bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of dopamine on the glutathione metabolism of cultured astroglial cells: implications for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hirrlinger Johannes , Schulz Jörg B. , Dringen Ralf
Published: March 2003

To investigate the effects of dopamine (DA) on the release of glutathione (GSH) from astrocytes, we used astroglia‐rich primary cultures from the brains of newborn rats. In the absence of DA, GSH accumulated in the medium of these cultures with a constant rate. In contrast, during incubation of the cells with 50 µm DA extracellular GSH was not detectable anymore. This disappearance of extracellular GSH was prevented by superoxide dismutase, indicating that DA does not affect GSH release but rather reacts with the released GSH in a superoxide‐dependent reaction. Incubation of astroglial cultures with 0.5 and 1 mm DA established almost constant extracellular concentrations of H2O2 of 5 µm and 15 µm, respectively. Under these conditions astroglial cultures release glutathione disulphide (GSSG). This GSSG export was blocked by catalase and by MK571, an inhibitor of the multidrug resistance protein 1. The effects of DA on the extracellular accumulations of GSH and GSSG were not modulated by inhibitors of DA receptors, DA transport, and monoamine oxidases. The other catecholamines adrenalineandnoradrenaline showed similar effects on the accumulation of GSH and GSSG in the medium compared with those obtained for DA. In conclusion, the data presented demonstrate that DA affects astroglial GSH metabolism by two mechanisms: (i) directly by chemical reaction with extracellular GSH, and (ii) indirectly by generation of hydrogen peroxide that leads to the efflux of GSSG from astroglial cells. These observations are discussed in the context of the brain's GSH metabolism in Parkinson's disease.
Heterologous sensitization of adenylate cyclase is protein kinase A‐dependent in Cath.a differentiated (CAD)‐D2L cells
Authors: Johnston Christopher A. , Beazely Michael A. , Vancura Amanda F. , Wang James K. T. , Watts Val J.
Published: March 2003

Persistent activation of Gαi/o‐coupled receptors results in a paradoxical enhancement of subsequent drug‐stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. The exact mechanism of this up‐regulation in the cyclic AMP signaling pathway, known as heterologous sensitization, remains undefined. The present study was designed to investigate the involvement of cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase in D2L receptor–mediated sensitization in a neuronal cellular environment. The current studies were conducted in the Cath.a differentiated (CAD) cell line transfected stably with the D2L dopamine receptor (CAD‐D2L). Long‐term 18 h treatment with the D2 receptor agonist, quinpirole, resulted in a two‐fold enhancement of forskolin‐stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation. Similarly, long‐term treatment with the PKA inhibitors, H89 or Rp‐8Br‐cAMP, also enhanced adenylate cyclase activity. In contrast, long‐term activation of protein kinase A (PKA) by forskolin, isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX), or dibutyryl cyclic AMP caused a significant reduction in subsequent forskolin‐stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation and reduced both quinpirole‐ and H89‐induced heterologous sensitization. The effects of PKA inhibitors and activators did not involve changes in PKA subunit expression. RT‐PCR analysis of adenylate cyclase isoform expression patterns revealed the expression of mRNA for ACVI and ACIX in CAD‐D2L cells. The ability of ACVI to be negatively regulated by PKA is consistent with the observation that inhibition of PKA results in heterologous sensitization of adenylate cyclase activity in CAD‐D2L cells.
Analysis of human neuropeptide FF gene expression
Authors: Nystedt Johanna M. , Brandt Annika M. , Mandelin Jami , Vilim Ferdinand S. , Ziff Edward B. , Panula Pertti
Published: March 2003

As an initial step to study the function of the gene encoding the human neuropeptide FF (NPFF), we cloned a 4.7‐kb sequence from the promoter region. Primer extension and 5′‐rapid amplification of cDNA ends revealed multiple transcription initiation sites. Northern blot analysis of the mRNA expression revealed a specific signal only in poly(A) + RNA from medulla and spinal cord. Chimeric luciferase reporter gene constructs were transiently transfected in A549, U‐251 MG, SK‐N‐SH, SK‐N‐AS and PC12 cells. The promoter activity was directly comparable with the level of endogenous NPFF mRNA as determined by real‐time quantitative RT–PCR. The highest promoter activity was measured when a region from − 552 to − 830 bp of the 5′‐flanking region was fused to the constructs, and a potential silencer element waslocalized between nucleotides −220 and −551. A twofold increase in NPFF mRNA was observed after 72 h of nerve growth factor stimulation of PC12 cells and the region between − 61 and − 214 bp of the 5′‐flanking region was found to be responsive to this stimulation. We postulate that control of human NPFF gene expression is the result of both positive and negative regulatory elements and the use of multiple transcription initiation sites.
Functional characterization of alternatively spliced 5‐HT2 receptor isoforms from the pharynx and muscle of the parasitic nematode, Ascaris suum
Authors: Huang Xinyan , Xiao Hong , Rex Elizabeth B. , Hobson Robert J. , Messer William S. , Komuniecki Patricia R. , Komuniecki Richard W.
Published: March 2003

Serotonin (5‐HT) receptors play key regulatory roles in nematodes and alternatively spliced 5‐HT2 receptor isoforms have been identified in the parasitic nematode, Ascaris suum. 5‐HT2As1 and 5‐HT2As2 contain different C‐termini, and 5‐HT2As1Δ4 lacks 42 amino acids at the C‐terminus of the third intracellular loop. 5‐HT2As1 and 5‐HT2As2 exhibited identical pharmacological profiles when stably expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells. Both 5‐HT2As isoforms had higher affinity for 5‐HT than their closely related Caenorhabditis elegans homolog (5‐HT2Ce). This increased 5‐HT affinity was not related to the substitution in 5‐HT2As1 of F120 for Y in the highly conserved DRY motif found in the second intracellular loop of other 5‐HT receptors, since a 5‐HT2As1F120Y mutant actually exhibited increased 5‐HT affinity compared with that of 5‐HT2As1. As predicted, cells expressing either 5‐HT2As1 or 5‐HT2As2 exhibited a 5‐HT‐dependent increase in phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover. In contrast, although 5‐HT2As1Δ4 displayed a 10‐fold higher affinity for 5‐HT and 5‐HT agonists than either 5‐HT2As1 or 5‐HT2As2, 5‐HT2As1Δ4 did not couple to either PI turnover or adenyl cyclase activity. Based on RT–PCR, 5‐HT2As1 and 5‐HT2As2 were more highly expressed in pharynx and body wall muscle and 5‐HT2As1Δ4 in nerve cord/hypodermis. This is the first report of different alternatively spliced 5‐HT2 receptor isoforms from any system.
Regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase by stress‐activated protein kinases
Authors: Toska Karen , Kleppe Rune , Armstrong Christopher G. , Morrice Nick A. , Cohen Philip , Haavik Jan
Published: March 2003

Recombinant human tyrosine hydroxylase (hTH1) was found to be phosphorylated by mitogen and stress‐activated protein kinase 1 (MSK1) at Ser40 and by p38 regulated/activated kinase (PRAK) on Ser19. Phosphorylation by MSK1 induced an increase in Vmax and a decrease in Km for 6‐(R)‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), while these kinetic parameters were unaffected as a result of phosphorylation by PRAK. Phosphorylation of both Ser40 and Ser19 induced a high‐affinity binding of 14‐3‐3 proteins, but only the interaction of 14‐3‐3 with Ser19 increased the hTH1 activity. The 14‐3‐3 proteins also inhibited the rate of dephosphorylation of Ser19 and Ser40 by 82 and 36%, respectively. The phosphorylation of hTH1 on Ser19 caused a threefold increase in the rate of phosphorylation of Ser40. These studies provide new insights into the possible roles of stress‐activated protein kinases in the regulation of catecholamine biosynthesis.
Different roles for Gi and Go proteins in modulation of adenylyl cyclase type‐2 activity
Authors: Näsman Johnny , Kukkonen Jyrki P. , Holmqvist Tomas , Åkerman Karl E. O.
Published: March 2003

The effect of Gi/o protein‐coupled receptors on adenylyl cyclase type 2 (AC2) has been studied in Sf9 insect cells. Stimulation of cells expressing AC2 with the phorbol ester 12‐O‐tetradecanoyl phorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) led to a twofold stimulation of cAMP synthesis that could be blocked with the protein kinase C inhibitor GF109203X. Activation of a coexpressed α2A‐adrenoceptor or muscarinic M4 receptor inhibited the stimulation by TPA almost completely in a pertussis toxin‐sensitive manner. Activation of Gs proteins switched the response of the α2A‐adrenoceptor to potentiation of prestimulated AC2 activity. The potentiation, but not the inhibition, could be blocked by a Gβγ scavenger. A novel methodological approach, whereby signalling through endogenous G proteins was ablated, was used to assess specific G protein species in the signal pathway. Expression of Go proteins (αo1 + β1γ2) restored both the inhibition and the potentiation, whereas expression of Gi proteins (αi1 + β1γ2) resulted in a potentiation of both the TPA‐ and the Gs‐stimulated AC2 activity. The data presented supports the view of AC2 as a molecular switch and implicates this isoform as a target for Go protein‐linked signalling.
Functional expression of the norepinephrine transporter in cultured rat astrocytes
Authors: Inazu Masato , Takeda Hiroshi , Matsumiya Teruhiko
Published: March 2003

We assessed the functional expression of the norepinephrine (NE) transporter (NET) in cultured rat cortical astrocytes. Specific [3H]NE uptake increased in a time‐dependent manner, and this uptake involves temperature‐ and Na+‐sensitive mechanisms. The Na+‐dependent [3H]NE uptake was saturable, and the Km for the process was 539.3 ± 55.4 nm and the Vmax was 1.41 ± 0.03 pmol/mg protein/min. Ouabain, a Na+‐K+ ATPase inhibitor, significantly inhibited Na+‐dependent [3H]NE uptake. The selective NE uptake inhibitor nisoxetine, the tricyclic antidepressants desipramine and imipramine, and the serotonin and NE reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) milnacipran very potently inhibited Na+‐dependent [3H]NE uptake. On the other hand, GBR‐12935 (a selective dopamine uptake inhibitor), fluvoxamine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), venlafaxine (a SNRI) and cocaine had weaker inhibitory activities. RT‐PCR demonstrated that astrocytes expressed mRNA for the cloned NET protein, which was characterized as neuronal NET. Western blots indicated that anti‐NET polyclonal antibody recognized a major band of 80 kDa in astrocytes. These data indicate that the neuronal NET is functionally expressed in cultured rat astrocytes. Glial cells may exert significant control of noradrenergic activity by inactivating NE that escapes neuronal re‐uptake in sites distant from terminals, and are thus cellular targets for antidepressant drugs that inhibit NE uptake.
Mouse brain gene expression changes after acute and chronic amphetamine
Authors: Sokolov Boris P. , Polesskaya Oxana O. , Uhl George R.
Published: March 2003

Gene expression changes are candidate mechanisms to contribute to long‐term consequences of psychostimulant use. We use microarrays to examine the expression of 6340 genes in brains of mice killed 5 or 20 h following 14 day, twice‐daily treatments with saline (SS), saline followed by a single 7.5 mg/kg amphetamine dose (SA), or repeated 7.5 mg/kg amphetamine doses (AA) that produce sensitization but no clear‐cut neuronal toxicities. Arrays display robust hybridization for about 3600 transcripts. One hundred and seventeen of these expressed transcripts are candidate positives for drug‐related changes, displaying > 1.8‐fold differences from SS control values in whole brains of either SA or AA mice. Five transcripts reveal altered expression in both AA and SA mice. SA mostly enhances expression while AA treatments largely reduce expression. Fourteen SA and four AA changes in whole brain mRNA were replicated by > 1.8‐fold changes in independent microarray assessments of either cerebral cortical or brainstem mRNAs, with more changes identified in frontal than in entorhinal/parietal cortical samples. About one‐quarter of these changes persist in initial studies of mice killed 20 h after the last amphetamine injection. Each of these genes, including transcription factor, cellular regulatory, structural and other gene family members, are candidates to contribute to brain adaptations to psychostimulants.
The ‘glial’ glutamate transporter, EAAT2 (Glt‐1) accounts for high affinity glutamate uptake into adult rodent nerve endings
Authors: Suchak Sachin K. , Baloyianni Nicoletta V. , Perkinton Michael S. , Williams Robert J. , Meldrum Brian S. , Rattray Marcus
Published: March 2003

The excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT) removes neurotransmitters glutamate and aspartate from the synaptic cleft. Most CNS glutamate uptake is mediated by EAAT2 into glia, though nerve terminals show evidence for uptake, through an unknown transporter. Reverse‐transcriptase PCR identified the expression of EAAT1, EAAT2, EAAT3 and EAAT4 mRNAs in primary cultures of mouse cortical or striatal neurones. We have used synaptosomes and glial plasmalemmal vesicles (GPV) from adult mouse and rat CNS to identify the nerve terminal transporter. Western blotting showed detectable levels of the transporters EAAT1 (GLAST) and EAAT2 (Glt‐1) in both synaptosomes and GPVs. Uptake of [3H]D‐aspartate or [3H]L‐glutamate into these preparations revealed sodium‐dependent uptake in GPV and synaptosomes which was inhibited by a range of EAAT blockers: dihydrokainate, serine‐o‐sulfate, l‐trans‐2,4‐pyrrolidine dicarboxylate (PDC) (+/–)‐threo‐3‐methylglutamate and (2S,4R )‐4‐methylglutamate. The IC50 values found for these compounds suggested functional expression of the ‘glial, transporter, EAAT2 in nerve terminals. Additionally blockade of the majority EAAT2 uptake sites with 100 µm dihydrokainate, failed to unmask any functional non‐EAAT2 uptake sites. The data presented in this study indicate that EAAT2 is the predominant nerve terminal glutamate transporter in the adult rodent CNS.
Mechanisms by which 2′,3′‐dideoxyinosine (ddI) crosses the guinea‐pig CNS barriers; relevance to HIV therapy
Authors: Gibbs J. E. , Jayabalan P. , Thomas S. A.
Published: March 2003

The influence of transport mechanisms at the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood–CSF barrier (choroid plexus) on the CNS distribution of anti‐human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drugs was examined using guinea‐pig brain perfusion and incubated choroid plexus models. 2′,3′‐dideoxyinosine (ddI) passage across the BBB was demonstrated to be via non‐saturable (Kd = 0.22 ± 0.3 µL/min/g) and saturable (Km = 20.1 ± 15.0 μm, Vmax = 6.5 ± 2.1 pmol/min/g) processes. Cross competition studies implicated an equilibrative nucleoside transporter in this influx. The brain distribution of ddI was unchanged in the presence of additional nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). ddI transport from blood into choroid plexus was demonstrated to involve an organic anion transporting polypeptide 2‐like transporter. The NRTIs, abacavir, 3′‐azido 3′‐deoxythymidine and (–)‐β‐l‐2′,3′‐dideoxy‐3′‐thiacytidine, competed with ddI for transporter binding sites at the choroid plexus, altering the tissue concentration of ddI. This has clinical implications as the choroid plexus is a site of HIV replication, and suboptimal CNS concentrations of anti‐HIV drugs could result in neurological complications. Furthermore, this may promote the selection of drug resistant variants of HIV within the CNS, which could re‐infect the periphery and lead to HIV therapy failure. This study indicates that understanding drug interactions at the transporter level could prove valuable when selecting drug combinations to treat HIV within the CNS.
Blood–brain barrier transport of a novel µ1‐specific opioid peptide, H‐Tyr‐d‐Arg‐Phe‐β‐Ala‐OH (TAPA)
Authors: Deguchi Yoshiharu , Miyakawa Yusaku , Sakurada Shinobu , Naito Yu , Morimoto Kazuhiro , Ohtsuki Sumio , Hosoya Ken‐ichi , Terasaki Tetsuya
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to clarify the mechanism of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) transport of H‐Tyr‐d‐Arg‐Phe‐β‐Ala‐OH (TAPA), which is a novel dermorphin analog with high affinity for the µ1‐opioid receptor. The in vivo BBB permeation influx rate of [125I]TAPA after an i.v. bolus injection (7.3 pmol/g body weight) into mice was estimated to be 0.265 ± 0.025µL/(min · g of brain). The influx rate of [125I]TAPA was reduced 70% by the coadministration of unlabeled TAPA (33 nmol/g of brain), suggesting the existence of a specific transport system for TAPA at the BBB. In order to elucidate the BBB transport mechanism of TAPA, a conditionally immortalized mouse brain capillary endothelial cell line (TM‐BBB4) was used as an in vitro model of the BBB. The acid‐resistant binding of [125I]TAPA, which represents the internalization of the peptide into cells, was temperature‐ and concentration‐dependent with a half‐saturation constant of 10.0 ± 1.7 µm. The acid‐resistant binding of TAPA was significantly inhibited by 2,4‐dinitrophenol, dansylcadaverine (an endocytosis inhibitor) and poly‐l‐lysine and protamine (polycations). These results suggest that TAPA is transported through the BBB by adsorptive‐mediated endocytosis, which is triggered by binding of the peptide to negatively charged sites on the surface of brain capillary endothelial cells. Blood–brain barrier transport via adsorptive‐mediated endocytosis plays a key role in the expression of the potent opioid activity of TAPA in the CNS.
How patients with dementia spend their time in a psycho‐geriatric unit
Authors: Norbergh Karl‐Gustaf , Asplund Kenneth , Rassmussen Birgit Holritz , Nordahl Gunnar , Sandman Per‐Olof
Published: March 2003

How patients with dementia spend their time in a psycho‐geriatric unit

This paper presents the findings of a work sampling study conducted at an assessment unit for patients with dementia at a university hospital in Northern Sweden. The aim of the study was to describe the activity of the demented patients’ day at a psycho‐geriatric unit, and to investigate the correlation between the patients’ characteristics and time provided by nursing staff, in order to increase our knowledge of institutionalized demented patients situation. The sample consisted of 24 patients with dementia. The activities of patients were monitored at 10‐min interval between 7.00 a.m. and 9.10 p.m. In total, 2024 activities were recorded. The findings showed that being demented and placed in a psycho‐geriatric unit is a life in solitude for most of the time. The variation in time patients spent in solitude could partly be explained by their communication abilities. For patients with dementia, communion is essential for their well‐being. In order to develop their well‐being, it seems important to enhance our knowledge about the reasons, that influence the nursing staffs’ perceptions of patients with dementia, to decrease their time in solitude.
A place of ones' own. The meaning of lived experience as narrated by an elderly woman with severe chronic heart failure. A case‐study
Authors: Ekman Inger , Skott Carola , Norberg Astrid
Published: March 2003

The condition of chronic heart failure often means an increasing need of institutional care caused by the severity of symptoms as fatigue and breathlessness. In this case‐study, two interviews with an elderly woman were made at a 1‐yr interval. A phenomenological hermeneutic method was used to interpret the interviews. The first narrative, recorded in the subject's home, showed a feeling of being at home in the body, in the room and with health care. In the second narrative, when the informant lived in a nursing home, a feeling of having no at‐homeness, neither in the body, the room nor in the relation to the caregivers, was expressed. To deny a patient this place, or to promote a system that does not permit room for patients as whole persons, threatens patients' as well as caregivers' identity by conveying that there is no place for reflection upon the experience of illness.
Disability after a stroke and the influence of long‐term pain on everyday life
Authors: Widar Marita , Ahlström Gerd
Published: March 2003

Disability after a stroke and the influence of long‐term pain on everyday life

Pain after a stroke is a symptom often forgotten, unnoticed although it is reported to be a great problem in care. The aim of this study was to describe disability after a stroke and how long‐term pain influences everyday life according to the Multidimensional Pain Inventory – Swedish language version (MPI‐S) and to test the reliability of this instrument. Forty‐three persons were investigated 2 years after the stroke incident: 15 with central post‐stroke pain (CPSP), 18 with nociceptive pain mainly in the shoulder and 10 with tension‐type headache. Data collection was performed through the MPI‐S and a questionnaire regarding assistive devices, also structured interviews based on the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) staircase and the Self‐report impairment questionnaire. The results show that the persons suffered moderate to severe pain. Almost half were dependent in ADL. The most often reported impairments and use of assistive devices concerned mobility and/or motion. This was most frequent in persons with nociceptive pain. There were significant differences in persons with central pain and nociceptive pain compared with tension‐type headache with regard to mobility‐ and/or motion‐related activities. No statistical differences emerged between age, gender, different types of pain and the MPI‐S scales, nor any significant differences in degree of pain as between different types of pain according to the Self‐report impairment questionnaire. The reliability analysis of the MPI‐S shows good homogeneity in all scales except Interference, Life Control and Affective Distress. This is the first study with MPI‐S on mainly older persons and on stroke patients, thus further research is needed on this instrument as well as on which specific activities evoke the pain. This is in order to offer adequate treatment, care and support to persons with pain after a stroke.
Cancer and faith. Having faith – does it make a difference among patients and their informal carers?
Authors: Soothill K. , Morris S. M. , Harman J. C. , Thomas C. , Francis B. , McIllmurray M. B.
Published: March 2003

Cancer and faith. Having faith – does it make a difference among patients and their informal carers?

This research considers the impact of having a religious faith on the cancer experience of patients and informal carers, focusing primarily on the association between faith and psychosocial needs. A questionnaire survey of 1000 patients in the north‐west of England returned 402 completed questionnaires; around two‐thirds of patients indicated they had an informal carer. Using logistic regression analysis, we examine the relationship between the importance of 48 needs and faith for 189 paired patients and carers, while controlling for the effect of eight socio‐demographic and clinical variables. Patients with expressed faith identified fewer psychosocial needs than those without faith. In contrast, carers with expressed faith identified more needs than those without faith in relation to support from family and neighbours. Carers also needed more help with finding a sense of purpose and meaning, and help in dealing with unpredictability. Not surprisingly, both patients and carers with faith identified a greater need for opportunities for personal prayer, support from people of their own faith and support from a spiritual adviser. Various explanations of these differences between patients and carers are proposed. The crucial point is that one should not too readily assume that the cancer experience is shared in the same way by patients and carers. In understanding the faith dimension, one needs to consider both the spiritual and secular aspects of having a religious faith.
Health care and social welfare costs in home‐based and hospital‐based rehabilitation after stroke
Authors: Andersson Agneta , Levin Lars‐Åke , Öberg Birgitta , Månsson Linda
Published: March 2003

During the 1990s most western European and Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries experienced financial difficulties and were forced to cut back on or restrain health care expenditures. Home rehabilitation has received attention in recent years because of its potential for cost containment. Often forgotten, however, is the redistribution of costs from one caregiver to another. The aim of this study was to analyse whether a redistribution of costs occurs between health care providers (the County councils) and social welfare providers (the municipalities) in a comparison of home‐based rehabilitation and hospital‐based rehabilitation after stroke. The study population included 123 patients, 53 in the home‐based rehabilitation group and 68 in the hospital‐based rehabilitation group. The patients were followed up at 6 and 12 months after onset of stroke. Resource use over a 12‐month period included acute hospital care, in‐hospital rehabilitation, home rehabilitation and use of home‐help service as well as nursing home living. The hospital‐based rehabilitation group had significantly fewer hospitalization days after a decision was made about rehabilitation at the acute care ward and consequently the cost for the acute care period was significantly lower. The cost for the rehabilitation period was significantly lower in the home‐based rehabilitation group. However, the cost for home help service was significantly higher in the home‐based rehabilitation group. The total costs for the care episode did not differ between the two groups. The main finding of this study is that there seems to occur a redistribution of costs between health care providers and social welfare providers in home rehabilitation after stroke in a group of patients with mixed degree of impairment.
Identification of microsatellite loci in apricot
Authors: Lopes M. S. , Sefc K. M. , Laimer M. , Da Câmara Machado A.
Published: March 2003

The sequences of 21 primer pairs of microsatellite loci screened from a genomic library of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) are reported in this study. All the identified microsatellite loci were characterized in a set of 25 apricot cultivars and revealed to be polymorphic with 3–12 alleles per locus. These markers showed to be more informative than isozymes and restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) reported in the literature.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the ground beetle Carabus nemoralis (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Brouat C. , Mondor‐Genson G. , Audiot P. , Sennedot F. , Lesobre L. , Rasplus J.‐Y.
Published: March 2003

We isolated and characterized 10 microsatellite loci in the ground beetle Carabus nemoralis (Coleoptera, Carabidae), an ubiquist species largely distributed in Europe. Polymorphism ranged from 3 to 12 alleles on the 30 individuals from the same locality examined.
Dinucleotide microsatellite loci isolated from flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.)
Authors: Cabe Paul R. , Liles J. Spencer
Published: March 2003

We report eight variable dinucleotide microsatellite loci cloned from flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.) using a biotin enrichment protocol. Degenerate oligonucleotide primer‐polymerase chain reaction (DOP‐PCR) was used to generate a population of DNA fragments, from which adenine‐cytosine dinucleotide (AC) and adenine‐guanine dinucleotide (AG) repeats were captured using biotinylated probes and streptavidin coated magnetic particles. The captured fragments were cloned into plasmids, and the plasmid library was screened for microsatellites using a simple PCR technique. Selected plasmids were sequenced, and PCR primers were designed and optimized using a thermal‐gradient thermocycler. The loci reported are highly variable with an average of 9.25 allele per locus and an average heterozygosity of 0.84.
Isolation and characterization of highly polymorphic microsatellite loci in Schreibers’ long‐fingered bat, Miniopterus schreibersii (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Miller‐Butterworth C. M. , Jacobs D. S. , Harley E. H.
Published: March 2003

Five polymorphic, dinucleotide microsatellite loci have been identified and characterized in Schreibers’ long‐fingered bat, Miniopterus schreibersii (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). These include three uninterrupted (CA)n repeats, ranging in length from (CA)17 to (CA)19, one interrupted repeat (CA)4(CG)2(CA)13, and one uninterrupted (GA)27 repeat. All loci were highly polymorphic, with 17–20 alleles identified per locus. Observed heterozygosity levels (0.66–0.82) are lower than expected due to homozygote excess, probably caused by pooling of populations, resulting in population substructuring. All five polymorphic loci were also successfully amplified in the closely related M. fraterculus. Two pairs of primers additionally amplified polymorphic microsatellites in Chaerophon sp.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci for paternity analysis in the Madagascar paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone mutata: Aves)
Authors: Adcock G. J. , Mulder R. A.
Published: March 2003

Nine polymorphic microsatellite loci from the Madagascar paradise flycatcher Terpsiphone mutata were isolated using nonradioactive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based techniques to screen an enriched genomic library. Seven polymorphic loci showed no evidence of null alleles and exhibited high levels of variation in 18 unrelated individuals (mean diversity = 0.80, mean number of alleles = 13.6). These loci are therefore suitable for analysis of population structure and paternity (exclusion probability for six unlinked loci = 0.9998).
Microsatellite markers in peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] derived from an enriched genomic and cDNA libraries
Authors: Yamamoto T. , Mochida K. , Imai T. , Shi Y. Z. , Ogiwara I. , Hayashi T.
Published: March 2003

Twenty‐four and 12 microsatellite loci were developed in peach [Prunus persica (L) Batsch cv. Akatsuki] by using an enriched genomic and fruit cDNA libraries, respectively. The microsatellite loci obtained from an enriched library produced 1–9 alleles per locus, 24 in total, of which 22 showed polymorphisms. The average values of observed and expected heterozygosities among the 24 loci were 0.15 and 0.68, respectively. The microsatellite loci derived from cDNA showed 1–7 alleles per locus. Eight sequences showed significant homology to the registered genes in a database.
False alleles derived from microbial DNA pose a potential source of error in microsatellite genotyping of DNA from faeces
Authors: Bradley B. J. , Vigilant L.
Published: March 2003

Microsatellite genotyping of wild animals using DNA extracted from noninvasive samples such as faeces is a powerful means to identify individuals within a population and examine aspects of genetic social structure, such as relatedness and paternity. However, the use of the low quantities of poor quality DNA typically obtained from noninvasive samples can result in genotyping errors. Here we report the first instance of artefactural ‘alleles’ resulting from specific co‐amplification of microorganismal DNA present in the total DNA derived from faeces.
Isolation of polymorphic microsatellite markers for the demersal fish Helicolenus dactylopterus (Dela Roche 1809)
Authors: Aboim M. A. , Rogers A. D. , Menezes G. M. , Maggioni R. , Pearson C. V. M.
Published: March 2003

Six microsatellite loci were identified for the demersal deep‐sea fish Helicolenus dactylopterus. All loci were highly polymorphic (5–21 alleles per locus). Observed heterozygosities were from 0.378 to 0.868, while the expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.529 to 0.925. Multiplex PCR reactions were optimized. Microsatellite markers were developed for analysis of genetic structure including identification of stocks and migration patterns. The resulting data will be used to help in the establishment of scientifically based fisheries management for this species. Departures from the expected Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were observed in three loci, and are likely to be a consequence of population structuring across the Azorean islands.
Are we still dying for a tan?
Authors: Ness Andrew R , Frankel Stephen J , Gunnell David J , Smith George Davey
Published: March 2003

Summary We suggest that the risks and benefits to individual and population health of different patterns of sunlight exposure are poorly characterised. Furthermore, we believe that the risks of excess exposure to sunlight in North European countries have been overstated and that the potential benefits of exposure to sunlight (particularly in moderation) have been largely ignored. We contend that a re‐appraisal of these risks and benefits is required to allow us to better formulate public health policy and to provide the public and individuals with appropriate advice.
A9. Excess hair: physical and pharmacological treatments
Authors: Kopera Daisy
Published: March 2003

The growth of unwanted hair can be aesthetically distressing and may psychologically affect both women and men. For centuries, numerous techniques have been employed for this indication.1 Modern medicine has developed effective physical and pharmacological methods for the removal of unwanted hair.

Laser technology and the principle of selective photothermolysis offers a new approach.2 Pigmented hair bulbs selectively absorb pulsed laser light of wavelenghts ranging from visible red light to low infrared. Light converts to heat and thermally damages the pigmented hair bulb without affecting the surrounding tissue. The follicular epithelium regenerates slowly and regrowth may occur. Nevertheless, the new hair will be thinner and softer. Depending on the anagen/telogen ratio of various body sites, two or more treatment sessions are required. Pharmacological hair reduction can be achieved by long‐term treatment with antiandrogens or may be based on blocking of the mitotic activity of the follicular epithelium. Eflornithine, in a 13.9% cream preparation thinly applied twice daily, blocks ornithine decarboxylase, an enzyme needed for the synthesis of polyamines, the main source of the hair shaft.3

Following an average of 2 treatment sessions with the diode laser, sufficient reduction of pigmented hair can be achieved for a mean period of 8 months. Applied topically, Eflornithine is able to reduce the growth of pigmented or unpigmented hair to an extent of at least 50% when applied over a longer period.

Compared with conventional mechanical, chemical, and other physical epilatory procedures, modern hair reduction – either laser assisted or pharmacologically‐based – represents highly effective treatment options for the reduction of unwanted hair growth.
A13. Dermocosmoceuticals after ablative and non‐ablative laser and IPL photorejuvenation
Authors: Rusciani Luigi , Rusciani Antonio
Published: March 2003

During recent years, requests for treatment of photoinduced damage such as wrinkles, atrophy, telangiectasia, dyschromia and enlarged pores have increased considerably.

In response to the increase in demand, various techniques have been developed that use light sources that are coherent (laser), or non‐coherent (IPL), or other techniques, such as radio frequencies. Demand is also increasing for treatments for slight blemishes using non‐invasive methods, with a post‐operative course that does not affect the patient's normal working and/or recreational activities.

We discuss the possibilities and limits that these procedures present.
A15. Simultaneous, sequential or strategically‐intervalled procedures in dermatological surgery
Authors: Vinciullo Carl
Published: March 2003

Achieving optimal therapeutic and cosmetic results in dermatological surgery often requires that procedures be carried out in a number of stages. The treatment of acne scarring is an excellent example of this strategic approach.1

Simultaneous procedures include, but are not restricted to, treatment of the following: (a) keloids, with surgical debulking and injection of intralesional steroids; (b) acne scars, with spot CO2 laser resurfacing and punch excision, floating or grafting; (c) acne scars, with autologous fat transplantation and full face CO2 laser resurfacing; (d) leg spider veins, with microsclerotherapy and vascular laser treatment; (e) wedge excision of lower lip tumours and CO2 laser vermillionectomy.2

Sequential procedures include, but are not restricted to, treatment of the following: (a) acne scarring, with punch excision, floating and grafting followed later by full face CO2 laser resurfacing; (b) congenital naevi (epidermal or melanocytic), with serial surgical excision or use of tissue expanders; (c) surgical scars and full thickness skin grafts followed later with CO2 laser resurfacing; (d) periorbital (‘crows’ feet’) wrinkling with CO2 laser resurfacing followed later with Botulinum toxin injection; (e) two stage interpolation flaps for reconstruction of complex defects following Mohs surgery.
Dermabrasion: state of the art 2002
Authors: Roenigk Henry H
Published: March 2003

Summary Dermabrasion is a resurfacing procedure that has been part of dermatology for almost 100 years. With the advent of laser resurfacing in the 1990s, the art of dermabrasion has temporarily been partially eclipsed. This review article covers the history of dermabrasion, (pre‐operative selection of patient equipment, the techniques and the post‐operative care of dermabrasion patients. Many clinical examples are illustrated. The combination of dermabrasion with other resurfacing techniques, such as laser (CO2 and Erbium) and chemical peels (trichloracetic acid (TCA)) are illustrated.
Dominance and huddling behaviour in Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata flocks
Authors: Calf Kathleen , Adams Nigel , Slotow Robert
Published: March 2003

Bronze Mannikins Lonchura cucullata form flocks of up to 30 birds at the end of the breeding season and huddle in communal nests during winter. Assuming there are thermoregulatory benefits associated with huddling for these small endotherms, particularly during winter, we predicted that dominant individuals in flocks would obtain the central locations within the huddles. We tested this prediction by determining the dominance hierarchies of six captive flocks of five individuals by examining interactions at a feeder. Mannikins were observed to huddle when cold‐stressed. Although mannikins do not naturally form linear huddles, for ease of observation we recorded the positions of individually marked birds in linear huddles at 5 °C before and after disturbances every half hour for 3 h. Captive flocks of mannikins established linear dominance hierarchies and dominant individuals obtained the central location within the huddle. The central position in the huddle may be beneficial in thermodynamically challenging environments through reduced energy expenditure.
Effects of food abundance and predictability on body condition and health parameters: experimental tests with the Hooded Crow
Authors: Acquarone Camilla , Cucco Marco , Cauli Shara Li , Malacarne Giorgio
Published: March 2003

It has been shown that small passerines can counteract variability of food resources by actively regulating their body reserves through an increase of mass. However, the effects of food predictability on body mass regulation and other body parameters, such as immune functions, in larger species have been little studied. To analyse the response of the Hooded Crow Corvus corone to food abundance and predictability, we performed three experiments with controlled food provisioning under laboratory conditions. Body mass, TOBEC (total body electrical conductivity) lean mass index, blood parameters and immune organ masses were measured at the beginning and end of a 15‐day period. In the first experiment, the food release was predictable (same amount each day) but the quantity of food delivered to five groups of birds varied (37, 75, 100, 150 or 300 g/day). Low food levels induced a greater decrease in mass accompanied by an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In the second experiment, the same average quantity of food (100 g) was supplied according to either predictable or unpredictable (random) schedules. In this case, the crows lost more mass, and their erythrocyte sedimentation rate increased when food was unpredictable. In the third experiment, the same average quantity of food (150 g) was supplied according to either a predictable schedule or two schedules with different levels of variability. The group with a low level of variability did not differ from the control, while the group with a highly variable feeding schedule lost more mass. In this group, the higher mass loss was associated with greater variation of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and a reduced Phytohaemagglutinin index of immunocompetence and haematocrit value. The results of experiments 2 and 3 contrast with findings in other passerines, which increase their mass when food availability is unpredictable. It appears that a body mass decrease in the Hooded Crow can be induced by a reduction of either food abundance (exp. 1) or food predictability (exp. 2, 3), and it is accompanied by a worsening of health state.
Lack of sperm production and sperm storage by arctic‐nesting shorebirds during spring migration
Authors: Rivers James W. , Briskie James V.
Published: March 2003

Birds nesting at high latitudes may copulate during migration to arrive on the nesting grounds ready to breed. We surveyed 12 species of shorebirds during spring migration to determine whether (1) males produced abundant sperm and (2) females harboured functional sperm storage tubules (SSTs). Sperm production by males on migration was rare. Only four of seven species (9.8% of 41 males) of long‐distance migrants harboured sperm, whereas all four species (100% of eight males) of short‐distance migrants held sperm. In females, no long‐distance migrants held sperm in their SSTs (n = 28 females) and SSTs were small compared to long‐distance migrants collected on their breeding grounds. Our results indicate that shorebirds nesting at high latitudes were generally not reproductively active during migration and that any sexual behaviour on migration is unlikely to lead directly to fertilizations.
Nest location, clutch size and nest success in the Scarlet Ibis Eudocimus ruber
Authors: Olmos Fábio
Published: March 2003

Breeding success and nest‐site characteristics were studied during the 1996–1997 breeding season in a colony of Scarlet Ibises Eudocimus ruber in south‐eastern Brazil to test the hypothesis that nest‐site characteristics and clutch size affect nest success. Two nesting pulses produced young, the earlier being more successful. Predation accounted for most failures during the first pulse, wind destruction during the second. A third pulse with few nests produced no young. Adult Ibises abandoned nests when they lost sight of other incubating birds. Logistic regression analysis indicated that nest success during the first pulse was positively related to clutch size, number of nests in the nest tree and in the nearest tree, and negatively to the distance to the nearest neighbour. During the second pulse there were significant negative associations between success, nest height and distance to the fourth nearest nest, and a positive association between success and nest cover. The results agree with the ‘selfish herd’ hypothesis, indicating that nest aggregation may increase breeding success, but the nest‐site characteristics affecting success can differ over the course of one breeding season.
Ocular blood flow tonometer reproducibility: the effect of operator experience and mode of application
Authors: Morgan Andrew , Hosking Sarah
Published: March 2003

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the effect of learning and the reproducibility of measurements varied between the two methods of application (hand‐held or slit‐lamp mounted) of the ocular blood flow (OBF) tonometer.

Method: Five consecutive measurements by each method were taken at one examination session on one eye of 35 healthy adults (mean age 36.6 years and range 17–84 years). The subjects were seated for all measures and the sequence of tonometer method was randomised between subjects.

Results: A new operator does exhibit a significant learning effect and this learning effect is of a greater magnitude for the hand‐held technique. No significant difference was found between methods for pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF), IOP, pulse amplitude and heart rate. Both methods of application had a high coefficient of reliability for POBF: 0.91 for slit‐lamp and 0.89 for hand‐held.

Conclusions: We conclude that results from both methods of OBF tonometer application are reliable and either method can be used for clinical and research studies. However it is important that new operators gain sufficient experience with the OBF tonometer to avoid initial operator‐induced variability.
High order wave aberration of eyes
Authors: Howland Howard C.
Published: March 2003

Abstract This paper is concerned with the means and distribution of the wavefront variances and their root mean squares (RMS) of normal eyes, as measured by various techniques and computed for various pupil sizes. Using data from a subjective crossed cylinder aberroscope [Howland and Howland J. Opt. Soc. Am. A 67(1977)1508] it was found that the logarithms of the wavefront variances are approximately normally distributed. A comparison of data from this subjective study with that of six other studies using a variety of techniques of wavefront measurement showed that the relationship between RMS wavefront deviations of high order aberrations (third order polynomial terms and above) obeyed the relationship: log (RMS) (μm) = −1.918 ± 0.048 SE + 3.023 ± 0.111 × log (pupil radius) (mm), with R2 = 0.971.
The effects of wearing corrective lenses for presbyopia on distance vision
Authors: McGarry Mona B. , Manning Terri M.
Published: March 2003

The possibility of patient behaviour concerning the wearing of reading spectacles influencing the magnitude and rate of change in distance vision has been hypothesised but not fully examined. This study examined the changes in distance vision over time of 674 presbyopic patients between the ages of 44 and 69 who came to their eye professional needing reading spectacles. Prior to this study, these patients had never worn spectacles. The majority of patients opted for full‐eye (complete) reading spectacles and 150 patients selected bifocals. It was found that patients wearing complete reading spectacles eventually adapted to wearing their reading spectacles for intermediate or distance work. Through X2, it was found that there were significant differences in the reduction of distance visual acuity between groups based on the amount of time spent wearing reading spectacles for intermediate or distance work. The greater the number of hours spent wearing reading spectacles and viewing beyond their focal point, the greater the change in distance visual acuity. It also appeared to affect the degree of change in their prescription. Age was not significantly related.
Feverfew: A Practical Review
Authors: Abourjaily Paul
Published: March 2003

Abstract Feverfew is an herb that has been used for centuries for the self‐treatment of intermittent fevers and more recently has gained widespread use for various other conditions, including prophylaxis of migraine headaches, relief of pain and inflammation from arthritis, and treatment of psoriasis. The mechanism of action of feverfew is not clear but may involve inhibition of prostaglandins, effects on platelet activity, inhibition of vascular smooth muscle contraction, or blockade of histamine release from mast cells. Current evidence suggests that the active agent in feverfew is parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone. Other data suggest that the essential oil, chrysanthenyl acetate, may also play an active role. Four double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized studies examining the effects of feverfew on migraine headaches and rheumatoid arthritis in human subjects have been published. Clinical experience suggests that feverfew may be a useful and well‐tolerated agent for the prophylaxis of migraine headaches, but further research is required before general recommendations for its safety and efficacy can be made.