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Accurate and quantitative regional estimates of the carbon budget require an integration of eddy covariance (EC) flux-tower observations and remote sensing in ecosystem models. In this study, a simple remote sensing driven light use efficiency (LUE) model was used to estimate the primary productivity for major cropping systems using multi-temporal satellite data over the Saharanpur district in India. The model is based on radiation absorption and its conversion into biomass. The LUE model was implemented for major crop rotations derived from the time-series of Sentinel-2 and Landsat 8 with monthly satellite-based spatially explicit fields of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), fraction of absorbed PAR (fAPAR) and down-regulated light use efficiency. Incident PAR and fAPAR were estimated on monthly basis from the ground-calibrated empirical equation using INSAT-3D insolation product and remote sensing–based vegetation indices, respectively. Spatial LUE maps created by down-regulating maximum LUE (EC tower-based) with water and temperature stressors derived from land surface water index (LSWI) and EC-based cardinal temperature, respectively. LUE-based modeled GPP over the sugarcane-wheat system was found higher than the rice-wheat system in Saharanpur district. This is because C4 crop (sugarcane) has very high photosynthetic efficiency compared to C3 crops (rice and wheat). Modeled GPP over the sugarcane-wheat system was found in good agreement with observed EC tower-based GPP (Index of Agreement = 0.93). Further regionally calibrated remote sensing–based LUE model well captures gross photosynthesis rates (GPP) over cropland ecosystem compared to globally modeled MODIS GPP product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) after hemorrhage is potentiated by aortic occlusion or resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). Given the central role of mitochondrial injury in shock, we hypothesized that Elamipretide, a peptide that protects mitochondria, would mitigate IRI after hemorrhagic shock and REBOA. Twelve pigs were subjected to hemorrhagic shock and 45 min of REBOA. After 25 min of REBOA, animals received either saline or Elamipretide. Animals were transfused with autologous blood during balloon deflation, and pigs were resuscitated with isotonic crystalloids and norepinephrine for 4.25 h. Elamipretide-treated animals required less crystalloids than the controls (62.5 [50–90] and 25 [5–30] mL/kg, respectively), but similar amounts of norepinephrine (24.7 [8.6–39.3] and 9.7 [2.1–12.5] mcg/kg, respectively). Treatment animals had a significant reduction in serum creatinine (control: 2.7 [2.6–2.8]; Elamipretide: 2.4 [2.4–2.5] mg/dL; p = 0.04), troponin (control: 3.20 [2.14–5.47] ng/mL, Elamipretide: 0.22 [0.1–1.91] ng/mL; p = 0.03), and interleukin-6 concentrations at the end of the study. There were no differences in final plasma lactate concentration. Elamipretide reduced fluid requirements and protected the kidney and heart after profound IRI. Further understanding the subcellular consequences of REBOA and mitochondrial rescue will open new therapeutic avenues for patients suffering from IRI after hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of water stress on rice yield over Punjab and Haryana across North India by integrating Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) and Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) models. Indian Remote Sensing Satellite datasets were used to define land use/land cover in WRF. The accuracy of simulated rainfall and temperature over Punjab and Haryana was evaluated against Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission and automated weather station data of Indian Space Research Organization, respectively. Data from WRF was used as weather input to DSSAT to simulate rice yield in Punjab and Haryana for 2009 and 2014. After simulated yield has been evaluated against district-level observed yield, the water balance components within the DSSAT model were used to analyze the impact of water stress on rice yield. The correlation (R2) between the crop water stress factor and the rice yield anomaly at the vegetative and reproductive stage was 0.64 and 0.52 for Haryana and 0.73 and 0.68 for Punjab, respectively. Severe water stress during the flowering to maturity stage inflicted devastating effects on yield. The study concludes that the regional climate simulations can be potentially used for early water stress prediction and its impact on rice yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel approach defined for drought severity of Bundelkhand region of India, especially for rabi (winter) season crops using analytical hierarchy process established a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making approach based combined drought index (CDI). The remote sensing multi-sensor derived datasets, as long-term MODIS satellite data, rainfall from CHIRPS datasets and soil moisture from Era Interim datasets, used for quantification for the 2001–2018 period. The CDI is generated by integrated multi-spectral indices as Vegetation Condition Index, Temperature Condition Index, Precipitation Condition Index, Soil Moisture Condition Index using analytical hierarchy process derived weightage with a consistency ratio of 4.2% and consistency index of 0.038 value. The results show that Jalaun, Hamirpur and Banda districts as Northern part affected more as compared to Lalitpur and parts of Jhansi districts as the Southern part of the study area. The statistical analysis illustrated a significant correlation between crop yield anomaly and CDI for all districts for rabi pulses crops. Thus, a geospatial platform-based approach using historical earth observations with analytical hierarchy process integrated expert advice to finalize variables and their weighing will make this methodology more realistic, easier and quicker to apply in future at any region. Eventually, remote sensing can address the drought risk or severity for all kind of crop ecosystem by using cohesive approach derived from multi-sensor satellite datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, CO2 exchange over sugarcane and wheat growing season was quantified by continuous measurement of CO2 fluxes using eddy covariance (EC) system from January 2014 to June 2015. We also elaborated on the response of CO2 fluxes to environmental variables. The results show that the ecosystem has seasonal and diurnal dynamics of CO2 with a distinctive U-shaped curve in both growing seasons with maximal CO2 absorption reaching up to −8.94 g C m−2 day−1 and −6.08 g C m−2 day−1 over sugarcane and wheat crop, respectively. The ecosystem as a whole acted as a carbon sink during the active growing season while it exhibits a carbon source prior to sowing and post-harvesting of crops. The cumulative net ecosystem exchange (NEE), gross primary productivity (GPP), and ecosystem respiration (Reco) were −923.04, 3316.65, and 2433.18 g C m−2 over the sugarcane growing season while the values were −192.30, 621.47, and 488.34 g C m−2 over the wheat growing season. The sesbania (green manure) appeared to be a carbon source once it is incorporated into soil. The response of day-time NEE to photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) under two vapor pressure deficit (VPD) sections (0–20 h Pa and 20–40 h Pa) seems more effective over sugarcane (R2 = 0.41–0.61) as compared to the wheat crop (R2 = 0.25–0.40). A decrease in net CO2 uptake was observed under higher VPD conditions. Similarly, night-time NEE was exponentially related to temperature at different soil moisture conditions and showed higher response to optimum soil moisture conditions for sugarcane (R2 = 0.87, 0.33 ≤ SWC < 0.42 m3 m−3) and wheat (R2 = 0.75, 0.31 ≤ SWC < 0.37 m3 m−3) crop seasons. The response of daily averaged NEE to environmental variables through path analysis indicates that PAR was the dominant predictor with the direct path coefficient of −0.65 and −0.74 over sugarcane and wheat growing season, respectively. Satellite-based GPP products from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (GPPMOD) and Vegetation Photosynthetic model (GPPVPM) were also compared with the GPP obtained from EC (GPPEC) technique. The seasonal dynamics of GPPEC and GPPVPM agreed well with each other. This study covers the broad aspects ranging from micro-meteorology to remote sensing over C4-C3 cropping system [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental severity of large impacts on Earth is influenced by their impact trajectory. Impact direction and angle to the target plane affect the volume and depth of origin of vaporized target, as well as the trajectories of ejected material. The asteroid impact that formed the 66 Ma Chicxulub crater had a profound and catastrophic effect on Earth's environment, but the impact trajectory is debated. Here we show that impact angle and direction can be diagnosed by asymmetries in the subsurface structure of the Chicxulub crater. Comparison of 3D numerical simulations of Chicxulub-scale impacts with geophysical observations suggests that the Chicxulub crater was formed by a steeply-inclined (45–60° to horizontal) impact from the northeast; several lines of evidence rule out a low angle (<30°) impact. A steeply-inclined impact produces a nearly symmetric distribution of ejected rock and releases more climate-changing gases per impactor mass than either a very shallow or near-vertical impact. The authors here present a 3D model that simulates the formation of the Chicxulub impact crater. Based on asymmetries in the subsurface structure of the Chicxulub crater, the authors diagnose impact angle and direction and suggest a steeply inclined (60° to horizontal) impact from the northeast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional dairy products in India are manufactured using age old methods. Such methods varies from place to place. For industrial production of such products a standardized process is needed. Present study was designed to arrive at a method of manufacture for Thabdi Peda, a very popular sweet in Saurashtra region of Gujarat. Range of process parameters like fat percent of milk (4 to 8 %), rate of sugar addition (6 to 10 %) and duration of final heat desiccation (20 to 60 min) were studied and optimum values determined using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The samples obtained from trials were analyzed for sensory, physicochemical, compositional and textural attributes. The optimized process developed with 10 kg batch of milk having 6 % fat, 8.33 % rate of sugar addition and 34 min duration of heating produced most acceptable product. Standardized Thabdi Peda was found to contain on an average 16.80 % fat, 17.48 % moisture, 11.25 % protein, 20.95 % lactose, 29.99 % sucrose, 3.53 % ash and it gave 28.75 % yield. The pH, water activity and HMF (μ Mole/100 g) content were 6.42, 0.807 and 121.91 respectively. Standard plate count, Yeast and Mold counts were observed to be 3.68 log cfu/g, and 2.51 log cfu/g respectively. No coliforms were observed in Thabdi Peda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:This study aims to understand the demographics, mode of trauma, hospital stay, complications, neurological improvement, mortality and expenditure incurred by Indian patients with spinal trauma and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).Methods:Retrospective analysis of the patient data admitted to a tertiary referral hospital from 2008 to 2013 with the diagnosis of AS and spinal trauma was carried out. The variables studied were demographics, mode of trauma, neurological status, neurological improvement, involved vertebral level, duration of hospital stay, comorbid factors, expenditure and complications during the stay.Results:Forty-six patients with diagnosis of AS with spine trauma were admitted over the last 5 years with a total of 52 fractures. All were male patients; 58.6% had injury because of trivial trauma and 78.2% patients presented with neurological injury. C5 C6, C6 C7, C7 D1 and D12 were the most common injured level. Fractures through intervertebral disc were most common in cervical spine. Of the patients, 52.7% had shown neurological improvement of at least grade 1(AIS). Mean expenditure of patient admitted with spinal cord injury (SCI) with AS is 7957 USD (United States dollar), which is around five times the per capita income in India (as per year 2013).Conclusion:Males with AS are much more prone to spinal fractures than females and its incidence may be higher than previously reported. Domestic falls are the most common mechanism of spinal trauma in this population. High velocity injuries are associated with complete SCI. The study reinforces the need for development of subsidized spinal care services for SCI management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural potential of Chrysanthemum indicum L. for the clean-up of lead-contaminated soil was investigated under pot experiment. Maximum applied lead (at 50 mg/kg) caused significant reduction in the plant height (31.71 %), root length (31.15 %) and dry biomass (32.71 and 41.25 % for root and shoot, respectively); however, minimum applied lead (at 10 mg/kg) promoted the growth of plants to some extent, over the respective control pots. Lead concentration in the tissues followed the order as root>shoot>flower. The combinatorial treatment T (50 mg/kg Pb, 0.8 g/kg elemental sulphur and 6 g/kg vermicompost) caused maximum concentration of lead in root, shoot and flower up to the extent of 43.58, 22.45 and 9.62 mg/kg, respectively, leading to the maximum bioaccumulation factor (0.38). However, the combinatorial treatment T (sulphur and vermicompost) showed maximum translocation factor (0.63) and T (20 mg/kg lead, 0.8 g/kg elemental sulphur and 6 g/kg vermicompost) produced maximum remediation ratio (0.153). The combinatorial treatments under lead-contaminated (10-50 mg/kg) soils showed higher remediation efficiency indicating enhanced clean-up of the aforesaid soils through C. indicum L. Applied lead (>20 mg/kg) altered the chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and carotenoid contents of the plants. Hence, the authors conclude that a non-edible ornamental plant, C. indicum L., is preferred to be safely grown in moderately lead-contaminated soils along with application of elemental sulphur and vermicompost, which will boost the photosynthetic pigments of the plants, leading to enhanced clean-up of the lead-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three accurate, sensitive and reproducible methods are described for the quantitative determination of alprazolam ( ALP) and propranolol hydrochloride ( PNL) in their combined dosage form. The first method involves an RP-HPLC separation on the C column using acetonitrile-25 mM ammonium acetate buffer and 0.2% triethylamine (pH of buffer adjusted to 4 with glacial acetic acid) in the ratio of 35: 65 (v/v) as mobile phase. Symmetrical peaks with good separation, ALP at 9.3 min and PNL at 3.5 min, were achieved. Quantification was done with photo diode array detection at 255 nm over the concentration ranges of 0.5-50 and 10-250 μg/mL for ALP and PNL, respectively. The second method is based on the separation of drugs by HPTLC using chloroform-methanol-ammonia 7: 0.8: 0.1 (v/v/v) as mobile phase. Quantification was achieved using UV detection at 248 nm over the concentration range of 100-600 ng/spot and 5-30 μg/spot for ALP and PNL, respectively. The third method involves dual wavelength UV-visible spectrophotometric method. It is based on the determination of PNL at 319.4 nm using its absorptivity value and ALP at 258.2 nm after deduction of absorbance due to PNL. Quantification was achieved over the concentration range of 1-40 and 80-200 μg/mL for ALP and PNL, respectively. All methods were validated according to ICH guidelines and successively applied to marketed pharmaceutical formulation, and the results of all three methods were compared statistically as well. No interference from the tablet excipients was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open simple prostatectomy (OSP) is an effective treatment for patients with symptomatic BPH and larger volume prostates; however, it is associated with substantial risks of bleeding, transfusion and prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS). Robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) potentially offers improved perioperative outcomes for these patients. We systematically reviewed published data on RASP outcomes and analyzed our experience at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). We identified eight published studies, all non-comparative case series (Level 3 evidence), reporting a total of 109 RASP cases from 2008 to 2012. Indications included acute urinary retention (n=48), persistent obstructive symptoms (n=51), failure of medical management (n=9) and recurrent urinary tract infections (n=2). The mean ages ranged from 65 to 77 years. More than 75% of the studies reported a mean LOS <3 days and a transfusion prevalence of 0%. The mean resected prostate weights ranged from 51 to 301 g. For UCSD, indications for surgery included urinary retention (n=11) and failure of medical management (n=5). The mean age was 68 years, transfusion prevalence 0%, mean resected prostate weight 94 g and mean LOS 1 day. All nine series observed substantial postoperative improvements in urinary symptoms and retention. These data suggest that RASP is a safe and efficacious treatment for BPH in select patients with larger prostates. Although LOS and transfusion prevalence for RASP are markedly lower than the published OSP series, comparative studies are needed to verify these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer (OPSCC) is associated with improved survival compared with HPV-negative disease. However, a minority of HPV-positive patients have poor prognosis. Currently, there is no generally accepted strategy for identifying these patients.Methods:We retrospectively analysed 270 consecutively treated OPSCC patients from three centres for effects of clinical, pathological, immunological, and molecular features on disease mortality. We used Cox regression to examine associations between factors and OPSCC death, and developed a prognostic model for 3-year mortality using logistic regression analysis.Results:Patients with HPV-positive tumours showed improved survival (hazard ratio (HR), 0.33 (0.21-0.53)). High levels of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) stratified HPV-positive patients into high-risk and low-risk groups (3-year survival; HPV-positive/TILhigh=96%, HPV-positive/TILlow=59%). Survival of HPV-positive/TILlow patients did not differ from HPV-negative patients (HR, 1.01; P=0.98). We developed a prognostic model for HPV-positive tumours using a 'training' cohort from one centre; the combination of TIL levels, heavy smoking, and T-stage were significant (AUROC=0·87). This model was validated on patients from the other centres (detection rate 67%; false-positive rate 5.6%; AUROC=0·82).Interpretation:Our data suggest that an immune response, reflected by TIL levels in the primary tumour, has an important role in the improved survival seen in most HPV-positive patients, and is relevant for the clinical evaluation of HPV-positive OPSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/hypothesis: We have previously reported a high prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM). We wanted to confirm that intrahepatocellular lipid (IHCL) is associated with pGDM independently of adiposity and determine: (1) if VLDL metabolism is dysregulated; and (2) the extent to which NAFLD and IHCL account for the dysmetabolic phenotype in pGDM. Methods: We analysed data from a cohort of 234 women (114 with pGDM) and identified effects of pGDM on lipid and glucoregulation that were independent of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD. We then measured IHCL by MR spectroscopy in a representative subgroup ( n = 36) and conducted detailed metabolic studies (IVGTT, VLDL apolipoprotein B [apoB] kinetics and palmitate turnover) and measurement of regional body fat by MRI to demonstrate effects of IHCL that were independent of a history of pGDM. Results: pGDM was associated with increased IHCL ( p = 0.04) after adjustment for adiposity. Independently of IHCL, pGDM was associated with a lower IVGTT disposition index ( p = 0.02) and acute insulin response to glucose (pGDM+/NAFLD−, 50% lower; pGDM+/NAFLD+, 36% lower; effect of pGDM, p = 0.03), increased VLDL apoB pool size (pGDM+/NAFLD−, 3.1-fold higher; pGDM+/NAFLD+, 1.2-fold higher; effect of pGDM, p = 0.02) and, at borderline significance ( p = 0.05), increased rate of VLDL apoB synthesis. Conclusions/interpretation: pGDM is associated with increased IHCL independently of adiposity. The increased liver fat contributes to the phenotype, but pGDM status is independently associated with diminished insulin secretion and (shown for the first time) augmented VLDL metabolism. IHCL with pGDM may compound a dysmetabolic phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most commonly used normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from remote sensing often fall short in real-time drought monitoring due to a lagged vegetation response to drought. Therefore, research recently emphasized on the use of combination of surface temperature and NDVI which provides vegetation and moisture conditions simultaneously. Since drought stress effects on agriculture are closely linked to actual evapotranspiration, we used a vegetation temperature condition index (VTCI) which is more closely related to crop water status and holds a key place in real-time drought monitoring and assessment. In this study, NDVI and land surface temperature ( T) from MODIS 8-day composite data during cloud-free period (September-October) were adopted to construct an NDVI- T space, from which the VTCI was computed. The crop moisture index (based on estimates of potential evapotranspiration and soil moisture depletion) was calculated to represent soil moisture stress on weekly basis for 20 weather monitoring stations. Correlation and regression analysis were attempted to relate VTCI with crop moisture status and crop performance. VTCI was found to accurately access the degree and spatial extent of drought stress in all years (2000, 2002, and 2004). The temporal variation of VTCI also provides drought pattern changes over space and time. Results showed significant and positive relations between CMI (crop moisture index) and VTCI observed particularly during prominent drought periods which proved VTCI as an ideal index to monitor terminal drought at regional scale. VTCI had significant positive relationship with yield but weakly related to crop anomalies. Duration of terminal drought stress derived from VTCI has a significant negative relationship with yields of major grain and oilseeds crops, particularly, groundnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:The objective of this study was to determine the molecular mechanisms responsible for cellular radiosensitivity in two human fibroblast cell lines 84BR and 175BR derived from two cancer patients.Methods:Clonogenic assays were performed following exposure to increasing doses of gamma radiation to confirm radiosensitivity. γ-H2AX foci assays were used to determine the efficiency of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in cells. Quantitative PCR (Q-PCR) established the expression levels of key DNA DSB repair genes. Imaging flow cytometry using annexin V-FITC was used to compare artemis expression and apoptosis in cells.Results:Clonogenic cellular hypersensitivity in the 84BR and 175BR cell lines was associated with a defect in DNA DSB repair measured by the γ-H2AX foci assay. The Q-PCR analysis and imaging flow cytometry revealed a two-fold overexpression of the artemis DNA repair gene, which was associated with an increased level of apoptosis in the cells before and after radiation exposure. Overexpression of normal artemis protein in a normal immortalised fibroblast cell line NB1-Tert resulted in increased radiosensitivity and apoptosis.Conclusion:We conclude that elevated expression of artemis is associated with higher levels of DNA DSB, radiosensitivity and elevated apoptosis in two radio-hypersensitive cell lines. These data reveal a potentially novel mechanism responsible for radiosensitivity and show that increased artemis expression in cells can result in either radiation resistance or enhanced sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corrosion inhibition effect of two quinoline derivatives, viz, 2-chloro quinoline 3-carbaldehyde (CQC) and (2-chloro-quinoline-3ylmethyl)- p-tolyl-amine (CQA) have been investigated against mild steel (MS) in 1N HCl solution using conventional weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization, linear polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The losses in weights of MS samples have proved that both CQC and CQA are efficient inhibitors of corrosion. The mixed mode of inhibition was confirmed by electrochemical polarizations. The results of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have showed changes in the impedance parameters like charge transfer resistance and double-layer capacitance that confirmed strong adsorption of inhibitors on the MS surface. The inhibition action of these compounds was assumed to occur via adsorption on the steel surface through the active centres contained in the molecules. Furthermore, quantum chemical calculations have been performed at B3LYP/6-31G( d, p) level to complement the experimental evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active galactic nuclei, which are powered by long-term accretion onto central supermassive black holes, produce relativistic jets with lifetimes of at least one million years, and the observation of the birth of such a jet is therefore unlikely. Transient accretion onto a supermassive black hole, for example through the tidal disruption of a stray star, thus offers a rare opportunity to study the birth of a relativistic jet. On 25 March 2011, an unusual transient source (Swift J164449.3+573451) was found, potentially representing such an accretion event. Here we report observations spanning centimetre to millimetre wavelengths and covering the first month of evolution of a luminous radio transient associated with Swift J164449.3+573451. The radio transient coincides with the nucleus of an inactive galaxy. We conclude that we are seeing a newly formed relativistic outflow, launched by transient accretion onto a million-solar-mass black hole. A relativistic outflow is not predicted in this situation, but we show that the tidal disruption of a star naturally explains the observed high-energy properties and radio luminosity and the inferred rate of such events. The weaker beaming in the radio-frequency spectrum relative to ?-rays or X-rays suggests that radio searches may uncover similar events out to redshifts of z???6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic band structure calculations are performed for the BeZnTe (0≤ x≤1 in steps of 0·2) alloys following the empirical pseudopotential method. The alloying effects are modelled through the modified virtual crystal approximation. Throughout the composition, valence band maximum resides at the Γ point. The conduction band minimum, however, shifts from Γ to X point of symmetry when x = 0·27. The observed crossover from direct to indirect bandgap is well in accordance with the experimental observations. Effect of alloying on the density of states is also discussed. The charge density distribution along a few major planes is computed and discussed. The electronic band structure related parameters like bandwidths, bandgaps and ionicity are reported and compared with experimental data wherever available. We also give estimates of cohesive energy and bulk modulus for the alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ims/hypothesis: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is common in type 2 diabetes but it is unknown whether NAFLD is prevalent in European women at risk of type 2 diabetes. We studied the prevalence of, and risk factors for, NAFLD in European women with previous gestational diabetes (GDM) at high risk of type 2 diabetes. Methods: A total of 110 women with previous GDM and 113 without previous GDM, with non-diabetic glucose tolerance were recruited retrospectively from antenatal databases. Participants underwent liver ultrasound scan examination, anthropometry and blood sampling for liver function tests and to determine levels of fasting lipids, NEFA and insulin and glucose concentrations in order to derive insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion indices (HOMA%S and HOMA%B, respectively). Results: There was no significant difference in BMI in women with previous GDM compared with those without previous GDM (28.9 ± 0.6 vs. 27.9 ± 0.6 kg/m, respectively; p = 0.12). Women with previous GDM had higher fasting and 2 h glucose concentrations following a 75 g OGTT ([mean ± SEM] fasting glucose 5.3 ± 0.1 vs. 5.1 ± 0.1 mmol/l, p = 0.02; 2 h glucose 6.8 ± 0.2 vs. 5.8 ± 0.3 mmol/l, p = 0.02), dyslipidaemia (LDL-cholesterol 3.3 ± 0.1 vs. 2.8 ± 0.1 mmol/l; HDL-cholesterol [median {interquartile range}] 1.3 [1.2-1.6] vs. 1.8 [1.5-1.9] mmol/l; triacylglycerol 1.3 [0.9-1.6] vs. 1.0 [0.7-1.7] mmol/l, all p ≤ 0.03), higher insulin secretion and lower insulin sensitivity. NAFLD prevalence was greater in women with previous GDM compared with those without previous GDM: 38% (95% CI 28-47%) vs. 17% (95% CI 10-24%), p = 0.001. In multiple logistic regression analysis, lower insulin sensitivity and raised serum alanine transaminase concentrations were associated with NAFLD. Conclusions/interpretation: NAFLD is prevalent in European women with previous GDM. Impaired insulin sensitivity and increased liver transaminase activity are closely associated with NAFLD in these women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA), a terrestrial biosphere model, has been used to investigate spatiotemporal pattern of net primary productivity (NPP) during 2003 over the Indian subcontinent. The model drivers at 2-min spatial resolution were derived from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration advanced very high resolution radiometer normalized difference vegetation index, weather inputs, and soil and land cover maps. The annual NPP was estimated to be 1.57 Pg C (at the rate of 544 g C m), of which 56% contributed by croplands (with 53% of geographic area of the country (GAC)), 18.5% by broadleaf deciduous forest (15% of GAC), 10% by broadleaf evergreen forest (5% of GAC), and 8% by mixed shrub and grassland (19% of GAC). There is very good agreement between the modeled NPP and ground-based cropland NPP estimates over the western India ( R = 0.54; p = 0.05). The comparison of CASA-based annual NPP estimates with the similar products from other operational algorithms such as C-fix and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) indicate that high agreement exists between the CASA and MODIS products over all land covers of the country, while agreement between CASA and C-Fix products is relatively low over the region dominated by agriculture and grassland, and the agreement is very low over the forest land. Sensitivity analysis suggest that the difference could be due to inclusion of variable light use efficiency (LUE) across different land cover types and environment stress scalars as downregulator of NPP in the present CASA model study. Sensitivity analysis further shows that the CASA model can overestimate the NPP by 50% of the national budget in absence of downregulators and underestimate the NPP by 27% of the national budget by the use of constant LUE (0.39 gC MJ) across different vegetation cover types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin stimulates phosphorylation cascades, including phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), phosphatidylinositol-dependent kinase (PDK1), Akt, and protein kinase C (PKC). Myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS), a PKCβII substrate, could link the effects of insulin to insulin-stimulated glucose transport (ISGT) via phosphorylation of its effector domain since MARCKS has a role in cytoskeletal rearrangements. We examined phosphoPKCβII after insulin treatment of L6 myocytes, and cytosolic and membrane phosphoMARCKS, MARCKS and phospholipase D1 in cells pretreated with LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor), CG53353 (PKCβII inhibitor) or W13 (calmodulin inhibitor), PI3K, PKCβII and calmodulin inhibitors, respectively, before insulin treatment, using western blots. ISGT was examined after cells had been treated with inhibitors, small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) for MARCKS, or transfection with MARCKS mutated at a PKC site. MARCKS, PKCβII, GLUT4 and insulin receptor were immunoblotted in subcellular fractions with F-actin antibody immunoprecipitates to demonstrate changes following insulin treatment. GLUT4 membrane insertion was followed after insulin with or without CG53353. Insulin increased phosphoPKCβII(Ser660 and Thr641); LY294002 blocked this, indicating its activation by PI3K. Insulin treatment increased cytosolic phosphoMARCKS, decreased membrane MARCKS and increased membrane phospholipase D1 (PLD1), a protein regulating glucose transporter vesicle fusion resulted. PhosphoMARCKS was attenuated by CG53353 or MARCKS siRNA. MARCKS siRNA blocked ISGT. Association of PKCβII and GLUT4 with membrane F-actin was enhanced by insulin, as was that of cytosolic and membrane MARCKS. ISGT was attenuated in myocytes transfected with mutated MARCKS (Ser152Ala), whereas overproduction of wild-type MARCKS enhanced ISGT. CG53353 blocked insertion of GLUT4 into membranes of insulin treated cells. The results suggest that PKCβII is involved in mediating downstream steps of ISGT through MARCKS phosphorylation and cytoskeletal remodelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is a major public health problem with ∼1 million victims each year worldwide. Up to 90% of adults who commit suicide have at least one psychiatric diagnosis such as major depression, bipolar disorder (BPD), schizophrenia (SZ), substance abuse or dependence. A question that has remained unanswered is whether the biological substrates of suicide are distinct from those of the psychiatric disorders in which it occurs. The serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT2CR) has been implicated in depression and suicide. We, therefore, compared the frequencies of its mRNA editing variants in postmortem prefrontal cortical specimens from subjects who committed suicide or who died from other causes. All suicides occurred in the context of either SZ or BPD. The non-suicide cases included subjects with either SZ or BPD as well as subjects with no psychiatric diagnosis. We identified 5-HT2CR mRNA editing variations that were associated with suicide but not with the comorbid psychiatric diagnoses, and were not influenced by demographic characteristics (age and sex) and alcohol or drug use. These variations consisted of a significant increase in the pool of mRNA variants (ACD and ABCD) that encode one of the most prevalent and highly edited isoforms of 5-HT2CR, that is, VSV (Val156–Ser158–Val160). Because the VSV isoform of 5-HT2CR exhibits low functional activity, an increase in its expression frequency may significantly influence the serotonergic regulation of the brain. Thus, at least in patients with SZ or BPD, overexpression of the VSV isoform in the prefrontal cortex may represent an additional risk factor for suicidal behavior.Molecular Psychiatry (2008) 13, 1001–1010; doi:10.1038/sj.mp.4002081; published online 11 September 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AimAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common macular disease in the developed world and recent studies have shown that specific genes may be associated with it and may contribute to a higher risk of developing AMD.ObjectiveOur objective was to review systematically recent publications related to the genetics of AMD and provide relevant information that would help both scientists and clinicians in advising patients.MethodA systematic search was performed on PubMed, Medline, and National Library of Medicine as well as ARVO abstracts using key words relevant to the genetic associations of AMD.ResultsThe most important genetic associations in AMD involved the complement factor H (CFH) gene, which showed that possession of the variant Y402H polymorphism significantly increases the risk for AMD. Protective genes have also been identified such as those on either factor B (BFor complement factor B (CFB)) or complement component 2 (C2) genes. The genes involved in inherited macular dystrophies such as ATP-binding cassette, subfamily A (ABC1), member 4 (ABCA4), vitelliform macular dystrophy (VMD2), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP3), and EFEMP1have yielded some important information but further confirmatory work has yet to establish a clear association with AMD.ConclusionPatients with AMD possess specific genetic variants of the CFHgene, which put them at a higher risk of developing the disease. Other unaffected individuals may possess certain protective genetic variants, which could prevent them from developing AMD. Further research will no doubt shed light on other such mechanisms and these will be useful in identifying possible direct targets for drugs or indirectly through modulation of the genes responsible for disease presentation.Eye (2008) 22, 768–776; doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6702844; published online 11 May 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundSeveral studies indicate that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and atherosclerosis may share common pathogenetic pathways. The aim of this study was to determine the role of systemic matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in AMD, given that MMPs are implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.MethodsThis study determined the plasma matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) levels in three groups of subjects: group 1 included subjects with age-related maculopathy (ARM), group 2 included subjects with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) owing to AMD and group 3 consisted of age-matched controls.ResultsThe mean plasma levels of MMP-2 were not significantly different in the three groups. In contrast, the mean plasma MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in ARM and CNV groups compared to that of the control group. However, there was no significant difference in MMP-9 levels between ARM and CNV groups.ConclusionThis is the first study that reveals a link between raised plasma MMP-9 levels with AMD. Further studies are required to identify the factors that contribute to this association.Eye (2008) 22, 855–859; doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6702722; published online 16 February 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundSeveral studies indicate that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and atherosclerosis may share common pathogenetic pathways. The aim of this study was to determine the role of systemic matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in AMD, given that MMPs are implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.MethodsThis study determined the plasma matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) levels in three groups of subjects: group 1 included subjects with age-related maculopathy (ARM), group 2 included subjects with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) owing to AMD and group 3 consisted of age-matched controls.ResultsThe mean plasma levels of MMP-2 were not significantly different in the three groups. In contrast, the mean plasma MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in ARM and CNV groups compared to that of the control group. However, there was no significant difference in MMP-9 levels between ARM and CNV groups.ConclusionThis is the first study that reveals a link between raised plasma MMP-9 levels with AMD. Further studies are required to identify the factors that contribute to this association.Eye (2007) 21, 1511–1515; doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6702722; published online 16 February 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic haemodynamics in three infants with severe cardiac failure secondary to vein of Galen malformation (VGAM) were studied using two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. In all cases, ventricular outputs were over two times normal and superior vena caval flows up to 10 times normal reflecting high flow through the low-resistance fistula. Severe pulmonary hypertension, right heart dilatation and retrograde flow in the descending aorta were uniformly present. Systemic blood flow below the head and neck was reduced resulting in metabolic acidosis at presentation. Two infants had patent arterial ducts, in which flow was entirely right to left and on entering the aorta passed predominantly retrogradely towards the VGAM. These findings provide a basis for understanding the pathophysiology of cardiac failure in VGAM and support treatment with pulmonary and systemic vasodilating agents.Journal of Perinatology (2007) 27, 460–463; doi:10.1038/sj.jp.7211752 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors influencing the use of chemotherapy for the initial (6 months) treatment of lung cancer in South East England were investigated. The variables explored as possibly influencing the use of chemotherapy were sex, age, the year of diagnosis, the type of lung cancer, the stage, the index of multiple deprivation and the cancer network of residence. Chi2 analysis and multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the effect of each of the variables on the use of chemotherapy. The results showed a highly significant trend in use of chemotherapy over time; the adjusted proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy increasing from 13.6% in 1994 to 29.3% in 2003. However, age, cancer network and type of lung cancer had the strongest influence on the use of chemotherapy. This finding is important when we consider that the NHS Cancer Plan aims at improving inequalities in cancer care in the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular mechanisms that underlie the development of squamous cell skin cancers (SSC) are poorly understood. We have used oligonucleotide microarrays to compare the differences in cellular gene expression between a series of keratinocyte cell that mimic disease progression with the aim of identifying genes that may potentially contribute towards squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) progression in vivo, and in particular to identify markers that may serve as potential therapeutic targets for SCC treatment. Gene expression differences were corroborated by polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. We identified Axl, a receptor tyrosine kinase with transforming potential that has also been shown to have a role in cell survival, adhesion and chemotaxis, was upregulated in vitro in SCC-derived cells compared to premalignant cells. Extending the investigation to tumour biopsies showed that the Axl protein was overexpressed in vivo in a series of SCCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AimTo assess the value of the modified international classification system in screening high-risk patients with bilateral age-related maculopathy (ARM) from those with lower risk characteristics.MethodsIn total, 164 digital images of 106 patients with either bilateral ARM (group A) or the fellow eyes of unilateral exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Group B) were included. Patients with no signs of ARM in both eyes or those with bilateral late AMD were excluded. The images were randomised and then graded by two masked ophthalmologists based on the modified International Classification of ARM.ResultsThe interobserver consistency between the two graders was high with a Kappa value of 0.82 (SE 0.34, P<0.0001). There were no significant differences in the distribution of the stages of ARM between the two subgroups. Stage 3 was the most common stage in each group for both graders followed by stage 2a in the bilateral drusen group. Stages 1a, 2a and 2b were equally the next common stage in the fellow eye of chordial neovascularisation group.ConclusionA screening system based on clinical characteristics would be of value in risk prediction in a clinical setting. Type of Drusen alone, as identified by the modified International grading system, may not be reliably predictive in screening for patients who are at high risk of developing choroidal neovascularisation.Eye (2006) 20, 199–202. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701852; Published online 4 March 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/hypothesis: Troglitazone was the first thiazolidinedione (TZD) approved for clinical use, exerting hypoglycaemic effects related to its action as a ligand of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor &receptor receptor in adipocytes. However, emerging evidence suggests that mitochondrial function may be affected by troglitazone, and that skeletal muscle cells acutely respond to troglitazone by enhancing glucose uptake. The aim of the present study was to determine the cellular mechanisms by which troglitazone acutely stimulates glucose utilisation in skeletal muscle cells. Methods: L6 cells overexpressing GLUT4myc were incubated with troglitazone. Glucose uptake, transport and phosphorylation as well as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling and insulin signalling were examined. Changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were measured using the J-aggregate-forming dye JC-1. AMPK signalling was interfered with using AMPK α1/α2 siRNA. Results: Troglitazone acutely (in 10 mm) reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential in L6GLUT4myc myotubes and robustly stimulated AMPK activity. Following 30 mm of incubation with troglitazone or insulin, 2-deoxy- glucose uptake was stimulated 1.5- and 2.1-fold respectively, and in cells treated with troglitazone, a 1.8-fold increase in the 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate :2-deoxyglucose ratio was observed. Moreover, contrary to insulin, troglitazone did not significantly stimulate 3-O-methylglucose uptake. Unlike insulin, troglitazone did not increase surface GLUT4myc content and did not increase IRS 1- associated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity or Akt phosphorylation on T308 and S473. Interestingly, interfering with troglitazone-induced activation of AMPK by decreasing the expression of the enzyme using siRNA inhibited the stimulation of 2-deoxyglucose uptake by the TZD. Conclusions/interpretation: We propose that troglitazone acutely increases glucose flux in muscle via an AMPK-mediated increase in glucose phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estrogen receptora(ERa) is a ligand-inducible transcription factor that acts to regulate gene expression by binding to palindromic DNA sequence, known as the estrogen response element, in promoters of estrogen-regulated genes. In breast cancer ERaplays a central role, where estrogen-regulated gene expression leads to tumor initiation, growth and survival. As an approach to silencing estrogen-regulated genes, we have studied the activities of a fusion protein between ERaand the promyelocytic leukemia zinc-finger (PLZF) protein, a transcriptional repressor that acts through chromatin remodeling. To do this, we have developed lines from the estrogen-responsive MCF-7 breast cancer cell line in which the expression of the fusion protein PLZF-ERais conditionally regulated by tetracycline and shows that these feature long-term silencing of the expression of several well-characterized estrogen-regulated genes, namely pS2, cathepsin-D and the progesterone receptor. However, the estrogen-regulated growth of these cells is not inhibited unless PLZF-ERaexpression is induced, an observation that we have confirmed both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results show that PLZF-ERais a potent repressor of estrogen-regulated gene expression and could be useful in distinguishing estrogen-regulated genes required for the growth of breast cancer cells.Gene Therapy (2005) 12, 452-460. doi:10.1038/sj.gt.3302421 Published online 13 January 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oestrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) is an oestrogen-activated transcription factor, which regulates proliferation and differentiation of mammary epithelial cells by activating or repressing gene expression. ERalpha is a critical prognostic indicator and a therapeutic target for breast cancer. Patients with tumours that express higher level of ERalpha have better prognosis than patients with tumours that are ERalpha negative or express lower level of ERalpha. Better prognosis in ERalpha-positive patients is believed to be due to repression of proinvasive gene expression by ERalpha. Oestrogen receptor alpha represses gene expression by transrepressing the activity of the transcription factors such as nuclear factor-kappaB or by inducing the expression of transcriptional suppressors such as MTA3. In this report, we show that ERalpha transrepresses the expression of the proinvasive gene interleukin 6 (IL-6) in ERalpha-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells stably overexpressing ERalpha. Using these cells as well as ERalpha-positive MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cells, we show that tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) and the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-kinase) modulate transrepression function of ERalpha by reducing its stability. From these results, we propose that TNFalpha expression or PI3-kinase activation lead to reduced levels of ERalpha protein in cancer cells and corresponding loss of transrepression function and acquisition of an invasive phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several animal models have been developed to investigate osteoarthritis and potential disease-modifying therapeutics. However, early disease data from these models are limited by the resolution of current imaging modalities. In this in-vitro study, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) system with an axial resolution of 15 µm was used to track sequential changes in osteoarthritic rat knees. Osteoarthritis was induced via transection of the medial collateral ligament and an artificial full thickness meniscal tear. Imaging occurred at one, two, and three weeks after surgery. OCT successfully detected early signs of osteoarthritic change, including alteration of the cartilage surface and disruption of the bone–cartilage interface. This study demonstrates that OCT, along with the induction of mechanical injury, provides an excellent model for monitoring the sequential changes of osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the ability of optical coherence tomography (OCT), a recently developed technology with micron-scale resolution, to assess the microstructure of tendons and ligaments. In vitro structural- and polarization-sensitive OCT was performed on human ACL, Achilles tendon, and biceps tendon (obtained postmortem). Histology was performed on all imaged samples and compared to the corresponding OCT data. OCT images correlated well with histology. Most importantly, through polarization-sensitive OCT, the collagen in normal tissue was easily distinguished from the surrounding, supportive tissue due to the birefringent properties of organized collagen. Since the integrity of collagen is an important indicator of structural stability and pathologic state, the ability of OCT to assess collagen could be a powerful diagnostic tool in assessing tendon and ligament properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase pure hydroxyapatite (HA) and a 0.8 wt % silicon substituted hydroxyapatite (SiHA) were prepared by aqueous precipitation methods. Both HA and SiHA were processed into granules 0.5–1.0 mm in diameter and sintered at 1200 °C for 2 h. The sintered granules underwent full structural characterization, prior to implantation into the femoral condyle of New Zealand White rabbits for a period of 23 days. The results show that both the HA and SiHA granules were well accepted by the host tissue, with no presence of any inflammatory cells. New bone formation was observed directly on the surfaces and in the spaces between both HA and SiHA granular implants. The quantitative histomorphometry results indicate that the percentage of bone ingrowth for SiHA (37.5%±5.9) was significantly greater than that for phase pure HA (22.0%±6.5), in addition the percentage of bone/implant coverage was significantly greater for SiHA (59.8%±7.3) compared to HA (47.1%±3.6). These findings indicate that the early in vivo bioactivity of hydroxyapatite was significantly improved with the incorporation of silicate ions into the HA structure, making SiHA an attractive alternative to conventional HA materials for use as bone substitute ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Speciation has been determined in aqueous oxovanadium, glycylvaline and imidazoles at 25 ± 1°C and μ = 0.1M NaClO using a combination of potentiometry, and visible and EPR spectroscopy. Results of potentiometric and spectroscopic methods are consistent. Calculations of stability constants have been made using the SCOGS computer program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The t(10;11)(p13;q14-21) is a non-random translocation described in acute lymphoblastic and myeloid leukaemias. It results in the fusion of the gene CALM, which encodes a clathrin assembly protein, on 11q14 to the gene AF10, a putative transcription factor on 10p13. Here we describe for the first time, the occurrence of a CALM-AF10 fusion in a case of acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction were used to confirm the presence of a CALM-AF10 fusion. A novel splice variant of CALM missing nt 1927-2091 was also detected. Though CALM is a cytoplasmic protein, the chimaeric fusion product is able to localise to both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Analysis of the fusion variants suggests, however, that the critical fusion product is likely to be cytoplasmic and contain the interactive leucine zipper of AF10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of different calcination temperatures on the powder characteristics and the sintered density of synthetic hydroxyapatite (HA) powders, produced using two different processing routes, was examined. Powders were produced by either drying, milling and sieving an as-precipitated HA or by spray-drying a slurry of precipitated HA. Calcining the two powders at temperatures between 400 and 1000 °C did not significantly affect the powder particle size. The specific surface areas of the two powders, however, were reduced from 70–80 m2/g for a calcination temperature of 400 °C to approximately 5–7 m2/g for 1000 °C. Analysis of the surfaces of the HA powders using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) illustrated the coarsening and subsequent sintering of the sub-micron crystallites that constitute a powder particle as the calcination temperature increased, corresponding to the decrease in surface area of the powders. The sintered densities of the final ceramics were not significantly affected by calcining the powders. Microhardness measurements of ceramics prepared from powders calcined at different temperatures showed no significant variations with calcination temperature or powder processing method. The results of this study have illustrated that for applications where HA may be used in powder form, for example in plasma-spraying and for the production of HA-polymer composites, calcining the HA will significantly affect the powder properties, namely the surface area and morphology of the powders. For applications requiring HA in a dense ceramic form, for example as granules or blocks, calcining the powders does not significantly affect the properties of the final ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebrate epithelial appendages are elaborate topological transformations of flat epithelia into complex organs that either protrude out of external (integument) and internal (oral cavity, gut) epithelia, or invaginate into the surrounding mesenchyme. Although they have specific structures and diverse functions, most epithelial appendages share similar developmental stages, including induction, morphogenesis, differentiation and cycling. The roles of the SHH pathway are analyzed in exemplary organs including feather, hair, tooth, tongue papilla, lung and foregut. SHH is not essential for induction and differentiation, but is involved heavily in morphogenetic processes including cell proliferation (size regulation), branching morphogenesis, mesenchymal condensation, fate determination (segmentation), polarizing activities and so on. Through differential activation of these processes by SHH in a spatiotemporal-specific fashion, organs of different shape and size are laid down. During evolution, new links of developmental pathways may occur and novel forms of epithelial appendages may emerge,upon which evolutionary selections can act. Sites of major variations have progressed from the body plan to the limb plan to the epithelial appendage plan. With its powerful morphogenetic activities, the SHH pathway would likely continue to play a major role in the evolution of novel epithelial appendages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant schwannomas of the head and neck are rare tumours that offer various diagnostic and therapeutic challenges encompassing the breadth of modern histupatholagy, radiology and surgery, We describe the only reported case oj a de novo malignant schwannoma affecting the lingual nerve. Presenting a review of the literature and using our case for illustration we discuss some of the pertinent features in the management of patients with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Obesity is associated with disorders of plasma lipid transport in many, but not in all obese subjects. The effects of obesity on the regulation of genes involved in plasma lipid transport may depend on specific mutations causing or contributing to obesity and/or on interactions of a specific obesity mutation with the genetic background. The 'fatty' (Glu269Pro) leptin receptor mutation causes severe obesity associated with hypertriglyceridaemia and altered hepatic apolipoprotein gene regulation in Zucker fatty rats. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the effects of the obesity mutation 'fatty' on apolipoprotein gene regulation in rat liver depend on the genetic background. METHODS: We studied hepatic apolipoprotein (apo) A-IV, A-I, and C-III gene expression in obese rats carrying the 'fatty' mutation on the background of the Zucker or Wistar strain. RESULTS: Basal apoA-IV gene expression was increased in fatty rats of both strains, whereas apoA-I and apoC-III gene expression differed between Wistar and Zucker fatty rats: apoA-I gene transcription was reduced to half and apoC-III mRNA was increased two-fold in Wistar fatty, but not in Zucker fatty rats vs lean controls. A fish oil diet suppressed apoA-IV, but not apoA-I gene transcription in Wistar fatty rats, whereas in Zucker fatty rats apoA-IV transcription was unaffected, but apoA-I transcription was suppressed. CONCLUSIONS: Interactions of the 'fatty' leptin receptor mutation with the genetic background significantly affect the basal and diet-induced regulation of the apoA-IV, C-III and A-I genes in rat liver. The genetic background may therefore be a major determinant of the consequences of a specific obesity mutation for plasma lipid transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of hormone replacement therapy in hypertensive women are controversial. This randomised placebo controlled trial assessed the effect of tibolone 2.5 mg on blood pressure and fasting plasma lipids in 29 hypertensive postmenopausal women over 6 months using a 2:1 randomisation to tibolone. The primary clinical end-point was mean office blood pressure. At 6 months systolic blood pressure declined by 5.30 ± 2.87% vs 4.94 ± 3.37% whilst diastolic blood pressure declined 5.38 ± 2.65% vs 0.85 ± 3.69% on tibolone and placebo respectively. These differences were not statistically significant. Triglycerides decreased by 33.3 ± 6.1% vs 7.6 ± 7.9% (P < 0.01) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol by 21.7 ± 3.8% vs 2.4 ± 2.6% (P < 0.01) with tibolone as opposed to placebo. No significant differences were observed in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol and lipoprotein (a). Fibrinogen levels were reduced by 13.6 ± 6.8% on tibolone compared to a 19.3 ± 15.4% rise (P < 0.05) on placebo. This study suggests that tibolone has no deleterious effect on blood pressure in women with hypertension but has contrasting effects on biochemical risk factors. Large-scale studies are required to determine the overall effect of tibolone on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laminar combined convection of non-Newtonian fluids in vertical eccentric annuli, in which the inner and outer walls are held at different constant temperatures is considered and a new economical method of solution for the three-dimensional flow in the annulus is developed. Assuming that the ratio of the radial to the vertical scale, ε, is small, as occurs frequently in many industrial applications, then the governing equations can be simplified by expanding all the variables in terms of ε. This simplification gives rise to the presence of a dominant cross-stream plane in which all the physical quantities change more rapidly than in the vertical direction. The solution trechnique consists of marching in the vertical streamwise direction using a finite-difference scheme and solving the resulting equations at each streamwise step by a novel technique incorporating the Finite Element Method. The process is continued until the velocity, pressure and temperature fields are fully developed, and results are presented for a range of the governing non-dimensional parameters, namely the Grashof, Prandtl, Reynolds and Bingham numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphiphilic molecules like model membranes exhibit several special properties because of their ability to undergo co-operative aggregation in aqueous systems. The special properties of such aggregates have made them very important in several applications in industry, basic sciences and advanced technology. To understand the interaction of these systems at a molecular level it is necessary to study several processes. Laser Raman spectroscopy is a convenient technique for gaining information at a molecular level on such systems. In the present paper the applications of laser Raman spectroscopy for the study of these systems are discussed with particular reference to the changes in conformation, identification of structural groups involved in various interactions, arrangement or packing of the amphiphiles in the solid, gel or solution phase, and the effect of additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the Mn nutrition of bidi tobacco plant ( Nicotiana tabacum L. aromatic strain 2-1) when it is supplied with nutrient solutions containing different ratios of Mn with Fe, P, K and Ca, a sand-culture experiment was carried out in four different series viz. Fe-Mn, K-Mn, P-Mn and Ca-Mn. No characteristic deficiency symptoms except general loss of green colour and diminished growth were observed at 0.1 ppm Mn in the nutrient solution. Toxicity was observed when Mn in the nutrient solution was 100 ppm and severity of the symptoms decreased with increase in Fe-Mn or K-Mn ratios, but it increased when P-Mn ratio increased while in Ca-Mn series it first decreased and then increased at still higher concentration of Ca on account of chloride ion effect as CaCl had to be added to bring about 500 ppm concentration of Ca necessary for the treatment. No symptoms of deficiency or toxicity were observed when Mn in nutrient solution varied from 1 to 10 ppm and Fe-Mn ratio for the leaf varied from 0.4 to 6.1 and its Mn content varied from 190 to 1575 ppm. Slight loss of green colour and plant vigour appeared when Fe-Mn ratio for the leaf was higher than 12.8 even though the Mn content was as high as 90 ppm. Toxic effect due to excessive Mn was felt when Fe-Mn ratio was 0.35 or less and leaf content 1875 ppm or more. Nicotine content was inversely related to the intensity of Mn-toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]