bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity Analysis of a Computational Model of the IKK–NF‐κB–IκBα–A20 Signal Transduction Network
Authors: JOO JAEWOOK , PLIMPTON STEVE , MARTIN SHAWN , SWILER LAURA , FAULON JEAN‐LOUP
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  The NF‐κB signaling network plays an important role in many different compartments of the immune system during immune activation. Using a computational model of the NF‐κB signaling network involving two negative regulators, IκBα and A20, we performed sensitivity analyses with three different sampling methods and present a ranking of the kinetic rate variables by the strength of their influence on the NF‐κB signaling response. We also present a classification of temporal‐response profiles of nuclear NF‐κB concentration into six clusters, which can be regrouped to three biologically relevant clusters. Last, we constructed a reduced network of the IKK–NF‐κB–IκBα–A20 signal transduction based on the ranking.
The Gap Gene System of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: PERKINS THEODORE J.
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  The gap gene system of Drosophila melanogaster, part of the segmentation network, is one of the most well‐studied developmental gene networks. It is an ideal system for benchmarking the performance of network inference algorithms because of the wealth and variety of data available and established knowledge of regulatory relationships controlling the system. We describe three recent efforts to fit wild‐type spatiotemporal expression data, and to identify regulatory relationships between the genes de novo. These three efforts establish clear points of comparison regarding accuracy, correctness of regulatory architecture, and computational efficiency. We discuss the validation of these models against previous experimental work, and describe important directions for future research, including analysis of the less‐well‐understood pair‐rule gene system and relating the promoter region composition with gene expression patterns and dynamics.
The Membrane-Spanning Domain of CD98 Heavy Chain Promotes αvβ3 Integrin Signals in Human Extravillous Trophoblasts
Authors: Kabir-Salmani Maryam , Fukuda Michiko N. , Kanai-Azuma Masami , Ahmed Nesar , Shiokawa Shigetatsu , Akimoto Yoshihiro , Sakai Keiji , Nagamori Seishi , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Sugihara Kazuhiro , Iwashita Mitsutoshi
Published: November 2007

CD98 heavy chain (CD98hc) is expressed highly in developing human placental trophoblast. CD98hc is an amino acid transporter and is thought to function in cell fusion, adhesion, and invasion by interacting with integrins. In invasive extravillous trophoblast, αvβ3 integrin is expressed in a temporally and spatially specific manner, which prompted us to investigate the potential role of CD98hc in signal transduction of αvβ3 integrin. Immunocytochemistry of extravillous trophoblast derived from human placenta revealed that CD98hc colocalized with αvβ3 integrin and with αvβ3-associated cytoplasmic proteins including paxillin, vinculin, and focal adhesion kinase. Coimmunoprecipitation of CD98hc and its mutants revealed that the transmembrane domain of CD98hc is necessary for the association of CD98hc with αvβ3 integrin. When CD98hc negative liver cells (FLC4) were stably transfected with CD98hc and the extracellular domain of CD98hc was cross-linked by anti-CD98 antibody, FLC4 cells binding affinity to fibronectin and cell motility increased. The anti-CD98 antibody cross-linking promoted actin stress fiber formation and activation of signal transduction downstream of RhoA GTPase, and elevated the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and protein kinase B. Pretreatment of transfected FLC4 cells with specific inhibitors for αvβ3integrin, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and RhoA diminished these effects caused by anti-CD98 antibody cross-linking. These results suggest that notoriously invasive activity of extravillous trophoblast is mediated by CD98hc, which promotes αvβ3 integrin-dependent signals.
Characteristics of Australia's community pharmacies: National Pharmacy Database Project
Authors: Berbatis Constantine G , Sunderland V Bruce , Joyce Andrew , Bulsara Max , Mills Christina
Published: November 2007

Objective

To report the characteristics of community pharmacies in Australia and analyse them for their association with pharmacists' consultation time.

Setting

A large representative sample of community pharmacies in Australia in 2002.

Method

Questionnaires were mailed by an independent survey group to managers and owners in a national sample of pharmacies stratified into six zones. Questionnaires were returned by 1131 of 1532 pharmacies contacted (73.8%). The data were analysed using the general linear model (GLM) for univariate analysis.

Key findings

Male pharmacists comprised 76.3% of pharmacy owners and 39.5% were aged = 51 years. Most pharmacies (81.1%) had one or two pharmacist owners, and 51.3% of pharmacies were members of marketing groups. Medicines accounted for approximately 75% of annual sales and occupied a minority of the average total area of 187.2 m2. Pharmacies opened for an average of 55.5 h per week. Pharmacists spent 18.8% of their time on patient consultation. This was significantly related to pharmacies with forward pharmacy dispensing areas (P < 0.001), which were owner or partner operated (P < 0.002) and had high numbers of customers (P < 0.004). Holding national accreditation status and belonging to a banner group may be additional factors.

Conclusions

Ownership of community pharmacies in Australia is dominated by pharmacists in contrast to the minority pharmacist ownership in the USA and England. Owners and managers of pharmacies were mainly male and older than other staff. Pharmacists working in pharmacies with a forward dispensing area, designed to facilitate patient consultation, were significantly more likely to provide increased consultation time for patients. Owner- or partner-operated pharmacies, and pharmacies with high numbers of customers were also significantly associated with patient consultation time. The strength of association between membership of marketing groups and national accreditation with consultation time requires more evidence.
A consensus model for delivery of structured pharmaceutical care for the patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus by Scottish community pharmacists
Authors: Power Ailsa , McKellar Susan , Hudson Steve
Published: November 2007

Objective

To generate a model of pharmaceutical care for the patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary care, from a consensus determined among community pharmacists in Scotland. Setting Community pharmacists within Scotland already involved in providing structured pharmaceutical care.

Method

The Delphi questionnaire was based on a validated multidisciplinary model of care for the patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary care comprising 47 items under five themes: assessment, treatment plan, treatment administration, patient monitoring, confirmation/review. Seventy participants already participating in a pharmaceutical care model schemes initiative to encourage pharmaceutical care from community pharmacies and with an interest in diabetes mellitus were sent an initial questionnaire. Thirty-seven participants agreed to enter two further rounds; response rates were 22/37 (59%) and 18/22 (82%). Final round cut-off defining consensus was 80% scoring 6–7 from a seven-point Likert scale.

Key findings

A model emerged from the achieved consensus. There was an early consensus achieved on the core functions that participants were already delivering to the patient with diabetes mellitus. These are functions that have been highlighted and delivered in previous studies within this disease state: receiving and sharing patient information, individualising treatment, identifying unsatisfactory treatment and monitoring and prescribing analgesia.

Conclusions

For service development and linked continued professional development a well-defined service model for delivering pharmaceutical care to patients is required. This study proposes such a model based on consensus among a self-selected group of community pharmacists leading diabetes pharmacy practice in Scotland.
Pharmacist supplementary prescribing training: a study of pharmacists' perceptions and planned participation
Authors: Stewart Derek C , George Johnson , Pfleger David E , Bond Christine M , Diack H Lesley , Cunningham I T Scott , McCaig Dorothy J
Published: November 2007

Objective

The aim of this research was to investigate in a national sample of pharmacists, who have not yet applied for a supplementary prescribing (SP) course, their planned participation in training, and attitudes towards pharmacist SP. Setting Great Britain.

Method

A postal questionnaire was sent to 4300 pharmacists (approximately 10% of all Great Britain registered pharmacists). The questionnaire had five sections: awareness of SP training; perceptions of aspects of SP training; actions taken relating to SP training based on ‘stage of change’ model; attitudes towards implementing SP into practice; and demographics. Within demographics, respondents were asked to denote themselves as innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards, based on receptivity to change. Non-respondents were mailed up to two reminders.

Key findings

The response rate was 55.1% (2371/4300). Of the 1707 with patient contact but who had not commenced training, almost all (1668, 97.7%) were aware of pharmacist SP. A minority had taken any significant SP training action, with most being at the precontemplation/contemplation stage of change. However, most respondents either strongly agreed/agreed that practising SP would improve patient care, but strongly disagreed/disagreed that they had sufficient pharmacist/technical support. Two-hundred and forty-three (73.0%) of the ‘venturesome’ pharmacists (the innovators) and 291 (79.5%) of the ‘role models’ (the role models) had either never thought about training or had not yet explored training options further. Following logistic regression, predictors of prescribing training actions were: awareness of local networks for SP; receptivity to change; knowledge of colleagues who had undertaken or were currently undertaking SP training; postgraduate qualifications; intrinsic (professional) factors such as professional duty to become a prescriber; and extrinsic (infrastructure) factors such as sufficient IT support.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated that pharmacists are aware of SP courses and that certain factors are associated with actions relating to prescribing training. However, the practice setting(s) require(s) attention to ensure readiness to support such innovations in areas such as IT and administrative support. These issues have implications for education providers, the NHS and policy makers; and the extension into independent prescribing. Issues based on receptivity to change and models of change require further investigation.
Case management of children with malaria in a Nigerian community
Authors: Oreagba Ibrahim A , Ashorobi Razaq B , Olayemi Sunday O , Oparah Azuka C , Awodele Olufunsho E
Published: November 2007

Objective

To describe and assess home and facility-based management of malaria in children in a Nigerian community.

Method

Data on malaria treatment of children at home and the referral health facility were generated.

Key findings

Chloroquine was the most frequently administered drug at home (72.2%), and at the health facility (72.6%). The doses were however inadequate for most of the cases. Artemisinin-based therapies accounted for only 6.3% of antimalarial prescriptions at the health facility.

Conclusion

There is a need to promote the appropriate use of artemisinin-based combination therapy as a first-line regimen in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the home and healthcare setting.
Review of the ethnobotany, chemistry, biological activity and safety of the botanical dietary supplement Morinda citrifolia (noni)
Authors: Pawlus Alison D , Kinghorn A Douglas
Published: November 2007

Morinda citrifolia, commonly called noni, has a long history as a medicinal plant and its use as a botanical dietary supplement has grown tremendously in recent years. This has prompted a concomitant increase in research on the phytochemical constituents and biological activity of noni. A relatively large number of scientific publications on noni have been published in recent years, including a number of review articles. The goals of this review are to provide an updated categorization of the phytochemical constituents found in noni and to provide perspective for its extensive utilization as a major botanical dietary supplement. Included herein are a comprehensive list of known ethno-botanical uses and common names of M. citrifolia, a brief summary of relevant biological studies and a discussion of the safety of noni as a supplement.
Preparation and characterization of quercetin-loaded polymethyl methacrylate microcapsules using a polyol-in-oil-in-polyol emulsion solvent evaporation method
Authors: Lee Dong-Hwan , Sim Gwan-Sub , Kim Jin-Hwa , Lee Geun-Soo , Pyo Hyeong-Bae , Lee Bum-Chun
Published: November 2007

Flavonoids and related compounds exhibit a wide range of useful pharmacological properties but present challenges related to their stability and solubility in commonly available solvents. In this study, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microcapsules were prepared using a novel polyol-in-oil-in-polyol (P/O/P) emulsion solvent evaporation method as a means of stabilizing the flavonoids, using quercetin as a model flavonoid drug. The morphology of the microcapsules was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope, revealing a spherical shape with a smooth surface. The cross-section image of the PMMA microcapsules prepared with an amphiphilic polymer in the inner polyol phase showed that the microcapsule was filled with several submicron microspheres. The mean diameter varied from 1.03 ± 0.12 μm to 2.39 ± 0.42 μm, and the encapsulation efficiency ranged from 12.7% to 26.9%. When free quercetin was stored at 42°C, the residual quercetin content gradually decreased to 18% over 28 days as a result of oxidation. However, when encapsulated in PMMA microcapsules with an amphiphilic polymer in the inner polyol phase, the residual quercetin content decreased to just 82%. In-vitro release studies indicated a sustained release pattern throughout the 36-h study. The release kinetics of the microcapsules with an amphiphilic polymer followed a diffusion-controlled mechanism and the microcapsule without amphiphilic polymer followed an anomalous diffusion behaviour. This study suggests that the novel P/O/P emulsion solvent evaporation method can be applied to the encapsulation of flavonoids.
Cod liver oil supplementation improves cardiovascular and metabolic abnormalities in streptozotocin diabetic rats
Authors: Ceylan-Isık Aslı , Hünkar Tuǧba , Aşan Esin , Kaymaz Fugen , Arı Nuray , Söylemezoǧlu Tülin , Renda Nurten , Soncul Halim , Bali Musa , Karasu Çimen ,   The ADIC Study Group
Published: November 2007

Abnormalities in the metabolism of essential fatty acids and the results of increased oxidative stress have been implicated in cardiovascular disorders observed in diabetes mellitus. This study, therefore, aimed to investigate the effects of cod liver oil (CLO, Lysi Ltd, Iceland), which comprises mainly an antioxidant vitamin A, n:3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n:3 PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on cardiovascular abnormalities in streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. Two days after single STZ (55 mg kg−1, i.p.) or vehicle injection, diabetes was verified by increased blood glucose, and non-diabetic and diabetic rats were left untreated or treated with CLO (0.5 mL kg−1 daily, by intragastric probing) for 12 weeks. Plasma glucose, triacylglycerol and cholesterol concentrations were significantly elevated in 12-week untreated-diabetic rats; CLO provided better weight gain, entirely prevented the plasma lipid abnormalities, but partially controlled the glycaemia in diabetic rats. In isolated aorta rings, diabetes resulted in increased phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction and isoprenaline-induced vasorelaxation, impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and unchanged responsiveness to sodium nitroprusside. CLO treatment completely prevented endothelial deficiency, partly corrected the phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction and did not affect the responses to isoprenaline and sodium nitroprusside in diabetic aorta. Diabetes also produced a marked decrease in the rate of spontaneously beating right atria and a significant increase in basal contractile force of left ventricular papillary muscle. The responsiveness of right atria to the positive chronotropic effect of isoprenaline was significantly decreased in diabetic rats, and was increased in CLO-treated diabetic rats. The positive chronotropic effect of noradrenaline was markedly increased in diabetic atria, but prevented by CLO treatment. Diabetes also resulted in an increased positive inotropic response of papillary muscle to both noradrenaline and isoprenaline, which were prevented by CLO treatment. CLO treatment also resulted in lower tissue sensitivity (pD2) to these agonists in diabetic papillary muscle. Ventricular hydroxy-proline content was found to be unchanged among the experimental groups. The ultrastructure of diabetic myocardium displayed various degenerations (i.e. intracellular oedema, myofibrillar fragmentation, condensed pleomorphic mitochondria, thick capillary irregular basement membrane, swollen endothelial cells), which were partially prevented by CLO treatment. We conclude that the supplementation with CLO is effective in preventing cardiovascular disorders observed in experimental diabetes.
Efficient synthesis of polyoxygenated flavones from naturally occurring flavanones
Authors: Bovicelli Paolo , D'Angelo Vittoria , Collalto Daniela , Verzina Antonio , D'Antona Nicola , Lambusta Daniela
Published: November 2007

Flavonoids are constituents of the human diet (they are present in many beverages and food), and in organisms they are responsible for several biological functions, including that of antioxidant. Because of the increasing interest in these molecules, methods for their synthesis and structural modification are of great importance; studies on the biological activities of many of these compounds are insufficient because of their scarcity and/or high cost. We have developed an expeditious synthesis of polyoxygenated flavones, starting from available and inexpensive flavanones, using a bromination-methoxylation procedure. A series of flavonoids that are not otherwise accessible can be prepared using this method. As an example, 3′-demethoxysudachitin, a limited flavone possessing antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori and acting as a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenger, was prepared in fairly satisfactory yield.
Biogenesis and germline functions of piRNAs
Authors: Klattenhoff Carla , Theurkauf William
Published: November 2007

Small interfering RNAs and microRNAs are generated from double-stranded RNA precursors by the Dicer endonucleases, and function with Argonaute-family proteins to target transcript destruction or to silence translation. A distinct class of 24- to 30-nucleotide-long RNAs, produced by a Dicer-independent mechanism, associates with Piwi-class Argonaute proteins. Studies in flies, fish and mice implicate these Piwi-associated RNAs (piRNAs)in germline development, silencing of selfish DNA elements, and in maintaining germline DNA integrity. However, whether piRNAs primarily control chromatin organization, gene transcription, RNA stability or RNA translation is not well understood, neither is piRNA biogenesis. Here, we review recent studies of piRNA production and function, and discuss unanswered questions about this intriguing new class of small RNAs.
Implementing Inner City Policy: Reflections from Experience
Authors: Hambleton Robin
Published: November 2007

This paper starts from the premise that Britain’s inner city initiative is an important innovation in urban policy which has considerable potential for ameliorating living conditions in inner areas. It will be suggested, however, that the initiative is in danger of being side tracked away from its key objectives of redirecting policy, concentrating on meeting the needs of inner area residents and effecting change in the institutions of urban government. These were the three guiding principles of the Labour government’s bold White Paper of June 1977 which asserted that: ‘the time has now come to give the inner areas an explicit priority in social and economic policy, even at a time of particular stringency in public resources’. The incoming Conservative government of May 1979, whilst introducing marked changes in emphasis and procedure, has accepted the need for special programmes for inner areas and has, with some streamlining, retained the arrangement whereby seven ‘partnership’ areas and fifteen ‘programme’ authorities prepare annually rolled forward Inner Area Programmes (lAPs).

There is a burgeoning literature on inner city problems and policies but much of it is specific to particular localities or particular policy questions.
Francophone postcolonialism from Eastern Europe
Authors: Rice Alison
Published: November 2007

This article draws from recent research that makes an argument for studying literature from what David Chioni Moore calls the post-Soviet sphere under the rubric of postcolonial theory. It contends that conceiving of countries formerly under Soviet rule as having some characteristics
in common with countries once under French colonial rule can yield productive results. It is quite possible that the concentration in literary studies on relations between the First and Third Worlds has left a void with respect to the Second World, at least with respect to francophone writers.
We can begin to fill this void by studying texts in French by writers from places formerly under Soviet domination, and this article examines the fictional and theoretical works of Julia Kristeva, Agota Kristof, Milan Kundera, Andre Makine and Brina Svit. Their insights are used here to explore
the extent to which intellectuals from small Central and Eastern European countries find themselves in a postcolonial position politically and linguistically similar to that of francophone scholars and writers from the Maghreb, sub-Saharan Africa or the Antilles.
Between nostalgia and desire: l'Ecole d'Alger's transnational identifications and the case for a Mediterranean relation
Authors: Talbayev Edwige Tamalet
Published: November 2007

This article examines the transnational forms of cultural affiliation and Mediterranean margin-to-margin circuits of production with which l'Ecole d'Alger (here, Audisio and Camus) experimented in the 1930s, and highlights new theoretical perspectives appropriate to these practices.
The authors' use of a mythicized Mediterranean as a unifying trope downplays national and religious differences to the benefit of a common utopian identity both cosmopolitan in nature and generative of a regional awareness which runs counter to dominant colonial segregationist discourses.
Descendants of immigrants from throughout the Mediterranean, these writers occupy a unique positionality which enables them to open new spaces for identification and articulate anti-fascist stances as well as a limited critique of colonial practices. These writers' imaginative affiliations
spell out a transnational position, which calls for regional areas of study to be considered autonomously. Attention to regional spaces would constructively displace analytical models where the theoretical existence of marginal spaces is but a by-product of their necessary relation to the
metropole. The recognition of margin-to-margin relations leaves room for thories de la Relation in keeping with Glissant's paradigm, thereby showing how, in a global decentred paradigm, relational theories from the margins can provide viable alternative frameworks.
Fminisme et postcolonialisme: Beauvoir, Fanon et la guerre d'Algrie
Authors: Golay Annabelle
Published: November 2007

Fanon, Beauvoir: two writers, two theorists, who embodied the battles that they fought decolonization and feminism. Although distinct, these two struggles are linked. They share a situatedness: the absolute otherness of women in relation to men and of the colonized in relation to the
colonizer. They share a project: to change the future through the liberation of revolution. In fact, Beauvoir and Fanon met: their struggles and the story of their meeting in 1961 are recounted in Beauvoir's La Force des choses, which links French feminism to the project for decolonization.
The international visibility of The Second Sex overshadowed Beauvoir's other political projects, notably, her significant role during the Algerian war of independence. The crucial place Fanon accorded to women in his theory of decolonization has been overlooked. In a re-reading of texts
by Beauvoir and Fanon, this article explores how these struggles are interconnected at the moment of the Algerian war, and how, in the contemporary postcolonial context, Beauvoir and Fanon can both be read as postcolonial authors.
Post ou pricolonialisme: l' trange modle qubcois (notes)
Authors: Gauvin Lise
Published: November 2007

These notes report on the title and text of a short paper given at a round table organized by CRILCQ (Centre de recherch interuniversitaire sur la littrature et la culture qubcoise) at the conference of the American Council for Quebec Studies held in Quebec, 19 November 2004. The question
of postcolonialism in Quebec had recently been examined by Vincent Desroches in a special dossier on Quebec and Postcolonialism in the journal Quebec Studies, no. 35, Spring-Summer 2003. However, all those taking part in the round table expressed a certain degree of reticence over the
use of the concept in Qubcois literature. One of them, Rjean Beaudoin, subsequently published his point of view in an article entitled Is Qubcois literature postcolonial? His conclusion read: Qubcois literature can take on the ghosts of its dual colonialism. Putting it in the postcolonial
ragbag is a desperate attempt to normalise it' (L'Inconvnient, no. 24, February 2006). Also worth reading on the subject are Rachel Killick's article, In the fold? Postcolonialism and Quebec, Romance Studies, vol. 24, no. 3, November 2006, pp. 18192, and the collection entitled
Reconfigurations. Canadian Literature and Postcolonial Identities/Littratures canadiennes et identits postcoloniales, edited by Marc Maufort and Franco Bellarsi, Bruxelles, Peter Lang, 2002.
Industry Perceptions of University‐Industry Relationships Related to Agricultural Biotechnology Research*
Authors: Glenna Leland L. , Welsh Rick , Lacy William B. , Biscotti Dina
Published: November 2007

Abstract Following a rise in university‐industry relationships (UIRs), scholars began questioning the efficacy of those relationships, as well as whether industry and university research interests and integrity are being compromised. Although many of these studies focus on the university, few examine the perspectives of industry participants. We conducted intensive interviews with 63 managers and scientists at agricultural biotechnology companies involved in UIRs related to agricultural biotechnology. Our analysis of their comments reveals nuanced critical perspectives of UIRs and creative ideas for reforming policies and practices. Industry representatives listed many advantages of UIRs, but some also expressed an interest in reforming policies to preserve a public‐interest emphasis for university research. We conclude by considering the structural relationships that may explain the industry representatives' critical evaluations and by identifying policy implications.
Recent Immigrant Settlement in the Nonmetropolitan United States: Evidence from Internal Census Data*
Authors: Donato Katharine M. , II Charles M. Tolbert , Nucci Alfred , Kawano Yukio
Published: November 2007

AbstractIn the 1990s, studies have documented widespread growth of immigrants in U.S. communities not known as common destinations in the past. This trend has fueled population growth in some nonmetropolitan areas and offset population decline in other areas. In this paper, we examine the implications of recent foreign born in‐migration for rural America. Our focus is on a collection of 59 nonmetropolitan counties where growth in foreign born stock offset declines in U.S. native population and resulted in increased local population by 2000. To understand these nonmetropolitan offset counties, we use confidential Census Bureau data that offer us the detailed geography and larger sample size needed to closely examine spatial shifts in the foreign born population, especially those recently arrived. Our findings illustrate dramatic compositional shifts in the populations of these areas, and suggest new demographic complexity in nonmetropolitan areas in the 21stcentury.
Marriage Form and Son Preference in Rural China: An Investigation in Three Counties*
Authors: Jin Xiaoyi , Li Shuzhuo , Feldman Marcus W.
Published: November 2007

Abstract Using data from two surveys in three counties among which the prevalence of uxorilocal marriage varies greatly, this paper analyzes effects of marriage form, as well as individual, family, and social factors on son preference in the context of strict birth control in rural China. It is shown that, under the Chinese patrilineal joint family system, son preference can be inferred from the reproductive behavior of couples in virilocal marriage but not from that of couples in uxorilocal marriage. However, the negative effect of uxorilocal marriage on son preference is likely to depend on other factors. For all three counties, women married after the 1990s are less likely to have preference for sons; in regions with low prevalence of uxorilocal marriages, son preference is stronger for virilocally married couples with more sisters or having first birth at older age, and for couples whose marriages were arranged by others; in regions with high prevalence of uxorilocal marriages but under‐developed economies, higher educated women in uxorilocal marriages have stronger son preference. Son preference differs greatly among the three counties and increased prevalence of uxorilocal marriage may significantly weaken son preference. These findings relate to changes in rural family and marriage customs during the current demographic and social transition, and suggest new approaches to weakening son preference while maintaining low fertility in rural China.
Meatpacking and the Transformation of Rural Communities: A Comparison of Brooks, Alberta and Garden City, Kansas*
Authors: Broadway Michael
Published: November 2007

Abstract North America's meatpackers have relied upon immigrants to staff their plants from the earliest days of the industry in the late nineteenth century when packinghouses were located in urban areas adjacent to stockyards. A hundred years later the industry remains dependent on an immigrant labor force, but now most of its plants are located in rural areas. This means rural communities are transformed with the arrival of immigrants to staff their plants. But Canada and the United States have different immigration policies, which means they draw upon different immigrant sources. Canada favors the recruitment of highly skilled labor while the United States emphasizes family reunification. This paper examines whether this difference affects the labor force composition of a Canadian and U.S. meatpacking plant, and the associated transformation of the plants' host communities.
In Vitro- and In Vivo-Induced Transgene Expression in Human Embryonic Stem Cells and Derivatives
Authors: Xia Xiaofeng , Ayala Melvin , Thiede Benjamin R. , Zhang Su-Chun
Published: November 2007

The use of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) as a research and therapeutic tool will be facilitated by conditional gene expression. Here, we report drug-induced transgene expression, both in vitro and in vivo, from a tet-on hESC line with >95% purity. Using green fluorescent protein as an indicator, we demonstrated that the tet-on system allowed a tight control of the gene expression in both undifferentiated hESCs and differentiated cells of the three germ layers. More importantly, after the cells were transplanted into animals, the gene expression remained to be regulated by an orally administered drug. These results provide a technical basis for regulation of gene expression in hESCs and derivatives in vitro and in vivo.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Prediction of Preterm Birth
Authors: Mortensen Ove Andreas , Franklin Jonas , Lofstrand Tord , Svanberg Bernhard
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the value of screening of cervical status in normal as well as in pregnancies with risk factors. 1327 pregnancies were studied prospectively; 16% had a medical history of earlier obstetrical or gynecological complications (group I) and 6% had complications during the first 24 weeks of the current pregnancy (group II). The remainder were considered low‐risk pregnancies and randomly divided into groups III and IV. In groups I, II and III cervical scoring in accordance with Westin was performed in weeks 24, 28 and 32. The incidence of births before 37 weeks of gestation was 5.6% in group I, 8.8% in group II, 1.5% in group III and 0.7% in group IV. In presence of the risk factors, 61% of the spontaneous preterm deliveries were predicted early in pregnancy. The predictive value of a normal cervical score was high (about 95%) in all groups. In uncomplicated pregnancies the predictive value of a pathological score was only 4% and for cervical dilatation, 6%. In the risk groups the predictive value of a pathological cervix was 3‐5‐fold higher. Cervical examination in low‐risk pregnancies does not improve prediction of preterms but is a complement in a system for indication for preterm delivery in women with defined risk factors.
Emotional and Psychosocial Factors in Follow‐Up of Women After Ivf‐Et Treatment: A pilot investigation
Authors: Freeman Ellen W. , Rickels Karl , Tausig Jane , Boxer Andrea , Mastroianni Luigi , Tureck Richard W.
Published: November 2007

One hundred and fifty‐six women who enrolled for treatment in an in vitro fertilization (IVF‐ET) program were interviewed, 15 months (mean interval) after the last program contact. Perceptions of treatment stress, decisions about further treatment and the extent of resolution of the infertility crisis were investigated. Standard self‐report instruments were used to assess emotional status, self‐esteem and marital adjustment. The results showed that only about half the couples who did not achieve pregnancy had decided to terminate treatment. Resolution of infertility was significantly correlated with coping with infertility and with the decision to abandon treatment. Although most patients described treatment as extremely stressful, this did not itself result in emotional distress or dysfunction following treatment, and psychiatric syndromes were infrequent. A deeper understanding of the interactions of these identified factors would help all couples who confront unwanted infertility.
Organization of Obstetrical Ultrasound Services in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Bergsjø Per , Jacobsen Geir , Bakketeig Leiv
Published: November 2007

This is a report of a questionnaire survey to all university departments of obstetrics in the five Nordic countries, concerning organization of ultrasound services. Answers were received from 23 out of 25. The services were differently organized, both between and within countries. This was true both of degree of centralization and of numbers and categories of personnel. The majority of departments in four countries had implemented routine screening programs, while in the fifth there was no organized ultrasound screening.
Torsion of the Non‐Pregnant Uterus as Diagnosed by X‐Ray
Authors: Norström Anders , Barlinn Arne‐Jon
Published: November 2007

Torsion of the non‐pregnant uterus is rarely seen in the human. Most reports in the literature concern pathologic (rotation exceeding 45o) torsion of the pregnant uterus (1, 2). Fibroma of the uterus is found in a great number of these cases (3). Abdominal pain is the major symptom and diagnosis is generally established at an inevitable laparotomy. In the present case a torsion of the uterus was evident preoperatively by abdominal X‐ray examination.
Early Complications After Induced First‐Trimester Abortion
Authors: Heisterberg Lars , Kringelbach Mette
Published: November 2007

Complications subsequent to 5 851 consecutively induced first‐trimester abortions during the period 1980–85 were analysed. Three hundred and fifty‐six abortions (6.1%) led to complications requiring hospital admission. According to bivariable analysis, women below 25 years of age, women with parity O, women with no spontaneous and with no induced abortions, and women in gestational week 8 had significantly higher postabortal complication rates than women 25 years of age and older (p<0.001), women with previous births (p<0.0001), women with spontaneous abortions (p<0.005), women with induced abortions (p<0.005), and women in other gestational age groups (p<0.0005). The mean stay in hospital per complicated abortion was 5.3 days. It was discussed whether the administration of prophylactic antibiotics to women with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease and young women completing their first pregnancy could reduce the complication rate.
Acute Effects of Maternal Smoking on Human Fetal Heart Function
Authors: Sørensen Keld E. , Børlum Karl‐Gerhardt
Published: November 2007

M‐mode echocardiography was used to evaluate fetal heart function following maternal smoking in 21 healthy smoking pregnant women between 24 and 39 weeks of uneventful gestation. Prior to smoking one cigarette (nicotine content 1.7 mg), a fetal M‐mode echocardiographic examination was performed and repeated 5 and 10 min after maternal smoking. Maternal heart rate and systolic blood pressure increased 8.7% and 15.0%, respectively, immediately after smoking, while diastolic blood pressure remained unchanged. Fetal heart rate increased 4.3% and left ventricular diastolic and systolic diameters decreased 4.5% and 15.0%, respectively. No changes in right ventricular dimensions, ventricular ejection times, ventricular wall thickness or septal thickness were observed. Fractional shortening, mean velocity of fractional shortening, stroke volume and cardiac output of the left ventricle also remained unchanged subsequent to smoking. Thus, maternal smoking of one cigarette seems to elicit only a transitory acceleration in fetal heart rate without concomitant significant changes in fetal heart function.
The Effect of Labetalol on Contractility of Human Myometrial Preparations
Authors: Thulesius Olav , Lunell Nils‐Olov , Ibrahim Mamoun , Moberger Birgitta , Angilivilayil Cherian
Published: November 2007

Because of results in animal experiments which demonstrated a partial β2‐adrenoceptor activity of labetalol on rat uterine smooth muscle the present study was conducted in human preparations. The following results were obtained:

1. Rhythmic uterine contractions with a defined steady‐state amplitude and frequency were elicited spontaneously and after methylergometrine.

2. Labetalol reduced amplitude of contractions dose‐de‐pendently after 3 h of incubation. Frequency was unaffected.

3. The tocolytic effect of labetalol is apparent only at high concentrations, above those used in the treatment of hypertension.

4. Neither β2‐specific adrenoceptor blokade with ICI 118,551 nor alpha‐blockade with phentolamine changed amplitude of contraction, either alone or in combination with labetalol.

5. Labetalol has little tocolytic effect on human myometrium in vitro. This effect is unrelated to a‐or β‐antagonism, but seems to depend on a direct smooth muscle depressant effect.

In conclusion, from the present in vitro experiments using human myometrial preparations, it seems unlikely that labetalol would interfere with the normal process of labor when used for the treatment of pregnancy hypertension.
Cerebral metastases from choriocarcinoma
Authors: Sen D. K. , Sivanesaratnam V. , Chuah C. Y. , Ch'ng S. L. , Singh J. , Paramsothy M.
Published: November 2007

Of 36 cases of choriocarcinoma treated at the University Hospital Kuala Lumpur during 1980‐84 inclusive, 6 patients were found to have cerebral metastases. Intrathecal methotrexate and combination chemotherapy were started in all cases, with monitoring of tumor growth by serial β‐HCG assays and CT scanning of brain and lung. Chemotherapy was reduced because of severe toxicity in 2 patients, one of whom received radiotherapy to the brain. Four patients (66%) have now been in remission for 2.5–6 years. Two did not respond to therapy and died. The factors involved in therapy and response are discussed.
Salazosulfa Pyridine and Metabolites in Fetal and Maternal Body Fluids with Special Reference to 5‐Aminosalicylic Acid
Authors: Christensen Lisbet Ambrosius , Rasmussen Steen Nøby , Hansen Steen Honoré , Bondesen Stig , Hvidberg Eigill G.
Published: November 2007

In 7 pregnant women, treated prophylactically with salazosulfapyridine (SASP) 3 day, amniotic fluid (16th week, n=4, maternal and cord plasma (n=S) and breast milk (n=3) were analysed for SASP and the metabolites sulfapyridine (SP), acetyl sulfapyridine (Ac‐SP), 5‐aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) and acetyl 5‐aminosalicylic acid (Ac‐5‐ASA). Amniotic fluid contained concentrations of SASP, SP and Ac‐SP and partly also Ac‐5‐ASA comparable to those previously found by others, whereas 5‐ASA concentrations were very low. The ratios of maternal to cord plasma for all SASP metabolites were about 1:1–1:2, except for 5‐ASA, cord plasma being extremely low. In breast milk, only traces of S‐ASA were detected, while Ac‐S‐ASA was above the plasma level. Only negligible amounts of S‐ASA are thus transferred to the fetushewborn, which is of significance for the future use of the new non‐sulfa‐containing S‐ASA preparations during and after pregnancy.
Endometriosis in women at interval sterilization
Authors: Moen Mette H.
Published: November 2007

The prevalence of endometriosis was investigated in 108 Norwegian women admitted for interval tubal sterilization. The mean age of the patients was 37 years. Endometriosis was detected in 19 (18%) of the women. About one‐half of these had no symptoms from the disease. A positive correlation was found between a retroversion of the uterus and endo‐metriosis. The women with endometriosis showed a longer period of uninterrupted menstrual cycles prior to the time of sterilization, when compared with the controls (89 unaffected women). Sisters and mothers of patients with endometriosis displayed a higher frequency of benign gynecological disorders than the corresponding relatives of the control group. The prevalence of endometriosis appeared to be independent of the following clinical parameters: onset of menarche, age at first pregnancy, number of pregnancies, previous use of hormonal contraceptives or IUD, and actual age at the time of sterilization.
Can primary dysmenorrhea be alleviated by a vasopressen antagonist?
Authors: Åkerlund Mats
Published: November 2007

In order to study the etiological role of vasopressin in primary dysmenorrhea the therapeutic effect of an antagonist of vasopressin action on the uterus (l‐deamino‐2‐D‐Tyr(OEt)‐4‐Thr‐8‐Orn‐oxytocin) was investigated in 14 patients with moderate to severe symptoms. The women participated in the study at two menstruations and each time one intravenous bolus injection of the analogue (10 μg/kg body weight) and one of the placebo (saline) were given, randomized and double‐blind with at least a 2 hour interval. The effect was monitored by overall ratings and by pain diagrams described by the patients. In the former parameter the vasopressin antagonist was significantly more effective (p<0.01). In the pain diagrams, however, a significant reduction of symptoms occurred both after the analogue administrations and after placebo given as second injection. The results support a causative role of vasopressin in primary dysmennorrhea, but further studies with higher doses and/or other routes of administration or delivery systems are required in order to delineate the therapeutic value of vasopressin antagonists in the condition.
The Role of Vaginal Secretory Immunoglobulin a, Gardnerella Vaginalis, Anaerobes, and Chlamydia Trachomatis in Post Abort al Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Heisterberg Lars , Branebjerg Poul Erik , Bremmelgaard Annie , Scheibel Jens , Høj Lene
Published: November 2007

In a prospective study of 129 women undergoing induced first‐trimester abortion, 14 (10.9%) contracted postabortal pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Samples of vaginal secretion for quantitation of secretory immunoglo‐bulin A (slgA) as well as isolates from cervix/urethra for the culture of anaerobes and aerobes, including Bacteroides fragilis et melaninogenicus and Gardnerella vaginalis, were obtained at the preoperative visit. Two blood samples from each woman with postabortal PID were analysed for antibodies against G. vaginalis. Twenty‐five per cent of women with a history of PID developed postabortal PID, and 25% with vaginitis contracted postabortal infection (p< 0.001 and p<0.005).

Twenty‐five per cent of women harboring C. trachomatis at the time of abortion developed infection. The presence of anaerobes or G. vaginalis was not associated with the frequency of postabortal PID (all p‐values >0.1). One woman with postabortal PID produced a culture positive for G. vaginalis and a rise in specific antibody titer. The levels of vaginal sIgA were not significantly associated with a positive history of PID (p >0.6), with postabortal PID (p >0.4) or with the presence of anaerobes or G. vaginalis at the time of abortion (p>0.3). However, significantly elevated levels of slgA were found in women harboring C. trachomatis (p <0.05). Thus, the study could not demonstrate any correlation between vaginal slgA and PID, but increased sIgA in Chlamydia‐positive women. A history of PID and vaginitis entailed a significant risk of contracting postabortal PID.
Longitudinal Ultrasonic Biometry of Various Parameters in Fetuses with Abnormal Growth Rate
Authors: Basel D. , Lederer R. , Diamant Y. Z.
Published: November 2007

The growth rate of various organs and parameters was evaluated by ultrasound examination in one group of small‐for‐gestational age (SGA) and another group of large‐for‐gestational age (LGA) fetuses. Three different patterns of growth were selected in the SGA group and two different types of growth acceleration were observed in the LGA group. On the basis of these results, it has been concluded that the type of intra‐uterine growth retardation or acceleration is dependent more on the time at which the insult which brings it on, appears, and less on the specific etiological factor.
Uterus Didelphys Associated with Bilateral Dermoid Cysts and Polycystic Ovarian Disease
Authors: Sørensen S. Stampe , Balslev E.
Published: November 2007

A case is reported of bilateral dermoid cysts in a 21‐year‐old woman with a double uterus, hirsutism, oligo‐menorrhea and markedly elevated serum‐androgens. After surgery her menstrual periods and serum‐androgens were normalized, and a histological review revealed polycystic changes just beneath the ovarian capsule. No histopatholog‐ic evidence of stromal luteinization was found, but a little group of Sertoli cells was seen in the tumors. On the basis of the case report and the literature, the clinical importance of a definitive diagnosis of polycystic ovarian disease in both the non‐surgical and the surgical management of the syndrome is discussed.
Unique Etiology of Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Justesen P. , Andersen P. E. , Rasmussen F.
Published: November 2007

We report a case of hysterosalpingography inadvertently performed during early intra‐uterine pregnancy. The radiologic procedure seems to have displaced the am‐niotic sac from the uterine cavity into the Fallopian tube, and thus has been the etiologic factor underlying a tubal ec‐topic pregnancy.