bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral sensitization to amphetamine is not accompanied by changes in glutamate receptor surface expression in the rat nucleus accumbens
Authors: Nelson Christopher L. , Milovanovic Michael , Wetter Joseph B. , Ford Kerstin A. , Wolf Marina E.
Published: January 2009

We examined whether behavioral sensitization to amphetamine is associated with redistribution of glutamate receptors (GluR) in the rat nucleus accumbens (NAc) or dorsolateral striatum (DLSTR). Following repeated amphetamine treatment and 21 days of withdrawal, surface and intracellular levels of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methylisoxazole‐4‐propionate (AMPA) or NMDA receptor subunits were determined using a protein cross‐linking assay. In contrast to our previous results in cocaine‐sensitized rats, we did not observe redistribution of GluR1 or GluR2 to the cell surface in the NAc after amphetamine withdrawal, although a small increase in total GluR1 was found in the shell subregion. Nor did we observe activation of signaling pathways associated with cocaine‐induced AMPA receptor trafficking or changes in NMDA receptor subunits. No significant changes were observed in the DLSTR. We also investigated the effect of administering a challenge injection of amphetamine to amphetamine‐sensitized rats 24 h prior to biochemical analysis based on prior studies showing that cocaine challenge decreases AMPA receptor surface expression in the NAc of cocaine‐sensitized rats. GluR1 and GluR2 were not significantly altered in either NAc or DLSTR, although a modest effect on GluR3 cannot be ruled out. Our results suggest that glutamate transmission in the NAc is dramatically different in rats sensitized to amphetamine versus cocaine.
The Identification of a Hidden Long‐Term Plastic Damage Stage During Splitting Tensile Loading of Concrete: A Fracture Mechanics Approach
Authors: Pandermarakis Z. G. , Sotiropoulou A. B.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  A new method for the determination of fracture toughness KIC, fracture energy GF and critical crack tip opening displacement CTODc of mortars and concretes with maximum size of aggregates up to 8 mm is presented. This was achieved by using a suitable modification of the conventional splitting tensile test. The values that were obtained are in accordance with those of other researchers. On the basis a clear‐cut fracture mechanics analysis, we extract a set of equations that correlates the above quantities with the crack rate. Specific plastic damage stages that accompany the crack growth were thus easily identified. A pre‐peak damage process of a characteristic bandwidth of 0.1–1 μm and length from a few micrometres to a few millimetres appears first. Damage process of this kind can be diffused and dispersed in bulk of the loading component or it can also be localised and formed into an active attractor cracking path through its chain accumulation. Then another damage stage, coming directly through the formation of the well‐known fracture process zone near the crack tip of 10 μm in bandwidth and a few tens of millimetres in length, must be added. Finally, a large‐scale stage involving the influences of composition and texture of stressed components as well as their loading and geometry conditions must be superimposed on the first two. This third damage process comes directly through the reordering and redistribution of the aforementioned features, during the evolution of fracture, giving an effective length that varies from few tens of millimetres to some metres. All these effective lengths could easily be extracted from the calculated concrete fracture quantities.
The Effects of Electrode Force on the Mechanical Behaviour of Resistance Spot‐Welded 5083‐O Aluminium Alloy Joints
Authors: Hassanifard S. , Zehsaz M. , Tohgo K.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  In this study, the effects of electrode force on the static and fatigue strength of spot welded joints of 5083‐O aluminium alloy sheets were investigated. The thickness of the sheet joints was 1.5 mm. Tensile‐shear joints with one spot weld were considered and three different load levels for electrode force were selected as 2500 N, 3000 N and 3500 N while the welding time and electric current were fixed during resistance spot welding process. Also, micro‐structures and micro‐hardness of cross‐sectional area of the test samples were investigated. The results show that increasing the electrode force from 2500 N to 3000 N has no major impact on the nugget size and fatigue strength of the specimens, but increasing the electrode force from 3000 N to 3500 N, despite reducing in the diameter of the nuggets, increases the fatigue life of the joints significantly. The results also indicate that increasing the electrode force increases the life associated with the crack initiation phase of total fatigue lifetime.
Can We Identify Genes For Alcohol Consumption In Samples Ascertained For Heterogeneous Purposes?
Authors: Hansell Narelle K. , Agrawal Arpana , Whitfield John B. , Morley Katherine I. , Gordon Scott D. , Lind Penelope A. , Pergadia Michele L. , Montgomery Grant W. , Madden Pamela A. F. , Todd Richard D. , Heath Andrew C. , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Previous studies have identified evidence of genetic influence on alcohol use in samples selected to be informative for alcoholism research. However, there are a growing number of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) using samples unselected for alcohol consumption (i.e., selected on other traits and forms of psychopathology), which nevertheless assess consumption as a risk factor. Is it reasonable to expect that genes contributing to variation in alcohol consumption can be identified in such samples?

Methods:  An exploratory approach was taken to determine whether linkage analyses for heaviness of alcohol consumption, using a sample collected for heterogeneous purposes, could replicate previous findings. Quantity and frequency measures of consumption were collected in telephone interviews from community samples. These measures, and genotyping, were available for 5,441 individuals (5,067 quasi‐independent sibling pairs). For 1,533 of these individuals, data were collected on 2 occasions, about 8.2 years apart, providing 2 datasets that maximize data collected at either a younger or an older age. Analyses were conducted to address the question of whether age and heavier levels of alcohol consumption effects outcome. Linkage results were compared in the younger and older full samples, and with samples in which approximately 10, 20, and 40 of drinkers from the lower end of the distribution of alcohol consumption were dropped.

Results:  Linkage peaks varied for the age differentiated samples and for percentage of light drinkers retained. Larger peaks (LOD scores >2.0) were typically found in regions previously identified in linkage studies and/or containing proposed candidate genes for alcoholism including AGT, CARTPT, OPRD1, PIK3R1, and PDYN.

Conclusions:  The results suggest that GWAS assessing alcohol consumption as a covariate for other conditions will have some success in identifying genes contributing to consumption‐related variation. However, sample characteristics, such as participant age, and trait distribution, may have substantial effects on the strength of the genetic signal. These results can inform forthcoming GWAS where the same restrictions apply.
Equilibrium Unemployment, Job Flows, and Inflation Dynamics
Authors: TRIGARI ANTONELLA
Published: January 2009

In order to explain the joint fluctuations of output, inflation and the labor market, this paper develops and estimates a general equilibrium model that integrates a theory of equilibrium unemployment into a monetary model with nominal price rigidities. The estimated model accounts for the responses of employment, hours per worker, job creation, and job destruction to a monetary policy shock. Moreover, search frictions in the labor market generate a lower elasticity of marginal costs with respect to output. This helps to explain the sluggishness of inflation and the persistence of output that are observed in the data.
Institutions and Economic Performance: Endogeneity and Parameter Heterogeneity
Authors: EICHER THEO S. , LEUKERT ANDREAS
Published: January 2009

The hallmark of the recent development and growth literature is the quest to identify institutions that explain significant portions of the observed differences in living standards. There are two drawbacks to the prominent approaches that focus either on the global sample, or on developing nations. First, it is unclear whether the identified institutions also hold explanatory power in advanced countries. Second, it is unclear whether the identified institutions matter to the same degree across all countries, or whether perhaps an altogether different set of institutions matters in advanced countries. To address these issues, we examine parameter heterogeneity in prominent approaches to institutions and economic performance. We find that parameter heterogeneity is so strong that it requires a new set of instruments to control for endogeneity. At the same time, however, we confirm that a common set of economically important institutions does exist among advanced and developing nations. The impact of these institutions is shown to vary substantially across subsamples; they are about three times more important in developing countries than in OECD countries.
The International Dimension of Inflation: Evidence from Disaggregated Consumer Price Data
Authors: MONACELLI TOMMASO , SALA LUCA
Published: January 2009

We estimate the contribution of international common factors to the dynamics of price inflation rates of a cross‐section of 948 CPI products in four OECD countries: United States, Germany, France, and United Kingdom. We find two main results. First, on average, and at least in the sample 1991–2004, one international common factor explains between 15% and 30% of the variance of consumer prices (depending on the transformation applied to the data). Given the high level of disaggregation of our panel, this estimate is best viewed as a lower bound for the contribution of international factors to inflation dynamics. Second, we find a strongly positive and statistically significant relationship between exposure of consumer inflation to international shocks and trade openness at the sectoral level. The latter result holds regardless of whether the original data are expressed in local as opposed to common currency.
America in Shock
Authors: GARDELS NATHAN
Published: January 2009

America is in shock. It is not because of the unusual sight of the first black President taking up residence in the White House. Barack Obama's profile, after all, is more familiar to the diverse population of today's ethnically and racially hybrid America than the fast disappearing WASP identity of George Bush. Sooner or later, but always, politics codifies cultural change, not the other way around. America is in shock because our economic and financial landscape is suddenly unrecognizable.
G‐20 Should Supplant the G‐7
Authors: WOLFENSOHN JAMES
Published: January 2009

As British Prime Minister Gordon Brown notes in this section, we are witnessing the birth pangs of a new global order in this deepest financial and economic crash since the Great Depression. There will be plenty of pain all around for a while. And when the quarter‐century leveraged‐debt bubble of the United States—the explosion of which detonated the crash—is finally unwound, the new global balance will favor an Asia flush with cash. The G‐20 will replace the G‐7 as the executive committee of globalization. And, if wise leadership stays the course, there will be a “green lining” to the recovery as the fiscal stimulus is imbued with an environmental sensibility.
Obama and the Palestinians
Authors: RAMADAN TARIQ
Published: January 2009

America is more a creed than a nation. Our promise has always been that all individuals, despite race, religion or gender, have the equal chance to make it. The election of Barack Hussein Obama as president of the United States is thus a “soft power” coup for America's global image, which had lost its luster during the Bush years. Obama is the anti‐Bush who will lead by the power of example instead of the example of power. Yet, there are real limits. Can the power of example stop the North Korean or Iranian nuclear programs? Can it stop jihadists bent on establishing a new Caliphate across South Asia? Can it limit China's ambitions as the new power in Asia? In this section commentators from across the world offer their views.
Obama: The First Mestizo Leader North of the Border
Authors: FUENTES CARLOS
Published: January 2009

America is more a creed than a nation. Our promise has always been that all individuals, despite race, religion or gender, have the equal chance to make it. The election of Barack Hussein Obama as president of the United States is thus a “soft power” coup for America's global image, which had lost its luster during the Bush years. Obama is the anti‐Bush who will lead by the power of example instead of the example of power. Yet, there are real limits. Can the power of example stop the North Korean or Iranian nuclear programs? Can it stop jihadists bent on establishing a new Caliphate across South Asia? Can it limit China's ambitions as the new power in Asia? In this section commentators from across the world offer their views.
Formation of Trifluoroacetylated Ephedrine During the Analysis of a Pseudoephedrine‐Formaldehyde Adduct by TFAA Derivatization Followed by GC‐MS
Authors: Lim bin Abdullah Ahmad F. , Miskelly Gordon M.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  (+)‐Pseudoephedrine reacts with formaldehyde to form (4S,5S)‐3,4‐dimethyl‐5‐phenyloxazolidine. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis after the reaction of this oxazolidine with excess trifluoroacetic acid anhydride (TFAA) shows predominantly N,O‐bis(trifluoroacetyl)pseudoephedrine with some of the monotrifluoroacetylated derivative. In addition, variable amounts of N,O‐bis(trifluoroacetyl)ephedrine were detected by GC‐MS. N,O‐bis(trifluoroacetyl)ephedrine was not detected upon trifluoroacetylation of the source (+)‐pseudoephedrine, and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of the (4S,5S)‐3,4‐dimethyl‐5‐phenyloxazolidine showed no evidence of the (4R,5S) isomer. This suggests that the N,O‐bis(trifluoroacetyl)ephedrine is formed by epimerization during the TFAA derivatization and GC‐MS analysis of the pseudoephedrine‐formaldehyde adduct.
Effect of antimicrobial periodontal treatment and maintenance on serum adiponectin in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Matsumoto Sayaka , Ogawa Hiroshi , Soda Satoshi , Hirayama Satoshi , Amarasena Najith , Aizawa Yoshifusa , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: January 2009

Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of mechanical periodontal treatment with local application of minocycline (APT) on serum adiponectin as a marker of insulin resistance improvement in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and to investigate if effect of APT on serum adiponectin level was sustained by periodontal maintenance (PM).

Material and Methods: Twenty‐seven T2DM patients were randomly assigned into test or control groups. Test received scaling with ultrasonic devices at baseline and APT biweekly for 2 months while control received scaling at baseline and mechanical tooth cleaning (MPT) at the same interval. At 6 months, all patients received mechanical tooth cleaning as PM. Periodontal examination and blood measurements were performed at baseline, 4 and 9 months.

Results: Adiponectin concentrations in test had significantly increased by 31.4% after APT (p=0.024) and by 30.4% after PM (p=0.002) compared with baseline. The percentage of 4 mm probing depths (PD) had shown 8.3% and 9.3% reduction after APT and PM (p=0.046, 0.02) in test while 5.0% reduction after MPT in control group (p=0.031).

Conclusions: Our results suggested that APT and PM not only improve periodontal disease but also increase serum adiponectin in T2DM patients.
Epidemiology of periodontal diseases in the study of health in Pomerania
Authors: Holtfreter Birte , Schwahn Christian , Biffar Reiner , Kocher Thomas
Published: January 2009

Aim:The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and extent of periodontal diseases among adults in a province in Eastern Germany.

Material and Methods:The Study of Health in Pomerania is a population‐based study conducted during 1997–2001. The net random sample comprised 4310 20–81‐year‐old subjects. Periodontal status was assessed at four surfaces using a half‐mouth recording protocol.

Results:The prevalence of attachment loss 3 mm was 89.7%, with 62.8% of teeth being affected. Probing depths 4 mm were prevalent in 69.7% of subjects, and 29.6% of teeth were affected. 25.3% of all subjects had severe pockets (6 mm). Periodontitis was significantly more prevalent in males. For attachment loss, the prevalence and extent increased significantly with increasing age, whereas probing depth values levelled off after the age of 40. In older subjects, increased recession and attachment loss were found, while the probing depth remained constant. According to the recent CDC classification, 17.6% and 33.3% of persons had severe and moderate periodontitis, respectively. The prevalence of periodontitis increased significantly with age and remained constant after the age of 50–59.

Conclusions:Periodontitis is more prevalent in Pomerania than in the United States or Western Europe. In older subjects, attachment loss steadily increased, while the probing depth remained constant.
Sister chromatid exchange and micronucleus studies in patients with Behçet’s disease
Authors: Karaman Ali , Kadı Melek , Kara Fatih
Published: January 2009

Background:  Genetic factors that predispose individuals to Behçet’s disease (BD) are considered to play important roles in the development of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine, by counting sister chromatid exchange (SCE) and micronucleus (MN) frequencies, whether DNA damage have an effect on the pathogenesis of BD. Furthermore, our aim was to show if there is an association between oxidative stress and chromosome instability in BD.

Methods:  We analyzed lymphocytes from patients with BD (16 in active and 14 in inactive periods) and 20 healthy controls for SCE and MN frequencies. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) level, glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) count were determined in the all subjects.

Results:  The SCE and MN frequencies were significantly higher in both the active and inactive period patients than in the controls (p < 0.00001, p < 0.0001, p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively), and the MDA level was significantly higher in both the active and inactive period patients than in the controls (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). In contrast, the SOD and GSH‐Px levels were significantly lower in both the active and inactive period patients than in the controls (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that increased plasma MDA level and decreased plasma GSH‐Px and SOD levels reflect the increased levels of oxidative stress in BD patients, and this situation may impair genetic stability in BD patients.
CD10 expression in tumour and stromal cells of bladder carcinoma: an association with bilharziasis
Authors: ABDOU ASMAA GABER
Published: January 2009

CD10 is a cell surface zinc metalloprotease expressed in a variety of normal cell types, including lymphoid precursor cells, germinal centre B lymphocytes and some epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of CD10 in bladder carcinoma. The expression of CD10 was immunohistochemically assessed in 49 cases of primary bladder carcinoma in comparison with 10 non‐neoplastic normal bladder mucosa specimens. 27 cases (55%) were tumour CD10+ and tumour CD10 positivity was significantly correlated with advanced stage, larger tumor size, and shorter mean survival time. Extensive tumoral staining assessed by H score further documented the positive correlation of CD10 with worse prognostic factors in the whole group and its subdivisions (SCC and TCC), in addition to its significant association with bilharziasis in SCC. Only CD10‐tumour positivity in the whole group proved to be an independent prognostic factor for overall survival by multivariate analysis. No significant value of stromal CD10 expression in the investigated bladder carcinoma cases was found. This study points to the prognostic value of neoplastic CD10 expression in bladder carcinoma and its possible importance in facilitating tumour invasion and metastasis. Bilharziasis could have a role in upregulation of CD10 expression in SCC.
Endometrial stromal nodule embedded into term placenta
Authors: KARPF EVA F. , POETSCH BERNHARD , LANGNER CORD , NOGALES FRANCISCO F. , REGAUER SIGRID
Published: January 2009

A 28‐year‐old patient presented with a 5 cm endometrial stromal tumor situated at the uteroplacental interface, which was diagnosed ultrasonographically at the 28th week of pregnancy. The tumor was asymptomatic and closely attached to the decidua; after a normal term delivery, it was revealed to be embedded within the placenta. Microscopically, the neoplasm had a high mitotic rate and characteristic features of endometrial stromal tumor, such as CD10, progesterone receptor positivity, and an expansile linear, non‐infiltrative pushing border. There were also pregnancy‐related changes such as decidualization and myxoid change. In conclusion, the lesion was considered a benign endometrial stromal nodule with an unusual morphology and increased proliferation rate due to the hormonal stimuli of pregnancy.
Loss of growth factor receptor signaling in the oral mucosa during primary SIV infection may enhance apoptosis and promote pathogenesis
Authors: George M.D. , Verhoeven D. , Sankaran S. , Dang A.T. , Dandekar S.
Published: January 2009

Background  The development of susceptibility to secondary pathogenic infections in the oral cavity during HIV infection is likely to result from or coincide with deterioration of the local mucosal immune system.

Methods  We have utilized the SIV model to investigate the kinetics and magnitude of oral pathogenesis during systemic dissemination of intravenously inoculated SIVmac251.

Results  Viral replication was detected in oropharyngeal lymph nodes at 6 weeks post‐infection and shown to be coincident with a broad scale loss of growth factor receptor transcription in the oral mucosa, providing multiple avenues for blocking the normal activity of apoptosis inhibitors that function through Bcl2‐ and p53‐dependent pathways.

Conclusions  Our findings suggest that the normal balance between cell death and regeneration may be rapidly disrupted in the oral mucosa during the early stages of immunodeficiency virus infection, setting the stage for continuing deterioration of immune function and the development of susceptibility to secondary infections.
Kinetics of T lymphocyte apoptosis and the cellular immune response in SIVmac239‐infected rhesus macaques
Authors: Meythaler Mareike , Pryputniewicz Sarah , Kaur Amitinder
Published: January 2009

Background  Although increased apoptosis is a central feature of AIDS, little is known about its kinetics or relationship to the early host response in acute HIV/SIV infection.

Methods  Ex vivo apoptosis in freshly isolated peripheral blood and lymph node lymphocytes was monitored longitudinally in SIVmac239‐infected rhesus macaques by flow‐cytometric detection of active caspase‐3, cleaved poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase, and fragmented DNA.

Results  Increased apoptosis of multiple lymphocyte subsets was observed in the first 2 weeks following SIV infection. Apoptosis of CD4+ T lymphocytes was of low magnitude but peaked earlier than other T lymphocyte subsets. A 10‐ to 36‐fold increase in CD8+ T lymphocyte apoptosis coincided temporally with onset of the SIV‐specific cellular immune response and enrichment of caspase‐3‐positive cells within recently proliferating, activated CD8+ T lymphocytes.

Conclusions  The virus‐specific T lymphocyte response to primary infection and generalized non‐specific immune activation contribute to the pathogenesis of apoptosis in acute SIV infection.
Differential pathogenicity of SHIVSF162 P4 infection in pig‐tailed and rhesus macaques
Authors: Polacino Patricia , Larsen Kay , Galmin Lindsey , Suschak John , Kraft Zane , Stamatatos Leonidas , Anderson David , Barnett Susan W. , Pal Ranajit , Bost Kristen , Bandivdekar A.H. , Miller Christopher J. , Hu Shiu‐Lok
Published: January 2009

Background  Differential pathogenicity has been observed in cynomolgus and rhesus macaques following primate lentivirus infection. However, little is known about the comparative susceptibility of pig‐tailed macaques to lentivirus infection and diseases.

Methods  We compared the in vivo infectivity and pathogenicity of a CCR5‐tropic SHIVSF162 P4 after intravenous, intravaginal or intrarectal inoculation in rhesus and pig‐tailed macaques. Plasma viral load, peripheral blood CD4+ T cell counts and clinical signs were monitored.

Results  Both rhesus and pig‐tailed macaques are similarly susceptible to SHIVSF162 P4 infection by intravenous and mucosal routes. However, infection was significantly more robust in pig‐tailed macaques than in rhesus, resulting in persistent viremia in 9/21 pig‐tails vs. 2/24 rhesus (P < 0.013) and severe CD4+ T‐cell depletion in 2/21 pig‐tails (vs. none in rhesus).

Conclusions  Together with earlier observations, our findings underscore the importance of considering host genetic and immunological factors when comparing vaccine efficacy in different macaque species.
Flaws in the assessment of the best interests of the newborn
Authors: Bellieni Carlo V , Buonocore Giuseppe
Published: January 2009

We examined the literature on ethical decisions regarding neonates, to assess whether personal beliefs and prejudices influence end‐of‐life decisions taken by caregivers. Studies show that religion and familiarity with disability influence caregivers’ decisions, whereas the influx of already being a parent, age, sex and professional experience is controverse. Caregivers’ attitudes towards end‐of‐life decisions are also affected by personal concerns about litigation, prejudices and their view of disability. The concept of ‘poor quality of life’ is widely used as a reference in end‐of‐life decisions, but this can be interpreted differently, leaving room for a wide range of personal viewpoints. In most cases, parents’ opinions are considered important and are sometimes the main determinant in decision making. However, it is unclear whether parents’ decisions are based on their own wishes or on the best interests of the newborn.

Conclusion: In neonatal end‐of‐life decisions, patients may not receive cures based only on their best interests.
Association study between B‐ and T‐lymphocyte attenuator gene and type 1 diabetes mellitus or systemic lupus erythematosus in the Japanese population
Authors: Inuo M. , Ihara K. , Matsuo T. , Kohno H. , Hara T.
Published: January 2009

This study is to elucidate whether the B‐ and T‐lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) gene is a new susceptibility gene for the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). As a result, this study did not find any genetic contribution of the BTLA gene to the development of T1D and SLE in Japanese population.
Improvement of Multivariate Image Analysis Applied to Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) Analysis by Using Wavelet‐Principal Component Analysis Ranking Variable Selection and Least‐Squares Support Vector Machine Regression: QSAR Study of Checkpoint Kinase WEE1 Inhibitors
Authors: Cormanich Rodrigo A. , Goodarzi Mohammad , Freitas Matheus P.
Published: January 2009

Inhibition of tyrosine kinase enzyme WEE1 is an important step for the treatment of cancer. The bioactivities of a series of WEE1 inhibitors have been previously modeled through comparative molecular field analyses (CoMFA and CoMSIA), but a two‐dimensional image‐based quantitative structure–activity relationship approach has shown to be highly predictive for other compound classes. This method, called multivariate image analysis applied to quantitative structure–activity relationship, was applied here to derive quantitative structure–activity relationship models. Whilst the well‐known bilinear and multilinear partial least squares regressions (PLS and N‐PLS, respectively) correlated multivariate image analysis descriptors with the corresponding dependent variables only reasonably well, the use of wavelet and principal component ranking as variable selection methods, together with least‐squares support vector machine, improved significantly the prediction statistics. These recently implemented mathematical tools, particularly novel in quantitative structure–activity relationship studies, represent an important advance for the development of more predictive quantitative structure–activity relationship models and, consequently, new drugs.
Predicting Anti‐HIV Activity of Dimethylaminopyridin‐2‐ones: Computational Approach using Topochemical Descriptors
Authors: Dureja Harish , Madan Anil Kumar
Published: January 2009

In this study, relationship between the topochemical indices and anti‐HIV activity of dimethylaminopyridin‐2‐ones has been investigated. Three topochemical indices of diverse nature, i.e. Wiener’s topochemical index – a distance‐based topochemical descriptor, molecular connectivity topochemical index – an adjacency based topochemical descriptor and augmented eccentric connectivity topochemical index – an adjacency‐cum‐distance‐based topochemical descriptor, were used for the present investigations. The values of the Wiener’s topochemical index, molecular connectivity topochemical index and augmented eccentric connectivity topochemical index for each of the 103 analogues comprising the data set were computed using an in‐house computer program. Resulting data were analyzed and suitable models were developed after the identification of the active ranges. Subsequently, a biological activity was assigned to each compound using these models, which was then compared with the reported anti‐HIV activity. Statistical significance of proposed models was further investigated using chi‐squared test and intercorrelation analysis. Accuracy of prediction of anti‐HIV activity was found to vary from 81 to 85% using these models.
Incontinence: prevalence, management, staff knowledge and professional practice environment in rehabilitation units
Authors: McCarthy Geraldine , McCormack Brendan , Coffey Alice , Wright Jayne , Slater Paul
Published: January 2009

Background.  Bladder and bowel incontinence is a major health care problem, which adversely affects the lives of many individuals living at home or in health service facilities. Current approaches to continence care emphasize comfort, safety and reduction of risk, rather than detailed individualized assessment and management. The literature illustrates a gap between evidence and actual practice and emphasizes the context of care as being a key element for successful implementation of evidence based practice.

Aims.  To identify prevalence of bowel and bladder incontinence and its management, investigate continence knowledge and describe the professional practice environment within a rehabilitation unit for older people.

Method.  An integrated evaluation of continence prevalence, staff knowledge and the work environment was adopted.

Results.  Findings revealed a high incidence of incontinence (60% urinary, 3% faecal, 37% mixed) a lack of specific continence assessment and specific rationale for treatment decisions or continuation of care. The focus was on continence containment rather than on proactive management. Staff demonstrated a reasonable knowledge of incontinence causation and treatment as measured by the staff knowledge audit. The evaluation of the work environment indicated a low to moderate perception of control over practice (2.39), autonomy in practice (2.87), nurse doctor relationship (2.67) and organizational support (2.67).
Identifying obstacles to reducing the use of antibiotics to control porcine proliferative enteropathy
Authors: Holyoake PK , Collins A , Donahoo M , Lising R , Emery D
Published: January 2009

Proliferative enteropathy (PE) is an enteric disease of pigs that results in diarrhoea, reduced growth rate, reduced feed conversion efficiency and sometimes death. A survey of 13 pig veterinary practitioners in Australia was conducted to determine: (1) PE control strategies (antibiotics and vaccination), (2) how the efficacies of these strategies are evaluated and (3) how reliance on antibiotics could be reduced by increasing vaccine adoption. Antibiotics were routinely prescribed in the diets of weaner, grower and finisher pigs by 9/13, 10/13 and 8/13 veterinarians, respectively, if vaccination was not implemented. Water‐soluble antibiotics were prescribed less frequently than in‐feed antibiotics. Efficacy of control strategies was assessed most often through reduced clinical signs (diarrhoea, ‘tail‐ender’ pigs, death) and reduced lesion incidence at abattoir postmortem inspection. Twelve practitioners had recommended PE vaccination to their clients in the previous 6 months. Barriers to continued vaccine implementation included perceived lack of efficacy for pigs housed in bedded systems, high cost relative to medication and difficulties in vaccinating pigs post‐weaning.
Unusual multifocal granulomatous disease caused by actinomycetous bacteria in a nestling Derbyan parrot (Psittacula derbiana)
Authors: Park FJ , Jaensch S
Published: January 2009

A nestling Derbyan parrot (Psittacula derbiana) was presented with unusual subcutaneous swellings of the thigh regions, and poor growth. Histological examination revealed actinomycetous bacteria associated with multifocal systemic granulomas. The clinical and pathological findings of the case are presented, and some relevant aspects of actinomycetous bacterial infections in mammals and birds are discussed. Although granulomatous disease is encountered at times in avian species, the actinomycetous bacteria (Nocardia and Actinomyces spp.) have rarely been reported in association with multifocal granulomatous disease in birds.
Clinical diagnosis and treatment of suspected neuropathic pain in three dogs
Authors: Cashmore RG , Harcourt‐Brown TR , Freeman PM , Jeffery ND , Granger N
Published: January 2009

Three dogs were referred to The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital at University of Cambridge for chronic behavioural or locomotor disorders associated with pain. All three had been unsuccessfully treated with conventional analgesics, including non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids and opiate agonists, prior to referral, with minimal or no response. They were investigated by neurological examination plus conventional ancillary diagnostic tests and therapeutic drug trials. Ruling out other causes of pain and applying previously well‐described criteria, each case was diagnosed as consistent with neuropathic pain, a poorly recognised condition in domestic dogs. Treatment with the tricyclic antidepressant drug, amitriptyline, or the antiepileptic drug, gabapentin, resulted in either a dramatic improvement or full resolution of clinical signs in all cases.
Haematological, biochemical and selected acute phase protein reference intervals for weaned female Merino lambs
Authors: Lepherd ML , Canfield PJ , Hunt GB , Bosward KL
Published: January 2009

Background  Merino lambs are currently the subject of much research into the welfare aspects of mulesing and mulesing alternatives.

Objective  Obtain haematology, biochemistry and acute phase protein reference intervals using modern methodologies for female Merino lambs.

Method  Blood was collected from 50, weaned, 9‐ to 16‐week‐old, female Merino lambs. Haematology and biochemistry panels were performed using routine automated methods. The acute phase proteins, fibrinogen, serum amyloid A and haptoglobin, were also measured using commercially available techniques. The reference intervals were determined to be the central 95% of results.

Results  Differences in the concentrations for some analytes were seen when compared with reported studies in sheep, but may be explained by the use of sheep of a different signalment, as well as different methodologies for analyte measurement. Overall, most analytes gave similar values to those previously reported in other studies. Notable exceptions were alkaline phosphatase, phosphate and globulins, for which the different results were often attributed to the younger age of the sheep in the present study, and platelets and creatine kinase, for which the elevated levels may have been a result of stress and muscle exertion associated with blood collection and husbandry practices.

Conclusion  Established haematological, biochemical and acute phase protein reference intervals are necessary for the investigation of the systemic impact of mulesing and mulesing alternatives and for the investigation of systemic diseases affecting weaned, 9‐ to 16‐week‐old, female Merino lambs in general.
IN THIS ISSUE – January/February 2009
Authors: Jackson A
Published: January 2009

Laboratory reference intervals for Merino lambs ▪ Intradermal cetrimide for nonsurgical mulesing ▪ Carprofen with intradermal cetrimide ▪ Polioencephalomalacia in cattle grazing Brassica plants ▪ Dietary antibiotics for proliferative enteropathy ▪ First description of equine pneumonitis and fetal loss (EPFL) in Australia ▪ Pyruvate kinase deficiency in Abyssinian and Somali cats ▪ Suspected neuropathic pain in dogs ▪ Osteosarcoma of the canine penile bone ▪ Pre weaning morbidity in llamas and alpacas ▪  Previously unreported species of microsporidium in Western Pigmy perch ▪  Granulomatous disease in a nestling parrot ▪ Uterine adenomyosis in an orang‐utan
A Global Review of New Social Risks and Responses for Children and their Families
Authors: Gabel Shirley Gatenio , Kamerman Sheila B.
Published: January 2009

Given global demographic and social trends, the need for new policy and program responses is essential. This article identifies and describes new and traditional social risks affecting children and their families in both industrialized and developing countries by region. Traditional risks continue in the developing as well as the industrialized countries but the extent and scale are very different and the problems are far more severe in developing countries. In addition, new risks are now evident and new policy responses are emerging. Attention to the new risks is increasing, with growing investment in services and policies facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life and non‐traditional families. The citizens of many developing countries experience new risks as well, but their capacity to confront and address these risks is also more limited.
The Efficacy of a Community‐Based Project in a Chinese Context
Authors: Ma Joyce L. C. , Wong Mooly M. C. , Cheng Eliza W. H.
Published: January 2009

In this paper, the authors report the results of an exploratory study which assessed the service efficacy of a collaborative service initiative developed by a university academic department and a community‐based social service agency in a socially deprived and remote community in Hong Kong. The project aimed to foster mutual help and self‐help of low‐income families and deepen their social connection with the community. Service efficacy was assessed using a structured questionnaire and a focus group interview. After participating in the service project, the well‐being of the participants has become better and their family relationships have improved. They have developed a stronger sense of belonging toward the community. The preliminary findings support the importance of creating social network in social work practice for low‐income families residing in a deprived and remote neighborhood.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci from the water mite Hygrobates fluviatilis (Acari: Hydrachnidia: Hygrobatidae)
Authors: ASADI M. , HIGAKI T. , HINOMOTO N. , SABOORI A. , NAGHAVI M. R.
Published: January 2009

We developed and characterized 13 microsatellite markers from the water mite Hygrobates fluviatilis. The genotypes of 32 diploid females were assessed, and all of the loci were polymorphic. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 21, and the observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.063 to 0.813. These microsatellite markers are the first published for water mites and will contribute to research on the population structure of this widespread species.
Quantification of algal endosymbionts (Symbiodinium) in coral tissue using real‐time PCR
Authors: MIEOG J. C. , VAN OPPEN M. J. H. , BERKELMANS R. , STAM W. T. , OLSEN J. L.
Published: January 2009

Understanding the flexibility of the endosymbioses between scleractinian corals and single‐cell algae of the genus Symbiodinium will provide valuable insights into the future of coral reefs. Here, a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay is presented to accurately determine the cell densities of Symbiodinium clades C and D in the scleractinian coral Acropora millepora, which can be extended to other coral–symbiont associations in the future. The assay targets single‐ to low‐copy genes of the actin family of both the coral host and algal symbiont. Symbiont densities are expressed as the ratio of Symbiodinium cells to each host cell (S/H ratio, error within 30%), but can also be normalized to coral surface area. Greater accuracy in estimating ratios of associations involving multiple clades is achieved compared with previous real‐time PCR assays based on high‐copy ribosomal DNA loci (error within an order of magnitude). Healthy adult A. millepora containing ~1.4 × 106 zooxanthellae per cm2 (as determined by haemocytometer counts) had S/H ratios of c. 0.15, i.e. ~15 symbiont cells per 100 host cells. In severely bleached colonies, this ratio decreased to less than 0.005. Because of its capacity to accurately determine both densities and ratios of multiple symbionts within one sample, the assay will open the door for novel research into the mechanisms of symbiont shuffling and switching.
Eight polymorphic microsatellite loci developed and characterized from Townsend's big‐eared bat, Corynorhinus townsendii
Authors: PIAGGIO ANTOINETTE J. , MILLER KATIE ERIN G. , MATOCQ MARJORIE D. , PERKINS SUSAN L.
Published: January 2009

Two of the five subspecies of the western big‐eared bat, Corynorhinus townsendii, are listed as federally endangered with the remaining three being of conservation concern. Knowing the degree of connectivity among populations would aid in the establishment of sound conservation and management plans for this taxon. For this purpose, we have developed and characterized eight polymorphic microsatellite markers.
Development of polymorphic microsatellite markers for Dalbergia nigra (Papilionoideae), an endangered tree from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: RIBEIRO RENATA A. , REZENDE MARCELO F. S. , RESENDE LUCIANA C. , LEMOS‐FILHO JOSÉ PIRES , KALAPOTHAKIS EVANGUEDES , LOVATO MARIA BERNADETE
Published: January 2009

Dalbergia nigra is an endangered tree restricted to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in 47 trees from two populations. The total number of alleles per locus ranged from three to 12 alleles. The levels of observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.304 to 0.740 and from 0.278 to 0.872, respectively. Significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg were detected for only three loci in each population. No pair of loci exhibited significant linkage disequilibrium. These microsatellites provide an efficient tool to investigate genetic structure in forest remnants with the purpose of conservation of this species.
Identification of the endangered small red brocket deer (Mazama bororo) using noninvasive genetic techniques (Mammalia; Cervidae)
Authors: GONZÁLEZ SUSANA , MALDONADO JESÚS E. , ORTEGA JORGE , TALARICO ANGELA CRISTINA , BIDEGARAY‐BATISTA LETICIA , GARCIA JOSÉ EDUARDO , DUARTE JOSÉ MAURÍCIO BARBANTI
Published: January 2009

The small red brocket deer Mazama bororo is one of the most endangered deer in the Neotropics. The great morphological similarities with three other sympatric brocket deer species, coupled with the fact that they inhabit densely forested habitats complicate detection and prevent the use of traditional methodologies for accurate identification of species. The ability to determine the presence of this endangered species in an area is crucial for estimating its distribution range, and is critical for establishing conservation management strategies. Here we describe a fast and reliable noninvasive genetic method for species identification of Mazama species from faeces. We designed a primer set that amplifies a short 224‐bp fragment of the cytochrome b and demonstrate its effectiveness in successful amplification of DNA isolated from both tissue and faecal samples. This fragment contains a BSTNI/ECORII digestion site that is unique to the endangered M. bororo. The digested polymerase chain reaction products yielded a 160‐bp fragment that is clearly visible in a 2% agarose gel. Two other diagnostic sites were identified to differentiate the other three sympatric species, SspI (M. gouazoubira) and AflIII (M. americana, and M. nana).
Assessing risks of Wolbachia DNA cross‐specimen contamination following mass collection and ethanol storage
Authors: DUPLOUY ANNE , VERMENOT CORALIE , DAVIES NEIL , RODERICK GEORGE , HURST GREGORY D. D. , CHARLAT SYLVAIN
Published: January 2009

Wolbachia and other intracellular bacteria that manipulate reproduction are widespread and can have major consequences on the ecology and evolution of their hosts. Several studies have attempted to assess the host range of these bacteria based on polymerase chain reaction assays on material preserved and collected using a variety of methods. While collecting in the field, mass storage in ethanol before sorting specimens in the laboratory is by far the easiest technique, and an integral component of Malaise trapping. This implicitly relies on the assumption that mass ethanol storage does not produce cross‐contamination of Wolbachia DNA among specimens. Here we test this assumption. The absence of cross contamination between known positive and negative samples stored within a vial indicate there is no reason to believe collective storage of specimens creates artefactual increases in the incidence of Wolbachia or other intracellular bacteria.
Isolation and characterization of 11 polymorphic trinucleotide microsatellite markers in the stonefly Arcynopteryx compacta (Plecoptera: Perlodidae)
Authors: THEISSINGER KATHRIN , FELDHEIM KEVIN A. , SEITZ ALFRED , PAULS STEFFEN U.
Published: January 2009

We describe the isolation of 11 polymorphic trinucleotide microsatellite loci from the stonefly Arcynopteryx compacta. Loci were highly variable with 3 to 14 alleles (mean = 6.45). Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0 to 0.867. Seven loci showed significant deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium across both populations. There was no evidence for null alleles, and thus, Hardy–Weinberg departures could have resulted from genetic structure between populations or subpopulations. No linkage between loci was found. The 11 loci should prove highly informative for population genetic studies.
Development of microsatellites for Scirpus mariqueter Wang et Tang (Cyperaceae) and cross‐species amplification in Scirpus planiculmis F. Schmidt
Authors: ZHOU YEBIN , WANG HAO , YANG MEI , CHEN JIAKUAN , ZHANG WENJU
Published: January 2009

We report eight microsatellite markers developed for Scirpus mariqueter Wang et Tang using 5′‐anchored PCR. They were tested using 30 S. mariqueter individuals. The observed and expected heterozygosity levels ranged from 0.0690 to 0.8426 and from 0.0678 to 0.5249, respectively. Cross‐amplification was carried out in a congener, S. planiculmis F. Schmidt. All these markers will be very helpful in population genetics study of S. mariqueter and S. planiculmis.