bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nodal signaling is required for closure of the anterior neural tube in zebrafish
Authors: Aquilina-Beck Allisan , Ilagan Kristine , Liu Qin , Liang Jennifer O
Published: November 2007

Background

Nodals are secreted signaling proteins with many roles in vertebrate development. Here, we identify a new role for Nodal signaling in regulating closure of the rostral neural tube of zebrafish.

Results

We find that the neural tube in the presumptive forebrain fails to close in zebrafish Nodal signaling mutants. For instance, the cells that will give rise to the pineal organ fail to move from the lateral edges of the neural plate to the midline of the diencephalon. The open neural tube in Nodal signaling mutants may be due in part to reduced function of N-cadherin, a cell adhesion molecule expressed in the neural tube and required for neural tube closure. N-cadherin expression and localization to the membrane are reduced in fish that lack Nodal signaling. Further, N-cadherin mutants and morphants have a pineal phenotype similar to that of mutants with deficiencies in the Nodal pathway. Overexpression of an activated form of the TGFβ Type I receptor Taram-A (Taram-A*) cell autonomously rescues mesendoderm formation in fish with a severe decrease in Nodal signaling. We find that overexpression of Taram-A* also corrects their open neural tube defect. This suggests that, as in mammals, the mesoderm and endoderm have an important role in regulating closure of the anterior neural tube of zebrafish.

Conclusion

This work helps establish a role for Nodal signals in neurulation, and suggests that defects in Nodal signaling could underlie human neural tube defects such as exencephaly, a fatal condition characterized by an open neural tube in the anterior brain.
Computational RNomics of Drosophilids
Authors: Rose Dominic , Hackermüller Jörg , Washietl Stefan , Reiche Kristin , Hertel Jana , Findeiß Sven , Stadler Peter F , Prohaska Sonja J
Published: November 2007

Background

Recent experimental and computational studies have provided overwhelming evidence for a plethora of diverse transcripts that are unrelated to protein-coding genes. One subclass consists of those RNAs that require distinctive secondary structure motifs to exert their biological function and hence exhibit distinctive patterns of sequence conservation characteristic for positive selection on RNA secondary structure.

The deep-sequencing of 12 drosophilid species coordinated by the NHGRI provides an ideal data set of comparative computational approaches to determine those genomic loci that code for evolutionarily conserved RNA motifs. This class of loci includes the majority of the known small ncRNAs as well as structured RNA motifs in mRNAs. We report here on a genome-wide survey using RNAz.

Results

We obtain 16 000 high quality predictions among which we recover the majority of the known ncRNAs. Taking a pessimistically estimated false discovery rate of 40% into account, this implies that at least some ten thousand loci in the Drosophila genome show the hallmarks of stabilizing selection action of RNA structure, and hence are most likely functional at the RNA level. A subset of RNAz predictions overlapping with TRF1 and BRF binding sites [Isogai et al., EMBO J. 26: 79–89 (2007)], which are plausible candidates of Pol III transcripts, have been studied in more detail. Among these sequences we identify several "clusters" of ncRNA candidates with striking structural similarities.

Conclusion

The statistical evaluation of the RNAz predictions in comparison with a similar analysis of vertebrate genomes [Washietl et al., Nat. Biotech. 23: 1383–1390 (2005)] shows that qualitatively similar fractions of structured RNAs are found in introns, UTRs, and intergenic regions. The intergenic RNA structures, however, are concentrated much more closely around known protein-coding loci, suggesting that flies have significantly smaller complement of independent structured ncRNAs compared to mammals.
Analysis of Schistosoma mansoni genes shared with Deuterostomia and with possible roles in host interactions
Authors: Venancio Thiago M , DeMarco Ricardo , Almeida Giulliana T , Oliveira Katia C , Setubal João C , Verjovski-Almeida Sergio
Published: November 2007

Background:

Schistosoma mansoni is a blood helminth parasite that causes schistosomiasis, a disease that affects 200 million people in the world. Many orthologs of known mammalian genes have been discovered in this parasite and evidence is accumulating that some of these genes encode proteins linked to signaling pathways in the parasite that appear to be involved with growth or development, suggesting a complex co-evolutionary process.

Results:

In this work we found 427 genes conserved in the Deuterostomia group that have orthologs in S. mansoni and no members in any nematodes and insects so far sequenced. Among these genes we have identified In sulin I nduced G ene (INSIG), I nterferon R egulatory F actor (IRF) and vasohibin orthologs, known to be involved in mammals in mevalonate metabolism, immune response and angiogenesis control, respectively. We have chosen these three genes for a more detailed characterization, which included extension of their cloned messages to obtain full-length sequences. Interestingly, SmINSIG showed a 10-fold higher expression in adult females as opposed to males, in accordance with its possible role in regulating egg production. SmIRF has a DNA binding domain, a tryptophan-rich N-terminal region and several predicted phosphorylation sites, usually important for IRF activity. Fourteen different alternatively spliced forms of the S. mansoni vasohibin (SmVASL) gene were detected that encode seven different protein isoforms including one with a complete C-terminal end, and other isoforms with shorter C-terminal portions. Using S. mansoni homologs, we have employed a parsimonious rationale to compute the total gene losses/gains in nematodes, arthropods and deuterostomes under either the Coelomata or the Ecdysozoa evolutionary hypotheses; our results show a lower losses/gains number under the latter hypothesis.

Conclusion:

The genes discussed which are conserved between S. mansoni and deuterostomes, probably have an ancient origin and were lost in Ecdysozoa, being still present in Lophotrochozoa. Given their known functions in Deuterostomia, it is possible that some of them have been co-opted to perform functions related (directly or indirectly) to host adaptation or interaction with host signaling processes.
NMR spectroscopic and analytical ultracentrifuge analysis of membrane protein detergent complexes
Authors: Maslennikov Innokentiy , Kefala Georgia , Johnson Casey , Riek Roland , Choe Senyon , Kwiatkowski Witek
Published: November 2007

Background

Structural studies of integral membrane proteins (IMPs) are hampered by inherent difficulties in their heterologous expression and in the purification of solubilized protein-detergent complexes (PDCs). The choice and concentrations of detergents used in an IMP preparation play a critical role in protein homogeneity and are thus important for successful crystallization.

Results

Seeking an effective and standardized means applicable to genomic approaches for the characterization of PDCs, we chose 1D-NMR spectroscopic analysis to monitor the detergent content throughout their purification: protein extraction, detergent exchange, and sample concentration. We demonstrate that a single NMR measurement combined with a SDS-PAGE of a detergent extracted sample provides a useful gauge of the detergent's extraction potential for a given protein. Furthermore, careful monitoring of the detergent content during the process of IMP production allows for a high level of reproducibility. We also show that in many cases a simple sedimentation velocity measurement provides sufficient data to estimate both the oligomeric state and the detergent-to-protein ratio in PDCs, as well as to evaluate the homogeneity of the samples prior to crystallization screening.

Conclusion

The techniques presented here facilitate the screening and selection of the extraction detergent, as well as help to maintain reproducibility in the detergent exchange and PDC concentration procedures. Such reproducibility is particularly important for the optimization of initial crystallization conditions, for which multiple purifications are routinely required.
Self-assembly of human latexin into amyloid-like oligomers
Authors: Pallarés Irantzu , Berenguer Clara , Avilés Francesc X , Vendrell Josep , Ventura Salvador
Published: November 2007

Background

In conformational disorders, it is not evident which amyloid aggregates affect specific molecular mechanisms or cellular pathways, which cause disease because of their quantity and mechanical features and which states in aggregate formation are pathogenic. Due to the increasing consensus that prefibrillar oligomers play a major role in conformational diseases, there is a growing interest in understanding the characteristics of metastable polypeptide associations.

Results

Here, we show that human latexin, a protein that shares the same fold with cystatin C, assembles into stable spherical amyloid-like oligomers that bind thioflavin-T and congo red similarly to common amyloid structures but do not evolve into fibrils. Latexin self-assembly correlates with the formation of a mostly denaturated state rather than with the population of partially structured intermediates during the unfolding process. The results suggest that unfolding of α-helix 3 might be involved in the transition of latexin toward amyloidotic species, supporting the notion of the protective role of the native protein structure against polymerization.

Conclusion

Overall the data herein indicate that latexin could be a good model for the study of the structural and sequential determinants of oligomeric assemblies in protein aggregation processes.
Decline of placental malaria in southern Ghana after the implementation of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy
Authors: Hommerich Lena , von Oertzen Christa , Bedu-Addo George , Holmberg Ville , Acquah Patrick A , Eggelte Teunis A , Bienzle Ulrich , Mockenhaupt Frank P
Published: November 2007

Background

Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) has been adopted as policy by many countries in sub-Saharan Africa. However, data on the post-implementation effectiveness of this measure are scarce.

Methods

Clinical and parasitological parameters were assessed among women delivering at a district hospital in rural southern Ghana in the year 2000 when pyrimethamine chemoprophylaxis was recommended (n= 839) and in 2006 (n= 226), approximately one year after the implementation of IPTp-SP. Examinations were performed in an identical manner in 2000 and 2006 including the detection of placentalPlasmodium falciparuminfection by microscopy, histidine-rich protein 2, and PCR.

Results

In 2006, 77% of the women reported to have taken IPTp-SP at least once (26%, twice; 24%, thrice). In 2006 as compared to 2000, placentalP. falciparuminfection was reduced by 43–57% (P< 0.0001) and maternal anaemia by 33% (P= 0.0009), and median birth weight was 130 g higher (P= 0.02). In 2006, likewise, women who had taken ≥ 1 dose of IPTp-SP revealed less infection and anaemia and their children tended to have higher birth weights as compared to women who had not used IPTp-SP. However, placentalP. falciparuminfection was still observed in 11% (microscopy) to 26% (PCR) of those women who had taken three doses of IPTp-SP.

Conclusion

In southern Ghana, placental malaria and maternal anaemia have declined substantially and birth weight has increased after the implementation of IPTp-SP. Likely, these effects can further be increased by improving IPTp-SP coverage and adherence. However, the remnant prevalence of infection in women having taken three doses of IPTp-SP suggests that additional antimalarial measures are needed to prevent malaria in pregnancy in this region.
Revisiting adverse effects of cross-hybridization in Affymetrix gene expression data: do they matter for correlation analysis?
Authors: Klebanov Lev , Chen Linlin , Yakovlev Andrei
Published: November 2007

Background.

This work was undertaken in response to a recently published paper by Okoniewski and Miller (BMC Bioinformatics 2006, 7: Article 276). The authors of that paper came to the conclusion that the process of multiple targeting in short oligonucleotide microarrays induces spurious correlations and this effect may deteriorate the inference on correlation coefficients. The design of their study and supporting simulations cast serious doubt upon the validity of this conclusion. The work by Okoniewski and Miller drove us to revisit the issue by means of experimentation with biological data and probabilistic modeling of cross-hybridization effects.

Results.

We have identified two serious flaws in the study by Okoniewski and Miller: (1) The data used in their paper are not amenable to correlation analysis; (2) The proposed simulation model is inadequate for studying the effects of cross-hybridization. Using two other data sets, we have shown that removing multiply targeted probe sets does not lead to a shift in the histogram of sample correlation coefficients towards smaller values. A more realistic approach to mathematical modeling of cross-hybridization demonstrates that this process is by far more complex than the simplistic model considered by the authors. A diversity of correlation effects (such as the induction of positive or negative correlations) caused by cross-hybridization can be expected in theory but there are natural limitations on the ability to provide quantitative insights into such effects due to the fact that they are not directly observable.

Conclusion.

The proposed stochastic model is instrumental in studying general regularities in hybridization interaction between probe sets in microarray data. As the problem stands now, there is no compelling reason to believe that multiple targeting causes a large-scale effect on the correlation structure of Affymetrix gene expression data. Our analysis suggests that the observed long-range correlations in microarray data are of a biological nature rather than a technological flaw.

Reviewers:

The paper was reviewed by I. K. Jordan, D. P. Gaile (nominated by E. Koonin), and W. Huber (nominated by S. Dudoit).
Medicinal plants in an urban environment: the medicinal flora of Banares Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Verma Archana K , Kumar Munesh , Bussmann Rainer W
Published: November 2007

Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world, and one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites. Despite this importance, very little information exits on the cities flora in general, and medicinal species found within its limit in particular. Traditional medicine plays a large role in Indian society. The presented study attempted to investigate if traditional plant use and availability of important common medicinal plants are maintained in urban environments. The paper presents information on the traditional uses of seventy-two plant species collected form the campus of Banares Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and highlights the uses of these plants by the local inhabitants.
Clinical relevance of and risk factors for HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia: results of an outbreak investigation
Authors: Engelmann Ilka , Gottlieb Jens , Meier Astrid , Sohr Dorit , Ruhparwar Arjang , Henke-Gendo Cornelia , Gastmeier Petra , Welte Tobias , Schulz Thomas Friedrich , Mattner Frauke
Published: November 2007

Introduction

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 was identified in respiratory specimens from a cluster of eight patients on a surgical intensive care unit within 8 weeks. Six of these patients suffered from HSV-related tracheobronchitis and one from HSV-related pneumonia only. Our outbreak investigation aimed to determine the clinical relevance of and risk factors associated with HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia in critically ill patients, and to investigate whether the cluster was caused by nosocomial transmission.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed to identify risk factors for the outcomes of HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia and death using univariable analysis as well as logistic regression analysis. Viruses were typed by molecular analysis of a fragment of the HSV type 1 glycoprotein G.

Results

The cohort of patients covering the outbreak period comprised 53 patients, including six patients with HSV-related tracheobronchitis and one patient with pneumonia only. HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia was associated with increased mortality (100% in patients with versus 17.8% in patients without HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia; P < 0.0001). The interaction of longer duration of ventilation and tracheotomy was associated with HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia in multivariable analysis.

Identical HSV type 1 glycoprotein G sequences were found in three patients and in two patients. The group of three identical viral sequences belonged to a widely circulating strain. The two identical viral sequences were recovered from bronchoalveolar lavages of one patient with HSV-related tracheobronchitis and of one patient without clinical symptoms. These viral sequences showed unique polymorphisms, indicating probable nosocomial transmission.

Conclusion

HSV-related tracheobronchitis or pneumonia is associated with increased mortality in critically ill patients. Care should be taken to avoid nosocomial transmission and early diagnosis should be attempted.
Sequence and functional analyses of Haemophilusspp. genomic islands
Authors: Juhas Mario , Power Peter M , Harding Rosalind M , Ferguson David JP , Dimopoulou Ioanna D , Elamin Abdel RE , Mohd-Zain Zaini , Hood Derek W , Adegbola Richard , Erwin Alice , Smith Arnold , Munson Robert S , Harrison Alistair , Mansfield Lucielle , Bentley Stephen , Crook Derrick W
Published: November 2007

Background

A major part of horizontal gene transfer that contributes to the diversification and adaptation of bacteria is facilitated by genomic islands. The evolution of these islands is poorly understood. Some progress was made with the identification of a set of phylogenetically related genomic islands among the Proteobacteria, recognized from the investigation of the evolutionary origins of a Haemophilus influenzae antibiotic resistance island, namely ICEHin1056. More clarity comes from this comparative analysis of seven complete sequences of the ICEHin1056 genomic island subfamily.

Results

These genomic islands have core and accessory genes in approximately equal proportion, with none demonstrating recent acquisition from other islands. The number of variable sites within core genes is similar to that found in the host bacteria. Furthermore, the GC content of the core genes is similar to that of the host bacteria (38% to 40%). Most of the core gene content is formed by the syntenic type IV secretion system dependent conjugative module and replicative module. GC content and lack of variable sites indicate that the antibiotic resistance genes were acquired relatively recently. An analysis of conjugation efficiency and antibiotic susceptibility demonstrates that phenotypic expression of genomic island-borne genes differs between different hosts.

Conclusion

Genomic islands of the ICEHin1056 subfamily have a longstanding relationship with H. influenzae and H. parainfluenzae and are co-evolving as semi-autonomous genomes within the 'supragenomes' of their host species. They have promoted bacterial diversity and adaptation through becoming efficient vectors of antibiotic resistance by the recent acquisition of antibiotic resistance transposons.
Patient-Reported Outcomes in Phase II Cancer Clinical Trials: Lessons Learned and Future Directions
Authors: Wagner Lynne I. , Wenzel Lari , Shaw Edward , Cella David
Published: November 2007

With increasing limits on the resources available to conduct cancer clinical trials, the inclusion of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in treatment and symptom management trials must be prioritized. Although it has been suggested on occasion that phase III trials should take precedence over phase II trials, we argue that there is a clear and important role for PRO assessment in phase II trials going forward. To illustrate the value realized from including PROs in phase II trials, we provide case examples from cancer treatment and supportive care. The benefits of including PROs in symptom management intervention research are exemplified using phase II trials targeting cognitive impairment. The inclusion of PROs in phase II cancer clinical trials adds important information about the impact of treatment in health-related quality of life, and advances the science of PRO measurement. These contributions significantly enhance the design of phase III trials, ultimately leading to the efficient utilization of clinical trial resources.
Development and characterization of a time-based, mass flow controller
Authors: Quarini G. L. , Chinarak T , Chang Y. C.
Published: November 2007

An innovative method of measuring incompressible fluid mass flowrates is described and a physical embodiment of the device capable of using the methodology is presented. The device adopts the traditional and well-known ‘bucket-and-stop watch’ technique as its bases; it uses modern materials and electronics to achieve a robust, reliable, and elegant piece of diagnostic equipment. Similar devices, generically known as a mass flow controller (MFC), are widely used in the processing and manufacture of electronic components and devices. MFCs are also found in the pharmaceutical industry and wherever accurate dosages are required. Experimental work is undertaken to characterize the device. The resulting data are examined for accuracy, reliability, and repeatability. The results indicate that this device is as accurate as any of the commercial unit examined, and for the very low flows tends to be more accurate.
Role of simulation in predicting the effect of machine settings on process performance in the packaging industry
Authors: Sirkett D. M. , Hicks B. J. , Singh B , Mullineux G , Medland A. J.
Published: November 2007

Recent European Union regulations on packaging waste have resulted in a trend towards light-weighting and greater use of recycled materials in the packaging of consumer goods. This has impacted particularly upon the folding carton industry, and has necessitated greater fundamental understanding of the machine-material interactions that take place during carton production. One way to achieve this is through the use of simulation models. Such a model has been created to simulate the behaviour of a folding carton during the critical transition between flattened and erected states. The model is able to simulate process failure (buckling) and investigate the effect of changes in pack, process, material, and tooling parameters. The model is applied here to investigate the effect of variation in two key machine settings. These are the relative orientation of tooling, and the contact points between tooling and carton. The results of the simulation reveal a strong correlation between theoretical and practical results, and as a consequence provide a means for determining the optimum tooling position(s). The study demonstrates the ability of simulation to support the set-up and operation of complex packaging machinery. It is arguable that such tools will be essential for machinery and consumer goods manufacturers to compete in today's highly competitive global markets where quality, efficiency, and flexibility are critical.
An experimental investigation of heat transfer and friction in a ribbed square channel
Authors: Ahn S. W. , Kang H. K. , Putra A. B. K. , Lee D. H.
Published: November 2007

The heat transfer and friction characteristics of a fully developed turbulent air flow in a square channel with 45° inclined ribs on one, two, or four walls were experimentally investigated. Tests were performed for Reynolds numbers ( Re) ranging from 7600 to 24 900, a pitch-to-rib-height ratio ( P/e) of 8.0, and a rib-height-to-channel hydraulic diameter ratio ( e/Dh) of 0.0667. Either two opposite walls or all four walls in the channel were heated.
Fabrication and electrochemical characterization of boron-doped diamond interdigitated array disc electrode
Authors: Zhong D. J. , Tao F. M. , Xu Y. L. , Jia J. P.
Published: November 2007

In the current paper, a novel boron-doped diamond interdigitated array disc electrode with controlled electrode bandwidth and gap geometries was fabricated using hot filament chemical vapour deposition (HFCVD) and photoetching technology. The diamond film was first deposited on the silicon wafer using HFCVD, the diamond film was then patterned by deposited SiOxNy and photoetching, and finally the boron-doped diamond film was deposited on the diamond film. There are 942 microelectrode pieces interdigitated with each other on the disc. A single microelectrode is 30 μm in width and 10 mm in length, the shortest distance between the two adjacent electrodes is 30 μm. The interdigitated array disc electrode is characterized via scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical characterization of the interdigitated array disc electrode was performed using the Fe(CN)4-/3-6 redox couple by cyclic voltammetry. This interdigitated array disc electrode should enable applications in harsh conditions such as at high temperatures and in strong acid and alkali solutions.
Would we create it if it did not exist? The evolution of public broadcasting in Jamaica
Authors: Padovani Cinzia
Published: November 2007

In many western democracies, public service broadcasting institutions (PSB) have long been criticised, their legitimacy thwarted by technological, cultural and political developments. However, while the future might appear bleak to those who have a nostalgic vision of PSB, more encouraging
and forward-looking visions are possible. As an example of forward-looking vision, this paper looks at the evolution of public broadcasting in Jamaica from the establishment of the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) in 1962, to its dismantlement in 1997, and to the formation of a new public
broadcaster, the Jamaica Public Broadcasting Corporation (PBCJ), in Spring 2006. Throughout this history, and notwithstanding its many challenges, public service broadcasting continues to be a vital institution in Jamaican social, political and cultural life. Some of the questions that spur
from this complex history are: In an era characterised by the everexpanding choice of media channels, while governments in wealthier countries are trying to get rid of their PSB, why is a new public broadcaster being re-established in the Caribbean island? What are its characteristics? Finally,
could this attempt to recreate a public broadcaster in Jamaica be indicative of broader trends pointing to the necessity of preserving, or re-creating, public spaces in commercially saturated media environments? Although the lack of financial resources is a major challenge for the newly born
PBCJ, efforts to re-build a public broadcaster speak to Jamaica's continuous desire to create a valuable alternative to commercial media. Attempts to create an efficient and socially relevant institution of public service broadcasting are discussed.
Culture and conflict in the European Union
Authors: Gournelos Ted
Published: November 2007

This paper examines the role that culture, the information society, and media play in forming stable and productive communities. Through a theory of culture defined by conflict and play, it examines the history of Europe as a concept, issues of continental identity, and the impact/intent of European Union policy initiatives regarding culture and media. It suggests that although some EU policy approaches are well designed, there is a great deal of room for improvement in their conceptualisation and execution. By understanding culture and media to be intertwined but not identical, we can see how the arts and media can be used to create community not only in their distribution and consumption but also in the very fact of their creation. Moreover, by situating culture and media within contemporary socio-political frameworks, particularly the deregulatory atmosphere supported by transnational corporate interests and the construction of a commodified neoliberal citizen, the paper argues for a conceptualisation of culture that can exist within contemporary systems of capital while retaining the potential for oppositional and critical ontologies. It concludes with specific suggestions for EU policy and funding directives through analyses of two visual culture phenomena, the 2002 film L'Auberge Espanole and the 2005 Venice Biennale.
Watching the Directive: Sports rights and public culture in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Murphy Ken , White Andy
Published: November 2007

This paper investigates the way in which the European Union's Television Without Frontiers directive (recently re-named the Audio-Visual Media Services directive, AVMS) was implemented by two neighbouring states, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Focusing on the broadcasting
rights for live international cricket matches in England and the rights for the live coverage of the Republic of Ireland soccer team's competitive home matches, the paper will highlight each state's approach to marrying the cultural rights of its citizens with the demands of the free market.
The article locates the response of each state within the wider framework of the development of European media markets and their respective industrial/cultural policy therein.
The politics of apoliticality: Qu me dices!, celebrity, gender ideology and surveillance
Authors: Goss Brian Michael
Published: November 2007

This investigation examines Qu me dices! (What are you telling me!), an entry in Spain's prensa rosa (pink press) ensemble. The celebrity- and female aesthetics-oriented magazine presents as staunchly apolitical as it resolutely ignores contemporary issues (e.g. the economy,
immigration). However, I posit that Qu me dices! channels a distinct political posture. The publication affirms celebrity as a form of meritocracy enacted to market specifications that bestows popularity on figures that resonate with mass audiences. Qu me dices! is, nonetheless,
silent on the production of celebrity via the media apparatuses of which it is a part. Where ideology and gender are concerned, Qu me dices! is traditionalist in exhorting women to surveil their appearances and to make interventions with an eye toward attracting men; intensifying consumption
to eradicate presumed personal defects is emphasised at the exclusion of other projects. Surveillance of celebrity also eases readers' participation in the new information-based economy with its emphasis on obtaining customer details. Thus, a publication that refuses formal politics teems
with political implications, particularly for women.
The meaning and definition of violence
Authors: Morrison David E , Millwood Andrea
Published: November 2007

Drawing on two studies, one involving a sample of adults, and the other a sample of children, the paper seeks to understand the definition of screen violence given by adults and children. This is accomplished by empirical examination of responses to a range of material that included
acts of violence. Using a variant of focus groups video editing groups the paper shows that definitions of violence are drawn from understandings of violence in real life, and the realism of the violence shown on the screen. Definitions of screen violence drawn from definitions of what makes
something violent in real life are referred to as the Primary Definers of Violence, and the manner in which the violence is shown on the screen are referred to as the Secondary Definers of Violence. A third set of definers were seen to be in place in so far as the children in our sample were
concerned. Referred to as the Tertiary Definers of Violence, they include material that is scary.
Hearing place: Film music, geography and ethnicity
Authors: Brownrigg Mark
Published: November 2007

Music is an important device that filmmakers use to create a sense of place. Different countries have different music cultures and film soundtracks move swiftly to accommodate and incorporate an approximation of them. Specific instruments can be used to provide local colour, standard
instruments can be used in imitation of them, specific tunes associated with specific places can be invoked or shadowed as the musicological fundamentals of specific national musics are harnessed to produce appropriate original music. Distinctive rhythms and dance forms can be incorporated,
and either genuine musicians or recordings of musicians from a particular country or culture can be used to give an immediate sense of people and place.
Reviews
Authors: Govil Nitin , Tracy James F , Mosdell Nick , Housley William
Published: November 2007

Gandhi Meets Primetime: Globalization and Nationalism in Indian Television, Shanti Kumar (2005)Champaign, IL: University of Illinois Press, 284 pp., ISBN 025203001X (hbk), $45.00; ISBN 0252072448 (pbk), 25.00

Waves of Opposition: Labour and the Struggle for Democratic Radio, Elizabeth Fones-Wolf (2006)Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press, 256 pp., ISBN 0252031199 (hbk), 60.00; ISBN 0252073649 (pbk), 25.00

Leading to the 2003 Iraq War: The Global Media Debate, Alexander Nikolaev and Ernest Hakanen (eds.) (2006)New York: Palgrave MacMillan, 283 pp., ISBN 1-4039-7113-7 (hbk), 42.00

Media and Conflict in the Twenty-First Century, Philip Seib (ed.) (2005)New York: Palgrave MacMillan, 242 pp., ISBN 1-4039-6833-0 (hbk), 42.00

Hypercapitalism: New Media, Language and Social Perceptions of Value, Phil Graham, 2005New York, Peter Lang, 202 pp., ISBN 0-8204-6217-9 (pbk), 17.42
Differential expression of γ-aminobutyric acid receptor A (GABAA) and effects of homocysteine
Authors: Tyagi Neetu , Lominadze David , Gillespie William , Moshal Karni S. , Sen Utpal , Rosenberger Dorothea S. , Steed Mesia , Tyagi Suresh C.
Published: November 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1777–84.
Hyperhomocysteinemia – association with renal transsulfuration and redox signaling in rats
Authors: Pin-Lan Li , Fan Yi , Ningjun Li
Published: November 2007

Despite substantial evidence indicating the association of hyperhomocysteinemia (hHcys) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the pathogenic role of increased plasma homocysteine (Hcys) levels in the progression of ESRD remains unclear. This review will briefly summarize recent findings regarding the role of hHcys in the development of glomerulosclerosis, the association of hHcys with reduced renal transsulfuration and Hcys-induced changes of redox signaling in the development of glomerulosclerosis in rat kidneys. Based on these results, it is concluded that hHcys is implicated in glomerular sclerosis in hypertension, elevated plasma Hcys in Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) hypertensive rats is due to downregulation of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) expression and consequent abnormality of transsulfuration in the kidney compared with normotensive rats. Hcys-induced superoxide (O

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1688–93.
Association between homocysteine, vitamin B6 concentrations and inflammation
Authors: Gori Anna Maria , Sofi Francesco , Marcucci Rossella , Giusti Betti , Franco Gensini Gian , Abbate Rosanna
Published: November 2007

During the last years, a growing body of evidence has been accumulated on the role of hyperhomocysteinemia in the occurrence of coronary artery disease and other arterial occlusive diseases. The mechanism by which high circulating homocysteine concentrations are a risk factor for atherothrombosis is incompletely understood. The present review is aimed to evaluate the role of inflammation in influencing homocysteine (Hcy) and vitamin B

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1728–36.
Homocysteine, left ventricular dysfunction and coronary artery disease: is there a link?
Authors: Rossi Gian Paolo , Seccia Teresa Maria , Pessina Achille Cesare
Published: November 2007

Experimental and observational studies support a role of plasma homocysteine levels (tHcy) in coronary artery disease (CAD). In the GENICA (Genetic and Environmental factors In Coronary Atherosclerosis) study, we found that high tHcy predicted cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive, but not in normotensive, patients independently of CAD and history of myocardial infarction. Moreover, despite not being associated with the coronary atherosclerotic burden, tHcy was inversely associated with left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction. This inverse relationship between LV systolic function and tHcy, which has been independently confirmed, might explain the association of tHcy with the risk of incident heart failure documented in the Framingham Heart Study. Thus, additional mechanistic investigation taking into consideration the effects of tHcy on LV function is necessary to further explore the potential therapeutic usefulness of tHcy lowering treatment in CAD.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1645–51.
The principals of minimal extracorporeal circulation
Authors: Göbölös László , Hejjel László , Lindenmayer-G. Réka , Wiebe Karsten , Philipp Alois , Foltan Maik , Ziegler Susanne , Imre Jenő , Sipos Elemér , Győrimolnár Iván , Papp Lajos
Published: November 2007

Az újdonságnak számító minimalizált extracorporalis keringés a hagyományos szívmotor említésre méltó alternatívája. Felépítése egyszerű: egy centrifugális pumpából, oxigenátorból, teljes hosszában heparinizált csőrendszerből és egy módosított cell saverből áll. Zárt rendszerének és a redukált mennyiségű feltöltőfolyadéknak köszönhetően a hagyományos perfúzió előnytelen következményei, mint a hemodilúció, a gyulladásos válasz, a lokoregionális malperfúzió, a transzfúziós igény, jelentősen csökkenthetők. Rövid összefoglalónk a rendszer több mint 2000 betegen tapasztalt előnyeit és biztonságosságát mutatja be. A minimalizált perfúzió szerteágazó alkalmazási területei a bypassműtét dobogó vagy megállított szíven, a balszívfél-bypass mellkasi aortaaneurizmáknál, szívelégtelenségben vagy reanimáció után „áthidalás a felépüléshez” (bridge to recovery), extracorporalis membránoxigenizáció, de lehetőségeink tárháza ezen eljárásokkal még korántsem merül ki.
Holt–Oram syndrome: genetic counseling and prenatal ultrasonographic diagnosis
Authors: Pete Barbara , Harmath Ágnes , Szigeti Zsanett , Papp Csaba , Hajdú Júlia
Published: November 2007

A szerzők az 1976 és 2005 közötti időszakban, az intézetük genetikai tanácsadásán előforduló autoszomális dominánsan öröklődő Holt–Oram-szindrómás esetekről számolnak be. Első betegük, egy Holt–Oram-szindrómás férfi a betegség 50%-os átörökítési esélyét túl magasnak ítélve, lemondott a gyermeknemzésről. Két, Holt–Oram-szindrómában szenvedő nő terhességében történt magzati ultrahangvizsgálat és echokardiográfia. Az egyik esetben kizárták a betegség lehetőségét, a másik esetben diagnosztizálták a magzat Holt–Oram-szindrómáját. Ezenkívül két, genetikai szempontból nem terhelt nő magzatában ismerték fel a Holt–Oram-szindrómát praenatalisan a második trimeszterben. Az egyik esetben a szív- és végtagfejlődési rendellenességek olyan súlyosak voltak, hogy a házaspár a terhesség megszakításához folyamodott. A vetélésindukciót követő fetopatológiai vizsgálat megerősítette a praenatalis diagnózist.
The coverage of cervical screening in Hungary
Authors: Boncz Imre , Sebestyén Andor , Döbrőssy Lajos , Kovács Attila , Budai András , Székely Tamás
Published: November 2007

A dolgozat célja annak meghatározása, hogy Magyarországon a nők hány százaléka vesz részt nőgyógyászati citológiai vizsgálaton (lefedettség), akár a szervezett szűrővizsgálat keretében, akár az egyéb nőgyógyászati vizsgálatok során.
Adatok és módszerek:
Az elemzés az Országos Egészségbiztosítási Pénztár (OEP) rutinszerűen gyűjtött finanszírozási adatokat tartalmazó adatbázisára épül. A vizsgálatban a 2000 és 2002 közötti 3 éves periódus volt az opportunisztikus szűrés referencia-időszaka, míg a 2003 és 2005 közötti 3 év a szervezett szűrés első szűrési ciklusa.
Eredmények:
Míg a 2000 és 2002 közötti 3 évben 1 667 618 nőnél végeztek citológiai vizsgálatot, addig ez a szám 2003 és 2005 között 1 749 498 főre emelkedett. A 25–64 év közötti női korosztályban 2000 és 2002 között az 1 éves lefedettség 22,0–23,3% között változott, ami 2003 és 2005 között 23,4–24,3%-ra emelkedett. A 2000 és 2002 közötti 3 éves lefedettség pedig 48,9%-ról 2003 és 2005 között 52,6%-ra emelkedett a szervezett szűréssel érintett célpopulációban (+3,7%).
Következtetés:
A szervezett szűrés kismértékben növelte a citológiai vizsgálaton részt vevő nők számát. Ahhoz azonban, hogy érdemi mortalitáscsökkenést eredményezzen a program, a részvételi mutatókat növelni szükséges.
A Dynamic Model of Cotton Emergence Based on the Thermal Dependence of Malate Synthase
Authors: Mahan James R. , Gitz Dennis C.
Published: November 2007

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is frequently planted when temperatures are not optimal for germination and emergence. Delayed emergence, a common contributor to diminished plant performance later in the season, is often related to nonoptimal temperatures. Improvement of cotton performance requires knowledge of the source, pattern, and magnitude of thermal limitations on seedling metabolism. In this study the thermal dependence of malate synthase, an enzyme involved in cotton seedling lipid metabolism, was used to define the pattern and magnitude of thermal limitations and as the basis of a metabolic model to predict emergence under variable temperatures in the field. Soil temperature at seed depth was monitored over the cotton‐planting season of 2005 and characterized as optimal, suboptimal, and supraoptimal. Suboptimal temperatures were common and supraoptimal temperatures were less frequent. A metabolic model to predict emergence was developed and the predicted emergence was in agreement with a widely used degree‐day based model. Metabolic indicators of thermal optimality may prove useful in studies of seedling responses to thermal variation.
Summer–Fall Seeding Dates for Six Cool‐Season Grasses in the Midwest United States
Authors: Undersander D. J. , Greub L. J.
Published: November 2007

The effect of late summer (fall) planting date for cool‐season grasses in the upper Midwest is not well understood. Objectives of this research were to determine optimum planting dates of late‐summer/fall seedings in different environments for several cool‐season grass species and to gain information on tiller density and tillers plant−1 relative to dry matter yield. Late‐summer/fall seedings of six forage grasses were made approximately every 2 to 3 wk in 1995, 1996, and 1997 at three sites in Wisconsin. Species included orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.), timothy (Phleum pretense L.), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), creeping foxtail (Alopecurus arundinaceus Poir.), and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). Yield was taken the next spring and plants destructively sampled for plant and tiller counts. Seedings made by mid‐ to late‐September produced stands having visible plants by killing frost at all locations except for 1 yr at River Falls. Seedings after mid‐September generally did not produce visible plants until spring, if at all. Many of these seedings failed to produce a stand the next year. Earlier seeding dates usually had more tillers m−2, more tillers plant−1, and higher dry matter yield the following season with first‐cut maximums ranging from 3.6 to 6.7 Mg ha−1. Perennial ryegrass, smooth bromegrass, timothy, reed canarygrass and/or tall fescue, often were among the highest yielding species at the earlier seeding dates. At later late summer seeding dates, reed canarygrass, tall fescue, and creeping foxtail usually had low dry matter yield the next year.
Adaptation of Pulse Crops to the Changing Climate of the Northern Great Plains
Authors: Cutforth Herb W. , McGinn Sean M. , McPhee Kevin E. , Miller Perry R.
Published: November 2007

Climate over the northern Great Plains has generally warmed over the last 60 yr. The rate of warming has varied temporally and spatially, confounding trend analysis for climate indicators such as increased length of the growing season. Change in precipitation has been even more variable. Despite this variability, present‐day trends in temperature and precipitation generally coincide with the predicted direction of climate change. The synchrony of current and future trends reinforces the need for investigating adaptation in agriculture to changing climate. Our review is focused on sustainability of pulse crops in the northern Great Plains and the repercussions of climate change, focusing on the growth and yield response to temperature and water, and the climate restrictions that define their current geographic locations. The resilience of pulse crops to present‐day weather extremes such as drought, excess water, heat, cool weather during grain filling, and early frost are considered to predict adaptation to future climate change. Features discussed include changes to crop water‐use efficiency brought on by increased CO2 fertilization, accelerated growth rates resulting from higher air temperatures, and total crop failures caused by an increased occurrence and magnitude of weather extremes. Adaptation strategies that are discussed include earlier seeding of pulse crops, use of winter pulses, crop sequencing within crop rotations, and alterations to the microclimate such as direct seeding into standing stubble.
Grain Legumes in Northern Great Plains: Impacts on Selected Biological Soil Processes
Authors: Lupwayi Newton Z. , Kennedy Ann C.
Published: November 2007

Cropping systems in the Northern Great Plains have shifted from fallow‐based to legume‐based systems. The introduction of grain legumes has impacted soil organisms, including both symbiotic and nonsymbiotic N‐fixing bacteria, pathogens, mycorrhizae and fauna, and the processes they perform. These changes occur through effects of legume seed exudates, rhizosphere exudates, and decomposing crop residues. The legume–Rhizobium symbiosis results in dinitrogen (N2) fixation that adds plant available N into the soil system. It is estimated that about 171 million kg N2 was fixed by field pea (Pisum sativum L.), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) crops in the Canadian Prairies in 2004, representing 7% of the total fertilizer‐N (2580 million kg) used by Canadian prairie farmers in that year. Similarly, an estimated 40 million kg N2 was fixed by field pea, lentil, and dry bean (including chickpea) crops in U.S. agroecosystems in 2004. Some of the fixed N2 is recycled for the benefit of nonlegume crops grown after grain legumes. Many other associations benefit from the legume in a cropping system, including mycorrhizal associations that improve plant nutrient and water uptake, changes in the pathogen load and disease development, and overall changes in the soil community. Legumes contribute to greenhouse gas (N2O and CO2) emissions during nitrification and denitrification of fixed N. However, because less fertilizer‐N is used in legume‐based cropping systems, overall greenhouse gas emissions are usually less than those in fertilized monoculture cereals. Therefore, grain legumes in Northern Great Plains have positive effects on agriculture by adding and recycling biologically fixed N2, enhancing nutrient uptake, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by reducing N fertilizer use, and breaking nonlegume crop pest cycles.