bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes to mode of hysterectomy – a survey‐based study among Swedish gynecologists
Authors: PERSSON PÄR , HELLBORG THOMAS , BRYNHILDSEN JAN , FREDRIKSON MATS , KJØLHEDE PREBEN
Published: January 2009

Objective. To determine gynecologists’ attitudes to mode of hysterectomy on benign indication. Design. Cross‐sectional study. Setting. Sweden. Population. Members of the Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Methods. A postal questionnaire. Questions examined attitudes to mode of hysterectomy based on three clinical scenarios with different conditions of the uterus. Gynecologists were also asked to estimate how the distribution of the different modes of benign hysterectomy should be overall. The modes to choose were total abdominal, subtotal abdominal, laparoscopic or vaginal hysterectomy (VH). Analyses were performed with multiple logistic regression and multivariate analysis of covariance. Main outcome measures. Preferred mode of hysterectomy in the three scenarios and distribution of modes of hysterectomy. Results. VH was the most preferred method in general as well as when the uterus was of normal size, whereas subtotal and total abdominal hysterectomy were the most favored methods when the uterus was enlarged. VH was more often preferred by male compared to female gynecologists as a personal preference. The choice and distribution of mode varied significantly between place of work, seniority and in the quantity of yearly performed hysterectomies. The minimal invasive methods, vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomy, were recommended in more than 50% of the overall suggested distribution. Conclusion. Personal choice of mode of hysterectomy does not seem to strictly follow evidence‐based recommendations, but varies significantly between gynecologist's gender, type of clinical setting in which the gynecologist works, seniority and by how many hysterectomies the gynecologist does annually.
VUV spectroscopy and post-discharge kinetic analysis of a pure xenon mono-filamentary dielectric barrier discharge (MF-DBD)
Authors: Sewraj N , Merbahi N , Marchal F , Ledru G , Gardou J P
Published: January 2009

A spectroscopic and kinetic analysis of a pure xenon mono-filamentary dielectric barrier discharge (MF-DBD) is reported here. The MF-DBDs were achieved with a sinusoidal voltage supply at frequencies around tens of kilohertz, for pressures ranging from 25 to 550 Torr. The discharge emits the first (152 nm) and second (172 nm) continua of xenon. Between 25 and 75 Torr, these emissions have comparable peak values, whereas above 300 Torr, only the 2nd continuum is observed. These spectra are interpreted in the light of previously reported results obtained by selectively populating either the Xe(3P1) or the Xe(3P2) state, by using two-photon absorption laser induced fluorescence. The temporal analysis of both continua, in real operating conditions of the discharge, allowedin situdetermination of its post-discharge kinetic scheme. Primary excitation of the lowest xenon atomic 6s and 6s′ states is practically achieved after an active phase of about 80 ns. We simultaneously estimated the three-body formation rate constants of theand Xe2[1u(3P2)] excimers and the radiative lifetime of the lowest vibrational levels of the latter. We, respectively, found: (180 ± 29) Torr−2 s−1, (75.6 ± 4.2) Torr−2 s−1and (96 ± 6) ns. The post-discharge kinetic model proposed here should contribute towards considerably improving the computing time when modelling filamentary xenon dielectric barrier discharges.
Invariance of tautological equations II: Gromov-Witten theory
Authors: Lee Y.-P.
Published: January 2009

The aim of Part II is to explore the technique of invariance of tautological equations in the realm of Gromov–Witten theory. The relationship between Gromov–Witten theory and the tautological rings of the moduli of curves is studied from Givental’s point of view via deformation theory of semisimple axiomatic Gromov–Witten theory.
The SM Protein Car/Vps33A Regulates SNARE-mediated Trafficking to Lysosomes and Lysosome-related Organelles
Authors: Akbar Mohammed A. , Ray Sanchali , Krämer Helmut
Published: January 2009

The SM proteins Vps33A and Vps33B are believed to act in membrane fusions in endosomal pathways, but their specific roles are controversial. In Drosophila, Vps33A is the product of the carnation (car) gene. We generated a null allele of car to test its requirement for trafficking to different organelles. Complete loss of car function is lethal during larval development. Eye-specific loss of Car causes late, light-independent degeneration of photoreceptor cells. Earlier in these cells, two distinct phenotypes were detected. In young adults, autophagosomes amassed indicating that their fusion with lysosomes requires Car. In eye discs, endocytosed receptors and ligands accumulate in Rab7-positive prelysosomal compartments. The requirement of Car for late endosome-to-lysosome fusion in imaginal discs is specific as early endosomes are unaffected. Furthermore, lysosomal delivery is not restored by expression of dVps33B. This specificity reflects the distinct pattern of binding to different Syntaxins in vitro: dVps33B predominantly binds the early endosomal Avl and Car to dSyntaxin16. Consistent with a role in Car-mediated fusion, dSyntaxin16 is not restricted to Golgi membranes but also present on lysosomes.
The Dioxin Receptor Regulates the Constitutive Expression of theVav3Proto-Oncogene and Modulates Cell Shape and Adhesion
Authors: Carvajal-Gonzalez Jose M. , Mulero-Navarro Sonia , Roman Angel Carlos , Sauzeau Vincent , Merino Jaime M. , Bustelo Xose R. , Fernandez-Salguero Pedro M.
Published: January 2009

The dioxin receptor (AhR) modulates cell plasticity and migration, although the signaling involved remains unknown. Here, we report a mechanism that integrates AhR into these cytoskeleton-related functions. Immortalized and mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking AhR (AhR−/−) had increased cell area due to spread cytoplasms that reverted to wild-type morphology upon AhR re-expression. The AhR-null phenotype included increased F-actin stress fibers, depolarized focal adhesions, and enhanced spreading and adhesion. The cytoskeleton alterations of AhR−/− cells were due to down-regulation of constitutive Vav3 expression, a guanosine diphosphate/guanosine triphosphate exchange factor for Rho/Rac GTPases and a novel transcriptional target of AhR. AhR was recruited to the vav3 promoter and maintained constitutive mRNA expression in a ligand-independent manner. Consistently, AhR−/− fibroblasts had reduced Rac1 activity and increased activation of the RhoA/Rho kinase (Rock) pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of Rac1 shifted AhR+/+ fibroblasts to the null phenotype, whereas Rock inhibition changed AhR-null cells to the AhR+/+ morphology. Knockdown of vav3 transcripts by small interfering RNA induced cytoskeleton defects and changes in adhesion and spreading mimicking those of AhR-null cells. Moreover, vav3−/− MEFs, as AhR−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts, had increased cell area and enhanced stress fibers. By modulating Vav3-dependent signaling, AhR could regulate cell shape, adhesion, and migration under physiological conditions and, perhaps, in certain pathological states.
SCAMP3 Negatively Regulates Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Degradation and Promotes Receptor Recycling
Authors: Aoh Quyen L. , Castle Anna M. , Hubbard Charles H. , Katsumata Osamu , Castle J. David
Published: January 2009

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is targeted for lysosomal degradation by ubiquitin-mediated interactions with the ESCRTs (endosomal-sorting complexes required for transport) in multivesicular bodies (MVBs). We show that secretory carrier membrane protein, SCAMP3, localizes in part to early endosomes and negatively regulates EGFR degradation through processes that involve its ubiquitylation and interactions with ESCRTs. SCAMP3 is multimonoubiquitylated and is able to associate with Nedd4 HECT ubiquitin ligases and the ESCRT-I subunit Tsg101 via its PY and PSAP motifs, respectively. SCAMP3 also associates with the ESCRT-0 subunit Hrs. Depletion of SCAMP3 in HeLa cells by inhibitory RNA accelerated degradation of EGFR and EGF while inhibiting recycling. Conversely, overexpression enhanced EGFR recycling unless ubiquitylatable lysines, PY or PSAP motifs in SCAMP3 were mutated. Notably, dual depletions of SCAMP3 and ESCRT subunits suggest that SCAMP3 has a distinct function in parallel with the ESCRTs that regulates receptor degradation. This function may affect trafficking of receptors from prelysosomal compartments as SCAMP3 depletion appeared to sustain the incidence of EGFR-containing MVBs detected by immunoelectron microscopy. Together, our results suggest that SCAMP3, its modification with ubiquitin, and its interactions with ESCRTs coordinately regulate endosomal pathways and affect the efficiency of receptor down-regulation.
Thiamine Suppresses Thermal Hyperalgesia, Inhibits Hyperexcitability, and Lessens Alterations of Sodium Currents in Injured, Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons in Rats
Authors: Song Xue-Song , Huang Zhi-Jiang , Song Xue-Jun
Published: January 2009

Background

B vitamins can effectively attenuate inflammatory and neuropathic pain in experimental animals, while their efficacy in treating clinical pain syndromes remains unclear. To understand possible mechanisms underlying B vitamin-induced analgesia and provide further evidence that may support the clinical utility of B vitamins in chronic pain treatment, this study investigated effects of thiamine (B1) on the excitability and Na currents of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons that have been altered by nerve injury.

Methods

Nerve injury was mimicked by chronic compression of DRG in rats. Neuropathic pain was evidenced by the presence of thermal hyperalgesia. Intracellular and patch-clamp recordings were made in vitro from intact and dissociated DRG neurons, respectively.

Results

(1) In vivo intraperitoneal administration of B1 (66 mg/kg/day, 10-14 doses) significantly inhibited DRG compression-induced neural hyperexcitability, in addition to suppressing thermal hyperalgesia. (2) In vitro perfusion of B1 (0.1, 1 and 10 mM) resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of DRG neuron hyperexcitability. In addition, the DRG neurons exhibited size-dependent sensitivity to B1 treatment, i.e., the small and the medium-sized neurons, compared to the large neurons, were significantly more sensitive. (3) Both in vitro (1 mM) and in vivo application of B1 significantly reversed DRG compression-induced down-regulation of tetrodotoxin-resistant but not tetrodotoxin-sensitive Na current density in the small neurons. B1 at 1 mM also reversed the compression-induced hyperpolarizing shift of the inactivation curve of the tetrodotoxin-resistant currents and the upregulated ramp currents in small DRG neurons.

Conclusion

Thiamine can reduce hyperexcitability and lessen alterations of Na currents in injured DRG neurons, in addition to suppressing thermal hyperalgesia.
Effects of Intraoperative Reading on Vigilance and Workload during Anesthesia Care in an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Slagle Jason M. , Weinger Matthew B.
Published: January 2009

Background

During routine cases, anesthesia providers may divert their attention away from direct patient care to read clinical (e.g., medical records) and/or nonclinical materials. The authors sought to ascertain the incidence of intraoperative reading and measure its effects on clinicians' workload and vigilance.

Methods

In 172 selected general anesthetic cases in an academic medical center, a trained observer categorized the anesthesia provider's activities into 37 possible tasks. Vigilance was assessed by the response time to a randomly illuminated alarm light. Observer- and subject-reported workload were scored at random intervals. Data from Reading and Non-Reading Periods of the same cases were compared to each other and to matched cases that contained no observed reading. The cases were matched before data analysis on the basis of case complexity and anesthesia type.

Results

Reading was observed in 35% of cases. In these 60 cases, providers read during 25 +/- 3% of maintenance but not during induction or emergence. While Non-Reading Cases (n = 112) and Non-Reading Periods of Reading Cases did not differ in workload, vigilance, or task distribution, they both had significantly higher workload than Reading Periods. Vigilance was not different among the three groups. When reading, clinicians spent less time performing manual tasks, conversing with others, and recordkeeping.

Conclusions

Anesthesia providers, even when being observed, read during a significant percentage of the maintenance period in many cases. However, reading occurred when workload was low and did not appear to affect a measure of vigilance.
Assessment and decision-making in a Caribbean damselfish: nest-site quality influences prioritization of courtship and brood defence
Authors: Leese Joseph M , Snekser Jennifer L , Ganim Alexandra , Itzkowitz Murray
Published: January 2009

In systems where territory quality varies, animals are expected to exhibit plasticity in behaviour in order to maximize fitness relative to their present territory quality. This requires assessment of territory quality followed by decision-making in relation to the priority of activities necessary for survival and reproduction. We examined how differences in territory quality of beaugregory damselfish (
Stegastes leucostictus
) influence the prioritization of courtship and egg defence by comparing behavioural responses of males defending artificial sites (high quality) with males defending natural sites (low quality) when presented with an egg predator, a conspecific female, and a simultaneous choice between both. A significant three-way interaction of territory quality, presentation type and stimulus was observed for time near stimuli. In paired presentations, males defending low-quality territories spent more time near a female and less near an egg predator; while males on high-quality territories spent more time near a predator than a female. Additionally, comparing single and paired presentations reveals that behaviours towards egg predators remain constant while behaviours towards females decrease with paired stimuli. These data suggest that territory quality and ecological context impact decision-making and the relative values of potential reproduction and/or past reproductive effort.
Identification of colorectal adenomas by a quantitative immunochemical faecal occult blood screening test depends on adenoma characteristics, development threshold used and number of tests performed
Authors: ROZEN P. , LEVI Z. , HAZAZI R. , WAKED A. , VILKIN A. , MAOZ E. , BIRKENFELD S. , LESHNO M. , NIV Y.
Published: January 2009

Background  Faecal occult blood tests (FOBT) are faulted by low sensitivity for advanced adenomatous polyps (AAP). Quantified, immunochemical, haemoglobin (Hb)‐specific immunochemical FOBT (I‐FOBT) measurements are now used for colorectal screening.

Aims  To correlate adenoma characteristics to amount of faecal Hb lost and to evaluate sensitivity and specificity for AAP by faecal Hb development threshold used and number of I‐FOBTs collected.

Methods  Three daily I‐FOBTs were collected and analysed in 1221 patients scheduled for colonoscopy. Faecal Hb was analysed as ngHb/mL of buffer and the highest result related to colonoscopy findings.

Results  In 1204 patients without cancer, colonoscopy identified adenomas in 294, 99 with AAPs. Adenoma patients had elevated faecal Hb increasing with advanced histology, size, pedunculated shape and multiplicity (P < 0.001 for all). At 50 ngHb/mL threshold, sensitivity and specificity for AAPs were 54.5% (95%CI 44.7, 64.7) and 88.1% (95%CI 86.2, 90.1) for three tests. At higher thresholds, sensitivity decreased, but was significantly higher with more samples collected. Conversely, specificity increased at higher thresholds, but decreased with more samples.

Conclusions  Faecal Hb loss from adenomas is significantly associated with size, number and advanced features. Sensitivity and specificity for AAPs are determined by test threshold chosen and number of samples collected; these determine the number of colonoscopies needed for positive tests.
Bis(1H‐indol‐2‐yl)methanones are effective inhibitors of FLT3‐ITD tyrosine kinase and partially overcome resistance to PKC412A in vitro
Authors: Heidel Florian , Lipka Daniel B. , Mirea Fian K. , Mahboobi Siavosh , Grundler Rebekka , Kancha Rama K. , Duyster Justus , Naumann Michael , Huber Christoph , Böhmer Frank D. , Fischer Thomas
Published: January 2009

Inhibition of the mutated fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) receptor tyrosine kinase is a promising therapeutic strategy in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). However, development of resistance to FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), such as PKC412A, has been described recently. This observation may have an increasing impact on the duration of response and relapse rates in upcoming clinical trials employing FLT3‐TKI. Herein we investigated two representatives of a novel class of FLT3‐TKI: Bis(1H‐indol‐2‐yl)methanones. Both compounds effectively induced apoptosis in FLT3‐internal tandem duplicate (ITD)‐transfected murine myeloid cells and in primary FLT3‐ITD positive blasts. Combination of both compounds with chemotherapy revealed synergistic effects in apoptosis assays. The compounds did not show significant toxicity in human bone marrow cells derived from healthy donors. Compound102 overcame resistance to PKC412 within a non‐myelotoxic dose‐range. Western Blotting experiments of 32D‐FLT3‐ITD cells showed dose‐dependent dephosphorylation of FLT3‐ITD and of its downstream targets STAT5, AKT and ERK upon incubation with either compound. In conclusion, bis(1H‐indol‐2‐yl)methanones overcome resistance mediated by FLT3‐ITD mutations at position N676 and show strong efficacy in FLT3‐ITD‐positive cells alone as well as in combination with chemotherapy. We propose that further development of methanone compounds overcoming resistance to currently established FLT3‐TKIs is an important step forward to an anticipated need within our future therapeutic algorithm in FLT3‐ITD‐positive AML.
Acute exacerbations of asthma: epidemiology, biology and the exacerbation‐prone phenotype
Authors: Dougherty R. H. , Fahy J. V.
Published: January 2009

Asthma is a highly prevalent chronic respiratory disease affecting 300 million people world‐wide. A significant fraction of the cost and morbidity of asthma derives from acute care for asthma exacerbations. In the United States alone, there are approximately 15 million outpatient visits, 2 million emergency room visits, and 500 000 hospitalizations each year for management of acute asthma. Common respiratory viruses, especially rhinoviruses, cause the majority of exacerbations in children and adults. Infection of airway epithelial cells with rhinovirus causes the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as recruitment of inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils. The host response to viral infection is likely to influence susceptibility to asthma exacerbation. Having had at least one exacerbation is an important risk factor for recurrent exacerbations suggesting an ‘exacerbation‐prone’ subset of asthmatics. Factors underlying the ‘exacerbation‐prone’ phenotype are incompletely understood but include extrinsic factors: cigarette smoking, medication non‐compliance, psychosocial factors, and co‐morbidities such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, rhinosinusitis, obesity, and intolerance to non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory medications; as well as intrinsic factors such as deficient epithelial cell production of the anti‐viral type I interferons (IFN‐α and IFN‐β). A better understanding of the biologic mechanisms of host susceptibility to recurrent exacerbations will be important for developing more effective preventions and treatments aimed at reducing the significant cost and morbidity associated with this important global health problem.
Provoked models of asthma: what have we learnt?
Authors: O'Byrne P. M. , Gauvreau G. M. , Brannan J. D.
Published: January 2009

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by physiological abnormalities of variable airflow obstruction and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to a wide variety of physical and inhaled chemical stimuli and the presence of symptoms. AHR is measured by challenging the airways with a variety of agonists and naturally occurring stimuli, which results in constriction of the airway smooth muscle, leading to airway narrowing and airflow limitation. There are two distinct mechanisms by which the airways can narrow to a constrictor stimulus and these are defined by the pathways they take to induce AHR. Direct stimuli are pharmacological agents administered exogenously (such as histamine or methacholine) that act ‘directly’ on specific receptors on the bronchial smooth muscle to cause constriction. The other mechanism by which the airway can narrow is via the inhalation of indirect stimuli, which include natural stimuli, such as allergen or exercise, and pharmacological agents such as adenosine monophosphate and hyper‐osmotic agents (e.g. hypertonic saline or dry powder mannitol). These stimuli induce airway narrowing ‘indirectly’ by causing the endogenous release of mediators of bronchoconstriction from airway inflammatory cells. Provoked models of asthma have been extremely valuable in understanding the pathobiology of asthma, in aiding diagnosis, in helping to clarify the mechanisms of actions of effective drugs and in the development of new entities to treat asthma. Some provoked models are valuable clinically, particularly those that measure direct AHR, while others, particularly allergen challenge, have been used in animal models and in humans to study the mechanisms of allergen‐induced airway inflammation and the associated physiological changes, as well in the development of new drugs for asthma. An emerging role for measurements of AHR is in the evaluation of the optimal treatment for patients with asthma.
Life history predicts advancement of avian spring migration in response to climate change
Authors: VÉGVÁRI ZSOLT , BÓKONY VERONIKA , BARTA ZOLTÁN , KOVÁCS GÁBOR
Published: January 2009

An increasing number of studies demonstrate that plant and animal phenologies such as the timing of bird migration have been advancing over the globe, likely as a result of climate change. Even closely related species differ in their phenological responses, and the sources of this variation are poorly established. We used a large, standardized dataset of first arrival dates (FAD) of migratory birds to test the effects of phylogenetic relationships and various life‐history and ecological traits on the degree to which different species adapt to climate change by earlier migration in spring. Using the phylogenetic comparative method, we found that the advancement of FAD was greater in species with more generalized diet, shorter migration distance, more broods per year, and less extensive prebreeding molt. In turn, we found little evidence that FAD trends were influenced by competition for mating (polygamy or extra‐pair paternity) and breeding opportunities (cavity nests). Our findings were robust to several potentially confounding effects. These evolutionary correlations, coupled with the low levels of phylogenetic dependence we found, indicate that avian migration phenology adapts to climate change as a species‐specific response. Our results suggest that the degree of this response is fundamentally shaped by constraints and selection pressures of the species' life history, and less so by the intensity of sexual selection.
Evaluating the inter‐respondent (consumer vs. staff) reliability and construct validity (SIS vs. Vineland) of the Supports Intensity Scale on a Dutch sample
Authors: Claes C. , Van Hove G. , Van Loon J. , Vandevelde S. , Schalock R. L.
Published: January 2009

Background  Despite various reliability studies on the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS), to date there has not been an evaluation of the reliability of client vs. staff judgments. Such determination is important, given the increasing consumer‐driven approach to services. Additionally, there has not been an evaluation of the instrument's construct validity on a non‐English speaking sample. This is important as the SIS is currently translated into 13 languages.

Method  Data were collected in two different samples, using the Dutch translation of the SIS and the Vineland‐Z.

Results  There was a significant correlation between ratings of staff and consumers on the SIS; however, the relationship between the mean scores of consumer and staff responses indicated significant differences in staff and consumer scores. All correlations between the Vineland‐Z domains and the SIS subscales were significant and negative, ranging from −0.37 to −0.89.

Conclusions  Analyses of the inter‐respondent reliability suggest that one needs to consider the source of information regarding needed supports carefully. The significant negative correlations between SIS and Vineland‐Z reflect that the SIS is measuring a different construct (needed support) than the Vineland‐Z (adaptive behaviour). The results of the two studies provide additional support for the etic (universal) properties of the SIS, as both hypotheses were confirmed. In conclusion, SIS users are provided with a wealth of information that can be used for multiple purposes.
A New Key Neurohormone Controlling Reproduction, Gonadotrophin‐Inhibitory Hormone in Birds: Discovery, Progress and Prospects
Authors: Tsutsui K. , Saigoh E. , Yin H. , Ubuka T. , Chowdhury V. S. , Osugi T. , Ukena K. , Sharp P. J. , Wingfield J. C. , Bentley G. E.
Published: January 2009

In vertebrates, the neuropeptide control of gonadotrophin secretion is primarily through the stimulatory action of the hypothalamic decapeptide, gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH). Gonadal sex steroids and inhibin inhibit gonadotrophin secretion via feedback from the gonads, but a hypothalamic neuropeptide inhibiting gonadotrophin secretion was, until recently, unknown in vertebrates. In 2000, we discovered a novel hypothalamic dodecapeptide that directly inhibits gonadotrophin release in quail and termed it gonadotrophin‐inhibitory hormone (GnIH). GnIH acts on the pituitary and GnRH neurones in the hypothalamus via a novel G‐protein‐coupled receptor for GnIH to inhibit gonadal development and maintenance by decreasing gonadotrophin release and synthesis. The pineal hormone melatonin is a key factor controlling GnIH neural function. GnIH occurs in the hypothalamus of several avian species and is considered to be a new key neurohormone inhibiting avian reproduction. Thus, the discovery of GnIH provides novel directions to investigate neuropeptide regulation of reproduction. This review summarises the discovery, progress and prospects of GnIH, a new key neurohormone controlling reproduction.
Membrane‐Localised Oestrogen Receptor α and β Influence Neuronal Activity Through Activation of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors
Authors: Mermelstein P. G.
Published: January 2009

Until recently, the idea that oestradiol could affect cellular processes independent of nuclear oestrogen receptors (ERs) was controversial. This was despite the large number of carefully controlled studies performed both within and outside the nervous system demonstrating that oestrogens regulate various intracellular signalling pathways by acting at the membrane surface of cells and/or at biological rates incompatible with the time course of genomic‐initiated events. At present, it is far less controversial that oestradiol acts at surface membrane receptors to regulate nervous system function. Recent studies have demonstrated that the classical intracellular ERs, ERα and ERβ, are major players in mediating the actions of oestradiol on the membrane surface. This review focuses on one potential mechanism by which surface‐localised ERα and ERβ stimulate intracellular signalling events in cells of the nervous system. After oestradiol treatment, both ERα and ERβ are capable of activating different classes of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Oestradiol activation of mGluRs is independent of glutamate, but requires expression of several different caveolin proteins to compartmentalise the different ERs with mGluRs into functional signalling microdomains. ER/mGluR signalling is a potential means by which oestrogens can both rapidly and for extended periods, influence a variety of intracellular signalling processes and behaviours.
Rapid Action of Oestrogen in Luteinising Hormone‐Releasing Hormone Neurones: The Role of GPR30
Authors: Terasawa E. , Noel S. D. , Keen K. L.
Published: January 2009

Previously, we have shown that 17β‐oestradiol (E2) induces an increase in firing activity and modifies the pattern of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) oscillations with a latency < 1 min in primate luteinising hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) neurones. A recent study also indicates that E2, the nuclear membrane impermeable oestrogen, oestrogen‐dendrimer conjugate, and the plasma membrane impermeable oestrogen, E2‐BSA conjugate, all similarly stimulated LHRH release within 10 min of exposure in primate LHRH neurones, indicating that the rapid action of E2 is caused by membrane signalling. The results from a series of studies further suggest that the rapid action of E2 in primate LHRH neurones appears to be mediated by GPR30. Although the oestrogen receptor antagonist, ICI 182, 780, neither blocked the E2‐induced LHRH release nor the E2‐induced changes in [Ca2+]i oscillations, E2 application to cells treated with pertussis toxin failed to result in these changes in primate LHRH neurones. Moreover, knockdown of GPR30 in primate LHRH neurones by transfection with human small interference RNA for GPR30 completely abrogated the E2‐induced changes in [Ca2+]i oscillations, whereas transfection with control siRNA did not. Finally, the GPR30 agonist, G1, resulted in changes in [Ca2+]i oscillations similar to those observed with E2. In this review, we discuss the possible role of G‐protein coupled receptors in the rapid action of oestrogen in neuronal cells.
The human premotor oculomotor brainstem system – can it help to understand oculomotor symptoms in Huntington's disease?
Authors: Rüb U. , Heinsen H. , Brunt E. R. , Landwehrmeyer B. , Den Dunnen W. FA , Gierga K. , Deller T.
Published: January 2009

Recent progress in oculomotor research has enabled new insights into the functional neuroanatomy of the human premotor oculomotor brainstem network. In the present review, we provide an overview of its functional neuroanatomy and summarize the broad range of oculomotor dysfunctions that may occur in Huntington's disease (HD) patients. Although some of these oculomotor symptoms point to an involvement of the premotor oculomotor brainstem network in HD, no systematic analysis of this functional system has yet been performed in brains of HD patients. Therefore, its exact contribution to oculomotor symptoms in HD remains unclear. A possible strategy to clarify this issue is the use of unconventional 100‐µm‐thick serial tissue sections stained for Nissl substance and lipofuscin pigment (Nissl‐pigment stain according to Braak). This technique makes it possible to identify the known nuclei of the premotor oculomotor brainstem network and to study their possible involvement in the neurodegenerative process. Studies applying this morphological approach and using the current knowledge regarding the functional neuroanatomy of this human premotor oculomotor brainstem network will help to elucidate the anatomical basis of the large spectrum of oculomotor dysfunctions that are observed in HD patients. This knowledge may aid clinicians in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease.
An improved large‐scale screening method for assessment of Colletotrichum coccodes aggressiveness using mature green tomatoes
Authors: Ben‐Daniel B. , Bar‐Zvi D. , Tsror (Lahkim) L.
Published: January 2009

A reliable, rapid and low‐cost screening bioassay, based on measuring lesion sizes, rotten tissue weight and tissue colonization 1 week after the injection of a conidial suspension into the stem scars of mature green tomato fruits, was developed to assess the aggressiveness of Colletotrichum coccodes isolates. This protocol was compared with inoculation of either potato plantlets from in vitro multiplication, or ripe tomato fruits, using C. coccodes isolates from potato and from tomato. Aggressiveness to mature green tomato fruits was scored by measuring lesion size and weight at the scar end of the fruit, while colonization was measured in samples taken from the blossom end. Values of all three disease parameters were significantly higher (ca. 3 times) with aggressive isolates of the pathogen than with less aggressive ones. High correlation levels among these three parameters were obtained. Also, the aggressiveness to mature green tomatoes was highly correlated with the aggressiveness to potato tissue culture plantlets. It was concluded that lesion size in inoculated tomatoes can be used as a sole measure for estimating the aggressiveness of C. coccodes isolates to either tomato or potato.
Baseline and differential sensitivity of Peronophythora litchii (lychee downy blight) to three carboxylic acid amide fungicides
Authors: Wang H. C. , Sun H. Y. , Stammler G. , Ma J. X. , Zhou M. G.
Published: January 2009

Downy blight, caused by Peronophythora litchii, is an important disease of lychee (litchi) plants in China. The in vitro sensitivities of various asexual stages of P. litchii to the three carboxylic acid amide (CAA) fungicides dimethomorph, flumorph and pyrimorph were studied with four single‐sporangium isolates. None of the three fungicides affected zoospore discharge from sporangia, but they strongly inhibited mycelial growth (mean EC50 values of 0·075, 0·258 and 0·115 mg L−1, respectively); sporangial production (mean EC50 values of 0·085, 0·315 and 0·150 mg L−1, respectively); germination of cystospores (mean EC50 values of 0·140, 0·150 and 0·645 mg L−1, respectively); and germination of sporangia (mean EC50 values of 0·203, 0·5 and 0·743 mg L−1, respectively). As mycelial growth was the most sensitive stage to dimethomorph and pyrimorph, it was chosen to test baseline sensitivities to the three fungicides. In 2007, from 131 isolates collected in Fujian, Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, 127, 116 and 113 isolates were used to establish baseline sensitivity for dimethomorph, flumorph and pyrimorph respectively. Isolates from different provinces exhibited similar baseline sensitivity to the same fungicide. Baseline sensitivities to dimethomorph, flumorph and pyrimorph were distributed as unimodal curves, with mean EC50 values of 0·082 (± 0·01), 0·282 (± 0·047), and 0·115 (± 0·032) mg L−1, respectively. This information will serve as a baseline for tracking future changes in sensitivities of P. litchii populations to these three CAA fungicides.
Iodine deficiency in children 7–19 years old in Eastern Province of Cameroon
Authors: Taga I. , Agbor G. A. , Djountsop S. , Moshin Z. A. , Soh Oumbé V. A. , Altosaar I. , Ngogang J. Y.
Published: January 2009

Objective  To determine the prevalence of iodine deficiency in children in Eastern Province, Cameroon.

Method  Urinary iodine (I) and thiocyanate (SCN) excretion levels were assessed in 158 children (62 boys and 96 girls) aged 7–19 years.

Results  Mean urinary iodine excretion was 4.49 μg/dl for girls and 4.71 μg/dl for boys, lower than the 5.0 μg/dl minimal value defined by WHO. Overall 64.42% of subjects had urinary iodine excretion below the minimum, more than three times the population percentage (20%) at which a zone is declared endemic. Mean urine SCN concentration and mean I/SCN ratios of the study population were 2.57 ± 1.43 mg/dl and 2.21 ± 1.35 μg/mg for boys and 2.91 ± 1.57 mg/dl and 1.91 ± 1.1μg/mg for girls.

Conclusion  Iodine deficiency remains a problem in Eastern Province of Cameroon.
Extended storage of whole blood before the preparation of blood components: in vitro effects on red blood cells in Erythro‐Sol environment
Authors: Gulliksson H. , Vesterinen M. , Payrat J.‐M. , Mayaudon V.
Published: January 2009

Background and Objectives  Routine procedures for extended storage of whole blood (WB) before the preparation of blood components are of interest primarily for logistical reasons. We stored red cell units in either Erythro‐Sol 2 (E‐Sol 2, test units, 150 ml added) or in saline‐adenine‐glucose–mannitol (SAG‐M) (reference units, 100 ml added) that were prepared after storage of WB at room temperature for 8, 12, 16 or 19 h after blood collection.

Study Design and Methods  Red blood cells were stored for 42 days. We measured pH, glucose, lactate, haemolysis, red blood cell adenosine triphosphate and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate on days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42.

Results  Haematocrits were significantly lower in E‐Sol 2 than in SAG‐M due to the higher volume of E‐Sol 2 added compared to SAG‐M. Significantly reduced levels were found in E‐Sol 2 of extracellular pH (throughout storage after 8‐h hold and initially after 12‐, 16‐ or 19‐h hold), of lactate (initially after 8‐h hold and throughout storage after 12‐, 16‐ or 19‐h hold), and of haemolysis from day 35 in the 8‐h and on day 42 in the 12‐h hold group. Sigificantly increased levels of adenosine triphosphate were seen in E‐Sol 2 after 8‐h hold (from day 14) and after 12‐h hold (at days 21, 35 and 42) compared to SAG‐M. Significantly higher concentrations of 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate were noticed primarily after 8‐h hold of WB.

Conclusion  The use of E‐Sol 2 as a replacement for SAG‐M does not significantly improve in vitro data after extended storage of WB at room temperature before preparation of blood components. However, after 8‐h hold in vitro characteristics similar to or better than in fresh blood will be maintained for several weeks in E‐Sol 2, a situation that makes E‐Sol 2 superior to SAG‐M when storage of WB is limited to 8 h. Some improvement was noted after 12‐h hold as well.
Validation of the QTL on SSC4 for meat and carcass quality traits in a commercial crossbred pig population
Authors: Sławińska A. , Siwek M. , Knol E.F. , Roelofs‐Prins D.T. , Van Wijk H.J. , Dibbits B. , Bednarczyk M.
Published: January 2009

Porcine chromosome 4 harbours many quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting meat quality, fatness and carcass composition traits, detected in resource pig populations previously. However, prior to selection in commercial breeds, QTL identified in an intercross between divergent breeds require confirmation, so that they can be segregated. Consequently, the objective of this study was to validate several QTL on porcine chromosome 4 responsible for meat and carcass quality traits. The experimental population consisted of 14 crossbred paternal half‐sib families. The region of investigation was the q arm of SSC4 flanked by the markers S0073 and S0813. Regression analysis resulted in the validation of three QTL within the interval: Minoltaa* loin, back fat thickness and the weight of trimmed ham. The results were additionally confirmed by factor analysis. Candidate genes were proposed for meat colour, which was the most evident QTL validated in this study.
A role of the microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor in congenital sensorineural deafness and eye pigmentation in Dalmatian dogs
Authors: Stritzel S. , Wöhlke A. , Distl O.
Published: January 2009

Microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF) is involved in white spotting and deafness associated with lack of pigmentation in human and mice. In the present study, we employed MITF‐associated markers to evaluate MITF as a candidate for canine congenital sensorineural deafness (CCSD) in Dalmatian dogs. We performed an association study using MITF flanking and intragenic markers for 88 Dalmatian dogs of different hearing and eye pigmentation status. A significant association was identified for MITF‐related markers with CCSD and blue iris colour. We conclude that MITF might play a role in CCSD and blue eye colour in Dalmatian dogs.
DNA polymorphism of 5′ flanking region of prolactin gene and its association with litter size in sheep
Authors: Chu M.X. , Wang X.C. , Jin M. , Di R. , Chen H.Q. , Zhu G.Q. , Fang L. , Ma Y.H. , Li K.
Published: January 2009

A single nucleotide polymorphism of 5′ flanking region of the prolactin gene was investigated in both high prolificacy breeds (Small Tail Han and Hu sheep) and low prolificacy breeds (Dorset and Suffolk sheep) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP). The results indicated that two genotypes (AA and AB) were detected in Small Tail Han sheep (n = 239), only one genotype (AA) was detected in Hu (n = 40), Dorset (n = 50) and Suffolk sheep (n = 39). The mutant homozygous genotype (BB) was not detected in four sheep breeds. In Small Tail Han sheep (n = 239), the frequency of genotypes AA and AB was 0.91 and 0.09, the frequency of the A and B alleles was 0.95 and 0.05, respectively. The fitness tests showed that the Small Tail Han sheep population was in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Sequencing revealed a mutation (G→T) at the position 63 bp of the 5′ flanking region of prolactin gene in AB genotype compared with AA genotype in Small Tail Han sheep. The Small Tail Han ewes with AB genotype had 0.83 (p < 0.05) lambs more than those with AA genotype. These results preliminarily showed that the prolactin locus is either a major gene that influences the high prolificacy in Small Tail Han sheep or is in close linkage with such a gene.
Efficacy and safety of entecavir in nucleoside‐naive, chronic hepatitis B patients: Phase II clinical study in Japan
Authors: Kobashi Haruhiko , Takaguchi Kouichi , Ikeda Hiroshi , Yokosuka Osamu , Moriyama Mitsuhiko , Imazeki Fumio , Kage Masayoshi , Seriu Taku , Omata Masao , Sakaguchi Kousaku , Shiratori Yasushi
Published: January 2009

Background and Aim:  Entecavir has demonstrated clinical efficacy for chronic hepatitis B. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of entecavir in nucleoside‐naive Japanese chronic hepatitis B patients.

Methods:  In this multicenter, double‐blind study, 66 nucleoside‐naive Japanese chronic hepatitis B patients were randomized to 0.1 mg entecavir (n = 32) or 0.5 mg entecavir (n = 34) daily for 52 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients whose serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA decreased from baseline by ≥2 log10 copies/mL or became undetectable (<400 copies/mL by polymerase chain reaction assay) at week 48.

Results:  One hundred percent of patients in both treatment groups achieved the primary efficacy endpoint, with 81% and 68% of patients achieving undetectable HBV DNA in the 0.1 mg and 0.5 mg treatment groups, respectively. Mean changes from baseline in HBV DNA were −4.49 log10 and −4.84 log10 copies/mL for the 0.1 mg and 0.5 mg groups, respectively. Significant improvements in necroinflammation were seen in both groups, as assessed by Knodell and New Inuyama classifications. Most adverse events were transient and classified as grade 1 or 2. There were no clinically significant differences in adverse events across the two treatment groups and no discontinuations due to adverse events in either group.

Conclusions:  In Japanese nucleoside‐naive patients with chronic hepatitis B, 0.1 mg or 0.5 mg entecavir daily provided excellent efficacy and was well tolerated. The 0.5 mg dose was selected for the treatment of nucleoside‐naive patients.
An association between non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Brzozowska Malgorzata M , Ostapowicz George , Weltman Martin D
Published: January 2009

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to determine if there is an association between non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). NAFLD and PCOS are both known to be associated with metabolic syndrome/insulin resistance.

Method:  Fourteen consecutive female patients of reproductive age (20–45) either with liver biopsy proven NAFLD (50%) or abdominal ultrasound (US) consistent with steatosis together with elevated ALT levels (50%) were screened for PCOS using 2003 Rotterdam consensus meeting criteria. Other causes of hyperandrogenism were excluded. All subjects underwent relevant questionnaire and clinical exam together with hormonal assays, pelvic (1) or transvaginal US (13) and were screened for evidence of the metabolic syndrome.

Results:  Ten out of fourteen women matched 2003 Rotterdam consensus meeting diagnostic criteria for PCOS (71%). Eight women suffered from oligo/amenorrhoea, nine women manifested presence of hyperandrogenism and six had history of infertility. Seven women had evidence of biochemical hyperandrogenism with low SHBG, raised free testosterone and elevation of serum LH concentration. Seven women fulfilled US criteria for PCOS. Three of ten patients with PCOS also had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Women with PCOS and NAFLD had higher triglyceride and cholesterol and lower HDL level than group without PCOS. Five patients with NAFLD and PCOS had documented fibrosis on liver biopsy, indicative of more advanced liver disease.

Implications:  Despite limitations of the study due to the sample size, we found evidence of PCOS in the majority of subjects with NAFLD. Women with NAFLD should be routinely screened for presence of PCOS, diabetes mellitus and metabolic risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Equally, women with PCOS should be screened for NAFLD. Evaluation for liver disease should be considered at an earlier age in some women with PCOS particularly those with an evidence of metabolic syndrome.
Current state of double balloon endoscopy: The latest approach to small intestinal diseases
Authors: Yano Tomonori , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: January 2009

Recent developments of capsule endoscopy and double balloon endoscopy (DBE) have made endoscopic examination of the entire small bowel practical, and changed the diagnostic algorithm for small bowel diseases. Double balloon endoscopy uses two balloons, one attached to the tip of the endoscope and another at the distal end of an overtube. By using these balloons to grip the intestinal wall, the endoscope can be inserted further without forming redundant loops of intestine. Total inspection by DBE is usually achieved by combination of sequential oral and anal intubations; success rates are reported to be 40–80%. Indications for DBE include scrutiny for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, small bowel tumor, small bowel stricture and following up evaluation of previously diagnosed small bowel diseases. Because DBE has an accessory channel and good maneuverability in the distal small intestine, it enables endoscopic treatment, including hemostasis, balloon dilation, polypectomy, mucosal resection, retrieval of foreign bodies and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (in the case of post‐operative anastomoses). Double balloon endoscopy is also useful for cases of difficult colonoscopy, providing success rates of total colonoscopy between 88–100%. Although it has been a few years since its development, the usefulness of DBE is now well recognized. This challenging procedure has become popular rapidly and is currently used in many countries.
HUMAN NATURE, COMMUNICATION AND TRUST
Authors: Putterman Louis
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT**:  The facts that people can sometimes commit to fulfill promises even when there are no binding penalties and that kind and trusting acts are often reciprocated by trustworthy ones make possible forms of group action that might be ruled out in a hypothetical world of perfectly opportunistic individuals. I discuss some new experiments with a modified Berg,

Dickhaut and McCabe (1995)
‘trust game’ that provide evidence that most subjects adhere to non‐binding agreements, that many are prepared to rely on trust rather than use binding but moderately costly contracts, that the possibility of exchanging words rather than mere numerical proposals enhances trusting and trustworthiness, and that subjects are drawn to fair and efficient exchanges despite the self‐interest model's prediction of outcomes more favorable to first‐movers.