bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing marker‐based estimates of heritability in the wild
Authors: COLTMAN DAVID W.
Published: June 2005

Marker‐based estimates of heritability are an attractive alternative to pedigree‐based methods for estimating quantitative genetic parameters in field studies where it is difficult or impossible to determine relationships and pedigrees. Here I test the ability of the marker‐based method to estimate heritability of a suite of traits in a wild population of bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) using marker data from 32 microsatellite loci. I compared marker‐based estimates with estimates obtained using a pedigree and the animal model. Marker‐based estimates of heritability were imprecise and downwardly biased. The high degree of uncertainty in marker‐based estimates suggests that the method may be sufficient to detect the presence of genetic variance for highly heritable traits, but not sufficiently reliable to estimate genetic parameters.
Development of anonymous cDNA microarrays to study changes to theSeneciofloral transcriptome during hybrid speciation
Authors: HEGARTY MATTHEW J. , JONES JOANNA M. , WILSON IAN D. , BARKER GARY L. , COGHILL JANE A. , SANCHEZ‐BARACALDO PATRICIA , LIU GUOQING , BUGGS RICHARD J. A. , ABBOTT RICHARD J. , EDWARDS KEITH J. , HISCOCK SIMON J.
Published: June 2005

Interspecific hybridization is an important process through which abrupt speciation can occur. In recent years, genetic changes associated with hybrid speciation have been identified through a variety of techniques, including AFLP/SSR mapping, GISH/FISH and cDNA‐AFLP differential display. However, progress in using microarray technology to analyse whole genome/transcriptome changes associated with hybrid speciation has been limited due to the lack of extensive sequence data for many hybrid species and the difficulties in extrapolating results from commercially available microarrays for model species onto nonmodel hybrid taxa. Increasingly therefore researchers studying nonmodel systems are turning to the development of ‘anonymous’ cDNA microarrays, where the time and cost of producing microarrays is reduced by printing unsequenced cDNA clones, and sequencing only those clones that display interesting expression patterns. Here we describe the creation, testing and preliminary use of anonymous cDNA microarrays to study changes in floral transcriptome associated with allopolyploid speciation in the genusSenecio.We report a comparison of gene expression between the allohexaploid hybrid,Senecio cambrensis, its parental taxaSenecio squalidus(diploid) andSenecio vulgaris(tetraploid), and the intermediate triploid (sterile) hybridSenecio×baxteri. Anonymous microarray analysis revealed dramatic differences in floral gene expression between these four taxa and demonstrates the power of this technique for studies of the genetic impact of hybridization in nonmodel flowering plants.
Regeneration mode affects spatial genetic structure of Nothofagus dombeyi forests
Authors: PREMOLI ANDREA C. , KITZBERGER THOMAS
Published: June 2005

Disturbance may generate population bottlenecks by reducing population size and the number of founders establishing a new colony. We tested the hypothesis that the scale of disturbance affects the levels of genetic diversity and the spatial distribution of genotypes in naturally regenerating stands of Nothofagus dombeyi, an evergreen angiosperm tree, in northwestern Patagonia. At similar spatial scales, we predicted that old‐growth stands characterized by fine‐scale gap phase dynamics would be genetically diverse due to restricted gene flow among temporal and spatially isolated gaps. In contrast, young massively regenerated postfire cohorts resulting from coarse‐scale disturbances would be genetically more homogeneous. At each of three paired old‐growth and postfire stands a minimum of 50 trees were mapped and sampled within 1 ha. Fresh tissue was collected for isozyme analysis from a total of 361 trees along with tree cores and diameters. Tree age distributions reflected the dominant modes of regeneration. Six out of nine analysed loci were polymorphic. Mean genetic diversity parameters were greater but not significant in mature stands. Fixation indices suggested significant heterozygous deficit at two‐thirds of possible tests indicating a Wahlund effect due to local recruitment of related seeds. FST indicated moderate between‐stand divergence. Mature stands concentrated half of positively like joins and yielded significant (P < 0.05) autocorrelation coefficients at small distance classes (< 20 m). Fine‐scale patch dynamics within mature stands favours the maintenance of fine‐scale genetic structure as a result of shade intolerance and local seed dispersal. Conversely, postfire stands suffer the effects of genetic drift given that a few reproductive trees produce a somewhat impoverished and genetically uniform progeny. Bottleneck effects will depend upon the density of remnant trees which could also be a function of the severity of fire.
Worm infestation and the negative association with eczema (atopic/nonatopic) and allergic sensitization
Authors: Schäfer T. , Meyer T. , Ring J. , Wichmann H.‐E. , Heinrich J.
Published: June 2005

Background:  Worm infestations may play a role in preventing allergies. There is a lack of epidemiological information from Western countries on the association between worm infestation and eczema.

Objective:  To investigate the association between worm infestation and eczema in a proper temporal sequence and under consideration of allergic sensitization.

Methods:  Two surveys were performed in East German school children. Questionnaire data included the history of eczema and worm infestation and their time of onset. Specific IgE antibodies to five common aeroallergens were measured and used to define nonatopic and atopic eczema. Logistic regression analyses were performed to control for relevant confounders (age, sex, parental school education and history of allergies). In order to confirm the findings a corresponding conditional regression analysis was applied on cases and controls matched by age and sex.

Results:  A total of 4169 children participated (response 75 and 76%) who were, on average, 9.2 years old (47% girls). Overall 17.0% reported a prior worm infestation (Ascaris 44%, Oxyuris 33%) and 18.1% had a history of eczema. Eczema occurred significantly less frequent in children who had a worm infestation (prior to the onset of eczema) compared with children without such a history (8.1%vs 16.5%, ORadj: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.33–0.60). The finding was confirmed by the corresponding matched case–control analysis (ORadj: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.41–0.79). Atopic eczema was affected more by a prior worm infestation (ORadj: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18–0.56) than the nonatopic eczema (ORadj: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.40–0.84). A total of 29.1% exhibited specific IgE antibodies to at least one aeroallergen. Sensitized children gave significantly less frequent a history of worm infestation (14.2%vs 18.3%, ORadj: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.60–0.92). Stratified analysis revealed that this effect most pronounced for a sensitization to house dust mite.

Conclusions:  A worm infestation is associated with a reduced frequency of subsequent eczema, especially the atopic type. Furthermore allergic sensitization, especially to house dust mite, and worm infestation are negatively associated. The data support the concept that a lack of immune‐stimulation by parasitic infections contributes to the development of allergies.
Development of a functional in vitro assay as a novel tool for the standardization of allergen extracts in the human system
Authors: Vogel L. , Lüttkopf D. , Hatahet L. , Haustein D. , Vieths S.
Published: June 2005

Background:  Biochemical and immunochemical methods used for batch control of allergen extracts rely on the binding of IgE molecules to allergens. They do not measure the ability of a protein to induce type I allergic reactions. Therefore, a biological assay was established that is based on the cellular mechanisms of allergies in order to assess the cross‐linking capacity of allergens.

Methods:  Rat basophilic leukaemia cells were transfected with cDNA coding for the human high affinity IgE receptor chains. The surface expression of the IgE‐binding α‐chain was detected by FACS analysis and the functional integration of the ‘humanized’ receptors into the signal transduction cascade was addressed by intracellular calcium mobilization. Mediator release was measured in response to human IgE and a variety of cross‐linking allergen preparations.

Results:  Several clones were obtained that were able to bind allergen‐specific human IgE. The results of the biological assay were compared with those obtained by immunochemical methods. The biological assay was used to determine the potency of allergen extracts, including highly diluted products that cannot be analysed by conventional methods.

Conclusion:  A stable ‘humanized’ basophil cell line was established that will be a useful tool for the standardization and batch control of allergen extracts. Because of its high sensitivity, it can also be used to detect minute quantities of potentially allergenic proteins, e.g. in processed foods. In addition, the test may support the development of novel allergy vaccines, such as recombinant hypoallergenic molecules.
CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes in allergy and asthma
Authors: Shi H.‐Z. , Qin X.‐J.
Published: June 2005

Allergic asthma is characterized by airway hyper‐responsiveness and chronic mucosal inflammation mediated by CD4+ Th2 lymphocytes. Regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells are important components of the homeostasis of the immune system, as impaired CD4+CD25+ T cell activity can cause autoimmune diseases and allergy. The mechanism of suppression by CD4+CD25+ T cells remains controversial; different in vivo and in vitro studies raise possible roles for the immunosuppressive cytokines interleukin‐10 and transforming growth factor‐β, forkhead transcription factor Foxp3, glucocorticoid‐induced tumor necrosis factor receptor, cytotoxic lymphocyte associated antigen‐4, 4‐1BB costimulator receptor, a CD4‐related molecule LAG‐3, and neuropilin‐1. Current data suggest that Th2 responses to allergens are normally suppressed by CD4+CD25+ T cells. Suppression by CD4+CD25+ T cells is decreased in allergic individuals. Furthermore, CD4+CD25+ T cells play a key role in regulating airway eosinophilic inflammation. The immunomodulatory properties of CD4+CD25+ T cells do extend to Th2 responses, most notably by limiting the development of a proinflammatory CD4+ Th2 phenotype characterized by reduced cytokine production. An understanding of the roles of CD4+CD25+ T cells in vivo could provide better insight into the design of novel approaches to modulate the chronic airway inflammatory reaction evident in bronchial asthma.
Amblyopia due to inflamed chalazion in a 13‐month‐old infant
Authors: Donaldson Mark J , Gole Glen A
Published: June 2005

Meibomian gland cysts (chalazia) are very common lesions in childhoodand are not thought of as visually threatening lesions. A case isreported of dense amblyopia and secondary exotropia resulting froman upper eyelid chalazion.
Presumed CMV associated necrotizing retinopathyin a non‐HIV immunocompromised host
Authors: Long Helen M , Dick Andrew
Published: June 2005

Herpetic necrotizing retinitis is caused by the herpesvirus groupof viruses, including cytomegalovirus (CMV). Reports defining causative viruseshave shown CMV to be a rare cause of acute retinal necrosis. Infact, there is only one report in the literature of CMV associated withprogressive outer retinal necrosis, which is most commonly associatedwith Varicella zoster virus. A case is presented of CMV‐relatednecrotizing retinopathy concurrent with subtle signs of herpeticretinitis in an immunocompromised patient, highlighting the spectrumof response of herpetic retinopathies.
Family history of myopia is not related to the final amount of refractive error in low and moderate myopia
Authors: Iribarren Rafael , Balsa Alejandra , Armesto Alejandro , Chiaradia Pablo , Despontín Leopoldo , Fornaciari Andrea , Pfortner Tomás
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background:  Previous research has found an association between family history and presence of myopia. It is possible that family history also could be related to the final amount of refractive error developed. If that were true, then family history of myopia could have predictive value for the amount of refractive error a child or young adult would develop after first lens prescription.

Methods:  Consecutive myopic adult outpatients were enrolled during the year 2003. They received a refractive examination and a questionnaire concerning age of onset of lens use, academic achievement, and parental history of myopia.

Results:  In the group of 271 mild and moderate myopes (myopia lower than −6 D) there were 157 subjects with at least one myopic parent and 114 subjects without family history. The presence or absence of a family history of myopia was not associated with either the final myopic refractive error (−3.2 ± 1.5 D and −2.9 ± 1.3 D, respectively, P = 0.08) or the age of onset of lens use (17.0 ± 6.2 years vs 18.1 ± 6.7 years, respectively, P = 0.15).

Conclusions:  In the present retrospective study of a clinical sample of mild and moderate myopic subjects, family history of myopia did not show predictive value for either the age of first prescription, or the final refractive error developed in adulthood.
The Africa Commission Report: What About the Politics?
Authors: Booth David
Published: June 2005

Book reviewed: Our Common Interest: The Report of the Africa Commission. By the Commission for Africa. London: Commission for Africa, 2005. 462pp. £10.00 pb. (forthcoming in June 2005 from Penguin Books Ltd, Our Common Interest: An Argument. 192pp. £5.00 pb.).
The Existence and Stability of Spike Equilibria in the One‐Dimensional Gray–Scott Model: The Low Feed‐Rate Regime
Authors: Kolokolnikov Theodore , Ward Michael J. , Wei Juncheng
Published: June 2005

In a singularly perturbed limit of small diffusivity ɛ of one of the two chemical species, equilibrium spike solutions to the Gray–Scott (GS) model on a bounded one‐dimensional domain are constructed asymptotically using the method of matched asymptotic expansions. The equilibria that are constructed are symmetric k‐spike patterns where the spikes have equal heights. Two distinguished limits in terms of a dimensionless parameter in the reaction‐diffusion system are considered: the low feed‐rate regime and the intermediate regime. In the low feed‐rate regime, the solution branches of k‐spike equilibria are found to have a saddle‐node bifurcation structure. The stability properties of these branches of solutions are analyzed with respect to the large eigenvalues λ in the spectrum of the linearization. These eigenvalues, which have the property that λ=O(1) as ɛ→ 0, govern the stability of the solution on an O(1) time scale. Precise conditions, in terms of the nondimensional parameters, for the stability of symmetric k‐spike equilibrium solutions with respect to this class of eigenvalues are obtained. In the low feed‐rate regime, it is shown that a large eigenvalue instability leads either to a competition instability, whereby certain spikes in a sequence are annihilated, or to an oscillatory instability (typically synchronous) of the spike amplitudes as a result of a Hopf bifurcation. In the intermediate regime, it is shown that only oscillatory instabilities are possible, and a scaling‐law determining the onset of such instabilities is derived. Detailed numerical simulations are performed to confirm the results of the stability theory. It is also shown that there is an equivalence principle between spectral properties of the GS model in the low feed‐rate regime and the Gierer–Meinhardt model of morphogenesis. Finally, our results are compared with previous analytical work on the GS model.
Struggles of Hope: How White Adult Educators Challenge Racism
Authors: Manglitz Elaine , Johnson-Bailey Juanita , Cervero Ronald M.
Published: June 2005

The purpose of this study was to understand how White antiracist adult educators challenge racism. Seven participants from 5 different antiracist educational organizations were included. Data were collected over a 5-month period using interviews, documents, and participant observations and were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Results addressed the understandings of racism and White privilege that adult educators bring to their work and how these understandings guide them to challenge racism. A systemic understanding of racism, as well as an understanding of how their own White privilege affects them and People of Color, guided the adult educators’ work. Their analyses of racism influenced the participants to take particular and strategic actions to challenge racism. The study has implications for adult educators who recognize the entrenchment of racism in our society and who want to move their abstract understandings to the concrete level of daily interactions and take specific actions within their educational practices.
Learning to Work in China's Leading Metropolis
Authors: Lo Leslie N. K. , Lai Manhong , Xiao Jin
Published: June 2005

This article examines the skills development needs and learning opportunities of the workforce in the city of Shanghai in the People's Republic of China. It attempts to elucidate the factors that influence employees’ participation in workplace training and adult education activities. By tapping the views of firm executives and employees, this article discusses the combined efficacy of three types of education and training activities for vocational learning: informal learning, nonformal training, and formal adult education. The major findings of this article suggest that working adults in Shanghai are willing to participate in a variety of adult education and training activities so long as they can see the utility of these activities. Their willingness is especially apparent when adult education and training can yield widely recognized qualifications that enhance their marketability. As the leading metropolis of China, Shanghai has great aspirations for its own role in national development as well as on the world stage. Its endeavor in providing skills development for a large workforce during a period of economic transformation should afford conceptual and policy insights into the implementation of adult education and training in changing societal contexts.
Tubulin and CRMP‐2 complex is transported via Kinesin‐1
Authors: Kimura Arimura Fukata Toshihide, Nariko, Yuko , Watanabe Hiroyasu , Iwamatsu Akihiro , Kaibuchi Kozo
Published: June 2005

The transport of tubulin and microtubules in a growing axon is essential for axonal growth and maintenance. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the linkage of tubulin and microtubules to motor proteins is not yet clear. Collapsin response mediator protein‐2 (CRMP‐2) is enriched at the distal part of growing axons in primary hippocampal neurons and plays a critical role in axon differentiation through its interaction with tubulin dimer and Numb. In this study, we show that CRMP‐2 regulates tubulin transport by linking tubulin and Kinesin‐1. The C‐terminal region of CRMP‐2 directly binds to the tetratricopeptide repeat domain of kinesin light chain 1 (KLC1). Soluble tubulin binds to the middle of CRMP‐2 and forms a trimeric complex with CRMP‐2/KLC1. Furthermore, the movement of GFP–tubulin in the photobleached area is weakened by knockdown of KLCs or CRMP‐2. These results indicate that the CRMP‐2/Kinesin‐1 complex regulates soluble tubulin transport to the distal part of the growing axon.
Long‐lasting change in brain dynamics induced by methamphetamine: enhancement of protein kinase C‐dependent astrocytic response and behavioral sensitization
Authors: Narita Minoru , Miyatake Mayumi , Shibasaki Masahiro , Tsuda Makoto , Koizumi Schuichi , Narita Michiko , Yajima Yoshinori , Inoue Kazuhide , Suzuki Tsutomu
Published: June 2005

It is well known that long‐term exposure to psychostimulants induces neuronal plasticity. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that astrocytes may actively participate in synaptic plasticity. In this study, we found that in vitro treatment of cortical neuron/glia co‐cultures with either methamphetamine (METH) or morphine (MRP) caused the activation of astrocytes via protein kinase C (PKC). Purified astrocytes were markedly activated by METH, whereas MRP had no such effect. METH, but not MRP, caused a long‐lasting astrocytic activation in cortical neuron/glia co‐cultures. Furthermore, MRP‐induced behavioral sensitization to hyper‐locomotion was reversed by 2 months of withdrawal following intermitted MRP administration, whereas behavioral sensitization to METH‐induced hyper‐locomotion was maintained even after 2 months of withdrawal. Consistent with this cell culture study, in vivo treatment with METH, which was associated with behavioral sensitization, caused a PKC‐dependent astrocytic activation in the cingulate cortex and nucleus accumbens of mice. These findings provide direct evidence that METH induces a long‐lasting astrocytic activation and behavioral sensitization through the stimulation of PKC in the rodent brain. In contrast, MRP produced a reversible activation of astrocytes via neuronal PKC and a reversibility of behavioral sensitization. This information can break through the definition of drugs of abuse and the misleading of concept that morphine produces a long‐lasting neurotoxicity.
Munc18–1 stabilizes syntaxin 1, but is not essential for syntaxin 1 targeting and SNARE complex formation
Authors: Toonen Ruud F. G. , De Vries Klaas Jan , Zalm Robbert , Südhof Thomas C. , Verhage Matthijs
Published: June 2005

Munc18–1, a member of the Sec1/Munc18 (SM) protein family, is essential for synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Munc18–1 binds tightly to the SNARE protein syntaxin 1, but the physiological significance and functional role of this interaction remain unclear. Here we show that syntaxin 1 levels are reduced by 70% in munc18–1 knockout mice. Pulse‐chase analysis in transfected HEK293 cells revealed that Munc18–1 directly promotes the stability of syntaxin 1, consistent with a chaperone function. However, the residual syntaxin 1 in munc18–1 knockout mice is still correctly targeted to synapses and efficiently forms SDS‐resistant SNARE complexes, demonstrating that Munc18–1 is not required for syntaxin 1 function as such. These data demonstrate that the Munc18–1 interaction with syntaxin 1 is physiologically important, but does not represent a classical chaperone‐substrate relationship. Instead, the presence of SNARE complexes in the absence of membrane fusion in munc18–1 knockout mice indicates that Munc18–1 either controls the spatially correct assembly of core complexes for SNARE‐dependent fusion, or acts as a direct component of the fusion machinery itself.
Precursor form of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and mature brain‐derived neurotrophic factor are decreased in the pre‐clinical stages of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Peng Shiyong , Wuu Joanne , Mufson Elliott J. , Fahnestock Margaret
Published: June 2005

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is critical for the function and survival of neurons that degenerate in the late stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). There are two forms of BDNF, the BDNF precursor (proBDNF) and mature BDNF, in human brain. Previous studies have shown that BDNF mRNA and protein, including proBDNF, are dramatically decreased in end‐stage AD brain. To determine whether this BDNF decrease is an early or late event during the progression of cognitive decline, we used western blotting to measure the relative amounts of BDNF proteins in the parietal cortex of subjects clinically classified with no cognitive impairment (NCI), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild to moderate AD. We found that the amount of proBDNF decreased 21 and 30% in MCI and AD groups, respectively, as compared with NCI, consistent with our previous results of a 40% decrease in end‐stage AD. Mature BDNF was reduced 34 and 62% in MCI and AD groups, respectively. Thus, the decrease in mature BDNF and proBDNF precedes the decline in choline acetyltransferase activity which occurs later in AD. Both proBDNF and mature BDNF levels were positively correlated with cognitive measures such as the Global Cognitive Score and the Mini Mental State Examination score. These results demonstrate that the reduction of both forms of BDNF occurs early in the course of AD and correlates with loss of cognitive function, suggesting that proBDNF and BDNF play a role in synaptic loss and cellular dysfunction underlying cognitive impairment in AD.
Effect of operant self‐administration of 10% ethanol plus 10% sucrose on dopamine and ethanol concentrations in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Doyon William M. , Anders Sheneil K. , Ramachandra Vorani S. , Czachowski Cristine L. , Gonzales Rueben A.
Published: June 2005

Although operant ethanol self‐administration can increase accumbal dopamine activity, the relationship between dopamine and ethanol levels during consumption remains unclear. We trained Long‐Evans rats to self‐administer escalating concentrations of ethanol (with 10% sucrose) over 7 days, during which two to four lever presses resulted in 20 min of access to the solution with no further response requirements. Accumbal microdialysis was performed in rats self‐administering 10% ethanol (plus 10% sucrose) or 10% sucrose alone. Most ethanol (1.6 ± 0.2 g/kg) and sucrose intake occurred during the first 10 min of access. Sucrose ingestion did not induce significant changes in dopamine concentrations. Dopamine levels increased within the first 5 min of ethanol availability followed by a return to baseline, whereas brain ethanol levels reached peak concentration more than 40 min later. We found significant correlations between intake and dopamine concentration during the initial 10 min of consumption. Furthermore, ethanol‐conditioned rats consuming 10% sucrose showed no effect of ethanol expectation on dopamine activity. The transient rise in dopamine during ethanol ingestion suggests that the dopamine response was not solely due to the pharmacological properties of ethanol. The dopamine response may be related to the stimulus properties of ethanol presentation, which were strongest during consumption.
Antiapoptotic property of human α‐synuclein in neuronal cell lines is associated with the inhibition of caspase‐3 but not caspase‐9 activity
Authors: Li Wenxue , Lee Michael K.
Published: June 2005

Abnormalities of α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) are mechanistically linked to Parkinson's disease (PD) and other α‐synucleinopathies. To gain additional insights into the relationships between α‐Syn expression and cell death, we examined the effects of expressing human α‐Syn (Huα‐Syn) variants on the cellular vulnerability to apoptotic stimuli. We show that the expression of wild‐type (WT) and A30P mutant, but not A53T mutant, Huα‐Syn leads to the protection of neuronal cell lines from apoptosis but not necrosis. Significantly, Huα‐Syn did not protect non‐neuronal cell lines from apoptosis. We also show that A53T mutant is a loss of function in regards to the antiapoptotic property since the expression of WT Huα‐Syn with an excess of A53T mutant Huα‐Syn leads to protection of the cells from apoptosis. The antiapoptotic property is specific to human α‐Syn as neither β‐Syn nor mouse α‐Syn protected cells from apoptosis, and the carboxy‐terminal 20 amino acids are required for the antiapoptotic property. Analyses of capase‐3 and caspase‐9 activation reveal that the antiapoptotic property of Huα‐Syn in neuronal cell lines is associated with the attenuation of caspase‐3 activity without affecting the caspase‐9 activity or the levels of cleaved, active caspase‐3. We conclude that Huα‐Syn modulates the activity of cleaved caspase‐3 product in neuronal cell lines.
Odorant‐dependent, spatially restricted induction of c‐fos in the olfactory epithelium of the mouse
Authors: Norlin E. Marianne , Vedin Viktoria , Bohm Staffan , Berghard Anna
Published: June 2005

Volatile odorous chemicals are detected by around a thousand different G protein‐coupled odorant receptors in the mouse. We demonstrated that exposure of the behaving mouse to odorant for a few minutes led to induction of the immediate early gene c‐fos for several hours in a fraction of the olfactory sensory neurones in the nasal cavity. Associated with this odorant‐specific induction event was activation of extracellular‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 that preceded increased c‐fos expression. The distribution of odorant‐activated neurones mimicked the scattered and spatially limited distribution of neurones expressing a single odorant receptor gene. A small change in odorant chemical structure caused a zonal shift in the spatial distribution of activated neurones, suggesting that the gene expression change resulted from specific receptor interaction. Repeated exposure to odorant or use of different concentrations did not change the pattern of c‐fos induction. These results indicate that odorant‐induced c‐fos expression can be used to visualize odorant representations in the olfactory epithelium that reflect late cellular events regulated by adequate odorant receptor stimulation.
The Australian Labour Market in 2004
Authors: Barrett Steven , Burgess John , Campbell Iain
Published: June 2005

The Australian labour market over 2004 once again recorded strong employment growth and a decline in the official unemployment rate. However, the distribution of jobs and labour market conditions remain uneven across Australia. There remains a large number of underemployed and hidden unemployed. Full-time weekly working hours continue to expand, much of them taking the form of unpaid overtime. Australia has one of the longest full-time working hours per week across the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. After the 2004 election, industrial relations ‘reforms’ have been prominent in discussions of the post-election legislative agenda. However, it is difficult to see how these proposed reforms will address fundamental labour market problems (such as skills shortages) and generate additional jobs or increased productivity. The only consequences are likely to be more pressure on the living standards of the low paid and those dependent on awards and safety net wage increases.
Infarct transmurality and adjacent segmental function as determinants of wall thickening in revascularized chronic ischemic heart disease
Authors: Ugander Martin , Cain Peter A. , Perron Annick , Hedström Erik , Arheden Håkan
Published: June 2005

Background:  There are many factors which influence regional left ventricular wall thickening (WT) in ischemic heart disease (IHD). We used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to explore, in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD), how regional WT is affected by both infarct transmurality (IT) and the function of adjacent segments. We also compared these findings with a group of healthy volunteers (controls).

Methods:  Twenty patients (20 men, mean age 63, range 45–80 years) were imaged with cine MRI for function and delayed enhancement MRI for infarction 6 months after revascularization. Twenty age and sex matched controls underwent cine MRI. Short‐axis images were analysed using a 12‐segment per slice model in four midventricular slices per subject.

Results:  WT and IT were inversely related (r2 = 0·11, P<0·001). WT of non‐infarcted segments in patients was lower than corresponding segments in controls (5·1 versus 4·6 mm, P<0·001). WT in patients decreased with an increasing number of dysfunctional adjacent segments (P<0·001) and increasing IT (P<0·001). WT was more strongly influenced by the number of dysfunctional adjacent segments (t = −22·93, P<0·001) than by IT (t = −4·50, P<0·001).

Conclusions:  The number of dysfunctional adjacent segments is a greater determinant than infarct transmurality on regional wall thickening.
Center of volume and total heart volume variation in healthy subjects and patients before and after coronary bypass surgery
Authors: Carlsson Marcus , Rosengren Anders , Ugander Martin , Ekelund Ulf , Cain Peter A. , Arheden Hakan
Published: June 2005

Background:  Total heart volume variation (THVV) and center of volume variation (COVV) likely affects the efficiency of cardiac pumping, but no study has determined COVV of the heart throughout the cardiac cycle or the effect of surgery on THVV in adults. Therefore, the purposes of this study were to determine COVV in healthy adults and patients with cardiac failure due to ischemic heart disease (IHD), identify any difference in THVV between these two groups, and determine how these parameters are affected by coronary bypass surgery.

Methods:  Six healthy volunteers and eight patients before and after surgery were investigated with cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. The atrioventricular plane movement (AVPM), THVV and time resolved three‐dimensional coordinates of the center of the cardiac volume (COVV) were measured.

Results:  COVV followed a loop in 3D space that between the end‐points was approximately 2 mm with no difference between healthy subjects and patients before surgery (P = 0·093), although AVPM was significantly lower in patients (P = 0·002). However, after surgery the COVV during the cardiac cycle doubled (P = 0·012) and the increase in THVV was significant (P = 0·050), although of very small magnitude, and the AVPM remained unchanged (P = 0·401).

Conclusion:  COVV and THVV were similar in patients and healthy subjects even though AVPM was lower in the patient population. After surgery, however, COVV doubled despite a very small change in THVV and no change in AVPM. Taken together, the results of this study may provide new insights into the energy expenditure and efficiency of cardiac pumping.
A new automated method for analysis of gated‐SPECT images based on a three‐dimensional heart shaped model
Authors: Lomsky Milan , Richter Jens , Johansson Lena , El‐Ali Henrik , Åström Karl , Ljungberg Michael , Edenbrandt Lars
Published: June 2005

A new automated method for quantification of left ventricular function from gated‐single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images has been developed. The method for quantification of cardiac function (CAFU) is based on a heart shaped model and the active shape algorithm. The model contains statistical information of the variability of left ventricular shape. CAFU was adjusted based on the results from the analysis of five simulated gated‐SPECT studies with well defined volumes of the left ventricle. The digital phantom NURBS‐based Cardiac‐Torso (NCAT) and the Monte‐Carlo method SIMIND were used to simulate the studies. Finally CAFU was validated on ten rest studies from patients referred for routine stress/rest myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and compared with Cedar‐Sinai quantitative gated‐SPECT (QGS), a commercially available program for quantification of gated‐SPECT images. The maximal differences between the CAFU estimations and the true left ventricular volumes of the digital phantoms were 11 ml for the end‐diastolic volume (EDV), 3 ml for the end‐systolic volume (ESV) and 3% for the ejection fraction (EF). The largest differences were seen in the smallest heart. In the patient group the EDV calculated using QGS and CAFU showed good agreement for large hearts and higher CAFU values compared with QGS for the smaller hearts. In the larger hearts, ESV was much larger for QGS than for CAFU both in the phantom and patient studies. In the smallest hearts there was good agreement between QGS and CAFU. The findings of this study indicate that our new automated method for quantification of gated‐SPECT images can accurately measure left ventricular volumes and EF.
Empirical investigation of party preferences and economic voting in Turkey
Authors: BAŞLEVENT CEM , KİRMANOĞLU HASAN , ŞENATALAR BURHAN
Published: June 2005

Abstract.  This article examines the factors that shape party preferences in Turkey by estimating an individual vote intention function that includes both economic and non‐economic factors. The economic variables can be used to test the familiar hypotheses of economic voting theory – whether individuals vote retrospectively and/or prospectively, and whether they are sociotropic and/or egotropic. The non‐economic factors include sociodemographic characteristics as well as identity and issue variables likely to be good predictors of party choice. The analysis focuses on comparing the characteristics of those who intend to vote for the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) with those of other parties. According to multinomial logit estimates, young people, especially males, constitute the electoral base for the AKP. Those who have been affected adversely by recent economic developments, as well as those who are against Turkey's accession to the European Union are also more likely to vote for the AKP. The empirical work also provides evidence in support of economic voting hypotheses.
Monitoring Muscle Growth and Tissue Changes Induced by Electrical Stimulation of Denervated Degenerated Muscles With CT and Stereolithographic 3D Modeling
Authors: Helgason Thórdur , Gargiulo Paolo , Jóhannesdóttir Fjóla , Ingvarsson Páll , Knútsdóttir Sigrún , Gudmundsdóttir Vilborg , Yngvason Stefán
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  In the frame of the EU‐funded RISE project, patients with lower motor neuron lesion and denervated and degenerated muscles are treated with electrical stimulation, with the aim of restoring muscle mass and force. Spiral computer tomography from the hip joint down to the knee joint is used to gather three‐dimensional data on the upper leg tissue. These data are analyzed in order to monitor tissue changes induced by the electrical stimulation treatment. Especially the data representing muscle tissue and bone tissue were isolated for measurement purposes. Computer models and models made with rapid prototyping methods were used to display and demonstrate changes in muscle shape and size, as well as position relative to bone. Results showed that time and spatial dependencies of muscle growth can be monitored and studied quantitatively and qualitatively with the aid of a three‐dimensional data set displayed on the computer screen or in the form of plastic models. These first results indicate muscle growth and an increase in bone density.
Reducing Muscle Fatigue Due to Functional Electrical Stimulation Using Random Modulation of Stimulation Parameters
Authors: Thrasher Adam , Graham Geoffrey M. , Popovic Milos R.
Published: June 2005

Abstract: A major limitation of many functional electrical stimulation (FES) applications is that muscles tend to fatigue very rapidly. It was hypothesized that FES‐induced muscle fatigue could be reduced by randomly modulating the pulse frequency, amplitude, and pulse width in a range of ±15%. Seven subjects with spinal‐cord injuries participated in this study. FES was applied to quadriceps and tibialis anterior muscles using surface electrodes. Isometric force was measured, and the time for the force to drop by 3 dB (fatigue time) was compared between trials. Four different modes of FES were applied in random order: constant stimulation, randomized frequency, randomized amplitude, and randomized pulse width. There was no significant difference between the fatigue‐time measurements for the four modes of stimulation (P = 0.329). Therefore, random modulation appeared to have no effect. Based on an observed correlation between maximum force measurements and trial order, we concluded that having 10‐min rest periods between trials was insufficient.
Design Optimization of Blood Shearing Instrument by Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Wu Jingchun , Antaki James F. , Snyder Trevor A. , Wagner William R. , Borovetz Harvey S. , Paden Bradley E.
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Rational design of blood‐wetted devices requires a careful consideration of shear‐induced trauma and activation of blood elements. Critical levels of shear exposure may be established in vitro through the use of devices specifically designed to prescribe both the magnitude and duration of shear exposure. However, it is exceptionally difficult to create a homogeneous shear‐exposure history by conventional means. This study was undertaken to develop a Blood Shearing Instrument (BSI) with an optimized flow path which localized shear exposure within a rotating outer ring and a stationary conical spindle. By adjustment of the rotational speed and the gap dimension, the BSI is designed to generate shear stress magnitudes up to 1500 Pa for exposure time between 0.0015 and 0.20 s with a pressure drop of 100 mm Hg. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) revealed that a flow path designed by first‐order analysis and intuition exhibited unfavorable pressure gradient, vortices, and undesirable regions of reverse flow. An optimized design was evolved utilizing a parameterized geometric model and automatic mesh generation to eliminate vortices and reversal flow and to avoid unfavorable pressure gradients. Analysis of the flow and shear fields for the extreme limits of the shear gap demonstrated an improvement in homogeneity due to shape optimization and the limitations of an annular shear device for achieving completely uniform shear exposure.
The Impact of Heparin‐coated Circuits on Hemodynamics During and After Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: De Vroege Roel , Huybregts Rien , Van Oeveren Wim , Van Klarenbosch Jan , Linley Gerard , Mutlu Jihan , Jansen Evert , Hack Erik , Eijsman Leon , Wildevuur Charles
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  This study was performed to investigate if heparin‐coated extracorporeal circuits can reduce the systemic inflammatory reaction with the subsequent release of vasoactive substances during and after cardiopulmonary bypass. Fifty‐one patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting were perfused with either a heparin‐coated or an uncoated circuit. During bypass the mean arterial pressure was maintained as near as possible to 60 mm Hg. Mediators for inflammation, hemodynamic, and oxygen parameters were determined during and after bypass. To reach the target mean arterial pressure in the first hour of bypass the pump flow in the uncoated group had to be increased (P < 0.05), consequently the systemic vascular resistance index decreased (P < 0.05). After bypass more inotropic support was necessary in this group to reach this pressure. In the coated group less bradykinin, complement activation, and elastase was generated during bypass (P < 0.05). The results of this study suggest that heparin coating not only improves biocompatibility, but also ameliorates the hemodynamic instability during and after bypass.
Distribution of Rest Periods Between Electrically Generated Contractions in Denervated Muscles of Rats
Authors: Dow Douglas E. , Faulkner John A. , Dennis Robert G.
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Stimulation protocols for denervated muscles distribute the generated contractions either within treatment sessions followed by hours of rest, or repeated 24 h per day with each contraction followed by a constant interval of rest. Our purpose was to directly compare the effects of the same number of identically generated contractions having different temporal daily distributions. For 5 weeks in denervated extensor digitorum longus muscles of rats, between 100 and 800 contractions were generated daily, distributed either within worksets that alternated periods of activity and rest, or separated by constant intervals of rest. Most of the tested protocols maintained muscle mass and maximum force near values of innervated controls. Although 100 contractions daily generated at constant intervals were sufficient to maintain mass and force, 100 contractions during a 4‐h treatment session followed by 20 h of rest were not sufficient, and mass and force were not different from values of denervated muscles.
Follow‐up on Behavioral Treatment of Recurrent Headache in Adolescents
Authors: Larsson Bo , Melin Lennart
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

A sample of 108 adolescent students suffering from migraine and tension headaches, treated with relaxation training and attention‐control approaches, were evaluated at 5–6 month and 3–4 year follow‐ups. Data were obtained for 69% (75) of the original subjects at the second follow‐up. The treatments administered within a school setting were contrasted with students' self‐monitoring of headache.

The results indicated that students treated with relaxation training showed a good maintenance of post‐treatment headache reduction at the two follow‐up evaluations, 80% and 85%, respectively. Although treatment condition and level of pre‐treatment headache were associated with a favorable outcome at the 5–6 month follow‐up, only baseline headache severity emerged as a significant redictor at the final follow‐up. Several variables from the psychological functioning and health behavioral domains found to predict post‐treatment outcome for the adolescent headache sufferers in previous research, did not contribute significantly to outcome at the follow‐ups.
Blood Flow and Vascular Reactivity During Attacks of Classic Migraine'Limitations of the Xe‐133 Intraarterial Technique
Authors: Olsen Tom Skyhøj , Lassen Niels A.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

The present study reports cerebral blood flow (CBF) measurements in 11 patients during attacks of classic migraine (CM)‐migraine with aura. In 6 and 7 patients, respectively, cerebral vascular reactivity to increased blood pressure and to hypocapnia was also investigated during the CM attacks. The Xenon‐133 intraarterial injection technique was used to measure CBF. In this study, based in part on previously published data, methodological limitations, in particular caused by scattered radiation (Compton scatter), are critically analysed. Based on this analysis and the results of the CBF studies it is concluded:

During CM attacks CBF appears to decrease focally in the posterior part of the brain to a level around 20 ml/100 g/min which is consistent with a mild degree of ischemia. Changes of CBF in focal low flow areas are difficult to evaluate accurately with the Xe‐133 technique. In most cases true CBF may change 50% or more in the low flow areas without giving rise to significantly measurable changes of CBF. This analysis suggests that the autoregulation response cannot be evaluated in the low flow areas with the technique used while the observations are compatible with the concept that a vasoconstrictive state, unresponsive to hypocapnia, prevails in the low flow areas during CM attacks.

The gradual increase in size of the low flow area seen in several cases may be interpreted in two different ways. A spreading process may actually exist. However, due to Compton scatter, a gradual decrease of CBF in a territorythat does not increase in size will also appear as a gradually spreading low flow area when studied with the Xe‐133 intracarotid technique.
Flunarizine I.V. in the Acute Treatment of Common or Classical Migraine Attacks A Placebo‐Controlled Double Blind Trial
Authors: Soyka Dieter , Taneri Ziya , Oestreich Wolfgang , Schmidt Rainer
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

The efficacy and tolerance of 20 mg flunarizine i.v. were tested in comparison with placebo in a multicentre randomised double‐blind trial in the acute treatment of migraine attacks. Sixty case reports were included in theevaluation; 31 patients were treated with flunarizine and 29 with placebo. Flunarizine proved to be significantly superior in its effect on the intensity of pain and the typical concomitant symptoms of the attacks. Patients were classed as responders who displayed a reduction in pain intensity by at least 50% within 60 minutes after the administration of flunarizine. 23 patients (= 74.2%) were responders, including 11 patients being without pain after60 minutes. In the placebo group the responder rate was 27.6%. The fact that both groups were comparable in all respects should be emphasized. The tolerance of intravenously administered flunarizine was excellent and corresponded to that of placebo. Apart from a sedative effect reported by 9 patients there were no side‐effects. The circulatory conditions remained largely stable. The result of this study seems to indicate that an intravenous injection of 20 mg flunarizine might represent a genuine alternative, and as regards tolerance even a superior one, to the parenteral administration of ergotamine in migraine attacks.