bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer stem cell hypothesis in thyroid cancer
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zuo Hui , Ozaki Takashi , Nakagomi Nami , Kakudo Kennichi
Published: August 2006

There is increasing evidence that many types of cancer contain their own stem cells: cancer stem cells, which are characterized by their self‐renewing capacity and differentiation ability. Cancer could be regarded as an abnormal organ initiated by cancer stem cells, and cancer stem cells might play a decisive role in tumor initiation and progression. Dysregulation of stem cell self‐renewal is a likely requirement for the development of cancer, and stem cells seem more likely to be the transformed target cells in carcinogenesis. This cancer stem cell model has great implications for understanding of oncogenesis and treatment for cancer. Abundant evidence suggests that, parallel to other solid tumors, cancer stem cells also exist in thyroid cancer, although their characteristics are largely unknown to date. The present review will discuss the potential traits of cancer stem cells in thyroid cancer and their transformation targets: stem cells in the thyroid gland.
Small adenocarcinoma of the lung: Prognostic significance of central fibrosis chiefly because of its association with angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Okudera Koichi , Kamata Yoshimasa , Takanashi Shingo , Hasegawa Yukihiro , Tsushima Takao , Ogura Yuta , Nakanishi Kuniaki , Sato Hiroshi , Okumura Ken
Published: August 2006

To clarify the reason why central fibrosis (CF) is an important histological prognostic factor in small adenocarcinoma (SA) of the lung, tumor tissues from 50 patients with SA ≤2 cm in diameter were investigated using immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization analysis for factors relating to extracellular matrix and vessels. CF was observed in 33/50 cases (66%). In adenocarcinoma areas, positive activity was observed with both primary antibodies and probes for matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) in 11/50 patients (22%), membrane‐type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP) in 39/50 patients (78%) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2 (TIMP‐2) in 49/50 patients (98%). In CF areas, the positive activity of fibroblastic cells was seen for only TIMP‐2 in 32/33 patients (97%). In CF areas, both CD34‐positive (blood and lymphatic) vessels and D2‐40‐positive lymphatic vessels were semiquantitatively increased in 16/33 patients (48.5%) by immunohistochemistry. Tumors with increased vessel density were associated with statistically lower disease‐free survival curves compared with tumors without increased vessels. Lymphatic vessels in some CF showed intravasation by carcinoma cells. In conclusion, CF could be an important histological prognostic factor in SA chiefly because of its association with angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
Expression of autocrine motility factor mRNA is a poor prognostic factor in high‐grade astrocytoma
Authors: Tanizaki Yoshinori , Sato Yuichi , Oka Hidehiro , Utsuki Satoshi , Kondo Koji , Miyajima Yoshiteru , Nagashio Ryo , Fujii Kiyotaka
Published: August 2006

It has been reported that tumor infiltration is correlated with the expression of autocrine motility factor (AMF) and its receptor 78 kDa glycoprotein (gp78). The purpose of the present study was to detect AMF and gp78 mRNA expression levels and their localization in high‐grade astrocytomas (glioblastoma and anaplastic astrocytoma) and to determine whether AMF and gp78 are important prognostic factors. A total of 32 formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded glioblastomas and 23 formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded anaplastic astrocytomas was used. The expressions of AMF and gp78 mRNA were detected using the highly sensitive in situ hybridization method. The expression of AMF mRNA was detected in 27 of 32 glioblastomas (84.4%) and 11 of 23 anaplastic astrocytomas (47.8%). The positivity of AMF mRNA was significantly higher in glioblastomas than in anaplastic astrocytomas (P = 0.0094), but gp78 mRNA was detected in most cases and no statistical significance was observed. The overall survival of patients with AMF expression was significantly shorter than patients without AMF expression (P = 0.0175). In anaplastic astrocytomas, the overall survival of patients with AMF expression was also significantly shorter than in patients without AMF expression (P = 0.0058). This study demonstrated that AMF is a poor prognostic factor in high‐grade astrocytomas.
Effect of rat kidney fraction 3 (rKF3) antigen and specific IgM antibody against rKF3 on the progression of slowly progressive Heymann nephritis
Authors: Barabas Arpad Zsigmond , Cole Chad Douglas , Barabas Arpad David , Barabas Aron Nicholas , Lafreniere Rene
Published: August 2006

The aim of the present study was to find out if specific IgM (M) antibody (directed against rat kidney fraction 3 (rKF3)) or rKF3 antigen were able to influence disease progression in an experimental autoimmune kidney disease called slowly progressive Heymann nephritis (SPHN). The level of circulating autoantibodies (aabs) and the morphological and functional changes to the kidney were studied in six groups of rats. All of the treatment components (except post‐treatment with M) used in the SPHN pre‐ and post‐treated rats and post‐treated‐only rats had measurable beneficial effects (even during restimulation with the chemically modified renal antigen, 22 weeks after the induction of the disease) as demonstrated by diminished pathogenic IgG aab production, less severe kidney lesions, and proteinuria reductions. The injected rKF3 minimized progression best in this experiment, especially when administered in a pre‐ and post‐treatment regimen. It is thought that the effect of rKF3 in the reduced progression of SPHN was due to increased production of specific IgM aabs, which in turn limited pathogenic aab production and continuous buildup of immune complexes in the glomeruli by facilitating removal or blockage of nephritogenic autoantigens from the circulation.
Epstein–Barr virus‐associated enteritis with multiple ulcers after stem cell transplantation: First histologically confirmed case
Authors: Tashiro Yukie , Goto Masamichi , Takemoto Yoshinobu , Sato Eiichi , Shirahama Hiroshi , Utsunomiya Atae , Eizuru Yoshito , Yonezawa Suguru
Published: August 2006

The present case involves unique enteritis forming multiple ulcers associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). A 57‐year‐old man had undergone a reduced intensity allogeneic stem cell transplantation for a relapse of multiple myeloma following sequential autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. The ileum, resected for massive melena, showed multiple irregular ulcers with occasional cobblestone‐like appearance. There was inflammation including numerous plasma cells in the ulcer bases and surrounding areas, where many EBV‐infected plasma cells were detected by double staining with EBV‐encoded small RNA‐1 (EBER‐1) in situ hybridization and CD79a, while EBV‐infected epithelial cells were not noted. The number of EBER‐1‐positive cells in the ileum (mucosa, 1451 cells/mm2; submucosa, 465 cells/mm2) was much larger than in control samples (malignant lymphoma or leukemia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation, n = 4, range 0–113 cells/mm2; malignant lymphoma after chemotherapy, n = 14, range 0–0.89 cells/mm2; colon cancer, n = 12, range 0–3.5 cells/mm2). In the mucosa near the ulcers, EBER‐1‐positive cells often surrounded and involved the glandular epithelium, forming lymphoepithelial‐like lesions. The histological findings differ from post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders or intestinal thrombotic microangiopathy, and this is the first case of EBV‐associated enteritis with ulcers characterized by numerous plasma cells and lymphoepithelial‐like lesions after stem cell transplantation.
Fetal hydrops associated with spontaneous premature closure of ductus arteriosus
Authors: Kondo Takeshi , Kitazawa Riko , Noda‐Maeda Naoko , Kitazawa Sohei
Published: August 2006

A 36‐year‐old woman presenting with fetal growth restriction in the 25th week of gestation was referred to Kobe University Hospital where hydrops fetalis was detected. A stillborn fetus, 2012 g in weight and 40 cm in height, was delivered in the 33rd week of gestation. The mother had no past history of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) use during the pregnancy. The male fetus showed maceration without macroscopic anomalies, but it was markedly edematous with bilateral pleural effusion and massive ascites. The autopsy revealed an enlarged heart and aortic coarctation in the region of the ductus arteriosus. A mild form of aortic coarctation and premature closure of the ductus arteriosus with fibrous thickening of the wall were observed. The lungs were atelectatic with vascular dilatation and congestion. This is the first documented case of hydrops fetalis caused by spontaneous premature closure of the ductus arteriosus concomitant with aortic coarctation. The findings suggest that some form of idiopathic, or spontaneous, closure of the ductus arteriosus can be one of the causes of chronic fetal heart failure, coarctation of the aorta, and fetal hydrops.
Spindle epithelial tumor with thymus‐like differentiation (SETTLE): Youngest reported patient
Authors: Satoh Shintaro , Toda Shuji , Narikawa Keita , Watanabe Keiko , Tsuda Kuniyoshi , Kuratomi Yuichiro , Sugihara Hajime , Inokuchi Akira
Published: August 2006

Spindle epithelial tumor with thymus‐like differentiation (SETTLE) is a very rare thyroid tumor. It is one of a family of tumors arising either from ectopic thymus or remnants of branchial pouches that retain the potential to differentiate along the thymic line. Herein is reported a case of SETTLE in a 2‐year‐old girl. The patient underwent right thyroid lobectomy for a tumor of the right thyroid lobe. The resected specimen of this tumor revealed a whitish and solid mass. On microscopy, the tumor exhibited an area of spindle cells, glandular epithelium, and mucinous cystic lesions. The following findings were obtained on immunohistochemistry: the spindle cell area was diffusely positive for cytokeratin AE1/3 and vimentin, and partially positive for α‐smooth muscle‐specific actin. The glandular structures consisted of columnar cells and the cystic area was also positive for cytokeratin AE1/3. All three components of the tumor were negative for thyroglobulin, thyroid transcription factor‐1, S‐100 protein, carcinoembryonic antigen, somatostatin, synaptophysin, and chromogranin A. On the basis of the aforementioned findings, SETTLE was diagnosed. The patient remains disease free to date, 2 years after surgery with no additional treatment. To the best of the authors’ knowledge the present SETTLE patient is the youngest yet reported.
Neural representation of olfactory mixtures in the honeybee antennal lobe
Authors: Deisig Nina , Giurfa Martin , Lachnit Harald , Sandoz Jean‐Christophe
Published: August 2006

Natural olfactory stimuli occur as mixtures of many single odors. We studied whether the representation of a mixture in the brain retains single‐odor information and how much mixture‐specific information it includes. To understand mixture representation in the honeybee brain, we used in vivo calcium imaging at the level of the antennal lobe, and systematically measured odor‐evoked activity in 24 identified glomeruli in response to four single odorants and all their possible binary, ternary and quaternary mixtures. Qualitatively, mixture‐induced activity patterns always contained glomeruli belonging to the pattern of at least one of the components, suggesting a high conservation of component information in olfactory mixtures. Quantitatively, glomerular activity saturated quickly and increasing the number of components resulted in an increase of cases in which the response of a glomerulus to the mixture was lower than that to the strongest component (‘suppression’). This shows global inhibition in the antennal lobe, probably acting as overall gain control. Single components were not equally salient (in terms of number of active glomeruli) and mixture activity patterns were always more similar to the more salient components, in a way that could be predicted linearly. Thus, although a gain control system in the honeybee antennal lobe prevents saturation of the olfactory system, mixture representation follows essentially elemental rules.
Spinal cord injury‐induced up‐regulation of AHNAK, expressed in cells delineating cystic cavities, and associated with neoangiogenesis
Authors: Von Boxberg Ysander , Salim Claudio , Soares Sylvia , Baloui Hasna , Alterio Jeanine , Ravaille‐Veron Michèle , Nothias Fatiha
Published: August 2006

To investigate the molecular basis for the poor regenerative capacity of the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) after injury, we searched for genes whose expression was affected by an adult rat spinal cord hemi‐section. Differential screening of a rat spinal cord expression library was performed using polyclonal antibodies raised against lesioned spinal cord tissue. A striking overexpression was found for ahnak, encoding a 700‐kDa protein, in normal CNS present only in the blood–brain barrier (BBB) forming vascular endothelial cells. Indeed, very early after spinal cord injury (SCI), high levels of membrane‐associated AHNAK are observed on non‐neuronal cells invading the lesion site. With time, AHNAK distribution spreads rostrally and caudally concomitant with the process of tissue inflammation and axon degeneration, delineating the interior surface of cystic cavities, mainly in front of barrier‐forming astrocytes. Strong overexpression is also observed on vascular endothelial cells reacting to BBB breakdown. Based on our detailed analysis of its spatiotemporal and cellular expression, and its previously described function in BBB, we suggest that AHNAK expression is associated with cell types displaying tissue–protective barrier properties. Our study may thus contribute to the elucidation of the precise molecular and cellular events that eventually render traumatic spinal cord tissue non‐permissive for regeneration.
Paraventricular–coerulear interactions: role in hypertension induced by prenatal undernutrition in the rat
Authors: Pérez H. , Ruiz S. , Núñez H. , White A. , Gotteland M. , Hernández A.
Published: August 2006

Rats submitted to fetal growth retardation by in utero malnutrition develop hypertension when adult, showing increased hypothalamic mRNA expression for corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) and increased central noradrenergic activity. As hypothalamic CRH serves as an excitatory neurotransmitter within the locus coeruleus (LC) and coerulear norepinephrine plays a similar role within the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, we studied, in both normal and prenatally undernourished 40‐day‐old anesthetized rats, the effects of intra‐LC microinjection of CRH and intra‐PVN microinjection of the α1‐adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin on multiunit neuronal activity recorded simultaneously from the two nuclei, as well as the effects on systolic pressure. Undernutrition was induced during fetal life by restricting the diet of pregnant mothers to 10 g daily, whereas mothers of control rats received the same diet ad libitum. At day 40 of postnatal life: (i) undernourished rats showed increased neuronal activity in the PVN and LC, as well as increased systolic pressure; (ii) intra‐LC CRH stimulated LC and PVN neurons and increased systolic pressure only in normal rats; (iii) intra‐PVN prazosin decreased LC and PVN neuronal activity and systolic pressure only in undernourished rats; and (iv) in normal rats, prazosin prevented the stimulatory effect of CRH only in PVN activity; in undernourished rats, prazosin allowed CRH to regain its stimulatory effects. The results point to the existence of an excitatory PVN–LC closed loop, which seems to be hyperactive in prenatally undernourished rats as a consequence of fetal programming; this loop could be responsible, in part, for the hypertension developed by these animals.
A deficiency in RFX3 causes hydrocephalus associated with abnormal differentiation of ependymal cells
Authors: Baas D. , Meiniel A. , Benadiba C. , Bonnafe E. , Meiniel O. , Reith W. , Durand B.
Published: August 2006

Ciliated ependymal cells play central functions in the control of cerebrospinal fluid homeostasis in the mammalian brain, and defects in their differentiation or ciliated properties can lead to hydrocephalus. Regulatory factor X (RFX) transcription factors regulate genes required for ciliogenesis in the nematode, drosophila and mammals. We show here that Rfx3‐deficient mice suffer from hydrocephalus without stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius. RFX3 is expressed strongly in the ciliated ependymal cells of the subcommissural organ (SCO), choroid plexuses (CP) and ventricular walls during embryonic and postnatal development. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the hydrocephalus is associated with a general defect in CP differentiation and with severe agenesis of the SCO. The specialized ependymal cells of the CP show an altered epithelial organization, and the SCO cells lose their characteristic ultrastructural features and adopt aspects more typical of classical ependymal cells. These differentiation defects are associated with changes in the number of cilia, although no obvious ultrastructural defects of these cilia can be observed in adult mice. Moreover, agenesis of the SCO is associated with downregulation of SCO‐spondin expression as early as E14.5 of embryonic development. These results demonstrate that RFX3 is necessary for ciliated ependymal cell differentiation in the mouse.
Multiple risk reduction mechanisms: can dormancy substitute for dispersal?
Authors: Snyder Robin E.
Published: August 2006

In a spatiotemporally variable environment, plants use seed dispersal and dormancy to reduce risk. Intuition suggests that dormancy should be able to substitute for dispersal, so that dormancy will reduce the optimal mean dispersal distance, and previous theoretical studies using temporally uncorrelated environments have found this to be true. I show that in the presence of positive temporal correlations, dormancy instead increases dispersal: dormancy and dispersal are not interchangeable risk reduction mechanisms. Dispersal has both costs (seeds landing in unfavourable habitat) and benefits (seeds being in place to exploit newly favourable habitat). I discuss how the costs and benefits balance to determine optimal dispersal and how dormancy shifts this balance, causing dispersal to increase. I also find that an interaction between spatial and temporal correlations determines whether an evolutionarily stable dispersal distance exists at all and confirm the expectation that increasing the scale of spatial correlations causes dispersal to increase.
Abundance of six tetracycline resistance genes in wastewater lagoons at cattle feedlots with different antibiotic use strategies
Authors: Peak Nicholas , Knapp Charles W. , Yang Richard K. , Hanfelt Margery M. , Smith Marilyn S. , Aga Diana S. , Graham David W.
Published: August 2006

The abundance of six tetracycline resistance genes tet(O), tet(Q), tet(W), tet(M), tet(B) and tet(L), were quantified over time in wastewater lagoons at concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFO) to assess how feedlot operation affects resistance genes in downstream surface waters. Eight lagoons at five cattle feedlots in the Midwestern United States were monitored for 6 months. Resistance and 16S‐rRNA gene abundances were quantified using real‐time PCR, and physicochemical lagoon conditions, tetracycline levels, and other factors (e.g. feedlot size and weather conditions) were monitored over time. Lagoons were sorted according to antibiotic use practice at each site, and designated as ‘no‐use’, ‘mixed‐use’ or ‘high‐use’ for comparison. High‐use lagoons had significantly higher detected resistance gene levels (tetR; 2.8 × 106 copies ml−1) relative to no‐use lagoons (5.1 × 103 copies ml−1; P < 0.01) and mixed‐use lagoons (7.3 × 105 copies ml−1; P = 0.076). Bivariate correlation analysis on pooled data (n = 54) confirmed that tetR level strongly correlated with feedlot area (r = 0.67, P < 0.01) and ‘total’ bacterial 16S‐rRNA gene level in each lagoon (r = 0.51, P <  0.01), which are both characteristic of large CAFOs. tet(M) was the most commonly detected gene, both in absolute number and normalized to 16S‐rRNA gene level, although tet(O), tet(Q) and tet(W) levels were also high in the mixed and high‐use lagoons. Finally, resistance gene levels were highly seasonal with abundances being 10–100 times greater in the autumn versus the summer. Results show that antibiotic use strategy strongly affects both the abundance and seasonal distribution of resistance genes in associated lagoons, which has implications on water quality and feedlot management practices.
Initiation of insulin glargine in suboptimally controlled patients with type 2 diabetes: sub‐analysis of the AT.LANTUS trial comparing treatment outcomes in subjects from primary and secondary care in the UK
Authors: Davies M. , Evans R. , Storms F. , Gomis R. , Khunti K.
Published: August 2006

Aim:  The AT.LANTUS study compared insulin glargine initiation and titration using one of two algorithms in suboptimally controlled subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on a primary outcome of severe hypoglycaemia. Secondary outcomes included other categories of hypoglycaemia, glycaemic control, weight changes and insulin dose. Here, we report the results of a subanalysis of the trial, which investigated whether insulin glargine can be initiated and titrated as effectively in primary [general practitioner (GP)] as secondary (hospital) care in patients with T2DM in the UK.

Methods:  The main study was a multicentre (n = 611), multinational (n = 59), open‐label, 24‐week randomized trial in 4588 suboptimally controlled subjects with T2DM. Insulin glargine was titrated to target fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels of ≤5.5 mmol/l according to algorithm 1 (clinic‐driven titration) or algorithm 2 (patient‐managed titration). In this substudy, 819 subjects (GP, n = 215; hospital, n = 604) from 57 primary and 130 secondary care centres were included in the subanalysis; subjects were switched to once‐daily insulin glargine from baseline treatments that consisted primarily of oral antidiabetic agents (OADs) (38%) only or premixed insulin +/− OAD (23%).

Results:  Both the GP and the hospital groups of subjects experienced a low incidence of severe hypoglycaemia (<1%), with significant decreases in HbA1c levels (−0.51 and −0.95% respectively; p < 0.001), large reductions in FBG levels (−2.72 and 3.0 mmol/l respectively; p < 0.001) and modest weight gain of 1 and 1.2 kg respectively (p < 0.05). With the exception of absolute reductions in HbA1c and reductions in basal and prandial insulin made on switching to insulin glargine, there were few significant differences in subjects managed in primary compared with secondary care.

Conclusions:  This study shows that despite differences in diabetes duration and baseline glycaemic control, an insulin glargine–based therapy can be safely and effectively initiated in a diverse range of suboptimally controlled subjects with T2DM in both primary and secondary care settings in the UK. Rates of hypoglycaemia were low and consistent with the results of the main study. Absolute reductions in HbA1c were greatest in the secondary care setting, but similar levels of glycaemic control were achieved in both groups due to differences in baseline HbA1c. In the patients managed in primary care, there was an overall reduction in prandial and basal insulin used when switching to a basal insulin regimen and a lack of titration of prandial insulin. Therefore, the role of prandial insulin, its initiation and titration, appears to be an area that requires more focus in primary care.
Molecular taxonomy in pholcid spiders (Pholcidae, Araneae): evaluation of species identification methods using CO1 and 16S rRNA
Authors: Astrin Jonas J. , Huber Bernhard A. , Misof Bernhard , Klütsch Cornelya F. C.
Published: August 2006

The identification of species using molecular characters is a promising approach in alpha taxonomy and in any discipline depending on reliable assignment of specimens. Previous studies have shown the feasibility of the method, but considerable controversy persists. In this study, we use pholcid spiders in an effort to address two main issues. First, we evaluate and calibrate molecular species (re‐)identification within a closely related group of organisms by using specimens that are morphologically unambiguously either conspecific or not. Species limits hypothesized a priori based on morphology were almost universally reconstructed by both mitochondrial markers used. Second, we focus on species identification methodology in a morphology‐calibrated scenario, i.e. on how to assess the quality of a dataset and of the method used to obtain distance estimates (e.g. choice of markers, alignment strategy, type of distance data). We develop a number of statistical estimators permitting the measurement and communication of the clarity of species boundaries in a dataset and discuss their benefits and drawbacks. We propose that box plots rather than histograms are the superior tool for graphically illustrating taxonomic signal and that the median is a more appropriate measure of central tendency than the mean. Applying the suggested tools to our data, we propose that in molecular species identification, indel‐related alignment uncertainties may often be even advantageous (by accentuating taxonomy‐relevant information) and we conclude that — at least for our dataset — 16S is better suited to taxonomy than CO1.
Phylogenetic relationships within Serpulidae (Sabellida, Annelida) inferred from molecular and morphological data
Authors: Kupriyanova Elena K. , Macdonald Tara A. , Rouse Greg W.
Published: August 2006

We assessed phylogenetic relationships within Serpulidae (including Spirorbinae) using parsimony and Bayesian analyses of 18S rDNA, the D1 and D9−D10 regions of 28S rDNA, and 38 morphological characters. In total, 857 parsimony informative characters were used for 31 terminals, 29 serpulids and sabellid and sabellariid outgroups. Following ILD assessment the two sequence partitions and morphology were analysed separately and in combination. The morphological parsimony analysis was congruent with the results of the 2003 preliminary analysis by Kupriyanova in suggesting that a monophyletic Serpulinae and Spirorbinae form a clade, while the remaining serpulids form a basal grade comprising what are normally regarded as Filograninae. Bremer support values were, however, quite low throughout. In contrast, the combined analyses of molecular and morphological data sets provided highly resolved and well‐supported trees, though with some conflict when compared to the morphology‐only analysis. Spirorbinae was recovered as a sister group to a monophyletic group comprising both ‘filogranin’ taxa (Salmacina, Filograna, Protis, and Protula) and ‘serpulin’ taxa such as Chitinopoma, Metavermilia, and Vermiliopsis. Thus the traditionally formulated subfamilies Serpulinae and Filograninae are not monophyletic. This indicates that a major revision of serpulid taxonomy is needed at the more inclusive taxonomic levels. We refrain from doing so based on the present analyses since we feel that further taxon sampling and molecular sequencing are required. The evolution of features such as the operculum and larval development are discussed.
Change, Change or Be Exchanged: The Discourse of Participation and the Manufacture of Identity*
Authors: Musson Gill , Duberley Joanne
Published: August 2006

abstract Promoting participation is an accepted and expected component of managerial activity, reflecting current management ideology and practice. This paper explores how one particular group of supervisors, within the same UK manufacturing organization, experience and make sense of participation practices and the role of identity in that process. Our findings show that whilst supervisors may utilize the managerial discourse in formal settings they also draw upon three alternative responses. Thus contrary to much of the literature they do not represent a homogenous or univocal grouping. Our study highlights the importance of the competing bases of identity formation that supervisors draw from, and the complexity and contradiction inherent in both the managerial discourse and in supervisors' responses to it.
The role of leptin and ghrelin in the regulation of food intake and body weight in humans: a review
Authors: Klok M. D. , Jakobsdottir S. , Drent M. L.
Published: August 2006

Leptin and ghrelin are two hormones that have been recognized to have a major influence on energy balance. Leptin is a mediator of long‐term regulation of energy balance, suppressing food intake and thereby inducing weight loss. Ghrelin on the other hand is a fast‐acting hormone, seemingly playing a role in meal initiation. As a growing number of people suffer from obesity, understanding the mechanisms by which various hormones and neurotransmitters have influence on energy balance has been a subject of intensive research. In obese subjects the circulating level of the anorexigenic hormone leptin is increased, whereas surprisingly, the level of the orexigenic hormone ghrelin is decreased. It is now established that obese patients are leptin‐resistant. However, the manner in which both the leptin and ghrelin systems contribute to the development or maintenance of obesity is as yet not clear. The purpose of this review is to provide background information on the leptin and ghrelin hormones, their role in food intake and body weight in humans, and their mechanism of action. Possible abnormalities in the leptin and ghrelin systems that may contribute to the development of obesity will be mentioned. In addition, the potentials of leptin and ghrelin as drug targets will be discussed. Finally, the influence of the diet on leptin and ghrelin secretion and functioning will be described.
Prevalence of overweight and obesity in the Netherlands
Authors: Schokker D. F. , Visscher T. L. S. , Nooyens A. C. J. , Van Baak M. A. , Seidell J. C.
Published: August 2006

This paper shows the trends in the prevalence of overweight (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 25 kg m−2) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg m−2) in the Netherlands. Overweight (obesity) prevalence in adult males increased from 37% (4%) in 1981 to 51% (10%) in 2004, and in adult females from 30% (6%) in 1981 to 42% (12%) in 2004, according to self‐reported data. In boys and girls, obesity prevalence doubled or even tripled from 1980 to 1997, and again from 1997 to 2002–2004 a two‐ or threefold increase was seen for almost all ages. According to the most recent data, overweight (obesity) prevalence figures range, depending on age, from 9.2% to 17.3% (2.5–4.3%) in boys, and from 14.6% to 24.6% (2.3–6.5%) in girls. There is a lack of data on the national prevalence of overweight and obesity based on measured height and weight and on prevalences in different subgroups of the population. Regular national representative health examination surveys that measure height and weight are needed to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its distribution over subgroups in the population, and to properly direct and evaluate prevention activities.
FACING THREATS TO EARTHLY FELICITY
Authors: Hoffman Kevin
Published: August 2006

This essay offers a close reading of Fear and Trembling against the backdrop of what the author thinks are weaknesses in how the work has been interpreted by others. Some read the text allegorically, as containing a distinctively Christian message about Pauline soteriology. Others read it anagogically, with an emphasis on the moral psychology of Abraham as a human character. In partial disagreement with each, the present essay assembles and interprets the textual evidence around the threat to human happiness posed by our problematic reliance on what Aristotle calls external goods.
ON M‐Estimation Under Long‐Range Dependence in Volatility
Authors: Beran Jan
Published: August 2006

Abstract.  We consider M‐estimation of a location parameter for processes with zero autocorrelations but long‐range dependence in volatility. The observed process is the product of i.i.d. Gaussian observations and a long‐memory Gaussian process. For nonlinear estimators, the rate of convergence depends on the type of the ψ‐function. For skew‐symmetric ψ‐functions, a central limit theorem with ‐rate of convergence holds, under suitable regularity assumptions. This is not true in general for M‐estimators where the ψ‐function is not skewsymmetric.
Developing an Evidence Base for Policies and Interventions to Address Health Inequalities: The Analysis of “Public Health Regimes”
Authors: ASTHANA SHEENA , HALLIDAY JOYCE
Published: August 2006

Systematic reviews have become an important methodology in the United Kingdom by which research informs health policy, and their use now extends beyond evidence‐based medicine to evidence‐based public health and, particularly, health inequalities policies. This article reviews the limitations of systematic reviews as stand‐alone tools for this purpose and suggests a complementary approach to make better use of the evidence. That is, systematic reviews and other sources of evidence should be incorporated into a wider analytical framework, the public health regime (defined here as the specific legislative, social, political, and economic structures that have an impact on both public health and the appropriateness and effectiveness of public health interventions adopted). At the national level this approach would facilitate analysis at all levels of the policy framework, countering the current focus on individual interventions. It could also differentiate at the international level between those policies and interventions that are effective in different contexts and are therefore potentially generalizable and those that depend on particular conditions for success.
Regeneration, tissue injury and the immune response
Authors: Godwin James W. , Brockes Jeremy P.
Published: August 2006

The involvement of the immune system in the response to tissue injury has raised the possibility that it might influence tissue, organ or appendage regeneration following injury. One hypothesis that has been discussed is that inflammatory aspects may preclude the occurrence of regeneration, but there is also evidence for more positive roles of immune components. The vertebrate eye is an immunoprivileged site where inflammatory aspects are inhibited by several immunomodulatory mechanisms. In various newt species the ocular tissues such as the lens are regenerative and it has recently been shown that the response to local injury of the lens involves activation of antigen‐presenting cells which traffic to the spleen and return to displace and engulf the lens, thereby inducing regeneration from the dorsal iris. The activation of thrombin from prothrombin in the dorsal iris is one aspect of the injury response that is important in the initiation of regeneration. The possible relationships between the immune response and the regenerative response are considered with respect to phylogenetic variation of regeneration in general, and lens regeneration in particular.
Inhibition of neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity by N1‐acetyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine, a brain metabolite of melatonin
Authors: León Josefa , Escames Germaine , Rodríguez María I. , López Luis C. , Tapias Víctor , Entrena Antonio , Camacho Encarnación , Carrión María D. , Gallo Miguel A. , Espinosa Antonio , Tan Dun‐Xian , Reiter Russel J. , Acuña‐Castroviejo Darío
Published: August 2006

We assessed the effects of melatonin, N1‐acetyl‐N 2‐formyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine (AFMK) and N1‐acetyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine (AMK) on neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) activity in vitro and in rat striatum in vivo. Melatonin and AMK (10−11−10−3 m), but not AFMK, inhibited nNOS activity in vitro in a dose–response manner. The IC50 value for AMK (70 µm) was significantly lower than for melatonin (>1 mm). A 20% nNOS inhibition was reached with either 10−9 m melatonin or 10−11 m AMK. AMK inhibits nNOS by a non‐competitive mechanism through its binding to Ca2+‐calmodulin (CaCaM). The inhibition of nNOS elicited by melatonin, but not by AMK, was blocked with 0.05 mm norharmane, an indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase inhibitor. In vivo, the potency of AMK to inhibit nNOS activity was higher than that of melatonin, as a 25% reduction in rat striatal nNOS activity was found after the administration of either 10 mg/kg of AMK or 20 mg/kg of melatonin. Also, in vivo, the administration of norharmane blocked the inhibition of nNOS produced by melatonin administration, but not the inhibition produced by AMK. These data reveal that AMK rather than melatonin is the active metabolite against nNOS, which may be inhibited by physiological levels of AMK in the rat striatum.
Biochemical and functional characterization of high‐affinity urotensin II receptors in rat cortical astrocytes
Authors: Castel Hélène , Diallo Mickaël , Chatenet David , Leprince Jérôme , Desrues Laurence , Schouft Marie‐Thérèse , Fontaine Marc , Dubessy Christophe , Lihrmann Isabelle , Scalbert Elisabeth , Malagon Maria , Vaudry Hubert , Tonon Marie‐Christine , Gandolfo Pierrick
Published: August 2006

The urotensin II (UII) gene is primarily expressed in the central nervous system, but the functions of UII in the brain remain elusive. Here, we show that cultured rat astrocytes constitutively express the UII receptor (UT). Saturation and competition experiments performed with iodinated rat UII ([125I]rUII) revealed the presence of high‐ and low‐affinity binding sites on astrocytes. Human UII (hUII) and the two highly active agonists hUII4‐11 and [3‐iodo‐Tyr9]hUII4‐11 were also very potent in displacing [125I]rUII from its binding sites, whereas the non‐cyclic analogue [Ser5,10]hUII4‐11 and somatostatin‐14 could only displace [125I]rUII binding at micromolar concentrations. Reciprocally, rUII failed to compete with [125I‐Tyr0,D‐Trp8]somatostatin‐14 binding on astrocytes. Exposure of cultured astrocytes to rUII stimulated [3H]inositol incorporation and increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration in a dose‐dependent manner. The stimulatory effect of rUII on polyphosphoinositide turnover was abolished by the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, but only reduced by 56% by pertussis toxin. The GTP analogue Gpp(NH)p caused its own biphasic displacement of [125I]rUII binding and provoked an affinity shift of the competition curve of rUII. Pertussis toxin shifted the competition curve towards a single lower affinity state. Taken together, these data demonstrate that rat astrocytes express high‐ and low‐affinity UII binding sites coupled to G proteins, the high‐affinity receptor exhibiting the same pharmacological and functional characteristics as UT.
Microsatellites for Lindera species
Authors: ECHT C. S. , DEEMER D. , KUBISIAK T. , NELSON C. D.
Published: August 2006

Microsatellite markers were developed for conservation genetic studies of Lindera melissifolia (pondberry), a federally endangered shrub of southern bottomland ecosystems. Microsatellite sequences were obtained from DNA libraries that were enriched for the (AC)n simple sequence repeat motif. From 35 clone sequences, 20 primer pairs were designed and evaluated. Eleven primer pairs amplified polymorphic marker loci in pondberry while two did so in Lindera benzoin (spicebush). In 46 samples from a single pondberry site the number of microsatellite alleles ranged from two to 11 per locus with observed heterozygosity values of 0.07–0.91.
Amplification success rate of DNA from museum skin collections: a case study of stoats from 18 museums
Authors: MARTÍNKOVÁ N. , SEARLE J. B.
Published: August 2006

There are large museum collections of mammalian skins and we wished to determine their usefulness for DNA‐based evolutionary and conservation studies. Methods derived from the ancient DNA approach were used to process samples from skins of the stoat (Mustela erminea) from 18 museums in 11 countries. Successful polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification was achieved in 56%, 46% and 40% of all samples for 0.65‐, 0.70‐ and 0.78‐kb PCR products of mitochondrial DNA, respectively. Some of the best‐preserved skin samples were those in tight‐fitting containers in a dry and cold environment. With care in their preservation, mammalian skin collections may be a good source of DNA.
The whole mitochondrial genome sequence of the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata)
Authors: MOSSMAN JIM A. , BIRKHEAD TIM R. , SLATE JON
Published: August 2006

Here we describe the complete nucleotide sequence of the mitochondrial genome (16 583/4 bp) of the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). Primers were designed based on highly conserved regions of an alignment of three passerine complete mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences. A combination of overlapping long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) purification, followed by fully nested PCR and sequencing was used to determine the complete mtDNA genome. Six birds, from distinct maternal lineages of a pedigreed population were sequenced. Five novel haplotypes were identified. These sequences provide the first data for sequence variation across the whole mitochondrial genome of a passerine bird species.
Anonymous nuclear markers for the eastern fence lizard, Sceloporus undulatus
Authors: ROSENBLUM E. B. , BELFIORE N. M. , MORITZ C.
Published: August 2006

We present results from a screen for de novo variable nuclear loci using a genomic library approach in Sceloporus undulatus, the eastern fence lizard. We tested amplification success for 77 primer pairs in S. undulatus, Sceloporus occidentalis and Sceloporus grammicus. Many loci amplified in all three species suggesting that our primers will be useful for developing sequencing or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping markers in other sceloporine lizards. We also sequenced 19 loci, containing 158 variable sites, for 91 S. undulatus individuals. We report high levels of nucleotide variation in this species with an average of 38 SNPs per kilobase.
Burrow and mate fidelity in the Little PenguinEudyptula minorat Lion Island, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: ROGERS T. , KNIGHT C.
Published: August 2006

Although both mate and nest fidelity are thought to exist in Little PenguinsEudyptula minor, few studies have statistically assessed the relationship between both types of fidelity and breeding success. Observations of the breeding biology of the Little Penguin were carried out between 1990 and 1998 at Lion Island, New South Wales, Australia. The existence of fidelity and the effect of breeding success on subsequent fidelity were assessed for this population. Strong evidence for the existence of nest and mate fidelity was found with high rates of return to the same burrow and mate being recorded for both sexes. For all years of the study, the average number of female and male birds faithful to their nest was 76 and 79%, respectively, with only two noted cases of intraseasonal burrow swapping. The rate of divorce varied widely between years, with a range of 0–40%. A marginal association of a log linear model showed a highly significant relationship (P < 0.001) between success of a clutch in one year and fidelity to a mate in the following year. Consequently, parents successfully raising a fledgling in one year were more likely to reunite in the following year than were pairs that attempted unsuccessfully to breed. Pairs failing to fledge chicks were much more likely to separate owing to the absence of one parent in the following year. We were unable to detect any association between breeding success in one year and subsequent change of nest in the next.
Breeding biology of the White‐rumped Swallow Tachycineta leucorrhoa in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Authors: MASSONI VIVIANA , BULIT FLORENCIA , REBOREDA JUAN CARLOS
Published: August 2006

We conducted a study of the breeding biology of the White‐rumped Swallow Tachycineta leucorrhoa nesting in nestboxes in a flat, farming landscape in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. White‐rumped Swallow nesting attempts were detected from the end of September to mid December, with most clutches laid during October. Birds laid clutches of 4–6 eggs with a mode of five eggs; most broods hatched synchronously (58%), but hatching spread could last up to 4 days. Nestling growth curves adjust well to logistic functions, and at day 15 nestlings attain the asymptotic weight of 21.6 g. Clutch size in White‐rumped Swallows declined significantly as the season progressed. In addition, late‐season eggs were smaller and late‐season nestlings had a shorter nestling period and lower weight at day 15, probably leaving the nest lighter than early‐season nestlings. These data suggest that the Swallows would benefit greatly from laying early in the season, which would provide nestlings with better survival prospects. However, both major sources of nest mortality, interspecific competition for nest‐sites and nestling mortality during bad weather, decreased through the season. White‐rumped Swallows follow the pattern found for other southern species, as it has smaller clutch size, lower growth rate and remains longer at the nest than its Northern Hemisphere congener the Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor.
To what degree is amelioration of angina following coronary revascularization associated with improvement in myocardial perfusion?
Authors: Johansen Allan , Høilund‐Carlsen Poul F. , Vach Werner , Christensen Henrik W. , Møldrup Mette , Haghfelt Torben
Published: August 2006

Objective:  To examine the association between changes in chest pain and changes in perfusion following revascularization as assessed by clinical evaluation and myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in patients with stable angina.

Design:  In a prospective series of 380 patients (58·8 ± 8·8 years) referred to angiography because of known or suspected stable angina, changes in chest discomfort and changes in perfusion after 2 years were assessed in 144 patients, who underwent revascularization, and 236, who did not. The decision to treat invasively was made without knowledge of the result of MPI.

Results:  In revascularized patients, the presence of typical/atypical angina was reduced from 93% to 36% and the improvement was associated with improvement in perfusion. A small improvement in perfusion induced a high frequency of change from angina to no pain, whereas a further reduction caused little extra change. In non‐revascularized patients the change in chest discomfort was not related to changes in perfusion, which were rarely present.

Conclusion:  Alleviation of chest discomfort 2 years after revascularization is associated with improvements in perfusion. This association appeared to be an all‐or‐nothing phenomenon. Non‐revascularized patients also exhibited improvements in chest discomfort despite insignificant changes in perfusion.