bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Nuclear Ring in the Barred Spiral Galaxy IC 4933
Authors: Ryder Stuart D. , Illingworth Samuel M. , Sharp Robert G. , Farage Catherine L.
Published: March 2010

We present infrared imaging from IRIS2 on the Anglo–Australian Telescope that shows the barred spiral galaxy IC 4933 has not just an inner ring encircling the bar, but also a star-forming nuclear ring 1.5 kpc in diameter. Imaging in the u′ band with GMOS on Gemini South confirms that this ring is not purely an artifact due to dust. Optical and near-infrared colours alone however cannot break the degeneracy between age, extinction, and burst duration that would allow the star formation history of the ring to be unraveled. Integral field spectroscopy with the GNIRS spectrograph on Gemini South shows the equivalent width of the Paβ line to peak in the north and south quadrants of the ring, indicative of a bipolar azimuthal age gradient around the ring. The youngest star-forming regions do not appear to correspond to where we expect to find the contact points between the offset dust lanes and the nuclear ring unless the nuclear ring is oval in shape, causing the contact points to lead the bar by more than 90°.
The Fraction of Ionizing Photons Escaping from High-Redshift Galaxies
Authors: Srbinovsky Jhan A. , Wyithe J. Stuart B.
Published: March 2010

The fraction (fesc) of ionizing photons that escape their host galaxy and so are able to ionize hydrogen in the intergalactic medium is a critical parameter in studies of the reionization era. In this paper we constrain fesc at high redshift by modelling the observed Lyα transmission. Using an N-body simulation of the cosmic web, we first model an ionizing background due to star-bursting galaxies. We then extract an ensemble of mock absorption spectra from the simulation and compute the mean transmission. We adjust the free parameter, fesc in our model of the ionizing background to reproduce the observed transmission. We find that fesc increases with the minimum galaxy mass considered to contribute to the ionizing background, and that at high redshift fesc must be greater than 5% irrespective of galaxy mass. Based on our numerical results we calibrate a semi-analytic model which shows that the ionizing background observed at z ∼ 5.5–6 implies a sufficient number of ionizing photons to have reionized the Universe by z ∼ 6. However, if the minimum mass for star-formation were ≳109 M⊙, the ionizing background would be over-produced at z ≲ 5. In summary, our results indicate that the Universe was reionized by low mass galaxies.
Molecular basis of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COXs) selective inhibition
Authors: Limongelli Vittorio , Bonomi Massimiliano , Marinelli Luciana , Gervasio Francesco Luigi , Cavalli Andrea , Novellino Ettore , Parrinello Michele
Published: March 2010

The widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs block the cyclooxygenase enzymes (COXs) and are clinically used for the treatment of inflammation, pain, and cancers. A selective inhibition of the different isoforms, particularly COX-2, is desirable, and consequently a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of selective inhibition is of great demand. Using an advanced computational technique we have simulated the full dissociation process of a highly potent and selective inhibitor, SC-558, in both COX-1 and COX-2. We have found a previously unreported alternative binding mode in COX-2 explaining the time-dependent inhibition exhibited by this class of inhibitors and consequently their long residence time inside this isoform. Our metadynamics-based approach allows us to illuminate the highly dynamical character of the ligand/protein recognition process, thus explaining a wealth of experimental data and paving the way to an innovative strategy for designing new COX inhibitors with tuned selectivity.
Are Measures of Cognitive Effort and Motivation Useful in Differentiating Feigned from Genuine Psychiatric Symptoms?
Authors: Pivovarova Ekaterina , Rosenfeld Barry , Dole Tia , Green Debbie , Zapf Patricia
Published: March 2010

This study examined the accuracy of two measures of cognitive effort and motivation, the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM; Tombaugh, 1996) and the Validity Indicator Profile Verbal subtest (VIP-V; Frederick, 2003) using a simulation study design with psychiatric patients ( n = 88) and community participants instructed to feign mental illness ( n = 29). Little research has evaluated either the TOMM or the VIP in psychiatric patients, a group that may be at an increased risk of misclassification, despite the common use of these measures by forensic evaluators to assess for malingering. Specificity for the TOMM (94.2%) and the VIP-V (71.6%) were somewhat lower than the original validation samples, but Sensitivity rates were mixed: lower for the TOMM (62.1%) but higher for the VIP-V (73.1%). Additionally, VIP-V indicators were examined using Receiver Operating Curve (ROC) and stepwise discriminant analyses. The implications of these results for forensic assessment are discussed.
Previous Offending in Young Female Prisoners is Associated with Drug Problems, Drug Offenses and Low Social-Emotional Restraint
Authors: Kjelsberg Ellen , Rustad Aase-Bente
Published: March 2010

The study aimed at exploring possible systematic differences between first-time and previously convicted young female prisoners. A study sample consisting of 99 consecutively incarcerated females below the age of 30 was collected from three Norwegian prisons. Only females with sentences shorter than 2 years were included. The attrition rate was low at 6%. Information on social circumstances and drug/alcohol problems was collected in semi-structured interviews. All informants completed the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL) and the Weinberger Adjustment Inventory (WAI). Detailed criminal records were collected from the National Crime Registry. Unadjusted analyses demonstrated that previously convicted offenders reported more drug/alcohol problems ( p < .001), their index offense was more often a drug offense ( p < .001), they had less often been in permanent employment ( p = .001), they had completed fewer years of education ( p = .006), they had younger age at first court conviction ( p = .007), and they obtained lower scores on the WAI Restraint dimension ( p < .001). In the adjusted analyses (hierarchical logistic regression, ‘enter’ procedure) the following variables were associated with repeat offending: self-reported drug/alcohol problems (OR = 4.5), drug offenses (OR = 7.5), and a low WAI Restraint dimension score (OR = 5.0). The importance of drug/alcohol problems in repeat offending in women is well known and was confirmed by the present study. In addition, the WAI Restraint dimension score was associated with repeat offending. This finding could be of value in the development of more individualized prevention strategies intended to reduce re-offending in female offenders.
Patients Admitted to a Maximum Security Forensic Psychiatry Unit in Norway: A Case File Analysis of Demographic, Psychosocial, Clinical and Criminal Characteristics
Authors: Stang Jan , Sandli ChristineS. , Moger Tron , Bjørkly Stål
Published: March 2010

Every year, 25 to 30 patients are admitted to the maximum security unit at Ullevål University Hospital in Oslo, Norway. The unit has 25 beds and covers a catchment area of some 2.4 million inhabitants. The main scope of this study was to monitor and analyze demographic, psychosocial, clinical, and criminal characteristics of the patient population, with a special focus on possible associations between psychosocial conditions, mental illness, substance abuse, violence, and criminality. Three independent raters scrutinized hospital case files from index hospitalization of all patients ( N = 125) that had been admitted during a 4-year period. A codebook specially developed for this research was used, and the scoring was subsequently determined by consensus between the raters. Being exposed to physical or sexual abuse in childhood was associated with the father being mentally ill (multivariate logistic regression, OR = 19.4, 95% CI = 3.4–111). Having a history of violence was associated with previous conviction (OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.01–6.8). Homicide was associated with personality disorder (OR = 19.0, 95% CI = 1.9–187.0) and having previously been admitted to a psychiatric institution (OR = 9.9, 95% CI = 2.5–39.4). Our findings are discussed in relation to methodological flaws and other research in the area.
Subjective Well-Being and Recidivism in Forensic Psychiatric Outpatients
Authors: Bouman YvonneH. A. , Schene AartH. , de Ruiter Corine
Published: March 2010

In community-based forensic psychiatry, subjective well-being (SWB) is rarely considered as an explicit treatment target. According to the General Strain Theory and the Good Lives Model, a negative relationship between SWB and re-offending in personality-disordered patients can be hypothesized. In a multi-center, prospective study, the short-term effect of SWB on self-reported criminal offending behavior over a three-month period was explored. SWB was also related to official recidivism data over a follow-up period of three years. Overall SWB and satisfaction with health and finances predicted recidivism to a moderate degree. Furthermore, creating a meaningful life was negatively related to recidivism. For patients with a high risk level, SWB with health buffered self-reported re-offending; this effect was not found in relation to official reconvictions. The protective effect of positive SWB in reducing both short-term and long-term criminal behavior in forensic psychiatric outpatients merits further attention in community-based forensic psychiatric treatment.
Developing a Forensic Service Delivery System for Juveniles Adjudicated Incompetent to Stand Trial
Authors: Warren JanetI. , DuVal Jeanette , Komarovskaya Irina , Chauhan Preeti , Buffington-Vollum Jacqueline , Ryan Eileen
Published: March 2010

Our study examines the experiences of 563 youth ordered into restoration services after a judicial finding of adjudicative incompetence. Among this group, 72% were determined to be restored to competence usually within 90 to 120 days of services provided in the least restrictive environment allowed by the courts. These outcomes were achieved using an individualized psycho-educational intervention that combined intensive case management, developmentally informed interactive educational tools, and case integration and mentoring by specially trained restoration counselors. These individualized services were provided to each youth on average three times a week by the restoration counselor contracted to provide services in the location where the youth was residing. No juveniles were admitted for inpatient hospitalization for the purpose of restoration only. Five percent were hospitalized based upon civil commitment criteria or for further psychiatric evaluation or stabilization. Chi-square Automated Interaction Detector (CHAID) analyses were used to create decision trees of the restoration pathways demonstrated by four subgroups of youth: Mental Illness Only (MIO), Mental Retardation Only (MRO), Mental Illness and Mental Retardation (MI-MR), and No Mental Illness and No Mental Retardation (NMI-NMR). The interaction of individual characteristics and interventions varied across the four groups with the highest rates of restoration being achieved by youth in the NMI-NMR group (91%) and the lowest rate among youth in the MRO group (47%). These rates of restoration are comparable to those achieved using residential treatment for youth and inpatient hospitalization for adults.
Risk Formulation: What are We Doing and Why?
Authors: Lewis Geraint , Doyle Michael
Published: March 2010

In this short article, a critical look is taken at practice and process surrounding the use of formulation in relation to violence risk assessment within a forensic context. The historical background to the adoption of formulation as a component within clinical risk assessment and management is outlined, and questions are highlighted in relation to the paucity of research evaluating the approach. Despite potential limitations in terms of evidence base, it is noted that the use of risk formulation has risen in popularity, which, in view of the high stakes that characterize the forensic mental health context, may be an issue that merits debate. Central issues are discussed, and broad questions that may be useful to explore in future research are suggested.
Nature and Art, Making and Knowing: Reconstructing Sixteenth-Century Life-Casting Techniques*
Authors: Smith Pamela H. , Beentjes Tonny
Published: March 2010

Almost everyKunstkammerin sixteenth-century Europe contained small reptiles or plants cast from life in a variety of media. This widespread technique, which used small, recently killed animals as a pattern to create lifelike sculptures, was often prized more highly than works sculpted with the hand. An unstudied, late sixteenth-century French technical manuscript records a practitioner's experiments in casting from life, among many other subjects. This article investigates both the techniques and the significance of life-casting on the basis of this treatise, incorporating the examination of surviving sixteenth-century European life casts and the reconstruction of the manuscript's recipes and technical instructions, arguing that life-casting in the sixteenth century was viewed in part as a means to the knowledge of nature.
Dissecting the M Phase–specific Phosphorylation of Serine–Proline or Threonine–Proline Motifs
Authors: Wu Chuan Fen , Wang Ruoning , Liang Qianjin , Liang Jianjiao , Li Wenke , Jung Sung Yun , Qin Jun , Lin Sue-Hwa , Kuang Jian
Published: March 2010

M phase induction in eukaryotic cell cycles is associated with a burst of protein phosphorylation, primarily at serine or threonine followed by proline (S/TP motif). The mitotic phosphoprotein antibody MPM-2 recognizes a significant subset of mitotically phosphorylated S/TP motifs; however, the required surrounding sequences of and the key kinases that phosphorylate these S/TP motifs remain to be determined. By mapping the mitotic MPM-2 epitopes in Xenopus Cdc25C and characterizing the mitotic MPM-2 epitope kinases in Xenopus oocytes and egg extracts, we have determined that phosphorylation of TP motifs that are surrounded by hydrophobic residues at both −1 and +1 positions plays a dominant role in M phase–associated burst of MPM-2 reactivity. Although mitotic Cdk and MAPK may phosphorylate subsets of these motifs that have a basic residue at the +2 position and a proline residue at the −2 position, respectively, the majority of these motifs that are preferentially phosphorylated in mitosis do not have these features. The M phase–associated burst of MPM-2 reactivity can be induced in Xenopus oocytes and egg extracts in the absence of MAPK or Cdc2 activity. These findings indicate that the M phase–associated burst of MPM-2 reactivity represents a novel type of protein phosphorylation in mitotic regulation.
Divest Yourself of a Preconceived Idea: Transcription Factor ATF6 Is Not a Soluble Protein!
Authors: Mori Kazutoshi
Published: March 2010

The unfolded protein response (UPR), an evolutionarily conserved transcriptional induction program that is coupled with intracellular signaling from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the nucleus, is activated to cope with ER stress and to maintain the homeostasis of the ER. In 1996, we isolated a basic leucine zipper protein, which had been previously named activating transcription factor (ATF)6, as a candidate transcription factor responsible for the mammalian UPR. Subsequent analysis, however, was confounding. The problem was eventually tracked down to an unusual property of ATF6: rather than being a soluble nuclear protein, as expected for an active transcription factor, ATF6 was instead synthesized as a transmembrane protein embedded in the ER, which was activated by ER stress-induced proteolysis. ATF6 was thus unique: an ER stress sensor/transducer that is involved in all steps of the UPR, from the sensing step in the ER to the transcriptional activation step in the nucleus.
Analysis of Human Small Nucleolar RNAs (snoRNA) and the Development of snoRNA Modulator of Gene Expression Vectors
Authors: Ono Motoharu , Yamada Kayo , Avolio Fabio , Scott Michelle S. , van Koningsbruggen Silvana , Barton Geoffrey J. , Lamond Angus I.
Published: March 2010

Human small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) that copurify with nucleoli isolated from HeLa cells have been characterized. Novel fibrillarin-associated snoRNAs were detected that allowed the creation of a new vector system for the targeted knockdown of one or more genes in mammalian cells. The snoMEN (snoRNA modulator of gene expressioN) vector technology is based on snoRNA HBII-180C, which contains an internal sequence that can be manipulated to make it complementary to RNA targets. Gene-specific knockdowns are demonstrated for endogenous cellular proteins and for G/YFP-fusion proteins. Multiplex snoMEN vectors coexpress multiple snoRNAs in one transcript, targeted either to different genes or to different sites in the same gene. Protein replacement snoMEN vectors can express a single transcript combining cDNA for a tagged protein with introns containing cognate snoRNAs targeted to knockdown the endogenous cellular protein. We foresee applications for snoMEN vectors in basic gene expression research, target validation, and gene therapy.
Generic Advertising in an Asymmetric Cournot Oligopoly
Authors: Zheng Yuqing , Bar Talia , Kaiser Harry M.
Published: March 2010

We examine how benefits of mandated generic advertising vary with firm size in an asymmetric Cournot oligopoly market. Generic advertising, funded through a mandatory assessment, changes demand but also increases firms’ costs. The effect on a firm's profits depends upon the nature of the change in demand and the company's market share. Situations are identified in which generic advertising: (1) disproportionately favors large (small) firms; (2) decreases profits; and (3) increases (decreases) social welfare. Our findings explain the concerns that are often raised on small firms being disadvantaged by generic advertising. We discuss implications for policy and for firms’ advertising strategies.
Genome-wide inferring gene–phenotype relationship by walking on the heterogeneous network
Authors: Li Yongjin , Patra Jagdish C.
Published: March 2010

Motivation: Clinical diseases are characterized by distinct phenotypes. To identify disease genes is to elucidate the gene–phenotype relationships. Mutations in functionally related genes may result in similar phenotypes. It is reasonable to predict disease-causing genes by integrating phenotypic data and genomic data. Some genetic diseases are genetically or phenotypically similar. They may share the common pathogenetic mechanisms. Identifying the relationship between diseases will facilitate better understanding of the pathogenetic mechanism of diseases.

Results: In this article, we constructed a heterogeneous network by connecting the gene network and phenotype network using the phenotype–gene relationship information from the OMIM database. We extended the random walk with restart algorithm to the heterogeneous network. The algorithm prioritizes the genes and phenotypes simultaneously. We use leave-one-out cross-validation to evaluate the ability of finding the gene–phenotype relationship. Results showed improved performance than previous works. We also used the algorithm to disclose hidden disease associations that cannot be found by gene network or phenotype network alone. We identified 18 hidden disease associations, most of which were supported by literature evidence.

Availability: The MATLAB code of the program is available at http://www3.ntu.edu.sg/home/aspatra/research/Yongjin_BI2010.zip

Contact:  yongjin.li@gmail.com

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Mid‐regional pro‐adrenomedullin as a novel predictor of mortality in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: von Haehling Stephan , Filippatos Gerasimos S. , Papassotiriou Jana , Cicoira Mariantonietta , Jankowska Ewa A. , Doehner Wolfram , Rozentryt Piotr , Vassanelli Corrado , Struck Joachim , Banasiak Waldemar , Ponikowski Piotr , Kremastinos Dimitrios , Bergmann Andreas , Morgenthaler Nils G. , Anker Stefan D.
Published: March 2010

Aims

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a vasodilatory peptide. Its plasma levels or its precursors have not been evaluated in large populations of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). We sought to explore mid‐regional proADM (MR‐proADM).

Methods and results

We assessed MR‐proADM in 501 CHF patients [age 63 ± 11 years, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I/II/III/IV 9/44/39/8%, median N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) 878 pg/mL (interquartile range—IQR 348–2480 pg/mL), median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 31% (IQR 25–37%)]. Mid‐regional pro‐adrenomedullin levels (median 0.64 nmol/L, IQR 0.49–0.87 nmol/L) increased with NYHA class (P < 0.0001). During 1‐year follow‐up, 70 patients (14%) died. Increasing MR‐proADM was a predictor of poor survival at 12 months (hazard ratio 1.82, 95% confidence interval 1.24–2.66, P = 0.002) after multivariable adjustment. In receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis of 12‐month survival, the area under the curve for MR‐proADM and NT‐proBNP was similar (P = 0.3). Comparison of Cox proportional hazard models using the likelihood ratio χ2 statistic showed that both NT‐proBNP and MR‐proADM added prognostic value to a base model of LVEF, age, creatinine, and NYHA class. Adding MR‐proADM to the base model had stronger prognostic power than adding NT‐proBNP (both P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Mid‐regional pro‐adrenomedullin is an independent predictor of mortality in CHF patients, which adds prognostic information to NT‐proBNP.
ArabidopsisHomologs of Nucleus- and Phragmoplast-Localized Kinase 2 and 3 and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 4 Are Essential for Microtubule Organization
Authors: Beck Martina , Komis George , Müller Jens , Menzel Diedrik , šamaj Jozef
Published: March 2010

A double homozygous recessive mutant in the Arabidopsis thaliana homologs of nucleus- and phragmoplast-localized kinase 2 (ANP2) and 3 (ANP3) genes and a homozygous recessive mutant in the mitogen-activated protein kinase 4 (MPK4) gene of Arabidopsis exhibit deficiencies in the overall microtubule (MT) organization, which result in abnormal cell growth patterns, such as branching of root hairs and swelling of diffusely growing epidermal cells. Genetic, pharmacological, molecular, cytological, and biochemical analyses show that the major underlying mechanism for these phenotypes is excessive MT stabilization manifested in both mutants as heavy MT bundling, disorientation, and drug stability. The above defects in MAPK signaling result in the adverse regulation of members of the microtubule-associated protein (MAP65) protein family, including strongly diminished phosphorylation of MAP65-1. These data suggest that ANP2/ANP3, MPK4, and the microtubule-associated protein MAP65-1, a putative target of MPK4 signaling, are all essential for the proper organization of cortical microtubules in Arabidopsis epidermal cells.
RNAi Suppression of Arogenate Dehydratase1 Reveals That Phenylalanine Is Synthesized Predominantly via the Arogenate Pathway in Petunia Petals
Authors: Maeda Hiroshi , Shasany Ajit K , Schnepp Jennifer , Orlova Irina , Taguchi Goro , Cooper Bruce R. , Rhodes David , Pichersky Eran , Dudareva Natalia
Published: March 2010

l-Phe, a protein building block and precursor of numerous phenolic compounds, is synthesized from prephenate via an arogenate and/or phenylpyruvate route in which arogenate dehydratase (ADT) or prephenate dehydratase, respectively, plays a key role. Here, we used Petunia hybrida flowers, which are rich in Phe-derived volatiles, to determine the biosynthetic routes involved in Phe formation in planta. Of the three identified petunia ADTs, expression of ADT1 was the highest in petunia petals and positively correlated with endogenous Phe levels throughout flower development. ADT1 showed strict substrate specificity toward arogenate, although with the lowest catalytic efficiency among the three ADTs. ADT1 suppression via RNA interference in petunia petals significantly reduced ADT activity, levels of Phe, and downstream phenylpropanoid/benzenoid volatiles. Unexpectedly, arogenate levels were unaltered, while shikimate and Trp levels were decreased in transgenic petals. Stable isotope labeling experiments showed that ADT1 suppression led to downregulation of carbon flux toward shikimic acid. However, an exogenous supply of shikimate bypassed this negative regulation and resulted in elevated arogenate accumulation. Feeding with shikimate also led to prephenate and phenylpyruvate accumulation and a partial recovery of the reduced Phe level in transgenic petals, suggesting that the phenylpyruvate route can also operate in planta. These results provide genetic evidence that Phe is synthesized predominantly via arogenate in petunia petals and uncover a novel posttranscriptional regulation of the shikimate pathway.
A system of metrically invariant relations between the moduli squares of reciprocal-lattice vectors in one-, two- and three-dimensional space
Authors: Stöckelmann Diedrich , Kroll Herbert , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Heinemann Rolf
Published: March 2010

Given the background of trial-and-error methods employed in recent automatic powder pattern indexing, an alternative route is suggested based on a generalization of the original Runge–de Wolff approach. For this purpose, a system of five metrically invariant relations between the squared moduli (Qvalues) of reciprocal-lattice vectors is developed that encompasses the earlier special relations. The five invariant relations correspond to a line, a zone, a bizone, a cone and a pencil configuration of reciprocal-lattice vectors. In particular, the zone configuration relates four vectors being arbitrarily distributed in a plane and as such allows one to identify among a set of measuredQvalues all quadruples that define reciprocal-lattice planes intersecting in space.
Focal construct geometry – a novel approach to the acquisition of diffraction data
Authors: Rogers Keith , Evans Paul , Rogers Joseph , Chan JerWang , Dicken Anthony
Published: March 2010

This paper presents the first use of a simple novel geometry that enables the measurement of diffractograms from polycrystalline materials through linear translation of a point detector. The geometry is such that intensities from all points around any Debye ring are summed to a single point, and thus coherently scattered X-rays are harvested efficiently. Data from initial experimental verification of the approach used in transmission mode are presented and the diffractograms compared with their equivalent measured using a pencil beam. Brief discussions of potential modifications in reflection geometry and applications for fibre samples are also provided.
PSSP, a computer program for the crystal structure solution of molecular materials from X-ray powder diffraction data
Authors: Pagola Silvina , Stephens Peter W.
Published: March 2010

This work describes the computer programPSSP(powder structure solution program) for the crystal structure solution of molecular solids from X-ray powder diffraction data. This direct-space structure solution program uses the simulated annealing global optimization algorithm to minimize the difference between integrated intensities calculated from trial models and those extracted in a Le Bail fit of the experimental pattern, using a cost function for dealing with peak overlap through defined intensity correlation coefficients, computationally faster to calculate thanRwp. The methodology outlined is applicable to organic solids composed of moderately complex rigid and flexible molecules, using diffraction data up to relatively low resolution.PSSPperformance tests using 11 molecular solids with six to 20 degrees of freedom are analyzed.
Effects of copper on olfactory‐mediated endocrine responses and reproductive behaviour in mature male brown trout Salmo trutta parr to conspecific females
Authors: Jaensson A. , Olsén K. H.
Published: March 2010

In the present study, the effects of copper (CuSO4) on the ability of mature male brown trout Salmo trutta parr to detect and react both physiologically and behaviourally to female pheromones were studied. The study was composed of two parts. In the first experiment, priming effects of the female pheromone prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) were evaluated by determining the amount of milt produced and the blood plasma levels of 11‐ketotestosterone (11‐KT) and 17α,20β‐dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (17,20β‐P) after the PGF2α exposure. In the second experiment, male parr were placed in a large stream tank together with a group of adult males and ovulated females and their individual behaviours were recorded. In the priming experiment, the amount of expressible milt was significantly lower, less than half, in groups exposed during 4 days to 10 or 100 µg l−1 copper compared with control parr only exposed to water. No significant differences were observed in plasma levels of 11‐KT and 17, 20β‐P. During the behavioural experiment, exposed parr spent less time with the female and had a lower number of courting events. Blood plasma levels of 11‐KT were, however, significantly higher in the group exposed to 100 µg l−1 copper compared with the control group. Furthermore, the exposed group spent significantly less time swimming upstream than did the control group. The present study demonstrates that exposure to copper affects reproductive behaviours and endocrinology of S. trutta male parr.
Seasonal resource selection by blue suckers Cycleptus elongatus
Authors: Neely B. C. , Pegg M. A. , Mestl G. E.
Published: March 2010

Telemetry data were used to quantify seasonal resource selection and rank‐preferred habitat types for blue suckers Cycleptus elongatus in the middle Missouri River and its tributaries, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, U.S.A. Habitat diversity required by C. elongatus to complete its annual life‐history cycle was evident by interseasonal variation in habitat selection. Tributaries and unchannelized portions of the middle Missouri River system were selected during the inferred spawning season (spring), habitats along shorelines in the channelized middle Missouri River were selected for postspawning (summer) and areas of reduced current were generally selected for the period preceding spawning (autumn). This study provides insight into mature C. elongatus behaviour throughout its annual life cycle. Furthermore, these results document the interseasonal variability in habitat selection of C. elongatus and highlight the need for development of habitat selection models for other imperilled fish species in aquatic systems affected by anthropogenic developments.
Assessment of paternal effect and physiological cost of metamorphosis on growth of young winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus juveniles in a cold environment
Authors: Fraboulet E. , Lambert Y. , Tremblay R. , Audet C.
Published: March 2010

This study assessed the paternal effects on the growth of early juvenile winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus and examined the energy allocation strategy employed during this critical stage. Males from three different locations (Passamaquoddy Bay, Baie‐des‐Chaleurs and the St Lawrence Estuary) were crossed with females from the Baie‐des‐Chaleurs, and the growth characteristics of hybrids from settlement to 45 days post‐settlement were monitored under similar culture conditions. Young juveniles displayed good growth rates (0·09 ± 0·02 mm day−1), with no differences related to sire origin, in terms of growth indicators (length, width, RNA:DNA and triacylglycerol:sterol ratios), condition indices (Fulton's K, pigmentation and fin erosion) and biochemical components (nucleic acids, proteins and lipid classes). These results suggest the absence of a paternal contribution to the growth strategy during the early juvenile stage of P. americanus. The results also highlight the high energetic cost associated with metamorphosis: young juveniles mobilized most of their triacylglycerol reserves during the growth period following settlement.
Can zebrafish Danio rerio learn about predation risk? The effect of a previous experience on the cortisol response in subsequent encounters with a predator
Authors: Barcellos L. J. G. , Ritter F. , Kreutz L. C. , Cericato L.
Published: March 2010

Experienced zebrafish Danio rerio, when subjected to visual contact with a predator, did not show elevated cortisol levels and had values similar to control fish. The main hypothesis is that experienced D. rerio know about the real relevance of this prey–predator encounter. In summary, the data presented provide evidence that experienced D. rerio does not produce elevated cortisol in response to sighting a possible predator, and might suggest that these fish can learn about dangerous situations.
Variation in growth, mortality, length and age compositions of harvested populations of the herbivorous fishGirella tricuspidata
Authors: Gray C. A. , Ives M. C. , Macbeth W. G. , Kendall B. W.
Published: March 2010

Commercial gillnet and beach‐seine catches ofGirella tricuspidatafrom seven estuaries in eastern Australia were examined for differences in fork length (LF), sex and age composition, and populations were assessed for growth and mortality. Fish 220–350 mmLFdominated landings across all estuaries sampled, regardless of gear type. Few fish >10 years of age were observed in the catches, with fish aged 3–5 years, and 4–7 years, being most abundant in the catches in the four most northern estuaries and three southern estuaries, respectively. There was considerable variation in theLFofG. tricuspidataat any given age and the oldest male and female were 21 and 24 years, respectively. There were no consistent differences between sexes or latitudinal regions in the growth and meanLFat age of fish in each individual age class between 3 and 8 years. Growth of females was greater than males in the northern region, but not elsewhere. Estimates of the instantaneous rate of total mortality (Z) were dependent on estuary and year, ranging from 0·30 to 1·01, whereas the corresponding estimates of fishing mortality (F) ranged from 0·12 to 0·90. Populations ofG. tricuspidataappear to have been heavily exploited, primarily relying on young fish recruiting to the fishery. The ecosystem‐wide effects of harvesting this dominant mobile teleost herbivore need to be assessed further.
Cholinergic and adrenergic influences on the heart of the African lungfish Protopterus annectens
Authors: Sandblom E. , Gräns A. , Seth H. , Axelsson M.
Published: March 2010

Cardiac cholinergic and adrenergic tones were determined in minimally instrumented African lungfish Protopterus annectens. Mean ±S.E. routine heart rate (fH) was 31·6 ± 1·4 beats min−1, cholinergic tone was 34·6 ± 5·2% and adrenergic tone was 9·4 ± 2·3%, while the intrinsic fH after blockade of both adrenergic and cholinergic control systems was 39·1 ± 1·3 beats min−1. It is demonstrated that routine cholinergic tone has probably been underestimated in previous studies on lungfishes, suggesting that withdrawal of vagal tone may provide an important mechanism to increase fH in this group of fishes during, for example, air breathing.
Importance of the olfactory sense to migratory sea lampreys Petromyzon marinus seeking riverine spawning habitat
Authors: Vrieze L. A. , Bjerselius R. , Sorensen P. W.
Published: March 2010

This study tested the hypothesis that the sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus, a diadromous species of fish, relies on innately discerned odours, including pheromones, to locate riverine spawning habitat. Migratory, sexually immature P. marinus were captured as they entered streams flowing into the Great Lakes, and their olfactory systems were occluded or not by injecting either innocuous dental impression material or a saline control into their nasopores. Animals were then released back into lakes or streams and their recapture rates in stream traps noted. When released into Lake Huron, P. marinus with intact (functional) olfactory systems were very successful in locating rivers (recapture rates ranged up to 65%), while animals with occluded nasopores were virtually unable to do so and had recapture rates five to 20 times lower than intact animals. With few exceptions, intact fish entered the stream closest to their release point within a few days, irrespective of where they had been originally captured; their ability to locate streams is apparently innate and well developed. In contrast, when released within streams, both intact and occluded P. marinus successfully swam upstream to traps for several days although the ability of the former exceeded that of the latter after this period. Migratory P. marinus rely heavily on olfactory cues, of which a larval pheromone is presumably one, to locate river mouths and to a lesser extent to promote upstream movement within rivers.
Overexpression of SCC‐S2 correlates with lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Dong Qian‐Ze , Zhao Yue , Liu Yang , Wang Yang , Zhang Peng‐Xin , Jiang Gui‐Yang , Dong Xin‐Jun , Cui Quan‐Ze , Wang En‐Hua
Published: March 2010

The objective of the current study was to investigate the expression pattern and clinicopathological significance of SCC‐S2 in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The expression profile of SCC‐S2 in NSCLC tissues and adjacent noncancerous lung tissues was detected by real‐time RT‐PCR, western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry. In 25 lung cancer tissues examined, 18 (72%) of them exhibited stronger levels of SCC‐S2 mRNA compared with their corresponding normal tissues. SCC‐S2 protein level was up‐regulated in cancerous lung tissues compared to adjacent normal tissue. Moreover, the expression level of SCC‐S2 in 93 archived NSCLC tissues was measured by immunohistochemical staining. SCC‐S2 was found to be overexpressed in 71 of 93 (76.3%) human lung cancer samples and correlated with lymph node metastasis (P = 0.0181), p‐TNM stage (P = 0.0042), Ki‐67 expression (P = 0.0028), and poor survival (P = 0.012). In addition, depleting SCC‐S2 expression by small‐interfering RNA inhibited growth and invasion in lung cell lines. These results indicate that SCC‐S2 plays an important role in NSCLC and might be a useful therapeutic target of NSCLC. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Histone deacetylase inhibitor enhances sensitivity of non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells to 5‐FU/S‐1 via down‐regulation of thymidylate synthase expression and up‐regulation of p21waf1/cip1 expression
Authors: Noro Rintaro , Miyanaga Akihiko , Minegishi Yuji , Okano Tetsuya , Seike Masahiro , Soeno Chie , Kataoka Kiyoko , Matsuda Kuniko , Yoshimura Akinobu , Gemma Akihiko
Published: March 2010

It is desirable to find more appropriate therapeutic opportunities in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) due to the current poor prognosis of affected patients. Recently, several histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, including suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), have been reported to exhibit antitumor activities against NSCLC. S‐1, a novel oral fluorouracil anticancer drug, has been developed for clinical use in the treatment of NSCLC in Japan. Using an MTT assay, we analyzed the growth‐inhibitory effect of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), S‐1, and SAHA against three NSCLC cell lines, as well as the breast cancer cell line MCF7 which is known to be highly sensitive to 5‐FU. Combined treatment with low‐dose SAHA enhanced 5‐FU‐ and S‐1‐mediated cytotoxicity and resulted in synergistic effects, especially in 5‐FU‐resistant cells. Both the mRNA and protein expression levels of thymidylate synthase (TS), dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), and orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (OPRT), which are associated with 5‐FU sensitivity/response, were analyzed in the cells undergoing treatment. 5‐Fluorouracil‐resistant lung cancer cells displayed high expression of TS mRNA and protein. Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid down‐regulated TS mRNA and protein expression, as well as repressed the rapid induction of this factor during 5‐FU treatment, in all examined cell types. We also examined the status of the Rb‐E2F1 pathway, with SAHA up‐regulating p21waf1/cip1 expression via promoter histone acetylation; this, in turn, blocked the Rb‐E2F1 pathway. We conclude that combination therapy with SAHA and S‐1 in lung cancer may be promising due to its potential to overcome S‐1 resistance via modulation of 5‐FU/S‐1 sensitivity‐associated biomarker (TS) by HDAC inhibitor. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Abuse liability of intravenous buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine alone in buprenorphine‐maintained intravenous heroin abusers
Authors: Comer Sandra D. , Sullivan Maria A. , Vosburg Suzanne K. , Manubay Jeanne , Amass Leslie , Cooper Ziva D. , Saccone Phillip , Kleber Herbert D.
Published: March 2010

Background  Sublingual buprenorphine is an effective maintenance treatment for opioid dependence, yet intravenous buprenorphine misuse occurs. A buprenorphine/naloxone formulation was developed to mitigate this misuse risk. This randomized, double‐blind, cross‐over study was conducted to assess the intravenous abuse potential of buprenorphine/naloxone compared with buprenorphine in buprenorphine‐maintained injection drug users (IDUs).

Methods  Intravenous heroin users (n = 12) lived in the hospital for 8–9 weeks and were maintained on each of three different sublingual buprenorphine doses (2 mg, 8 mg, 24 mg). Under each maintenance dose, participants completed laboratory sessions during which the reinforcing and subjective effects of intravenous placebo, naloxone, heroin and low and high doses of buprenorphine and buprenorphine/naloxone were examined. Every participant received each test dose under the three buprenorphine maintenance dose conditions.

Results  Intravenous buprenorphine/naloxone was self‐administered less frequently than buprenorphine or heroin (P < 0.0005). Participants were most likely to self‐administer drug intravenously when maintained on the lowest sublingual buprenorphine dose. Subjective ratings of ‘drug liking’ and ‘desire to take the drug again’ were lower for buprenorphine/naloxone than for buprenorphine or heroin (P = 0.0001). Participants reported that they would pay significantly less money for buprenorphine/naloxone than for buprenorphine or heroin (P < 0.05). Seven adverse events were reported; most were mild and transient.

Conclusions  These data suggest that although the buprenorphine/naloxone combination has intravenous abuse potential, that potential is lower than it is for buprenorphine alone, particularly when participants received higher maintenance doses and lower buprenorphine/naloxone challenge doses. Buprenorphine/naloxone may be a reasonable option for managing the risk for buprenorphine misuse during opioid dependence treatment.
The Cannabis Use Problems Identification Test (CUPIT): development, reliability, concurrent and predictive validity among adolescents and adults
Authors: Bashford Jan , Flett Ross , Copeland Jan
Published: March 2010

Aims  To describe the empirical construction and initial validation of the Cannabis Use Problems Identification Test (CUPIT), a brief self‐report screening instrument for detection of currently and potentially problematic cannabis use.

Design  In a three‐phase prospective design an item pool of candidate questions was generated from a literature review and extensive expert consultation. The CUPIT internal structure, cross‐sectional and longitudinal psychometric properties were then systematically tested among heterogeneous past‐year users.

Participants  Volunteer participants were 212 high‐risk adolescents (n = 138) and adults (n = 74) aged 13–61 years from multiple community settings.

Measurements  The comprehensive assessment battery included several established measures of cannabis‐related pathology for CUPIT validation, with DSM‐IV/ICD‐10 diagnoses of cannabis use disorders as criterion standard.

Findings  Sixteen items loading highly on two subscales derived from principal components analysis exhibited good to excellent test–retest (0.89–0.99) and internal consistency reliability (0.92, 0.83), and highly significant ability to discriminate diagnostic subgroups along the severity continuum (non‐problematic, risky, problematic use). Twelve months later, baseline CUPIT scores demonstrated highly significant longitudinal predictive utility for respondents’ follow‐up diagnostic group membership. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis identified a CUPIT score of 12 to be the optimal cut‐point for maximizing sensitivity for both currently diagnosable cannabis use disorder and those at risk of meeting diagnostic criteria in the following 12 months.

Conclusions  The CUPIT is a brief cannabis screener that is reliable, valid and acceptable for use across diverse community settings and consumers of all ages. The CUPIT has clear potential to assist with achievement of public health goals to reduce cannabis‐related harms in the community.
The effects of binge drinking on college students' next‐day academic test‐taking performance and mood state
Authors: Howland Jonathan , Rohsenow Damaris J. , Greece Jacey A. , Littlefield Caroline A. , Almeida Alissa , Heeren Timothy , Winter Michael , Bliss Caleb A. , Hunt Sarah , Hermos John
Published: March 2010

Aim  To assess the effects of binge drinking on students' next‐day academic test‐taking performance.

Design  A placebo‐controlled cross‐over design with randomly assigned order of conditions. Participants were randomized to either alcoholic beverage [mean = 0.12 g% breath alcohol concentration (BrAC)] or placebo on the first night and then received the other beverage a week later. The next day, participants were assessed on test‐taking, neurocognitive performance and mood state.

Participants  A total of 196 college students (≥21 years) recruited from greater Boston.

Setting  The trial was conducted at the General Clinical Research Center at the Boston Medical Center.

Measurements  The Graduate Record Examinations© (GREs) and a quiz on a lecture presented the previous day measured test‐taking performance; the Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES3) and the Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT) measured neurocognitive performance; and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) measured mood.

Findings  Test‐taking performance was not affected on the morning after alcohol administration, but mood state and attention/reaction‐time were affected.

Conclusion  Drinking to a level of 0.12 g% BrAC does not affect next‐day test‐taking performance, but does affect some neurocognitive measures and mood state.