence and clinical features of patients with schizophrenia achieving these outcomes.

Methods

A multi-centre, cross-sectional study was performed in more than 100 mental health facilities within Spain. Recently published consensus-based operational criteria for symptomatic remission and the Global Assessment of Functioning scale were used to evaluate outcomes. Other clinical aspects like depressive symptoms, social cognition, premorbid adjustment and patients' attitudes to medication were also evaluated.

Results

Data from 1010 patients were analysed. Of these, 452 (44.8%) were at clinical remission, but only 103 (10.2%) showed an adequate social and/or vocational functioning. Factors predicting both outcomes were better pre-morbid adjustment (odds ratio, OR = 1.56) and better social cognitive function (OR = 1.14). Other factors, like treatment adherence, current or past psychotherapy and patient's age were not associated to functionality but only to clinical remission. Current substance use and previous rehabilitation were associated to a lower likelihood of symptomatic remission.

Conclusion

Although symptomatic remission in patients with schizophrenia is a realistic and reachable goal, future efforts should be directed to a sustained appropriate functioning in these patients.
Statistical modeling of ultrastructural features of murine dermal collagen under chronic low‐dose whole body X‐irradiation
Authors: Chatterjee Jyotirmoy , Mukherjee Anirban , Mukherjee Kanchan , Dutta Pranab K. , Chaudhuri Keya
Published: October 2007

The present study investigated the changes in ultrastructural features of dermal collagen fibrils of mice following exposure to different cumulative chronic low‐dose X‐irradiation through digital image analysis‐based statistical modeling. Pubertal mice were X‐irradiated and dorsal skin biopsies were collected and processed for transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis. TEM features of collagen fibrils showed alteration in the cross‐sectional area, population density and in the axial periodic pattern of light and dark bands. The mathematical analysis of histogram data from TEM images revealed some adaptive behavior in collagen structures of the X‐irradiated group. This finding indicated that exposure to chronic low‐dose X‐radiation induced an altered steady state with adaptive variation in dermal collagen fibrils in irradiated mice.
Differential colchicine‐binding across eukaryotic families: The role of highly conserved Pro268β and Ala248β residues in animal tubulin
Authors: Banerjee Mithu , Roy Debjani , Bhattacharyya B. , Basu Gautam
Published: October 2007

Colchicine–tubulin interaction, responsible for the disruption of microtubule formation, has immense pharmacological importance but is poorly understood in terms of its biological significance. The interaction is characterized by a marked higher affinity of colchicine for animal tubulins compared to tubulins from plants, fungi and protists. From an analysis of tubulin sequences and colchicine–tubulin crystal structure, we propose that Pro268β and Ala248β (270β and 250β in the crystal structure 1SA0) in animal tubulin are crucial for the observed differential binding. We also suggest that mediated by the binding of endogenous molecules to the colchicine‐binding site, microtubule assembly in eukaryotes may be modulated in a family specific manner.
Macromolecular crowding increases structural content of folded proteins
Authors: Perham Michael , Stagg Loren , Wittung-Stafshede Pernilla
Published: October 2007

Here we show that increased amount of secondary structure is acquired in the folded states of two structurally‐different proteins (α‐helical VlsE and α/β flavodoxin) in the presence of macromolecular crowding agents. The structural content of flavodoxin and VlsE is enhanced by 33% and 70%, respectively, in 400 mg/ml Ficoll 70 (pH 7, 20 °C) and correlates with higher protein‐thermal stability. In the same Ficoll range, there are only small effects on the unfolded‐state structures of the proteins. This is the first in vitro assessment of crowding effects on the native‐state structures at physiological conditions. Our findings imply that for proteins with low intrinsic stability, the functional structures in vivo may differ from those observed in dilute buffers.
Nucleolar localization of parafibromin is mediated by three nucleolar localization signals
Authors: Hahn Michael A. , Marsh Deborah J.
Published: October 2007

Parafibromin is a putative tumor suppressor encoded by HRPT2 and implicated in parathyroid tumorigenesis. We previously reported a functional bipartite nuclear localization signal (NLS) at residues 125–139. We now demonstrate that parafibromin exhibits nucleolar localization, mediated by three nucleolar localization signals (NoLS) at resides 76–92, 192–194 and 393–409. These NoLS represent clusters of basic amino acids arginine and lysine, similar to those found in other nucleolar proteins, as well as being characteristic of NLSs. While parafibromin's bipartite NLS is the primary determinant of nuclear localization, it does not mediate nucleolar localization. In contrast, the three identified NoLSs play only a minor role in nuclear localization, but are critical for the nucleolar localization of parafibromin.
Abnormal white matter appearance on term FLAIR predicts neuro‐developmental outcome at 6 years old following preterm birth
Authors: Iwata Sachiko , Iwata Osuke , Bainbridge Alan , Nakamura Tomohiko , Kihara Hideki , Hizume Eriko , Sugiura Masatoshi , Tamura Masanori , Matsuishi Toyojiro
Published: October 2007

Preterm infants are at significant risk of neuro‐developmental disorders at school‐age. MRI is a potentially useful screening tool of such disorders. Using FLAIR imaging in the preterm infants at term, here we demonstrate that abnormal low‐intensity signal in the white matter predicts the neuro‐developmental outcome at 6 years.

Study design

Clinical factors associated with white matter appearance on MRI obtained at term were investigated in 210 preterm infants.

Results

Low‐intensity signal on FLAIR imaging was commonly observed (69%) at <2 months corrected‐age. Its incidence correlated with corrected‐age at scan, maternal pyrexia and cystic periventricular leukomalacia. Low‐intensity signal on FLAIR significantly correlated with performance and full‐scale developmental quotients, whereas diffuse high‐intensity signal on T2‐weighted imaging correlated only with the full‐scale developmental quotient at 6 years (n = 75, WISC‐R). FLAIR imaging, but not T2‐weighted imaging, predicted mild neuro‐developmental delay.

Conclusions

FLAIR appeared to detect subtle white matter injury related with neuro‐developmental disorders at school‐age, whereas T2‐weighted imaging seemed to identify relatively more severe injury. FLAIR is a potentially sensitive screening tool that is readily available and easily interpretable.
Prevalence and risk factors for hemoplasmas in domestic cats naturally infected with feline immunodeficiency virus and/or feline leukemia virus in Rio de Janeiro — Brazil
Authors: Macieira Daniel B. , de Menezes Rita de Cássia A.A. , Damico Cristiane B. , Almosny Nádia R.P. , McLane Heather L. , Daggy Joanne K. , Messick Joanne B.
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (Mhm) infections in domestic cats tested for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) with a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Based on serological testing, cats were grouped as i) FIV-positive ( n=25); ii) FeLV-positive ( n=39); iii) FIV/FeLV-positive ( n=8); and iv) FIV/FeLV-negative ( n=77). Complete blood counts were followed by DNA extraction, species-specific polymerase chain reaction (16S rRNA gene) for Mhf and Mhm and Southern blotting for all animals. Mhf DNA was found in 4.0, 2.6, 12.5 and 7.8% of the cats from groups i, ii, iii and iv, respectively, while 32, 5.1, 50 and 5.2% of these animals had an Mhm infection. Cats with FIV (OR=4.25, P=0.009) and both FIV and FeLV (OR=7.56, P=0.014) were at greater risk of being hemoplasma infected than retroviral-negative cats, mainly due to Mhm infection (OR=8.59, P=0.001 and OR=18.25, P=0.001, respectively). Among pure-breed cats, FIV-positive status was associated with hemoplasma infection (OR 45.0, P=0.001).
Early Paleozoic collisional structures in the modern elevation pattern of the Olkhon region (Baikal rift system)
Authors: Skovitina T.M. , Fedorovsky V.S.
Published: October 2007

The Olkhon area in the western Baikal region belongs to the Baikal rift system. The terrain bears strong imprint of the Early Paleozoic structural framework produced by a multistage collision. The today’s elevation pattern records the main features of inhomogeneous basement lithology. The topography of the area is generally governed by the tectonic style, and tectonic landforms remain weakly denuded and almost uneroded. Thus the Cenozoic geomorphic framework can be correlated to the Early Paleozoic basement structure.
Causes of variations in morphology and impurities of diamonds from the Udachnaya Pipe eclogite
Authors: Stepanov A.S. , Shatsky V.S. , Zedgenizov D.A. , Sobolev N.V.
Published: October 2007

A unique xenolith of eclogite, 23×17×11 cm in size and 8 kg in weight, was found in the Udachnaya kimberlite pipe. One hundred twenty-four diamond crystals recovered from it were analyzed by a number of methods. The diamonds differ in morphology, internal structure, color, size, and composition of defects and impurities. The xenolith contains diamonds of octahedral and cubooctahedral habits. In cathodoluminescence, the octahedral crystals have a brightly glowing core with octahedral zones of growth and a weakly glowing rim. In the cores of these crystals the N impurity is mostly present in the B1 form (30 to 60%). At the same time, N in the rim is chiefly in the A form. The cubooctahedral crystals show a weak luminescence. The content of nitrogen and degree of its aggregation are close to those in the rim of octahedral crystals. The diversity of morphology and impurity composition of diamonds from the xenolith can be explained by their formation in two stages. At the first stage, the diamonds formed which became the cores of octahedra. After a long-time interruption, at the second stage of diamond formation crystals of cubooctahedral habit appeared and the octahedral crystals were overgrown. Wide variations in nitrogen contents in the xenolith crystals allowed their use to estimate the kinetics of aggregated nitrogen. The data obtained show that the aggregation of A centers into B1 centers in the diamonds is described by a kinetic reaction of an order of 1.5.
Family composition and adult attitudes towards youth
Authors: Smith David M.
Published: October 2007

It is argued that the attitudes of adults towards youth are influenced by the composition of their own family, since the extent to which their own children are adolescent gives major differences in both their knowledge of youth and its emotional significance for them. A sample of 499 women, all of whom have one 16‐year‐old child are distinguished in terms of the composition of the rest of their families. Respondents are divided into three broad categories: those whose older children have passed through adolescence, those whose oldest children are now passing through adolescence and those whose oldest child is just entering adolescence. The latter group are further distinguished between only children, very young children and others. It is concluded that attitudes towards adolescents is associated with closeness to youth, but in a rather complicated way.
Intentional self‐injury in school age children
Authors: Lumsden Walker W.
Published: October 2007

This paper reports a study of 50 school age children, who had attempted self‐harm and been referred consecutively to the Psychiatric Department of a Teaching Children's Hospital. In addition to this detailed study of these children and their families, comparison is made with other studies of young people who had attempted self‐harm. The study shows a high incidence of children from families of above average size, and from one‐parent families often with a sick or absentee father. Unemployment was high amongst fathers or breadwinners. Economic difficulties were common. Also shown is a high level of sickness in adults of the family, a high level of psychiatric morbidity in first‐degree relatives, and a relatively high occurrence of incidents of self‐harm in family members. Anti‐social behaviour was not uncommon amongst children of first‐degree relatives.

Problems of management are discussed, particularly those arising since they are still of school age and, therefore, both legally and economically dependent upon their families. The consequence in terms of the calls made upon the resources of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Departments, and the need for skilled interaction with the Educational and Social Services, is emphasised.
Dietary zinc intake and brain cancer in adults: a case–control study
Authors: Dimitropoulou P. , Nayee S. , Liu J. F. , Demetriou L. , van Tongeren M. , Hepworth S. J. , Muir K. R.
Published: October 2007

Little is known about the aetiology of brain tumours. One putative factor suggested from animal models is a protective effect of dietary Zn. We tested the hypothesis that increased compared with low dietary Zn intake is protective against brain tumour development. We conducted a population-based case–control study in the UK, of adults aged 18–69 years, between 2001 and 2004 aiming to identify possible risk factors. Dietary information was collected from 637 cases diagnosed with a glioma or meningioma, and 876 controls. Data were obtained from a self-completed FFQ. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted, adjusting for socio-demographic factors, season of questionnaire return, multivitamin supplementation and energy intake. Although a weak protective effect was observed for the third quartile of intake (normal compared with low intake) in the meningioma group, this was limited to the specific brain tumour subtype and quartile, and was not significant after also adjusting for intake of other elements. Overall there was no significant effect of Zn intake. No association or dose–response relationship was observed between increased compared with low Zn intake and risk of glioma or meningioma.
Dual silencing of type 1 insulin-like growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptors to induce apoptosis of nasopharyngeal cancer cells
Authors: Yuan Y-L , Zhou X-H , Song Jian , Qiu X-P , Li Jun , Ye L-F
Published: October 2007

Objective:

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (type 1 IGF receptor or IGF1R) have played an important role in the growth and apoptosis of cancer. The RNA interference (RNAi) technique can suppress gene expression, but the effects of dual silencing of EGFR and type 1 IGF receptor have not been well understood.

Methods:

pU6-EGFR-shRNA-1, pU6-EGFR-shRNA-2, pU6-IGF1R-shRNA-1 and pU6-IGF-1R-shRNA-2 plasimd vectors were transfected to the nasopharyngeal cancer cells. Seven groups were selected for the study. The protein and downstream protein expression were assessed by Western blot. Apoptosis was determined via flow cytometry. Meanwhile, chemosensitivity of nasopharyngeal cancer cell lines transfeced to chemotherapeutic drugs were carried out by MTT.

Results:

In dual silencing of EGFR and IGF-1R, the protein expression much more was decreased than single silencing of EGFR or IGF-1R, but the cell apoptosis much more is increased than single silencing EGFR or IGF-1R. Dual silencing of EGFR and IGF-1R enhanced chemosensitivity to anticancer drugs, compared with single silencing of EGFR or IGF-1R.

Conclusion:

Dual silencing of EGFR and IGF-1R are capable of suppressing EGFR and IGF-1R expression of the nasopharyngeal cancer cell and can promote apoptosis and increase the cell sensitivity of anticancer drug. The dual silencing of genes RNAi technique is significantly better than a single gene.
No evidence of linkage between 7q33–36 locus (OTSC2) and otosclerosis in seven British Caucasian pedigrees
Authors: Alzoubi F Q , Ollier W R , Ramsden R T , Saeed S R
Published: October 2007

Background:

The aetiology of otosclerosis is complex, and probably involves an interaction between genes and environmental factors. Previous studies have revealed genetic linkage with a number of chromosome regions, including position 7q33–36.

Aim:

To confirm whether linkage exists between otosclerosis and chromosome region 7q33–36.

Materials and methods:

Seven multiply affected families were ascertained. Deoxyribonucleic acid from members of these families was extracted, and six markers were genotyped to cover a 16 cM region at 7q33–36. Both parametric and non-parametric multipoint linkage analyses were performed.

Results:

Parametric multipoint linkage analysis excluded any linkage at 7q33–36 (logarithm of odds score <−4.0). Non-parametric linkage analysis also failed to confirm any linkage (non-parametric linkage < 1.66). When tested individually, pedigree four was the only one to show a significant non-parametric linkage score between D7s684 and D7s2513 (non-parametric linkage = 1.96).

Conclusion:

No linkage was detected between otosclerosis and the 7q33–36 region. This could be explained by the study's lack of power, due to the limited number of families available.
Chondrosarcoma of larynx: review of literature and clinical experience
Authors: Bathala S , Berry S , Evans R A , Brodie S , Altaan O
Published: October 2007

Laryngeal chondrosarcomas are rare, cartilaginous tumours, and around 300 cases have been reported in the literature. They are slow-growing tumours which present difficulties both in diagnosis and treatment. Most patients eventually require radical surgery. However, over the last 10 years, we have diagnosed two cases of laryngeal chondrosarcoma and managed them conservatively by endoscopic debulking and regular follow up. The objective of this article is to highlight the conservative approach in managing these patients, particularly in the presence of co-morbid conditions.
Vesicle trafficking during sporozoite development inPlasmodium berghei: ultrastructural evidence for a novel trafficking mechanism
Authors: SCHREVEL J. , ASFAUX-FOUCHER G. , HOPKINS J. M. , ROBERT V. , BOURGOUIN C. , PRENSIER G. , BANNISTER L. H.
Published: October 2007

Oocysts fromAnopheles stephensimosquitoes fed on murine blood infected withPlasmodium berghei berghei, were fixed for electron microscopy 6–12 days post-feeding. Ultrastructural analysis focused on Golgi-related trafficking pathways for rhoptry and microneme formation during sporogony. A small Golgi complex of 1–3 cisternae is formed close to the spindle pole body from coated vesicles budded from the nuclear envelope which is confluent with the endoplasmic reticulum. Rhoptries begin as small spheroidal bodies apparently formed by fusion of Golgi-derived vesicles, lengthening to 3–4 μm, and increasing in number to 4 per sporozoite. Ultrastructural data indicate the presence of a novel mechanism for vesicle transport between the Golgi complex and rhoptries along a longitudinal 30 nm – thick fibre (rootlet fibre or tigelle). Filamentous links between vesicles and rootlet indicate that this is a previously undescribed vesicle transport organelle. Genesis of micronemes occurs late in bud maturation and starts as spheroidal dense-cored vesicles (pro-micronemes), transforming to their mature bottle-like shape as they move apically. Filamentous links also occur between micronemes and subpellicular microtubules, indicating that as in merozoites, micronemes are trafficked actively along these structures.
Halfway up the trophic chain: development of parasite communities in the sparid fish Boops boops
Authors: OLMO A. PÉREZ-DEL , FERNÁNDEZ M. , RAGA J. A. , KOSTADINOVA A. , POULIN R.
Published: October 2007

We examined the patterns of composition and structure of parasite communities in the Mediterranean sparid fish Boops boops along a gradient of fish sizes, using a large sample from a single population. We tested the hypothesis that species forming the core of the bogue parasite fauna (i.e. species which have a wide geographical range and are responsible for recognizable community structure) appear early in the fish ontogeny. The sequential community development observed supported the prediction that core species appear in the fish population earlier than rare and stochastic species. There was also a strong correlation between the order of ‘arrival’ of the species and their overall prevalence. Six key species were responsible for recognizable community structure across size/age cohorts; the addition to this baseline community of key parasite species resulted in a nested structure that is linked to differential species abundance rather than fish size. Information on the life-cycles, distribution and host range of the parasites is used to explain the observed patterns of parasite community structure. We conclude that the small mouth size of B. boops coupled with suction feeding may provide a setting for passive sampling as a mechanism leading to non-random parasite community structure.
Discriminating Customers, Responsible Patients, Empowered Users: Consumerism and the Modernisation of Health Care
Authors: NEWMAN JANET , VIDLER ELIZABETH
Published: October 2007

The centrality of patient choice in the recent political rhetoric of both New Labour and the Conservative Party has prompted a renewed interest in the shift towards a more consumerist conception of health care in the UK. Accordingly, this article reports on early findings from a project in the ESRC/AHRB Cultures of Consumption Programme, exploring how the ‘consumer’ is constituted in narratives of health reform, and the ways in which policy documents present a particular image of the consumer as a rationale for institutional and cultural change. The article then goes on to look at the ways in which service delivery organisations have responded to New Labour's consumerist imperative. Drawing upon a series of interviews with senior health care managers in two case study locations, the article highlights ways in which choice, responsibility and empowerment have become critical points at which a consumerist orientation is articulated with established professional cultures, and how health organisations have experienced – and attempted to resolve – the tensions that result.
Proxy Models of Legal Need: Can They Contribute to Equity of Access to Justice?
Authors: BAKER DEBORAH , BARROW STEPHEN
Published: October 2007

Prioritisation of cases and resources as a means of rationing the limited legal aid budget has recently become a feature of access to justice in the UK. This article explores the utility of devising proxy models of ‘legal need’ as a means of enabling the rational and equitable planning of legal services in these circumstances. Different conceptual and methodological approaches are considered, highlighting preliminary development work in Scotland. The likelihood of developing ‘legal needs’ measures that promote equity of access to appropriate legal services is discussed in the light of problems with defining ‘legal need’ and the diversity of services available for the resolution of legal problems.
‘Virtue’, ‘Citizen Character’ and ‘Social Environment’: Social Theory and Agency in Social Policy since 1830
Authors: OFFER JOHN
Published: October 2007

This article takes a fresh look at the intellectual context of the poor law in Britain and Ireland from the 1830s to the 1930s, and is focused on the different conceptions over time of the ‘service user’ as agent (drawing on Le Grand) in relation to a fundamental contrast between social theory which is ‘non-idealist’ and ‘idealist’ (drawing on Harris). It first examines the ideas of liberal tories, rather than Benthamites, in remodelling the poor law in England and introducing it to Ireland in the 1830s. Second, it explicitly draws a contrast between idealist and non-idealist social thought, relating it to the idealist nature of both the majority and minority reports on the poor law of 1909 and to the non-idealist thought of Spencer and the earlier discussion. The subsequent dominance of idealist thought in social policy theory and practice is then reviewed, considering Titmuss on agency, the ‘rediscovery’ of informal care in the 1970s as evidence of a shift to the non-idealist perspective that people can act as rational agents for their own well-being, and the resurgent influence of idealist thought on ‘New Labour’. The article concludes that links identified between ideas of agency and types of social theory since the 1830s enhance our understanding of debates today.
Aerosol modeling over Europe: 1. Interannual variability of aerosol distribution
Authors: Marmer E. , Langmann B.
Published: October 2007

Aerosol distribution over Europe has been simulated with a regional atmosphere‐chemistry model. Primary and secondary organic and inorganic aerosols have been considered. The simulation was conducted for two different meteorological years 2002 and 2003 to analyze the spatial and temporal variability of the aerosol distribution. This paper focuses on the aerosol distribution, while the corresponding radiative forcing is described in the accompanying paper. Meteorological conditions play a major role in spatial and temporal variability in the European aerosol burden distribution. Regionally, year to year variability of monthly mean aerosol burden can reach up to 100% because of different weather conditions. The model evaluation against the source apportionment analysis shows that aerosols from fossil fuel combustion are well simulated. The evaluation suggests the importance of biomass burning emissions, which are not considered in the model simulations presented here. Because of lack of these emission sources and because of additional unknown formation processes of secondary organic aerosol, the carbonaceous aerosols are underestimated by a factor of 2–5 for black carbon and 10 for the organic carbon, respectively. Modeled sulfate aerosol is well represented.