bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intervention of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate and tetrandrine on cellular calcium overload of pancreatic acinar cells induced by serum and ascitic fluid from rats with acute pancreatitis
Authors: Li Yong‐Yu , Lu Xin‐Yuan , Li Xue‐Jin , Li Yan‐Na , Li Kun , Chen Chang‐Jie
Published: January 2009

Background and Aim: To investigate the effects of serum and ascitic fluid from rats with acute pancreatitis (AP) on cellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) of isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells, and the intervention of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) and tetrandrine (Tet) to cellular calcium overload in AP.

Methods: AP was induced in Sprague–Dawley rats with a retrograde pancreatic duct injection of 3% sodium deoxycholate, and confirmed by histopathological examination and amylase activity assay. The rat serum and ascitic fluid were collected at 1, 5 and 10 h after AP induction, and used as irritants on isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells. The effects on intracellular [Ca2+]i, and cell viability were examined. Then, the antagonistic effects of different concentrations of PDTC and Tet were assessed.

Results: The irritation with AP serum and ascitic fluid reduced the survival rate of the isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells and increased the cellular [Ca2+]i significantly (P < 0.05). As AP induction course prolonged, the stimulation effect of the AP serum and ascitic fluid intensified. In the pretreated acinar cells with PDTC or Tet, the decreased cell vitality reverted. The elevation of [Ca2+]i in the acinar cells significantly ameliorated (significant,P < 0.05; very significant,P < 0.01).

Conclusion: The serum and ascitic fluid from AP rats drastically elevate the [Ca2+]i in isolated pancreatic acinar cells and decrease cell vitality, while the pretreatment of cells with PDTC and Tet offsets the calcium overload irritated by the AP serum and ascitic fluid and protects these isolated acinar cells.
Molecular basis of therapeutic approaches to gastric cancer
Authors: Wu Kaichun , Nie Yongzhan , Guo Changcun , Chen Yu , Ding Jie , Fan Daiming
Published: January 2009

Gastric cancer is the top lethal cancer in Asia. As the majority of cases present with advanced disease, conventional therapies (surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy) have limited efficacy to reduce mortality. Emerging modalities provide promise to combat this malignancy. Target‐protein‐based cancer therapy has become available in clinical practice. Numerous molecules have been shown potential to target specific pathways for tumor cell growth. Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is overexpressed in and correlated with gastric cancer, and knockdown of COX‐2 or administration of COX‐2 inhibitors suppresses tumor formation in models of gastric cancer. Induction of apoptosis, reduction of angiogenesis, and blocking of potassium ion channels may present new mechanisms of COX‐2 inhibition. Runt‐related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3) is a candidate tumor suppressor gene whose deficiency is causally related to gastric cancer. RUNX3 is downregulated in metastatic gastric cancer. RUNX3 activation inhibits angiogenesis in xenograft tumors in nude mice. Tumor microenvironment modulation also provides a powerful tool to inhibit cancer development and progress; details of the potential roles of angiopoietins are discussed in this review. Osteopontin is a secreted protein involved in stress response, inflammation, wound healing, and immune response. Inhibition of osteopontin by RNA interfering technique suppressed tumorigenesis as well as angiogenesis in gastric cancer. Immunotherapy remains another important choice of adjuvant therapy for cancer. A tumor‐specific antigen MG7‐Ag has been identified with great potential for inducing immune response in gastric cancer. Using HLA‐A‐matched allogeneic gastric cancer cells to induce tumor‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes appeared to be an alternative option of immunotherapy for gastric cancer.
Prevalence of Orbscan II corneal abnormalities in relatives of patients with keratoconus
Authors: Steele Timothy M , Fabinyi David C , Couper Terry A , Loughnan Michael S
Published: January 2009

Abstract

Background:  To determine the prevalence of Orbscan II‐derived keratoconus traits in relations of individuals with keratoconus and a control group and to apply these to a pedigree analysis.

Methods:  In a controlled, prospective, observational case series, four Orbscan II‐derived corneal parameters were examined in relations of individuals with keratoconus and a control group of low myopes (<2.5 D). The four parameters and thresholds for abnormality (derived from a literature review) were as follows: average keratometry (≥47.2 D), I‐S value (≥1.2 D), posterior float apex (≥42 µm) and thinnest pachymetry (≤463 µm).

Results:  Forty‐four unrelated controls (88 eyes) and eight families with 90 members without known (178 eyes) and 11 members with keratoconus (19 eyes) were analysed. One of 88 (1.14%) control eyes had a single keratoconus trait, and none had more than one trait. Of 178 eyes from relatives of patients with keratoconus, 45 (25.3%) had one or more keratoconus traits. Relatives of patients with keratoconus had an elevated risk of possessing a keratoconus trait (relative risk 14.67, CI 2.07–104.07, P < 0.001) compared with controls. Approximately 53.3% of relatives with a keratoconus trait were evident on either pachymetric or posterior elevation indices alone. Six of eight families suggested dominant inheritance.

Conclusions:  Keratoconus traits are common in relatives of patients with keratoconus. There prevalence may have been previously underestimated by using placido image‐based topography alone where corneal pachymetry and posterior elevation are not assessed. This study suggests an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance with variable expressivity in some families.
Pharmacological attempts to reduce posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery – a review
Authors: Walker Thomas D
Published: January 2009

Abstract

Reduction of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) after cataract surgery has been achieved since the general acceptance of posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation 30 years ago. Attention to surgical technique on the one hand and changes in lens design and materials on the other have synergistically reduced the incidence of PCO to less than 5% at 5 years. But lens epithelial cells still proliferate and pharmacological prevention has been largely unsuccessful so far. Any agent must be toxic to these lens epithelial cells without being toxic to the corneal endothelium. This review looks at many substances that have been tried and a few that have been partly successful without yet entering clinical practice. Possibilities for future clinical research are canvassed.
Prognostic factors in posterior open globe injuries (zone‐III injuries)
Authors: Knyazer Boris , Levy Jaime , Rosen Shirley , Belfair Nadav , Klemperer Itamar , Lifshitz Tova
Published: January 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  The aim of this study is to describe and identify clinical characteristics, prognostic factors and visual outcome in a group of patients with posterior open globe injuries (zone III injury).

Methods:  A retrospective review was made of all cases of open globe injuries that were examined at the Ophthalmology Department of Soroka Medical Center, Beer‐Sheva, Israel, from 1995 to 2005. One hundred and eight consecutive patients diagnosed with open globe injuries were reviewed. Of these, 21 eyes from 21 patients with zone III injuries were analysed and are the subject of this study. We assessed the relationship of presenting visual acuity, cause and extent of injury, as well as the number of surgical procedures, postoperative complications with the final outcome.

Results:  The study group comprised 95% male subjects with a mean age of 35.8 years (range 20–60 years). The median follow up was 21.2 months (range 6–66 months). In 72.7% of the cases metal was the causative factor. Clinical signs associated with an adverse outcome included poor‐presenting acuity, eyelid injury, cornea lamellar lacerations or abrasions, iris deformity, lens damage, ocular hypotony, coexisting injuries and a low ocular trauma score. No cases presented with post‐traumatic endophthalmitis.

Conclusions:  From this study we determined the most important prognostic factor in zone III open globe injuries is the presenting acuity. Other prognostic factors associated with a poor final outcome are eyelid injury, iris deformity, lens damage, ocular hypotonia, coexisting injuries and low ocular trauma score (≤2). Posterior open eye injuries were most commonly owing to metal entering the eyes of young men.
Progesterone reverses 17β‐estradiol‐mediated neuroprotection and BDNF induction in cultured hippocampal slices
Authors: Aguirre Claudia C. , Baudry Michel
Published: January 2009

Due to the many similarities in mechanisms of action, targets and effects, progesterone (P4), estrogen and neurotrophins have been implicated in synaptic plasticity as well as in neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. In this study, we examined the interactions between 17β‐estradiol (E2) and P4 and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on both plasticity and excitotoxicity in rat cultured hippocampal slices. First, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of E2 and P4 against N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) toxicity in cultured rat hippocampal slices. As previously reported, pretreatment with 10 nm E2 (24 h) was neuroprotective against NMDA toxicity. However, P4 (10 nm) added 20 h after E2 treatment for 4 h reversed its protective effect. In addition, the same E2 treatment resulted in an increase in BDNF protein levels as well as in activation of its receptor, TrkB, while addition of P4 attenuated E2‐mediated increase in BDNF and TrkB levels. Furthermore, E2‐mediated neuroprotection was eliminated by a BDNF scavenger, TrkB‐Fc. Our results indicate that E2 neuroprotective effects are mediated through the BDNF pathway and that, under certain conditions, P4 antagonizes the protective effect of estrogen.
Effects of stimulation of the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus on the activity of striatal cells in awake rhesus monkeys
Authors: Nanda Bijli , Galvan Adriana , Smith Yoland , Wichmann Thomas
Published: January 2009

Although the existence of a massive projection from the caudal intralaminar nuclei of the thalamus [i.e. the centromedian (CM) and parafascicular nuclei] to the striatum is well documented, the effects of CM activation upon striatal cells remain poorly understood. Therefore, we studied the effects of electrical stimulation of CM on the electrophysiological activity of striatal neurons, and on striatal levels of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and acetylcholine in rhesus monkeys. Striatal cells did not respond to single‐pulse stimulation (bipolar biphasic stimulation, 175–500 μA), but the large majority of recorded neurons responded to burst stimulation (100 Hz, 1 s, 150–175 μA) of CM, often with a delay of tens of milliseconds. Striatal phasically active neurons, which likely correspond to projection neurons, responded mainly with increases in firing (13/28 cells), while tonically active neurons (likely cholinergic interneurons) often showed combinations of increases and decreases in firing (24/46 cells). In microdialysis studies, CM stimulation led to a reduction of striatal acetylcholine levels. This effect was prevented by addition of the GABA‐A receptor antagonist gabazine to the microdialysis fluid. We conclude that CM stimulation frequently results in striatal response patterns with excitatory and inhibitory components. Under the conditions chosen here, the specific patterns of striatal responses to CM stimulation are likely the result of striatal processing of thalamic inputs. Through these indirect effects, local CM stimulation may engage large portions of the striatum. These effects may be relevant in the interpretation of the therapeutic effects of CM stimulation for the treatment of neurological disorders.
Dynamics of glutamatergic synapses in the medial vestibular nucleus of the mouse
Authors: Broussard Dianne M.
Published: January 2009

During sinusoidal rotation or translation, primary vestibular afferents modulate their discharge rates at the frequency of motion, effectively transmitting frequency‐modulated (FM) signals. This study indicates a possible role for excitatory synapses in the processing of FM signals by vestibular brainstem pathways. Inputs to medial vestibular neurons were activated with FM pulse trains, while inhibitory transmission was blocked. The relationship between the presynaptic pulse rate and the postsynaptic membrane potential was found to be linear within a range of pulse rates. Short‐term plasticity was a factor contributing to sensitivity at higher modulating frequencies. The amount of low‐pass filtering was correlated with excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) shape, which affected temporal summation during the train. Although the NMDA component of glutamatergic transmission affected EPSP shape, it made only a minor contribution to the dynamics of synaptic transmission. Most responses showed low‐pass filtering over the entire 1–16 Hz range. Overall, excitatory synapses in the medial vestibular nucleus contribute a low‐pass filter to central vestibular processing and complement the high‐pass filtering that is introduced both by peripheral vestibular dynamics and by the intrinsic dynamics of secondary vestibular neurons.
Behaviour and ecology of the western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte)
Authors: Spencer Joseph L. , Hibbard Bruce E. , Moeser Joachim , Onstad David W.
Published: January 2009

1 The western corn rootworm (WCR) is a historic pest with a legacy of resistance and behavioural plasticity. Its behaviour and nutritional ecology are important to rootworm management. The success of the most effective and environmentally benign rootworm management method, annual crop rotation, was based on an understanding of rootworm behaviour and host–plant relationships. Enthusiastic adoption of crop rotation, provided excellent rootworm management, but also selected for behavioural resistance to this cultural control.

2 Though well‐studied, significant gaps in WCR biology remain. Understanding the topics reviewed here (mating behaviour, nutritional ecology, larval and adult movement, oviposition, alternate host use, and chemical ecology) is a starting point for adapting integrated pest management and insect resistance management (IRM) to an expanding WCR threat. A presentation of significant questions and areas in need of further study follow each topic.

3 The expansion of WCR populations into Europe exposes this pest to new environmental and regulatory conditions that may influence its behaviour and ecology. Reviewing the state of current knowledge provides a starting point of reference for researchers and pest management decision‐makers in North America and Europe.

4 The trend toward increasing adoption of transgenic maize will place an increasing premium on understanding WCR behaviour. IRM plans designed to promote sustainable deployment of transgenic hybrids are grounded on assumptions about WCR movement, mating and ovipositional behaviour. Preserving the utility of new and old management options will continue to depend on a thorough understanding of WCR biology, even as the ecological circumstances and geography of WCR problems become more complex.
Western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) population dynamics
Authors: Meinke Lance J. , Sappington Thomas W. , Onstad David W. , Guillemaud Thomas , Miller Nicholas J. , Komáromi Judit , Levay Nora , Furlan Lorenzo , Kiss József , Toth Ferenc
Published: January 2009

1 The western corn rootworm Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte is a major insect pest of field maize, Zea mays L. Larvae can cause substantial injury by feeding on maize roots. Larval feeding may destroy individual roots or root nodes, and reduce plant growth, stability, and yield. Costs associated with managing corn rootworms in continuous maize are annually one of the largest expenditures for insect management in the United States Corn Belt.

2 Even though D. virgifera virgifera has been studied intensively for over 50 years, there is renewed interest in the biology, ecology, and genetics of this species because of its ability to rapidly adapt to management tactics, and its aggressive invasive nature.

3 This article provides a comprehensive review of D. virgifera virgifera population dynamics, specifically: diapause, larval and adult development, seasonality, spatial and temporal dynamics at local and landscape scales, invasiveness in North America and Europe, and non‐trophic interactions with other arthropods.

4 Gaps in current knowledge are identified and discussed especially within the context of challenges that scientists in North America and Europe are currently facing regarding pest dynamics and the need to develop appropriate management strategies for each geographic area.
Iron stress genes in marine Synechococcus and the development of a flow cytometric iron stress assay
Authors: Rivers Adam R. , Jakuba Rachel Wisniewski , Webb Eric A.
Published: January 2009

Marine Synechococcus are frequently found in environments where iron (Fe) is a limiting nutrient. To understand their capacity to respond to Fe stress, we screened picoplankton genomes and the Global Ocean Survey metagenome for known Fe stress genes. Many open ocean strains of Synechococcus lack most known genes for Fe stress, while coastal and upwelling strains contain many, suggesting that maintaining multiple Fe limitation compensation strategies is not a selective advantage in the open ocean. All genomes contained iron deficiency‐induced protein A (IdiA) and its complementary Fe3+ transport proteins. The ubiquity of IdiA was exploited to develop an in situ Fe stress bioassay based on immunolabelling and flow cytometry. As a test of field applicability, we used the assay on natural Synechococcus populations from one station in the Costa Rica Upwelling Dome where total Fe ranged from <0.08 to 0.14 nM in the upper water column. The bioassay found Fe stress in 5–54% of the population. Based on our findings, we believe that when reactive strains are present this assay can reveal environmental and clade‐specific differences in the response of Synechococcus to Fe stress.
Early onset of fibrosis within the arterial media in a rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Kovanecz Istvan , Nolazco Gaby , Ferrini Monica G. , Toblli Jorge E. , Heydarkhan Sanaz , Vernet Dolores , Rajfer Jacob , Gonzalez‐Cadavid Nestor F.
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVES

To determine, in the obese Zucker fa/fa rat (OZR), whether the loss in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) as well as the increase in fibrosis that occurs within the corpora cavernosa accompanying corporal veno‐occlusive dysfunction (CVOD), also occurs within the media of the arterial tree.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The penis and aorta from both 7‐month‐old male diabetic OZR (5 months of diabetes) and aged‐matched nondiabetic lean Zucker rats (LZR) rats were harvested (eight per group). The penis and aorta were subjected to histo‐ or immnohistochemistry, followed by quantitative image analysis (QIA) to determine the contents of SMC, collagen and the pro‐fibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF)β1. The turnover of SMCs was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick‐end labelling (TUNEL) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) assays. Quantitative Western blots determined calponin (SMC marker) and PCNA, and hydroxyproline was used for collagen. In vitro relaxation of corporal strips was measured.

RESULTS

In vitro relaxation of corporal tissue from OZR was considerably less than in the LZR. In the media of the penile dorsal artery (PDA) of OZR, there was a considerable reduction in the SMC content and the SMC/collagen ratio, as well as an increase in apoptosis, but there were no changes in PCNA or TGFβ1 expression, or in the intima‐media/lumen ratio. In the aorta of the OZR, in contrast to the PDA, there was a reduction in PCNA as well as a more pronounced decrease in the SMC/collagen ratio, mainly from an increase in collagen, but there were no changes in TGFβ1 or the wall/lumen morphometry. In the OZR, Western blots of aortic tissue confirmed the decrease in PCNA and a reduction in the SMC marker calponin.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that 5 months after the onset of hyperglycaemia in the OZR, the rats develop both abnormal corporal SMC relaxation and a generalized fibrosis of the arterial media of both the large and small diameter vessels. It is possible that this pan‐fibrosis of the media of the arterial system might contribute to the diabetes‐related ED that occurs during this period in this rat model.
Prostate cancer diagnosis in the new millennium: strengths and weaknesses of prostate‐specific antigen and the discovery and clinical evaluation of prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3)
Authors: Kirby Roger S. , Fitzpatrick John M. , Irani Jacques
Published: January 2009

The decision to take a prostate biopsy is traditionally guided by a digital rectal examination and measurement of serum total prostate‐specific antigen (tPSA). However, both techniques are subject to inherent weaknesses. The prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3), a gene‐based marker, specific for prostate cancer, supplements the predictive power of tPSA to improve diagnosis of disease. Including this new marker in the standard of care for men at risk of prostate cancer should be considered, as it presents marked potential for better decision making for a prostate biopsy and for improving overall patient care.
Short‐term assessment of a tension‐free vaginal tape for treating female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Oliveira Rui , Silva André , Pinto Rui , Silva João , Silva Carlos , Guimarães Miguel , Dinis Paulo , Cruz Francisco
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the short‐term surgical complications and results of a tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) system (TVT‐SecurTM, Gynecare, Ethicon, Somerville, NJ, USA) in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

TVT‐Secur was applied to 107 women with SUI through a vaginal incision and left abutting the urethra. Postoperative pain, complications, de novo lower urinary tract symptoms, incontinence cure rate and the King’s Health Questionnaire (KHQ) score were evaluated.

RESULTS

The operative duration was 12 min; the mean pain score was 2.3 and only one patient had transient voiding difficulties. After a mean follow‐up of 15 months, 71% of the patients were dry and 14% improved. The KHQ scores decreased significantly for most subscores. Urgency appeared de novo in six patients (5.6%), and vaginal erosion required one TVT‐Secur explantation.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that TVT‐Secur is a simple and safe treatment for female SUI, but before recommending this sling as a first choice for treating SUI, TVT‐Secur must pass the test of time and comparative studies with conventional slings.
Laparoscopic complete urinary tract exenteration with the specimen withdrawn transvaginally
Authors: Li Ching‐Chia , Wang Hsun‐Shuan , Wu Wen‐Jeng , Chou Yii‐Her , Liu Chia‐Chu , Long Cheng‐Yu , Hus Shih‐Cheng , Chuang Chieh‐Han , Jang Mei‐Yu , Huang Shu‐Pin , Juan Yung‐Shun , Huang Chun‐Hsiung
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To describe the technique of laparoscopic complete urinary tract exenteration (LaCUTE), where specimens are withdrawn en bloc through the vagina, and to compare our results for patients had this procedure with those who had surgery by traditional open methods

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From February 2006 to June 2008, five patients had LaCUTE and three CUTE at our institute. The surgical procedure included bilateral nephroureterectomy, bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, radical cystourethrectomy, radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy.

RESULTS

In the LaCUTE group the mean (range) patient age was 58 (46–73) years, the blood loss was 378 (290–490) mL, the operative duration was 492 (405–560) min and the hospital stay was 12.2 (9–17) days. All patients had negative surgical margins on pathological examination. The LaCUTE group had significantly less blood loss but longer surgery than the open group. At a mean follow‐up of 14.5 and 16.0 months, respectively, there was no evidence of recurrent cancer in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

With further experience and improvement in surgical techniques, LaCUTE with vaginal specimen en bloc withdrawal will become feasible for uraemic female patients with urothelial cancer.
A chemosensitivity test to individualize intravesical treatment for non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Gazzaniga Paola , Gradilone Angela , De Berardinis Ettore , Sciarra Alessandro , Cristini Cristiano , Naso Giuseppe , Di Silverio Franco , Frati Luigi , Aglianò Anna Maria
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To describe the design of a new chemosensitivity assay based on the expression of genes involved in the resistance to standard intravesical regimens, to allow individualization of therapy for high‐risk non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To date, 35 patients with high‐risk no‐nmuscle‐invasive bladder cancer have been enrolled, all candidates for transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) followed by intravesical treatment. The intravesical regimen was chosen according to the risk profile of each patient. All patients were evaluated by cystoscopy 3 and 6 months after TURB. According to the molecular characterization of each tumour, our team of molecular oncologists determined for each patient a molecular profile of chemosensitivity to BCG, mitomycin c, anthracyclines and gemcitabine. This profile was then correlated to the response to intravesical therapy 6 months after TURB.

RESULTS

This chemosensitivity test was able to predict response to treatment in 96% of patients. The assay is easy to perform, inexpensive and quick.

CONCLUSION

Our results, although preliminary, are encouraging for the future of an individualized therapeutic approach, with the aim to provide a higher treatment success rate while sparing patients unnecessary toxicity from drugs that are not suited for their tumours.
Analysis of promoters in transgenic barley and wheat
Authors: Furtado Agnelo , Henry Robert J. , Pellegrineschi Alessandro
Published: January 2009

Advances in the genetic transformation of cereals have improved the prospects of using biotechnology for plant improvement, and a toolbox of promoters with defined specificities would be a valuable resource in controlling the expression of transgenes in desired tissues for both plant improvement and molecular farming. A number of promoters have been isolated from the important cereals (wheat, barley, rice and maize), and these promoters have been tested mostly in homologous cereal systems and, to a lesser extent, in heterologous cereal systems. The use of these promoters across the important cereals would add value to the utility of each promoter. In addition, promoters with less sequence homology, but with similar specificities, will be crucial in avoiding homology‐based gene silencing when expressing more than one transgene in the same tissue. We have tested wheat and barley promoters in transgenic barley and wheat to determine whether their specificity is shared across these two species. The barley bifunctional α‐amylase/subtilisin inhibitor (Isa) promoter, specific to the pericarp in barley, failed to show any activity in wheat, whereas the wheat early‐maturing (Em) promoter showed similar activity in wheat and barley. The wheat high‐molecular‐weight glutenin (HMW‐Glu) and barley D‐hordein (D‐Hor) and B‐hordein (B‐Hor) storage protein promoters maintained endosperm‐specific expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) in wheat and barley, respectively. Using gfp, we have demonstrated that the Isa and Em promoters can be used as strong promoters to direct transgenes in specific tissues of barley and wheat grain. Differential promoter activity across cereals expands and adds value to a promoter toolbox for utility in plant biotechnology.
Efficient virus‐induced gene silencing in plants using a modified geminivirus DNA1 component
Authors: Huang Changjun , Xie Yan , Zhou Xueping
Published: January 2009

Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) is currently recognized as a powerful reverse genetics tool for application in functional genomics. DNA1, a satellite‐like and single‐stranded DNA molecule associated with begomoviruses (Family Geminiviridae), has been shown to replicate autonomously but requires the helper virus for its dissemination. We developed a VIGS vector based on the DNA1 component of tobacco curly shoot virus (TbCSV), a monopartite begomovirus, by inserting a multiple cloning site between the replication‐associated protein open reading frame and the A‐rich region for subsequent insertion of DNA fragments of genes targeted for silencing. When a host gene (sulphur, Su) or transgene (green fluorescent protein, GFP) was inserted into the modified DNA1 vector and co‐agroinoculated with TbCSV, efficient silencing of the cognate gene was observed in Nicotiana benthamiana plants. More interestingly, we demonstrated that this modified DNA1 could effectively suppress GFP in transgenic N. benthamiana or endogenous Su in tobacco plants when co‐agroinoculated with tomato yellow leaf curl China virus (TYLCCNV), another monopartite begomovirus that does not induce any viral symptoms. A gene‐silencing system in Nicotiana spp., Solanum lycopersicum and Petunia hybrida plants was then established using TYLCCNV and the modified DNA1 vector. The system can be used to silence genes involved in meristem and flower development. The modified DNA1 vector was used to silence the AtTOM homologous genes (NbTOM1 and NbTOM3) in N. benthamiana. Silencing of NbTOM1 or NbTOM3 can reduce tobamovirus multiplication to a lower level, and silencing of both genes simultaneously can completely inhibit tobamovirus multiplication. Previous studies have reported that DNA1 is associated with both monopartite and bipartite begomoviruses, as well as curtoviruses. This vector system can therefore be applied for the study, analysis and discovery of gene function in a variety of important crop plants.
Have we entered the brown adipose tissue renaissance?
Authors: Ravussin E. , Kozak L. P.
Published: January 2009

In the 1970s and 1980s, it was observed that rodents could offset excess calories ingested when they were fed a human‐like ‘cafeteria diet’. Although it was erroneously concluded that this so‐called diet‐induced thermogenesis was because of brown adipose tissue (BAT), it led to efforts to test whether variations in brown fat in humans may explain the susceptibility to obesity. However, from evidence on the inability of ephedrine or beta‐3 adrenergic agonists to induce BAT thermogenesis, it was concluded that the thermogenic role of BAT was unimportant in adult humans largely because humans had low numbers of brown adipocytes. Solid evidence on the actual numbers of brown adipocytes in humans was not available. We are now re‐evaluating the role of BAT for the treatment of obesity given the following recent observations (i) studies in nuclear medicine by using PET/CT scanning reveal the presence of BAT in adult humans; and (ii) recent data suggest that a new transcription factor called PDRM16 may control the induction of BAT. These recent discoveries should revamp our effort to target the molecular development of brown adipogenesis in the treatment of obesity.
Fear Extinction to an Out-Group Face
Authors: Navarrete Carlos David , Olsson Andreas , Ho Arnold K. , Mendes Wendy Berry , Thomsen Lotte , Sidanius James
Published: January 2009

Conditioning studies on humans and other primates show that fear responses acquired toward danger-relevant stimuli, such as snakes, resist extinction, whereas responses toward danger-irrelevant stimuli, such as birds, are more readily extinguished. Similar evolved biases may extend to human groups, as recent research demonstrates that a conditioned fear response to faces of persons of a social out-group resists extinction, whereas fear toward a social in-group is more readily extinguished. Here, we provide an important extension to previous work by demonstrating that this fear-extinction bias occurs solely when the exemplars are male. These results underscore the importance of considering how gender of the target stimulus affects psychological and physiological responses to out-group threat.
Age, Race, and Implicit Prejudice
Authors: Stewart Brandon D. , von Hippel William , Radvansky Gabriel A.
Published: January 2009

Older adults express greater prejudice than younger adults, but it is not clear why. In a community-based sample, we found that older White adults demonstrated more racial prejudice on an implicit measure, the race Implicit Association Test, than did younger adults. Process-dissociation procedures indicated that this difference in implicit prejudice was due to older adults having less control of their automatic prejudicial associations rather than stronger automatic prejudicial associations. Furthermore, this age difference in control was mediated by age-related deficits in inhibitory ability. White participants showed stronger automatic prejudicial associations than did Black participants.
Do Early Nouns Refer to Kinds or Distinct Shapes?
Authors: Dewar Kathryn , Xu Fei
Published: January 2009

What is the nature of early words? Specifically, do infants expect words for objects to refer to kinds or to distinct shapes? The current study investigated this question by testing whether 10-month-olds expect internal object properties to be predicted by linguistic labels. A looking-time method was employed. Infants were familiarized with pairs of identical or different objects that made identical or different sounds. During test, before the sounds were demonstrated, paired objects were labeled with one repeated count-noun label or two distinct labels. Results showed that infants expected objects labeled with distinct labels to make different sounds and objects labeled with repeated labels to make identical sounds, regardless of the objects' appearance. These findings indicate that the 10-month-olds' expectations about internal properties of objects were driven by labeling and provide evidence that even at the beginning of word learning, infants expect distinct labels to refer to different kinds.
NHS Purchaser–Provider Relationships in England and Wales: The View from Primary Care
Authors: Abbott Stephen , Procter Susan , Iacovou Nicci
Published: January 2009

Primary care organizations (PCOs) in the National Health Service in England and Wales are required to purchase most hospital‐based health care for their populations. This ‘quasi‐market’ in health care can be seen as ‘relational’, characterized by an emphasis on cooperative long‐term relationships rather than on true competition. The English government has recently introduced new market mechanisms as a response to the perceived weakness of the relational market. This article draws on three qualitative case studies of PCOs to investigate whether PCO personnel interviewed in 2005/6 concurred with that perception of weakness. Overall, relationships between PCOs and hospital services providers were regarded as unbalanced in favour of the latter, despite a shared framework of central government policy. Commissioners were seen as generally weak, and providers were judged to be generally unresponsive to PCOs’ wishes. Top–down pressure by governments on PCOs and providers of hospital services was more important than commissioning power in shaping hospital services. It remains to be seen whether the remarketization strategy succeeds in strengthening the commissioning function in primary care.
The Assets Agenda and Social Policy
Authors: Prabhakar Rajiv
Published: January 2009

The assets agenda or asset‐based welfare has provoked much interest in recent times. This approach insists that the stock of assets that a person owns is an important element of well‐being. The assets agenda is not a unified body of thought. However, there is a common failure to distinguish between these different parts, and this clouds rather than clarifies debates. This article seeks to add analytical clarity to current debates about asset‐based welfare. I distinguish between social policy and citizenship, and consider their implications for social policy. This discussion is important because analytical clarity is a precondition for a balanced assessment of asset‐based welfare.
Exploring Neglected Dimensions of Social Policy: The SDW, Fiscal Welfare and the Exemplar of Local Taxation in England
Authors: Orton Michael , Davies Rhys
Published: January 2009

Titmuss's Social Division of Welfare (SDW) thesis is a vitally important but much neglected element of social policy analysis. This article seeks to explore the SDW, with a particular focus on fiscal welfare. Fiscal welfare has been described as forming a hidden welfare state, and while taxation is one of the main ways in which governments affect the lives of citizens, studies of welfare pay remarkably little attention to its impact. Fiscal welfare is examined by using, as an exemplar, local taxation in England, a subject that itself is neglected within social policy. Local taxation in England is of interest because it illustrates the impact of a system of taxation on different groups of citizens, and how this can operate to the benefit of rich over poor citizens. This is because the current system is highly regressive, meaning that those on low and middle incomes spend proportionately more of their income paying the tax than do those on high incomes. What is of further interest is how within the debate about reform of local taxation, concern with regressivity becomes obscured and ceases to be the focus of attention. We are thus provided with an example of how fiscal welfare remains a hidden issue. The article concludes by arguing that social policy analysis needs to move beyond the narrow confines of social welfare and develop a broader understanding of welfare, based on the SDW.
HEURISTICS, THE NON‐MAXIMIZING FIRM AND EFFICIENT ALLOCATION
Authors: Furubotn Eirik G.
Published: January 2009

It has been suggested that the theory of the firm can be modified and improved by shifting to a (non‐maximizing) heuristic approach that is able to explain how relatively efficient outcomes can be brought about by the use of ‘fast and frugal’ decision rules. The paper argues, however, that certain heuristic mechanisms, which may have great appeal to entrepreneurs in practice, tend to lead firms to worse solutions than those that could be achieved in a neoinstitutional system with the use of other methods. Moreover, competition cannot be relied upon to eliminate such misallocation, and may even serve to promote the problem.
MANY CAPITAL–OUTPUT RATIOS INCREASING WITH THE INTEREST RATE: AN INDUSTRY‐LEVEL ANALYSIS
Authors: Steedman Ian
Published: January 2009

Whether there be few or many alternative techniques and whether there be fixed capital or only circulating capital involved, the industry‐level capital–output ratios can increase with the rate of interest.
Universal Banking, Asset Management, and Stock Underwriting
Authors: Johnson William C. , Marietta‐Westberg Jennifer
Published: January 2009

This paper examines institutions that underwrite IPOs and have asset management divisions from 1993 through 1998. We provide evidence that these firms use asset management funds as vehicles to help them earn more equity underwriting business. We also show that asset managers affiliated with IPO underwriters use their superior information about their own institution's IPOs to earn annualised market adjusted returns 7.6% above asset managers of firms who did not underwrite the IPO. Superior future returns by asset managers who trade affiliated IPOs are dependent on the information environment for the IPO and the underwriter reputation rank.
Cladribine impedesin vitromigration of mononuclear cells: a possible implication for treating multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kopadze T. , Döbert M. , Leussink V. I. , Dehmel T. , Kieseier B. C.
Published: January 2009

Background: Damage of the blood–brain barrier and the migration of immunocompetent cells into the CNS represent key events in the immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Cladribine is an immunosuppressive drug currently investigated in a phase‐III clinical trial for relapsing–remitting MS. However, its precise mode of action remains elusive so far.

Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from five patients with MS and five healthy donors. PBMCs were treated with cladribinein vitro. The migratory capacity was studied in anin vitroBoyden chamber assay; cells and their rate of migration were analyzed by light microscopy and flow cytometry.

Results: Cladribine decreased the migratory capacity of CD14+monocytes, as well as of CD4+and CD8+T lymphocytes. T lymphocytes were affected more than monocytes. There was no difference in this effect when comparing mononuclear cells from MS patients with cells from healthy controls.

Conclusions: Cladribine might achieve, at least in part, its clinical and paraclinical efficacy by inhibiting the migration of inflammatory cells into and within the CNS.
Lack of association of hormone receptor polymorphisms with migraine
Authors: Corominas R. , Ribasés M. , Cuenca‐León E. , Cormand B. , Macaya A.
Published: January 2009

Background and purpose:  Previous studies concerning the role of hormone receptor genetic variants in migraine have provided conflicting results. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of common polymorphisms in the estrogen receptor gene (ESR1) and the progesterone receptor gene (PGR) in the risk for migraine in a Spanish population.

Methods:  In a case–control study, including 210 Caucasoid migraine patients and 210 controls, we examined association between three single nucleotide polymorphisms in the coding region of ESR1, rs2077642, rs1801132, and rs2228480, and an Alu insertion in PGR, and migraine, migraine without aura or migraine with aura. Genotypic, allelic and reconstructed haplotype distributions were compared.

Results:  We found no significant differences between cases and controls in the distribution of genotypes or alleles for either polymorphism. No haplotype was over‐represented in patients.

Conclusions:  Our study does not support a major contribution of ESR1 and PGR to the pathogenesis of migraine.
One‐year follow up of patients with chronic tinnitus treated with left temporoparietal rTMS
Authors: Khedr E. M. , Rothwell J. C. , El‐Atar A.
Published: January 2009

Background and purpose:  Although there are a number of positive reports on the therapeutic effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treatment of tinnitus, there are few details about the duration of treatment effects or the relative efficiency of different rTMS protocols.

Methods:  Sixty six patients with chronic tinnitus were divided into four groups, receiving sham rTMS, 1, 10 and 25 Hz rTMS applied each day for 10 days over left temporoparietal cortex. They were followed up at 4 months and 1 year using the tinnitus questionnaire [Tinnitus Handicap Inventory(THI)] and self ratings of annoyance as well as measures of residual inhibition.

Results:  A two factor anova revealed a significant ‘rTMS’ × ‘time’ interaction indicating that real and sham rTMS had different effects on the THI scale and annoyance of tinnitus (P = 0.026 and 0.046 respectively). After 1 year, the tinnitus was absent in one or both ears of 10 patients who had received real rTMS: one of these was in the 1 Hz group, four patients were in the 10 Hz group and five patients were in the 25 Hz group.

Conclusion:  Some patients show a lasting benefit at 1 year after 10 days of rTMS treatment. It appears that treatment at 10 or 25 Hz may be more beneficial than at 1 Hz, although more work is necessary to validate this conclusion.
Unilateral RLS with predominantly ipsilateral PLMS and variable response to dopaminergic drugs: a variant of idiopathic RLS?
Authors: Valko P. O. , Siccoli M. M. , Bassetti C. L.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is characterized by sensorimotor symptoms that usually are localized in both legs, but may present considerable asymmetry. Patients with strictly and persisting unilateral manifestations have not yet been reported.

Methods:  We describe the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics of three RLS patients with unilateral symptoms.

Results:  All essential RLS criteria were fulfilled in each patient. Neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies did not reveal structural lesions. All patients showed a predominance of periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS) ipsilaterally to the RLS symptoms. Treatment response to dopaminergic drugs was favourable only in one patient.

Controls:  Our observations suggest the existence of unilateral RLS with predominantly ipsilateral PLMS as a (so‐far unrecognized) variant of RLS.
The Johnsons’ Plight: The Role of Captivity on Anglo‐American Identity
Authors: BLAINE MARCIA SCHMIDT
Published: January 2009

The possibility and reality of captivity was one of many parts of the American experience that added to a developing Anglo‐American identity. Using the 1754 captivity of the Johnson family of Charlestown, New Hampshire as the focal point, this article explores the ways in which the fear and insecurity associated with captivity and with captivity stories had an impact on American identity. Individual settlers along the borders of Anglo settlement obtained land and lived with the hope of personal improvement and better lives for their families. But opportunity came at the price of constant insecurity, fear and, occasionally, captivity by Native Americans. Captives discovered that their individual identities were lost and their children were abandoned in bureaucratic efforts caught up in the imperial struggles between Britain and France. Imperial or provincial government authorities seemed powerless to free them. Insecurity inspired adaptability. Many captives became cultural mediators as they negotiated between cultures and created useful networks to assist in obtaining freedom. They were willing to try a range of tactics to mould themselves to the needs of the moment. Captivity narratives and news explicitly exposed the increasingly divergent paths of colonies and metropole. Captivity forged the links of distrust of government, cultural adaptability and greater individual agency with a familial focus and added them to the chain of American identity.
Quartz plates for determining sun protection in vitro and testing photostability of commercial sunscreens
Authors: Akrman J. , Kubáč L. , Bendová H. , Jírová D. , Kejlová K.
Published: January 2009

Synopsis

Testing plate made of optical quartz has been developed for the purpose of determination of sun protection factor (SPF)in vitro by the method of diffusion transmission spectroscopy; the plates were coarsened by sanding and grinding to surface roughness values (Ra) of 18 μm. The plate was coated with a film of sunscreen by an application of 2 mg cm−2 as that used for determination of SPFin vivo by the COLIPA method. The transmission values measured were converted into the SPFin vitro and the protection factor in ultraviolet A light, UVAPFin vitro. The testing plate was tested with commercial sunscreens. The found values of SPFin vitro fit well with the values determined by means of the COLIPA method in vivo. The plates coated with sunscreen film were irradiated with light simulating the sun radiation. The values of protection factors obtained before and after irradiation were compared, and the differences were used for estimation of photostability of the UV filters included.