bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mating system and reproductive success in eastern Pacific harbour seals
Authors: HAYES SEAN A. , PEARSE DEVON E. , COSTA DANIEL P. , HARVEY JAMES T. , LE BOEUF BURNEY J. , GARZA JOHN CARLOS
Published: June 2006

Harbour seals sometimes breed along inland travel corridors where females become clustered in space and time and males establish underwater acoustic display territories similar to terrestrial arenas known as resource‐based leks. Under these conditions, we predicted that higher levels of polygyny would be observed than has been previously reported for this species mating in open coast environments without travel corridors. Reproductive success (RS) of 70 males was measured using 20 microsatellite DNA loci and likelihood‐based paternity analysis of 136 offspring collected over 3 years. Most males were assigned either zero or one paternity with 80% confidence. The greatest number of pups assigned to one male in a season was two. Variance in RS was higher for males than females (which are biologically limited to one offspring per year) indicating low to mild polygyny. In addition, distributions of relatedness values among pups within year classes did not differ significantly from a simulated distribution with R = 0, indicating that half‐siblings were uncommon. Overall, polygyny levels were low relative to terrestrial pinniped mating systems and similar to observations from a harbour seal population along an open coast. Due to large confidence intervals associated with our results, we cannot rule out the hypothesis that a travel corridor might increase the degree of polygyny skew relative to that observed in open coast environments. Habitat appeared to influence male strategies as the most successful males in open coast environments patrolled offshore, while the most successful male in this study defended a territory along the travel corridor.
Restricted mating dispersal and strong breeding group structure in a mid‐sized marsupial mammal (Petrogale penicillata)
Authors: HAZLITT S. L. , SIGG D. P. , ELDRIDGE M.D.B. , GOLDIZEN A. W.
Published: June 2006

Ecological genetic studies have demonstrated that spatial patterns of mating dispersal, the dispersal of gametes through mating behaviour, can facilitate inbreeding avoidance and strongly influence the structure of populations, particularly in highly philopatric species. Elements of breeding group dynamics, such as strong structuring and sex‐biased dispersal among groups, can also minimize inbreeding and positively influence levels of genetic diversity within populations. Rock‐wallabies are highly philopatric mid‐sized mammals whose strong dependence on rocky terrain has resulted in series of discreet, small colonies in the landscape. Populations show no signs of inbreeding and maintain high levels of genetic diversity despite strong patterns of limited gene flow within and among colonies. We used this species to investigate the importance of mating dispersal and breeding group structure to inbreeding avoidance within a ‘small’ population. We examined the spatial patterns of mating dispersal, the extent of kinship within breeding groups, and the degree of relatedness among brush‐tailed rock‐wallaby breeding pairs within a colony in southeast Queensland. Parentage data revealed remarkably restricted mating dispersal and strong breeding group structuring for a mid‐sized mammal. Breeding groups showed significant levels of female kinship with evidence of male dispersal among groups. We found no evidence for inbreeding avoidance through mate choice; however, anecdotal data suggest the importance of life history traits to inbreeding avoidance between first‐degree relatives. We suggest that the restricted pattern of mating dispersal and strong breeding group structuring facilitates inbreeding avoidance within colonies. These results provide insight into the population structure and maintenance of genetic diversity within colonies of the threatened brush‐tailed rock‐wallaby.
Long‐term paternity skew and the opportunity for selection in a mammal with reversed sexual size dimorphism
Authors: ROSSITER STEPHEN J. , RANSOME ROGER D. , FAULKES CHRISTOPHER G. , DAWSON DEBORAH A. , JONES GARETH
Published: June 2006

Most mammalian groups are characterized by male‐biased sexual size dimorphism, in which size‐dependent male–male competition and reproductive skew are tightly linked. By comparison, little is known about the opportunity for sexual selection in mammalian systems without male‐biased dimorphism, where the traits under sexual selection might be less obvious. We examined 10 years of parentage data in a colony of greater horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) to determine the magnitude of male reproductive skew and the opportunity for sexual selection in a mammal in which females are the larger sex. Annual paternity success was weakly skewed but consistent patterns led to strong longitudinal paternity skew among breeders. Just three males accounted for a third of all paternity assignments, representing at least a fifth of all colony offspring born in a decade. Paternity success was in part determined by age but was not influenced by dispersal status. Our results show that paternity skew and the opportunity for sexual selection in a species with reversed sexual size dimorphism can approach levels reported for classical examples of species with polygyny and male‐biased dimorphism, even where the traits under sexual selection are not known.
Divergence and diversity: lessons from an arctic–alpine distribution (Pardosa saltuaria group, Lycosidae)
Authors: MUSTER CHRISTOPH , BERENDONK THOMAS U.
Published: June 2006

The relationship of interpopulation genetic divergence and within‐population diversity has been studied for many temperate species in Europe, but not for the cold‐adapted fauna. Here we present the first European‐wide phylogeographical study of an arctic–alpine distribution in invertebrates, focusing on wolf spiders of the Pardosa saltuaria group. One hundred twenty‐seven (127) specimens from 14 populations were examined. Within Europe, these populations were distributed among six high mountain ranges and Scandinavia. We sequenced the whole 921 base pair mitochondrial (mt) ND1 gene. The resulting 55 unique haplotypes form three monophyletic phylogroups of deep divergence: a Pyrenean, a Balkan and a ‘northern’ clade. Genetic distances (3.6–4.0%) between the major clades indicate that the arctic–alpine range disjunction was initiated by vicariance events, which precede the four major Alpine glaciations. However, low divergence and incomplete lineage sorting within the ‘northern clade’ suggest a late Pleistocene separation of the Alpine, Scandinavian, Carpathian and Sudetian populations. Thus, we provide evidence for a multiglacial origin of arctic–alpine distributions in Europe, i.e. the current disjunction results from range fragmentation in several glacial cycles. The pattern of genetic diversity within populations seems predominantly determined by historical factors, but is modified by contemporary aspects. Overall, diversity and divergence are negatively correlated. We suggest that low diversity values might result from (i) ancient bottlenecking during warm interglacial periods, as seen in the Pyrenees and Balkans; (ii) recent bottlenecking in small modern areas, as seen in the Giant Mountains and Bohemian Forest; and (iii) dispersal bottlenecking in northern Scandinavia.
The influence of the novel 5‐HT1A agonist R137696 on the proximal stomach function in healthy volunteers
Authors: Boeckxstaens G. E. , Tytgat G. N. , Wajs E. , Van Nueten L. , De Ridder F. , Meulemans A. , Tack J.
Published: June 2006

Abstract  As fundic dysaccommodation represents one of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying functional dyspepsia, gastric relaxant agents may serve as a new treatment of this disorder. Previous studies have suggested the involvement of 5HT1 receptors in the control of gastric tone. Our aim was to study the effect of R137696, a novel 5HT1A agonist, on fundus sensorimotor function in healthy volunteers. The effect of single oral doses (1–2 mg) R137696 was evaluated in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled manner on fasting fundic volume, visceral perception, distension‐evoked symptoms and fundic compliance in 21 healthy male subjects. R137696 increased the proximal stomach volumes in a dose‐dependent manner. Distention‐evoked symptoms or distention and discomfort threshold were not altered by R137696. A logistic regression model, characterizing the relationships between the volume and the visual analogue scale score for dyspeptic symptoms (nausea, fullness, discomfort, pain and satiety) as a sigmoidal curve, revealed that R137696 had no effect on distension‐induced discomfort, fullness, pain and satiety compared to placebo. R137696 relaxes the gastric fundus in fasting conditions but has no effect on distension‐evoked dyspeptic symptoms in healthy volunteers.
Influence of alcohol consumption on IBS and dyspepsia
Authors: Halder S. L. S. , Locke G. R , Schleck C. D. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Talley N. J.
Published: June 2006

Abstract  The role of alcohol use in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and dyspepsia is not well understood. We hypothesised that people with psychological distress who drink no alcohol, or excess alcohol, are at increased risk of having IBS or dyspepsia. Valid gastrointestinal (GI) symptom surveys were mailed to randomly selected cohorts of community residents. Associations between IBS, dyspepsia and abdominal pain and alcohol use were assessed using logistic regression adjusted for a Somatic Symptom Checklist score (SSC). A total of 4390 (80%) responded; of these, 10.5% reported IBS, 2% dyspepsia and 22% abdominal pain. Alcohol consumption >7 drinks week−1 was associated with a greater odds for dyspepsia (OR 2.3; 95% CI:1.1–5.0) and frequent abdominal pain (OR 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1–2.0) but not IBS. However, significant interactions among gender, alcohol use and SSC scores were detected (P < 0.005). In females with a low SSC score, consuming alcohol ≥7 drinks week−1 increased the odds of IBS compared to drinking alcohol moderately. Alcohol consumption was associated with dyspepsia and abdominal pain. A relationship with IBS was identified when interactions with somatization and gender were appropriately considered. Whether these associations are due to the effects of alcohol on the gut, or a common central mechanism remains to be determined.
Relationship between upper gastrointestinal symptoms and changes in body weight in a population‐based cohort
Authors: Cremonini F. , Locke G. R. , Schleck C. D. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Talley N. J.
Published: June 2006

Abstract  Obesity has been associated with increased reporting of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, but whether weight gain or loss causes symptoms is unclear. We studied the association between changes in body weight and changes in upper GI symptoms. Prospective cohort study on random samples of Olmsted County, MN residents. Distinct upper GI symptom complexes [gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chest pain, dyspepsia‐ pain predominant, dyspepsia‐dysmotility] were defined. Subjects with persistent, new‐onset or disappearing symptoms were identified as cases, subjects with no reported symptoms in any of the surveys served as controls. Associations were studied in a logistic regression model, using age, gender, baseline Body Mass Index and somatic symptom score as covariates. Participants for whom baseline and follow‐up data were available (n = 637) had a median time between surveys of 10.5 years. Baseline body weight was associated with GERD, chest pain and dyspepsia‐pain predominant symptom complexes. An increase in body weight >10 lb between surveys was associated with new onset of dyspepsia‐dysmotility (OR 5.57, 95% CI 1.91, 16.2). No association was found between weight loss >10 lb and the studied symptom complexes. Moderate body weight increases and decreases are generally not associated with upper GI symptom changes over time in the general population.
Plasticity of rat small intestine after removal of a chronic mechanical obstruction
Authors: Bertoni S. , Gabella G. , Ballabeni V. , Ghirardi A. , Impicciatore M. , Barocelli E.
Published: June 2006

Abstract  Chronic intestinal obstruction is associated with morphological changes and functional disorders clinically reported and experimentally documented in laboratory animals. In contrast, little is known about the properties of the hypertrophied intestine after removal of the obstruction. In the present study, we removed the ileal obstruction previously applied to the ileum of rats and, after 1 or 2 weeks, studied in vitro the motor responses of de‐obstructed segments of intestine to pharmacological or electrical field stimulation (EFS). By 2 weeks after de‐obstruction, maximal contractile responses to receptor (acetylcholine) and non‐receptor (K+) mediated stimuli were comparable in operated and control tissues; furthermore, the loss of sensitivity to nitric oxide (NO) unmasked in obstructed tissues was, after de‐obstruction, replaced by supersensitivity to exogenous NO and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, probably acting through cyclic nucleotide‐independent pathways. Despite the complete recovery of smooth muscle responses, neurogenic contractions remained impaired in de‐obstructed tissue; however, the equal contribution of cholinergic/peptidergic components to EFS responses could represent a sign of gradual but delayed recovery of enteric neurotransmission.
Sea‐level and tectonic control of middle to late Pleistocene turbidite systems in Santa Monica Basin, offshore California
Authors: NORMARK WILLIAM R. , PIPER DAVID J. W. , SLITER RAY
Published: June 2006

Small turbidite systems offshore from southern California provide an opportunity to track sediment from river source through the turbidity‐current initiation process to ultimate deposition, and to evaluate the impact of changing sea level and tectonics. The Santa Monica Basin is almost a closed system for terrigenous sediment input, and is supplied principally from the Santa Clara River. The Hueneme fan is supplied directly by the river, whereas the smaller Mugu and Dume fans are nourished by southward longshore drift. This study of the Late Quaternary turbidite fill of the Santa Monica Basin uses a dense grid of high‐resolution seismic‐reflection profiles tied to new radiocarbon ages for Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Site 1015 back to 32 ka. Over the last glacial cycle, sedimentation rates in the distal part of Santa Monica Basin averaged 2–3 mm yr−1, with increases at times of extreme relative sea‐level lowstand. Coarser‐grained mid‐fan lobes prograded into the basin from the Hueneme, Mugu and Dume fans at times of rapid sea‐level fall. These pulses of coarse‐grained sediment resulted from river channel incision and delta cannibalization. During the extreme lowstand of the last glacial maximum, sediment delivery was concentrated on the Hueneme Fan, with mean depositional rates of up to 13 mm yr−1 on the mid‐ and upper fan. During the marine isotope stage (MIS) 2 transgression, enhanced rates of sedimentation of > 4 mm yr−1 occurred on the Mugu and Dume fans, as a result of distributary switching and southward littoral drift providing nourishment to these fan systems. Longer‐term sediment delivery to Santa Monica Basin was controlled by tectonics. Prior to MIS 10, the Anacapa ridge blocked the southward discharge of the Santa Clara River into the Santa Monica Basin. The pattern and distribution of turbidite sedimentation was strongly controlled by sea level through the rate of supply of coarse sediment and the style of initiation of turbidity currents. These two factors appear to have been more important than the absolute position of sea level.
A cryptic full mutation in a male with a classical Fragile X phenotype
Authors: MacKenzie JJ , Sumargo I , Taylor SAM
Published: June 2006

Fragile X syndrome (FRX) is the most common inherited cause of mental retardation affecting approximately 1/4000 males and half as many females. Mosaicism has been reported in 12–41% of male cases. We present a 47‐year‐old male with the typical FRX phenotype referred for an evaluation of mental retardation and a psychiatric disorder. Analysis of the FMR‐1 CGG repeat size was performed on peripheral blood by PCR and Southern blot analysis. The proband was shown to carry a premutation allele of 58 CGG repeats. Because of the compelling clinical phenotype, further testing was performed on DNA extracted from skin fibroblasts, which yielded a 500 CGG repeat allele. Mosaic cases of FRX have been reported but rarely without detectable mosaicism in peripheral blood. Therefore, this case is atypical because of the striking differences in the results obtained for the two different cell types. We concur with others that testing of ectodermally derived tissues may provide improved diagnosis and perhaps better insight into the overall prognosis of the affected individual. This case demonstrates the need to consider further study on other tissues when there is a strong clinical suspicion of FRX.
Genetic association between endothelial nitric oxide synthase and Alzheimer disease
Authors: Akomolafe A , Lunetta KL , Erlich PM , Cupples LA , Baldwin CT , Huyck M , Green RC , Farrer LA ,   MIRAGE Study Group
Published: June 2006

Evidence suggests that vascular and inflammatory factors may be important in the etiology of Alzheimer disease (AD). The Glu/Glu genotype at the Glu298Asp variant of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) gene has been tested for association with AD in several Caucasian and Asian populations, with conflicting results. We tested the Glu298Asp variant for association in African American and Caucasian AD patients, unaffected siblings, and unrelated controls from the MIRAGE Study. To explore whether the inconsistent results in previous studies might be due to linkage disequilibrium with a polymorphism or haplotype not previously tested, we genotyped 10 additional NOS3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning 25.3 kb. Finally, we compiled results of previous studies of Glu298Asp using meta‐analysis, to determine whether the aggregate studies support an association between Glu298Asp and AD. We found that the Glu298 allele was associated with higher risk of AD in the MIRAGE African American (p = 0.002) but not Caucasian (p = 0.9) groups. None of the additional SNPs were associated with AD in the Caucasians, whereas two showed evidence for association in the African Americans. The meta‐analysis showed a small effect of the Glu298Asp GG genotype on AD risk across all studies (summary odds ratio = 1.15, 95% confidence interval: 0.97–1.35) and significant heterogeneity of this association among studies (p = 0.02).
Neurofibromin: a general outlook
Authors: Trovó‐Marqui AB , Tajara EH
Published: June 2006

Neurofibromin is a cytoplasmic protein that is predominantly expressed in neurons, Schwann cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes and leukocytes. It is encoded by the gene NF1, located on chromosome 17, at q11.2, and has different biochemical functions, including association to microtubules and participation in several signaling pathways. Alterations in this protein are responsible for a phacomatosis named neurofibromatosis type 1.
Mutations in PHD‐like domain of the ATRX gene correlate with severe psychomotor impairment and severe urogenital abnormalities in patients with ATRX syndrome
Authors: Badens C , Lacoste C , Philip N , Martini N , Courrier S , Giuliano F , Verloes A , Munnich A , Leheup B , Burglen L , Odent S , Van Esch H , Levy N
Published: June 2006

Mutations in ATRX are associated with a wide and clinically heterogeneous spectrum of X‐linked mental retardation syndromes. The ATRX protein, involved in chromatin remodelling, belongs to the family of SWI/SNF DNA helicases and contains a plant homeodomain (PHD)‐like domain. To date, more than 60 different mutations have been reported in ATRX. One of them is recurrent and accounts for 20% of all the reported mutations, whereas all others are private. Most mutations are clustered in the two major functional domains, the helicase and the PHD‐like domain. So far, no clear genotype–phenotype correlation has been established, with exception to the rare truncating mutations located at the C‐terminal part of the protein, which are consistently associated with severe urogenital defects. In this study, we report the molecular analysis performed in 16 families positive for ATRX. Our findings indicate that, in addition to the previously described mutation ‘hotspot’ in the PHD‐like domain, two other protein sections emerge as minor ‘hotspots’ in the helicase region encoded by exons 18–20 and 26–29, respectively, gathering 33% of all described mutations. Additionally, based on the clinical data collected for 22 patients from the 16 families, we observe that mutations in the PHD‐like domain produce severe and permanent psychomotor deficiency, usually preventing patients from walking, as well as constant urogenital abnormalities, while mutations in the helicase domain lead to delayed but correct psychomotor acquisitions together with mild or absent urogenital abnormalities. In summary, mutations in the helicase domain are associated with milder phenotypes than mutations in the PHD‐like domain.
A novel nonsense mutation in the EYA1 gene associated with branchio‐oto‐renal/branchiootic syndrome in an Afrikaner kindred
Authors: Clarke JC , Honey EM , Bekker E , Snyman LC , Raymond RM , Lord C , Brophy PD
Published: June 2006

Branchio‐oto‐renal (BOR) syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the associations of hearing loss, branchial arch defects and renal anomalies. Branchiootic (BO) syndrome is a related disorder that presents without the highly variable characteristic renal anomalies of BOR syndrome. Dominant mutations in the human homologue of the Drosophila eyes absent gene (EYA1) are frequently the cause of both BOR and BO syndromes. We report a South African family of Afrikaner descent with affected individuals presenting with pre‐auricular abnormalities and either hearing loss or bilateral absence of the kidneys. Genetic analysis of the pedigree detected a novel EYA1 heterozygous nonsense mutation in affected family members but not in unaffected family members or a random DNA panel. Through mutational analysis, we conclude that this particular mutation is the cause of BOR/BO syndrome in this family as a result of a truncation of the EYA1 protein that ablates the critical EYA homologous region. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of BOR/BO syndrome reported in Africa or in those of the Afrikaner descent.
Defining the rectum: surgically, radiologically and anatomically
Authors: Salerno G. , Sinnatamby C. , Branagan G. , Daniels I. R. , Heald R. J. , Moran B. J.
Published: June 2006

The terminology used in relation to the rectum varies considerably, added to this there is the subjective nature of clinical assessment and variability in the anatomy of the rectum and anus. It is imperative that definitions are clarified and standardized for use by all members of the multidisciplinary team involved in the care of patients with rectal cancer.
Developments in the use of chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer
Authors: Sebag‐Montefiore D.
Published: June 2006

This paper reviews the current evidence available from phase III trials of combination pre‐operative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in the treatment of rectal cancer. There is clear evidence that CRT is superior to long‐course radiotherapy (LRT). However, the end‐points and definitions used must be standardized for future clinical trials of combination CRT.
The need for future surgical low rectal cancer studies
Authors: Daniels I. R. , Strassburg J. , Moran B. J.
Published: June 2006

Optimal surgery remains the mainstay of best outcome for rectal cancer. The demonstration, during the 3rd Annual Pelican Surgical Workshop Symposium, of an abdomino‐perineal excision (APE) performed in the ‘Berlin position’, further added to the debate on optimal surgical technique. Much interest was created at the 1st Pelican symposium with the demonstration, by the Swedish surgeon Dr Torbjorn Holm, of a prone APE and the delivery of a ‘cylindrical’ specimen and the potential to reduce local recurrence using this approach. The high rates of local recurrence following APE and the discussions as to optimal technique have led to the development of a proposed MERCURY Study Group study to assess the benefit of a radical APE, with careful assessment of the impact that this operation may have on morbidity. A German study has also been proposed adopting the UK's multidisciplinary team approach. It aims at targeting preoperative chemoradiotherapy at those patients in whom a radical APE or total mesorectal excision is likely to result in an involved surgical resection margin. In this article we review the evidence for improving the surgical technique for low rectal cancer. We believe improvements may be best achieved through continued European prospective, multi‐centre, multidisciplinary studies.
A personal view on laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Cecil T. D. , Taffinder N. , Gudgeon A. M.
Published: June 2006

Benefits such as reduced morbidity and shorter length of stay have been demonstrated for laparoscopic colon cancer resection, Laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery is thought to be more challenging and it is not clear if it offers the same benefits. There are concerns about oncological outcome and anastomotic technique and complications. In this review we discuss the difficulties and challenges of laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery within the context of our own personal experience and with regard to some of the current literature. We propose that laparoscopic and open rectal cancer surgery both have a role and the challenge is selection of appropriate patients for each technique.
Quality of life and sexual function following surgery for rectal cancer
Authors: Fisher S. E. , Daniels I. R.
Published: June 2006

The last 20 years have seen enormous strides forward in the treatment of rectal cancer with the development of improved surgical technique, tumour staging, histopathological audit and multidisciplinary team (MDT) management with emphasis on improving survival and reducing local recurrence rates. However, each rectal cancer discussed at the MDT meeting involves an individual patient. The quality of life for each patient must be taken into account when making treatment decisions, which sometimes may not fit with ‘standard’ treatment guidelines as the individual patient does not have a ‘standard’ tumour. For one patient with a tumour 5 cm above the anal verge, a low anterior resection may maintain quality of life with no incontinence and preservation of urinary and sexual function. For another with a tumour at the same level, preoperative chemo‐radiotherapy may exacerbate mild incontinence and a low resection may result in a ‘perineal stoma’. A decision to perform an abdomino‐perineal excision (APE) must not be considered a failure of surgical treatment or be seen as a suboptimal centre by having a high APE rate. On the contrary, APE rates should represent sub‐specialization and patient selection. Indeed, good function from a permanent stoma may be better than bad function from a poorly functioning coloanal pouch. Having improved tumour staging, surgical technique, oncological treatment and histopathological assessment, quality of life must not be forgotten. Both quality and quantity of life are important to all patients.
A synthetic de‐greening gene circuit provides a reporting system that is remotely detectable and has a re‐set capacity
Authors: Antunes Mauricio S. , Ha Suk‐Bong , Tewari‐Singh Neera , Morey Kevin J. , Trofka Anna M. , Kugrens Paul , Deyholos Michael , Medford June I.
Published: June 2006

Plants have evolved elegant mechanisms to continuously sense and respond to their environment, suggesting that these properties can be adapted to make inexpensive and widely used biological monitors, or sentinels, for human threats. For a plant to be a sentinel, a reporting system is needed for large areas and widespread monitoring. The reporter or readout mechanism must be easily detectable, allow remote monitoring and provide a re‐set capacity; all current gene reporting technologies fall short of these requirements. Chlorophyll is one of the best‐recognized plant pigments with an already well‐developed remote imaging technology. However, chlorophyll is very abundant, with levels regulated by both genetic and environmental factors. We designed a synthetic de‐greening circuit that produced rapid chlorophyll loss on perception of a specific input. With induction of the de‐greening circuit, changes were remotely detected within 2 h. Analyses of multiple de‐greening circuits suggested that the de‐greening circuit functioned, in part, via light‐dependent damage to photosystem cores and the production of reactive oxygen species. Within 24–48 h of induction, an easily recognized white phenotype resulted. Microarray analysis showed that the synthetic de‐greening initiated a process largely distinct from normal chlorophyll loss in senescence. Remarkably, synthetically de‐greened white plants re‐greened after removal of the inducer, providing the first easily re‐settable reporter system for plants and the capacity to make re‐settable biosensors. Our results showed that the de‐greening circuit allowed chlorophyll to be employed as a simple but powerful reporter system useful for widespread areas.
Lack of initiative and interest in Alzheimer's disease: a single photon emission computed tomography study
Authors: Robert P. H. , Darcourt G. , Koulibaly M. P. , Clairet S. , Benoit M. , Garcia R. , Dechaux O. , Darcourt J.
Published: June 2006

Apathy is defined as a lack of motivation. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between two major dimensions of apathy (lack of initiative and lack of interest) and brain perfusion. in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Brain perfusion was measured by single photon emission tomography (SPECT). Thirty‐one AD patients were included. Lack of initiative and interest were assessed with the Apathy Inventory. Nineteen AD subjects presented a lack of initiative and interest pathological score whereas 12 AD subjects did not. The lack of initiative and interest score correlated significantly with the right frontal and the right inferior temporal lobes. The AD patients with lack of initiative and interest showed a significantly lower perfusion in the right anterior cingulate than the AD patients without lack of initiative and interest. These results derive from rather small subgroups of patients but have the interest to dismantle the complementary aspects of emotion and motivation in apathy and suggest that the latter one is more related to cingulate area.
Color vision and macular recovery time in epileptic adolescents treated with valproate and carbamazepine
Authors: Verrotti A. , Lobefalo L. , Tocco A. M. , Spalice A. , Gallenga P. E. , Chiarelli F. , Iannetti P.
Published: June 2006

Visual dysfunction has been reported in patients diagnosed with epilepsy. Some of these visual disturbances may be attributable to either the disease process, or the anticonvulsant therapy prescribed to control the seizures. The aims of our study were to evaluate whether color vision and macular function are impaired in epileptic adolescents, to study if the monotherapy with valproic acid (VPA) and carbamazepine (CBZ) can affect color vision and macular function and to determine the possible relationship between color vision, retinal function and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) dosage and their serum concentrations. We examined 45 (16 male and 29 female, mean age ± SD, 15.71 ± 2.01 years) Caucasian epileptic patients suffering from various types of cryptogenic epilepsy before the beginning of therapy and after 1 year of VPA or CBZ monotherapy and 40 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls. Color vision was assessed by Farnsworth Munsell (FM) 100‐hue test and total error score (TES) was evaluated. This test consists of colored caps: the testee has to arrange the caps according to their colors macular function was assessed by nyctometry evaluating initial recovery time (IRT) and summation method (SM). This test evaluates visual acuity after a period of intense illumination of macula. Analysis of variance was used to evaluate the difference between controls and patients; moreover, Pearson's correlation test have been performed. Before the beginning of therapy, there were no differences in color vision and macular function between controls and epileptic patients. After 1 year, the patients, treated with VPA or CBZ, showed a deficit in FM 100‐hue test. At nyctometry, all patients showed no significant variation of macular function between baseline evaluation and second evaluation at end of the follow‐up. Our study demonstrates that, in our group of epileptic patients, epilepsy per se does not affect color vision and retinal function. In contrast, after 1 years of therapy with VPA and CBZ these patients showed a deficit in FM 100‐hue test although nyctometry evaluation continued to be normal allowing to exclude an impairment in macular function. Further investigations are required to determine the pathophysiological alteration(s) that are at the basis of color perception defects.
Evidence of familial syringomyelia in discordant association with Chiari type I malformation
Authors: Robenek M. , Kloska S. P. , Husstedt I. W.
Published: June 2006

We report a sister and two half brothers who presented with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐proven syringomyelia and associated Chiari type I malformation in two cases. The individuals have the same mother but two different fathers. The mother shows no clinical signs of syringomyelia. The two fathers died through unknown causes. In a third healthy son of the mother by a relationship with a third father syringomyelia was excluded by MRI. We believe that an autosomal‐dominant predisposition is the primary factor in the appearance of syringomyelia in these cases.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation shows impaired transcallosal inhibition in Marchiafava–Bignami syndrome
Authors: Nardone R. , Venturi A. , Buffone E. , Covi M. , Florio I. , Lochner P. , Psenner K. , Tezzon F.
Published: June 2006

A case of Marchiafava–Bignami (MB) syndrome with selective callosal involvement was evaluated by clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the acute phase and 6 months after the onset of symptoms; at the same time, the corticospinally and transcallosally mediated effects elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) were investigated. The first MRI study showed the presence of extensive abnormal signal intensity throughout the entire corpus callosum. After high‐dose corticosteroid administration her symptoms rapidly resolved, in parallel with the reversion of MRI changes, except for severe cognitive impairment. Follow‐up TMS examination revealed persistent transcallosal inhibition (TI) abnormalities. This report indicates that the measurement of TI during the course of MB syndrome is useful for evaluating functional changes to the corpus callosum, including their evaluation with time and after treatment and for elucidating the pathophysiology of MB syndrome.
The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in Europe
Authors: Pugliatti M. , Rosati G. , Carton H. , Riise T. , Drulovic J. , Vécsei L. , Milanov I.
Published: June 2006

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and potentially highly disabling disorder with considerable social impact and economic consequences. It is the major cause of non‐traumatic disability in young adults. The social costs associated with MS are high because of its long duration, the early loss of productivity, the need for assistance in activities of daily living and the use of immunomodulatory treatments and multidisciplinary health care. Available MS epidemiological estimates are aimed at providing a measure of the disease burden in Europe. The total estimated prevalence rate of MS for the past three decades is 83 per 100 000 with higher rates in northern countries and a female:male ratio around 2.0. Prevalence rates are higher for women for all countries considered. The highest prevalence rates have been estimated for the age group 35–64 years for both sexes and for all countries. The estimated European mean annual MS incidence rate is 4.3 cases per 100 000. The mean distribution by disease course and by disability is also reported. Despite the wealth of epidemiological data on MS, comparing epidemiological indices among European countries is a hard task and often leads only to approximate estimates. This represents a major methodological concern when evaluating the MS burden in Europe and when implementing specific cost‐of‐illness studies.
Factors predictive of fatality in massive middle cerebral artery territory infarction and clinical experience of decompressive hemicraniectomy
Authors: Wang K.‐W. , Chang W.‐N. , Ho J.‐T. , Chang H.‐W. , Lui C.‐C. , Cheng M.‐H. , Hung K.‐S. , Wang H.‐C. , Tsai N.‐W. , Sun T.‐K. , Lu C.‐H.
Published: June 2006

To determine the factors predictive of fatality in massive middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory infarction and outcome of decompressive hemicraniectomy, 62 patients who were retrospectively verified with first event massive MCA infarctions were enrolled in this study. Amongst them, 21 received decompressive hemicraniectomy during hospitalization. Clinical data between early and late hemicraniectomy groups were also compared. Significant deterioration occurred in 40 cases, 21 of whom received decompressive hemicraniectomy. The other 19 received conservative treatment. The mortality rate of these 40 cases between decompressive hemicraniectomy and conservative treatment was 29% (six of 21) and 42% (eight of 19), respectively. Factors that predicted fatalities in our massive MCA infarction patients with or without decompressive hemicraniectomy were total scores of baseline GCS at the time of admission, associated with coronary artery diseases, and significant deterioration during hospitalization. This study confirms the lifesaving procedure of hemicraniectomy that prevents death in patients deteriorating because of cerebral edema after infarction, although it may produce severe disability with an unacceptably poor quality of life in survival. Despite high mortality and morbidity, decompressive hemicraniectomy to prevent cerebral herniation when significant deterioration is demonstrated are essential for maximizing the potential for survival.
Signs and symptoms at diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a population‐based study in southern Italy
Authors: Zoccolella S. , Beghi E. , Palagano G. , Fraddosio A. , Samarelli V. , Lamberti P. , Lepore V. , Serlenga L. , Logroscino G. ,   SLAP registry
Published: June 2006

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnostic criteria are used to select patients for clinical trials based on different levels of diagnostic certainty, according to the spread of upper (UMN) and lower motoneuron (LMN) signs in different anatomic regions. However, the clinical presentation of ALS patients is extremely variable and this can delay the time to diagnosis and decrease the likelihood for trial entry. The aims of the study were to describe the signs and symptoms of diagnosis in a population‐based incident cohort of ALS cases, using the El Escorial (EEC) and the Revised Airlie Diagnostic Criteria (AHC). The source of the study was a prospective population‐based registry established in Puglia, southern Italy, in 1997. The diagnosis and the classification of the cases were based on EEC and AHC. All incident ALS cases during the period 1998–1999 were enrolled and followed up. During the surveillance period, we identified 130 ALS incident cases, and bulbar‐ALS represented 20% of our cohort. The highest risk for bulbar onset was among subjects aged >75 years [RR: 20.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4–118.0] compared with subjects aged <55 years and among females compared with males (Relative risk (RR): 2.75, 95% CI: 1–7.3). The vast majority of patients (72%) referred progressive muscle weakness in the limbs as the presenting symptom. Eighty percent of cases presented contemporary bulbar or spinal involvement; UMN signs in the bulbar region were present in 24% of cases and any motoneuronal sign in thoracic region in only 15% of the cases. In this population‐based series, progressive muscle weakness was the most common presenting sign; bulbar onset was associated with advanced age and female sex. UMN signs in the bulbar region and any motoneuronal sign in the thoracic region were observed in 20% of our case series. This may represent the main limitation to show the spread of signs during diagnostic assessment for inclusion in epidemiological studies and clinical trials.
Guidelines for the treatment of autoimmune neuromuscular transmission disorders
Authors: Skeie G. O. , Apostolski S. , Evoli A. , Gilhus N. E. , Hart I. K. , Harms L. , Hilton‐Jones D. , Melms A. , Verschuuren J. , Horge H. W.
Published: June 2006

Important progress has been made in our understanding of the cellular and molecular processes underlying the autoimmune neuromuscular transmission (NMT) disorders; myasthenia gravis (MG), Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) and neuromyotonia (peripheral nerve hyperexcitability; Isaacs syndrome). To prepare consensus guidelines for the treatment of the autoimmune NMT disorders. References retrieved from MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were considered and statements prepared and agreed on by disease experts and a patient representative. The proposed practical treatment guidelines are agreed upon by the Task Force: (i) Anticholinesterase drugs should be the first drug to be given in the management of MG (good practice point). (ii) Plasma exchange is recommended as a short‐term treatment in MG, especially in severe cases to induce remission and in preparation for surgery (level B recommendation). (iii) Intravenous immunoglobulin (IvIg) and plasma exchange are equally effective for the treatment of MG exacerbations (level A Recommendation). (iv) For patients with non‐thymomatous autoimmune MG, thymectomy (TE) is recommended as an option to increase the probability of remission or improvement (level B recommendation). (v) Once thymoma is diagnosed TE is indicated irrespective of the severity of MG (level A recommendation). (vi) Oral corticosteroids is a first choice drug when immunosuppressive drugs are necessary in MG (good practice point). (vii) In patients where long‐term immunosuppression is necessary, azathioprine is recommended together with steroids to allow tapering the steroids to the lowest possible dose whilst maintaining azathioprine (level A recommendation). (viii) 3,4‐diaminopyridine is recommended as symptomatic treatment and IvIg has a positive short‐term effect in LEMS (good practice point). (ix) All neuromyotonia patients should be treated symptomatically with an anti‐epileptic drug that reduces peripheral nerve hyperexcitability (good practice point). (x) Definitive management of paraneoplastic neuromyotonia and LEMS is treatment of the underlying tumour (good practice point). (xi) For immunosuppressive treatment of LEMS and NMT it is reasonable to adopt treatment procedures by analogy with MG (good practice point).
EFNS Guidelines on diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases: report of an EFNS Task Force
Authors: Soffietti R. , Cornu P. , Delattre J. Y. , Grant R. , Graus F. , Grisold W. , Heimans J. , Hildebrand J. , Hoskin P. , Kalljo M. , Krauseneck P. , Marosi C. , Siegal T. , Vecht C.
Published: June 2006

The objectives have been to establish evidence‐based guidelines and identify controversies regarding the management of patients with brain metastases. The collection of scientific data was obtained by consulting the Cochrane Library, bibliographic databases, overview papers and previous guidelines from scientific societies and organizations. A tissue diagnosis is necessary when the primary tumor is unknown or the aspect on computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging is atypical. Dexamethasone is the corticosteroid of choice for cerebral edema. Anticonvulsants should not be prescribed prophylactically. Surgery should be considered in patients with up to three brain metastases, being effective in prolonging survival when the systemic disease is absent/controlled and the performance status is high. Stereotactic radiosurgery should be considered in patients with metastases of 3–3.5 cm of maximum diameter. Whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT) after surgery or radiosurgery is debated: in case of absent/controlled systemic cancer and Karnofsky Performance score of 70 or more, one can either withhold initial WBRT or deliver early WBRT with conventional fractionation to avoid late neurotoxicity. WBRT alone is the treatment of choice for patients with single or multiple brain metastases not amenable to surgery or radiosurgery. Chemotherapy may be the initial treatment for patients with brain metastases from chemosensitive tumors.
An Exploration of the Conditional Timing Performance of UK Unit Trusts
Authors: Byrne Alistair , Fletcher Jonathan , Ntozi Patricia
Published: June 2006

Abstract:  We examine the conditional market timing performance of UK unit trusts between January 1988 and December 2002. We find no evidence of superior conditional market timing performance by UK unit trusts either across different portfolios of trusts or by individual trusts. We also find that benchmark investing is significant for UK unit trusts and trusts have high numerical risk aversion to deviations from the benchmark. Our findings suggest that UK trusts act like benchmark investors.
Pricing the Credit Risk of Secured Debt and Financial Leasing
Authors: Realdon Marco
Published: June 2006

Abstract: This paper presents closed form solutions to price secured bank loans and financial leases subject to default risk. Secured debt fair credit spreads always increase in the debtor's default probability, whereas financial leasing fair credit spreads may well decrease in the lessee's default probability and even be negative. The reason is that the lessor, unlike the secured lender, can gain from the lessee's default, especially when the leasing contract envisages initial prepayments or the lessee's terminal options to either purchase the leased asset or to extend the lease maturity. This result, which critically depends on contractual and bankruptcy code provisions, can explain some of the empirical evidence and the use of financial leases as an alternative to secured bank lending to finance small, risky and relatively opaque firms.
Decimal Pricing and Information‐Based Trading: Tick Size and Informational Efficiency of Asset Price
Authors: Zhao Xin , Chung Kee H.
Published: June 2006

Abstract:  In this study we analyze the effect of tick size on information‐based trading. Although prior studies provide extensive evidence on the effect of tick size on market quality measures such as spreads, depths, and return volatility, there is little evidence as to the effect of tick size on the informational efficiency of asset price. Our results indicate that the probability of information‐based trading during the post‐decimal period is significantly greater than the corresponding figure during the pre‐decimal period. We also show that the increase in information‐based trading after decimalization cannot be attributed to concurrent changes in stock attributes. We interpret our findings as evidence that the smaller tick size under penny pricing encourages information‐based trading and thereby raises the informational efficiency of asset price.