bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ observation of settlement behaviour in larvae of coral reef fishes at night
Authors: Irisson J.‐O. , Lecchini D.
Published: July 2008

The swimming behaviour of 534 coral reef fish larvae from 27 species was explored at Moorea Island (French Polynesia) while they searched for a suitable settlement habitat, on the first night of their lagoon life. Most larvae swam actively (74%) and avoided the bottom (77%). A significant relationship was highlighted between the vertical position of larvae in the water column and the distance they travelled from lagoon entrance to settlement habitat: larvae swimming close to the surface settled farther away on the reef than bottom‐dwelling larvae.
Saccular otolith mass asymmetry in adult flatfishes
Authors: Lychakov D. V. , Rebane Y. T. , Lombarte A. , Demestre M. , Fuiman L. A.
Published: July 2008

A dimensionless measure of otolith mass asymmetry, χ, was calculated as the difference between the masses of the right and left paired otoliths divided by average otolith mass. Saccular otolith mass asymmetry was studied in eight flatfish species (110 otolith pairs) and compared with data from a previously published study on roundfishes. As in the case of symmetrical fishes, the absolute value of χin flatfishes does not depend on fish length and otolith growth rate, although otolith mass and the absolute value of otolith mass difference are correlated with fish length. The values of χwere between −0·2 and +0·2 in 96·4% of flatfishes studied. The mean ±s.e. value of χin flatfishes was significantly larger than in standard bilaterally symmetrical marine fishes (‘roundfishes’), respectively 0·070 ± 0·006 and 0·040 ± 0·006. The most prominent distinction is the existence of downside prevalence of saccular otolith mass in flatfishes, which contrasts with no right–left prevalence in roundfishes found in a previous study. In the right‐eyed flatfishes (Soleidae), the left saccular otoliths are heavier than the right otoliths. In the left‐eyed flatfishes (Bothidae and Citharidae), the right saccular otoliths are heavier than the left otoliths. Not all flatfishes, however, fit in this design: 11·8% of flatfishes studied had the heavier saccular otoliths in the upside labyrinth and 5·4% of flatfishes had no otolith mass asymmetry (within the accuracy of the analysis). At the same time, the more mobile flatfishes (bothids and citharids) have more symmetrical and, hence, more precisely organized saccular otolith organs than the bottom‐associated flatfishes (soleids). It is possible to assume that the value of the otolith asymmetry is not only correlated with flatfish placement in a particular family, or position of eyes, but also may correlate with general aspects of their ecology. Mathematical modelling indicated that for most flatfishes one‐side saccular prevalence had no substantial significance for sound processing. On the other hand, calculations showed that 49% of flatfishes (but only 14·5% of roundfishes) have |χ| which exceed the critical level and, in principle, could sense the difference between the static displacement of the large and small paired otoliths. At that, the number of the soleids that could sense this difference is greater than the number of the bothids and citharids, 84 and 27%, respectively.
Interspecific variations of otolith chemistry in estuarine fish nurseries
Authors: Reis‐Santos P. , Vasconcelos R. P. , Ruano M. , Latkoczy C. , Günther D. , Costa M. J. , Cabral H.
Published: July 2008

Otolith chemical composition differed between juveniles of five fish species (Solea solea, Solea senegalensis, Platichthys flesus, Diplodus vulgaris and Dicentrarchus labrax) in nursery areas of six estuaries along the Portuguese coast (Douro, Ria de Aveiro, Mondego, Tejo, Sado and Mira). Spatially consistent patterns in the concentration of some elements were responsible for differences between species. Discrimination of estuaries using data from all species simultaneously averaged 44·7% of correctly classified cases, whilst discrimination of species averaged 76·2%. Moreover, species‐related patterns in otolith fingerprints were highlighted when comparing species for each estuarine nursery area, with intra estuarine species discrimination averages ranging from 86·2 to 100·0%. Similarities in the otolith elemental fingerprints were larger between species with close phylogeny and ecology, particularly between flatfish and perciform species. In addition to the differences in physiological regulation of species, specific microhabitat use in a common environment was suggested as a relevant factor for the differentiation of otolith chemistry among species occurring in the same locations. Despite positive results in specific estuaries, variation in otolith composition limited the use of species as proxies to classify others to their system of origin.
The reproductive biology and ecology of the Port Jackson shark Heterodontus portusjacksoni in the coastal waters of eastern Australia
Authors: Powter D. M. , Gladstone W.
Published: July 2008

The reproductive biology and ecology of the Port Jackson shark Heterodontus portusjacksoni was investigated at three locations on the central and southern coast of New South Wales (NSW), Australia from January 2002 to December 2005 using underwater visual census surveys and samples obtained from a commercial fishery. Adults displayed sexual dimorphism in total length (LT) at sexual maturity, with males maturing between 762 and 772 mm LT and females between 902 and 905 mm LT. The mean ovarian fecundity was estimated at 16 offspring per female but was unrelated to female LT. Male gonado‐somatic (IG) and hepato‐somatic (IH) indices and female IG declined from July to November as did maximum ovarian follicle diameter and the diameter of the three largest follicles. Adults were absent from inshore reefs between December and July. Hence, H. portusjacksoni has a synchronous annual breeding season in NSW, which occurs between July and November (the austral winter to spring), with a peak in oviposition from August to October. Heterodontus portusjacksoni copulatory and ovipository behaviour are reported for the first time. Copulation was observed and involved oral grasping of the female’s pectoral fin by a single male, which wrapped his body around hers to insert one clasper. Ovipositing females appeared to search crevices in the reef prior to delivering a single capsule, which was washed into the crevice by water movement, with the female departing very soon after oviposition. This study represents the first rigorously quantitative analysis of H. portusjacksoni reproductive biology and ecology in NSW waters.
Effects of delayed fertilization on embryo viability in walleye Sander vitreus (Mitchill): the role of maternal effects
Authors: Johnston T. A. , Kaufman S. D. , Moles M. D. , Wiegand M. D. , Leggett W. C.
Published: July 2008

The effects of delayed fertilization on embryonic viability in walleye Sander vitreus were examined using laboratory fertilization and incubation trials. Both fertilization success (survival to 10 h post‐fertilization) and embryonic survival (from 10 to 168 h post‐fertilization) generally declined with increasing ova storage time but trends varied significantly among females. Embryonic survival of individual egg batches was positively related to fertilization success. The slope of the relationship between fertilization success and ova storage time was negatively related to maternal fork length indicating that ova quality declined more rapidly with storage time for larger females than for smaller females. In contrast, the slope of the early embryonic survival v. ova storage time relationship was not significantly related to maternal size.
Detection of elemental composition and caloric value variability at individual level in newly emerged brown trout Salmo trutta L.
Authors: Lelong A. , Bolliet V. , Bancel D. , Gaudin P.
Published: July 2008

The carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen sulphur and oxygen (CHNSO) analysis method was used to measure individual elemental and energetic values of newly emerged brown trout Salmo trutta. Elemental analysis was shown to be a reliable method to detect individual variability amongst emerging brown trout fry. It also provided some evidence that energy might be involved in emergence behaviour.
Temporal consistency of ontogenetic shifts in habitat use by coral reef fishes in the northernmost coral ecosystem in the world (Kudaka Island, Japan)
Authors: Lecchini D. , Tsuchiya M.
Published: July 2008

The prevalence of major habitat shifts in tropical fishes between juvenile and adult stages (ontogenetic shifts) in one of the northernmost coral reefs in the world (Kudaka Island, Japan) is given. The comparative analysis of spatial distribution of juveniles v. adults highlighted four ontogenetic patterns: no change in habitat use between juveniles and adults (five species), a decrease in the number of habitats used by adults compared to juveniles (three species), an increase in the number of habitats used during the adult stage (four species) and use of nursery areas by juveniles followed by extensive movements to different adult habitats (three species). The comparative analysis of fish distribution over time (i.e. during three consecutive settlement months) showed that 84% of species had temporal consistency in ontogenetic patterns of habitat use.
Stress and survival of small pike‐perch Sander lucioperca (L.) after trawling and chilling
Authors: Hyvärinen P. , Leppäniemi V. , Johansson K. , Korhonen P. , Suuronen P.
Published: July 2008

The mortality and stress responses (plasma cortisol concentration) of undersized (total length, LT, <370 mm) pike‐perch Sander lucioperca caught as by‐catch in a trawl fishery were assessed. The effects of three different holding methods on pike‐perch caught by trawl were compared: (1) fish that were transferred to ambient‐temperature water (15·0–21·4° C) immediately after capture and not exposed to chilling water, (2) fish held in chilling water for 10 min and (3) fish exposed to chilling water for 2 h. The sample fish were held and monitored in individual plastic restrainers at ambient‐water temperature for 48 h after each of the handling procedures. Total mortality was similar for fish held in chilling tanks for 10 min (27·2% total mortality) compared to fish that were only held in ambient‐temperature water (28·2% mortality). Total mortality reached 91·3% when fish were held in chilled water for 2 h. Mortality and plasma cortisol concentrations correlated inversely with size (96–368 mm LT) and directly with lake‐water temperature (15·0–21·4° C) after treatment. In addition, the effect of chilling was observed in elevated cortisol concentration and delayed start of recovery. The results show that quickly removing (<10 min) undersized pike‐perch from chilled water could markedly improve the survival of released fish. Due to delayed recovery, however, fish should be allowed to recover (30–40 min) in a deck tank before release.
Variation in body condition, fat content and growth rate of Icelandic summer‐spawning herring Clupea harengus L.
Authors: ÓSkarsson G. J.
Published: July 2008

Interannual variation in Fulton’s condition factor (K), total body‐fat content and growth rate were investigated for the Icelandic summer‐spawning herring Clupea harengus over the period from 1963 to 1999. The results show a close relationship between K and the body‐fat content in the autumn, both of which correlated to the growth rate in the same calendar year. A relationship was also found between K during the prespawning season (February to June) and K in the autumn (September to December) in the same year. The different measures of body condition were not found to be related to sea temperature or zooplankton indices, while the spawning stock biomass had negative effects on the fish condition. The results imply that the body condition in the autumn is representative of the feeding success over the whole foregoing year and is therefore related to the growth rate that year. The growth rate appears to be relatively uniform throughout the year.
TUSC4/NPRL2, a novel PDK1‐interacting protein, inhibits PDK1 tyrosine phosphorylation and its downstream signaling
Authors: Kurata Atsuo , Katayama Ryohei , Watanabe Toshiki , Tsuruo Takashi , Fujita Naoya
Published: July 2008

3‐Phosphoinositide–dependent protein kinase‐1 (PDK1) is a key regulator of cell proliferation and survival signal transduction. PDK1 is known to be constitutively active and is further activated by Src‐mediated phosphorylation at the tyrosine‐9, ‐373, and ‐376 residues. To identify novel regulators of PDK1, we performed E. coli‐based two‐hybrid screening and revealed that tumor suppressor candidate 4 (TUSC4), also known as nitrogen permease regulator‐like 2 (NPRL2), formed a complex with PDK1 and suppressed Src‐dependent tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of PDK1 in vitro and in cells. The NH2‐terminal 133 amino acid residues of TUSC4 were involved in binding to PDK1. The deletion mutant of TUSC4 that lacked the NH2‐terminal domain showed no inhibitory effects on PDK1 tyrosine phosphorylation or activation. Thus, complex formation is indispensable for TUSC4‐mediated PDK1 inactivation. The siRNA‐mediated down‐regulation of TUSC4 induced cell proliferation, while ectopic TUSC4 expression inactivated the PDK1 downstream signaling pathway, including Akt and p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase, and increased cancer cell sensitivity to several anticancer drugs. Our results suggest that TUSC4/NPRL2, a novel PDK1‐interacting protein, plays a role in regulating the Src/PDK1 signaling pathway and cell sensitivity to multiple cancer chemotherapeutic drugs. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1827–1834)
Targeted therapeutic approach for an anaplastic thyroid cancer in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Stenner Frank , Liewen Heike , Zweifel Martin , Weber Achim , Tchinda Joelle , Bode Beata , Samaras Panagiotis , Bauer Stefan , Knuth Alexander , Renner Christoph
Published: July 2008

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is among the most aggressive human malignancies, being responsible for the majority of thyroid cancer‐related deaths. Despite multimodal therapy including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the outcome of ATC is poor. The human ATC cell line MB1, derived from tumor tissue of a 57‐year‐old man with thyroid cancer and pronounced neutrophilia, was established from surgically excised tumor tissue. The karyotype of the cell line shows many chromosomal abnormalities. Preclinical investigations have shown antitumor activity and effectiveness of the BRAF kinase inhibitor Sorafenib and the proteasome inhibitor Bortezomib. After establishment of the MB1 cell line these agents were applied in vitro and, showing activity in a cell culture model, were also used for in vivo treatment. Sorafenib had some clinical effect, namely normalization of leucocytosis, but had no sustained impact on subsequent tumor growth and development of distant metastasis. Molecular diagnostics of the tumor demonstrated no BRAF mutations in exons 11 and 15 concordant with a rather modest effect of Sorafenib on MB1 cell growth. Clinical benefit was seen with subsequent bortezomib therapy inducing a temporary halt to lymph node growth and a progression‐free interval of 7 weeks. Our observations together with previous data from preclinical models could serve as a rationale for selecting those patients suffering from ATC most likely to benefit from targeted therapy. A prospective controlled randomized trial integrating kinase and proteasome inhibitors into a therapeutic regime for ATC is warranted. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1847–1852)
Significance of CXCR3 expression in gastric low‐grade B‐cell lymphoma of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue type for predicting responsiveness to Helicobacter pylori eradication
Authors: Yamamoto Hideko , Nakamura Tsuneya , Matsuo Keitaro , Tajika Masahiro , Kawai Hiroki , Ohmiya Naoki , Niwa Yasumasa , Goto Hidemi , Nakamura Shigeo
Published: July 2008

Gastric mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is a distinct low‐grade lymphoma that often regresses upon Helicobacter pylori eradication. It was reported that the chemokine receptor CXCR3 is expressed not only on activated T cells, but also on MALT lymphoma cells, and that CXCR3‐positive B lymphocytes migrate or home to the MALT of MALT lymphoma. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the correlation between CXCR3 expression and the clinicopathological features of gastric MALT lymphoma, and to determine whether CXCR3 expression was predictive of responsiveness to H. pylori eradication. Sixty‐seven patients with gastric MALT lymphoma in a single‐center study were treated with H. pylori eradication therapy. We evaluated the correlation of CXCR3 expression with response to H. pylori eradication therapy by logistic regression stratified according to potential confounders. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that 28 of 67 cases (42%) were positive for CXCR3 expression. CXCR3 expression was significantly more prevalent in those without H. pylori infection, advanced‐stage disease, and in those with API2–MALT1 fusion. In overall analysis, those with CXCR3 expression showed a significantly increased risk of non‐responsiveness to H. pylori eradication therapy (odds ratio = 28.6; 95% confidence interval 5.70–143.4) compared to those without CXCR3 expression. This higher risk was observed consistently regardless of sex, API2–MALT1 fusion, H. pylori infection, or clinical stage. We showed that CXCR3 expression was an independent predictive factor for non‐responsiveness to H. pylori eradication therapy in patients with gastric MALT lymphoma. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1769–1773)
β‐catenin is strongly elevated in rat colonic epithelium following short‐term intermittent treatment with 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP) and a high‐fat diet
Authors: Wang Rong , Dashwood W. Mohaiza , Löhr Christiane V. , Fischer Kay A. , Nakagama Hitoshi , Williams David E. , Dashwood Roderick H.
Published: July 2008

Colon tumors expressing high levels of β‐catenin and c‐myc have been reported in male F344 rats given three short cycles of 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP) alternating with a high‐fat (HF) diet. Using the same experimental protocol, rats were euthanized 24 h after the last dose of PhIP so as to examine early changes in colonic crypt homeostasis and β‐catenin expression, before the onset of frank tumors. PhIP/HF dosing caused a significant increase in the bromodeoxyuridine labeling index throughout the entire colon, and within the colonic crypt column cleaved caspase‐3 was elevated in the basal and central zones, but reduced in the luminal region. In vehicle/HF controls, β‐catenin was immunolocalized primarily at the border between cells at the top of the crypt, whereas in rats given PhIP/HF diet there was strong cytoplasmic staining, which appeared as a gradient of increased β‐catenin extending from the base of the crypt column to the luminal region. Quantitative real‐time PCR and immunoblot analyses confirmed that β‐catenin and c‐myc were increased significantly in the colonic mucosa of rats given PhIP/HF diet. Collectively, these findings suggest that PhIP/HF cycling alters β‐catenin and c‐myc expression in the colonic mucosa, resulting in expansion of the proliferative zone and redistribution of apoptotic cells from the lumen to the central and basal regions of the colonic crypt. Thus, during the early stages of colon carcinogenesis, alternating exposure to heterocyclic amines and a high‐fat diet might facilitate molecular changes resulting in dysregulated β‐catenin and c‐myc expression. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1754–1759)
Epstein–Barr virus and gastric carcinoma: virus–host interactions leading to carcinoma
Authors: Fukayama Masashi , Hino Rumi , Uozaki Hiroshi
Published: July 2008

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated gastric carcinoma (GC) is a distinct subgroup of GC, comprising 10% of all cases of GC. EBV‐associated carcinoma is the monoclonal growth of EBV‐infected epithelial cells, and it represents a model of virus–host interactions leading to carcinoma. EBV‐infected cells express several latent proteins (latency I program of viral latent gene expression) in EBV‐associated GC. However, latent membrane protein 2A (LMP2A) up‐regulates the cellular survivin gene through the NFkB pathway, conferring resistance to apoptotic stimuli on the neoplastic cells. EBV‐associated GC also shows characteristic abnormality, that is, global and non‐random CpG island methylation of the promoter region of many cancer‐related genes. Since the viral genes are also regulated by promoter methylation in the infected cells, the DNA methylation mechanism specific to EBV‐associated GC may be an exaggeration of the cellular mechanism, which is primarily for defense against foreign DNA. Production of several immunomodulator molecules, inducing tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte and macrophages, serves to form the characteristic histologic pattern in EBV‐associated GC. The proposed sequence of events within the mucosa is as follows: EBV infection of certain gastric stem cells; expression of viral latent genes; abnormality of signal pathways caused by viral gene products; DNA methylation‐mediated repression of tumor suppressor genes; and monoclonal growth of EBV–infected cells through interaction with other etiologic factors. Potentially useful therapeutic approaches to EBV‐associated GC are those that utilize the virus–host interactions, such as bortezomib‐induced and viral enzyme‐targeted radiotherapy. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1726–1733)
Periodic analysis of urethane‐induced pulmonary tumors in living A/J mice by respiration‐gated X‐ray microcomputed tomography
Authors: Hori Yusaku , Takasuka Nobuo , Mutoh Michihiro , Kitahashi Tsukasa , Kojima Shuji , Imaida Katsumi , Suzuki Masahiro , Kohara Kazushi , Yamamoto Shuji , Moriyama Noriyuki , Sugimura Takashi , Wakabayashi Keiji
Published: July 2008

X‐ray microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) with a respiratory gating system is a useful non‐invasive approach to evaluate lung tumor development in living animal models. Here micro‐CT was applied for the detection of lung lesions induced by a single intraperitoneal injection (250 mg/kg) of urethane in male A/J mice, at 2‐week intervals from 10 to 30 weeks after carcinogen exposure. In micro‐CT cross sections, lung tumor images were easily distinguished from surrounding non‐tumorous tissues, the smallest detected tumor being approximately 0.5 mm in diameter. All of the urethane‐treated mice (n = 15) developed lung tumors and the number of tumors developed in each mouse was 8.6 ± 3.9. Six tumors, determined histopathologically to be adenocarcinomas, were detected, growing at different rates during the experimental period. The most aggressive carcinoma, increasing in diameter from 0.9 to 3.5 mm within 8 weeks, was a solid‐type nodule with a clear tumor margin on the micro‐CT imaging. Other tumors, histopathologically adenomas, grew slowly or moderately. The results provide evidence that micro‐CT is a useful non‐invasive imaging approach for evaluating the characteristics and growth of lung tumors in mice. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1774–1777)
Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibitors: promising drug candidates for cancer therapy
Authors: Kong Dexin , Yamori Takao
Published: July 2008

Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinases (PI3K) are a group of lipid kinases that phosphorylate phosphoinositides at the 3‐hydroxyl group of the inositol ring to generate phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5‐trisphosphate, a second messenger with key roles in fundamental cellular responses such as cell proliferation and metabolism. Frequent mutations found in or amplification of the PIK3CA gene and loss of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 function in human tumors suggest that PI3K is a potential target for cancer therapy. During the last 5 years, several specific PI3K inhibitors were developed that were directed against various diseases. Some of them revealed potent anticancer efficacy and are now undergoing clinical trials. Some PI3K inhibitors showed antiangiogenic effects. Combined use of PI3K inhibitors with other chemotherapeutic agents or with radiotherapy produced synergistic therapeutic efficacies in treating cancer and showed reduced side effects. The rapid progress made in developing novel PI3K inhibitors in recent years promises bright prospects for finding a PI3K‐targeted anticancer drug in the near future. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1734–1740)
Reactive oxygen species‐mediated cyclin D1 degradation mediates tumor growth retardation in hypoxia, independently of p21cip1 and hypoxia‐inducible factor
Authors: Lim Ji‐Hong , Lee Yoon‐Mi , Chun Yang‐Sook , Park Jong‐Wan
Published: July 2008

Cell growth arrest is an adaptation process for tumor survival in hypoxic environments. As proliferation is a very complicated and dynamic process, hypoxic growth arrest is not considered to be simply determined by a few molecules. Recently, several research groups have demonstrated that hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α plays a crucial role in hypoxia‐induced cell‐cycle arrest by inhibiting c‐Myc and subsequently inducing p21cip1 expression. However, we found that hypoxic growth arrest could occur even in p21‐null cancer cells, and addressed the p21‐independent process of cell‐cycle arrest. We show that cyclin D1 was downregulated in various cancer cell lines under hypoxic conditions, which was independent of p21 and HIF‐1 and ‐2α expression. It was also found that cyclin D1 was destabilized by the ubiquitin–proteasome system and this degradation process was highly activated by hypoxia. Moreover, antioxidants prevented the hypoxic degradation of cyclin D1 and hydrogen peroxide destabilized cyclin D1 in normoxia. Finally, we demonstrated that ectopic expression of cyclin D1 rescued hypoxic growth arrest in both p21+/+ and p21−/– HCT116 cells. Given the results, we here propose that reactive oxygen species‐mediated cyclin D1 degradation contributes to tumor growth retardation in hypoxic environments. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1798–1805)
Autophagy is activated in pancreatic cancer cells and correlates with poor patient outcome
Authors: Fujii Satoshi , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Yamazaki Manabu , Hasebe Takahiro , Ishii Genichiro , Kojima Motohiro , Kinoshita Taira , Ueno Takashi , Esumi Hiroyasu , Ochiai Atsushi
Published: July 2008

Because autonomous proliferating cancer cells are often exposed to hypoxic conditions, there must be an alternative metabolic pathway, such as autophagy, that allows them to obtain energy when both oxygen and glucose are depleted. We previously reported finding that autophagy actually contributes to cancer cell survival in colorectal cancers both in vitro and in vivo. Pancreatic cancer remains a devastating and poorly understood malignancy, and hypoxia in pancreatic cancers is known to increase their malignant potential. In the present study archival pancreatic cancer tissue was retrieved from 71 cases treated by curative pancreaticoduodenectomy. Autophagy was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining with anti‐LC3 antibody, as LC3 is a key component of autophagy and has been used as a marker of autophagy. The results showed that strong LC3 expression in the peripheral area of pancreatic cancer tissue was correlated with a poor outcome (P = 0.0170) and short disease‐free period (P = 0.0118). Two of the most significant correlations among the clinicopathological factors tested were found between the peripheral intensity level of LC3 expression and tumor size (P = 0.0098) or tumor necrosis (P = 0.0127). Activated autophagy is associated with pancreatic cancer cells, and autophagy is thought to be a response to factors in the cancer microenvironment, such as hypoxia and poor nutrient supply. This is the first study to report the clinicopathological significance of autophagy in pancreatic cancer. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1813–1819)
High mobility group box‐1‐inducible melanoma inhibitory activity is associated with nodal metastasis and lymphangiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sasahira Tomonori , Kirita Tadaaki , Oue Naohide , Bhawal Ujjal Kumar , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Fujii Kiyomu , Ohmori Hitoshi , Luo Yi , Yasui Wataru , Bosserhoff Anja Katrin , Kuniyasu Hiroki
Published: July 2008

Melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA) is an 11‐kDa secretory protein isolated from malignant melanoma cells that is correlated with invasion and metastasis in various human malignancies. We examined MIA expression in 62 oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) by immunohistochemistry. MIA expression was significantly associated with nodal metastasis (P = 0.00018). MIA expression was also associated with expression of high mobility group box‐1 (HMGB1) (P < 0.0001) and lymph vessel density (P < 0.0001). Expression levels of MIA, HMGB1, nuclear factor kB (NFkB) p65 and HMGB1–NFkB p65 binding were significantly higher in a metastatic human OSCC cell line (HSC3) than those in a non‐metastatic OSCC cell line (HSC4). Treatment with receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) antisense or small interfering RNA and human recombinant HMGB1 (hrHMGB1) did not affect MIA expression, whereas HMGB1 antisense or siRNA treatment decreased MIA expression in HSC3 cells. Then HMGB1 enhanced MIA expression as an NFkB cofactor but not as a RAGE ligand. MIA neutralization by MIA antibodies increased extracellular signal‐related kinase 1/2 phosphorylation, but decreased p38 phosphorylation and the expression of vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF)‐C and ‐D. Treatment with p38 inihibitor decreased VEGF‐C and ‐D expression in HSC3 cells. These results suggest that MIA expression is enhanced by the interaction of intracellular HMGB1 and NFkBp65 and MIA is closely involved in tumor progression and nodal metastasis by the increments of VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D in OSCC. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1806– 1812)
Purple corn color suppresses Ras protein level and inhibits 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene‐induced mammary carcinogenesis in the rat
Authors: Fukamachi Katsumi , Imada Takafumi , Ohshima Yutaka , Xu Jiegou , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: July 2008

Anthocyanins belong to the class of phenolic compounds collectively named flavonoids. Many anthocyanins are reported to have inhibitory effects on carcinogenesis. Purple corn color (PCC), an anthocyanin containing extract of purple corn seeds, is used as a food colorant. The major anthocyanin in PCC is cyanidin 3‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside (C3‐G). The present study was conducted to assess the influence of dietary PCC on 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)‐induced mammary carcinogenesis in rats. PCC significantly inhibited DMBA‐induced mammary carcinogenesis in human c‐Ha‐ras proto‐oncogene transgenic (Hras128) rats and in their non‐transgenic counterparts. PCC and C3‐G also inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis in mammary tumor cells derived from Hras128 rat mammary carcinomas. At the molecular level, PCC and C3‐G treatment resulted in a preferential activation of caspase‐3 and reduction of Ras protein levels in tumor cells. It is proposed that C3‐G could act as a chemopreventive and possibly chemotherapeutic agent for cancers with mutations in ras. Secondly, the in vitro–in vivo system used in this study can be utilized for screening for cancer preventive compounds that act via Ras down‐regulation. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1841–1846)
Evolutionary analysis of endopolygalacturonase‐encoding genes of Botrytis cinerea
Authors: CETTUL EMANUELE , REKAB DJAOUIDA , LOCCI ROMANO , FIRRAO GIUSEPPE
Published: July 2008

Sequence analysis of five of the six endopolygalacturonase‐encoding genes (Bcpg1, Bcpg2, Bcpg3, Bcpg4, Bcpg5) from 32 strains of Botrytis cinerea showed marked gene to gene differences in the amount of among‐strains diversity. Bcpg4 was almost invariable in all strains; Bcpg3 and Bcpg5 showed a moderate variability, similar to that of non‐pathogenicity‐associated genes examined in other studies. Conversely, Bcpg1 and Bcpg2 were highly variable and were shown to be under positive selection based on the McDonald–Kreitman test and likelihood ratio test. The evolution of the five endopolygalacturonase genes is explained by their different ecophysiological role. Diversification and balancing selection, as detected in Bcpg1 and Bcpg2, can be used by the pathogen to escape recognition by the host and delay plant reaction in the early phases of infection. The analysis of the polymorphisms and the location of the sites with high probability of being positively selected highlighted the relevance of variability of the BcPG1 and BcPG2 proteins at their C‐terminal end. By contrast, the absence of variability in Bcpg4 suggests that the efficiency of the product of this gene is critical for B. cinerea growth in late phases of infection or during intraspecific competition, thus markedly affecting strain fitness.
A decision support system for setting legal minimum lengths of fish
Authors: STEWART J.
Published: July 2008

Abstract  The use of legal minimum lengths is one of the oldest forms of regulation in fisheries management. Management objectives using minimum legal lengths are varied, often conflicting and generally poorly communicated. This paper introduces a decision support system that will assist fisheries managers in determining optimal legal minimum lengths. The system uses multi‐criteria decision analysis to enable the integration of objective scientific and biological information into a system that assesses the success of any potential length limit in achieving each of the management objectives. The system can also document trade‐offs between options that achieve management objectives and short‐term socio‐economic impacts. The decision support system is demonstrated using 13 commercially and recreationally important coastal species from New South Wales, Australia.
Chronic fatigue: an evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Jorgensen Roberta
Published: July 2008

Title.  Chronic fatigue: an evolutionary concept analysis.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a concept analysis of chronic fatigue.

Background.  Fatigue is a prevalent symptom encompassing both acute and chronic manifestations. It is chronic fatigue that is most problematic because of its duration and impact on life quality. The rise in prevalence of chronic conditions will result in a need to address coexistent symptoms, clarification of which is needed. Chronic fatigue is one of the most common symptoms in chronic illness. Clarification of the concept and an understanding of its use by discipline are needed.

Data sources.  The evolutionary method of concept analysis was used to ascertain the attributes, antecedents, consequences and surrogate terms for chronic fatigue. A review of the literature published between 1966 and 2007 was carried out to determine the contextual use of the concept of chronic fatigue among disciplines. Sources used for this analysis included CINAHL, Medline, PsychINFO and Social Work Abstracts and the search yielded 66 papers.

Results.  The chronic fatigue experience is associated with a multitude of physical, psychological and social factors. The defining attributes of chronic fatigue are constancy, abnormality, whole‐body experience, inexplicability and disabling. The antecedents of chronic fatigue are physical disease, psychopathology, female gender and a history of abuse. Consequences found include social isolation and stigmatization, physical inactivity, psychological disturbances and a reduced quality of life.

Conclusion.  Further research is needed to identify the aetiology of chronic fatigue and to address the social context of living with this disabling symptom.
Impact of an online course on infection control and prevention competencies
Authors: Atack Lynda , Luke Robert
Published: July 2008

Title.  Impact of an online course on infection control and prevention competencies.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to examine the impact of an online course on nurses’ and allied healthcare professionals’ competency in infection prevention and control and the influence of organizational climate on knowledge transfer.

Background.  Nosocomial infection, globalization, international travel and bacterial resistance are among the factors contributing to heightened awareness of the importance of infection prevention and control in today’s healthcare environment. An online course in infection control was developed to facilitate the delivery of standardized training to large numbers of health providers.

Method.  A quasi‐experimental, pre‐and post‐test study using questionnaires and open‐ended questions was conducted in 2006 with a convenience sample of 76 healthcare professionals, the majority of whom were Registered Nurses.

Findings.  Participants made statistically significant increases in their perceptions of competency in infection control following the course. The majority were very satisfied with the course and reported that what they had learned was useful and relevant to their practice. Participants who worked in supportive organizations that were open to change reported a higher incidence of knowledge transfer activities. Two course design features in particular, video and interactive quizzes and games, motivated learners and enhanced the learning experience.

Conclusion.  Online learning can provide ongoing, convenient and effective access to up‐to‐date information on best practices in infection control and prevention. This standardized delivery approach minimizes demand on limited training resources which are under strain and gives learners the opportunity to refresh ‘rusty’ infection control and prevention skills.
Roles and well‐being among healthy women and women with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Coty Mary‐Beth , Wallston Kenneth A.
Published: July 2008

Title.  Roles and well‐being among healthy women and women with rheumatoid arthritis.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study examining the relationships among number of roles, role quality, role stress, role balance, and psychological well‐being in women diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

Background.  A substantial literature exists examining multiple roles in healthy women. However, less is known about multiple roles and well‐being in women with a chronic illness such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods.  A questionnaire study was conducted in 2003 examining four role‐related constructs (number of roles, quality of roles, role stress, and role balance) and psychological well‐being in healthy women (n = 47) and women diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (n = 50). Correlation coefficients and multiple regression analyses were calculated to determine the nature of the relationships among the variables.

Findings.  The two groups were similar in demographics except for employment, with fewer women with rheumatoid arthritis employed. The two groups differed statistically significantly on psychological well‐being. Women with rheumatoid arthritis had a lower mean psychological well‐being score than healthy women. Regression analyses revealed that role stress was the only unique predictor of psychological well‐being in healthy women, while role balance was the sole unique predictor among women with rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion.  Women with rheumatoid arthritis experienced lower levels of well‐being than their healthy counterparts. Examination of the relationships among the variables can facilitate the development of interventions to improve these women’s mental health. Nurses are in a position to assess the psychosocial needs of women with rheumatoid arthritis and assist those experiencing role stress and role imbalance.
A holistic programme for mothers with postnatal depression: pilot study
Authors: Buultjens Melissa , Robinson Priscilla , Liamputtong Pranee
Published: July 2008

Title.  A holistic programme for mothers with postnatal depression: pilot study.

Aim. This paper is a report of a pilot study to identify women’s perceptions of participation in a holistic intervention for postnatal depression.

Background. Approximately 10–15% of women suffer from postnatal depression following childbirth. Most programmes for women with postnatal depression include pharmaceutical interventions; however, evaluation of women’s perceptions of participation in holistic programmes for those suffering from postnatal depression show that non‐pharmaceutical programmes can also be effective.

Method. In‐depth interviews were conducted in 2004 with a self‐selected sample of 10 women prior to and after an intervention to treat postnatal depression.

Findings. The intervention seemed capable of encouraging and facilitating a positive mother–infant relationship while also effectively reducing the mother’s anxiety levels. Participants commented on the supportive environment of other mothers and said that they found playing with their babies difficult and needed guidance and facilitation to do this.

Conclusion. The pilot programme was well accepted and could easily be used by midwives, maternal and child health nurses and other appropriately trained allied health professionals.
Beliefs about appropriate pain behaviour: gender differences between health care professionals and non‐health care professionals in Hong Kong
Authors: Leung Siu Man , Chung Joanne
Published: July 2008

Aims.  The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of participants’ gender on their beliefs regarding gender‐appropriate pain behaviour among health care professionals and non‐health care professionals.

Background.  Gender may influence beliefs about appropriate pain behaviour among health care professionals and non‐health care professionals.

Methods.  The study consisted of a survey of 152 participants, 38 male and 38 female health care professionals and 38 male and 38 female non‐health care professionals. Each participant completed both questionnaires, the Appropriate Pain Behaviour Questionnaire‐Female (APBQ‐F) and Appropriate Pain Behaviour Questionnaire‐Male (APBQ‐M).

Results.  Occupation had a significant effect: the health care professionals rated pain behaviours as more acceptable in both genders than the non‐health care professionals, F(1, 148) = 13·636, p < 0·01. Gender also had a significant effect: female participants considered pain behaviours more acceptable than male participants, F(1, 148) = 5·056, p < 0·026. There was a significant effect between APBQ‐M and APBQ‐F: for both genders in both occupations, pain behaviours in women were rated as more acceptable than in men, F(1, 148) = 105·469, p < 0·005.

Conclusions.  Health care professionals would consider overt pain‐related behaviours by both men and women to be more acceptable than non‐health care professionals. Both genders and both occupations would consider overt pain‐related behaviours to be more acceptable in women than in men.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health care professionals need to be aware that their attitude to pain behaviours may influence their management of patients and that different genders experience pain differently. This has clear implications in terms of clinical treatment and diagnosis.
Longitudinal biomonitoring of nurses handling antineoplastic drugs
Authors: Mader Robert M , Kokalj Alexandra , Kratochvil Elisabeth , Pilger Alexander , Rüdiger Hugo W
Published: July 2008

Aims and objectives.  To assess a possible trend in the genotoxic risk of oncologic nurses during the working year, cytogenetic biomonitoring was performed.

Background.  Exposure to cytostatic agents is a major occupational concern in oncologic personnel. In contrast to the controlled environment in oncology pharmacies, nurses may be subject to unexpected events of exposure due to the intensive contact with patients.

Design and methods.  The entire nursing staff of an oncology inpatient ward (n = 15) participated in a biomonitoring study over a period of nine months using the sister chromatid exchange test and the comet assay to detect DNA strand breaks. Blood samples were taken after a three‐week summer break (base level), one, three, six and nine months thereafter. Airborne contaminations of cytotoxics were addressed by chromatographic methods.

Results.  With regard to the single monitoring points, the comet assay revealed no significant alteration of the genotoxic burden within nine months. By contrast, the sister chromatid exchange levels were significantly increased after six and nine months when compared with base levels. A trend analysis covering the whole observation period revealed an increase in genotoxicity as shown by the sister chromatid exchange test and the alkaline but not the neutral comet assay. This increase, however, was small and reversible as shown by the trend analysis of sister chromatid exchange rates during the years of service. Air samples were negative for cytotoxic contaminants.

Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice.  The small, but statistically significant genotoxic burden observed in oncologic nurses of an inpatient ward emphasises the need for a continuing effort to eliminate residual occupational risks. In comparison with historical controls, the current situation is characterised by beneficial safety improvements over the last years. Nevertheless, periodic training and awareness of the problems should be an integral part of advanced education.
Women of advanced maternal age undergoing amniocentesis: a period of uncertainty
Authors: Sun Jui‐Chiung , Hsia Ping‐Hui , Sheu Shuh‐Jen
Published: July 2008

Aims.  To generate a descriptive model for understanding patterns and interpretations concerning women’s experiences of amniocentesis in Taiwan.

Background.  In light of scientific technology and social change, it would be important to recognise the complexity of a woman’s situation and the meaning of her in‐depth experience while undergoing amniocentesis. Earlier studies on the experience of these women often relied on quantitative data obtained from questionnaires at only one point in time; however, the changes in older pregnant women, known to be at increased risk for foetal chromosomal abnormalities, from the time of pregnancy until test results of their amniocentesis has not been clearly understood.

Design.  A grounded theory approach was applied.

Methods.  Data were collected through in‐depth interviews and participant observation. Sampling and major coding continued from 2002–2003 until theoretical saturation occurred; 20 women (≥35 years of age) participated in this study; data were analysed using constant comparative and content analysis.

Results.  A prevailing sense of uncertainty was the core category for describing and guiding the process of this study with five main stages identified: (1) ambivalence toward pregnancy; (2) decision to undergo amniocentesis; (3) concerns regarding maternal and foetal safety during procedure; (4) anxiety while awaiting results and (5) thoughts about a lifetime maternal commitment.

Conclusions.  Identification and appreciation for emerging themes enables nurses to address women’s concerns in a meaningful way as they undergo amniocentesis. Also, it is hoped that understanding key themes allows nurses to facilitate constructive interactions between women, physicians and other members of the obstetric team.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Women in Taiwan undergoing amniocentesis had concerns about safety and dealt with cultural taboos of pregnancy in advanced age; health education should include coping strategies and decision making in dealing with these issues. To facilitate constructive interactions between clients and health care teams, the ethical guidance of informed consent and respecting the women’s autonomy should be emphasised.