bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary and systemic response to atmospheric pollution
Authors: HOGG James C. , VAN EEDEN Stephen
Published: March 2009

The inhalation of toxic particles and gases reduces the innate defences of the lung by increasing epithelial permeability, decreasing mucociliary clearance and depressing macrophage function. There is also substantial experimental evidence that lung epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages generate a rich milieu of inflammatory mediators when exposed to atmospheric particles that can be measured in induced sputum, BAL fluid and blood. Here we review evidence that these mediators produce an integrated local lung and systemic inflammatory immune response. That results in an increase in the release of leucocytes and platelets from the bone marrow, an increased production of acute phase proteins from the liver and activation of the vascular endothelium to favour the formation of new and destabilization and rupture of existing atherosclerotic plaques. We postulate that when this response is generated in elderly persons whose lungs are compromised by COPD, it may account for the acute exacerbations of COPD that destroy the quality of life and increase the need for medical attention and hospital admissions. Moreover, the accelerated spread of the atherosclerotic process, and destabilization of existing atherosclerotic plaques in experimental animals that develop atherosclerosis naturally when exposed to atmospheric particles, may account for the acute coronary syndromes, myocardial infarction, transient cerebral ischaemia and stroke that have been documented in humans exposed to episodes of air pollution.
Astigmatic change in biaxial microincisional cataract surgery with enlargement of one incision: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Kaufmann Claude , Thiel Michael A. , Esterman Adrian , Dougherty Paul J. , Goggin Michael
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To investigate the astigmatic changes induced by biaxial microincisional cataract surgery with enlargement of one incision to accommodate a foldable standard lens.

Methods:  In a prospective controlled trial one eye each of 50 patients was evaluated. Two temporal microincisions were applied and the right‐hand incision was enlarged to 2.8 mm to allow for the insertion of the lens. Based on preoperative and postoperative keratometry readings, vector analysis was performed to calculate the surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) and the flattening effect of each of the two incisions at their meridia. To assess the degree of measurement error, a non‐surgical control group underwent keratometry over the same time frame and vector analysis was used to calculate the same indices based on the variation in the keratometry readings.

Results:  Six weeks postoperatively, mean SIA was 0.66 ± 0.08 D in the study group and 0.51 ± 0.05 D in the non‐surgical control group (P = 0.041). At the right‐hand incision, a flattening of 0.34 ± 0.09 D was measured in the study group as opposed to a steepening of 0.03 ± 0.06 D in the control group (P < 0.001). At the smaller left‐hand incision, steepening effects of 0.28 ± 0.08 and 0.05 ± 0.06 D occurred, respectively (P = 0.011).

Conclusion:  Biaxial microincisional cataract surgery with enlargement of one incision to 2.8 mm is not astigmatically neutral, demonstrating a statistically significantly larger SIA than that attributable to measurement error.
Orbital schwannoma with cystic degeneration
Authors: Kashyap Seema , Pushker Neelam , Meel Rachna , Sen Seema , Bajaj Mandeep S. , Khuriajam Noornika , Mehta Mridula , Chawla Bhavna
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Background:  Schwannoma is a benign, slowly growing, painless, peripheral nerve sheath tumour that is uncommon in orbit. Longstanding tumours may develop degenerative changes. Extensive cystic change in orbital schwannoma is quite rare. We conducted this study to analyse the cases of orbital schwannoma, which were predominantly cystic and describe their clinical, imaging and histopathological features.

Method:  A retrospective analysis of histopathology records of all the orbital tumours operated between 1993 and 2008 was undertaken at a tertiary care referral centre in northern India. The clinical, imaging and histopathological features of patients with cystic schwannoma were studied.

Results:  A total of 600 specimens of orbital tumours were received during the study period. We found 39 cases of orbital schwannoma. Out of these, 16 (41%) had extensive cystic degeneration. The age of these patients ranged from 20 to 65 years. Eleven of the patients were female. Duration of symptoms varied from 3 months to 15 years. The most common clinical symptom was painless progressive proptosis with diminution of vision. The radiological picture was quite variable resulting in a primary diagnosis of combined venous‐lymphatic vascular malformation in 2, lacrimal gland tumour in 2, dermoid cyst in 1, hydatid cyst in 2 and schwannoma in 5 cases.

Conclusion:  Orbital schwannoma is a great masquerader in the orbit. Extensive cystic changes in schwannoma are uncommonly reported. Cystic schwannoma constituted 41% of all orbital schwannomas in our series. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest case series of orbital cystic schwannomas.
Blue‐on‐yellow perimetry and optical coherence tomography in patients with preperimetric glaucoma
Authors: Zhong Yisheng , Shen Xi , Zhou Xiaoqing , Cheng Yu , Min Yingjun
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To investigate the diagnostic ability of blue‐on‐yellow perimetry (B/YP) and Stratus optical coherence tomography (OCT) in discriminating preperimetric glaucoma from normal eyes.

Methods:  A total 40 eyes of 40 normal subjects, 38 eyes of 38 preperimetric glaucoma patients (normal standard automated perimetry [SAP] and retinal nerve fibre layer [RNFL] defects or localized optic disc notching and thinning) were enrolled in the study. All the patients underwent SAP and B/YP tests, and OCT measurements. The correlation between B/YP indices and OCT parameters in the eyes with preperimetric glaucoma was analysed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve area was calculated to discriminate preperimetric glaucoma from normal eyes.

Results:  In preperimetric glaucoma, 42% eyes (16/38) had B/YP visual field loss, and 68% eyes (26/38) had RNFL defects with OCT measurements. A mild significant correlation was found between B/YP pattern standard deviation (PSD) and average RNFL thickness (Avg.Thi) (R2 = 0.112, P = 0.012), superior maximum (Smax) (R2 = 0.140, P = 0.005) and maximum‐minimum (Max‐Min) (R2 = 0.074, P = 0.042) in the preperimetric glaucoma group. The areas under the ROC curve for B/YP PSD and B/YP mean deviation were 0.721 and 0.665, respectively, and the three OCT parameters with the widest areas under the ROC curve were Avg.Thi (0.719), inferior average (Iavg) (0.718) and nasal average (Navg) (0.706). The highest sensitivity of the individual B/YP indices and OCT parameters for detection of preperimetric glaucoma was B/YP mean deviation (32%) and Smax/Navg (40%) at 90% specificity; the highest sensitivity of the individual B/YP indices and OCT parameters was B/YP PSD (49%) and Iavg (56%) at 80% specificity.

Conclusion:  The sensitivity of B/YP indices and Stratus OCT RNFL thickness parameters is low for detecting preperimetric glaucoma, suggesting that BYP and OCT as utilized in this study have limited utility in the detection of preperimetric glaucoma.
Induction of heat shock proteins 27 and 72 in retinal ganglion cells after acute pressure‐induced ischaemia
Authors: Windisch Bettina K , LeVatte Terry L , Archibald Michele L , Chauhan Balwantray C
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Background:  We wanted to investigate whether heat shock protein (HSP) 27 and HSP 72 are induced in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after acute intraocular pressure (IOP)‐induced ischaemia.

Methods:  Retinal ischaemia was induced by acutely increasing IOP to 100–110 mmHg for 30 or 90 min unilaterally in Sprague Dawley rats. A fluorescent tracer (fluorogold, FG) was applied to the superior colliculi to label RGCs. Twenty‐four hours, 1 week or 2 weeks after of IOP elevation, rats were killed, RGCs counted, and immunohistochemical labelling of the retina was performed. HSP‐positive RGCs were counted and normalized HSP RGC counts determined.

Results:  The ratio of FG‐positive labelled RGCs in the experimental to the contralateral eye as a marker of RGC survival remained unchanged after 30 min of ischaemia: 1.09 ± 0.11 at 1 week, and 0.94 ± 0.28 at 2 weeks. After 90 min of ischaemia RGC survival decreased to 0.19 ± 0.14 at 1 week, and 0.20 ± 0.14 at 2 weeks. After 30 min of ischaemia, the normalized HSP 27‐ and HSP 72‐positive RGC count was detected at highest levels (HSP 27: 5.42 ± 1.18; HSP 72: 12.23 ± 1.24) at 2 weeks compared with controls, whereas after 90 min ischaemia it was detected at higher levels at 1 week (HSP 27: 52.63 ± 3.65; HSP 72: 206.84 ± 60.38), as well as at 2 weeks (HSP 27: 89.00 ± 17.21; HSP 72: 191.00 ± 50.05).

Conclusion:  These results demonstrate an enhanced induction of HSP 27 and HSP 72 after 90 min acute IOP‐induced ischaemia. In contrast to 30 min ischaemia, we showed time‐dependent loss of RGCs after 90 min of ischaemia after 1 week or 2 weeks.
Prevalence and risk factors of ocular trauma in an urban south‐east Asian population: the Singapore Malay Eye Study
Authors: Loon Seng C , Tay Wan T , Saw Seang M , Wang Jie J , Wong Tien Y
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To describe the prevalence and risk factors of ocular trauma in an urban Asian population.

Methods:  A population‐based survey of 3280 (78.7% response rate) Malay people aged 40–80 years residing in Singapore was conducted in 2004–2006. Interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to ascertain a history of ocular trauma, defined as any eye injury requiring medical attention from a doctor.

Results:  Of the 3264 participants, 149 (5.0%, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 4.1–6.0%) reported a history of ocular trauma. Of those, 30.2% had trauma from a blunt object, 33.6% from a sharp object, and 22.1% from chemical burns. After adjusting for age and sex, men had a higher prevalence of ocular trauma than women (8.3% vs. 2.1%, age‐adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.7, CI 3.1–7.1), and younger persons had a higher risk of ocular trauma (per year increase in age, OR 0.98, CI 0.96–0.99). Consumption of alcohol was associated with higher likelihood of having ocular injury (OR 4.3, CI 2.2–8.4).

Conclusions:  One in 20 persons in this urban south‐east Asian population had a history of ocular trauma. Younger persons, men and consumption of alcohol were risk factors for ocular trauma.
Effects of Great Barrier Reef degradation on recreational reef‐trip demand: a contingent behaviour approach*
Authors: Kragt Marit E. , Roebeling Peter C. , Ruijs Arjan
Published: March 2009

There is a growing concern that increased nutrient and sediment runoff from river catchments are a potential source of coral reef degradation. Degradation of reefs may affect the number of tourists visiting the reef and, consequently, the economic sectors that rely on healthy reefs for their income generation. This study uses a contingent behaviour approach to estimate the effect of reef degradation on demand for recreational dive and snorkel trips, for a case study of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Results from a negative binomial random effects panel model show that the consumer surplus current reef visitors derive from a diving or snorkelling trip is approximately A$185 per trip. Furthermore, results indicate that reef trips by divers and snorkellers could go down by as much as 80 per cent given a hypothetical decrease in coral and fish biodiversity. This corresponds to a decrease in tourism expenditure by divers and snorkellers on full‐day reef trips in the Cairns management area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park of about A$103 million per year.
Economic contribution of French serradella (Ornithopus sativus Brot.) pasture to integrated weed management in Western Australian mixed‐farming systems: an application of compressed annealing*
Authors: Doole Graeme J. , Pannell David J. , Revell Clinton K.
Published: March 2009

Sowing phases of French serradella (Ornithopus sativus Brot.) pasture between extended cropping sequences in the Western Australian wheatbelt can sustain grain production through restoring soil fertility and reducing selective herbicide use. The objective of this article is to investigate the profitability of rotations involving this pasture under a variety of weed management scenarios to obtain greater insight into its value for mixed farming systems in this region. A stochastic search procedure, compressed annealing, is used to identify profitable sets of weed management strategies in a simulation model representing a large number of potential combinations of chemical and non‐chemical forms of weed control. In contrast to a continuous‐cropping sequence, the inclusion of a serradella phase in a rotation is profitable at high weed densities and with increasing levels of herbicide resistance. A single year of pasture in the rotation is optimal if resistance to Group A selective herbicides is present at the beginning of the planning horizon, but a three‐year phase is required if resistance to multiple herbicide groups is observed. Sowing a serradella pasture twice over a two‐year phase is also shown to be economically attractive given benefits of successive high weed kills.
Discriminant Models of Uncertainty in Nominal Fields
Authors: Goodchild Michael , Zhang Jingxiong , Kyriakidis Phaedon
Published: March 2009

Despite developments in error modeling in discrete objects and continuous fields, there exist substantial and largely unsolved conceptual problems in the domain of nominal fields. This article explores a novel strategy for uncertainty characterization in spatial categorical information. The proposed strategy is based on discriminant space, which is defined with essential properties or driving processes underlying spatial class occurrences, leading to discriminant models of uncertainty in area classes. This strategy reinforces consistency in categorical mapping by imposing class‐specific mean structures that can be regressed against discriminant variables, and facilitates scale‐dependent error modeling that can effectively emulate the variation found between observers in terms of classes, boundary positions, numbers of polygons, and boundary network topology. Based on simulated data, comparisons with stochastic simulation based on indicator kriging confirmed the replicability of the discriminant models, which work by determining the mean area classes based on discriminant variables and projecting spatially correlated residuals in discriminant space to uncertainty in area classes.
Integrated Storage and Querying of Spatially Varying Data Quality Information in a Relational Spatial Database
Authors: Ghouse Zaffar Mohamed , Duckham Matt
Published: March 2009

This article investigates a new, integrated technique for storing and retrieving spatially varying data quality information in a relational spatial database. Rather than storing global data quality statements, the system enables data quality information to be referenced to a spatial framework, individual spatial objects, or even parts of spatial objects. The integrated model, called as RDBMS for Spatial Variation in Quality (RSVQ), allows flexible storage of spatially varying data quality information, and seamless querying irrespective of the underlying storage model. RSVQ is founded on a formal model of relational databases, defining a new derived, polymorphic query operator  to join quality data with spatial data. The  operator is implemented in an extension to SQL as a new WITHQUALITY keyword. A performance evaluation of RSVQ was conducted, using an Oracle Spatial database and a case study of cadastral data for parts of Victoria, Australia. The results of this evaluation demonstrated that the system is practical and efficient for a wide range of queries, as well as indicating the performance trade‐offs associated with the different data quality storage models. Using the integrated RSVQ approach provides the potential for a single, consistent, database engine for a wide range of existing and proposed spatial data quality management systems.
New Perspectives on the Use of GPS and GIS to Support a Highway Performance Study
Authors: Tong Daoqin , Merry Carolyn J , Coifman Benjamin
Published: March 2009

In recent decades, rapid growth of travel volume has resulted in a significant increase in traffic congestion, accidents, environmental pollution and energy consumption. Accurate traffic data are drastically needed for effective evaluation of traffic systems in order to alleviate the impacts of increasing travel volume of the quality of life and economic development of urban areas. This article provides a discussion on a data acquisition methodology for highway traffic pattern recognition and congestion analysis by integrating data from the global positioning system (GPS) with a geographic information system (GIS). The GPS technology is a powerful tool in capturing continuous positioning and timing information, whereas the GIS is capable of storing, managing, manipulating, analyzing and displaying the acquired spatial information. Compared to previous studies, the effective integration of the two technologies allows for traffic analysis to be conducted at a finer resolution. The proposed method is illustrated with a case study on multiple major highway segments in Columbus, Ohio.
Social policy in sub‐Saharan Africa: a glance in the rear‐view mirror
Authors: Adésínà Jìmí O.
Published: March 2009

In this article we take a retrospective look at social policy in post‐colonial sub‐Saharan Africa and account for two distinct phases. The first phase, from 1960 to 1980, is the nationalist phase; the second, framed by the neoliberal policy regime, marked the last two decades of the 20th century. We argue that social policy in the nationalist phase played a transformative role – intrinsic and instrumental. Investment in education and healthcare, rather than social protection, was the key policy instrument. The weaknesses of the period included a growing authoritarianism and failure to transform the inherited colonial political economies. The retrenchment of the public realm under the neoliberal regime led to massive entitlement failure, and the crisis of citizenship and statehood. We argue for a return to a broader vision of social policy, underpinned by the ethos of democratic and socially inclusive development.
Introduction: social policy and economic development in late industrializers
Authors: Kwon Huck‐ju , Mkandawire Thandika , Palme Joakim
Published: March 2009

This Supplement in the International Journal of Social Welfare presents the main findings of a United Nations Research Institute for Social Development research project on social policy in late industrializers, covering countries in East Asia, Latin America, Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and sub‐Saharan Africa, as well as the Nordic countries. One of the findings from the research is that social policy has been used as an integral part of economic development in successful late‐industrializing countries. In the MENA region and sub‐Saharan Africa, however, social policy was tried for too short a period to be properly implemented and tested. East Asian and Latin American countries started with a narrow‐based social policy, but social policy in East Asia was extended to foster social solidarity, bringing people into the mainstream of social change. Such findings suggest that social policy is multifunctional, not only in terms of social protection but also economic development and democratic governance.
A Mathematical Model of Protease‐Antiprotease Homeostasis Failure in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Authors: Cox, Jr. Louis Anthony (Tony)
Published: March 2009

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, has a puzzling etiology. Although it is a smoking‐associated disease, only a minority of smokers develop it. Moreover, the disease continues to progress in COPD patients, even after smoking ceases. This article proposes a mathematical model of COPD that offers one possible explanation for both observations. Building on a conceptual model of COPD causation as resulting from protease‐antiprotease imbalance in the lung, leading to ongoing proteolysis (digestion) of lung tissue by excess proteases, we formulate a system of seven ordinary differential equations (ODEs) with 18 parameters to describe the network of interacting homeostatic processes regulating the levels of key proteases (macrophage elastase (MMP‐12) and neutrophil elastase (NE)) and antiproteases (alpha‐1‐antitrypsin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1). We show that this system can be simplified to a single quadratic equation with only two parameters to predict the equilibrium behavior of the entire network. The model predicts two possible equilibrium behaviors: a unique stable “normal” (healthy) equilibrium or a “COPD” equilibrium with elevated levels of MMP‐12 and NE (and of lung macrophages and neutrophils) and reduced levels of antiproteases. The COPD equilibrium is induced in the model only if cigarette smoking increases the average production of MMP‐12 per alveolar macrophage above a certain threshold. Following smoking cessation, the predicted COPD equilibrium levels of MMP‐12 and other disease markers decline, but do not return to their original (presmoking) levels. These and other predictions of the model are consistent with limited available human data.
Onychomatricoma: case report of an unusual subungual tumor with literature review
Authors: Gaertner Erich M. , Gordon Michael , Reed Thomas
Published: March 2009

Onychomatricoma is rare subungual tumor of nail matrix origin. We report a 40‐year‐old white man with an onychomatricoma of the left index finger that highlights the characteristic clinical and pathological features and expands the known case material. We also review the published medical literature on the subject.
Molluscum contagiosum: immunomorphological aspects of keratinocytes markers of differentiation and adhesion
Authors: Callegaro Clarissa Freitas , Sotto Mirian N.
Published: March 2009

Background: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a Molluscipox virus infection of keratinocytes with hyperplasia and intracytoplasmic inclusions—the molluscum bodies (MBs). Few papers address cytokeratins (K) profile in MC, mainly focusing terminal keratinization process.

Methods: Forty‐one MC lesions were subjected to immunohistochemical technique to verify K1, K10, K14, K16, involucrin, filaggrin, E‐cadherin and p63 expression. MC immunolabeling pattern was compared to adjacent normal appearing epidermis (ANAE).

Results: In MC and ANAE, K1/K10 were expressed in suprabasal layers, K14 was expressed in basal and suprabasal layers and K16 was expressed through all spinous layer. Involucrin and filaggrin were observed in granular, spinous and in basal layer of ANAE and MC. E‐cadherin was present up to the first layers of MC while ANAE exhibited E‐cadherin labeling at basal and spinous layers. Basal and spinous layers keratinocytes nuclei, in both MC and ANAE, express p63.

Conclusion: Infection by Molluscipox virus alters keratinocyte differentiation status. The presence of K14 and p63 in spinous layer, as well as early expression of involucrin and filaggrin, associated to a hyperproliferative state disclosed by K16 expression, may be a result of disruption in keratinocytes maturation process. The changes observed at ANAE may represent early events in keratinization disturbance.
Peroxisomal Targeting of PTS2 Pre‐Import Complexes in the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Grunau Silke , Schliebs Wolfgang , Linnepe Ruth , Neufeld Christian , Cizmowski Christian , Reinartz Benedikt , Meyer Helmut E. , Warscheid Bettina , Girzalsky Wolfgang , Erdmann Ralf
Published: March 2009

Posttranslational matrix protein import into peroxisomes uses either one of the two peroxisomal targeting signals (PTS), PTS1 and PTS2. Unlike the PTS1 receptor Pex5p, the PTS2 receptor Pex7p is necessary but not sufficient to target cargo proteins into the peroxisomal matrix and requires coreceptors. Saccharomyces cerevisiae possesses two coreceptors, Pex18p and Pex21p, with a redundant but not a clearly defined function. To gain further insight into the early events of this import pathway, PTS2 pre‐import complexes of S. cerevisiae were isolated and characterized by determination of size and protein composition in wild‐type and different mutant strains. Mass spectrometric analysis of the cytosolic PTS2 pre‐import complex indicates that Fox3p is the only abundant PTS2 protein under oleate growth conditions. Our data strongly suggest that the formation of the ternary cytosolic PTS2 pre‐import complex occurs hierarchically. First, Pex7p recognizes cargo proteins through its PTS2 in the cytosol. In a second step, the coreceptor binds to this complex, and finally, this ternary 150 kDa pre‐import complex docks at the peroxisomal membrane, where both the PTS1 and the PTS2 import pathways converge. Gel filtration analysis of membrane‐bound subcomplexes suggests that Pex13p provides the initial binding partner at the peroxisomal membrane, whereas Pex14p assembles with Pex18p in high‐molecular‐weight complexes after or during dissociation of the PTS2 receptor.
PIKfyve Regulation of Endosome‐Linked Pathways
Authors: de Lartigue Jane , Polson Hannah , Feldman Morri , Shokat Kevan , Tooze Sharon A. , Urbé Sylvie , Clague Michael J.
Published: March 2009

The phosphoinositide 5‐kinase (PIKfyve) is a critical enzyme for the synthesis of PtdIns(3,5)P2, that has been implicated in various trafficking events associated with the endocytic pathway. We have now directly compared the effects of siRNA‐mediated knockdown of PIKfyve in HeLa cells with a specific pharmacological inhibitor of enzyme activity. Both approaches induce changes in the distribution of CI‐M6PR and trans‐Golgi network (TGN)‐46 proteins, which cycles between endosomes and TGN, leading to their accumulation in dispersed punctae, whilst the TGN marker golgin‐245 retains a perinuclear disposition. Trafficking of CD8‐CI‐M6PR (retromer‐dependent) and CD8‐Furin (retromer‐independent) chimeras from the cell surface to the TGN is delayed following drug administration, as is the transport of the Shiga toxin B‐subunit. siRNA knockdown of PIKfyve produced no defect in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) degradation, unless combined with knockdown of its activator molecule Vac14, suggesting that a low threshold of PtdIns(3,5)P2 is necessary and sufficient for this pathway. Accordingly pharmacological inhibition of PIKfyve results in a profound block to the lysosomal degradation of activated epidermal growth factor (EGF) and Met receptors. Immunofluorescence revealed EGF receptors to be trapped in the interior of a swollen endosomal compartment. In cells starved of amino acids, PIKfyve inhibition leads to the accumulation of the lipidated form of GFP‐LC3, a marker of autophagosomal structures, which can be visualized as fluorescent punctae. We suggest that PIKfyve inhibition may render the late endosome/lysosome compartment refractory to fusion with both autophagosomes and with EGFR‐containing multivesicular bodies.
Post‐Golgi Traffic in Plants
Authors: Richter Sandra , Voß Ute , Jürgens Gerd
Published: March 2009

Secretory and endocytic traffic through the post‐Golgi endomembrane system regulates the abundance of plasma‐membrane proteins such as receptors, transporters and ion channels, modulating the ability of a cell to communicate with its neighbours and to adapt to a changing environment. The major post‐Golgi compartments are numerous and appear to be similar to their counterparts in animals. However, endosomes are rather ill defined morphologically but seem to be involved in specific trafficking pathways. Many plasma‐membrane proteins cycle constitutively via endosomal compartments. The trans‐Golgi network (TGN) appears to be an early endosome where secretory and endocytic traffic meet. Endocytosed proteins that are to be degraded are targeted to the vacuole via the multivesiculate prevacuolar compartment (PVC) whereas cycling proteins pass through recycling endosomes. The trafficking machinery involves the same classes of proteins as in other eukaryotes. However, there are modifications that match the specifics of post‐Golgi traffic in plants. Although plants lack epithelia, some plasma‐membrane proteins are located on specific faces of the cell which reflects polarized traffic and influences the physiological performance of the tissue. Plants also differentiate highly polarized tip‐growing cells in which post‐Golgi traffic is adapted to very high rates of targeted exocytosis, endocytosis and recycling.
Chemical characterization, energy values, protein and carbohydrate fractions, degradation kinetics of frost damaged wheat (with severely overall weight loss) in ruminants
Authors: YU Peiqiang , RACZ Vern
Published: March 2009

In Canada, frost damage can result in millions of tonnes of wheat that is not suitable for human consumption (such wheat is referred to as ‘frozen’) each year. There is a need to systematically evaluate the nutritive value of frozen wheat for ruminants. So far, little research has been conducted to determine the magnitude of the differences in nutritive value between frozen and normal wheat. The objectives of this study were to compare frozen wheat and normal wheat (AC Barrie) in terms of (i) chemical characteristics; (ii) protein and carbohydrate fractions; (iii) energy value; and (iv) rumen degradation kinetics. The results showed that the overall yield losses of the frozen wheat were around 24%. The frozen wheat was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in starch (47 vs. 62%DM), non‐structural carbohydrates (60 vs. 70%DM), and non‐protein N (63 vs. 93%SCP); and higher (P < 0.05) in crude fat (3 vs. 2%DM), acid (6 vs. 2%DM), neutral detergent fiber (22 vs. 10%DM), lignin (2 vs. 1%DM), acid (3 vs. 1%CP) and neutral detergent insoluble CP (19 vs. 14%CP). The frozen wheat was also lower in (P < 0.05) energy (TDN, DE3X, ME3X, NEL3X, DE4X, ME4X, NEL4X for dairy; ME, NEm, and NEg beef cattle). After partitioning of protein and carbohydrate (CHO) subfractions, the results showed that the frozen wheat was lower (P < 0.05) in the intermediately degradable CP (PB2: 47 vs. 59%CP); and higher in rapidly degradable CP (PB1: 12 vs. 2%CP) and unavailable CP (PC: 3 vs. 1%CP). The frozen wheat was also lower (P < 0.05) in intermediately degradable CHO (CB1: 60 vs. 77%CHO); and higher (P < 0.05) in slowly degradable CHO (CB2: 20 vs. 8%CHO) and unavailable CHO (CC: 5 vs. 2%CHO). The in situ results showed that the frozen wheat had different patterns in rumen degradation kinetics of protein and starch. The extent of the changes varied according to the specific nutrient examined. In conclusion, the frozen wheat differed in chemical characteristics, TDN and energy values, protein and carbohydrate fractions and in situ degradation behavior from normal wheat. The chemical and nutritional characterization of wheat was highly associated with climate condition (frost damage). The frost damage to the wheat reduced nutrient content and availability and thus reduced nutrient supply to ruminants.
Fecal excretion of alcohols and organic anions in neonatal dairy calves
Authors: SATO Hiroshi , SHIOGAMA Yumiko
Published: March 2009

To clarify colonic fermentation during the perinatal period, 22 dairy calves less than 6 weeks old were used. They were given a milk replacer following colostrum feeding. A total 100 samples of normal feces including meconium were collected from the rectum of the calves. Fecal pH, alcohols, lactate and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) were analyzed. Higher ethanol and n‐propanol concentrations were found in many fecal samples particularly in the first 2 weeks after birth, but these metabolites showed consistently lower concentrations thereafter. By contrast, higher concentrations of methanol were observed in some samples for all ages examined. Fecal VFA increased abruptly within a few days of birth, and mainly consisted of acetate and n‐butyrate. During the first 2 weeks, the proportion of n‐butyrate in VFAs decreased and that of propionate increased gradually. Proportions of VFAs were almost stable at 3–6 weeks of age (acetate, propionate and n‐butyrate in increasing order). Higher concentrations of lactate and lower pHs were observed in the fecal samples during the first 2 weeks, and concentrations decreased thereafter. Accelerated colonic production of ethanol and n‐propanol was confirmed during the early 2 weeks, in addition to organic acid fermentation as reported previously.
Family Quality of Life Before and After Out‐of‐Home Placement of a Family Member With an Intellectual Disability
Authors: Werner Shirli , Edwards Meaghan , Baum Nehama T.
Published: March 2009

The effect of out‐of‐home residential placement on families has been previously studied. However, no study has examined this issue through the lens of “family quality of life” (FQoL). The aim of this study was to produce a picture of FQoL among families with a member with an intellectual disability (ID) who has multiple diagnoses (i.e., an additional condition such as a behavioral or emotional disturbance). FQoL before and after residential placement was examined. Sixteen family carers with family members with an ID participated in an in‐depth interview focusing on five areas of FQoL: stress, coping, emotional impact, family relationships, and overall FQoL. The authors found that most families reported positive emotional changes after the placement occurred, except for lingering guilt and worry. In addition, after placement, families experienced more freedom, enhanced FQoL, and an improvement in familial relationships. Coping mechanisms, including problem‐focused and emotion‐focused coping, as well as external support resources, were utilized before and after placement. These findings suggest that an out‐of‐home residential placement of a family member with an ID both positively and negatively impacts the entire family. The authors propose a number of support recommendations that might serve to enhance the QoL of the individual with a disability, specific family members, and the family as a whole.
Choice as an Aspect of Quality of Life for People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Brown Ivan , Brown Roy I.
Published: March 2009

Choice, a concept included in the quality of life approach, is frequently referred to in quality of life and related literature, but its components have not been described clearly. Drawing on conceptual considerations and research reports, the authors review and extend what is known about choice, and set out a conceptualization of its two main components: available opportunities and choice‐making. The most important characteristics of opportunities are breadth and familiarity, and the most important characteristics of choice making are freedom, initiative, and skill. The authors consider the application of choice to supports and services by discussing numerous practical issues and providing suggestions for application. These are summarized as an overall four‐step strategy for moving forward that sets the scene for more specific strategies to be developed and evaluated.
Family Quality of Life: Moving From Measurement to Application
Authors: Zuna Nina I. , Turnbull Ann , Summers Jean Ann
Published: March 2009

Noting the absence of sound theoretical underpinnings for family quality of life (FQoL) research and work, the authors note that, to guide FQoL practice, research findings must be schematically organized so as to enable practitioners to implement empirical findings effectively. One way to meet this goal is to introduce a theoretical model that clearly displays and describes the relationships among variables that explain FQoL. Thus, the authors propose a theory of FQoL designed to explain how various concepts—systems, performance, individuals, and family units—influence variations in FQoL. In defining each of the concepts, they describe the theory's application within the context of a family vignette, illustrating how professionals might apply theoretical propositions to their practice. In their application, they stress that the application of the FQoL theory they presented is not an end but rather a developmental stage that leads to further refinement of the FQoL theory. The application and development of this theory is a reciprocal process among researchers, practitioners, and families. Further, their FQoL theoretical model can serve to enable practitioners to examine which family, ecological, and programmatic variables are amenable to change to positively impact FQoL. Given this, they assert that FQoL is not a static concept but, instead, ebbs and flows during the course of raising a child with a disability. They call for further collaborative work among workers to continually improve the FQoL theory and to successfully implement it in practice.
Dual modulation of prothrombin activation by the cyclopentapeptide plactin
Authors: Harada Tomotaka , Tsuruta Tomoko , Yamagata Kumi , Inoue Toshiki , Hasumi Keiji
Published: March 2009

Plactin, a family of cyclopentapeptides, enhances fibrinolytic activity by elevating the activity of cellular urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (u‐PA), a protease involved in a variety of extracellular proteolytic events. Factor(s) in the blood plasma is an absolute requirement for this plactin activity. In this study, we found that plactin promoted plasma cofactor‐dependent conversion of inactive single‐chain u‐PA to active two‐chain u‐PA on U937 cells. Using plactin‐affinity chromatography, we identified prothrombin as one of the plasma cofactors. In incubations of U937 cells with prothrombin and Xa, plactin increased the formation of thrombin, which cleaved single‐chain u‐PA to afford the inactive two‐chain form. Thrombin‐cleaved two‐chain u‐PA was alternatively activated by cellular cystatin‐sensitive peptidase activity, yielding fully active two‐chain u‐PA. In a purified system, plactin bound to prothrombin, altered its conformation and dually modulated factor Xa‐mediated proteolytic activation of prothrombin to α‐thrombin. Plactin inhibited the activation catalyzed by Xa in complex with Va, Ca2+ and phospholipids (prothrombinase), whereas the activations catalyzed by nonmembrane‐associated Xa were enhanced markedly by plactin. Plactin inhibited in vitro plasma coagulation, which involved prothrombinase formation. Plactin did not cause prothrombin activation or thrombosis in normal mice at doses that produced a protective effect in a thrombin‐induced pulmonary embolism mouse model. Therefore, the dual modulation of prothrombin activation by plactin may be interpreted as leading to anticoagulation under physiological coagulating conditions.
Association of Lifestyle and Relationship Factors with Sexual Functioning of Women During Midlife
Authors: Hess Rachel , Conroy Molly B. , Ness Roberta , Bryce Cindy L. , Dillon Stacey , Chang Chung-Chou Ho , Matthews Karen A.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

As women progress through menopause, they experience changes in sexual functioning that are multifactorial, likely encompassing biological, psychological, and social domains.

Aim

To examine the effects that physical activity, sleep difficulties, and social support have on partnered sexual activity and sexual functioning in women at different stages of the menopausal progression.

Methods

As part of an ongoing 5-year longitudinal study, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of sexual functioning data.

Main Outcome Measures

Participation in partnered sexual activities, reasons for nonparticipation in such activities among sexually inactive women, and, among sexually active women, sexual functioning defined as engagement in and enjoyment of sexually intimate activities.

Results

Of 677 participants aged 41–68, 68% had participated in any partnered sexual activities (i.e., were sexually active) during the past 6 months. Reasons for sexual inactivity included lack of a partner (70%), lack of interest in sex (12%) or in the current partner (5%), and physical problems (4%). Sexually active participants tended to be younger, married, more educated, have more social support in general, fewer comorbid medical illnesses, a lower body mass index, and a higher prevalence of vaginal dryness. Among the sexually active participants, their scores for engagement in activities ranging from kissing to sexual intercourse were higher if they were physically active, had more social support, and lacked sleeping difficulties. Likewise, scores for sexual enjoyment were higher if they were physically active, had more social support, and lacked vaginal dryness. Engagement and enjoyment scores were not associated with marital status or other factors.

Conclusions

In midlife women, having social support and being physically active are associated with enhanced sexual engagement and enjoyment.
eNOS Gene Intron 4 VNTR and Exon 7-G894T Polymorphisms in Turkish Men with Erectile Dysfunction: A Case Control Study
Authors: Erol Bulent , Bozdogan Gurdal , Akduman Bulent , Dursun Ahmet , Bozdogan Sevcan , Onem Kadir , Mungan Aydin
Published: March 2009

Introduction

The associations between the gene polymorphisms and erectile dysfunction (ED) are limited.

Aim

To examine a potential association between variable number of tandem repeats (intron 4 VNTR), G894T polymorphisms, and ED in Turkish men.

Methods

Sixty-four men with ED and 82 healthy men as a control group were included in the study. The patients were evaluated by medical history, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), serum glucose, and lipid profiles. VNTR and G894T polymorphism were assessed by isolated DNA blood samples obtained from the patient group with ED and controls.

Main Outcome Measures

Assesment of IIEF and VNTR and G894T polymorphism in the isolated DNA blood samples.

Results

Genotype distributions of endothelial nitric oxide syntase (eNOS) gene intron 4 VNTR polymorphisms in the patient group were similar to those in the healthy group (P > 0.05). The frequency of the eNOS gene intron 4 genotype was found as bb: 55 (67.1%), ab: 26 (31.7%), and aa: 1 (1.2%) in the controls and bb: 43 (67.2%), ab: 19 (29.7%), and aa: 2 (3.1%) in the patient group. The frequency of the G894T was found as gg: 61 (74.4%), gt: 21 (25.6%), and tt: 0 (0.0%) in the controls and gg: 32 (50.0%), gt: 27 (42.1%), and tt: 5 (7.8%) in the patient group (P = 0.002). The frequencies of the “t” allele were 21 (12.8%) in the control group and 37 (28.9%) in the patient group (P = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that G894T polymorphism was an independent risk factor for ED.

Conclusions

We found significant differences in allelic and genotypic frequencies between patients and controls for the G894T eNOS polymorphisms. The presence of 894T allele in carriers increased the risk of ED. No association was found between VNTR polymorphism and in patients with ED.
The French Wine “Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée” and the Virtues of Suspicion
Authors: Teil Geneviève
Published: March 2009

There is something highly paradoxical about the French wine Appellations d'Origine Contrôlées (AOCs): the more they are considered to be suspect, the more they expand to other countries and products! Since their invention they have been suspected of not conveying reliable information. At the same time, supporters of quality wine have prayed for the development of a quality wine market and seen the suspicions concerning them as a threat that these actors have collectively tried to answer. But neither the accusation nor the defence has managed to close the debate. Accusation after accusation, the assessors acknowledgement of being able to define quality have changed, as has quality itself and the role given to AOCs. Far from sweeping away the old procedures, the new solutions have cohabited with them, transforming the wine market into a complex market hosting hundreds of thousands of brands and a variety of uses of quality signs by wine drinkers. Finally, contrary to most economists' fears, neither AOCs nor quality itself work by imposing themselves on the market actors. The greatest strength of AOCs may not be an ability to deceive consumers, but their capacity to raise doubts and to trigger considerable efforts by their defenders to quieten them.
China, the “Intellectual Property Black Hole” Hosts the XXIX Olympiad: Measures the People's Republic of China Undertook to Secure the Protection of Olympic‐related Intellectual Property Rights
Authors: Mey Brenda Pamela
Published: March 2009

After a hard‐fought battle that saw China clinch the bid to host the XXIX Olympic Games, the country put comparable efforts into upgrading its intellectual property laws, not only to bring them into consonance with the provisions of the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), but also to accord the Olympic‐related intellectual property rights the appropriate protection. Despite these efforts, China is still plagued with a myriad of TRIPS compliance problems. The Olympic Games presented the opportunity that China needed to light the torch that would help it repair the damage caused to its image by issues such as reverse engineering of almost everything under the sun, as well as those relating to enforcement and protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs), etc., and cause it to be seen in a positive light by the rest of the world. The world watched China closely for the weeks of the Olympic Games and will be watching it, even after the Olympic torch has flickered out, to see whether the enforcement and protection of IPRs will outlast the Olympic ceremony.
Patent Holders' Contractual Restrictions on Downstream Purchasers in the United States and European Union through Quanta Prism
Authors: Nguyen Tu Thanh
Published: March 2009

The Quanta judgement clarifies the US patent exhaustion doctrine on the basis of an authorized sale by the patent holder. It also contributes to the prism of patent‐antitrust‐contract laws to scrutinize contractual restrictions better on downstream purchasers. There are two main steps in the process of applying this prism. The first step is to determine the patent exhaustion issue. The second step is to evaluate such contractual restrictions through either the intersection of patent and antitrust laws or the intersection of contract and antitrust laws, or both intersections in some special cases. The correctness of determining both whether patent exhaustion is triggered and how antitrust law intervenes as a second filter plays a very important role in applying the Quanta‐inspired prism. Through this prism, some Federal Circuit's decisions are re‐visited, and the European Union perspective is analyzed in comparison with the US perspective. This article concludes that patent holders' contractual restrictions on downstream purchasers will be properly scrutinized under the prism of patent‐antitrust‐contract laws if promoting innovation and competition on the market as well as protecting customer welfare are respected.