bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In search of justice for domestic and family violence
Authors: Nancarrow Heather
Published: January 2006

In 2000, reports of two Australian taskforce investigations considering justice responses to violence against women contained opposing recommendations about the suitability of restorative justice for cases of domestic and family violence. One taskforce was composed entirely of Indigenous women while the other was predominantly composed of non-Indigenous women. This article analyses interviews with members of each taskforce, confirming a split between Indigenous and non-Indigenous women on the appropriateness of restorative justice in cases of domestic and family violence. There was some agreement between Indigenous and non-Indigenous women's views about the potential for combining elements of the criminal justice system and restorative justice, although this potential was conditional on various factors specific to each group of women.
White Americans' Genetic Lay Theories of Race Differences and Sexual Orientation: Their Relationship with Prejudice toward Blacks, and Gay Men and Lesbians
Authors: Jayaratne Toby Epstein , Ybarra Oscar , Sheldon Jane P. , Brown Tony N. , Feldbaum Merle , Pfeffer Carla A. , Petty Elizabeth M.
Published: January 2006

This study examined the relationship between White Americans' genetic explanations, conceptualized as genetic lay theories, for perceived racial differences and for sexual orientation, and attitudes toward Blacks, and gay men and lesbians, respectively. Considering contrasting public discourse surrounding race and sexual orientation, we predicted that genetic lay theories would be associated with greater prejudice toward Blacks, but less prejudice toward gay men and lesbians. The findings, based on a representative sample of 600 White Americans, were consistent with expectations. Results are discussed in relation to the literature on essentialism and implicit theories of the malleability of traits. The present research broadens our view of lay theories by showing how they support either prejudice or tolerance, depending on the target group.
The Protestant Work Ethic: A Lay Theory with Dual Intergroup Implications
Authors: Levy Sheri R. , West Tara L. , Ramirez Luisa , Karafantis Dina M.
Published: January 2006

The authors propose that, in the US, the Protestant work ethic (PWE) relates both to social tolerance and intolerance. PWE is proposed to have a surface meaning that relates to social tolerance, and also an associated meaning that relates to intolerance, which is acquired in part through social and cultural experience (e.g. PWE being used as a justifier of inequality). In correlational and experimental studies, PWE was related to greater egalitarianism and desired social closeness to African Americans among younger participants (9 to 12 and 14 to 16-year-olds) relative to older participants (college students). Subsequent experiments directly manipulated college students’ interpretations of PWE, showing that those experimentally led to focus on others' use of PWE in support of their arguments (associated meaning condition) endorsed egalitarianism to a lesser extent (Study 3) and donated less money to a homeless shelter (Study 4) than did those simply focusing on the definition of PWE (definition condition). In contrast to these findings, the authors showed that social dominance orientation has a unitary relation to social intolerance across the three age groups studied (Study 1). The implications of these findings and future work on the duality of lay theories are discussed.
Long-Term Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in 5-Year Survivors of Testicular Cancer
Authors: van den Belt-Dusebout Alexandra W. , Nuver Janine , de Wit Ronald , Gietema Jourik A. , ten Bokkel Huinink Wim W. , Rodrigus Patrick T.R. , Schimmel Erik C. , Aleman Berthe M.P. , van Leeuwen Flora E.
Published: January 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in survivors of testicular cancer (TC).

Patients and Methods

We compared CVD incidence in 2,512 5-year survivors of TC, who were treated between 1965 and 1995, with general population rates. Treatment effects on CVD risk were quantified in multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

After a median follow-up of 18.4 years, 694 cardiovascular events occurred, including 141 acute myocardial infarctions (MIs). The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for coronary heart disease was 1.17 (95% CI, 1.04 to 1.31), with 14 excess cases per 10,000 person-years. The SIR for MI was significantly increased in nonseminoma survivors with attained ages of less than 45 (SIR = 2.06) and 45 to 54 years (SIR = 1.86) but significantly decreased for survivors with attained ages of 55 years or older (SIR = 0.53). In Cox analysis, mediastinal irradiation was associated with a 3.7-fold (95% CI, 2.2- to 6.2-fold) increased MI risk compared with surgery alone, whereas infradiaphragmatic irradiation was not associated with an increased MI risk. Cisplatin, vinblastine, and bleomycin (PVB) chemotherapy (CT) was associated with a 1.9-fold (95% CI, 1.7- to 2.0-fold) increased MI risk, and bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) CT was associated with a 1.5-fold (95% CI, 1.0- to 2.2-fold) increased CVD risk and was not associated with increased MI risk (hazard ratio = 1.2; 95% CI, 0.7 to 2.1). Recent smoking was associated with a 2.6-fold (95% CI, 1.8- to 3.9-fold) increased MI risk.

Conclusion

Nonseminomatous TC survivors experience a moderately increased MI risk at young ages. Physicians should be aware of excess CVD risk associated with mediastinal radiotherapy, PVB CT, and recent smoking. Intervention in modifiable cardiovascular risk factors is especially important in TC survivors. Whether BEP treatment increases CVD risk should be evaluated after more prolonged follow-up.
Comparison Between Patients With Philadelphia-Positive Chronic Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Who Obtained a Complete Cytogenetic Response Within 1 Year of Imatinib Therapy and Those Who Achieved Such a Response After 12 Months of Treatment
Authors: Iacobucci Ilaria , Rosti Gianantonio , Amabile Marilina , Poerio Angela , Soverini Simona , Cilloni Daniela , Testoni Nicoletta , Abruzzese Elisabetta , Montefusco Enrico , Ottaviani Emanuela , Iuliano Francesco , Russo Domenico , Gobbi Marco , Alimena Giuliana , Martino Bruno , Terragna Carolina , Pane Fabrizio , Saglio Giuseppe , Baccarani Michele , Martinelli Giovanni
Published: January 2006

Purpose

Imatinib mesylate is a potent inhibitor of BCR-ABL, the constitutively active tyrosine kinase protein critical for the pathogenesis of chronic myeloid leukemia.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed 284 patients with late chronic-phase Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) –positive chronic myeloid leukemia treated with imatinib 400 mg daily after interferon-α failure. In a retrospective study, we evaluated the pattern and rapidity of the response to imatinib, comparing the cytogenetic and molecular responses, progression-free and overall survival rates in patients who obtained a complete cytogenetic response within 1 year of treatment (early responders), and in patients where a complete cytogenetic response was detected after 12 months (late responders).

Results

After 3 or 4 years of treatment, the molecular response of the late cytogenetic responders was similar to that of the early cytogenetic responders. At 36 months of treatment the amount of residual disease measured by standardized quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was 0.00047 in late responders versus 0.00022 in early responders, and at 48 months it was 0.00019 versus 0.00026 (median values, P value = nonsignificant). The estimated 4-year progression-free survival rate was 88% for early responders and 100% for late responders, while the estimated 4-year overall survival rates were 92% and 100% for early and late responders, respectively.

Conclusion

The sensitivity and the response (cytogenic and molecular) to imatinib may require 1 year or more. Long-term follow-up results continue to improve in terms of rates and durability of the complete cytogenetic response, major or complete molecular response, and progession-free and overall survival.
Phase II Study of Temozolomide and Thalidomide in Patients With Metastatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Kulke Matthew H. , Stuart Keith , Enzinger Peter C. , Ryan David P. , Clark Jeffrey W. , Muzikansky Alona , Vincitore Michele , Michelini Ann , Fuchs Charles S.
Published: January 2006

Purpose

Standard, intravenous chemotherapy regimens for neuroendocrine tumors have been associated with limited response rates and significant toxicity. We evaluated the efficacy of an oral regimen of temozolomide and thalidomide in patients with metastatic carcinoid, pheochromocytoma, or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

Patients and Methods

Twenty-nine patients were treated with a combination of temozolomide, administered at a dose of 150 mg/m2 for 7 days, every other week, and thalidomide at doses of 50 to 400 mg daily. Patients were followed for evidence of toxicity, biochemical response, radiologic response, and survival.

Results

Treatment with temozolomide and thalidomide was associated with an objective biochemical (chromogranin A) response rate of 40%, and a radiologic response rate of 25% (45% among pancreatic endocrine tumors, 33% among pheochromocytomas, and 7% among carcinoid tumors). The median duration of response was 13.5 months, 1-year survival was 79%, and 2-year survival was 61%. The median administered dose of temozolomide was 150 mg/m2, and the median administered dose of thalidomide was 100 mg daily. Grade 3-4 toxicities were uncommon, with the exception of grade 3-4 lymphopenia, which developed in 69% of the patient population. Opportunistic infections occurred in three patients (10%) during the time of lymphopenia, and included single cases of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, disseminated varicella zoster virus, and herpes simplex virus.

Conclusion

Orally administered temozolomide and thalidomide seems to be an active regimen for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors. In this 29-patient study, this regimen appeared more active in pancreatic endocrine tumors than in carcinoid tumors.
Astragalus-Based Chinese Herbs and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy for Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: McCulloch Michael , See Caylie , Shu Xiao-juan , Broffman Michael , Kramer Alan , Fan Wei-yu , Gao Jin , Lieb Whitney , Shieh Kane , Colford John M.
Published: January 2006

Purpose

Systemic treatments for advanced non–small-cell lung cancer have low efficacy and high toxicity. Some Chinese herbal medicines have been reported to increase chemotherapy efficacy and reduce toxicity. In particular, Astragalus has been shown to have immunologic benefits by stimulating macrophage and natural killer cell activity and inhibiting T-helper cell type 2 cytokines. Many published studies have assessed the use of Astragalus and other Chinese herbal medicines in combination with chemotherapy. We sought to evaluate evidence from randomized trials that Astragalus-based Chinese herbal medicine combined with platinum-based chemotherapy (versus platinum-based chemotherapy alone) improves survival, increases tumor response, improves performance status, or reduces chemotherapy toxicity.

Methods

We searched CBM, MEDLINE, TCMLARS, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and CCRCT databases for studies in any language. We grouped studies using the same herbal combinations for random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

Of 1,305 potentially relevant publications, 34 randomized studies representing 2,815 patients met inclusion criteria. Twelve studies (n = 940 patients) reported reduced risk of death at 12 months (risk ratio [RR] = 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.87). Thirty studies (n = 2,472) reported improved tumor response data (RR = 1.34; 95% CI, 1.24 to 1.46). In subgroup analyses, Jin Fu Kang in two studies (n = 221 patients) reduced risk of death at 24 months (RR = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.68) and in three studies (n = 411) increased tumor response (RR = 1.76; 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.53). Ai Di injection (four studies; n = 257) stabilized or improved Karnofsky performance status (RR = 1.28; 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.46).

Conclusion

Astragalus-based Chinese herbal medicine may increase effectiveness of platinum-based chemotherapy when combined with chemotherapy. These results require confirmation with rigorously controlled trials.
Phase I Trial and Pharmacokinetic Study of the Farnesyltransferase Inhibitor Tipifarnib in Children With Refractory Solid Tumors or Neurofibromatosis Type I and Plexiform Neurofibromas
Authors: Widemann Brigitte C. , Salzer Wanda L. , Arceci Robert J. , Blaney Susan M. , Fox Elizabeth , End David , Gillespie Andrea , Whitcomb Patricia , Palumbo Joseph S. , Pitney Aaron , Jayaprakash Nalini , Zannikos Peter , Balis Frank M.
Published: January 2006

Purpose

This pediatric phase I trial of tipifarnib determined the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of tipifarnib in children with refractory solid tumors and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) –related plexiform neurofibromas.

Patients and Methods

Tipifarnib was administered twice daily for 21 days, repeated every 28 days starting at 150 mg/m2/dose (n = 4), with escalations to 200 (n = 12), 275 (n = 12), and 375 (n = 6) mg/m2/dose. The MTD was also evaluated on a chronic continuous dosing schedule (n = 6). Pharmacokinetic sampling was performed for 36 hours after the first dose and peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected at baseline and steady state for determination of farnesyl protein transferase (FTase) activity and HDJ-2 farnesylation.

Results

Twenty-three solid tumor and 17 NF1 patients were assessable for toxicity. The MTD was 200 mg/m2/dose, and dose-limiting toxicities on cycle 1 were myelosuppression, rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The 200 mg/m2/dose was also tolerable on the continuous dosing schedule. Cumulative toxicity was not observed in the 17 NF1 patients who received a median of 10 cycles (range, 1 to 32 cycles). The plasma pharmacokinetics of tipifarnib were highly variable but not age dependent. At steady state on 200 mg/m2/dose, FTase activity was 30% compared with baseline, and farnesylation of HDJ-2 was inhibited in PBMCs.

Conclusion

Oral tipifarnib is well tolerated in children receiving the drug twice daily for 21 days and a continuous dosing schedule at 200 mg/m2/dose, which is equivalent to the MTD in adults. The pharmacokinetic profile of tipifarnib in children is similar to that in adults, and at the MTD, FTase is inhibited in PBMC in vivo.
Characterization of pilocarpine-loaded chitosan/Carbopol nanoparticles
Authors: Kao Huei-Jen , Lo Yu-Li , Lin Hong-Ru , Yu Shi-Ping
Published: January 2006

Patients using ophthalmic drops are faced with frequent dosing schedules and difficult drop instillation. Therefore, a long-lasting pilocarpine-loaded chitosan (CS)/Carbopol nanoparticle ophthalmic formulation was developed. The physicochemical properties of the prepared nanoparticles were investigated using dynamic light scattering, zeta-potential, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared ray spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The sustained-release effects of pilocarpine-loaded nanoparticles were evaluated using in-vitro release and in-vivo miotic tests, and compared with pilocarpine in solution, gel and liposomes. We found that the prepared nanoparticles were about 294 nm in size. DSC and FT-IR studies suggested that an electrostatic interaction between CS and Carbopol contributes at least in part to the stabilization of pilocarpine/CS/Carbopol nanoparticles. When compared with pilocarpine in solution, gel or liposomes, the best slow-release profile of pilocarpine from the prepared nanoparticles occurred in a dissolution test. In the in-vivo miotic study, pilocarpine-loaded CS/Carbopol nanoparticles showed the most significant long-lasting decrease in the pupil diameter of rabbits. The advantages of CS and Carbopol are good biocompatibility, biodegradability and low toxicity. CS is also a mucoadhesive polymer. Thus, pilocarpine/CS/Carbopol nanoparticles may provide an excellent potential alternative ophthalmic sustained-release formulation of pilocarpine for clinical use. CS/Carbopol nanoparticles may also be useful for a variety of other therapeutic delivery systems.
Low molecular weight chitosan inhibits obesity induced by feeding a high-fat diet long-term in mice
Authors: Sumiyoshi Maho , Kimura Yoshiyuki
Published: January 2006

Three low molecular weight chitosans (molecular weight: 21, 46 and 130 kDa) obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of a high molecular weight chitosan (average molecular weight: 650 kDa) had low viscosity and were water-soluble. The effects of these water-soluble chitosans on pancreatic lipase (in-vitro) and the elevation of plasma triacylglycerol concentration after the oral lipid tolerance test were examined in mice. The water-soluble 46-kDa chitosan was the most effective at inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity (in-vitro) and plasma triacylglycerol elevation after the oral lipid tolerance test. Based on this result, the effects of the 46-kDa chitosan on increases in bodyweight, various white adipose tissue weights, and plasma and liver lipids were examined in mice fed a high-fat diet for 20 weeks. Water-soluble 46-kDa chitosan (300 mg kg−1, twice daily) prevented increases in bodyweight, various white adipose tissue weights and liver lipids (cholesterol and triacylglycerol) in mice fed a high-fat diet, and further increased the faecal bile acid and fat. The results suggest that the lipid-lowering effects of the 46-kDa chitosan may be mediated by increases in faecal fat and/or bile acid excretion resulting from the binding of bile acids, and by a decrease in the absorption of dietary lipids (triacylglycerol and cholesterol) from the small intestine as a result of the inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity. Water-soluble 46-kDa chitosan (100 and 300 mg kg−1, twice daily) did not cause liver damage with the elevation of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase, or kidney damage with the elevation of blood nitrogen urea. It was concluded that watersoluble 46-kDa chitosan is a safe functional food.
Synthesis and binding profile of constrained analogues ofN-[4-(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)butyl]-3-methoxybenzamides, a class of potent dopamine D3 receptor ligands
Authors: Leopoldo Marcello , Lacivita Enza , Colabufo Nicola A , Berardi Francesco , Perrone Roberto
Published: January 2006

We recently reported on a series of N-[4-(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)butyl]-3-methoxybenzamides, endowed with high affinity for dopamine D3 receptors, but lacking of selectivity over D4, D2, 5-HT1A, and α1-receptors. To improve the D3-receptor affinity and selectivity, without causing a considerable increasing in the lipophilicity, the flexible butyl linker was replaced by a more conformationally constrained cyclohexyl linker. The new cis- and trans-N-[4-(4-aryl-1-piperazinyl)cyclohexyl]-3-methoxybenzamides (Aryl = 2,3-di-Cl-Ph, 2-CH3O-Ph, 4-Cl-Ph, 2,3-di-CH3-Ph) were tested in-vitro for their binding affinity for D3, D4, D2, 5-HT1A, and α1-receptors. The trans- derivatives were found to be more potent at D3 receptor than the corresponding cis- isomers, but less potent than the opened counterparts. This reflected negatively on the selectivity over the other studied receptors. Derivative trans-N-{4-[4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl]cyclohexyl}-3-methoxybenzamide (trans-7) showed high D3-receptor affinity (Ki = 0.18 nm) and a relevant selectivity over D4, D2, 5-HT1A, and α1-receptors (>200-fold). This compound was characterized as a full agonist at D3 receptor when tested in the Eu-GTP binding assay.
In-vitro and in-vivo antitumour activity of physalins B and D from Physalis angulata
Authors: Magalhães Hemerson Iury Ferreira , Torres Márcia Rocha , Costa-Lotufo Letícia Veras , De Moraes Manoel Odorico , Pessoa Cláudia , Veras Maria Leopoldina , Pessoa Otília Deusdênia Loiola , Silveira Edilberto Rocha , Alves Ana Paula Negreiros Nunes
Published: January 2006

We have evaluated the in-vitro and in-vivo antitumour activity of physalin B and physalin D isolated from the aerial parts of Physalis angulata. In-vitro, both compounds displayed considerable cytotoxicity against several cancer cell lines, showing IC50 values in the range of 0.58 to 15.18 μg mL−1 for physalin B, and 0.28 to 2.43 μg mL−1 for physalin D. The antitumour activity of both compounds was confirmed in-vivo using mice bearing sarcoma 180 tumour cells. The in-vivo antitumour activity was related to the inhibition of tumour proliferation, as observed by the reduction of Ki67 staining in tumours of treated animals. Histopathological examination of the kidney and liver showed that both organs were affected by physalin treatment, but in a reversible manner. These compounds were probably responsible for the previously described antitumour activity of ethanol extracts of P. angulata, and their identification and characterization presented here could explain the ethnopharmacological use of this species in the treatment of cancer.
Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on blood pressure and vascular endothelial response by acetylcholine in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Kubota Yoko , Tanaka Naoko , Kagota Satomi , Nakamura Kazuki , Kunitomo Masaru , Shinozuka Kazumasa , Umegaki Keizo
Published: January 2006

We previously demonstrated that Ginkgo biloba extract (Ginkgo) produced vasodilation via the nitric oxide pathway in aortic segments isolated from Wistar rats. In this study, we have analysed the effects of daily long-term oral Ginkgo treatment on blood pressure, vascular tone, and calcium mobilization to evaluate the clinical availability. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were fed either a control diet or a diet containing 0.05%–0.5% Ginkgo for 30 days. Administration of Ginkgo did not change systolic blood pressure in WKY, but significantly decreased systolic blood pressure in SHR. In thoracic aortic preparations isolated from SHR, diminished relaxation in response to acetylcholine was improved by a Ginkgo-containing diet. This diet significantly decreased the EC50 value and significantly increased maximum relaxation in response to acetylcholine in SHR. In aortic segments isolated from WKY, acetylcholine-induced relaxation was not affected by a Ginkgo-containing diet. Sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation was unchanged by a Ginkgo-containing diet in SHR and WKY. We also examined the effects of a Ginkgo-containing diet on the intracellular calcium level of aortic endothelium using a fluorescent confocal microscopic imaging system. Calcium Green 1/AM preloading indicated that acetylcholine significantly increased the endothelial intracellular calcium level. The Ginkgo-containing diet significantly enhanced this increase in the aortic endothelium of SHR, but did not change that of WKY. The results suggested that Ginkgo enhanced endothelium-dependent vasodilation and elevation of the endothelial intracellular Ca2+ level in SHR, resulting in hypotension. This accelerative effect of Ginkgo on Ca2+ mobilization seemed to be associated with restoration of impaired dilatory function induced by acetylcholine in endothelial cells.
Protective effects of Swertia longifolia Boiss. and its active compound, swerchirin, on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in mice
Authors: Sadeghi Zhina , Elmi Sara , Elmi Azadeh , Ghazi-Khansari Mahmoud , Hajimehdipoor Homa , Amanzadeh Yaghoub , Sadat-Ebrahimi Seyyed-Esmaeal
Published: January 2006

Aerial parts of Swertia longifolia Boiss. (Gentianaceae), which grows in the north of Iran, were screened for hepatoprotective activity against paracetamol (acetaminophen)-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss mice. Pretreatment with total plant extract and swerchirin, the major component of the plant, significantly reduced the elevation of biochemical parameters, AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and ALP (alkaline phosphatase), the enzymes that are increased by liver damage (P < 0.001). Our results indicated that total plant extract and swerchirin were hepatoprotective in the range of 6–50 mg kg−1 orally.
TheC. elegansMyt1 ortholog is required for the proper timing of oocyte maturation
Authors: Burrows Anna E. , Sceurman Bonnielin K. , Kosinski Mary E. , Richie Christopher T. , Sadler Penny L. , Schumacher Jill M. , Golden Andy
Published: January 2006

Maturation promoting factor (MPF), a complex of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 and cyclin B, drives oocyte maturation in all animals. Mechanisms to block MPF activation in developing oocytes must exist to prevent precocious cell cycle progression prior to oocyte maturation and fertilization. This study sought to determine the developmental consequences of precociously activating MPF in oocytes prior to fertilization. Whereas depletion of Myt1 in Xenopusoocytes causes nuclear envelope breakdown in vitro, we found that depletion of the Myt1 ortholog WEE-1.3 in C. elegans hermaphrodites causes precocious oocyte maturation in vivo. Although such oocytes are ovulated, they are fertilization incompetent. We have also observed novel phenotypes in these precociously maturing oocytes, such as chromosome coalescence, aberrant meiotic spindle organization, and the expression of a meiosis II post-fertilization marker. Furthermore, co-depletion studies of CDK-1 and WEE-1.3 demonstrate that WEE-1.3 is dispensable in the absence of CDK-1,suggesting that CDK-1 is a major target of WEE-1.3 in C. elegansoocytes.
Rapid cold-hardening increases the freezing tolerance of the Antarctic midgeBelgica antarctica
Authors: Lee Richard E. , Elnitsky Michael A. , Rinehart Joseph P. , Hayward Scott A. L. , Sandro Luke H. , Denlinger David L.
Published: January 2006

Rapid cold-hardening (RCH) is well known to increase the tolerance of chilling or cold shock in a diverse array of invertebrate systems at both organismal and cellular levels. Here, we report a novel role for RCH by showing that RCH also increases freezing tolerance in an Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica (Diptera, Chironomidae). The RCH response of B. antarctica was investigated under two distinct physiological states: summer acclimatized and cold acclimated. Summer-acclimatized larvae were less cold tolerant, as indicated by low survival following exposure to-10°C for 24 h; by contrast, nearly all cold-acclimated larvae survived-10°C, and a significant number could survive -15°C. Cold-acclimated larvae had higher supercooling points than summer larvae. To evaluate the RCH response in summer-acclimatized midges, larvae and adults, maintained at 4°C, were transferred to -5°C for 1 h prior to exposures to -10, -15 or -20°C. RCH significantly increased survival of summer-acclimatized larvae frozen at -10°C for 1 h compared with larvae receiving no cold-hardening treatment, but adults, which live for only a week or so in the austral summer, lacked the capacity for RCH. In cold-acclimated larvae, RCH significantly increased freeze tolerance to both -15 and -20°C. Similarly,RCH significantly increased cellular survival of fat body, Malpighian tubules and gut tissue from cold-acclimated larvae frozen at -20°C for 24 h. These results indicate that RCH not only protects against non-freezing injury but also increases freeze tolerance.
The neuropeptide proctolin potentiates contractions and reduces cGMP concentrationviaa PKC-dependent pathway
Authors: Philipp Berit , Rogalla Nicole , Kreissl Sabine
Published: January 2006

As in many other arthropods, the neuropeptide proctolin enhances contractures of muscles in the crustacean isopod Idotea emarginata. The enhancement of high K+-induced contractures by proctolin (1μmol l-1) was mimicked upon application of the protein kinase C(PKC) activator phorbol-12-myristate 1-acetate (PMA) and was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide (BIM-1). The potentiation was not inhibited by H89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. Proctolin did not change the intracellular concentration of 3′,5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) whereas it significantly reduced the intracellular concentration of 3′,5′-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The reduction of cGMP was not observed in the presence of the PKC inhibitor BIM-1. 8-Bromo-cGMP, a membrane-permeable cGMP analogue, reduced the potentiating effect of proctolin on muscle contracture. We thus conclude that proctolin in the studied crustacean muscle fibres induces an activation of PKC, which leads to a reduction of the cGMP concentration and, consequently, to the potentiation of muscle contracture.
The role of branchial carbonic anhydrase in acid-base regulation in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Georgalis T. , Perry S. F. , Gilmour K. M.
Published: January 2006

The objective of the present study was to examine the branchial distribution of the recently identified rainbow trout cytoplasmic carbonic anhydrase isoform (tCAc) and to investigate its role in the regulation of acid-base disturbances in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). In situ hybridization using an oligonucleotide probe specific to tCAc revealed tCAc mRNA expression in both pavement cells and mitochondria-rich cells (chloride cells). Similarly, using a homologous polyclonal antibody,tCAc immunoreactivity was localized to pavement cells and mitochondria-rich cells in the interlamellar region and along the lamellae of the gills. Exposure of rainbow trout to hypercarbia (∼0.8% CO2) for 24 h resulted in significant increases in tCAc mRNA expression (∼20-fold;quantified by real-time PCR) and protein levels (∼1.3-fold; quantified by western analysis) but not enzyme activity (assessed on crude gill homogenates using the delta-pH CA assay). Inhibition of branchial CA activity in vivo using acetazolamide reduced branchial net acid excretion significantly by 20%. This effect was enhanced to a 36% reduction in branchial net acid excretion by subjecting the trout to hypercarbia (∼0.8%CO2) for 10 h prior to acetazolamide injection, an exposure that significantly increased branchial net acid excretion. The results of the present study support the widely held premise that branchial intracellular CA activity (tCAc) plays a key role in regulating acid-base balance in freshwater teleost fish.
Corners and bubble wrap: the structure and texture of surfaces influence crayfish exploratory behaviour
Authors: Patullo B. W. , Macmillan D. L.
Published: January 2006

Touch is a principal sense in all animals. It is potentially important in species of freshwater crayfish that encounter murky waters or are nocturnal. Little is known about how tactile (touch) stimuli affect exploratory behaviour under these conditions. We placed animals in different tactile situations at the start of an exploration in a dark arena and tracked the position of the body and antennae to test whether subsequent search behaviour was affected. Individuals were exposed to differently textured walls, channelled out along a wall, or released in contact with no, one, or two walls. A corner arrangement of surfaces, where individuals started near two walls at right angles,produced behaviour that differed from that of other configurations; animals chose one wall and then maintained a close distance from the wall along which they were moving. The distance from a wall adopted by a crayfish walking parallel to it was affected by the texture of the wall. These results on the influence of tactile stimuli on crayfish exploratory behaviour may have implications for other taxa.
Dynamically similar locomotion in horses
Authors: Bullimore Sharon R. , Burn Jeremy F.
Published: January 2006

It is possible for animals of very different sizes to use the same patterns of locomotion, i.e. to move in a `dynamically similar fashion'. This will only occur, however, if relevant biomechanical parameters scale with size in such a way that they compensate for the effects of size differences. Here we apply this principle to understanding the effects of size on locomotion within a species: the domestic horse. We predict that, without any factor to compensate for size differences, detectable deviations from dynamically similar locomotion would occur over the size range present in adult horses. We measured relative stride length (RSL) and duty factor (DF) in 21 trotting horses (body mass: 86-714 kg), and interpolated the data to predict RSL and DF at equivalent speeds (Froude numbers: 0.5, 0.75, 1.0). RSL and DF at equal Froude number were not significantly related to body mass. This is consistent with the hypothesis that horses trot in a dynamically similar fashion at equal Froude number. We show that the nonlinear stress-strain relationship of tendon can contribute to reducing deviations from dynamic similarity, `buffering' the effects of variation in body mass, but conclude that this effect is unlikely to explain fully our results. This suggests that a `compensatory distortion'may occur in horses, counteracting the effects of size differences. The approach used here is also applicable to understanding the consequences of size changes within an individual during growth.
Functions of the subesophageal ganglion in the medicinal leech revealed by ablation of neuromeres in embryos
Authors: Cornford Andrea , Kristan William B. , Malnove Sierra , Kristan William B. , French Kathleen A.
Published: January 2006

Two general trends in the evolution of the nervous system have been toward centralization of neuronal somata and cephalization of the central nervous system (CNS). These organizational trends are apparent in the nervous system of annelid worms, including leeches. To determine if the anterior brain of the leech serves functions similar to those of the brains of more complex organisms, including vertebrates, we ablated one of the two major regions of the cephalic brain - the subesophageal ganglion (SubEG). For anatomical reasons, ablations were performed in embryos, rather than in adults. At the end of embryonic development, we observed the leeches' spontaneous behaviour and their responses to moderate touch. We observed that, although the midbody ganglia of the leech CNS display a high degree of local autonomy, the cephalic brain provides generalized excitation to the rest of the CNS, is a source of selective inhibition that modulates behaviour, integrates sensory information from the head with signals from the rest of the body, and plays an important role in organizing at least some complicated whole-body behaviours. These roles of the leech cephalic brain are common features of brain function in many organisms, and our results are consistent with the hypothesis that they arose early in evolution and have been conserved in complex nervous systems.
Heterogeneous perfusion of the paired gills of the abaloneHaliotis irisMartyn 1784: an unusual mechanism for respiratory control
Authors: Ragg Norman L. C. , Taylor H. Harry
Published: January 2006

The abalone Haliotis iris retains the ancestral gastropod arrangement of a pair of bipectinate gills (ctenidia). The gills share a single branchial chamber, are supplied from a common haemolymph sinus and effectively support the whole of oxygen uptake by the animal. Using chronic indwelling cannulae and pulsed Doppler probes, post-branchial haemolymph oxygen partial pressures (PaO2) and haemolymph flow rates were measured in the left and right efferent ctenidial veins. During periods of internal hypoxia following emersion and handling, total branchial haemolymph flow (24.4±3.6 ml kg-1min-1) was partitioned nearly equally between the left and right gills (13.3±2.6 and 10.8±1.4 ml kg-1min-1, respectively) and their PaO2values were similar (81.9±6.1 and 87.3±4.7 mmHg, respectively). In animals settled for >24 h, branchial haemolymph flow decreased to 9.1±2.1 ml kg-1 min-1, primarily resulting from a virtual shutdown of the left gill flow to only 4.6% of total flow (left,0.41±0.34 ml kg-1 min-1; right, 8.6±2.0 ml kg-1 min-1). At rest, right gill PaO2 (85.5±6.8 mmHg) was essentially unchanged while PaO2 of the slowly perfused left gill rose to 105.3±10.2 mmHg, close to the PO2 of the exhalant seawater (104.5±3.1 mmHg). The aerobic metabolic scope of H. iris therefore appears to be met primarily by circulatory adjustments at the left gill, which at rest is highly perfusion limited (left Ldiff, 0.14±0.07;right Ldiff, 0.44±0.08).
The identification and role of a novel eicosanoid in the reproductive behaviour of barnacles (Balanus balanus)
Authors: Maskrey Ben H. , Taylor Graham W. , Rowley Andrew F.
Published: January 2006

Post-copulatory behaviour in barnacles involves a violent rocking movement of the opercular valves, which is thought to contribute to the expulsion of oocytes through the oviduct into the mantle cavity where they are fertilised. We demonstrate in this study that the seminal vesicles/testis of the subtidal barnacle Balanus balanus produce a biologically active factor,barnacle muscle stimulatory factor (BMSF), which causes a significant increase in cirral and body muscular activity. BMSF was identified using a combination of high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry as a novel eicosanoid/oxylipin, 8,13-dihydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid. This is rapidly inactivated under mild acid conditions to form a complex range of triene and pentaene chromophore-containing products that have only been partially identified. Injection of purified BMSF into the mantle cavity of barnacles caused the rocking movements of the opercular valves as reported following fertilisation. In excised barnacles, it also caused muscular contractions of the whole body mass. The breakdown products of BMSF, however, were without such activities. The function of BMSF in facilitating fertilisation in barnacles is comparable to the role of other eicosanoids in human reproduction, reinforcing the view that these compounds have conserved activities in both invertebrates and vertebrates.
Significance of Na+ current in the excitability of atrial and ventricular myocardium of the fish heart
Authors: Haverinen Jaakko , Vornanen Matti
Published: January 2006

The present study examines the importance of the Na+ current(INa) in the excitability of atrial and ventricular myocardium of the rainbow trout heart. Whole-cell patch-clamp under reduced sarcolemmal Na+ gradient showed that the density of INa is similar in atrial and ventricular myocytes of the trout heart, and the same result was obtained when INa was elicited by chamber-specific action potentials (AP) in normal physiological saline solution. However, the maximum rate (Vmax) of AP upstroke, measured with microelectrodes in intact trout heart, was 21% larger in atrium than ventricle, and thus in variance with the similar INa density of the two myocyte types. Furthermore, Vmax calculated from the INa was 2.1 and 3.2 times larger for atrium and ventricle, respectively, than the values obtained from the APs. The discrepancy between INa of isolated myocytes and Vmax of intact muscle is only partly explained by the inward rectifier K+ current(IK1), which overlaps INa and decreases the net depolarising current. Clear differences exist in the voltage dependence of steady-state activation and inactivation as well as in the inactivation kinetics of INa between atrial and ventricular myocytes. As a result of a more negative voltage dependence of INa activation, smaller IK1 and higher input resistance of atrial myocytes, the voltage threshold for AP generation is more negative in atrium than ventricle of the trout heart. These findings suggest that atrial muscle is more readily excitable than ventricular muscle,and this difference is partly due to the properties of the atrial INa.
Economic Growth: Lessons from Two Centuries of American Agriculture
Authors: Mundlak Yair
Published: January 2006

This paper reviews the growth experience of U.S. agriculture over the past two centuries in consonance with the view that growth is determined by the economic environment, which consists of the available technology, incentives, constraints, and institutions. Within this framework, the implemented technology is determined jointly with the resource allocation. The review covers the role played by resource endowment, resource flow, technical change and its factor bias, and product demand. It highlights the importance of the income elasticity of demand and the labor augmentation of the technical change. The total factor productivity (TFP) was almost nil at the beginning of the nineteenth century, increasing gradually to the point where it exhausted output growth in the latter part of the twentieth century. This pattern is consistent with the postulate emerging from this framework, where the TFP is endogenous and determined jointly with growth rather than determining it. The more recent performance of U.S. agriculture is placed within a global perspective in order to generalize the discussion.
Constitutions, Politics, and Economics: A Review Essay on Persson and Tabellini’s The Economic Effects of Constitutions
Authors: Acemoglu Daron
Published: January 2006

In this essay, I review the new book by Torsten Persson and Guido Tabellini, The Economic Effects of Constitutions, which investigates the policy and economic consequences of different forms of government and electoral rules. I also take advantage of this opportunity to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a number of popular empirical strategies in the newly emerging field of comparative political economy.
Surgical Treatment of Varicose Veins: Effect of Rationing
Authors: Re Harris Mark , Davies R Justin , Brown Suki , Jones Stephen M , Eyers Paul S , Chester John F
Published: January 2006

INTRODUCTION

A substantial part of vascular surgical workload is devoted to the treatment of varicose veins. To control demand for cosmetic venous surgery, primary care trusts in Somerset introduced clinical criteria in 2000 for the referral and treatment of varicose veins based on the presence of skin change or ulceration, a history of bleeding, or two or more episodes of thrombophlebitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A comparison of workload and case mix for the referral and treatment of new patients presenting with varicose veins to the Taunton and Somerset Hospital was carried out over two 6-month periods, before and after the introduction of clinically based assessment criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 134 operations for varicose veins were carried out in 2000 and 85 such operations in 2002/03 after the introduction of new referral criteria (P = 0.001). Of these, 69% (92/134) were day-case procedures in 2000 compared to only 48% (41/85) in 2002/03 (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference in the type of cases (e.g. single, bilateral or recurrent surgery) performed as a day-case (P = 0.34) or as an in-patient (P = 0.43) over the two periods. There was, however, a significant difference (P = 0.007) in the mean ages of patients in the two periods (48.5 years in period 1; 57.8 years in period 2) and in the average ASA grade (1.15 in period 1; 1.42 in period 2; P = 0.0002).

CONCLUSION

The introduction of clinical criteria for the referral and treatment of varicose veins reduced workload by 37%.
Plain Abdominal Radiographs: Can we Interpret Them?
Authors: Lim C Beverly B , Chen Vivian , Barsam Allon , Berger Jeremy , Harrison Richard A
Published: January 2006

INTRODUCTION

Plain abdominal radiographs commonly form a part of medical assessments. Most of these films are interpreted by the clinicians who order them. Interpretation of these films plays an important diagnostic role and, therefore, influences the decision for admission and subsequent management of these patients. The aim of this study was to find out how well doctors in different specialties and grades interpreted plain abdominal radiographs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 76 doctors from the Departments of Accident & Emergency, Medicine, Surgery and Radiology (17, 32, 23 and 4, respectively) participated in the study which involved giving a diagnosis for each of 14 plain abdominal radiographs (5 ‘normal’ and 9 ‘abnormal’). They were also asked the upper limit of normal dimensions of small bowel and large bowel. One point was awarded for correctly identifying whether a radiograph was normal/abnormal, 1 point for the correct diagnosis and 1 point for the correct bowel dimensions, giving a total score of 30.

RESULTS

Mean scores out of 30 for specialties were as follows: Accident & Emergency 13.1 (range, 2–22), Medicine 11.2 (range, 2–23), Surgery 15.0 (range, 8–24) and Radiology 17.0 (range, 14–20; P = 0.241). Mean scores out of 30 for different grades of doctors were as follows: pre-registration house officers 10.8 (range, 4–20), senior house officers 13.0 (range, 2–22), registrars/staff grades 13.8 (range, 2–23) and consultants 17.3 (range, 12–24; P = 0.028). Fifteen out of 76 (19.7%) doctors correctly identified the upper limit of normal dimension of small bowel; 24 out of 76 (31.6%) correctly identified the upper limit of normal dimension of large bowel.

DISCUSSION

The level of seniority positively correlated with skills of plain abdominal radiograph interpretation. A large number of doctors were unable to give the correct upper limit of normal dimensions for small and large bowel.

CONCLUSIONS

All doctors could benefit from further training in the interpretation of plain abdominal radiographs. This could perhaps take place as formal teaching sessions and be included in induction programmes. Until then, plain abdominal films should ideally be reported by radiologists where there are clinical uncertainties; important management decisions made by junior doctors based on these films should at least be confirmed with a registrar, if not a consultant.
Patients with Clinical Acute Appendicitis Should have Pre-operative Full Blood Count and C-Reactive Protein Assays
Authors: Birchley D
Published: January 2006

INTRODUCTION

The role of inflammatory markers in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis has not been clearly defined. The aims of this prospective audit were to define the role of the serum markers of inflammation total white cell count, neutrophil count and C-reactive protein in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis with particular reference to the discrimination between uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis, and the prediction of abscess.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The author compiled a prospective database over a 13-month period of all appendicectomies performed. After five exclusions (three having no notes for review and two having confounding second morbidity in the presence of a normal appendix), the data relating to 75 patients were analysed.

RESULTS

In patients judged on clinical grounds to require laparotomy for suspected acute appendicitis, white cell count and neutrophil count distinguish acute appendicitis from normal appendices when used as categorical variables, though they do not reflect the presence of abscess. C-reactive protein neither distinguishes appendicitis from normal, nor predicts abscess when used as a categorical variable, though higher levels suggest abscess.

CONCLUSIONS

Laboratory tests of the white cell count, neutrophil count and C-reactive protein are more effective in supporting a clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis in patients with typical clinical features than in excluding the diagnosis.