bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A NEW RECONSTRUCTION OFONYCHOSELACHE TRAQUAIRI, COMMENTS ON EARLY CHONDRICHTHYAN PECTORAL GIRDLES AND HYBODONTIFORM PHYLOGENY
Authors: COATES MICHAEL I. , GESS ROBERT W.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: A new, third, specimen ofOnychoselache traquairifrom the Viséan (Holkerian) of Scotland allows a significant revision of the anatomy of this stem‐group elasmobranch. This first report of material from the Mumbie Quarry exposure of the Glencartholm fish beds presents a new reconstruction ofOnychoselacheshowing broad‐based cephalic and nuchal spines, and exceptionally large pectoral fins. Details of the jaws, braincase and postcranial skeleton demonstrate thatOnychoselacheis a well‐characterized member of the Hybodontiformes. Comparisons of the pectoral skeleton with other early chondrichthyan examples, including new material ofTristychius arcuatusandPlesioselachus macracanthus, highlight a range of early chondrichthyan conditions that are incorporated into a revised hybodontiform phylogeny. Close resemblance betweenOnychoselacheand Mesozoic and late Palaeozoic hybodonts implies that these clades diverged within the Carboniferous and Permian. Major differences betweenOnychoselacheand the coevalTristychius(a modified reconstruction of which is included) indicate that the Neoselachii‐Hybodontiformes split is probably Late Devonian, consistent with records of isolated teeth. The pectoral fins ofOnychoselache, while unique among Palaeozoic forms, resemble those of Recent bamboo and epaulette sharks (Orectolobiformes). The functional corollary of this convergence is thatOnychoselacherepresents an instance of a non‐tetrapod early vertebrate with a near‐walking gait.
Clinical profiles of autopsy‐confirmed dementia with Lewy bodies at institutionalization: Comparison with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: FUJISHIRO Hiroshige , UMEGAKI Hiroyuki , SUZUKI Yusuke , ISOJIMA Daisuke , AKATSU Hiroyasu , IKARI Hiroyuki , IGUCHI Akihisa , KOSAKA Kenji
Published: September 2007

Background:  It has been reported that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients with Lewy pathology have a shorter time from a given baseline to institutionalization than those with AD alone. Taking the clinical distinction between dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and AD into consideration, the previous findings may indicate the possibility that the clinical characteristics of DLB patients have an influence on early institutionalization. This study was carried out to clarify whether there are any differences in the symptoms that required institutionalization between patients with DLB and those with AD.

Methods:  Hospital records and standardized data forms completed at admission to a residential care facility were reviewed to assess the profiles in all cases with autopsy‐confirmed diagnoses for correct differential diagnosis. We examined functional, cognitive and symptomatic conditions at admission to a residential care facility of 18 DLB and 35 AD patients whose diagnoses were confirmed by autopsy. The examinations were conducted using the Gottfries‐Bråne‐Steen (GBS) scale and cognitive tests, and the results were compared between the two groups of patients.

Results:  Hallucinations, impaired wakefulness, disturbance of ADL and emotional disturbance, common clinical features compatible with DLB, were more frequently observed in DLB patients than in AD patients (P < 0.05). Moreover, DLB patients had higher scores on cognitive tests than did AD patients at admission to a residential care facility (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The distinctive clinical features at admission to a residential care facility may indicate that the reasons for the necessity of institutionalization are different between DLB and AD, and that the interventions specific to DLB patients and their families would be necessary to prevent or postpone institutionalization.
Chlamydomonas raudensis (UWO 241), Chlorophyceae, exhibits the capacity for rapid D1 repair in response to chronic photoinhibition at low temperature1
Authors: Pocock Tessa H. , Koziak Alexandra , Rosso Dominic , Falk Stefan , Hüner Norman P. A.
Published: September 2007

Maximum photosynthetic capacity indicates that the Antarctic psychrophile Chlamydomonas raudensis H. Ettl UWO 241 is photosynthetically adapted to low temperature. Despite this finding, C. raudensis UWO 241 exhibited greater sensitivity to low‐temperature photoinhibition of PSII than the mesophile Chlamydomonas reinhardtii P. A. Dang. However, in contrast with results for C. reinhardtii, the quantum requirement to induce 50% photoinhibition of PSII in C. raudensis UWO 241 (50 μmol photons) was comparable at either 8°C or 29°C. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a photoautotroph whose susceptibility to photoinhibition is temperature independent. In contrast, the capacity of the psychrophile to recover from photoinhibition of PSII was sensitive to temperature and inhibited at 29°C. The maximum rate of recovery from photoinhibition of the psychrophile at 8°C was comparable to the maximum rate of recovery of the mesophile at 29°C. We provide evidence that photoinhibition in C. raudensis UWO 241 is chronic rather than dynamic. The photoinhibition‐induced decrease in the D1 content in C. raudensis recovered within 30 min at 8°C. Both the recovery of the D1 content as well as the initial fast phase of the recovery of Fv/Fm at 8°C were inhibited by lincomycin, a chloroplast protein synthesis inhibitor. We conclude that the susceptibility of C. raudensis UWO 241 to low‐temperature photoinhibition reflects its adaptation to low growth irradiance, whereas the unusually rapid rate of recovery at low temperature exhibited by this psychrophile is due to a novel D1 repair cycle that is adapted to and is maximally operative at low temperature.
Genetic and phenotypic characterization of Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Bacillariophyceae) accessions1
Authors: Martino Alessandra De , Meichenin Agnès , Shi Juan , Pan Kehou , Bowler Chris
Published: September 2007

In the last few years, genome‐based studies in diatoms have received a major boost following the genome sequencing of the centric species Thalassiosira pseudonana Hasle et Heimdal and the pleiomorphic raphid pennate diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin. In addition, molecular tools, such as genetic transformation, have been developed for both species. Despite these molecular advances, relatively little is known regarding the genetic diversity of the available strains of these diatoms. In this study, we have compiled a historical summary of the known P. tricornutum species resources and have provided a genetic and phenotypic overview of 10 different axenic strains. Examination of intraspecies genetic diversity based on internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequence and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analyses indicate four different genotypes. Seven strains are predominantly fusiform, whereas one strain is predominantly oval, and another is predominantly triradiate. Another is defined as a tropical strain because it appears better acclimated to growth at higher temperatures. Observations in the natural environment indicate that P. tricornutum is a coastal marine diatom that is able to adapt to unstable environments, such as estuaries and rock pools. Because it has rarely been noted in nature, we have developed specific primers to amplify ITS2 sequences and have successfully identified it in environmental samples. These resources should become useful tools for the diatom community when combined with the whole genome sequence and will open up a range of new possibilities for experimental investigations that can exploit the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics described.
Maintaining Strong Bones: Strong Opinions, Little Evidence
Authors: Bergen Donna C
Published: September 2007

Two Randomized Vitamin D Trials in Ambulatory Patients on Anticonvulsants: Impact on Bone. Mikati MA, Dib L, Yamout B, Sawaya R, Rahi AC, Fuleihan Gel-H. Neurology 2006;67(11):2005–2014. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of two doses of vitamin D given over 1 year on bone density in ambulatory patients on long-term antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy. METHODS: We conducted two parallel, randomized, controlled trials in 72 adults (18–54 years old) and 78 children and adolescents (10–18 years) on long-term AED therapy. They received either low-dose vitamin D 400 IU/day or high-dose vitamin D 4,000 IU/day (adults) and 2,000 IU/day (children/adolescents). Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS: In adults, baseline BMD was lower than that of age- and gender-matched controls vs either a Western or an ethnically identical population. After 1 year, there were significant increases in BMD at all skeletal sites compared to baseline in the high-, but not in the low-dose treatment group. However, BMD at 1 year remained below normal. In children, baseline BMD was normal vs age- and gender-matched controls and showed significant and comparable increases in both treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: In ambulatory adults on antiepileptic drugs, high-dose vitamin D therapy substantially increased bone mineral density at several skeletal sites. In children, both doses resulted in comparable increases in bone mass.
The Social and Private Worlds of Speech: Speech for Inter‐ and Intramental Activity
Authors: SMITH HEATHER J.
Published: September 2007

During a study designed to examine the processes of learning English as an additional language as manifest in the interactive behaviour of small groups of bilingual school children playing specially designed board games, several instances of private speech were captured. Private speech is commonly described as speech addressed to the self for intramental purposes. Unlike many studies, this research was not specifically aimed at eliciting private speech. Indeed, the overtly social nature of game playing probably acted to limit the production of speech for intramental purposes. In effect, therefore, interest lies in the fact that private speech was produced within this context. The article presents an examination of the functions of the private speech produced and the consequences of such outward verbalisation within this interactive group activity. As a result, a heuristic model of the relationship between speech for social and private purposes is proposed.
Early English Immersion and Literacy in Xi'an, China
Authors: KNELL ELLEN , HAIYAN QIANG , MIAO PEI , YANPING CHI , SIEGEL LINDA S. , LIN ZHAO , WEI ZHAO
Published: September 2007

Instruction in English as a foreign language at an early age is becoming more common worldwide even though the effects of this early instruction are not yet known. This study investigated the English and Chinese language performance of students enrolled in early English immersion in a Chinese primary school. In addition, factors that could predict successful English word recognition were investigated. There were 183 participants who were tested in both Chinese and English word identification, phonological awareness, and vocabulary, as well as English oral proficiency and letter name knowledge. The immersion students performed significantly better than the non‐immersion group on measures of English vocabulary, word identification, and oral proficiency, without any detrimental effects on their Chinese character reading, which made the program, in effect, an additive bilingual system. In addition, phonological awareness and letter name knowledge proved to be strong predictors of English word identification for the immersion students, a finding that was similar to results obtained in studies of native English‐speaking children. The findings have potentially useful pedagogical applications.
Liquidity and the Law of One Price: The Case of the Futures‐Cash Basis
Authors: ROLL RICHARD , SCHWARTZ EDUARDO , SUBRAHMANYAM AVANIDHAR
Published: September 2007

Deviations from no‐arbitrage relations should be related to market liquidity, because liquidity facilitates arbitrage. At the same time, a wide futures‐cash basis may trigger arbitrage trades and, in turn, affect liquidity. We test these ideas by studying the dynamic relation between stock market liquidity and the index futures basis. There is evidence of two‐way Granger causality between the short‐term absolute basis and liquidity, and liquidity Granger‐causes longer‐term absolute bases. Shocks to the absolute basis predict future stock market liquidity. The evidence suggests that liquidity enhances the efficiency of the futures‐cash pricing system.
Price Convexity and Skewness
Authors: XU JIANGUO
Published: September 2007

This paper develops a model in which investors who are prohibited from short selling agree to disagree on the precision of a publicly observed signal. The model implies that the equilibrium price is a convex function of the public signal. The model predicts that (1) the stock price reacts more to good news than to bad news; (2) the skewness of stock returns is positively correlated with contemporaneous returns, but negatively correlated with lagged returns; (3) short sale constraints increase rather than decrease skewness; and (4) disagreement about information precision increases skewness. Empirical tests conducted find supportive evidence for all these predictions.
Longterm results of deep lamellar keratoplasty using grafts with endothelium
Authors: Higaki Shiro , Hori Yuichi , Maeda Naoyuki , Watanabe Hitoshi , Inoue Yoshitsugu , Shimomura Yoshikazu
Published: September 2007

Purpose:  To report the longterm results of deep lamellar keratoplasty (DLK) using grafts with their own endothelia.

Methods:  Fourteen eyes of 14 patients underwent DLK using grafts with endothelium. The average follow‐up was approximately 80.0 months. Preoperative diagnoses included: corneal leukoma (five eyes); gelatinous drop‐like corneal dystrophy (three eyes); Avellino corneal dystrophy (two eyes); corneal perforation (two eyes); corneal mucopolysaccharidosis (one eye), and keratoconus (one eye).

Results:  Corrected visual acuity was improved in 13 eyes (93%), but ruptures of Descemet's membrane occurred in six eyes (43%) and a double anterior chamber was found in five eyes (36%) postoperatively. Despite this, all grafts remained clear as a result of their functioning endothelia.

Conclusions:  Deep lamellar keratoplasty using a graft with its own endothelium is a safe and valuable procedure with flexibility and feasibility that should suit corneal surgeons of all levels.
The therapeutic relationship in secondary mental health care: a conceptual review of measures
Authors: Catty J. , Winfield H. , Clement S.
Published: September 2007

Objective:  The study aimed to determine the conceptual basis of measures of the patient–professional relationship used in routine mental health services research by reviewing their face, content and construct validity.

Method:  A comprehensive literature search identified measures of the relationship used in mental health services research. The conceptual basis of each identified measure was identified by a review of measures’ authors assessments of face, content and construct validity plus item analysis of the measures themselves.

Results:  The search identified 15 measures. The seven developed in psychotherapy were likely to be better validated conceptually; most were based on therapeutic alliance models. Measures developed specifically for mental health services were based on a wider range of models including global assessments of the relationship.

Conclusion:  Most of the better validated measures originate in psychotherapy, but there is limited evidence for their validity in general mental health services. Four measures are recommended.
The role of mental disorder in attacks on European politicians 1990–2004
Authors: James D. V. , Mullen P. E. , Meloy J. R. , Pathé M. T. , Farnham F. R. , Preston L. , Darnley B.
Published: September 2007

Objective:  The only systematic studies of attacks on public figures come from the USA. These studies de‐emphasize the role of mental illness and suggest threats are of no predictive value. This study re‐examines these questions through a study of attacks on European politicians.

Method:  All non‐terrorist attacks on elected politicians in Western Europe between 1990 and 2004 were analysed.

Results:  Twenty‐four attacks were identified, including five involving fatalities, and eight serious injuries. Ten attackers were psychotic, four drunk, nine politically motivated and one unclassifiable. Eleven attackers evidenced warning behaviours. The mentally disordered, most of whom gave warnings, were responsible for most of the fatal and seriously injurious attacks.

Conclusion:  A greater awareness of the link between delusional fixations on public figures and subsequent attacks could aid prevention. Equally importantly, recognition would encourage earlier intervention in people who, irrespective of whether they eventually attack, have delusional preoccupations which ruin their lives.
Association between routine visits for dental checkup and self‐perceived oral health in an adult population in Rio de Janeiro: the Pró‐Saúde Study
Authors: Afonso‐Souza G. , Nadanovsky P. , Chor D. , Faerstein E. , Werneck G. L. , Lopes C. S.
Published: September 2007

Abstract –  Objective:  To investigate the association between routine visits for dental checkup and self‐perceived oral health.

Methods:  Cross‐sectional data from a study of university employees in Rio de Janeiro – The Pró‐Saúde Study. Self‐perceived oral health and the reported pattern and frequency of visits to the dentist were obtained through a multidimensional self‐administered questionnaire.

Results:  Data were obtained from 3252 participants. When compared with individuals who reported self‐perceived oral health as good (‘very good’, ‘good’ or ‘fair’) individuals who reported self‐perceived oral health as bad (‘bad’ or ‘very bad’) were significantly more likely to be older, male, less educated, poorer; they also reported more frequently to have lost more teeth and not visiting the dentist for routine dental ‘checkup’. Among those who reported visiting for dental checks at least annually, 3% reported bad oral health, as opposed to 15% among those who reported visiting the dentist only when in trouble. Compared with those who reported visiting the dentist at least annually, odds ratio of bad oral health was 3.9 (95% CI, 2.68–5.67) for subjects who reported visiting only when in trouble, 2.6 (95% CI, 1.51–4.62) who reported visiting for dental checks less frequently than once every 2 years, and 1.4 (95% CI, 0.77–2.52) for subjects who reported visiting for dental checks once every 2 years, after controlling for sex, age, education, income and tooth loss.

Conclusions:  Not visiting the dentist for a routine dental check increased the chance of reporting one's own oral health as bad. In any case, the habit of visiting for dental ‘checkup, once per year or once every 2 years was associated with nearly all the individuals perceiving his/her oral health positively. However, in order to gather more solid scientific data to guide public polices it is necessary to perform longitudinal studies, especially experiments in different populations focused mainly on the socioeconomic characteristics and dental clinical conditions.
Potential of Pakistani camel for dairy and other uses
Authors: YAQOOB Muhammad , NAWAZ Haq
Published: September 2007

Camels have the potential for milk, meat and draught power and can contribute a handsome share of the production of these commodities. The potential of this wonderful animal has never been realized and it could be harnessed as a prospective milk producing animal. The future of animals that can thrive under harsh environmental conditions, the camel being at the top of the list, is bright. The camel is still a neglected species in Pakistan and has not received the proper attention of researchers and scientists. The population explosion, urbanization and industrialization have expanded agricultural activities to produce more food for the rapid growing human population of the country. Cultivated areas are shrinking, thus reducing the fodder production area for buffalo and cattle. Under these circumstances we have to search for other available sources to enhance milk production. The environmental changes occurring on the earth and the water shortage in the region have also adversely affected the production potential of buffalo, cattle, goats and sheep. Under these changing ecological circumstances, rearing camel is the best option for more milk production and the proper utilization of the vast unused lands of this country. Most studies also have named the camel as an animal of great socioeconomic importance in large tracts of the industrializing world. The camel serves as a cheaper source of power for drawing water from wells, plowing and leveling land, working mini extraction mills (extracting from oil seeds), grinding wheat, corn and other grains and crushing sugarcane and pulling carts for the transportation of goods as well as people.
Allele frequencies of TYR and MC1R in Chinese native cattle
Authors: GAN Hai‐Yun , LI Jian‐Bin , WANG Hong‐Mei , GAO Yun‐Dong , LIU Wen‐Hao , LI Jing‐Peng , ZHONG Ji‐Feng
Published: September 2007

In order to estimate the influence of TYR and MC1R on the color of the cattle hide, the MC1R and TYR in Luxi Yellow, Bohai Black, China Holstein black‐white and China Holstein red‐white cattle (20 animals of each of the four breeds) were sequenced. The comparison of TYR among the four hide color phenotypes revealed no sequence difference. The sequences of the MC1R coding region revealed three alleles (ED, E+ and e), which were previously reported. Furthermore, we found an important single nucleotide polymorphism at 725 position of the MC1R coding region, which may help in cattle breed identification. A polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism was performed to investigate the gene frequencies of the four breeds. Most China Holstein black‐white cattle had ED and E+ alleles (ED = 0.12, E+ = 0.80) and no homozygous e/e and most Bohai Black cattle had ED and E+ alleles (ED = 0.52, E+ = 0.47). Therefore it is consistent with the hypothesis that ED and E+ induce black pigment synthesis. On the other hand, most of the China Holstein red‐white cattle and Luxi Yellow cattle had the e allele (e/e = 0.95). Unexpectedly, the E+/e genotype was present in China Holstein red‐white cattle and Luxi Yellow cattle.
Effect of relaxin on the motility, acrosome reaction and utilization of glucose of fresh and frozen‐thawed bovine spermatozoa
Authors: MIAH Abdul G. , SALMA Ummay , TAREQ Kma , KOHSAKA Tetsuya , TSUJII Hirotada
Published: September 2007

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of relaxin on motility, acrosome reaction (AR), viability and utilization of glucose in fresh and frozen‐thawed bovine spermatozoa. Both semen samples were washed twice through centrifugation (5 min at 600 g), and preincubated for 1 h at 39°C for swim up. The swim‐up separated spermatozoa were resuspended in a sperm Tyrode's albumin lactate pyruvate (Sp‐TALP) medium containing 0 (control) and 40 ng/mL porcine relaxin and incubated for 0–6 h. Sperm motility was determined on the basis of movement quality examined by a phase contrast microscope. Sperm viability and AR were evaluated by using the triple staining technique. The incorporation and oxidation of 14C‐glucose was assessed by a liquid scintillation counter. Motility was improved (P < 0.05) in both fresh and frozen‐thawed spermatozoa by the addition of relaxin to the Sp‐TALP medium, whereas relaxin showed no significant effect on viability in either fresh or frozen‐thawed spermatozoa. The percentage of AR increased (P < 0.05) when fresh or frozen‐thawed spermatozoa were incubated with relaxin. In contrast, the incorporation and oxidation of 14C‐glucose increased (P < 0.05) in both kinds of spermatozoa incubated with relaxin. Thus the results demonstrated that the addition of relaxin to the Sp‐TALP medium increased the motility, AR and utilization of glucose in fresh and frozen‐thawed bovine spermatozoa.
Effect of brewer's grain on rumen fermentation, milk production and milk composition in lactating dairy cows
Authors: MIYAZAWA Kenji , SULTANA Halima , HIRATA Teppei , KANDA Shuhei , ITABASHI Hisao
Published: September 2007

Six lactating Holstein cows were divided into two groups (n = 3) and used in a double reversal trial with three periods of 14 days each to evaluate the rumen fermentation, milk production and milk composition of cows fed brewer's grain (BG). The control diets contained 14% chopped Sudangrass hay, 24% corn silage, 18% alfalfa hay cube, 34% concentrate mixture‐1 and 10% concentrate mixture‐2 (wheat bran, soybean meal and cottonseed). In the experimental diet, wet BG replaced the concentrate mixture‐2. The protozoal population, concentration of ammonia‐N and volatile fatty acids in the ruminal fluid did not differ between the control and BG diets. The molar percentage of acetic acid was significantly higher (P < 0.05) with the BG diet at 5 h after feeding. The milk yield, the percentage of protein, lactose, solids not‐fat and somatic cell counts of milk did not differ between the two diets. The percentage of milk fat tended to increase with the BG diet. The BG diet significantly increased the proportions of C18:0 and C18:1 in milk fat (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively) and tended to increase that of conjugated linoleic acid.
Comparative observations of the growth changes of the histochemical properties and collagen architecture of the iliotibialis lateralis muscle from Silky, layer and meat type cockerels
Authors: OSHIMA Ichiro , IWAMOTO Hisao , TABATA Shoji , ONO Yoshitaka , ISHIBASHI Akira , SHIBA Nobuya , MIYACHI Hideyuki , GOTOH Takafumi , NISHIMURA Shotaro
Published: September 2007

Growth‐related changes in the histochemical property and collagen architecture of the iliotibialis lateralis muscle were compared among Silky, layer and meat cockerels. Histochemical and immunohistochemical methods were employed to observe the collagen architecture. The total intramuscular collagen was also determined. The muscle consisted of type IIA, IIB and IIC myofibers, of which type IIB occurred at the highest frequency. The diameter of type IIB myofibers in each week was largest in the layer, followed by the meat, and was smallest in the Silky. The total amount of collagen reached 3.38 mg/g in the meat bird, 3.03 mg/g in the layer and 2.71 mg/g in the Silky by 30 weeks of age, respectively. In the perimysium, the collagen bundles increased in size and density of fibrils with growth. At 30 weeks of age the layer had compact collagen platelets while the Silky had loose collagen bundles. In the meat bird, the collagen bundles were moderately compact. The endomysial collagen network had a large mesh size at 1 week and thereafter accumulated many collagen fibrils to form a felt‐like fabric of fibrils at 30 weeks of age. From these results it appears that growth‐related changes in the iliotibialis lateralis muscle are not necessarily causally affected by the different growth rates of chicken breeds.
Food‐based dietary guidelines and nutrition interventions for children at primary healthcare facilities in South Africa
Authors: Hendricks Michael K. , Goeiman Hilary , Dhansay Ali
Published: September 2007

Existing dietary recommendations and nutrition counselling provided to mothers/caregivers at primary healthcare (PHC) facilities are reviewed and analysed to be consistent with food‐based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) that are being developed for preschool children. Recommendations provided by the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness and the provincial Paediatric Case Management Guidelines, which are currently implemented at PHC facilities were reviewed. For FBDGs to be consistent with nutrition counselling that is provided to mothers/caregivers at these facilities, various principles need to be promoted. These include among others, exclusive and on‐demand breastfeeding in the HIV‐negative mother; exclusive breastfeeding with abrupt cessation preferably at 6 months or exclusive, safe and adequate formula feeding in the HIV‐infected mother; the introduction of complementary feeds in all infants at 6 months; the provision of energy‐dense and micronutrient‐enriched (particularly, iron, zinc, calcium and vitamin A) complementary feeds; frequent visits to the healthcare facility; and physical activity aimed at encouraging a healthy lifestyle and preventing overweight and obesity in childhood. The FBDGs should be incorporated into nutrition and child health programmes and be reviewed and modified regularly.
The PUA domain − a structural and functional overview
Authors: Pérez‐Arellano Isabel , Gallego José , Cervera Javier
Published: September 2007

The pseudouridine synthase and archaeosine transglycosylase (PUA) domain is a compact and highly conserved RNA‐binding motif that is widespread among diverse types of proteins from the three kingdoms of life. Its three‐dimensional architecture is well established, and the structures of several PUA–RNA complexes reveal a common RNA recognition surface, but also some versatility in the way in which the motif binds to RNA. The PUA domain is often part of RNA modification enzymes and ribonucleoproteins, but it has also been unexpectedly found fused to enzymes involved in proline biosynthesis, where it plays an unknown role. The functional impact of the domain varies with the protein studied, ranging from minor to essential effects. PUA motifs are involved in dyskeratosis congenita and cancer, pointing to links between RNA metabolism and human diseases.
Expression level and agonist‐binding affect the turnover, ubiquitination and complex formation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor β
Authors: Rieck Markus , Wedeken Lena , Müller‐Brüsselbach Sabine , Meissner Wolfgang , Müller Rolf
Published: September 2007

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily that modulate target gene expression in response to fatty acid ligands. Their regulation by post‐translational modifications has been reported but is poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated whether ligand binding affects the turnover and ubiquitination of the PPARβ subtype (also known as PPARδ). Our data show that the ubiquitination and degradation of PPARβ is not significantly influenced by the synthetic agonist GW501516 under conditions of moderate PPARβ expression. By contrast, the overexpression of PPARβ dramatically enhanced its degradation concomitant with its polyubiquitination and the formation of high molecular mass complexes containing multiple, presumably oligomerized PPARβ molecules that lacked stoichiometical amounts of the obligatory PPARβ dimerization partner, retinoid X receptor. The formation of these apparently aberrant complexes, as well as the ubiquitination and destabilization of PPARβ, were strongly inhibited by GW501516. Our findings suggest that PPARβ is subject to complex post‐translational regulatory mechanisms that partly may serve to safeguard the cell against deregulated PPARβ expression. Furthermore, our data have important implications regarding the widespread use of overexpression systems to evaluate the function and regulation of PPARs.
Effect of Antipsychotics on Creatine Kinase Activity in Rat Brain
Authors: Assis Lara C. , Scaini Giselli , Di‐Pietro Priscila B. , Castro Adalberto A. , Comim Clarissa M. , Streck Emilio L. , Quevedo João
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Typical and atypical antipsychotic drugs have different clinical and behavioural profiles. It is well described that inhibition of creatine kinase activity has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases, especially in the brain. In this work, we evaluate the effect of haloperidol, clozapine, olanzapine or aripiprazole chronic administration on creatine kinase activity in brain of rats. Adult male Wistar rats received daily injections of haloperidol (1.5 mg/kg), clozapine (25 mg/kg), olanzapine (2.5, 5 or 10 mg/kg) or aripiprazole (2, 10 or 20 mg/kg). Our results demonstrate that haloperidol did not affect the enzyme activity in brain of rats. Clozapine inhibited the enzyme activity only in cerebellum and prefrontal cortex of rats. Aripiprazole did not affect creatine kinase in hippocampus, cerebellum and prefrontal cortex. The administration of 2.0 mg/kg aripiprazole did not alter creatine kinase activity, but 10.0 and 20.0 mg/kg aripiprazole activated the enzyme in striatum and cerebral cortex. Finally, the higher dose of olanzapine (10.0 mg/kg) activated the enzyme in striatum of rats. In hippocampus and cerebral cortex, we could not verify any effect of olanzapine on creatine kinase activity. The inhibitory effect of clozapine and olanzapine on creatine kinase activity in cerebellum and prefrontal cortex suggest that these drugs may impair energy metabolism in these brain areas.
The in vitro Neurotoxic and Myotoxic Effects of the Venom from the Suta Genus (Curl Snakes) of Elapid Snakes
Authors: Kuruppu Sanjaya , Robinson Stephanie , Hodgson Wayne C. , Fry Bryan G.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Australia has a tremendous diversity of elapid snakes, including many unique smaller sized species of this venomous snake family. However, little if anything is known about the majority of the venoms of these lesser studied snakes. In the current study, the venoms of Suta suta (curl snake) and Suta punctata (spotted‐curl snake) were examined for in vitro activity using a skeletal muscle preparation (i.e. chick biventer cervicis nerve‐muscle preparation). Both venoms caused concentration‐dependent (3–10 µg/ml) inhibition of nerve‐mediated twitches, and inhibited responses to exogenous acetylcholine and carbachol, indicating the presence of postsynaptic neurotoxins. These effects were prevented by prior addition of CSL Ltd. polyvalent snake antivenom (5 units/ml) but only partially reversed by the addition of antivenom (5 units/ml) at the t90 time‐point (i.e. time at which twitches were inhibited by 90%). Suta punctata venom (10 µg/ml) was also myotoxic as indicated by the inhibition of direct twitches of the chick biventer cervicis nerve‐muscle preparation. This effect was not reversed by antivenom (5 units/ml). This study highlights the danger of underestimating the potential severe clinical effects posed by these small but highly venomous snakes.
Protection of Arsenic‐Induced Hepatic Disorder by Arjunolic Acid
Authors: Manna Prasenjit , Sinha Mahua , Sil Parames C.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Arsenic is one of the ubiquitous environmental pollutants, which affects nearly all organ systems. The present study has been carried out to investigate the hepatoprotective role of arjunolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin, against arsenic‐induced oxidative damages in murine livers. Administration of sodium arsenite at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight for 2 days significantly reduced the activities of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S‐transferase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase as well as depleted the level of reduced glutathione and total thiols. In addition, sodium arsenite also increased the activities of serum marker enzymes, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase, enhanced DNA fragmentation, protein carbonyl content, lipid peroxidation end‐products and the level of oxidized glutathione. Studies with arjunolic acid show that in vitro it possesses free radical‐scavenging and in vivo antioxidant activities. Treatment with arjunolic acid at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight for 4 days prior to arsenic administration prevents the alterations of the activities of all antioxidant indices and levels of the other parameters studied. Histological studies revealed less centrilobular necrosis in the liver treated with arjunolic acid prior to arsenic intoxication compared to the liver treated with the toxin alone. Effects of a known antioxidant, vitamin C, have been included in the study as a positive control. In conclusion, the results suggest that arjunolic acid possesses the ability to attenuate arsenic‐induced oxidative stress in murine liver probably via its antioxidant activity.
Functional Evaluation of THIQ, a Melanocortin 4 Receptor Agonist, in Models of Food Intake and Inflammation
Authors: Muceniece Ruta , Zvejniece Liga , Vilskersts Reinis , Liepinsh Edgars , Baumane Larisa , Kalvinsh Ivars , Wikberg Jarl E. , Dambrova Maija
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The central melanocortinergic system plays an important role in regulating different aspects of energy homeostasis and the immunomodulatory response. In the present study, we evaluated the in vivo activities of food intake suppression and anti‐inflammatory activity of THIQ, which has been proposed to possess high and selective melanocortin‐4 receptor agonistic activity in vitro. The results showed that THIQ (0.1, 0.3 and 1 nmol/rat, intracerebroventricularly) is less effective in reducing food intake and body weights of rats than the non‐selective melanocortin receptor agonist melanotan II. Electron paramagnetic resonance measurements in mice brain tissue showed that THIQ at doses of 0.001 and 0.01 nmol/mouse (intracisternally) increased the concentration of nitric oxide, which is not typical for melanocortin receptor agonists. In an experimental brain inflammation model, THIQ only weakly antagonized lipopolysaccharide‐induced nitric oxide overproduction in brain tissue at a dose of 0.01 nmol/mouse. Our findings provide new insight into the in vivo pharmacological profile of the in vitro selective melanocortin‐4 receptor agonist THIQ and give grounds for caution when interpreting and predicting melanocortin receptor selective agonist activity in vivo.
POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL: MEASUREMENT AND RELATIONSHIP WITH PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION
Authors: LUTHANS FRED , AVOLIO BRUCE J. , AVEY JAMES B. , NORMAN STEVEN M.
Published: September 2007

Two studies were conducted to analyze how hope, resilience, optimism, and efficacy individually and as a composite higher‐order factor predicted work performance and satisfaction. Results from Study 1 provided psychometric support for a new survey measure designed to assess each of these 4 facets, as well as a composite factor. Study 2 results indicated a significant positive relationship regarding the composite of these 4 facets with performance and satisfaction. Results from Study 2 also indicated that the composite factor may be a better predictor of performance and satisfaction than the 4 individual facets. Limitations and practical implications conclude the article.
Na+ and Water Uptake in Relation to the Radial Reflection Coefficient of Root in Arrowleaf Saltbush Under Salt Stress
Authors: Bai Xin‐Fu , Zhu Jian‐Jun , Zhang Ping , Wang Yan‐Hua , Yang Li‐Qun , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2007

The response of halophyte arrowleaf saltbush (Atriplex triangularis Willd) plants to a gradient of salt stress were investigated with hydroponically cultured seedlings. Under salt stress, both the Na+ uptake into root xylem and negative pressures in xylem vessels increased with the elevation of salinity (up to 500 mol/m3) in the root environment. However, the increment in negative pressures in root xylem far from matches the decrease in the osmotic potential of the root bathing solutions, even when the osmotic potential of xylem sap is taken into consideration. The total water potential of xylem sap in arrowleaf saltbush roots was close to the osmotic potential of root bathing solutions when the salt stress was low, but a progressively increased gap between the water potential of xylem sap and the osmotic potential of root bathing solutions was observed when the salinity in the root environment was enhanced. The maximum gap was 1.4 MPa at a salinity level of 500 mol/m3 without apparent dehydration of the tested plants. This discrepancy could not be explained with the current theories in plant physiology. The radial reflection coefficient of root in arrowleaf saltbush decreased with the enhanced salt stress was and accompanied by an increase in the Na+ uptake into xylem sap. However, the relative Na+ in xylem exudates based on the corresponding NaCl concentration in the root bathing solutions showed a tendency of decrease. The results showed that the reduction in the radial reflection coefficient of roots in the arrowleaf saltbush did not lead to a mass influx of NaCl into xylem when the radial reflection coefficient of the root was considerably small; and that arrowleaf saltbush could use small xylem pressures to counterbalance the salt stresses, either with the uptake of large amounts of salt, or with the development of xylem pressures dangerously negative. This strategy could be one of the mechanisms behind the high resistance of arrowleaf saltbush plants to salt stress.
Assessing the Suitability of Various Physiological Traits to Screen Wheat Genotypes for Salt Tolerance
Authors: El‐Hendawy Salah E. , Hu Yuncai , Schmidhalter Urs
Published: September 2007

Success of improving the salt tolerance of genotypes requires effective and reliable screening traits in breeding programs. The objective was to assess the suitability of various physiological traits to screen wheat genotypes for salt tolerance. Thirteen wheat genotypes from Egypt, Germany, Australia and India were grown in soil with two salinity levels (control and 150 mmol/L NaCl) in a greenhouse. The physiological traits (ion contents in leaves and stems, i.e. Na+, Cl−, K+, Ca2+), the ratios of K+/Na+ and Ca+/Na+ in the leaves and stems, net photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, chlorophyll content (SPAD value), and leaf water relations, were measured at different growth stages. The physiological traits except for Na+ and Cl− in stems and the leaf transpiration rate at 150 mmol/L NaCl showed a significant genotypic variation, indicating that the traits that have a significant genotypic variation may be possibly used as screening criteria. According to the analysis of linear regression of the scores of the physiological traits against those of grain yield, however, the physiological traits of Ca2+ and Ca2+/Na+ at 45 d and final harvest with the greatest genotypic variation were ranked at the top. From a practical and economic point of view, SPAD value should be considered to be used as screening criteria and/or there is a need to develop a quick and practical approach to determine Ca2+ in plant tissues.
A Case Report of Steroid and Immunosuppressant‐resistant Pyoderma Gangrenosum Successfully Treated by Granulocytapheresis
Authors: Okuma Keiko , Mitsuishi Kouichi , Hasegawa Toshio , Tsuchihashi Hitoshi , Ogawa Hideoki , Ikeda Shigaku
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Granulocytapheresis (GCAP) therapy is a newly developed therapeutic modality for inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by the appearance of erythematous macules and plaques with pustules or nodules that rapidly progress to ragged, undermined multiple ulcers. We attempted GCAP therapy in a patient with PG resistant to prednisolone and various other immunosuppressants. GCAP therapy was initiated at three‐ to four‐day intervals and a good response from all skin lesions, with eventual total epithelialization, was observed after 10 sessions of this therapy. Furthermore, circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) and granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) also decreased after the GCAP therapy. Our results suggest that GCAP is a safe and useful tool for the treatment of intractable PG, and that IL‐8 and G‐CSF are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of PG.
Rapid Count of Microbial Cells in Dialysate
Authors: Shimakita Tomonori , Yamamoto Hidenori , Naramura Tomotaka , Fujimori Akira , Ide Takao , Tashiro Yoshikazu , Saito Mikako , Matsuoka Hideaki
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  An apparatus for the non‐culture method (NCM) of microbial cell count was formerly developed and named a bioplorer. The bioplorer NCM is based on the double staining of cells with 4′, 6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) and propidium iodide (PI) and the automatic analysis of their fluorescent microscopic images. Viable cells can be stained with DAPI, while dead cells can be stained with DAPI and PI. In this study, the bioplorer NCM has been applied to the dialysate. The viable and dead cells in dialysate could be counted within 20 min. The detection limit expressed by log10[cells/100 mL] was 2.0. When cell‐spiked dialysate samples containing prescribed number of Bacillus subtilis cells were assayed, the numbers of cells determined by the bioplorer NCM (NVIA(NCM)) and a conventional culture method (CM) on R2A medium (NVIA(R2A‐CM)) were similar in the range of 2.6–4.6 within the 95% confidence interval (NCM‐CM equivalent range). When test solutions sampled from a practical facility in a hospital were assayed, NVIA(NCM) was greater than, but comparable to, NVIA(R2A‐CM). The endotoxin (ET) in the test samples were assayed as well using a test kit for limulus amoebocyte lysate assay. The results of microbial cells and ET concentration indicated that the dialysate supplying line was clean and well maintained. The bioplorer NCM can determine if the microbial contamination of dialysate supplying facilities is greater than 2.6 (398 cells/100 mL).
Hepatitis G Virus Exposure in Dialysis Staff
Authors: Eslamifar Ali , Hamkar Rasool , Ramezani Amitis , Ahmadi Farrokhlagha , Gachkar Latif , Jalilvand Somayeh , Adibi Ladan , Khameneh Ali , Atabak Shahnaz , Ghadimi Ramin , Aghakhani Arezoo
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Hepatitis G virus (HGV) is a blood‐borne virus. Some present data demonstrate an occupational risk of HGV infection in medical staff of dialysis units. The aim of this investigation was to assess the prevalence of HGV exposure in dialysis staff. This study was performed in a main dialysis unit in Iran. In 27 dialysis staff, HGV exposure was detected serologically by the presence of anti HGV envelope protein E2 (anti‐E2) by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and compared with 77 hemodialysis (HD) and 13 continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. All of them were also screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs), and hepatitis C antibody (anti‐HCV). A low prevalence of HGV exposure was found in the dialysis staff (0%), which nearly corresponded to the prevalence of the dialysis patients (HD 3.89%, CAPD 0%). The prevalence of anti‐HCV and anti‐HBs in staff was 37.03% and 33.33%, respectively, which was higher than HGV anti‐E2. The prevalence of HGV exposure was low in dialysis staff in our study, and was near to the prevalence of HGV exposure in dialysis patients. Therefore, it can be concluded that the occupational risk for HGV exposure in our investigation was minimal.
Angiotomographically‐proven Left Innominate Vein Occlusion in Dialysis Patients With Prior Left Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization Presenting With Arm Swelling After Ipsilateral Access Creation: Report of Four Cases
Authors: Salgado Octavio J , Chacón Rosa E , Mora Edunice , Mora‐LaCruz Eduardo
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Central vein occlusion (CVO) is not uncommonly observed after hemodialysis (HD) catheter placement and it may prevent subsequent ipsilateral arteriovenous (AV) access creation. Right internal jugular vein catheterization (RJVC) appears to be the insertion site with the lowest incidence of CVO, but little is known about the incidence of CVO following left internal jugular vein catheterization (LJVC). We report on four patients with left innominate vein occlusion after LJVC who developed severe arm swelling after ipsilateral AV access creation. In three of the four cases swelling appeared 12–26 months after access creation, and in the fourth, swelling developed immediately after surgery while the catheter was still in place. Two patients underwent access ligation and in the remainder the arm swelling improved either spontaneously or after LJVC removal. LJVC is not as safe as RJVC as an insertion route for HD catheter placement in terms of CVO frequency.