bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVOLUTION OF THE HUMAN BRAIN: IS BIGGER BETTER?
Authors: Henneberg Maciej
Published: June 2007

1. The hominid brain has increased approximately three times in size since the Pliocene, but so has the brain of equids. The tripling of hominid brain size has been considered as an indicator of increased mental abilities, as it coincided with the production of tools, weapons and other artefacts of increasing sophistication. No indicators of the increase in equid intelligence are known. Intraspecific correlation between brain size and variously measured ‘intelligence’ is, in modern humans, very weak if not completely absent. With the exception of size, there are no major differences between the anatomy of ape and human brains.

2. A study of 297 estimates of body height, 626 estimates of body weight and 276 estimates of the cranial capacity of hominids dated at various periods over the past 5 million years shows that the increase in hominid brain size was paralleled by an increase in body size.

3. In a sample of 45 variously dated fossil hominids, brain size correlates isometrically with body size.

4. Since the Late Pleistocene (approximately 30000 years ago), human brain size decreased by approximately 10%; yet again, this decrease was paralleled by a decrease in body size.

5. Therefore, it may be concluded that the gross anatomy of the hominid brain is not related to its functional capabilities. The large human brain:body size ratio may be a result of the structural reduction of the size of the gastrointestinal tract and, consequently, its musculoskeletal supports. It is related to richer, meat‐based diets and extra‐oral food processing rather than the exceptional increase in the size of the cerebrum. The exceptional mental abilities of humans may be a result of functional rather than anatomical evolution.
LOCATION OF GANGLIOSIDE GM2 ACTIVATOR PROTEIN GENE EXPRESSION IN SHEEP
Authors: Butkus A. , Coghlan JP
Published: June 2007

1. The present study was aimed at characterizing and establishing the site of production of a ‘novel’ protein isolated in 1988 during the course of studies on sheep renal morphology. This protein has subsequently been identified as the GM2 activator protein (GM2AP).

2. The ‘novel’ protein, with an apparent molecular weight of 18–22 kDa and a pi between 4.7 and 4.9, was isolated from enriched granular fractions of sheep kidney cortex using two‐dimensional (2‐D) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Following electroelution, the N‐terminal amino acid sequence was determined and, applying the preferred codon usage formula, an oligodeoxy ribonucleotide probe was constructed for examination of sites of expression of this novel protein using northern analyses and hybridization histochemistry.

3. Western blots of the 2‐D gels onto nitrocellulose membranes permitted us to select the appropriate spots for injection into rabbits for production of polyclonal antibodies. The antibodies were used to confirm the sites of protein production using immunohistochemistry.

4. Northern analyses revealed that GM2AP mRNA has a widespread distribution in ovine tissues. In the kidney, GM2 was expressed in all major renal arteries and arterioles. In the liver, the expression of the gene was prominent in the hepatic vein and ducts. Antibodies raised against the GM2AP confirmed that the protein was present at the same sites as the mRNA.

5. These are the first studies showing the location of GM2 activator gene expression in normal mammalian tissues. The arterial site of production has implications for local action or an important role in membrane integrity throughout the kidney.
STRUCTURE‐FUNCTION RELATIONSHIPS OF ALDOSTERONE SYNTHASE AND 11β‐HYDROXYLASE ENZYMES: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN HYPERTENSION
Authors: Fisher Angela , Davies Eleanor , Fraser Robert , Connell John MC
Published: June 2007

1. The genes encoding aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) and 11β‐hydroxylase (CYP11B1) are very similar at the nucleotide level (> 95% homology). Despite this and the corresponding similarity of amino acid sequence, there are considerable differences in functional and substrate specificity of the two enzymes. In the present study we have examined the role of two amino acids that differ between the two enzymes (147 and 248) to determine the difference between aldosterone synthase and 11β‐hydroxylase capacity to 11‐hydroxylate 11‐deoxycorticosterone (DOC).

2. Plasmids containing cDNA encoding wild‐type aldosterone synthase, wild‐type 11β‐hydroxylase and mutated forms of aldosterone synthase (D147E and I248T), in which the codons for residues 147 (aspartate exon 3) or 248 (isoleucine exon 4) had been altered to encode the corresponding amino acids (gluta‐mate and threonine respectively) from 11β‐hydroxylase were transiently expressed in non‐steroidogenic COS‐7 cells. All trans‐fections were cotransfected with bovine adrenodoxin. Cells were then incubated with [3H]‐DOC for 48 h and the production of corticosterone (B), 18‐hydroxycorticosterone (18‐OHB) and aldosterone measured by measuring tritriated products using thin layer chromatography.

3. Compared with wild‐type aldosterone synthase, the mutated form (D147E) encoding amino acid 147 from lip‐hydroxylase was more efficient in 11β‐hydroxylation of deoxycorticosterone (B:DOC ratio 0.53 ± 0.05 (wild type) to 3.05 ± 0.37 (mutant); P < 0.001). However, 18‐hydroxylation of B and conversion of this steroid into aldosterone were unaffected. There was a 20% increase in the production of aldosterone from DOC (P < 0.05). However, in comparison with wild‐type 11β‐hydroxylase, the mutated aldosterone synthase (D147E) was still less efficient (B:DOC ratio 6.2 ± 0.41). The mutated aldosterone synthase (I248T) encoding amino acid 248 from 11β‐hydroxylase showed no changes in conversion of DOC to B or in the production of aldosterone.

4. These data demonstrate that position 147 has an important effect on the efficiency of 11β‐hydroxylation of DOC and indicate that this is a key difference between the two enzymes in determining functional specificity. However, other residues must also contribute to efficiency of 11 ‐hydroxylation of 11β‐hydroxylase. In contrast, amino acid 248, which is one of the few differences between the two enzymes in exon 4, does not affect enzyme efficiency. As altered activity of aldosterone synthase and 11β‐hy‐droxylase has been proposed as an important intermediate phenotype in essential hypertension, such studies will help our understanding of the structure‐function relationships that will be necessary in order to understand how genetic changes may contribute to observed differences in phenotype.
HAEMORPHIN PEPTIDES MAY BE ENDOGENOUS LIGANDS FOR BRAIN ANGIOTENSIN AT4 RECEPTORS
Authors: Moeller Ingrid , Chai Siew Yeen , Smith Ian , Lew Rebecca , Mendelsohn Frederick AO
Published: June 2007

1. Angiotensin IV (AngIV), the (3–8) fragment of AngII, was previously believed to be an inactive metabolite. However, specific binding sites, termed AT4 receptors, have been identified in the brain and peripheral organs and the peptide has been reported to enhance memory recall in passive avoidance studies and to dilate pial and renal cortical vessels.

2. AT4 receptors are distinct from AngII AT1 and AT2 receptors with respect to function, ligand specificity and distribution.

3. In the brain, AT4 receptors are abundant in cerebral and cerebellar cortex, hippocampal formation and cholinergic systems, as well as sensory and motor systems. However, the peptide AngIV is low or undetectable in the central nervous system. This led us to search for an alternative peptide ligand of the AT4 receptor.

4. The decapeptide LVVYPWTQRF was isolated from cerebral cortex and binds with high affinity to brain AT4 receptors. This peptide sequence corresponds to an internal sequence of (i‐globin and has previously been named LVV‐haemorphin 7.

5. Haemorphin may represent a new class of endogenous neuropeptides, some of which interact potently with the brain AT4 receptor to elicit a range of actions.
EFFECTS OF DIURETICS ON RENAL KALLIKREIN GENE EXPRESSION IN RATS
Authors: Penschow Jennifer D. , Bulmer Bronwyn
Published: June 2007

1. To determine the effects of diuresis and changes in electrolyte balance on kallikrein gene expression, renal kallikrein mRNA levels were correlated with urine volumes, urinary electrolyte levels, haematocrit and plasma electrolyte levels in rats treated with substances with a range of diuretic activities.

2. Furosemide and related compounds, benzyl furosemide and isofurosemide, as well as amiloride hydrochloride, chlorothiazide or the vehicle (saline) were administered twice daily for 24 or 72 h to rats housed in metabolic cages.

3. Diuresis occurred after each treatment with furosemide, after the initial treatment with benzyl furosemide and did not occur after isofurosemide, amiloride hydrochloride or chlorothiazide.

4. Kallikrein gene expression in kidney was increased after 72 h treatment with furosemide, after 24 or 72 h treatment with benzyl furosemide or amiloride hydrochloride and was unchanged after 24 or 72 h treatment with isofurosemide or chlorothiazide, compared with vehicle‐treated controls.

5. Plasma urea levels were elevated after 72 h treatment with furosemide, benzyl furosemide and chlorothiazide and plasma chloride was decreased after 24 and 72 h benzyl furosemide. Haematocrits were unchanged. There were no changes in urinary electrolyte levels 72 h after treatment with any of the diuretics.

6. Neither diuresis nor measurable changes in plasma or urinary electrolytes correlate with changes in renal kallikrein gene expression after diuretic treatment of rats.
5‐FLUOROURACIL: A PHARMACOLOGICAL PARADIGM IN THE USE OF CYTOTOXICS
Authors: Thomas DM , Zalcberg JR
Published: June 2007

1. Painstaking progress in drug development is well illustrated by 5‐fluorouracil (5FU), originally designed 40 years ago as a fluorinated analogue of the naturally occurring base uracil. Innovative pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic strategies have seen significant clinical improvements for cancer patients over the past decade.

2. 5‐Fluorouracil acts by three main mechanisms. Principally, the intermediate metabolite fluorodeoxj uridine monophosphate inhibits a key enzyme in pyrimidine biosynthesis, namely thymidylate synthase (TS). Additionally, 5FU is metabolized to ribo‐ and deoxy‐ribonucleotides, which act as false bases for incorporation into RNA and DNA.

3. Biomodulation of 5FU has been attempted with methotrexate (MTX), folinic acid, interferons, cisplatin and radiotherapy. Methotrexate augments the actions of 5FU by inhibiting dihy‐drofolate reductase and decreasing the folate pool required for pyrimidine biosynthesis, inhibiting TS via MTX‐polyglutamate and directly inhibiting purine biosynthesis. Interferons increase steady state concentrations of 5FU. 5‐Fluorouracil enhances the cytotoxicity of cisplatin and radiotherapy by inhibiting DNA repair. Folinic acid enhances TS inhibition by increasing the intracellular pool of folates that stabilize the 5FU‐TS complex.

4. S‐Fluorouracil has a short plasma half‐life. Thymidylate synthase inhibition is limited to the S‐phase of the cell cycle and only a small fraction of most cancer cells are in S‐phase at any one time. Increased response rates seen with infusional protocols may reflect the effective recruitment of additional mechanisms of cytotoxicity, not dependent on cell cycle, including effects on RNA synthesis.

5. Patients with localized metastatic disease may benefit from locoregional treatments. These include hepatic intra‐arterial therapy with related compounds, such as floxuridine, which reach high concentrations at sites of tumour, while systemic toxicities are minimized by efficient hepatic clearance.

6. Recent developments include orally bioavailable formulations, such as ftorafur, capecitabine and the combination of 5FU with the dihydropyrimidine phosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor ethynyluracil. Recognition of diurnal variation in the activity of such key enzymes as DPD has led to the administration of 5FU at regulated, variable infusion rates (chronomodu‐lation). These promising pharmacological approaches may further improve clinical outcomes in common cancers.
CAPTOPRIL INHIBITS BOTH DOPAMINERGIC AND CHOLINERGIC NEUROTRANSMISSION IN THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors: Tsuda Kazushi , Tsuda Seiko , Nishio Ichiro , Masuyama Yoshiaki , Goldstein Menek
Published: June 2007

1. The present study was performed to investigate the effects of captopril on both dopaminergic and cholinergic neurotransmission in the rat central nervous system.

2. Slices of rat striatum were prepared and prelabelled with [3H]‐dopamine or [3H]‐choline. Slices were continuously super‐fused with Krebs'‐Ringer solution and electrical stimulation (1 Hz) was performed.

3. Captopril significantly inhibited stimulation‐evoked [3H]‐dopamine release from rat striatal slices in a concentration‐dependent manner (S2/S1 ratios: control 0.83S±0.018 (n= 6); 1×10−5 mol/L captopril 0.597±0.035 (n= 6; P<0.05); 5 × 10−5 mol/L captopril 0.561 ± 0.041 (n = 6; P<0.05)). However, the basal release of [3H]‐dopamine was not affected by captopril.

4. Captopril also reduced stimulation‐evoked [3H]‐acetyl‐choline release in the striatum (S2/S1 ratios: control 0.891 ±0.016 (n= 6); 1 × 10−5 mol/L captopril 0.794±0.011 (n= 6; P<0.05)).

5. These results show that captopril inhibits the release of both dopamine and acetylcholine in the rat striatum. Although the mechanisms underlying the neurosuppressive effects of captopril remain to be determined, the findings suggest that the inhibition of dopaminergic and cholinergic neurotransmission may be related to the central action of the angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor.
RESPIRATORY MECHANICS AND SURFACTANT IN THE ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME
Authors: Bersten AD , Davidson K , Nicholas TE , Doyle IR
Published: June 2007

1. Although abnormalities in pulmonary surfactant were initially implicated in the pathogenesis of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (AROS) 30 years ago, most subsequent research has focused on mediators of the parenchymal acute lung injury (ALI) and the associated increase in alveolocapillary permeability.

2. Surfactant is essential for normal breathing and the severity of ALI correlates with surfactant dysfunction and abnormalities in surfactant composition; however, no relationship has been shown with respiratory system compliance. In neonates and most animal models, respiratory system compliance will directly reflect the elastic properties of the lung. However, the greater vertical height of the chest wall in adults, in combination with the increase in lung density due to ALI, results in dependent collapse of alveoli. Because simple, global measurement of compliance is strongly influenced by the volume of aerated lung, alternative measures of respiratory mechanics may reflect surfactant dysfunction.

3. Using a dynamic, volume‐dependent model of respiratory mechanics to indirectly reflect this heterogeneous inflation, we have found direct relationships with surfactant composition in patients with ARDS. A failure of surfactant to increase surface tension in large alveoli may also explain why lung overdistension occurs at relatively low pressures. Furthermore, surfactant dysfunction will exaggerate heterogeneous lung inflation, augmenting regional overinflation, and is essential for ALI secondary to repetitive opening and closing of alveoli during tidal ventilation.

4. Ventilation‐induced ALI has also been shown to result in massive increases in pro‐inflammatory cytokines within the lung. Because ALI itself fails to compartmentalize cytokines, with spillover into the systemic circulation resulting in distant organ dysfunction, surfactant dysfunction may have widespread implications.
RESPIRATORY SINUS DYSRHYTHMIA PERSISTS IN TRANSPLANTED HUMAN HEARTS FOLLOWING AUTONOMIC BLOCKADE
Authors: Slovut David P , Wenstrom John C , Moeckel Richard B , Wilson Robert F , Osborn John W , Abrams Jerome H
Published: June 2007

1. The present study was performed to test whether beat‐to‐beat cardiovascular control in cardiac allograft recipients resides in cholinergic and/or adrenergic nerves that are intrinsic to the heart.

2. Heart rate (HR) fluctuations synchronous with respiration during spontaneous, double tidal volume and metronome‐synchronized breathing were quantified in 13 human heart transplant recipients. We also examined the effects of sequential cholinergic and β‐adrenoceptor (combined) autonomic blockade on respiratory sinus arrythmia (RSA). We computed RSA amplitude and the correlation between respiration and changes in HR (cardiopulmonary synchronization; CPS). Group means were compared using repeated‐measures analysis of variance. Transplant recipients served as their own controls.

3. In the basal state, moderate RSA amplitude and CPS were observed. During cholinergic and combined blockade, we observed no significant change in RSA amplitude, whereas CPS increased significantly during combined blockade (P<0.05). The amplitude of RSA increased during respiration at double baseline tidal volume, but not at any of the other breathing manoeuvres (P<0.01). In contrast, CPS increased significantly during both patterned breathing manoeuvres. No significant correlation was seen between mean right atrial pressure and RSA amplitude. In 23% of subjects with low CPS, HR oscillated with arterial pressure. These oscillations were independent of respiration. During all three patterns of respiration, a significant inverse correlation was observed between CPS and pulse pressure (r= ‐0.53 to ‐0.73). Thus, as the amplitude of pulse pressure increased, respiration accounted for a smaller percentage of HR variation.

4. In conclusion, RSA persists and the magnitude of CPS increases following combined autonomic blockade. These studies suggest that while RSA after cardiac transplantation is not cholinergically or adrenergically mediated, it may be related to mechanical stretch of the sinus node caused by changes in intrathoracic pressure and perfusion pressure.
MODULATION OF ELECTRICALLY EVOKED RESPONSES IN RAT DUODENUM BY ACTIVATION OF NICOTINIC CHOLINOCEPTORS
Authors: Sotirov Emil S , Itzev Dimitar E , Papasova Maria P
Published: June 2007

1. The effect of activation of nicotinic cholinoceptors in rat duodenal segments following electrical field stimulation (EFS) was investigated.

2. Electrical field stimulation elicited a two‐component response: transient relaxation followed by contraction. The EFS‐evoked response was tetrodotoxin (TTX; 1 μmol/L) sensitive. The relaxation component was NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine (L‐NNA; 100 μmol/L) sensitive, while the contractile response was atropine (1 μmol/L) sensitive.

3. 1,1‐Dimethyl‐4‐phenyl‐piperazinium iodide (DMPP; 20 μmol/L) induced relaxation of spontaneously active preparations that was L‐NNA sensitive. L‐Arginine (1mmol/L) reversed the effects of L‐NNA on DMPP‐induced relaxation.

4. When EFS was applied, DMPP increased the amplitude of the relaxation component of the response and reduced the contractile component.

5. In the presence of L‐NNA, the effect of DMPP on the relaxation component of the response to EFS was reduced, but the contractile response was not affected. L‐Arginine partly reduced this effect of l‐NNA.

6. Neither propranolol (1 μmol/L) nor yohimbine (1 μmol/L) had any effect on the actions of DMPP on EFS‐evoked responses, but prazosin (1 μmol/L) strongly reduced the effect of DMPP on the contractile component of the response to EFS and slightly reduced the effect of DMPP on the relaxation response.

7. Histochemical studies demonstrated that, in the myenteric plexus of the rat duodenum, there are many reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐diaphorase (N ADPH‐d)‐positive neurons and that their number decreased after treatment with L‐NNA. In the presence of L‐arginine and L‐NNA, the number of NADPH‐d‐positive neurons was similar to that found in control samples.

8. The data suggest that activation of nicotinic cholinoceptors modulates EFS‐evoked responses in the rat duodenum as a result of the potentiation of nitrergic and adrenergic neurotransmission.
Infants hospitalised with pertussis: Estimating the true disease burden
Authors: Somerville Rebecca L , Grant Cameron C , Grimwood Keith , Murdoch David , Graham David , Jackson Pamela , Meates‐Dennis Maud , Nicholson Ross , Purvis Diana
Published: June 2007

Aim:  New Zealand (NZ) has a large pertussis disease burden compared with other developed countries. Accurate ascertainment of disease burden is fundamental to controlling pertussis and informing immunisation policy. Disease burden estimates are primarily from passive surveillance, which underestimates disease incidence. The aim of this study is to use active surveillance to determine pertussis disease burden in infants hospitalised in NZ.

Methods:  Using the NZ Paediatric Surveillance Unit, active surveillance from 08/2004 to 07/2005 for infants <12 months old, hospitalised with pertussis.

Results:  110 infants identified (196 per 100 000), including six with complications, eight intensive care admissions and one death. The hospitalisation rate (per 100 000) varied with ethnicity, being higher for Maori (296) and Pacific (358) compared with European/other (117). Twenty‐four per cent were too young to be immunised. Of infants 6 weeks and older 46% had received no immunisations. Despite being more likely to be immunised Pacific infants had a higher hospitalisation rate owing to a larger proportion acquiring pertussis prior to age 6 weeks. Cyanosis and apnoea were frequent symptoms in young infants. Under‐identification, estimated using capture–recapture analysis, was modest for both active surveillance (16%) and passive notification (19%).

Conclusions:  Infant pertussis hospitalisation rates are three to six times greater than rates in the USA, England and Australia. Underestimation of disease burden by passive notification in hospitalised infants is modest, suggesting a high degree of clinical awareness by paediatricians in NZ. New immunisation strategies are needed to protect infants from a younger age.
Associations between bullying behaviour, psychosomatic complaints, emotional and behavioural problems
Authors: Gini Gianluca
Published: June 2007

Objective:  Bullying or being bullied have been demonstrated to be related to a broad spectrum of behavioural, emotional and social problems. The present study aimed at analysing psychosomatic, emotional and behavioural problems among Italian bullies, victims and bully victims.

Study design:  In a cross‐sectional study, 565 primary‐school children completed self‐reported measures for bullying, victimisation and psychosomatic complaints. Teachers rated each child on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.

Results:  Within our sample, 11.2% of children were classified as bullies, 7.1% were classified as victims and 10.4% were classified as bully victims. Compared with the students who were not involved in bullying, victims had a higher risk for conduct problems (2.43 (1.18–5.03)), hyperactivity (2.41 (1.05–5.53)) and problems with peers (4.40 (2.08–9.33)). Bully victims had a higher risk for conduct problems (2.41 (1.28–4.54) and hyperactivity (2.58 (1.25–5.32)). Finally, bullies had higher risk for hyperactivity (2.06 (1.01–4.21)). All groups of children also had a higher risk for several psychosomatic symptoms than uninvolved children.

Conclusions:  Children involved in bullying as victims and bully victims had significantly higher risk for psychosomatic problems and psychosocial maladjustment than uninvolved children, whereas bullies manifested the fewest number of adjustment problems. When addressing bullying in a school community, particular care should be devoted to the identification and help of children who are involved as victims or bully victims.
Survey of the management of neonatal hyperglycaemia in Australasia
Authors: Alsweiler Jane M , Kuschel Carl A , Bloomfield Frank H
Published: June 2007

Aim:  Hyperglycaemia is a common problem in very low birthweight (VLBW) preterm neonates and has been associated with an increase in intraventricular haemorrhage and mortality. There are few data to guide clinicians on the best range of blood glucose levels to aim for when treating hyperglycaemic preterm babies with insulin. The aim of this study was to survey all Australasian tertiary neonatal intensive care units for their current practice in the definition and management of neonatal hyperglycaemia to aid in the design of a randomised controlled trial of the effect of tight glycaemic control on long‐term outcome in VLBW babies.

Methods:  An online survey was sent to the 27 tertiary neonatal units in Australasia asking the respondents for details of their unit’s definition and management of hyperglycaemia in VLBW infants.

Results:  Twenty‐three tertiary neonatal units responded to the questionnaire. There were six different definitions of hyperglycaemia, with most units defining neonatal hyperglycaemia as a blood glucose level greater than 10 mM. There were large variations in the criteria for commencing insulin (blood glucose level 8–15 mM ± glycosuria) and target blood glucose ranges for babies on insulin (ranging from 2.5–8 mM to 8–15 mM).

Conclusions:  There is a wide variation in the management of neonatal hyperglycaemia between tertiary neonatal units in Australasia. This reflects the paucity of data available in this area. Further research on the management of neonatal hyperglycaemia is needed.
FAST‐TRACK REHABILITATION IN ELECTIVE COLORECTAL SURGERY PATIENTS: A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL AND IMMUNOLOGICAL SINGLE‐CENTRE STUDY
Authors: Wichmann Matthias W. , Eben Ricarda , Angele Martin K. , Brandenburg Franzis , Goetz Alwin E. , Jauch Karl‐Walter
Published: June 2007

Background:  Recent clinical data indicate that fast‐track surgery (multimodal rehabilitation) leads to shorter postoperative length of hospital stay, faster recovery of gastrointestinal function as well as reduced morbidity and mortality rates. To date, no study has focused on the effects of fast‐track surgery on postoperative immune function. This study was initiated to determine whether fast‐track rehabilitation results in improved clinical and immunological outcome of patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

Methods:  Forty patients underwent either conventional or fast‐track rehabilitation after colorectal surgery. In addition to clinical parameters (return of gastrointestinal function, food intake, pain score, complication rates and postoperative length of stay), we determined parameters of perioperative immunity by flow cytometry (lymphocyte subgroups) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (interleukin‐6).

Results:  Our findings indicate a better‐preserved cell‐mediated immune function (T cells, T‐helper cells, natural killer cells) after fast‐track rehabilitation, whereas the pro‐inflammatory response (C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6) was unchanged in both study groups. Furthermore, we detected a significantly faster return of gastrointestinal function (first bowel movement P < 0.001, food intake P < 0.05), significantly reduced pain scores in the postoperative course (P < 0.05) and a significantly shorter length of postoperative stay (P < 0.001) in patients undergoing fast‐track rehabilitation.

Conclusion:  Fast‐track rehabilitation after colorectal surgery results in better‐preserved cell‐mediated immunity when compared with conventional postoperative care. Furthermore, patients undergoing fast‐track rehabilitation suffer from less pain and have a faster return of gastrointestinal function in the postoperative course. In addition, postoperative length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in fast‐track patients.
GASTRIC BANDING AT THE ROYAL BRISBANE AND WOMEN’S HOSPITAL: TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF A PUBLIC SERVICE
Authors: Stringer Kate M , Bryant Richard , Hopkins George H , Favot Danella , Fielding George A
Published: June 2007

Background:  The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital provides the only gastric banding service for the public to the state of Queensland. Our patients are potentially a different group from the previously reported Australian series with respect to weight, comorbidities and ease of follow up and we therefore present this series of public patient for comparison of medium‐term results.

Methods:  The service consists of a dedicated fortnightly clinic. Patients are referred from within the hospital and also from other health services throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales. Resources allow a limited number of gastric bands to be placed annually. At follow up, measurement of weight is carried out and band adjustments made as necessary. Data are collected prospectively on a dedicated database (LapBase; AccessMed, Melbourne, Australia).

Results:  Sixty‐nine laparoscopic gastric bands (Lap Band; Inamed Health, Santa Barbara, CA, USA) have been placed as a public service at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital since August 2001 in 50 women and 19 men. The mean body mass index (BMI) at surgery was 53 kg/m2 (range 33–81 kg/m2). The mean percentage of excess bodyweight lost at 1, 2 and 3 years is 38.5, 45.7 and 57.9%, respectively. The mean BMI has reduced from the baseline of 53 to 44.5 at 1 year, 41.8 at 2 years and 38.6 at 3 years. The waiting list currently contains 103 patients with a mean BMI of 53 kg/m2 and 250 new referrals are on a waiting list for initial review.

Conclusion:  A banding service for the public is a unique experience. The BMI is greater than in other published series; diverse geographic origin of the patients creates difficulties with review and there are limited surgical resources. The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital is leading the way towards a multidisciplinary clinic approach to managing obesity. However, more resources will be required to have an effect on overall public health.
TREATMENT OF ANAL STENOSIS: A 5‐YEAR REVIEW
Authors: Casadesus Damian , Villasana Luis E. , Diaz Hector , Chavez Mariano , Sanchez Ines M. , Martinez Pedro P. , Diaz Angelina
Published: June 2007

Background:  Benign anal stenosis is an uncommon, disabling and incapacitating disease, occurring mainly after anorectal surgery. Both non‐surgical and surgical treatments have been devised in the treatment of anal stenosis with good results. We described the results of the treatment of this disease in the Coloproctology Department of our institution.

Methods:  A retrospective clinical study was undertaken over a 5‐year period for consecutive patients operated on for anal stenosis.

Results:  Twenty‐three patients with benign anal stenosis were treated in our department. Haemorrhoidectomy was the most common cause of anal stenosis (74%). Nineteen patients with moderate to severe symptoms of anal stenosis underwent surgical treatment. Lateral mucosal advancement flap was the most frequently carried out operation (63.1%). Four patients were treated with anal dilatation (17.3%). All patients had remission of the preoperative symptoms. There was no re‐operation and only minor complications were present in four patients: three patients with anal pruritus and one patient with temporary incontinence.

Conclusion:  The easy performance, the absence of major complications and the good results obtained confirm that these methods are effective and safe in the treatment of anal stenosis.
Behavioural characteristics and gene expression in the hyperactive wiggling (Wig) rat
Authors: Masuo Yoshinori , Ishido Masami , Morita Masatoshi , Sawa Hirofumi , Nagashima Kazuo , Niki Etsuo
Published: June 2007

Recently, congenic wiggling (Wig) rats were described as a good model for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder; 12‐ to 14‐week‐old animals demonstrated hyperactivity, impulsive behaviour and an impaired working memory. Here, we show that 4‐ to 5‐week‐old Wig rats displayed significantly greater spontaneous motor activity than control rats during a period of darkness. Subcutaneous injection of 4 mg/kg methamphetamine exacerbated hyperactivity, the reverse of its effect in rats with neonatally induced 6‐hydroxydopamine lesions. Immunohistochemistry showed low levels of tyrosine hydroxylase in the ventral midbrain, similar to 6‐hydroxydopamine‐treated rats. In cDNA macroarrays, 4‐week‐old Wig rats showed increased expression of the adenosine A2a receptor in the dorsal striatum, macrophage migration inhibitory factor in the frontal cortex, ventral striatum and midbrain, and calbindin 2 in the dorsal and ventral midbrain. Expression of the γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter and sterol carrier protein 2 genes was reduced in all regions. Dopamine transporter gene expression was increased in the dorsal midbrain but decreased in the ventral midbrain, a pattern distinct from that induced by 6‐hydroxydopamine. Although abnormal development of dopaminergic neurons may underlie motor hyperactivity, other mechanisms may control responsiveness to methamphetamine. Wig rats may provide a model of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder in which treatment with psychostimulants accelerate the hyperactivity.
Interpersonal Attachment and Patterns of Ideological Belief
Authors: Weber Christopher , Federico Christopher M.
Published: June 2007

We examine whether two general dimensions of sociopolitical belief—right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA) and social dominance orientation (SDO)—are rooted in insecure psychological attachment. Based on an undergraduate sample (N = 255), we model the relations among attachment styles, general worldviews, RWA, and SDO. A structural equation model indicated that anxious attachment led to RWA but not SDO and that this effect was mediated by the belief that the world is a dangerous place. In contrast, avoidant attachment led to SDO but not RWA, and this effect was mediated by the belief that the world is an uncaring, competitive jungle in which people are motivated to maximize personal utility. We discuss the implications of these findings for the nature and origins of political conservatism.
Putting a Price on Temperature*
Authors: BENTH FRED ESPEN , ŠALTYTĖ BENTH JŪRATĖ , KOEKEBAKKER STEEN
Published: June 2007

Abstract.  This paper analyzes the weather derivatives traded at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), with futures and options written on different temperature indices. We propose to model the temperature dynamics as a continuous‐time autoregressive process with lag p and seasonal variation. The choice p=3 turns out to be sufficient to explain the temperature dynamics observed in Stockholm, Sweden, where we fit the model to more than 40 years of daily observations. The main finding is a clear seasonal variation in the regression residuals, where temperature shows high variability in winter, low in autumn and spring, and increasing variability towards the early summer. Our model allows for derivations of explicit prices for several futures and options. Note that the volatility term structure of futures written on the cumulative average temperature has a modified Samuelson effect, where the volatility prior to the measurement period increases, except for the last part, where it may decrease.
Phylogenetic reconstruction of carnivore social organizations
Authors: Dalerum F.
Published: June 2007

It is generally assumed that carnivore social organizations evolved directionally from a solitary ancestor into progressively more advanced forms of group living. Although alternative explanations exist, this evolutionary hypothesis has never been tested. Here, I used literature data and maximum likelihood reconstruction on a complete carnivore phylogeny to test this hypothesis against two others: one assuming directional evolution from a non‐solitary ancestor, and one assuming parallel evolutions from a socially flexible ancestor, that is, an ancestor with abilities to live in a variety of social organizations. The phylogenetic reconstructions did not support any of the three hypotheses of social evolution at the root of Carnivora. At the family level, however, there was support for a non‐solitary and socially flexible ancestor to Canidae, a socially flexible or solitary ancestor to Mustelidae, a solitary or socially flexible ancestor to Mephitidae, a solitary or group living ancestor to Phocidae, a group living ancestor to Otariidae and a solitary ancestor to Ursidae, Felidae, Herpestidae and Viverridae. There was equivocal support for the ancestral state of Procyonidae and Hyaenidae. It is unclear whether the common occurrence of a solitary ancestry at the family level was caused by a solitary ancestor at the root of Carnivora or by multiple transitions into a solitary state. The failure to support a solitary ancestor to Carnivora calls for caution when using this hypothesis in an evolutionary framework, and I suggest continued investigations of the pathways of the evolution of carnivore social organizations.
Mature leaf selection of Japanese macaques: effects of availability and chemical content
Authors: Hanya G. , Kiyono M. , Takafumi H. , Tsujino R. , Agetsuma N.
Published: June 2007

Mature leaf food selection of Japanese macaques was studied in two different altitudinal zones of Yakushima: in the coniferous (1000–1200 m) and coastal forests (0–200 m). Logistic regression analysis was conducted to reveal the effect of chemical [neutral detergent fibre (NDF), crude protein, crude ash, crude lipid, condensed tannin, hydrolysable tannin and crude protein/NDF ratio] and availability properties (density of trees and total basal area) on the macaques' choice between the major food leaves and the rarely eaten or non‐food leaves. In both forests, macaques selected leaves with a high crude ash and crude protein content, or a high crude protein/NDF ratio, as major foods. In the coniferous forest, macaques selected leaves with less condensed tannin, but this tendency was absent in the coastal forest. This was because macaques in the coniferous forest suffer from a greater risk of ingesting large amounts of condensed tannins, as their feeding time on mature leaves is seven times as long as that in the coastal forest. Among the chemical and availability properties, stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the number of trees (ha−1) was the only significant factor explaining the variations in feeding time among major food leaves, both in the coniferous and coastal forests. The present results suggest that the effect of travelling cost, which can be reduced by selecting common trees, exceeds the benefits gained by selecting high‐quality foods.
Effect of lactation stage and concurrent pregnancy on milk composition in the bottlenose dolphin
Authors: West K. L. , Oftedal O. T. , Carpenter J. R. , Krames B. J. , Campbell M. , Sweeney J. C.
Published: June 2007

Although many toothed whales (Cetacea: Odontoceti) lactate for 2–3 years or more, it is not known whether milk composition is affected by lactation stage in any odontocete species. We collected 64 pooled milk samples spanning 1–30 months postpartum from three captive bottlenose dolphinsTursiops truncatus. Milks were assayed for water, fat, crude protein (TN × 6.38) and sugar; gross energy was calculated. Ovulation and pregnancy were determined via monitoring of milk progesterone. Based on analysis of changes in milk composition for each individual dolphin, there were significant increases (P<0.05) in fat (in all three dolphins) and crude protein (in two of three), and a decrease (P<0.05) in water (in two of three) over the course of lactation, but the sugar content did not change. In all three animals, the energy content was positively correlated with month of lactation, but the percentage of energy provided by crude protein declined slightly but significantly (P<0.05). At mid‐lactation (7–12 months postpartum,n=17), milk averaged 73.0±1.0% water, 12.8±1.0% fat, 8.9±0.5% crude protein, 1.0±0.1% sugar, 1.76±0.09 kcal g−1(=7.25 kJ g−1) and 30.3±1.3% protein:energy per cent. This protein:energy per cent was surprisingly high compared with other cetaceans and in relation to the growth rates of calves. Milk progesterone indicated that dolphins ovulated and conceived between 413 and 673 days postpartum, following an increase in milk energy density. The significance of these observed compositional changes to calf nutrition will depend on the amounts of milk produced at different stages of lactation, and how milk composition and yield are influenced by sampling procedure, maternal diet and maternal condition, none of which are known.
Cardiovascular, electrodermal, and respiratory response patterns to fear‐ and sadness‐inducing films
Authors: Kreibig Sylvia D. , Wilhelm Frank H. , Roth Walton T. , Gross James J.
Published: June 2007

Responses to fear‐ and sadness‐inducing films were assessed using a broad range of cardiovascular (heart rate, T‐wave amplitude, low‐ and high‐frequency heart rate variability, stroke volume, preejection period, left‐ventricular ejection time, Heather index, blood pressure, pulse amplitude and transit time, and finger temperature), electrodermal (level, response rate, and response amplitude), and respiratory (rate, tidal volume and its variability, inspiratory flow rate, duty cycle, and end‐tidal pCO2) measures. Subjective emotional experience and facial behavior (Corrugator Supercilii and Zygomaticus Major EMG) served as control measures. Results indicated robust differential physiological response patterns for fear, sadness, and neutral (mean classification accuracy 85%). Findings are discussed in terms of the fight–flight and conservation–withdrawal responses and possible limitations of a valence‐arousal categorization of emotion in affective space.
Arginine vasopressin increases glutamate release and intracellular Ca2+concentration in hippocampal and cortical astrocytes through two distinct receptors
Authors: Syed Nasser , Martens Catherine A. , Hsu Walter H.
Published: June 2007

Arginine vasopressin (AVP), released from the CNS, plays an important role in regulating several aspects of CNS functions including aggression, anxiety, and cognition. In this study, we report a novel finding that AVP induces glutamate release from astrocytes isolated from the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. We also investigated the types of AVP receptors involved in the AVP‐induced increase in glutamate release from astrocytes isolated from the hippocampus and cortex of neonatal rats. We showed that the AVP (0.1–1000 nmol/L) induced increase in glutamate release and [Ca2+]iis brought about by two distinct subtypes of V1receptors (V1aand V1b). Our results suggested that V1breceptors are predominantly expressed in astrocytes isolated from the hippocampus and V1areceptors are solely expressed in astrocytes isolated from the cerebral cortex of neonatal rats. The results of the western blot analyses confirmed these pharmacological data. In addition, the AVP‐induced increase in glutamate did not contribute to an increase in [Ca2+]i, as blockade of metabotropic glutamate receptors did not alter the AVP‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i. In addition, the administration of a phospholipase A2inhibitor failed to alter AVP‐induced [Ca2+]iincrease suggesting the lack of involvement of this enzyme.
Detection of left ventricular dysfunction by Doppler tissue imaging in patients with complete recovery of visual wall motion abnormalities 6 months after a first ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Witt Nils , Samad Bassem A. , Frick Mats , Alam Mahbubul
Published: June 2007

Aims  The aim of this study was to assess left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function, using Doppler tissue imaging (DTI), in patients with complete recovery of visual wall motion abnormalities six months after a first ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods  Out of 90 patients presenting with a STEMI, 68 patients without a history of heart disease were examined by echocardiography before discharge and after 6 months. The patients were compared to 41 age matched healthy subjects (HS). LV function was assessed by visual wall motion and mitral annular velocities using pulsed wave DTI.

Results  Sixty‐eight patients had visual wall motion abnormalities at baseline. Of these, 19 patients showed complete recovery of wall motion at 6‐months follow‐up. Patients with complete recovery of wall motion abnormalities had significantly reduced peak systolic and peak early diastolic mitral annular velocities compared to HS at 6 months (8·3 cm s−1 versus 9·9 cm s−1, P<0·001 for systolic velocity and 9·3 cm s−1 versus 13·1 cm s−1, P<0·001 for diastolic velocity, respectively).

Conclusion  In patients presenting with a first STEMI, mitral annular systolic and early diastolic velocities assessed by DTI at 6‐months follow‐up are significantly reduced compared to HS, despite normal standard echocardiographic parameters of LV function. This probably reflects a residual subendocardial damage not detected by conventional echocardiographic methods.
Reviews: Hepatitis C Virus Infection and the Dialysis Patient
Authors: Fabrizi Fabrizio , Lunghi Giovanna , Ganeshan Sri Venkatesh , Martin Paul , Messa Piergiorgio
Published: June 2007

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains common in patients undergoing regular dialysis and is an important cause of liver disease in this population both during dialysis and after renal transplantation (RT). Anti‐HCV screening of blood products has almost eliminated posttransfusion HCV infection but acquisition of HCV continues to occur in dialysis patients because of nosocomial spread. The natural history of HCV in dialysis population is not completely understood though recent data show that HCV infection has a detrimental role on survival of chronic dialysis patients. Several clinical trials have suggested that the response rate to conventional interferon (IFN) is higher in dialysis patients than those with normal kidney function but tolerance is lower. There are only limited data about pegylated IFN alone or in association with ribavirin for hepatitis C in dialysis population. IFN remains contraindicated post‐RT because of concern about precipitating graft dysfunction; however, preliminary evidence shows the durability of sustained response to antiviral therapy pre‐RT after renal transplant. Successful pretransplant therapy is associated with several benefits after RT including reduced incidence of posttransplant diabetes mellitus and de novo glomerulonephritis in HCV‐infected recipients.
Chronic Ethanol Treatment Decreases Specific Nonopiate β‐Endorphin Binding to Hepatic and Kidney Membranes and Lowers Plasma β‐Endorphin in the Rat
Authors: Dave Jitendra R. , Karanian John W. , Eskay Robert L.
Published: June 2007

In a previous study we reported the presence of specific nonopiete β‐endorphin (BE) binding sites in peripheral tissues of the rat (Dave JR, Rubinstein N, Eskay RL: Evidence that β ‐endorphin binds to specific receptors in rat peripheral tissue and stimulates the adenylate cyclase‐adenosine 3',5'‐monophosphate system. Endocrinology 117:1389–1396, 1985). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of chronic ethanol administration in vivo on specific non‐opiate binding of BE in hepatic and kidney membranes. Experimental animals were exposed continuously for 14 days to ethanol vapor in an Inhalation chamber at vapor levels sufficient to maintain blood ethanol levels > 120 mg/100 ml, whereas control animals were maintained in ethanol‐free chambers. Chronic ethanol treatment decreased [1251]BE binding to hepatic and kidney membranes by approximately 35%, which was due to a decrease in the number of BE binding sites. Chronic ethanol treatment decreased immunoreactjve BE in plasma by >80%. In vitro exposure of hepatic and kidney membranes from control animals to ethanol resulted in a dose‐related enhancement of BE binding with maximal enhancement of 50–65% being observed at 0.2% ethanol concentration. In contrast, the addition of ethanol in vitro to hepatic and kidney membranes derived from rats chronically exposed to ethanol in vivo did not affect BE binding. Our findings demonstrate that chronic alcohol exposure lowers immunoreacthre BE in plasma and reduces BE binding in hepatic and kidney membranes. The observed reduction of BE binding may be due to ethanol‐induced changes in membrane composition.