bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empathy and viewing the other as a subject
Authors: HÅKANSSON EKLUND JAKOB
Published: September 2006

Empathy and viewing another person as a subject rather than an object are often associated in theoretical contexts, but empirical research of the relation is scarce. The purpose of the present research was to investigate the relationship between subject/object view and empathy. In Study 1, participants watched film clips and indicated their empathy for specific characters in the clips, as well as the extent to which they saw these persons as subjects and objects. The subject/object view explained some, but not all, of the differences in empathy, which raised the question of what else accounts for differences in empathy. A second study was conducted to investigate whether the difficulty of the other's situation also contributes. In Study 2, another group watched the film clips and rated the difficulty of the film character's situations in addition to empathy and subject/object view. The results of Study 2 revealed that subject view/object and perceived difficulty together explain a substantial part of differences in empathy. It was concluded that empathy is evoked primarily when a person in difficulty is viewed as a subject.
Musculoskeletal pain complaints and performance on cognitive tasks over the adult life span
Authors: SÖDERFJELL STEFAN , MOLANDER BO , JOHANSSON HÅKAN , BARNEKOW‐BERGKVIST MARGARETA , NILSSON LARS‐GÖRAN
Published: September 2006

The present study aimed at comparing participants with and without self reported musculoskeletal pain in a normal population with regard to performance on a range of tests for episodic memory, semantic memory, and other cognitive functions and to see if expected differences interacted with age. The results showed that participants with pain performed worse on a range of tasks as compared to participants without pain, and that these differences occurred regardless of age. The most robust effects of pain were displayed on tests for vocabulary and construction ability as these were the only effects that remained significant after controlling for years of education and reported depression in separate analyses. When depression and education were controlled for in the same analysis, even these effects were eliminated, suggesting interplay between pain, depressive status, and educational level in the negative effects on cognitive functioning.
The possible benefits of difficulty: How stress can increase and decrease subjective well‐being
Authors: KARLSEN ELIN , DYBDAHL RAGNHILD , VITTERSØ JOAR
Published: September 2006

This study explores the effects of stress, trauma, coping and growth orientation on subjective well‐being. Based on cognitive stress theory, it was hypothesized that adversity may contribute to increased or decreased well‐being, depending on the subsequent meaning these experiences are given. Survey data from Norwegian UN/NATO veterans (N= 142) showed that stress and well‐being were negatively associated (r=−0.20,p< 0.05) at the level of zero‐order correlations. However, a full structural equation model revealed that the effect of stress on well‐being was mediated positively through a problem‐focused coping process combined with a growth component. Stress was negatively mediated through an avoidant‐focused coping process and a distress component. The effect from stress was fully mediated in the model. The hypothesis that stress can produce both increased and decreased subjective well‐being was confirmed.
A comparative assessment of the factor structures and psychometric properties of the GHQ‐12 and the GHQ‐20 based on data from a Finnish population‐based sample
Authors: PENNINKILAMPI‐KEROLA VARPU , MIETTUNEN JOUKO , EBELING HANNA
Published: September 2006

The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) is a self‐report questionnaire designed to identify psychological distress. Psychometric properties of two versions of GHQ‐12 and GHQ‐20 were assessed in a large population‐based sample of Finnish twins, ages 22 to 27 (n= 4580). Participants were randomized into two subgroups, namely Twin1 (n= 2294) and Twin2 (n= 2286). The GHQ‐12 data were assessed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The factor structure of the GHQ‐20 was first assessed with Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) in the Twin1 dataset, and the results obtained were then subjected to CFA in Twin1 and Twin2 datasets. The CFA of the GHQ‐12 indicated that the best fit and the simplest solution were provided by the three‐factor solution in both subpopulations. Analyses of the GHQ‐20 suggested that the four‐factor structure was superior to the three‐factor model. This result is also theoretically justifiable. Compared to the 12‐item version, GHQ‐20 provides additional fourth factor of anhedonia, suggesting some discriminative power.
Getting a visit: How district nurses and general practitioners ‘organise’ each other in primary care
Authors: Speed Shaun , Luker Karen A.
Published: September 2006

This paper examines the ways in which district nurses and general practitioners interacted and influenced each other's work within primary care services. The data presented here examine how the developments in the organisation of primary care affected the work of district nurses during a time of turbulent change. Qualitative data from 300 hours of participant observation and 40 semi‐structured interviews with 33 district nurses were analysed using grounded theory, after which a literature review was undertaken. The findings from this study were interpreted using a Foucauldian notion of power and Fox's (1995) analysis of ‘organisation’. The shift in power to general practitioners (GPs) has meant that they can exercise ever‐increasing authority over nurses in their employ. Strict rules governed the process of inter‐professional work and nurses and doctors used creative strategies to overcome the problems that existed between them. The data show that nurses could and did resist the power of GPs but this resistance generally elicited other more punishing forms of authority. Direct and indirect threats were commonplace. The data suggest that district nurses were moving into a closer, more business‐like and tightly‐controlled working relationship with general practitioners, through which competing discourses interplayed and circulated between GPs and district nurses in the organisation of primary care services.
The role of etiquette and experimentation in explaining how doctors change behaviour: a qualitative study
Authors: Armstrong David , Ogden Jane
Published: September 2006

Despite increasing interest over the last 30 years in individual variations in clinical practice, various research studies have thrown only limited light on either understanding or changing doctors’ behaviour. This qualitative study explored a sample of British general practitioners’ accounts of the influences on their prescribing, and identified the locus of the problem in their defence of professional identity through clinical autonomy, a tactic that precluded use of more customary change agents such as line management and economic incentives. The study identified two mechanisms, clinical etiquette and clinical experimentation, however, that enabled change to occur within the constraints imposed by the commitment to clinical autonomy.
Saddle sensation is preserved in a few patients with cauda equina or conus medullaris lesions1
Authors: Podnar S.
Published: September 2006

Although saddle sensory deficit seems the most useful clinical sign in the diagnosis of a cauda equina or conus medullaris lesion, findings of previous studies were controversial. The aim of the present study was to try to resolve this issue. The data from the author's series of patients with clinical, electrodiagnostic and radiological findings compatible with a cauda equina lesion were reviewed. Of the 117 patients in the series, 11 (10 men) did not have a saddle sensory deficit. These 11 patients had less severe sacral dysfunction than the others, and none of them needed urgent surgical intervention. They all had electromyographic (EMG) signs of a significant motor fibre lesion, and in seven men the sacral (penilo‐cavernosus) reflex was clinically abnormal. The study revealed normal saddle sensation in approximately 10% of patients with cauda equina or conus medullaris lesions. Dissociation between preserved touch sensation and abnormal EMG findings, as well as dissociation between preserved touch sensation and a non‐elicitable penilo‐cavernosus reflex might be explained by preservation of the thinner sensory nerve fibres, which are more resistant to compression. Although, saddle sensory loss seems to identify patients who might benefit from urgent spinal imaging and surgery, further diagnostic evaluation is also indicated in patients with normal saddle sensation, particularly due to the increased frequency of spinal tumours found in this subgroup.
Screening for SNCA and LRRK2 mutations in Greek sporadic and autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease: identification of two novel LRRK2 variants
Authors: Xiromerisiou G. , Hadjigeorgiou G. M. , Gourbali V. , Johnson J. , Papakonstantinou I. , Papadimitriou A. , Singleton A. B.
Published: September 2006

Mutations in SNCA and LRRK2 genes, encoding alpha‐synuclein and leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, respectively, cause autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease (AdPD). The LRRK2 G2019S (c.6055G > A) and R1441G (c.4321C > G) mutations have also been identified in sporadic PD (sPD). We studied 55 unrelated patients with AdPD, 235 patients with sPD, and 235 healthy age‐ and gender‐matched controls all of Greek origin. Patients with AdPD were screened for SNCA and LRRK2 mutations by direct sequencing. SNCA gene dosage analysis was also performed for AdPD using quantitative duplex polymerase chain reaction of genomic DNA. In addition, we investigated the frequency of the LRRK2 G2019S mutation in sPD. We found no missense mutations or multiplications in the SNCA gene. Here we report two novel variants, A211V (c.632C > T) and K544E (c.1630A > G) in LRRK2 gene in two patients with AdPD that was not present in controls. We identified only one patient with sPD (1/235; 0.4%) carrying the G2019S mutation. LRRK2 mutations are present in AdPD and sPD patients of Greek origin.
Who Went to College? Socio‐Economic Inequality in Entry to Higher Education in the Republic of Ireland in 2004
Authors: O'Connell Philip J. , McCoy Selina , Clancy David
Published: September 2006

Ireland has experienced substantial increases in participation in higher education in recent years. This paper examines whether or not increased admission rates between the mid‐1990s and 2000s led to a reduction in social class inequality in access to higher education. We draw on two data sets, one, a dedicated survey of new entrants to higher education in 2004, the other, a combination of the results of a series of school leavers' surveys conducted in the mid‐1990s and early 2000s. We show that the period has been characterised by both continuity and change. Continuity is reflected in persistent social inequalities in access to higher education: the children of higher professionals and farmers, in particular, have maintained their privileged access to higher education. Change is reflected in some closing in relative social inequalities, partly arising as more advantaged groups reach a saturation point in progression to higher education, and partly due to the children of manual workers increasing their participation rates.
Access to and Participation in Higher Education in Northern Ireland
Authors: Osborne Robert D.
Published: September 2006

This paper summarises some of the key characteristics of access to and participation in higher education. In particular, it focuses on the key social characteristics of participation and the interaction with migration to study outside Northern Ireland. Key policy areas relating to student finance and widening access are also considered. The paper also reports on qualitative research conducted with Protestant and Catholic pupils from less well‐off backgrounds about attitudes to further and higher education. The paper concludes by suggesting higher education policy issues for a newly restored devolved administration.
Widening Access or Differentiation and Stratification in Higher Education in Scotland
Authors: Gallacher Jim
Published: September 2006

Widening access to higher education (HE) has been an important policy objective in Scotland over the last twenty years. While there is evidence that high levels of participation have been achieved, and some evidence of reduction in inequalities in participation rates among young people entering higher education, there is also evidence of persisting inequalities, and of patterns of differentiation and stratification. As a result there is evidence that, with the development of mass higher education in Scotland, a stratified system of higher education has emerged. Furthermore there is evidence that these patterns of stratification are being maintained over time, despite the policies which are designed to widen access. This paper will review the evidence regarding the nature and extent of these patterns of stratification, and briefly consider the policies which are designed to tackle this issue.
Policy‐Participation Trajectories in English Higher Education
Authors: Parry Gareth
Published: September 2006

The pattern of expansion that brought mass characteristics to English higher education is very different from that intended to achieve near‐universal access by the end of the present decade. The spectacular growth of the late 1980s and early 1990s was neither projected nor planned, with important consequences for the shape of the English system. By contrast, the policies of renewed expansion and widening participation from the late 1990s represent a radical attempt to change the traditional pattern of demand for English undergraduate education, with future growth focused on the short‐cycle forms of vocational higher education. Although influenced by the example of Scotland in building expansion at levels below the first degree, the policy experiment pursued in England is highly distinctive, including the invention of a new undergraduate qualification and a partnership role for further education colleges.
Morbidity of incontinence surgery in women over 70 years old: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pugsley Harriet , Barbrook Christopher , Mayne Christopher J. , Tincello Douglas G.
Published: September 2006

Objective  To compare the success rate and complications after colposuspension and tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) insertion in women aged 70 years or more compared with younger women.

Design  A retrospective study of patients having surgery between November 2000 and October 2002.

Setting  A tertiary referral, academic urogynaecology unit in a University teaching hospital.

Population  Two hundred and twenty‐six women having surgical treatment for urinary incontinence.

Methods  Data on cure/improvement and complications were extracted from the notes. Patients were grouped by age at surgery and the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each outcome were calculated.

Main outcome measures  Subjective cure rate and the incidence of complications by age group.

Results  One hundred and three patients had colposuspension, 11 (10.7%) aged 70 or more. One hundred and twenty‐three patients had TVT insertions, 23 (18.7%) aged 70 or more. The cure rate for each procedure was similar between age groups. After colposuspension, urinary tract infection (UTI; OR 11.33; 95% CI 2.61, 49.28) and long term self‐catheterisation (percentage of difference 9.1; 95% CI 3.0, 15.2) were more common in women over 70. After TVT, repeat urodynamics (OR 3.91; 95% CI 1.11, 13.76), recurrent UTI (OR 4.22; 95% CI 1.03, 17.26) and tape division (OR 29.12; 95% CI 3.20, 264.86) were more common in older women.

Conclusions  Incontinence surgery carries a higher risk of complications in the elderly including UTI and voiding dysfunction. Extended antibiotic prophylaxis and intermittent self‐catheterisation training should be offered to elderly women before surgery.
The acceptability of home medical abortion to women in UK settings
Authors: Hamoda Haitham , Critchley Hilary O.D. , Paterson Kate , Guthrie Kate , Rodger Mary , Penney Gillian C.
Published: September 2006

Objective  To assess the acceptability of home medical abortion to women in UK settings.

Design  Questionnaire survey.

Setting  Four NHS gynaecology units in England and Scotland.

Subjects  Women undergoing conventional, hospital‐based, medical abortion up to nine weeks of gestation.

Methods  A self‐complete questionnaire explored the acceptability of abortion in hospital (including pain and bleeding experienced) and at home. Comparisons were made between centres (English and Scottish).

Main outcome measure  Women's views on home administration of misoprostol for medical abortion; perceived acceptability and perceived ability to cope with the process at home.

Results  Sixty‐six percent (366/553) of the questionnaires were returned: Edinburgh, 204 (56%); London, 92 (25%); Hull, 43 (12%); and Glasgow, 27 (7%). Individual questionnaire items were answered by varying numbers of women: 228/320 (71%; 95% CI: 66–76%) said there was nothing that happened during abortion in the hospital that they would have been unable to cope with at home; 123/342 (36%; 95% CI: 31–41%) said they would have opted to have home abortion, had that choice been available. However, 219/342 (64%; 95% CI: 59–69%) indicated that they would prefer to have abortion in the hospital. The majority of women said they would have coped at home with bleeding (280/355, 79%; 95% CI: 74–83%) and with pain if given analgesia (203/268, 76%; 95% CI: 70–81%).

Conclusion  This study suggests that most women would welcome being offered the choice of having medical abortion at home or in hospital. The development of home abortion must be seen as complementary, not an alternative, to hospital services.
Do we need to follow up complete miscarriages with serum human chorionic gonadotrophin levels?
Authors: Condous G. , Okaro E. , Khalid A. , Bourne T.
Published: September 2006

Despite a history of heavy vaginal bleeding with clots, a proportion of women diagnosed with complete miscarriage, using transvaginal sonography (TVS), have an underlying ectopic pregnancy (EP). We evaluated the need for hormonal follow up in women with history and scan findings suggestive of complete miscarriage. One hundred and fifty‐two consecutive women with findings suggesting complete miscarriage at presentation based on their history and TVS were presented to the Early Pregnancy Unit. Serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels were taken at presentation and 48 hours. All women were followed up until hCG was <5 u/L or a pregnancy was visualised on TVS either inside or outside the uterus. Overall, 9 (5.9%) of 152 women with an apparent complete miscarriage had an underlying EP. A diagnosis of complete miscarriage based on history and scan findings alone is unreliable. These women should be managed as ‘pregnancies of unknown location’ with serum hCG follow up.
Assessment of risk for the development of pre‐eclampsia by maternal characteristics and uterine artery Doppler
Authors: Papageorghiou Aris T. , Yu Christina K.H. , Erasmus Ilse E. , Cuckle Howard S. , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: September 2006

Objective  To develop a method for the estimation of patient‐specific risk for the development of pre‐eclampsia by combining maternal history and uterine artery Doppler.

Design  Prospective multicentre observational study.

Setting  Antenatal clinics in seven hospitals in the UK and three overseas centres.

Population  Unselected women with singleton pregnancies attending for routine antenatal care.

Methods  Doppler studies of the uterine arteries were performed using colour flow mapping and pulsed wave Doppler at 23 weeks of gestation. The mean pulsatility index (PI) of the two uterine arteries was calculated. Doppler and maternal history variables were combined to develop a model for risk assessment. The incidence of pre‐eclampsia was used to derive the prior risk for this complication. The posterior risk was derived by multiplying the prior odds with likelihood ratios (LRs) derived from independent risk factors identified from the maternal history, and the LR estimated from the heights of the frequency distributions of mean PI in affected and unaffected pregnancies.

Main outcome measure  Pre‐eclampsia.

Results  There were 17,480 women recruited to the study, in which 17,319 (99.1%) of these Doppler examination of both uterine arteries were completed, and outcome data were available in 16,806 (97.0%). Pre‐eclampsia occurred in 369 (2.20%) cases. Significant independent prediction of pre‐eclampsia was provided by mean PI, ethnic origin, body mass index (BMI), parity, cigarette smoking, history of hypertension and family or personal history of pre‐eclampsia. Models were derived allowing calculation of patient‐specific risk for development of pre‐eclampsia. For a false‐positive rate of 25%, the detection rate of pre‐eclampsia by screening using maternal history was 45.3%, with uterine artery Doppler it was 63.1% and with combined assessment it was 67.5%.

Conclusions  Combining risk factors in the mother's history with Doppler of the uterine arteries allows calculation of patient‐specific risk for the development of pre‐eclampsia.
Investigation and current management of recurrent IVF treatment failure in the UK
Authors: Tan Bee K. , Vandekerckhove Patrick , Kennedy Richard , Keay Stephen D.
Published: September 2006

Objective  To determine current practice in the management of recurrent in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment failure in licensed UK infertility centres.

Design  National postal questionnaire study and literature review.

Setting  University Hospital, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Coventry, UK.

Sample  Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority licensed centres providing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the UK (n= 79).

Methods  A survey was designed that sought to determine how recurrent treatment failure was defined and which, if any, investigations were initiated. Furthermore, we asked which therapeutic options were subsequently recommended.

Main outcome measures  Definition of recurrent treatment failure. Investigations undertaken. Clinical or embryology changes recommended following recurrent treatment failure.

Results  The response rate was 82%. The most common definition was three unsuccessful IVF cycles (range 2–6). Nineteen percent included frozen embryo replacements (FERs) in this figure. Anticardiolipin antibodies and lupus anticoagulant were the most frequent investigations suggested, followed by hysteroscopy and karyotype. A majority of centres would use a different treatment strategy in a subsequent cycle with blastocyst culture and assisted hatching being most popular.

Conclusions  The results of this survey suggest that there is considerable variation in the approach to investigation and management of recurrent IVF treatment failure in the UK, although in some areas (e.g. the definition) there was broad concordance. Not all of these approaches are evidence based.
Pubovaginal sling versus transurethral Macroplastique for stress urinary incontinence and intrinsic sphincter deficiency: a prospective randomised controlled trial
Authors: Maher Christopher F. , O'Reilly Barry A. , Dwyer Peter L. , Carey Marcus P. , Cornish Anne , Schluter Philip
Published: September 2006

Objective  To compare the pubovaginal sling and transurethral Macroplastique in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD).

Design  A prospective randomised controlled trial comparing two surgical treatments for SUI and ISD.

Setting  Tertiary referral urogynaecology unit in Australia.

Population  Women with SUI and ISD who were suitable for either surgical technique.

Methods  Forty‐five women with SUI and ISD were randomly allocated the pubovaginal sling (n= 22) or transurethral Macroplastique (n= 23). Subjective and objective success rates, patient satisfaction and cost measurements at six months and one year following surgery were the primary outcome measures. A telephone questionnaire survey was performed at a mean follow up period of 62 months (43–71).

Main outcome measure  Comparison of success rates, complications and costs.

Results  The symptomatic and patient satisfaction success rates were similar following the sling and Macroplastique with the objective success rate being significantly greater (P < 0.001) following the sling (81%vs 9%). Macroplastique had significantly lower morbidity but was more expensive than the sling (P < 0.001). Response rate at 62 months follow up was 60% in both groups with the sling group reporting better continence success (69%vs 21%) and satisfaction rates (69%vs 29%, P= 0.057).

Conclusions  The pubovaginal sling was more effective and economical than transurethral Macroplastique for the treatment of SUI and ISD. However, transurethral Macroplastique remains an appropriate treatment in selected cases of SUI and ISD.
The effect of prepartum antibiotics on the type of neonatal bacteraemia: insights from the MRC ORACLE trials
Authors: Gilbert R.E. , Pike K. , Kenyon S.L. , Tarnow‐Mordi W. , Taylor D.J.
Published: September 2006

We analysed the type of bacteraemia before discharge from Neonatal Intensive Care Units in babies born to women randomised to the MRC ORACLE Trials. There was no evidence for an effect of oral antibiotics given prior to delivery on bacteraemia due to gram negative or enterococci bacteria, but Group B streptococcal (GBS) bacteraemia was significantly reduced in women with preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes (1.58% to 0.55%, relative risk 0.34; 95% CI: 0.17–0.70). There was no detectable effect in women in spontaneous preterm labour with intact membranes as the risk of GBS bacteraemia in their babies was very small regardless of treatment.
Chronic unpredictable stress alters gene expression in rat single dentate granule cells
Authors: Qin Yongjun , Karst Henk , Joëls Marian
Published: September 2006

The rat adrenal hormone corticosterone binds to low and high affinity receptors, discretely localized in brain, including the dentate gyrus. Differential activation of the two receptor types under physiological conditions alters gene expression and functional characteristics of hippocampal neurones. In the present study we examined gene expression of electrophysiologically identified dentate granule cells, 1 day after 21 days of unpredictable stress or control treatment, both under basal corticosteroid conditions and after brief in vitro exposure to a high dose of corticosterone. From each cell, RNA was collected, linearly amplified and hybridized with cDNA clones for three calcium channel subunits, four NMDA, two AMPA and 11 GABA receptor subunits. We found that gene expression was not extensively changed after chronic stress when neurones were studied under basal corticosteroid conditions. However, combined with acute exposure to a high corticosterone dose, relative expression of eight transcripts was significantly altered, including a consistent up‐regulation of GABAa receptor α1 and down‐regulation of calcium channel α1A and α1G subunit expression. If translated to the protein level, this may result in more transient GABAa receptor mediated responses and less transient calcium influx. This could contribute to enhanced excitability and vulnerability of granule cells after chronic stress.
Phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase is distinctively required for µ‐, but not κ‐opioid receptor‐induced activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase
Authors: Kam Angel Y. F. , Chan Anthony S. L. , Wong Yung H.
Published: September 2006

Opioid receptors are the therapeutic targets of narcotic analgesics. All three types of opioid receptors (µ, δ and κ) are prototypical Gi‐coupled receptors with common signaling characteristics in their regulation of intracellular events. Nevertheless, numerous signaling processes are differentially regulated by the three receptors. We have recently demonstrated that stimulation of δ‐opioid receptor can up‐regulate the activity of the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) in a pertussis toxin‐sensitive manner (Kam et al. 2003; J. Neurochem. 84, 503–513). The present study revealed that the µ‐opioid receptor could stimulate JNK in both SH‐SY5Y cells and transfected COS‐7 cells. The mechanism by which the µ‐opioid receptor stimulated JNK was delineated with the use of specific inhibitors and dominant‐negative mutants of signaling intermediates. Activation of JNK by the µ‐opioid receptor was mediated through Gβγ, Src kinase, son‐of‐sevenless (Sos), Rac and Cdc42. Interestingly, unlike the δ‐opioid receptors, the µ‐opioid receptor required phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase (PI3K) to activate JNK. The µ‐opioid receptor‐induced JNK activation was effectively inhibited by wortmannin or the coexpression of a dominant negative mutant of PI3Kγ. Like the δ‐opioid receptor, activation of JNK by the κ‐opioid receptor occurred in a PI3K‐independent manner. These studies revealed that the µ‐opioid receptor utilize a distinct mechanism to regulate JNK.
In vivoevidence that genetic background controls impulse‐dependent dopamine release induced by amphetamine in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Ventura Rossella , Alcaro Antonio , Mandolesi Laura , Puglisi‐Allegra Stefano
Published: September 2006

Amphetamine is known to increase dopamine (DA) release by acting directly on dopamine transporters (DAT), primarily through a mechanism that is independent of impulse flow. We present evidence to show that impulse‐dependent increase in DA outflow in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is produced by amphetamine depending on genetic background. Systemic amphetamine produced higher accumbal DA release in the widely exploited C57BL/6J background than in the DBA/2J. By contrast, intra‐accumbens perfusion using increasing doses of amphetamine dramatically increased DA outflow in the DBA/2J background, whereas very low DA outflow was evident in C57BL/6J mice. The fast sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin infused through the microdialysis probe abolished accumbal DA release induced by systemic amphetamine only in the C57BL/6J background. Finally, medial prefrontal excitotoxic lesion abolished amphetamine‐induced mesoaccumbens DA release in C57BL/6J mice, without significantly affecting it in the DBA/2J background. These results represent the first functional evidence in anin vivostudy that amphetamine can increase DA release in the NAc mainly through an impulse‐dependent mechanism regulated by prefronto‐cortical glutamatergic transmission. Moreover, they point to a genetic control of impulse‐dependent DA release in the accumbens, providing an exploitable tool to investigate aetiological factors involved in psychopathology and drug addiction.
The p75 neurotrophin receptor enhances TrkA signalling by binding to Shc and augmenting its phosphorylation
Authors: Epa W. Ruwan , Markovska Katerina , Barrett Graham L.
Published: September 2006

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is an important neuronal survival factor, especially during development. Optimal sensitivity of the survival response to NGF requires the presence of TrkA and the p75 neurotrophin receptor, p75NTR. Signalling pathways used by TrkA are well established, but the mechanisms by which p75NTR enhances NGF signalling remain far from clear. A prevalent view is that p75NTR and TrkA combine to form a high‐affinity receptor, but definitive evidence for this is still lacking. We therefore investigated the possibility that p75NTR and TrkA interact via their signal transduction pathways. Using antisense techniques to down‐regulate p75NTR and TrkA, we found that p75NTR specifically enhanced phosphorylation of the 46‐ and 52‐kDa isoforms of Shc during nerve growth factor‐induced TrkA activation. p75NTR did not enhance tyrosine phosphorylation of other TrkA substrates. Serine phosphorylation of Akt, downstream of Shc activation, was also p75NTR‐dependent. We consistently detected co‐immunoprecipitation of p75NTR and Shc. These data indicate that p75NTR interacts with Shc physically, via a binding interaction, and functionally, by assisting its phosphorylation. Whilst providing evidence that p75NTR augments TrkA signal transduction, these results do not preclude the presence of a p75NTR‐TrkA high‐affinity NGF receptor.
Transcriptional activation of phosphodiesterase 7B1 by dopamine D1 receptor stimulation through the cyclic AMP/cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase/cyclic AMP‐response element binding protein pathway in primary striatal neurons
Authors: Sasaki Takashi , Kotera Jun , Omori Kenji
Published: September 2006

Phosphodiesterase (PDE) 7B, a cAMP‐specific PDE which is dominantly expressed in striatum, is expected to be involved in dopaminergic signaling in striatal neurons. Here we show, for the first time, the involvement of the dopaminergic signaling pathway in transcriptional activation of rat PDE7B in primary striatal culture. RT‐PCR analysis revealed that dopamine, D1 agonist, forskolin and 8‐Br‐cAMP stimulation potentiated PDE7B transcription in striatal neurons, while D2 agonist failed to activate the PDE7B transcription. Pre‐treatment with D1 antagonist abolished the dopamine‐ or D1 agonist‐induced transcriptional activation of PDE7B. The activation of PDE7B transcription by these stimulators was completely ablated by pre‐treatment of the cells with a cAMP‐dependent protein kinase inhibitor, H‐89. RT‐PCR using splice variant‐specific primers revealed that transcription of PDE7B1, but not of other splice variants, was activated by D1 agonist. We determined the putative transcription start site of PDE7B1, a brain‐specific splice variant of PDE7B, by 5′‐RACE and identified a promoter region of PDE7B1. Sequence analysis of the PDE7B1 promoter revealed the presence of a canonical cAMP‐response element at 166 bp upstream of the putative transcription start site. The cAMP‐responsiveness of the PDE7B1 promoter was demonstrated by functional promoter analysis using the luciferase reporter system. Deletion and mutation of the cAMP‐response element site in the PDE7B1 promoter abolished the forskolin‐induced activation of the PDE7B1 promoter activity. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed the binding of cAMP‐response element binding protein to the PDE7B1 promoter. These data demonstrate the dopamine D1 receptor‐mediated transcriptional activation of PDE7B through the cAMP/cAMP‐dependent protein kinase/cAMP‐response element binding protein pathway in striatal neurons.
Anti‐PrP antibodies block PrPSc replication in prion‐infected cell cultures by accelerating PrPC degradation
Authors: Perrier Véronique , Solassol Jérôme , Crozet Carole , Frobert Yveline , Mourton‐Gilles Chantal , Grassi Jacques , Lehmann Sylvain
Published: September 2006

The use of anti‐PrP antibodies represents one of the most promising strategies for the treatment of prion diseases. In the present study, we screened various anti‐PrP antibodies with the aim of identifying those that would block PrPSc replication in prion‐infected cell culture. Two antibodies, SAF34 recognizing the flexible octarepeats region on HuPrP protein, and SAF61 directed against PrP amino acid residues (144–152), not only inhibited PrPSc formation in prion‐infected neuroblastoma cells but also decreased the PrPC levels in non‐infected N2a cells. In addition, treatment with both SAF34 and SAF61 antibodies decreased PrPC and PrPSc levels in the cells synergistically. In the presence of both antibodies, our results showed that the mode of action which leads to the disappearance of PrPSc in cells is directly coupled to PrPC degradation by reducing the half‐life of the PrPC protein.
Electroconvulsive seizure‐induced gene expression profile of the hippocampus dentate gyrus granule cell layer
Authors: Ploski Jonathan E. , Newton Samuel S. , Duman Ronald S.
Published: September 2006

Electroconvulsive shock (ECS) is the most effective treatment for depression, but the mechanism underlying the therapeutic action of this treatment is still unknown. To better understand the molecular changes that may be necessary for the clinical effectiveness of ECS we have combined the technologies of gene expression profiling using cDNA microarrays with T7‐based RNA amplification and laser microdissection to identify regulated genes in the dentate gyrus granule cell layer of the hippocampus. We have identified genes previously reported to be up‐regulated following ECS, including brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, neuropeptide Y, and thyrotrophin releasing hormone, as well as several novel genes. Notably, we have identified additional genes that are known to be involved in neuroprotection, such as growth arrest DNA damage inducible beta (Gadd45beta), and the excitatory amino acid transporter‐1 (EAAC1/Slc1A1). In addition, via in situ hybridization we show that EAAC1 is specifically up‐regulated in the dentate gyrus, but not in other hippocampal subfields. This study demonstrates the utility of microarray analysis of microdissected subregions of limbic brain regions and identifies novel ECS‐regulated genes.
Isolation of polymorphic tetranucleotide microsatellite markers for the bay pipefish Syngnathus leptorhynchus
Authors: LOUIE KRISTINA D. , BARDELEBEN CAROLYNE
Published: September 2006

We have isolated nine polymorphic microsatellite markers for the bay pipefish Syngnathus leptorhynchus from genomic libraries enriched for (AAGG)n repetitive elements. The number of alleles ranged from two to 15 per locus with the observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.09 to 1.00. These markers will be useful for analyses of questions concerning population genetic structure.
Development of microsatellite markers for the drywood termite Incisitermes minor (Hagen)
Authors: INDRAYANI YULIATI , MATSUMURA KEI , YOSHIMURA TSUYOSHI , IMAMURA YUJI , ITAKURA SHUJI
Published: September 2006

Ten polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed in the drywood termite Incisitermes minor (Hagen) by using a genomic DNA extracted from the heads of workers. The microsatellite markers obtained in this study produced between two and seven alleles per locus. The observed and expected heterozygosities among the 10 markers ranged from 0.16 to 0.83 and from 0.43 to 0.84, respectively. These markers were shown to be good molecular tools for identification of the genetic structure and parentage assessment in I. minor.
Microsatellite markers for testing host plant‐related population differentiation in the moth genus Yponomeuta
Authors: VOETDIJK BETSIE , BAKKER ALETTA C. , BREEUWER J. A. J. (HANS)
Published: September 2006

Nine microsatellite primers were developed for Yponomeuta padellus (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) and tested for their applicability in analysing genetic population structure. Eight of the nine loci were highly polymorphic with on average 11.4 alleles. Cross‐species amplification of the nine primer pairs was tested in five other moth species. Primer pairs amplified in Y. cagnagellus, Y. malinellus, Y. evonymellus, and Y. rorellus but not in Y. sedellus and Plutella xylostella.
Development of simple sequence repeat markers for the plant pathogenic rust fungus, Puccinia graminis
Authors: SZABO LES J.
Published: September 2006

Twenty‐four dinucleotide simple sequence repeat markers were developed for the phytopathogenic fungus, Puccinia graminis. The identified loci were polymorphic, with allelic diversity ranging from two to 11 alleles. Observed and expected levels of heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 0.960 and from 0.113 to 0.846, respectively. Fourteen of the loci deviated significantly from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Null alleles were observed for 10 of the 24 loci with a frequency of 4–16%. A preliminary screen of other Puccinia cereal rust fungi (P. coronata, P. striiformis and P. triticina) indicated that these primer pairs are specific to P. graminis.
Gel‐free species identification using melt‐curve analysis
Authors: BERRY OLIVER , SARRE STEPHEN D.
Published: September 2006

DNA‐based identification of organisms is an important tool in biosecurity, ecological monitoring and wildlife forensics. Current methods usually involve post‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) manipulations (e.g. restriction digest, gel electrophoresis), which add to the expense and time required for processing samples, and may introduce error. We developed a method of species identification that uses species‐specific primers and melt‐curve analysis, and avoids post‐PCR manipulation of samples. The method was highly accurate when trialled on DNA from six large carnivore species from Tasmania, Australia. Because of its flexibility and cost‐effectiveness, this method should find wide use in many areas of applied biological science.
Characterization of microsatellite DNA markers for a mahseer species, Tor tambroides (Cyprinidae) and cross‐amplification in four congeners
Authors: NGUYEN THUY , BARANSKI MATTHEW , ROURKE MEAGHAN , McPARTLAN HELEN
Published: September 2006

This study reports the isolation and characterization of microsatellite DNA markers in a mahseer species, Tor tambroides (Pisces, Cyprinidae). Of a total of 14 loci evaluated, 10 were polymorphic in T. tambroides samples, with an average of 2.86 alleles per locus. Deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were observed at one locus and there was no indication of linkage disequilibrium among loci. A high level of cross‐amplification among four congeners was achieved, with 12 loci successfully amplifying and 11 loci showing polymorphism in at least one other species. These markers will be a useful resource for population genetic studies and broodstock management of closely related mahseer species.
BIODIVERSITY, BIOPIRACY AND BENEFITS: WHAT ALLEGATIONS OF BIOPIRACY TELL US ABOUT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Authors: HAMILTON CHRIS
Published: September 2006

This paper examines the concept of biopiracy, which initially emerged to challenge various aspects of the regime for intellectual property rights (IPR) in living organisms, as well as related aspects pertaining to the ownership and apportioning of benefits from ‘genetic resources’ derived from the world’s biodiversity.

This paper proposes that we take the allegation of biopiracy seriously due to the impact it has as an intervention which indexes a number of different, yet interrelated, problematizations of biodiversity, biotechnology and IPR. Using the neem tree case as an example, it describes activists’ use of the term as one that involves a deliberate simplification of science and IPR. Additionally, it argues that in so doing, biopiracy is positioned as a touchstone that mobilizes actors and problems, and ultimately generates ‘solutions’ to the very challenges it creates.

The paper will also encourage a view of biopiracy claims that does not always treat them simply as claims of theft, or as a misallocation of benefits, but rather as claims that are designed to raise broader questions about the IPR system itself. It concludes by advocating that, in order to properly understand how to address biopiracy, we must be prepared to move beyond the current narrow readings to develop a more complete picture of the term’s influence in challenging how, and by whom, the decisions about what is natural and what is invented come to be made.
Political Violence in the Republic of Rome: Nothing New under the Sun
Authors: Lutz Brenda J. , Lutz James M.
Published: September 2006

At various times the Roman Republic faced outbreaks of domestic political violence, including riots and intimidation, assassinations and conspiracies to overthrow the government. Violence was particularly noticeable in the Early Republic and the Late Republic. These activities were quite similar to the terrorism and violence used by mobs and groups during the French Revolution and the tactics of fascists and leftists in Europe in the 1920s or 1930s. More accurately, the actions of mobs and others during the French Revolution and leftists and fascists in Europe were very similar to the techniques used in the Roman political system in the last five centuries BCE.
Nurturing Leaders for Government and Opposition: Political Schools in Japan
Authors: Lam Peng-Er
Published: September 2006

This article examines why political schools have emerged in Japan. While the roles of founding fathers, the angst of national decline and the perception of a ‘leadership deficit’ in Japan have paved their emergence, a fundamental reason for their existence is the failure of Japanese political parties to recruit candidates from broader social backgrounds beyond political dynasties, the bureaucracy and narrow interest groups. The article examines four political schools in Japan including the Matsushita Seikei Juku (MSJ, Matsushita Institute of Government and Management). I argue that while the MSJ has successfully produced many students who have won elections, it has not nurtured visionary leaders who can lead Japan out of its economic and political malaise.
Differentiation of Chronic Headache from Non‐Headache Pain Patients Using the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI)
Authors: Jay Gary W. , Grove Robert N. , Grove Karen S.
Published: September 2006

SYNOPSIS

It has been our experience that treatment outcome is usually better in chronic headache patients as compared to those patients with the chronic intractable benign pain syndrome. Of primary interest to us were possible differences in personality characteristics which may be considered positive discriminators between these pain groups and, potentially, a pre‐treatment screen for positive outcome.

The Million Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) was the psychological assessment device used to determine specific psychological and personality characteristics in our subject population. This 175 item self‐administered questionnaire was designed to replace the MMPI. It was normed on psychiatric samples and is compatible with DSM‐III diagnoses. An innovative and desirable feature of the MCMI is the use of “base rates” in scale construction to maximize true positives and reduce false positives.

Twenty‐five headache (HA) and twenty‐six non‐headache chronic benign pain patients (CBPS) were evaluated medically and administered the MCMI. Twenty psychology graduate students served as controls.

“Base rate” scores above 60 were indicative of a statistically significant presence of psychopathology on each of the 20 MCMI scales. The non‐headache pain group was found to show a number of significantly elevated scales (P<.01): passive‐aggressive personality; anxiety; dysthymia; and alcohol abuse. Both the headache group and the CBPS group showed significant elevation (P<.01) on eleven of the twenty MCMI scales. The student control group had elevations on the histrionic and narcissistic personality scales which did not achieve statistical significance.

These results, using the MCMI, reinforce previous observations of greater psychopathology among pain patients, but appear to differentiate between chronic headache and non‐headache pain patients. The significance of this discrimination and possible inferences regarding both treatment outcome and its prediction are discussed.
Amelioration of Ergotamine Withdrawal Symptoms With Naproxen
Authors: Mathew Ninan T.
Published: September 2006

SYNOPSIS

The effect of concomitant use of Naproxen in the amelioration of symptoms of ergotamine withdrawal was studied in a series of 22 patients. Withdrawal symptoms were characterized by increased headache, nausea and vomiting, increased use of analgesics and antiemetics and restlessness. Those patients treated with Naproxen during the withdrawal had significantly less headache, nausea, vomiting and restlessness, and consumed a smaller quantity of analgesic tablets and anti‐emetics. Naproxen is recommended as a useful medication for amelioration of symptoms of ergotamine withdrawal.