bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chasing the golden egg: vaccination against poultry coccidiosis
Authors: SHARMAN P. A. , SMITH N. C. , WALLACH M. G. , KATRIB M.
Published: February 2010

Eimeria species, of the Phylum Apicomplexa, cause the disease coccidiosis in poultry, resulting in severe economic losses every year. Transmission of the disease is via the faecal‐oral route, and is facilitated by intensive rearing conditions in the poultry industry. Additionally, Eimeria has developed drug resistance against most anticoccidials used today, which, along with the public demand for chemical free meat, has lead to the requirement for an effective vaccine strategy. This review focuses on the history and current status of anticoccidial vaccines, and our work in developing the transmission‐blocking vaccine, CoxAbic® (Netanya, Israel). The vaccine is composed of affinity‐purified antigens from the wall‐forming bodies of macrogametocytes of Eimeria maxima, which are proteolytically processed and cross‐linked via tyrosine residues to form the environmentally resistant oocyst wall. The vaccine is delivered via maternal immunization, where vaccination of laying hens leads to protection of broiler offspring. It has been extensively tested for efficacy and safety in field trials conducted in five countries and involving over 60 million offspring chickens from immunized hens and is currently the only subunit vaccine against any protozoan parasite to reach the marketplace.
DROUGHT STRESS: Soil Water Availability Alters the Inter‐ and Intra‐Cultivar Competition of Three Spring Wheat Cultivars Bred in Different Eras
Authors: Song L. , Zhang D.‐W. , Li F.‐M. , Fan X.‐W. , Ma Q. , Turner N. C.
Published: February 2010

Competition for water generates a classic aspect of the tragedy of the commons, the ‘race for fish’, where crops must allocate more resource to acquisition of the limiting resource than is optimal for crop yield allocation. A pot experiment using a simple additive (target–neighbour) design was conducted to examine the above‐ground and below‐ground growth of three spring wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) cultivars when grown alone and in mixtures at three levels of water availability. The effects of competition and water availability were compared by observing patterns of growth, biomass allocation and below‐ground outcomes. Competitive interactions were investigated among cultivars ‘HST’, ‘GY602’ and ‘LC8275’, target plant of each cultivar grown without neighbouring plants are referred to herein as control plant and one target plant of each cultivar sown surrounded either by same or another cultivar as intra‐ or inter‐cultivar competition. Competitive ability was assessed as the response ratio (lnRR) between the target plant surrounded by six other plants and the target plant in isolation. Our results showed that the cultivar ‘HST’, released over a century ago, produced a higher biomass and grain yield than the more recently released cultivars ‘LC8275’ and ‘GY602’ when grown as isolated plants with sufficient water supply. However, competition for resources from neighbours led to target plant biomass and grain yield being significantly reduced relative to controls in all three cultivars, particularly in ‘HST’. When subjected to intra‐cultivar competition, the two recently released cultivars ‘LC8275’ and ‘GY602’ had higher grain yields and water use efficiency for grain than ‘HST’ in all three water regimes. The landrace ‘HST’ had better and significantly linear relationships between biomass and biomass allocation, root length and specific root length, whereas the recent and modern cultivars had much more water‐related species‐specific changes in root morphology and allocation patterns. These results suggest that crop traits that influence competitive ability, such as biomass allocation to roots and root plasticity in response to drought have changed in modern wheat cultivars because of breeding and selection.
The inheritance of anther extrusion in hexaploid wheat and its relationship to Fusarium head blight resistance and deoxynivalenol content
Authors: Skinnes H. , Semagn K. , Tarkegne Y. , Marøy A. G. , Bjørnstad Å.
Published: February 2010

With 6 figures and 3 tables

Anther extrusion (AE) has been suggested as one of the resistance mechanisms to Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat, but not well investigated. The objectives of this study were to assess AE in the double haploid population ‘Arina’ × ’NK93604’, evaluate its relationship both with FHB and deoxynivalenol (DON) accumulation, and map quantitative trait loci (QTLs). AE was studied in 2005−2007 and its relationship to FHB and DON content was analysed with data from Fusarium culmorum inoculations in 2001–2003 and with Fusarium graminearum in 2007. AE showed continuous distribution, transgressive segregation, minimal genotype × year interactions and was highly heritable (H2 = 0.91). Mean AE showed highly significant negative correlations both with FHB (r = −0.53 to −0.69, P = 0.0001) and DON (r = −0.39 to −0.46, P = 0.0001). Composite interval mapping identified 4 QTLs for mean AE over 2 years that explained 53.6% of the total phenotypic variation. The phenotypic variance explained by the QTLs on chromosomes 1AL, 1BL, 4DL and 6AS varied from 7.4% to 18.3%. This is the first report describing QTLs for AE and to look systematically for association of AE with FHB and DON.
TSWV resistance in DH lines of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) obtained from a hybrid between ‘Polalta’ and ‘Wiślica’
Authors: Laskowska D. , Berbeć A.
Published: February 2010

With 2 tables

Nicotiana tabacum cv. ‘Polalta’ is reported as having a hypersensitive type of Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) resistance. In ‘Polalta’ hybrids with susceptible cultivars, morphological deformations (thickened and ribbon‐shaped leaves, irregular venation, tumours) appear. Acceptable DH lines derived from hybrids of ‘Polalta’ with ‘Wiślica’ were obtained by a method of in vitro culture. Those DH lines were evaluated for TSWV resistance. Tests for resistance were conducted under greenhouse conditions using one TSWV isolate from a local source. The presence of the virus was verified using DAS‐ELISA. The DH lines PW‐833, PW‐834, and PW‐900 showed a near correct morphology and stably inherited dominant monogenic resistance to TSWV.
Effects of mosapride on esophageal functions and gastroesophageal reflux
Authors: Koshino Kenji , Adachi Kyoichi , Furuta Kenji , Ohara Shunji , Morita Terumi , Nakata Shuji , Tanimura Takashi , Miki Masaharu , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: February 2010

Background and Aim:  A substantial number of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease show symptomatic resistance to high‐dose proton pump inhibitors. In those cases, prokinetics are possible candidates for treatment. The aim of the present study was to determine whether mosapride, a prokinetic agent, stimulates esophageal functions, and prevents acidic and non‐acidic gastroesophageal reflux.

Methods:  Normal volunteers (nine and 13 for two experiments, respectively) were enrolled. Salivary secretion, esophageal peristaltic contractions, and resting lower esophageal sphincter pressure with and without mosapride administration were recorded using a cross‐over protocol. Post‐prandial acidic and non‐acidic reflux levels were also recorded.

Results:  Mosapride at a standard dose of 15 mg/day did not stimulate salivary secretion or any esophageal motor functions. It also failed to prevent acidic and non‐acidic post‐prandial gastroesophageal reflux.

Conclusions:  Mosapride at 15 mg/day, a standard dose in Japan, did not change the esophageal motility and salivary secretion in healthy volunteers. Future study on a larger number of individuals with higher dose of mosapride is worthwhile.
Quantitative serum HBsAg and HBeAg are strong predictors of sustained HBeAg seroconversion to pegylated interferon alfa‐2b in HBeAg‐positive patients
Authors: Ma Hui , Yang Rui‐feng , Wei Lai
Published: February 2010

Background and Aim:  To evaluate the usefulness of quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) for predicting HBeAg seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B patients treated with conventional interferon (IFN) alfa‐2b or PegIFN alfa‐2b.

Methods:  Fifty‐eight patients were enrolled; 29 for the training group and 29 for the validating group. Quantification of HBsAg and HBeAg was carried out at baseline, week 12, week 24, and then again at 12 and 24 weeks follow up, respectively, for two groups. Sixteen patients in the training group were followed up for 5 years.

Results:  The cutoff of 1500 IU/mL in serum HBsAg at week 12 had a positive predictive value (PPV) of 33% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 91%, and 2890 IU/mL at week 24 had a PPV of 43% and an NPV of 95% for HBeAg seroconversion at week 48. The cutoff of 17.55 Paul Ehrlich Institute units/mL (PEI‐U/mL) in serum HBeAg at week 12 had a PPV of 38% and an NPV of 95%, and 8.52 PEI‐U/mL at week 24 had a PPV of 44% and a NPV of 100% for HBeAg seroconversion at week 48. Moreover the HBsAg and HBeAg levels of PegIFN alfa‐2b group were lower than those of the conventional IFN alfa‐2b group. During follow up, patients with HBeAg seroconversion remained HBeAg negative and none of them progressed to cirrhosis, but among the patients with non‐HBeAg seroconversion, two progressed to cirrhosis. Two additional patients with negative HBeAg were observed.

Conclusions:  On‐treatment serum HBsAg and HBeAg had high predictive values to predict sustained HBeAg seroconversion by PegIFN alfa‐2b. Patients who cleared HBeAg had better survival free of hepatic complications during long‐term follow‐up study.
Is it necessary to perform prophylactic cholecystectomy for asymptomatic subjects with gallbladder polyps and gallstones?
Authors: Choi Sung Youn , Kim Tae Sun , Kim Hong Joo , Park Jung Ho , Park Dong Il , Cho Yong Kyun , Sohn Chong Il , Jeon Woo Kyu , Kim Byung Ik
Published: February 2010

Background and Aims:  The purpose of the present study was to determine the clinical characteristics of subjects with gallbladder polyps and cholelithiasis compared with those with gallbladder polyps only.

Methods:  Between August 1999 and December 2005, 176 subjects with gallbladder polyps and cholelithiasis (study group) by transabdominal ultrasonography performed during a medical check‐up at our institution were recruited and compared with a control group of 185 subjects who had gallbladder polyps only.

Results:  No significant difference in the mean interval change (delta) of polyp size during the follow‐up period between the study and control groups (0.85 ± 1.39 mm vs 0.84 ± 1.58 mm, respectively, P = 0.927) was noted. A significantly higher proportion (9/176 [5.1%]) of examinees in the study group had attacks of acute cholecystitis compared with the control group (1/185 [0.5%], P < 0.01). By multivariate logistic regression analysis, gallbladder wall thickening on initial ultrasonography (odds ratio, 13.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–178.0; P = 0.046) and the interval increase in the size of the gallbladder polyps (odds ratio, 14.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–126.9; P = 0.014) were independent risk factors for cholecystectomy. No gallbladder cancer occurred during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions:  There was no significant difference in delta polyp size between the examinees with gallbladder polyps and cholelithiasis and those with gallbladder polyps only. Hence, a small proportion of subjects with gallbladder polyps and cholelithiasis, such as those with thickened gallbladder walls and an interval increase in the size of the gallbladder polyps are candidates for prophylactic cholecytectomy.
Clinicopathologic features and clinical outcomes of gastric cancer that initially presents with disseminated intravascular coagulation: A retrospective study
Authors: Rhee Jiyoung , Han Sae‐Won , Oh Do‐Youn , Im Seock‐Ah , Kim Tae‐You , Bang Yung‐Jue
Published: February 2010

Background and Aim:  Few systematic studies have been published on prognosis and clinical outcome of gastric cancer patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) as the first presentation of malignancy. We evaluated the clinicopathologic features and clinical outcomes of this population.

Methods:  We reviewed the medical records of patients with metastatic or recurred gastric cancer that initially presented with DIC.

Results:  Twenty‐one patients were included. Median age was 47 years (range, 24–72 years). Eighteen patients (85.7%) had bone metastasis, and nine patients (42.9%) had hemorrhagic complication of DIC. Fourteen patients received palliative chemotherapy, and seven patients received best supportive care (BSC). The most common factor influencing the decision to abandon the palliative chemotherapy was uncontrolled bleeding (57.1%). The median overall survival (OS) of all patients was 58 days (range, 2–342 days). The OS was significantly shorter in BSC than in the chemotherapy group (median, 16 vs 99 days, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, chemotherapy was independently associated with longer OS. In the chemotherapy group, the response to treatment was evaluable in 11 patients: two (18.2%) had a partial response, five (45.5%) had stable disease and four (36.4%) had progressive disease. The OS of patients with progressive disease was significantly longer in the chemotherapy group than in the BSC group (median, 92 vs 16 days, P = 0.009).

Conclusions:  The prognosis is poor with gastric cancer that initially presents with DIC but palliative chemotherapy, compared with BSC, prolongs OS. Therefore, early and intensive management for correctable DIC followed by chemotherapy should be considered in this population.
Education strategies to foster health professional students' clinical reasoning skills
Authors: Rochmawati Erna , Wiechula Rick
Published: February 2010

Clinical reasoning is an important skill for health professionals that should be developed to achieve high levels of expertise. Several education strategies have been suggested for implementation by health professional educators to foster their students' clinical reasoning skills. The strategies have included the following: problem‐based learning, the integrative curriculum, reflection, and concept mapping. This review assesses which is the most effective education strategy for developing the clinical reasoning skills of health professional students. Four publications, from a total of 692 identified records, were included. Overall, this review was not able to make a final conclusion to answer the question. Therefore, there is a need to conduct more studies with larger samples and to undertake research that evaluates the following aspects: more alternate education interventions, variations in the delivery of education interventions, and the cost‐effectiveness of implementing education strategies.
Development and internal validation of a nomogram predicting extracapsular extension in radical prostatectomy specimens
Authors: Satake Naoya , Ohori Makoto , Yu Changhong , Kattan Michael W , Ohno Yoshio , Miyakawa Ayako , Hatano Tadashi , Tachibana Masaaki
Published: February 2010

Objectives:  To present a nomogram predicting the side‐specific probability of extracapsular extension (ECE) in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens.

Methods:  Three hundred and fifty‐four patients with T1c‐T3a prostate cancer undergoing RP were included in the analysis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was carried out to evaluate the predictive values of each clinical and pathological factor, separately and in combination. Based on logistic regression analysis, a nomogram predicting the side‐specific probability of ECE was developed.

Results:  Overall, 146 (40%) of 354 patients and 165 (23%) of 708 lobes had ECE pathologically. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of the standard features, such as serum PSA, clinical stage and biopsy Gleason sum on each side, in predicting side‐specific probability of ECE were 0.624, 0.627, and 0.747, respectively. When these three features were combined, AUC increased to 0.773 which was not significantly different from 0.791 of maximum percent of cancer alone (P = 0.613) and significantly enhanced by including maximum percent of cancer on each side, 0.799 (P = 0.022). The resulting nomogram was internally validated and had excellent calibration.

Conclusions:  The accuracy in predicting ECE is increased by combining standard clinical factors (clinical stage, serum PSA, highest Gleason score) and biopsy features, such as maximum percent of cancer in the cores. The developed nomogram is helpful when deciding whether or not neurovascular bundles can be preserved.
Successful treatment of severe retro‐peritoneal bleeding with recombinant factor VIIa in women with placenta percreta invading into the left broad ligament: Unusual repeated ante‐partum intra‐abdominal bleeding
Authors: Seoud Muhieddine , Cheaib Samer , Birjawi Ghina , Tawil Ayman , Jamali Faek
Published: February 2010

We experienced unusual repeated ante‐partum intra‐abdominal bleedings in a woman with placenta percreta invading into the left broad ligament, in whom recombinant factor VIIa was effective for controlling severe retro‐peritoneal bleeding. A 34‐year‐old multiparaous woman with two prior cesarean sections presented acute abdominal pain at 16 weeks of gestation. She also represented with abdominal pain at 22 weeks of gestation, and a diagnostic laparoscopy revealed hemoperitoneum, although we could not identify the exact source of bleeding. She also represented with abdominal pain without vaginal bleeding at 27 weeks of gestation, and an MRI revealed a hematoma in the lower abdomino‐pelvic region and placenta percreta invading into the left broad ligament. A classical cesarean section followed by hysterectomy with partial cystectomy was performed at 32 weeks of gestation. Since the bleeding from the retro‐peritoneum could not be controlled by the use of fresh frozen plasma, recombinant factor VIIa was administered, resulting in successful hemostasis.
Cytogenetic aberrations and the development of uterine leiomyomata
Authors: El‐Gharib Mohamed N. , Elsobky Ezzat S.
Published: February 2010

This study was conducted to define the cytogenetically critical regions of uterine leiomyomata, hoping to demonstrate the presence of possible genes involved in their evolution. It was carried out on 25 randomly selected uterine leiomyoma specimens obtained from 16 patients during hysterectomy or myomectomy operations. Successful tissue culture and karyotyping were performed in 19 specimens. There was no correlation between patient age, gravidity, or presenting symptom and the presence of chromosomal abnormality. A significant correlation was found between short culture turnaround time and the occurrence of chromosomal abnormality. Abnormal clonal karyotypes were present in 6 specimens, non‐clonal abnormalities in 4 specimens and normal karyotypes were found in 9 specimens. Myomas with cross section >4 cm showed an increased incidence of abnormal karyotypes and a statistically significant higher incidence of clonal abnormalities. On the other hand, submucous myomas presented fewer clonal abnormalities than did intramural or subserosal myomas. Clonal chromosomal abnormalities involved 5 different chromosomes (2, 7, 8, 12, 22), which indicate genetic heterogeneity of such benign tumors and the need of molecular cytogenetic studies or molecular studies to characterize possible candidate genes at specific chromosomal breakpoints.
Serotonin modulates glutamatergic transmission in the rat olfactory tubercle
Authors: Hadley J. K. , Halliwell J. V.
Published: February 2010

The olfactory tubercle (OT) is found in the brains of mammals that are highly dependent on their sense of smell. Its human analogue is the poorly understood anterior perforated substance. Previous work on rat brain slices identified two types of field potential responses from the OT. The association fibre (AF) pathway was sensitive to muscarinic modulation, whereas the lateral olfactory tract (LOT) fibre pathway was not. Here, we establish that serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine; 5‐HT) also inhibits field potential excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in the AF, but not in the LOT fibre, pathway. Parallel experiments with adenosine (ADO) excluded ADO mediation of the 5‐HT effect. Exogenous 5‐HT at 30 μmcaused a long‐lasting ∼40% reduction in the amplitude of AF postsynaptic responses, without affecting the time‐course of EPSP decline, indicating a fairly restricted disposition of the 5‐HT receptors responsible. The 5‐HT1‐preferring, 5‐HT5‐preferring and 5‐HT7‐preferring agonist 5‐carboxamidotryptamine caused similar inhibition at ∼100 nm. The 5‐HT1A‐preferring ligand 8‐hydroxy‐di‐n‐propylamino‐tetralin at 10 μm, and the 5‐HT uptake inhibitor citalopram at 3 μm, caused inhibition of AF‐stimulated field potential responses in the 5–10% range. Order‐of‐potency information suggested a receptor of the 5‐HT1Bor 5‐HT1Dsubtype. The 5‐HT1Dagonist L‐694,247 (1 μm) suppressed the AF response by ∼10% when used on its own. After washing out of L‐694,427, inhibition by 30 μm5‐HT was reduced to negligible levels. Allowing for a partial agonist action of L‐694,427 and complex interactions of 5‐HT receptors within the OT, these results support the presence of active 5‐HT1D‐type receptors in the principal cell layer of the OT.
Reactive hypoglycaemia following GLP‐1 infusion in pancreas transplant recipients
Authors: Rickels M. R. , Naji A.
Published: February 2010

The aim of the study was to determine whether reactive hypoglycaemia in pancreas transplant recipients that followed administration of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) was associated with excessive insulin, insufficient glucagon, or both. Methodology involved six portally drained pancreas recipients who received GLP‐1 (1.5 pmol/kg/min) or placebo infusion on randomized occasions during glucose‐potentiated arginine testing. The second subject developed symptomatic hypoglycaemia [plasma glucose (PG) 42 mg/dl] 1 h after GLP‐1 administration; subsequent subjects received intravenous glucose following GLP‐1, but not placebo, infusion for PG levels <65 mg/dl. Following GLP‐1 vs. placebo infusion, PG was lower (58 ± 4 vs. 76 ± 5 mg/dl; p < 0.05) despite administration of intravenous glucose. During hypoglycaemia, insulin levels and the insulin‐to‐glucagon ratio were greater after GLP‐1 vs. placebo infusion (p < 0.05), while glucagon did not vary. It can be concluded from the study that GLP‐1 can induce reactive hypoglycaemia in pancreas transplant recipients through excessive insulin secretion associated with an increased insulin‐to‐glucagon ratio.
Potential manipulation of endothelial progenitor cells in diabetes and its complications
Authors: Fadini G. P. , Avogaro A.
Published: February 2010

Diabetes mellitus increases cardiovascular risk through its negative impact on vascular endothelium. Although glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity account for endothelial cell damage, endothelial repair is also affected by diabetes. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are involved in the maintenance of endothelial homoeostasis and in the process of new vessel formation. For these reasons, EPCs are thought to have a protective impact within the cardiovascular system. In addition, EPCs appear to modulate the functioning of other organs, providing neurotropic signals and promoting repair of the glomerular endothelium. The exact mechanisms by which EPCs provide cardiovascular protection are unknown and the definition of EPCs is not standardized. Notwithstanding these limitations, the literature consistently indicates that EPCs are altered in type 1 and type 2 diabetes and in virtually all diabetic complications. Moreover, experimental models suggest that EPC‐based therapies might help prevent or reverse the features of end‐organ complications. This identifies EPCs as having a novel pathogenic role in diabetes and being a potential therapeutic target. Several ways of favourably modulating EPCs have been identified, including lifestyle intervention, commonly used medications and cell‐based approaches. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of EPC pathophysiology and the potential for EPC modulation in diabetes.
Stress and coping in Australian nurses: a systematic review
Authors: Lim J. , Bogossian F. , Ahern K.
Published: February 2010

LIM J., BOGOSSIAN F. & AHERN K. (2010) Stress and coping in Australian nurses: a systematic review. International Nursing Review57, 22–31

Aim:  To identify factors that contribute to stress in Australian nurses, consider the coping strategies they use and examine the effects of stressors on nurses' health and well‐being.

Background:  Stress is a major concern in the nursing profession with work overload, nurse shortages and high turnover rates as the common stressors. Although nursing stress has been studied extensively, there is a lack of clarity on the nursing situation in Australia.

Methods:  A systematic review of the current literature was conducted on stress and coping strategies within the Australian nursing population.

Results:  Stressors included work overload, role conflicts and experiences of aggression. Coping strategies included seeking support, problem solving and self‐control. The majority of the studies reported detrimental effects on nurses' physical and mental well‐being with little consideration given to the spillover effects of nursing work stress to their family and social relationships.

Conclusion:  Recommendations included factoring in personal and work stresses, promoting the use of effective coping strategies and maintaining supportive social relationships.
Culture, context and community: ethical considerations for global nursing research
Authors: Harrowing J.N. , Mill J. , Spiers J. , Kulig J. , Kipp W.
Published: February 2010

HARROWING J.N., MILL J., SPIERS J., KULIG J. & KIPP W. (2010) Culture, context and community: ethical considerations for global nursing research. International Nursing Review57, 70–77

High‐quality research is essential for the generation of scientific nursing knowledge and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. However, the incorporation of Western bioethical principles in the study design may not be suitable, sufficient or relevant to participants in low‐income countries and may indeed be harmful and disrespectful. Before engaging in global health studies, nurses must consider carefully the cultural and social context and values of the proposed setting in order to situate the research within the appropriate ethical framework.

The purpose of this paper was to examine the ethical principles and considerations that guide health research conducted in international settings using the example of a qualitative study of Ugandan nurses and nurse‐midwives by a Canadian researcher.

The application of Western bioethical principles with their emphasis on autonomy fails to acknowledge the importance of relevant contextual aspects in the conduct of global research. Because ethics is concerned with how people interact and live together, it is essential that studies conducted across borders be respectful of, and congruent with, the values and needs of the community in which it occurs. The use of a communitarian ethical framework will allow nurse scientists to contribute to the elimination of inequities between those who enjoy prosperity and good health, and those who do not.
PARENTAL LOVE PILLS: SOME ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: LIAO S. MATTHEW
Published: February 2010

It may soon be possible to develop pills that allow parents to induce in themselves more loving behaviour, attitudes and emotions towards their children. In this paper, I consider whether pharmacologically induced parental love can satisfy reasonable conditions of authenticity; why anyone would be interested in taking such parental love pills at all, and whether inducing parental love pharmacologically promotes narcissism or results in self‐instrumentalization. I also examine how the availability of such pills may affect the duty to love a child.
Overcoming barriers for eLearning in universities—portfolio models for eCompetence development of faculty
Authors: Schneckenberg Dirk
Published: February 2010

This paper explores the role that eCompetence of faculty members play in the integration of eLearning in higher education. Learning technologies have the potential to enhance educational innovation, but the eLearning adoption rate of faculty in universities is so far disappointing. The motivation and capability of faculty to use information and communication technologies (ICT) in teaching and learning is influenced by competence development measures and wider institutional incentives that universities offer. The paper presents the findings of an international survey on eCompetence measures for faculty in 23 universities. Results show that traditional ICT training courses do not sufficiently motivate faculty to acquire the required competences and to engage in eLearning. Universities have to create innovative portfolios for faculty development which extend both the scope and breadth of formal training with non‐formal measures like communities of practice, peer groups and networks. Beyond these competence development measures, institutional incentives like eLearning rewards and career opportunities for eLearning champions increase the motivation of faculty to sustainably use learning technologies for their courses.
Anxiety, Politics and Critical Management Education
Authors: Vince Russ
Published: February 2010

The focus of this paper is a discussion of anxiety and politics as they relate to business school pedagogy. Using ideas from critical management education (CME), the paper explores why and how to engage with the anxiety mobilized through attempts to learn. The aim is to discuss emotional and political dynamics that are generated, and too often avoided, in management education. Making these dynamics overt in the classroom can help managers to comprehend the political context within which management takes place. Examples informed by CME are presented, as well as reflections from the author on the anxiety and politics that emerge for the critical management educator in a business school context. The contribution in the paper is to show the way that anxieties and politics within the business school classroom offer opportunities to change how business schools approach the teaching of managers. CME adds value to management education because it challenges what and how individuals and groups expect to learn, and consequently it challenges assumptions about how learning takes place within business schools. Such challenges are seen as an important and integral part of ‘making the business school more critical’.
Making the Business School More ‘Critical’: Reflexive Critique Based on Phronesis as a Foundation for Impact
Authors: Antonacopoulou Elena P.
Published: February 2010

This paper explores how the business school can become more critical by advancing the notion ofreflexive critique. Drawing on diverse literatures propounding acriticalperspective, this paper integrates the various interpretations of ‘what it is to be critical’ and proposesphronesisas a foundation for responding to and extending the relevance and rigour debate by articulating what it means for business schools to have a criticalimpacton management practice. A phronetic analysis of management education provides an innovative lens for understanding the power of critique in engaging academics and business practitioners in the co‐creation of knowledge. This is illustrated by distilling the main insights from the experience of introducing an innovative course entitled ‘Critical Thinking’ offered to MBA students over a five‐year period. The paper discusses the importance of critique in the business curriculum and explains the rationale for introducing the course and its objectives, as well as the learning and teaching techniques employed. The analysis considers how reflexive critique can be a platform for integrating a critical analysis of management informed by management research and academic thinking in relation to business practitioners' practical experiences of managing. The paper concludes with a review of the main lessons learned and the implications for future initiatives intended to foster engagement of theory and practice and the collaboration of academics and business practitioners.
Who is it That Would Make Business Schools More Critical? Critical Reflections on Critical Management Studies
Authors: Ford Jackie , Harding Nancy , Learmonth Mark
Published: February 2010

We suggest in this paper that whilst exploring how to make business schools more critical we must also turn a critical and reflexive lens upon ourselves, critical management thinkers. Our endeavour is outlined here as a ‘reflexive journey’ in which we turn upon ourselves, academics who identify as ‘critical’ thinkers, the theories we use to analyse others. Our focus is upon critical management education. We use three vignettes drawn from our previous research. One is of graduands from the postgraduate programmes on which two of us teach, the second an analysis of knowledge transfer programmes in which we have participated, and the third a study of the construction of academic identities. The first study shows the academic teacher may become an internalized, judgemental gaze, the second that what we see as a critical approach may be construed by our students as another ‘truth’ that fails to encompass the complexities of organizations and management, and the third encourages us to ask some questions about our own positions. This causes us to ask some uncomfortable questions about our own positions as critical management scholars and the ways in which we conceptualize business schools and our colleagues who work in them.
Prenatal Antecedents of Newborn Neurological Maturation
Authors: DiPietro Janet A. , Kivlighan Katie T. , Costigan Kathleen A. , Rubin Suzanne E. , Shiffler Dorothy E. , Henderson Janice L. , Pillion Joseph P.
Published: February 2010

Fetal neurobehavioral development was modeled longitudinally using data collected at weekly intervals from 24 to 38 weeks gestation in a sample of 112 healthy pregnancies. Predictive associations between 3 measures of fetal neurobehavioral functioning and their developmental trajectories to neurological maturation in the first weeks after birth were examined. Prenatal measures included fetal heart rate (FHR) variability, fetal movement, and coupling between fetal motor activity and heart rate patterning; neonatal outcomes include a standard neurologic examination (n = 97) and brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP; n = 47). Optimality in newborn motor activity and reflexes was predicted by fetal motor activity, FHR variability, and somatic–cardiac coupling predicted BAEP parameters. Maternal pregnancy‐specific psychological stress was associated with accelerated neurologic maturation.
The Timing of Prenatal Exposure to Maternal Cortisol and Psychosocial Stress Is Associated With Human Infant Cognitive Development
Authors: Davis Elysia P. , Sandman Curt A.
Published: February 2010

The consequences of prenatal maternal stress for development were examined in 125 full‐term infants at 3, 6, and 12 months of age. Maternal cortisol and psychological state were evaluated 5 times during pregnancy. Exposure to elevated concentrations of cortisol early in gestation was associated with a slower rate of development over the 1st year and lower mental development scores at 12 months. Elevated levels of maternal cortisol late in gestation, however, were associated with accelerated cognitive development and higher scores at 12 months. Elevated levels of maternal pregnancy‐specific anxiety early in pregnancy were independently associated with lower 12‐month mental development scores. These data suggest that maternal cortisol and pregnancy‐specific anxiety have programming influences on the developing fetus.
Writing with young children: a comparison of paternal and maternal guidance
Authors: Aram Dorit
Published: February 2010

The increasing involvement of fathers in active parenthood raises questions concerning their parenting style. This study compared mothers and fathers in their writing interactions with their young children, exploring how parents' writing guidance related to children's early literacy. Mothers and fathers of 51 kindergarteners were videotaped separately at home while writing words with their child. Video analysis assessed measures of parental guidance specifically in the writing process and guidance measures that characterised teaching interactions in general. Children's early literacy was assessed. A family style of guidance emerged, where a parent's guidance resembled the spouse's. Moreover, both parents' guidance correlated significantly with children's early literacy. Still, mothers scored higher than fathers on both the writing and the more general guidance measures. The study suggests that encouraging both parents to write with their children, while supplying them with productive methods for guidance, can enhance children's literacy competencies.
Nevirapine/zidovudine/lamivudine has superior immunological and virological responses not reflected in clinical outcomes in a 48‐week randomized comparison with abacavir/zidovudine/lamivudine in HIV‐infected Ugandan adults with low CD4 cell counts
Authors: Munderi P , Walker AS , Kityo C , Babiker AG , Ssali F , Reid A , Darbyshire JH , Grosskurth H , Mugyenyi P , Gibb DM , Gilks CF ,   on behalf of the DART/NORA trial teams
Published: February 2010

Background
Triple nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor regimens have advantages as first‐line antiretroviral therapy (ART), avoiding hepatotoxicity and interactions with anti‐tuberculosis therapy, and sparing two drug classes for second‐line ART. Concerns exist about virological potency; efficacy has not been assessed in Africa.

Methods
A safety trial comparing nevirapine with abacavir was conducted in two Ugandan Development of Antiretroviral Therapy in Africa (DART) centres: 600 symptomatic antiretroviral‐naïve HIV‐infected adults with CD4 counts <200 cells/μL were randomized to zidovudine/lamivudine plus abacavir or nevirapine (placebo‐controlled to 24‐week primary toxicity endpoint, and then open‐label). Documented World Health Organization (WHO) stage 4 events were independently reviewed and plasma HIV‐1 RNA assayed retrospectively. Exploratory efficacy analyses are intention‐to‐treat.

Results
The median pre‐ART CD4 count was 99 cells/μL, and the median pre‐ART viral load was 284 600 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL. A total of 563 participants (94%) completed 48 weeks of follow‐up, 25 (4%) died and 12 (2%) were lost to follow‐up. The randomized drug was substituted in 21 participants (7%) receiving abacavir vs. 34 (11%) receiving nevirapine (P=0.09). At 48 weeks, 62% of participants receiving abacavir vs. 77% of those receiving nevirapine had viral loads <50 copies/mL (P<0.001), and mean CD4 count increases from baseline were +147 vs. +173 cells/μL, respectively (P=0.006). Nine participants (3%) receiving abacavir vs. 16 (5%) receiving nevirapine died [hazard ratio (HR) 0.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24–1.25; P=0.15]; 20 receiving abacavir vs. 32 receiving nevirapine developed new or recurrent WHO 4 events or died (HR=0.60; 95% CI 0.34–1.05; P=0.07) and 48 receiving abacavir vs. 68 receiving nevirapine developed new or recurrent WHO 3 or 4 events or died (HR=0.67; 95% CI 0.46–0.96; P=0.03). Seventy‐one participants (24%) receiving abacavir experienced 91 grade 4 adverse events compared with 130 events in 109 participants (36%) on nevirapine (P<0.001).

Conclusions
The clear virological/immunological superiority of nevirapine over abacavir was not reflected in clinical outcomes over 48 weeks. The inability of CD4 cell count/viral load to predict initial clinical treatment efficacy is unexplained and requires further evaluation.
Vaginal birth after caesarean for women with three or more prior caesareans: assessing safety and success
Authors: Cahill AG , Tuuli M , Odibo AO , Stamilio DM , Macones GA
Published: February 2010

Please cite this paper as: Cahill A, Tuuli M, Odibo A, Stamilio D, Macones G. Vaginal birth after caesarean for women with three or more prior caesareans: assessing safety and success. BJOG 2010;117:422–427.

Objective  To estimate the rate of success and risk of maternal morbidities in women with three or more prior caesareans who attempt vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

Design  Retrospective cohort design.

Setting  Multicentre, from 1996 to 2000, including 17 tertiary and community delivery centres in north‐eastern USA.

Population  A total of 25 005 women who had had at least one prior caesarean delivery.

Methods  Women who attempted VBAC with three or more prior caesareans were compared with those who attempted after one and two prior caesareans. Univariable and stratified analyses were used to select factors for multivariable analyses for maternal morbidity. Maternal characteristics were compared using a Student’s t test, Mann–Whitney U test, chi‐square test or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate.

Main outcome measures  The primary outcome was composite maternal morbidity, defined as at least one of the following: uterine rupture, bladder or bowel injury, or uterine artery laceration. Secondary outcomes were VBAC success, blood transfusion and fever.

Results  Of 25 005 women, 860 had three or more prior caesarean deliveries: 89 attempted VBAC and 771 elected for repeat caesarean. Of the 89 who attempted VBAC, there were no cases of composite maternal morbidity. They were also as likely to have a successful VBAC as women with one prior caesarean (79.8% versus 75.5%, adjusted OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.81–2.41, P = 0.22).

Conclusion  Women with three or more prior caesareans who attempt VBAC have similar rates of success and risk for maternal morbidity as those with one prior caesarean, and as those delivered by elective repeat caesarean.
Genistein reduces glycosaminoglycan levels in a mouse model of mucopolysaccharidosis type II
Authors: Friso A , Tomanin R , Salvalaio M , Scarpa M
Published: February 2010

Background and purpose:  Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are lysosomal storage disorders resulting from a deficit of specific lysosomal enzymes catalysing glycosaminoglycan (GAG) degradation. The typical pathology involves most of the organ systems, including the brain, in its severe forms. The soy isoflavone genistein has recently attracted considerable attention as it can reduce GAG synthesis in vitro. Furthermore, genistein is able to cross the blood–brain barrier in the rat. The present study was undertaken to assess the ability of genistein to reduce urinary and tissue GAG levels in vivo.

Experimental approach:  We used mice with genetic deletion of iduronate‐2‐sulphatase (one of the GAG catabolizing enzymes) which provide a model of MPS type II. Two doses of genistein, 5 or 25 mg·kg−1·day−1, were given, in the diet for 10 or 20 weeks. Urinary and tissue GAG content was evaluated by biochemical and histochemical procedures.

Key results:  Urinary GAG levels were reduced after 10 weeks' treatment with genistein at either 5 or 25 mg·kg−1·day−1. In tissue samples from liver, spleen, kidney and heart, a reduction in GAG content was observed with both dosages, after 10 weeks' treatment. Decreased GAG deposits in brain were observed after genistein treatment in some animals.

Conclusions and implications:  There was decreased GAG storage in the MPSII mouse model following genistein administration. Our results would support the use of this plant‐derived isoflavone in a combined therapeutic protocol for treatment of MPS.
Mechanisms of multimodal sensing by extracellular Ca2+‐sensing receptors: a domain‐based survey of requirements for binding and signalling
Authors: Khan Mahvash A , Conigrave Arthur D
Published: February 2010

In this article we consider the molecular basis of sensing and signalling by the extracellular calcium‐sensing receptor. We consider the nature of its ligands and sensing modalities, the identities of its major protein domains and their roles in sensing, signalling and trafficking as well as the significance of receptor homo‐ and hetero‐dimerization. Finally, we consider the current, incomplete, state of knowledge regarding the requirements for ligand‐specific signalling.

This article is part of a themed section on Molecular Pharmacology of GPCR. To view the editorial for this themed section visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00695.x
The COX‐2 inhibitors, meloxicam and nimesulide, suppress neurogenesis in the adult mouse brain
Authors: Goncalves Maria Beatriz , Williams Emma‐Jane , Yip Ping , Yáñez‐Muñoz Rafael J , Williams Gareth , Doherty Patrick
Published: February 2010

Background and purpose:  In adults, neurogenesis persists in the hippocampus and the subventricular zone (SVZ), and this is important for learning and memory. Inhibitors of COX‐2 suppress ischaemia‐induced neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Here, we have determined the effects of COX‐2 inhibitors on neurogenesis throughout the normal adult mouse brain.

Experimental approach:  Young adult mice were treated with COX‐2 inhibitors, and the proliferation of neural progenitor cells was measured in the SVZ and hippocampus. In addition, the local uptake of lentiviral vectors in the rostral migratory stream enabled the formation of new neurons in the olfactory bulb (OB) to be assessed.

Key results:  The COX‐2 inhibitor meloxicam suppressed progenitor cell proliferation in the SVZ and hippocampus. A significant decrease in the appearance of new neurons in the OB was also observed. Similar effects on progenitor proliferation in the SVZ were seen with nimesulide. The absence of COX‐2 expression in the proliferating progenitors in vivo, and the lack of effect of the COX‐2 inhibitors on the growth rate of a cultured progenitor cell line, suggest that the effect is indirect. The specific expression of COX‐2 in resting microglia that closely associate with the proliferating progenitor cells provides for a possible site of action.

Conclusions and implications:  Treatment with a COX‐2 inhibitor results in a substantial inhibition of adult neurogenesis. Studies on human tissues are warranted in order to determine if this effect extends to humans, and whether inhibition of neurogenesis should be considered as an adverse effect of these drugs.
GPR55 ligands promote receptor coupling to multiple signalling pathways
Authors: Henstridge Christopher M , Balenga Nariman AB , Schröder Ralf , Kargl Julia K , Platzer Wolfgang , Martini Lene , Arthur Simon , Penman June , Whistler Jennifer L , Kostenis Evi , Waldhoer Maria , Irving Andrew J
Published: February 2010

Background and purpose:  Although GPR55 is potently activated by the endogenous lysophospholipid, L‐α‐lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), it is also thought to be sensitive to a number of cannabinoid ligands, including the prototypic CB1 receptor antagonists AM251 and SR141716A (Rimonabant®). In this study we have used a range of functional assays to compare the pharmacological activity of selected cannabinoid ligands, AM251, AM281 and SR141716A with LPI in a HEK293 cell line engineered to stably express recombinant, human GPR55.

Experimental approach:  We evaluated Ca2+ signalling, stimulation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK1/2) mitogen activated kinase MAP‐kinases, induction of transcriptional regulators that are downstream of GPR55, including nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), as well as receptor endocytosis. In addition, we assessed the suitability of a novel, label‐free assay for GPR55 ligands that involves optical measurement of dynamic mass redistribution following receptor activation.

Key results:  GPR55 linked to a range of downstream signalling events and that the activity of GPR55 ligands was influenced by the functional assay employed, with differences in potency and efficacy observed.

Conclusions and implications:  Our data help to resolve some of the issues surrounding the pharmacology of cannabinoid ligands at GPR55 and highlight some differences in effector coupling associated with distinct GPR55 ligands.