bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloning and Expression ofVitellogenin 2Gene from the Intertidal CopepodTigriopus japonicus
Authors: Hwang Dae‐Sik , Lee Kyun‐Woo , Lee Jae‐Seong
Published: April 2009

Vitellogenin (Vg) is the precursor of the egg yolk protein vitellin.Vginduction has been used as a biomarker of exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals in fish. However, in copepods limited information on theVggene is available only from two species, the salmon louseLepeophtheirus salmonisand the intertidal copepodTigriopus japonicus. By differential display of RNA expression between male and female adults, we identified anotherVgmember, i.e.,vitellogenin 2(Vg2) gene fromT. japonicus. The full cDNA sequence was 5629 bp containing 5400 bp of an open reading frame. The expression ofVgtranscripts was negligible in all naupliar stages and copepodid stages 1 to 4 but was detectable in female copepods of stage 5 and 6. Female adults expressed over 270 times moreVgtranscripts than male adults.
Toward the Development of Novel Pest Management Agents Based upon Insect Kinin Neuropeptide Analogues
Authors: Nachman Ronald J. , Pietrantonio Patricia V. , Coast Geoffrey M.
Published: April 2009

Insect kinin neuropeptides share a common C‐terminal pentapeptide sequence Phe1‐Xaa12‐Xaa23‐Trp4‐Gly5‐NH2 (Xaa12= His, Asn, Phe, Ser or Tyr; Xaa23= Pro, Ser or Ala) and have been isolated from a number of insects. They have been associated with the regulation of such diverse processes as hindgut contraction, diuresis, and the release of digestive enzymes. In this review, the chemical, conformational, and stereochemical aspects of the activity of the insect kinins with expressed receptors and/or biological assays are reviewed. With this information, both nonselective and selective biostable analogues have been designed that protect peptidase‐susceptible sites in the insect kinin sequence and demonstrate significant retention of activity in both receptor and biological assays. C‐terminal aldehyde insect kinin analogues modify the activity of the insect kinins, leading to inhibition of weight gain and mortality in corn earworm larvae and selective inhibition of diuresis in the housefly. Promising mimetic analogue leads in the development of selective agents capable of disrupting insect kinin‐regulated processes have been identified that may provide interesting tools for arthropod endocrinologists and new pest insect management strategies in the future.
Diuretic and Antidiuretic Hormones in the Blood‐gorging Bug Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Orchard Ian , Paluzzi Jean‐Paul
Published: April 2009

Insect salt and water homeostasis is controlled by diuretic and antidiuretic hormones that can act upon the Malpighian tubules, midgut, and hindgut. Much is known about the physiological events stimulating diuresis and their signaling cascades; however, the factors inhibiting diuresis are less well known. An endogenous peptide in Rhodnius prolixus inhibits absorption by the anterior midgut and secretion from the Malpighian tubules. We have cloned the gene, sequenced this antidiuretic peptide, and examined gene expression via in situ hybridization. The antidiuretic peptide targets multiple tissues, and its discovery could facilitate the development of effective pest control agents to impede the transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas' disease.
Behavioral Effects of Brain‐derived Estrogens in Birds
Authors: Balthazart Jacques , Taziaux Melanie , Holloway Kevin , Ball Gregory F. , Cornil Charlotte A.
Published: April 2009

In birds as in other vertebrates, estrogens produced in the brain by aromatization of testosterone have widespread effects on behavior. Research conducted with male Japanese quail demonstrates that effects of brain estrogens on all aspects of sexual behavior, including appetitive and consummatory components as well as learned aspects, can be divided into two main classes based on their time course. First, estrogens via binding to estrogen receptors regulate the transcription of a variety of genes involved primarily in neurotransmission. These neurochemical effects ultimately result in the activation of male copulatory behavior after a latency of a few days. Correlatively, testosterone and its aromatized metabolites increase the transcription of the aromatase mRNA, resulting in an increased concentration and activity of the enzyme that actually precedes behavioral activation. Second, recent studies with quail demonstrate that brain aromatase activity can also be modulated within minutes by phosphorylation processes regulated by changes in intracellular calcium concentration, such as those associated with glutamatergic neurotransmission. The rapid upregulations or downregulations of brain estrogen concentration (presumably resulting from these changes in aromatase activity) affect, by nongenomic mechanisms with relatively short latencies (frequency increases or decreases respectively within 10–15 min), the expression of male sexual behavior in quail and also in rodents. Brain estrogens thus affect behavior on different time scales by genomic and nongenomic mechanisms similar to those of a hormone or a neurotransmitter.
Circadian Expression of Clock Genes Clock and Cry1 in the Embryonic Chicken Pineal Gland
Authors: Nagy Andras D. , Kommedal Siri , Seomangal Karishma , Csernus Valer J.
Published: April 2009

Clock and Cry1 expression were examined in the pineal gland of chicken embryos incubated under constant darkness from embryonic day (ED) 0. From ED13, Clock and Cry1 mRNA levels showed episodic alterations. After ED17, circadian pattern of clock gene expression was seen both in vivo and in vitro. Our results support the idea that rhythmic environmental factors are not necessary for the generation of circadian patterns of clock gene expression during development.
Distribution Pattern of Tyrosine Hydroxylase in the Brain and Pituitary of the Lungfish Protopterus annectens
Authors: Bruzzone F. , D’Amora M. , Angelini C. , Vallarino M.
Published: April 2009

The distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was investigated in the brain and pituitary of the African lungfish Protopterus annectens by using immunohistochemistry. TH was expressed in the olfactory bulbs, pallium and subpallium, hypothalamus, tegmentum, reticular formation, nucleus of the solitary tract, and pituitary. In some cells of the hypothalamus and pituitary, TH is colocalized with vasoactive intestinal peptide. In the intermediate and neuronal lobes of the pituitary, TH is expressed in glial fibrillary acidic protein‐contained cells. These data suggest that, in lungfish, catecholamine may play a role in olfaction information processing, regulation of visceral activities, and pituitary secretion.
Central and Peripheral Cardiovascular Effects of Angiotensin III in Trout
Authors: Mimassi N. , Lancien F. , Le Mével J. C.
Published: April 2009

The present study was undertaken to determine the central and peripheral actions of trout angiotensin III (ANG III) on heart rate (HR) and mean dorsal aortic blood pressure (PDA) in the unanaesthetized rainbow trout. Intracerebroventricular injection of ANG III (5–100 pmol) produced a significant and dose‐dependent increase in HR without significant change in PDA. In contrast, when injected peripherally ANG III (5–50 pmol) evoked a significant and dose‐dependent increase in PDA. The hypertensive responses were accompanied by a bradycardia that reached significance only for the highest dose of ANG III tested. In conclusion, our results have shown that ANG III has potent and contrasting cardiovascular actions depending on whether its site of action is the brain or the peripheral circulation. Endogenous ANG III may have important physiological functions in teleost fishes.
Using Transgenic Animal Models in Neuroendocrine Research
Authors: Scheenen W. J. J. M. , Jansen E. J. R. , Roubos E. W. , Martens G. J. M.
Published: April 2009

Transgenic animals are commonly employed to explore the function of individual proteins. Transgenic animal models include the mouse, the zebrafish, and the South African clawed toad Xenopus laevis. In contrast to mice and zebrafish, with Xenopus transgenesis DNA integration is mostly achieved in the one‐cell stage. Moreover, Xenopus (as well as zebrafish) eggs are relatively large, the embryos are transparent, a large offspring is generated, and maintenance of the offspring is easy. In our transgenic studies in Xenopus, we focus on the well‐characterized neuroendocrine melanotrope cells of the pituitary pars intermedia that are regulated during the process of adaptation of Xenopus to a changing environment. When the animal is placed on a black background, the melanotrope cells produce and process large amounts of the prohormone proopiomelanocortin (POMC). We apply stable melanotrope‐specific transgenesis that is achieved by mixing a Xenopus POMC‐promoter/transgene construct with sperm nuclei and injecting this mixture into unfertilized eggs. Since in the melanotrope cells the POMC promoter is much more active in black‐adapted animals, the level of transgene expression can be manipulated by placing the animal on either a black or a white background. In this paper we review the possibilities of the Xenopus melanotrope‐specific transgenic approach. Following a brief overview of the functioning of Xenopus melanotrope cells, stable melanotrope‐specific transgenesis is discussed and our transgenic studies on brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and secretory pathway components are described as examples of the transgenic approach in a physiological context and close to the in vivo situation.
Hormonal and Environmental Control of Puberty in Perciform Fish
Authors: Carrillo M. , Zanuy S. , Felip A. , Bayarri M. J. , Molés G. , Gómez A.
Published: April 2009

A specific chronology for puberty and changes at the brain–pituitary–gonad axis for sea bass are reviewed. Recent findings demonstrate that the Kisspeptin system, gonadotropin releasing hormones, follicle stimulating hormone, 11‐ketotestosterone, and leptin are potential candidates for the onset of puberty of this fish species, stressing the importance of the daily and annual rhythms of some of these hormones. Environmental control of puberty is also reviewed, specifically the manipulations of constant photoperiods for altering or even suppressing the onset of puberty in sea bass. Recently, a possible narrow sensitive period for suppressing gonadogenesis in sea bass has been identified.
Effects of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide and Its Fragments on Retinal Degeneration Induced by Neonatal Monosodium Glutamate Treatment
Authors: Atlasz Tamás , Szabadfi Krisztina , Reglődi Dóra , Kiss Péter , Tamás Andrea , Tóth Gábor , Molnár Alexandra , Szabó Klaudia , Gábriel Róbert
Published: April 2009

Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a member of the growing family of neurotrophic and neuroprotective factors playing important roles during neuronal development and protection against different types of injuries, such as Parkinson's disease, excitotoxicity, and ischemia. As shown with other neuronal tissues, we provide evidence that PACAP is protective in the retina against toxic injury induced by monosodium glutamate (MSG)in vivo. The need for characterization of its fragments and analogues has recently been emphasized. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of the physiologically occurring fragments PACAP1–38 and 1–27 and the widely used antagonists (PACAP6–38 and 6–27) in retinal degeneration induced by MSG in neonatal pups. Histological analysis showed that MSG treatment caused the degeneration of the entire inner plexiform layer and the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers seemed fused. The total thickness of the retina was significantly reduced. Similar and substantial protective effects could be observed after three treatments with PACAP1–38 and 1–27, while MSG toxicity was further aggravated by the PACAP antagonists PACAP6–38 and 6–27. Glutamate‐induced toxicity is known to play a role in several retinal pathologies. Our results provide further evidence for the effectiveness of the endogenously present PACAP forms in counteracting retinotoxicity and call for further studies leading to the discovery of potent analogues that could be used in human ophthalmic diseases.
Localization and Enzyme Activity of Iodotyrosine Dehalogenase 1 during Metamorphosis of Frog Microhyla ornata
Authors: Gaupale Tekchand C. , Mathi Anupama A. , Ravikumar Ameeta , Bhargava Shobha Yash
Published: April 2009

The distribution and activity of iodotyrosine dehalogenase 1 (DEHAL1) enzyme was determined during metamorphosis of the frog Microhyla ornata. Immunohistochemical and enzymatic studies in the thyroid, olfactory system, brain, skin, and tail of frog were performed. DEHAL1‐positive cells were seen in the olfactory epithelium, the nucleus infundibularis ventralis, the ventricular lining, cerebellum in the brain, in the pituitary gland, in the mucus glands of skin, and in epithelial cells of tadpole tail fin. During metamorphosis, DEHAL1 enzyme activity was also detected in the above‐mentioned frog tissues with the enzyme exhibiting higher activity on diiodotyrosine (DIT) as compared to monoiodotyrosine (MIT). Using DIT as a substrate, maximal activity was detected at stage 44 in the brain (157.7 U/mg protein), while it was higher at stage 42 in the tail (138.5 U/mg protein). With MIT as a substrate, highest activity was detected in the brain at stage 42 (65.8 U/mg protein). Thus, the localization, relative levels, and specificity of DEHAL1 suggest that it might be involved in tissue‐specific deiodination of MIT and DIT, thus making free iodine available, and therefore plays an essential role during metamorphosis in M. ornata.
Identification of Novel Genes Involved in the Plasticity of Pituitary Melanotropes in Amphibians
Authors: Malagón M. M. , Cruz‐García D. , Díaz‐Ruiz A. , Peinado J. R. , Pulido M. R. , Araújo J. , Garcia‐Navarro S. , Gracia‐Navarro F. , Castaño J. P. , Vázquez‐Martínez R.
Published: April 2009

Melanotrope cells from the amphibian intermediate lobe are composed of two subpopulations that exhibit opposite secretory behavior: hypersecretory and hormone‐storage hyposecretory melanotropes. Isolation of these subpopulations allowed a comparison of their gene expression profiles by differential display, leading to the identification of a number of genes differentially expressed in hypersecretory or hyposecretory melanotropes. Among them, we chose two (preferentially expressed in hyposecretory cells) of unknown function but structurally related to proteins involved in the secretory process: Rab18 and KIAA0555. We demonstrate that, upon activation of the regulated secretory pathway, Rab18 associates with secretory granules, inhibits their mobilization, and, consequently, reduces the secretory capacity of neuroendocrine cells. The other gene, KIAA0555, was predicted by in silico analysis to encode a protein with a long coiled‐coil domain, a structural feature also shared by different proteins related to intracellular membrane traffic (i.e., golgins), and a hydrophobic C‐terminal domain that could function as a transmembrane domain. A database search unveiled the existence of a KIAA0555 paralogue, KIAA4091, displaying a long coiled‐coil region highly similar to that of KIAA0555 and an identical C‐terminal transmembrane domain. Both KIAA0555 and KIAA4091 were found to be predominantly expressed in tissues containing cells with regulated secretory pathway, that is, endocrine and neural tissues. Moreover, when exogenously expressed in HEK293 cells, both proteins showed a yuxtanuclear distribution, which partially overlaps with that of a Golgi complex marker, thus suggesting a possible role of these two proteins in the control of the secretory process.
Estrogen Receptor‐mediated Transcriptional Activity of Genistein in the Mouse Testis
Authors: Montani C. , Penza M. , Jeremic M. , Rando G. , Ciana P. , Maggi A. , La Sala G. , De Felici M. , Di Lorenzo D.
Published: April 2009

Here we show that genistein, through an estrogen receptor‐mediated action, modulates gene expression in the mouse testis throughout development. Genistein passed from the lactating mother to the suckling offspring at levels sufficient to activate gene expression in the testis of the pups. Testis are already responsive to genistein as well as to estradiol at day 14.5 of fetal development. Activation of luciferase correlates with an activation of cell proliferation. In conclusion, our results show that genistein affects reproductive organs of male mice at all developmental ages.
Neuroendocrine Regulation of Thyroid‐stimulating Hormone Secretion in Amphibians
Authors: Okada Reiko , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Yamamoto Kazutoshi , Nakakura Takashi , Tanaka Shigeyasu , Vaudry Hubert , Kikuyama Sakae
Published: April 2009

The hypothalamic peptides thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH), gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH), and corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF), which have been postulated as acting as thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH)‐releasing hormone in amphibians, were tested for their activity by employing a recently developed radioimmunoassay for bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) TSH. CRF markedly stimulated the release of TSH from both adult and larval bullfrog pituitary cells. Both TRH and GnRH moderately stimulated the release of TSH from adult pituitary cells but not from larval ones. The release of TSH was also enhanced by bullfrog hypothalamic extracts. The hypothalamic extract‐evoked release of TSH was markedly reduced by a CRF receptor antagonist, suggesting that CRF and/or CRF‐related peptides are the main TSH‐releasing factors occurring in the bullfrog hypothalamus. Experiments using CRF receptor agonists and antagonists revealed that CRF acts through the type 2 receptor. With regard to other hypothalamic substances that influence the release of TSH, pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide were found to be potent stimulators and somatostatin an inhibitor of TSH release. Thus, it becomes clear that the main regulatory peptides controlling TSH secretion in amphibians are different from those in mammals. Triiodothyronine did not affect the basal release of TSH from the pituitary of either larval or adult bullfrogs but suppressed the CRF‐induced release of TSH, suggesting that negative feedback by thyroid hormone is functioning both in larvae and adults.
Neurochemistry and Plasticity of the Median Eminence and Neural Pituitary Lobe in Relation to Background Adaptation of Xenopus laevis
Authors: Van Wijk Diane C. A. W. , Roubos Eric W.
Published: April 2009

Using immunocytochemistry and morphometry we have supported our hypothesis that magnocellular neurons in the preoptic area of the brain of Xenopus laevis release identical sets of neuropeptides containing not only the previously identified vasotocin, mesotocin, corticotropin‐releasing factor, thyrotropin‐releasing hormone, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, urocortin 1, and pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating peptide but also mesotocin and met‐enkephalin from both neurohemal areas in the pituitary neural lobe and in the median eminence. We also show that the external zone of the median eminence is plastic, depending in size on the state of background illumination.
Cadmium Induces Apoptosis in the Pituitary Gland of Podarcis sicula
Authors: Ferrandino Ida , Favorito Rossana , Annunziata Martina , Grimaldi Maria Consiglio
Published: April 2009

The cytotoxic effects of cadmium (Cd) on the pituitary gland were studied in the lizard Podarcis sicula. Adult lizards were treated intraperitoneally with a single injection of CdCl2 at the dose of 2 mg/kg. A morphological study was performed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) technique and by immunocytochemical demonstration of caspase‐3 for detecting apoptotic cells in situ after 2, 7, and 16 days of treatment. The pituitary cells of Cd‐treated P. sicula undergo apoptosis: after 2 days the apoptotic cells appeared to increase significantly compared with those of the control specimens; after 7 days there was no considerable increment; however, after 16 days the occurrence of apoptotic cells had increased markedly, above all in the rostral pars distalis (RPD) in which various cells showed a strongly immunostained nucleus by TUNEL. Cd appears particularly toxic for pituitary cells in the lizard P. sicula; a single high intraperitoneal dose of CdCl2 induces apoptosis, in particular in the RPD, and this effect appears irreversible.
Teratogenic Effects of Chronic Treatment with Corticosterone on Tadpoles of Xenopus laevis
Authors: Lorenz Claudia , Opitz Robert , Lutz Ilka , Kloas Werner
Published: April 2009

The present study investigated effects of chronic treatment with corticosterone (B) on larval development of the amphibian Xenopus laevis. Tadpoles (stage 51) were treated with B (100, 500 nmol/L), 50 mg/L of the anti‐thyroidal substance ethylenethiourea (ETU), and a combination of ETU (50 mg/L) plus B (500 nmol/L) to address corticosteroid effects in the presence or absence of thyroid hormones (TH). ETU‐treated tadpoles displayed developmental arrest, reduced levels of TH receptor ß (TRß) and prolactin (PRL) mRNAs, but increased expression of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSHß). Tadpoles exposed to B were characterized by asynchrony of metamorphic tissue remodeling and decreased mRNA expression of corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF). Cotreatment of ETU and B reversed the effects of ETU on PRL and TSHß expression but did not alter ETU effects on development and TRß expression. Our findings confirm that chronic treatment with high doses of corticosteroids has teratogenic effects on developing tadpoles and additionally suggest a stimulatory effect of B on gene expression of the antimetamorphic pituitary hormone PRL.
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase‐activating Polypeptide‐like Compounds Could Modulate the Activity of Coelomocytes in the Earthworm
Authors: Somogyi Ildiko , Boros Akos , Engelmann Peter , Varhalmi Eszter , Nemeth Jozsef , Lubics Andrea , Tamas Andrea , Kiss Peter , Reglodi Dora , Pollak Edit , Molnar Laszlo
Published: April 2009

By means of radioimmunoassay, we studied the concentration of pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP)‐like proteins in intact and regenerating earthworms. Transection of animals increased the concentration of PACAP‐like compounds in coelomocytes, and a decreasing rostrocaudal gradient was detected in the regenerating animals. Western blot analysis revealed a range of PAC1‐receptor proteins with molecular weights from 40 to 80 kDa. Electron microscopic immunocytochemistry showed that PAC1 receptors were located on distinct sets of coelomocytes (mainly on amebocytes and on some granulocytes). Based on our results we hypothesize a link between PACAP and coelomocytes, suggesting that PACAP modulates the function of amebocytes and certain granulocytes that play a role in tissue remodeling of regenerating earthworms.
Interplay of the Endocannabinoid System with Neuropeptide Y and Corticotropin‐releasing Factor in the Goldfish Forebrain
Authors: Cottone Erika , Guastalla Alda , Pomatto Valentina , Campantico Ezio , Palermo Francesco , Magni Alberta Maria Polzonetti , Mackie Ken , Franzoni Maria Fosca
Published: April 2009

Based on pharmacological, behavioral, and neuroanatomical studies, the endocannabinoid system appears to be pivotal in some neuroendocrine mechanisms, such as modulation of vertebrate reproduction, stress, and food intake. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the control of the feeding response in the goldfish. By means of immunohistochemistry techniques, using anti‐CB1 cannabinoid receptor, anti‐corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF), and anti‐neuropeptide Y (NPY) antisera on brain sections of Carassius auratus, we found a topographical co‐distribution of the three signaling molecules through the preoptic area and posterior lobes of the hypothalamus and even a co‐localization of CB1 and NPY in the telencephalon. Previous results have shown that food deprivation in goldfish is accompanied by a significant increase of anandamide (AEA) levels in the telencephalon and AEA causes a dose‐dependent effect on food intake. We have thus investigated the possible influence of intraperitoneal AEA injections on NPY expression. Our results indicate an interplay between the endocannabinoid system and orexigenic and anorexigenic molecules, such as NPY and, possibly, CRF.
The Endocannabinoid System: An Ancient Signaling Involved in the Control of Male Fertility
Authors: Fasano Silvia , Meccariello Rosaria , Cobellis Gilda , Chianese Rosanna , Cacciola Giovanna , Chioccarelli Teresa , Pierantoni Riccardo
Published: April 2009

The effects of cannabinoids on human health have been known since the antiquities when the extract of the plantCannabis sativawas used because of its psychoactivity. The scientific story of the cannabinoids started in the 1960s with the isolation and characterization of the active component of the plant. After the synthesis of cannabinoid analogues, the analysis of structure–effect relationships was implemented, and this had a similar effect to a positive “Pandora's box” opening. To date, numerous roles have been ascribed to the “endocannabinoid system.” Here we describe its involvement in the control of male reproduction, taking into consideration possible evolutionary speculations. Indeed, the endocannabinoid system is a very ancient signaling system, being clearly present from the divergence of the protostomian/deuterostomian.
Timing of the Functional Diversification of α‐ and β‐Adrenoceptors in Fish and Other Vertebrates
Authors: Aris‐Brosou S. , Chen X. , Perry S. F. , Moon T. W.
Published: April 2009

Adrenoceptors (ARs) are G protein–coupled receptors found throughout the vertebrates. Their pharmacology and preliminary phylogenetic analyses suggest that ARs are classified as α1, α2 (and their subtypes), and β1, β2, and β3. However, the relationships among subtypes of this superfamily, as well as both the pattern and the timing of their diversification, are poorly understood. In addition, fish AR subtypes possess pharmacologies and tissue distributions that only partially overlap with those of their mammalian counterparts, in spite of their apparent orthologous relationships within subtypes. Here we analyze 136 sequences in a range of vertebrates, including fish, to resolve these issues. We show that diversification of ARs occurred during duplication events that occurred within distinct time periods. Each period maps to whole‐genome duplication events, two in vertebrates and one in fish. We also show that ARs underwent multiple duplications within these broad windows and that fish ARs underwent extensive gene loss after duplications that promoted their functional divergence with respect to other vertebrates.
Neuropeptide Regulators of  Juvenile Hormone Synthesis
Authors: Weaver R. J. , Audsley N.
Published: April 2009

Juvenile hormones (JH), produced by the corpora allata, have an essential role in growth and development, morphogenesis, and reproductive processes of insects. The output of  JH and circulating titer are required to be precisely regulated throughout the insect's life in response to developmental requirements and environmental factors. The synthesis of  JH must be periodically turned off and on, or finely tuned, in a highly coordinated way. Except for a few key or intensely studied insect species, the control of synthesis of  JH by regulatory peptides remains largely undefined and many of the details remain obscure. Several different classes of neuropeptide are believed to be involved in the regulation of corpus allatum function and hence JH output. In different insect species and at different stages of development, these regulatory peptides may include at least three types of inhibitory allatostatins, at least one type of stimulatory allatotropin, and perhaps several other, as yet largely undefined, additional neuropeptides. The details of how each of these peptides acts to affect JH production and their relationship to each other in the coordination of  JH synthesis remain to be established. There are several insect orders for which almost nothing is known concerning the regulation of  JH synthesis and the peptides that might be involved. Current proteomic and genomic studies are helping to redress this balance but at the same time posing new questions. Other neuropeptides are implicated in the regulation of  JH production, and there is new evidence concerning the mode of action of allatotropins.
The Role of Ecdysteroid 22‐Kinase in the Accumulation of Ecdysteroids in Ovary of Silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Ito Yoichi , Sonobe Haruyuki
Published: April 2009

In the silkworm Bombyx mori, ecdysteroid 22‐kinase (EcKinase) has been shown to catalyze the conversion of free ecdysteroids to physiologically inactive ecdysteroid 22‐phosphates. First, a phylogenetic analysis of EcKinase showed that many proteins homologous to B. mori EcKinase are found mainly in Ecdysozoa, including insects and nematodes. Next, by RT‐PCR analysis combined with laser microdissection and by immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that free ecdysteroids in the B. mori ovary are synthesized in follicle cells and transferred into the oocyte where they are phosphorylated by EcKinase whose mRNA originates from nurse cells and the oocyte itself.
The Study of Variation from Two Perspectives
Authors: Brunner Elizabeth Gentry
Published: April 2009

The field of sociolinguistics has a great deal in common with the field of forensic linguistics. One of their primary similarities is a focus on linguistic variation. Both fields analyze variation across groups of speakers, variation within speakers, variation between speakers, variation over time, and variation in perception. Sociolinguistic research can be directly applied to forensic linguistic issues. Model research projects are presented to demonstrate how to combine sociolinguistic and forensic linguistic goals and techniques into unified projects. This paper highlights how sociolinguists can advance the field of forensic linguistics in the United States.
Kinetic Study of the Combined Effect of High Hydrostatic Pressure and Temperature on the Activity of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus Aminopeptidases
Authors: Katsaros G.I. , Giannoglou M.N. , Taoukis P.S.
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT:  The effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) (100 to 700 MPa) combined with temperature (20 to 40 °C) on the activity of 5 aminopeptidases (PepN, PepX, PepY, PepC, and PepA) of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus ACA‐DC 0105, used as starter culture for feta cheese production, was studied. Aminopeptidases PepN, PepX, and PepA were activated at pressures up to 200 MPa, at temperatures up to 40 °C. PepY and PepC appeared to be more sensitive to pressure and temperature treatment leading to inactivation for pressures above 100 and 200 MPa, respectively, combined with temperature above 30 °C. A multi‐parameter equation was used for predicting the activation of PepN, PepX, and PepA aminopeptidases in the pressure and temperature domain. Overall, processing at 200 MPa and 20 °C may be selected as the optimum conditions for maximum activation of 4 out of 5 aminopeptidases of L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus. A 20‐min treatment at these conditions leads to an average 3‐fold increase in activity, which could lead to better and faster maturation of white cheese.
Selenium Concentrations in Twenty‐Six Geological Reference Materials: New Determinations and Proposed Values
Authors: Savard Dany , Bédard L. Paul , Barnes Sarah‐Jane
Published: April 2009

The interest in selenium concentrations in whole rocks is growing, in part because it is a useful tool for base and precious metal exploration. Selenium is often neglected in whole rock geochemistry because of the inability of most laboratories to make reliable determinations of this element. A consequence of these difficulties is a paucity of assigned or certified values for Se in international geological reference materials, so that the “best practice” proposed by Kane and Potts (2007) to obtain robust values for such reference materials cannot be followed. In order to address this problem, we have determined Se by pre‐concentration on thiol‐cotton fibre followed by INAA (Se/TCF‐INAA technique) in twenty‐six international geological reference materials, and one quality control material (KPT‐1). These values were used, in conjunction with a set of published values, to estimate Se concentrations for these twenty‐seven reference samples. Robust statistics were developed for seven of the RMs, with standard deviations equal to or less than precisions calculated using the Horwitz function and so that consensus values could be proposed. For three of the RMs, the presence of outliers gave less robust results, and suggested values are proposed. For seventeen of the RMs, only information values are provided, because either insufficient determinations were available or because large standard deviations of the data were derived.
Imaging in bronchopulmonary sequestration
Authors: Abbey P , Das CJ , Pangtey GS , Seith A , Dutta R , Kumar A
Published: April 2009

Bronchopulmonary sequestration is an uncommon pulmonary disorder characterized by an area of non‐functioning abnormal lung tissue, which receives its blood supply from a systemic artery and characteristically has no connection with the tracheobronchial tree. The abnormal lung tissue is located within the visceral pleura of a pulmonary lobe in the intralobar variety, whereas the extralobar form has its own visceral pleura. The venous drainage of the extralobar type is usually into the systemic veins, whereas the intralobar type drains into the pulmonary veins. Radiological imaging plays a vital role in establishing the diagnosis, and even more importantly, in providing to the clinician a vascular roadmap essential for surgical planning. We present here a review of bronchopulmonary sequestration and also discuss the role of various imaging methods in the early diagnosis and management of these cases.
Value of apparent diffusion coefficient measurement for discrimination of focal benign and malignant hepatic masses
Authors: Kilickesmez O , Bayramoglu S , Inci E , Cimilli T
Published: April 2009

The purpose of our study was to investigate the value of diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) to discriminate benign and malignant focal lesions of the liver using parallel imaging technique. A total of 77 patients and 65 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. DW‐MRI was performed with b‐factors of 0, 500 and 1000 s/mm2, and the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) values of the normal liver and the lesions were calculated. The mean ADC value of the focal liver lesions were as follows: simple cysts (3.16 ± 0.18 × 10−3 mm2/s), hydatid cysts (2.58 ± 0.53 × 10−3 mm2/s), hemangiomas (1.97 ± 0.49 × 10−3 mm2/s), metastases (1.14 ± 0.41 × 10−3 mm2/s) and hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) (1.15 ± 0.36 × 10−3 mm2/s). The mean ADC values of all the disease groups were statistically significant when compared with the mean ADC value of the normal liver (1.56 ± 0.14 × 10−3 mm2/s), (P < 0.01). There were also statistically significant differences among the ADC values of hemangiomas and HCC metastases (P < 0.01), and simple and hydatid cysts (P < 0.008). However, there was no statistically significant difference between HCC and metastases. The present study showed that ADC measurement has the potential to differentiate benign and malignant focal hepatic lesions. We propose to add DW sequence in the MR protocol for the detection and quantitative discrimination of hepatic pathologies.
Initial experience in 115 patients with the retrievable Cook Celect vena cava filter
Authors: Doody O , Given MF , Kavnoudias H , Street M , Thomson KR , Lyon SM
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate our experience with the retrievable Cook Celect inferior vena cava (IVC) filter (William Cook, Europe) with regard to insertion, efficiency, ease of retrieval, and any associated complications. A retrospective review was performed of 115 patients (41 female, 74 male, mean age 47.97 years) who underwent Cook Celect IVC filter insertion between December 2005 and October 2007. Filter insertion was successful in all patients. Of the 115 filters inserted, 57 have been successfully retrieved (49.6%) to date. The successful retrieval rate from attempted retrieval was 93.4%. The mean dwell time of successfully retrieved filters was 114.9 days (range 14–267 days). Failed retrievals were due to a thrombosed vena cava (n = 1) and endothelialisation of the filter (n = 3). In the failed retrieval group the mean implantation time was 142 days (range 78–211 days). While this is the first retrospective clinical study on the Cook Celect filter, results to date are promising. We demonstrated an efficacious filter with a high successful retrieval rate of 93.4% and a low complication rate. The filter was assessed with extended dwell times (range 14–267 days). Failed retrieval secondary to hook endothelialisation continues to be an issue with this filter. We recognize that a limitation of our study was the lack of systematic follow‐up for clinically silent complications. Further studies to evaluate longer term outcomes and effectiveness of this filter are warranted.
Prognostic significance of several histological features in intermediate and high‐risk endometrial cancer patients treated with curative intent using surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy
Authors: Narayan K , Rejeki V , Herschtal A , Bernshaw D , Quinn M , Jobling T , Allen D
Published: April 2009

The purpose of the present study was to explore the prognostic significance of several histological features with respect to lymph node metastasis, failure‐free survival (FFS), and overall survival (OS) in intermediate and high‐risk endometrial cancer patients treated with curative intent. One hundred and eighty patients with endometrial cancer were treated with hysterectomy with or without lymphadenectomy and received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). The mean follow‐up period was 4.25 years (range 0.44–10.45 years). In multifactor analysis, fractional myometrial invasion (MI) (P = 0.047), histology (P < 0.001) and lymph‐vascular space invasion (LVSI) (P = 0.025) were significant predictors for FFS when nodal status was not included. When lymph node status was known, histology (P = 0.007) and LVSI (P = 0.014) remained significant factors for FFS. For OS, histology (P < 0.001) and fractional MI (P = 0.004) were the significant factors. Lymph node status could be predicted by tumour grading (P = 0.016) and absolute MI (P = 0.002). Histology type and the presence of LVSI were the most important prognostic factors in high‐risk endometrial cancer patients treated by surgery and postoperative radiotherapy. Absolute MI and tumour grading were useful predictors of nodal spread.
Influence of CT contrast agent on dose calculation of intensity modulated radiation therapy plan for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Lee FK‐H , Chan CC‐L , Law C‐K
Published: April 2009

Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) has been used for delineation of treatment target in radiotherapy. The different Hounsfield unit due to the injected contrast agent may affect radiation dose calculation. We investigated this effect on intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Dose distributions of 15 IMRT plans were recalculated on CECT. Dose statistics for organs at risk (OAR) and treatment targets were recorded for the plain CT‐calculated and CECT‐calculated plans. Statistical significance of the differences was evaluated. Correlations were also tested, among magnitude of calculated dose difference, tumor size and level of enhancement contrast. Differences in nodal mean/median dose were statistically significant, but small (approximately 0.15 Gy for a 66 Gy prescription). In the vicinity of the carotid arteries, the difference in calculated dose was also statistically significant, but only with a mean of approximately 0.2 Gy. We did not observe any significant correlation between the difference in the calculated dose and the tumor size or level of enhancement. The results implied that the calculated dose difference was clinically insignificant and may be acceptable for IMRT planning.
Information, Selective Disclosure, and Analyst Behavior
Authors: Charoenrook Anchada , Lewis Craig M.
Published: April 2009

This paper examines whether the prohibition of selective disclosures to equity research analysts mandated by Regulation FD alters the amount of information and the manner in which it is revealed to the market. We demonstrate that equity research analysts are more responsive to information contained in company‐initiated disclosures after Reg FD, suggesting that regulation has affected the importance of various channels of communication. We also present evidence consistent with the notion that managers use earnings guidance as a substitute for selective disclosure following the passage of Reg FD.
Liquidity: Considerations of a Portfolio Manager
Authors: Hodrick Laurie Simon , Moulton Pamela C.
Published: April 2009

This paper examines liquidity and how it affects the behavior of portfolio managers, who account for a significant portion of trading in many assets. We define an asset to be perfectly liquid if a portfolio manager can trade the quantity she desires when she desires at a price not worse than the uninformed expected value. A portfolio manager is limited by both what she needs to attain and the ease with which she can attain it, making her sensitive to three dimensions of liquidity: price, timing, and quantity. Deviations from perfect liquidity in any of these dimensions impose shadow costs on the portfolio manager. By focusing on the trade‐off between sacrificing on price and quantity instead of the canonical price‐time trade‐off, the model yields several novel empirical implications. Understanding a portfolio manager's liquidity considerations provides important insights into the liquidity of many assets and asset classes.
Corporate Governance Ratings and Firm Performance
Authors: Ertugrul Mine , Hegde Shantaram
Published: April 2009

We examine the corporate governance ratings provided by three premier US rating agencies and find that summary scores are generally poor predictors of primary and secondary measures of future firm performance. However, some component sub‐ratings that focus on the eight key dimensions of dynamic governance structures provide more positive and reliable evidence of their information content in predicting the multiple dimensions of firm performance. These results reflect the recent observations by academic researchers and money managers that it is extremely difficult to distill all of the complex governance mechanisms into a single integrated, yet informative overall score.
Determinants of Investment Cash Flow Sensitivity
Authors: Hovakimian Gayané
Published: April 2009

I classify firms into groups of high, low, and negative sensitivity. I find that investment‐cash flow sensitivity is nonmonotonic with respect to financial constraints, cash flows, and growth opportunities. Firms classified as negative cash flow sensitive have the lowest cash flows, highest growth opportunities, and appear the most financially constrained. Cash flow insensitive firms have the highest cash flows, lowest growth opportunities, and appear the least financially constrained. To a large extent, the negative relationship between cash flow and investment is driven by the opposite trends followed by investment and cash flow, as firms grow through stages of their life cycle.
Effects of latanoprost in iris bioidentification
Authors: Lamminen Heikki , Voipio Ville , Manninen Tapio , Huttunen Heikki
Published: April 2009

Purpose:  Bioidentification is becoming increasingly important in everyday life. One of the most widespread methods of bioidentification is based on the structure of the iris. Iris photography has several advantages as an identification method: it is relatively simple and effective; it is non‐invasive, and it is comparatively inexpensive. However, some medical conditions may change the appearance of the iris. This paper discusses the effects of latanoprost‐induced pigmentation changes in iris bioidentification.

Methods:  The study is based on four extreme cases of latanoprost‐induced pigmentation changes. Iris photographs in these patients during treatment are compared with pretreatment photographs. The comparison is carried out with iris recognition software developed by our research group based on the principles of Daugman’s well‐known IrisCode. The system was evaluated with 595 iris comparisons.

Results:  Iris photographs showing latanoprost‐induced pigmentation changes were correctly matched with pretreatment photographs of the same irises with an error probability similar to that for matching equivalent pairs of photographs in intact eyes.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate that the pigmentation changes studied do not seem to have a significant effect on the standard identification algorithm.
Gender Equality and Gender Differences: Parenting, Habitus, and Embodiment (The 2008 Porter Lecture)*
Authors: DOUCET ANDREA
Published: April 2009

S'appuyant sur un projet de recherche d'une durée de quatre ans concernant des pères canadiens dispensateurs de soins de première ligne ainsi que sur deux projets récents sur la première année de soins prodigués au nourrisson, l'auteure attire l'attention sur plusieurs questions théoriques importantes pour l'étude de l'égalité des sexes et de la différence entre les sexes au sujet de l'éducation des enfants. Elle propose d'abord de transférer le centre d'intérêt, qui porte en ce moment sur lestravauxdomestiques, vers lesresponsabilitésfamiliales et communautaires. Elle soutient ensuite que le terrain politique à la base de l'étude du maternage et du paternage exige de la clarté sur la façon dont les chercheurs interprètent l'interaction constante entre l'égalité et les différences. Finalement, elle défend l'idée voulant que les responsabilités parentales, étant donné qu'il y a eu certains changements au cours du temps, demeurent influencées par le genre parce qu'elles sont profondément enracinées dans l'habituset dans la personnification dans des contextes spatiaux et temporels spécifiques.

Drawing on a four‐year research project on Canadian primary caregiving fathers, as well two recent projects on the first year of parenting, this article highlights several theoretical and substantive issues in the study of gender equality and gender differences in parenting. First, I call for shifts from a focus on domestictaskstoward domestic and community‐basedresponsibilities. Second, I argue that the political terrain underpinning the study of mothering and fathering calls for clarity on how researchers interpret the constant interplay between equality and differences. Third, while there has been some change over time, parental responsibilities remain gendered because they are deeply rooted in habitus and embodiment across specific spatial and temporal contexts.
Use of bioluminescent bacterial biosensors to investigate the role of free‐living helminths as reservoirs and vectors of Salmonella
Authors: Lacharme‐Lora Lizeth , Perkins Sarah E. , Humphrey Tom J. , Hudson Peter J. , Salisbury Vyv
Published: April 2009

Free‐living microbivorous helminths that consume pathogenic bacteria could offer an environmental refuge for those pathogens and also, in the case of accidental ingestion, could transmit food‐borne pathogens to humans and livestock. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the survival of Salmonella bacteria that had been ingested by the helminth Caenorhabditis elegans with that of the bacteria alone, in a series of experiments to mimic harsh environmental conditions. Using lux gene technology to record the in vivo growth of Salmonella we found that when inside C. elegans, the Salmonella exhibited enhanced survival at pH 2 and 3, in the presence of chlorine and when exposed to UV irradiation, thereby providing an environmental refuge or reservoir for the bacteria. On inoculating laboratory mice with C. elegans that had been fed on bioluminescent Salmonella, real‐time imaging showed that animals developed a systemic bacterial infection, indicating that free‐living helminths could play a role as a vector of pathogens.