bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indigenous rangeland resource management in the mountainous areas of northern Nepal: a case study from the Rasuwa District
Authors: Dong S. K. , Lassoie J. P. , Yan Z. L. , Sharma E. , Shrestha K. K. , Pariya D.
Published: November 2007

Rangelands perform numerous functions that have significant ecological and livelihood values for mountain societies in Nepal. There are no other systems more suitable than indigenous management systems, which have evolved over long periods of time and offer approaches to land use that are suitable to the varying climatic, biophysical conditions and ethnic diversity that characterise Nepal. However, traditional resource management practices have been ignored in the past, which has resulted in conflicts and resource degradation. In this context, a survey was conducted in the Rasuwa District of northern Nepal to identify existing indigenous rangeland management systems, examine the challenges facing the development of sustainable practices and suggest possible strategies for promoting their development. It was concluded from this study that local herders in the Rasuwa District of northern Nepal have developed effective indigenous rangeland management systems that include good grazing and conservation practices. Well organised local institutional arrangements and efficient traditional right and tenure systems have evolved that result in the sustainable use of rangeland resources. However, both internal and external factors are now challenging these traditional systems. Results indicated that to remain sustainable rangeland management systems in northern Nepal will require a clear recognition of indigenous knowledge of rangeland management as well as the integration of indigenous practices and strategies with modern technologies. More attention should be paid to the facilitation of rangeland legislation covering traditional rights and customary tenure, institutional cooperation and collaboration between government and civil society. Co-management and participatory research and development should be initiated on rangeland resources and the improvement of infrastructure and public service systems.
Natural stimuli evoke dynamic sequences of states in sensory cortical ensembles
Authors: Jones Lauren M. , Fontanini Alfredo , Sadacca Brian F. , Miller Paul , Katz Donald B.
Published: November 2007

Although temporal coding is a frequent topic of neurophysiology research, trial-to-trial variability in temporal codes is typically dismissed as noise and thought to play no role in sensory function. Here, we show that much of this supposed “noise” faithfully reflects stimulus-related processes carried out in coherent neural networks. Cortical neurons responded to sensory stimuli by progressing through sequences of states, identifiable only in examinations of simultaneously recorded ensembles. The specific times at which ensembles transitioned from state to state varied from trial to trial, but the state sequences were reliable and stimulus-specific. Thus, the characterization of ensemble responses in terms of state sequences captured facets of sensory processing that are missing from, and obscured in, other analyses. This work provides evidence that sensory neurons act as parts of a systems-level dynamic process, the nature of which can best be appreciated through observation of distributed ensembles.
Structural basis for regulation of bifunctional roles in replication initiator protein
Authors: Nakamura Akira , Wada Chieko , Miki Kunio
Published: November 2007

DNA replication initiator protein RepE stringently regulates F plasmid replication by its two distinct molecular association states. A predominant dimer functions as an autogenous repressor, whereas monomers act as replication initiators, and the dimer requires actions of the DnaK molecular chaperone system for monomerization. The structure of the monomeric form is known, whereas the dimeric structure and structural details of the dimer-to-monomer conversion have been unclear. Here we present the crystal structure of the RepE dimer in complex with the
repE
operator DNA. The dimerization interface is mainly formed by intermolecular β-sheets with several key interactions of charged residues. The conformations of the internal N- and C-terminal domains are conserved between the dimer and monomer, whereas the relative domain orientations are strikingly different, allowing for an efficient oligomeric transition of dual-functional RepE. This domain relocation accompanies secondary structural changes in the linker connecting the two domains, and the linker is included in plausible DnaK/DnaJ-binding regions. These findings suggest an activation mechanism for F plasmid replication by RepE monomerization, which is induced and mediated by the DnaK system.
Large-scale allosteric conformational transitions of adenylate kinase appear to involve a population-shift mechanism
Authors: Arora Karunesh , Brooks Charles L.
Published: November 2007

Large-scale conformational changes in proteins are often associated with the binding of a substrate. Because conformational changes may be related to the function of an enzyme, understanding the kinetics and energetics of these motions is very important. We have delineated the atomically detailed conformational transition pathway of the phosphotransferase enzyme adenylate kinase (AdK) in the absence and presence of an inhibitor. The computed free energy profiles associated with conformational transitions offer detailed mechanistic insights into, as well as kinetic information on, the ligand binding mechanism. Specifically, potential of mean force calculations reveal that in the ligand-free state, there is no significant barrier separating the open and closed conformations of AdK. The enzyme samples near closed conformations, even in the absence of its substrate. The ligand binding event occurs late, toward the closed state, and transforms the free energy landscape. In the ligand-bound state, the closed conformation is energetically most favored with a large barrier to opening. These results emphasize the underlying dynamic nature of the enzyme and indicate that the conformational transitions in AdK are more intricate than a mere two-state jump between the crystal-bound and -unbound states. Based on the existence of the multiple conformations of the enzyme in the open and closed states, a different viewpoint of ligand binding is presented. Our estimated activation energy barrier for the conformational transition is also in reasonable accord with the experimental findings.
Inequity responses of monkeys modified by effort
Authors: van Wolkenten Megan , Brosnan Sarah F. , de Waal Frans B. M.
Published: November 2007

Without joint benefits, joint actions could never have evolved. Cooperative animals need to monitor closely how large a share they receive relative to their investment toward collective goals. This work documents the sensitivity to reward division in brown, or tufted, capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella). In addition to confirming previous results with a larger subject pool, this work rules out several alternative explanations and adds data on effort sensitivity. Thirteen adult monkeys exchanged tokens for rewards, showing negative reactions to receiving a less-favored reward than their partner. Because their negative reaction could not be attributed to the mere visibility of better rewards (greed hypothesis) nor to having received such rewards in the immediate past (frustration hypothesis), it must have been caused by seeing their partner obtain the better reward. Effort had a major effect in that by far the lowest level of performance in the entire study occurred in subjects required to expend a large effort while at the same time seeing their partner receive a better reward. It is unclear whether this effort–effect was based on comparisons with the partner, but it added significantly to the intensity of the inequity response. These effects are as expected if the inequity response evolved in the context of cooperative survival strategies.
NPY1, a BTB-NPH3-like protein, plays a critical role in auxin-regulated organogenesis in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Cheng Youfa , Qin Genji , Dai Xinhua , Zhao Yunde
Published: November 2007

Auxin is an essential regulator for plant development. To elucidate the mechanisms by which auxin regulates plant development, we isolated an
Arabidopsis
mutant
naked pins in yuc mutants 1
(
npy1
) that develops pin-like inflorescences and fails to initiate any flowers in
yuc1 yuc4
, a background that is defective in auxin biosynthesis. The phenotypes of
npy1 yuc1 yuc4
triple mutants closely resemble those of
Arabidopsis
mutants
pin-formed1
(
pin1
),
pinoid
(
pid
), and
monopteros
(
mp
), which are defective in either auxin transport or auxin signaling. NPY1 belongs to a large family of proteins and is homologous to NON-PHOTOTROPIC HYPOCOTYL 3 (NPH3), a BTB/POZ protein that regulates phototropic responses along with the protein kinase PHOT1 (Phototropin 1). We demonstrate that NPY1 works with the protein kinase PID, which is homologous to PHOT1, to regulate auxin-mediated plant development. The
npy1 pid
double mutants fail to form any cotyledons, a phenotype that is also observed in
yuc1 yuc4 pid
triple mutants. Interestingly, both auxin-regulated organogenesis and phototropic responses require an auxin response factor (ARF). Disruption of ARF7/NPH4 leads to nonphototropic hypocotyls and
arf5/mp
forms pin-like inflorescences. Whereas the PHOT1/NPH3 pathway is regulated by light, our data suggest that the PID/NPY1 pathway may be regulated by auxin synthesized by the YUC flavin monooxygenases. Our findings put
YUCs
,
PID
, and
NPY1
into a genetic framework for further dissecting the mechanisms of auxin action in plant development.
VEGF Trap complex formation measures production rates of VEGF, providing a biomarker for predicting efficacious angiogenic blockade
Authors: Rudge John S. , Holash Jocelyn , Hylton Donna , Russell Michelle , Jiang Shelly , Leidich Raymond , Papadopoulos Nicholas , Pyles Erica A. , Torri Al , Wiegand Stanley J. , Thurston Gavin , Stahl Neil , Yancopoulos George D.
Published: November 2007

VEGF is the best characterized mediator of tumor angiogenesis. Anti-VEGF agents have recently demonstrated impressive efficacy in human cancer trials, but the optimal dosing of such agents must still be determined empirically, because biomarkers to guide dosing have yet to be established. The widely accepted (but unverified) assumption that VEGF production is quite low in normal adults led to the notion that increased systemic VEGF levels might quantitatively reflect tumor mass and angiogenic activity. We describe an approach to determine host and tumor production of VEGF, using a high-affinity and long-lived VEGF antagonist now in clinical trials, the VEGF Trap. Unlike antibody complexes that are usually rapidly cleared, the VEGF Trap forms inert complexes with tissue- and tumor-derived VEGF that remain stably in the systemic circulation, where they are readily assayable, providing unprecedented capability to accurately measure VEGF production. We report that VEGF production is surprisingly high in non-tumor-bearing rodents and humans, challenging the notion that systemic VEGF levels can serve as a sensitive surrogate for tumor load; tumor VEGF contribution becomes significant only with very large tumor loads. These findings have the important corollary that anti-VEGF therapies must be sufficiently dosed to avoid diversion by host-derived VEGF. We further show that our assay can indicate when VEGF is optimally blocked; such biomarkers to guide dosing do not exist for other anti-VEGF agents. Based on this assay, VEGF Trap doses currently being assessed in clinical trials are in the efficacious range.
AMPA receptors and stargazin-like transmembrane AMPA receptor-regulatory proteins mediate hippocampal kainate neurotoxicity
Authors: Tomita Susumu , Byrd R. Keith , Rouach Nathalie , Bellone Camilla , Venegas Angela , O'Brien Jessica L. , Kim Kwang S. , Olsen Olav , Nicoll Roger A. , Bredt David S.
Published: November 2007

Naturally occurring glutamate analogs, such as kainate and domoate, which cause excitotoxic shellfish poisoning, induce nondesensitizing responses at neuronal α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors. In addition to acting on AMPA receptors, kainate and domoate also activate high-affinity kainate-type glutamate receptors. The receptor type that mediates their neurotoxicity remains uncertain. Here, we show that the transmembrane AMPA receptor-associated protein (TARP) γ-2 (or stargazin) and the related TARP γ-8 augment responses to kainate and domoate by making these neurotoxins more potent and more efficacious AMPA receptor agonists. Genetic deletion of hippocampal enriched γ-8 selectively abolishes sustained depolarizations in hippocampus mediated by kainate activation of AMPA receptors. γ-8 knockout mice display typical kainate-induced seizures; however, the associated neuronal cell death in the hippocampus is attenuated in mice lacking γ-8. This work decisively demonstrates that TARP-associated AMPA receptors mediate kainate neurotoxicity and identifies TARPs as targets for modulating neurotoxic properties of AMPA receptors.
Attosecond electron pulses for 4D diffraction and microscopy
Authors: Baum Peter , Zewail Ahmed H.
Published: November 2007

In this contribution, we consider the advancement of ultrafast electron diffraction and microscopy to cover the attosecond time domain. The concept is centered on the compression of femtosecond electron packets to trains of 15-attosecond pulses by the use of the ponderomotive force in synthesized gratings of optical fields. Such attosecond electron pulses are significantly shorter than those achievable with extreme UV light sources near 25 nm (≈50 eV) and have the potential for applications in the visualization of ultrafast electron dynamics, especially of atomic structures, clusters of atoms, and some materials.
Poxvirus DNA primase
Authors: De Silva Frank S. , Lewis Whitney , Berglund Peter , Koonin Eugene V. , Moss Bernard
Published: November 2007

Poxviruses are large enveloped viruses that replicate in the cytoplasm of vertebrate or invertebrate cells. At least six virus-encoded proteins are required for synthesis and processing of the double-stranded DNA genome of vaccinia virus, the prototype member of the family. One of these proteins, D5, is an NTPase that contains an N-terminal archaeoeukaryotic primase domain and a C-terminal superfamily III helicase domain. Here we report that individual conserved aspartic acid residues in the predicted primase active site were required for
in vivo
complementation of infectious virus formation as well as genome and plasmid replication. Furthermore, purified recombinant D5 protein synthesized oligoribonucleotides
in vitro
. Incorporation of label from [α-
32
P]CTP or [α-
32
P]UTP into a RNase-sensitive and DNase-resistant product was demonstrated by using single-stranded circular bacteriophage DNA templates and depended on ATP or GTP and a divalent cation. Mutagenesis studies showed that the primase and NTPase activities of the recombinant D5 protein could be independently inactivated. Highly conserved orthologs of D5 are present in all poxviruses that have been sequenced, and more diverged orthologs are found in members of all other families of nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses. These viral primases may have roles in initiation of DNA replication or lagging-strand synthesis and represent potential therapeutic targets.
Australian Schizophrenia Care and Assessment Programme: Real-World Schizophrenia: Outcomes
Authors: Kulkarni Jayashri , de Castella Anthony R. , Filia Kate M. , Filia Sacha L. , Marston Natasha , Montgomery William , Christova Laura , Fitzgerald Paul B.
Published: November 2007

Objective: It has been increasingly recognized that there is need to assess patient outcomes in schizophrenia across a broad range of dimensions. But few studies have attempted to do this in clinical populations and no systematic study has broadly assessed outcomes in schizophrenia in Australia using a longitudinal design. Thus, a real-world study, the Schizophrenia Care and Assessment Programme (SCAP), was structured to collect comprehensive information over time to inform policy debate and extend current knowledge about the course of schizophrenia in an Australian context.

Methods: A cohort of 347 patients with schizophrenia was followed up over 3 years. Clinical outcomes, occupational and psychosocial functioning and quality of life were assessed at 6 monthly intervals, and resource utilization and costing data were collected continuously from internal and external databases as well as from participants directly.

Results: The participants as a group experienced an overall decline in positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, a reduction in general psychopathology and a reduction in severity of depression. There was an improvement in functioning, a reduction in mental health-related disability and an improvement in patient- and observer-rated quality of life. Change of severity within the variously assessed domains over time appeared to be relatively independent.

Conclusions: In the present sample of schizophrenia patients treatment was associated with positive health outcomes; but outcomes across assessment domains did not closely correlate across time. The scrutiny of a broad range of patient outcomes will assist with the assessment of new treatment modalities and with service planning.
Management of Antipsychotic-Induced Weight Gain: Prospective Naturalistic Study of the Effectiveness of a Supervised Exercise Programme
Authors: Poulin Marie-Josée , Chaput Jean-Philippe , Simard Véronique , Vincent Pierre , Bernier Joëlle , Gauthier Yvan , Lanctôt Guy , Saindon Jacynthe , Vincent Annick , Gagnon Solange , Tremblay Angelo
Published: November 2007

Objective: To determine the potential effectiveness of a behavioural weight control programme including physical exercise in the prevention of antipsychotic-induced weight gain and associated comorbid conditions in outpatients with schizophrenia and mood disorders.

Methods: A prospective, comparative, open and naturalistic study was carried out for a total of 110 patients with schizophrenia, schizoaffective or bipolar disorders (DSM-IV), on treatment with atypical antipsychotics. Of these, 59 patients participated in an 18 month weight control programme that included an educational activity about dietary and physical activity counselling as well as a structured, supervised, facility-based exercise programme. The control group consisted of 51 patients with the same baseline characteristics who did not receive the clinical programme. Anthropometric measurements, plasma lipid–lipoprotein profile, and fasting plasma glucose concentrations were assessed at 11 time-points over the study. In addition, serum concentrations of prolactin, thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH), and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were assessed at four time-points. Finally, the Clinical Global Impression scale (CGI), the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Short Form (SF)-36 Health Survey were used.

Results: The adherence rate of patients was 85%, both in the active and in the control group. Whereas the control group experienced a significant increase in bodyweight (4.1%), body mass index (BMI; 5.5%) and waist circumference (WC; 4.2%), the active group significantly reduced their bodyweight (−3.5%), BMI (−4.4%), and WC (−4.6%) at the study end-point. In addition, a significant increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (14.8%) and in triglyceride concentrations (12.3%) was observed at month 18 in the control group. In contrast, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL) significantly increased (21.4%), and LDL cholesterol (−13.7%), triglycerides (−26.2%), total cholesterol (−12.1%), fasting glucose concentrations (−12.0%), and HbA1c (−11.4%) significantly decreased compared to baseline in the active group. No significant changes were observed regarding serum concentrations of prolactin and TSH during the study. In regard to the changes observed in psychological measures, no between-group differences were seen in the clinical ratings of CGI and BPRS. However, the SF-36 showed that physical health was improved only for subjects in the active group at months 12 and 18 compared to baseline (p<0.05), and mental health was significantly improved for both groups at months 12 and 18 compared to baseline.

Conclusion: Bodyweight and metabolic risk profile in patients receiving atypical antipsychotic medications can be effectively managed with a weight control programme including physical activity.
The role of glacitectonic rafting and comminution in the production of subglacial tills: examples from southwest Ireland and Antarctica
Authors: Hiemstra John F. , Evans David J. A. , Cofaigh Colm Ó
Published: November 2007

Sedimentological and structural geological data from two sites in southwest Ireland and Antarctica provide evidence for the formation of subglacial till by the brecciation and crushing of bedrock rafts. Up‐sequence transitions, from undisturbed bedrock, to deformed bedrock, to crushed and brecciated bedrock, to massive matrix‐supported till with far‐travelled erratics, represent a process‐form continuum of till production. Initially, bedrock fragments and rafts up to several metres in length are liberated from the substrate by glacitectonic thrusting and plucking. These rafts are then crushed to produce the matrix of a till. Such products are commonly referred to as comminution tills, although the original definition focused primarily on the second phase of the process (crushing of bedrock rafts and fragments) as well as abrasion of bedrock. Data from Ireland and Antarctica indicate that rafting of bedrock is an essential part of the process of till formation. This process is facilitated by weak sedimentary bedrock, which can be displaced along joints and bedding planes to form rafts that are then incorporated into the ‘proto‐till’ prior to being crushed subglacially. Our field data suggest that bedrock failure and displacement of such rafts can occur to depths of 3 m. The occurrence of erratics in the uppermost part of the till demonstrates that the glacier effectively mixes far‐travelled and local materials.
Holocene temperatures in Bohuslän, southwest Sweden: a quantitative reconstruction from fossil pollen data
Authors: Antonsson Karin , Seppä Heikki
Published: November 2007

Inferred mean annual temperatures (Tann) from a radiocarbon‐dated fossil pollen stratigraphy obtained from Lake Trehörningen, southwest Sweden, provide evidence of climate variability during the Holocene in the boreal‐nemoral zone of Sweden. The record indicates low early Holocene temperatures, followed by a rising trend and maximum temperature values from about 7000 to 4000 cal. yr BP. During the later part of the Holocene until present day, a cooling trend is reflected in the temperature record. At about 8200 cal. yr BP, temperatures temporarily drop, and at 8000 cal. yr BP the rising temperature trend is recovered. Inferred mid‐Holocene temperatures are about 2.5‐3°C higher than at present, and also higher than other pollen‐inferred mid‐Holocene temperatures of 1.5‐2.5°C further to the north and east in Scandinavia. The reconstructed long‐term climate pattern in Trehörningen has an overall consistency with temperature reconstructions from Scandinavia, suggesting a regional climate link for the Holocene variability in Sweden. Holocene climate trends in Trehörningen also show a remarkably similar pattern with the classic work on postglacial climate change by Sernander (1893, Sernander 1909), Andersson (1909) and von Post (1924).
The Keiva ice marginal zone on the Kola Peninsula, northwest Russia: a key component for reconstructing the palaeoglaciology of the northeastern Fennoscandian Ice Sheet
Authors: Hāttestrand Clas , Kolka Vasili , Stroeven Arjen P.
Published: November 2007

One of the key elements in reconstructing the palaeoglaciology of the northeastern sector of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet is the Keiva ice marginal zone (KIZ) along the southern and eastern coast of Kola Peninsula, including the Keiva I and II moraines. From detailed geomorphological mapping of the KIZ, primarily using aerial photographs and satellite images, combined with fieldwork, we observed the following. (1) The moraines display ice contact features on both the Kola side and the White Sea side along its entire length. (2) The Keiva II moraine is sloping along its length from c. 100 m a.s.l. in the west (Varzuga River) to c. 250 m a.s.l. in the east (Ponoy River). (3) The KIZ was partly overrun and fragmented by erosive White Sea‐based ice after formation. From these observations we conclude that the KIZ is not a synchronous feature formed along the lateral side of a White Sea‐based ice lobe. If it was, the moraines should have a reversed slope. Rather, we interpret it to be time transgressive, formed at a northeastward‐migrating junction between a warm‐based Fennoscandian Ice Sheet expanding from the west and southwest into the White Sea depression, and a sluggish cold‐based ice mass centred over eastern Kola Peninsula. In contrast to earlier reconstructions, we find it unlikely that an ice expansion of this magnitude was a mere re‐advance during the deglaciation. Instead, we propose that the KIZ was formed during a major expansion of a Fennoscandian Ice Sheet at a time pre‐dating the Last Glacial Maximum.
No-Suicide Contracts and No-Suicide Agreements: A Controversial Life
Authors: Edwards Stephen , Harries Maria
Published: November 2007

Objective: In this paper we describe the origins of suicide prevention contracting, identify the historical factors that led to the adoption of the intervention, and describe legal tensions that have emerged during its use.

Conclusions: It would appear that one of the most frequently used clinical interventions for responding to suicidality has established a place in clinical practice without evidence attesting to its efficacy. We develop some propositions about how and why this clinical technique has been able to consolidate its place in mental health practice and, in so doing, suggest that the original technique was able to secure a clinical place without much apparent resistance because of the confluence of a number of emerging theories and community trends.
The First Year of the RANZCP Exemptions Candidates Examination
Authors: Hatcher Simon , Handrinos Dennis , Lakra Vinay
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe our experience of the first year of the Exemptions Candidates Examination.

Conclusions: The exam has run well over the first year. Candidates who have difficulty with the exam fail to prioritize in the observed clinical interview and do not pay attention to the instructions for the observed structured clinical examinations.
The College: The Mysterious Black Box and how to Make use of It
Authors: Freidin Julian
Published: November 2007

Objective: As Registrars become Fellows, there is the opportunity to question the role of the College in the community, and the role of Fellows within the College. The process of entry into the College can lead to a misunderstanding of the role of the College and the value of the achievements of new Fellows. Exploring the complex nature of the relationship between Fellows, the College and the community can lead to new opportunities for the College to demonstrate professional leadership across the mental health sector in Australia and New Zealand.

Conclusion: All Fellows, and particularly new Fellows, are encouraged to mark their achievement in becoming Fellows by helping to shape the future direction of the College.
Clinical Implications of the CATIE Schizophrenia Trials: Day-to-Day Management Lessons for Australasian Psychiatrists
Authors: Bick Peter , Knoesen Natalie , Castle David
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of this paper was to review whether the $50m spent by the US National Institute of Mental Health in doing the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) trials found any useful evidence to change the clinical management of schizophrenia by psychiatrists.

Conclusions: The CATIE trials were conducted in the US on 1460 enrolled patients in an effort to track how the drugs used to treat schizophrenia actually work in clinical practice (rather than in 6-week clinical trials). In a complex 3-phase design, patients were randomized to various types of (mostly) atypical antipsychotic drugs. Some 69–74% of patients switched antipsychotics for one reason or another during the 18 months of treatment. Some of the results were expensive confirmations of known prior results; of the commonly prescribed drugs, clozapine was the most effective, and olanzapine and ziprasidone caused the most and fewest metabolic side effects, respectively. The most stunning finding was that psychiatrists tend to ignore life-threatening, treatable medical conditions in patients presenting for treatment with schizophrenia. Of patients entering the study, 45% had untreated diabetes, 89% had untreated hyperlipidemias and 62% had untreated hypertension. This study failed to reveal anything of significant importance in the psychopharmacological treatment of schizophrenia, but did expose a woeful standard in the medical management of schizophrenia offered by psychiatrists. Psychiatrists should learn to properly treat diabetes, hyperlipidemia and hypertension when detected.
Postpartum mood disorders: Results of an online survey
Authors: Curtis Russ , Robertson Phyllis , Forst Amy , Bradford Caroline
Published: November 2007

Purpose: Postpartum mood disorders (PMDs), the distressing mental and emotional symptoms experienced by women after childbirth, are just now receiving the attention they warrant. Given the serious and sometimes life‐threatening nature of PMDs, we used a qualitative research design to examine more closely the nature of symptoms experienced and the effective strategies women used to cope with PMD. Participants: The respondents were 252 members of PMD and breast‐feeding (La Leche League) support groups throughout the United States. Method: Participants responded anonymously to open‐ended questions in an online survey. The data were reviewed by the research team to determine common themes and prevailing issues. Results: Participants reported myriad different symptoms and used a host of various strategies to alleviate problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviours following childbirth. Postpartum symptoms affected participants’ plans to have future children. For some women, symptoms became more intense during subsequent births. Despite the problematic nature of PMD, more than half of the participants reported receiving little or no information from healthcare providers about PMDs. Implications for counsellors and other healthcare providers are discussed in detail.
No attenuation of gastric distress or benefit to performance with adaptation to octanoate‐rich esterified oils in female cyclists
Authors: Thorburn Megan S. , Vistisen Bodil , Thorp Rhys M. , Rockell Mike J. , Jeukendrup Asker E. , Xu Xuebing , Rowlands David S.
Published: November 2007

We investigated the effects of modifying a normal dietary fatty‐acid composition and the ingestion of high‐fat exercise supplements on gastrointestinal distress, substrate oxidation, and endurance cycling performance. Five female cyclists completed a randomized triple‐crossover comprising a 2‐week diet high in octanoate‐rich esterified oil (MCFA), or twice, long‐chain fatty acids (LCFA). Following the diets, the participants performed 3 h of cycling at 50% peak power followed by ten maximal sprints while ingesting: a carbohydrate (CHO)+MCFA‐rich oil emulsion after (a) the 2‐week MCFA‐rich dietary condition (MC‐MC, Intervention), and (b) after one LCFA‐rich dietary condition (LC‐MC, Placebo), or (c) CHO only following a second LCFA‐rich diet (LC‐CHO, Control). Ingestion of the CHO+MCFA‐rich oil emulsion during 3‐h steady‐state exercise substantially reduced endogenous‐fat oxidation by 88% (90% confidence interval: 59 to 117%) and 74% (40 to 108%) in the MC‐MC and LC‐MC conditions, respectively, relative to LC‐CHO, but there was no effect of MCFA adaptation. Adaptation (MC‐MC) also had no clear effect on endogenous CHO (11%; −10 to 33%) or exogenous octanoic‐acid oxidation rates (−2%; −20 to 16%), relative to the placebo (LC‐MC). Ingestion/oxidation efficiency of octanoic acid was high (0.98), but the CHO+MCFA‐rich oil emulsion caused mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress during exercise and there was no attenuating effect of MCFA adaptation evident, nor any clear benefit of the oil emulsion or adaptation to performance. Plasma triacylglycerol concentrations were lower by 17% (23 to −4%) and 15% (20 to −3%; reduction likely) in the LC‐MC and MC‐MC conditions, respectively, relative to LC‐CHO. Total plasma free‐fatty acid concentrations were 20% lower (39 to 3%) in the LC‐MC condition, relative to LC‐CHO. Plasma glycerol concentrations trended lower in the LC‐MC and MC‐MC conditions, but uncertainty meant these effects were qualified unclear. There was no clear effect of MCFA adaptation on total and 13C‐enriched plasma octanoic acid concentrations, nor were there any detectable elongation products (13C‐enriched fatty acids >8:0) seen in the plasma in either the MC‐MC or LC‐MC conditions. In conclusion, despite high efficiency of exogenous‐MCFA oxidation, no clear benefit to prolonged endurance performance was observed with the ingestion of a CHO+MCFA‐rich esterified oil emulsion or following adaptation to a MCFA‐rich diet in female cyclists.
Measuring physical activity in field studies: Comparison of a questionnaire, 24‐hour recall and an accelerometer
Authors: Kwak Lydia , Kremers Stef P. J. , Brug Johannes , Van Baak Marleen A.
Published: November 2007

In a field setting, we compared a physical activity questionnaire (SQUASH), a 24‐hour recall measure (Physical Activity Scale; PAS), and an accelerometer to: (1) quantify the amount of time spent in light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity; (2) calculate activity scores; and (3) categorize participants by physical activity tertiles. For 7 consecutive days, 103 participants (61% males, 39% females; mean age 36.8 years, mean body mass index 26.6 kg·m−2) wore an accelerometer and completed the PAS. Immediately before these 7 days, the participants completed the SQUASH and underwent anthropometric measurements (weight and height). Time spent in light (<3 METs), moderate (3–6 METs), and vigorous (≥6 METs) activity was calculated. Significant correlations were observed between the PAS and accelerometer in the population as a whole (r=0.66, P<0.001), the males (r=0.76, P<0.001), participants of normal weight (r=0.62, P<0.05), and those who were overweight (r=0.53, P<0.01). Correlations between the SQUASH and accelerometer were only significant for males (r=0.62, P<0.05) and overweight individuals (r=0.40, P<0.05). Moderate agreement was observed between tertiles for the accelerometer and PAS activity scores in the overall population (weighted kappa =0.47; 95% confidence interval =0.27–0.67) but not between the accelerometer and SQUASH. In conclusion, a 7‐day administration of the PAS is a useful measure for classification of physical activity in the population studied. The SQUASH has practical advantages in terms of convenience of administration, but its usefulness in estimating physical activity is limited.
Expertise and the control of interception in table tennis
Authors: Sheppard Alex , Li François‐Xavier
Published: November 2007

The variability in elite table tennis players' bat movement direction was shown qualitatively by Bootsma et al. (1990) to “funnel” or become reduced towards bat–ball contact. Scott et al. (1997) showed that novice long jumpers' foot‐placement variability followed a similar pattern of reducing variability that was also found previously for experts, suggesting a common mode of control across various interceptive actions and standards of expertise. The aims of this study were as follows: (1) to compare the variability patterns of expert and novice table tennis players to assess the presence of a common mode of control; and (2) to examine the variability patterns of a comprehensive array of bat kinematic measures. Participants returned balls for speed and accuracy. Variability patterns were similar between groups, although magnitudes were smaller for experts' bat direction. Bat direction and orientation showed reducing variability in the approach to contact, whereas bat position, speed, and acceleration did not. The variability in “funnelling” in many kinematic measures suggests an essential role for on‐line control in the table tennis forehand drive. The strong similarity in variability patterns between groups is interpreted as evidence of a common mode of control across standards of expertise that is applicable to interception tasks in general.
Disordered eating, perfectionism and body‐esteem of elite synchronized swimmers
Authors: Ferrand Claude , Magnan Claire , Rouveix Mathieu , Filaire Edith
Published: November 2007

The aims of the present study were to determine the extent to which unhealthy compensatory behaviours are observed in synchronized swimmers, and to examine the relationships between perfectionism, body‐esteem dimensions, and restrained eating. Thirty‐three elite adolescent synchronized swimmers completed the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS‐H), the Body‐Esteem Scale, the Dietary Restraint Scale, and a self‐report questionnaire during their pre‐competitive period. The participants reported that they perceived themselves to be overweight, that they used weight loss methods such as self‐induced vomiting, fasting, and intensive exercise, and unhealthy weight control behaviours such as skipping meals. The swimmers attributed the pressure to lose weight to team‐mates, coaches, and themselves. Results showed that self‐oriented perfectionism was significantly associated with dietary restraint and that body‐esteem weight satisfaction has a mediator role between self‐oriented perfectionism and dietary restraint. Additional research is required to examine the thrust of these results and the effectiveness of interventions that help prevent disordered eating patterns.
Throwing velocity and accuracy in elite and sub‐elite cricket players: A descriptive study
Authors: Freeston Jonathan , Ferdinands Rene , Rooney Kieron
Published: November 2007

Release velocity and accuracy are vital components of throwing performance. However, there is no published research on these parameters for throwing in cricket. In this study, we investigated the throwing performance of 110 cricket players from six different populations: elite senior males, elite under‐19 junior males, elite under‐17 junior males, elite senior females, elite under‐19 junior females, and sub‐elite senior males. Based on a specifically designed cricket throwing test, participants were assessed for (1) maximal throwing velocity and (2) throwing accuracy at maximal velocity and at three sub‐maximal velocities. Elite senior males exhibited the highest peak and mean maximal throwing velocities (P≤0.001). Furthermore, the groups of males had significantly higher peak and mean maximal throwing velocities than the groups of females (P≤0.01). A speed–accuracy trade‐off existed such that all groups demonstrated improved accuracy scores at velocities between 75% and 85% maximal throwing velocity compared with 50% maximal throwing velocity and 100% perceived maximal exertion. The results indicate that sex, training experience (years training), and training volume (training time per week) may contribute to throwing performance in cricket players. Further research should focus on understanding the mechanisms behind the observed differences between these groups. This is the first study to describe the inherent throwing profiles of different cricket playing populations. Potentially, we have identified stimulus material for future training developments.
Hypoxia-induced IL-18 Increases Hypoxia-inducible Factor-1α Expression through a Rac1-dependent NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Kim Jeongki , Shao Yan , Kim Sang Yong , Kim Seyl , Song Hyun Keun , Jeon Jun Ho , Suh Hyun Woo , Chung Jin Woong , Yoon Suk Ran , Kim Young Sang , Choi Inpyo
Published: November 2007

Interleukin-18 (IL-18) plays pivotal roles in linking inflammatory immune responses and tumor progression and metastasis, yet the manner in which this occurs remains to be sufficiently clarified. Here we report that hypoxia induces the transcription and secretion of IL-18, which subsequently induces the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). Mechanistically, IL-18 induces HIF-1α through the activity of the GTPase Rac1, which inducibly associates with the IL-18 receptor β (IL-18Rβ) subunit, via a PI3K-AKT-NF-κB–dependent pathway. Importantly, the knockdown of the IL-18Rβ subunit inhibited IL-18–driven tumor cell metastasis. Collectively, these findings demonstrate a feed-forward pathway in HIF-1α–mediated tumor progression, in which the induction of IL-18 by hypoxia or inflammatory cells augments the expression of both HIF-1α and tumor cell metastasis.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Mannosidase I Is Compartmentalized and Required for N-Glycan Trimming to Man5–6GlcNAc2 in Glycoprotein ER-associated Degradation
Authors: Avezov Edward , Frenkel Zehavit , Ehrlich Marcelo , Herscovics Annette , Lederkremer Gerardo Z.
Published: November 2007

We had previously shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD) of glycoproteins in mammalian cells involves trimming of three to four mannose residues from the N-linked oligosaccharide Man9GlcNAc2. A possible candidate for this activity, ER mannosidase I (ERManI), accelerates the degradation of ERAD substrates when overexpressed. Although in vitro, at low concentrations, ERManI removes only one specific mannose residue, at very high concentrations it can excise up to four α1,2-linked mannose residues. Using small interfering RNA knockdown of ERManI, we show that this enzyme is required for trimming to Man5–6GlcNAc2 and for ERAD in cells in vivo, leading to the accumulation of Man9GlcNAc2 and Glc1Man9GlcNAc2 on a model substrate. Thus, trimming by ERManI to the smaller oligosaccharides would remove the glycoprotein from reglucosylation and calnexin binding cycles. ERManI is strikingly concentrated together with the ERAD substrate in the pericentriolar ER-derived quality control compartment (ERQC) that we had described previously. ERManI knockdown prevents substrate accumulation in the ERQC. We suggest that the ERQC provides a high local concentration of ERManI, and passage through this compartment would allow timing of ERAD, possibly through a cycling mechanism. When newly made glycoproteins cannot fold properly, transport through the ERQC leads to trimming of a critical number of mannose residues, triggering a signal for degradation.
Interaction of the J-Protein Heterodimer Pam18/Pam16 of the Mitochondrial Import Motor with the Translocon of the Inner Membrane
Authors: D'Silva Patrick R. , Schilke Brenda , Hayashi Masaya , Craig Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2007

Import of proteins across the inner mitochondrial membrane through the Tim23:Tim17 translocase requires the function of an essential import motor having mitochondrial 70-kDa heat-shock protein (mtHsp70) at its core. The heterodimer composed of Pam18, the J-protein partner of mtHsp70, and the related protein Pam16 is a critical component of this motor. We report that three interactions contribute to association of the heterodimer with the translocon: the N terminus of Pam16 with the matrix side of the translocon, the inner membrane space domain of Pam18 (Pam18IMS) with Tim17, and the direct interaction of the J-domain of Pam18 with the J-like domain of Pam16. Pam16 plays a major role in translocon association, as alterations affecting the stability of the Pam18:Pam16 heterodimer dramatically affect association of Pam18, but not Pam16, with the translocon. Suppressors of the growth defects caused by alterations in the N terminus of Pam16 were isolated and found to be due to mutations in a short segment of TIM44, the gene encoding the peripheral membrane protein that tethers mtHsp70 to the translocon. These data suggest a model in which Tim44 serves as a scaffold for precise positioning of mtHsp70 and its cochaperone Pam18 at the translocon.
Tibetan Medicated‐Bath Therapy May Improve Adjuvant Arthritis in Rat
Authors: Chen Huayue , Shoumura Shizuko , Emura Shoichi , Isono Hideo
Published: November 2007

Tibetan medicated‐bath therapy has been applied to patients with rheumatoid arthritis for centuries. However, the detailed action mechanism of Tibetan medicated‐bath therapy on the morphology and function of joints remains unknown. We designed our investigation to evaluate the efficacy of Tibetan medicated‐bath therapy on adjuvant arthritis (AA) of rats in comparison with water‐bath and dexamethasone administration. AA was induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium butyricum suspended in sterile mineral oil. The control animals were similarly injected with sterile vehicle. Eight days after injection, rats were treated with fresh‐water bath, Tibetan medicated‐bath (40°C, 15 min) or intramuscular injection with dexamethasone for 21 consecutive days after which we evaluated the severity of arthritis visually and microscopically and measured serum interleukin (IL)‐6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α levels. While arthritis did not significantly change after water‐bath treatment, the Tibetan medicated‐bath and dexamethasone groups showed diminished joint swelling and alleviation of, inflammatory cell infiltration and the destruction of bone and cartilage. Serum IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels significantly decreased. Our results demonstrated that Tibetan medicated‐bath therapy exerted a reliable effect on rat adjuvant arthritis, which may be involved in the inflammatory cytokines, IL‐6 and TNF‐α. Our data provide evidence for clinical use of Tibetan‐medicated bath therapy for arthritis patients.
Ten Years Evidence‐Based High‐Tech Acupuncture—A Short Review of Peripherally Measured Effects
Authors: Litscher Gerhard
Published: November 2007

Since 1997, the Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine of Graz Medical University has been dealing with the demystification of acupuncture and examining, using non‐invasive methods, how different stimulation modalities (manual needle acupuncture, laserneedle acupuncture and electro acupuncture) affect peripheral and central functions. Laser is also an important instrument for acupuncture. One only needs to mention the treatment of children or of patients with needle phobia. The laserneedle acupuncture, which was examined scientifically for the first time in Graz, represents a new painless acupuncture method for which up to ten laserneedles are glued to the skin, but not stuck into it. This first part of the short review article summarizes some of the peripherally measured effects of acupuncture obtained at the Medical University of Graz within the last 10 years.
Ten Years Evidence‐Based High‐Tech Acupuncture–A Short Review of Centrally Measured Effects (Part II)
Authors: Litscher Gerhard
Published: November 2007

The assessment of acupuncture‐induced effects on brain function is crucial. Ultrasound‐assisted brain function monitoring and bioelectrical methods as well as near infrared spectroscopic procedures and functional magnetic resonance investigations form the basis for the latest scientific examination methods for acupuncture research. The laserneedle acupuncture, which was examined scientifically for the first time in Graz, represents a new painless and non‐invasive acupuncture method. In this way, individual combinations of acupuncture points can be stimulated simultaneously according to traditional Chinese medicine. In the context of double‐blind studies, effects in the brain could be demonstrated in a reproducible manner for the first time. This second part of the short review article summarizes some of the centrally measured effects of acupuncture obtained at the Medical University of Graz within the last 10 years.