bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seven reasons why health professionals search clinical information‐retrieval technology (CIRT): toward an organizational model
Authors: Pluye Pierre , Grad Roland M. , Dawes Martin , Bartlett Joan C.
Published: October 2006

Rationale and aim  Clinical Information‐Retrieval Technology (CIRT) is increasingly used, for example in accessing drug databases. However, no comprehensive framework exists to understand why health professionals search for information using CIRT. The present article aims to propose such organizational framework.

Background  Our literature review suggests six reasons, of which three refer to cognitive objectives (C1, C2, C3) and three to organizational objectives (O1, O2, O3): (C1) to answer‐solve‐support a clinical question‐problem‐decision; (C2) to fulfil an educational‐research objective; (C3) to search in general or for curiosity; (O1) to share information with patients; (O2) to exchange information with other health professionals; (O3) to plan‐manage‐monitor tasks with other health professionals.

Methods  The case study examined the use and impact of the InfoRetriever software on handheld computers in a Canadian family practice centre. Using the Critical Incident Technique, six family doctors were interviewed on specific events. A thematic analysis assigned extracts of interviews to reasons for use.

Findings and conclusion  Findings illustrate the six reasons, and suggest a seventh reason that refers to a cognitive objective, namely (C4) to overcome the limits of health professional memory. These seven reasons are interpreted according to the literature on information science and organization studies, which suggest ordering reasons at three levels of stimulation of learning and knowledge: none (objective not achieved), moderate (cognitive objective achieved), and high (organizational objective achieved). This paves the way toward a new evaluation of relevance of CIRT in everyday practice (judgement based on professionals’ objective achievement) using an organizational model of information‐retrieving processes.
Clinical aspects of epidermodysplasia verruciformis and review of the literature
Authors: Gül Ülker , Kılıç Arzu , Gönül Müzeyyen , Çakmak Seray Külcü , Bayis Seçil Soylu
Published: October 2006

Background Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV), is an unusual genodermatosis characterized by persistent human papilloma virus infection with an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Clinically, it is characterized by flat wart‐like lesions, scaly hypo‐ and hyperpigmented macules and/or patches, which resemble pityriasis versicolor, and development of early beginning nonmelanoma cutaneous carcinomas.

Methods The epidemiological and clinical features of seven cases with EV that have been followed up for 5 years were included in the study.

Results Seven cases consisted of four males and three females. All seven cases were working outdoors. Three cases were the product of consanguineous marriages. The onset of the lesions was between the ages of 1–20 years (the average age was 9.29 years). The initial appearance of cutaneous tumors were between the ages 15–34 years (average age: 21.28 years). Six of seven cases had malignant cutaneous tumors, of which histopathological examination revealed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Three of our cases had radiotherapy previously for the existing SCCs. These cases had more early malignant transformations.

Conclusion Radiotherapy applied against the SCC previously, together with sunlight exposure may cause early malignant transformation of skin lesions and the destructive tumors.
From genesis to gene sequencing: historical progress in the understanding of skin color
Authors: Millington George W. M. , Levell Nick J.
Published: October 2006

Since at least biblical times, humans have pondered on why there might be variation in skin color and what might constitute the nature of that difference. In this article, two historical trails are followed, one beginning with the Ancient Greeks, the other with the Ancient Chinese. These two paths converge to provide us with some historical evidence to back recent scientific discoveries in the dynamic regulation of skin pigmentation, focusing on melanocyte‐stimulating hormone and its natural antagonist agouti‐signaling protein.
Office‐based radiation therapy for cutaneous carcinoma: Evaluation of 710 treatments
Authors: Hernández‐Machin Buenaventura , Borrego Leopoldo , Gil‐García Miguel , Hernández Buenaventura H.
Published: October 2006

Skin cancers are the most common malignancies and, historically, ionizing radiation has played an important role in their treatment. However, less experienced dermatologists generally consider radiation last in the line of therapeutic options. The authors sought to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of office‐based elective radiation therapy for cutaneous carcinoma.

A retrospective study of 604 basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and 106 squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) irradiated between 1971–96 was performed. The percentage of patients who developed tumor recurrence during the follow‐up period was calculated using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Cox's proportional model was used to assess the prognostic factors that might have influenced the recurrences.

The recurrence rates for BCC and SCC were 11.5 and 16.5 per 1000 patient‐years, respectively. The 5‐year cure rates were 94.4% for BCC and 92.7% for SCC, and the 15‐year cure rates were 84.8% and 78.6%, respectively. Tumor location on the nasolabial fold (OR 4.4; 95% IC, 1.3–14.7) and tumor size ≥ 10 mm (OR 2.14; 95% IC, 1.03–4.45) were independent predictors of BCC recurrence. This study suggested that radiation therapy is an effective treatment for BCC and SCC and should be considered as a first option in many cases.
Absence of Helicobacter pylori in the oral cavity of 10 non‐dyspeptic subjects demonstrated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Martinez‐Gomis J. , Diouf A. , Lakhssassi N. , Sixou M.
Published: October 2006

Helicobacter pylori plays a significant role in gastric disease. However, the presence of this bacterium in the oral cavity remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to detect and quantify H. pylori in 29 different sites of the oral cavity in non‐dyspeptic subjects by means of real‐time polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Ten subjects without gastric symptoms were studied. Samples from unstimulated saliva, three sites of the tongue, oral mucosa, and 12 sites of both supragingival and subgingival plaque were collected from each subject. DNA was extracted from the oral samples and analysed for the presence of H. pylori by real‐time PCR (LightCycler®) using JW23/22 primers which targeted the 16S rRNA gene. DNA from H. pylori DSM 4867 was used as a positive control. Amplification efficiency for the LightCycler® 2.0 runs ranged from 1.8 to 2.4. Melting curve analysis identified all the positive control capillaries, which contained H. pylori reference DNA, as a single and narrow peak at a melting temperature between 84.5 and 84.9°C. All the negative control capillaries with no template control and the 29 oral samples from each subject showed either no melting peaks or broad melting peaks below 80°C, which were considered as primer dimers. Therefore, H. pylori was not detected from any of the 290 oral samples. As a conclusion, H. pylori seems not to be permanently present in the oral cavity of a non‐dyspeptic population.
Carpegen® real‐time polymerase chain reaction vs. anaerobic culture for periodontal pathogen identification
Authors: Verner C. , Lemaitre P. , Daniel A. , Giumelli B. , Lakhssassi N. , Sixou M.
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:  The aim of this study was to compare two methods of microbiological diagnosis, anaerobic bacterial culture and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for the detection of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Treponema denticola.

Methods:  Seventy‐two samples were collected from 18 patients who were suffering from aggressive periodontitis. The data obtained were compared for the two methods.

Results:  The results obtained with real‐time PCR were different from those obtained with bacterial culture. The detection differences were 3% for A. actinomycetemcomitans, 8.33% for P. intermedia, and 12.5% for F. nucleatum. However, the differences for P. gingivalis and T. forsythia were 51.39% and 36.11%, respectively. No comparison was possible for T. denticola because it cannot be identified in culture. The variations found were the result of the better detection level (102 pathogens) of the PCR probe. Unlike bacterial culture, PCR allows the detection of T. denticola, which does not forming colonies and is oxygen sensitive. For F. nucleatum, T. forsythia and P. gingivalis, the real‐time PCR technique was more sensitive than culture.

Conclusion:  Good results were obtained with the real‐time PCR technique for the six periopathogens targeted. This method seems to be indicated for its simplicity, rapidity and reproducibility but it cannot analyze data for an antibiotic susceptibility test. The periodontist must therefore choose one of these two methods according to his specific clinical objective: to obtain rapid, specific detection even with weak initial concentrations (but for targeted periopathogens only) or to be non‐specific and analyze the pathological activity with an antibiogram.
Deficiency of iNOS contributes to Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced tissue damage
Authors: Alayan J. , Ivanovski S. , Gemmell E. , Ford P. , Hamlet S. , Farah C. S.
Published: October 2006

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in extensive soft and hard tissue destruction of the periodontium. Porphyromonas gingivalis possesses an array of virulence factors and has been shown to induce expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in inflammatory cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of eliminating iNOS in a murine model of P. gingivalis infection. This was achieved by utilizing a P. gingivalis‐induced skin abscess model, and an alveolar bone loss model employing an oral infection of P. gingivalis in iNOS knockout mice. The results indicated that iNOS knockout mice exhibit more extensive soft tissue damage and alveolar bone loss in response to P. gingivalis infection compared to wild‐type mice. The local immune response to P. gingivalis in iNOS knockout mice was characterized by increased numbers of polymorphonuclear monocytes, while the systemic immune response was characterized by high levels of interleukin‐12. The iNOS is required for an appropriate response to P. gingivalis infection.
Degradation of arginine by Slackia exigua ATCC 700122 and Cryptobacterium curtum ATCC 700683
Authors: Uematsu H. , Sato N. , Djais A. , Hoshino E.
Published: October 2006

Slackia exigua ATCC 700122T and Cryptobacterium curtum ATCC 700683T were our isolates from infected root canal and human periodontal pocket, respectively; they are asaccharolytic anaerobic gram‐positive rods, which are predominant in the oral cavity. They utilize arginine, so our aim was to investigate the pathway of arginine degradation. Metabolic end products were determined with high‐performance liquid chromatography. The related enzymatic activities in cell‐free extract were also assayed. Both S. exigua and C. curtum degraded arginine and produced substantial amounts of citrulline, ornithine and ammonia. Arginine and citrulline supported the growth of both strains. As the related enzymatic activities, arginine deiminase, ornithine carbamoyltransferase and carbamate kinase activities were detected in the cell‐free extract of S. exigua and C. curtum. Arginase and urease activities were not detected in either organism. These results suggest that arginine was metabolized by the arginine deiminase pathway. Both S. exigua and C. curtum degrade arginine via the arginine deiminase pathway.
Adhesion and invasion to epithelial cells by fimA genotypes of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Umeda J. E. , Missailidis C. , Longo P. L. , Anzai D. , Wikström M. , Mayer M. P. A.
Published: October 2006

Adhesion to and invasion of epithelial cells by the periodontopathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis is promoted by the major fimbriae, encoded by fimA. The microorganism can be classified in six genotypes, based on fimA sequence, and genotype II strains are more prevalent than others in periodontitis patients. This study aimed to determine the adhesive and invasive abilities on KB cells of different fimA allelic variants of P. gingivalis isolates. Twenty‐two isolates and six reference strains representing the six fimA genotypes and non‐typeable strains were screened for their adhesion and invasion abilities on KB cells, using standard methods. All strains were able to adhere and, except for one, to invade KB cells. However, these properties were not homogeneous among strains belonging to the same genotype. There was no correlation between adhesion and invasion efficiencies. Isolate KdII 865 (fimA genotype II) was the most invasive and the second most adhesive strain, whereas reference strain ATCC 33277 (fimA I) showed a low adhesion ability but was highly invasive. These data indicated that fimA genotypes of P. gingivalis are not related to the adhesion and invasion abilities on KB cells, suggesting that the increased prevalence and proportion of certain genotypes may be attributed to other characteristics besides FimA variation.
Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide induces interleukin‐6 expression through multiple mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways in periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Patil C. , Rossa C. , Kirkwood K. L.
Published: October 2006

Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans plays a major role in the pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from A. actinomycetemcomitans is a key factor in inflammatory cytokine generation within periodontal tissues. In this study, we identify major mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways induced by A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, Escherichia coli LPS and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in a murine periodontal ligament (mPDL) fibroblast cell line. Immunoblot analysis was used to assess the phosphorylated forms of p38, extracellular‐regulated kinase (ERK) and c‐jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) MAPK following stimulation with A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, E. coli LPS and IL‐1β. IL‐6 mRNA induction was detected via reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, while protein levels were quantified via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). We utilized biochemical inhibitors of p38, ERK and JNK MAPK to identify the MAPK signaling pathways needed for IL‐6 expression. Additional use of stable mPDL cell lines containing dominant negative mutant constructs of MAPK kinase‐3 and ‐6 (MKK‐3/6) and p38 null mutant mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells were used to substantiate the biochemical inhibitor data. Blocking p38 MAPK with SB203580 reduced the induction of IL‐6 mRNA by A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, E. coli LPS and IL‐1β by >70%, >95% and ∼60%, respectively. IL‐6 ELISA indicated that blocking p38 MAPK reduced the IL‐6 protein levels induced by A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, E. coli LPS and IL‐1β by ∼60%, ∼50% and ∼70%, respectively. All MAPK inhibitors significantly reduced the IL‐6 protein levels induced by A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, E. coli LPS and IL‐1β whereas only p38 inhibitors consistently reduced the A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS, E. coli LPS and IL‐1β induction of IL‐6 mRNA steady‐state levels. The contribution of p38 MAPK LPS‐induced IL‐6 expression was confirmed using MKK‐3/6 dominant negative stable mPDL cell lines. Wild‐type and p38α−/− MEF cells provided additional evidence to support the role of p38α MAPK in A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS‐stimulated IL‐6. Our results indicate that induction of IL‐6 by E. coli LPS, IL‐1β and A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS requires signaling through MKK‐3‐p38α ERK, JNK and p38 MAPK in mPDL cells.
CpG methylation patterns in the IFNγ promoter in naive T cells: Variations during Th1 and Th2 differentiation and between atopics and non‐atopics
Authors: White Gregory P. , Hollams Elysia M. , Yerkovich Stephanie T. , Bosco Anthony , Holt Barbara J. , Bassami Mohammad R. , Kusel Merci , Sly Peter D. , Holt Patrick G.
Published: October 2006

Interferon‐γ (IFNγ) gene expression is tightly regulated in early life, and exaggerated negative control of IFNγ production in CD4+ T cells has been associated with risk for subsequent development of atopy. Recent studies have demonstrated hypermethylation of CpG sites in the IFNγ promoter in neonates, a mechanism which in mice leads to strong suppression of IFNγ gene transcription. In the present study, the methylation status of six CpG sites in the proximal promoter of the human IFNγ gene was determined by bisulphite sequencing. Cell populations studied were Th1 or Th2 polarized cell lines derived from neonatal and adult CD4+/CD45RA+ T cells, CD4+ and CD8+ naive T cells from cord blood of children followed to outcome age 2 for assessment of atopy status, and CD4+ and CD8+ naive T cells from 6 yr old and adult atopics and controls. We demonstrate that in vitro differentiation of CD4+ T cells down the Th1 pathway (but not the Th2 pathway) is accompanied by progressive demethylation of CpG sites in the IFNγ promoter, which is most marked in neonatal cells. Atopy development by age 2 was not associated with variations in methylation patterns in cord blood T cells. However, IFNγ promoter methylation was reduced in CD8+ T cells from atopic children in the age range in which hyperproduction of IFNγ as recently been identified as a common feature of the atopic phenotype. The findings demonstrate the potency of IFNγ promoter methylation as a mechanism for control of human IFNγ gene expression, particularly during early life. Differential regulation of IFNγ promoter methylation in T cells may be an important contributory factor in atopy development in childhood, and this possibility warrants further detailed investigation.
The visual politics of animals in bioscience – earmice in the public sphere
Authors: Brown Nik
Published: October 2006

Abstract:  This paper reports on a UK social science and anthropological study into the debates surrounding xenotransplantation (XT), involving interviews and focus group discussions across a number of different stakeholders (scientists, regulators and publics – including patient groups and other lay participants). In these discussions, one image in particular – that of ‘earmouse’– surfaced repeatedly in consideration of XT and allied areas of bioscience. Whilst the image itself has little technically in common with XT or transgenic biotechnologies, it has nevertheless become ineradicably connected with them. This paper seeks to make sense of earmouse as an iconic reference through which people articulate their differing and highly contested views on bioscience.
The xenotransplantation narratives of nine type 1 diabetic patients with renal failure
Authors: Idvall Markus
Published: October 2006

Abstract:  Within the research project ‘‘Treatment of Diabetes by Transplantation of Porcine Islets’’ that was run by the Swedish Xenoislet Transplantation Network between 1998 and 2003, a partner project called ‘‘Cultural Perspectives on Xenotransplantation’’ investigated attitudes toward xenotransplantation development among the patients and their relatives as well as the medical personnel at a transplantation clinic in Sweden. In‐depth interviews were done with 37 individuals: nurses, doctors, researchers, patients, and relatives. All interviews were taped and transcribed verbatim. In this presentation the interviews with the nine type 1 diabetic patients with renal failure that took part in the project are focused. The personal and embodied narratives of these nine patients illustrate the ambivalent situation of individuals who are both patients and (potential) experimental subjects simultaneously. Both as actual practice and as biomedical information xenotransplantation research triggers a certain kind of cultural identity of the chronically ill patients – an identity related to how the patients ‘‘translate’’ scientific information and, at the same time, counter risk and uncertainty as well as promises of remedy. A central dimension in this cultural identity is a positive but still reluctant embodied attitude toward what spearhead science can bring about.
Comparison of three bacterial detection methods under routine conditions
Authors: Schmidt M. , Karakassopoulos A. , Burkhart J. , Deitenbeck R. , Asmus J. , Müller T. H. , Weinauer F. , Seifried E. , Walther‐Wenke G.
Published: October 2006

Background and Objectives  Since 2004, bacterial screening of platelets has been required in the USA and is also done on a voluntary basis in many European countries. The German Red Cross blood donor services conducted a prospective multicentre study in order to investigate the prevalence of bacterially contaminated pool platelet concentrates and apheresis platelet concentrates. This substudy compares three different bacterial detection systems.

Study Design and Methods  Platelet concentrates were tested in parallel with BacT/ALERT, Scansystem‘ and Pall eBDS (n = 6307) in pool platelets. Apheresis platelets were tested in parallel with BacT/ALERT and Pall eBDS (n = 4730). All initially positive results were evaluated by a standardized procedure including evaluation by a microbiology reference laboratory.

Results  One in 6307 pool platelets were confirmed positive by BacT/ALERT, whereas Pall eBDS and Scansystem failed to detect these samples. Only three samples were initially reactive with Pall eBDS without proof of any bacteria strains. The rate of false‐positive results was substantially higher for BacT/ALERT (0·25%, 28 in 11 037 tested samples) than for eBDS (0·03%, 3 in 11 037 tested samples) or Scansystem (0·0%, 0 in 6307 tested samples). Three of 4730 apheresis platelets were confirmed positive by BacT/ALERT. These were negative with Pall eBDS.

Conclusion  Sensitivity was best for BacT/ALERT, whereas specificity was enhanced for Pall eBDS and Scansystem. Scansystem required specially trained staff, whereas BacT/ALERT and Pall eBDS were easy, quick, user‐friendly and objective methods.
Dissemination of the Gene Encoding Exfoliative Toxin ofStaphylococcus intermediusAmong Strains Isolated from Dogs During Routine Microbiological Diagnostics
Authors: Lautz S. , Kanbar T. , Alber J. , Lämmler C. , Weiss R. , Prenger‐Berninghoff E. , Zschöck M.
Published: October 2006

Phenotypic properties and species‐specific PCR tests based on thenucgene ofStaphylococcus intermediusandS. aureus, and a conserved region of 16S rDNA were used to identify 45S. intermediusand fourS. aureusisolated from samples of dogs during routine diagnostics. FourS. pseudintermediusstrains used for control purposes reacted positively with theS. intermedius nucPCR showing the close relationship between both species. Investigating the 45S. intermediusand fourS. pseudintermediusstrains for the prevalence of the exfoliative toxin SIET encoding gene yielded the presence of the gene for 21 of theS. intermediusand two of theS. pseudintermediusstrains. Partial sequencing of the toxin gene of a singleS. intermediusstrain and comparing this sequence with that obtained from GenBank revealed an almost complete identity. The presence of the exfoliative toxin gene could mainly be found amongS. intermediusisolated from skin and wound infections and from otitis externa possibly indicating a role of this toxin for the clinical symptoms.
Morphological and gene expression similarities suggest that the ascidian neural gland may be osmoregulatory and homologous to vertebrate peri‐ventricular organs
Authors: Deyts Carole , Casane Didier , Vernier Philippe , Bourrat Franck , Joly Jean‐Stéphane
Published: October 2006

The central nervous system (cerebral ganglion) of adult ascidians is linked to the neural gland complex (NGC), which consists of a dorsal tubercle, a ciliated duct and a neural gland. The function of the NGC has been the subject of much debate. The recent publication of the complete genomic sequence of Ciona intestinalis provides new opportunities to examine the presence and distribution of protein families in this basal chordate. We focus here on the ascidian neuropeptide G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), the vertebrate homologues of which are involved in homeostasis. In situ hybridization revealed that five Ciona GPCRs [vasopressin receptor, somatostatin receptor, CRH (corticotropin‐releasing hormone) receptor, angiotensin receptor and tachykinin receptor] are expressed in the NGC of adult ascidians. These findings, together with histological and ultrastructural data, provide evidence to support a role for the ascidian NGC in maintaining ionic homeostasis. We further speculate about the potential similarities between the ascidian NGC and the vertebrate choroid plexus, a neural peri‐ventricular organ.
Dietary restriction changes behaviours in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor heterozygous mice: role of serotonergic system
Authors: Koizumi Hiroki , Hashimoto Kenji , Iyo Masaomi
Published: October 2006

Accumulating evidence has suggested that brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a role in eating behaviours, and that BDNF‐heterozygous (+/–) mice exhibit abnormal behaviours (e.g. obesity, anxiety and aggression). The present study was undertaken to determine whether or not dietary restriction (DR) alters the behaviours in BDNF+/– mice, as DR has been shown to exert a number of beneficial effects on the brain. Eight‐week‐old male wild‐type (+/+) and BDNF+/– mice were divided into two groups, ad libitum (AL) diet group and DR group, for 16 weeks. After carrying out a behavioural evaluation, we determined the BDNF mRNA levels, as well as mRNA levels for subtypes (5‐HT1A, 5‐HT1B, 5‐HT2A and 5‐HT2C) of the 5‐HT receptor and 5‐HT transporter (5‐HTT), protein levels of BDNF and concentrations of 5‐HT and 5‐HIAA in the hypothalamus, hippocampus and frontal cortex. DR significantly ameliorated behaviours including obesity, anxiety and aggression in BDNF+/– mice. The concentrations of 5‐HT and 5‐HIAA in the frontal cortex, and 5‐HT in the hippocampus, of BDNF+/– mice were significantly lower than those of wild‐type mice. Interestingly, DR significantly increased the levels of 5‐HT and 5‐HIAA in the frontal cortex of BDNF+/– mice. These findings suggest that DR may alter the behaviours in BDNF+/– mice, and that the 5‐HT system may be implicated in the beneficial effects of DR on these behaviours.
The slow Wallerian degeneration gene in vivo protects motor axons but not their cell bodies after avulsion and neonatal axotomy
Authors: Adalbert Robert , Nógrádi Antal , Szabó András , Coleman Michael P.
Published: October 2006

The slow Wallerian degeneration gene (WldS) delays Wallerian degeneration and axon pathology for several weeks in mice and rats. Interestingly, neuronal cell death is also delayed in some in vivo models, most strikingly in the progressive motoneuronopathy mouse. Here, we tested the hypothesis that WldS has a direct protective effect on motoneurone cell bodies in vivo. Cell death was induced in rat L4 motoneurones by intravertebral avulsion of the corresponding ventral roots. This simultaneously removed most of the motor axon, minimizing the possibility that the protective effect toward axons could rescue cell bodies secondarily. There was no significant difference between the survival of motoneurones in control and WldS rats, suggesting that the WldS gene has no direct protective effect on cell bodies. We also tested for any delay in apoptotic motoneurone death following neonatal nerve injury in WldS rats and found that, unlike WldS mice, WldS rats show no delay in cell death. However, the corresponding distal axons were preserved, confirming that motoneurone cell bodies and motor axons die by different mechanisms. Thus, WldS does not directly prevent death of motoneurone cell bodies. It follows that the protection of neuronal cell bodies observed in several disease and injury models where axons or significant axonal stumps remain is most probably secondary to axonal protection.
Therapeutic hypothermia modulates TNFR1 signaling in the traumatized brain via early transient activation of the JNK pathway and suppression of XIAP cleavage
Authors: Lotocki George , De Rivero Vaccari Juan Pablo , Perez Enrique R. , Alonso Ofelia F. , Curbelo Karell , Keane Robert W. , Dietrich W. Dalton
Published: October 2006

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays a critical role in pathomechanisms associated with secondary damage after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The TNF ligand‐receptor system stimulates inflammation by activation of gene transcription through the IκB kinase (IKK)–NF‐κB and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK)–AP‐1 signaling cascades. TNF signaling following TBI involves both cell survival and apoptotic pathways, but the mechanism that accounts for the dual role of TNF remains unclear. Multiple studies have reported hypothermia to be protective following TBI, but the precise mechanism has not been clearly defined. Here, TNFR1 signaling pathways were investigated in the cerebral cortex of adult male Sprague–Dawley rats subjected to moderate fluid‐percussion TBI and of naïve controls. Another group was subjected to moderate TBI with 30 min of pre‐ and post‐traumatic hypothermia (33 °C). Rapid and marked increases in protein expression of TNFR1 and signaling intermediates in both the IKK–NF‐κB and JNK pathways were induced in traumatized cortices. Hypothermia decreased TNFR1 protein expression acutely in traumatized cortices and stimulated early activation of signaling intermediates in the JNK, but not the IKK–NF‐κB, signaling pathways. Hypothermia promoted a rapid activation of caspase‐3 acutely after injury but suppressed caspase‐3 activation at later time points. Moreover, hypothermia treatment suppressed cleavage of X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) into fragments induced by TBI. These data suggest that hypothermia may regulate both the JNK signaling cascade via XIAP and the preconditioning pathways that activate caspases. Thus, hypothermia mediates TNFR1 responses via early activation of the JNK signaling pathway and caspase‐3, leading to endogenous neuroprotective events.
Modelling tree diversity in a highly fragmented tropical montane landscape
Authors: Cayuela Luis , Benayas José María Rey , Justel Ana , Salas‐Rey Javier
Published: October 2006

Aim  There is an urgent need for conservation in threatened tropical forest regions. We explain and predict the spatial variation of α (i.e. within plot) and β (i.e. between plot) tree diversity in a tropical montane landscape subjected to a high deforestation rate. A major aim is to demonstrate the potential of a method that combines data from multiple sources (field data, remote sensing imagery and GIS) to evaluate and monitor forest diversity on a broad scale over large unexplored areas.

Location  The study covered an area of c. 3500 km2 in the Highlands of Chiapas, southern Mexico.

Methods  We identified all of the tree species within 204 field plots (1000 m2 each) and measured different environmental, human disturbance‐related, and spatial variables using remote sensing and GIS data. To obtain a predictive model of α tree diversity (Fisher's alpha) based on selected explanatory variables, we used a generalized linear model with a gamma error distribution. Mantel tests of matrix correspondence were used to determine whether similarities in floristic composition were correlated with similarities in the explanatory variables. Finally, we used a method that combines α and β tree diversity to define priority areas for conservation.

Results  The model for α tree diversity explained 44% of the overall variability, of which most was mainly related to precipitation, temperature, NDVI, and canopy (all relationships were positive, and quadratic for temperature and NDVI). There were no spatially structured regional factors that were ignored. Similarity in tree composition was correlated positively with climate and NDVI.

Main conclusions  The results were used to: (1) identify and assign conservation priority of unexplored areas that have high tree diversity, and (2) demonstrate the importance of several vegetation formations in the region's biodiversity. The method we present can be particularly useful in assessing regional needs and in developing local conservation strategies in poorly surveyed (and often at risk) tropical areas worldwide, where accessibility is usually limited.
Simulated ecosystem threshold responses to co‐varying temperature, precipitation and atmospheric CO2 within a region of Amazonia
Authors: Cowling Sharon A. , Shin Younglan
Published: October 2006

Aim  Using a Dynamic Global Vegetation Model (DGVM), we assessed the independent and co‐varying effects of temperature, precipitation and atmospheric CO2 on nonlinear (threshold) responses in carbon‐based processes, and evaluated whether these underlying process thresholds translate to the ecosystem‐scale.

Location  Amazon Basin, South America.

Methods  The Lund‐Potsdam‐Jena model (LPJ) was employed to determine responses in net primary production (NPP), heterotrophic respiration (RH), vegetation carbon (CV), soil carbon (CS), and plant functional type (PFT) composition to variations in temperature (± 9 °C relative to the control), precipitation (up to 80% reduction in rainfall relative to the control) and atmospheric CO2 (± 100 p.p.m.v. relative to the control).

Results  Our modelling experiments show that increases in temperature result in lower and steeper NPP and RH curves, indicating a thermal threshold at current temperature conditions. Under a combination of temperature and precipitation change, CV responds more to precipitation, while CS closely follows temperature gradients. Ecosystem thresholds, measured in terms of PFT composition stability, are surprisingly few. Simulations indicate an ecosystem threshold occurring at 80% reduction in rainfall; however, due to modelling limitations, this threshold is likely to occur at earlier drought stress conditions. Further empirical research on abiotic stress tolerance levels in tropical ecosystems must be performed in order to refine PFT descriptions used in DGVMs.

Main conclusion  In evaluating simulation scenarios that promote major changes in PFT assemblage, we conclude that the ‘natural’ Amazonian rain forest is resilient to environmental change, particularly to decreases in temperature and precipitation. Determining to what extent anthropogenic pressures have altered this resiliency is of utmost importance in predicting the future fate of the Amazon Basin.
Infants’ memory for musical performances
Authors: Volkova Anna , Trehub Sandra E. , Schellenberg E. Glenn
Published: October 2006

We evaluated 6‐ and 7‐month‐olds’ preference and memory for expressive recordings of sung lullabies. In Experiment 1, both age groups preferred lower‐pitched to higher‐pitched renditions of unfamiliar lullabies. In Experiment 2, infants were tested after 2 weeks of daily exposure to a lullaby at one pitch level. Seven‐month‐olds listened significantly longer to the lullaby at a novel pitch level than at the original pitch level. Six‐month‐olds showed no preference but their low‐pitch preference was eliminated. We conclude that infants’ memory for musical performances is enhanced by the ecological validity of the materials. Moreover, infants’ pitch preferences are influenced by their previous exposure and by the nature of the music.
Intersensory redundancy educates selective attention in bobwhite quail embryos
Authors: Lickliter Robert , Bahrick Lorraine E. , Markham Rebecca G.
Published: October 2006

We assessed whether exposure to amodal properties in bimodal stimulation (e.g. rhythm, rate, duration) could educate attention to amodal properties in subsequent unimodal stimulation during prenatal development. Bobwhite quail embryos were exposed to an individual bobwhite maternal call under several experimental and control conditions during the day prior to hatching. Experimental groups received redundant auditory and visual exposure to the temporal features of an individual maternal call followed by unimodal auditory exposure to the same call immediately or after a 2‐hr or 4‐hr delay. Control groups received (1) the same exposure but in the reverse sequence (unimodal → redundant bimodal), (2) asynchronous bimodal → unimodal, (3) only unimodal exposure, or (4) only bimodal exposure. All experimental groups showed a significant preference for the familiar maternal call over a novel maternal call when tested 2 days after hatching, whereas none of the control groups showed a significant preference for the familiar call. These results indicate that intersensory redundancy can direct attention to amodal properties in bimodal stimulation and educate attention to the same amodal properties in subsequent unimodal stimulation where no intersensory redundancy is available.
Action planning in young children's tool use
Authors: Cox Ralf F.A. , Smitsman W.
Published: October 2006

Tool use consists of at least two coupled phases of activities, involving multi‐step problem solving. It therefore provides an interesting window on the development of planning in goal‐directed behavior. This study investigated 2‐year‐olds’ and 3‐year‐olds’ hand use in picking up and subsequently using a tool for displacing a target‐object towards a specified goal location. The children had to use a stick (Experiment 1; N = 41 in total) or a cane (hooked stick) that was lying in varying starting orientations (Experiment 2; N = 32 in total). Age differences were found in the way goal‐related information in combination with tool‐related information influenced the choice of which hand to use in different phases of the task. A view on action planning is developed as a dynamic action‐selection process for which actions to take. This process integrates factors that are internal to the child's action system (e.g. motor preferences and dexterity) with external (i.e. sensory) sources of information.
Mum and Dad prefer me to speak Bengali at home: code switching and parallel speech in a primary school setting
Authors: Pagett Linda
Published: October 2006

Although it contains a statutory inclusion statement, England's National Curriculum “hardly acknowledges the learning practices of different minority groups” (Gregory and Williams, 2003, p. 103). Through observation and interview, this study examines the repertoire of languages that six children for whom English is an additional language (EAL) choose to use at home and in their primary school settings in the West of England. The study bears out and extends previous research, which indicates that children from various ethnic backgrounds are involved in a struggle where they construct and reconstruct their identities according to the social situations they find themselves in. In addition to code switching between languages, the study reports on children using ‘bilingual parallel speech’, an unresearched practice. It shows that there may be a tension between schools' efforts to build upon the children's use of the home language and the children's reluctance to use it in a school setting, where the dominant institutional language is English, and where they would prefer to appear ‘like everyone else’. Social capital would appear to be an important factor affecting children's use of language and this may make them reluctant to maintain and develop their home language. Schools may need to consider strategies that value bilingual children's commonality with the school culture.
Status of women in highly literate societies: the case of Kerala and Finland
Authors: Ross Kathryn
Published: October 2006

Both Kerala and Finland have made notable achievements in the realm of literacy: Kerala has one of the highest rates in the developing world and Finland ranks first in literacy among developed countries. Both also share a cultural history of granting women a high status in their respective societies. Using Kerala and Finland as examples, this paper explores the status of women in highly literate societies in both the developing and developed worlds, looking not only at the historical circumstances in which these conditions developed but also at the outcomes associated with them. This paper argues that literacy rates and female status are interconnected: each impacts on the other, as high female status contributes to improved literacy rates and educational and life opportunities, while high female literacy rates result in increased social standing for women. Such synergy produces outcomes beneficial to a society, regardless of its developmental status.
Integration in ERP environments: rhetoric, realities and organisational possibilities
Authors: Light Ben , Wagner Erica
Published: October 2006

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) packages are said to enable integration when the standard inscription is adhered to through software configuration. A social shaping perspective expands conceptualisations of ERP packages, enabling a view of them as configurational technologies. Thus, ERP integration is opened up and the ‘integration through standardisation thesis’ is challenged.
Positioning hierarchy in enterprise system change
Authors: Schwarz Gavin M.
Published: October 2006

There is a widening gulf in change literature between theoretical notions of evolving organisational form and the emerging reality that old and new organisational structures coexist. This paper explores this dichotomy in Enterprise Resource Planning change. It develops a cellular hierarchy framework to explain how different types of hierarchy coexist within the same organisation during the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning.
Psoriasis physiopathology
Authors: Jullien D
Published: October 2006

Psoriasis is a complex disease presenting as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin, mediated by a network of soluble factors and a vast array of cell populations. Although we understand many of the molecular mechanisms and cellular alterations that underlie the disease, we do not yet have a clear view of what sparks off the pathophysiological process leading to plaque development. This review presents current concepts on the pathogenesis of psoriasis and new hypotheses that have emerged from recent research reports.
Animal models of psoriasis: a brief update
Authors: Nestle FO , Nickoloff BJ
Published: October 2006

Major obstacles to improve our understanding of psoriasis pathogenesis and development of new therapies are in large part due to the absence of accepted and disease‐relevant in‐vivo models. Recent progress in the area of psoriasis disease models include the use of humanized xenotransplantation models and genetically altered mice reflecting psoriasiform pathology. These models provide exciting new insights into disease pathogenesis and will hopefully enable improved pathogenesis‐based drug approaches.
New topical immunological treatments for psoriasis
Authors: De Prost Y
Published: October 2006

Topical treatments for psoriasis have been used for a very long time. They were designed to reduce epidermal proliferation and hyperkeratosis. Recent pathophysiological data have led to the use of many immunological therapies, initially systemically in severe forms and, in recent years, topically. Calcineurin inhibitors are now a well‐established treatment for atopic dermatitis and have also been evaluated in psoriasis. The first trials of tacrolimus (Protopic®, Astellas) and pimecrolimus (Elidel®, Novartis) failed to demonstrate any positive results on plaque‐type psoriasis, but several studies showed a definite efficacy on facial and intertriginous psoriasis. Calcineurin inhibitors do not induce skin atrophy and are therefore particularly useful in sites in which the skin is thinner (face, intertriginous areas). A third substance, sirolimus (Rapamune®, Wyeth), has recently been tested topically in psoriasis. A recent study demonstrated that topical sirolimus crosses the cutaneous barrier and is effective on psoriasis lesions. These studies therefore show an indisputable efficacy of calcineurin inhibitors and sirolimus in the treatment of localized psoriasis. The major advantage is the absence of skin atrophy. However, large‐scale efficacy and safety studies must be conducted in this indication.
Risk factors for preschool depression: the mediating role of early stressful life events
Authors: Luby Joan L. , Belden Andy C. , Spitznagel Edward
Published: October 2006

Background:  Family history of mood disorders and stressful life events are both established risk factors for childhood depression. However, the role of mediators in risk trajectories, which are potential targets for intervention, remains understudied. To date, there have been no investigations of mediating relationships between risk factors and very early onset depression, a developmental period during which intervention may be more effective. The current study used regression analyses to examine the relationships between family history of mood disorders and stressful life events as risk factors for depression in a preschool sample.

Method:  Preschoolers 3.0 to 5.6 years of age participated in a comprehensive mental health assessment. Caregivers were interviewed about their children using a structured diagnostic measure to derive DSM‐IV major depressive disorder (MDD) diagnoses and dimensional depression severity scores. Family history of psychiatric disorders and preschoolers’ stressful life events was obtained.

Results:  Both family history and stressful life events predicted depression severity scores 6 months later. Analyses examining the influence of family history of mood disorders and stressful life events on preschoolers’ depression severity demonstrated that stressful life events mediated the relationship between family history and preschoolers’ depression.

Conclusions:  Findings outline the key role of exposure to early stressful life events as a mediator of familial mood disorder risk in preschool onset depression. This finding in a preschool sample provides support for the hypothesis that psychosocial factors may have increased importance as mediators of risk in younger age groups. Findings suggest that psychosocial factors should be considered key targets for early intervention in depression.
Appraisals and cognitive coping styles associated with chronic post‐traumatic symptoms in child road traffic accident survivors
Authors: Stallard Paul , Smith Elisabeth
Published: October 2006

Background:  Comparatively little is known about the cognitive appraisals and coping styles of child road traffic accident (RTA) survivors that are associated with chronic post‐traumatic reactions.

Methods:  Seventy‐five children and young people aged 7–18 who were involved in a road traffic accident and attended an accident and emergency department were assessed 8 months after their accident. Post‐traumatic symptoms were assessed by diagnostic interview (CAPS‐C) and self‐report questionnaires (IES). Demographic, accident and injury severity variables were recorded. Informed by the Ehlers and Clark (2000) model, trauma memory, subjective appraisals of the trauma and cognitive coping styles were assessed.

Results:  Gender was the only non‐cognitive variable associated with significant post‐traumatic reactions and explained 5–6% of the overall variance. Trauma memory did not significantly contribute to the final regression model. The addition of the remaining cognitive factors assessing subjective appraisals of the trauma and cognitive coping style resulted in the model accounting for 61–65% of the variance of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms 8 months post trauma.

Conclusion:  This study adds support to the applicability of the Ehlers and Clark (2000) cognitive model to children. The results indicate that the theoretically determined appraisals and cognitive coping styles are associated with chronic post‐traumatic reactions. The findings suggest the need to develop trauma‐focused interventions for children that directly address these key cognitions during therapy.