bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leishmania cytosolic silent information regulatory protein 2 deacetylase induces murine B‐cell differentiation and in vivo production of specific antibodies
Authors: Silvestre Ricardo , Cordeiro‐da‐Silva Anabela , Tavares Joana , Sereno Denis , Ouaissi Ali
Published: October 2006

In previous studies, we identified a gene product belonging to the silent information regulatory 2 protein (SIR2) family. This protein is expressed by all Leishmania species so far examined (L. major, L. infantum, L. amazonensis, L. mexicana) and found to be crucial for parasite survival and virulence. In the present study, we investigated whether a Leishmania SIR2 recombinant protein (LmSIR2) would affect T‐ and B‐cell functions in a murine model. In vitro treatment of spleen cells from normal BALB/c mice with LmSIR2 showed increased expression of CD69 on B cells. This effect was not abolished by the addition of polymyxin B. Intravenous injection of LmSIR2 into BALB/c mice induced increased spleen B cell number by a factor of about ≈1·6, whereas no modification occurred at the level of CD4+ and CD8+ cells. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of LmSIR2 alone without adjuvant into BALB/c mice or nude mice triggered the production of elevated levels of LmSIR2‐specific antibodies. The analysis of specific isotype profiles showed a predominance of immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgG2a antibody responses in BALB/c mice, and IgM in nude mice. Moreover, the anti‐LmSIR2 mouse antibodies in the presence of complement induced the in vitro lysis of L. infantum amastigotes. In the absence of complement, the antibodies induced significant inhibition of amastigotes developpement inside macrophages. Together, the current study provides the first evidence that a Leishmania protein belonging to the SIR2 family may play a role in the regulation of immune response through its capacity to trigger B‐cell effector function.
Quality evaluation of Korean soy sauce fermented in Korean earthenware (Onggi) with different glazes
Authors: Lee Kwang Soo , Lee Yang Bong , Lee Dong Sun , Chung Sun Kyung
Published: October 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of porosity‐controlled earthenware as fermentation vessels for Korean soy sauce. Porosity of fermentation vessels was controlled by glazing the surfaces of Korean earthenware. Three kinds of onggis– the outside glazed, inside and outside glazed, and unglazed onggi – were made and used to investigate the effect of glazing on the fermentation of soy sauce. During fermentation of soy sauce in porosity‐controlled earthenwares at 30 °C for 4 months, physical, chemical, microbiological and sensory quality attributes were monitored. Compared to other vessels, soy sauce fermented in onggi with both inside and outside surfaces glazed showed less water loss (10.7%), salt content (17.6%) and pH (pH4.4) after the fourth month. It also produced higher total acidity (1.43%), protease activity (810 μg mL−1 min−1) and microbiological changes that included total aerobic bacteria [4.3 log(cfu mL−1)], lactic acid bacteria [3.8 log(cfu mL−1)] and yeast [4.2 log(cfu mL−1)]. The contents of total nucleotide (200–255 mg per 100 g sample) and free amino acids (4634–4848 mg per 100 g sample) in soy sauce were not consistent with glazing, which may be more affected by other factors, such as water loss, than the porosity of vessels. However, the percentage of glutamic acid among total free amino acids was 23.6% in onggi with both surfaces glazed, which was a little higher than the 21.9% in the outside glazed and 21.5% in the unglazed. These positive physicochemical and microbiological changes during fermentation in onggi with both sides glazed also resulted in higher sensory quality.
Properties of five canned luncheon meat formulations as affected by quality of raw materials
Authors: Mohd Abdullah Basem
Published: October 2006

Five formulations for commercial luncheon meat were prepared and canned, then analysed for proximate composition, thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value, peroxide value, pH, acidity (% as free fatty acid, FFA) and subjected to sensory analysis. Small differences (P = 0.05) in the proximate composition were recorded, but all samples came within the required Jordanian Standard for the product. TBA values were the highest in luncheon meat containing the highest percentage of mechanically deboned chicken meat. The most preferred colour to the panel was achieved in samples containing the greatest percentage of beef heart and lowest fat content; these samples were also the juiciest. The highest scoring samples for sensory evaluation were those that contained beef flank, topside and heart.
Hysteresis phenomenon in foods
Authors: Caurie Matthew
Published: October 2006

It has been explained that hysteresis is a sorption phenomenon, which rests on temperature, Aw, moisture content and on surface energy Q. As temperature and Aw as environmental variables have opposite effects on moisture content the isobar and isotherm methods are bound to have opposite effects on the hysteresis loop. Using Caurie's equation it has been shown that the desorption isotherm of the hysteresis loop is always at a higher energy level than the adsorption isotherm. This energy difference is stated to arise from physical changes in the adsorbent matrix which expose new energetic sites which adsorb moisture on return to lower Aws rather than desorb moisture and this is indicated to be responsible for the hysteresis phenomenon. It has also been argued that hysteresis may be used as an index of food quality.
Infusions of 5α‐Pregnan‐3α‐Ol‐20‐One (3α,5α‐THP) to the Ventral Tegmental Area, but not the Substantia Nigra, Enhance Exploratory, Anti‐Anxiety, Social and Sexual Behaviours and Concomitantly Increase 3α,5α‐THP Concentrations in the Hippocampus, Diencephalon and Cortex of Ovariectomised Oestrogen‐Primed Rats
Authors: Frye C. A. , Rhodes M. E.
Published: October 2006

Sequential actions of 17β‐oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) mediate sexual behaviour of female rodents. In the presence of appropriate environmental stimuli, E2 and P4 can facilitate initiation of sex behaviour (i.e. lordosis), in part through classic actions at intracellular progestin receptors in the VMH. However, the effects of P4 in the VTA to modulate lordosis involve its metabolite, 5α‐pregnan‐3α‐ol‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP), which can have paracrine effects in the brain to reduce anxiety and stress. We investigated the effects of 3α,5α‐THP infusions to the VTA, and a control site, the substantia nigra (SN), on exploratory, anti‐anxiety, social and sexual behaviours (socio‐sexual behaviours) and hormone levels in the midbrain and other regions (hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex) that may mediate these functions. Ovariectomised, rats were E2‐primed (10 µg, s.c.) at 0 h and were infused with β‐cyclodextrin vehicle or 3α,5α‐THP to the VTA or SN 44–48 h later. Ten minutes after infusions, rats were tested in the open field, plus maze, partner preference, social interaction and paced mating tasks, or served as nontested controls. Infusions of 3α,5α‐THP to the VTA, but not the SN, increased central entries in the open field, open arm time in the plus maze, time spent in proximity to a male, duration of social interaction, incidence and intensity of lordosis, pacing, proceptivity, and anti‐conflict behaviour. 3α,5α‐THP, but not vehicle, infusions to the VTA (but not the SN) also increased 3α,5α‐THP levels in the midbrain, as well as the hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex. Behavioural testing increased levels of the precursor of 3α,5α‐THP precursor, dihydroprogesterone (DHP). Thus, infusions of 3α,5α‐THP to the VTA enhance socio‐sexual behaviours and increase 3α,5α‐THP levels in the hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex, and behavioural testing increases DHP levels in brain areas involved in modulating socio‐sexual behaviours.
Push or Pull: Imitation vs. Emulation in Great Apes and Human Children
Authors: Tennie Claudio , Call Josep , Tomasello Michael
Published: October 2006

All four species of great apes and young human children (12–24 mo of age) were administered an imitation task designed to distinguish between results learning (emulation) and action learning (imitation). Some subjects were exposed to a demonstrator either pushing or pulling a door to open a box, whereas others simply saw the door of the box opening itself in one of the two directions (the ghost control). Most of the apes successfully opened the box in both experimental conditions, as well as in a baseline condition, but without being influenced either by the demonstrator's actions or by the door's motions. In contrast, human children over 12 mo of age were influenced by the demonstration: the 18‐mo‐olds were influenced by the demonstrator's actions, and the 24‐mo‐olds were influenced both by the demonstrator's actions and by the door's motions in the ghost control. These results provide support for the hypothesis that human children have a greater propensity than great apes for focusing either on a demonstrator's action or on the result of their action, as needed, in social learning situations.
Egg Discrimination and Sex‐Specific Pecking Behaviour in Parasitic Cowbirds
Authors: Llambías Paulo E. , Ferretti Valentina , Reboreda Juan C.
Published: October 2006

We studied egg‐pecking behaviour in males and females of three cowbird species: the shiny cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis), a host generalist brood parasite, the screaming cowbird (M. rufoaxillaris), a host specialist brood parasite, and the bay‐winged cowbird (Agelaioides badius), a non‐parasitic species. We conducted three experiments in which we offered each bird an artificial nest with two plaster eggs and recorded whether egg pecking occurred and the number of pecks on each egg. In expt 1, we tested if there were species and sex differences in egg‐pecking behaviour by offering the birds two spotted eggs of similar pattern. Shiny and screaming cowbirds responded in 40.3% and 44% of the trials, respectively, with females and males presenting similar levels of response. In contrast, bay‐winged cowbirds did not show any response. In expt 2, we tested if shiny cowbirds responded differentially when they faced a choice between one host and one shiny cowbird egg, while in expt 3, we tested if screaming cowbirds responded differentially when they faced a choice between one shiny and one screaming cowbird egg. Shiny cowbirds pecked preferentially host eggs while screaming cowbirds pecked more frequently shiny cowbird eggs. Our results show that egg‐pecking behaviour is present in both sexes of parasitic cowbirds, but not in non‐parasitic birds, and that parasitic cowbirds can discriminate between eggs of their own species and the eggs of their hosts or other brood parasites.
Mesh Width Influences Prey Retention in Spider Orb Webs
Authors: Blackledge Todd A. , Zevenbergen Jacquelyn M.
Published: October 2006

Orb‐weaving spiders depend upon the sticky capture spirals of webs to retain insects long enough to be captured. However, insects often escape from orb webs before the spiders can attack them. Therefore, the architectures of orb webs likely reflect strong selective pressure to increase retention times of insects. We experimentally increased the mesh width of one side of an orb web while maintaining the original mesh width on the other side as a control, and then tested the effect of this manipulation on the retention times of four different taxa of insects. We found evidence that increased mesh width of Argiope aurantia orb webs resulted in a general reduction in the retention times of insects. However, retention times for different taxa of insects were not predicted by any one specific morphological or flight characteristic. The influence of mesh width on the retention times of insects is very complex, but our results suggest that mesh width can act to selectively favor the capture of certain taxa of insect prey over others. This effect may help to explain both species level differences in web‐building behaviors and variation in the architectures of webs spun by individual spiders on different days.
Vocal and Facial Attractiveness Judgments of Children, Adolescents and Adults: the Ontogeny of Mate Choice
Authors: Saxton Tamsin K. , Caryl Peter G. , Craig Roberts S.
Published: October 2006

Physical traits are thought to be used as indicators of mate quality, allowing individuals to select mates most likely to help them bear the fittest offspring. As the capacity for human sexual behaviour emerges at puberty, we investigated whether adult‐like judgments of the relative attractiveness of opposite‐sex individuals also arise at puberty. Following previous research, we focussed on facial and vocal attractiveness, which are known to be used in human mate choice and to carry concordant information regarding mate quality. Here we show that males with more attractive faces have more attractive voices as judged by female adults and adolescents, but not by female children. This suggests that cues of facial and vocal attractiveness provide similar information, but that awareness of these cues does not develop fully until reproductive capability, when mate choice judgments become relevant. Adolescents’ judgments also mirrored those of adults in that, like adults, they preferred lower‐pitched male voices, and as a group made concordant judgments about facial attractiveness. However, they did not make similarly concordant judgments about vocal attractiveness, suggesting that a further period of maturation and learning is required to fully develop optimal judgments for mate choice.
Comparative study on biaxial low‐cycle fatigue behaviour of three structural steels
Authors: De FREITAS M. , REIS L. , LI B.
Published: October 2006

In this study the uniaxial/biaxial low‐cycle fatigue behaviour of three structural steels (Ck45 normalized steel, 42CrMo4 quenched and tempered steel and AISI 303 stainless steel) are studied, evaluated and compared. Two parameters are considered for estimating non‐proportional fatigue lives: the coefficient of additional hardening and the factor of non‐proportionality. A series of tests of uniaxial/biaxial low‐cycle fatigue composed of tension/compression with cyclic torsion were carried out on a biaxial servo‐hydraulic testing machine. Several loading paths were carried out, including proportional and non‐proportional ones, in order to verify the additional hardening caused by different loading paths. The experiments showed that the three materials studied have very different additional hardening behaviour. Generally, the transient process from the initial loading cycle to stabilized loading cycle occurs in a few cycles. The stabilized cyclic stress/strain parameters are controlling parameters for fatigue damage. A factor of non‐proportionality of the loading paths is evaluated based on the Minimum Circumscribed Ellipse approach. It is shown that the microstructure has a great influence on the additional hardening and the hardening effect is dependent on the loading path and also the intensity of the loading.
Magnetic resonance imaging pelvimetry in 186 patients with rectal cancer confirms an overlap in pelvic size between males and females
Authors: Salerno G. , Daniels I. R. , Brown G. , Heald R. J. , Moran B. J.
Published: October 2006

Introduction  It has generally been considered that open pelvic surgery is almost always easier in female subjects because of anatomical differences facilitating surgical access. In contrast, the male pelvis has been considered to be narrower and deeper. The objective of this study was to assess magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pelvimetry in patients with rectal cancer in whom any difference in pelvimetry may potentially affect operative management. Male and female pelvic bony dimensions were compared.

Method  A cohort of 186 patients (112 males and 74 females) with rectal cancer who had been recruited prospectively to the Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Rectal Cancer European Equivalence Study (MERCURY Study) were assessed. Complete digital images were available on these patients. A comparison of the pelvic dimensions was made between the sexes using 16 dimensions measured on the MRI workstation using the mid‐sagittal and axial images.

Results  There was no significant difference and considerable overlap between the sexes with respect to each of the 14 parameters measured from the preoperative sagittal MRI scan. However, there was a highly significant difference between the interspinous and intertuberous transverse diameter of the pelvis (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion  Outcome after surgery may be influenced by the technical difficulty of the operation and this had been thought to be partly affected by the pelvic size. In this cohort of 186 patients, the only difference seen between the sexes, was in the transverse mid‐inlet and pelvic outlet diameter.
Does insulin detemir have a role in reducing risk of insulin‐associated weight gain?
Authors: Hermansen K. , Davies M.
Published: October 2006

Weight gain is often perceived as inevitable with insulin therapy, particularly as we strive for tight glycaemic control and are using increasingly proactive insulin titration regimes. The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study documented that weight gain occurs most rapidly soon after insulin therapy is first initiated. The timing of this side effect is particularly undesirable, as weight gain may interfere with patients’ adjustment to insulin therapy and may undermine appropriate diabetes self‐management behaviours. Until recently, many patients had little alternative other than to accept unwanted weight gain if they were to achieve sufficient glycaemic control to reduce risk of chronic complications of diabetes. Insulin detemir is a novel basal insulin analogue that has consistently been shown in randomized, controlled trials to have a weight‐sparing effect (i.e. weight loss or reduced weight gain compared with other insulins) in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Indeed, unlike neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin, the weight‐sparing effect of insulin detemir appears to be most prominent in people who are the most obese. The mechanisms behind the weight‐sparing effect of insulin detemir are still being clarified. Reduced risk of hypoglycaemia with insulin detemir, coupled with a more consistent and reliable delivery of the desired dose than is available with traditional basal insulin, such as NPH, has been proposed to minimize defensive snacking by patients, and help to limit weight gain. However, even if this was proven, it would be unlikely to fully explain the weight‐sparing effect of insulin detemir. Two additional theories have been put forward. One suggests that due to its novel method of prolonging action via acylation and albumin binding, insulin detemir may differentially influence hepatocytes more than peripheral tissues, thus effectively suppressing hepatic glucose output without promoting lipogenesis in the periphery. The second theory suggests that insulin detemir may be more effective than human insulin in communicating satiety signals within the central nervous system. Further clarification of these hypotheses is required.
A randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of pelvic floor therapies for urodynamic stress and mixed incontinence
Authors: Williams Kate S. , Assassa R. Phil , Gillies Clare L. , Abrams Keith R. , Turner David A. , Shaw Christine , Haslam Jeanette , Mayne Christopher , McGrother Catherine W. ,   the Leicestershire MRC Incontinence Study Team
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and cost‐effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle therapies (PFMT) in women aged ≥ 40 years with urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) and mixed UI.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a three‐arm randomized controlled trial in Leicestershire and Rutland UK, 238 community‐dwelling women aged ≥ 40 years with USI in whom previous primary behavioural intervention had failed were randomized to receive either intensive PFMT (79), vaginal cone therapy (80) or to continue with primary behavioural intervention (79) for 3 months. The main outcome measure was the frequency of primary UI episodes, and secondary measures were pad‐test urine loss, patient perception of problem, assessment of PF function, voiding frequency, and pad usage. Validated scales for urinary dysfunction, and impact on quality of life and satisfaction were collected at an independent interview.

RESULTS

All three groups had a moderate reduction in UI episodes after intervention but there was no statistically significant difference among the groups. There were marginal improvements in voiding frequency for all groups, with no statistically significant difference among them.

CONCLUSIONS

In women who have already had simple behavioural therapies (including advice on PFM exercises) for urinary dysfunction, the continuation of these behavioural therapies can lead to further improvement. The addition of vaginal cone therapy or intensive PFMT does not seem to contribute to further improvement. The improvement in pelvic floor function was significantly greater in the PFMT arm than in the control arm although this did not translate into changes in urinary symptoms.
Clinically significant prostate cancer found incidentally in radical cystoprostatectomy specimens
Authors: Abdelhady Mazen , Abusamra Ashraf , Pautler Stephen E. , Chin Joseph L. , Izawa Jonathan I.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To review the incidence, histopathological features and clinical outcomes of patients with incidental prostate cancer found in radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP) specimens excised for bladder cancer, to determine if these cancers affected the follow‐up strategy and if prostate‐sparing cystectomy would be appropriate for these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of men who had a RCP for transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder, at our institution between 1987 and 2003. Patients with a preoperative diagnosis or clinical suspicion of prostate cancer were excluded from further analysis. We identified those men with incidental prostate cancer in the RCP specimens. The patients’ demographic, histopathological and clinical outcome data were collected.

RESULTS

In all, 217 men had RCP for TCC between 1987 and 2003; 13 were excluded from the study due to a preoperative diagnosis or clinical suspicion of prostate cancer, and 58 (28%) were found to have incidental prostate cancer. The mean (range) follow‐up was 47 (6–157) months. Of these prostate cancers, 20% were of Gleason score ≥ 7 and two patients developed local and metastatic prostate cancer recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Incidental prostate cancer is a relatively common finding in RCP specimens, with a significant proportion having the characteristics of clinically relevant prostate cancer. The follow‐up for prostate cancer should be incorporated with that for TCC and adapted according to the grade and stage of the prostate cancer. Preserving the prostate in an attempt to decrease the morbidity after RCP carries a high risk of significant prostate cancer in the residual prostatic tissue, suggesting that prostate‐sparing cystectomy should only be reserved for a highly selected group of patients.
The association between t‐type Ca2+ current and outward current in isolated human detrusor cells from stable and overactive bladders
Authors: Sui Gui‐Ping , Wu Changhao , Severs Nicholas , Newgreen Donald , Fry Christopher H.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To determine if bladder overactivity in humans is associated with an altered activity of Ca2+ channels in detrusor smooth muscle and the consequent activation of other ion channels.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Samples of bladder were obtained from patients with urodynamically stable bladders, or with idiopathic detrusor overactivity. Isolated cells were patch‐clamped with pipettes containing a Cs+‐based filling solution to isolate inward currents, or a K+‐filling solution to measure outward current. Components of inward current were separated according to their sensitivity to NiCl2 (≤100 µm) and nifedipine.

RESULTS

Ni2+‐sensitive (t‐type) and nifedipine‐sensitive (l‐type) current was recorded in all cells. The voltage‐ and time‐dependent properties were similar in cells from both patient groups. However, the current density of the l‐type current was less, and that of the t‐type current was greater, in myocytes from overactive bladders. In cells from overactive bladders, the mean K+ current over the range − 80 to − 50 mV was also higher than in control cells. This current was sensitive to the large‐conductance channel modulator iberiotoxin and to NiCl2 (100 µm)

CONCLUSIONS

Detrusor myocytes from overactive human bladders have a higher t‐type Ca2+ current density; we propose that this increases transient outward currents, and so might contribute to higher levels of spontaneous activity.
The State of the Discipline: Politics and Drugs
Authors: Pryce Sue
Published: October 2006

This essay examines politics, drugs and political science in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The connection between politics and drugs is not new, but the processes of globalisation have contributed to an almost exponential rise in the use, production and trafficking of illicit drugs. This trend has placed the drugs question at or near the top of national and international political agendas. Its coincidental occurrence at the end of the cold war has prompted the ‘securitisation’ of the fight against drugs. Unsurprisingly these developments have attracted considerable attention from scholars within and beyond the discipline of politics.
Introducing the Strategic Approach: An Examination of Loyalist Paramilitaries in Northern Ireland
Authors: Harris Lyndsey
Published: October 2006

Information available regarding the use of the ‘military instrument’ by loyalist paramilitaries in Northern Ireland tends to be addressed journalistically. This article states that there is a need for a reinterpretation of loyalist activity employing a synthetic method. It is hoped that the utilisation of the ‘strategic approach’ will provide this new, academic understanding of loyalist terrorist organisations. Essentially, the strategic approach is concerned with tracing the line of thinking of political actors to comprehend how they propose to achieve their objectives. Emerging as an offshoot from public choice economics, it shares assumptions found in game, drama and rational choice theory. Due to the early hypothesis stage of this research this article will not present findings as such, but will offer an alternative approach and invite comments.
Polymorphisms in the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Gene and Growth in the First Year of Life
Authors: Hindmarsh P. C. , Rodeck C. H. , Humphries S. E.
Published: October 2006

Abnormal patterns of fetal and infant growth have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Catch‐up growth during the first year of life has been associated with a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, whereas a lack of catch‐up growth tracks with a risk of hypertension. The role of genetic factors influencing both growth and blood pressure have not been explored.

We genotyped cord blood samples from 530 singleton, Caucasian, uncomplicated pregnancies, drawn from a larger cohort of 1650 pregnancies, and related polymorphism in the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene (alleles insertion (I) or deletion (D)) with measures of size at birth and at age of 1 year.

ACE genotype did not significantly influence size at birth, although there was a greater proportion of individuals with the D/D genotype born with a birth weight less than the 10th centile (P = 0.004). The ACE I/I genotype was significantly associated with higher weight (p = 0.001), body mass index (p = 0.001) and mid arm circumference (p = 0.001) at 1 year of age compared to the ACE D/D and I/D genotypes. Individuals with the I/I genotype displayed catch‐up (gain from birth size of ≥0.6 Standard Deviation Score) in weight (p = 0.04), body mass index (p = 0.03) and mid arm circumference (p = 0.03) compared to the D/D group, the majority of which showed no change or catch‐down. The I/D genotype was distributed equally across the catch up/catch down/no change categories. The effect was more marked in males, but ACE genotype and sex of the infant contributed independently to mid arm circumference measurements and there was no interaction between the two. There was no effect of maternal or paternal ACE genotype on birth size. In a multiple linear regression model ACE genotype, socioeconomic status and sex of the infant explained 10.9% of the variance in body mass index SDS at 1 year of age.

We conclude that the ACE I/I genotype is associated with a higher weight and body mass index SDS at 1 year of age, along with catch‐up in terms of these measures from birth to 1 year. The D/D genotype is associated with a greater proportion of babies, born at term, that at small for gestational age. These results suggest that due consideration should be given to the underlying genotype of an individual when evaluating the association of early human growth with the development of risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The observation of independent effects of genotype, sex of the individual and socioeconomic status on postnatal growth suggests the need to develop methodologies for the integration of genetic and environmental factors in causality modelling.
Mixed‐effects Logistic Approach for Association Following Linkage Scan for Complex Disorders
Authors: Xu H. , Shete S.
Published: October 2006

An association study to identify possible causal single nucleotide polymorphisms following linkage scanning is a popular approach for the genetic dissection of complex disorders. However, in association studies cases and controls are assumed to be independent, i.e., genetically unrelated. Choosing a single affected individual per family is statistically inefficient and leads to a loss of power. On the other hand, because of the relatedness of family members, using affected family members and unrelated normal controls directly leads to false‐positive results in association studies. In this paper we propose a new approach using mixed‐model logistic regression, in which associations are performed using family members and unrelated controls. Thus, the important genetic information can be obtained from family members while retaining high statistical power. To examine the properties of this new approach we developed an efficient algorithm, to simulate environmental risk factors and the genotypes at both the disease locus and a marker locus with and without linkage disequilibrium (LD) in families. Extensive simulation studies showed that our approach can effectively control the type‐I error probability. Our approach is better than family‐based designs such as TDT, because it allows the use of unrelated cases and controls and uses all of the affected members for whom DNA samples are possibly already available. Our approach also allows the inclusion of covariates such as age and smoking status. Power analysis showed that our method has higher statistical power than recent likelihood ratio‐based methods when environmental factors contribute to disease susceptibility, which is true for most complex human disorders. Our method can be further extended to accommodate more complex pedigree structures.
Values and limitations of serum aminotransferases in clinical trials of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Suzuki Ayako , Lymp James , Sauver Jenny St. , Angulo Paul , Lindor Keith
Published: October 2006

Abstract: Background/aims: Choosing endpoints in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) trials is challenging because of the lack of validated surrogates and the trade‐off between accuracy and invasiveness. In this study, we assessed diagnostic accuracy of serum aminotransferase changes in predicting histological changes in NASH trials.

Methods: We conducted a longitudinal cohort study by using 102 participants in ursodeoxycholic acid–NASH trial who had both baseline and 2‐year liver biopsy and multiple measurements of serum aminotransferases. We calculated rates of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) [or aspartate aminotransferase (AST)] change as slopes of linear regression over 2 years (IU/l/month) and changes in each histological feature as differences in Brunt's scores of two biopsies in each individual.

Results: Rate of aminotransferase change correlated with changes in inflammation and fibrosis, but not steatosis and only with change in inflammation in multivariable analysis. In each histological feature, changes were inversely correlated with baseline histological grade. In predicting improvement of inflammation, areas under the receiver–operating characteristic curve of aminotransferase information alone were 0.72 for ALT and 0.73 for AST and were improved to 0.88 and 0.89, respectively, when baseline histology were taking account of.

Conclusions: Serum aminotransferase changes could be useful as surrogates in screening therapies for NASH in clinical trials with appropriate consideration of baseline aminotransferase and histology.
Faster Implied Volatilities via the Implicit Function Theorem
Authors: Kelly Michael A.
Published: October 2006

We present a faster, more accurate technique for estimating implied volatility using the standard partial derivatives of the Black‐Scholes option‐pricing formula. Beside Newton‐Raphson and slower approximation methods, this technique is the first to provide an error tolerance, which is essential for practical application. All existing noniterative approximation methods do not provide error tolerances and have the potential for large errors.
Solitary fibrous tumor with atypical histological features occurring in the palatine tonsil: an uncommon neoplasm in an uncommon site
Authors: Macarenco Ricardo Silvestre , Bacchi Carlos E. , Domingues Maria Aparecida Custódio
Published: October 2006

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is an uncommon mesenchymal neoplasm that usually arises in the pleura. Although this tumor has been described in other sites, including the head and neck area, in the oropharynx it is extremely rare. We report the first case of a SFT arising from the palatine tonsil of a 62‐year‐old man. The tumor consisted of spindle‐shaped cells distributed in a haphazard pattern and presented atypical histological features such as hypercellular areas and high mitotic count. Immunohistochemical studies showed strong positivity for CD34 and bcl‐2, and weak positivity for desmin. Smooth muscle actin, S‐100 protein and cytokeratines were negative. The patient was well without disease 1 year after surgery.
Giant cell granuloma of the jawbones – a proliferative vascular lesion? Immunohistochemical study with vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor
Authors: Vered M. , Buchner A. , Dayan D.
Published: October 2006

Aim:  To estimate the angiogenic activity in central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) by immunohistochemical stains for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). VEGF and bFGF immunoreactivity of the lesional mononuclear (MC) and giant (GC) cells was also investigated.

Method:  The study consisted of 41 cases of CGCG. Vascularity was quantified by microvascular volume (MVV) as determined by point counting. In five cases of CGCG, regions at the surrounding border, which demonstrated reactive vascular‐rich inflammatory areas, served as control. Immunoreactivity of the MC and GC was assessed as the percentage of VEGF‐ and bFGF‐positive cells from the total number of the respective cell type.

Results:  Within CGCG lesions the extent of angiogenesis was low; MVV did not exceed 5% for either VEGF (88% of lesions) or bFGF (78% of lesions). The mean MVV of VEGF‐ and bFGF‐positive blood vessels was 2.9% ± 2.4% and 3.46% ± 2.35%, respectively, significantly lower than in the control areas (27.5% ± 7.3% and 28.08% ± 5.5%, respectively) (P = 0.043). VEGF‐positive and bFGF‐positive MC and GC were found in nearly all lesions and in less than half of the lesions, respectively.

Conclusion:  The low mean MVV of VEGF‐ and bFGF‐positive blood vessels implies low angiogenic activity, which does not support the designation of CGCG as a true proliferative vascular lesion. MC and GC immunoreactivity for the angiogenic factors is assumed to play an important role in the osteoclastogenesis process, thus contributing to additional growth of the CGCG lesions.
Melatonin‐induced gene expression changes and its preventive effects on adriamycin‐induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver
Authors: Catalá Angel , Zvara Ágnes , Puskás László G. , Kitajka Klára
Published: October 2006

Abstract:  Adriamycin (ADR) provokes lipid peroxidation process, while melatonin (MEL) is a free radical scavenger that has been found to protect against lipid peroxidation in vitro and in many experimental models. In the present study, the effects of ADR and the combination of ADR and MEL were analyzed on the modulation of fatty acid composition, lipid peroxidation and gene expression in rat liver. Sixty genes were selected for the study of relative gene expression changes in the liver. ADR treatment decreased the polyunsaturated fatty acids C22:6 n‐3 and C20:4 n‐6 in rat liver mitochondria. When the treatment of ADR was followed by MEL, decrease in these fatty acids could not be detected. A significant increase in lipid peroxidation was observed after administration of ADR, which was restored to control values by post‐treatment with MEL. Gene expression profiles of ADR‐ versus ADR + MEL‐treated rat livers indicated that both treatments induced significant changes. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis of 60 genes involved in oxidative stress revealed that cyp1b1, which is involved in electron transport, cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 1a that possesses cyclin‐dependent protein kinase inhibitor activity, was induced at a more pronounced level in the ADR + MEL‐treated samples than in the ADR‐treated ones. Several genes having roles in heat‐shock response were downregulated in MEL‐treated animals, such as hsp40, hsp70 and hsp90 proteins reflecting the reduced oxidative stress in these animals. Global gene expression analysis will highlight the gene expression changes accompanying oxidative damage and its prevention in more details.
Clock gene expression in the retina of melatonin‐proficient (C3H) and melatonin‐deficient (C57BL) mice
Authors: Dinet Virginie , Ansari Nariman , Torres‐Farfan Claudia , Korf Horst‐Werner
Published: October 2006

Abstract:  In several mammalian species, the retina contains an autonomous circadian clock and is capable of synthesizing melatonin. The function of circadian clocks depends on interlocking transcriptional/translational feedback loops involving several clock genes. Here we investigated the expression of two clock genes (Per1, Cry2) and the level of phosphorylated (p) cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) in retinae of melatonin‐deficient (C57BL) with an intact retina and melatonin‐proficient (C3H) mice with degenerated outer nuclear layer. RNase protection assay and in situ hybridization revealed in both strains a rhythm in transcript levels for Per1 with a peak at zeitgeber time (ZT) 08, but not for Cry2. Immunoreactions for PER1, CRY2 and pCREB were localized to the nuclei of cells in the inner nuclear layer (INL) and ganglion cell layer (GC) of both strains and to the outer nuclear layer of C57BL. In C3H, protein levels of PER1 and CRY2 followed a clear day/night rhythm in the INL and the GC with a peak at the end of the day (ZT14). pCREB levels peaked at the beginning of the day. Noteably, in melatonin‐deficient C57BL mice, protein levels of PER1, CRY2 and pCREB did not show significant changes over a 16L/8D cycle. These data suggest that melatonin influences PER1 and CRY2 protein levels via post‐transcriptional mechanisms and also plays a role in rhythmic regulation of pCREB levels in the mammalian retina.
The Romantic Reconceptualization of the Gypsy: From Menace to Malleability
Authors: Kramp Michael
Published: October 2006

Following the hanging of a number of young gypsies at Northampton in 1780, we can trace a slow but notable shift in the English cultural understanding of the itinerant people. While late‐eighteenth‐century literary texts perpetuate longstanding conceptions of the gypsies as criminals and dangers, early nineteenth‐century works construct new images of the gypsies that emphasize their benign alternative lifestyle. These new conceptions of the gypsies specifically address England's concerns with the nomads as supposed threats to youthful native heterosexuality and organized labor practices. Throughout the nineteenth century, the English nation would develop sophisticated plans to incorporate the Roma into its citizenry and workforce; the early nineteenth‐century texts I consider here document the emerging cultural shift that would help to support such large‐scale social projects.
The retinoid‐X receptor ortholog, ultraspiracle, binds with nanomolar affinity to an endogenous morphogenetic ligand
Authors: Jones Grace , Jones Davy , Teal Peter , Sapa Agnes , Wozniak Mietek
Published: October 2006

The in vivo ligand‐binding function and ligand‐binding activity of the Drosophila melanogaster retinoid‐X receptor (RXR) ortholog, ultraspiracle, toward natural farnesoid products of the ring gland were assessed. Using an equilibrium fluorescence‐binding assay, farnesoid products in the juvenile hormone (JH) biosynthesis pathway, and their epoxy derivatives, were measured for their affinity constant for ultraspiracle (USP). Farnesol, farnesal, farnesoic acid and juvenile hormone III exhibited high nanomolar to low micromolar affinity, which in each case decreased upon addition of an epoxide across a double bond of the basic farnesyl structure. Similar analysis of the substitution on C1 of methyl ether, alcohol, aldehyde, and carboxylic acid showed that each conferred weaker affinity than that provided by the methyl ester. Attention was thus focused for a ring‐gland farnesoid product that possesses the features of methyl ester and lack of an epoxide. A secreted product of the ring gland, methyl farnesoate, was identified possessing these features and exhibited an affinity for ultraspiracle (Kd = 40 nm) of similar strength to that of RXR for 9‐cis retinoic acid. Mutational analysis of amino acid residues with side chains extending into the ligand‐binding pocket cavity (and not interacting with secondary receptor structures or extending to the receptor surface to interact with coactivators, corepressors or receptor dimer partners) showed that the mutation C472A/H475L strongly reduced USP binding to this ring gland product and to JH III, with less effect on other ring‐gland farnesoids and little effect on binding by (the unnatural to Drosophila) JH I. Along with the ecdysone receptor, USP is now the second arthropod nuclear hormone receptor for which a secreted product of an endocrine gland that binds the receptor with nanomolar affinity has been identified.
Distinct but critical roles for integrin αIIbβ3 in platelet lamellipodia formation on fibrinogen, collagen‐related peptide and thrombin
Authors: Thornber Kelly , McCarty Owen J. T. , Watson Steve P. , Pears Catherine J.
Published: October 2006

Integrins are the major receptor type known to facilitate cell adhesion and lamellipodia formation on extracellular matrix proteins. However, collagen‐related peptide and thrombin have recently been shown to mediate platelet lamellipodia formation when presented as immobilized surfaces. The aims of this study were to establish if there exists a role for the platelet integrin αIIbβ3 in this response; and if so, whether signalling from the integrin is required for lamellipodia formation on these surfaces. Real‐time analysis was used to compare platelet morphological changes on surfaces of fibrinogen, collagen‐related peptide or thrombin in the presence of various pharmacological inhibitors and platelets from ‘knockout’ mice. We demonstrate that collagen‐related peptide and thrombin stimulate distinct patterns of platelet lamellipodia formation and elevation of intracellular Ca2+ to that induced by the integrin αIIbβ3 ligand, fibrinogen. Nevertheless, lamellipodia formation on collagen‐related peptide and thrombin is dependent upon engagement of αIIbβ3, consistent with release of αIIbβ3 ligand(s) from platelet granules. However, the requirement for signalling by the integrin on fibrinogen can be bypassed by the addition of thrombin to the solution. These observations reveal a critical role for αIIbβ3 in forming lamellipodia on collagen‐related peptide and thrombin which is dependent on its ability to function as an adhesive receptor but not necessarily on its ability to signal. These results suggest that integrins may play an important role in lamellipodia formation triggered by nonintegrin ligands in platelets and possibly in other cell types.
AID AND DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA: THE DEBATE, THE CHALLENGES AND THE WAY FORWARD
Authors: Loots Elsabé
Published: October 2006

The article discusses the emerging literature and debates on aid, within the context of expected increases in aid flows to the continent. The trends in ODA flows indicate a reversal in aid flows to the continent since 2000, with subsequent increases in aid intensity and dependence. Although the more recent literature on aid is doubtful if aid only spurs growth in a in a good policy environment, the aid‐institutional debate indicates a clear aid‐institutional paradox, especially relating to the macroeconomic effects, the fiscal response, the absorptive capacity and the good governance aid debates. The literature further indicates that aid could serve as a barrier to vulnerable societies. From the donors' perspective, it is evident that quantity of aid does not imply quality and that the ultimate responsibility lies with recipient governments to ensure more efficient absorption of aid.
A BVAR MODEL FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN ECONOMY
Authors: Gupta Rangan , Sichei Moses M.
Published: October 2006

The paper develops a Bayesian vector autoregressive (BVAR) model of the South African economy for the period of 1970:1‐2000:4 and forecasts GDP, consumption, investment, short‐term and long term interest rates, and the CPI. We find that a tight prior produces relatively more accurate forecasts than a loose one. The out‐of‐sample‐forecast accuracy resulting from the BVAR model is compared with the same generated from the univariate and unrestricted VAR models. The BVAR model is found to produce the most accurate out of sample forecasts. The same is also capable of correctly predicting the direction of change in the chosen macroeconomic indicators.
FORECASTING INVESTMENT NEEDS IN SOUTH AFRICA'S ELECTRICITY AND TELECOM SECTORS
Authors: Bogetić żeljko , Fedderke Johannes W.
Published: October 2006

The paper uses 52‐country panel‐data for the period 1980‐2002 to estimate demand for electricity and telecom services and, based on these estimates, project investment needs in South Africa through 2010 for two growth scenarios. Projections of average annual investment needs in electricity and telecom for the current growth scenario (3.6% per annum) are of the order of 0.2% and 0.75% of GDP, respectively. An alternative, accelerated growth scenario (6% per annum) implies an approximate doubling of investment needs in these sectors.
ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE: A REVIEW OF DEFINITIONS, THEORY AND EMPIRICS
Authors: Fourie Johan
Published: October 2006

Infrastructure investment, especially in South Africa, is currently at the forefront of policy and public debate. But the term ‘infrastructure’ has a variety of definitions and interpretations; the reason for the various definitions is related to infrastructure's various impacts and incidence. Three levels of infrastructure are identified: local, national and transnational. Infrastructure at all three levels are subject to certain market failures which require some form of government intervention. Furthermore, theory postulates a number of benefits from infrastructure, both on economic growth and equity. Both the quantity (access to infrastructure) and quality (reliability of infrastructure or accompanying services) are important. Finally, empirical analysis tests whether these theoretical benefits are indeed realised. However, it seems as though infrastructure empirics are subject to a number of serious limitations.