bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidative defense system in an upland rice cultivar subjected to increasing intensity of water stress followed by recovery
Authors: Srivalli B. , Sharma Geetanjali , Khanna‐Chopra Renu
Published: November 2003

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) cv. Tulsi is recommended for Eastern India, for upland ecological cultivation systems where a crop experiences natural cycles of water deficit and water sufficiency, depending upon the monsoon rains. In this experiment, this cultivar was subjected to three cycles of water stress of increasing stress intensity. Each stress cycle was terminated by rewatering the plants for a 48‐h period. The level of stress was measured by quantification of H2O2. The response of antioxidant metabolites such as ascorbate and glutathione, and enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD, EC 1.15.1.1), catalase (CAT, EC 1.11.1.6), ascorbate peroxidase (APX, EC 1.11.1.11), glutathione reductase (GR, EC 1.6.4.2) and guaiacol peroxidase (POX, EC 1.11.1.7) was analysed in terms of activity and isozyme pattern for each cycle of stress and recovery. The differential response of the antioxidant enzymes with increasing stress intensity followed by recovery, highlight the different role of each in the drought acclimation process of upland rice. SOD and POX activity in stressed plants was higher than the controls in all the three cycles. The second level of stress saw an increase in all the enzymes with APX and GR showing its maximum activity and there was a better management of H2O2 levels. There was an induction of a new CAT isoform in stressed plants in the third cycle of water stress. The co‐ordinated defense helped the plants to recover in terms of growth on rewatering after stress cycles.
Basis of coffee seed sensitivity to liquid nitrogen exposure: oxidative stress or imbibitional damage?
Authors: Dussert Stéphane , Chabrillange Nathalie , Montillet Jean‐Luc , Agnel Jean‐Pierre , Engelmann Florent , Noirot Michel
Published: November 2003

Two hypotheses, namely the occurrence of post‐thaw oxidative stress or imbibitional damage, were tested to explain the high sensitivity of coffee seeds to liquid nitrogen (LN) exposure. Oxidative stress was studied by measuring primary and secondary products of lipid peroxidation in seeds during the desiccation and rehydration periods. The 4‐hydroxynonenal (4‐HNE) content of seeds remained constant throughout the desiccation step. No significant difference was observed between desiccated seeds and seeds desiccated and exposed to LN for the evolution of their 4‐HNE and hydroperoxide contents during rehydration. In both cases, an increase in 4‐HNE and hydroperoxide contents of seeds was observed during the first hours of culture under germination conditions, followed by a progressive decrease down to values comparable to those observed in desiccated seeds. The hydroperoxide composition of frozen seeds was not significantly different from that of control seeds. The (S)/(R) enantiomeric ratios of 9‐ and 13‐hydroxy‐octadecadienoic acid extracted from rehydrating seeds were chiral, suggesting that they originated from lipoxygenase activity. These results suggest that the high sensitivity of coffee seeds to LN exposure is not directly associated with the occurrence of an oxidative stress during post‐thaw rehydration. The effect on seed viability of different rehydration procedures previously identified to reduce membrane imbibitional injury was studied after desiccation and LN exposure. Desiccation tolerance increased with, by increasing order, seed osmoconditioning, pre‐heating and pre‐humidifying prior to their culture under germination conditions. Among the four combinations of pre‐humidification durations (24 or 48 h) and temperatures (25 or 37°C) tested, pre‐humidification for 24 h at 37°C gave the highest level of desiccation tolerance. This rehydration procedure also dramatically increased seed viability after LN exposure. Seed desiccation sensitivity modelling in combination with the calculation of the decrease in seed water activity during cooling facilitated the explanation of the beneficial effect of controlled rehydration after desiccation and LN exposure. These results support the hypothesis that imbibitional membrane damage is involved in the sensitivity of coffee seeds to LN exposure.
Differential expression of multiple PR10 proteins in western white pine following wounding, fungal infection and cold‐hardening
Authors: Liu Jun‐Jun , Ekramoddoullah Abul K. M. , Yu Xueshu
Published: November 2003

Herein the wound‐induced expression of a set of PR10 genes (PmPR10) from Pinus monticola (Dougl. Ex D. Don) is described. Thirteen different PmPR10 cDNAs were isolated and their nucleotide sequences were determined from wounded needles. Northern blot analysis showed that PmPR10 gene expression was activated with both local and systemic responses after wounding, and the accumulation of PmPR10 transcript was much more abundant and rapid in wounded needles than in unwounded tissues. Western immunoblot analysis demonstrated that PmPR10 protein synthesis was activated upon wounding, suggesting that the expression of the wound‐activated PmPR10 gene was regulated at the transcription level. In wounded needles, the PR10 protein level increased from day 1 to day 8 after treatment. Western immunoblot analysis following isoelectric focusing and two‐dimensional electrophoresis revealed that nine PmPR10 proteins accumulated to different extents after wounding. These proteins have a molecular mass of about 18 kDa with different isoelectrical points ranging from 5.2 to 6.0. Wound‐inducible PmPR10 proteins were differentially expressed in response to cold‐hardening and fungal infection. The wound‐induced PmPR10 protein accumulation was enhanced by the wound‐signal compound methyl jasmonate and okadaic acid, a specific inhibitor of type 1 or type 2 A serine/threonine protein phosphatases. However, it was partially suppressed by salicylic acid and abscisic acid. These data provide an opportunity to elucidate further the signal transduction pathway involved in the activation of PmPR10 protein synthesis in the defence response of white pine against mechanical injury.
Cloning, characterization and expression analysis of interleukin‐10 from the common carp, Cyprinus carpio L.
Authors: Savan Ram , Igawa Daisuke , Sakai Masahiro
Published: November 2003

Interleukin (IL)‐10 was cloned from the common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) using IL‐10 primers from carp head kidney following stimulation with concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide. The cDNA consisted of a 1096 bp sequence containing a 55 bp 5′ untranslated region and a 498 bp 3′ untranslated region. An open reading frame of 543 bp encoded a putative 180 amino acid protein with a putative signal peptide of 22 amino acids. The signature motif of IL‐10 is conserved in carp sequence. A 2083 bp genomic sequence of carp IL‐10 was found to contain five exons interrupted by four introns. With the exception of much more compact introns, the genomic structure was similar to that of mammalian IL‐10. By homology, phylogeny and genomic analyses, the carp gene cloned was designated as IL‐10. Carp IL‐10 was expressed in head, kidney, liver, spleen and intestine during the resting phase. The gene was also expressed in head kidney and liver following in vitro stimulation with lipopolysaccharide.
Fragments of pro‐peptide activate mature penicillin amidase of Alcaligenes faecalis
Authors: Kasche Volker , Galunsky Boris , Ignatova Zoya
Published: November 2003

Penicillin amidase from Alcaligenes faecalis is a recently identified N‐terminal nucleophile hydrolase, which possesses the highest specificity constant (kcat/Km) for the hydrolysis of benzylpenicillin compared with penicillin amidases from other sources. Similar to the Escherichia coli penicillin amidase, the A. faecalis penicillin amidase is maturated in vivo from an inactive precursor into the catalytically active enzyme, containing one tightly bound Ca2+ ion, via a complex post‐translational autocatalytic processing with a multi‐step excision of a small internal pro‐peptide. The function of the pro‐region is so far unknown. In vitro addition of chemically synthesized fragments of the pro‐peptide to purified mature A. faecalis penicillin amidase increased its specific activity up to 2.3‐fold. Mutations were used to block various steps in the proteolytic processing of the pro‐peptide to obtain stable mutants with covalently attached fragments of the pro‐region to their A‐chains. These extensions of the A‐chain raised the activity up to 2.3‐fold and increased the specificity constants for benzylpenicillin hydrolysis mainly by an increase of the turnover number (kcat).
Biological control of phytophagous ladybird beetles Epilachna vigintioctopunctata (Col., Coccinellidae) by chitinolytic phylloplane bacteria Alcaligenes paradoxus entrapped in alginate beads
Authors: Otsu Y. , Matsuda Y. , Shimizu H. , Ueki H. , Mori H. , Fujiwara K. , Nakajima T. , Miwa A. , Nonomura T. , Sakuratani Y. , Tosa Y. , Mayama S. , Toyoda H.
Published: November 2003

The chitinase secreting strain KPM‐012A of Alcaligenes paradoxus was isolated from tomato leaves and vitally entrapped in sodium alginate gel beads to provide a new method for biocontrol of phytophagous ladybird beetles Epilachna vigintioctopunctata. First, the peritrophic membrane was dissected from the adult ladybird beetles that ingested the suspension of KPM‐012A after starvation to observe degradation of the midgut surface by the bacteria under electron microscopy. The peritrophic membrane around the bacteria was degraded, suggesting the release of chitinase from the ingested bacteria. Large amounts of chitinase were successfully released from KPM‐012A‐entrapped calcium alginate beads. This chitinase release from the microbial beads was sustained for 1 week and was sufficient to digest the peritrophic membrane. Daily supply of tomato leaves treated with the microbial beads caused considerable suppression of leaf feeding and oviposition by the adult ladybird beetles, indicating that this method is effective for decreasing population of insect pests in the subsequent generation. Thus, the present study provided an experimental basis for the biocontrol measures of herbivorous insect pests by the chitinolytic bacteria entrapped in alginate beads.
Why Clinical Governance is Important: An Approach to the Resolution of Managerial and Professional Conflict in Mental Health
Authors: Singh Bruce
Published: November 2003

Objective: To provide a background to the reasons for the inevitability of managerial and professional conflict in the modern mental health system and the possible role of clinical governance in providing a resolution to this conflict.

Methods: Literature review, historical overview and personal observation.

Results: Social and political world changes have led to governments’ decreasing role in the economy, which is one of the major factors impacting on the public mental health system, leading to managerial and professional conflict as increasing demand meets limited resources.

Conclusion: Until the major participants in the health system come together, such conflicts will continue. Clinical governance provides a means for this to occur.
Scientific Child Psychiatry: An Oxymoron?
Authors: Vance Alasdair
Published: November 2003

Objective: The central issue of an apparent contradiction between science as a discourse and the field of child psychiatry is addressed and significant biological contributions outlined.

Conclusions: The apparent contradiction within the aims of science is evident in psychiatry, particularly in child psychiatry, given the predominant psychodynamic and family systems theories and practices and the complexity of the developmental context of children. However, empirically grounded advances suggest that biological and indeed scientific child psychiatry is credible, informative and useful for case assessment, psychological and medication treatment selection and monitoring.
U–Pb zircon ages and Sr‐Nd‐Pb isotopic compositions for Permian–Jurassic plutons in the Ogcheon belt and Ryeongnam massif, Korea: Tectonic implications and correlation with the China Qinling–Dabie belt and the Japan Hida belt
Authors: Kim Cheong‐Bin , Chang Ho‐Wan , Turek Andrew
Published: November 2003

Abstract  The Ogcheon fold belt and the Ryeongnam massif in the Korean Peninsula are made up of Precambrian igneous and sedimentary rocks that have been metamorphosed, tectonically deformed and extensively intruded by mafic to felsic plutonic rocks of Permian to Jurassic age. In the present study, we report seven new U–Pb zircon ages and Sr‐Nd‐Pb isotopic data for Permian to Jurassic plutons in the Ogcheon belt and the Ryeongnam massif. In the Ogcheon belt, these are: the Cheongsan porphyritic granite (217 ± 3.1 My), the Baegrog foliated granodiorite (206.4 ± 3.6 My), the Sani granite (178.8 ± 2.9 My) and the Yeonggwang foliated granite (173.0 ± 1.7 My). For the Ryeongnam massif, we report on the Yeongdeog foliated granodiorite (252.2 ± 2.9 My), the Sancheong gabbro (203.8 ± 3.3 My) and the Baegseogri foliated granodiorite (177.8 ± 2.4 My). All of these ages are lower concordia intercepts; the upper concordia intercepts indicate derivation from a Precambrian protolith. Sr, Nd and Pb isotopes also reveal that much of the Permian–Jurassic (252–173 Ma) plutonism in Korea was generated by recycling of Precambrian rocks. These new ages, together with other published zircon ages indicate that the plutonism in the Ogcheon fold belt is coeval with that in the Ryeongnam massif, but based on the Sr‐Nd‐Pb isotopic evidence, they are not cogenetic. In addition, zircon ages provide information on the movement along the Honam shear zone, which cuts across the whole Korean Peninsula and along most of its length provides the boundary between the Ogcheon fold belt and the Ryeongnam massif. It has a prolonged history of movement and deformation and appears to have been active from the Precambrian through to the Mesozoic, from before 1924 Ma to at least 180 Ma. The Permian–Jurassic igneous and tectonic activity in Korea is a manifestation of the more extensive orogenic activities that affected the East Asian continent at that time. In China, ultra high‐pressure rocks of the Qinling–Dabie belt formed between 210 and 230 Ma as result of the collision between the South China block and the North China block. In central Japan, corresponding plutonic activity is dated as 175 to 231 Ma. The absence of ultra high‐pressure rocks in Korea and Japan precludes a simple extension of the Qinling–Dabie belt eastwards; however, the effects of the continental collision eastwards are apparent from the igneous and tectonic activity.
Multiple generations of pseudotachylyte in the brittle to ductile regimes, Qinling–Dabie Shan ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic complex, central China
Authors: Lin Aiming , Sun Zhiming , Yang Zhenyu
Published: November 2003

Abstract  Pseudotachylytes are present along the Dahezhen shear zone in the Qinling–Dabie Shan collisional orogenic belt, central China. Two types of pseudotachylyte vein are documented in the shear zone: cataclasite‐related pseudotachylyte (C‐Pt) and mylonite‐related pseudotachylyte (M‐Pt). M‐Pt is associated with mylonite‐development and is overprinted by C‐Pt. All of the quartz and most of the feldspar porphyroclasts within the M‐Pt are plastically deformed, but not in the C‐Pt. Dynamically recrystallized fine‐grained quartz and feldspar bands are oriented subparallel to the mylonite and M‐Pt foliation, and partially surround the porphyroclasts. Our results suggest that the M‐Pt formed cyclically in the ductile region at estimated conditions of 400–650°C and 400–800 MPa due to propagation of seismic fracturing associated with the thrusting‐related rapid exhumation of the ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic complex in the brittle regime down to a greater depth than the base of the seismogenic zone. The M‐Pt and mylonite formed in the Dahezhen shear zone at estimated conditions of 400–650°C and 400–800 MPa. The coexistence of C‐Pt and M‐Pt in the same shear zone suggests that repeated seismic slips occurred in both the brittle and ductile portions of the crust during the thrusting‐related rapid exhumation of the ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic complex.
SARS: ventilatory and intensive care
Authors: YAM Loretta YC , CHEN Rong Chang , ZHONG Nan Shan
Published: November 2003

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is an emerging infection caused by a novel coronavirus. It is characterised by a highly infectious syndrome of fever and respiratory symptoms, and is usually associated with bilateral lung infiltrates. The clinical syndrome of SARS often progresses to varying degrees of respiratory failure, with about 20% of patients requiring intensive care. Despite concern about potential aerosol generation, non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) has been reported to be efficacious in the treatment of SARS‐related ARF without posing infection risks to health care workers (HCW). Spontaneous pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax in SARS is common. The incidence of NIV‐associated barotrauma ranged from 6.6% to 15%. Patients who fail to tolerate NIV or fail NIV with progressive dyspnoea, tachypnoea and hypoxaemia should be intubated and mechanically ventilated. Mortality rates in intensive care units for SARS patients were high: 34–53% at 28 days, when some patients were still being ventilated. Strict adherence to infection control measures including isolation, use of appropriate personal protective equipment and negative pressure environment had been reported to eliminate cross‐infection to HCW.
Rethinking Overdetermination, Structural Power, and Social Change: A Critique of Gibson‐Graham, Resnick, and Wolff
Authors: Glassman Jim
Published: November 2003

Working in the wake of theoretical tendencies that became prominent within geography during the 1980s, many studies of resistance have either bracketed or ignored structural power, with some versions of poststructuralism simply denying that structural power is a useful concept in a world where power is putatively highly fluid and dispersed. These sorts of approaches, exemplified by the recent works of J K Gibson‐Graham, Stephen A Resnick, and Richard D Wolff (GGRW), limit the ability of studies of resistance to articulate the conditions under which political and social struggles might transcend resistance and succeed in liberating groups of humans from the oppressive conditions against which they struggle. In this paper, I discuss issues surrounding analysis of structural power in the wake of poststructuralist critiques of “structural Marxism,” presenting an alternative to GGRW's interpretation of Louis Althusser's concept of “overdetermination.” Overdetermination is a crucial concept, because it is rightly seen as the key to a noneconomistic Marxism and has been championed as such by GGRW. I re‐examine the roots of Althusser's concept in the writings of Lenin and Mao, arguing for a way of reading overdetermination that is both noneconomistic and compatible with a notion of structural power.
Reflections on the Economic‐Noneconomic Debate: A Radical Geographical Perspective from the European South
Authors: Kourliouros Elias
Published: November 2003

This paper expands upon the economic/noneconomic (cultural turn) debate in economic geography and proposes an alternative radical perspective through the lens of the European South. Based on the experience of Greece, the paper argues that no matter how important the cultural issues might be, the great political economy problems of distorted growth and incomplete development, sociospatial inequalities, and weak, incoherent and contradictory territorial policies continue to have a primary importance. The paper reviews some basic points of the cultural turn debate and then examines the orientations of radical spatioeconomic thought in postdictatorial (post‐1974) Greece in arguing that this thought was mostly problem‐driven, policy‐oriented and focused upon the political economy of Greek socioeconomic and territorial restructuring. It is argued that a southern radical agenda has to be based more deliberately on holistic and inclusive interdisciplinary resyntheses in which cultural issues are given due attention, but not to the detriment of a radical understanding of the territorial workings of economy, society and power relations. The concluding suggestion of the paper is that it is a political turn, rather than a cultural turn, that is best suited to a radical interpretation of South European economic geographies.
What is Alive and What is Dead in the Theory of Corporatism
Authors: Baccaro Lucio
Published: November 2003

The term ‘corporatism’ simultaneously designates a particular interest group structure, characterized by monopolistic, centralized and internally non‐democratic associations, and a particular policy‐making process, also known as ‘concertation’ or ‘social partnership’. This paper argues that structure and process may no longer be closely associated. By focusing on the Irish and Italian cases, it shows that concertation is perfectly compatible with a non‐corporatist structure of the interest representation system. Inter‐ and intra‐organizational co‐ordination remains important for the viability of concertation. However, it can be achieved, even in relatively fragmented systems like the Irish and the Italian, through alternative mechanisms relying on democracy and discussion.
Framing the Lewinsky Affair: Third‐Person Judgments by Scandal Frame
Authors: Joslyn Mark R.
Published: November 2003

Recent studies have documented a “third‐person effect” whereby people are found to judge others as more influenced than themselves by the mass media. Meanwhile, contemporary research on issue framing has demonstrated the powerful role of mass media in shaping people's political judgments. But are the perceptual judgments that define third‐person effects sensitive to how the media frame an issue? Two studies investigated this question in the context of the Lewinsky‐Clinton scandal, one in late August 1998 and the other during spring 1999. Several hundred undergraduates in each study were randomly assigned to one of two media frames. In the 1998 study, the political scandal was depicted as a matter of sexual indiscretion by the president or as legal wrongdoing; in the 1999 study, the recently concluded impeachment process was depicted as the consequence of partisanship or of Clinton's actions. The participants’ judgments of media influence on themselves and on the public were then recorded. The results show that third‐person effects were sensitive to issue framing, but change occurred primarily in participants’ judgments about their own vulnerability to media influence.
‘Riding the Rural Love Train’: Heterosexuality and the Rural Community
Authors: Little Jo
Published: November 2003

This paper examines the relationship between rurality and heterosexuality. It argues that in discussing the spatialisation of sexual identity in rural areas, previous research has concentrated either on homosexuality or masculinity in isolation. As is common in research generally, little attention has been given to the construction and performance of heterosexuality. Using two case study examples, one from the UK and one from New Zealand, the paper examines the centrality of conventional notions of heterosexuality to rural (and particularly farming) relationships. It suggests that ideas about the suitability of partners and spouses conform to highly traditional notions of heterosexuality. This particularly evident in the context of farming masculinities and the relationship between 'natural' masculinity and acceptable femininity. Ideas about the farmer's wife are shown to incorporate highly conventional assumptions not only about gender role but also feminine sexuality.
Apoptosis during intramembranous ossification
Authors: Palumbo Carla , Ferretti Marzia , De Pol Anto
Published: November 2003

This paper concerns the role of apoptosis during the onset of bone histogenesis. Previous investigations by us performed on intramembranous ossification revealed the existence of two types of osteogenesis: static (SBF) and dynamic bone formation (DBF). During SBF, the first to occur, stationary osteoblasts transform into osteocytes in the same location where they differentiated, forming the primary spongiosa. DBF takes place later, when movable osteoblastic laminae differentiate along the surface of the primary trabeculae. The main distinctive feature between SBF and DBF is that the latter involves the invasion of pre‐existing adjacent tissue, whereas the former does not. To ascertain whether programmed cell death during the invasive DBF process determines the fate of surrounding pre‐existing mesenchyme differently from that occurring during the non‐invasive SBF process, we studied apoptosis in ossification centres of tibial diaphysis in chick embryos and newborn rabbits with TUNEL and TEM. It emerged that, in both SBF and DBF, apoptosis affects mesenchymal cells located between the forming trabeculae and capillaries. However, apoptotic cells were observed more frequently during DBF than during SBF. This suggests that, during bone histogenesis, apoptosis, which is mostly associated with the invasive process of DBF, is probably dedicated to making space for advancing bone growth.
Amino terminal interaction in the prion protein identified using fusion to green fluorescent protein
Authors: Yao Yongxiu , Ren Junyuan , Jones Ian M.
Published: November 2003

In contrast to the well‐characterized carboxyl domain, the amino terminal half of the mature cellular prion protein has no defined structure. Here, following fusion of mouse prion protein fragments to green fluorescence protein as a reporter of protein stability, we report extreme variability in fluorescence level that is dependent on the prion fragment expressed. In particular, exposure of the extreme amino terminus in the context of a truncated prion protein molecule led to rapid degradation, whereas the loss of only six amino terminal residues rescued high level fluorescence. Study of the precise endpoints and residue identity associated with high fluorescence suggested a domain within the amino terminal half of the molecule defined by a long‐range intramolecular interaction between 23KKRPKP28 and 143DWED146 and dependent upon the anti‐parallel β‐sheet ending at residue 169 and normally associated with the structurally defined carboxyl terminal domain. This previously unreported interaction may be significant for understanding prion bioactivity and for structural studies aimed at the complete prion structure.
Coupling of neuronal 5‐HT7 receptors to activation of extracellular‐regulated kinase through a protein kinase A‐independent pathway that can utilize Epac
Authors: Lin Stanley L. , Johnson‐Farley Nadine N. , Lubinsky David R. , Cowen Daniel S.
Published: November 2003

The roles of 3′,5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and protein kinase A in 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT)7 receptor‐mediated activation of extracellular‐regulated kinase (ERK) were studied in cultured hippocampal neurons and transfected PC12 cells. Activation of ERK by neuronal Gs‐coupled receptors has been thought to proceed through a protein kinase A‐dependent pathway. In fact we identified coupling of 5‐HT7 receptors to activation of adenylyl cyclase and protein kinase A. However, no inhibition of agonist‐stimulated ERK activation was found when cells were treated with H‐89 and KT5720 at concentrations sufficient to completely inhibit activation of protein kinase A. However, activation of ERK was found to be sensitive to the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor 9‐(tetrahydrofuryl)‐adenine, suggesting a possible role for a cAMP‐guanine nucleotide exchange factor (cAMP‐GEF). Co‐treatment of cells with 8‐(4‐chlorophenylthio)‐2′‐O‐methyladenosine 3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate, a direct activator of the cAMP‐GEFs Epac1 and 2, reversed the inhibition of agonist‐stimulated ERK activation induced by adenylyl cyclase inhibition. Additionally, over‐expression of Epac1 enhanced 5‐HT7 receptor‐mediated activation of ERK. These results demonstrate that the activation of ERK mediated by neuronal Gs‐coupled receptors can proceed through cAMP‐dependent pathways that utilize cAMP‐GEFs rather than protein kinase A.
Neuromedin U and Neuromedin U receptor‐2 expression in the mouse and rat hypothalamus: effects of nutritional status
Authors: Graham E. S. , Turnbull Y. , Fotheringham P. , Nilaweera K. , Mercer J. G. , Morgan P. J. , Barrett P.
Published: November 2003

Neuromedin U (NMU) has been associated with the regulation of food‐intake and energy balance in rats. The objective of this study was to identify the sites of gene expression for NMU and the NMU receptor‐2 (NMU2R) in the mouse and rat hypothalamus and ascertain the effects of nutritional status on the expression of these genes. In situ hybridization studies revealed that NMU is expressed in several regions of the mouse hypothalamus associated with the regulation of energy balance. Analysis of NMU expression in the obese ob/ob mouse revealed that NMU mRNA levels were elevated in the dorsomedial hypothalamic (DMH) nucleus of obese ob/ob mice compared to lean litter‐mates. In addition, NMU mRNA levels were elevated in the DMH of mice fasted for 24 h relative to ad libitum fed controls. The pattern of expression of NMU and NMU2R were more widespread in the hypothalamus of mice than rats. These data provide the first detailed anatomical analysis of the NMU and NMU2R expression in the mouse and advance our knowledge of expression in the rat. The data from the obese rodent models supports the hypothesis that NMU is involved in the regulation of nutritional status.
Peptidergic modulation of male sexual behavior inLymnaea stagnalis: structural and functional characterization of –FVamide neuropeptides
Authors: Smit A. B. , Van Kesteren R. E. , Spijker S. , Van Minnen J. , Van Golen F. A. , Jiménez C. R. , Li K. W.
Published: November 2003

In the simultaneous hermaphrodite snailLymnaea stagnalis, copulation as a male is controlled by neurons that send axons to the male copulatory organs via a single penis nerve. Using direct mass spectrometry of a penis nerve sample, we show that one of the molecular ions has a mass corresponding to GAPRFVamide, previously identified from the buccal ganglia, and namedLymnaeainhibitory peptide (LIP). The identity of this peptide is confirmed by partial peptide purification from the penis nerve, followed by post source decay mass spectrometry. We cloned the LIP‐encoding cDNA, which predicts a prohormone that gives rise to five copies of LIP (now re‐named LIP A), two other –FVamide peptides (LIPs B and C), and five structurally unrelated peptides. The LIP gene is expressed in neurons of the right cerebral ventral lobe that send their axons into the penis nerve. We show that the LIP A peptide is present in these neurons and in the penis nerve, and confirmed the presence of LIP B and C in the penis nerve by post source decay mass spectrometry. Finally, we demonstrate that LIP A, B and C inhibit the contractions of the penis retractor muscle, thereby implicating their role in male copulation behavior.
‘Passive stabilization’ of striatal extracellular dopamine across the lesion spectrum encompassing the presymptomatic phase of Parkinson's disease: a voltammetric study in the 6‐OHDA‐lesioned rat
Authors: Bergstrom Brian P. , Garris Paul A.
Published: November 2003

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease do not present until the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons is nearly complete. Maintenance of dopaminergic tone governing striatal efferents is postulated to preserve motor control during the presymptomatic phase, but the neuroadaptation responsible for normalization is not completely understood. In particular, the prevailing view that surviving dopaminergic neurons compensate by up‐regulating release has been difficult to demonstrate directly. Here we investigate dopaminergic neurotransmission in the hemiparkinsonian rat using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry at carbon‐fiber microelectrodes. Electrical stimulation was used to elicit extracellular dopamine levels mimicking the steady‐state dynamics of tonic dopaminergic signaling. In agreement with microdialysis studies, evoked steady‐state dopamine levels remained constant over the entire lesion spectrum (0 to ∼85%) observed during the presymptomatic stage. Kinetic analysis of the voltammetric recordings demonstrated that evoked dopamine concentrations were normalized without plasticity of dopamine release and uptake, suggesting that the primary mechanisms controlling ambient levels of extracellular dopamine were not actively altered. In the present study, we formalize this neuroadaptation as ‘passive stabilization’. We further propose that passive stabilization is mediated by the simple physical principles of diffusion and steady state, is predicated on extrasynaptic transmission, and forms the basis for a new compensation model of preclinical parkinsonism.
Studies in conservation genetics of tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) — V. Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci
Authors: Blandon Ivonne R. , De León Francisco J. Garcia , Ward Rocky , Van Den Bussche Ronald A. , Needleman David S.
Published: November 2003

The tarpon, Megalops atlanticus, supports important recreational fisheries in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Declines in segments of these fisheries have prompted questions concerning genetic stock structure in this species. Preparatory to a survey of genetic variation in tarpon, 15 microsatellite markers were isolated. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 10 and observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.091 to 0.765, providing potentially useful markers for the detection of within‐ and among‐population genetic variability.
Isolation of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the ponerine ant Ectatomma tuberculatum
Authors: Poteaux C. , Hora R. R. , Vautrin D. , Fresneau D. , Solignac M.
Published: November 2003

We report the development of 11 microsatellite markers by an enrichment protocol in the ponerine ant Ectatomma tuberculatum. Polymorphism was explored in two colonies collected from Mexico and two colonies from Brazil. From the 11 loci which amplified, seven loci showed intracolonial polymorphism in Mexican colonies and only six loci were variable in populations from Brazil. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.18 to 0.84. The other five loci exhibited different alleles between Mexico and Brazil but geographical variability was not investigated further. Cross‐amplification was tested in another species of the same Tribe (Gnamptogenys striatula) and one locus was revealed to be polymorphic.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for the North African gundi, Ctenodactylus gundi (Rodentia: Ctenodactylidae)
Authors: Nutt Karen J.
Published: November 2003

Eleven highly polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from the North African gundi (Ctenodactylus gundi), a gregarious rock‐dwelling rodent found in northern Africa. These loci exhibited high genetic diversity (eight to 19 alleles per locus) and high levels of heterozygosity (62–98%). Collectively, these microsatellite markers are sufficiently variable to estimate levels of relatedness and population genetic structure for C. gundi.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the intertidal sponge Halichondria panicea
Authors: Knowlton A. L. , Pierson B. J. , Talbot S. L. , Highsmith R. C.
Published: November 2003

GA‐ and CA‐enriched genomic libraries were constructed for the intertidal sponge Halichondria panicea. Unique repeat motifs identified varied from the expected simple dinucleotide repeats to more complex repeat units. All sequences tended to be highly repetitive but did not necessarily contain the targeted motifs. Seven microsatellite loci were evaluated on sponges from the clone source population. All seven were polymorphic with 5.43 ± 0.92 mean number of alleles. Six of the seven loci that could be resolved had mean heterozygosities of 0.14–0.68. The loci identified here will be useful for population studies.
Isolation and cross‐species amplification of microsatellite loci in the freshwater minnow Zacco pachycephalus (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) for diversity and conservation genetic analysis
Authors: Huang Mei‐Tzu , Hsien‐Shao Tsao Eric , Hon‐Tsen Yu Alex
Published: November 2003

Asian minnows of the genus Zacco are dominant fish in various freshwater ecosystems. Two species, Zacco pachycephalus and Z. platypus, occur in Taiwan and are favourite targets for local sport anglers. The introduction of Zacco fish into nonindigenous habitats in Taiwan has become a conservation issue. We developed eight polymorphic microsatellites for Z. pachycephalus (average HE = 0.779) and these microsatellites were applicable to Z. platypus, which showed a comparable polymorphic level (average HE = 0.784). These loci can be used as genetic markers for identifying conservation units and studying population differentiation for both Zacco species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite DNA markers in the rare species barfin flounder (Verasper moseri) and its closely related species spotted halibut (V. variegatus)
Authors: Ortega‐Villaizan Romo M. , Nakajima M. , Taniguchi N.
Published: November 2003

Barfin flounder and spotted halibut have been selected in Japan as target species for stock enhancement due to the fact that the number of individuals of these species in the wild has been decreasing in the last three decades. Barfin flounder is now considered to be a rare species as its situation is critical. The first microsatellite DNA markers for barfin flounder and spotted halibut are described in this study. Cross‐amplification of barfin flounder markers was examined in spotted halibut species and vice versa.
Microsatellite markers for Hebeloma species developed from expressed sequence tags in the ectomycorrhizal fungus Hebeloma cylindrosporum
Authors: Jany J. L. , Bousquet J. , Khasa D. P.
Published: November 2003

The increasing number of expressed sequence tag (EST) projects dedicated to ectomycorrhizal fungi is translating into the release of large sets of ESTs. The aim of this study was to develop and test simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers from EST databases of the model ectomycorrhizal fungus Hebeloma cylindrosporum. Six SSR markers were found to be both unambiguously scorable and polymorphic among 12 H. cylindrosporum isolates. Two SSR markers were transferable to other Hebeloma species and one marker was interestingly found to be polymorphic among seven H. crustuliniforme isolates.
Use of oligonucleotide arrays for molecular taxonomic studies of closely related species in the oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) complex
Authors: Naeole Chrystie K. M. , Haymer David S.
Published: November 2003

Molecular markers derived from intron sequence polymorphisms have been identified to augment and improve existing tools available for the analysis of closely related species found in the Bactrocera dorsalis species complex. Arrays of allele‐specific oligonucleotides incorporating these markers have been developed to allow both for rapid taxonomic identification and direct genotyping of individual specimens in single hybridization experiments.
Yearning for the Long Lost Home: The Lemba and the Jewish Narrative of Genetic Return
Authors: Zoloth Laurie
Published: November 2003

This commentary examines the relationship between genetics and Jewish identity. It focuses especially on the use of Y‐chromosome testing to map the genealogies of the Lemba in southern Africa.
Leading Indicator Variables, Performance Measurement, and Long‐Term Versus Short‐Term Contracts
Authors: Dutta Sunil , Reichelstein Stefan
Published: November 2003

In this article we develop a multiperiod agency model to study the role of leading indicator variables in managerial performance measures. In addition to the familiar moral hazard problem, the principal faces the task of motivating a manager to undertake “soft” investments. These investments are not directly contractible, but the principal can instead rely on leading indicator variables that provide a noisy forecast of the investment returns to be received in future periods. Our analysis relates the role of leading indicator variables to the duration of the manager's incentive contract. With short‐term contracts, leading indicator variables are essential in mitigating a holdup problem resulting from the fact that investments are sunk at the end of the first period. With long‐term contracts, leading indicator variables will be valuable if the manager's compensation schemes are not stationary over time. The leading indicator variables then become an instrument for matching the future investment return with the current investment expenditure. We identify conditions under which the optimal long‐term contract induces larger investments and less reliance on the leading indicator variables as compared with short‐term contracts. Under certain conditions, though, the principal does better with a sequence of one‐period contracts than with a long‐term contract.
Attachment insecurity, depression, and the transition to parenthood
Authors: Feeney Judith , Alexander Richard , Noller Patricia , Hohaus Lydia
Published: November 2003

In a longitudinal study of adult attachment and depression during the transition to parenthood, 76 couples completed questionnaires on three occasions: during the second trimester of pregnancy, and six weeks and six months postbirth. On the first and second occasions, the couples were also interviewed about their experiences of pregnancy and parenthood, respectively. Measures were also completed at similar time intervals by a comparison group of 74 childless couples. Attachment security was assessed in terms of the dimensions of discomfort with closeness and relationship anxiety. Relationship anxiety was less stable for transition wives than for other participants. Relationship anxiety also predicted increases in new mothers’ depressive symptoms, after controlling for a broad range of other risk factors. However, the association between relationship anxiety and maternal depression was moderated by husbands’ caregiving style. Maternal depression was linked to increases in husbands’ and wives’ attachment insecurity and marital dissatisfaction. Results are discussed in terms of the impact of depression and negative working models of attachment on couple interaction.
Helicobacter pylori and nonmalignant diseases
Authors: Isakov Vassili , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: November 2003

Eradication of Helicobacter pylori has lead to a significant decrease in the prevalence of peptic ulcer disease world‐wide. Despite the fact that H. pylori eradication is the only way to cure peptic ulcer disease, a substantial number of patients still need antisecretory agents to be symptoms‐free after eradication. During the past year several randomized controlled trials on H. pylori eradication in patients taking NSAIDs have been published but contradictory results have been obtained. In certain parts of the world, NSAIDs are becoming the main cause of peptic ulcer disease complications such as bleeding or perforation. Some patients with nonulcer dyspepsia do benefit from eradication of H. pylori as was shown in several studies. Long‐term trials with cost/efficacy analysis are still needed to demonstrate the benefit of H. pylori eradication over acid inhibition in this group of patients. H. pylori prevalence is lower in patients with gastro‐esophageal reflux disease, but according to recent systematic reviews it varies geographically. There are more data now to show that eradication of H. pylori in duodenal ulcer patients does not increase the incidence of GERD. The ‘test and treat’ strategy for patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia was strongly supported by both meta‐analysis and the results of recent randomized controlled trials. Even in developed countries where the prevalence of H. pylori decreases, this strategy allows resolution of symptoms in a larger number of patients with dyspepsia compared to empirical treatment with proton pump inhibitors and reduces the endoscopic workload.
Combined Efficacy of Atrial Septal Lead Placement and Atrial Pacing Algorithms for Prevention of Paroxysmal Atrial Tachyarrhythmia
Authors: PADELETTI LUIGI , PÜRERFELLNER HELMUT , ADLER STUART W. , WALLER THEODORE J. , HARVEY MARK , HORVITZ LEWIS , HOLBROOK REECE , KEMPEN KITTY , MUGGLIN ANDREW , HETTRICK DOUGLAS A. ,   Worldwide ASPECT Investigators
Published: November 2003

Introduction: The combined role of atrial septal lead location and atrial pacing algorithms in the prevention of atrial tachyarrhythmias (AT/AF), including both atrial fibrillation and flutter, is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that atrial prevention pacing algorithms could decrease AT/AF frequency in patients with atrial septal leads, bradycardia, and paroxysmal AT/AF.

Methods and Results: A total of 298 patients (age 70 ± 10 years; 61% male) from 35 centers were implanted with a DDDRP pacing system including three AT/AF prevention pacing algorithms. Lead site was randomized at implant to right atrial septal or nonseptal. Patients were randomized 1 month postimplant to AT/AF prevention ON or OFF for 3 months and then crossed over for 3 months. Patients logged symptomatic AT/AF episodes via a manual activator. Prevention efficacy was evaluated based on intention‐to‐treat in 277 patients (138 septal) with complete follow‐up. No changes in device‐recorded AT/AF frequency or burden were observed with algorithms OFF versus ON or between patients randomized to septal versus nonseptal lead location. Analysis of other secondary outcomes revealed that AT/AF prevention pacing resulted in decreased atrial premature contractions in both the septal (1.9 [0.2–8.7] vs 3.3 [0.3–10.6]× 103/day; P < 0.01) and nonseptal groups (0.9 [0.2–3.3] vs 1.3 [0.3–5.5]× 103/day; P < 0.001). Patients with septal leads had fewer symptomatic AT/AF episodes ON versus OFF (1.4 ± 3.0 vs 2.5 ± 5.2/month, P = 0.01).

Conclusion: The combination of three atrial prevention pacing algorithms did not decrease device classified atrial tachyarrhythmia frequency or burden during a 3‐month cross‐over period in bradycardic patients and septal or nonseptal atrial pacing leads. Prevention pacing was associated with decreased frequency of premature atrial contractions and with decreased symptomatic atrial tachyarrhythmia frequency in patients with atrial septal leads. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. 1189‐1195, November 2003)
Oxygen uptake and ventilation during rowing and running in females and males
Authors: Yoshiga Chie C. , Higuchi Mitsuru
Published: November 2003

This study evaluated if the ventilatory response to exercise is impaired by the cramp position of rowing. Maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), maximal expiratory volume (V̇Emax), and maximal heart rate (HRmax) during rowing and running were compared in 55 males (age, mean±SD, 21±3 years; height 176±5 cm; body mass 72±6 kg) and 18 females (age 20±2 years; height 164±5 cm; body mass 61±4 kg). V̇Emax was larger during rowing than during running (males, 157±16 vs. 147±13 L min−1; 114±9 vs. 105±11 L min−1, P<0.01). Also V̇O2max was larger during rowing than during running (males, 4.5±0.5 vs. 4.3±0.4 L min−1; females, 3.3±0.4 vs. 3.2±0.4 L min−1, P<0.01). However, HRmax was lower during rowing than during running (males, 194±8 vs. 198±11 beats min−1; females, 192±6 vs. 196±8 beats min−1, P<0.05). V̇Emax was correlated to body mass and fat‐free mass, as was V̇O2max. Thus, the oxygen pulse (V̇O2max/HRmax) was larger during rowing than during running, while the ventilatory equivalent for oxygen (V̇Emax/V̇O2max) was similar. We showed that bending the body during rowing does not seem to impair ventilation either in males or in females. The results indicate that V̇Emax and V̇O2max relate to body size and fat‐free mass for both females and males. The findings indicate that the involvement of more muscles, the entrainment, and the body position during rowing facilitates ventilation and venous return and lowers maximal heart rate.