bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ULTRASTRUCTURE AND CYTOCHEMISTRY OF EARLY SPERMATANGIAL DEVELOPMENT IN ANTITHAMNION NIPPONICUM (CERAMIACEAE, RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Kim Gwang Hoon , Fritz Lawrence
Published: October 2004

Spermatial development and differentiation of wall components were investigated by electron microscopy and cytochemical methods in Antithamnion nipponicum Yamada et Inagaki. The spermatium is composed of two parts, a globular head and two appendages projecting from near the basal portion. The appendages originate form spermatangial vesicles (SVs) and follow a developmental sequence beginning as amorphous material and ending as fully formed fibrous structures compressed with in the SVs. SV formation is due to contributions initially from endoplasmic reticulum and later form dictyosome‐derived vesicles. Chemical differentiation of the spermatial wall occurs early in its development. Calcofluor white ST does not label spermatial walls, indicating an absence of cellulose polysaccharides, which are abundant in vegetative cell walls. Labeled lectins show that α‐d‐methyl manose and / or α‐d‐glucose as well as N‐acetyl‐glucosamine, β‐d‐galactose, and α‐l‐fucose moieties are present on the spermatial wall but not in the vegetative cell wall. The glyconjugate with α‐d‐methyl mannose and / or glucose residues, previously reported as a gamete recognition molecule in this species, is distributed along the surface of spermatia as well as in the SV during spermatangial development.
GENOTYPIC RELATIONSHIPS IN TRICHODESMIUM (CYANOPHYCEAE) BASED ON nifH SEQUENCE COMPARISONS1
Authors: Ben‐Porath Judith , Carpenter Edward J. , Zehr Jonathan P.
Published: October 2004

The DNA sequence of a fragment of nifH was compared to natural populations of the marine cyanobacteria Trichodesmium thiebautii and T. erythraeum from the Caribbean Sea and the unialgal culture Trichodesmium sp. NIBB 1067, which was isolated from the Kuroshio waters (Japan). Through replication Of amplification, cloning, and sequencing, four nucleotides in a 359‐bp fragment were identified that were identical in sequence to Trichodesmium sp. NIBB 1067 and natural populations of T. erythraeum but were distinctly different in sequence from T. thiebautii. The data indicate that Trichodesmium sp. NIBB 1067 is more closely related to T. erythraeum than to T. thiebautii.
OBSERVATIONS ONCHAETOCEROS BUCEROS(BACILLARIOPHYCEAE), A RARE TROPICAL PLANKTONIC SPECIES COLLECTED FROM THE MEXICAN PACIFIC1
Authors: Hernández‐Becerril David U. , Meave del Castillo María E. , Lara Villa Miguel A.
Published: October 2004

Examination of net plankton samples from the Gulf of Tehuantepec (Mexican Pacific) yielded a rare tropical species of the genusChaetoceros, C. bucerosKarsten. This species is conspicuous because of its relatively large size, type of chain formation, and shape of the terminal setae. Electron microscopic study revealed other interesting characteristics: the intercalary values are more lightly silicified than the terminal valves and show a pattern of costae radiating form the center with various annuli (“central hyaline fields”) in the center of the valve face; both kind of valves are perforated by small poroids. Terminal valves possess several (21–30) slitlike and randomly oriented rimoportulae. Important morphological differences exist between the intercalary and the terminal setae. Morphological characters, comparision with related species, and the systematic position are discussed. A new section of the subgenus Hyalochaete, Conspicua, is proposed to includeC. buceros.
A FURTHER SEM STUDY OF MARINE BENTHIC DINOFLAGELLATES FROM A MANGROVE ISLAND, TWIN CAYS, BELIZE, INCLUDING PLAGIODINIUM BELIZEANUM GEN. ET SP. NOV.1
Authors: Faust Maria A. , Balech Enrique
Published: October 2004

This study indicates that bilaterally flattened, armored, benthic dinoflagellates are more diverse in morphology than previously known. A new species, Plagiodinium belizeanum Faust et Balech gen. et. sp. nov., is described in floating detritus from Twin Cays, Belize, mangrove habitats. Plagiodinium belizeanum cells are small, with dimensions of 26.5–30.5 μm in length, 20–24.5 μm in width, and 6.5–8.5 μm in depth. Cells are oblong and bilaterally compressed with a posteriorly located, spherical nucleus, many chloroplasts, and spherical starch granules. The epitheca descends ventrally, is cap‐shaped, and is composed of five plates and a very small platelet provisionally named P0 situated in the center. The epitheca is narrowly oval in apical view with a pointed truncated ventral side and a rounded dorsal side. The cingulum is composed of five plates. The hypotheca is constructed of five posteriorly elongated postcingular plates and one antapical plate. The sulcus is very short and narrow, comprised of five very small plates. The thecal plate arrangement of P. belizeanum is P0, 5′, O″, 5C, 5″′, 1″″, 5S. No lists are present. Thecal plates have a smooth surface with small and irregularly scattered pores. The intercalary band is smooth on outer cell surface and broadly striated on its inner surface. We conclude that P. belizeanum represents a new, benthic, peridinioid, armored genus, Plagiodinium gen. nov. The taxonomic position of P. belizeanum sp. nov. is compared to related sand‐dwelling and bilaterally flattened benthic dinoflagellates.
DEFORMATIVE DISEASE IN IRIDAEA LAMINARIOIDES (RHODOPHYTA): GALL DEVELOMENT ASSOCIATED WITH AN ENDOPHYTIC CYANOBACTERIUM1
Authors: Correa Juan A. , Flores Verónica , Sánchez Pablo
Published: October 2004

This study is the first report of an algal disease, developed in close association with an endophytic organism, documented for the southeastern Pacific. We describe a disease affecting wild populations of the red alga Iridaea laminarioides Bory in central Chile, characterized by gall development on the surface of sporophytic, cystocarpic, and immature thalli. These abnormal growths result in severe morphological alterations of the affected thalli. Diseased fronds display an aggregated spatial distribution and occur throughout the year, with a maximum in summer followed by a decline in winter. The presence of galls was not associated with broken or torn fronds. Although causality has not been unequivocally demonstrated, our field and laboratory observations indicate a strong association of the galls with infections by an endophytic cyanobacterium, probably belonging to the genus Pleurocapsa.
Severe food stress has no detectable impact on developmental instability inDaphnia magna
Authors: Christian Stige Leif , Olav Hessen Dag , Asbjørn Vøllestad Leif
Published: October 2004

Groups of individuals (three replicates of four treatment groups of 10 individuals) ofDaphnia magnawere exposed to nutritional stress in the forms of reduced food quantity and/or quality (phosphorus‐limitation). Both types of stress led to reduced growth and reproduction, producing a gradient from surplus of high quality food to severe nutritional stress. There was no effect of nutritional stress on developmental instability measured either as fluctuating asymmetry or as phenotypic variability in body shape. Computer simulations confirmed that the lack of effect was not simply due to low statistical power. Low food quantity led to larger variability among individuals in overall body size, but this was most likely due to exploitative competition and competitive dominance of larger individuals. Low food quantity also led to increased occurrence of abnormal postabdominal spines (two spines appearing from one basis), but other analyses suggested that abnormal spines may actually represent an adaptive phenotypic response rather than a deviant phenotype caused by developmental instability. In conclusion, the results suggest thatDaphnia magnaare able to maintain high developmental stability even under extreme nutritional stress. This casts doubt on the utility of using any of the investigated measures of developmental instability as general indicators of environmental stress.
Anthropology and relevance
Authors: Ezeh P.‐J. , Hart Keith
Published: October 2004

a response to Keith Hart (AT20[1])
Locating the field: Metaphors of space, place and context in anthropology
Authors: Lim Francis Khek Gee , Thiranagara Sharika
Published: October 2004

ASA Conference, Grey College, Durham, 29 March‐1 April 2004
Making it explicit: Presentation and representation of Native North Americans
Authors: Carocci Max
Published: October 2004

Huis van Chièvre, Leuven, Belgium, 3‐5 May 2004
Palaeoanthropology and modern human populations of Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Angelopoulou Roxani , Lavranos Giagkos
Published: October 2004

The International Congress of the Hellenic Anthropological Association (HAA), Athens, 21‐23 November 2003
Extracellular superoxide dismutase tissue distribution and the patterns of superoxide dismutase mRNA expression following ultraviolet irradiation on mouse skin
Authors: Choung B. Y. , Byun S. J. , Suh J. G. , Kim T.‐Y.
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are believed to play a crucial role in protecting cells against oxygen toxicity. There are three forms of SOD: cytosolic Cu–Zn SOD, mitochondrial Mn SOD, and extracellular SOD (EC SOD). Extracellular SOD is primarily a tissue enzyme, but the role of EC SOD in skin is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the distribution of EC SOD in the skin using immunohistochemistry and examining the patterns of EC SOD gene expression following ultraviolet (UV) irradiation in comparison with those of Cu–Zn SOD and Mn SOD in mouse dorsal skin using Northern blot analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that EC SOD was abundantly located in the epidermis as well as in the dermis, but the gene expression of EC SOD mRNA was more abundant in the dermis than in the epidermis. The gene expression levels of all three types of SODs after UV irradiation were induced differently according to the type and UV irradiation dose. The EC SOD mRNA expression level was increased relatively later than that of Cu–Zn SOD and Mn SOD. The EC SOD mRNA level was significantly higher at 6 h and 48 h after UVA irradiation and psoralen plus ultraviolet‐A treatment, respectively. Ultraviolet‐B irradiation increased the EC SOD mRNA expression level, with maximum at 48 h. These suggest that EC SOD participates in the majority of antioxidant systems in the skin, and it may have different defensive roles from Cu–Zn SOD and Mn SOD against UV‐induced injury of the skin.
High plasminogen activator inhibitor type 2 expression is a hallmark of scleroderma fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Kessler‐Becker Daniela , Smola Sigrun , Krieg Thomas , Eckes Beate
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  Systemic scleroderma is a chronic disease, which leads to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Fibroblasts obtained from patients with this disease demonstrate an activated state in culture. We, in this study, report strong, constitutive overexpression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type‐2 (PAI‐2) in scleroderma fibroblasts and demonstrate that this induction observed at the mRNA and protein level is dependent on serum addition. Induced PAI‐2 protein levels were restricted to the non‐glycosylated 47‐kDa form, which is located intracellularly. Induction was stable for at least 12 passages. No modulation by fibrogenic cytokines – for example, transforming growth factor‐β1 or connective tissue growth factor – or by antagonizing IL‐1 receptors was observed. The data indicate that scleroderma fibroblasts are more sensitive to the induction of PAI‐2 expression than control fibroblasts by a presently unknown factor in serum.
The −431C>T polymorphism of thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine increases the promoter activity but is not associated with susceptibility to atopic dermatitis in Japanese patients
Authors: Tsunemi Yuichiro , Komine Mayumi , Sekiya Takashi , Saeki Hidehisa , Nakamura Koichiro , Hirai Koichi , Kakinuma Takashi , Kagami Shinji , Fujita Hideki , Asano Noriko , Tanida Yuka , Wakugawa Motoshi , Torii Hideshi , Tamaki Kunihiko
Published: October 2004

Background:  Thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). We recently detected the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (−431C>T) in the 5′‐flanking region of TARC gene.

Objectives:  To examine whether the −431C>T SNP of the TARC gene is associated with susceptibility to AD and whether it affects the promoter activity of the TARC gene.

Methods:  We investigated the genotype and allele frequencies of the SNP in 193 AD patients and 158 healthy controls by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method. We compared the promoter activities between TARC promoter carrying 431C and that carrying −431T by transient‐transfection assay in DJM‐1 cell line.

Results:  There were no significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies between AD patients and controls (genotype: P = 0.38, allele: P = 0.22). Luciferase activity was higher in −431T constructs than in −431C constructs (2.3‐fold, P = 9.5 × 10−6).

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the −431C>T SNP of the TARC gene enhances the promoter activity of TARC gene but is not associated with susceptibility to AD in Japanese population.
Anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (Flk‐1/KDR) antibody suppresses contact hypersensitivity
Authors: Watanabe Hideaki , Mamelak Adam J. , Wang Binghe , Howell Brandon G. , Freed Irwin , Esche Clemens , Nakayama Masashi , Nagasaki Go , Hicklin Daniel J. , Kerbel Robert S. , Sauder Daniel N.
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  The angiogenic mediator vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs) have been studied extensively in neoplastic disease and some inflammatory conditions. Contact hypersensitivity (CHS) is a prototypic Langerhans' cell‐dependent, T‐helper (Th) 1 cell‐mediated inflammatory skin disease that is now also thought to involve angiogenic mediators. The purpose of our study was to examine the role of angiogenesis and VEGF in CHS. We demonstrated that VEGF production is up‐regulated in murine skin after challenge with dinitrofluorobenzene. Administration of a monoclonal antibody directed against the VEGFR‐2 (DC101) resulted in a 28.8% decrease in CHS response (P < 0.001). Examination of the DC101‐treated mouse skin 24 h after challenge revealed decreases in dermal inflammatory cellular infiltrates and total vessel area. Furthermore, mRNA and protein of the Th1‐type cytokine interferon (IFN)‐γ was significantly down‐regulated in skin of DC101‐treated animals 24 h after challenge. The results of the study demonstrate that VEGFR‐2 blockade significantly reduces vascular enlargement and edema formation and effects IFN‐γ expression in the skin during challenge in CHS. Our findings suggest that DC101 could function by reducing inflammatory cell migration and hence IFN‐γ expression during the CHS response.
Safety and efficacy of unmodified whole blood vs. buffy coat‐depleted red cell concentrates in autologous transfusion of elective orthopaedic surgery patients
Authors: Karger R. , Stangenberg K. , Hinrichs F. , Griss P. , Kretschmer V.
Published: October 2004

summary.

Storing autologous blood as whole blood (WB) has been proposed for increasing the cost‐effectiveness of preoperative autologous blood donation programmes. However, experimental data suggest that autologous leucocytes might lead to immunomodulation similar to the effect attributed to allogeneic leucocytes.

In a retrospective analysis, the postoperative outcome of 120 patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery and having donated up to two units of autologous WB (AWB) was compared with that of a control group of 52 patients, whose autologous donation had been processed into buffy coat‐depleted red cell concentrates (RCC). At least one autologous unit, but no allogeneic units, had been transfused in all analysed patients.

Donation schemes were equally efficacious in both groups. There was no significant difference in postoperative infection rates between the two groups. Overall rates were 7·7% in the RCC group and 8·3% in the WB group. Surgical, thromboembolic and other recorded complications, length of postoperative hospital stay and days of the use of antibiotics were also not significantly different between the two groups.

The results of this study suggest that transfusion of up to two units of unmodified AWB is as efficacious as the transfusion of autologous RCC and does not negatively influence the postoperative outcome in elective orthopaedic surgery.
Cryoprecipitate prepared from plasma treated with methylene blue plus light: increasing the fibrinogen concentration
Authors: Hornsey V. S. , Young D. A. , Docherty A. , Hughes W. , Prowse C. V.
Published: October 2004

summary.

When cryoprecipitate is prepared from plasma which has been treated with methylene blue plus light (MB) for the purpose of virus inactivation, clottable fibrinogen content is 40% lower compared with units prepared from untreated plasma.

Initial studies showed that when frozen MB plasma units were removed to +2 to +6 °C for 4 h and then returned to −40 °C prior to cryoprecipitation, fibrinogen recoveries increased from 24 to 42%. Although fibrinogen yield improved when plasma units were stored at +2 to +6 °C for varying lengths of time, FVIII levels decreased with increasing time.

Conditioning for 8 h was studied in more detail. Groups of two plasma units were mixed together, divided into two equal units, frozen/thawed and treated with MB. One of each pair was stored continually at −40 °C, whereas the other was removed to +2 to +6 °C for 8 h. Samples were assayed for fibrinogen, FVIII, VWF:Ristocetin cofactor activity (RCo), VWF:Ag and VWF:Collagen binding (CB). The cryoprecipitate fibrinogen content increased to a mean of 207 mg unit−1. VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and VWF:CB recoveries also increased. FVIII recovery decreased from 50 to 45% (mean 124 iu unit−1).

Conditioning has been validated for routine production of cryoprecipitate from imported plasma.
Hypotension and acute pulmonary insufficiency following transfusion of autologous red blood cells during surgery: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Covin R. B. , Ambruso D. R. , England K. M. , Kelher M. R. , Mehdizadehkashi Z. , Boshkov L. K. , Masuno T. , Moore E. E. , Kim F. J. , Silliman C. C.
Published: October 2004

summary.

Transfusion of autologous blood is associated with fewer complications, although all untoward events of transfusion may not be negated with this strategy. We report a case of acute pulmonary insufficiency and hypotension following transfusion of autologous packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in a patient, who was undergoing major surgery. Anti‐HLA class‐I and class‐II and anti‐granulocyte antibodies were measured in the unit and in the recipient. Neutrophil (PMN)‐priming activity was measured as the augmentation of the formyl‐Met‐Leu‐Phe‐activated respiratory burst. No immunoglobulins were identified; however, significant lipid‐priming activity was present in the implicated, autologous PRBC unit that primed PMNs from both healthy people and the recipient. In addition, lipids, identical to those that accumulate during PRBC storage, caused significant hypotension when infused into rats at similar concentrations found in stored PRBCs. We conclude that the observed transfusion‐related acute lung injury reaction with significant hypotension may be the result of two independent events: the first is related to inherent host factors, in this case major surgery, and the second is the infusion of lipids that accumulate during the routine storage of PRBCs.
Is routine post‐operative haemoglobin measurement required after transurethral resection of the prostate?
Authors: Shah J. , Nethercliffe J.
Published: October 2004

summary.  The aim of this study is to evaluate the rate of blood transfusion during the post‐operative period in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and to determine the value of using post‐operative haemoglobin (Hb) measurement as a guide to transfusion requirements. In a retrospective study, pre‐ and post‐operative Hb measurements and the resected prostatic tissue weights were recorded for 106 patients. There was a statistically significant change in the Hb concentration within 48 h of the operation (P < 0·0001), although this was clinically insignificant in the majority of patients. The post‐operative blood transfusion rate was 0·85% and there was a significant correlation between change in Hb concentration and the resected tissue weight (P < 0·0001). Our results show that routine post‐operative Hb is not necessary in patients following a TURP.
An addiction agency's collaboration with the drinks industry: Moo Joose as a case study
Authors: Munro Geoffrey
Published: October 2004

Aim  This paper analyses a partnership between an addiction agency and the drinks industry in Australia, with special reference to concerns held by public health advocates for such projects.

Method  Public health anxieties regarding collaboration between the drugs sector and the drinks industry are identified. A projected partnership between the Alcohol and Drug Foundation—Queensland (ADFQ) and the liquor industry in Australia is reviewed. The partnership involves the creation of a new organization, Alcohol Education Australia Ltd. (AEA), which states as its aim the education of consumers in responsible drinking. In order to assess the impact of the partnership an examination is undertaken of the AEA's stated mission and objectives, of relevant policy development by ADFQ and of ADFQ's intervention in support of an alcohol manufacturer which was putting a case to a licensing authority.

Findings  The results indicate the partnership advances the interests of the drinks industry rather than public health. The mission and objectives of Alcohol Education Australia Ltd subordinate public health goals to industry aims and the host organization, the ADFQ, has changed its policy and practice to accommodate the drinks industry.

Conclusion  The partnership between the ADFQ and the drinks industry indicates the difficulty faced by addiction organizations in maintaining an uncompromising public health orientation when in partnership with the alcohol industry.
Genetic and environmental contributions to age of onset of alcohol dependence symptoms in male twins
Authors: Liu I‐Chao , Blacker Deborah L. , Xu Ronghui , Fitzmaurice Garrett , Tsuang Ming T. , Lyons Michael J.
Published: October 2004

Aims To investigate genetic and environmental influences on the development of specific alcohol dependence symptoms.

Design and participants A classical twin study of 3372 male–male twin pairs in the Vietnam Era Twin (VET) Registry based on telephone interviews about alcohol use.

Measurements The nine diagnostic symptoms according to theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, version III (revised) (DSM‐III‐R) definition of alcohol dependence. Symptoms were grouped into those based on impaired control, biological effects and social consequences (Beresford's classification) or early versus late symptoms (Nelson's classification). Survival models with random effects were used to examine the age of onset of each symptom.

Findings Approximately 38% of the variation in age of onset of each symptom group based on Beresford's classification is due to additive genetic factors. The age of onset of late symptoms from Nelson's classification appears to be most affected by genetic factors. Estimates of genetic effects for impaired control symptoms are greatly decreased when twins with comorbid psychiatric disorders are excluded.

Conclusions Our results support the heritability of age of onset of DSM‐III‐R‐defined symptoms for alcohol dependence. However, no symptom group in Beresford's classification could be identified as more heritable than other symptom groups. A strong association between genetic vulnerability and co‐occurring diseases for symptoms indicative of impaired control could be found. In addition, our findings show that the late symptom group could be a good candidate for subsequent genetic research.
Patient approaches to clinical conversations in the palliative care setting
Authors: Clover Alexandra , Browne Jan , McErlain Peter , Vandenberg Bernadette
Published: October 2004

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to report a study exploring patients’ understanding of their discussions about end‐of‐life care with nurses in a palliative care setting.

Background.  It is assumed that nurses are central players in patients’ major decisions about their care, yet minimal information is available about the complexity of patient–nurse interaction in palliative care, and patients’ views of the impact of such interactions on decisions that are made.

Method.  A modified version of grounded theory was used to collect and analyse interview data collected in 2001–2002 with a convenience sample of 11 patients in a palliative care setting. Interviews focused on each patient's selection of two decisions they had made in the past 6 months that had involved nurses in the decision‐making process.

Findings.  Processes were identified between nurses and patients that facilitated or blocked open discussion and discernment of patients’ preferences for care. Six approaches that patients used in their conversations with nurses about their care: wait and see, quiet acceptance, active acceptance, tolerating bossiness, negotiation and being adamant. These approaches are described in terms of how they assisted or impeded autonomous decision‐making.

Conclusion.  Palliative care patients often adopt passive roles and tend not to engage in important decision‐making, for various reasons. Professionals need to be made aware of this, and should facilitate an open, trusting relationship with patients in order to ensure that important information passes freely in both directions. Professionals should learn to prioritize patient participation and negotiation in their work. With further research, it should be possible to identify the factors that will allow patients to take a more pro‐active role in making decisions about their care, where desired.
Adolescent mothers: resilience, family health work and health‐promoting practices
Authors: Black Claire , Ford‐Gilboe Marilyn
Published: October 2004

Aims.  This paper reports a study examining the relationships among mother's resilience, family health promotion (i.e. health work) and mother's health‐promoting lifestyle practices in single‐parent families led by adolescent mothers by testing hypotheses derived from the Developmental Model of Health and Nursing.

Background.  Research on families led by adolescent mothers has focussed primarily on negative maternal and child outcomes while ignoring the capacities of these families, including their efforts to promote the health and well‐being of both mothers and children.

Methods.  This replication study was conducted with convenience sample of 41 adolescent mothers recruited using a variety of strategies. Mothers were asked to provide verbal responses to items on three study instruments: The Resilience Scale, a measure of mother's resilience, the Health Options Scale, a measure of family health work and the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile a measure of mother's health promoting lifestyle practices, as well as a demographic questionnaire.

Results.  Consistent with the theory, moderate positive relationships were observed between mothers’ resilience and both family health work (r = 0·34, P = 0·01) and mothers’ health‐promoting lifestyle practices (r = 0·42, P < 0·001). As predicted, moderate correlations were also observed between health work and mother's health promoting lifestyle practices (r = 0·62, P < 0·001). With the effects of employment status and professional support held constant, mother's resilience and health work explained 30·2% of the variance in mother's health‐promoting lifestyle practices.

Conclusions.  The study validates theoretical relationships among concepts in the developmental model of health and nursing and contributes to better understanding health promotion in families led by adolescent mothers.
Methodological rigour within a qualitative framework
Authors: Tobin Gerard A. , Begley Cecily M.
Published: October 2004

Aim.  This paper discusses the literature on establishing rigour in research studies. It describes the methodological trinity of reliability, validity and generalization and explores some of the issues relating to establishing rigour in naturalistic inquiry.

Background.  Those working within the naturalistic paradigm have questioned the issue of using validity, reliability and generalizability to demonstrate robustness of qualitative research. Triangulation has been used to demonstrate confirmability and completeness and has been one means of ensuring acceptability across paradigms. Emerging criteria such as goodness and trustworthiness can be used to evaluate the robustness of naturalistic inquiry.

Discussion.  It is argued that the transference of terms across paradigms is inappropriate; however, if we reject the concepts of validity and reliability, we reject the concept of rigour. Rejection of rigour undermines acceptance of qualitative research as a systematic process that can contribute to the advancement of knowledge. Emerging criteria for demonstrating robustness in qualitative inquiry, such as authenticity, trustworthiness and goodness, need to be considered. Goodness, when not seen as a separate construct but as an integral and embedded component of the research process, should be useful in assuring quality of the entire study. Triangulation is a tried and tested means of offering completeness, particularly in mixed‐method research. When multiple types of triangulation are used appropriately as the ‘triangulation state of mind’, they approach the concept of crystallization, which allows for infinite variety of angles of approach.

Conclusion.  Qualitative researchers need to be explicit about how and why they choose specific legitimizing criteria in ensuring the robustness of their inquiries. A shift from a position of fundamentalism to a more pluralistic approach as a means of legitimizing naturalistic inquiry is advocated.
Human enteric neuropathies: morphology and molecular pathology
Authors: De Giorgio R. , Camilleri M.
Published: October 2004

Abstract  The aim of this study is to review current understanding of the molecular and morphological pathology of the enteric neuropathies affecting motor function of the human gastrointestinal tract and to evaluate the described pathological entities in the literature to assess whether a new nosology may be proposed. The authors used PUBMED and MEDLINE searches to explore the literature pertinent to the molecular events and pathology of gastrointestinal motility disorders including achalasia, gastroparesis, intestinal pseudo‐obstruction, colonic inertia and megacolon in order to characterize the disorders attributable to enteric gut neuropathies. This scholarly review has shown that the pathological features are not readily associated with clinical features, making it difficult for a patient to be classified into any specific category. Individual patients may manifest more than one of the morphological and molecular abnormalities that include: aganglionosis, neuronal intranuclear inclusions and apoptosis, neural degeneration, intestinal neuronal dysplasia, neuronal hyperplasia and ganglioneuromas, mitochondrial dysfunction (syndromic and non‐syndromic), inflammatory neuropathies (caused by cellular or humoral immune mechanisms), neurotransmitter diseases and interstitial cell pathology. The pathology of enteric neuropathies requires further study before an effective nosology can be proposed. Carefully studied individual cases and small series provide the basic framework for standardizing the collection and histological evaluation of tissue obtained from such patients. Combined clinical and histopathological studies may facilitate the translation of basic science to the clinical management of patients with enteric neuropathies.
A new measurement of oesophago‐gastric junction competence
Authors: McMahon B. P. , Frøkjær J. B. , Drewes A. M. , Gregersen H.
Published: October 2004

Knowledge of the competence of the oesophago‐gastric junction (OGJ) is fundamental to the understanding of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a disorder with a high incidence among the general population. A catheter with a bag 9.5 cms long mounted towards the distal end was swallowed by three volunteers. Using manometry readings and the point of respiratory inversion as a guide the probe was placed in the OGJ. The bag was distended with saline at a fixed rate volume before and after the administration of butylscopolamine to block cholinergic‐mediated contractile smooth muscle activity. Using impedance planimetry three cross‐sectional areas (CSA) measurements were made between three pairs of electrodes with 4 mm between each electrode on the catheter placed inside the ballon. Using the law of Laplace, CSA and pressure data could be calculated to give wall tension. Tension rose in all volunteers as the radius increased and it was higher towards the proximal end of the OGJ indicating that this measurement can be used to show the distensibility of the OGJ at different degrees of opening. This technique could be useful in identifying changes in the competence of the lower oesophageal sphincter in some patients with GORD.
Mechanism of butyrate‐induced hyperpolarization of cultured rat myenteric neurones
Authors: Hamodeh S. A. , Rehn M. , Haschke G. , Diener M.
Published: October 2004

Short‐chain fatty acids produced by the bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates are present in high concentrations within the colonic lumen and have been shown to alter the excitability of enteric neurones. The present study was designed to investigate the mechanisms of butyrate‐induced changes in membrane potential of myenteric neurones. Myenteric neurones from 4–10‐day‐old rats were isolated from the small and large intestine by an enzymatic digestion with collagenase and kept in culture. Membrane potential was measured with the whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured with the fura‐2 method. The short‐chain fatty acid butyrate (10–100 mmol L−1) induced a reversible and concentration‐dependent hyperpolarization of the membrane with a half‐maximal effect at 30 mmol L−1. The hyperpolarization evoked by butyrate (50 mmol L−1) was strongly inhibited by charybdotoxin (10−7 mol L−1), a specific blocker of Ca2+‐dependent K+ channels. The butyrate‐induced hyperpolarization was resistant against blockade of phospholipase C by U‐73122 (10−5 mol L−1), and resistant against inclusion of heparin (6 × 10−6 mol L−1), an inositol‐1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor antagonist, in the patch‐pipette. In contrast, ruthenium red (3 × 10−5 mol L−1), an inhibitor of ryanodine receptors, significantly reduced both the hyperpolarization of the membrane as well as the increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration evoked by butyrate. Even in neurones permeabilized with saponin (10 mg L−1), butyrate was able to stimulate a release of stored intracellular Ca2+ suggesting a direct action of the short‐chain fatty acid at the stores without mediation of a soluble intracellular second messenger.
Mediators of non‐adrenergic non‐cholinergic inhibitory neurotransmission in porcine jejunum
Authors: Matsuda N. M. , Miller S. M. , Sha L. , Farrugia G. , Szurszewski J. H.
Published: October 2004

The purpose of this study was to determine the non‐adrenergic non‐cholinergic inhibitory neurotransmitter in pig jejunum. Intracellular electrical activity was recorded from circular smooth muscle cells. Inhibitory junction potentials (IJPs) evoked by electrical field stimulation were inhibited by tetrodotoxin (1 μmol L−1), ω‐conotoxin GVIA (0.1 μmol L−1) tetrodotoxin, apamin (1 μ mol L−1), 1‐[6‐((17β‐3‐methoxyestra‐1,3,5(10)‐trien‐17‐yl)amino)hexyl]‐1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐dione (U‐73122; 10 μmol L−1) but not by N ω‐nitro‐l‐arginine (l‐NNA; 100 μ mol L−1), haemoglobin (10 μ mol L−1), 1H‐[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐one (ODQ; 10 μ mol L−1) or 9‐(tetrahydro‐2‐furyl)adenine (SQ‐22536; 10 μmol L−1). S‐nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) hyperpolarized the membrane potential. This was inhibited by ODQ (3 μmol L−1) and charybdotoxin (0.1 μ mol L−1). Adenosine‐5‐triphosphate (ATP; 100 μ mol L−1) and 2‐methylthio ATP (2‐MeS‐ATP; 100 μmol L−1) did not hyperpolarize the membrane potential and 6‐N‐N‐diethyl‐β‐ γ ‐dibromomethylene‐d‐adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ARL67156; 100 μ mol L−1) did not modify IJPs. Carbon monoxide (CO; 10%) and tricarbonyl dichlororuthenium dimer ([Ru(CO3Cl2)]2; 100 μ mol L−1) hyperpolarized the membrane potential however zinc, copper and tin protoporphyrin IX (100 μmol L−1) did not alter IJPs. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) hyperpolarized the membrane potential but 4‐Cl‐d‐Phe6‐Leu17‐VIP (1 μmol L−1) did not modify IJPs. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP)38 (0.5 μ mol L−1) hyperpolarized the membrane potential. This was inhibited by apamin (1 μmol L−1) but not by tetrodotoxin (1 μ mol L−1). Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide6‐38 (1 μ mol L−1) inhibited IJPs. These data suggest that inhibitory neurotransmission in pig jejunum is mediated partly by PACAP.
Quantitative changes in gastric mucosal glycoproteins: effect of cholinergic agonist and vagal nerve stimulation in the rat
Authors: Yusuf S. , Nok A. J. , Ameh D. A. , Adelaiye A. B. , Balogun E. O.
Published: October 2004

The role of the vagus nerve and cholinergic mechanisms in the control of the rat gastric mucin and protein (PROT) release in vivo was investigated. Under urethane anaesthesia (1.25 g kg−1), the rats had their gastric lumen perfused with saline. Mucus secretion was measured as a function of adherent mucus on the mucosa surface and the luminal content of sialic acids (SIA), galactose (GAL), pyruvate and PROT. Electrical stimulation of the vagi significantly increased the levels of mucus (3.23 ± 025 μg g−1 tissue, P < 0.05), free sialic acid (FS) (0.18 ± 0.04 mg mL−1, P < 0.05) and PROT (0.25 ± 0.003 mg mL−1, P < 0.05) when compared with control animals. Bilateral cervical vagotomy had no significant effect on adherent mucus or basal levels of PROT, SIA and GAL (P > 0.05) with respect to the control. In both vagotomized and vagal intact animals, the cholinergic agonist (carbachol, 200 mg kg−1) significantly increased PROT, adherent mucus and FS (P < 0.05) and decreased bound sialic acid (P > 0.05). There were no visible haemorrhagic streaks on the gastric mucosa of vagotomized, vagal intact and carbachol‐treated animals. The results suggest that vagus nerve does not exert a tonic control on gastric glycoprotein secretion in vivo and that cholinergic effect on the mucus secreting cells may be implemented via the intrinsic nerves of the enteric nervous system.
Tandem inverted repeat system for selection of effective transgenic RNAi strains in Chlamydomonas
Authors: Rohr Jennifer , Sarkar Nandita , Balenger Susan , Jeong Byeong‐ryool , Cerutti Heriberto
Published: October 2004

RNA interference (RNAi), the double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) triggered post‐transcriptional gene silencing, is becoming a powerful tool for reverse genetics studies. Stable RNAi, induced by the expression of inverted repeat (IR) transgenes, has been achieved in protozoa, algae, fungi, plants, and metazoans. However, the level of gene silencing is often quite variable, depending on the type of construct, transgene copy number, site of integration, and target gene. This is a hindrance in functional genomics studies, where it is desirable to suppress target genes reliably to analyze unknown phenotypes. Consequently, we explored strategies for direct selection of effective transgenic RNAi lines in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. We initially attempted to suppress expression of the Rubisco small subunit multigene family by placing an IR, homologous to the conserved coding sequence, in the 3′UTR of a transgene conferring resistance to bleomycin. However, this approach was fairly inefficient at inducing RNAi as many strains displayed defective transgene integration, resulting in partial or complete deletion of the IR, or low levels of dsRNA expression, presumably due to transcriptional silencing of the integrated IR transgenes. To overcome these problems we designed a system consisting of tandem IR transgenes that consistently triggered co‐silencing of a gene with a selectable RNAi‐induced phenotype (encoding tryptophan synthase β subunit) and another gene of interest (encoding either Ku80, an RNA‐binding protein, or a thioredoxin isoform). We anticipate that this approach will be useful for generating stable hypomorphic epi‐mutants in high‐throughput phenotypic screens.
Stress hormone‐independent activation and nuclear translocation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases in Arabidopsis thaliana during ozone exposure
Authors: Ahlfors Reetta , Macioszek Violetta , Rudd Jason , Brosché Mikael , Schlichting Rita , Scheel Dierk , Kangasjärvi Jaakko
Published: October 2004

Changing environmental conditions, atmospheric pollutants and resistance reactions to pathogens cause production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants. ROS in turn trigger the activation of signaling cascades such as the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade and accumulation of plant hormones, jasmonic acid, salicylic acid (SA), and ethylene (ET). We have used ozone (O3) to generate ROS in the apoplast of wild‐type Col‐0 and hormonal signaling mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana and show that this treatment caused a transient activation of 43 and 45 kDa MAPKs. These were identified as AtMPK3 and AtMPK6. We also demonstrate that initial AtMPK3 and AtMPK6 activation in response to O3 was not dependent on ET signaling, but that ET is likely to have secondary effects on AtMPK3 and AtMPK6 function, whereas functional SA signaling was needed for full‐level AtMPK3 activation by O3. In addition, we show that AtMPK3, but not AtMPK6, responded to O3 transcriptionally and translationally during O3 exposure. Finally, we show in planta that activated AtMPK3 and AtMPK6 are translocated to the nucleus during the early stages of O3 treatment. The use of O3 to induce apoplastic ROS formation offers a non‐invasive in planta system amenable to reverse genetics that can be used for the study of stress‐responsive MAPK signaling in plants.
Mycobacterium goodiiinfection in a dog with concurrent hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: BRYDEN SHARON L. , BURROWS AMANDA K. , O'HARA AMANDA J.
Published: October 2004

Abstract A 9‐year‐old Boston terrier was diagnosed with multifocal, nodular panniculitis caused by an organism belonging to theMycobacterium smegmatisgroup by histological evaluation and bacteriological identification. The mycobacterial species was identified by direct gene sequence analysis and confirmed to beMycobacterium goodii.Treatment using doxycycline and ciprofloxacin was successfully implemented for the mycobacterial panniculitis over a period of 9 months. Concurrent pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) was also identified using routine diagnostic methods and mitotane therapy was implemented. There was follow‐up for 14 months after cessation of antimicrobial therapy with no recurrence of mycobacterial infection. Although cutaneous infections are frequently recognized as complications of canine pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism, concurrent mycobacterial panniculitis due to any rapidly growing mycobacterium has not previously been reported. This is the first confirmed case of mycobacterial panniculitis due toM. goodiiinfection in a dog and also the first of any rapidly growing mycobacterial infection in a dog with concurrent endogenous Cushing's disease.
A herd level analysis of aCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosisoutbreak in a dairy cattle herd
Authors: YERUHAM ISRAEL , FRIEDMAN SAMUEL , PERL SAMUEL , ELAD DANIEL , BERKOVICH YAIR , KALGARD YORAM
Published: October 2004

Abstract Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosisinfection in an Israeli dairy cattle herd is described. The disease was characterized by ulcerative granulomatous lesions, which occurred in an epidemic form. Thirty‐two cows and two heifers were affected, the ratio of the number affected to number at risk being 17.5 : 1 and 9.5 : 1, respectively. The culling rate was 50% of the affected animals. Most of the affected animals were cows (91.2%), with one first‐calving cow (2.9%) and two heifers (5.9%) also affected. The infection occurred during the summer to autumn months (August–December), and lasted 118 days. The incubation period is about 2 months. The disease appeared in two clinical forms – cutaneous and mastitic – or as a mixed form.C. pseudotuberculosisorganisms that were isolated from the ulcerative granulomatous lesions and from milk samples failed to reduce nitrate. A decrease in milk production (4%) and an increase in the bulk‐milk somatic cell count from a herd mean of 240 × 103 mL−1to 460 × 103 mL−1were noted during the morbidity period. The organism was isolated from milk samples of eight animals (25%). Clinical, epizootiological and microbiological aspects of the infection are described.
Treatment of canine Alopecia X with trilostane
Authors: CERUNDOLO ROSARIO , LLOYD DAVID H. , PERSECHINO ANGELO , EVANS HELEN , CAUVIN ANDRIA
Published: October 2004

Abstract Sixteen Pomeranians and eight miniature poodles presenting with clinical signs of alopecia X, elevated blood concentrations of 17‐hydroxyprogesterone post stimulation with adrenocorticotropic hormone and increased urinary cortisol/creatinine ratios were treated with trilostane, a competitive inhibitor of 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Trilostane was given once or twice daily at a mean dose of 10.85 mg kg−1 day−1. Adrenal function was evaluated with a follow‐up of 28 months in the Pomeranians and 33 months in the miniature poodles. Treatment with trilostane led to complete hair re‐growth in 85% of the Pomeranians and in all of the miniature poodles within 4 to 8 weeks. No adverse events attributed to treatment with trilostane were recognized. The hair re‐growth might have been the result of a down‐regulation of adrenal steroids and/or of the noncompetitive inhibition of the oestrogen receptors at the hair follicle level.
Simple Experiments to Study the Earth's Magnetic Field
Authors: Amiri Farhang , Jeffery Rondo N.
Published: October 2004

A set of simple experiments is outlined for determining the magnetic field of the Earth. These experiments can be performed by students from high school to college and will help them gain a greater appreciation of the three-dimensional nature for the Earth's magnetic field. Reasonably accurate measurements of the field strength, its components, and dip angle are possible through use of a transparent solenoid, a compass, and a Magnaprobe.
Robert Jemison “Tee” Van de Graaff: From Football Fields to Electric Fields
Authors: Graham M. Talmage , Young James
Published: October 2004

Robert Van de Graaff's three older brothers made the family name famous in football, and it seemed that Robert was also headed toward being a sports star. Unfortunately, his football career was cut short by an injury. However, it is interesting to note that principles involved in his most memorable invention have some remarkable analogs in that sport. Few details of Robert's early life have heretofore been published. The purpose of this paper, during the 75th anniversary year of the invention of the Van de Graaff generator, is to provide some of this interesting historical background.
A Chromosome 21 Critical Region Does Not Cause Specific Down Syndrome Phenotypes
Authors: Olson L. E. , Richtsmeier J. T. , Leszl J. , Reeves R. H.
Published: October 2004

The “Down syndrome critical region” (DSCR) is a chromosome 21 segment purported to contain genes responsible for many features of Down syndrome (DS), including craniofacial dysmorphology. We used chromosome engineering to create mice that were trisomic or monosomic for only the mouse chromosome segment orthologous to the DSCR and assessed dysmorphologies of the craniofacial skeleton that show direct parallels with DS in mice with a larger segmental trisomy. The DSCR genes were not sufficient and were largely not necessary to produce the facial phenotype. These results refute specific predictions of the prevailing hypothesis of gene action in DS.