bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wnt signaling and neurite outgrowth: Insights and questions
Authors: Endo Yoshimi , Rubin Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2007

Wnt signaling consists of a highly conserved set of biochemical pathways that have a multitude of functions during embryonic development and in the adult. The Wnt proteins are extracellular agents that often act as gradient morphogens, indicating that their distribution in tissues is tightly controlled. This attribute is also characteristic of factors that regulate neurite outgrowth and guide axons precisely to their specific destinations. Several studies in various species now have established that Wnts and their receptors have an important role in axonal guidance. Different ligand/receptor combinations have been identified that mediate this activity in many of the experimental models. Clues about downstream effector molecules have come from in vitro systems. In this article, the authors review the results from many of these models, evaluate what is known about the associated signaling pathways and speculate about the direction of future research. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1311–1317)
Pathogenesis and mechanism of disease progression from hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis to Epstein–Barr virus‐associated T‐cell lymphoma: Nuclear factor‐κB pathway as a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Chuang Huai‐Chia , Lay Jong‐Ding , Hsieh Wen‐Chuan , Su Ih‐Jen
Published: July 2007

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) can infect T lymphocytes and manifests as hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a distinct entity of hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) characterized by fever, hepatosplenomegaly, cytopenia, hypercytokinemia, and systemic macrophage activation with hemophagocytosis. In a substantial percentage of HLH patients, the disease may relapse or progress to T‐cell lymphoma in months to years. In the present review, the authors summarize the previous studies on the pathogenesis of HLH and the potential mechanism for the progression of disease from HLH to T‐cell lymphoma. The infection of T cells by EBV could activate T cells to secrete proinflammatory cytokines, particularly tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), which subsequently activate macrophages. EBV latent membrane protein‐1 (LMP‐1) is the viral product responsible for the activation of the TNF receptor (TNFR) associated factors/nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB)/ERK pathway to enhance cytokine secretion mediated through the suppression of the SAP/SH2D1A gene. The activation of NF‐κB will confer resistance to TNF‐α‐induced apoptosis on EBV‐infected T cells through the down‐regulation of TNFR‐1. Consistent with in vitro observations, EBV‐associated T or natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma showed constitutive activation of NF‐κB, explaining its drug resistance, hypercytokinemia, and poor prognosis. Therefore, similar to other inflammation‐associated cancers, HLH provides a unique model to study the mechanism of disease progression from a benign virus‐infected disorder (HLH) to T‐cell lymphoma. Inhibition of the NF‐κB signal pathway should provide a potential target for the treatment of HLH and EBV‐associated T‐cell lymphoma. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1281–1287)
A flexible digestive strategy accommodates the nutritional demands of reproduction in a free‐living folivore, the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: KROCKENBERGER A. K. , HUME I. D.
Published: July 2007

Small mammalian folivores, such as the koala, are considered to be energetically limited by their relatively small gut capacity compared with metabolic requirements and the gut‐filling effect of their poorly digestible leaf diet. However, during peak lactation, female koalas increase their food intake (35%) to meet the nutritional demands of reproduction.

This study examines mechanisms by which reproductive female koalas overcome limitations to food intake.

Digesta retention in the gastrointestinal tract was measured in free‐living koalas using inert solute (cobalt (Co) complexed with EDTA) and particle markers (chromium (Cr)‐mordanted to cell wall constituents’ 600–1180 µm in diameter).

The whole gut rate of passage of both markers was 2–3 times faster than in captive koalas, probably because of 35%–69% greater food intakes in the wild. As in captive koalas, the solute marker was retained longer than the particle marker in free‐living animals, indicating selective retention of fluid, solutes and small particles (including bacteria) in the hindgut caecum and proximal colon.

The digesta retention of both markers were unaffected by the 35% increase in food intake associated with reproduction, largely due to a 42% increase in the solute marker pool size in lactating animals. The pool size of large particles in the digesta was unchanged.

Thus, female koalas meet the nutritional demands of reproduction at least partly by an increased solute digesta pool size, minimizing the detrimental effects of increased food intake on digestion of solutes and small particles, and on faecal loss of microbial protein. There was some indication that they also increase the passage rate of large particles or increase the efficiency of separation of large and small particles to reduce the gut‐filling effects of large, poorly digestible particles.

Clearly the digestive strategy of the koala is more flexible, and limitations to food intake less stringent, than previously thought. Female koalas accommodate the increased food intake required to meet the demands of free‐living and reproduction without compromising nutrient extraction from their eucalypt leaf diet. We suggest that similar flexibility in digestive strategy is likely to play an important role in the way that most small mammalian herbivores, especially arboreal folivores, meet the nutritional demands of reproduction.
Functional diversity within a morphologically conservative genus of predators: implications for functional equivalence and redundancy in ecological communities
Authors: RESETARITS WILLIAM J. , CHALCRAFT DAVID R.
Published: July 2007

The idea that sets of species may have similar effects on population, community or ecosystem processes is a prevalent theme in many areas of ecology, especially in the context of biodiversity and ecosystem function. If indeed species are functionally equivalent, limiting similarity suggests that it should be closely related, morphologically similar species using similar resources in a similar manner.

We assayed the functional equivalence of three congeneric, morphologically similar predatory fish species (genus Enneacanthus). Functional equivalence was evaluated using aspects of both effects of fish on a variety of prey responses and the growth responses of the fish themselves as a measure of energy consumption. Fish were matched by initial size to control for effects of body size. A strict definition of functional equivalence based on niche theory was used to delineate it from the alternative of functional diversity.

Based on observed effects on larval anurans, only a single species pair could roughly be judged functionally equivalent, but these two species showed the greatest differences in growth rate and, hence, metabolic demand. Using the criterion of relative yield total, again, only a single pair could roughly be judged equivalent, however, members of this alternative species pair were dramatically different in their effects on larval anurans. Thus, as previously shown for a more diverse set of species, grouping of species by similarity in effects depends upon the specific response variable.

Overall range of effects produced on a variety of response variables was surprising, given the similarity in morphology and autecology, strong phylogenetic affinity, and the fact that neither predator size nor growth explained significant variation. Each species appears to be interacting with the environment in a different manner, either as a consequence of differences in metabolic demand or differences in preferences or efficiency with regard to prey types.

Observed responses are consistent with the predictions of niche theory and support an alternative explanation for observed relationships between diversity and ecosystem function. Our work suggests that functional equivalence may be uncommon, difficult to predict a priori, and that functional diversity, not functional equivalence, may underlie observed diversity–ecosystem function relationships.
The effects of montelukast on tissue inflammatory and bone marrow responses in murine experimental allergic rhinitis: interaction with interleukin‐5 deficiency
Authors: Roa Johanna , Morikawa Hiroshi , Crawford Lynn , Baatjes Adrian , Duong Mylinh , Denburg Judah A.
Published: July 2007

The cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) are potent lipid mediators in allergic disease, acting through the receptors, cysLT1R and cysLTR2, and are produced by eosinophils derived from eosinophil/basophil (Eo/B) bone marrow (BM) progenitors. We have demonstrated the suppressive effects of either interleukin‐5 (IL‐5) deficiency or montelukast on eosinophil recruitment in murine allergic rhinitis, but neither of them fully abrogated the symptoms caused by residual inflammation and cytokine redundancy in eliciting BM Eo/B responses. We hypothesized that IL‐5 deficiency and montelukast act synergistically to suppress tissue inflammatory and BM responses. Our objective was to investigate the effects of the cysLT1R antagonist, montelukast, on in vivo tissue inflammatory and BM responses in murine experimental allergic rhinitis with or without IL‐5 deficiency. Three groups of age‐matched BALB/c mice with or without IL‐5 deficiency were tested: controls (ovalbumin sensitization and challenge, placebo treatment) and two montelukast‐treated groups (2·5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg). Nasal symptoms, BM and nasal mucosal eosinophils, basophils, and BM Eo/B colony‐forming units (CFU) were evaluated. Montelukast decreased nasal symptoms in a dose‐dependent manner, and significantly decreased the number of eosinophils in both BM and nasal tissue in IL‐5‐replete mice compared to controls. In IL‐5‐deficient mice, in which eosinophilia was absent, montelukast significantly decreased both nasal symptoms and basophils in BM and nasal mucosal tissue, and lowered IL‐5‐responsive Eo/B‐CFU ex vivo, compared to controls. The addition of cysLT1R blockade to IL‐5 deficiency more fully attenuates symptoms and upper airway inflammation than either factor alone, providing evidence of systemic, BM mechanisms in allergic rhinitis.
The effect of mineral trioxide aggregate on phagocytic activity and production of reactive oxygen, nitrogen species and arginase activity by M1 and M2 macrophages
Authors: Rezende T. M. B. , Vieira L. Q. , Cardoso F. P. , Oliveira R. R. , De Oliveira Mendes S. T. , Jorge M. L. R. , Ribeiro Sobrinho A. P.
Published: July 2007

Aim  To assess the influence of co‐culture with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) on phagocytosis and the production of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) and nitrogen (NO) species and the arginase activity by M1 and M2 peritoneal macrophages.

Methodology  Cellular viability, adherence and phagocytosis of Saccharomyces boulardii were assayed in the presence of MTA. Macrophages were stimulated with zymosan for ROI assays and with Fusobacterium nucleatum and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius and IFN‐γ for NO production and arginase activity, when in contact with capillaries containing MTA. Data were analysed by T, anova, Kruskall–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests.

Results  M2 macrophages displayed greater cellular viability in polypropylene tubes, greater ability to ingest yeast and smaller production of ROI and higher arginase activity when compared with M1 macrophages. Both macrophages, M1 and M2, presented similar cell adherence and NO production. The addition of bacterial preparations to macrophages interfered with NO and arginase productions. MTA did not interfere with any of the parameters measured.

Conclusions  Phagocytosis and the ability of the two macrophage subtypes to eliminate microbes were not affected by MTA.
The use of white Portland cement as an apical plug in a tooth with a necrotic pulp and wide‐open apex: a case report
Authors: De‐Deus G. , Coutinho‐Filho T.
Published: July 2007

Aim  To present a case in which substantial periapical healing occurred with the use of white Portland cement (WPC) to create an apical plug in the root of an immature tooth.

Summary  Radiographic examination indicated an immature tooth (35) with a wide‐open apex and a periapical radiolucency. The canal was mechanically cleaned using intracanal instruments and 5% NaOCl irrigation. Small pieces of resorbable collagen sponge were packed beyond the root apex with the aim of creating a periapical barrier for the compaction of filling material. WPC powder was then mixed with sterile water and delivered to the apical portion of the canal (approximately 3 mm). The patient was asked to return 1 week later for the continuation of treatment but he did return as planned. Seven months after the intervention the patient returned and another radiograph was exposed to reveal complete radiographic healing of the periapical region. The remainder of the canal was filled with thermoplastic gutta‐percha. Clinical follow‐up 1 year later revealed adequate clinical function, absence of clinical symptoms and no signs of periapical rarefaction.

Key learning point 

The positive clinical resolution of this case is encouraging for the use of WPC as an apical plug in immature teeth with necrotic pulps and wide‐open apices.
Persistent genetic signatures of colonization in Brachionus manjavacas rotifers in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: GÓMEZ AFRICA , MONTERO‐PAU JAVIER , LUNT DAVID H. , SERRA MANUEL , CAMPILLO SERGI
Published: July 2007

Recent phylogeographical assessments have consistently shown that continental zooplankton display high levels of population subdivision, despite the high dispersal capacity of their diapausing propagules. As such, there is an apparent paradox between observed cosmopolitanism in the zooplankton that is associated with long‐distance dispersal, and strong phylogeographical structures at a regional scale. Such population dynamics, far from migration–drift equilibrium, have been shown in the rotifer species complex Brachionus plicatilis, a group of over a dozen species inhabiting salt lakes and coastal lagoons worldwide. Here we present the mitochondrial DNA phylogeography of one of these species, Brachionus manjavacas, in the Iberian Peninsula, where it often co‐occurs with the morphologically similar species B. plicatilis sensu stricto. We obtained sequences from 233 individuals from diapausing eggs and clonal cultures from 16 lakes in the Iberian Peninsula, and a Tunisian lake. Two strongly supported deep mitochondrial DNA clades were found (A and B). Phylogenetic and nested clade analysis showed that clade A has a strong phylogeographical structure, with a strong similarity of phylogeographical patterns between B. manjavacas clade A and B. plicatilis s.s. These include (i) signatures of allopatric fragmentation between central and southern populations, and (ii) range expansions in the Iberian Peninsula, both likely to have occurred during the Pleistocene. We find evidence for a glacial refugium in the Guadiana basin. Clades A and B co‐occurred in several of these lakes because of range expansion and secondary contact between both clades. The co‐occurrence between B. plicatilis s.s. and B. manjavacas is not recent, and both species might have experienced similar environmental challenges during the Pleistocene. The strong correlation of genetic and geographical distance found suggests that historical events can lead to such correlation, mirroring the effects of ‘isolation by distance’ in equilibrium populations.
Metabolic response of the gastrointestinal tract and serum parameters of rabbits to diets containing chicory flour rich in inulin
Authors: Juśkiewicz J. , Ašmanskaitė L. , Zduńczyk Z. , Matusevičius P. , Wróblewska M. , Žilinskienė A.
Published: July 2007

A 36‐day experiment carried out on 54‐day‐old rabbits addressed the analysis of physiological properties of diets supplemented with chicory roots flour. Twenty‐four rabbits were allocated in individual cages to three treatments, in which they were fed each diet with the chicory flour at 0, 25 and 50 g/kg (control, ChF2.5 and ChF5 groups respectively). The chicory preparation administered at a higher dose, lowered ileal pH and viscosity, and evoked increased hydration of ileal and caecal digesta, compared to the control treatment (p ≤ 0.05). The ChF2.5 group was characterized by the highest increase in the bulk of digesta and concentration of protein in the caecum (p < 0.05 vs. control). The lowest colonic pH was found in the ChF5 group (p ≤ 0.05 vs. control). Compared to the control group, both chicory treatments effectively (p ≤ 0.05) diminished the activity of the potentially harmful bacterial enzymes β‐glucosidase and β‐glucuronidase in the caecal and colonic digesta. The ChF2.5 group was characterized by a significantly higher volatile fatty acids (VFA) pool size in the caecum, whereas rabbits fed the ChF5diet had the highest colonic VFA pool size (p ≤ 0.05 vs. control). The lowest level of triglycerides and total cholesterol, at concurrently the highest proportion of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) fraction in the HDL/total cholesterol profile, were recorded in the plasma of rabbits fed the ChF5 diet. In conclusion, the chicory flour rich in inulin, exerted positive effects on the rabbit gastrointestinal tract physiology and would be a potential source of functional feed additives.
Long‐term results of Molteno implant insertion in cases of chronic angle closure glaucoma
Authors: Deokule Sunil P , Molteno Anthony CB , Bevin Tui H , Herbison Peter
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Background:  This study was undertaken to provide data on the long‐term results of cases of chronic angle closure glaucoma with additional risk factors treated by Molteno implants between 1985 and 2004 at Dunedin Hospital, New Zealand.

Methods:  A prospective non‐comparative case series followed 21 eyes (17 patients) for a mean of 5.7 years (range 1.3–16.3 years) in terms of intraocular pressure, visual acuity and subsequent procedures.

Results:  Insertion of a Molteno implant has controlled the intraocular pressure at 21 mmHg or less in 100% of cases at 5 years after surgery, the probability of control being 0.95 (95% CI 0.91–0.99). The mean number of hypotensive medications reduced from 2.04 (SD 0.92) preoperatively to 1.40, 0.64 and 0.66 at 1, 2 and 5 years, respectively. The mean visual acuity improved from 6/18 preoperatively to 6/12 at 1 year and declined to 6/13.5 at 2 and 5 years.

Conclusion:  Insertion of Molteno implants was a safe and effective procedure in the management of complex cases of chronic angle closure glaucoma.
Neuroprotective effect of topically applied brimonidine tartrate 0.2% in endothelin‐1‐induced optic nerve ischaemia model
Authors: Aktaş Zeynep , Gürelik Gökhan , Akyürek Nalan , Önol Merih , Hasanreisoğlu Berati
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Background:  To investigate the neuroprotective effects of topically applied brimonidine tartrate 0.2% (BMD), an α2‐receptor agonist, on the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) layer and inner nuclear layer (INL) of rabbit retina in endothelin‐1 (ET‐1)‐induced optic nerve (ON) ischaemia model.

Methods:  Osmotic minipumps were surgically implanted into one eye of 16 New Zealand Albino rabbits to deliver ET‐1 at the constant rate of 0.5 μL/h for 2 weeks. Eyes were divided into four groups. ET‐1 was given with (Group 3) and without topical BMD therapy (Group 1). Groups 2 and 4 were taken as controls. Rabbits were sacrificed at day 14. Morphological alterations, total cell number and proportion of cells undergoing apoptosis in INL and RGC layer were assessed by histopathological analysis to determine the survival of the cells of the INL and RGC layer.

Results:  Endothelin‐1 led to severe reduction of cells in both the RGC layer and INL in Group 1 (P < 0.05). In Group 3, the total cell number and the proportion of cells undergoing apoptosis in the RGC layer were comparable with the control group (Group 4), whereas the former was found to be higher and the latter was found to be lower than those recorded for Group 1. However, the total cell number in the INL was found to be lower in Group 3 compared with that of Group 4, despite topical BMD therapy (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Topically applied BMD seems to be neuroprotective and antiapoptotic in the ET‐1‐induced ON ischaemia model, especially for RGCs. BMD might be used as an adjuvant agent for its neuroprotective effects in hypoxic‐ischaemic conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, normotensive glaucoma and other retinal vascular occlusive conditions which require further investigations.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome: in vivo confocal microscopy analysis
Authors: Martone Gianluca , Casprini Fabrizio , Traversi Claudio , Lepri Francesca , Pichierri Patrizia , Caporossi Aldo
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome is a common ocular disease that also affects the cornea. A case of clinical PEX syndrome, studied by in vivo corneal confocal microscopy is reported. The morphological analysis of the confocal images demonstrated hyper‐reflective deposits and several dendritic cells in the basal epithelial layer. A fibrillar subepithelial structure was also found. The endothelial layer showed cell anomalies (polymegathism and pleomorphism) and hyper‐reflective small endothelial deposits. Confocal microscopy is an in vivo imaging method that may provide new information on corneal alterations in PEX, and detect early corneal features.
DIRECT MULTI‐STEP ESTIMATION AND FORECASTING
Authors: Chevillon Guillaume
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis paper surveys the literature on multi‐step forecasting when the model or the estimation method focusesdirectlyon the link between the forecast origin and the horizon of interest. Among diverse contributions, we show how the current consensual concepts have emerged. We present an exhaustive overview of the existing results, including a conclusive review of the circumstances favourable todirectmulti‐step forecasting, namely different forms of non‐stationarity and appropriate model design. We also provide a unifying framework which allows us to analyse the sources of forecast errors and hence of accuracy improvements fromdirectoveriteratedmulti‐step forecasting.
Atypical long‐latency auditory event‐related potentials in a subset of children with specific language impairment
Authors: Bishop Dorothy V.M. , Hardiman Mervyn , Uwer Ruth , Von Suchodoletz Waldemar
Published: July 2007

It has been proposed that specific language impairment (SLI) is the consequence of low‐level abnormalities in auditory perception. However, studies of long‐latency auditory ERPs in children with SLI have generated inconsistent findings. A possible reason for this inconsistency is the heterogeneity of SLI. The intraclass correlation (ICC) has been proposed as a useful statistic for evaluating heterogeneity because it allows one to compare an individual's auditory ERP with the grand average waveform from a typically developing reference group. We used this method to reanalyse auditory ERPs from a sample previously described by Uwer, Albrecht and von Suchodoletz (2002). In a subset of children with receptive SLI, there was less correspondence (i.e. lower ICC) with the normative waveform (based on the control grand average) than for typically developing children. This poorer correspondence was seen in responses to both tone and speech stimuli for the period 100–228 ms post stimulus onset. The effect was lateralized and seen at right‐ but not left‐sided electrodes.
A Flexible Kernel for Adaptive Mesh Refinement on GPU
Authors: Boubekeur T. , Schlick C.
Published: July 2007

We present a flexible GPU kernel for adaptive on‐the‐fly refinement of meshes with arbitrary topology. By simply reserving a small amount of GPU memory to store a set of adaptive refinement patterns, on‐the‐fly refinement is performed by the GPU, without any preprocessing nor additional topology data structure. The level of adaptive refinement can be controlled by specifying a per‐vertex depth‐tag, in addition to usual position, normal, color and texture coordinates. This depth‐tag is used by the kernel to instanciate the correct refinement pattern, which will map a refined connectivity on the input coarse polygon. Finally, the refined patch produced for each triangle can be displaced by the vertex shader, using any kind of geometric refinement, such as Bezier patch smoothing, scalar valued displacement, procedural geometry synthesis or subdivision surfaces. This refinement engine does neither require multipass rendering nor any use of fragment processing nor special preprocess of the input mesh structure. It can be implemented on any GPU with vertex shading capabilities.
Review of new regulations for the conduct of clinical trials of investigational medicinal products
Authors: Bollapragada SS , Norrie JD , Norman JE
Published: July 2007

The EU Clinical Trials Directive came into force on 1 May 2004 and has changed the face of Clinical Trials of investigational medicinal products in the UK. An enthusiastic registrar or consultant who comes up with an idea for a therapeutic intervention now needs to comply with a complex and demanding set of legal, ethical and regulatory requirements, contravention of which may lead to criminal proceedings. The aim of this review was to detail the relevant procedures and regulations and to provide a ‘user‐friendly’ guide to obstetricians and gynaecologists wishing to conduct a clinical trial of an investigational medicinal product. Sources of further information are listed.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and pregnancy outcome: red herring or red flag?
Authors: Siassakos D , Wardle P
Published: July 2007

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, associated with a characteristic ovarian appearance at ultrasound scan, hyperandrogenism, and ovulatory disorders. The pathogenesis appears to be mainly related to reduced insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, leading to hyperinsulinaemia. There is a wide variation in the severity of PCOS symptoms. Women with PCOS are believed to be predisposed to a variety of complications in pregnancy. We present a summary of the evidence surrounding these claims and discuss the weaknesses of the available to date studies.
Neurodevelopmental involvement in schizophrenia: the olfactory epithelium as an alternative model for research
Authors: Cascella Nicola G. , Takaki Manabu , Lin Sandra , Sawa Akira
Published: July 2007

It has been suggested that disturbances during neurodevelopment may play a crucial role in the etiology of schizophrenia (SZ). This premise is supported by brain imaging, epidemiological, and pathological studies as well as the discovery of susceptibility genes for SZ that appear to be implicated in development of the central nervous system. Here, we discuss the limitations of the current methods and models for studying the neurodevelopmental implications in SZ. We agree with the proposal that the olfactory epithelium, in which neurodevelopment continues throughout life, might represent an alternative model for understanding the pathophysiology of the disorder.
Characterization of eight microsatellite loci in Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus)
Authors: HUEBINGER RYAN M. , LOUIS EDWARD E. , GELATT THOMAS , REA LORRIE D. , BICKHAM JOHN W.
Published: July 2007

Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) are listed as an endangered species in western Alaska and have exhibited a significant population decline throughout their range. Eight microsatellite loci were isolated from genomic DNA libraries. In addition, all these markers were found to be variable in nine individuals of the California sea lion (Zalophus californicus). This panel of markers was developed to analyse population structure in Steller sea lions throughout their range.
A multiplex set of microsatellite markers for the scarlet rosefinch (Carpodacus erythrinus)
Authors: POLÁKOVÁ RADKA , VYSKOČILOVÁ MARTINA , MARTIN JEAN‐FRANÇOIS , MAYS HERMAN L. , HILL GEOFFREY E. , BRYJA JOSEF , ALBRECHT TOMÁŠ
Published: July 2007

Cardueline finches have become important models in studies of sexual selection and evolution of carotenoid‐based ornamentation. Here, we describe eight new polymorphic microsatellites isolated from the Scarlet rosefinch (Carpodacus erythrinus) and four from the House finch (Carpodacus mexicanus). Together with the cross‐species amplification of additional loci, originally published for two species of songbirds, we optimized a multiplex panel for C. erythrinus allowing genotyping of 22 polymorphic loci. Number of alleles and heterozygosity per locus in a sample of 34 individuals ranged from three to 38 and from 0.27 to 0.94, respectively.
Isolation, characterization and multiplex polymerase chain reaction of novel microsatellite loci for the avian parasite Philornis downsi (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: DUDANIEC RACHAEL Y. , GARDNER MICHAEL G. , KLEINDORFER SONIA
Published: July 2007

An enrichment technique was used to isolate 11 di‐, tri‐, and tetra microsatellites for the parasitic fly Philornis downsi (Diptera: Muscidae). These loci were polymerase chain reaction amplified in singleplexes or two‐plexes for P. downsi. The loci showed low to moderate polymorphism, exhibited between three and four alleles, and observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.05 to 0.86. These new markers will be useful for population‐level and paternity analyses and will provide valuable information about the ecology of this high‐impact parasite of vulnerable bird species.
Development of expressed sequence tag‐derived microsatellite markers for the sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus
Authors: KONG LINGFENG , LI QI
Published: July 2007

The first set of 15 expressed sequence tag‐simple sequence repeat markers was developed in sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus. Number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 17. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.022 to 0.911 and from 0.022 to 0.916, respectively. These informative marker loci will be useful for the assessment of genetic variation and population structure of this species.
A PROVENANCE STUDY OF TANG SANCAI FROM CHINESE TOMBS AND RELICS BY INAA*
Authors: LEI Y. , FENG S. L. , FENG X. Q. , CHAI Z. F.
Published: July 2007

In order to group specimens of Tang Sancai of unknown provenance to the different kilns according to their chemical compositions, we studied the elemental abundance patterns of Tang Sancai body samples from different tombs, relics and kilns by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Our results indicated that the development process of Tang Sancai in the Prospering Tang period could be divided into at least two phases, with ad 705 or so as the boundary between them. The results of factor analysis showed that the red‐bodied samples were more likely to be produced near Xi’an, whereas the white‐bodied Tang Sancai wares dating to before ad 705 were most probably produced at Huanye Kiln (also known as ‘Gongxian’ Kiln), and the figures were very likely made at an undiscovered kiln near Luoyang or an undiscovered part of Huangye Kiln. Among the white‐bodied samples dated from ad 705 to ad 755, both types of figures and wares were mainly produced near Xi’an and Luoyang.
Exploring the lay representation of forgiveness: Convergent and discriminant validity
Authors: FRIESEN MYRON D. , FLETCHER GARTH J. O.
Published: July 2007

Four studies employing a prototype approach tested the convergent and discriminant validity of a lay forgiveness representation. In Study 1, participants nominated a wide range of forgiveness features. In Study 2, participants rated the centrality of forgiveness features, which created a reliable graded structure from central to peripheral features. Study 3 tested the convergent validity of this lay forgiveness representation while controlling for several confounding variables. In Study 4, the discriminant validity of this lay forgiveness representation was tested through a categorization procedure. The findings replicate and extend prior research on forgiveness (Kearns & Fincham, 2004), and support the psychological reality of a lay forgiveness representation distinct from other victim responses.
The Initiator Style Questionnaire: A scale to assess initiator tendency in couples
Authors: DENTON WAYNE H. , BURLESON BRANT R.
Published: July 2007

The tendency of partners in a dyad to initiate or avoid relationship problem discussions has proven to have both theoretical and clinical significance. This tendency is conceptualized here as initiator tendency, which is defined as the propensity to initiate relationship‐focused discussions with one’s partner or avoid such discussions. The current paper reports 3 studies summarizing the development of a measure to assess initiator tendency: the Initiator Style Questionnaire (ISQ). The ISQ provides self‐report assessments of self and partner’s perceived initiator tendencies. The studies indicate that the 2 parallel 10‐item measures exhibit strong unidimensionality, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability, as well as appropriate discriminant validity and good convergent and construct validity. Limitations and applications are discussed.
Avoidance motivation and relationship commitment in heterosexual, gay male, and lesbian partners
Authors: KURDEK LAWRENCE A.
Published: July 2007

This study examined whether avoidance motivation is distinct from the satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, and investment size components of C. E. Rusbult, J. M. Martz, and C. R. Agnew’s (1998) investment model. Data from 3 samples (392 heterosexual dating partners, 225 heterosexual dating partners, and 351 gay male or lesbian cohabiting partners, respectively) indicated that items tapping satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, investment size, and avoidance motivation defined separate factors and that avoidance motivation accounted for unique variance in commitment. Satisfaction level moderated the link between investment size and commitment for dating partners and moderated the link between quality of alternatives and commitment, investment size and commitment, and avoidance motivation and commitment for gay male or lesbian partners.
How to Use Modern Critical Editions of Medieval Latin Texts
Authors: Knibbs Eric
Published: July 2007

Critical editions provide access to the texts of the medieval and ancient world. To use these editions effectively, we must be aware of the theories, assumptions, and conventions that underlie them. This article examines how most critical editions of Medieval Latin texts are constructed and presented to the reader, and includes a model edition to serve as a concrete example. With a better understanding of modern critical editions, readers should be able to study how texts were read and used in the Middle Ages, and how they changed in the course of manuscript transmission. They should also be able to critically evaluate editorial choices and understand the reasoning behind them.
The role of maternal age and episiotomy in the risk of anal sphincter tears during childbirth
Authors: GERDIN Eva , SVERRISDOTTIR Gudlaug , BADI Amal , CARLSSON Björn , GRAF Wilhelm
Published: July 2007

Background:  Many women who experience anal sphincter tear will suffer from anal incontinence. The most important tool to avoid this is to recognise the obstetric risk factors involved and thereby prevent injury.

Aims:  The aim of this study was to analyse and evaluate the risk factors of anal sphincter tear during delivery.

Methods:  Of a total of 57 943 vaginal deliveries, we identified 565 women with partial or total rupture of the anal sphincter and compared these women with 565 controls without sphincter tear with respect to possible risk factors.

Results:  Several factors were significantly associated with sphincter tears, including nulliparity, birthweight, instrumental delivery, episiotomy, malpresentation, maternal age and epidural analgesia. The importance of these variables was further confirmed in a stepwise logistic regression analysis. Age was found to be a significant risk factor only when the birthweight was less than 4000 g. Episiotomy more than doubled the risk of sphincter tear when delivery was non‐instrumental.

Conclusion:   There are several independent risk factors that should be considered when making decisions regarding delivery mode. Maternal age and episiotomy in non‐instrumental delivery are two of these.
Frequency of selected thrombophilias in women with placental abruption
Authors: PROCHÁZKA Martin , LUBUŠKÝ Marek , SLAVÍK Luděk , HRACHOVEC Petr , ZIELINA Petr , KUDELA Milan , LINDQVIST Pelle G.
Published: July 2007

Objective:  There is a growing view that inherited or acquired thrombophilia may predispose a woman towards an adverse pregnancy outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate whether risk factors for placental abruption because of such thrombophilias (such as carriership of factor V Leiden (FVL), prothrombin G20210A gene mutation and homozygous MTHFR C677T) might be used as a predictor for placental abruption.

Methods:  A retrospective case‐control study conducted at the University Hospital, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic. One hundred and eighty women with placental abruption out of 20 175 deliveries (0.79%) were compared to 196 unselected gravidae. A detailed medical history was taken with special reference to factors related to hypercoagulation and blood was drawn for polymerase chain reaction analysis. The prevalence of FVL, prothrombin G20210A and MTHFR C677T was related to placental abruption.

Results:  The heterozygous form of FVL was present in 20of 142 cases (14.1%) in the placental abruption group, compared to ten of 196 (5.1%) in the control group (odds ratio 3.0, 95% confidence interval 1.4–6.7).

Conclusions:  We found that factor V Leiden is a significant risk factor for placental abruption.
Acute pyelonephritis in pregnancy: A retrospective study
Authors: SHARMA Paban , THAPA Laxmi
Published: July 2007

Objective:  To examine the incidence, risk factors, microbial pathogens, and pregnancy outcomes of pregnant women with acute antepartum pyelonephritis.

Methods:   Among all pregnant women admitted to Patan Hospital, Nepal from 14 April 2004 to 13 April 2005, pregnant women with acute pyelonephritis were retrospectively studied. Furthermore, the pregnancy outcomes of these women were compared with those of the general obstetric population received at our hospital during the same time period.

Results:   Of 7034 pregnant women delivered at our hospital, 94 cases of acute antepartum pyelonephritis were diagnosed during the study period (incidence: 1.3%). Maternal mean age for the infection was 22 ± 3.41 years. Acute pyelonephritis was most frequently occurred in nulliparous women (75%), and in the second trimester (60%). Of 94 cases, 62 (65.95%) showed positive urine culture, with the predominating organism Escherichia coli in 81% (50 of 62) of cases. E. coli was found most sensitive to nitrofurantoin (82.1% of cases), followed by ceftriaxone (81.55% of cases), gentamicin (77.01% of cases), ofloxacin (60.57% of cases), and ciprofloxacin (59% of cases). The incidences of low‐birthweight babies (14%) and preterm babies (7.81%) in the cases with acute antepartum pyelonephritis were not significantly different compared to that of all births in our hospital during the same period (13% and 8%, respectively; P > 0.05).

Conclusions:   Acute pyelonephritis requiring admission to hospital most frequently occurs in nulliparous women, and in the second trimester. The predominating organism responsible for acute pyelonephritis is E. coli. Ceftriaxone, because of its safety and negligible side‐effect, should be the drug of choice for acute antepartum pyelonephritis.
A new way of looking at Caesarean section births
Authors: McCARTHY Fergus P. , RIGG Lynne , CADY Louisa , CULLINANE Fiona
Published: July 2007

Aims:  To implement the Robson Ten Group Classification System (TGCS) at the Royal Women's Hospital (RWH), Melbourne, in order to determine the main contributors to the rising Caesarean section (CS) rate.

Methods:  The TGCS divides women into ten groups according to parity, past obstetric history, singleton or multiple pregnancy, fetal presentation, gestational age and mode of onset of labour/delivery. The TGCS was applied retrospectively to the population of women who had a registered birth at the RWH between January 2005 and 31 December 2005.

Results:  A total of 5833 women gave birth to 6011 babies during the study period. A total of 1651 women (28.3%) had a CS birth. The total CS rates ranged from 3.7% (group 3) to 100% (group 9). Women in groups 1 and 2 were the greatest contributors to the emergency CS rate, 4.2% and 4.9%, respectively. Women in group 5 were the single greatest contributor to both the elective CS rate and the total CS rate.

Conclusions:  The TGCS was successfully implemented at the RWH in 2005. The TGCS is ongoing, enabling monitoring of CS rates. The Robson TGCS demonstrates the need to focus on the care of women in groups 1, 2 and 5 in particular, if CS rates are to be reduced.
Editorials: Quest for V: Body Composition Could Determine Dialysis Dose
Authors: Sarkar Shubho R. , Kotanko Peter , Heymsfeld Steven B. , Levin Nathan W.
Published: July 2007

Since the demonstration that dialysis patients with lower body weight have a higher mortality than larger patients, there has been much interest in determining possible mechanisms and any possible relationships to the dialysis dose. Arguments have been made against using Kt/Vurea as the basis for dialysis prescription. Efforts have been made to determine a parameter of dialysis delivery independent of body size. An emerging area of intense research interest has explored the body composition determinants of resting metabolic rate. Based on the knowledge of in vitro organ tissue energy production, newer high‐resolution imaging methods have been applied as a means of establishing the sources of resting energy production in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, the linkages between resting energy expenditure (REE), body composition, and survival have not received much attention despite various studies exploring the effect of renal dysfunction and of the hemodialysis process on REE. We explore possible mechanisms leading to a higher mortality in smaller (lower body mass index) patients. The hypothesis of Morton and Singer is discussed. We have hypothesized that delivery of dialysis based on visceral organ volume (Vorgan), which could be the appropriate representation of uremic toxin generation, would be more logical than the current practice. This retains the concept of Kt/V but suggests that instead of the total V, a component related to major metabolic activity might represent the volume of interest. As per our hypothesis, smaller dialysis patients would need relatively a higher dialysis dose delivery, as expressed by current Kt/V, in order to achieve the same level of clearance of uremic toxins as in larger patients.
CRYPTIC DIVERSITY IN PHYTOPLANKTON CULTURES IS REVEALED USING A SIMPLE PLATING TECHNIQUE1
Authors: Lakeman Michael Boyd , Cattolico And Rose Ann
Published: July 2007

A simple technique has been developed to probe the occurrence of cryptic genetic diversity in populations of laboratory‐maintained phytoplankton cultures. This agarose‐based method allows the investigator to plate a broad range of fragile algae, including representatives of the Raphidophyceae, Synurophyceae, Prymnesiophyceae, and Dinophyceae. Heterosigma akashiwo (Hada) Hada ex Y. Hara et Chihara was selected as a model system for our genetic diversity study. Further optimization of the plating technique for this alga demonstrated that colony formation was independent of the physiological state of the parent culture and yet dependent on incident light intensity. The density at which cells were plated affected colony formation and the rate of growth, with intermediate densities (∼103 cells per plate) performing best. High‐metal stress was used as the selective screen for assessing genetic variability within a single H. akashiwo culture. To this end, “clonal” lines (quotation marks used to indicate that within‐clone diversity was expected) were generated from individual plated colonies, and their tolerance was measured by plating on selective medium. Results of these experiments suggest the following: (i) “clonal” lines generated from a single H. akashiwo culture displayed a significant variation in stress tolerance; (ii) “clonal” lines chosen for their ability to grow on selective plates retained this tolerance in the absence of stress, indicating that the observed variation is heritable; and (iii) genetic variation is continually generated in growing cultures. Our results are consistent with a conceptual model, presented here, in which stress tolerance among the individuals in a culture has a genetic basis that varies over a continuous spectrum.
Drug Challenges Reveal Differences in Mediation of Stress Facilitation of Voluntary Alcohol Drinking and Withdrawal‐Induced Anxiety in Alcohol‐Preferring P Rats
Authors: Overstreet David H. , Knapp Darin J. , Breese George R.
Published: July 2007

Background: There is controversy over whether exposure to stress precipitates relapse and/or increases alcohol (ethanol) intake. Our laboratory has demonstrated that repeated stress prior to withdrawal from a brief forced exposure to alcohol results in withdrawal‐induced anxiety‐like behavior. Because anxiety is often regarded as a precipitating factor in relapsing alcoholics, we decided to examine the consequences of stressing alcohol‐preferring P rats on both voluntary alcohol drinking and withdrawal‐induced anxiety.

Methods: P rats were subjected to 3 cycles of 5 days of voluntary alcohol drinking and 2 days of deprivation. Restraint stress (60 min) was applied to some animals during the first and second deprivations/withdrawals (at 4 h). Drugs (flumazenil, buspirone, SB242,084, CP154,526, CRA1000, naloxone, haloperidol, olanzapine, naloxone, and haloperidol) were given to some rats 30 min prior to restraint stress.

Results: Stressed, deprived P rats exhibited both a longer duration of elevated alcohol drinking and anxiety‐like behavior in the social interaction test upon withdrawal after the third cycle of voluntary alcohol drinking. When given prior to each of the restraint stresses, the benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil (5 mg/kg), the corticotrophin releasing factor receptor antagonists CRA1000 (3 mg/kg) and CP154,526 (10 mg/kg), the serotonin 5‐HT1Areceptor partial agonist buspirone (0.6 mg/kg), and the mixed 5‐HT2C/D2 receptor antagonist olanzapine were effective in reducing the increased duration of elevated alcohol drinking and the withdrawal‐induced anxiety‐like behavior. In contrast, while the opiate receptor antagonist naloxone (20 mg/kg), the 5‐HT2Creceptor antagonist SB242084 (3 mg/kg), and the dopamine receptor antagonist haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg) also reduced drinking, they did not significantly alter anxiety like behavior.

Conclusion: These results suggest that stress‐induced facilitation of alcohol drinking and withdrawal‐induced anxiety‐like behavior in P rats may be closely but imperfectly linked.
The Double‐Auction Gambling Market: An Experimental Examination
Authors: Hampton Kyle W.
Published: July 2007

Abstract.  I examine a new sports wagering mechanism that utilizes a double auction rather than the traditional wager matching bookmaker. Laboratory experiments were performed that modeled the two institutions in an attempt to compare the efficiency and volatility of the new mechanism versus the status quo. The new proposed double auction institution was less efficient and more volatile than the matching mechanism. However, the relative performance of the double auction mechanism was significantly improved by an increase in the size of the market.