bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Quantitative Real-Time PCR To Monitor the Response of
Chlamydophila felis
Infection to Doxycycline Treatment
Authors: Dean Rachel , Harley Ross , Helps Chris , Caney Sarah , Gruffydd-Jones Tim
Published: April 2005

Fifteen cats infected with
Chlamydophila felis
were monitored for the presence of
C. felis
DNA on ocular swabs by using real-time PCR and for clinical signs of disease. The cats were assigned to three groups: oral doxycycline at 10 mg/kg of body weight/day for 7 days (six cats), oral doxycycline at 10 mg/kg/day for 14 days (five cats), and an untreated control group (four cats). The untreated cats remained positive for
C. felis
throughout the trial; clinical signs were most severe on days 14 to 21 postinfection, and then they declined. Treatment with 7 and 14 days of doxycycline decreased
C. felis
relative copy numbers and clinical signs rapidly.
C. felis
became undetectable in some of the cats during or after treatment. However, after the cessation of treatment, a recurrence of high relative copy numbers of
C. felis
and severe clinical signs in all cats was seen. Rescue treatment with 21 days of doxycycline was successful at eliminating infection in eight of the cats; a further 28 days of doxycycline was required to eliminate infection in the remaining three cats. It was concluded that 7, 14, and, in some cases, 21 days of treatment with oral doxycycline will not eliminate
C. felis
infection. At least 28 days of treatment with doxycycline is required to ensure elimination of the organism. Real-time PCR is a sensitive technique for monitoring
C. felis
infection and the response to antibiotic treatment.
Molecular Identification of
Capnocytophaga
spp. via 16S rRNA PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis
Authors: Ciantar Marilou , Newman Hubert N. , Wilson Michael , Spratt David A.
Published: April 2005

Capnocytophaga
spp. have been implicated as putative periodontal pathogens associated with various periodontal diseases. Although the genus is known to contain five human oral isolates, accurate identification to species level of these organisms recovered from subgingival plaque has been hampered by the lack of a reliable method. Hence, most studies to date have reported these isolates as
Capnocytophaga
spp. Previous attempts at identification were based on biochemical tests; however, the results were inconclusive. Considering the differing virulence features of the respective isolates, it is crucial to identify these isolates to species level. The universal and conservative nature of the 16S rRNA gene has provided an accurate method for bacterial identification. The aim of this study was to identify
Capnocytophaga
spp. via restriction enzyme analysis of this gene (16S rRNA PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism). The results (backed up by 16S rRNA gene sequencing) showed that this method reliably identifies all named
Capnocytophaga
spp. to species level.
Direct Detection of
Nocardia
spp. in Clinical Samples by a Rapid Molecular Method
Authors: Couble Andrée , Rodríguez-Nava Verónica , de Montclos Michèle Pérouse , Boiron Patrick , Laurent Frédéric
Published: April 2005

We developed a 16S PCR-based assay for the rapid detection of
Nocardia
spp. directly from human clinical samples. The applicability of the assay was confirmed by using 18 samples from patients with nocardiosis as diagnosed by conventional cultures and 20 clinical samples from patients with confirmed tuberculosis used as negative controls.
Latex Agglutination Test for Monitoring Antibodies to Avian Influenza Virus Subtype H5N1
Authors: Xu Xiaojuan , Jin Meilin , Yu Zhengjun , Li Hongchao , Qiu Dexin , Tan Yadi , Chen Huanchun
Published: April 2005

A latex agglutination test (LAT) based on polystyrene beads sensitized with inactivated avian influenza virus H5N1 particles was developed. Compared with the hemagglutination inhibition test, the sensitivity and specificity of the LAT were 88.8 and 97.6%, respectively, in detecting 830 serum samples from vaccinated chickens. The test has application potential in field practice.
Heterogeneity among Strains of Diffusely Adherent
Escherichia coli
Isolated in Brazil
Authors: Lopes Lucia M. , Fabbricotti Sandra H. , Ferreira Antonio J. P. , Kato Maria A. M. F. , Michalski Jane , Scaletsky Isabel C. A.
Published: April 2005

One hundred twelve diffusely adherent
Escherichia coli
strains isolated from children in a case control study were evaluated for virulence-associated characteristics, serotyping, antibiotic resistance, and plasmid profiles. Half of the strains hybridized with the probes for
icuA
(aerobactin) and
fimH
(type 1 pili);
daaE
(F1845 fimbriae),
afa
(afimbrial Dr adhesin),
agg-3A
(aggregative adhesion fimbria type III fimbriae),
pap
(P fimbriae),
astA
(EAST1 toxin), and
shET1
(
Shigella
enterotoxin 1) sequences were present in <20% of the strains. The
shET1
gene was noted most frequently in strains isolated from patients. A minority (7%) of the strains produced hemolysin or colicin or showed cytotoxic effects on Vero cells. Forty-five different serotypes were found. The majority (70%) of the strains presented multiple antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance and diffuse adherence were located on the same conjugative plasmids. These results suggest that the transfer of these potential virulence markers could be important in the epidemiology of diffusely adherent
E. coli
.
QUALITATIVE PROPERTIES OF A POPULATION DYNAMICS SYSTEM DESCRIBING PREGNANCY
Authors: FRAGNELLI G. , MARTINEZ P. , VANCOSTENOBLE J.
Published: April 2005

We study a model of population dynamics describing pregnancy: our model is composed by an equation describing the evolution of the total population, and an equation describing the evolution of pregnant individuals. These equations are of course coupled: one coupling expresses that the total population varies with the number of born people, and another coupling says that the number of fecundated individuals depends on the total population. We study three models of that type: a linear model without diffusion, a nonlinear model without diffusion and a linear model with diffusion. For these three models, we study precisely the qualitative properties and the asymptotic behavior of the solutions.
WEIGHTED CHINESE RESTAURANT PROCESSES
Authors: LO ALBERT Y.
Published: April 2005

A class of distributions on partitions of a finite collection of objects is defined. The probability of a specific partition is a product of functions of clusters of the partition with the product running over all clusters. This class contains Chinese restaurant processes as a special case. The simulation of a distribution in this class is described through the seating probability that gives the conditional probability of joining a new object to an existing cluster. Examples in Bayesian mixture models are given.
Drift and Scaling in Estimation of Distribution Algorithms
Authors: Shapiro J. L.
Published: April 2005

This paper considers a phenomenon in Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDA) analogous to drift in population genetic dynamics. Finite population sampling in selection results in fluctuations which get reinforced when the probability model is updated. As a consequence, any probability model which can generate only a single set of values with probability 1 can be an attractive fixed point of the algorithm. To avoid this, parameters of the algorithm must scale with the system size in strongly problem-dependent ways, or the algorithm must be modified. This phenomenon is shown to hold for general EDAs as a consequence of the lack of ergodicity and irreducibility of the Markov chain on the state of probability models. It is illustrated in the case of UMDA, in which it is shown that the global optimum is only found if the population size is sufficiently large. For the needle-in-a haystack problem, the population size must scale as the square-root of the size of the search space. For the one-max problem, the population size must scale as the square-root of the problem size.
Space Complexity of Estimation of Distribution Algorithms
Authors: Gao Yong , Culberson Joseph
Published: April 2005

In this paper, we investigate the space complexity of the Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDAs), a class of sampling-based variants of the genetic algorithm. By analyzing the nature of EDAs, we identify criteria that characterize the space complexity of two typical implementation schemes of EDAs, the factorized distribution algorithm and Bayesian network-based algorithms. Using random additive functions as the prototype, we prove that the space complexity of the factorized distribution algorithm and Bayesian network-based algorithms is exponential in the problem size even if the optimization problem has a very sparse interaction structure.
Globally Multimodal Problem Optimization Via an Estimation of Distribution Algorithm Based on Unsupervised Learning of Bayesian Networks
Authors: Peña J. M. , Lozano J. A. , Larrañaga P.
Published: April 2005

Many optimization problems are what can be called globally multimodal, i.e., they present several global optima. Unfortunately, this is a major source of difficulties for most estimation of distribution algorithms, making their effectiveness and efficiency degrade, due to genetic drift. With the aim of overcoming these drawbacks for discrete globally multimodal problem optimization, this paper introduces and evaluates a new estimation of distribution algorithm based on unsupervised learning of Bayesian networks. We report the satisfactory results of our experiments with symmetrical binary optimization problems.
Middle Eastern Migrants in the Philippines: Entrepreneurs and Cultural Brokers
Authors: Gervase Clarence-Smith William
Published: April 2005

The Philippines deviated from the usual Southeast Asian pattern of Hadhrami Arab dominance among Middle Easterners. Despite the influence of Muslim Arabs in the Islamic southwest, the predominant community initially consisted of Armenians, and then of immigrants from Ottoman Syria from the 1880s. Coming via Latin America, the United States, or Asian entrepôts, most of these "Syrians" were Christians from modern Lebanon. They, however, included substantial Muslim Druze and Oriental Jewish minorities, and some came from Syria proper, Palestine, and even further a field. They formed the largest twentieth-century Syro-Lebanese community in Monsoon Asia. Some Middle Easterners became Filipino citizens, speaking either Spanish or English, others emigrated to the USA or Australia, and yet others went home. Their main contribution to the Philippines was economic. Initially peddlers and small shopkeepers, they moved into real estate, agriculture, mining, the leisure industry, the professions, the import-export trade, embroidery for export to the USA and, after independence, manufacturing for the local market.
Hybridity and the "Hadhrami Diaspora" in the Indian Ocean Muslim Networks
Authors: Feener R. Michael
Published: April 2005

This paper addresses issues relating to the adaptation of notions of hybridity from contemporary Diaspora Studies to the study of Hadhrami migration to Southeast Asia. It also presents a series of short biographies of prominent figures in the networks of Muslim scholarship that spanned the Indian Ocean from the sixteenth through nineteenth centuries from perspectives that highlight intersections of religion, language, and ethnicity during that time. Integrating this historical data into the inter-disciplinary theoretical frameworks of contemporary Diaspora Studies approaches provides an opportunity for reflecting on changing conceptions of identity under processes of modernization.
An Analytical Division of the Old Arabic Poem: A Suggestion for a New Method of Dividing and Analyzing the Old Arabic Poem with Application to a Text by Hassān b. Thābit
Authors: Hussein Ali
Published: April 2005

In this article, a new method of dividing the old (pre- and early Islamic) Arabic poem is suggested. According to the method, new kinds of sections are highlighted in the text, these are the functional unit, paragraph and motif. This method aims to highlight the idiosyncrasies of each old Arabic poem and to understand the relationship between the different parts (sections, motifs, and the like) in the text itself. In many cases, this method leads the reader to treat the poem as one thematic entity and not as a text composed of several unrelated and unconnected parts.
The Uncanny in Ahlām Mustaghānmī's 'Ābir Sarīr
Authors: Suyoufie Fadia
Published: April 2005

This study focuses on the manifestations of the uncanny in Ahlām Mustaghānmī's 'Ābir Sarīr. It relies on the Freudian concept of the uncanny to show the defamiliarization of the ordinary and the estrangement from one's homeland in the world of the novel. By adopting a textual approach, the study analyzes the major signi fiers of the uncanny, especially the "bed," as it stands out prominently in the novel's title.The discussion of the uncanny unmasks the transformations of the essences of life, man, and art within the novel's unsettling world-view.
Nostalgia, Arab Nationalism, and The Andalusian Chronotope in the Evolution of the Modern Arabic Novel
Authors: Granara William
Published: April 2005

The theme of "Al-Andalus" has featured prominently in the Arabic novel from the novel's earliest stages to its most recent diverse and complex maturation. This article examines the connections between the temporal and spatial signi fications of Al-Andalus and how they function within three Arabic novels, from the historical/romantic, social realist, and modernist genres. It argues that writing Al-Andalus entails more than nostalgia for a glorious past. These novelists take a critical view of contemporary society and rework Al-Andalus as a blueprint for a more hopeful future. That is, the historical consciousness of the "Andalusian" novel re flects on, explains, and critiques the current state of affairs in the Arab world. More generally, this study reiterates the homologous relationship between the political and intellectual trajectory of modern Arabic thought, and here the emphasis is on Arab Nationalism, and the development of the Arabic novel.
Adiponectin Expression in Human Fetal Tissues during Mid- and Late Gestation
Authors: Corbetta S. , Bulfamante G. , Cortelazzi D. , Barresi V. , Cetin I. , Mantovani G. , Bondioni S. , Beck-Peccoz P. , Spada A.
Published: April 2005

Adiponectin (ApN), an adipocytokine expressed in adipocytes with antidiabetic and antiatherogenic actions, has been detected in cord blood, suggesting a putative role in intrauterine fetal development. The aim of this study was to confirm the presence of ApN in the fetal circulation and directly investigate ApN expression in fetal tissues. The study showed high ApN levels in umbilical venous blood from fetuses [n = 44; 31.2 ± 14.1 (sd) mg/liter in umbilical vs. 8.4 ± 4.0 in maternal circulation (P < 0.0001)] that positively correlated with gestational age. By using RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, ApN was detected in several fetal tissues at mid- and late gestation (from 14 to 36 wk) but not in the placenta. ApN was expressed in tissues of mesodermic origin, i.e. brown and white adipocytes, skeletal muscle fibers of diaphragm and iliopsoas, smooth muscle cells of small intestine and arterial walls, perineurium and renal capsule, and tissues of ectodermal origin, i.e. epidermis and ocular lens. The distribution of ApN expression in nonadipose tissues showed a general decline during the progression of gestation. The unexpected pattern of ApN expression in the human fetus may account for the high ApN levels in cord blood and predicts novel roles for ApN during fetal development.
DCC association with lipid rafts is required for netrin-1-mediated axon guidance
Authors: Hérincs Zoltán , Corset Véronique , Cahuzac Nathalie , Furne Céline , Castellani Valérie , Hueber Anne-Odile , Mehlen Patrick
Published: April 2005

During development, axons migrate long distances in responses to attractive or repulsive signals that are detected by their growth cones. One of these signals is mediated by netrin-1, a diffusible laminin-related molecule that both attracts and repels growth cones via interaction with its receptor DCC (deleted in colorectal cancer). Here we show that DCC in both commissural neurons and immortalized cells, is partially associated with cholesterol- and sphingolipid-enriched membrane domains named lipid rafts. This localization of DCC in lipid rafts is mediated by the palmitoylation within its transmembrane region. Moreover, this raft localization of DCC is required for netrin-1-induced DCC-dependent ERK activation, and netrin-1-mediated axon outgrowth requires lipid raft integrity. Thus, the presence of axon guidance-related receptors in lipid rafts appears to be a crucial pre-requisite for growth cone response to chemo-attractive or repulsive cues.
Treatment considerations for head and neck cancer in the elderly
Authors: Genden Eric M , Rinaldo Alessandra , Shaha Ashok R , Clayman Gary L , Werner Jochen A , Suárez Carlos , Ferlito Alfio
Published: April 2005

As life expectancy increases, surgeons can expect an increasing number of geriatric patients. In turn, the number of elderly patients presenting with head and neck cancer is likely to increase. Management of this subpopulation has become a source of debate because there is a paucity of randomized data regarding the effect of age on treatment response and morbidity associated with the treatment of head and neck cancer. The management of head and neck cancer in the elderly depends on the patient’s age and general condition, the stage of disease, the effects of treatment on quality of life (such as speech and swallowing), patient and family wishes, and active physician participation in continued care. Elderly patient’s comorbid conditions need appropriate attention especially if surgery is to be undertaken. The aim of this review is to examine the current literature in an attempt to develop an approach to the treatment of the elderly patient with head and neck cancer and to define the pertinent issues that require further study.
Previously treated oesophageal achalasia re-presenting with stridor
Authors: Maclachlan J , Giridharan W , Brittenden J , Woodhead C J
Published: April 2005

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the oesophagus that typically presents with dysphagia, regurgitation and chest pain. A rare presenting symptom is stridor. A case of previously treated achalasia re-presenting with stridor is described and associated imaging presented.
Emergency tracheal catheterization for jet ventilation: a role for the ENT surgeon?
Authors: Standley T D A , Smith H L
Published: April 2005

Stridor causing respiratory failure is an ENT and anaesthetic emergency requiring prompt management to secure a clear airway. We describe a case of subacute partial upper airway obstruction due to a large laryngeal carcinoma in an 81-year-old male resulting in respiratory failure. The patient became apnoeic after gaseous induction of general anaesthesia, and after two failed intubation attempts an emergency transtracheal airway catheter was placed by the surgeon under direct vision below the cricothyroid membrane, as this had tumour involvement. The patient was subsequently manually jet-ventilated with ease until a formal tracheostomy was made. Where difficulties with tracheal anatomy are encountered due to the presence of pathology, the insertion of a temporary airway catheter for jet ventilation by the surgeon can buy valuable time and be life-saving.
Correlation between bacteriology and computed tomography staging for chronic sinusitis
Authors: Jiang Rong-San , Lin Pzu-Kai , Lin Jen-Fu
Published: April 2005

In this study we report on the correlation between bacteriology and disease severity staging by computed tomography (CT) for chronic sinusitis. When patients with chronic sinusitis underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), swab specimens were taken from the ipsilateral middle meati and ethmoid sinuses under endoscope guidance. The severity of chronic sinusitis was evaluated by pre-operative CT scans. The CT scans were staged by the Lund and Mackay system. The scores for the frontal, anterior ethmoid and maxillary sinuses and for the ostiomeatal complex were added. The culture rates were correlated with the added scores. Between November 1998 and January 2003, 79 pairs of specimens were collected from 79 patients whose CT scans were done within a day before FESS. The culture rates of middle-meatus specimens were moderately correlated with the scores, but those of ethmoid sinus specimens were negatively correlated with the scores. If Staphylococcus epidermidis and corynebacteria were considered normal flora, the bacteriology of the middle meatus was highly correlated with the CT scores. This study shows that culture rates of middle-meatal specimens tended to increase with the severity of chronic sinusitis.
Structural implications of novel diversity in eucaryal RNase P RNA
Authors: MARQUEZ STEVEN M. , HARRIS J. KIRK , KELLEY SCOTT T. , BROWN JAMES W. , DAWSON SCOTT C. , ROBERTS ELISABETH C. , PACE NORMAN R.
Published: April 2005

Previous eucaryotic RNase P RNA secondary structural models have been based on limited diversity, representing only two of the ∼30 phylogenetic kingdoms of the domain Eucarya. To elucidate a more generally applicable structure, we used biochemical, bioinformatic, and molecular approaches to obtain RNase P RNA sequences from diverse organisms including representatives of six additional kingdoms of eucaryotes. Novel sequences were from acanthamoeba (Acathamoeba castellanii, Balamuthia mandrillaris, Filamoeba nolandi), animals (Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster), alveolates (Theileria annulata, Babesia bovis), conosids (Dictyostelium discoideum, Physarum polycephalum), trichomonads (Trichomonas vaginalis), microsporidia (Encephalitozoon cuniculi), and diplomonads (Giardia intestinalis). An improved alignment of eucaryal RNase P RNA sequences was assembled and used for statistical and comparative structural analysis. The analysis identifies a conserved core structure of eucaryal RNase P RNA that has been maintained throughout evolution and indicates that covariation in size occurs between some structural elements of the RNA. Eucaryal RNase P RNA contains regions of highly variable length and structure reminiscent of expansion segments found in rRNA. The eucaryal RNA has been remodeled through evolution as a simplified version of the structure found in bacterial and archaeal RNase P RNAs.
A Functional Role for Small-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels in Sensory Pathways Including Nociceptive Processes
Authors: Bahia Parmvir K. , Suzuki Rie , Benton David C. H. , Jowett Amanda J. , Chen Mao Xiang , Trezise Derek. J. , Dickenson Anthony H. , Moss Guy W. J.
Published: April 2005

We investigated the role of small-conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) and intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in modulating sensory transmission from peripheral afferents into the rat spinal cord. Subunit-specific antibodies reveal high levels of SK3 immunoreactivity in laminas I, II, and III of the spinal cord. Among dorsal root ganglion neurons, both peripherin-positive (C-type) and peripherin-negative (A-type) cells show intense SK3 immunoreactivity. Furthermore, dorsal root-stimulated sensory responses recordedin vitroare inhibited when SK channel activity is increased with 1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone (1-EBIO).In vivoelectrophysiological recordings show that neuronal responses to naturally evoked nociceptive and nonnociceptive stimuli increase after application of the selective SK channel blocker 8,14-diaza-1,7(1,4)-diquinolinacyclotetradecaphanedium di-trifluoroacetate (UCL 1848), indicating that SK channels are normally active in moderating afferent input. Conversely, neuronal responses evoked by mechanical stimuli are inhibited when SK channel activity is increased with 1-EBIO. These effects are reversed by the subsequent application of UCL 1848. Our data demonstrate that SK channels have an important role in controlling sensory input into the spinal cord.
Astrocytes Regulate Inhibitory Synapse Formation via Trk-Mediated Modulation of Postsynaptic GABAAReceptors
Authors: Elmariah Sarina B. , Oh Eun Joo , Hughes Ethan G. , Balice-Gordon Rita J.
Published: April 2005

Astrocytes promote the formation and function of excitatory synapses in the CNS. However, whether and how astrocytes modulate inhibitory synaptogenesis are essentially unknown. We asked whether astrocytes regulate the formation of inhibitory synapses between hippocampal neurons during maturationin vitro. Neuronal coculture with astrocytes or treatment with astrocyte-conditioned medium (ACM) increased the number of inhibitory presynaptic terminals, the frequency of miniature IPSCs, and the number and synaptic localization of GABAAreceptor (GABAAR) clusters during the first 10 din vitro. We asked whether neurotrophins, which are potent modulators of inhibitory synaptic structure and function, mediate the effects of astrocytes on inhibitory synapses. ACM from BDNF- or tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB)-deficient astrocytes increased inhibitory presynaptic terminals and postsynaptic GABAAR clusters in wild-type neurons, suggesting that BDNF and TrkB expression in astrocytes is not required for these effects. In contrast, although the increase in the number of inhibitory presynaptic terminals persisted, no increase was observed in postsynaptic GABAAR clusters after ACM treatment of hippocampal neurons lacking BDNF or TrkB. These results suggest that neurons, not astrocytes, are the relevant source of BDNF and are the site of TrkB activation required for postsynaptic GABAAR modulation. These data also suggest that astrocytes may modulate postsynaptic development indirectly by stimulating Trk signaling between neurons. Together, these data show that astrocytes modulate inhibitory synapse formation via distinct presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms.
PDGF α-Receptor Signal Strength Controls an RTK Rheostat That Integrates Phosphoinositol 3′-Kinase and Phospholipase Cγ Pathways during Oligodendrocyte Maturation
Authors: McKinnon Randall D. , Waldron Sean , Kiel Mary E.
Published: April 2005

Receptors with tyrosine kinase activity (RTKs) control tissue growth and development in metazoans. How they generate cell-specific responses remains essentially unknown; one model proposes that distinct RTKs activate different second-messenger pathways, whereas a second proposes that all RTKs deliver a generic “go” signal to these pathways that is uniquely interpreted by downstream, cell-specific response competence factors. We examine pathway activation and pathway-specific responses downstream of PDGFα receptors, whose expression in the developing CNS identifies oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) and whose activation controls OPC proliferation, migration, survival, and maturation. PDGFRα-null mice diein utero, and OPCs that emerge before their demise have migration and proliferation defects and rapidly differentiate into postmitotic oligodendrocytesin vitro. OPCs from hemizygous mice also undergo precocious differentiation, indicating a role for PDGFRα gene dosage in timing OPC maturation. The rescue of PDGFRα-null OPCs with PDGFRα transgenes revealed specific roles for the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and phospholipase Cγ (PLCγ) pathways and a distinct ligand concentration dependence. Activation of the PI3K pathway is required for PDGFRα-induced migration, whereas activation of both PI3K and PLCγ are required for PDGFRα-induced proliferation. For proliferation, PI3K activation is required at low ligand concentration, whereas PLCγ is required at high signal strength. Dose-response studies further demonstrate that PDGFRα activates PI3K at low ligand concentrations, whereas PLCγ is activated at high signal strength. Thus, PDGFRα signaling acts like a rheostat rather than generic ON switch, with signal strength dictating pathway activation during OPC maturation.
Lay understanding of genetic disease: A British study of families attending a genetic counseling service
Authors: Chapple Alison , May Carl , Campion Peter
Published: April 2005

Although lay people know that various diseases can be inherited, the idea that unhealthy life styles are the crucial cause of ill health has been promoted by health education policy in the United Kingdom. However, a new paradigm seems to be developing. The medical profession is increasingly using “genetics” to explain ill health, and people are being referred to geneticists for information and counseling. Lay conceptions of genetic disease emerged during this qualitative study of the process of genetic counseling. The results reported in this paper suggest that many lay people lack knowledge of genetics and inheritance, and that there is considerable stigma attached to genetic disease. Misconceptions and fears may not always be recognized or resolved during the process of genetic counseling. The implications of such misunderstandings and beliefs are considered in this paper.
Attitudes toward maternal serum screening in Chinese women with positive results
Authors: Jan Sheau‐Wen , Chen Chih‐Ping , Huang Lian‐Hua , Huang Fu‐Yuan , Lan Chung‐Chi
Published: April 2005

Maternal serum screening for fetal Down syndrome has been integrated into routine antenatal care in most clinics in Taiwan. We examined the attitudes toward serum screening and the possible implications in women with positive results. From January to July 1995, 276 women were referred to the Genetic Counseling Clinic, Mackay Memorial Hospital for amniocentesis because of positive screening results, and 214 participated in this study. All women opted for amniocentesis after genetic counseling. Over 40% stated that they made decisions independently after being informed of the serum screening. Need for certainty was the most frequently mentioned reason. Two‐thirds believed that serum screening could provide a diagnosis. Almost all women would apply for maternal serum screening for future pregnancies. This study demonstrated that Chinese women need more counseling and autonomy regarding maternal serum screening.
Resistance and adherence to the norms of genetic counseling
Authors: Brunger Fern , Lippman Abby
Published: April 2005

Genetic counseling for women of advanced maternal age who are considering prenatal testing continues to be based on a principle of nondirectiveness. We interviewed 11 genetic counseling students and four counselors about how they experience and manage, in practice, the tensions between the ideology of nondirectiveness and the acknowledged reality that one can never be truly nondirective. We found that our respondents creatively resolve this tension—simultaneously resisting and adhering to the values of nondirectiveness and information‐giving—in individual and situation‐specific ways. This resolution is facilitated by the extent to which information given to counselees is fluid, mobile and context‐dependent, but these very features of “information” also have critical implications for both the norms and the practice of genetic counseling.
A support group for couples who have terminated a pregnancy after prenatal diagnosis: Recurrent themes and observations
Authors: Suslak Lorraine , Scherer Anne , Rodriguez Gisela
Published: April 2005

Genetic Counselors are increasingly becoming involved in organizing and facilitating support groups for couples who have terminated a pregnancy because of an abnormal fetal diagnosis. This paper discusses recurrent themes which have emerged in the FATE (Feelings After the Termination Experience) support group which was founded in New Jersey in 1990. By becoming familiar with the issues we have observed in our support group, genetic counselors should be better able to understand and empathize with their patients who make the decision to terminate a much wanted pregnancy. They may also feel better prepared to become involved in organizing and facilitating such support groups.
CF carrier testing: Experience of relatives
Authors: Callanan Nancy P. , Bloom Diane , Sorenson James R. , DeVellis Brenda M. , Cheuvront Brian
Published: April 2005

Consensus exists that genetic counseling and CF carrier testing should be offered to individuals with a positive family history of CF. To learn more about their experience with genetic counseling and testing we conducted a series of structured telephone interviews and focus group discussions with individuals and couples who had undergone genetic counseling and carrier testing because of a family history of CF. Traditional genetic counseling appears to have been effective for this population. Subjects generally report having a positive counseling experience and few difficulties upon learning their carrier status. Subjects were quite knowledgeable about CF and their carrier risk and were highly motivated to seek testing. They may not be representative of all individuals with a family history of CF however. For carriers, concerns about whether and when to have children tested, and concerns about insurance implications of carrier status may emerge sometime after the initial counseling. Strategies for addressing these concerns and for providing efficient and effective education and genetic counseling for people with a family history of CF need to be developed.
Genetic counseling for the next 25 years: Models for the future
Authors: Kenen Regina H. , Smith Ann C. M.
Published: April 2005

Currently, two trends pose particular challenges for genetic counseling: (1) spin offs from the Human Genome Project leading to new diagnostic genetic tests far in advance of any cures; and (2) an increasing and diversified client population. These trends will lead to changes in both genetic service delivery systems and the development of alternative models of the genetic counseling process itself. Two models that could be adapted for genetic counseling are: the mutual participation model and the life history narrative model. Technological advances present ethical dilemmas and raise many questions. Already, improved detection of genes for predisposing conditions has entered clinical medicine requiring renewed ethical appraisals of genetic testing. Integration of genetic counseling (and required pre‐screening education) into primary care settings involves time constraints and the involvement of health care personnel with less training in genetics. Alternative approaches are beginning to be discussed. Innovative genetic counselors with expanded visions of counseling goals and practices will play an increasingly important role in the future of genetic counseling.
Folic acid and the prevention of neural tube defects: A position paper of the national society of genetic counselors
Authors: Baty Bonnie Jeanne , Cohen Leslie , Phelps Lorna , Speer Marcy C. , Stengel Pamela , Williamson‐Kruse Lori
Published: April 2005

Considerable scientific evidence demonstrates the reduction in risk for neural tube defects (NTDs) associated with maternal preconceptional folic acid supplementation. The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) endorses the U.S. Public Health Service recommendations for folic acid supplementation at the 0.4 mg level for women in the general population and at the 4.0 mg level for women at high or increased risk for NTD pregnancies for at least 4 weeks prior to active pursuit of conception. We encourage targeted educational efforts and surveillance to assess results of this dietary supplementation. The NSGC further urges the Food and Drug Administration to fortify staple foodstuffs with folic acid for a population‐based approach to minimize the number of NTD births.
Counseling and screening for cystic fibrosis in patients with congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens: Patient perceptions
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jennifer L. , Hutton Elaine M. , Babul Riyana , Cytrynbaum Cheryl S. , Sutherland Joanne E. , Shuman Cheryl T.
Published: April 2005

Congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD) occurs in approximately 1.3% of infertile males and is thought to be, in most cases, a primarily genital form of cystic fibrosis (CF). Fourteen males with CBAVD considering microsurgical sperm aspiration from the epididymis (MESA) and in vitro fertilization were seen for genetic counseling and screening for CF. To retrospectively evaluate these patients' perceptions of the counseling and screening information, we conducted structured telephone interviews to assess their recall of information about CF and its impact on their health concerns and reproductive plans. We found that, as the health implications of CF are abstract and not as important to patients as the diagnosis of CBAVD itself, patients tend to view their CF status primarily in terms of their reproductive potential. Retrospective analysis afforded us an opportunity to identify the psychosocial issues of most concern to this unique patient population.
Controversies in counseling for mitochondrial conditions
Authors: Kupelian Annie , Falk Rena E. , Klein Jana , Fournier Patricia , Fischel‐Ghodsian Nathan
Published: April 2005

A healthy woman sought preconceptional genetic counseling regarding a family history of a mitochondrial myopathy in her brother and retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in her two maternal aunts. Several questions were raised: (1) What is the likelihood of a familial mitochondrial condition? (2) What molecular tests or prenatal screening can we offer? (3) How would these tests help assess the likelihood of a familial mitochondrial condition? A mitochondrial mutation previously identified in the brother consisted of a heteroplasmic 2.9 kb deletion. We detected this deletion in the peripheral blood of the brother by PCR amplification of the deletion breakpoint, but not in his mother, the consultand, nor in one of the two aunts affected with RP. Although the molecular analysis was encouraging to the consultand, a familial mitochondrial disorder could not be eliminated with certainty. The pros and cons of prenatal testing for mitochondrial disorders are discussed in general, and as specifically related to this family.
Suicide prevention in the genetic counseling context
Authors: Peters June A.
Published: April 2005

Utilizing a case report, this paper explores psychosocial aspects of suicidal intent in a woman seeking prenatal diagnosis. Using knowledge and practice of appropriate assessment, referral, and intervention procedures, the therapy team of genetic counselor and psychotherapist facilitated successful identification and management of this potentially suicidal client. The main counseling goals for the genetic counselor are to assess the situation adequately, decrease the immediate danger, and, with supervision and/or consultation, stabilize the seriously suicidal person until that individual can be triaged to mental health or medical professionals for treatment. The prevalence of suicide issues in genetic counseling contexts is unknown and reports mentioning suicidal ideation unusual in the genetic counseling literature. Is this reported case a rarity among genetic counseling referrals? Systematically collected information on the prevalence and resolution of suicidal issues in genetic counseling contexts would be helpful for those setting curricula for genetic counseling training programs, standards for professional certification exams, and policy and procedures manuals for clinical units.
Practice variability in prenatal genetic counseling
Authors: Matloff Ellen T.
Published: April 2005

This study demonstrated that the content of prenatal genetic counseling sessions varied from counselor to counselor and from center to center. The study was designed to examine which specific issues were included by genetic counselors in prenatal genetic counseling sessions, and to determine which factors led genetic counselors to include or exclude this information from such sessions. Data were collected by randomly surveying 200 full, master degree members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC). Respondents provided information by deciding which of 45 specific issues they would include in a standard prenatal genetic counseling session, and which one factor from a bank of 11 factors most accurately described the reason for this decision. The results indicated that the issues included/excluded from sessions varied widely among genetic counselors. The results also indicated that Patient Education/Informed Decision Making (34.5%) played the largest role in decision making overall, with Standard at Center/Departmental Policy (17.6%), Personal Experience/Preference (12.4%), and Applicability (10.9%) serving as the next three most important reasons for including or excluding issues from prenatal genetic counseling sessions.
Molecular carrier testing for the fragile X syndrome: Issues for genetic counselors
Authors: Berliner Janice L. , Shapiro Faye N. , Nolin Sarah L. , Houck George E. , Ding Xiao‐Hua , Dobkin Carl , Brooks Susan Sklower , Brown W. Ted
Published: April 2005

Molecular analysis of the fragile X (FMR‐1) gene identifies female fragile X carriers, but appropriate genetic counseling can only be provided if the limitations of the testing methods are understood. Molecular analysis of this gene is achieved with both the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Southern blot techniques. PCR is faster and can determine the actual number of CGG repeats, which modifies genetic counseling substantially. However, for a sizeable percentage of women, PCR alone is not conclusive, and Southern analysis is necessary to complete the study. While this procedure takes longer, it is usually conclusive. Women who present for genetic counseling and carrier testing in the second trimester of pregnancy need this information quickly, and for them the turn‐around time is paramount. It is critical that genetic counselors understand these methods so that they can educate their clients and facilitate appropriate follow‐up.
Variation in content in prenatal genetic counseling interviews
Authors: Burke B. Meredith , Kolker Aliza
Published: April 2005

Thirty non‐MD genetic counselors from five cities described their pre‐test interview for a client of advanced maternal age, indicating the frequency they addressed each of 16 topics. Near‐universal were family history taking, procedural descriptions and complication rates, and the client's fetal risk level for certain disorders. Less frequently included were description of sex chromosome abnormalities with variable expression, choices if an abnormality is found, and description of actual abortion procedures (fewer than one‐third always included this). Counselors cited client discomfort in minimizing abortion‐related discussions. Both training programs and genetic services might stress conveying the differences in maternal risk associated with trimester of abortion, a factor arguably relevant to a client's informed decision making. Also, given U.S. demographic changes, they should consider increased staff training in cross‐cultural counseling techniques.
Total soil organic matter and its labile pools following mulga (Acacia aneura) clearing for pasture development and cropping. 2. Total and labile nitrogen
Authors: Dalal R. C. , Harms B. P. , Krull E. , Wang W. J. , Mathers N. J.
Published: April 2005

Mulga (Acacia aneura) woodlands and open forests occupy about 150 Mha in Australia, and originally occupied 11.2 Mha in Queensland. Substantial areas (1.3 Mha) of the mulga vegetation have been cleared in Queensland, mostly for pasture production, but some areas are also used for cereal cropping. Twenty years after mulga clearing we found a significant loss of total soil organic C (28–35% from the 0–0.05 m depth) and light fraction C (>50% from the 0–1 m depth) from soil under pasture and cropping at a site in southern Queensland. We report here the changes in soil N and labile N pools in a paired-site study following conversion of mulga to buffel pasture (Cenchrus ciliaris) and cereal (mostly wheat) cropping for more than 20 years.
Conversion from mulga forest to pasture and cultivation resulted in greater losses of soil N than organic C in the top 0.1 m depths. As a result, C/N ratios in soil under both pasture and cropping were higher than soil under mulga, indicating a decline in soil organic matter quality after mulga clearing. Although land-use change had no significant effect on 15N natural abundance (δ15N) values of total soil N down to a depth of 1 m, δ15N values of wheat tops and roots indicated that the primary source of N under cropping was soil organic N, while that of buffel pasture was a mixed source of soil N and decomposed litter and root N. Light fraction N (<1.6 Mg/m3) declined by 60–70% throughout the 1 m soil profile under pasture and cropping, but it was 15N-enriched in these 2 land-use systems. The δ15N values of mulga phyllodes, twigs, and fine roots, indicated an input of atmospheric fixed N2 that was estimated to be about 25 kg N/ha.year. However, the source and magnitude of this N resource needs to be confirmed.
Soil N losses were estimated to be 12 kg N/ha.year under pasture and 17 kg N/ha.year under cropping over a 20-year period. These findings raise the issue of the long-term sustainable use of cleared mulga areas for pasture and/or cropping. The labile C and N pools and N mineralised also declined, which would have an immediate adverse effect on soil fertility and plant productivity of cleared Mulga Lands, as well as reducing their potential as a soil sink for greenhouse gases.
Tears Shed Over the Poetic Past: The Prosification Of Rithā' Al-mudun In Al-Saraqustī's Maqāma Qayrawāniyya
Authors: Elinson Alexander
Published: April 2005

This article will provide a close reading of Abū al-Tāhir Muhammad b. Yūsuf al-Saraqustī's (d. 1143) Maqāma Qayrawāniyya. Taking into account social, political, and literary-historical factors, I will examine how and why the author effectively translates the poetic genre of rithā' al-mudun (city elegy) into rhymed prose. Writing during the Almoravid period when the prestige of poetry and literary prose was signi ficantly less than it had been in earlier periods due to a decline in courtly patronage, al-Saraqustī successfully expresses his own displacement as a writer and ambivalent relationship to the Arabic literary past and present by subverting the traditional metaphoric obscurity of poetry, and the clarity of prose. In utilizing the "hybrid form" of the maqāma, al-Saraqustī demonstrates the difficulties of remaining within narrowly de fined genres that do not necessarily re flect the complex twelfth century present in which the author lived.
Simultaneous tumours of the larynx with the same histology: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ottaviano Giancarlo , Marioni Gino , Marchese-Ragona Rosario , Marino Filippo , Staffieri Alberto
Published: April 2005

Synchronous laryngeal malignancies are extremely uncommon. To the best of our knowledge, only four cases of primary synchronous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the larynx are available in the literature. We report the case of a 52-year-old patient with simultaneous spindle-cell carcinoma and SCC in situ of the larynx. The pathogenesis, treatment and prognosis of this rare occurrence have been discussed.
Tea tree oil: in vitro efficacy in otitis externa
Authors: Farnan T B , McCallum J , Awa A , Khan A D , Hall S J
Published: April 2005

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the susceptibility of organisms causing otitis externa (OE) to the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia, or tea tree oil (TTO).

Methods: Fifty-seven swabs were taken from the ears of 52 patients with OE for culture and sensitivity. A broth microdilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of TTO for each organism.

Results: In 51 per cent of the swabs taken, pathogenic organisms were cultured. Of these cultures 71 per cent, both bacteria and yeast, were susceptible to TTO 2 per cent or less. The only organism showing resistance to TTO was Pseudomonas aeruginosa; however 25 per cent of these bacteria were sensitive.

Conclusion: Tea tree oil may have a role to play in the treatment of OE. However, more work needs to be done to enhance the anti-pseudomonal effect and to assess ototoxicity.