bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Limits to Public Value, or Rescuing Responsible Government from the Platonic Guardians
Authors: Rhodes R.A.W. , Wanna John
Published: November 2007

In various guises, public value has become extraordinarily popular in recent years. We challenge the relevance and usefulness of the approach in Westminster systems with their dominant hierarchies of control, strong roles for ministers, and tight authorising regimes underpinned by disciplined two‐party systems. We start by spelling out the core assumptions behind the public value approach. We identify two key confusions; about public value as theory, and in defining ‘public managers’. We identify five linked core assumptions in public value: the benign view of large‐scale organisations; the primacy of management; the relevance of private sector experience; the downgrading of party politics; and public servants as Platonic guardians. We then focus on the last two assumptions because they are the least applicable in Westminster systems. We defend the ‘primacy of party politics’ and we criticise the notion that public managers should play the role of Platonic guardians deciding the public interest. The final section of the article presents a ‘ladder of public value’ by which to gauge the utility of the approach for public managers in Westminster systems.
Australian Child Support Reforms: A Case Study of the Use of Microsimulation Modelling in the Policy Development Process
Authors: Harding Ann , Percival Richard
Published: November 2007

Child support is always a difficult area of public policy, balancing the sometimes competing needs of children, resident and non‐resident parents and the state. This article provides a relatively rare insight into some of the processes involved in developing the new Australian Child Support Scheme (CSS), which will commence full operation in July 2008. In particular, this article shows how microsimulation modelling was used by the Ministerial Taskforce on Child Support and the government in the policy reform process. The availability of such sophisticated distributional analysis and modelling allowed the development of a comprehensive picture of how the reforms would affect CSS clients, thereby facilitating the adoption of major policy change. This article also provides a blueprint for policy‐makers of how modelling can facilitate their policy development processes.
Ministerial Advisers and the Politics of Policy‐Making: Bureaucratic Permanence and Popular Control
Authors: Eichbaum Chris , Shaw Richard
Published: November 2007

The advent of ministerial advisers of the partisan variety – a third element interposing itself into Westminster's bilateral monopoly – has been acknowledged as a significant development in a number of jurisdictions. While there are commonalities across contexts, the New Zealand experience provides an opportunity to explore the extent to which the advent of ministerial advisers is consistent with rational choice accounts of relations between political and administrative actors in executive government. Public administration reform in New Zealand since the mid 1980s – and in particular machinery of government design – was quite explicitly informed by rational choice accounts, and normative Public Choice in particular. This article reflects on the role of ministerial advisers in the policy‐making process and, on the basis of assessments by a variety of political and policy actors, examines the extent to which the institutional and relational aspects of executive government are indeed consistent with rational choice accounts of the ‘politics of policy‐making’. The reader is offered a new perspective through which to view the advent, and the contribution of ministerial advisers to policy‐making in executive government.
Public Sector Change, Organisational Culture and Financial Information: A Study of Local Government
Authors: Kloot Louise , Martin John
Published: November 2007

Local government has undergone substantial change in Victoria, but the reforms have not necessarily resulted in improved financial management practices. This article examines the organisational culture of a sample of local governments, the critical events which have impacted on them, and their use of accounting, budgetary and financial (ABF) information. We find that despite the change process, organisational culture is not focused on competitive practices, although compulsory competitive tendering remains the most influential event. Consistent with the aims of reform, the quality and use of ABF information has improved over the last decade. This article will be of interest to those in government wishing to implement change programs aimed at increasing financial resource use efficiency.
Response to Peter Shergold
Authors: Podger Andrew
Published: November 2007

Andrew Podger wrote an article in the June 2007 AJPA entitled ‘What Really Happens: Department Secretary Appointments, Contracts and Performance Pay in the Australian Public Service’. Dr Peter Shergold replied to his criticisms in the September issue of AJPA. This short response from Podger is the final rejoinder. In a second paper following this rejoinder the present Australian Public Service Commissioner comments on public service independence today.
Investigating the efficacy of concept mapping with pupils with autistic spectrum disorder
Authors: Roberts Veronica , Joiner Richard
Published: November 2007

Pupils with autism often present significant challenges to teachers. They seem to have real strengths in visual processing but a cognitive style that encourages them to focus on detail rather than the overarching connections between concepts. Veronica Roberts, currently undertaking doctoral training at the Institute of Education, University of London, in order to become an educational psychologist, and Richard Joiner, senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at the University of Bath, set out to explore these issues. In this article, they report the outcomes of a naturalistic experiment in which they investigated the utility of concept mapping as an educational strategy with pupils diagnosed with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). Theoretical arguments supporting the use of concept mapping with an autistic population are outlined in the paper. A tutor group of ten pupils with ASD, aged between 11 and 14 years, took part in the study. Concept mapping tasks were integrated within National Curriculum science lessons in collaboration with the school's science teacher. The study found that the increase in pupil performance in subject‐specific questionnaires was nearly four times greater in the concept mapping condition than after a more conventional teaching intervention. Veronica Roberts and Richard Joiner tentatively draw out the implications of their work for staff who work with pupils with ASD and make recommendations for further research into the use of these learning strategies.
Mothers, gender and inclusion in the context of home‐school relations
Authors: COLE BARBARA
Published: November 2007

The last twenty years have seen the proliferation of policies calling for the development of home–school relations and home–school partnerships, for it is argued that it is important for the educational success of all children that parents and professionals share aims, values and responsibilities. The dominant discourse around home–school relations refers to ‘parents’ as partners, maintaining that their voices are important and should be heard along with those of professionals. This is also held to be the case where children are categorized as ‘having special educational needs’ and a number of policies require that ‘parents’ are consulted wherever possible. However, this paper maintains that, despite this rhetoric, there is a boundary between home and school; between the professional, public space of school and the private, personal space of home, which reflects the power relations between public professionals and private parents. It maintains that the use of the gender neutral term ‘parent’ masks the gendered reality of ‘parenting’, making it easier for professionals to marginalize the individual voices of personal experience. The paper draws on research that suggests that the term ‘parent’ hides the fact that mothers are the ones generally perceived as having responsibility for their children and their relationship with school. It contends that the use of the term ‘parent’, in de‐gendering the contribution of the mother, negates the voice of personal experience and prioritizes the professional and expert voice. The lack of experiential knowledge is seen as especially important when children and their families are perceived as ‘different’; for example, disabled children and children labelled as having special educational needs (SEN).

The corollary to this argument is, of course, that while the term ‘parent’ negates the voices of mothers, it also negates the voices of fathers, despite research that strongly suggests the importance of their different but significant contribution in the lives of their children.
IEPs in mainstream secondary schools: an agenda for research
Authors: TENNANT GEOFF
Published: November 2007

Providing children with special educational needs with individual education plans (IEPs) was advocated in the 1994 code of practice for SEN, and retained in the 2000 code. Specifically as it relates to mainstream secondary schools, this has proved highly controversial: many SENCos report that the writing and implementing of IEPs is a bureaucratic encumbrance, whilst others, going about the process of writing IEPs in very different ways, report that the process is both manageable and beneficial to the children concerned.

Given this contradictory evidence, there is an urgent need for research into this area. Having looked at three case‐studies of schools using very different methods to write IEPs in ways with which they feel comfortable, a research agenda is set out with a view to informing policies which ensure that resources spent on SEN are used as productively as possible.
‘The Heaviest Weight’: Circularity and Repetition in a Song by Hugo Wolf
Authors: Baileyshea Matthew
Published: November 2007

The songs of Hugo Wolf continue to intrigue music theorists, not least because of their characteristic fusion of traditional tonal conventions with sophisticated chromatic processes. This article analyses a particularly intricate example: ‘Mühvoll komm ich und beladen’ from the Spanisches Liederbuch. The song projects a complex pattern of tonal relationships that reinforces an obsessive sense of repetition and circularity – issues that are explicit in the song's poetic text. The present reading engages a number of external sources, including the philosophy of Nietzsche, the operatic figure of Kundry and the myth of Sisyphus. These elements provide a series of cultural co‐ordinates that together serve to illuminate primary facets of the song's structure, including its formal design and distinctive harmonic syntax. Each of these topics is considered in the service of a larger, overriding purpose: to reveal the ways in which the composer seeks to characterise sin and spiritual torment using techniques of cyclic organisation.
Motor control in children with ADHD and non‐affected siblings: deficits most pronounced using the left hand
Authors: Rommelse Nanda N.J. , Altink Marieke E. , Oosterlaan Jaap , Buschgens Cathelijne J.M. , Buitelaar Jan , De Sonneville Leo M.J. , Sergeant Joseph A.
Published: November 2007

Background:  Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is strongly influenced by heritability. Identifying heritable vulnerability traits (endophenotypes) that mark a relatively high risk of developing the disorder can contribute to the identification of risk genes. A fruitful area for the search for such endophenotypes may be motor control in children with ADHD, since the disorder is frequently accompanied by motor problems.

Method:  The current study used a large sample of 350 children with ADHD, 195 non‐affected siblings and 271 normal controls aged 5–19 years. Children were administered two computerised motor control tasks in which they had to trace a path between two circles (Tracking task) and follow a randomly moving target (Pursuit task). Both tasks were performed with both the right and the left hand.

Results:  Children with ADHD were less precise and stable than controls. Non‐affected siblings also deviated from controls, but only on the Tracking task. Group differences were modulated by the use of the right versus the left hand: no group differences emerged when the right hand was used, yet group differences did emerge when the left hand was used. Performance on both tasks was significantly familial.

Conclusions:  Imprecision and instability of movements in children with ADHD and in their non‐affected siblings as measured by the Tracking task might be suitable endophenotypic candidates: these deficits are familially present in children having ADHD as well as in their non‐affected siblings. Motor performance might be best assessed in children using their left hand, because motor control deficits are most pronounced using the left hand. This might relate to right hemispheric brain pathology in children with ADHD (and possibly in their non‐affected siblings) that is related to the control of the left hand and/or relate to differential effects of daily life practice on both hands, which may be smaller on the left hand.
Re‐examining the core features of autism: a comparison of autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Bishop Somer , Gahagan Sheila , Lord Catherine
Published: November 2007

Background:  Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are both characterized by social difficulties, but overall clinical descriptions of the two disorders are different.

Method:  Twenty‐nine children with autism and 33 children with pervasive developmental disorder‐not otherwise specified (PDD‐NOS) were compared to 29 children with FASD of equivalent age and full‐scale IQ. To isolate social deficits that are most unique to ASD, all participants were administered the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Parents of the children completed the Autism Diagnostic Interview‐Revised (ADI‐R).

Results:  Difficulties in initiating social interaction, sharing affect, and using nonverbal communication were common in children with ASD but rare in children with FASD. Socially inappropriate behaviors and difficulty with peers were common in both groups.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that whereas propensity for social interaction appears to be a differentiating factor between children with ASD and those with non‐spectrum disorders, impaired quality of social interaction may be less diagnostically discriminative.
Behaviour problems in children with language impairment
Authors: Van Daal John , Verhoeven Ludo , Van Balkom Hans
Published: November 2007

Background: Language impairment is often associated with behaviour problems. However, detailed relations between different types of language impairment and specific behaviour problems in children have yet to be demonstrated. The present study attempted to do just this with an eye to the implications to identify foci for early intervention.

Methods: The language abilities of 71 five‐year‐old children with language impairment were assessed via the administration of an extensive battery of language tests. The children's behaviour profile was assessed via administration of the Child Behaviour Checklist.

Results: Factor analyses confirmed the presence of four language factors: speech, syntax, semantics and phonology. Forty percent of the children displayed serious significant behaviour problems. The most frequently occurring behaviour problems were: withdrawn behaviour, somatic complaints, thought problems and aggressive behaviour. Behaviour problems were associated with three of the four language factors but not strongly associated with speech problems.

Conclusions: Differential relations between specific types of language impairment and specific behaviour problems already exist at a young age. Phonological problems showed broad relations to problem behaviour; semantic language problems were especially related to internalizing behaviour problems. This finding suggests the need for specific therapies for both different types of language problems and different types of behaviour problems.
Simple reaction time as a function of the phase of the cardiac cycle in young adults at risk for hypertension
Authors: McIntyre David , Ring Christopher , Edwards Louisa , Carroll Douglas
Published: November 2007

Modulation of simple reaction time over the cardiac cycle, which is likely to be mediated by activation of arterial baroreceptors, may be moderated by individual difference factors that affect baroreceptor activation, such as risk for hypertension. This study examined arterial baroreceptor effects on simple reaction times by presenting vibrotactile stimuli at six intervals after the R‐wave of the electrocardiogram (0, 150, 300, 450, 600, and 750 ms) in 113 young men and women whose resting blood pressure and parental history of hypertension were ascertained. Reaction times were slower early in the cardiac cycle compared to later. However, these cycle time effects were not moderated by sex, resting blood pressure, or parental history of hypertension. In conclusion, cardiac‐related cortical interference was not moderated by risk for hypertension.
Brain activation and defensive response mobilization during sustained exposure to phobia‐related and other affective pictures in spider phobia
Authors: Wendt Julia , Lotze Martin , Weike Almut I. , Hosten Norbert , Hamm Alfons O.
Published: November 2007

This study explored defensive response mobilization as well as fMRI responses during sustained exposure to phobia‐relevant stimuli. To test the specificity of affective physiology and brain activation, neutral and other affective stimuli were included. Phobia‐specific startle potentiation was maintained and autonomic responses even increased during sustained phobic stimulation. Viewing of spider pictures also resulted in increased activation of the amygdala in spider‐phobic participants. This effect, however, was not fear specific because other affective materials evoked comparable signal strength in the amygdala. In contrast, insula activation was specifically increased during sustained phobic exposure in phobic volunteers. These data suggest that the activation of the amygdala in fMRI studies primarily indexes the detection of motivationally relevant stimuli whereas the insula might be more specifically linked to defensive response mobilization.
Cardiovascular effects in adolescents while they are playing video games: A potential health risk factor?
Authors: Borusiak Peter , Bouikidis Anastasios , Liersch Rüdiger , Russell Jarrod B.
Published: November 2007

We analyzed heart rate (HR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production in 17 male adolescents during a racing simulation video game (VG) and compared to resting state (RS) and exercise testing (ET) measures. We were able to demonstrate a significant (p<.005) increase from RS to VG concerning HR (+13.1 bpm), SBP (+20.8 mmHg), and DBP (+12.1 mmHg) with SBP and DBP elevations exceeding 2SDin all children and 14/17 children, respectively. The energy consumption during VG (max 1.71 kcal/min) was unaltered compared to RS and significantly lower compared to ET even at the starting strain of 25 W (1.94 kcal/min). Hemodynamic parameters tested demonstrated lower HR, unchanged SBP, and higher DBP during the VG compared with ET. Comparing all measured parameters it can be said that the relation of blood pressure and energy consumption during VG might not be favorable.
The effect of a REM sleep deprivation procedure on different aspects of memory function in humans
Authors: Saxvig Ingvild West , Lundervold Astri Johansen , Grønli Janne , Ursin Reidun , Bjorvatn Bjørn , Portas Chiara Maria
Published: November 2007

Previous studies have suggested that memory is dependent on the occurrence of REM sleep. Research has mainly focused on two distinct types of memory function, declarative and procedural, and it seems that the latter may more directly depend on REM sleep. Memory consolidation has been more investigated than acquisition, maintenance, and recall, despite the fact that sleep may affect flow of information into/from storage. Moreover, tests have often been limited to stimuli within only one modality (usually visual or verbal). This study aimed to clarify the role of REM sleep in memory by investigating aspects of memory function, processing, and modality in the same experimental setting. Tests of acquisition and consolidation of multiple aspects of memory function within the visual and verbal modalities were administrated to subjects before and after REM sleep deprivation. Results show that test performance was not affected by REM sleep deprivation.
Effects of self‐regulatory strength depletion on muscular performance and EMG activation
Authors: Bray Steven R. , Martin Ginis Kathleen A. , Hicks Audrey L. , Woodgate Jennifer
Published: November 2007

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of a self‐regulatory strength depletion manipulation on performance of a physical endurance (isometric handgrip) task. In addition, the effect of depletion on EMG activity in the working forearm muscles during the endurance task was explored. Sedentary undergraduates (N=49) were randomly assigned to either a cognitive depletion condition (modified Stroop task) or a control (color word) group and completed two maximal isometric exercise endurance trials separated by the cognitive task. Participants in the depletion group showed significant (p<.05) degradations in performance and exhibited higher EMG activation on the second endurance trial (p<.05) compared to controls. Results are consistent with the limited strength model of self‐regulation and are interpreted in light of the central fatigue hypothesis.
Laparoscopically assisted sigmoid colon vaginoplasty in women with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser syndrome: feasibility and short‐term results
Authors: Cai B , Zhang JR , Xi XW , Yan Q , Wan XP
Published: November 2007

Objectives  To evaluate the technical feasibility and anatomical and functional outcomes of laparoscopically assisted sigmoid colon vaginoplasty (LASV) in women with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome.

Design  A retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Setting  Shanghai First People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Population  Twenty‐six women with MRKH syndrome.

Methods  A record was made of mean operating time, length of hospital stay, perioperative complications and the anatomical and functional outcomes of surgery.

Main outcome measures  The perioperative results, complications and anatomical and functional outcomes of LASV (with median 20 months follow up, range 5–48 months).

Results  The mean operating time and hospital stay were 238 minutes and 9.8 days, respectively. The mean fall in haemoglobin was 2.0 g/dl. The only significant perioperative complications were one case with blood transfusion and three cases with infection (one with urinary tract and two with adjunctive incision). A functioning vagina 10 to 15 cm in length and 4 cm in width was created in all women. Introital stenosis occurred in only two women (2 months later). Twenty‐two women subsequently had intercourse and 20 women (91%) were satisfied with the surgery and subsequent sexual activity.

Conclusions  LASV is an effective approach for women with MRKH syndrome. Both the anatomical and functional outcomes are satisfactory.
Hydralazine inhibits compression and acrolein‐mediated injuries in ex vivo spinal cord
Authors: Hamann Kristin , Nehrt Genevieve , Ouyang Hui , Duerstock Brad , Shi Riyi
Published: November 2007

We have previously shown that acrolein, a lipid peroxidation byproduct, is significantly increased following spinal cord injury in vivo, and that exposure to neuronal cells results in oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, increased membrane permeability, impaired axonal conductivity, and eventually cell death. Acrolein thus may be a key player in the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury, where lipid peroxidation is known to be involved. The current study demonstrates that the acrolein scavenger hydralazine protects against not only acrolein‐mediated injury, but also compression in guinea pig spinal cord ex vivo. Specifically, hydralazine (500 μmol/L to 1 mmol/L) can significantly alleviate acrolein (100–500 μmol/L)‐induced superoxide production, glutathione depletion, mitochondrial dysfunction, loss of membrane integrity, and reduced compound action potential conduction. Additionally, 500 μmol/L hydralazine significantly attenuated compression‐mediated membrane disruptions at 2 and 3 h following injury. This was consistent with our findings that acrolein‐lys adducts were increased following compression injury ex vivo, an effect that was prevented by hydralazine treatment. These findings provide further evidence for the role of acrolein in spinal cord injury, and suggest that acrolein‐scavenging drugs such as hydralazine may represent a novel therapy to effectively reduce oxidative stress in disorders such as spinal cord injury and neurodegenerative diseases, where oxidative stress is known to play a role.
CHL1 promotes Sema3A‐induced growth cone collapse and neurite elaboration through a motif required for recruitment of ERM proteins to the plasma membrane
Authors: Schlatter Monika C. , Buhusi Mona , Wright Amanda G. , Maness Patricia F.
Published: November 2007

Close homolog of L1 (CHL1) is a transmembrane cell adhesion molecule with unique developmental functions in cortical neuronal positioning and dendritic projection within the L1 family, as well as shared functions in promotion of integrin‐dependent neurite outgrowth and semaphorin3A (Sema3A)‐mediated axon repulsion. The molecular mechanisms by which CHL1 mediates these diverse functions are obscure. Here it is demonstrated using a cytofluorescence assay that CHL1 is able to recruit ezrin, a member of the ezrin‐radixin‐moesin (ERM) family of filamentous actin binding proteins to the plasma membrane, and that this requires a membrane‐proximal motif (RGGKYSV) in the CHL1 cytoplasmic domain. This sequence in CHL1 is shown to have novel functions necessary for Sema3A‐induced growth cone collapse and CHL1‐dependent neurite outgrowth and branching in cortical embryonic neurons. In addition, stimulation of haptotactic cell migration and cellular adhesion to fibronectin by CHL1 depends on the CHL1/ERM recruitment motif. These findings suggest that a direct or indirect interaction between CHL1 and ERM proteins mediates Sema3A‐induced growth cone collapse as well as neurite outgrowth and branching, which are essential determinants of axon guidance and connectivity in cortical development.
Carnosic acid, a catechol‐type electrophilic compound, protects neurons both in vitro and in vivo through activation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway via S‐alkylation of targeted cysteines on Keap1
Authors: Satoh Takumi , Kosaka Kunio , Itoh Ken , Kobayashi Akira , Yamamoto Masayuki , Shimojo Yosuke , Kitajima Chieko , Cui Jiankun , Kamins Joshua , Okamoto Shu‐ichi , Izumi Masanori , Shirasawa Takuji , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: November 2007

Electrophilic compounds are a newly recognized class of redox‐active neuroprotective compounds with electron deficient, electrophilic carbon centers that react with specific cysteine residues on targeted proteins via thiol (S‐)alkylation. Although plants produce a variety of physiologically active electrophilic compounds, the detailed mechanism of action of these compounds remains unknown. Catechol ring‐containing compounds have attracted attention because they become electrophilic quinones upon oxidation, although they are not themselves electrophilic. In this study, we focused on the neuroprotective effects of one such compound, carnosic acid (CA), found in the herb rosemary obtained from Rosmarinus officinalis. We found that CA activates the Keap1/Nrf2 transcriptional pathway by binding to specific Keap1 cysteine residues, thus protecting neurons from oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. In cerebrocortical cultures, CA‐biotin accumulates in non‐neuronal cells at low concentrations and in neurons at higher concentrations. We present evidence that both the neuronal and non‐neuronal distribution of CA may contribute to its neuroprotective effect. Furthermore, CA translocates into the brain, increases the level of reduced glutathione in vivo, and protects the brain against middle cerebral artery ischemia/reperfusion, suggesting that CA may represent a new type of neuroprotective electrophilic compound.
Longitudinal changes in the prevalence of dementia in a Japanese rural area
Authors: WAKUTANI Yosuke , KUSUMI Masayoshi , WADA Kenji , KAWASHIMA Mika , ISHIZAKI Kumiko , MORI Masatada , MORI Nozomi , IJIRI Tamami , ADACHI Yoshiki , ASHIDA Yasushi , KUNO Nobutoshi , URAKAMI Katsuya , TAKESHIMA Takao , NAKASHIMA Kenji
Published: November 2007

Background:  The increasing number of patients with dementia in Japan, together with the rapid aging of society, is currently considered to have a substantial impact on Japan's medical, economic and sociological systems. Therefore, the longitudinal estimation of changes in the prevalence of dementia based on accurate diagnostic evaluation has important implications.

Methods:  We undertook three separate epidemiological studies on long‐term changes, 10 years apart (1980, 1990 and 2000), in the prevalence of dementia in an elderly population using identical methods (DSM‐III and Hachinski's ischemic score) for the same rural area in Japan (Daisen‐cho).

Results:  The percentage of the population that was elderly (over 65 years of age) increased steadily from 16.0% in 1980 to 21.7% in 1990 and 27.1% in 2000. The prevalence of dementia (cases/100 people aged 65 years or older, adjusted to the population structure of 1980) in 1980, 1990 and 2000 was 4.4, 4.5 and 5.9, respectively, for all types of dementia, 1.9, 2.5 and 3.6, respectively, for Alzheimer‐type dementia (DAT) and 2.0, 1.7 and 2.2, respectively, for vascular dementia (VaD).

Conclusions:  These findings of an increase in the number of cases and prevalence of DAT and VaD in a Japanese rural community have important implications for interventional medicine.
Burning of Logged Sites to Protect Beetles in Managed Boreal Forests
Authors: TOIVANEN TERO , KOTIAHO JANNE S.
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Natural disturbance–based management and conservation strategies are needed to protect forest biodiversity. Boreal forests of northern Europe are typically clearcut and otherwise intensively managed for timber production. As a result, natural disturbances such as forest fires have became rare and the volume of dead wood has decreased. These changes have had a profound negative effect on species that depend on dead wood (saproxylic). Therefore, it is important to determine whether modifications of forest management methods can enhance the survival of these species. In our study area in southern Finland, we determined whether burning of logged sites and leaving trees (i.e., retention trees) on the sites benefited saproxylic, rare, and red‐listed beetle species and how long the burned sites remained suitable habitat for these species. We surveyed the beetle fauna at 40 sites logged 1–16 years previously, 20 of which were burned after logging. The abundance and species richness of saproxylic beetles were positively affected by burning, but the effect depended on the retention of trees in the otherwise clearcut stands. The difference between burned and unburned sites increased with the number of retention trees, and the effect of burning was not significant when there were fewer than approximately 15 retention trees/ha. Most important, the species groups that were unlikely to persist in ordinarily managed forests (rare saproxylic and red‐listed beetles), benefited strongly from burning and tree retention. The species richness of saproxylic beetles decreased with time since logging at both burned and at unburned sites. We conclude that burning of logged sites and leaving an adequate number of retention trees may be useful in the conservation of disturbance‐adapted species and can be used to improve the environmental quality of the matrix surrounding protected areas. Unfortunately, sites remained high‐quality habitat for only a short time; thus, a continuum of burned areas must be ensured.
Safety, penetration and efficacy of topically applied bevacizumab: evaluation of eyedrops in corneal neovascularization after chemical burn
Authors: Yoeruek Efdal , Ziemssen Focke , Henke‐Fahle Sigrid , Tatar Olcay , Tura Aysegül , Grisanti Salvatore , Bartz‐Schmidt Karl U. , Szurman Peter ,   Tübingen Bevacizumab Study Group
Published: November 2007

Purpose:  That vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a major role in inflammatory angiogenesis has been well established. This pilot study was designed to evaluate experimental treatment with bevacizumab eyedrops in corneal neovascularization induced by alkali burn. The feasibility of topical administration, corneal cell viability and corneal penetration were investigated in an animal model.

Methods:  Eighteen chinchilla bastard rabbit corneas injured with 1 m NaOH were divided into three groups: untreated, early and late treatment groups. Eyedrops of bevacizumab solution (25 mg/ml) were administered five times daily. Clinical examination under stereoscopic microscope was performed to evaluate corneal opacity, neovascularization, vessel size and oedema. Histopathology was analysed for vessel density and apoptotic reaction. Additionally, intracameral bevacizumab concentration was measured with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) after repeated topical applications.

Results:  A fast increase in aqueous bevacizumab concentration was achieved when the solution was instilled every minute onto a healthy eye surface. As well as clear anti‐angiogenic effects, anti‐fibrotic effects were also seen after corneal burn, maintaining corneal transparency. Early treatment of actively growing vessels showed a significantly better outcome, although apoptosis of pre‐existing vessels could also be induced by the late treatment. No specific toxicity was seen regarding epithelium, keratocytes or endothelium.

Conclusions:  The data from this pilot study suggest that bevacizumab eyedrops can sufficiently penetrate the corneal stroma and anterior chamber. When administered soon after alkali burn, bevacizumab seems to significantly reduce corneal damage. Combinations of established treatment regimens with topical bevacizumab might be considered in severe injuries with otherwise devastating prognoses.
Interleukin‐1 Stimulates Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Secretion in Ectopic Endometrial Cells of Women with Endometriosis
Authors: Lavoie Catherine Herrmann , Fraser Daibhid , Therriault Marie‐Josée , Akoum Ali
Published: November 2007

Problem  Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a potent immuno‐modulatory, angiogenic and tissue remodeling factor, is markedly expressed in ectopic endometrial implants and may play key role in the capability of this tissue to grow and develop into the host tissue. The objective of this study was to determine whether macrophage‐derived cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)‐1, which is overproduced by endometriosis women's peritoneal macrophages and found in elevated concentration in their peritoneal fluid, may play a role in MIF synthesis and secretion by ectopic endometrial cells.

Methods of study  Primary cultures of endometriotic cells exposed to IL‐1β and evaluation of MIF protein by immunocytofluorescence and ELISA, and mRNA by quantitative real‐time PCR and nuclear transcription assays (run‐on).

Results  Interleukin‐1β acts rapidly on endometriotic cells and stimulated MIF secretion and mRNA steady‐state levels in a dose and time‐dependent manner. IL‐1β treatment had no significant effect on MIF mRNA half‐life and stability, but acted predominantly by up‐regulating MIF gene transcription as assessed by run‐on.

Conclusion  These data clearly indicate that IL‐1 can be involved in the up‐regulation of MIF expression by ectopic endometrial implants. Such an interaction between IL‐1 and MIF may have an important impact on endometriotic cell growth and endometriosis pathophysiology.
Kinetics of Regulatory T Cells During Murine Pregnancy
Authors: Thuere Catharina , Zenclussen Maria Laura , Schumacher Anne , Langwisch Stefanie , Schulte‐Wrede Ursula , Teles Ana , Paeschke Steffen , Volk Hans‐Dieter , Zenclussen Ana Claudia
Published: November 2007

Problem  The semi‐allogeneic fetus is usually tolerated by the maternal immune system. This was proposed to be modulated by CD4+CD25+foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg). We aimed to determine the kinetics of Treg during murine gestation and investigate whether changes in Treg levels respond to hormonal variations during pregnancy or generated changes in the local indolamine dioxygenase (IDO) expression.

Method of study  We included in our studies the well‐known CBA/J × DBA/2J abortion‐prone combination using CBA/J × BALB/c as controls. CBA/J × C57/BL6 and BALB/c × C57/BL6 were included as further controls. Animals were killed on days 0, 2, 5, 8, 10, and 12 of pregnancy to measure the levels of Treg, pregnancy‐related hormones and IDO expression.

Results  A Treg augmentation in normal pregnancy combinations could be observed on day 2 in several organs contrary to the observations made in abortion‐prone mice. No differences in hormonal levels could be seen among all groups. IDO was expressed exclusively in placenta starting from day eight, showing no variations among the groups.

Conclusion  Differences in Treg levels and pregnancy outcome do not correlate with changes in hormonal levels. In addition, as Treg augmentation takes place early and it is observed mainly in the decidual component of the fetal–maternal interface, IDO does not seem to be the pathway underlying Treg protective activity as proposed for humans.
LPS‐Induced Occult Loss in Mice Requires FGL2
Authors: Foerster Katharina , He Wei , Manuel Justin , Bartczak Angela , Liu MingFeng , Markert Udo R. , Levy Gary A. , Clark David A.
Published: November 2007

Problem  FGL2 prothrombinase is required for spontaneous abortion (resorptions) in the CBA × DBA/2 model, and for abortions in C57Bl/6 (B6) mice triggered by Salmonella enteritidis lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Unlike abortions, occult losses in B6 mice, which begin before gestation day 9.5 in mice, do not require the tumor necrosis factor‐α receptor type 1, and may be triggered by either Salmonella enteritidis or Escherichia coli LPS. Heterozygous matings of fgl2+/− × fgl2+/− B6 mice also have a high spontaneous occult loss of fgl2−/− and to a lesser extent, fgl2+/− embryos caused by hemorrhage between trophoblast and Reichert’s membrane. However, the frequency of such losses appears to vary among breeding periods and between laboratories.

Method of study  We tested the hypothesis that FGL2‐deficient embryos were uniquely susceptible to LPS by treating B6 fgl2+/− × fgl2+/− heterozygous matings with 2 μg E. coli LPS intraperitoneally on day 6.5 of pregnancy. Progesterone 2 mg in 100 μL sesame oil was administered subcutaneously at the same time to ensure that the effects of the LPS were not because of suppression of ovarian hormone production. PCR DNA genotyping was performed on embryos at day 13.5 of pregnancy, or after parturition.

Results  Surprisingly, we found that LPS caused occult loss of fgl2+/+, and to a lesser extent fgl2+/− embryos, both at term and by PCR typing of embryos at gestation day 13.5, and these losses obscured the effect of fgl2 knockout.

Conclusion  Spontaneous loss of fgl2−/− embryos may relate to adhesion effects, whereas fgl2+/+ embryos are susceptible to LPS‐induced loss; fgl2+/− embryos may be affected by both mechanisms. Antagonizing FGL2 could prevent occult pregnancy loss in some human and animal situations.
Skin infections in organ transplant recipients
Authors: Ulrich Claas , Hackethal Monika , Meyer Thomas , Geusau Alexandra , Nindl Ingo , Ulrich Martina , Forschner Tobias , Sterry Wolfram , Stockfleth Eggert
Published: November 2007

In contrast to the well‐described high risk of skin cancer in organ transplant recipients, skin infections in these patients are not as well explored.Skin infections caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi represent a growing diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in the dermatological aftercare of organ transplant recipients. Differing immunosuppressive drugs and their variable dosage in chronologic sequence after transplantation probably influence the type and appearance of skin infections.

The typical chronology of skin infections are wound infections, pyoderma or the reactivation of herpes viruses in the first month post‐transplant;the main problems in months 2–5 are opportunistic infections and reactivation of varicella‐zoster virus.After 6 months as immunosuppression is reduced, the spectrum of causative organisms approaches that of the general population; mycoses and human papilloma virus (HPV) infections dominate.

A causal connection exists between infection with oncogenic viruses such as HPV, Epstein‐Barr virus and human herpesvirus 8 and specific skin cancers (squamous cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma and post‐transplant lymphoprolif‐erative disorders).

Dermatological care of organ transplant recipients using appropriate diagnostic methods adapted to the modified clinical pattern may lead to early adequate treatment.
Development and validation of a new instrument for the assessment of patient‐defined benefit in the treatment of acne
Authors: Augustin Matthias , Reich Christine , Schaefer Ines , Zschocke Ina , Rustenbach Stephan Jeff
Published: November 2007

Background:Benefit assessment of drugs and medical products has become a legally established feature of medical research. A standardized assessment of benefits using scientifically sound and valid methods is essential.

Objective:Development, validation and practical evaluation of an instrument to record patient benefit in treatment of acne.

Patients and Methods:In open interviews with n = 50 patients, possible benefits of the therapy from the patients' point of view were recorded. The item pool thus generated was reviewed by a panel of dermatologists, psychologists and patients and transferred to a 23‐item questionnaire. This is used prior to therapy to assess patients' desired benefits and after therapy to record the perceived benefits. The therapy goals and the resulting benefits are then used to generate a weighted ‘Patient Benefit Index’ (PBI). The procedure has been tested for its validity and feasibility in n = 923 patients with acne.

Results:Patients accepted the instrument and deemed it to be easily understandable. Additionally, the method proved itself to be internally consistent, constructively valid and sensitive to changes.

Conclusions:The Patient Benefit Index (PBI) is a valid and highly accepted practical instrument for recording patient benefit. The PBI permits an individualized, patient‐weighted assessment of the benefits of acne therapy.
Split‐face‐study using two different light sources for topical PDT of actinic keratoses:non‐inferiority of the LED system
Authors: Babilas Philipp , Travnik Richard , Werner Annegret , Landthaler Michael , Szeimies Rolf‐Markus
Published: November 2007

Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5‐amino‐4‐oxo‐pentanoate (methylaminolevulinate, MAL) is an effective and safe treatment option for actinic keratoses. Light‐emitting diodes (LED) are suitable light sources for topical PDT. To evaluate the efficacy, painfulness, patient satisfaction and cosmesis of LED‐based PDT a prospective, randomized and controlled split‐face study was performed.

Methods: Topical ALA‐PDT was administered to 17 patients whose actinic ker‐atoses (n = 131) were symmetrically distributed and suitable for a two‐side comparison. After incubation with MAL (16%), irradiation was performed with the incoherent lamp (160 mW cm−2; 100 J cm−2, PDT 1200L, Waldmann Medizintechnik, Villingen‐Schwenningen, Germany) on one side and the LED system (120 mW cm−2; 40 J cm−2, LEDA, WaveLight AG, Erlangen, Germany) on the other side. The patients were followed by re‐evaluation up to 6 months. Results: Six months following treatment there was no significant difference between the infiltration and keratosis scores in both treatment regimes (p = 0.812). The remission rate was 78.5% (LED system) vs.80.3% (incoherent lamp). There was no significant difference between both light sources regarding the pain during therapy (p = 0.988). There was no significant difference between both treatment regimes regarding patient satisfaction (p = 1).

Conclusions: LEDA‐based MAL‐PDT is an effective alternative for the treatment of atinic keratoses. The remission rates and cosmetic results are not inferior to PDT using incoherent light systems. Both treatment regimes are similarly painful.
Treatment of molluscum contagiosum with a pulsed dye laser: Pilot study with 19 children
Authors: Binder Barbara , Weger Wolfgang , Komericki Peter , Kopera Daisy
Published: November 2007

Background: Molluscum contagiosum is a common, self‐limiting viral disease of childhood caused by a poxvirus. Often the children themselves and their parents desire treatment for cosmetic reasons or because of pruritus. Laser therapy offers another option to the traditional methods of treatment.

Methods: 19 children aged between 2 and 13 years (median:6) with molluscum contagiosum were treated in a prospective, non‐randomized pilot study with the flashlamp pumped pulsed dye laser (wave length:585 nm, pulse duration 0,45 ms, spot size 7 mm, energy density 6–7 J/cm2).

Results: All patients tolerated the laser treatment well. In 84.3% one laser treatment led to total remission. In 10.5% a further laser session was necessary and one patient was treated three times to achieve total remission.

Conclusions: Treatment of molluscum contagiosum with the flashlamp pulsed dye laser is a safe and efficient treatment modality.
Resistance to the rice leaf bug (Trigonotylus caelestialium) is conferred by Neotyphodium endophyte infection of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum)
Authors: Shiba Takuya , Sasaki Tohru , Kasai Eri
Published: November 2007

Many grasses in the subfamily Pooideae form symbioses with Neotyphodium fungal endophytes. This relationship provides a competitive advantage for the host plant in many ways. The endophyte of meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis), Neotyphodium uncinatum, is considered to produce no mammalian toxins, but produces metabolites giving insect resistance and other ecological benefits. To determine the potential of N. uncinatum strains to reduce the development of rice leaf bug (Trigonotylus caelestialium), we investigated the effect of artificial inoculation of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) with N. uncinatum on the feeding of T. caelestialium. T. caelestialium larvae significantly preferred endophyte‐free to endophyte‐infected plants. Survival of insects was very high on endophyte‐free plants, but it rapidly declined on infected plants. These results indicate that N. uncinatum‐infected Italian ryegrass has enough resistance to T. caelestialium and it means the control of T. caelestialium may be possible using this endophyte.