bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The threat of mission distortion in police‐probation partnerships
Authors: Murphy David , Worrall John L.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The growth of formal police‐probation partnerships in the USA has been accompanied by an increased awareness of the potential threats of mission distortion. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the dynamics of mission distribution

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on interviews with police and community corrections officers involved in an active partnership in Spokane, Washington. The paper emphasizes the abuse of authority, stalking horse incidents, and the scope of legitimate police and probation authority.

Findings

Ultimately, mission distortion has the potential to undermine the credibility of police‐probation partnerships.

Originality/value

The paper offers training and policy recommendations for police and community corrections administrators.
Treatment of idiopathic prurigo nodularis in Taiwanese patients with low‐dose thalidomide
Authors: LAN Cheng‐Che E. , LIN Chi‐Ling , WU Ching‐Shuang , CHAI Chee‐Yin , CHEN Wan‐Tzu , CHEN Gwo‐Shing
Published: March 2007

Prurigo nodularis is an intensely pruritic dermatosis characterized by lichenified and excoriated papules and nodules. The course of prurigo nodularis is often chronic, and some patients respond very poorly to the standard therapeutic modalities. Because the pathogenesis of this disease remains obscure, the treatment of prurigo nodularis can be disappointing and frustrating for both the patients and physicians. Thalidomide, a tumor necrosis factor‐alpha antagonist, has been suggested as an alternative treatment option for recalcitrant prurigo nodularis. In the past, the regimen for treatment of prurigo nodularis often required thalidomide at 200 mg/day. We recruited patients with intractable prurigo nodularis and treated them with low‐dose thalidomide. Six patients with idiopathic prurigo nodularis were successfully treated with low‐dose thalidomide (50–100 mg/day) without clinical development of peripheral neuropathy. In summary, our preliminary results suggest that low‐dose thalidomide may be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with recalcitrant idiopathic prurigo nodularis.
Cancer patients’ distresses and inquiries: proposal of four‐level classification based on consultation service and questionnaire survey
Authors: Yamaguchi Ken , Ishikawa Mutsumi , Takada Yuka , Hamazaki Ryo , Hamada Yuka , Fukuchi Tomoha , Muramatsu Harumi , Ito Hajime , Iwase Tomohisa , Kitamura Yuko , Abe Yumiko , Hirose Yayoi , Horiuchi Tomoko
Published: March 2007

The present study was undertaken to understand the realities of cancer patients’ and their family members’ distresses and inquiries, including medical/physical, emotional/spiritual and social/economic problems, from scientific viewpoints. The initial step of the study was to develop the classification category for these distresses and inquiries. The category was proposed based on information from two different sources; one is the consultation records of the Patient Support and Inquiry Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center and the other is the database of the Questionnaire Survey, which consisted of more than 25 000 distresses from 7885 people who faced up to cancer. The four‐level classification category was constructed from 16 primary categories, 35 secondary categories, 129 tertiary categories and 619 quaternary categories. The classification category made it possible to analyze the distresses of cancer patients and their family members. The present study demonstrated the differences between the patterns of distresses for the consultation service and the questionnaire survey. In consultation centers belonging to hospitals, such as the Patient Support and Inquiry Division in the Shizuoka Cancer Center, patients wanted to consult on distresses and inquiries related to medical care. In contrast, they rarely consulted on emotional/spiritual or social problems. Based on the present classification category, we are developing a database called ‘Questions and Answers for Cancer Patients’ Distresses’. The database enables medical staff to learn what distresses patients and their family members, and to implement high‐quality consultation in cancer clinics. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 612–616)
Polymorphisms in the DNA repair gene XRCC1 associated with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in a Korean population
Authors: Kang Sang Yoon , Lee Kwang Gil , Lee Wooseung , Shim Jeong Yun , Ji Seung Il , Chung Ki Wha , Chung Yoon Kyu , Kim Nam Keun
Published: March 2007

DNA in most cells is regularly damaged by endogenous and exogenous mutagens. Unrepaired damage can result in apoptosis or may lead to unregulated cell growth and cancer. Inheritance of genetic variants at one or more loci results in reduced DNA repair capacity. This hospital‐based case‐control study examined whether polymorphisms in the DNA repair gene X‐ray repair cross‐complementing groups 1 (XRCC1) (Arg194Trp[C > T], Arg280His[G > A] and Arg399Gln[G > A]) play a role in susceptibility to skin cancer. We genotyped these polymorphisms for 212 histopathologically confirmed skin cancer cases (n = 114 basal cell carcinoma, n = 98 squamous cell carcinoma) and 207 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control cases in Korea. We found that individuals with the Arg/Gln and Arg/Gln + Gln/Gln genotypes at XRCC1 Arg399Gln(G > A) had an approximately 2‐fold increased risk of basal cell carcinoma compared to individuals with the Arg/Arg genotype (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.812, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32–5.98, and AOR = 2.324, 95% CI 1.11–4.86). However, we observed that the 194Trp allele of the Arg194Trp(C > T) polymorphism was inversely associated with squamous cell carcinoma risk (Trp/Trp, AOR = 0.06, 95% CI 0.006–0.63). Our data suggest that the Arg194Trp and Arg399Gln polymorphisms may be differentially associated with skin cancer risk. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 716–720)
Rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin, suppresses lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis
Authors: Kobayashi Soichi , Kishimoto Takashi , Kamata Shigeyuki , Otsuka Masayuki , Miyazaki Masaru , Ishikura Hiroshi
Published: March 2007

Tumor lymphangiogenesis is now known to play a causal role in lymph node metastasis, and thus its inhibition would have great significance for the prevention of lymph node metastasis in cancer therapy. VEGF‐C has recently been identified as a key molecule that involved in tumor lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis. However, the expressional regulation of VEGF‐C is not fully understood. We investigated the role of mTOR, which is a downstream kinase of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt pathway, and the MAPK family (MEK1/2, p38, and JNK) in the regulation of VEGF‐C and VEGF‐A expression in B13LM cells, a lymphatic metastasis‐prone pancreatic tumor cell line. We also investigated the antilymphangiogenic effect of rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of mTOR in vivo using male BALB/c nu/nu mice. VEGF‐C expression was inhibited by the inhibitors for mTOR, p38, and JNK, but not by the inhibitor for MEK1/2, whereas VEGF‐A expression was inhibited by all four of these inhibitors. The serum starvation‐induced expression of VEGF‐C was inhibited by rapamycin, whereas that of VEGF‐A was incompletely inhibited. The metastatic experiment in vivo demonstrated that the number and the area of lymphatic vessels in the primary tumors were significantly decreased by rapamycin. Finally, the lymph node metastasis was significantly suppressed in rapamycin‐treated mice. Our results suggest that mTOR, p38, and JNK play important roles in VEGF‐C expression, and that rapamycin has an antilymphangiogentic effect and exerts the expected inhibition of lymphatic metastasis. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 726–733)
Group size, density and biomass of large mammals in the Réserve de Faune du Petit Loango, Gabon
Authors: Morgan Bethan J.
Published: March 2007

Group size, density and biomass of large‐bodied diurnal mammal species in the Réserve de Faune du Petit Loango, Gabon (now Parc National de Loango) was determined over a 12‐month period using standard line‐transect methods. Petit Loango encompasses a range of distinct habitat types, including coastal scrub, savanna, swamps and disturbed and mature forest. Such intact coastal habitats are increasingly rare on the Central‐West African coastline. Faecal censusing indicated highest forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) and buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus) ecological densities at the extreme coast (2.48 and 1.29 km−2respectively), probably reflecting high intensity of use of this habitat. Ape density was comparable with that at other Central African study sites at 1.01 individuals km−2. Mean total biomass of diurnal primates, elephants and other ungulates over the 20 km2site was 3290 kg km−2. Forest elephants and red river hogs (Potamochoerus porcus) constituted the bulk of the biomass, at 67% and 14% respectively. Primates made up 5% of the biomass. This is the first estimation of mammal density and biomass over an annual cycle at a Central African coastal site, and provides baseline data for long‐term studies in such habitats and to aid habitat and wildlife management decisions.
Influence of oblique basement strike–slip faults on the Mesozoic evolution of the south‐eastern segment of the Mid‐Polish Trough
Authors: Gutowski Jacek , Koyi Hemin A.
Published: March 2007

A series of analogue models are used to demonstrate how the multistage development of the Mid‐Polish Trough (MPT) could have been influenced by oblique basement strike–slip faults. Based on reinterpretation of palaeothickness, facies maps and published syntheses of the basin development, the following successive stages in the Mesozoic history of the south eastern part of the MPT were simulated in the models: (1) Oblique extension of the NW segment of the MPT connected with sinistral movement along the Holy Cross Fault (HCF, Early Triassic–latest Early Jurassic). (2) Oblique extension of both NW and SE segment of the MPT, parallel to the HCF (latest Early and Middle Jurassic). (3) Oblique extension of the SE segment of the MPT and much lesser extension of its NW segment connected with dextral movement along the HCF (Early Oxfordian–latest Early Kimmeridgian). (4) Oblique extension of the SE segment of the MPT and much lesser extension of its NW segment connected with dextral movement along the Zawiercie Fault (ZF, latest Early Kimmeridgian–Early Albian). (5) Oblique inversion of the NW segment of the MPT connected with dextral movement along the HCF (Early Albian–latest Cretaceous). (6) Oblique inversion of the SE segment of the MPT along the W–E direction (latest Cretaceous–Palaeogene). The different sense of movements of these two basement strike–slip faults (HCF and ZF) resulted in distinct segmentation of the basin and its SW margin by successive systems of extensional en‐echelon faults. The overall structure of this margin is controlled by the interference of the border normal faults with the en‐echelon fault systems related to successive stages of movement along the oblique strike–slip faults. This type of en‐echelon fault system is absent in the opposite NE‐margin of the basin, which was not affected by oblique strike–slip faults. The NE‐margin of the basin is outlined by a typical, steep and distinctly marked rift margin fault zone, dominated by normal and dip–slip/strike–slip faults parallel to its axis. Within the more extended segment of the basin, extensive intra‐rift faults and relay ramps develop, which produce topographic highs running across the basin. The change in the extension direction to less oblique relative to the basin axis resulted in restructuring of the fault systems. This change caused shifting of the basin depocentre to this margin. Diachronous inversion of the different segments of the basin in connection with movement along one of the oblique basement strike–slip faults resulted in formation of a pull‐apart sub‐basin in the uninverted SE‐segment of the basin. The results of the analogue models presented here inspire an overall kinematic model for the southeastern segment of the MPT as they provide a good explanation of the observed structures and the changes in the facies and palaeothickness patterns.
Initiation and growth of salt‐based thrust belts on passive margins: results from physical models
Authors: Dooley Tim P. , Jackson Martin P. A. , Hudec Michael R.
Published: March 2007

Scaled sandbox models simulated primary controls on the kinematics of the early structural evolution of salt‐detached, gravity‐driven thrust belts on passive margins. Models had a neutral‐density, brittle overburden overlying a viscous décollement layer. Deformation created linked extension–translation–shortening systems. The location of initial brittle failure of the overburden was sensitive to perturbations at the base of the salt. Salt pinch‐out determined the seaward limit of the thrust belt. The thrust belts were dominated by pop‐up structures or detachment folds cut by break thrusts. Pop‐ups were separated by flat‐bottomed synclines that were partially overthrust. Above a uniformly dipping basement, thrusts initiated at the salt pinch‐out then consistently broke landward. In contrast, thrust belts above a seaward‐flattening hinged basement nucleated above the hinge and then spread both seaward and landward. The seaward‐dipping taper of these thrust belts was much lower than typical, frictional, Coulomb‐wedge models. Towards the salt pinch‐out, frictional resistance increased, thrusts verged strongly seawards and the dip of the taper reversed as the leading thrust overrode this pinch‐out. We attribute the geometry of these thrust belts to several causes. (1) Low friction of the basal décollement favours near‐symmetric pop‐ups. (2) Mobile salt migrates away from local loads created by overthrusting, which reduces the seaward taper of the thrust belt. (3) In this gravity‐driven system, shortening quickly spreads to form wide thrust belts, in which most of the strain overlapped in time.
Origin of early overpressure in the Upper Devonian Catskill Delta Complex, western New York state
Authors: Lash Gary G. , Blood David R.
Published: March 2007

The Upper Devonian Rhinestreet black shale of the western New York state region of the Appalachian Basin has experienced multiple episodes of overpressure generation manifested by at least two sets of natural hydraulic fractures. These overpressure events were thermal in origin and induced by the generation of hydrocarbons during the Alleghanian orogeny close to or at the Rhinestreet's ∼3.1 km maximum burial depth. Analysis of differential gravitational compaction strain of the organic‐rich shale around embedded carbonate concretions that formed within a metre or so of the seafloor indicates that the Rhinestreet shale was compacted ∼58%. Compaction strain was recalculated to a palaeoporosity of 37.8%, in excess of that expected for burial >3 km. The palaeoporosity of the Rhinestreet shale suggests that porosity reduction caused by normal gravitational compaction of the low‐permeability carbonaceous sediment was arrested at some depth shy of its maximum burial depth by pore pressure in excess of hydrostatic. The depth at which the Rhinestreet shale became overpressured, the palaeo‐fluid retention depth, was estimated by use of published normal compaction curves and empirical porosity‐depth algorithms to fall between 850 and 1380 m. Early and relatively shallow overpressuring of the Rhinestreet shale likely originated by disequilibrium compaction induced by a marked increase in sedimentation rate in the latter half of the Famennian stage (Late Devonian) as the Catskill Delta Complex prograded westward across the Appalachian Basin in response to Acadian tectonics. The regional Upper Devonian stratigraphy of western New York state indicates that the onset of overpressure occurred at a depth of ∼1100 m, well in advance of the Rhinestreet shale's entry into the oil window during the Alleghanian orogeny.
Identification of stathmin 1 expression induced by Epstein–Barr virus in human B lymphocytes
Authors: Baik S. Y. , Yun H. S. , Lee H. J. , Lee M. H. , Jung S. E. , Kim J. W. , Jeon J. P. , Shin Y. K. , Rhee H. S. , Kimm K. C. , Han B. G.
Published: March 2007

Abstract.  Introduction: The Epstein–Barr virus transforms resting B cells into proliferating lymphoblastoid cells, the origin of cell lines. Method and results: Our cDNA microarray analyses led to the identification of 232 up‐regulated and 112 down‐regulated genes with more than a 3‐fold difference in lymphoblastoid cell lines compared to resting B cells. The functional classification of these genes exhibited the distinct expression signature for cell proliferation, cell cycle and an immune response. Among them, we verified the differential expression of several oncogenes such as stathmin 1 (STMN1), RAB27A, RAB9A, BACH1 and BACH2 using quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reactions or Western blot analysis. Expression of STMN1 (which is involved in regulation of the microtubule filament system, cell growth and S‐phase of cell cycle) was increased in lymphoblastoid cell line as well as in 7‐day post‐Epstein–Barr virus infection B cells, compared to resting B cells. Conclusion: Thus, this study suggests that Epstein–Barr virus infection induces STMN1 expression, which play a role in cell cycle progression and proliferation in the human B lymphocyte.
Roles of volume‐activated Cl− currents and regulatory volume decrease in the cell cycle and proliferation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Chen L. X. , Zhu L. Y. , Jacob T. J. C. , Wang L. W.
Published: March 2007

Abstract.  Objectives: Previously it has been shown, that the volume‐activated plasma membrane chloride channel is associated with regulatory volume decrease (RVD) of cells and may play an important role in control of cell proliferation. We have demonstrated that both expression of the channel and RVD capacity are actively regulated in the cell cycle. In this study, we aimed to further study the role of the volume‐activated chloride current and RVD in cell cycle progression and overall in cell proliferation. Materials and methods: Whole‐cell currents, RVD, cell cycle distribution, cell proliferation and cell viability were measured or detected with the patch‐clamp technique, the cell image analysis technique, flow cytometry, the MTT assay and the trypan blue assay respectively, in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (CNE‐2Z cells). Results: The Cl− channel blockers, 5‐nitro‐2‐(3‐phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB) and tamoxifen, inhibit the volume‐activated chloride current, RVD and proliferation of CNE‐2Z cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Analysis of relationships between the current, RVD and cell proliferation showed that both the current and RVD were positively correlated with cell proliferation. NPPB (100 µm) and tamoxifen (20 µm) did not significantly induce cell death, but inhibited cell proliferation, implying that the blockers may inhibit cell proliferation by affecting cell cycle progression. This was verified by the observation that tamoxifen (20 µm) and NPPB (100 µm) inhibited cell cycle progress and arrested cells at the G0/G1 phase boundary. Conclusions: Activity of the volume‐activated chloride channel is one of the important factors that regulate the passage of cells through the G1 restriction point and that the Cl− current associated with RVD plays an important role in cell proliferation.
LKM512 yogurt consumption improves the intestinal environment and induces the T‐helper type 1 cytokine in adult patients with intractable atopic dermatitis
Authors: Matsumoto M. , Aranami A. , Ishige A. , Watanabe K. , Benno Y.
Published: March 2007

Background
In atopic dermatitis (AD) patients, the intestinal mucosal barrier function is weakened, permiting frequent invasion by antigens. Polyamines and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced by intestinal bacteria are involved in the promotion of intestinal mucosal barrier functions.

Aim
Our aim was to investigate the effect of pro‐biotic yogurt containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis LKM512 (LKM512 yogurt) on subjective symptoms, intestinal microbiota, intestinal bacterial metabolites (polyamines and SCFA), and T‐helper type 1 (Th1)/Th2 balance in intractable AD patients.

Methods
In a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study, LKM512 yogurt was given for 4 weeks to 10 adult AD patients who were diagnosed with moderate AD (four males and six females; average age, 22.1 years). The subjective symptoms were recorded after each intervention. The dynamics of fecal microbiota were analysed by the terminal‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The effects of LKM512 yogurt on fecal polyamines, SCFA, and serum cytokines were evaluated.

Results
Scores of itch and burning tended to improve to a greater extent by LKM512 yogurt consumption than by placebo consumption. LKM512 yogurt (P<0.005) and placebo consumption (P<0.05) significantly increased the serum IFN‐γ concentration by six‐ and threefold, respectively. Fecal microbiota was altered dynamically by LKM512 yogurt consumption, in particular, the bacterial species and phylotypes of Bifidobacterium, Clostridium cluster IV and subcluster XIVa were increased in number. In addition, fecal spermidine concentration was significantly (P<0.05) increased, while fecal butyrate also tended to be increased by LKM512 yogurt consumption.

Conclusion
We conclude that LKM512 yogurt consumption may be effective against intractable adult‐type AD and this effect depends on the recovery of the intestinal mucosal barrier function and the induction of the Th1‐type cytokine by polyamines and SCFA, particularly, butyrate, produced by the altered intestinal microbiota.
Early‐onset atopy is associated with enhanced lymphocyte cytokine responses in 11‐year‐old children
Authors: Turner S. W. , Heaton T. , Rowe J. , Suriyaarachchi D. , Serralha M. , Holt B. J. , Franklin P. J. , Stick S. M. , Goldblatt J. , Sly P. D. , Le Souëf P. N. , Holt P. G.
Published: March 2007

Background
Early age at onset of atopy is associated with more severe asthma and increased airway responsiveness (AR); the underlying mechanism is unclear but may involve T cell responses.

Objective
To test the hypothesis that enhanced T cell responses may be associated with early‐onset atopy.

Methods
In a longitudinal study, atopy was determined in infancy and at 6 and 11 years of age. Individuals were categorized as persistent infant‐onset atopy (PIOA), early childhood‐onset atopy (ECOA) and later childhood‐onset atopy (LCOA). At 11 years of age, peripheral blood T cell cytokine responses, AR, exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were determined.

Results
The age at onset of atopy was determined for 60 children, of whom 15 had PIOA, 24 had ECOA and 21 had LCOA. An additional 76 children who were never atopic were also included. T cell responses to house dust mite, including interleukin‐5, ‐9, ‐10 and tumour necrosis factor α, were higher among children with PIA and ECOA, and lower in children with LCOA, P<0.05. In contrast, those children with LCOA or who were not atopic had the highest IL‐10 response to PHA (P=0.014). Children with PIOA and ECOA, but not LCOA, had higher AR and FENO compared with non‐atopic children (P<0.05). The group with PIOA were more likely among the atopic children to be admitted to hospital for asthma (P<0.05) and also had lower %FEV1 compared with non‐atopic children (P=0.023).

Conclusions
Early age at sensitization is associated with enhanced T cell cytokine responses and indices of adverse asthma outcome. T cell cytokine responses might be programmed at the time of initial atopic sensitization.
Generation of a low Immunoglobulin E‐binding mutant of the timothy grass pollen major allergen Phl p 5a
Authors: Wald M. , Kahlert H. , Weber B. , Jankovic M. , Keller W. , Cromwell O. , Nandy A. , Fiebig H.
Published: March 2007

Background
Immunotherapy of grass pollen allergy is currently based on the administration of pollen extracts containing natural allergens. Specifically designed recombinant allergens with reduced IgE reactivity could be used in safer and more efficacious future therapy concepts.

Objectives
This study aimed to generate hypoallergenic variants of the timothy grass major allergen Phl p 5a as candidates for allergen‐specific immunotherapy.

Methods
Three deletion mutants were produced in Escherichia coli and subsequently purified. The overall IgE‐binding capacity of the mutants was compared with the recombinant wild‐type allergen by membrane blot and IgE‐inhibition assays. The capacity for effector cell activation was determined in basophil activation assays. T cell proliferation assays with allergen‐specific T cell lines were performed to confirm the retention of T cell reactivity. Structural properties were characterized by circular dichroism analysis and homogeneity by native isoelectric focusing. The deletion sites were mapped on homology models comprising the N‐ and C‐terminal halves of Phl p 5a, respectively.

Results
The double‐deletion mutant rPhl p 5a Δ(94–113, 175–198) showed strongly diminished IgE binding in membrane blot and IgE‐inhibition assays. Both deletions affect predominantly α‐helical regions located in the N‐ and C‐terminal halves of Phl p 5a, respectively. Whereas deletion of Δ175–198 alone was sufficient to cause a large reduction of the IgE reactivity in a subgroup of allergic sera, only the combination of both deletions was highly effective for all the sera tested. rPhl p 5a Δ(94–113, 175–198) consistently showed at least an 11.5‐fold reduced capacity to activate basophils compared with the recombinant wild‐type molecule, and the T cell proliferation assays demonstrated retention of T cell reactivity.

Conclusion
The mutant rPhl p 5a Δ(94–113, 175–198) fulfils the basic requirements for a hypoallergenic molecule suitable for a future immunotherapy of grass pollen allergy; it offers substantially reduced IgE binding and maintained T cell reactivity.
HDAC2 controls IgM H‐ and L‐chain gene expressions via EBF1, Pax5, Ikaros, Aiolos and E2A gene expressions
Authors: Nakayama Masami , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Yamamoto‐Nagamatsu Nahoko , Barman Hirak Kumar , Kikuchi Hidehiko , Takami Yasunari , Toyonaga Kenji , Yamashita Koki , Nakayama Tatsuo
Published: March 2007

We previously reported that histone deacetylase‐2 (HDAC2) controls the amount of IgM H‐chain at the steps of transcription of its gene and alternative processing of its pre‐mRNA in DT40 cells. Here, we showed not only that the HDAC2‐deficiency caused repressions of gene expressions for HDAC7, EBF1, Pax5, Aiolos and Ikaros, and elevations of gene expressions for HDAC4, HDAC5, PCAF and E2A, but also that it caused altered acetylation levels of several Lys residues of core histones. Using gene targeting techniques, we generated three homozygous DT40 mutants: EBF1−/–, Aiolos−/– and E2A−/–, devoid of EBF1, Aiolos and E2A genes, respectively. Semiquantitative RT‐PCR analysis of the resultant mutants revealed not only that EBF1 and Aiolos down‐regulate expressions of IgM H‐ and L‐chain genes, but also that E2A up‐regulates expressions of these two genes. These results, together with others, indicate that HDAC2 controls indirectly expressions of IgM H‐ and L‐chain genes through opposite transcriptional regulations of EBF1, Pax5, Aiolos plus Ikaros and E2A genes.
Prophylactic treatment with activated prothrombin complex concentrate (FEIBA®) reduces the frequency of bleeding episodes in paediatric patients with haemophilia A and inhibitors
Authors: LEISSINGER C. A. , BECTON D. L. , EWING N. P. , VALENTINO L. A.
Published: March 2007

Summary.  Orthopaedic complications are among the most disabling sequelae occurring in patients with haemophilia and inhibitors. Recurrent or refractory joint bleeds can lead to joint damage, limiting mobility and causing permanent disability. Activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCCs) are effective in controlling acute, intraoperative and postoperative bleeding in patients with haemophilia and inhibitors. The relatively long, dosing interval and safety profile distinguish aPCCs as a well‐suited option for prophylaxis. Therefore, it is postulated that long‐term routine aPCC administration will decrease the frequency of recurrent bleeds, prevent damage to normal joints, and slow the progression of existing joint disease in patients with inhibitors. To test this hypothesis, a retrospective chart audit was performed. In four treatment centres, five patients were identified who received aPCC [Factor Eight Inhibitor Bypassing Activity, Anti‐Inhibitor Coagulant Complex (FEIBA®); Baxter AG, Vienna, Austria] prophylactically for ≥6 months to prevent or reduce further joint deterioration, reduce bleeding and prevent postsurgical bleeding. Median treatment duration was 15 months and included administration of >1300 doses of aPCC. Dosages ranged from 50 to 75 U kg−1 three times per week in four patients; one patient received 100 U kg−1 daily. Orthopaedic status was maintained in four patients and improved in one; the frequency of bleeding episodes was reduced in all patients. No adverse events or thrombotic complications were reported. This case series demonstrates that routine aPCC administration may be used safely and effectively to reduce the occurrence of bleeding episodes and to maintain or improve clinical joint status in some patients.
Tyrosine phosphorylation of a 38‐kDa capacitation‐associated buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) sperm protein is induced by L‐arginine and regulated through a cAMP/PKA‐independent pathway
Authors: Roy S. C. , Atreja S. K.
Published: March 2007

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of l‐arginine on nitric oxide (NO•) synthesis, capacitation and protein tyrosine phosphorylation in buffalo spermatozoa. Ejaculated buffalo spermatozoa were capacitated in the absence or presence of heparin, or l‐arginine or Nω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) for 6 h. Capacitating spermatozoa generated NO• both spontaneously and following stimulation with l‐arginine and l‐NAME quenched such l‐arginine‐induced NO• production. Immunolocalization of NOS suggested for existence of constitutive NOS in buffalo spermatozoa. l‐Arginine (10 mm) was found to be a potent capacitating agent and addition of l‐NAME to the incubation media attenuated both l‐arginine and heparin‐induced capacitation and suggested that NO• is involved in the capacitation of buffalo spermatozoa. Two sperm proteins of Mr 38 000 (p38) and 20 000 (p20) were tyrosine phosphorylated extensively by both heparin and l‐arginine. Of these, the tyrosine phosphorylation of p38 was insensitive to both induction by cAMP agonists as well as inhibition by a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. Further, most of these l‐arginine‐induced tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were localized to the midpiece and principal piece regions of flagellum of capacitated spermatozoa and suggested that sperm flagellum takes active part during capacitation. These results indicated that l‐arginine induces capacitation of buffalo spermatozoa through NO• synthesis and tyrosine phosphorylation of specific sperm proteins involving a pathway independent of cAMP/PKA.
The relationship between a primary maxillary incisor with a talon cusp and the permanent successor: a study of 57 cases
Authors: LEE CHUN‐KEI , KING NIGEL MARTYN , LO EDWARD CHIN‐MAN , CHO SHIU‐YIN
Published: March 2007

Background.  Most reported cases of talon cusps in the primary dentition have been on the maxillary central incisors and the permanent successors have remained unaffected. Four of the five reported cases on a maxillary lateral incisor, however, have been associated with a supernumerary permanent successor.

Aim.  This paper describes the relationship between the presence of talon cusps on a primary maxillary incisor, and the morphology and number of the permanent successors in a population of Chinese children.

Design.  The dental records of children diagnosed with a talon cusp on a primary incisor were retrieved for review. The diagnoses took place in a regional school dental clinic in Hong Kong between April 2002 and August 2005.

Results.  Fifty‐eight primary maxillary incisors with talon cusps were found. When the central incisors were involved, 32 of the 35 (91.4%) underlying permanent successors were not found to be associated with any odontogenic abnormalities. When the lateral incisors were involved, however, 18 of the 23 cases (78.3%) showed odontogenic abnormalities, 14 of which were associated with supernumerary teeth.

Conclusions.  The present study shows that, when there is a talon cusp on a primary maxillary lateral incisor, a high proportion of the underlying permanent successors can be expected to exhibit odontogenic abnormalities.
Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐I mRNA and Peptide in the Human Anterior Pituitary
Authors: Jevdjovic T. , Bernays R. L. , Eppler E.
Published: March 2007

The pituitary is the central organ regulating virtually all endocrine processes, and pathologies of the pituitary cause manifold adverse effects. Because insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I appears to be involved in tumour pathogenesis, progression, and persistence, and only few data exist on the cellular synthesis sites of IGF‐I, the present study aims to create a basis for further research on pituitary adenomas by investigating the presence of IGF‐I in the human pituitary using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, in situ hybridisation, immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry. IGF‐I was expressed in the pituitary, and gene sequence analysis revealed a sequence identical to that found in human liver. The distribution pattern of IGF‐I mRNA found by in situ hybridisation corresponded to that of IGF‐I peptide in immunohistochemistry. In all pituitary samples investigated, IGF‐I‐immunoreactivity occurred in almost all adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)‐immunoreactive cells. Occasionally, an interindividually varying number of growth hormone (GH) and, infrequently, follicle‐stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone cells contained IGF‐I‐immunoreactivity but none was detected in supporting cells. At the ultrastructural level, IGF‐I‐immunoreactivity was confined to secretory granules in coexistence with ACTH‐ or GH‐immunoreactivity, respectively, indicating a concomitant release of the hormones. Thus, in humans, IGF‐I appears to be a constituent in ACTH cells whereas its production in GH‐producing and gonadotrophic cells may depend on the physiological status (e.g. serum IGF‐I level, age or reproductive phase). It is assumed that locally produced IGF‐I plays a crucial role in the regulation of endocrine cells by autocrine/paracrine mechanisms in addition to the endocrine route.
Correlation between gastric pH and gastro‐oesophageal reflux contents: ambulatory pH‐impedance monitoring results
Authors: Roman S. , Serraj I. , Damon H. , Mion F.
Published: March 2007

Abstract  Gastro‐oesophageal reflux events should be related to gastric contents. The goal of this study was to determine the relationship between gastric pH and the nature of reflux events. Ambulatory oesophageal pH‐impedance and gastric pH monitoring was performed in 41 patients [29 off and 12 on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy] and 12 controls. The mean gastric pH was measured within 2 min around the reflux episodes, 10 cm below the cardia. Acid reflux events occurred more frequently at gastric pH <4 (89%) than non‐acid reflux events (63%, P < 0.0001). Acid reflux events extended more frequently 15 cm above the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS; 34%) than non‐acid reflux episodes (24%, P = 0.005). Gastric pH was significantly lower during interprandial reflux events than during postprandial ones in the three groups (P < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between gastric pH and the nadir oesophageal pH during reflux events in the three groups: this correlation was more significant in patients on PPI therapy. We conclude that most acid and non‐acid reflux episodes occur at acid gastric pH, as measured 10 cm below the LOS. This measure does not appear a good predictor of the pH of reflux events.
Distinct expression of endogenous Petunia vein clearing virus and the DNA transposon dTph1 in two Petunia hybrida lines is correlated with differences in histone modification and siRNA production
Authors: Noreen Faiza , Akbergenov Rashid , Hohn Thomas , Richert‐Pöggeler Katja R.
Published: March 2007

Endogenous viruses exist in all kingdoms. They usually have active mechanisms of integration, as in bacteriophage λ and animal retroviruses, and sophisticated mechanisms to maintain a proviral state over decades and generations. Plant para retroviruses, however, neither have an integrase, nor genes for maintaining the proviral state. How are those elements controlled, and under what conditions can they be activated? Here we study the proviral state of endogenous petunia vein clearing virus (ePVCV). Our results support the hypothesis that the proviral state is associated with a host silencing mechanism manifested by DNA methylation, chromatin modification and production of small interfering (si) RNAs. PVCV may be induced by applying abiotic stress, leading to the development of viral symptoms and increased transcript and siRNA levels. Similar levels of ePVCV DNA methylation were observed in two different lines of Petunia hybrida, RdC (rose du ciel) and W138, the latter known for its active version of transposon dTph1. In contrast, significant differences in histone modification were detected. The predominant association of ePVCV sequences with histone H3 methylated at lysine 9 (H3mK9) in RdC and with about equal amounts of H3mK9 and H3mK4 in W138 indicates a less repressive proviral state in the latter cultivar.
Increase in CPD photolyase activity functions effectively to prevent growth inhibition caused by UVB radiation
Authors: Hidema Jun , Taguchi Taku , Ono Taiichi , Teranishi Mika , Yamamoto Kazuo , Kumagai Tadashi
Published: March 2007

Rice cultivars vary widely in their sensitivity to ultraviolet B (UVB) and this has been correlated with cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) photolyase mutations that alter the structure/function of this photorepair enzyme. Here, we tested whether CPD photolyase function determines the UVB sensitivity of rice (Oryza sativa) by generating transgenic rice plants bearing the CPD photolyase gene of the UV‐resistant rice cultivar Sasanishiki in the sense orientation (S‐B and S‐C lines) or the antisense orientation (AS‐D line). The S‐B and S‐C plants had 5.1‐ and 45.7‐fold higher CPD photolyase activities than the wild‐type, respectively, were significantly more resistant to UVB‐induced growth damage, and maintained significantly lower CPD levels in their leaves during growth under elevated UVB radiation. Conversely, the AS‐D plant had little photolyase activity, was severely damaged by elevated UVB radiation, and maintained higher CPD levels in its leaves during growth under UVB radiation. Notably, the S‐C plant was not more resistant to UVB‐induced growth inhibition than the S‐B plant, even though it had much higher CPD photolyase activity. These results strongly indicate that UVB‐induced CPDs are one of principal causes of UVB‐induced growth inhibition in rice plants grown under supplementary UVB radiation, and that increasing CPD photolyase activity can significantly alleviate UVB‐caused growth inhibition in rice. However, further protection from UVB‐induced damage may require the genetic enhancement of other systems as well.
Direct benefits and costs for hybridizing Ficedula flycatchers
Authors: WILEY C. , FOGELBERG N. , SæTHER S. A. , VEEN T. , SVEDIN N. , KEHLENBECK J. VOGEL , QVARNSTRÖM A.
Published: March 2007

It is well understood that females may gain direct benefits from breeding with attractive males. However, the direct fitness effects of mate‐choice are rarely considered with respect to mating between different species (hybridization), a field dominated by discussion of indirect costs of producing unfit hybrid offspring. Hybridizing females may also gain by the types of direct benefits that are important for intraspecific mate choice, and in addition may have access to certain benefits that are restricted to mating with males of an ecologically diverged sister‐taxon. We investigate possible direct benefits and costs female Ficedula flycatchers gain from breeding with a heterospecific male, and demonstrate that hybridizing female collared flycatchers (F. albicollis) breed in territories that do not suffer the seasonal decline in habitat quality experienced by females breeding with conspecifics. We exclude the hypotheses that heterospecific males provide alternative food‐types or assume a greater amount of the parental workload. In fact, the diets of the two species (F. albicollis and F. hypoleuca) were highly similar, suggesting possible interspecific competition over food resources in sympatry. We discuss the implications of direct fitness effects of hybridization, and why there has been such a disparity in the attention paid to such benefits and costs with regard to intraspecific and interspecific mate‐choice.
Providing operators and technicians for the ecological restoration industry
Authors: Buchanan Robin
Published: March 2007

In 1986, it took little effort from bush regenerators to persuade the New South Wales Department of Technical and Further Education (TAFE) to set up a new course specifically for the bush regeneration industry, but the unique nature of training for ecological restoration and management was threatened in late 2006.
Native fish entrapment in irrigation systems: A step towards understanding the significance of the problem
Authors: King Alison J. , O’Connor Justin P.
Published: March 2007

Summary  The Australian irrigation industry diverts significant volumes of water from our rivers, and as such, may also divert and entrain riverine fish. Although it is widely acknowledged that our native fish fauna have been greatly affected by a variety of anthropogenic changes, little is known about the extent or significance of fish entrainment in irrigation systems. This paper presents results from a preliminary investigation into the diversion of fish into irrigation channels undertaken in the Goulburn‐Murray Irrigation Network, Victoria, Australia. The case study and our knowledge of the life‐history strategies of the Basin's fish fauna suggest that the loss of native fish into irrigation networks may be a substantial problem, which, up until recently, has been largely ignored. We strongly suggest that the impact of diversions on native fish populations requires urgent further investigation and quantification, through the cooperation of water management authorities and fish biologists.
Measuring melancholy: A critique of the Beck Depression Inventory and its use in mental health nursing
Authors: Hagen Brad
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT:  The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) is one of the most commonly used depression measurement instruments. Mental health nurses often utilize the BDI to assess the level of depression in clients, and to monitor the effectiveness of treatments such as antidepressants and electroconvulsive therapy. Despite the widespread use of the BDI in both clinical practice and research, there is surprisingly little nursing literature critically examining the BDI or its use by mental health nurses. This paper reviews the origins, purpose, and format of the BDI, discusses some of the strengths and limitations of the BDI, and concludes with some implications for mental health nursing.
Impact of theory and clinical placement on undergraduate students’ mental health nursing knowledge, skills, and attitudes
Authors: Henderson Susan , Happell Brenda , Martin Trish
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT:  Mental health issues are common and contemporary nursing students need to be well prepared to meet the mental health care needs of Australians. This study explored the influence of the mental health component of a Bachelor of Nursing course on second‐year undergraduate nursing students’ self‐reported knowledge, skills, and attitudes in relation to mental health nursing. The study used a quasiexperimental research design involving questionnaires and individual interviews to determine nursing students’ self‐reported knowledge, skills, attitudes. Questionnaires were administered prior to undertaking the mental health theory, repeated prior to undertaking a clinical placement in either a community or inpatient mental health setting, and again after the clinical placement. The findings of the study indicated that a positive clinical placement had the greatest influence on nursing students’ self‐reported knowledge, skills, and attitudes and interest in nursing people experiencing mental health problems; however, the quantity of theoretical education also emerged as an influencing variable.
Changes in environmental controls on the growth of Abies alba Mill. in the Vosges Mountains, north‐eastern France, during the 20th century
Authors: Pinto Paulina E. , Gégout Jean‐Claude , Hervé Jean‐Christophe , Dhôte Jean‐François
Published: March 2007

Aim  To analyse the radial growth of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) in north‐eastern France in relation to soil, climate and interspecific competition factors and to check the temporal stability of their effects during the 20th century.

Location  The Vosges Mountains, located in north‐eastern France.

Methods  Data were collected from 143 plots regularly distributed over three altitude ranges (from 330 to 1100 m), three humus forms (moder to mull) and seven types of stands, including a pure stand of silver fir and six mixed stands containing this species. For each plot, an index of mean radial growth of silver fir was calculated, independent of tree age and calendar year of ring formation. Relationships between radial growth and ecological factors were analysed using linear mixed‐effects models.

Results  Radial growth of silver fir is low in the presence of Picea abies or of a high density of other dominant trees. Low aluminium concentration and good nitrogen supply, measured by the soil C:N ratio, are correlated with high radial growth. Water reserves, related to available water storage capacity and to lateral run‐off, are also correlated with high radial growth. Analysis of environmental effects during the 20th century showed that growth was strongly correlated with nitrogen supply at the start of the century, and with aluminium toxicity and climate at the end of the century. The radial growth of trees located on sites with low nitrogen supply was lower before 1970 than that of trees located on nitrogen‐rich soils. At the end of the century, radial growth of silver fir was the same for all levels of nitrogen nutrition.

Main conclusions  Our results indicate that nitrogen supply was a limiting factor for the mean radial growth of silver fir before the 1970s. Eutrophication during the 20th century may then have eliminated limitation by nitrogen.