bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Bifunctional Nucleases, OmBBD and AtBBD1, Are Involved in Abscisic Acid-Mediated Callose Deposition in Arabidopsis
Authors: You Min Kyoung , Shin Hyun Young , Kim Young Jin , Ok Sung Han , Cho Sung Ki , Jeung Ji Ung , Yoo Sang Dong , Kim Jeong Kook , Shin Jeong Sheop
Published: December 2009

Screening of the expressed sequence tag library of the wild rice species Oryza minuta revealed an unknown gene that was rapidly and strongly induced in response to attack by a rice fungal pathogen (Magnaporthe oryzae) and an insect (Nilaparvata lugens) and by wounding, abscisic acid (ABA), and methyl jasmonate treatments. Its recombinant protein was identified as a bifunctional nuclease with both RNase and DNase activities in vitro. This gene was designated OmBBD (for O. minuta bifunctional nuclease in basal defense response). Overexpression of OmBBD in an Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) model system caused the constitutive expression of the PDF1.2, ABA1, and AtSAC1 genes, which are involved in priming ABA-mediated callose deposition. This activation of defense responses led to an increased resistance against Botrytis cinerea. atbbd1, the knockout mutant of the Arabidopsis ortholog AtBBD1, was susceptible to attack by B. cinerea and had deficient callose deposition. Overexpression of either OmBBD or AtBBD1 in atbbd1 plants complemented the susceptible phenotype of atbbd1 against B. cinerea as well as the deficiency of callose deposition. We suggest that OmBBD and AtBBD1 have a novel regulatory role in ABA-mediated callose deposition.
Systematic Localization of the Arabidopsis Core Cell Cycle Proteins Reveals Novel Cell Division Complexes
Authors: Boruc Joanna , Mylle Evelien , Duda Maria , De Clercq Rebecca , Rombauts Stephane , Geelen Danny , Hilson Pierre , Inzeݩ Dirk , Van Damme Daniel , Russinova Eugenia
Published: December 2009

Cell division depends on the correct localization of the cyclin-dependent kinases that are regulated by phosphorylation, cyclin proteolysis, and protein-protein interactions. Although immunological assays can define cell cycle protein abundance and localization, they are not suitable for detecting the dynamic rearrangements of molecular components during cell division. Here, we applied an in vivo approach to trace the subcellular localization of 60 Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) core cell cycle proteins fused to green fluorescent proteins during cell division in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) and Arabidopsis. Several cell cycle proteins showed a dynamic association with mitotic structures, such as condensed chromosomes and the preprophase band in both species, suggesting a strong conservation of targeting mechanisms. Furthermore, colocalized proteins were shown to bind in vivo, strengthening their localization-function connection. Thus, we identified unknown spatiotemporal territories where functional cell cycle protein interactions are most likely to occur.
Stimulation of Nonselective Amino Acid Export by Glutamine Dumper Proteins
Authors: Pratelli Reݩjane , Voll Lars M. , Horst Robin J. , Frommer Wolf B. , Pilot Guillaume
Published: December 2009

Phloem and xylem transport of amino acids involves two steps: export from one cell type to the apoplasm, and subsequent import into adjacent cells. High-affinity import is mediated by proton/amino acid cotransporters, while the mechanism of export remains unclear. Enhanced expression of the plant-specific type I membrane protein Glutamine Dumper1 (GDU1) has previously been shown to induce the secretion of glutamine from hydathodes and increased amino acid content in leaf apoplasm and xylem sap. In this work, tolerance to low concentrations of amino acids and transport analyses using radiolabeled amino acids demonstrate that net amino acid uptake is reduced in the glutamine-secreting GDU1 overexpressor gdu1-1D. The net uptake rate of phenylalanine decreased over time, and amino acid net efflux was increased in gdu1-1D compared with the wild type, indicating increased amino acid export from cells. Independence of the export from proton gradients and ATP suggests that overexpression of GDU1 affects a passive export system. Each of the seven Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) GDU genes led to similar phenotypes, including increased efflux of a wide spectrum of amino acids. Differences in expression profiles and functional properties suggested that the GDU genes fulfill different roles in roots, vasculature, and reproductive organs. Taken together, the GDUs appear to stimulate amino acid export by activating nonselective amino acid facilitators.
An electron diffraction and Monte Carlo simulation study of an incommensurate antiferroelectric state in the relaxor ferroelectric Pb2ScTaO6
Authors: Baba-Kishi K. Z. , Pasciak M.
Published: December 2009

Incommensurate satellite reflections modulating along the 〈110〉* directions have been observed in the electron diffraction patterns of single crystals of the relaxor ferroelectric Pb2ScTaO6(PST) recordedviatransmission electron microscopy. The satellites occur characteristically within a specific temperature range and display differing or variable modulation vectors relative to their primary reflections. The satellites represent a weak frustrated antiferroelectric state in PST, termed the incommensurate antiferroelectric (IAFE) state. The observed IAFE state coexists with the ferroelectric and paraelectric states within a specific temperature regime and is dynamic in nature, meaning that the dispositions of the satellites can be altered by varying the temperature applied to the crystal,in-situin the transmission electron microscope. The observed satellites are associated with thin, needle-shaped, closely packed striated domains of about 5–15 nm in width. The satellites appear exclusively in crystals of PST with an advanced degree of 1:1 chemical long-range order, exceeding 90%. The satellites and their domains are interpreted as originating from a displacive, antiferroelectric coupling of the ions, driven in particular by the Pb ions. The Monte Carlo (MC) method was used exhaustively to evaluate the structural regimes that lead to the occurrence of the IAFE state. In the MC simulations, the displacements were correlated with the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric couplings, resulting in the IAFE domains and their associated satellites of differing dispositions or modulation vectors. The results of the MC simulations agree well with the electron diffraction observations, supporting the model of an antiferroelectric displacement with an incommensurate modulation of the Pb ions in the 〈110〉* directions.
The meaning of major depression in family life: the viewpoint of the ill parent
Authors: Ahlström Britt Hedman , Skärsäter Ingela , Danielson Ella
Published: December 2009

Aim and objective. The aim was to elucidate the meaning of major depression in family life from the viewpoint of an ill parent.

Background. Major depression according toDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disordersis common and may appear repeatedly over several years, and affects family life. Depression in parents has a negative impact on family function and children’s health; however, studies regarding the deeper understanding of major depression in family life are lacking.

Design. A qualitative explorative study using narrative interviews with eight parents who were identified with major depression.

Methods. A phenomenological‐hermeneutic method of interpretation was used for analysing interview texts and included naïve understanding, a structural analysis where text was divided into meaning units, which were condensed and abstracted, and finally a comprehensive understanding.

Result. Two themes were extracted: ‘to be afflicted in an almost unmanageable situation’ with sub‐themes ‘feeling hopelessly bad’, ‘being worthless’, ‘being unsatisfied’ and the theme ‘to reconcile oneself to the situation’ with sub‐themes ‘being active’, ‘being satisfied’ and ‘maintaining parenthood’.

Conclusion. Comprehensive understanding revealed the parents’ simultaneous suffering and dignity in family life; suffering with serious lack of well‐being and health, destroyed self‐confidence and unhappiness, and dignity with strength, confidence and joy in children. The movement between suffering and dignity complicated family life. Dignity was threatened by the awareness that suffering in major depression was recurrent. Dignity had to be repeatedly restored for self and the family, and family dignity has to be restored before others outside the family circle.

Relevance to clinical practice. A deeper understanding of the meaning of major depression in family life is helpful and for healthcare professionals to prevent individual and family suffering by assisting and preserving dignity.
Wise women: mentoring as relational learning in perinatal nursing practice
Authors: Ryan Annette , Goldberg Lisa , Evans Joan
Published: December 2009

Aims and objectives. The focus of this paper is on one of four themes from a study exploring mentoring relationships between nurses in the intrapartum setting. The theme, relational learning, highlights how perinatal nurses engage with each other and engage with birthing women on a journey of learning in perinatal nursing practice.

Background. Few studies have explored the contextual, lived experiences of informal mentoring relationships within nursing, particularly within perinatal nursing.

Design. A qualitative feminist phenomenological study that considered a gender‐centred, embodied exploration of human lived experiences was conducted.

Method. Five registered nurses practicing on a tertiary level labour and delivery unit in eastern Canada were purposefully recruited. Data were collected by phenomenological interviews, practice observations in the clinical setting and reflective journaling.

Results. Four themes emerged through thematic analysis and researcher interpretation: the meaning of nurse‐to‐nurse mentoring,mentoring as relational learning, mentoring as embodied learning and a contextual understanding of nurse‐to‐nurse mentoring. Relational learning came to be understood through feminist phenomenological analysis, which revealed that expert perinatal nursing knowledge develops within positive mentoring relationships between perinatal nurses practicing with birthing women. This learning extends beyond tasks to a holistic understanding of clinical situations within specific health and social contexts. The mentor models positive perinatal nursing practices and creates a sense of enthusiasm that harnesses the raw passion new nurses often have for practice.

Conclusion. The findings in this study aim to promote the understanding of the importance of relational, experiential learning for perinatal nurses’ professional development.

Relevance to clinical practice. The results from this study will encourage nurses and nurse leaders to support mentoring by providing adequate resources and positive feedback for mentoring relationships. This will foster and sustain expert nurses to support novice nurses in perinatal practice. The findings also offer insight for perinatal practices beyond nursing, including midwifery.
Interprofessional education: the interface of nursing and social work
Authors: Chan Engle Angela , Chi Samantha Pang Mei , Ching Shirley , Lam Syrine KS
Published: December 2009

Aims.  To examine the influence of interdisciplinary seminars on undergraduate nursing and social work students’ perceptions of their learning.

Background.  Collaboration is considered to be important for health professionals in working towards good patient care, and interdisciplinary education is seen as one way of addressing this need for greater collaboration and team work. Today’s health professionals are dealing with an increasing number of older and chronically ill patients. The biopsychosocial dimensions inherent in such chronic illnesses bring about a closer working relationship between the nursing and social work professions to foster good patient care. No local research in Hong Kong, however, has looked specifically at how these two professions can develop their collaborative skills and qualities through interdisciplinary education.

Design.  Mixed methods design.

Method.  Data from questionnaires, videotape recordings of the sessions and follow‐up phone interviews were used for quantitative and qualitative analyses.

Results.  The findings revealed three themes: an increased awareness of each other’s professional values and personal judgement, a recognition of each other’s disciplinary knowledge emphases and more, and an appreciation for, and learning about each other’s roles for future collaboration.

Conclusions.  Whilst, it is usual to identify health professionals as non‐judgemental, it is also important to recognise the existence of their personal and professional values and beliefs that shape their decision‐making. Equally beneficial for students is their reported understanding of the other discipline’s emphasis on the physical or social aspects of care, and the interrelationships and complementary values that lead to students’ appreciation of each other’s roles and the possibility for their future collaboration in the holistic care of patients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The sharing of each other’s knowledge and their appreciation of the corresponding roles enhanced students’ decision‐making capacity and the extension of the holistic approach beyond one profession, which is essential for good patient care.
Family Strain Questionnaire – Short Form for nurses and general practitioners
Authors: Vidotto Giulio , Ferrario Silvia Rossi , Bond Trevor G , Zotti Anna Maria
Published: December 2009

Aim.  Our paper presents an instrument for recognising the psychological problems of caregivers: the short form of a previously validated questionnaire, the Family Strain Questionnaire.

Background.  Individuals caring for chronic patients frequently suffer from psychological problems, which are underestimated by medical professionals and, consequently, are not adequately treated. Therefore, clinical nurses, general practitioners and the members of home care teams have to recognise the psychological problems of caregivers. To do so, they need to quickly measure the problem’s severity quickly and track it over time, without a specific training in psychological diagnosis.

Design.  Survey.

Method.  Principal caregivers (n = 811) completed the Family Strain Questionnaire in its original form (semi‐structured interview plus 44 dichotomous items, administrable in about 20 minutes), aimed at investigating the subjective perception of emotional burden, problems in social involvement, the need for more information about the disease, satisfaction with family relationships and thoughts about death. Data were analysed using the Rasch model for the reduction of items. Thirty items were selected and reanalysed in a new sample of 40 caregivers.

Results.  The thirty items selected showed very good fit statistics and maintained the diagnostic qualities of the original form. They thus compose the Family Strain Questionnaire ‐ Short Form that caregivers can complete in about five minutes. This brief measure can indicate the severity of stress and allows categorisation of caregivers by psychological risk, which is also represented by a graphic tool.

Conclusion.  This study confirms that the Family Strain Questionnaire – Short Form offers an initial measure of caregivers’ psychological status, regardless of the patient’s disease and allows professionals to monitor it over time with a rapid and effective instrument.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Clinical nurses, general practitioners and homecare teams should find the Family Strain Questionnaire – Short Form useful for assessing caregiving strain. The instrument is quick and easy to use and does not require any sophisticated psychological training.
An evidence‐based practice approach to improving nursing care of acute stroke in an Australian Emergency Department
Authors: Considine Julie , McGillivray Bree
Published: December 2009

Aims.  The aim of this study was to improve the emergency nursing care of acute stroke by enhancing the use of evidence regarding prevention of early complications.

Background.  Preventing complications in the first 24–48 hours decreases stroke‐related mortality. Many patients spend considerable part of the first 24 hours following stroke in the Emergency Department therefore emergency nurses play a key role in patient outcomes following stroke.

Design.  A pre‐test/post‐test design was used and the study intervention was a guideline for Emergency Department nursing management of acute stroke.

Methods.  The following outcomes were measured before and after guideline implementation: triage category, waiting time, Emergency Department length of stay, time to specialist assessment, assessment and monitoring of vital signs, temperature and blood glucose and venous‐thromboembolism and pressure injury risk assessment and interventions.

Results.  There was significant improvement in triage decisions (21·4% increase in triage category 2, p = 0·009; 15·6% decrease in triage category 4, p = 0·048). Frequency of assessments of respiratory rate (p = 0·009), heart rate (p = 0·022), blood pressure (p = 0·032) and oxygen saturation (p = 0·001) increased. In terms of risk management, documentation of pressure area interventions increased by 28·8% (p = 0·006), documentation of nil orally status increased by 13·8% (ns), swallow assessment prior to oral intake increased by 41·3% (p = 0·003), speech pathology assessment in Emergency Department increased by 6·1% (ns) and there was 93·5 minute decrease in time to speech pathology assessment for admitted patients (ns).

Relevance to clinical practice.  An evidence‐based guideline can improve emergency nursing care of acute stroke and optimise patient outcomes following stroke. As the continuum of stroke care begins in the Emergency Department, detailed recommendations for evidence‐based emergency nursing care should be included in all multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of acute stroke.
Assessing health‐related quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Zhejiang, China
Authors: Zhou Yunxian , Ren Weihong , Irvine Elizabeth Jan , Yang Dagan
Published: December 2009

Aims.  The aim of this study was to assess health‐related quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Zhejiang, Mainland China.

Background.  The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease in China is believed to be low but has been increasing in the past decade. The quality of life of Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease is unknown.

Design.  A cross‐sectional study.

Methods.  The study was conducted in 92 patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Zhejiang, China, 52 with ulcerative colitis and 40 with Crohn’s disease. Health‐related quality of life was measured by the Chinese version of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire and Short Form‐36, respectively. Disease activity was assessed by the Walmsley and Harvey–Bradshaw simple indices for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, respectively. Demographic and clinical variables were also recorded. Short Form‐36 data from the study sample were compared with a reference population of 1688 Chinese people residing in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.

Results.  No significant health‐related quality of life differences were found between patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (p > 0·05). Pooled data showed that inflammatory bowel disease patients with active disease had significantly lower scores for all eight dimensions of Short Form‐36 compared to those in remission (p < 0·01); those with active disease scored significantly lower than population norms in all dimensions of Short Form‐36 except mental health (p < 0·05); whereas those in remission scored significantly lower than population norms in role physical (p < 0·01) and general health dimensions (p < 0·05). The regression analyses identified only disease activity index and employment status to explain variations in health‐related quality of life (p < 0·01).

Conclusions.  Inflammatory bowel disease similarly impairs health‐related quality of life in patients with both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The results suggest that any interventions that produce a stable clinical remission, whether medical or surgical, allowing patients to return to their usual work position can decrease the disease impact on their daily lives.
The effectiveness of multimedia learning education programs on knowledge, anxiety and pressure garment compliance in patients undergoing burns rehabilitation in Taiwan: an experimental study
Authors: Lo Shu‐Fen , Hayter Mark , Hsu Ma , Lin Su‐Er , Lin Shu‐In
Published: December 2009

Aim.  This study examined the effectiveness of multimedia learning education programmes (MLEPs) on knowledge, anxiety and pressure garment compliance behaviour of burn patients.

Background.  MLEPs are increasingly suggested as education methods that can be used by health professionals in daily practice. A systematic review of the effectiveness of computer‐based education demonstrates its acceptability to patients. However, few studies have empirically tested this approach.

Design.  Experimental study.

Methods.  An experimental study was conducted at a burn centre of a medical centre in Taipei, Taiwan. Participants were randomly assigned to either experimental (n = 28) or control groups (n = 30). Both groups were given pre‐tests and post‐tests to measure their knowledge, anxiety and pressure garment compliance behaviour.

Results.  At two weeks, the results of this study showed that the MLEP had ‘statistically’ significantly improved patients’ burn knowledge, reduced individual anxiety and enhanced pressure garment compliance behaviour.

Conclusion.  This controlled study demonstrated that a two week MLEP can be a useful intervention to improve care compliance and reduce anxiety in patients undergoing burns rehabilitation period.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Burn injury patients undergoing rehabilitation are likely to benefit from multimedia learning education intervention programmes. More comprehensive health economic evaluation needs to be undertaken. Further studies exploring a longer term follow‐up are also required.
LLT1‐mediated Activation of IFN‐γ Production in Human Natural Killer Cells Involves ERK Signalling Pathway
Authors: Bambard N. D. , Mathew S. O. , Mathew P. A.
Published: December 2009

Natural killer (NK) cell functions are regulated by a delicate balance of signals received through activating and inhibitory receptors expressed on the cell surface. Lectin‐like transcript‐1 (LLT1), expressed on a subpopulation of NK cells and other immune cells is a ligand for the NK cell inhibitory receptor, NKR‐P1A (CD161). Previous studies showed that cross‐linking surface LLT1 with a monoclonal antibody stimulated NK cell IFN‐γ secretion but had no effect on cytotoxicity. Here, we have examined the signalling pathways associated with LLT1‐stimulated IFN‐γ secretion. We ligated LLT1 on NK92 cells with CD161 on target cells and analysed IFN‐γ production in the presence of pharmacological inhibitors specific for various signalling mechanisms. These results indicate that LLT1 employs Src‐PTK, p38 and ERK signalling pathways, but not PKC, PI3K or calcineurin. Phosphorylation studies of the signalling adaptor molecules confirmed that the ERK signalling pathway is associated with LLT1‐mediated IFN‐γ production. LLT1 ligation is not associated with any change in detectable IFN‐γ mRNA levels suggesting that LLT1‐stimulated IFN‐γ production in NK cells may involve post‐transcriptional or translational events.
Cranial Muscles of the Sulawesi Babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis)
Authors: Kneepkens A. F. L. M. , Macdonald A. A.
Published: December 2009

With 12 figures and 1 table

The detailed muscular anatomy of the head of the Sulawesi Babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis) is described for the first time. The results show that the muscular anatomy of the Babyrousa is very similar to the pig genus Sus, despite long geological separation from it. Some differences were noted: the M. parietoauricularis was more clearly separated into two parts in the Babirusa than in the domestic pig; the rostral fibres of the M. levator anguli oculi reached the infraorbital sinus in the Babirusa but only as far as the medial corner of the eye in the domestic pig; the M. palatinus of the Babirusa is paired and did not reach the Os palatinum, unlike its description in the domestic pig and the Platysma pars zygomatica originates from the fascia of the neck in the Babirusa, whereas that of the domestic pig originates largely or entirely from the scapula.
The use of intravenous immunoglobulin for treatment of dermatological conditions in Australia: A review
Authors: Smith Saxon D , Dennington Peta M , Cooper Alan
Published: December 2009

Intravenous immunoglobulin has been used in the treatment of various dermatological conditions, including toxic epidermal necrolysis, bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris. From March 2008, the National Blood Authority has implemented the ‘Criteria for the clinical use of intravenous immunoglobulins in Australia’. The new criteria have formalized the eligibility requirements for several dermatological conditions. This may increase access to intravenous immunoglobulin for treatment for these conditions. However, there remain stringent eligibility criteria with which dermatologists need to be acquainted. In some conditions, dermatology review is mandated by these criteria while in other conditions with skin manifestations, referral to other specialists is required. The following article provides a summary of the salient points in relation to the clinical use of intravenous immunoglobulin in dermatology, as well as its production and supply in Australia.
How to get the most from the medical literature: Searching the medical literature effectively
Authors: WEBSTER ANGELA C , CROSS NICHOLAS B , MITCHELL RUTH , CRAIG JONATHAN C
Published: December 2009

Different clinical questions are best answered using different study designs. This paper describes the best methods for finding relevant studies for well‐framed clinical questions. We focus on which database is best to search to answer your question, describe the structure of effective search strategies and explore ways to develop appropriate search terms. We illustrate these with sensitive and specific search strategies to answer different clinical questions arising from a hypothetical clinical scenario typical of a nephrologist's everyday practice.
FIRM SIZE AND EFFICIENCY IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN MOTOR VEHICLE INDUSTRY*
Authors: TRUETT LILA J. , TRUETT DALE B.
Published: December 2009

The South African motor vehicle industry has historically been considered a critical industry in the South African economy and the target of numerous government policies designed to protect it and/or increase its international competitiveness. This study examines the cost performance of firms in this industry according to their size, using data categorised by output level. The results are consistent with statistically significant economies of scale at the lowest output levels and a cost inefficiency averaging from about seven to nine per cent for all firms. The findings also suggest that all else equal, the smallest firms and the largest firms have lower unit costs than mid‐sized firms. While this work suggests that policies that would give incentives for the smallest firms to increase their scale of operations might help to reduce their unit costs, further investigation needs to be done with respect to why firms in the mid‐level size categories appear to be less efficient.
HOUSING POLICY FOR THE ELDERLY: A POLICY TO BUILD BARRIER‐FREE RENTAL HOUSING
Authors: Hirono Keiko Nosse
Published: December 2009

There is a strong need for barrier‐free rental housing because of the rapidly aging population in Japan, where the share of barrier‐free rental housing is only 18.24% of total rental housing. We propose a policy to solve the problems associated with supplying barrier‐free rental housing. Our scheme involves a method of funding rental housing with a securities investor, as well as implementing property management and introducing rent subsidies. The plan entails funds being collected to construct barrier‐free rental housing. The housing will generate positive rental profits, which will, in turn, lead to the increase in the supply of barrier‐free rental housing. According to our plan, the low‐income elderly will also have access to barrier‐free rental housing.
COMMUNITY PROPERTY AUCTION, NASH BIDDING RULE AND CHINA'S RURAL ECONOMIC REFORM
Authors: Li Ke , Yao Shuntian , Yu Lei
Published: December 2009

In this paper we present a model based on the auction theory for community properties and its possible application to China's economic reforms. We derive the Nash bidding rule for the first price sealed‐bid auction of a community‐owned object, and compare it with the bidding rule for auctions of a privately‐owned object. Moreover, we argue that in the process of China's economic reforms, auctioning off the community‐owned properties to private owners is the optimal way to achieve economic efficiency together with social equity. This paper has obvious implications for China's reforms relating to commercializing its rural land and other community property.
HOW LARGE WILL BE THE EFFECT OF CHINA'S FISCAL STIMULUS PACKAGE ON OUTPUT AND EMPLOYMENT?
Authors: He Dong , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhang Wenlang
Published: December 2009

This paper estimates the effect of China's fiscal stimulus package on output and employment. The input–output analysis shows that the package has a multiplier of approximately 0.84 in the short run, generating 18–20 million new jobs in non‐farming sectors in the first year. A dynamic structural model shows that the multiplier is around 1.1 in the medium run as fiscal spending leads to higher household consumption and corporate investment over time. The size of the fiscal multiplier also depends on the cyclical conditions of the economy, the policy environment and the distribution of funds across sectors.
Latanoprost in the treatment of eyelash alopecia in alopecia areata universalis
Authors: Coronel‐Pérez IM , Rodríguez‐Rey EM , Camacho‐Martínez FM
Published: December 2009

Objectives  The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of latanoprost in eyelash alopecia areata (AA).

Design  This study is a 2‐year prospective, non‐blinded, non‐randomized, bilateral eyelash alopecia controlled study.

Setting  The setting of this study was Trichology Unit, Virgen Macarena University Hospital, Seville, Spain.

Patients  We conducted a survey of 54 subjects with AA universalis treated with the protocol of the Trichology Unit of our Department. Control group comprised 10 subjects who received injections of 0.5 mg/cm2 of triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) in their eyebrows and 1 mg/cm2 of TAC injections in affected scalp. The treatment group included 44 subjects who received the same treatment as the control group in scalp and eyebrows but they also applied a drop of latanoprost 0.005% (50 μg/mL) ophthalmic solution in their eyelid margins every night. Subjects were reviewed every 3 months for 2 years.

Results  Forty subjects finished the study and four subjects were lost to follow‐up. In the treatment arm of this study, the course was well tolerated and uncomplicated. Both investigators and patients evaluated the regrowth. The results we obtained were: complete regrowth in 17.5%, moderate regrowth in 27.5%, slight regrowth in 30% and without response in 25%. Moderate and total regrowth constituted a cosmetically acceptable response. The therapy was continuous and the response remained without any side effects. No patients had cosmetically acceptable eyelash regrowth in the control group.

Conclusions  Latanoprost may be an effective drug in the treatment of eyelash AA because it induces acceptable responses (total and moderate) in 45% of the patients. A formal, blinded prospective unilateral controlled study will permit further understanding about this promising therapeutic agent for eyelash AA.
Effects of invasive woody plants on avian nest site selection and nesting success in shrublands
Authors: Schlossberg S. , King D. I.
Published: December 2009

Exotic, invasive plants are a growing conservation problem. Birds frequently use invasive plants as nest substrates, but effects of invasives on avian nesting success have been equivocal in past studies. In 2004 and 2005, we assessed effects of invasive woody plants on avian nest‐site selection and nesting success in western Massachusetts shrublands. At the nest scale, we tested the effects of invasive versus native substrates on nesting success as well as differences among individual invasive species. At the patch scale, we tested effects of invasive prevalence on nesting success in natives and invasives. We found that, as a whole, shrubland birds preferred invasive substrates. Of two species sufficiently abundant for individual analysis, gray catbirds Dumetella carolinensis preferred invasive substrates, but chestnut‐sided warblers Dendroica pensylvanica showed no preference for natives or invasives. At the nest scale, nests of gray catbirds placed in invasive substrates were more successful than those in natives. Chestnut‐sided warblers and all species combined, however, had equal nest success in invasives and natives. We found no differences in nest success for nests in different species of invasive substrates or in invasive substrates with and without thorns. At the scale of the patch, nest success in invasive substrates increased with the prevalence of invasives on a site. Nest success in native plants did not change with invasive prevalence. We attribute this finding to the tendency for thickets of invasive plants to be larger on sites with more invasive cover. These findings illustrate the complex interaction of different factors that can determine how invasive plants affect avian nesting success. We conclude that control of invasive woody plants should be neutral for most shrubland birds.
Involvement of the AT1receptor subtype in the effects of angiotensin IV and LVV‐haemorphin 7 on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels and spatial working memory
Authors: De Bundel Dimitri , Demaegdt Heidi , Lahoutte Tony , Caveliers Vicky , Kersemans Ken , Ceulemans Ann‐Gaelle , Vauquelin Georges , Clinckers Ralph , Vanderheyden Patrick , Michotte Yvette , Smolders Ilse
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem.(2010)112, 1223–1234.

Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of angiotensin IV (Ang IV) or Leu–Val–Val‐haemorphin 7 (LVV‐H7) improves memory performance in normal rats and reverses memory deficits in rat models for cognitive impairment. These memory effects were believed to be mediated via the putative ‘AT4 receptor’. However, this binding site was identified as insulin‐regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). Correspondingly, Ang IV and LVV‐H7 were characterised as IRAP inhibitors. This study investigates whether and how IRAP may be involved in the central effects of Ang IV and LVV‐H7. We determined the effects of i.c.v. administration of Ang IV or LVV‐H7 on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels using microdialysis in rats. We observed that Ang IV modulates hippocampal acetylcholine levels, whereas LVV‐H7 does not. This discrepancy was reflected in the observation that Ang IV binds with micromolar affinity to the AT1 receptor whereas no binding affinity was observed for LVV‐H7. Correspondingly, we demonstrated that the AT1 receptor is involved in the effects of Ang IV on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels and on spatial working memory in a plus maze spontaneous alternation task. However, the AT1 receptor was not involved in the spatial memory facilitating effect of LVV‐H7. Finally, we demonstrated that Ang IV did not diffuse to the hippocampus following i.c.v. injection, suggesting an extrahippocampal site of action. We propose that AT1 receptors are implicated in the neurochemical and cognitive effects of Ang IV, whereas LVV‐H7 may mediate its effects via IRAP.
The more you have, the less you get: the functional role of inflammation on neuronal differentiation of endogenous and transplanted neural stem cells in the adult brain
Authors: Mathieu Patricia , Battista Daniela , Depino Amaicha , Roca Valeria , Graciarena Mariana , Pitossi Fernando
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem.(2010)112, 1368–1385.

The differentiation of neural stem cells toward a neuronal phenotype is determined by the extracellular and intracellular factors that form the neurogenic niche. In this review, we discuss the available data on the functional role of inflammation and in particular, pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, on neuronal differentiation from endogenous and transplanted neural stem/progenitor cells. In addition, we discuss the role of microglial cell activation on these processes and the fact that microglial cell activation is not univocally associated with a pro‐inflammatory milieu. We conclude that brain cytokines could be regarded as part of the endogenous neurogenic niche. In addition, we propose that accumulating evidence suggests that pro‐inflammatory cytokines have a negative effect on neuronal differentiation, while anti‐inflammatory cytokines exert an opposite effect. The clarification of the functional role of cytokines on neuronal differentiation will be relevant not only to better understand adult neurogenesis, but also to envisage complementary treatments to modulate cytokine action that could increase the therapeutic benefit of future progenitor/stem cell‐based therapies.
Central and peripheral consequences of the chronic blockade of CB1cannabinoid receptor with rimonabant or taranabant
Authors: Martín‐García Elena , Burokas Aurelijus , Martín Miquel , Berrendero Fernando , Rubí Blanca , Kiesselbach Christoph , Heyne Andrea , Gispert Juan Domingo , Millán Olga , Maldonado Rafael
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem.(2010)112, 1338–1351.

The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of obesity. However, the clinical use of cannabinoid antagonists has been recently stopped because of its central side‐effects. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a chronic treatment with the CB1cannabinoid antagonist rimonabant or the CB1inverse agonist taranabant in diet‐induced obese female rats to clarify the biological consequences of CB1blockade at central and peripheral levels. As expected, chronic treatment with rimonabant and taranabant reduced body weight and fat content. Interestingly, a decrease in the number of CB1receptors and its functional activity was observed in all the brain areas investigated after chronic taranabant treatment in both lean and obese rats. In contrast, chronic treatment with rimonabant did not modify the density of CB1cannabinoid receptor binding, and decreased its functional activity to a lower degree than taranabant. Six weeks after rimonabant and taranabant withdrawal, CB1receptor density and activity recovered to basal levels. These results reveal differential adaptive changes in CB1cannabinoid receptors after chronic treatment with rimonabant and taranabant that could be related to the central side‐effects reported with the use of these cannabinoid antagonists.
Exploring the Relationship Between Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms and Neuronal Response to Alcohol Cues
Authors: Feldstein Ewing Sarah W. , Filbey Francesca M. , Chandler Lindsay D. , Hutchison Kent E.
Published: December 2009

Background:  Depressive and anxiety symptoms tend to co‐occur with heavy drinking. Specifically, their presence may exacerbate the severity and intractability of heavy drinking. Similarly, heavy drinking may increase the risk for and experience of depressive and anxiety symptoms. Although depressive and anxiety symptoms have been significantly correlated with alcohol craving in cue‐exposure paradigms, physiological responses have not always mapped onto emotional responses. Therefore, this study sought to examine the role of depressive and anxiety symptoms using a more basic science approach, through examining functional brain changes.

Methods:  Seventy nontreatment seeking, heavy drinking adults were recruited through a college campus (n = 45 men; mean age = 22.8). They completed measures of drinking, smoking, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) cue‐exposure paradigm.

Results:  As hypothesized, depressive symptoms were positively correlated with activation during the alcohol (vs. appetitive control) cue in the insula, cingulate, ventral tegmentum, striatum, and thalamus (cluster‐corrected p < 0.05, z = 2.3). Similarly, anxiety symptoms were positively correlated with activation during the alcohol (vs. appetitive control) cue in the striatum, thalamus, insula, and inferior frontal, mid‐frontal, and cingulate gyri (cluster‐corrected p < 0.05, z = 2.3).

Conclusions:  Significant correlations were found between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and differential brain activation in response to an alcohol versus an appetitive control cue in an fMRI paradigm. Moreover, the pattern of activation mapped onto expected regions. This study strongly supports the posited relationships between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and differential brain activation in an alcohol cue‐exposure paradigm with a sample of heavy drinking adults.
Exercise Neuroprotection in a Rat Model of Binge Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Leasure J. Leigh , Nixon Kimberly
Published: December 2009

Background:  Excessive alcohol intake produces structural and functional deficits in corticolimbic pathways that are thought to underlie cognitive deficits in the alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Animal models of binge alcohol administration support the direct link of high levels of alcohol consumption and neurotoxicity in the hippocampus and surrounding cortex. In contrast, voluntary wheel running enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and generally promotes the health of neurons.

Methods:  We investigated whether voluntary exercise prior to binge alcohol exposure could protect against alcohol‐induced cell loss. Female Long‐Evans rats exercised voluntarily for 14 days before undergoing 4 days of binge alcohol consumption. Brains were harvested immediately after the last dose of alcohol and examined for various histological markers of neurodegeneration, including both cell death (FluoroJade B) and cell birth (Ki67) markers.

Results:  Rats that exercised prior to binge exposure were significantly less behaviorally intoxicated, which was not a result of enhanced hepatic metabolism. Rats that exercised prior to binge alcohol consumption had reduced loss of dentate gyrus granule cells and fewer FluoroJade B positive cells in the dentate gyrus and associated entorhinal‐perirhinal cortex compared to nonexercisers. However, exercise did not protect against cell death in the piriform cortex nor protect against alcohol‐induced decreases in cell proliferation, evidenced by a similar alcohol‐induced reduction in Ki67 labeled cells between exercise and sedentary rats.

Conclusions:  We conclude that exercise can reduce behavioral sensitivity to ethanol intoxication and protect vulnerable brain areas from alcohol‐induced cell death. Exercise neuroprotection of alcohol‐induced brain damage has important implications in understanding the neurobiology of the AUDs as well as in developing novel treatment strategies.
Probability of Exporting Infected Carcasses from Vaccinated Pigs Following a Foot‐and‐Mouth Disease Epidemic
Authors: De Vos Clazien J. , Nielen Mirjam , Lopez Emelinda , Elbers Armin R.W. , Dekker Aldo
Published: December 2009

Emergency vaccination is an effective control strategy for foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD) epidemics in densely populated livestock areas, but results in a six‐month waiting period before exports can be resumed, incurring severe economic consequences for pig exporting countries. In the European Union, a one‐month waiting period has been discussed based on negative test results in a final screening. The objective of this study was to analyze the risk of exporting FMD‐infected pig carcasses from a vaccinated area: (1) directly after final screening and (2) after a six‐month waiting period. A risk model has been developed to estimate the probability that a processed carcass was derived from an FMD‐infected pig (Pcarc). Key variables were herd prevalence (PH), within‐herd prevalence (PA), and the probability of detection at slaughter (PSL). PH and PA were estimated using Bayesian inference under the assumption that, despite all negative test results, ≥1 infected pigs were present. Model calculations indicated that Pcarc was on average 2.0 × 10−5 directly after final screening, and 1.7 × 10−5 after a six‐month waiting period. Therefore, the additional waiting time did not substantially reduce Pcarc. The estimated values were worst‐case scenarios because only viraemic pigs pose a risk for disease transmission, while seropositive pigs do not. The risk of exporting FMD via pig carcasses from a vaccinated area can further be reduced by heat treatment of pork and/or by excluding high‐risk pork products from export.
An Analysis of Respiratory Activity, Q10, and Microbial Community Composition of Soils from High and Low Tussock Sites at Toolik, Alaska
Authors: ANDERSON O. ROGER
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT. High latitude microbial communities, incurring increased global warming, are a potential major source of respiratory CO2 contributing to an enhanced greenhouse effect. Data on respiration and microbial density are presented for a moist, high tussock site compared with a low, water saturated site. The density of bacteria and eukaryotic microbes was nearly equivalent at both sites and potentially could yield substantial release of respiratory CO2 with continued warming. Respiratory rates for soil from the high site were greater than the low. The Q10 of 2.4 for the high tussock sample was approximately 1.3 × that of the low site sample (Q10 of 1.7).
A Novel Alcohol Detector Based on ZrO2‐Doped SnO2 Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Wang Zhaojie , Li Zhenyu , Liu Li , Xu Xiuru , Zhang Hongnan , Wang Wei , Zheng Wei , Wang Ce
Published: December 2009

To overcome the interference of acetone when detecting alcohol, a novel alcohol detector based on zirconia‐doped SnO2 nanofibers were fabricated through electrospinning technique and calcination process. The samples have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and their gas sensing properties have also been investigated. When exposed to alcohol vapor, the nanofibers containing 15 mol% zirconia exhibit the best sensing properties. Moreover, the sensor holds the successful discrimination between acetone and alcohol, which makes our product a good candidate in fabricating highly selective sensors in practice.
Fabrication and Tunable Dielectric Properties of Magnesium‐Doped Lead Barium Zirconate Thin Films
Authors: Hao Xihong , Zhai Jiwei , Ren Huiping , Song Xiwen , Yang Jichun
Published: December 2009

In present work, (Pb0.50Ba0.50)ZrO3 (PBZ) thin films doped by Mg from 0 to 5 mol% were deposited on Pt(111)/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates by the sol–gel method. The phase structure of the Mg‐doped PBZ thin films were characterized by X‐ray diffraction. The electric‐field and temperature‐dependent electrical properties of the Mg‐doped PBZ thin films were also investigated in detail. It was found that the Mg content had a strong influence on the dielectric properties of the thin films. The maximum values of dielectric permittivity and dielectric loss were obtained with 1 mol% Mg‐doping PBZ thin films. However, the figure of merit (FOM) of the films was improved with increase in the Mg content.