bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanosensitive ion channels in interstitial cells of Cajal and smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Kraichely R. E. , Farrugia G.
Published: January 2007

Abstract  Normal gastrointestinal (GI) motility is required to mix digestive enzymes and food and to move content along the GI tract. Underlying the complex motor patterns of the gut are electrical events that reflect ion flux across cell membranes. Smooth muscle electrical activity is directly influenced by GI interstitial cells of Cajal, whose rhythmic oscillations in membrane potential in part determine the excitability of GI smooth muscle and its response to neuronal input. Coordinated activity of the ion channels responsible for the conductances that underlie ion flux in both smooth muscle and interstitial cells is a requisite for normal motility. These conductances are regulated by many factors, including mechanical stress. Recent studies have revealed mechanosensitivity at the level of the ion channels, and the mechanosensor within the channel has been identified in many cases. This has led to better comprehension of the role of mechanosensitive conductances in normal physiology and will undoubtedly lead to understanding of the consequences of disturbances in these conductances.
Persistent endothelial abnormalities and blood–brain barrier leak in primary and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Leech S. , Kirk J. , Plumb J. , McQuaid S.
Published: January 2007

Epithelial and endothelial tight junctions are pathologically altered in infectious, inflammatory, neoplastic and other diseases. Previously, we described such abnormalities, associated with serum protein leak, in tight junctions of the blood–brain barrier endothelium, in lesional and normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM) in secondary progressive (SP) and acute multiple sclerosis (MS). This work is extended here to lesions and NAWM in primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) and to cortical grey matter in PPMS and SPMS. Immunocytochemistry and semiquantitative confocal microscopy for the tight junction protein zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1) was performed on snap‐frozen sections from PPMS (n = 6) and controls (n = 5). Data on 2103 blood vessels were acquired from active lesions (n = 10), inactive lesions (n = 15), NAWM (n = 42) and controls (n = 20). Data on 1218 vessels were acquired from normal‐appearing grey matter (PPMS, 5; SPMS, 6; controls, 5). In PPMS abnormal ZO‐1 expression in active white matter lesions and NAWM, was found in 42% and 13% of blood vessels, respectively, comparable to previous data from acute and SPMS. In chronic white matter plaques, however, abnormalities were considerably more frequent (37%) in PPMS than in SPMS. Abnormality was also more frequent in normal‐appearing grey matter in SPMS (23%) than in PPMS (10%). In summary, abnormal tight junctions in both SPMS and PPMS are most frequent in active white matter lesions but persist in inactive lesions, particularly in PPMS. Abnormal tight junctions are also common in normal‐appearing grey matter in SPMS. Persistent endothelial abnormality with leak (PEAL) is therefore widespread but variably expressed in MS and may contribute to disease progression.
A new locus for autosomal recessive non‐syndromic mental retardation maps to 1p21.1–p13.3
Authors: Uyguner O , Kayserili H , Li Y , Karaman B , Nürnberg G , Hennies HC , Becker C , Nürnberg P , Başaran S , Apak MY , Wollnik B
Published: January 2007

Autosomal recessive inheritance of non‐syndromic mental retardation (ARNSMR) may account for approximately 25% of all patients with non‐specific mental retardation (NSMR). Although many X‐linked genes have been identified as a cause of NSMR, only three autosomal genes are known to cause ARNSMR. We present here a large consanguineous Turkish family with four mentally retarded individuals from different branches of the family. Clinical tests showed cognitive impairment but no neurological, skeletal, and biochemical involvements. Genome‐wide mapping using Human Mapping 10K Array showed a single positive locus with a parametric LOD score of 4.92 in a region on chromosome 1p21.1–p13.3. Further analyses using polymorphic microsatellite markers defined a 6.6‐Mb critical region containing approximately 130 known genes. This locus is the fourth one linked to ARNSMR.
Dysregulation of affect in multiple sclerosis: New phenomenological approach
Authors: HAREL YERMI , BARAK YORAM , ACHIRON ANAT
Published: January 2007

Abstract  Disorders involving regulation of affect commonly occur in multiple sclerosis (MS). These include various clinical presentations with inconsistent definitions that lead to many nomenclatures. In order to simplify the clinical approach to dysregulation of affect (DyA) a phenomenological definition was applied that unifies and combines the current classifications. Accordingly, the prevalence of DyA was determined in MS patients and comorbidity was evaluated with psychiatric disorders. Using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐III‐R (SCID), 651 consecutive MS patients were assessed (474 female, 177 male, mean age 43.6 years, mean disease duration 11.5 years) and it was found that the prevalence of DyA was 6.5% (n = 42). In 14 patients (33.3% of DyA patients) there was no associated psychiatric comorbidity, while in 28 patients (66.6%) there was comorbid psychopathology; 12 had been suffering from psychosis (28.6%), eight from mood disorders (19%), six from cognitive decline (14.3%) and two from personality disorder (4.7%). In 15 patients (35.7%) the DyA was ego‐dystonic and in 27 patients (64.3%) the symptoms of DyA were ego‐syntonic. All patients with comorbid psychosis had ego‐syntonic DyA. In 14.3% of patients the DyA symptomatology preceded the appearance of MS. It is concluded that the new phenomenological definition of DyA aids in distinguishing this symptom from other psychopathologies and can serve as a tool for neurologists in defining this unique entity.
CLOCK gene 3111C/T polymorphism is not associated with seasonal variations in mood and behavior in Korean college students
Authors: PAIK JONG‐WOO , LEE HEON‐JEONG , KANG SEONG‐GUL , LIM SE‐WON , LEE MIN‐SOO , KIM LEEN
Published: January 2007

Abstract  The present study tested the potential association between the 3111C/T polymorphism of the CLOCK gene and seasonal variations in mood and behavior. A total of 297 Korean college students were genotyped for the CLOCK polymorphism and the seasonal variation was evaluated using the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). The seasonality scores were not different between CLOCK gene variants (P > 0.05). Comparison between seasonals (syndromal plus subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder according to SPAQ) and non‐seasonals found no significant difference in frequencies of genotypes (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that the CLOCK polymorphism does not play a major role in susceptibility to seasonal variations in a Korean population.
Evidence‐based mental health nursing in Australia: Our history and our future
Authors: Warelow Philip , Edward Karen‐leigh
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  This paper will develop a discussion related to evidence‐based knowledge for mental health nursing, arguing for a historical component to be included in the comprehensive degree programme that will offer significant insights into mental health nursing knowledge from historical information and constructing implications for contemporary practice. Our understanding of the present is clearer by this looking back and forth and by adding meaning (and what the meanings mean) to what historically preceded. It allows the history of psychiatry to be a much more productive, useful, and a continual source of wisdom for the here and now. This blending of past knowledge with contemporary inquiry can offer depth in mental health nursing practices by forming a context for practice for the beginning nurse practitioner.
Enhanced anxiety, depressive‐like behaviour and impaired recognition memory in mice with reduced expression of the vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGLUT1)
Authors: Tordera R. M. , Totterdell S. , Wojcik S. M. , Brose N. , Elizalde N. , Lasheras B. , Del Rio J.
Published: January 2007

Three isoforms of a vesicular glutamate transporter (VGLUT1–3) have been identified. Of these, VGLUT1 is the major isoform in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus where it is selectively located on synaptic vesicles of excitatory glutamatergic terminals. Variations in VGLUT1 expression levels have a major impact on the efficacy of glutamate synaptic transmission. Given evidence linking alterations in glutamate neurotransmission to various neuropsychiatric disorders, we investigated the possible influence of a down‐regulation of VGLUT1 transporter on anxiety, depressive‐like behaviour and learning. The behavioural phenotype of VGLUT1‐heterozygous mice (C57BL/6) was compared to wild‐type (WT) littermates. Moreover, VGLUT1–3 expression, hippocampal excitatory terminal ultrastructure and neurochemical phenotype were analysed. VGLUT1‐heterozygous mice displayed normal spontaneous locomotor activity, increased anxiety in the light–dark exploration test and depressive‐like behaviour in the forced swimming test: no differences were shown in the elevated plus‐maze model of anxiety. In the novel object recognition test, VGLUT1+/– mice showed normal short‐term but impaired long‐term memory. Spatial memory in the Morris water maze was unaffected. Western blot analysis confirmed that VGLUT1 heterozygotes expressed half the amount of transporter compared to WT. In addition, a reduction in the reserve pool of synaptic vesicles of hippocampal excitatory terminals and a 35–45% reduction in GABA in the frontal cortex and the hippocampus were observed in the mutant mice. These observations suggest that a VGLUT1‐mediated presynaptic alteration of the glutamatergic synapses, in specific brain regions, leads to a behavioural phenotype resembling certain aspects of psychiatric and cognitive disorders.
‘Policies Don't Protect People, It's How They Are Implemented’: Policy and Practice in Protecting People with Learning Disabilities from Abuse
Authors: Northway Ruth , Davies Rachel , Mansell Ian , Jenkins Robert
Published: January 2007

Recent years have seen the development of policy guidance documents in both Wales and England relating to the protection of vulnerable adults from abuse. This policy guidance does, however, require translation into policies at the local level and that these policies are then implemented in day‐to‐day practice. This article reports some of the findings of a two‐year study that examined the development and implementation of such policies in services for people with learning disabilities within Wales. Data were gathered by means of a survey of service providers from across Wales and also via focus groups held with direct care staff and those with a responsibility for investigating alleged abuse. Positive developments include a commitment to multi‐disciplinary working, increased clarity and consistency, and greater awareness. Less positive aspects include the potential for policy ‘overload’ and a feeling that, while there is awareness of the existence of vulnerable adults policies, knowledge of their content may be more limited. Recommendations are made for the development of policy, practice and research.
Realizing the Literate Traveller
Authors: Cartwright William E , Williams Bob , Pettit Chris
Published: January 2007

A current research project is addressing the problem of finding appropriate geographical information by developing a (geo)information realization resource based upon the concepts of the Literate Traveller. It has as its main goal to provide tools for geographical knowledge building and exploration, by providing conventional spatial information plus geographical interpretation and appreciation artifacts. These artifacts are delivered in an interactive multimedia environment. This research examines the formulation of an initial prototype component to assist in providing geographical knowledge. The prototype is based on a study site in Townsville, Australia, and is being used as a vehicle to explore enhanced spatial information provision through the use of rich media. The research examines new ways to prospect for, discover and disseminate spatial knowledge within an intelligence‐briefing context. The paper reports on the concepts behind the design of the application developed for the test site, and presents initial findings from the early evaluation of the prototype.
Towards a Coherent Statistical Framework for Dense Deformable Template Estimation
Authors: Allassonnière S. , Amit Y. , Trouvé A.
Published: January 2007

The problem of estimating probabilistic deformable template models in the field of computer vision or of probabilistic atlases in the field of computational anatomy has not yet received a coherent statistical formulation and remains a challenge. We provide a careful definition and analysis of a well-defined statistical model based on dense deformable templates for grey level images of deformable objects. We propose a rigorous Bayesian framework for which we prove asymptotic consistency of the maximum a posteriori estimate and which leads to an effective iterative estimation algorithm of the geometric and photometric parameters in the small sample setting. The model is extended to mixtures of finite numbers of such components leading to a fine description of the photometric and geometric variations of an object class. We illustrate some of the ideas with images of handwritten digits and apply the estimated models to classification through maximum likelihood.
The shape of the hominoid proximal femur: a geometric morphometric analysis
Authors: Harmon Elizabeth H.
Published: January 2007

As part of the hip joint, the proximal femur is an integral locomotor component. Although a link between locomotion and the morphology of some aspects of the proximal femur has been identified, inclusive shapes of this element have not been compared among behaviourally heterogeneous hominoids. Previous analyses have partitioned complex proximal femoral morphology into discrete features (e.g. head, neck, greater trochanter) to facilitate conventional linear measurements. In this study, three‐dimensional geometric morphometrics are used to examine the shape of the proximal femur in hominoids to determine whether femoral shape co‐varies with locomotor category. Fourteen landmarks are recorded on adult femora of Homo, Pan, Gorilla, Pongo and Hylobates. Generalized Procrustes analysis (GPA) is used to adjust for position, orientation and scale among landmark configurations. Principal components analysis is used to collapse and compare variation in residuals from GPA, and thin‐plate spline analysis is used to visualize shape change among taxa. The results indicate that knucklewalking African apes are similar to one another in femoral shape, whereas the more suspensory Asian apes diverge from the African ape pattern. The shape of the human and orangutan proximal femur converge, a result that is best explained in terms of the distinct requirements for locomotion in each group. These findings suggest that the shape of the proximal femur is brought about primarily by locomotor behaviour.
Internalization of PrP106–126 by the formyl‐peptide‐receptor‐like‐1 in glial cells
Authors: Brandenburg Lars‐Ove , Koch Thomas , Sievers Jobst , Lucius Ralph
Published: January 2007

Recent studies suggest that the formyl‐peptide‐receptor‐like‐1 (FPRL1) plays an essential role in inflammatory responses in the host defence mechanisms and neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, it may be involved in proinflammatory processes of prion diseases. However, little is known about the induction and regulation of PrP106–126‐induced receptor endocytosis. We have thus analysed whether PrP106–126 increases the activity of phospholipase D (PLD) via FPRL1, an enzyme involved in the regulation of the secretion, endocytosis and receptor signalling, in glial cells. PLD activity was determined using a transphosphatidylation assay and the internalization of PrP106–126, and FPRL1 was assessed by fluorescence microscopy and quantified by ELISA. We could show that PLD is activated by PrP106–126 both in astrocytes and microglia, and moreover that PrP106–126 is rapidly internalized via FPRL1 in astrocytes and microglia cells. The determination of receptor activity by extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 phosphorylation and cAMP level measurement verified the PrP106–126‐induced activation of FPRL1. FPRL1‐mediated PrP106–126 uptake was blocked by the receptor antagonist chenodeoxycholic acid. These studies indicate the involvement of FPRL1‐mediated cellular signalling in PrP106–126‐endocytosis and may allow the development of therapeutic agents interfering with prion uptake and/or PLD function, using either PLD or the FPRL1 as a possible pharmaceutical target.
Brain insulin system dysfunction in streptozotocin intracerebroventricularly treated rats generates hyperphosphorylated tau protein
Authors: Grünblatt Edna , Salkovic‐Petrisic Melita , Osmanovic Jelena , Riederer Peter , Hoyer Siegfried
Published: January 2007

The intracerebroventricular (icv) application of streptozotocin (STZ) in low dosage was used in 3‐month‐old rats to explore brain insulin system dysfunction. Three months following STZ icv treatment, the expression of insulin‐1 and ‐2 mRNA was significantly reduced to 11% in hippocampus and to 28% in frontoparietal cerebral cortex, respectively. Insulin receptor (IR) mRNA expression decreased significantly in frontoparietal cerebral cortex and hippocampus (16% and 33% of control). At the protein/activity level, different abnormalities of protein tyrosine kinase activity (increase in hippocampus), total IR β‐subunit (decrease in hypothalamus) and phosphorylated IR tyrosine residues (increase) became apparent. The STZ‐induced disturbance in learning and memory capacities was not abolished by icv application of glucose transport inhibitors known to prevent STZ‐induced diabetes mellitus. The discrepancy between reduced IR gene expression and increase in both phosphorylated IR tyrosine residues/protein tyrosine kinase activity may indicate imbalance between phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of the IR β‐subunit causing its dysfunction. These abnormalities may point to a complex brain insulin system dysfunction after STZ icv application, which may lead to an increase in hyperphosphorylated tau‐protein concentration. Brain insulin system dysfunction is discussed as possible pathological core in the generation of hyperphosphorylated tau protein as a morphological marker of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease.
Isolation and characterization of LCHN: a novel factor induced by transient global ischemia in the adult rat hippocampus
Authors: Zhang Guangming , Jung Benjamin P. , Ho Warren , Jugloff Denis G. M. , Cheung Herman H. , Gurd James W. , Wallace M. Christopher , Eubanks James H.
Published: January 2007

Using mRNA differential display to identify cerebral ischemia‐responsive mRNAs, we isolated and cloned a cDNA derived from a novel gene, that has been designated LCHN. Antisense mRNA in situ hybridization and immunoblotting confirmed LCHN expression to be induced in the rat hippocampus following transient forebrain ischemia. The deduced amino acid sequence of the novel LCHN cDNA contains an open reading frame of 455 amino acids, encoding a protein with a predicted molecular mass of approximately 51 kDa. Although LCHN is highly conserved between rat, mouse, and human, the deduced amino acid sequence of LCHN does not possess significant homology to other known genes. LCHN immunoreactivity is detected within the somatodendritic compartment of neurons, is also present on dendritic growth cones, but is not detected on astrocytes. The induction of LCHN in the hippocampus following ischemic injury may have functional consequences, as the ectopic over‐expression of LCHN generated neurons with longer and more branched axons and dendrites. Taken together, these data suggest that LCHN could play a role in neuritogenesis, as well as in neuronal recovery and/or restructuring in the hippocampus following transient cerebral ischemia.
Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors modulate nerve growth factor‐mediated regulation of amyloid precursor protein expression in PC12 cells
Authors: Binnington Janet C. , Kalisch Bettina E.
Published: January 2007

Nerve growth factor (NGF) can regulate nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression and nitric oxide (NO) can modulate NGF‐mediated neurotrophic responses. In this study, the role of NO in NGF‐stimulated amyloid precursor protein (APP) levels was studied. PC12 cells were treated with either the non‐selective NOS inhibitor Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methylester (L‐NAME) or the inducible NOS selective inhibitor s‐methylisothiourea (S‐MIU), and the effect on NGF‐mediated increases in APP expression was determined. NGF significantly increased total APP protein levels following 96 h of treatment and this increase was prevented in cells pre‐treated with S‐MIU. Pre‐treatment of cells with actinomycin D also blocked this NGF‐mediated induction of APP, indicating de novo protein synthesis is necessary. Treatment with NGF increased APP promoter activity; however, this increase was only partially inhibited by pre‐treatment with S‐MIU and was increased in the presence of L‐NAME. This suggests that NO may be modulating other aspects of APP expression in addition to transcription. Inhibition of NGF signaling pathways was also investigated using inhibitors of mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase (U0126), Akt (LY294002) and protein kinase C (PKC; U73122 and bisindolylmaleimide 1 (BIS‐1)) activation. Inhibition of each of these pathways prevented NGF‐mediated increases in APP protein expression; however, only BIS‐1 attenuated NGF‐mediated increases in promoter activation. This study indicates that NO is involved in the NGF‐mediated regulation of APP, in part at the level of APP transcription and could involve the modulation of NGF signal transduction pathways.
DNA barcoding of Neotropical bats: species identification and discovery within Guyana
Authors: CLARE ELIZABETH L. , LIM BURTON K. , ENGSTROM MARK D. , EGER JUDITH L. , HEBERT PAUL D. N.
Published: January 2007

Sequence diversity in the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene has been shown to be an effective tool for species identification and discovery in various groups of animals, but has not been extensively tested in mammals. We address this gap by examining the performance of DNA barcodes in the discrimination of 87 species of bats from Guyana. Eighty‐one of these species showed both low intraspecific variation (mean = 0.60%), and clear sequence divergence from their congeners (mean = 7.80%), while the other six showed deeply divergent intraspecific lineages suggesting that they represent species complexes. Although further work is needed to examine patterns of sequence diversity at a broader geographical scale, the present study validates the effectiveness of barcoding for the identification of regional bat assemblages, even highly diverse tropical faunas.
Intraindividual comparison of human radial and internal thoracic arteries in vitro and the effect of preoperative calcium blocker therapy
Authors: Grapow Martin T.R. , Reineke David C. , Kern Thomas , Antona Carlo , Gelpi Guido , Santoli Eduardo , Zerkowski Hans‐Reinhard , Carrel Thierry P. , Müller‐Schweinitzer Else
Published: January 2007

The patency rate of radial artery (RA) conduits is considerably lower than that of internal thoracic artery (ITA) grafts and the evidence suggests that this is due to a clinically suspected higher incidence of vasospasm. The aim of this study was, therefore, to compare intraindividually the pharmacological reactivity of RA with that of ITA. Both RA and ITA were taken from the same patients and investigated in parallel. Changes in tone were monitored isometrically on ring preparations from both arteries in organ baths with modified Krebs–Henseleit solution containing 1.25 mm calcium chloride at 1 g passive preload. In intraindividual comparisons maximal receptor‐mediated contractile responses to noradrenaline and endothelin‐1 and endothelium‐dependent acetylcholine‐induced relaxant responses revealed no differences between both arteries. By contrast, depolarization‐induced contractions to potassium chloride (KCl) appeared to be significantly higher in RA than in ITA. Further analysis, however, revealed that this difference was due to preoperative calcium entry blocker (Ca2+eB) therapy. Compared with control tissues, maximal responses to KCl were significantly attenuated in the ITA but unchanged in RA when arteries were obtained from patients with preoperative Ca2+eB therapy. The present results suggested that functional responses to pharmacological stimuli of both RA and ITA were quite similar. Preoperative Ca2+eB therapy, however, attenuated markedly responses to KCl of the ITA leaving those of RA unchanged. These results, demonstrating a lower sensitivity to Ca2+eB of RA, therefore suggested that in addition to Ca2+eB other classes of drug may be more effective at reducing the propensity of RA conduits to vasospasm.
The effect of modulation ofγ‐glutamyl transpeptidase and nitric oxide synthase activity on GSH homeostasis in HepG2 cells
Authors: Kwiecień Inga , Rokita Hanna , Lorenc‐Koci Elżbieta , Sokolowska Maria , Włodek Lidia
Published: January 2007

High glutathione (GSH) level and elevatedγ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) activity are hallmarks of tumor cells. Toxicity of drugs and radiation to the cells is largely dependent on the level of thiols. In the present studies, we attempted to inhibitγGT activity in human hepatoblastoma (HepG2) cells to examine whether the administration ofγGT inhibitors, acivicin (AC) and 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ) influences cell proliferation and enhances cytostatic action of doxorubicin (DOX) and cisplatin (CP) on HepG2 cells. The effects of these inhibitors were determined by 1‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐3,5‐diphenylformazan (MTT), BrdU and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) tests and by estimation of GSH level. Additionally, we investigated the changes in caspase‐3 activity, which is a marker of apoptosis. The obtained results showed that theγGT inhibitors introduced to the medium alone elicited cytotoxic effect, which was accompanied by an increase in GSH level in the cells. TIQ concomitantly increased caspase‐3 activity. Doxorubicin and CP proved to be cytotoxic, and both inhibitors augmented this effect. As well DOX as CP radically decreased GSH levels, whereasγGT inhibitors had diverse effects. Therefore, the obtained results confirm thatγGT inhibitors can enhance pharmacological action of DOX and CP, which may permit clinicians to decrease their doses thereby alleviating side effects. Aminoguanidine (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) given alone was little cytotoxic to HepG2 cells, while its introduction to the medium together with DOX and CP significantly increased their cytotoxicity. Aminoguanidine on its own did not show any effect on GSH level in HepG2 cells, but markedly and significantly elevated its concentration when added in combination with CP but not with DOX. This indicates that when CP was used as a cytostatic, GSH level rose after treatment with its combination with both AC and aminoguanidine.
Comparative effects of two type I interferons, human IFN‐α and ovine IFN‐τ on indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase in primary cultures of human macrophages
Authors: Maneglier Benjamin , Rogez‐Kreuz Christine , Spreux‐Varoquaux Odile , Malleret Benoit , Thérond Patrice , Samah Boubekeur , Drouet Isabelle , Dormont Dominique , Advenier Charles , Clayette Pascal
Published: January 2007

Type I interferons (IFNs) are widely used to treat viral diseases. Depressive symptoms and suicide attempts are common neuropsychiatric side‐effects during treatment with type I IFNs. Activation of indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO), the first and rate‐limiting enzyme of the kynurenine pathway by IFNs, leads to an increase in tryptophan (Trp) catabolism. Low levels of Trp lead to decrease of serotonin synthesis, which is likely to be related to the depressive symptoms. Ovine type I interferon‐tau (IFN‐τ) has a more potent antiretroviral effect and is less toxic than human type I IFN‐α. Effects of IFN‐τ and IFN‐α on IDO expression and activity in primary cultures of human macrophages were compared in parallel to those of IFN‐γ, considered as one of the most potent IDO inducer. We found that both IFN‐α and IFN‐τ were poor inducers of IDO compared with IFN‐γ. However, IDO activation was slightly and significantly lower with ovine IFN‐τ than human IFN‐α, suggesting that ovine IFN‐τ might have a lower impact on serotoninergic pathway compared with human IFN‐α.
Engineered textile colour standards
Authors: Park J
Published: January 2007

The generation of colour palettes and the production of ‘engineered standards’ are now mature technologies and are able to shorten significantly the colour selection and manufacturing process, giving improvements in colour quality control and cost reductions. These advances would not have been possible without the development of optimised colour‐difference equations, improvements in laboratory dyeing techniques and computer colour matching together with the availability of digital communication.
Different measures of sensitivity of recipe colour to random and proportional dye concentration error. Part 3: Observed repeatability in regard to predicted sensitivity
Authors: Sluban Boris , Šauperl Olivera , Pozderec Mihaela
Published: January 2007

The essential question of the paper ‘Can the predicted sensitivity to random and/or proportional dye concentration errors assist in selecting the most repeatable recipes?’ was investigated using the laboratory dyeing of acrylic fabric with basic dyes. When the dye strength errors were not involved, the biggest scattering of the recipe colour in repeated dyeings was observed in the cases of light neutral target colours, where the predicted sensitivity to random concentration errors was also the highest. For a few low‐saturated targets, eight recipes with different predicted sensitivities to random errors were treated. In six cases out of the seven treated, those recipes less sensitive to random concentration errors generally performed better than the more sensitive ones, but the correlation was rather weak. For those cases when the dye strength errors were included, experiments were also carried out with several different recipes for a neutral medium‐lightness target colour.
Forecasting the Expansion of Zebra Mussels in the United States
Authors: BOSSENBROEK JONATHAN M. , JOHNSON LADD E. , PETERS BRETT , LODGE DAVID M.
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Because zebra mussels spread rapidly throughout the eastern United States in the late 1980s and early 1990s, their spread to the western United States has been expected. Overland dispersal into inland lakes and reservoirs, however, has occurred at a much slower rate than earlier spread via connected, navigable waterways. We forecasted the potential western spread of zebra mussels by predicting the overland movement of recreational boaters with a production‐constrained gravity model. We also predicted the potential abundance of zebra mussels in two western reservoirs by comparing their water chemistry characteristics with those of water bodies with known abundances of zebra mussels. Most boats coming from waters infested with zebra mussels were taken to areas that already had zebra mussels, but a small proportion of such boats did travel west of the 100th meridian. If zebra mussels do establish in western U.S. water bodies, we predict that population densities could achieve similar levels to those in the Midwestern United States, where zebra mussels have caused considerable economic and ecological impacts. Our analyses suggest that the dispersal of zebra mussels to the western United States is an event of low probability but potentially high impact on native biodiversity and human infrastructure. Combining these results with economic analyses could help determine appropriate investment levels in prevention and control strategies.
Potential Spatial Overlap of Heritage Sites and Protected Areas in a Boreal Region of Northern Canada
Authors: LEROUX SHAWN J. , SCHMIEGELOW FIONA K.A. , NAGY JOHN A.
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Under article 8‐J of the Convention on Biological Diversity, governments must engage indigenous and local communities in the designation and management of protected areas. A better understanding of the relationship between community heritage sites and sites identified to protect conventional conservation features could inform conservation‐planning exercises on indigenous lands. We examined the potential overlap between Gwich'in First Nations' (Northwest Territories, Canada) heritage sites and areas independently identified for the protection of conventional conservation targets. We designed nine hypothetical protected‐area networks with different targets for woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) habitat, high‐quality wetland areas, representative vegetation types, water bodies, environmentally significant area, territorial parks, and network aggregation. We compared the spatial overlap of heritage sites to these nine protected‐area networks. The degree of spatial overlap (Jaccard similarity) between heritage sites and the protected‐area networks with moderate or high aggregation was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than random spatial overlap, whereas the overlap between heritage sites and the protected‐area networks with no aggregation was not significant or significantly lower (p < 0.001) than random spatial overlap. Our results suggest that protected‐area networks designed to capture conventional conservation features may protect key heritage sites but only if the underlying characteristics of these sites are considered. The Gwich'in heritage sites are highly aggregated and only protected‐area networks that had moderate and high aggregation had significant overlap with the heritage sites. We suggest that conventional conservation plans incorporate heritage sites into their design criteria to complement conventional conservation targets and effectively protect indigenous heritage sites.
Mechanically Activated Combustion Synthesis of β‐Si6−zAlzOzN8−z (z=1–4)
Authors: Aoyagi Kazuhiko , Hiraki Takehito , Sivakumar Ramasamy , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Akiyama Tomohiro
Published: January 2007

Fine β‐sialon (Si6−zAlzOzN8−z, 1<z<4) was prepared by mechanical‐activated combustion synthesis (CS) using raw materials such as Si, Al, and SiO2 in a nitriding atmosphere of 1 MPa. Mechanical activation by planetary milling for only 18 min led to the formation of β‐sialon after combustion synthesis. Comparative experiments with ball milling showed that the relative amount of β‐sialon was considerably increased to 66% when planetary milled to 18 min after CS. The raw material Si was replaced by waste Si of 94.8 mass% in purity, and was combustion synthesized successfully under the same processing parameters for cost‐effective measures.
Hot Isostatic Pressing of Cubic Boron Nitride–Tungsten Carbide/Cobalt (cBN–WC/Co) Composites: Effect of cBN Particle Size and Some Processing Parameters on their Microstructure and Properties
Authors: Martínez V. , Echeberria J.
Published: January 2007

Cubic boron nitride (cBN)‐cemented carbide composites have gained attraction over the last few years because of their potential uses as wear parts. The densification behavior of cBN—hard metal composites by glass encapsulation hot isostatic pressing—has been investigated. Composites with different cBN grades (from 0/0.5 to 6/12 μm particle sizes) and cBN content (up to 50 vol%) were selected for this study. Near‐full densification was obtained at temperatures between 1100° and 1200°C, and pressures between 150 and 200 MPa, respectively, while no phase transformation of cBN into the low‐hardness hexagonal form has been detected by X‐ray diffraction. The addition of cBN to the hard metal base material led to an increase of hardness, a significant increase of fracture toughness (KIC measured by Vickers indentation), and a moderate decrease of mechanical strength (determined by three‐point bending).
Comparison between computer‐aided testing and traditional multiple choice: an equivalence study
Authors: Karl M. , Graef F. , Eitner S. , Beck N. , Wichmann M. , Holst S.
Published: January 2007

Aims:  Computer‐aided learning (CAL) is a viable alternative to traditional teaching methods. While CAL is used for teaching only, computer‐aided testing (CAT) can be applied as a computer‐based examination method. The aim of the present study was to compare the performance of undergraduate students in computer‐interactive tests and traditional multiple choice tests and to evaluate the influence of question length and language skills on test results.

Materials and methods:  Fifty‐two native German‐speaking students and five non‐native speaking students were randomly assigned to two groups. They were required to answer 20 conventional multiple choice questions and 20 questions using the interactive MobiTed® system. An analysis of variance and t‐tests (α = 0.05) were used to compare scores.

Results:  Non‐native speakers scored significantly lower on the interactive test compared with the native speaking students (P = 0.048 for long questions and P = 0.003 for short questions). There were no significant group differences on the conventional multiple choice test (P = 0.052 for long questions and P = 0.089 for short questions). Based on the results of the native speaking students neither test method nor question length had an influence on overall performance.

Conclusion:  Interactive multiple choice tests may provide an alternative to written tests, especially when considering time expenditure. Language skills and question length should be taken into account when setting time limits for examination.
Spanish consensus statement on alternatives to allogeneic transfusions: the ‘Seville document’
Authors: LEAL‐NOVAL RAMÓN , MUÑOZ MANUEL , PÁRAMO JOSÉ A , GARCÍA‐ERCE JOSÉ A
Published: January 2007

The Consensus Document on Alternatives to Allogeneic Blood Transfusion (AABT) has been drawn up by a panel of experts from five scientific societies. The Spanish societies of anesthesiology (SEDAR), critical care medicine and coronary units (SEMICYUC), hematology and hemotherapy (AEHH), blood transfusion (SETS), and thrombosis and hemostasis (SETH) have sponsored and participated in this consensus document. Alternatives to blood transfusion have been divided into pharmacological and nonpharmacological, with four modules and 12 topics. The main objective variable was the reduction of allogeneic blood transfusions and/or the number of transfused patients. The extent to which this objective was achieved by each AABT was evaluated using the Delphi methodology, which classifies the grades of recommendation from ‘A’ (supported by controlled studies) to ‘E’ (noncontrolled studies and expert opinion). The experts concluded that most of the indications for AABT only attained middle or low grades of recommendation, ‘C’, ‘D’ or ‘E’, thus indicating the need for further controlled studies.
Alterations in mRNA expression and protein products following spinal cord injury in humans
Authors: Urso Maria L. , Chen Yi‐Wen , Scrimgeour Angus G. , Lee Patrick C. , Lee K. Francis , Clarkson Priscilla M.
Published: January 2007

We examined the effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) on alterations in gene expression and respective protein products in human skeletal muscle 2 days and 5 days post‐SCI. Biopsies were taken from skeletal muscle of 9 men and 1 woman (n= 10) (43.9 ± 6.7 years) 2 days and 5 days post‐SCI and from 5 healthy young men who served as controls (20.4 ± 0.5 years). Global changes in gene expression were analysed using Affymetrix GeneChips on a subsample of subjects (n= 3). Candidate genes were then pursued via qRT‐PCR. Western blotting (WB) was used to quantify protein products of candidate genes. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to localize proteins. Groups of transcripts showing the greatest percentage of altered expression, the most robust fold‐changes, and indicative of involvement of an entire pathway using the GeneChip included genes involved in the ubiquitin proteasome pathway (UPP), metallothionein function, and protease inhibition. qRT‐PCR analysis confirmed increases in gene expression for UPP components (UBE3C, Atrogin‐1, MURF1, and PSMD11), the metallothioneins (MT1A, MT1F, MT1H), and the protease inhibitor, SLPI (P < 0.05) at 2 days and 5 days post‐SCI. Protein levels of the proteasome subunit (PSMD11) and the metallothioneins were increased 5 days post‐SCI. Protein levels of UBE3C, Atrogin‐1, MURF1 and SLPI were unchanged (P > 0.05). IHC showed increased staining for PSMD11 and the metallothioneins 5 days post‐SCI, along the peripheral region of the cells. IHC also showed altered staining for Atrogin‐1 at 5 days post‐SCI along the membrane region. Thus, there was a profound increase in gene expression of UPP components, the metallothioneins, and the protease inhibitor, SLPI, within 5 days of SCI. Increased protein levels for PSMD11 and the metallothioneins 5 days post‐SCI, specifically along the cell periphery, indicate that proteins in this region may be early targets for degradation post‐SCI.
Multivesicular release and saturation of glutamatergic signalling at retinal ribbon synapses
Authors: Singer Joshua H.
Published: January 2007

Pronounced multivesicular release (MVR) occurs at the ribbon synapses of sensory neurones that signal via graded potential changes. As MVR increases the likelihood of postsynaptic receptor saturation, it is of interest to consider how sensory synapses overcome this problem and use MVR to encode signals of widely varying intensities. Here, I discuss three postsynaptic mechanisms that permit three different retinal synapses to utilize MVR.
Ionic currents underlying the response of rat dorsal vagal neurones to hypoglycaemia and chemical anoxia
Authors: Balfour Robert H. , Trapp Stefan
Published: January 2007

A proportion of dorsal vagal neurones (DVN) are glucosensors. These cells respond to brief hypoglycaemia either with a KATP channel‐mediated hyperpolarization or with depolarization owing to an as yet unknown mechanism. KATP currents are observed not only during hypoglycaemia, but also in response to mitochondrial inhibition. Here we show that similarly to the observations for KATP currents, both hypoglycaemia and inhibition of mitochondrial function elicited a small inward current that persisted in TTX in DVN of rat brainstem slices. Removal of glucose from the bath solution induced this inward current within 50 ± 4 s in one subpopulation of DVN and in 279 ± 36 s in another subpopulation. No such subpopulations were observed for the response to mitochondrial inhibition. Biophysical analysis revealed that mitochondrial inhibition or hypoglycaemia inhibited an openly rectifying K+ conductance in 25% of DVN. In the remaining cells, either an increase in conductance, with a reversal potential between −58 and +10 mV, or a parallel inward shift of the holding current was observed. This current most probably resulted from inhibition of the Na+–K+‐ATPase and/or the opening of an ion channel. Recordings with electrodes containing 145 mm instead of 5 mm Cl− failed to shift the reversal potential of the inward current, indicating that a Cl− channel was not involved. In summary, glucosensing and non‐glucosensing DVN appear to use common electrical pathways to respond to mitochondrial inhibition and to hypoglycaemia. We suggest that differences in glucose metabolism rather than differences in the complement of ion channels distinguish these two cell types.
Altered synaptic input and GABAB receptor function in spinal superficial dorsal horn neurons in rats with diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Wang Xiu‐Li , Zhang Hong‐Mei , Chen Shao‐Rui , Pan Hui‐Lin
Published: January 2007

Hyperactivity of spinal dorsal horn neurons plays an important role in the development of diabetic neuropathic pain. However, little is known as to whether synaptic input to spinal dorsal horn neurons is altered in diabetic neuropathy. Also, the function of GABAB receptors in the control of synaptic input to dorsal horn neurons in diabetes remains poorly understood. To determine the changes in synaptic input to dorsal horn neurons and the GABAB receptor function in streptozotocin‐induced diabetes, we performed whole‐cell recording (GDP‐β‐S included in the internal solution) on lamina II neurons in rat spinal cord slices. The frequency of glutamatergic mEPSCs and the amplitude of monosynaptic EPSCs evoked from the dorsal root were significantly higher in diabetic than in control rats. On the other hand, the basal frequency and amplitude of GABAergic spontaneous IPSCs and mIPSCs and those of glycinergic spontaneous IPSCs and mIPSCs did not differ significantly between control and diabetic rats. The GABAB agonist baclofen produced a significantly greater reduction in dorsal root‐evoked EPSCs and the frequency of mEPSCs in control than in diabetic rats. However, the inhibitory effect of baclofen on GABAergic and glycinergic spontaneous IPSCs and mIPSCs was not significantly different in the two groups. These findings suggest that increased glutamatergic input from primary afferents to dorsal horn neurons may contribute to synaptic plasticity and central sensitization in diabetic neuropathic pain. Furthermore, the function of presynaptic GABAB receptors at primary afferent terminals, but not that on GABAergic and glycinergic interneurons, in the spinal cord is reduced in diabetic neuropathy.
Neonatal hyperleptinaemia programmes adrenal medullary function in adult rats: effects on cardiovascular parameters
Authors: Trevenzoli I. H. , Valle M. M. R. , Machado F. B. , Garcia R. M. G. , Passos M. C. F. , Lisboa P. C. , Moura E. G.
Published: January 2007

Epidemiological studies have shown a strong correlation between stressful events (nutritional, hormonal or environmental) in early life and development of adult diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular failure. It is known that gestation and lactation are crucial periods for healthy growth in mammals and that the sympathoadrenal system is markedly influenced by environmental conditions during these periods. We previously demonstrated that neonatal hyperleptinaemia in rats programmes higher body weight, higher food intake and hypothalamic leptin resistance in adulthood. Using this model of programming, we investigated adrenal medullary function and effects on cardiovascular parameters in male rats in adulthood. Leptin treatment during the first 10 days of lactation (8μg 100 g−1 day−1, s.c.) resulted in lower body weight (6.5%, P < 0.05), hyperleptinaemia (10‐fold, P < 0.05) and higher catecholamine content in adrenal glands (18.5%, P < 0.05) on the last day of treatment. In adulthood (150 days), the rats presented higher body weight (5%, P < 0.05), adrenal catecholamine content (3‐fold, P < 0.05), tyrosine hydroxylase expression (35%, P < 0.05) and basal and caffeine‐stimulated catecholamine release (53% and 100%, respectively, P < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure and heart rate were also higher in adult rats (7% and 6%, respectively, P < 0.05). Our results show that hyperleptinaemia in early life increases adrenal medullary function in adulthood and that this may alter cardiovascular parameters. Thus, we suggest that imprinting factors which increase leptin and catecholamine levels during the neonatal period could be involved in development of adult chronic diseases.