bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expression of a mutated phospholipase A2 in transgenic Aedes fluviatilis mosquitoes impacts Plasmodium gallinaceum development
Authors: Rodrigues F. G. , Santos M. N. , De Carvalho T. X. T. , Rocha B. C. , Riehle M. A. , Pimenta P. F. P. , Abraham E. G. , Jacobs‐Lorena M. , Alves de Brito C. F. , Moreira L. A. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractThe genetic manipulation of mosquito vectors is an alternative strategy in the fight against malaria. It was previously shown that bee venom phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibits ookinete invasion of the mosquito midgut although mosquito fitness was reduced. To maintain the PLA2 blocking ability without compromising mosquito biology, we mutated the protein‐coding sequence to inactivate the enzyme while maintaining the protein's structure. DNA encoding the mutated PLA2 (mPLA2) was placed downstream of a mosquito midgut‐specific promoter (Anopheles gambiae peritrophin protein 1 promoter, AgPer1) and this construct used to transform Aedes fluviatilis mosquitoes. Four different transgenic lines were obtained and characterized and all lines significantly inhibited Plasmodium gallinaceum oocyst development (up to 68% fewer oocysts). No fitness cost was observed when this mosquito species expressed the mPLA2.
Molecular cloning and characterization of cDNAs encoding dopamine receptor‐1 and ‐2 from brain‐suboesophageal ganglion of the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Mitsumasu K. , Ohta H. , Tsuchihara K. , Asaoka K. , Ozoe Y. , Niimi T. , Yamashita O. , Yaginuma T. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractIn order to better understand the relationship between dopamine and the release of diapause hormone into the blood, we cloned and characterized cDNAs encoding Bombyx mori dopamine receptor‐1 and ‐2 (BmDopR1 and 2) from the pupal brain‐suboesophageal ganglion. BmDopR1 and 2 had high similarities to group 1 (Drosophila melanogaster DOP1 and Apis mellifera DOP1) and group 2 (D. melanogaster DopR99B, A. mellifera DOP2 and Papilio xuthus DOP1), respectively. When BmDopR1 and 2 were expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells, they responded to dopamine by increasing intracellular cAMP levels, thus indicating the presence of D1‐like receptors. There were no clear differences in BmDopR1 and 2 mRNA levels between brain‐suboesophageal ganglion complexes of diapause and nondiapause egg producers during pupal–adult development. BmDopR1 and 2 mRNAs were concentrated in the mushroom body calyx rather than in the suboesophageal ganglion. Taking into account the results of earlier experiments on excised regions corresponding to mushroom bodies, BmDopR1 and 2 in the mushroom body apparently play a role in the release of diapause hormone.
Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis of pacifastin‐related precursor transcripts during the reproductive cycle of solitarious and gregarious desert locusts
Authors: Breugelmans B. , Simonet G. , Van Hoef V. , Claeys I. , Van Soest S. , Vanden Broeck J. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractIn locusts, little is known about the physiological and biochemical mechanisms regulating complex processes, such as reproduction and phase transition. The pacifastin family constitutes a family of peptidic inhibitors of serine proteases that are considered to be important regulators of several physiological processes in arthropods. We have performed a detailed transcript profiling analysis of two pacifastin‐related peptide precursors, SGPP‐2 and SGPP‐4, during the reproductive cycle of adult desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria). This quantitative real‐time (RT)‐PCR analysis revealed a temporal regulation of both transcripts, which is paralleled by several events that occur during the reproductive cycle of adult locusts. The observed temporal transcript profiles display a strong tissue‐, gender‐ and phase‐dependence. In addition, a partial regregarization experiment suggests that both transcript levels are regulated during phase transition and can be employed as molecular markers of the gregarization process.
An examination of the impact of learning objects in secondary school
Authors: Kay R.H. , Knaack L. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractVery few studies have systematically evaluated the effect of learning objects in secondary school classrooms. The vast majority of studies have focussed on higher education. The current study examined the impact of learning objects from the perspective of 850 students and 27 teachers (50 classrooms) of science, mathematics, or social science. The results suggest that teachers typically spend 1 to 2 h finding and preparing for learning object based lesson plans that focus on the review of previous concepts. Both teachers and students are positive about the learning benefits, quality, and engagement value of learning objects, although teachers are more positive than students. Student performance increased significantly – almost 30% – when learning objects were used in conjunction with a variety of teaching strategies. It is reasonable to conclude that learning objects are a viable teaching tool in a secondary school environment.
Health and sleep problems in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: a case control study
Authors: Hall S. S. , Arron K. , Sloneem J. , Oliver C. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractBackground  Self‐injury, sleep problems and health problems are commonly reported in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) but there are no comparisons with appropriately matched participants. The relationship between these areas and comparison to a control group is warranted.Method  54 individuals with CdLS were compared with 46 participants with intellectual disability (ID) of mixed aetiology who were similar in terms of degree of ID, mobility, age and gender using informant‐based measures of health problems, sleep and self‐injury.Results  Participants with CdLS experienced significantly more current and lifetime health problems with eye problems and gastrointestinal disorders prominent. Although 55% of those with CdLS experienced sleep problems this prevalence was not different from the comparison group. Sleep disorder was not associated with self‐injury in the CdLS group, skin problems were associated with severity of self‐injury but not presence.Discussion  People with CdLS experience a range of significant health problems and have more health concerns than others with the same degree of ID. Although this has been well documented in the past, the current high prevalence of health concerns indicates the need for regular health assessment and appropriate intervention.
Inverse transcriptional activities during complementary chromatic adaptation are controlled by the response regulator RcaC binding to red and green light‐responsive promoters
Authors: Li Lina , Alvey Richard M. , Bezy Ryan P. , Kehoe David M. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryComplementary chromatic adaptation (CCA) provides cyanobacteria with the ability to shift between red and blue‐green phenotypes that are optimized for absorption of different wavelengths of light. Controlled by the ratio of green to red light, this process results from differential expression of two groups of operons, many of which encode proteins involved in photosynthetic light harvesting antennae biogenesis. In the freshwater species Fremyella diplosiphon, the inverse regulation of these two classes is complex and occurs through different mechanisms. It also involves a two‐component pathway that includes a phytochrome‐class photoreceptor and the response regulator RcaC. Here we uncover the mechanism through which this system controls CCA by demonstrating that RcaC binds to the L Box within promoters of both classes of light‐regulated operons. We provide functional evidence that complementary regulation of these operons occurs by RcaC's simultaneous activation and repression of transcription in red light. We identify rcaC and L Boxes in the genome of a marine cyanobacterium capable of CCA, suggesting widespread use of this control system. These results provide important insights into the long‐standing enigma of CCA regulation and complete the first description of an entire two‐component system controlled by a phytochrome‐class photoreceptor.
A new approach to the assessment of aged community service users
Authors: CABAN PETER 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This paper was written in response to the recognition of problems with multiple assessment of frail aged clients wishing to access various rural community services. Primarily under the Home and Community Care program, these offer a range of services with the aim of maintaining independence and preventing premature admission into long‐term residential care. To gain access, each service conducts an assessment—some of which have been shown to be lengthy and detailed, with some bordering on invasion of privacy. Research has shown that multiple assessment of clients by multiple agencies can be threatening to the client and can give them the feeling they are being judged. Further, there appears to be poor coordination and liaison between service agencies which exacerbates the problems inherent in multiple assessment, and provides an avenue for overservicing. This paper presents a solution to these problems. A pilot project is foreshadowed whereby the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) undertakes all assessments and enters the details into a communal database for access by all care providers via computer network. The paper suggests that such a multiscreen database with service provider access codes to ensure confidentiality would markedly reduce client stress. It is shown that community service administrative costs would be reduced enabling funds to be directed to actual field hours. Some redefining of staff roles and redeployment of staff would be necessary and these issues are discussed.The writer recognises that the proposal is somewhat idealistic. However it does address some significant problems with the current methods of client assessment. Potential solutions are offered and may provide a useful basis for future development.
Primary Health Care: A Darling Downs Focus
Authors: BLACKBURN KAYE 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Primary health care is a policy model Which integrates social principles into the functioning of the health system at the local level. There is increasing interest in primary health care policy development and in the implementation of primary health care due in part to: the challenge which primary health care raises to existing practice in health service planning and delivery; the changes in roles of health service professionals and consumers which primary health care demands, and the claims on resources which the implementation of primary health care may engender.The conceptual basis of primary health care demands that decision‐making be devolved to the local level. The organisational structure of the public health care system in Queensland, since regionalisation in July 1991, provides an environment which favours this localised decision‐making. The Darling Downs Regional Health Authority, one of 13 regional health authorities in Queensland, released a ‘Primary Health Care Discussion Paper’ as an element in its strategy for primary health care implementation at the regional level. This paper was intended to demystify the concept, raise the level of debate and stimulate discussion about how primary health care might affect health professionals and the community.This article analyses that discussion paper to illuminate the concept of primary health care emerging in the region and in Queensland Health. It also identifies potential barriers to the implementation of primary health care and outlines activities being undertaken in the region which illustrate ways in which primary health care can be manifested in local communities.
Accreditation of General Practice
Authors: HOYAL DIGBY 
Published: March 2008

SUMMARYIf we ask the who, what, why, how and when of these four key factors, do we obtain satisfactory replies?Can we satisfy ourselves that the whole process will save life or improve the outcomes of our treatments? If so, it were knavery to oppose it.Are we convinced that anything more than a voluntary adherence to proper standards produced carefully by our College is really necessary?If these are the questions, what are the answers?
Scabies: Treatment Failures and Hope for New Success
Authors: WOLTMAN LEIGH 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The literature shows that scabies has been considered endemic in Aboriginal communities for some time, that similar situations have been effectively treated overseas with community participation and education and that strains resistant to medication currently considered effective in Australia have been identified overseas.The article will briefly define the disease, describe the particularly debilitating form, Norwegian Scabies, then give a description of a recent drug trial combined with patient education, family and community discussion and treatment which is currently still in progress in an area of the Northern Territory of Australia.
Strategies for and Problems Associated with Maximising and Monitoring Compliance with Antibiotic Treatment for Otitis Media with Effusion in a Remote Aboriginal Community
Authors: KEMP KATHY , NIENHUYS TERRY , BOSWELL JUDITH , LEACH AMANDA , KANTILLA COLLEEN , TIPUAMANTAMIRRI MAUREEN , MATHEWS JOHN 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Poor compliance with prescribed treatment is a problem that all health tare providers have to manage on a daily basis as it directly influences patient outcome to treatment. This takes on even greater significance in the context of Australian Aboriginal health where poor compliance is an important factor limiting health advancement along with many other social and economic factors.This paper describes educational and other strategies used to maximise and monitor compliance in the context of an antibiotic treatment trial for infants with otitis media (OM) in a remote, traditionally‐oriented Aboriginal community. It uses a model of interaction that recognises that positive cross‐cultural interactions facilitate mutual cooperation. A maximum compliance rate with antibiotic treatment of 54 per cent was achieved in a group of 23 infants.
RURAL AND REMOTE ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS: IS DISTANCE EDUCATION A VIABLE OPTION FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY?
Authors: Sheppard Lorraine 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The community expectations and professional needs of rural and remote area allied health professionals differ from their city counterparts. For example, career opportunities within the rural and remote area service are limited as is access to continuing education and peer group support. In addition, their role is more diverse than that of their city counterparts as they are called upon to provide expert knowledge over a wider range of areas.Community expectations of rural and remote area allied health professionals has led to differences in educational needs. Clearly continuing education needs to be broadly based across specialisations and delivered in ways that allow access and are supportive of the circumstances of rural and remote area service workers.This paper aims to introduce research about the professional educational needs of rural and remote area physiotherapists in South Australia and the Northern Territory. In a response to these needs a trial and evaluation of two postgraduate distance education subjects in relation to their suitability in meeting these needs is discussed. Finally, a Graduate Certificate in Physiotherapy (Rural and Remote Area Studies) will be presented as one possible solution to these dilemmas.
IMPROVING EQUITY AND EFFICIENCY IN THE BUSH: A NEEDS‐BASED METHOD FOR HEALTHCARE RESOURCE ALLOCATION IN REMOTE COMMUNITIES
Authors: McDermott Robyn 
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Outback Australia still exists as a frontier economy, relying on public sector provision of the vast majority of services, including health care. In the Northern Territory (NT), high mortality ratios and hospitalisation rates reflect the poor health status of Aborigines who, in 1990‐91, accounted for 25% of the population but 40% of hospital patients and 53% of hospital bed days. Funding for primary health care continues to be based on historical utilisation rates, which perpetuates the existing bias towards the urban hospital sector. Health care expenditure analysis suggests that current expenditure patterns fail to fulfil national goals of equity of access and allocation efficiency (maximisation of health outcomes) for the NT Aboriginal population.This paper outlines a population needs‐based resource allocation formula for remote communities, which takes account of three factors: mortality, cost of remoteness and demographic structure. National per capita health care utilisation data are used as a baseline and an allocation weighting is proposed based on the above three factors. This formula is then applied to a typical remote central Australian community. The cost‐benefit implications of this alternative funding strategy are explored.
CONTINUOUS INFUSION OF SIVELESTAT SODIUM HYDRATE PREVENTS LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE‐INDUCED INTESTINAL PARALYSIS AND HYPOTENSION IN CONSCIOUS GUINEA‐PIGS
Authors: Hara Shunsuke , Nemoto Kayo , Ninomiya Norifumi , Kubota Minoru , Kuno Masamune , Yamamoto Yasuhiro 
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY

Sivelestat sodium hydrate (sivelestat), a neutrophil elastase inhibitor, is used to treat acute lung injury associated with systemic inflammatory response syndrome, but its effects have not been described for endotoxaemia. In the present study, we examined the effects of a continuous infusion of sivelestat on intestinal mechanical activity and blood pressure using an endotoxaemic model in conscious, unrestrained guinea‐pigs.
Guinea‐pigs underwent laparotomy while anaesthetized and were implanted with a force transducer sutured onto the taenia caecum. With this transducer, changes in tension in the intestinal longitudinal muscle were measured continuously via telemetry. Catheters were inserted into the carotid artery and jugular vein, were tunnelled subcutaneously and were accessed from the back of the neck. These catheters were connected to a cannula swivel and were used to monitor arterial pressure as well as to administer drugs i.v. in conscious, unrestrained guinea‐pigs. Twenty hours after surgery, guinea‐pigs received a single dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) 10 min after the start of a continuous 2 h i.v. infusion of sivelestat (30 mg/kg per h) or vehicle (saline). Elastase activity before and after sivelestat or vehicle administration was measured spectrometrically using a specific synthetic substrate.
We confirmed that intestinal longitudinal muscle tension decreased 2–3 h after LPS administration in the control group, with a concurrent decline in blood pressure. In guinea‐pigs treated with sivelestat, the LPS‐induced decreases in muscle tension and blood pressure were significantly reduced. In LPS‐treated control guinea‐pigs, serum elastase activity was elevated and this increase was significantly attenuated by administration of sivelestat.
The findings from the present study suggest that sivelstat can effectively reduce intestinal dysfunction and attenuate LPS‐induced decreases in blood pressure in endotoxaemia.
LONG‐TERM EXPOSURE TO EXTREMELY LOW‐FREQUENCY MAGNETIC FIELDS IMPAIRS SPATIAL RECOGNITION MEMORY IN MICE
Authors: Fu Yu , Wang Cangkai , Wang Jianhong , Lei Yanlin , Ma Yuanye 
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY

In the present study, we investigated the short‐ and long‐term effects of extremely low‐frequency (ELF) magnetic fields on spatial recognition memory in mice by using a two‐trial recognition Y‐maze that is based on the innate tendency of rodents to explore novel environments.
Mice were exposed to 25 or 50 Hz electromagnetic fields for either 7 (short term) or 25 days (long term) and then tested in the Y‐maze.
The results indicated that neither short‐ nor long‐term exposure to magnetic fields affected the locomotor activity of mice in the Y‐maze. However, long‐term exposure to 50 Hz fields reduced recognition of the novel arm.
Our findings suggest that ELF magnetic fields impair spatial recognition memory in the Y‐maze depending on the field strength and/or duration of exposure.
DEFECTIVE INTRACELLULAR Ca2+ HOMEOSTASIS CONTRIBUTES TO MYOCYTE DYSFUNCTION DURING VENTRICULAR REMODELLING INDUCED BY CHRONIC VOLUME OVERLOAD IN RATS
Authors: Ding Yan‐Feng , Brower Gregory L , Zhong Qiao , Murray David , Holland Merrilee , Janicki Joseph S , Zhong Juming 
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY

Previous studies have demonstrated progressive ventricular hypertrophy, dilatation and contractile depression in response to chronic volume overload. Whether this decompensation was related to intrinsic myocyte dysfunction was not clear. The present study evaluated ventricular myocyte function at critical times during the progression of ventricular remodelling induced by volume overload.
Chronic volume overload was induced with an infrarenal aortocaval fistula in rats. Myocyte contraction and intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) were evaluated using a fura‐2 fluorescence and edge detection system. Protein levels of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ transporters were determined by western blots. Progressive ventricular dilatation developed following creation of the fistula. Although myocyte function in 5 week fistula rats was comparable to that of the control group, myocytes from rats 10 weeks post‐fistula demonstrated significant depression of cell shortening and peak [Ca2+]i. Application of isoproterenol (0.1 µmol/L) was not able to compensate for the functional deficiency in myocytes from 10 week fistula rats. Caffeine (10 mmol/L) induced SR Ca2+ release, as well as protein expression of SR Ca2+‐ATPase, and ryanodine receptors were reduced in myocytes obtained from the same group of 10 week fistula rats.
These data indicate that the transition to heart failure secondary to chronic volume overload is related to depressed myocyte contractility secondary to altered intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis.
DO WE NEED MOLECULAR TOMOGRAPHY OF A CELL AND HOW CAN IT BE ACHIEVED?
Authors: Chen Yi‐Zhang , Chen Xiao‐Ping 
Published: March 2008

SUMMARYThe spatial relationship between intracellular molecules and their local concentrations are two critical parameters required for a better understanding of protein–protein interactions in the cell.Determination of the local concentration of proteins in individual cells using more sophisticated techniques and determination of the spatial relationship between a molecular platform and its partners is essential for allow us to obtain more convincing and concrete scientific conclusions.As a reasonable goal, development of molecular tomography of the cell is proposed.