bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Receptor of activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) is necessary for the 20‐hydroxyecdysone‐induced expression of the transcription factor CHR3 in the spruce budworm Choristoneura fumiferana
Authors: Quan G. X. , Krell P. J. , Arif B. M. , Feng Q.
Published: February 2006

To initiate moulting and metamorphosis, 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) binds to its nuclear receptors and the ligand–receptor complex then mediates changes in gene expression. Phosphorylation of the receptors is required for their function. The intracellular signal transduction pathway that is involved in receptor phosphorylation remains elusive. This study provides evidence that the receptor of activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) and protein kinase C (PKC) signal transduction cascade is involved in the 20E‐induced expression of the moult‐associated transcription factor CHR3. A cDNA clone encoding a receptor of activated C kinase 1 was isolated from Choristoneura fumiferana (CfRACK1). This single copy gene coded a 36 kDa protein and was expressed ubiquitously in all of the developmental stages and the tissues tested, including the midgut, epidermis, fat body, head, Malpighian tubules, ovary and testis of larvae. High levels of the transcripts were also detected in a midgut‐derived CF‐203 cell line. We noticed that the green fluorescence protein‐fused CfRACK1 protein was distributed in the cytosol surrounding the nuclei in stably transformed cells. Interference of CfRACK1 mRNA suppressed the 20E‐induced expression of the transcription factor CHR3. Dequalinium‐14; 1,1′‐decamethylenebis‐4‐aminoquinaldinium diiodide (DECA), an inhibitor of RACK1 binding to protein kinase C, blocked the 20E‐induced expression of CHR3 and accumulation of the ecdysone receptor (EcR) in the nuclei. All of these data together suggest that 20E‐induced expression of CHR3 may involve phosphorylation of the ecdysone receptor component through the PKC/RACK1 signal transduction cascade, which facilitates the import of the receptor into the nuclei of cells.
Paradoxical Sleep Deprivation and Sleep Recovery: Effects on the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Activity, Energy Balance and Body Composition of Rats
Authors: Hipólide D. C. , Suchecki D. , de Carvalho Pinto A. Pimentel , Chiconelli Faria E. , Tufik S. , Luz J.
Published: February 2006

Numerous studies indicate that sleep deprivation alters energy expenditure. However, this conclusion is drawn from indirect measurements. In the present study, we investigated alterations of energy expenditure, body composition, blood glucose levels, plasma insulin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone levels immediately after 4 days of sleep deprivation or after 4 days of sleep recovery. Rats were sleep deprived or maintained in a control environment (groups sleep‐deprived/deprivation and control/deprivation). One half of these animals were sacrificed at the end of the deprivation period and the other half was transported to metabolic cages, where they were allowed to sleep freely (groups sleep‐deprived/recovery and control/recovery). At the end of the sleep recovery period, these rats were sacrificed. After sleep deprivation, sleep‐deprived rats exhibited loss of body weight, augmented energy expenditure and reduced metabolic efficiency compared to control rats. These alterations were normalised during the sleep recovery period. The body composition of sleep‐deprived rats was altered insofar as there was a loss of fat content and gain of protein content in the carcass compared to control rats. However, these alterations were not reversed by sleep recovery. Finally, plasma levels of insulin were reduced during the sleep deprivation period in both control and sleep deprived groups compared to the recovery period. After the deprivation period, plasma ACTH and corticosterone levels were increased in sleep‐deprived rats compared to control rats, and although ACTH levels were similar between the groups after the sleep recovery period, corticosterone levels remained elevated in sleep‐deprived rats after this period. By means of direct measurements of metabolism, our results showed that sleep deprivation produces increased energy expenditure and loss of fat content. Most of the alterations were reversed by sleep recovery, except for corticosterone levels and body composition.
KiSS‐1 Neurones Are Direct Targets for Leptin in the ob/ob Mouse
Authors: Smith J. T. , Acohido B. V. , Clifton D. K. , Steiner R. A.
Published: February 2006

Leptin is an adipocyte‐derived hormone that acts on the hypothalamus to influence feeding, metabolism and reproduction, but the cellular and molecular targets for the action of leptin in the brain have yet to be fully elucidated. Kisspeptins are encoded by the Kiss1 gene, which is expressed in the hypothalamus and has been implicated in the neuroendocrine regulation of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone secretion. We tested the hypothesis that kisspeptin‐expressing neurones are targets for leptin. First, we examined whether leptin regulates the expression of Kiss1 by comparing levels of KiSS‐1 mRNA in the arcuate nucleus among groups of mice having different circulating levels of leptin: (i) wild‐type (WT); (ii) leptin‐deficient ob/ob; and (iii) ob/ob mice treated with leptin. All mice were castrated to control for endogenous concentrations of gonadal steroids. KiSS‐1 mRNA was significantly reduced in ob/ob compared to WT mice and levels of KiSS‐1 mRNA in ob/ob mice treated with leptin were increased, but not fully restored to that found in WT animals. Second, we performed double‐label in situ hybridisation for KiSS‐1 mRNA and the leptin receptor (Ob‐Rb) mRNA and found that almost one‐half (approximately 40%) of KiSS‐1 mRNA‐expressing cells in the arcuate nucleus expressed Ob‐Rb mRNA. These results demonstrate that KiSS‐1 neurones are direct targets for regulation by leptin and suggest that the reproductive deficits associated with leptin‐deficient states may be attributable, in part, to diminished expression of Kiss1.
Treatment of gastroparesis: a multidisciplinary clinical review
Authors: Abell T. L. , Bernstein Vr. K. , Cutts T. , Farrugia G. , Forster J. , Hasler W. L. , Mccallum R. W. , Olden K. W. , Parkman H. P. , Parrish C. R. , Pasricha P. J. , Prather C. M. , Soffer E. E. , Twillman R. , Vinik A. I.
Published: February 2006

Abstract This clinical review on the treatment of patients with gastroparesis is a consensus document developed by the American Motility Society Task Force on Gastroparesis. It is a multidisciplinary effort with input from gastroenterologists and other specialists who are involved in the care of patients with gastroparesis. To provide practical guidelines for treatment, this document covers results of published research studies in the literature and areas developed by consensus agreement where clinical research trials remain lacking in the field of gastroparesis.
Immunohistological features of visceral leishmaniasis in BALB/c mice
Authors: CARRIÓN J. , NIETO A. , IBORRA S. , INIESTA V. , SOTO M. , FOLGUEIRA C. , ABANADES D. R. , REQUENA J. M. , ALONSO C.
Published: February 2006

It has been reported that the level of protection provided by vaccines against murine visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is low and that progress in research on VL may be due to the lack of appropriate models to study protective immunity. We have analysed the immunohistological features occurring in BALB/c mice after intravenous administration of 10

3

, 10

5

and 10

6

parasites of Leishmania infantum. Our results show that in all cases parasite administration leads to the establishment of infection and to the development of quantifiable immunohistological features which are dependent on the inoculum size. This study demonstrates that differences in the parasite challenge result in changes in the evolution of some of the parameters associated with the degree of the infection in the BALB/c model: level of anti‐Leishmania antibodies, up‐regulation of spleen arginase activity, balance between IFN‐γ and IL‐10, extent of lymphoid follicle depletion in the splenic white pulp and ineffective development of hepatic granulomas. Also, and depending on the initial infectious inoculum, the absence of parasites in the bone marrow and the number of mature and empty type granulomas were parameters associated with protection. We think that in this model a challenge of the order of 105 parasites should prove useful for vaccine studies against VL.
Interferon‐γ Receptor‐1 Gene Promoter Polymorphisms (G‐611A; T‐56C) and Susceptibility to Tuberculosis
Authors: Bulat‐Kardum L. , Etokebe G. E. , Knezevic J. , Balen S. , Matakovic‐Mileusnic N. , Zaputovic L. , Pavelic J. , Beg‐Zec Z. , Dembic Z.
Published: February 2006

We analysed frequencies of two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) receptor‐1 (IFNGR1) gene promoter (G‐611A, T‐56C) in tuberculosis patients (n = 244) and compared them with controls (n = 521). These frequencies were not significantly different, whether analysed independently or as haplotypes. Because these SNP affect transcription, the results suggest that the expression of the IFNGR1 gene does not confer susceptibility to disease in patients from Croatia. Further analysis revealed a significant association between the protective (CA)n polymorphism (22 repeats, 192 FA1), located in the fifth intron of the IFNGR1 gene (+16682), and GT promoter haplotype (−611; −56) that showed the strongest expression capacity. In addition to this cis relationship, the (CA)22 allele was correlated in trans with an IFN‐γ SNP (IFNG G + 2109A), which might affect the transcription of the IFNG gene. These results suggest that a particular combination of IFNG and IFNGR1 SNP might offer a better protection against tuberculosis in this population.
Airway management practices at German university and university‐affiliated teaching hospitals – equipment, techniques and training: results of a nationwide survey
Authors: Goldmann K. , Braun U.
Published: February 2006

Background: Until recently, Germany did not have national airway management guidelines. This survey collected comprehensive data on departmental airway management practices from German teaching institutions to identify weaknesses, and the results are presented here. German national airway guidelines were formulated by an expert group on the basis of these data and the current evidence in the literature.

Methods: Questionnaires were mailed to the directors of 452 university and university‐affiliated anaesthesia departments. They were asked to respond to 39 questions on the use of particular equipment and techniques, management of the difficult airway and training in airway management.

Results: Two hundred and twelve questionnaires were returned. Many alternative devices for endotracheal intubation, such as the Bullard®laryngoscope, the Bonfils®laryngoscope and the Trachlight®, are not used in the majority (80%) of departments. Thirty‐six per cent of departments do not have difficult airway carts. No departmental difficult airway management plan is used in 22% of departments. Patients are not provided with written information on their personal airway management difficulties in 14% of departments. Structured training in the form of block rotation is offered in only 29–40% of departments. Although trainees perform fibreoptic intubation (FOI) in most departments, appropriate training in FOI is not available in some departments (8%).

Conclusion: There are deficits in various areas of airway management, in particular training and the use of algorithms. International guidelines and recommendations are not followed by a large number of German teaching institutions. The provision of German national airway guidelines should improve this situation.
Anti‐inflammatory properties of local anesthetics and their present and potential clinical implications
Authors: Cassuto J. , Sinclair R. , Bonderovic M.
Published: February 2006

Development of new local anesthetic agents has been focused on the potency of their nerve‐blocking effects, duration of action and safety and has resulted in a substantial number of agents in clinical use. It is well established and well documented that the nerve blocking effects of local anesthetics are secondary to their interaction with the Na+channels thereby blocking nerve membrane excitability and the generation of action potentials. Accumulating data suggest however that local anesthetics also posses a wide range of anti‐inflammatory actions through their effects on cells of the immune system, as well as on other cells, e.g. microorganisms, thrombocytes and erythrocytes. The potent anti‐inflammatory properties of local anesthetics, superior in several aspects to traditional anti‐inflammatory agents of the NSAID and steroid groups and with fewer side‐effects, has prompted clinicians to introduce them in the treatment of various inflammation‐related conditions and diseases. They have proved successful in the treatment of burn injuries, interstitial cystitis, ulcerative proctitis, arthritis and herpes simplex infections. The detailed mechanisms of action are not fully understood but seem to involve a reversible interaction with membrane proteins and lipids thus regulating cell metabolic activity, migration, exocytosis and phagocytosis.
Effects of dose‐dependent levels of isoflurane on cerebral blood flow in healthy subjects studied using positron emission tomography
Authors: Schlünzen L. , Cold G. E. , Rasmussen M. , Vafaee M. S.
Published: February 2006

Background:  In this study, we tested the hypothesis that escalating drug concentrations of isoflurane are associated with a significant decline in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in regions sub‐serving conscious brain activity, including specifically the thalamus.

Methods:  Nine human volunteers received three escalating drug concentrations: 0.2, 0.4 and 1.0 MAC end‐tidal inhalation. During waking, baseline and the three levels of sedation, aO PET scan was performed.

Results:  Isoflurane decreased the bispectral index (BIS) values dose‐dependently. Cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were maintained constant over time. No significant change in global CBF was observed. Throughout all three MAC levels of sedation, isoflurane caused an increased regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the anterior cingulate and decreased rCBF in the cerebellum. Initially, isoflurane (0 vs. 0.2 MAC) significantly increased relative rCBF in the medial frontal gyrus and in the nucleus accumbens. At the next level (0.2 vs. 0.4 MAC), relative rCBF was significantly increased in the caudate nucleus and decreased in the lingual gyrus and cuneus. At the last level (0.4 vs. 1 MAC), relative rCBF was significantly increased in the insula and decreased in the thalamus, the cuneus and lingual gyrus. Compared with flow distribution in awake volunteers, 1 MAC of isoflurane significantly raised relative activity in the anterior cingulate and insula regions. In contrast, a significant relative flow reduction was identified in the thalamus, the cerebellum and lingual gyrus.

Conclusions:  Isoflurane, like sevoflurane, induced characteristic flow redistribution at doses of 0.2–1.0 MAC. At 1 MAC of isoflurane, rCBF decreased in the thalamus. Specific areas affected by both isoflurane and sevoflurane included the anterior cingulate, insula regions, cerebellum, lingual gyrus and thalamus.
Out of the Frying Pan and into the Fire: a Novel Trade‐Off for Batesian Mimics
Authors: Nelson Ximena J. , Li Daiqin , Jackson Robert R.
Published: February 2006

A mimicry system was investigated in which the models were ants (Formicidae) and both the mimics and the predators were jumping spiders (Salticidae). By using motionless lures in simultaneous‐presentation prey‐choice tests, how the predators respond specifically to the static appearance of ants and ant mimics was determined. These findings suggest a rarely considered adaptive trade‐off for Batesian mimics of ants. Mimicry may be advantageous when it deceives ant‐averse potential predators, but disadvantageous in encounters with ant‐eating specialists. Nine myrmecophagic (ant‐eating) species (from Africa, Asia, Australia and North America) and one araneophagic (spider‐eating) species (Portia fimbriatafrom Queensland) were tested with ants (five species), with myrmecomorphic (ant‐like) salticids (six species ofMyrmarachne) and with non‐ant‐like prey (dipterans and ordinary salticids). The araneophagic salticid chose an ordinary salticid and chose flies significantly more often than ants.Portia fimbriataalso chose the ordinary salticid and chose flies significantly more often than myrmecomorphic salticids. However, there was no significant difference in howP. fimbriataresponded to ants and to myrmecomorphic salticids. The myrmecophagic salticids chose ants and chose myrmecomorphic salticids significantly more often than ordinary salticids and significantly more often than flies, but myrmecophagic salticids did not respond significantly differently to myrmecomorphic salticids and ants.
The Multipredator Hypothesis and the Evolutionary Persistence of Antipredator Behavior
Authors: Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: February 2006

Invited Review

Isolation from predators affects prey behavior, morphology, and life history, but there is tremendous variation in the time course of these responses. Previous hypotheses to explain this variation have limited predictive ability. I develop a ‘multipredator’ hypothesis to explain the evolutionary persistence of antipredator behavior after the loss of some, but not all, of a species’ predators. The hypothesis assumes pleiotropy, whereby elements of antipredator behavior may function in non‐predatory situations, and linkage, such that genes influencing the expression of antipredator behavior do not assort independently. The hypothesis is restricted to species with multiple predators (most species) and aims to predict the conditions under which antipredator behavior will persist following the loss of one or more of a species’ predators. I acknowledge that the relative costs of non‐functional antipredator behavior will influence the likelihood of linkage and therefore persistence. The hypothesis makes two main predictions. First, genes responsible for antipredator behavior will not be scattered throughout the genome but rather may be found close together on the same chromosome(s). Secondly, the presence of any predators may be sufficient to maintain antipredator behavior for missing predators. Advances in behavioral genetics will allow tests of the first prediction, while studies of geographic variation in antipredator behavior provide some support for the second.
Control of Liriomyza langei on chrysanthemum by Diglyphus isaea produced with a standard or modified parasitoid rearing technique
Authors: Chow A. , Heinz K. M.
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  Overproduction of male parasitoids during mass rearing will increase costs for biological control because wasp shipments contain fewer females and only females kill hosts directly. We have developed a rearing technique capable of significantly reducing male‐biased sex ratios in Diglyphus isaea (Walker) (Hym., Eulophidae), a commercially reared parasitoid of agromyzid leafminers. In this study, we examined the effect of rearing technique on the efficacy of D. isaea for biological control of Liriomyza langei Frick (Dip., Agromyzidae) on chrysanthemum, Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev var. ‘Miramar’. We produced D. isaea on mixtures of small and large hosts (our modified technique) or on only large hosts (simulating commercial mass‐rearing) and compared: (1) control of L. langei with D. isaea produced by the two rearing techniques, and (2) damage and yield of unprotected and protected plants. The two rearing techniques produced similar numbers of waSPS per rearing cohort, but the ‘modified’ technique reduced the proportion of males by approximately 13%. The two techniques also produced females of similar size, but the ‘modified’ technique produced smaller males. In greenhouse trials simulating leafminer infestations of potted chrysanthemums during commercial production, we found no significant differences between the levels of control obtained by releasing identical numbers and sex ratios of adult waSPS produced by either rearing technique. Mine counts on plants protected by waSPS of either rearing history were similar and around 30–70% less than unprotected plants during most of the 11‐week crop cycle. At crop harvest, more than half of the foliage on protected plants was undamaged compared with <10% on unprotected crops. Damage to the flower stems of protected plants was relatively light in the top half of the canopy compared with the bottom half. Protected plants were around 10–15% taller and produced twice as many flower buds compared with unprotected plants. Our ‘modified’ rearing technique can reduce overproduction of males in D. isaea with no compromise in biological control efficacy. Adoption of our rearing technique by commercial insectaries could reduce implementation costs for not only D. isaea but also other parasitoids that show host‐size‐dependent sex allocation.
Geostatistical characterization of the spatial distribution of Grapholita molesta and Anarsia lineatella males in an agricultural landscape
Authors: Sciarretta A. , Trematerra P.
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  The results obtained in spatial analysis of pheromone trap catches of oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Busck) and Peach twig borer, Anarsia lineatella (Zeller), are reported. The studies were performed in the Molise region, central Italy, during 2002 and 2003. Local distributions of oriental fruit moth and peach twig borer males were considered in a heterogeneous landscape. The aim of the study was to determine the temporal and spatial variation in distribution and abundance of the insect pests inside small plots of fruit orchards (apple, kiwi, peach, pear and plum fruits) and outside (in field crops, irrigation channels, hedgerows and a river), and to evaluate the importance of the host plants in relation to the adult distributions. Results showed that the main ‘hot spot’ for both lepidopterous pests was in a stone fruit orchard in the northern zone of the study area; other infested areas were in stone orchards and, in the case of A. lineatella, also in plum orchards. The river seems to act as a barrier rather than an ecological corridor. The observed spatio‐temporal distributions of G. molesta and A. lineatella differed and were determined mainly by the location of the most important host plants and by the tendency of males to move in the environment, i.e. inside and outside the breeding and mating sites. Adequate knowledge of these spatial processes should be considered as an essential prerequisite for integrated pest management programmes in a precision farming approach.
Could resistance to insecticides in Plutella xylostella (Lep., Plutellidae) be overcome by insecticide mixtures?
Authors: Attique M. N. R. , Khaliq A. , Sayyed A. H.
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  To investigate if synergism occurs between pyrethroids, organophosphates and new insecticides, we tested representatives of these compounds (bifenthrin, chlorpyrifos, spinosad, indoxacarb and emamectin) against the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). Larvicidal activity of these insecticides was assessed separately and together on a susceptible strain (Lab‐UK) of P. xylostella as well as a field population collected from Multan. The field population showed significant resistance to chlorpyrifos (331 100‐fold), bifenthrin (45 200‐fold), emamectin (1800‐fold), spinosad (11‐fold) and indoxacarb (5600‐fold) when compared with the Lab‐UK population. When insecticides were mixed based on LC50 and tested at serial concentrations against Lab‐UK, significant synergy (CI < 1) occurred between bifenthrin, spinosad and emamectin. In contrast, the interaction between bifenthrin and indoxacarb was additive (CI = 1). The toxicity of bifenthrin against the field population increased significantly (P < 0.01) when combined with spinosad, emamectin and indoxacarb. Synergistic effects could be attributed to the complementary modes of action by these insecticide classes acting on different components of nerve impulse transmission (which are not identical for bifenthrin and indoxacarb either). However, chlorpyrifos/bifenthrin mixture was not significantly different either from bifenthrin or chlorpyrifos alone, indicating an additive affect. In combination with spinosad and emamectin, tested against the resistant field population, the toxicity of chlorpyrifos increased significantly and even more so with indoxacarb. Mixtures could also give rise to multiple resistance that may extend across other chemical classes and thus become difficult to manage. Therefore, alternative strategies such as mosaics or rotations should be considered. That is, though synergistic effects have been found, this should not be followed up as a strategy to manage resistant field populations.
An Improved Antiserum for Sensitive Serologic Detection of Chickpea chlorotic dwarf virus
Authors: Kumari S. G. , Makkouk K. M. , Attar N.
Published: February 2006

A Syrian chickpea isolate of Chickpea chlorotic dwarf virus (CpCDV; genus Mastrevirus, family Geminiviridae) was purified and yielded 0.6–0.8 mg of purified virus per kg of infected chickpea tissue. The purified preparations were injected into a rabbit and an antiserum of good quality was obtained and used to evaluate different serological tests for the detection of CpCDV in infected chickpea leaf tissue and extracts. CpCDV was detected in sap dilutions of 1/640 by double‐antibody sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (DAS‐ELISA) and dot‐blot ELISA, and in sap dilutions of 1/1280 by direct antigen‐coating (DAC)‐ELISA using CpCDV immunoglobulin G (IgG) at 0.5 μg/ml. The antiserum was also able to detect the capsid protein of CpCDV by Western blot using raw antiserum at a dilution of 1/2000. The CpCDV raw antiserum (third bleeding) produced had a titre of 1/320 000 when determined by tissue‐blot immunoassay (TBIA); whereas, coating ELISA plates with CpCDV IgG at a concentration of 0.004 μg/ml was enough to detect the virus by DAS‐ELISA in a sap dilution of 1/20 using an enzyme conjugate at a dilution of 1/2000.
Formulation and Delivery of the Bacterial Antagonist Bacillus subtilis for Management of Lentil Vascular Wilt Caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis
Authors: El‐Hassan S. A. , Gowen S. R.
Published: February 2006

Different formulations of Bacillus subtilis were prepared using standard laboratory protocols. Bacillus subtilis survived in glucose and talc powders at 8.6 and 7.8 log10 CFU/g, respectively, for 1 year of storage at room temperature compared with 3.5 log10 CFU/g on a peat formulation. Glasshouse experiments using soil and seed treatments were conducted to test the efficacy of B. subtilis for protecting lentil against the wilt disease caused by Fusariumoxysporum f. sp. lentis. Seed treatments with formulations of B. subtilis on glucose, talc and peat significantly enhanced its biocontrol activity against Fusarium compared with a treatment in which spores were applied directly to seed. The formulations decreased disease severity by reducing colonization of plants by the pathogen, promoting their growth and increased the dry weight of lentil plants. Of these treatments the glucose and talc‐based powder formulations were more effective than the peat formulation and the spore application without a carrier. It was shown that the B. subtilis spores applied with glucose were viable for longer than those applied with other carriers. Seed treatment with these formulated spores is an effective delivery system that can provide a conducive environment for B. subtilis to suppress vascular wilt disease on lentil and has the potential for utilization in commercial field application.
PCR‐based DNA Markers for Identifying Hybrids within Phytophthora alni
Authors: Bakonyi J. , Nagy Z. Á. , ÉRsek T.
Published: February 2006

Two pairs of oligonucleotide primers were designed for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based detection and differential identification of naturally occurring interspecific hybrid types (subspecies) of Phytophthora alni, all of which cause collar rot of alder trees. Primer pairs were derived from randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fragments that were unique to various subspecies of this alder pathogen. The primer pair set, SAP1/SAP2 (SAP), was derived from a 0.93‐kb RAPD fragment amplified from P. alni ssp. alni. The primer pair set, SWAP1/SWAP2 (SWAP), was derived from a 1.13‐kb fragment amplified from P. alni ssp. uniformis. Patterns of SAP and SWAP amplification enabled distinction among the three subspecies. No PCR products were amplified from isolates of 31 other Phytophthora spp. examined, including P. cambivora and P. fragariae, the suspected progenitors of P. alni. The SAP and SWAP primer sets were able to detect a minimum of 10 pg of DNA from pure cultures or DNA extracted from as few as 10 zoospores. Pathogen DNA could also be amplified directly from bark lesions of artificially inoculated and naturally infected common alders and from lesions developed on common cherry‐laurel leaves used in baiting the pathogen from infested soil. Direct detection of pathogen DNA from alder tissue using SAP and SWAP primer sets should prove useful in developing measures for effective quarantine and management of P. alni.
Genetic Similarity among Isolates of Pyrenophora tritici‐repentis, Causal Agent of Tan Spot of Wheat
Authors: Singh P. K. , Hughes G. R.
Published: February 2006

Tan spot, a foliar disease of wheat, is caused by the fungus Pyrenophora tritici‐repentis. On susceptible wheat cultivars, P. tritici‐repentis induces two distinct symptoms: tan necrosis and extensive chlorosis. Presently isolates of P. tritici‐repentis are classified into 11 races based on their virulence on a set of wheat differential genotypes. In nature, this pathogen reproduces both sexually and asexually, but the extent of genetic variability in the P. tritici‐repentis population of western Canada is unknown. This study was conducted to assess the genetic variability among different isolates of P. tritici‐repentis and to determine if similarities among isolates are correlated with race classification or geographic origin of the isolates. Thirty‐three isolates of P. tritici‐repentis and one isolate each of P. teres f. sp. teres, P. teres f. sp. maculata, P. graminea, Helminthosporium sativum and an uncharacterized isolate were studied with 30 random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) primers. Cluster analysis showed that all isolates had unique banding patterns and that clustering of isolates was independent of their race designation or geographic origin. Analysis of molecular variation (amova) showed that 96.8% of variability occurred among isolates and among race variability accounted for only 3.2% of the total variability.
MECHANISMS OF CARDIOTOXIN III‐INDUCED APOPTOSIS IN HUMAN COLORECTAL CANCER COLO205 CELLS
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Houng , Yang Sheng‐Huei , Chien Ching‐Ming , Lu Mei‐Chin , Lo Chao‐Sheng , Lin Yi‐Hsiung , Hu Xiu‐Wei , Lin Shinne‐Ren
Published: February 2006

Cardiotoxin III (CTX III) is a basic polypeptide with 60 amino acid residues isolated from Naja naja atra venom. This is the first report on the mechanism of the anticancer effect of CTX III in human colorectal cancer Colo205 cells.

Cardiotoxin III‐induced Colo205 cell apoptosis was confirmed by DNA fragmentation (DNA ladder and sub‐G1 formation) with an IC50 of 4 mg/mL at 48 h.

Further mechanistic analysis demonstrate that CTX III induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Dym), cytochrome c release from mitochondria into the cytosol and activation of capase‐9, caspase 3, as well as markedly enhancing the expression of Bax, but not Bcl‐2, protein in the cells. Moreover, the CTX III‐induced apoptosis was significantly blocked by the broad‐spectrum caspase inhibitor benzyloxycarbonyl‐Val‐Ala‐Asp‐fluoromethylketone.

However, CTX III did not generate the formation of reactive oxygen species and anti‐oxidants, including N‐acetylcysteine, and catalase could not block CTX III‐induced apoptosis in the Colo205 cells.

Taken together, these results suggest that CTX III may induce apoptosis through a mitochondrial‐ and caspase‐dependent mechanism and alteration of Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio in human colorectal Colo205 cancer cells.
BALLOON INJURY ALTERS α‐ADRENOCEPTOR EXPRESSION ACROSS RAT CAROTID ARTERY WALL
Authors: Faber James E , Yang Nengyu
Published: February 2006

a1‐Adrenoceptors (AR) mediate growth factor‐like activity of catecholamines on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) and adventitial fibroblasts. This trophic activity is strongly augmented by balloon injury, contributes significantly to subsequent proliferation, wall hypertrophy and lumen loss and is mediated by a1A‐ and a1B‐AR. However, it is not known how injury augments adrenergic trophic activity. The aim of the present study was to examine a‐AR expression in rat carotid artery and to test the hypothesis that balloon injury augments a1‐AR expression.

Neointima, media and adventitia were isolated at various days after balloon injury of rat carotid artery and subjected to quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and radioligand binding. Cultured SMC were also studied.

Transcripts for a1A‐, a1B‐, a1D‐ and a2D‐AR were expressed in different proportions in media and adventitia from uninjured carotid artery. Injury caused a reduction by as much as 85% at day 4 in all a‐AR mRNA (but not cyclophilin) in both the media and adventitia. In both layers, expression returned to control by day 21 for a2D‐AR and by day 42 for a1A‐AR, but remained reduced by 25–50% for a1B‐ and a1D‐AR at 42 days. a1‐Adrenoceptor transcripts in the neointima at 21 and 42 days after injury were expressed at levels more than 80% lower than in the media or adventitia of uninjured carotid; a2D‐AR mRNA was undetectable. The density of total a1‐AR binding sites was similar in the media and adventitia of uninjured carotid. Density was reduced by approximately 60% in the intima–media and adventitia 21 days after injury. To examine possible mechanisms, early passaged cultured SMC were studied that express a1D‐ and a1B‐AR at levels similar toin vivobut that do not express other a‐AR. Basic fibroblast growth factor caused downregulation of a1D‐AR mRNA and a1‐AR density, without affecting mRNA half‐life, whereas transforming growth factor‐b1 had no effect. Neither growth factor altered a1B‐AR message expression.

These data demonstrate that: (i) carotid artery expresses the same four a‐AR genes and similar total a1‐AR density in the SMC media and fibroblast‐rich adventitia; and (ii) injury induced enhancement of adrenergic trophic activity is not caused by upregulation of a1‐AR, but, instead, is associated with a generalized reduction in a‐AR expression.
PROGRESSION OF SEVERE ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND INCREASED ARTERIAL PULSE PRESSURE IN THE NEWLY DEVELOPED HERITABLE MIXED HYPERLIPIDAEMIC RABBITS
Authors: Shimoda Tomoko , Ishihata Akira , Aita Tomomi , Kaga Mikako , Ito Tsunekata , Ohwada Kazuo , Tomoike Hitonobu , Katano Yumi
Published: February 2006

We have recently segregated a new line of rabbit, named TGH, with severely high levels of plasma triglyceride and cholesterol. The aim of the present study was to investigate the progression of atherosclerosis and haemodynamic parameters in TGH rabbits.

Japanese white (JW) and TGH rabbits (24–27 months old) were anaesthetized with ketamine and xylazine. Plasma concentrations of triglyceride were 63.1  8.0 and 446.0  35.2 mg/dL in JW and TGH rabbits, respectively. Blood pressure was measured by a catheter implanted in the femoral artery. Histological examinations were performed using haematoxylin–eosin and elastica–Masson trichrome staining to detect atherosclerotic lesions.

The JW rabbits had no atherosclerotic lesions. In TGH rabbits, severe atherosclerotic lesions were observed throughout the aorta, especially in the aortic arch. Basal femoral arterial pressure was not significantly different between JW and TGH rabbits. However, the basal pulse pressure in TGH rabbits (48.3  4.5 mmHg) was significantly greater than that of JW rabbits (28.0  5.6 mmHg). Intravenous infusion of NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME; 26.9 mg/kg) increased the blood pressure of TGH and JW rabbits. There was no significant difference in the response to l‐NAME between the two rabbit strains.

The present study shows that severe atherosclerotic changes develop in TGH rabbits and suggests that the hyperlipidaemia combined with hypercholesterolaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia is an important factor for promoting atherosclerosis in TGH rabbits. The greater pulse pressure in TGH rabbits may be due to the increased vascular stiffness with atherosclerosis.

This newly developed TGH rabbit line of heritable hypertriglyceridaemia with hypercholesterolaemia will become a useful animal model for studies on the role of hyperlipidaemia in the progression of atherosclerosis and in many atherosclerosis‐related diseases.
ROLE OF CAPSAICIN‐SENSITIVE SENSORY NERVES IN MEDIATION OF THE CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS OF THE ESSENTIAL OIL OFCROTON ZEHNTNERILEAVES IN ANAESTHETIZED RATS
Authors: de Siqueira RJB , Leal‐Cardoso JH , Couture R , Lahlou S
Published: February 2006

The essential oil ofCroton zehntneriPax et Hoffm. (EOCZ) contains anethole (42%) and estragole (46%), two isomers that share some chemical structural similarities with capsaicin. The present study investigated the cardiovascular effects of EOCZ and the role of capsaicin‐sensitive sensory nerve fibres in the mediation of these effects in anaesthetized rats.

Intravenous bolus injection of EOCZ (1–20 mg/kg) elicited dose‐dependent hypotension and bradycardia that were immediate and transient. Similar responses were also observed with anethole and estragole (both at 10 mg/kg). After cervical bivagotomy or perineural treatment of both cervical vagus nerves with capsaicin (250 mg/mL) to selectively block the conduction of sensory C‐fibres, both cardiovascular responses to EOCZ (10 mg/kg) were abolished.

Like capsaicin, an epigastric retrograde intra‐arterial injection of EOCZ (10 mg/kg, i.a.) into the femoral artery elicited a monophasic hypotensive response. This reflex response was blocked by either neonatal pretreatment with capsaicin (50 mg/kg, s.c.) or intrathecal injection of the substance P receptor antagonist RP 67580 (7.8 nmol, at the spinal level L5–L6), suggesting that it is mediated exclusively by substance P‐containing primary afferent fibres.

The cardiovascular responses to EOCZ (10 mg/kg, i.v.) were also significantly reduced by the selective vallinoid TPRV1 receptor antagonist capsazepine (1 mg/kg, i.v.).

It is concluded that i.v. administration of EOCZ in anaesthetized rats elicits a capsaicin‐like bradycardic and depressor reflex, which appears to be mediated by the activation of vallinoid TPRV1 receptors located on vagal sensory nerves. Like capsaicin, i.a. injection of EOCZ induces a spinally mediated sensory reflex.
RESPIRATORY CONSEQUENCES OF PRETERM BIRTH
Authors: Moss Timothy JM
Published: February 2006

Approximately 8% of Australia's 250 000 annual births occur preterm (before 37 weeks completed gestation). Preterm infants represent 75% of all neonatal deaths in Australia, with the vast majority of these deaths caused by pulmonary disease.

The respiratory consequences for survivors of preterm birth include the immediate challenges of breathing with underdeveloped lungs, usually manifest as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and, in the long term, with persisting pulmonary abnormalities. Therapies to prevent neonatal lung disease now permit survival of preterm infants born as early as 22 weeks gestational age, but not without consequences.

Preterm infants are at risk of developing chronic lung disease/bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The lungs of infants dying from BPD are inflamed and have fewer, larger alveoli than normal and exhibit abnormal pulmonary vascular development. There is now a growing appreciation of the contribution of intrauterine inflammation to the aetiology of BPD.

Impaired airway function is commonly reported in follow‐up studies of children born preterm. Decreased expiratory flow rates have been associated with preterm birth per se, but airway function appears more affected in survivors of RDS and BPD. Observations in survivors of BPD suggest persisting abnormalities in the structure of the lung parenchyma and airways.

Follow‐up studies of preterm infants into adulthood are lacking, as are experimental examinations of the long‐term physiological and anatomical effects of preterm birth. Both are necessary to understand the causes of the long‐term respiratory consequences of preterm birth.
Application of the Revised Infant Temperament Questionnaire for evaluating temperament in the Japanese infant: Creation of an abridged Japanese version
Authors: SASAKI YASUKO , MIZUNO RIE , KANEKO HITOSHI , MURASE SATOMI , HONJO SHUJI
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The Japanese version of the Revised Infant Temperament Questionnaire (RITQ) was implemented to re‐evaluate factor structure of the temperament scale with the objective of simplification. The questionnaire was conducted on 1099 mothers of Japanese infants visiting health centers for their children's health examinations at 6 or 7 months. As a result, a 57‐item abridged version was constructed consisting of the seven subscales: ‘fear of strangers and strange situations’, ‘insensitivity to food’, ‘regularity of rhythm’, ‘manageability’, ‘activity level’, ‘persistence of attention’, and ‘insensitivity to touch’. Although the items did not break down into the traditional nine temperament dimensions extracted by Carey et al., a certain commonality was seen in factor structure compared with the results of factor analysis using the RITQ in studies in Japan and abroad.
Psychological impact of verbal abuse and violence by patients on nurses working in psychiatric departments
Authors: INOUE MAKOTO , TSUKANO KEN , MURAOKA MITSUTARO , KANEKO FUMIKO , OKAMURA HITOSHI
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The aim of this study was to assess the psychological impact of verbal abuse or violence by patients on nurses working in psychiatry departments and to identify factors related to their impact. Survey sheets were distributed to a total of 266 nurses working at two hospitals, and replies were obtained from 232 of them. Because three of them had less than 1 month of experience working in the psychiatry department and four of them failed to answer all the questions, valid replies were obtained from 225 nurses. Among the 225 whose replies were valid, 141 nurses who replied that they had experienced verbal abuse or violence that left an impression on them remained as the subjects of the final analysis. The Impact of Event Scale‐Revised (IES‐R) was used to evaluate psychological impact. Of the nurses who had been exposed to verbal abuse or violence that left an impression, 21% had scores that exceeded the IES‐R cut‐off point (24/25), and low satisfaction with family support, and neuroticism on the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire‐Revised were shown to have contributed to the psychological impact. Nurses working in psychiatry departments were shown to experience a severe psychological impact when exposed to verbal abuse or violence. These results suggest the need for mental care approaches for nurses working in psychiatry departments.
Putative temperament of patients with generalized anxiety disorder: Two‐years’ interval test–retest reliability of a Japanese version of the Generalized Anxious Temperament
Authors: OSONE AKIRA , TAKAHASHI SABURO
Published: February 2006

Abstract  This study examined long‐interval test–retest reliability of the Generalized Anxious Temperament (GAT) Japanese version, which is a self‐rated questionnaire to measure the temperament of patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). First, we investigated the prevalence of GAT in 214 healthy Japanese subjects (107 females and 107 males). Second, we administered GAT to the 117 (77 females and 40 males) patients with GAD, together with GAF (Global Assessment of Functioning) and HAM‐A (Hamilton Anxiety Scale), and readministered after 2 years to examine its reliability. GAT showed good test–retest reliability (Pearson's correlation coefficient = 0.8). Cronbach's alpha of the 26 GAT items was 0.93 that indicated a high level of internal consistency. GAT scores were not influenced by psychological, social or occupational functioning, nor by anxiety symptoms and remained stable over 2 years. GAT scores did not correlate with the age or sex of the control subjects. GAT scores were higher in patients with GAD than they were in control subjects, particularly in females. Twenty‐three of 26 GAT items were significantly higher in patients with GAD than in healthy subjects. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that GAT scores in patients with GAD were higher in females than in males (P < 0.01) and in those with early onset of the disorder (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the anxious temperament appears to increase the risk of early onset of GAD, particularly in females. This long interval and large sample research of test–retest reliability on GAT indicated its usefulness for understanding the core features of GAD.
How have we been managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Australia?
Authors: Matheson M. C. , Abeysena C. , Raven J. M. , Skoric B. , Johns D. P. , Abramson M. J. , Walters E. H.
Published: February 2006

Aim: Although chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a main cause of disability, hospital admissions and premature deaths in Australia, little is known about the community management of COPD in relation to recently published guidelines. The aim of the article was to report on COPD management in a community based cohort.

Methods: A random sample of adults aged between 45 and 70 years drawn from the electoral roll participated in the study. They completed a detailed respiratory questionnaire, spirometry, methacholine challenge and measurement of transfer factor. COPD was defined according to the Global initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. Current asthma was defined as wheeze during the last 12 months together with bronchial hyperreactivity. Subjects were classified as either COPD‐only, asthma‐only or both asthma and COPD.

Results: Of 1224 subjects completing spirometry, 39 (3.5%) met the GOLD criteria for stage 2 or 3 COPD, asthma‐only was found in 99 (8.9%) subjects and 40 (3.6%) subjects had both asthma and COPD. The COPD‐only group was significantly older than the other two groups. More than 40% of subjects with COPD did not have a diagnosis of COPD from their doctors. Only 48.7% of subjects with COPD had ever been prescribed medication for their breathing. More than two‐thirds of all subjects had seen a doctor for breathing problems, but very few had seen a general practitioner in the last 12 months and even fewer had respiratory function tests.

Conclusions: Most subjects with COPD are being undertreated. Diagnosis, monitoring and referral systems should be improved. Preventive activities such as influenza vaccination and smoking cessation should be intensified.
Medication accuracy and general practitioner referral letters
Authors: Carney S. L.
Published: February 2006

Prescriber medication communication is a Quality Use of Medicines barrier. Medication information in General Practice (GP) referral letters to a physician was evaluated. Accuracy of medications taken and drug dose was respectively 63% and 84%, an overall accuracy rate of 58%. Complementary/over‐the‐counter medication documentation occurred in 26% of the letters. To avoid medical mismanagement, physicians must validate all GP medication lists regardless of their apparent comprehensiveness.