bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Striatal gene expression of RGS2 and RGS4 is specifically mediated by dopamine D1 and D2 receptors: clues for RGS2 and RGS4 functions
Authors: Taymans Jean‐Marc , Leysen Josée E. , Langlois Xavier
Published: March 2003

Of all partners involved in G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling, the regulator of G‐protein signalling (RGS) proteins are the only ones showing fast gene expression changes after various stimuli. These expression changes can offer feedback regulation to GPCR signalling as RGS accelerate the return of G‐proteins to their inactive form and exert regulatory functions on intracellular effectors. However, it is not yet known which RGS regulate which receptor transduction pathways in the brain. To start to answer this question, we studied the influence of specific agonists and antagonists of the dopamine D1 and D2 receptors on the gene expression of the five most abundant RGS in the striatum: RGS2, RGS4, RGS8, RGS9 and RGS10. Only changes in RGS2 and RGS4 mRNA levels were observed. The D1 agonist SKF82958 and D2 antagonist haloperidol caused an up‐regulation of RGS2 (+ 38.0% and + 41.6%, respectively). The D1 antagonist SCH23390 and D2 agonist quinpirole caused a down‐regulation of RGS2 (− 25.0% and − 35.0%) and an up‐regulation of RGS4 (+ 57.2% and + 52.5%). D1 and D2 receptors exert opposite effects on RGS2 expression, as they do on cAMP levels, suggesting a cAMP‐mediated transcription of RGS2. This was confirmed by the unique induction of RGS2 (+ 111.1%) observed in the periventricular zone of the striatum after intracerebroventricular injection of forskolin. RGS4 was up‐regulated only when RGS2 was down‐regulated. This suggests that both RGS exert distinct functions. Considering the coupling of D1 and D2 receptors to the intracellular effector adenylate cyclase 5 (AC5) through their respective Gα subunits in the striatum, our data allow us to suggest that RGS2 regulates the D1/Gαolf/AC5 pathway and RGS4 the D2/Gαo/AC5 pathway.
Involvement of PI3′‐K, mitogen‐activated protein kinase and protein kinase B in the up‐regulation of the expression of nNOSα and nNOSβ splicing variants induced by PRL‐receptor activation in GH3 cells
Authors: Secondo Agnese , Sirabella Rossana , Formisano Luigi , Alessio Angela D' , Castaldo Pasqualina , Amoroso Salvatore , Ingleton Patricia , Di Renzo Gianfranco , Annunziato Lucio
Published: March 2003

It is well known that GH‐PRL secreting GH3 cells express constitutive neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and produce nitric oxide (NO•). In addition, these cells possess plasma membrane prolactin (PRL) receptors which can be responsible for an autocrine ‘short‐loop’ feedback. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the activation of PRL receptors modulates the expression of the different spliced forms of nNOS gene, and the transductional mechanisms involved in this action. In GH3 cells, both exon 2‐containing nNOSα and exon 2‐lacking nNOSβ were time‐dependently expressed, whereas the other two isoforms eNOS and iNOS were not. The antibodies directed against the residues 53–68 of the external domain common to both the long and short form of rat PRL receptors, and the selective D2 agonist cabergoline (1 nm) reduced both basal and exogenous PRL‐induced expressions of nNOSα and nNOSβ, but to a greater extent for the β splicing form. In line with these results, oPRL (1 and 10 μm) added to the incubation medium increased to a greater extent the expression of nNOSβ form than of the nNOSα. The receptor and non‐receptor protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitors, genistein (10 μm), the Src‐specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP2 (100 μm), the MAPK inhibitor PD 098059 (50 nm) and the two PI3′‐K inhibitors, wortmannin (300 nm) and LY‐294002 (25 μm) prevented both basal and exogenous PRL‐induced expression of nNOSα and nNOSβ isoforms. In addition, exogenous PRL induced a phosphorylation of protein kinase B (PKB) (Akt) that was prevented both by the two MAPK inhibitors PD 098059 and U 0126, and by the PI3′‐K inhibitors wortmannin and LY‐294002. Up‐regulation of the expression of the two splicing forms of nNOS elicited by PRL‐receptor activation was mirrored by the increased synthesis of NO•. In conclusion, PRL receptor activation up‐regulated the expression of both nNOSα and nNOSβ proteins via a PTK, PI3′‐K, MAPK and PKB signalling transduction components. This action may represent the molecular mechanism by which PRL exerts the ‘short‐loop’ feedback on its own secretion.
Mitochondrial oxidation of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal in rat cerebral cortex
Authors: Murphy Tonya C. , Amarnath Venkataraman , Picklo Sr Matthew J.
Published: March 2003

4‐Hydroxy‐trans‐2‐nonenal (HNE) is a neurotoxic product of lipid peroxidation whose levels are elevated in multiple neurodegenerative diseases and CNS trauma. The detoxification of HNE may take the route of glutathione conjugation to the C3 carbon and the oxidation or reduction of the C1 aldehyde. In this work, we examined whether the oxidation of HNE to its corresponding carboxylic acid, 4‐hydroxy‐trans‐2‐nonenoate (HNEAcid) was detoxifying event, if it occurred in rat cerebral cortex, and in which subcellular compartments. Our results show that HNEAcid did not form protein adducts and was non‐toxic to Neuro 2A cells. HNEAcid formation occurred in rat cerebral cortex slices following exposure to HNE in a time‐dependent and dose‐dependent fashion. Homogenate studies indicated that HNEAcid formation was NAD+ dependent. Subcellular fractionation demonstrated that mitochondria had the highest specific activity for HNEAcid formation with a KM of 21 µm HNE. These data indicate that oxidation of HNE to its corresponding acid is a major detoxification pathway of HNE in the CNS and that mitochondria play a role in this process.
Thrombin induces in vivo degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurones along with the activation of microglia
Authors: Carreño‐Müller Eloisa , Herrera Antonio J. , De Pablos Rocio M. , Tomás‐Camardiel Mayka , Venero José L. , Cano Josefina , Machado Alberto
Published: March 2003

Seven days after the injection of different concentrations of thrombin into the nigrostriatal pathway, a strong macrophage/microglial reaction was observed in the substantia nigra (SN), indicated by immunostaining, using OX‐42 and OX‐6 antibodies, and by the induction of iNOS, IL‐1α, Il‐1β and TNF‐α. Moreover, selective damage to dopaminergic neurones was produced after thrombin injection, evidenced by loss of tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining and tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA‐expressing cell bodies, and the unaltered transcription of glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA in the SN and striatum. These thrombin effects could be produced by its ability to induce the activation of microglia described in in vitro studies, and are in agreement with the effects described for other proinflammatory compounds. Thrombin effects are produced by its biological activity since they almost disappeared when thrombin was heat‐inactivated or injected along with its inhibitor α‐NAPAP. Thrombin is a multi‐functional serine protease rapidly produced from prothrombin at the sites of tissue injury, and also upon breakdown of the blood–brain barrier, which strongly suggests it could easily enter into the CNS. These results could have special importance in some degenerative processes of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system.
The role of the Ca2+‐sensitive tyrosine kinase Pyk2 and Src in thrombin signalling in rat astrocytes
Authors: Wang Hong , Reiser Georg
Published: March 2003

We have recently demonstrated that multiple signalling pathways are involved in thrombin‐induced proliferation in rat astrocytes. Thrombin acts by protease‐activated receptor‐1 (PAR‐1) via mitogen‐activated protein kinase activity. Signalling includes both Gi/(βγ subunits)–phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase and a Gq‐phospholipase C/Ca2+/protein kinase C (PKC) pathway. In the present study, we investigated the possible protein tyrosine kinases which might be involved in thrombin signalling cascades. We found that, in astrocytes, thrombin can evoke phosphorylation of proline‐rich tyrosine kinase (Pyk2) via PAR‐1. This process is dependent on the increase in intracellular Ca2+ and PKC activity. Moreover, in response to thrombin stimulation Pyk2 formed a complex with Src tyrosine kinase and adapter protein growth factor receptor‐bound protein 2 (Grb2), which could be coprecipitated. Furthermore, both thrombin‐induced Pyk2 phosphorylation and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 phosphorylation can be attenuated by Src kinase inhibitor 4‐amino‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐7‐(t‐butyl)pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine. From these data we conclude that PAR‐1 uses Ca2+‐ and PKC‐dependent Pyk2 to activate Src, thereby leading to ERK1/2 activation, which predominantly recruits Grb2 in rat astrocytes.
Congruence between health professionals’ and patients’ pain ratings: a review of the literature
Authors: Solomon Patricia
Published: March 2003

Congruence between health professionals’ and patients’ pain ratings: a review of the literature

The literature suggests that health professionals have a tendency to underestimate pain when performing clinical assessments. In addition, it appears that the more clinical experience one has, the greater will be the underestimation of pain. Pain assessment is difficult because of the complex interaction between environment, patient and practitioner variables. Although there is a need for further research in this area, there are clinical implications worthy of consideration. Health professionals need to use a variety of valid and reliable measures, use measures of pain behaviour and disability to complement self‐report measures and examine how their own biases and values may influence pain judgements.
Does physical exercise in addition to a multicomponent smoking cessation program increase abstinence rate and suppress weight gain? An intervention study
Authors: Jonsdottir Dagmar , Jonsdottir Helga
Published: March 2003

Does physical exercise in addition to a multicomponent smoking cessation program increase abstinence rate and suppress weight gain? An intervention study

Tobacco use is considered the single most preventable cause of premature morbidity and mortality. Smoking cessation programs aim at two interrelated purposes, to help people to give up smoking and to prevent relapse. A multicomponent intervention consisting of nicotine replacement therapy, health education, behaviour modification therapy and counselling is widely recommended in the health care literature. Smoking cessation studies from a nursing perspective are few. The purpose of this quasi‐experimental study was to compare outcomes of two nurse‐managed 1‐year group smoking cessation interventions. Intervention 1 (n=34) was provided at a health care centre and consisted of nicotine replacement therapy, health education, behavioural modification and individual and group counselling. In intervention 2 (n=33), provided in a health club, physical exercise was added to the intervention provided in 1. Participants were self‐referred with equal numbers in both interventions. A nonsignificant difference in lapse free abstinence time (LFAT) at 1 year was demonstrated between intervention 1 (20.6%, n=7) and intervention 2 (39.4%, n=13) (p=0.16, odds ratio=2.5). The difference in weight gain between intervention groups was also nonsignificant. Within intervention comparison between abstinent participants and smokers showed that abstinent participants had gained significantly more weight than smokers in intervention 2 (p=0.001), but in intervention 1 the difference was nonsignificant (p=0.2). The small sample size in the study detracts from the significance of the findings. However, a trend is observed showing that physical exercise increases the abstinence rate of participants. The conclusion is drawn that a multicomponent smoking cessation program that includes physical exercise might be an effective intervention, but further studies with a larger sample size are needed.
Disabled children's perceptions of technical aids, assistance and peers in play situations
Authors: Skär Lisa
Published: March 2003

Disabled children's perceptions of technical aids, assistance and peers in play situations

The purpose of the study was to gain a deeper understanding of how children with disabilities perceive their technical aids in play situations. Transcribed interviews with eight children with disabilities were analysed according to the constant comparative method of grounded theory described by Glaser & Strauss. Three categories were found in the data, forming a model describing the child's relations in play situations (core category): to technical aids, to assistance and to the play environment. Two of the categories included relations to adults. The children's opportunities to play required that a parent or an assistant be present. Access to the playground also required the assistance of adults. The third category, relation to technical aids, is an individual one, as the technical aids were perceived differently by all the children. The technical aids were also seen as an extension of the child. The implications for parents and service providers are discussed.
The meaning and form of occupational therapy as experienced by women with psychoses
Authors: Ivarsson Ann‐Britt , Söderback Ingrid , Ternestedt Britt‐Marie
Published: March 2003

The meaning and form of occupational therapy as experienced by women with psychoses: a phenomenological study

The aim of this study was to illuminate the experiences of occupational therapy interventions in individuals with psychoses. Repeated tape‐recorded narrative interviews were conducted with six women participating in occupational therapy immediately after an intervention. The subsequent analyses followed a phenomenological approach. Key constituents integrated in two structures, are the main findings. The meaning of occupational therapy as expressed in the key constituents relief, self‐knowledge, belief in the future, capability, resistance and satisfaction formed one structure. The form of occupational therapy as expressed in the key constituents time, environment, guidance, voluntariness and collaboration represented the other structure. These findings confirm and give empirical support to beliefs and assumptions expressed in occupational therapy literature. The results form a conceptual base for developing an evaluative assessment instrument for individuals with psychoses participating in occupational therapy.
Burnout among people working with intellectually disabled persons: a theory update and an example
Authors: Innstrand Siw Tone , Espnes Geir Arild , Mykletun Reidar
Published: March 2003

Burnout among people working with intellectually disabled persons: a theory update and an example

The paper offers an overview of the burnout literature connected to work stress and is specially aimed at professionals with responsibilities for persons with intellectual disabilities. In the paper different important key concepts in the burnout literature are both discussed in general terms, and also connected to the different instruments used to assess burnout. The effect of stress and burnout intervention procedures is also discussed thoroughly. At the end of the paper there is an example of an intervention study among staff working with persons with intellectual disabilities. The paper concludes that future progress is to be dependent onempirical tests of theory‐based models using research designs that permit causal inferences. In addition there is a growing need for longitudinal designs reporting effects of different intervention approaches, especially among the staff working with persons with intellectual disabilities.
Microsatellite markers from the Indian major carp species, Catla catla
Authors: McConnell S. K. J. , Leamon J. , Skibinski D. O. F. , Mair G. C.
Published: March 2003

The Indian major carp Catla catla is indigenous to the major river systems of Northern India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, and is an important contributor to aquaculture production in India and Bangladesh. Five polymorphic microsatellite loci, developed from Catla catla are described and their utility in other major carp and cyprinid species is tested.
Isolation and characterization of novel microsatellite markers from the Australian tiger snakes (Elapidae: Notechis) and amplification in the closely related genus Hoplocephalus
Authors: Scott Ian A. W. , Hayes Christine M. , Keogh J. Scott , Webb Jonathon K.
Published: March 2003

We provide details of seven microsatellite loci (out of 20 primer pairs designed) that exhibited the cleanest and strongest banding patterns for the Eastern tiger snake Notechis scutatus. These loci were used to screen 76 individuals from across the geographical range of N. scutatus and a further 14 individuals of the closely related and endangered broadheaded snake Hoplocephalus bungaroides. We observed large numbers of alleles per locus (14–52) and relatively high levels of heterozygosity (0.270–0.696) within the N. scutatus sample. These markers are also likely to be informative for work on H. bungaroides.
The isolation of microsatellite loci in the Mediterranean fruitfly Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) using a biotin/streptavidin enrichment technique
Authors: Casey D. G. , Burnell A. M.
Published: March 2003

The Medfly (Ceratitis capitata) is a polyphagous dipteran pest which has spread from North Africa to the countries of the Mediterranean Basin and has also invaded tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. Colonizing populations typically possess low levels of genetic variability. Microsatellites provide an effective means of investigating the population structure of such genetically depauperate populations, however, microsatellite markers traditionally require a long phase of development in new taxa. We used a biotin/streptavidin capture technique to isolate microsatellites directly from C. capitata genomic DNA and we describe here the identification of seven polymorphic microsatellite markers in C. capitata.
Development of microsatellite loci in Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi)
Authors: Miller K. M. , Laberee K. , Schulze A. D. , Kaukinen K. H.
Published: March 2003

Fifteen polymorphic di‐, tri‐ and tetranucleotide microsatellite markers were developed in Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) to aid in the delineation of population structure of herring in British Columbia. Twelve of the microsatellite loci were analysed in over 4000 wild herring. Expected heterozygosities ranged 0.73–0.95, and only two loci significantly deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the great bustard, Otis tarda
Authors: Lieckfeldt D. , Schmidt A. , Pitra C.
Published: March 2003

With the aim to study population genetics of the endangered great bustard, Otis tarda, dinucleotide microsatellite loci were isolated using an adapted hybrid‐capture enrichment protocol. This work reports the characterization of a set of six polymorphic microsatellite markers within the great bustard (n = 52). Results from cross‐species amplifications in several other members of the family Otididae demonstrate that five primer pairs also successfully amplified homologous loci outside the species Otis tarda.
gerud1.0: a computer program for the reconstruction of parental genotypes from progeny arrays using multilocus DNA data
Authors: Jones Adam G.
Published: March 2003

We have no standard computer algorithm for the reconstruction of parental genotypes from the data generated by molecular studies of progeny arrays. Here I present a computer program that uses the multilocus genotypes of parents and offspring to reconstruct the genotypes of unknown parents contributing gametes to a progeny array for which one parent is known a priori. A second program performs simulations to assess the reliability of the algorithm under various scenarios. These programs will aid scientists engaged in parentage analyses, particularly in species with large clutches.
Characterization of microsatellite loci developed for song wrens Cyphorhinus phaeocephalus
Authors: Hughes Colin R. , Robinson Tara R.
Published: March 2003

We developed six microsatellite loci for song wrens (Cyphorhinus phaeocephalus). Polymorphism ranged from four to 12 alleles with heterozygosities ranging from 21 to 90%. Three of the six loci deviated significantly from the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium suggesting the presence of one or more null alleles. Cross‐species amplification indicated that these loci will have limited utility in other wren species.
Isolation and characterization of di‐ and trinucleotide microsatellites in the freshwater snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum
Authors: Weetman D. , Hauser L. , Carvalho G. R.
Published: March 2003

The freshwater prosobranch snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum is an important model system for studying the maintenance of sexual reproduction in its native New Zealand. Since introduction to the UK in the 1850s, the species has spread throughout Europe and recently the USA. We present the first microsatellites for P. antipodarum. Using two isolation protocols, which are qualitatively compared, we have developed PCR primers for three di‐ and four trinucleotide microsatellites. All loci proved to be polymorphic, when screened for variability in several UK populations. These markers should be of considerable utility in future population and ecological genetics studies of this species.
Microsatellite loci for a tropical emergent tree, Dipterocarpus tempehes V. Sl. (Dipterocarpaceae)
Authors: Isagi Y. , Kenta T. , Nakashizuka T.
Published: March 2003

Polymerase chain reaction primers amplifying 10 microsatellite loci for a tropical emergent tree, Dipterocarpus tempehes (Dipterocarpaceae) were developed. The polymorphism was estimated by screening 34 adult trees. The numbers of alleles per locus were from seven to 14 with the average of 10.3. Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.57 to 0.88 with the average of 0.78. Total exclusion probabilities with the present 10 loci for the first and second parents of seedlings were 0.9962 and 0.9999, respectively. The high level of polymorphism indicates that the present loci are useful for the analysis of pollen movement, seed dispersal and inbreeding depression.
Fungal specific primers for PCR‐amplification of mitochondrial LSU in lichens
Authors: Printzen C.
Published: March 2003

Fungal specific primer sequences for the amplification of the large subunit of the mitochondrial ribosomal DNA (mtLSU) are presented in this paper. Fungal specific primers make the separation of fungal and algal cells prior to DNA‐extraction from lichens unnecessary. This is especially useful in crustose and small foliose and fruticose lichens. An example from a complex of closely related species of the crustose lichen genus Biatora shows the usefulness of mtLSU‐sequences for studies of infraspecific variability and lower level systematics of lichenized ascomycetes.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the invasive Brazilian pepper, Schinus terebinthifolius
Authors: Williams D. A. , Sternberg L. da S. L. , Hughes C. R.
Published: March 2003

Brazilian pepper trees (Schinus terebinthifolius) pose a significant threat to south Florida ecosystems. To identify the source population of this exotic species we developed eight trinucleotide (AAT) microsatellite loci. Polymorphism ranged from two to six alleles and heterozygosity from 30 to 100% in a sample of 10 individuals from across south Florida. Cross‐species amplification indicated that these loci may be useful in some members of the Anacardiaceae.
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA loci identified in the common frog (Rana temporaria, Amphibia, Ranidae)
Authors: Pidancier N. , Gauthier P. , Miquel C. , Pompanon F.
Published: March 2003

We developed seven microsatellite loci in the common frog, Rana temporaria. There were between 2 and 27 alleles per locus and the expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.28 to 0.96 in a sample of frogs collected in the French Alps. Adding these seven markers to the 15 previously available microsatellite loci for this species should facilitate studies of genetic structure of Rana temporaria populations at a fine geographical scale.
Isolation and characterization of nuclear microsatellite loci in the tropical tree Corythophora alta (Lecythidaceae)
Authors: Hamilton M. B.
Published: March 2003

Studies of tropical plant population structure and gene flow are needed to estimate genetic repercussions of tropical deforestation. Twelve microsatellite loci were isolated for Corythophora alta (Lecythidaceae), a canopy tree at the Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, near Manaus, Brazil. These microsatellites will be used to estimate population structure and infer seed paternity. Loci were isolated with a subtractive hybridization method. Loci averaged 10.7 alleles per locus with high levels of heterozygosity. Four loci had significant deficits and one locus had a significant excess of heterozygotes compared to Hardy–Weinberg expectations. Many loci had high average probabilities of paternity exclusion.
Highly variable microsatellite loci for studies of introduced populations of the small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus)
Authors: Thulin C.‐G. , Gyllenstrand N. , Mccracken G. , Simberloff D.
Published: March 2003

During their introduction, non‐native species typically undergo founder events that reduce genetic variation. To allow a high‐resolution genetic investigation of introduced populations of the small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), we developed primers for nine variable microsatellite loci. Their applicability was assessed in 10 mongooses from the large Fijian population, which originated from a single pair from Calcutta, India. The number of alleles ranged from two to five per locus, possibly as a result of preservation of initial variability and in situ mutations during the rapid population expansion after introduction.
Development of microsatellite markers for the critically endangered Limonium dufourii (Girard) Kuntze (Plumbaginaceae)
Authors: Palop‐Esteban M. , González‐Candelas F.
Published: March 2003

Limonium dufourii is an endemic plant from the eastern Mediterranean coast of Spain with a triploid chromosome number and apomictic reproduction. We have isolated and characterized 13 polymorphic microsatellite loci from an enriched library in order to investigate its population genetic structure. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were screened in 120 individuals from the six extant populations of this species. They show an average of 5.76 alleles per locus, ranging from 2 to 18, with seven loci exhibiting heterozygosities larger than 0.60. Three loci present one single allele in each individual, whereas one locus presents three alleles in every individual analysed.
PCR‐based markers detect genetic variation at growth and immune function‐related loci in chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Docker Margaret F. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: March 2003

We developed seven polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based markers that detect genetic variation at loci related to growth (four) and immune function (three) in chinook salmon. One assay shows a length polymorphism following PCR; the others show restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR‐RFLP). Two alleles were detected in each assay, and the common alleles were found at frequencies of 0.67–0.95 in seven wild populations in British Columbia, Canada. These loci also amplified in other salmonid species. These markers, by detecting variation linked to genes with high fitness relevance, are expected to be useful in a range of theoretical and applied studies.
Characterization of microsatellite loci inCoenonympha hero(Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)
Authors: Cassel Anna
Published: March 2003

Microsatellite markers are suitable tools for studying dispersal pattern among local populations. I report on the characterization of seven polymorphic microsatellite loci in the scarce heath butterfly (Coenonympha hero), from one unenriched and one enriched genomic library. Number of alleles ranged from two to 20 when 108 individuals from seven populations were screened.HOranged from 0.140 to 0.889. Primers were also tested on three other butterfly species. Amplification was successful for all loci inErebia triaria, while only one gave products inMaculinea alconandMaculinea rebeli.To my knowledge, these are the first microsatellite markers published in theNymphalidaesubfamilySatyrinae.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellites in the Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii)
Authors: Zane Lorenzo , Patarnello Tomaso , Ludwig Arne , Fontana Francesco , Congiu Leonardo
Published: March 2003

We isolated and characterized seven polymorphic microsatellite loci from a partial genomic library of the Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii) enriched for GATA repeats. Variability was tested in 20 specimens of this endangered species. Our data support the tetraploid condition for A. naccarii and will be useful for the investigation of the remnant genetic variability of this species as well as for genetic tagging studies.
Identification of microsatellite loci in lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, and their variability in green sturgeon, A. medirostris
Authors: Welsh Amy B. , Blumberg Marc , May Bernie
Published: March 2003

From (CATC)n, (GATA)n, (AAAC)n, and (CA)n–enriched libraries for the lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens, 254 primer pairs were developed. These primer pairs resulted in the identification of 128 microsatellite loci in either A. fulvescens or A. medirostris. Polymorphic loci were identified in both sturgeon species for 48 of the primer pairs and 14 of the primer pairs amplified polymorphic loci only in A. medirostris. Most of the identified loci appear to be tetrasomic (79.1% in A. fulvescens and 64.5% in A. medirostris). These results offer estimates of the degree of diploidization in each of these species.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers from the mosquito Anopheles moucheti, malaria vector in Africa
Authors: Annan Z. , Kengne P. , Berthomieu A. , Antonio‐Nkondjio C. , Rousset F. , Fontenille D. , Weill M.
Published: March 2003

Anopheles moucheti is a major human malaria vector in Equatorial Africa. The screening of an Anopheles moucheti genomic microsatellite library allowed us to select 36 sequences with AC/GT dinucleotide tandem repeats. Primer pairs were designed to amplify the loci and 25 out of 36 gave a repeatable and scorable amplification. In total, 17 loci were selected for their high degree of polymorphism (the number of alleles per locus ranged from four to 16, and observed heterozygosity from 0.43 to 0.87) and suspicion of absence of null alleles, using 30 wild females from South‐Cameroon. No linkage disequilibrium was found between the loci.
Isolation and characterization of eight microsatellite loci from silver‐lipped pearl oyster Pinctada maxima
Authors: Smith C. , Benzie J. A. H. , Wilson K. J.
Published: March 2003

We have developed di‐ and tetra‐nucleotide microsatellite markers for the silver‐lipped pearl oyster Pinctada maxima. Screening of approximately 50 000 clones resulted in the identification of 74 microsatellites. Fluorescent PCR was optimized for eight polymorphic loci. In a sample of 1637 individuals, these eight loci possessed between 14 and 68 alleles (average 29.8), with observed and expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.479 to 0.891 and 0.872 to 0.972, respectively.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Sauria: Lacertidae)
Authors: Nembrini M. , Oppliger A.
Published: March 2003

In natural populations the mating success of males depends on different factors. By enhancing the intensity of secondary sexual characters, testosterone can play a role in mate choice. However, paradoxically, testosterone can also decrease immunocompetence and thus potentially diminish attractiveness. To estimate the influence of testosterone on male mating success in the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, we characterized nine polymorphic microsatellite loci. There were three to 12 alleles per locus in the five to 16 individuals screened. These microsatellites will also be useful in determining population structure in this species.
A11. UV‐related skin hazards: allergic photodermatitis
Authors: Pigatto Paolo , Persichini Zerboni Roberto Paola
Published: March 2003

Cases of dermatitis induced by exposure to ultra‐violet radiation are increasingly encountered in clinical practice, with contact allergic photodermatitis accounting for about 10% of cases. Its frequency seems to be increasing, not only as a result of the increased use of cosmetic products and contact with some of the materials of working processes, but above all because of the greater exposure to both natural and artificial sources of UV radiation. Many substances have been defined ‘photo‐allergising’ but their exact prevalence has varied over the years with the introduction and use of new substances in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. For these, and other reasons, there are few studies concerning the prevalence and incidence of contact allergic photodermatitis in Italy.

A total of 2160 patients with clinical histories suggestive of photoallergic contact dermatitis were seen. All patients underwent photopatch tests with haptens proposed by the Gruppo Italiano Ricerca Dermatiti da Contatto plus other substances suggested by each patient's history. 518 patients (24%) were positive to at least one test substance of the standard series or to added substances. Typical photoallergic reactions were seen in 423 subjects, representing 19.5% of the total population.

Topical drugs are the substances most frequently involved in photodermatitis. The incidence in our population was about equal for antimicrobial agents, additives to fragrances, and fragrances themselves. Other allergens frequently found were sun screening agents which were the second group of haptens with clear‐cut relevance.
Facilitating interprofessional learning for medical and nursing students in clinical practice
Authors: Guest Christine , Smith Lynda , Bradshaw Maureen , Hardcastle Wendy
Published: March 2003

Medical students at the University of Sheffield have, in the past, spent time on children's wards as part of their clinical rotation in paediatrics. This has largely been seen as a means of increasing their understanding of the role of nurses in order to facilitate professional relationships. Literature would tend to support this view and identifies that closer cooperation and joint training might alleviate some of the differences and divisions between the two professional groups. In order to enhance this experience, a collaborative proposal between the Medical and Nursing Schools and the Sheffield Children's Hospital was put forward that involved each medical student having one ‘nursing day’, during which they would be ‘buddied’ by a senior nursing student in the placement area. This would involve the medical student shadowing and working alongside the nursing student to experience the realities of nursing practice and maximize opportunities for shared learning. As part of the day a joint seminar, facilitated by nursing lecturers, is held in the afternoon on topics relevant to all professional groups working with children to facilitate reflection, discussion and shared learning. It is clear from observing these seminars and from the evaluations of both medical and nursing students that adopting this interprofessional approach to learning is successful in terms of:

mutual respect;

understanding each others’ roles;

enhanced medical experience of the medical student and ability to practice basic care skills, and

student nurses developing their teaching and mentoring skills in practice

Follow‐up contact with the students involved has revealed that by spending time together in this way, ongoing contact during the remaining clinical rotation was enhanced as the relationship was continued. Ongoing developments have seen cross‐boundary sessions, which involve medical students coming along to the School of Nursing and sharing in lectures delivered by medical staff. Initiatives such as these, by working across professional boundaries, can only be beneficial in providing truly holistic care to the child and family.
Two deficits and a solution? Explicating and evaluating clinical facilitation using consultative methods and multiple stakeholder perspectives
Authors: Ellis Roger , Hogard Elaine
Published: March 2003

This paper describes an evaluation of an 18 month pilot scheme for clinical facilitators (CFs) in the acute medical and surgical wards of a consortium's hospital trusts. The CFs were appointed to address two perceived deficits: the deficit in nursing skills showed by newly qualified Project 2000 nurses, and the deficit in supervision for clinical placement following the move of schools of nursing into higher education, the abolition of the clinical tutor and the increased workload on ward staff. The CFs were intended to enhance the competence of pre‐registration nursing students on clinical placement. The evaluation used a three‐pronged approach covering outcomes, process and multiple stakeholder perspectives. Outcome measures proved the most intractable, reflecting widespread problems in nurse education of specification and assessment. The process of clinical facilitation was investigated using consultative methods with the CFs themselves. On the basis of in‐depth interviews with the CFs, a four‐level model of clinical facilitation was developed that included, at its first level, the direct supervision of students in the ward. This supervisory role was characterized by six main teaching methods described by the CFs. These methods and the work of the CFs were evaluated through interviews, focus groups and questionnaires with key stakeholders: students; clinical staff, and university staff. Differences were found in the ranking by students, ward staff and university staff of the teaching methods and of the staff involved in practice learning. Within a generally positive evaluation of the work of the CFs, concerns were expressed regarding communication. University staff tended to evaluate the CFs less positively than did students and ward staff. Further research is recommended regarding those involved in the supervision of practice and the outcomes of their activities.
Molecular phylogenetics and the historical biogeography of dippers (Cinclus)
Authors: Voelker Gary
Published: March 2003

I used combined sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome b and ND2 genes to determine the molecular phylogenetic relationships of all five extant species of dipper (Cinclus), as well as the relationships of Cinclidae to postulated nearest relatives. All methods of analysis resulted in a single best tree of dipper relationships, uniting the two South American taxa (as sisters) with the single North American exemplar, and the two Eurasian taxa forming a sister clade to the New World taxa. Further, each tree identified thrushes (Turdidae) as the closest relative to Cinclidae. Based on relationships within Cinclus, a Eurasian ancestral area is proposed, with subsequent movement into the New World. Dating of species divergences suggest that dippers arose approximately 4 mya, and achieved their present continental distributions soon after.
On the taxonomic status and denomination of the Iberian Chiffchaffs
Authors: Salomon Marc , Voisin Jean‐François , Bried Joël
Published: March 2003

We carried out a Principal Component Analysis on 196 Iberian and Common Chiffchaffs of both sexes (live and collection specimens), characterized by seven variables derived from wing, tarsus and bill measures. This method, complemented by colour comparison of the taxa, led us to the following conclusions. (1) Phyllopneuste brehmii, Homeyer, 1871, is a junior synonym of Sylvia collybita, Vieillot, 1817. The correct name for the Iberian Chiffchaff is Phylloscopus ibericus (Ticehurst 1937). (2) P. ibericus is itself represented by two subspecies: the southern form P. i. ibericus (Ticehurst 1937), and the northern form, for which we propose the name P. i. biscayensis ssp. nov. (3) The Common and Iberian Chiffchaffs are very distinct in the contact zone. But an overall geographical variation following Bergmann's and Allen's rules within both taxa generates an ecomorphological convergence, i.e. P. i. ibericus and the populations of P. c. collybita from northern central Europe have similar sizes. This may explain why previous authors were unable to diagnose the two taxa on morphological criteria alone.
Fixation disparity, accommodation, dark vergence and dark focus during inclined gaze*
Authors: Jaschinski Wolfgang , Koitcheva Vera , Heuer Herbert
Published: March 2003

We investigated several oculomotor functions at different angles of vertical inclination of the gaze direction from 15 deg upwards to 45 deg downwards. The mean accommodative resting state (measured in a dark visual field) increased when the eyes or the head were declined from 0 to 45 deg. Fixation disparity (the vergence error in minutes of arc relative to the principle visual directions) became more eso when a fusion target at a viewing distance of 40  cm was lowered: declining the gaze by 45 deg changed mean fixation disparity by 1.8  min arc with eye inclination (keeping the head upright), and by 0.9  min arc with head inclination (with eye position unchanged relative to the head). When the eyes were lowered, the individual rate of eso change in fixation disparity was correlated with the amount of the subjects’ near shifts in the resting position of vergence, measured in darkness. Significant test‐retest correlations between repeated measurements showed that the effects of eye inclination on vergence varied in a reproducible way among individuals with good binocular vision.
The effect of monochromatic aberrations on Autoref R‐1 readings
Authors: Collins Michael
Published: March 2003

The Canon Autoref R‐1 is used extensively to investigate aspects of the accommodation response of the human eye. The measurement zone of the Autoref R‐1 is known to lie outside the central pupil and the instrument's readings are therefore potentially influenced by the monochromatic aberrations of the eye. Since these aberrations are known to change as a function of accommodation, the error associated with the aberrations might influence the stimulus–response slope. We used masks and contact lenses with known amounts of spherical aberration to establish the region of the pupil used by the Autoref R‐1 in deriving a reading of the refractive power of the eye. This region was estimated to be narrowly centred on a 3.5‐mm diameter. The spherical aberration of the eye was measured for five subjects across a range of accommodation levels and used to predict the likely effect upon Autoref R‐1 readings. Positive spherical aberration will result in an apparent lead of accommodation, while negative spherical aberration causes an apparent lag of accommodation. For eyes with normal levels of spherical aberration, the slope of the stimulus–response will appear to be marginally flatter when measured with the Autoref R‐1. An example of an eye with coma‐like aberrations is also shown to produce Autoref R‐1 results that will differ significantly from more central refractive measurements.
Some possible longer‐term ocular changes following excimer laser refractive surgery
Authors: Oliveira‐Soto Laura , Charman W. Neil
Published: March 2003

While the short‐ and medium‐term refractive and acuity results of excimer laser refractive surgery may now be generally satisfactory, the relatively brief history of the procedures involved (around 10 years or less) means that those concerned with eye care must remain vigilant to the possibility of longer‐term problems. This paper reviews some relevant studies of potential post‐surgical effects, including imperfect corneal healing and recovery of innervation, reduced corneal sensitivity and dry eye problems, changes in corneal rigidity leading to slow refractive change, possibly misleading reductions in measured intraocular pressure, and retinal and vitreous pathology.
Potential vision testing – the relationship between visual acuity and Vernier acuity in the presence of simulated cataract
Authors: Quaid Patrick , Stonier Charlotte , Cox Michael J.
Published: March 2003

To evaluate the utility of a computer controlled two‐bar Vernier acuity measurement as a predictor of visual function in the presence of cataract we measured logMAR visual acuity and Vernier acuity in a group of 40 young normal observers under various levels of dioptric blur (0–3 D in dioptre steps). The Vernier thresholds were resistant to dioptric blur up to 2 D, but performance degraded with blur of 3 D for non‐optimised Vernier stimulus parameters. The stimulus parameters, bar length and bar separation, were further investigated in two subjects under conditions of blur. By extending the Vernier bar length and increasing the bar separation the effect of blur could be further reduced even under the most blurred condition. The relationship between visual acuity and Vernier acuity was determined. Vernier acuity was measured in the presence of Vistech cataract simulating lenses and a prediction of visual acuity was made for three observers, two with no ocular abnormality and one with age‐related maculopathy. The cataract simulating lenses affected the measured visual acuity in all three subjects, but had less effect on Vernier acuity. Predicted visual acuities were all within six letters (0.12 log units) of the visual acuity without the simulated cataract. As expected, the subject suffering from age‐related maculopathy, whilst showing similar levels of Vernier acuity to the two ocularly healthy subjects at 1.5° of retinal eccentricity, showed much poorer Vernier acuity for stimuli presented at fixation.
Repeatability of corneal thickness measurements made by a scanning slit topography system
Authors: Cho Pauline , Cheung Sin Wan
Published: March 2003

Two sets of corneal thickness (CT) measurements at five corneal locations were made with Orbscan on 33 normal young adults. No significant intravisit and intervisit differences at any of the corneal locations were found (Repeated measures anova, F < 0.49, p > 0.49). The 95% limits of agreement (95% LA) for between‐measurement differences for the central cornea was about ±19 μm (or 3%), indicating good repeatability; for the inferior, temporal and nasal corneal locations, the 95% LA were close to ±30 μm (≈4–5%); and for the superior corneal location, they were about ±35 μm (or 5.5%). The estimated number of repeated measurements that should be taken for accurate CT measurements (at any of the five corneal locations and excluding outliers of >3 S.D.) of 2% (standard error) is ≤2, and of 3% is 1. This study shows that only central CT measurements with the Orbscan are repeatable. The role of the Orbscan pachometry is therefore limited and is recommended for central CT measurements only.
Balancing visual weights
Authors: Ronchi Lucia R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract An experiment is described which is based on a peculiar response index, the visual balance, whichinvolves the match of visual weight. The stimulus consists of a pair of grey fields, differing in their spectral reflectance factor, and the experiment is designed to determine how the balance condition depends on their relative sizes. This dependence is found to be linear when the test object is considered globally; non‐linear when considering its fine intra‐pair geometrical characteristics.