bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature of a paramyxovirus replication promoter influences a nearby transcription signal
Authors: Vulliémoz Diane , Cordey Samuel , Mottet-Osman Geneviève , Roux Laurent
Published: December 2004

The genomic and antigenomic 3′ ends of the Sendai virus replication promoters are bi-partite in nature. They are symmetrically composed of leader or trailer sequences, a gene start (gs) or gene end (ge) site, respectively, and a simple hexameric repeat. Studies of how mRNA synthesis initiates from the first gene start site (gs1) have been hampered by the fact that gs1 is located between two essential elements of the replication promoter. Transcription initiation, then, is separated from the replication initiation site by only 56 nt on the genome, so that transcription and replication may sterically interfere with each other. In order to study the initiation of Sendai virus mRNAs without this possible interference, Sendai virus mini-genomes were prepared having tandem promoters in which replication takes place from the external one, whereas mRNA synthesis occurs from the internal one. Transcription now initiates at position 146 rather than position 56 relative to the genome 3′ end. Under these conditions, it was found that the frequency with which mRNA synthesis initiates depends, in an inverse fashion, on the strength of the external replication promoter. It was also found that the sequences essential for replication are not required for basic mRNA synthesis as long as there is an external replication promoter at which viral RNA polymerase can enter the nucleocapsid template. The manner in which transcription and replication initiations influence each other is discussed.
Impact of socio‐demographic factors, knowledge and attitude on the use of herbal drugs in pregnancy
Authors: Nordeng Hedvig , Havnen Gro C.
Published: December 2004

Background.  Herbal drugs are often promoted as ‘natural’ and ‘safe’. These claims may especially attract pregnant women who are often concerned about their unborn child's well‐being. Few studies have assessed the use of herbal drugs in pregnancy and the factors related to this use.

Objective.  To investigate the impact of socio‐demographic factors, knowledge and attitude on the use of herbal drugs in pregnancy.

Methods.  A total of 400 postpartum women at Ullevål University Hospital in Oslo, Norway were interviewed within 3 days after giving birth by using a structured questionnaire in the period from February to June 2001.

Results.  In all, 36% of the women reported herbal use during their pregnancy. Both women who had used herbal drugs in pregnancy and those not, had a positive attitude toward the use of herbal drugs in pregnancy. Echinacea was the most well known herb among both groups of women. The factors associated with the use of herbal drugs in pregnancy were: prior use of herbs, high knowledge about herbal drugs and age between 26 and 35 years. There was a non‐significant higher frequency of herbal drugs use in pregnancy among women with a higher education level.

Conclusion.  The widespread use and positive attitude toward herbal drugs in pregnancy indicates an increased need for documentation about both the efficacy and safety of herbal drugs in pregnancy. Women between 26 and 35 years with a prior history of herbal drug use and high knowledge about herbs, are more prone to using herbal drugs in pregnancy.
Efficacy of releasing captive reared broodstock into an imperilled wild Atlantic salmon population as a recovery strategy
Authors: Carr J. W. , Whoriskey F. , O'reilly P.
Published: December 2004

The strategy of releasing captive reared adult Atlantic salmon Salmo salar into the Magaguadavic River, New Brunswick, Canada, to spawn, was not an effective tool for rebuilding a seriously depressed wild population. The fish were first generation progeny from wild parents, and had spent their entire lives in captivity in either sea or fresh water. No differences in movement or behaviour patterns were observed between freshwater and seawater reared groups. Fish released in the lower river early (35 to 80 days prior to the natural spawning period) moved into a lake low in the system, and most stayed there near the commercial hatchery where they had been reared from egg to smolt. During the spawning season, none moved to the upper river reaches where most spawning habitat exists. Most broodstock released in the upper river reaches near the time of spawning stayed there during the spawning period. The following year few to no Atlantic salmon fry were found, and most appeared not to be offspring of released adults.
Does the stock density of stillwater catch and release fisheries affect the growth performance of introduced cultured barbel?
Authors: Taylor A. A. L. , Britton J. R. , Cowx I. G.
Published: December 2004

In comparison to barbel Barbus barbus in their natural, riverine environment, the growth performance of cultured barbel, following introduction into stillwater environments, was depressed when the extant stock density was above 500 kg ha−1 and common carp Cyprinus carpio were present.
Endurance swimming of diploid and triploid Atlantic salmon
Authors: Cotterell S. P. , Wardle C. S.
Published: December 2004

When groups of diploid (mean ± s.e. fork length, LF) 33·0 ± 1·4 cm and triploid (35·3 ± 0·5 cm) Atlantic salmon Salmo salar were forced to swim at controlled speeds in a carefully monitored 10 m diameter ‘annular’ tank no significant difference was found between the maximum sustained swimming speeds (Ums, maintainable for 200 min) where the fish swam at the limit of their aerobic capability. Diploids achieved 2·99 body lengths per second (bl s−1)(0·96 m s−1) and triploids sustained 2·91 bl s−1(1·02 m s−1). The selection of fish for the trials was based on their ability to swim with a moving pattern projected from a gantry rotating at the radius of the tank and the selection procedure did not prove to be significant by ploidy. A significant difference was found between the anaerobic capabilities of the fish measured as endurance times at their prolonged swimming speeds. During the course of the experimentation the voluntary swimming speed selected by the fish increased and the schooling behaviour improved. The effect of the curvature of the tank on the fish speeds was calculated (removing the curved effect of the tank increased the speed in either ploidy by 5·5%). Implications of the endurance times and speeds are discussed with reference to the aquaculture of triploid Atlantic salmon.
Differential lifetime success and performance of native and non‐native Atlantic salmon examined under communal natural conditions
Authors: McGinnity P. , Prodöhl P. , Ó Maoiléidigh N. , Hynes R. , Cotter D. , Baker N. , O'Hea B. , Ferguson A.
Published: December 2004

The lifetime success and performance characteristics of communally reared offspring of wild native Burrishoole (native), ranched native (ranched) and non‐native (non‐native) Atlantic salmon Salmo salar from the adjacent Owenmore River were compared. Non‐native 0+ year parr showed a substantial downstream migration, which was not shown by native and ranched parr. This appears to have been an active migration rather than competitive displacement and may reflect an adaptation to environmental or physiographic conditions within the Owenmore River catchment where the main nursery habitat is downstream of the spawning area. There were no differences between native and ranched in smolt output or adult return. Both of these measures, however, were significantly lower for the non‐native group. A greater proportion of the non‐native Atlantic salmon was taken in the coastal drift nets compared to the return to the Burrishoole system, probably as a result of the greater size of the non‐native fish. The overall lifetime success of the non‐native group, from fertilized egg to returning adult, was some 35% of native and ranched. The ranched group showed a significantly greater male parr maturity, a greater proportion of 1+ year smolts, and differences in sex ratio and timing of freshwater entry of returning adults compared to native, which may have fitness implications under specific conditions.
Implications of domestication and rearing conditions for the behaviour of cultivated fishes
Authors: Huntingford F. A.
Published: December 2004

Farmed fishes are often selectively bred for desirable production traits, such as rapid growth, that brings with them behavioural differences. In addition, the striking differences in the environment experienced by wild and cultured fishes offers considerable scope both for unplanned, natural selection for different inherited behavioural phenotypes and for behavioural differences arising from differential experience. In this paper, the evidence that such processes have produced behavioural differences between wild and cultured fishes is reviewed in relation to feeding, antipredator responses, aggression and reproductive behaviour. The reported findings are discussed in relation to the concept of ‘behavioural syndromes’, or suites of co‐varying behavioural traits that adapt individuals of the same population to spatial and temporal variation in selection regimes. The implications of the behaviour of cultured fishes for their welfare in production cages, for the environmental impact of escapees on wild stocks and for the success of hatchery‐based restocking programmes are considered. The review inevitably concentrates on salmonids, in which such phenomena have been intensively researched.
Stocking hatchery‐reared brown trout in different densities into a wild population – a comparison of growth and movement
Authors: Baer J.
Published: December 2004

In spring 2001 and 2002 a small stream was stocked with tagged hatchery‐reared yearling brown trout (Salmo trutta), in order to study their influence on the resident brown trout population. The stream was separated into six sections: two sections without stocking, two sections where stocking doubled the trout population and two sections where the fish population was quadrupled. The working hypothesis was that due to food limitation (competition) growth of the wild fish will be negatively influenced by stocking, and wild fish will be displaced by the (possibly more aggressive) hatchery fish. Surprisingly, growth rate of wild and stocked fish of the same age was similar and independent of stocking density. Two main reasons may be responsible for this finding: only a low percentage of the stocked fish remained in the stream, and food was not limited during summer. Only 12–19% of the stocked fish were recaptured after six months, in contrats to 40–70% of one‐year old and up to 100% of older wild trout. The wild fish were not displaced by hatchery‐reared fish: During summer the wild fish remained more or less stationary, whereas most of the stocked trout had left their release site. The results indicate that in a natural stream stocking of hatchery reared brown trout does not influence negatively growth and movement of the wild fish independent of stocking density.
Genetic quality of domesticated African tilapia populations
Authors: Brummett R. E. , Ponzoni R.
Published: December 2004

Anecdotal and empirical evidence exists for substantial (up to 40%) declines in growth among Oreochromis populations domesticated in both large and small‐scale fish farms in Africa. These declines are at least partly attributable to poor genetic management, including inadvertent selection, inbreeding, bottle‐necks and founder effects. Due to restricted cash flow and investment capital, genetic management and selective breeding for the improvement of domesticate populations are difficult for small‐scale farmers, but feasible on larger‐scale farms. In managing domesticated gene pools, feral populations can serve as a broodstock reservoir, making the use of indigenous species advantageous. A development model of large‐scale hatcheries producing selected lines of sex‐reversed, indigenous tilapia for sale to smaller‐scale farmers is proposed as a solution to the problems of poor genetic management in African aquaculture.
Polyculture production of juvenile fishes for survival in nature
Authors: Burke J. S. , Morris J. , Kenworthy J.
Published: December 2004

Production of seed for stock enhancement projects requires consideration of the behavioural quality of the animals to be released in the wild. Our approach to improving behavioural quality of hatchery fish is to raise them in polyculture with the plants or animals that fish normally utilize as shelter in nature. Results suggest that such ‘naturalized’ systems provide a broad improvement in behaviour as both predator avoidance and feeding skills were improved relative to control hatchery fish. In addition fish in a naturalized system grew better and were more tolerant of stress than were fish reared by traditional hatchery methods. We hypothesize that the spatial heterogeneity of our ‘naturalized’ systems provided training in both hiding and seeking and that these activities improved feed conversion and stress tolerance.
Experimental investigation of the success of stocked, domestic brown trout and their effects on wild brown trout in upland and lowland rivers
Authors: Chatterji R. K. , Stubbing D. N. , Bark A. W. , Williams W. P.
Published: December 2004

The stocking of adult, domestic brown trout (DBT)(Salmo trutta L.) to supplement angling catches is a common practice. There is increasing concern, however, over the effects of such stockings on indigenous wild brown trout (WBT) populations. This paper describes an experimental field trial to explore the success of stocked DBT and their effects on WBT growth and abundance. DBT adults were stocked into upland rain‐fed and lowland spring‐fed streams. Three stocking treatments and a control were replicated six times for each of the two stream categories. In spring, baseline adult (defined as >200 mm LF) WBT densities were increased by 25, 50 and 100% using equal quantities of two different strains of DBT from two large suppliers. All DBT were measured, weighed and tagged before being stocked. The stocking procedure approximated to current stocking practice. A total of 48 500 m experimental sites were used. The abundance of WBT was estimated at each survey site in the summer prior to stocking via electrofishing and the depletion method. All WBT captured were measured and weighed. In addition, all WBT >100 mm were tagged. Habitat was assessed using the HABSCORE model. Post‐treatment monitoring was undertaken in the summer following stocking. Data will be presented regarding the effects of the stocking treatments on the growth and abundance of WBT as well as the strain‐dependent performance of DBT across all sites and on a river type‐specific basis. The suitability of using HABSCORE to formulate appropriate stocking densities will be discussed.
Differences in the energetic cost of swimming in turbulent flow between wild, farmed and domesticated juvenile Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Enders E. C. , Boisclair D. , Roy A. G.
Published: December 2004

Domestication has been shown to have an effect on morphology and behaviour of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). We compared swimming costs of three groups of juvenile Atlantic salmon subject to different levels of domestication: (1) wild fish; (2) first generation farmed fish origination from wild genitors; and (2) seventh generation farmed fish originating from Norwegian aquaculture stocks. We assessed swimming costs under two types of turbulent flow (one mean flow velocity of 23 cm s−1 and two standard deviations of flow velocity of 5 and 8 cm s−1). Respirometry experiments were conducted with fish in a mass range of 5–15 g wet at a water temperature of 15° C. Our results confirm (1) that net swimming costs are affected by different levels of turbulence such that, for a given mean flow velocity, fish spent 1·5‐times more energy as turbulence increased, (2) that domesticated fish differed in their morphology (having deeper bodies and smaller fins) and in their net swimming costs (being up to 30·3% higher than for wild fish) and (3) that swimming cost models developed for farmed fish may be also be applied to wild fish in turbulent environments.
Long‐term studies on genetic interaction between wild and ranched cod Gadus morhua by use of a genetic marked strain
Authors: Jørstad K. E. , Nævdal G. , Karlsen Ø. , Torkildsen S. , Paulsen O. I. , Otterå H.
Published: December 2004

Releases of farmed fish, whether accidental from commercial aquaculture facilities or intentional as part of stock enhancement/ranching activities, are considered to pose a risk to native gene pools. Stock enhancement studies of Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua, based on artificially produced juveniles, were initiated in 1984 in western Norway, and genetic aspects were incorporated. In order to investigate potential interbreeding between released and wild cod, a genetically marked cod strain was developed, being homozygotic for a rare allele (GPI‐1*30) expressed in white muscle tissue. In the period from 1990 to 1994, juveniles from the genetic marked strain were released in large quantities in three locations (Masfjord, Øygarden, Heimarkspollen), giving a significant increase of the marker allele in the local wild cod populations. Recently, studies have been conducted in the same areas to estimate the extent of interbreeding between the wild and released cod. The results, however, revealed no permanent increase of the frequency of the marker allele and/or GPI‐1*30 heterozygotes as would be expected from interbreeding. The recent data are compared with comprehensive genetic data of the cod populations in the areas before the actual releases, covering the full period from 1994 to 2003. The present results are also discussed in relation to fishing pressure on coastal cod, migration information and reproductive success of released, genetically marked cod.
Population dynamics of fisheries stock enhancement
Authors: Lorenzen K.
Published: December 2004

The population dynamics of fisheries stock enhancement, and its potential for generating benefits over and above those obtainable from optimal exploitation of wild stocks alone are poorly understood and highly controversial. I extend the dynamic pool theory of fishing to stock enhancement by unpacking recruitment, incorporating regulation in the recruited stock, and accounting for biological differences between wild and hatchery fish. I then analyse the dynamics of stock enhancement and its potential role in fisheries management, using the candidate stock of North Sea sole as an example. Enhancement through release of recruits or advanced juveniles is predicted to increase total yield and stock abundance, but reduce abundance of the naturally recruited stock component through compensatory responses or overfishing. Release of genetically maladapted fish reduces the effectiveness of enhancement, and is most detrimental overall if fitness of hatchery fish is only moderately compromised. As a temporary measure for rebuilding of depleted stocks, enhancement can not substitute for effort limitation, and is advantageous as an auxiliary measure only if the population has been reduced to a very low proportion of its unexploited biomass. Quantitative analysis of population dynamics is central to the responsible use of stock enhancement in fisheries management, and the necessary tools are available.
Ecological model of interactions between escaped and wild Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Stephens A. , Cooper A. B.
Published: December 2004

Atlantic salmon in Maine were once abundant but have become depleted, and are listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. Historically, salmon numbers in Maine may have been as high as 100 000 adults, but habitat loss, pollution and overfishing have contributed to the decline of the species. In 2000, only 110 adults returned to spawn in Maine rivers. Maine produces c. 15 000 metric tons/year of aquacultured Atlantic salmon from a total of nearly 600 coastal net pens. Escapees from these pens may interact with the wild salmon. The dynamics of salmon populations under such conditions are poorly understood. In order to illuminate the role aquaculture may play in such a system, we have developed a model for simulating population trajectories for both wild salmon and competing populations derived from aquaculture escapes. The model simulates a small population of wild salmon based in a stream/estuary system, into which an aquaculture facility is losing fish to escapes. Biological parameters in the model were estimated as much as possible from data in the USFWS report on Maine salmon. We used the model to investigate the consequences of a variety of ecological interactions between the wild and cultured fish including competitive, genetic and disease effects. Initial results indicate that many of these effects allow the aquaculture‐derived population to supplant the wild fish, but that wild populations may still persist under some conditions.
Domestication and absolute ownership of fish in the English common law
Authors: Walrut B. P.
Published: December 2004

The English common law has, for the purpose of describing the rights of ownership of animals, divided them into two classes, those the subject of absolute ownership and those the subject of a limited property right. In this system, fish have long been regarded as the subject of a limited property right, one dependent on possession.

The principles underlying those concepts follow the Roman law concepts applicable to the proprietorship of animals and adopted in much of Europe. Those principles were further developed and adapted over many centuries in England, but more significantly in the common law countries outside of England, over the last century. They are principles that have a limited relationship to domestication. Drawing on the recent decisions outside of England it is possible to refashion the commonly presented tests as to the absolute ownership of animals. Based on those decisions, it may be asserted, that a person may absolutely own an animal that is a member of a population of animals that have had a long association with humans, or are exploited by a community in a recognized manner, other than by hunting. When applied to fish, particularly those from stock enhancement, sea ranching and aquaculture escapes, those principles raise a number of questions. Does the aquaculturist remain the owner of the fish that have escaped? Is it possible to retain ownership of stock enhancements and sea ranched fish? In some cases they may also raise an issue as to the liability for those fish at large.
The importance of aquaculture to nase Chondrostoma nasus conservation in Poland
Authors: Kaczkowski Z. , Ciesla M. , Zalewski M.
Published: December 2004

Nase Chondrostoma nasus L. is one of the most threatened reophilic fish species in Poland. At present it has almost disappeared from the northern and central parts of its range while in the south its abundance has decreased. Protection of the species through closed seasons, catch and size limits has not been sufficient, and active enhancement through stocking is now applied. Developing the technology of hormonally induced spawning and adapting carp pond culture techniques for the rearing of nase enabled substantial enhancement efforts. According to Polish Anglers Association, stocking has increased from 50 000 of hatchlings in 1994 to 840 000 of hatchlings, 568 000 summer and 900 000 autumn juveniles, and 1720 two year‐old fish in 2002. At present the problems to be solved urgently are preserving the genetic diversity of cultured and wild populations, and evaluating stocking effectiveness.
Influence of dry diets on reproductive performance and egg lipid composition during the first spawning season of captive pollack
Authors: Omnes M. H. , Recek S. , Barone H. , Le Delliou H. , Schmitz A. , Mutelet A. , Suquet M. , Robin J. H.
Published: December 2004

Four‐year‐old pollack Pollachius pollachius L., previously fed on dry pellets since their juvenile stage, were divided into three experimental groups two months prior their first spawning season. They were fed a commercial broodstock pellet enriched with 6% added oils, either: (1) capelin oil (control), (2) capelin oil plus arachidonic acid, or (3) DHA rich tuna oil. Spawning performance was determined in each group and egg lipids were analysed. During the vitellogenic period, the estradiol levels in plasma increased with oocyte enlargement, indicating that captivity and pelleted feed did not affect reproductive capacity. Females from each group spawned spontaneously between February and May. Egg production per kg of female was highest in the control group. Fertilization rate was highest (39%) in the group fed on diet enhanced in DHA. Lipid content in eggs reached 16% of dry mass, containing mainly phospholipids (75%). Egg fatty acid profiles showed few differences between dietary treatments. There was no significant difference in the concentration of Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n − 3) between groups. Arachidonic acid (20:4n − 6) was lower in neutral and polar lipids of eggs from the control group than in the other groups. Tuna oil diet induced the highest DHA/EPA ratio in eggs and seemed to provide sufficient arachidonic acid for pollack broodstock. Egg fatty acid profiles are compared with 6 year‐old pollack broodstock fed on fish, and with other cultured and wild fish species.
Distribution of genetic variation in farmed and natural stocks of european eel
Authors: Pujolar J. M. , Maes G. E. , Volckaert F. A. M.
Published: December 2004

European eel (Anguilla anguilla; Teleostei) is a valuable commercial species. However, over the past 25 years, the population of European eel has been declining to such a degree that major concerns have been raised for its long‐term conservation. Since little information is available on the life‐cycle and genetic structure of European eel, it has been difficult to evaluate the existence of any population substructuring. Molecular genetic methods contribute to a better knowledge of the demography and population structure in marine fish. In addition, management strategies and conservation goals must consider information on genetic substructuring as well as on life history patterns.

The aim of the study is to provide more detailed knowledge on the genetic variability, demography and population substructuring of European eel by analysing and comparing natural and farmed individuals. Natural eel samples have been obtained in two geographical sites (Netherlands, France) including temporal samples in a short‐scale (within years) and a long‐scale (between years). Simultaneously, farmed glass eels have been grown in two separate batches during one year. Batches have been monitored and genetic samples have been obtained during the year.

A combination of selection‐sensitive (allozymes) and selection‐neutral markers (microsatellites) has been used in the study since selection seems to play an important role in the determination of the quality of future eel spawners. Results suggest a positive correlation between growth and genetic variability since individuals attaining a large length and mass present significant higher heterozygosities.
Portrayals of Stepfamilies in Film: Using Media Images in Remarriage Education
Authors: Leon Kim , Angst Erin
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Media portrayals of stepfamilies influence societal views of stepfamilies and individuals’ expectations for remarriage and stepfamily life. This study examines portrayals of stepfamilies in films released in 1990 through 2003. Using content analysis to understand how stepfamilies are portrayed and to identify film clips appropriate for use in remarriage education programs, we found that stepfamilies were typically depicted in a negative or mixed way. In addition, stepparent‐child relations, remarried couple relationships, and issues related to former partners were frequently portrayed. Film clips illustrating themes of stepparent‐child relationships, prior marriage, conflict with former partner(s), couple relations, couple conflict, stepsibling relations, and stepfamily strengths are discussed, as well as their use in educational programming.
Being a Wife of a Veteran with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder*
Authors: Dekel Rachel , Goldblatt Hadass , Keidar Michal , Solomon Zahava , Polliack Michael
Published: December 2004

Abstract: We present the findings from a qualitative study examining the marital perceptions of 9 wives of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Data were from a semistructured in‐depth focus group interview. Findings reveal how the lives of these women largely revolved around their husbands’ illness. The wives faced constant tension between being drawn into a fusion with their husbands and the struggle to maintain their independence. In addition, the wives identified positive aspects of the marital relationship that granted them strength for current and future coping. Implications for practice are included.
Perceptions of Attachment Style and Marital Quality in Midlife Marriage*
Authors: Hollist Cody S. , Miller Richard B.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Based on attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) theorizes that attachment styles influence marital quality. Although research supports this relationship among young couples, no research has examined attachment styles and marital quality in midlife marriages. We examined this issue using data from 429 married people between the ages of 40 and 50. Results indicated that insecure attachment styles were associated with marital quality, whereas secure attachment was not. These results suggest that EFT therapists can help midlife couples in distressed relationships move from insecure to secure attachment styles. However, the use of EFT to help these couples who have secure attachment styles is questioned.
Science and pre‐school children with special educational needs: aspects of home‐based teaching sessions
Authors: Bennington Andrea
Published: December 2004

This article focuses upon the role of the peripatetic pre‐school teacher for children who have special educational needs. It explores the key issues involved in home‐based teaching; the importance of developing meaningful partnerships with parents; early intervention; and the significance of play in promoting learning for young children. The research that informs this article is concerned with the possibility of teaching science to pre‐school children with special educational needs. The author, Andrea Bennington, was herself an early years special educational needs inclusion teacher when she undertook the work described here. She is now an advisory teacher for children with physical disabilities. In this example of practitioner research, key scientific concepts are discussed in the context of intervention through play carried out in the home setting. The work focuses on the responses of six children to a sequence of six ‘experiments’ carried out through a period of teaching. Andrea Bennington asks whether science activities can be used to promote the learning experiences of pre‐school children who have special educational needs and, therefore, their inclusion in teaching and learning situations.
Invisible children? The need for support groups for siblings of disabled children
Authors: Naylor Angie , Prescott Phil
Published: December 2004

Previous research and first‐hand experience suggest that a child with a disability can have a profound effect on family life. Although the need for sibling support has been acknowledged in legislation, the implications for non‐disabled siblings remain unclear. In this article, Angie Naylor, lecturer in psychology, and Phil Prescott, senior lecturer in childhood and youth studies, both based at Edge Hill, review a number of key themes emerging from the literature on sibling support. They go on to report the findings from an in‐depth study of one sibling support group. The work was carried out in partnership with Barnardo's in the north‐west of England and involved setting up a sibling support group, in response to an analysis of local need, and evaluating its impact. This research indicates a clear need for further service provision to meet the needs of the siblings of disabled children who attended the scheme. Angie Naylor and Phil Prescott argue for a reinvigorated debate about the needs of such children and champion the importance of listening to children and valuing what they have to say. The results of this small‐scale evaluation project have clear implications for future research and, potentially, for policy and practice.
Feasibility of a project for active restocking of the sea adjacent the salt pans of Tarquinia (Italy)
Authors: Ingle E. , Venzi L.
Published: December 2004

The depletion of fish stocks in the Mediterranean suggests that restocking may be a useful approach for restoring fisheries. In this paper we consider the potential for using derelict salt pans at Tarquinia (50 miles north of Rome) to rear fish for restocking in adjacent coastal areas. We discuss candidate species for stock enhancement, ways of minimizing stress in the capture of broodstock, genetic monitoring of wild catches, various aspects of operational restocking (release stage of larvae or juveniles, etc) and suggest approaches for evaluating results. Finally, we provide an economic and financial analysis of investment costs and likely benefits for different scenarios, and guidelines for a restocking policy that may be implemented by public authorities.
DNA Polymorphism of Percidae population structure in the Kuibyshev water reservoir of Russia
Authors: Islam A. , Gorshkov O. V. , Chernov V. M. , Kuznetsov V. A.
Published: December 2004

The pike perches Stizostedion lucioperca and S. volgense, river perch Perca fluviatilis and ruffe Gymnocephalus cernuus are important components of the fish fauna of the Kuibyshev reservoir in Russia. We analysed genetic variation within and among populations of these species. Two microsatellite DNA from walleye S. vitreum were used as primers of this study. Each of the DNA markers resolved 6–10 alleles with locus Svi4 and Svi6 and size range of 102–169 base pairs (bp). PCR was performed with the selected primers, with temperature cycles followed a denaturing profile for 30 s at 94° C. A final 10 min elongation step was resumed at 72° C after 35 cycles. Stizostedion volgense showed the highest bp of 100 to 3000, differing by sex, age and maturity level. The populations of P. fluviatilis have variable DNA polymorphism within the range 90–1000 base pairs. We also detected a new band in the fingerprints. The degree of neutral genetic variation detected indicates that effective population sizes of the study species are large.
Pharmacokinetics of saquinavir hard gel/ritonavir (1000/100 mg twice daily) when administered with tenofovir diproxil fumarate in HIV‐1‐infected subjects
Authors: Boffito Marta , Back David , Stainsby‐Tron Meredith , Hill Andrew , Di Perri Giovanni , Moyle Graeme , Nelson Mark , Tomkins Jaqui , Gazzard Brian , Pozniak Anton
Published: December 2004

Aims

To investigate whether the administration of tenofovir diproxil fumarate 300 mg once daily alters the plasma pharmacokinetics of the saquinavir hard gel/ritonavir combination in HIV‐1 infected individuals.

Methods

On day 1, 12 h pharmacokinetic profiles for saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg given twice daily) were obtained for 18 subjects. All subjects were receiving ongoing treatment with a saquinavir/ritonavir‐containing regimen. Tenofovir diproxil fumarate 300 mg given once daily was then added to the regimen and blood sampling was repeated at days 3 and 14. Saquinavir and ritonavir concentrations were measured by HPLC–MS/MS, and tenofovir concentrations by HPLC with UV detection.

Results

Following the addition of tenofovir diproxil fumarate to the regimen, saquinavir and ritonavir plasma concentrations were not significantly different compared with day 1. Thus the geometric mean ratios (95% confidence intervals) for the area under the concentration‐time curve were 1.16 (0.97, 1.59) and 0.99 (0.87, 1.30) for saquinavir and 1.05 (0.92, 1.28) and 1.08 (0.97, 1.30) for ritonavir, on days 3 and 14, respectively.

Conclusions

Tenofovir diproxil fumarate did not alter the pharmacokinetics of saquinavir hard gel/ritonavir.
Bioavailability of diclofenac potassium at low doses
Authors: Hinz Burkhard , Chevts Julia , Renner Bertold , Wuttke Henrike , Rau Thomas , Schmidt Andreas , Szelenyi Istvan , Brune Kay , Werner Ulrike
Published: December 2004

Aim

Diclofenac‐K has been recently launched at low oral doses in different countries for over‐the‐counter use. However, given the considerable first‐pass metabolism of diclofenac, the degree of absorption of diclofenac‐K at low doses remained to be determined. The aim of this study was to determine the bioavailability of low‐dose diclofenac‐K.

Methods

A randomized, three‐way, cross‐over study was performed in 10 subjects. Each received diclofenac‐K, 22.5 mg via short‐term i.v. infusion and orally at single doses of 12.5 mg and 25 mg.

Results

Mean (± SD) times to maximal plasma concentration (tmax) of diclofenac were 0.48 ± 0.28 h (12.5 mg) and 0.93 ± 0.96 h (25 mg). The absolute bioavailability of diclofenac‐K after oral administration did not differ significantly in the 12.5‐mg and 25‐mg dose group (63.1 ± 12.6%vs. 65.1 ± 19.4%, respectively). The 90% confidence intervals for the AUC∞ and AUCt ratios for the two oral regimes were 82.6, 103.4% (point estimate 92.4%) and 86.2, 112.9% (point estimate 98.6%), respectively. These values were within the acceptance criteria for bioequivalence (80–125%).

Conclusions

Our data indicate that diclofenac‐K is rapidly and well absorbed at low dose, and are consistent with a rapid onset of action of the drug.

Abbreviations

AUC, area under plasma concentraton‐time curve; Cmax, peak plasma concentration; CI, confidence interval; COX, cyclooxygenase; D, dose; F, absolute bioavailability; tmax, time to reach Cmax.
National Prescribing Service: creating an implementation arm for national medicines policy
Authors: Weekes L. M. , Mackson J. M. , Fitzgerald M. , Phillips S. R.
Published: December 2004

Medicines make an essential contribution to the health of the community, but rapidly rising drug budgets have caused governments to seek ways of ensuring this expenditure results in value for money. The National Prescribing Service was established against this background to implement a quality use of medicines service as part of the National Medicines Policy. A range of programmes that attempt to use evidence‐based strategies to deliver evidence‐based messages have been established. These use multifaceted interventions, such as newsletters, prescriber feedback, clinical audit and educational visiting, that are provided both centrally, through the national office, and locally, through Divisions of General Practice. The work is underpinned by an evaluation strategy that incorporates strong qualitative elements as well as an emphasis on time‐series analyses for changes in drug utilization. Some 80% of Australian general practitioners have voluntarily participated in activities such as educational visiting and clinical audit within the National Prescribing Service programmes. New programmes for the community and consumers will be coordinated with the work that has become well established within general practice.
Intratumoral immunotherapy: using the tumour against itself
Authors: Crittenden Marka R. , Thanarajasingam Uma , Vile Richard G. , Gough Michael J.
Published: December 2004

Diverse immunotherapy approaches have achieved success in controlling individual aspects of immune responses in animal models. Transfer of such immunotherapies to clinical trials has obtained some success in patients, with clinical responses observed or effective antigen specific immune responses achieved, but has had limited impact on patient survival. Key elements required to generate de novo cell‐mediated antitumour immune responses in vivo include recruitment of antigen‐presenting cells to the tumour site, loading these cells with antigen, and their migration and maturation to full antigen‐presenting function. In addition, it is essential for antigen‐specific T cells to locate the tumour to mediate cytotoxicity, emphasizing the need for local inflammation to target effector cell recruitment. We review those therapies that involve the tumour site as a target and source of antigen for the initiation of immune responses, and discuss strategies to generate and co‐ordinate an optimal cell‐mediated immune response to control tumours locally.
Influence of pathological progression on the balance between cellular and humoral immune responses in bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Welsh Michael D. , Cunningham Rodat T. , Corbett David M. , Girvin R. Martyn , McNair James , Skuce Robin A. , Bryson David G. , Pollock John M.
Published: December 2004

Studies of tuberculosis have suggested a shift in dominance from a T helper type 1 (Th1) towards a Th2 immune response that is associated with suppressed cell‐mediated immune (CMI) responses and increased humoral responses as the disease progresses. In this study a natural host disease model was used to investigate the balance of the evolving immune response towards Mycobacterium bovis infection in cattle with respect to pathogenesis. Cytokine analysis of CD4 T‐cell clones derived from M. bovis‐infected animals gave some indication that there was a possible relationship between enhanced pathogenesis and an increased ratio of Th0 [interleukin‐4‐positive/interferon‐γ‐positive (IL‐4+/IFN‐γ+)] clones to Th1 (IFN‐γ+) clones. All animals developed strong antimycobacterial CMI responses, but depressed cellular responses were evident as the disease progressed, with the IFN‐γ test failing to give consistently positive results in the latter stages. Furthermore, a stronger Th0 immune bias, depressed in vitro CMI responses, elevated levels of IL‐10 expression and enhanced humoral responses were also associated with increased pathology. In minimal disease, however, a strong Th1 immune bias was maintained and an anti‐M. bovis humoral response failed to develop. It was also seen that the level of the anti‐M. bovis immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) isotype antibody responses correlated with the pathology scores, whereas CMI responses did not have as strong a relationship with the development of pathology. Therefore, the development and maintenance of a Th1 IFN‐γ response is associated with a greater control of M. bovis infection. Animals progressing from a Th1‐biased to a Th0‐biased immune response developed more extensive pathology and performed less well in CMI‐based diagnostic tests but developed strong IgG1 humoral responses.
Deviation from major codons in the Toll‐like receptor genes is associated with low Toll‐like receptor expression
Authors: Zhong Fei , Cao Weiping , Chan Edmund , Tay Puei Nam , Cahya Florence Feby , Zhang Haifeng , Lu Jinhua
Published: December 2004

Microbial structures activate Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and TLR‐mediated cell signalling elicits and regulates host immunity. Most TLRs are poorly expressed but the underlying expression mechanism is not clear. Examination TLR sequences revealed that most human TLR genes deviated from using major human codons. CD14 resembles TLRs in sequence but its gene preferentially uses major codons. Indeed, CD14 expression on monocytes was higher than expression of TLR1 and TLR2. The TLR9 gene is abundant in major codons and it also showed higher expression than TLR1, TLR2 and TLR7 in transfected 293T cells. Change of the 5′‐end 302 base pairs of the TLR2 sequence into major human codons markedly increased TLR2 expression, which led to increased TLR2‐mediated constitutive nuclear factor‐κB activation. Change of the 5′‐end 381 base pairs of the CD14 sequence into prevalent TLR codons markedly reduced CD14 expression. These results collectively show that the deviation of TLR sequences from using major codons dictates the low TLR expression and this may protect the host against excessive inflammation and tissue damages.
Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase in plants affects energy homeostasis, cell death and stress tolerance
Authors: Block Marc De , Verduyn Christoph , Brouwer Dirk De , Cornelissen Marc
Published: December 2004

Plants contain two genes that code for poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP): parp1 and parp2. Both PARPs are activated by DNA damage caused by, example reactive oxygen species. Upon activation polymers of ADP‐ribose are synthesized on a range of nuclear enzymes using NAD+ as substrate. Here, we show that in plants stresses such as drought, high light and heat activate PARP causing NAD+ breakdown and ATP consumption. When the PARP activity is reduced by means of chemical inhibitors or by gene silencing, cell death is inhibited and plants become tolerant to a broad range of abiotic stresses like high light, drought and heat. Plant lines with low poly(ADP‐ribosyl)ation activity maintain under stress conditions their energy homeostasis by reducing NAD+ breakdown and consequently energy consumption. The higher energy‐use efficiency avoids the need for a too intense mitochondrial respiration and consequently reduces the formation of reactive oxygen species. From these results it can be concluded that breeding or engineering for a high energy‐use efficiency under stress conditions is a valuable, but until today nearly unexploited, approach to enhance overall stress tolerance of crops.
Insulin resistance in human adipocytes occurs downstream of IRS1 after surgical cell isolation but at the level of phosphorylation of IRS1 in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Danielsson Anna , Öst Anita , Lystedt Erika , Kjolhede Preben , Gustavsson Johanna , Nystrom Fredrik H. , Strålfors Peter
Published: December 2004

Insulin resistance is a cardinal feature of type 2 diabetes and also a consequence of trauma such as surgery. Directly after surgery and cell isolation, adipocytes were insulin resistant, but this was reversed after overnight incubation in 10% CO2 at 37 °C. Tyrosine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate (IRS)1 was insulin sensitive, but protein kinase B (PKB) and downstream metabolic effects exhibited insulin resistance that was reversed by overnight incubation. MAP‐kinases ERK1/2 and p38 were strongly phosphorylated after surgery, but was dephosphorylated during reversal of insulin resistance. Phosphorylation of MAP‐kinase was not caused by collagenase treatment during cell isolation and was present also in tissue pieces that were not subjected to cell isolation procedures. The insulin resistance directly after surgery and cell isolation was different from insulin resistance of type 2 diabetes; adipocytes from patients with type 2 diabetes remained insulin resistant after overnight incubation. IRS1, PKB, and downstream metabolic effects, but not insulin‐stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor, exhibited insulin resistance. These findings suggest a new approach in the study of surgery‐induced insulin resistance and indicate that human adipocytes should recover after surgical procedures for analysis of insulin signalling. Moreover, we pinpoint the signalling dysregulation in type 2 diabetes to be the insulin‐stimulated phosphorylation of IRS1 in human adipocytes.