bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate analyses of carcass traits for Angus cattle fitting reduced rank and factor analytic models
Authors: Meyer K.
Published: May 2007

Summary Multivariate analyses of carcass traits for Angus cattle, consisting of six traits recorded on the carcass and eight auxiliary traits measured by ultrasound scanning of live animals, are reported. Analyses were carried out by restricted maximum likelihood, fitting a number of reduced rank and factor analytic models for the genetic covariance matrix. Estimates of eigenvalues and eigenvectors for different orders of fit are contrasted and implications for the estimates of genetic variances and correlations are examined. Results indicate that at most eight principal components (PCs) are required to model the genetic covariance structure among the 14 traits. Selection index calculations suggest that the first seven of these PCs are sufficient to obtain estimates of breeding values for the carcass traits without loss in the expected accuracy of evaluation. This implied that the number of effects fitted in genetic evaluation for carcass traits can be halved by estimating breeding values for the leading PCs directly.
Impact of RYR1 genotype of Piétrain boars on litter traits of Czech Large White × Czech Landrace crossbred sows
Authors: Čechová M. , Wolf J. , Trčka P.
Published: May 2007

Summary Piétrain boars of different ryanodine receptor (RYR1) genotypes (NN, Nn and nn, three boars each) were mated with approximately 10 Czech Large White × Czech Landrace sows (genotype NN) each to produce one litter per sow. The progeny of nn boars had a significantly higher individual weaning weight (7.31 kg versus 6.86 kg) and average daily gain from birth to weaning (252 g/day versus 240 g/day) than the progeny of NN boars. Furthermore, piglets from nn boars differed statistically significant also from piglets of boars with the Nn genotype for these two traits. The litters of the NN boars were greater by 0.5 piglets than the litters of the nn boars for the total number of piglets born, piglets born alive and piglets weaned, but the differences were not significant. The Nn genotype showed for all litter size traits and the number of stillborn piglets the best values. The difference between the genotypes Nn and nn was statistically significant at the 0.05 level for the number of piglets born alive and the number of piglets weaned.
Genetic correlations among and between wool, growth and reproduction traits in Merino sheep
Authors: Safari E. , Fogarty N.M. , Gilmour A.R. , Atkins K.D. , Mortimer S.I. , Swan A.A. , Brien F.D. , Greeff J.C. , Van Der Werf J.H.J.
Published: May 2007

Summary Data from seven research resource flocks across Australia were combined to provide accurate estimates of genetic correlations among production traits in Merino sheep. The flocks represented contemporary Australian Merino fine, medium and broad wool strains over the past 30 years. Over 110 000 records were available for analysis for each of the major wool traits, and 50 000 records for reproduction and growth traits with over 2700 sires and 25 000 dams. Individual models developed from the single trait analyses were extended to the various combinations of two‐trait models to obtain genetic correlations among six wool traits [clean fleece weight (CFW), greasy fleece weight, fibre diameter (FD), yield, coefficient of variation of fibre diameter and standard deviation of fibre diameter], four growth traits [birth weight, weaning weight, yearling weight (YWT), and hogget weight] and four reproduction traits [fertility, litter size, lambs born per ewe joined, lambs weaned per ewe joined (LW/EJ)]. This study has provided for the first time a comprehensive matrix of genetic correlations among these 14 wool, growth and reproduction traits. The large size of the data set has also provided estimates with very low standard errors. A moderate positive genetic correlation was observed between CFW and FD (0.29 ± 0.02). YWT was positively correlated with CFW (0.23 ± 0.04), FD (0.17 ± 0.04) and LWEJ (0.58 ± 0.06), while LW/EJ was negatively correlated with CFW (−0.26 ± 0.05) and positively correlated with FD (0.06 ± 0.04) and LS (0.68 ± 0.04). These genetic correlations, together with the estimates of heritability and other parameters provide the basis for more accurate prediction of outcomes in complex sheep‐breeding programmes designed to improve several traits.
Sequence characterized amplified region markers for identifying biotypes of Bemisia tabaci (Hem., Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Ko C‐C. , Hung Y‐C. , Wang C‐H.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) is an important pest of agriculture and horticulture crops that includes many morphologically indistinguishable biotypes. Molecular markers can provide a scientific method to rapidly identify biotypes. In this study, we attempted to develop specific primer sets for rapidly and stably identifying various biotypes of B. tabaci. We developed sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers for each of six B. tabaci (Gennadius) biotypes (A, B, Q, Nauru, An and S). Two primer sets (BaAF/BaAR and BaQF/BaQR) were designed from random amplified polymorphic DNA‐specific fragments for the A and Q biotypes. Four forward primers, BaBF, BaNaF, BaANF and BaSF, with a common reverse primer, L2‐N‐3014, for the other four biotypes of B, Nauru, An and S, respectively, were used based on their individual mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I sequences. Six of these SCARs were useful in distinguishing each biotype from the others. Application of these SCARs will be helpful in rapidly identifying biotypes for quarantine pest control to prevent the invasion of the various biotypes.
Clinical, Bacteriological, Cytological and Pathological Features of Teat Disorders in Ewes
Authors: Mavrogianni V. S. , Fthenakis G. C.
Published: May 2007

We describe the features of 13 cases of teat disorders in ewes, as follows: lengthy teats (one case), papilloma infection (two), staphylococcal dermatitis (one), nodules and abscesses (two), teat bites (three), stenosis (one), orf (two), compressed teat (one). Mannheimia haemolytica, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus simulans or Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from samples. Sub‐epithelial leucocytic infiltration at the teat duct ‐ teat cistern border, but not lymphoid nodules, was the salient histological finding in the teat. Leucocytic infiltration and destruction of parenchyma were evident in the mammary gland. The results provide field evidence suggesting that teat lesions predispose ewes to mastitis.
Morphological Features of Spermatozoa of Swamp Buffalo AI Bulls in Thailand
Authors: Koonjaenak S. , Chanatinart V. , Ekwall H. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H.
Published: May 2007

The appearance and incidence of sperm abnormalities was studied in 115 ejaculates, collected periodically over 1 year covering all seasons from five mature, healthy swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls reared under tropical conditions and serving as the current source of semen for artificial insemination (AI) in Thailand. Light microscopy of stained smears was used to investigate sperm head shape morphology, while unstained wet smears were used to examine other sperm abnormalities. The most commonly found morphological aberrations were pear‐shaped spermatozoa, knobbed acrosomes, proximal cytoplasmic droplets, simple bent tails and coiled tails under the head, whose ultrastructure (scanning electron microscopy) corresponded to what has been found in other species of bovidae, including varieties of buffalo. The mean prevalence (as least squares mean ± SEM) of sperm abnormalities was low (below 15%), corresponding to healthy spermiograms. The younger bulls (<10 years old, n = 3) had less abnormalities than the older ones (10.1 ± 0.6% versus 14.1 ± 0.8%, P < 0.001, n = 2), including abnormalities of sperm head shape (1.1 ± 0.3% versus 3.6 ± 0.3, P < 0.001), acrosome defects with knobbed acrosomes (1.1 ± 0.2% versus 1.2 ± 0.3%, P < 0.001), spermatozoa with proximal cytoplasmic droplets (2.7 ± 0.1% versus 1.4 ± 0.2%, P < 0.001), defective mid‐pieces (0.2 ± 0.1% versus 0.3 ± 0.1%) and abnormal sperm tails (3.1 ± 0.3% versus 5.7 ± 0.4%, P < 0.001). The within‐bull effect of the year solely affected the incidence of pear‐shaped spermatozoa while the incidences of abnormal contour, variable size of sperm head shapes, abnormal mid‐piece and simple bent tail among bulls were affected by ejaculate (week of collection). Interaction between age and ejaculate affected only the prevalence of spermatozoa with proximal cytoplasmic droplets. In conclusion, the types of defects encountered were similar to those found in other bovidae, with a very low prevalence over the year the AI sires were followed through.
Effect of Senna occidentalis Seeds on Immunity in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Hueza I. M. , Latorre A. O. , Raspantini P. C. F. , Raspantini L. E. R. , Mariano‐Souza D. P. , Guerra J. L. , Górniak S. L.
Published: May 2007

This study investigated possible immunotoxic effects of Senna occidentalis (So) seeds incorporated in broiler chicken rations at different concentrations (0.0%, 0.25%, 0.50% and 0.75%), for 28 or 42 days. We evaluated innate immune function (macrophage activities of spreading, phagocytosis, peroxide and nitric oxide production) and acquired immune function (humoral and cellular immune responses), as well as lymphoid organ weights and pathology. There was enhanced macrophage activity, as hydrogen peroxide production increased (P < 0.05) in cells of birds given 0.75%So, but there were no other pro‐inflammatory effects. Birds receiving 0.75% of So in ration for 42 days gained less weight (P < 0.01), and showed a decrease in relative weight of the bursa of Fabricius (P < 0.05) and spleen (P < 0.01). In addition, morphological changes were also noted in these lymphoid organs, with depletion of lymphoid cells on the spleen and bursa of Fabricius, resulting in lower relative weight of both lymphoid organs. No impairment of humoral immune response against Newcastle disease and in cellular immune response after a phytohaemagglutinin challenge was found. It is probable that mitochondrial damage and related apoptosis may be responsible for the enhanced peroxide production and the reduced relative weight of the bursa of Fabricius and spleen.
Articular Cartilage Repair with Autografting Under the Influence of Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐1 in Rabbits
Authors: Singh N. K. , Singh G. R. , Amarpal  , Kinjavdekar P. , Sharma A. K. , Mohanty T. R. , Kumar S. , Chae H. S. , Yoo Y. M. , Ahn C. N.
Published: May 2007

Insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 has been successfully demonstrated to stimulate proteoglycan synthesis, slow down its catabolism and promote cartilage formation through well defined in vitro studies. It was therefore, assumed that IGF‐1 would eventually serve to augment current cartilage repair techniques in vivo. Study was therefore, designed to determine the influence of IGF‐1 in cartilage repair with or without autografting. For this purpose articular cartilage repair model was created in the left knee of 48 New Zealand white rabbits of either sex, 6–7 months old, weighing 1–2 kg. The articular cartilage defect was created in the femoral groove of femoro‐patellar joint using hand held trephine under xylazine and ketamine anaesthesia in all the animals. The defect created was 3 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth. For autografting, osteochondral tissues harvested from the proximal patellar groove of the femur were placed in the distal defect and vice versa. The experimental animals were divided mainly into four groups, i.e. Group A (control), Group B (autografting), Group C (control + IGF‐1) and Group D (autografting + IGF‐1). Animals of group A and B were provided only with collagen scaffolds at 10 μg/cm2 whereas animals of treatment group C and D were provided with collagen scaffolds holding 30 ng/30 μl of IGF‐1 into the defect. Evaluation of cartilage repair was done on days 15, 30 and 45 after ethically killing the animals. Initially IGF‐1 had shown the tendency for either in the maintenance of autografted cartilage or helped in proliferation of chondroblast for the repair process. However, later in the process, cartilage formation apparently declined and appeared to converge to osseous tissue. Collectively, non‐responsiveness of osteoarthritic chondrocytes to IGF‐1 could be partially attributed to either increased IGF‐binding proteins in the joint space, micromovement of the graft, lack of nutrition, dose of IGF‐1 or its half life in the current study.
Comparison of electrical velocimetry and transpulmonary thermodilution for measuring cardiac output in piglets
Authors: ALEXANDER OSTHAUS WILHELM , HUBER DIRK , BECK CARSTEN , WINTERHALTER MICHAEL , BOETHIG DIETMAR , WESSEL ARMIN , SÜMPELMANN ROBERT
Published: May 2007

Background:  Monitoring of cardiovascular function is essential during major pediatric and pediatric cardiac surgery. Invasive monitoring of cardiac output (CO) and oxygen delivery is expensive and sometimes associated with adverse events. Therefore, we investigated the accuracy of a new noninvasive CO monitoring device using electrical velocimetry (EV) in comparison with the more invasive transpulmonary thermodilution (TPTD) method.

Methods:  In five fasted, anesthetized and mechanically ventilated piglets, CO was measured simultaneously using EV and TPTD under normal conditions, volume loading, inotropic support and exsanguination.

Results:  In five piglets, 169 measurements could be performed. The correlations between EV–CO and TPTD–CO were significant for absolute values (P < 0.0001, r = 0.82) and relative changes from baseline (P < 0.0001, r = 0.93). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of the relative changes of the EV–CO values in relation to the first EV–CO measurement showed a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 94% (AUC 0.974, 95% CI 0.96–0.99). Changes in TPTD–CO greater than 15% lead to a change of EV–CO in the same direction in 93%. Bland–Altman analysis showed a mean difference between the two methods of −0.63 l·min−1 with an sd of 0.64 l·min−1. The lower and upper limits of agreement were −1.88 and 0.62 l·min−1, percentage limit of agreement was ±82.8%.

Conclusions:  The results show that EV is a safe, simple, noninvasive and cost‐effective method for continuous trend monitoring of CO in piglets. The agreement of the EV–CO with TPTD–CO is not good enough to replace the standard method in our animal model. A correction factor for body habitus in piglets may be beneficial.
A qualitative systematic review of morphine treatment in children with postoperative pain
Authors: DUEDAHL TINA HOFF , HANSEN EBBA HOLME
Published: May 2007

Background:  Postoperative pain management in children is often empirical rather than evidence based. Morphine is the pharmacological treatment most widely used and although considered safe for children, adequate scientific data on morphine’s pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety are lacking. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the available literature examining different pediatric morphine regimens with respect to dosage, analgesic efficacy and incidence of side effects.

Methods:  Thirty‐six randomized, double‐blind controlled clinical trials with 49 comparisons, including multiple dosage regimens and routes of administration were included. The primary outcome measures for analgesic efficacy (pain intensity, time to first analgesic request and need for rescue analgesics) together with the incidence of morphine‐related side effects were evaluated qualitatively by significant difference (P < 0.05) as reported in the original investigations.

Results:  Overall, significant improvements in the defined outcome measures on analgesic efficacy were only observed when morphine was compared with inactive control interventions. No relation between morphine dosage and analgesic efficacy was detected. The most common morphine‐related side effects were vomiting and sedation, with significantly higher incidences observed after morphine administration in half of all comparisons.

Conclusions:  Although several factors may justify its use as first line therapy in many parts of the world, morphine alone is not the most suitable analgesic for postoperative pain in pediatric patients, as it does not have superior analgesic effect and a higher incidence of side effects compared with active control interventions. More standardized clinical trials with multimodal regimens as well as guidelines for evaluating pediatric medicines are desirable in the future.
Beta cells in type 2 diabetes – a crucial contribution to pathogenesis
Authors: Maedler Kathrin
Published: May 2007

The healthy β‐cell has an enormous capacity to adapt to conditions of higher insulin demand (e.g. in obesity, pregnancy, cortisol excess) to maintain normoglycaemia with an increase in its functional β‐cell mass. This compensates in 80–90% of individuals for insulin resistance. However, in 10–20% of individuals, the β‐cells are unable to match the demands of insulin resistance and insulin levels are relatively insufficient to maintain normal glycaemic control. This eventually leads to glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Accordingly, preservation of functional β‐cell mass has become central in the treatment of type 1 diabetes as well as T2DM. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recently described mechanisms of β‐cell death in T2DM and to postulate possible new targets for treatment.
Early scale development inHeterodontus(Heterodontiformes; Chondrichthyes): a novel chondrichthyan scale pattern
Authors: Johanson Zerina , Smith Moya M. , Joss Jean M. P.
Published: May 2007

In two species ofHeterodontus,H. portusjacksoniandH. galeatus, the first scales to develop form two opposing rows along the caudal fin axis on both the left and right sides of the fin. The opposing rows originate from an initial scale located on either side of the posterior tip of the caudal fin, with subsequent scales erupting in a posterior to anterior direction along the tail axis. These scale rows may strengthen tail movements, providing aeration in the egg case, but are lost later in ontogeny. Development of subsequent body scales shows a more irregular origin and arrangement, from anterior to posterior, to cover the dorsal and ventral lobes of the caudal fin. Although the early developmental pattern of the scale associated with theHeterodontuscaudal fin has not been previously described, several chondrichthyan taxa, including chimeroids, likewise possess ordered rows of flank scales early in ontogeny that are subsequently lost. These ordered scales contrast with previous suggestions that chondrichthyan scale development is entirely random. Instead, regulated and sequential development of scales may be a plesiomorphic character for both chondrichthyans and osteichthyans, with the less organized arrangement in later ontogenetic stages being a derived condition within Chondrichthyes.
Differential effect of β‐blocker therapy on insulin resistance as a function of insulin sensitizer use: results from GEMINI
Authors: Fonseca V. , Bakris G. L. , Bell D. S. H. , McGill J. B. , Raskin P. , Messerli F. H. , Phillips R. A. , Katholi R. E. , Wright J. T. , Waterhouse B. , Lukas M. A. , Anderson K. M. ,   for the GEMINI Investigators
Published: May 2007

Aims  To determine whether the beneficial effects of carvedilol on insulin resistance (IR) are affected by the concomitant use of insulin sensitizers [thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and metformin].

Methods  Changes in HbA1c and homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) were assessed over 5 months, comparing carvedilol with metoprolol tartrate according to insulin sensitizer (TZDs and metformin) use.

Results  In TZD/metformin users, carvedilol patients showed a 5.4% decrease [95% confidence interval (CI) −11.9, 1.6; P = 0.13] and metoprolol tartrate patients showed a 2.8% decrease (95% CI −8.5, 3.2; P = 0.35) in HOMA‐IR. The −2.6% difference between treatments was not significant (95% CI −10.7, 6.2; P = 0.55). In contrast, those not taking TZD/metformin experienced a 13.2% increase in HOMA‐IR on metoprolol tartrate (95% CI 3.2, 24.1; P < 0.01) and a 4.8% decrease in HOMA‐IR on carvedilol (95% CI −14.6, 6.0; P = 0.37), with a significant treatment difference of −15.9% favouring carvedilol (95% CI −26.6, −3.6; P = 0.01). There was no significant treatment interaction for the use of TZD/metformin and HbA1c. A statistically significant treatment difference was observed for HbA1c after 5 months favouring carvedilol after adjusting for insulin sensitizer use (−0.11%, 95% CI −0.214, −0.009; P = 0.03).

Conclusions  In patients with diabetes and hypertension not taking insulin sensitizers, the use of metoprolol tartrate resulted in a worsening of insulin resistance, an effect not seen with carvedilol. However, in TZD/metformin users the difference between the β‐blockers was not statistically significant.
Near patient testing for glycated haemoglobin in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus managed in primary care: acceptability and satisfaction
Authors: Stone M. A. , Burden A. C. , Burden M. , Baker R. , Khunti K.
Published: May 2007

Aims  To assess the acceptability of and satisfaction with near patient testing for glycated haemoglobin in primary care in patients and health professionals.

Methods  A questionnaire survey and qualitative study were nested within a randomized controlled trial conducted in eight general practices in Leicester‐shire, UK. Satisfaction with diabetes care was compared in the intervention group (near patient test) and in the control subjects (usual laboratory test), using the Diabetes Clinic Satisfaction Questionnaire. Semistructured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of patients and healthcare professionals and analysed using thematic coding and framework charting.

Results  Questionnaire data for 344 patients were analysed and interviews were conducted with 15 patients and 11 health professionals. Interviews indicated that the near patient test was highly acceptable to patients and staff and confirmed that there may be potential benefits such as time saving, reduced anxiety and impact on patient management and job satisfaction. However, both the survey and the interviews identified high pre‐existing levels of satisfaction with diabetes care in both intervention and control group patients and survey results failed to confirm increased patient satisfaction as a result of rapid testing. Limited patient understanding of glycated haemoglobin testing was noted.

Conclusions  We were unable to confirm actual rather than potential advantages of the near patient test. Widespread adoption in primary care cannot be recommended without further evidence of benefit.
Resistance to root‐knot nematode in tomato roots expressing a nematicidal Bacillus thuringiensis crystal protein
Authors: Li Xiang‐Qian , Wei Jun‐Zhi , Tan Anderson , Aroian Raffi V.
Published: May 2007

Our laboratory has demonstrated previously that Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crystal (Cry) proteins present in the Cry5 and Cry6 subclades intoxicate free‐living nematodes. In this study, we tested whether the expression of nematicidal Cry6A in transgenic plants provided protection against plant‐parasitic nematodes. As bacterial codon usage is incompatible with expression in plants, two different codon‐modified cry6A genes were synthesized for expression in plants. One was designed by maintaining codon diversity whilst removing codons not common in plants, and the other was designed by selecting the optimal codon for each amino acid based on the Arabidopsis genome. Both versions of the cry6A gene, driven by the constitutive cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter, were introduced into tomato roots via Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Although both were found to express Cry6A protein, the codon diversity gene generated superior expression. These Cry6A‐expressing roots were then challenged with root‐knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. Three different infection parameters were compared between Cry6A‐expressing roots and control roots transformed with empty vector or green fluorescent protein (GFP). These data demonstrated that M. incognita was able to ingest the 54‐kDa Cry6A, and that Cry6A intoxicated the parasitic nematode, as indicated by a decrease in progeny production of up to fourfold. These results indicate, for the first time, that a Bt Cry protein can confer plant resistance to an endoparasitic nematode, and that Cry proteins have the potential to control plant‐parasitic nematodes in transgenic plants.
Industry Clustering in Nordic Initial Public Offering Markets
Authors: Westerholm P. Joakim
Published: May 2007

We present institutional features of the Nordic initial public offering (IPO) markets and relate initial return, long‐run performance and size of companies listed during 1991–2002 to industry clustering and level of listing requirements. High industry clustering is related to higher initial return and lower long‐run performance supporting our prediction that information asymmetry has an impact on initial underpricing while temporary overvaluation affects long‐run performance. The relatively high listing requirements and targeting of the main market have not protected the Nordic IPOs from poor long‐run performance. On two markets, Norway and Denmark, IPOs outperform the all share market index.
The Reach of the Disposition Effect: Large Sample Evidence Across Investor Classes*
Authors: Brown Philip , Chappel Nick , Da Silva Rosa Ray , Walter Terry
Published: May 2007

We examine detailed daily Australian Stock Exchange share registry data for investors in IPO and index stocks between 1995 and 2000 and find that the ‘disposition effect,’ investors' reluctance to crystallize losses and relative eagerness to realize gains, is pervasive across investor classes. However, traders instigating larger investments tend to be affected less by the disposition bias. Our novel findings include that (a) the disposition effect ameliorates over time, being undetectable from around 200 trading days after purchase, (b) the ‘house money’ effect tempers the disposition effect, (c) shareholder loyalty schemes also partially offset investors' relative preference for selling winning stocks, and (d) the reversal of the disposition effect in June (the last month of the Australian tax year) does not occur among investors unable to take advantage of tax shields. In line with earlier research, our results support a tax‐related explanation for the June effect rather than window dressing or momentum explanations. Finally, we confirm Odean's finding that the disposition effect is not driven by diversification motives, or by higher transaction costs associated with lower‐priced stocks.
Migraine and Adiponectin: Is There a Connection?
Authors: Peterlin BL , Bigal ME , Tepper SJ , Urakaze M , Sheftell FD , Rapoport AM
Published: May 2007

Migraine is a common disorder, characterized by recurrent episodes of headache and associated symptoms. The full pathophysiology of migraine is incompletely delineated. Current theories suggest that it is a neurovascular disorder involving cortical depression, neurogenic inflammation and vasodilation. Various neuropeptides and cytokines have been implicated in the pathophysiology of migraine including calcitonin gene-related peptide, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α. There is evidence demonstrating an association between migraine and processes associated with inflammation, atherosclerosis, immunity and insulin sensitivity. Similarly, adiponectin, an adipocytokine secreted by adipose tissue, has protective roles against the development of insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and atherosclerosis and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory activities of adiponectin include inhibition of IL-6 and TNF-induced IL-8 formation, as well as induction of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-1 receptor antagonist. Adiponectin levels are also inversely correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP), TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Likewise, recent studies have shown a possible correlation between CRP, TNF-α and IL-6 and migraine attacks. In addition, insulin sensitivity is impaired in migraine and obesity is a risk factor for the transformation from episodic to chronic migraine. In this review we discuss the basic science of adiponectin and its potential connection to the pathophysiology of migraine. Future research may focus on how adiponectin levels are potentially altered during migraine attacks, and how that information can be potentially translated into migraine therapy.
Rizatriptan for the Acute Treatment of ICHD-II Proposed Menstrual Migraine: Two Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Studies
Authors: Mannix LK , Loder E , Nett R , Mueller L , Rodgers A , Hustad CM , Ramsey KE , Skobieranda F
Published: May 2007

These are the first prospective studies to use criteria for menstrual migraine proposed in the 2004 revision of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-II) to examine the efficacy of rizatriptan for treatment of a menstrual attack. Two identical protocols (MM1 and MM2) were randomized, parallel, placebo-controlled, double-blind studies. Adult women with ICHD-II menstrual migraine were assigned to either rizatriptan 10-mg tablet or placebo in a 2 : 1 ratio. Patients treated a single menstrual migraine attack of moderate or severe pain intensity. The primary end-point was 2-h pain relief and the secondary end-point was 24-h sustained pain relief. A total of 707 patients (MM1 357, MM2 350) treated a menstrual migraine attack. The percentage of patients reporting 2-h pain relief was significantly greater for rizatriptan than for placebo (MM1 70% vs. 53%, MM2 73% vs. 50%), as was the percentage of patients reporting 24-h sustained pain relief (MM1 46% vs. 33%; MM2 46% vs. 33%). Rizatriptan 10 mg was effective for the treatment of ICHD-II menstrual migraine, as measured by 2-h pain relief and 24-h sustained pain relief.
Mapping of a Gene for Alopecia with Mental Retardation Syndrome (APMR3) on Chromosome 18q11.2‐q12.2
Authors: Wali A. , Ali G. , John P. , Lee K. , Chishti M. S. , Leal S. M. , Ahmad W.
Published: May 2007

Alopecia with mental retardation syndrome (APMR) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by total or partial absence of hair from the scalp and other parts of the body and associated with mental retardation. Previously, we have reported the mapping of two alopecia and mental retardation genes (APMR1 and APMR2) on human chromosome 3. In the present study, after excluding both of these loci through linkage analysis, a whole genome scan was performed by genotyping 396 polymorphic microsatellite markers located on 22 autosomes and the X and Y chromosomes. A disease locus was mapped to a 10.9 cM region, flanked by markers D18S866 and D18S811, on chromosome 18q11.2–q12.2. A maximum two‐point LOD score of 3.03 at θ= 0.0 was obtained with marker D18S1102. Multipoint linkage analysis resulted in maximum LOD scores of 4.03 with several markers in the candidate region. According to the Rutgers combined linkage‐physical map of the human genome (build 36) this region covers 12.17 Mb. DNA sequence analysis of nine candidate genes including DSC3, DSC1, DSG1, DSG4, DSG3, ZNF397, ZNF271, ZNF24 and ZNF396 did not reveal any sequence variants in the affected individuals of the family presented here.
Characterization of neuronal subsets surrounded by perineuronal nets in the rhesus auditory brainstem
Authors: Hilbig Heidegard , Nowack Sandra , Boeckler Katrin , Bidmon Hans‐Jürgen , Zilles Karl
Published: May 2007

The distribution of perineuronal nets and the potassium channel subunit Kv3.1b was studied in the subdivisions of the cochlear nucleus, the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body, the medial and lateral superior olivary nuclei, the lateral lemniscal nucleus and the inferior colliculus of the rhesus monkey. Additional sections were used for receptor autoradiography to visualize the patterns of GABAA and GABAB receptor distribution. The Kv3.1b protein and perineuronal nets [visualized as Wisteria floribunda agglutinin (WFA) binding] were revealed, showing corresponding region‐specific patterns of distribution. There was a gradient of labelled perineuronal nets which corresponded to that seen for the intensity of Kv3.1b expression. In the cochlear nucleus intensely and faintly stained perineuronal nets were intermingled, whereas in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body the pattern changed to intensely stained perineuronal nets in the medial part and weakly labelled nets in its lateral part. In the inferior colliculus, intensely labelled perineuronal nets were arranged in clusters and faintly labelled nets were arranged in sheets. Using receptor autoradiography, GABAB receptor expression in the anterior ventral cochlear nucleus was revealed. The medial part of the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body showed a high number of GABAA binding sites whereas the lateral part exhibited more binding sites for GABAB. In the inferior colliculus, we found moderate GABAB receptor expression. In conclusion, intensely WFA‐labelled structures are those known to be functionally involved in high‐frequency processing.
Skeletogenesis in the swell sharkCephaloscyllium ventriosum
Authors: Eames B. Frank , Allen Nancy , Young Jonathan , Kaplan Angelo , Helms Jill A. , Schneider Richard A.
Published: May 2007

Extant chondrichthyans possess a predominantly cartilaginous skeleton, even though primitive chondrichthyans produced bone. To gain insights into this peculiar skeletal evolution, and in particular to evaluate the extent to which chondrichthyan skeletogenesis retains features of an osteogenic programme, we performed a histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of the entire embryonic skeleton during development of the swell sharkCephaloscyllium ventriosum. Specifically, we compared staining properties among various mineralizing tissues, including neural arches of the vertebrae, dermal tissues supporting oral denticles and Meckel's cartilage of the lower jaw. Patterns of mineralization were predicted by spatially restricted alkaline phosphatase activity earlier in development. Regarding evidence for an osteogenic programme in extant sharks, a mineralized tissue in the perichondrium ofC. ventriosumneural arches, and to a lesser extent a tissue supporting the oral denticle, displayed numerous properties of bone. Although we uncovered many differences between tissues in Meckel's cartilage and neural arches ofC. ventriosum, both elements impart distinct tissue characteristics to the perichondral region. Considering the evolution of osteogenic processes, shark skeletogenesis may illuminate the transition from perichondrium to periosteum, which is a major bone‐forming tissue during the process of endochondral ossification.
Identification and characterization of 21 polymorphic microsatellite loci from the mycophagous fly Drosophila neotestacea
Authors: DYER KELLY A.
Published: May 2007

Drosophila neotestacea is a mushroom‐feeding fly that is common in the temperate and boreal forests of North America. Here I describe the isolation and characterization of 21 polymorphic microsatellite loci from the D. neotestacea genome. In a sample of flies from Rochester, New York, the expected and observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.344 to 1.000 and from 0.384 to 0.923, respectively. Of the 21 markers, six were likely X‐linked, seven showed a departure from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, and none were found to be in linkage disequilibrium. These loci will facilitate future ecological and population genetic studies of D. neotestacea.
Patient Outcomes and Evidence‐Based Medicine in a Preferred Provider Organization Setting: A Six‐Year Evaluation of a Physician Pay‐for‐Performance Program
Authors: Gilmore Amanda S. , Zhao Yingxu , Kang Ning , Ryskina Kira L. , Legorreta Antonio P. , Taira Deborah A. , Chung Richard S.
Published: May 2007

Objective. To determine whether health plan members who saw physicians participating in a quality‐based incentive program in a preferred provider organization (PPO) setting received recommended care over time compared with patients who saw physicians who did not participate in the incentive program, as per 11 evidence‐based quality indicators.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Administrative claims data for PPO members of a large nonprofit health plan in Hawaii collected over a 6‐year period after the program was first implemented.

Study Design. An observational study allowing for multiple member records within and across years. Levels of recommended care received by members who visited physicians who did or did not participate in a quality incentive program were compared, after controlling for other member characteristics and the member's total number of annual office visits.

Data Collection. Data for all PPO enrollees eligible for at least one of the 11 quality indicators in at least 1 year were collected.

Principal Findings. We found a consistent, positive association between having seen only program‐participating providers and receiving recommended care for all 6 years with odds ratios ranging from 1.06 to 1.27 (95 percent confidence interval: 1.03–1.08, 1.09–1.40).

Conclusions. Physician reimbursement models built upon evidence‐based quality of care metrics may positively affect whether or not a patient receives high quality, recommended care.
The Role of Product Design in Consumers' Choices in the Individual Insurance Market
Authors: Marquis M. Susan , Buntin Melinda Beeuwkes , Escarce José J. , Kapur Kanika
Published: May 2007

Objective. To evaluate the role of health plan benefit design and price on consumers' decisions to purchase health insurance in the nongroup market and their choice of plan.

Data Sources and Study Setting. Administrative data from the three largest nongroup insurers in California and survey data about those insured in the nongroup market and the uninsured in California.

Study Design. We fit a nested logit model to examine the effects of plan characteristics on consumer choice while accounting for substitutability among certain groups of products.

Principal Findings. Product choice is quite sensitive to price. A 10 percent decrease in the price of a product would increase its market share by about 20 percent. However, a 10 percent decrease in prices of all products would only increase overall market participation by about 4 percent. Changes in the generosity of coverage will also affect product choice, but have only small effects on overall participation. A 20 percent decrease in the deductible or maximum out‐of‐pocket payment of all plans would increase participation by about 0.3–0.5 percent. Perceived information search costs and other nonprice barriers have substantial effects on purchase of nongroup coverage.

Conclusions. Modest subsidies will have small effects on purchase in the nongroup market. New product designs with higher deductibles are likely to be more attractive to healthy purchasers, but the new benefit designs are likely to have only small effects on market participation. In contrast, consumer education efforts have a role to play in helping to expand coverage.
Steps toward the ripening of relationship science
Authors: REIS HARRY T.
Published: May 2007

Recent decades have seen remarkable growth in research and theorizing about relationships. E.Berscheid (1999)invigorated this growth by proclaiming “The Greening of Relationship Science,” the emergence of a multidisciplinary science of interpersonal relationships with enormous potential to advance knowledge about human behavior and to provide an empirically informed framework for improving the human condition. Here I discuss several steps necessary to move the field from a green science toward a more mature, ripened one, including the need to be action oriented but in a theory‐building way, to become more cumulative and collective, and to develop an integrated network of theories, constructs, and their observable manifestations. Perceived partner responsiveness is one possible central organizing theme for the diverse phenomena relationship scientists study.
Creating closeness: Discerning and measuring strategies for fostering closer relationships
Authors: HESS JON A. , FANNIN AMY D. , POLLOM LAURA H.
Published: May 2007

This project examined the strategies people use to create closeness in personal relationships and developed a measure of closeness that can be coupled with a measure of distance to provide a measure of affiliation (degree of closeness and distance in a relationship) that incorporates both closeness and distance. Study 1 used a factor analysis of tactics people can utilize to create closeness and found three underlying strategies: openness, attention, and involvement. Studies 2 and 3 tested the items for psychometric adequacy as an index of closeness, using both student and nonstudent samples. The items performed satisfactorily. Together, these studies clarify the strategies people use to enhance closeness in relationships, and they offer a useful measure of affiliation.
Adoption, attachment, and relationship concerns: A study of adult adoptees
Authors: FEENEY JUDITH A. , PASSMORE NOLA L. , PETERSON CANDIDA C.
Published: May 2007

We examined the impact of adoptive status and family experiences on adult attachment security and how attachment predicts relationship outcomes. Adults adopted as infants (N= 144) and a sample of nonadoptees (N= 131) completed measures of attachment security at recruitment and 6 months later; other measures assessed parental bonding and adoptees’ reunion experiences (Time 1), and relationship variables (e.g., loneliness, relationship quality; Time 2). Insecurity was higher for adoptees and those reporting negative childhood relationships with parents. For adoptees only, recent relationship difficulties also predicted insecurity. Attachment dimensions were more important than adoptive status in predicting relationship variables and mediated the effects of adoptive status. The results support the utility of attachment theory in understanding adoptees’ relationship concerns.
An exploration of the information needs of spouse/partner following acute myocardial infarction using focus group methodology
Authors: McLean Scott , Timmins Fiona
Published: May 2007

This study aimed to explore spouse/partners’ experience of the information received and required in the acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in‐hospital recovery period. A dearth of information exists that uncovers the information needs of spouse/partners following AMI. Although information needs, emotional reactions, support and information provision are prevalent themes within the literature, there are few studies that specifically address these issues in this population. While survey methods abound, with more recent qualitative interviews apparent, focus group methodology is underused. The study employed a qualitative descriptive design. Using focus group techniques, 15 partners were interviewed. Emerging themes included: reactions to the event, feeling like a burden on the health service, the need for information and pulling apart – pulling together. Spouse/partners play a critical role in helping patients recover from acute cardiac events thus information and support for the latter are crucial. While spouse/partners commonly seek information as a problem‐solving coping strategy, in an effort to regain personal control, spouses often lack information. This study identifies spouse/partner isolation and suggests that additional supports need to be in place to adequately deal with the challenges that AMI brings to family life. Suggested support mechanisms to enhance current provision are inclusion of spouse/partner in cardiac rehabilitation programs and hospital‐based care, self‐help groups supported and attended by professionals and telephone support systems.
Perceived Benefits on Family Health of Small Groups for Families With Children
Authors: Häggman‐Laitila Arja , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT
Background: Thus far, international research on small groups has focused on health problems. Research on preventive, resource‐, and family‐oriented small groups and their impact on family health is scant.

Objectives: To describe the experiences of families with small children concerning resource‐enhancing small support groups, and to identify the benefits to family health described by participating parents at the end of the group processes.

Sample: The study population consisted of parents (n=123) attending 13 small groups. Participants included 63 mothers and 14 fathers (63% response rate).

Methods: Data were collected through group interviews. Qualitative content analysis of latent content was the method of analysis.

Results: Small groups provided the parents with knowledge about family life and encouraged them to seek information, made them feel refreshed, strengthened their social support networks, enhanced their awareness of their own resources and the different developmental needs at times of change in the family, and increased their confidence concerning their ability to cope.

Conclusions: Concepts from this study can be used in the future to construct instruments to evaluate the effectiveness of small groups from the perspective of families and family health. The findings add to our professional understanding of resource‐oriented family work from the perspective of families.
Body Mass Index and Intake of Selected Foods in African American Men
Authors: Weinrich Sally P. , Priest Julie , Reynolds William , Godley Paul A. , Tuckson Wayne , Weinrich Martin
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT
Background: There are minimal data on the relationship between dietary consumption of fats, vegetables, and fruits and body mass index (BMI) in African American men.

Objective: This study tested the relationships between selected dietary consumption and BMI.

Design: The sample was a community‐based cohort of 204 African American Southern men who attended a free prostate cancer educational and screening program. The screening was part of an all‐day African American celebration that included a health fair. Diet was assessed with a Brief Dietary Scale for Selected Food Intake and Preparation.

Results: Most of the men were overweight (34%) or obese (47%). The majority of men ate their chicken (90%) and fish (96%) fried. Few men ate vegetables at supper (29.4%) or lunch (15.8%). Three fatty food items were significantly associated with BMI: leaving the chicken skin on chicken (p=.03); intake of low‐fat or skim milk (p=.02); and cooking vegetables with butter (p=.03).

Conclusion: African American men need culturally appropriate dietary interventions to reduce obesity.
Relationship Between Personality Traits, Job Satisfaction, and Job Involvement Among Taiwanese Community Health Volunteers
Authors: Li I‐chuan , Lin Mei‐Chih , Chen Ching‐Min
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT
Objective: To understand the relationship between job involvement, job satisfaction, and personality traits among health volunteers in one Taiwan community. It is not easy to retain voluntary workers as part of health programs even though they have been trained. Previous research has shown that in order to increase job involvement, volunteers must effectively fulfill their needs to achieve and obtain job satisfaction.

Design and sample: Cross‐sectional design. Surveys were mailed to 317 health volunteers at community health centers in I‐lan County, northern Taiwan; 213 complete responses (67%) were received.

Methods: The survey instrument included sociodemographic items and scales measuring locus of control, achievement orientation, job involvement, and job satisfaction.

Results: Most respondents (94.8%) were female and their average age was 49.6 years. In terms of personality traits, most volunteers showed internal control orientation. Explainable variance for the prediction of job involvement from a combination of participation frequency, on‐job training, achievement orientation, and job satisfaction was 33.6%.

Conclusions: The results suggest that there is a need to strengthen cooperative relationships among volunteers by initiating well‐planned volunteer training programs and growth groups. These should involve the empowerment concept with the aim of enhancing the volunteers' interpersonal relationships and job satisfaction.