bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selenium Is Depleted in Crohn’s Disease on Enteral Nutrition
Authors: Kuroki Fumitoshi , Matsumoto Takayuki , Iida Mitsuo
Published: October 2003

Backgroud/Aims: Selenium is an important trace element and its deficiency has been reported to be associated with cardiomyopathy or gastrointestinal cancer. The aim of this study is to clarify the selenium status in Crohn’s disease (CD) on enteral nutrition. Methods: We measured serum selenium concentrations in 53 patients with CD and compared them with those in 21 healthy controls. Twenty-nine patients were under the treatment by enteral nutrition (EN group), and the remaining 24 patients were free from formulated enteral nutrition (non-EN group). Results: While the serum selenium concentration in the non-EN group was not decreased when compared to controls, the value in the EN group was significantly lower than those in the non-EN group and in controls. Clinical manifestations of selenium deficiency were found in a patient on exclusive enteral nutrition. In the EN group, the serum selenium concentration showed an inverse correlation with the duration and the daily dose of enteral nutrition. In the non-EN group, the serum selenium concentrations were inversely correlated with the Crohn’s disease activity index. Conclusion: These findings suggest that patients with CD on enteral nutrition are at risk for selenium deficiency and that even patients without enteral nutrition may develop selenium deficiency at the active phase of the disease.
Ten-Year Incidence of Tooth Loss and Dental Caries in Elderly Swedish Individuals
Authors: Fure Solveig
Published: October 2003

There has been a significant reduction in edentulism and the elderly retain more teeth into old age. The 10-year incidence of tooth loss, coronal and root caries was studied in a random sample of inhabitants of Göteborg, who were 55, 65 and 75 years old at baseline. Of the 208 persons examined at baseline, 102 (49%) participated in the follow-up examination: 56, 37 and 9, respectively, in the different age groups of 65, 75 and 85 years. In addition, for the purpose of time-trend comparisons, a new random sample of 98 individuals aged 55 years was examined. The mean numbers of remaining teeth were 24, 23, 17 and 14, respectively, in the age groups of 55, 65, 75 and 85. The corresponding mean numbers at baseline were 23, 19 and 17, respectively, in those subjects who were then 55, 65 and 75 years old. Forty-eight percent had lost no teeth during the 10-year period, while 13% had lost more than 2 teeth. The major reason for tooth extraction was dental caries and it was found in 60% of all cases. The incidence of coronal caries decreased, while that of root caries increased with age (p < 0.01). Comparing the same age groups, the frequency of root caries had decreased during the 10-year period. It could be concluded from this study that elderly people were determined to retain their teeth for as long as possible, but dental caries may be a problem among the very old.
Molecular characterization of the canine HMGB1
Authors: Murua Escobar H. , Meyer B. , Richter A. , Becker K. , Flohr A.M. , Bullerdiek J. , Nolte I.
Published: October 2003

Due to the close similarities of numerous canine diseases to their human counterparts, the dog could join the mouse as the species of choice to unravel the genetic background of complex diseases as e.g. cancer and metabolic diseases. Accordingly, the role of the dog as a model for therapeutic approaches is strongly increasing. However, prerequisite for such studies is the characterization of the corresponding canine genes. Recently, the human high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) has attracted considerable interest of oncologists because of what is called its “double life”. Besides its function as an architectural transcription factor HMGB1 can also be secreted by certain cells and then acts as a ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). The binding of HMGB1 to RAGE can activate key cell signaling pathways, such as p38MAPK, JNK, and p42/p44MAPK emphasizing the important role of HMGB1 in inflammation and tumor metastasis. These results make HMGB1 a very interesting target for therapeutic studies done in model organisms like the dog. In this study we characterized the molecular structure of the canine HMGB1 gene on genomic and cDNA levels, its predicted protein, the gene locus and a basic expression pattern.
Replication banding and FISH analysis reveal the origin of the Hyla femoralis karyotype and XY/XX sex chromosomes
Authors: Wiley J.E.
Published: October 2003

The pine woods treefrog, Hyla femoralis, is unique among North American hylid frogs in having a metacentric chromosome 6 and heteromorphic sex chromosomes of the XY/XX type. The X chromosome is distinguished by having a nucleolar organizing region (NOR) in the short arm. The Y chromosome does not possess an NOR. Until the present study, it was not known if the NOR was not present on the Y chromosome or inactive and therefore not detectable by conventional cytogenetic methods like silver staining. Exclusive of its unique features the karyotype of H. femoralis closely resembles those of North American frogs with karyotypes like H. chrysoscelis. We used replication banding and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with a DNA probe to the 18S + 28S ribosomal genes, which are located at the NOR, to characterize the H. femoralis karyotype. Our analysis revealed that the 18S + 28S ribosomal genes are not present on the Y chromosome, and that the karyotype of H. femoralis was derived from an H. chrysoscelis-like karyotype by relocation of the NOR to the X chromosome from chromosome 6 and either a concurrent or subsequent pericentric inversion of chromosome 6.
Elucidation of correspondence between swine chromosome 4 and human chromosome 1 by assigning 27 genes to the ImpRH map, and development of microsatellites in the proximity of 14 genes
Authors: Hiraiwa H. , Sawazaki T. , Suzuki K. , Fujishima-Kanaya N. , Toki D. , Ito Y. , Uenishi H. , Hayashi T. , Awata T. , Yasue H.
Published: October 2003

Loci affecting swine intramuscular fat content, backfat thickness, carcass weight, and daily weight gain were assigned to regions of swine chromosome (SSC) 4, which were shown to correspond to human chromosome (HSA) 1p22→ q25 by ZOO-FISH, bidirectional chromosome painting, as well as by the linkage map of genes. In order to select candidate genes responsible for the above traits from the human genome database, precise correspondence between SSC4 and HSA1 is a prerequisite. In the present study, 27 genes, PTGFR, GBP1, GBP2, GFI1, GCLM, ABCD3, EXTL2, KCNA3, ADORA3, KCND3, WNT2B, NRAS, SYCP1, PTGFRN, IGSF2, NOTCH2, S100A10, SHC1, SSR2, LMNA, CCT3, CD5L, PEA15, FCER1G, EAT2, DDR2, and LAMB3, located in the HSA1 region corresponding to SSC4 or possibly SSC4, were assigned to the IMpRH map. The alignment of genes from centromere to telomere in the SSC4 q arm is basically conserved in HSA1p22→q25 with the direction from the q arm to the p arm, which is in good agreement with results from linkage mapping. In addition, the present study first demonstrated that WNT2B residing in the middle of the HSA1 region was assigned to SSC18 with a high lod score (> 5), and that at least three intrachromosomal rearrangements occurred in the region in the process of swine and human evolution. PTGFR, and LAMB3 localized at both ends of the HSA1 region were assigned to SSC6 and SSC9, respectively, which is consistent with regional correspondence reported earlier. In the course of the above analysis, microsatellite markers were developed in the proximity of eleven genes localized on SSC4, and three genes on other swine chromosomes.
Psychopathological Symptoms of Depression in Parkinson’s Disease Compared to Major Depression
Authors: Merschdorf U. , Berg D. , Csoti I. , Fornadi F. , Merz B. , Naumann M. , Becker G. , Supprian T.
Published: October 2003

Parkinson’s disease is frequently associated with depressive symptoms. When depression occurs at early stages and before the onset of characteristic motor symptoms of the disease, differential diagnosis of major depression may be difficult. Differences in psychopathological features of depression in Parkinson’s disease and major depression have been reported by some authors. This study presents data of 49 patients with depression in Parkinson’s disease and 38 patients with major depression. The severity of depressive symptoms was equivalent in both groups. Depressive features did not differ between the two groups with exception of affective flattening, delusional ideas and suicide attempts. In conclusion, this investigation gives support to the assumption of a common neurobiological origin of depression in Parkinson’s disease and major depression.
The Five Symptom Dimensions and Depression in Schizophrenia
Authors: Lee Kwang-Hyuk , Harris Anthony W. , Loughland Carmel M. , Williams Leanne M.
Published: October 2003

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the five-factor model of psychopathology and depression in schizophrenia. Symptoms were rated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Montgomery and Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) in 105 chronic patients with schizophrenia. Principal-component analysis (PCA) produced a five-factor solution for the PANSS (psychomotor poverty, disorganisation, reality distortion, excitement, and depression), and a two-factor solution for the MADRS (psychological and behavioural depression). The PANSS depression factor was highly associated with the MADRS psychological depression factor but not with MADRS behavioural depression. By contrast, the PANSS excitement factor showed a strong positive correlation with the behavioural depression factor but not with psychological depression. These MADRS factors were not associated significantly with the core PANSS factors, including psychomotor poverty. It is suggested that depression exists as an independent domain, differentiated from negative symptoms, in the structure of schizophrenia symptomatology.
Risk Factors Associated with Childbearing-Related Episodes in Women with Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Akdeniz Fisun , Vahip Simavi , Pirildar Sebnem , Vahip Isil , Doganer Inci , Bulut Ilksen
Published: October 2003

Objective: For the onset of illness and possible recurrence during the childbearing period, women with bipolar disorder (BD) are at a higher risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of clinical and psychosocial factors associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period on the course of BD. Methods: The childbearing and illness history of 72 women with BD were assessed to determine mood episodes related to the childbearing period. Data was analyzed to evaluate the risk factors (clinical, obstetric and psychosocial factors) related with mood episodes during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Results: Data of 252 pregnancies and childbirths of 72 women with BD were included in the analysis. Twenty-three (32%) women with BD reported at least one mood episode during pregnancy or within 1 month after childbirth (childbearing-related episode, CBRE). Subjects with CBREs mean age at onset of illness and mean age at the time of assessment were significantly younger than subjects with N-CBRE. A lower number of women who experienced a postpartum episode after the birth of the first child chose to have the second one. Psychosocial factors during pregnancy and the postpartum period and method of delivery did not predict the first postpartum episode. Onset of illness at an early age, experiencing episode during the first pregnancy and experiencing physical problems during pregnancy predicted a mood episode during the first postpartum period. Conclusions: Interpretation of the results of the study is limited with the retrospective nature of data collection. Within the limitations, we may suggest that psychosocial factors do not play a significant role in the genesis of CBREs in women with BD.
Delusion of Pregnancy
Authors: Kornischka Jürgen , Schneider Frank
Published: October 2003

This case report describes the longstanding course of a delusion of pregnancy in a 51-year-old schizophrenic Ghanaian woman suffering from multiple symptoms of delusions and hallucinations. In addition to these symptoms, the patient was affected by multiple coenesthesias, ego disturbances and bizarre delusions of being influenced by external forces. A multi-causal aetiology of delusional pregnancy is discussed.
Management of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: The Importance and the Challenge of Controlling Parathyroid Hormone Levels without Elevating Calcium, Phosphorus, and Calcium-Phosphorus Product
Authors: Moe Sharon M. , Drüeke Tilman B.
Published: October 2003

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that can lead to clinically significant bone disease. Additional consequences of secondary HPT, such as soft-tissue and vascular calcification, cardiovascular disease, and calcific uremic arteriolopathy, may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality among CKD patients. Secondary HPT arises from disturbances in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and parathyroid hormone metabolism, which develop early in the course of CKD and become more prominent as kidney function declines. The standard therapies currently recommended to correct mineral metabolism and bone disease in these patients include calcium supplementation, dietary phosphorus restriction, phosphate-binding agents, and treatment with vitamin D sterols. However, such medications often have significant effects on the serum levels of calcium and phosphorus, which result in exacerbation of the disease and significant extraskeletal morbidity and mortality. Thus, there is a need to identify more effective treatment approaches. This review discusses the pathophysiology of secondary HPT, the challenges faced in the management of this disorder, and the impact of current treatment options on patients’ risks of morbidity and mortality. In addition, the development of new, more physiologically relevant therapies, which may lead to successful management of secondary HPT, is reviewed.
Donepezil for the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease in France: The Economic Implications
Authors: Fagnani F. , Lafuma A. , Pechevis M. , Rigaud A.S. , Traykov L. , Seux M.L. , Forette F.
Published: October 2003

In the present study, the socioeconomic impact of the use of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) living in France was examined. A model was created to extrapolate over a 3-year period the results from placebo-controlled trials together with epidemiological and prevalence data. Costs considered in the model were net societal costs associated with paid and unpaid assistance, general medical consumption and institutional care. The model suggested that delays in cognitive decline and functional dependence due to treatment reduced the time spent in institutional care and the burden on caregivers. Over a 3-year period, total net costs of caring for untreated patients with an initial Mini-Mental State Examination score ranging from 10 to 26 were EUR 53,206 compared with EUR 42,720 for a patient treated with donepezil – an annual cost saving of approximately EUR 3,500 per patient. Cost savings were mainly due to savings in unpaid caregiver time, which, apart from patient institutionalization, represented the most costly component of total care in this study but had no direct budgetary impact. Overall, these data suggest that donepezil is a cost-effective treatment for mild to moderately impaired AD patients living in France.
Detecting Dementia: Novel Neuropsychological Markers of Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Blackwell Andrew D. , Sahakian Barbara J. , Vesey Robyn , Semple James M. , Robbins Trevor W. , Hodges John R.
Published: October 2003

The results of a previous study have suggested that impaired performance on one neuropsychological test, CANTAB Paired Associates Learning (PAL), may serve as a marker for preclinical Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In a group of individuals with ‘questionable dementia’, the baseline PAL performance was found to correlate significantly with subsequent deterioration in global cognitive function over an 8-month period. The present paper reports diagnostic outcome data for the same individuals 32 months after the first assessment and evaluates the predictive diagnostic utility of baseline neuropsychological measures. Thirty-two months after joining the study, 11 of the 43 ‘questionable dementia’ patients met the criteria for probable AD diagnosis (‘converters’) and 29 remained free from AD (‘non-converters’). Logistic regression analysis revealed that two tests of memory, in combination, could be used to predict a later diagnosis of probable AD with a high level of accuracy [χ2(3) = 47.054, p < 0.0001]. As predicted, these tests are measures of visuospatial learning (CANTAB PAL) and, also, semantic memory (Graded Naming Test). These two tests in combination appear to be highly accurate in detecting cognitive dysfunction characteristic of preclinical AD. Using these tests, a simple algorithm is described for calculating, with 100% accuracy for this sample of 40 patients, the probability that an individual with mild memory impairments will go on to receive a diagnosis of probable AD.
Different Classification Systems Yield Different Dementia Occurrence among Nonagenarians and Centenarians
Authors: Pioggiosi Philippe , Forti Paola , Ravaglia Giovanni , Berardi Domenico , Ferrari Giuseppe , De Ronchi Diana
Published: October 2003

Literature data consistently show different prevalence estimates of dementia when different classification systems are used in the same population. Very few data are available for the oldest old of the elderly. We investigated the occurrence of dementia among 34 nonagenarians and centenarians according to four classification systems: the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, third edition revised (DSM-III-R) and fourth edition (DSM-IV), the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10), and the Cambridge Examination for Mental Disorders of the Elderly (CAMDEX). Cognitive functioning, work, social function and independence in activities of daily living were evaluated by using an extensive neuropsychological examination. The prevalence (95% CI) of dementia was the following: 47.1% (95% CI 30.3–63.8) with the DSM-III-R criteria, 41.2% (95% CI 24.6–57.7) with the DSM-IV criteria, 29.4% (95% CI 14.1–44.7) with the ICD-10 criteria and 38.2% (95% CI 21.9–54.6) with the CAMDEX. The factors that best predicted disagreement between DSM-III-R and DSM-IV were calculation impairment and the presence or absence of personality changes. DSM-III-R and ICD-10 were differentiated by the weight given to executive functions that all have to be impaired according to ICD-10, whereas progressive deterioration differentiated CAMDEX from DSM-III-R. It should be noted that although the DSM-III-R diagnoses differ by a factor of 1.6 times from the ICD-10 and 1.2 times from the CAMDEX diagnoses, we are speaking about dementia, which is very frequent in nonagenarians and centenarians. Moreover, with regard to public health, an estimation of the number of subjects who will lose their autonomy is rather more useful and informative than simple prevalence figures of dementia by itself. In this light, classification systems, such as the ICD-10, that do not include impairment of social function as a criterion for assessing dementia become less adequate.
Quantitative Assessment of Angiogenesis in Murine Antigen-Induced Arthritis by Intravital Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Schmitt-Sody M. , Landes J. , Zysk S.P. , Pellengahr C. , Krombach F. , Refior H.J. , Messmer K. , Veihelmann A.
Published: October 2003

Inhibition of angiogenesis might be a therapeutic approach to prevent joint destruction caused by the overgrowing synovial tissue during chronic joint inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate angiogenesis in the knee joint of mice with antigen-induced arthritis (AIA) by means of intravital microscopy. In 14 mice (C57BL6/129Sv) intravital microscopic assessment was performed on day 8 after AIA induction in two groups (controls, AIA). Synovial tissue was investigated by intravital fluorescence microscopy using FITC-dextran (150 kD). Quantitative assessment of vessel density was performed according to the following categories: functional capillary density (FCD, vessels <10 µm in diameter), functional vessel density (FVD, vessels >10 µm) and FVD of vessels with angiogenic criteria (convoluted vessels, abrupt changes of diameter, vessels which are generated by sprouting and progressively pruned and remodelled). Microvessel count was performed using immunohistochemistry. There was no significant difference in FCD between the control group (337 ± 9 cm/cm2; mean ± SEM) and the AIA group (359 ± 13 cm/cm2). The density of vessels larger than 10 µm diameter was significantly increased in animals with AIA (135 ± 10 vs. 61 ± 5 cm/cm2 in control). The density of blood vessels with angiogenic criteria was enhanced in arthritic animals (79 ± 17 vs. 12 ± 2 cm/cm2 in control). There was a significant increase in the microvessel count in arthritic animals (297 ± 25 vs. 133 ± 16 mm–2 in control). These findings demonstrate that angiogenesis in murine AIA can be assessed quantitatively using intravital microscopy. Further studies will address antiangiogenic strategies in AIA.
Regional Economic Diversity and Regional Economic Stability: Research Results and Agenda
Authors: Dissart J. C.
Published: October 2003

This article on regional economic diversity addresses several issues: (1) theoretical foundations for arguments forwarding increased economic diversity as a development goal, (2) common empirical measures of economic diversity, and (3) empirical literature on economic diversity and its effect on regional economic stability. This examination of the literature suggests four main directions in which future research on regional economic diversity could go. First, it is shown that research on the relationship between economic diversity and regional income distribution is scarce yet critical. Second, recent research suggests that applications of input-output analysis hold the potential for integrative research on issues related to economic diversity. Third, an examination of the local economic development literature indicates that regional scientists could use the concept of “diversified specializations” to classify economic regions and evaluate clusters. Fourth, the literature on ecological diversity suggests additional ways to look at the issue of economic diversity-stability.
Telling it like it is: a personal take on information
Authors: Gibson Meredith
Published: October 2003

The characteristics of professional support lawyers, who for personal reasons have decided that the extended hours worked by fee-earners who service clients directly are no longer attractive, are noted. The way in which large law firms employ professional support lawyers as well as library services is discussed with particular reference to the degree to which these professional support lawyers and librarians interact. Encouragement is given to the provision of external support for professional support lawyers, particularly through the agency of support groups. It is noted that the Library Association (LA) and Institute of Information Scientists (IIS) have shied away from promoting this type of support but one group that is close to the needs of support lawyers is the City Information Group (CiG), a sub-group of the IIS. It is concluded that librarians and information professionals must become more dynamic and proactive if a more allinclusive service is to be provided.
Service developments at Companies House
Authors: Reynolds Paul , Garnett David
Published: October 2003

Reports on the information services offered to UK companies by Companies House, focusing on the main output products and their development to meet customer needs and to facilitate easier access to the register. Examines also the main input products and the impact that their future development will have on the way the companies register is maintained. Refers particularly to developments relating to specific statutory forms. Particular attention is paid to the online information services developed by Companies House, including the subscription-based Internet service, Companies House Direct. Its approach to the electronic filing of information and its plans for an integrated electronic service is also described. Reports that Companies House is considering a quality marker system that would apply to companies offering higher quality or more comprehensive input to the public record. Companies that wanted a stronger image could volunteer for record accreditation, possibly filing a wider range of information on a voluntary basis.
Stockbroker research
Authors: Smith Alan
Published: October 2003

In their economic research and studies of industrial sectors, companies and geographical areas, stockbroker analysts produce reports which often contain useful information for business researchers. The availability of the reports is not consistent, however. This article considers the various aspects of securities trading and fund management and points out some aspects of stockbroker research, information services and publications which may assist business researchers in acquiring reports and publications.
Chambers of commerce and business information
Authors: Hukins Celia
Published: October 2003

Looks at recent developments in chambers of commerce, including moves towards legal status; reviews business information provision by chambers and the future role of Chambernet UK, an online database facility.
EDGAR: Electronic Data Gathering and Receiving
Authors: Pagell Ruth A
Published: October 2003

Discusses EDGAR and reports on two new CD-ROM EDGAR products, from Moody’s and Disclosure.
Chinese business information sources: part 2
Authors: Ying-Shan Han
Published: October 2003

This article describes a wide range of Chinese business information sources which should assist the researcher or business person looking for information on a variety of topics in this area. In addition to sources of information, it also provides useful business contacts with their full address, telephone and facsimile numbers. In each case, the full address and contact is given in the last section.
Valuing information assets in British companies
Authors: Oppenheim Charles
Published: October 2003

Intangible assets have always caused problems for accounting practice and the traditional view, in the UK, has been that they comprise: goodwill; brands, trade names and registered trade marks; patents and other forms of intellectual property and copyright. Since, in principle, information can be considered in the same way, as it too is typically represented by a collection that is in paper or electronic form and that is available to some or all employees of the company; it is not surprising that information has long been argued by those in the library and information professions to be considered as an asset. However, information managers have found it difficult to persuade senior management that information should be capitalized on company balance sheets. Notes the five factors that have caused a shift in attitudes in theUKand elsewhere: the work of the Hawley Committee; Reuters’ Information as an asset survey; the fashion for knowledge management; publication of the book, Intellectual Capital; and the work of Scandia Insurance Company. Concludes with notes on a proposed research project designed investigate three recommended methods for valuing information and to show how companies spend money on information.
Multiskilling for the Knowledge Age
Authors: Ettinger Andrew
Published: October 2003

Multiskilling has long been common on the shop floor, where one of its major advantages is the cost saving from reduced employment levels. Information professionals, though, are often reluctant to broaden their own roles. Argues that if information professionals do not do so they will be made redundant by other professionals moving into their areas or by end users taking over the role of intermediary. Some of the new Internet and intranet products really are at last becoming intuitive to use and do not need professional trainers. The knowledge worker as an internal consultant is an increasingly realistic scenario. Considers what areas can be multiskilled, the issues and problems involved in this approach and the practical aids available to multiskilling.
Business Information in the Internet Age: the Annual Business Information Resources Survey, 1999
Authors: Smith Gerry
Published: October 2003

Surveys the use of business information in UK libraries, based on a questionnaire mailed in January 1999 to 712 libraries.
Intelligent agent developments in knowledge management and information retrieval
Authors: Knowles Chris
Published: October 2003

Intelligent software agents have been around in some form for at least five years. What is new is the way they are being applied to the Web. This paper clarifies for a non-technical audience what software agents really are. It explains some of the underlying technologies with particular reference to the use of agents in knowledge management and information retrieval. It describes the CK1 Company Briefing Pack; a practical application of agent software developed to meet the requirements of a major investment bank.
Find Balance, Let Go of Blame
Authors: Lipsenthal Lee
Published: October 2003

Individuals in the healing arts, especially physicians, have a difficult time in creating and gaining a sense of balance in their lives. This is especially true in the rapidly changing world of medicine where stability is questionable. Physicians must realize that they con-tribute to the imbalance with type A behaviors and tendencies toward overworking. To achieve a greater sense of balance, it is imperative that physicians seek a combination of physical well-being, emotional health, learning, and personal growth as well as spiritual growth. This should be done with family and friends to approach success.
Prevalence of Emotional and Behavioural Disorders among Strictly Orthodox Jewish Pre-School Children in London
Authors: Lindsey Caroline , Frosh Stephen , Loewenthal Kate , Spitzer Esther
Published: October 2003

Although the frequency and importance of emotional and behavioural difficulties in the pre-school period are well established in the general population, relatively little is known about the situation among members of some specific minority groups. This article reports data from a study of 262 children living in the strictly orthodox Jewish community of North London, whose teachers and parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Rates of emotional and behavioural disorder, comparisons between parents' and teachers' ratings, predictors of difficulties, gender differences and a comparison with data from a general community sample are provided. The community is characterized by considerable family cohesion, with the overwhelming majority of children living with both parents. It is also characterized by very large family sizes and high levels of economic privation. Our data show that teachers are more likely than parents to rate these pre-school children as having difficulties, especially of the `hyperactive' kind, and that the levels of such difficulties are probably epidemiologically significant. There is some evidence that the strictly orthodox Jewish children had lower rates of disorder than is found in the general population. There were few relevant predictive factors of difficulties, although children already perceived by their teachers as having `special educational needs' had a heightened risk.
Screening Race
Authors: Denzin Norman K.
Published: October 2003

A critical reading of the “hood” movies of the past decade is offered. The author discusses the possibilities of a critical, ethnic cinema, a cinema that honors racial and cultural difference. Such a cinema operates as a political and pedagogical force in the cultural wars surrounding race in America today.
A Clinical Investigation on the Characteristics and Outcomes of Treating Chronic Lower Extremity Wounds using the TissueTech Autograft System
Authors: Uccioli L.
Published: October 2003

The application of tissue engineering technology to wound healing has resulted in the development of a number of “living skin equivalents.” These have become a viable option in the treatment of chronic, nonhealing wounds. Such wounds present a major cost burden as well as increased morbidity and mortality. Unique among skin tissue engineering technology is the TissueTech autograft system, as it incorporates an autologous dermal substitute—Hyalograft® 3D—and an autologous epidermal replacement, Laserskin® autograft. Each includes a matrix of a hyaluronic acid ester to promote cellular migration and graft take.
Surgery in Congential Lymphedema: A Follow-Up of 50 Years
Authors: Heinig Birgit , Wollina Uwe
Published: October 2003

Surgical methods have been widely used in the past to treat patients with congential lymphedema. There are only scant data in recent literature about the long-term outcome of these mostly historical methods. On the other hand, the subject is not only of interest to those concerned with the history of medicine but also may raise a couple of questions about treating such patients today. The authors report on a 77-year-old female patient with congential lymphedema with a 50-year follow-up after lymphedema resection and focus on practical problems of bandaging today.
Reappraisal of the human vestibular cortex by cortical electrical stimulation study
Authors: Kahane Philippe , Hoffmann Dominique , Minotti Lorella , Berthoz Alain
Published: October 2003

The cortical areas with vestibular input in humans were assessed by electrical stimulation in 260 patients with partial epilepsy who had undergone stereotactic intracerebral electroencephalogram recordings before surgery. Vestibular symptoms were electrically induced on 44 anatomical sites in 28 patients. The patients experienced illusions of rotation (yaw plane: 18, pitch plane: 6, roll plane: 6), translations (n = 6), or indefinable feelings of body motion (n = 8). Almost all vestibular sites were located in the cortex (41/44): in the temporal (n = 19), parietal (n = 14), frontal (n = 5), occipital (n = 2), and insular (n = 1) lobes. Among these sites, we identified a lateral cortical temporoparietal area we called the temporo–peri‐Sylvian vestibular cortex (TPSVC), from which vestibular symptoms, and above all rotatory sensations, were particularly easily elicited (24/41 cortical sites, 58.5%). This area extended above and below the Sylvian fissure, mainly inside Brodmann areas 40, 21, and 22. It included the parietal operculum (9/24 TPSVC sites) which was particularly sensitive for eliciting pitch plane illusions, and the mid and posterior part of the first and second temporal gyri (15/24 TPSVC sites) which preferentially caused yaw plane illusions. We suggest that the TPSVC could be homologous with the monkey's parietoinsular vestibular cortex.
Interictal EEG discharges, reproductive hormones, and menstrual disorders in epilepsy
Authors: Herzog Andrew G. , Coleman Anton E. , Jacobs Alan R. , Klein Pavel , Friedman Mark N. , Drislane Frank W. , Ransil Bernard J. , Schomer Donald L.
Published: October 2003

We evaluated reproductive endocrine function in women with unilateral temporolimbic epilepsy and normal control subjects to assess the effects of epilepsy, epilepsy laterality, and antiepileptic drug use on the cerebral regulation of hormonal secretion. The findings indicate that reproductive endocrine function differs between women with epilepsy and normal control subjects. Significant differences exist at all levels of the reproductive neuroendocrine axis, that is, hypothalamus, pituitary, and peripheral gland. Differences show significant relationships to the epilepsy itself as well as to medication use. Reproductive neuroendocrine changes occur in a stochastic manner such that the laterality of unilateral temporolimbic discharges is associated with predictable directional changes in hormonal secretion at all levels of the reproductive neuroendocrine axis. These directional changes are consistent with the finding that different reproductive disorders may develop in relation to left‐ and right‐sided temporolimbic epilepsy. Hormonal changes can show close temporal relationship to the occurrence of interictal epileptiform discharges and may vary in relation to the laterality of the discharges. Antiepileptic drugs differ in their effects on reproductive hormone levels. There are notable differences between enzyme‐inducing and noninducing drugs. Menstrual disorders are more common among women with interictal discharges as well as women with abnormal hormonal findings. Ann Neurol 2003;54:625–637
Embryo/fetal development studies with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) in rats and rabbits
Authors: Cappon Gregg D. , Fleeman Tammye L. , Rocca Meredith S. , Cook Jon C. , Hurtt Mark E.
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND: Hoshi et al. [Hoshi et al. J Toxicol Sci 10(Suppl):187–255, 1985a,b,c,d] evaluated the potential for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) to produce developmental and reproductive toxicity in a series of studies that included rat and rabbit teratology studies, a rat fertility study, and a rat peri‐ and postnatal study. The authors concluded that there were no compound‐related findings. In the cesarean‐section phase of the rat teratology study, however, clubfoot was reported for 0.8, 2.1, 5.5, and 4.1% of fetuses in the control, 625, 1250, and 2500 mg/kg groups, respectively. There were no significant increases in external anomalies, but the apparent dose‐related increase in clubfoot was not specifically addressed. In the rabbit teratology study, the number of litters evaluated (12–13 per group) was not consistent with current regulatory guidelines. Therefore, to definitively establish the potential of HPMCAS to produce developmental toxicity, embryo/fetal development studies were carried out in rats and rabbits. METHODS: Groups of 20 pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats and New Zealand White rabbits were dosed with 0, 50, 150, 625, or 2500 mg/kg HPMCAS from gestational day (GD) 6–17 or GD 7–19 for rats and rabbits, respectively. Fetuses were collected by cesarean section and examined for external, visceral and skeletal development. RESULTS: No developmental toxicity was observed as a result of HPMCAS exposure demonstrating that maternal HPMCAS exposure during gestation does not induce developmental anomalies. There were no findings of clubfoot or other limb anomalies in these studies at dose levels equivalent to those that were previously associated with a possible increase in clubfoot. CONCLUSIONS: The conclusion of the earlier study indicating that treatment with HPMCAS at doses up to and including 2500 mg/kg did not produce developmental toxicity was confirmed with these studies. It is likely that the clubfoot noted in the earlier rat teratology study was a misdiagnosis or artifact. Birth Defects Res B 68:421–427, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of testicular toxicology: A synopsis and discussion of the recommendations proposed by the Society of Toxicologic Pathology
Authors: Creasy Dianne M.
Published: October 2003

Background: Detection of chemically induced effects on male fertility and on testicular spermatogenesis in particular, has become of increasing concern. More stringent regulatory guidelines, introduced by ICH, EPA and OECD (Table 1) have raised the awareness of toxicologists and pathologists for the need to conduct sensitive and careful evaluation of the male reproductive tract for potential toxic effects of administered compounds. With it has come confusion and in many cases, inappropriate procedures, often based on misunderstanding of what is required and on inadequate understanding of spermatogenesis. This article summarizes and discusses the main recommendations recently proposed by the Society of Toxicologic Pathology on recommended approaches for the evaluation of testicular and epididymal toxicity [Lanning LL, Creasy DM, Chapin RE, Mann PC, Barlow NJ, Regan KS, Goodman DG. Toxicologic Pathology 30:518–531, 2002]. The major recommendations are:

Use sexually mature animals to evaluate effects on spermatogenesis.

Sample left and right testes and epididymides and record organ weights.

Use modified Davidson's fixative to fix testes from all species from studies of 13 wks duration and less.

Examine transverse sections of the testes (including part of the rete), and longitudinal sections of the epididymides.

Embed tissues in paraffin wax.

For rodent studies up to 28 days, examine periodic acid‐Schiff's‐hematoxylin stained sections. For all other studies examine hematoxylin and eosin stained sections.

Microscopic evaluation of the testis should be a qualitative evaluation carried out with an awareness of the spermatogenic cycle. Quantitative procedures are inappropriate for screening studies.

Nomenclature and grading of findings for spermatogenic disturbances will vary on a case by case basis

Birth Defects Res B 68:408–415, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vaults bind directly to microtubules via their caps and not their barrels
Authors: Eichenmüller Bernd , Kedersha Nancy , Solovyeva Elena , Everley Patrick , Lang Jennifer , Himes Richard H. , Suprenant Kathy A.
Published: October 2003

Vaults are large (13 Mda) ribonucleoprotein particles that are especially abundant in multidrug resistant cancer cells and have been implicated in nucleocytoplasmic drug transport. To understand how these large barrel‐shaped complexes are transported through the cytosol, we examined the association of vaults with microtubules both in vitro and in vivo. Within cells, a subpopulation of vaults clearly associates with microtubules, and these vaults remain associated with tubulin dimers/oligomers when microtubules are disassembled by nocodazole treatment. In vitro, a microtubule‐pull down assay using highly purified rat vaults and reassembled microtubules reveals that vaults exhibit concentration‐dependent binding to microtubules that does not require the carboxyl terminal end of tubulin. Remarkably, negative staining for electron microscopy reveals that vault binding to microtubules is mediated by the vault caps; more than 82% of bound vaults attach to the microtubule lattice with their long axes perpendicular to the long axis of the microtubule. Five to six vault particles were bound per micron of microtubule, with no crosslinking of microtubules observed, suggesting that only one end of the vault can bind microtubules. Taken together, the data support the model of vaults as barrel‐shaped containers that transiently interact with microtubules. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 56:225–236, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
LIS1 association with dynactin is required for nuclear motility and genomic union in the fertilized mammalian oocyte
Authors: Payne Christopher , St. John Justin C. , Ramalho‐Santos João , Schatten Gerald
Published: October 2003

Mutations in the human LIS1 gene cause the devastating brain disorder lissencephaly. LIS1 also regulates microtubule dynamics; it interacts with the molecular motor cytoplasmic dynein and its cofactor dynactin, and is necessary for neuronal migration. Recently, LIS1 has been suggested to mediate pronuclear migration during fertilization. Here we use rhesus monkey and bovine oocytes, as well as pronucleate‐stage bovine zygotes, to determine: Lis1 RNA expression using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction; LIS1 protein association with dynactin using immunoprecipitation, Western blot analysis, and immunocytochemistry; and LIS1 function in mediating genomic union using antibody transfection. We find that Lis1 RNA expression increases during fertilization, that LIS1 and dynactin subunit p150/Glued co‐immunoprecipitate and co‐localize to pronuclear surfaces, and that anti‐LIS1 antibodies transfected into zygotes dramatically inhibit pronuclear migration and apposition. LIS1 is, therefore, essential to mediate genomic union in a process that involves the dynein‐dynactin complex. These results shed light on an additional role for LIS1 and raise implications for human reproduction. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 56:245–251, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2 is correlated with poor prognostic variables in patients with thymic epithelial tumors
Authors: Sogawa Ken‐ichi , Kondo Kazuya , Fujino Haruhiko , Takahashi Yuji , Miyoshi Takanori , Sakiyama Shoji , Mukai Kiyoshi , Monden Yasumasa
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

A distinction between noninvasive, invasive, and metastatic thymoma on the basis of the cytologic features is difficult. The current study investigated whether the expression of MMP and TIMP was correlated with tumor invasiveness and prognosis in patients with thymoma.

METHODS

Tumor tissue samples were obtained from 42 patients with thymic epithelial tumors between 1974 and 2001 at Tokushima University Hospital. Three‐micrometer‐thick, formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections were immunostained using specific antibodies against MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2.

RESULTS

MMP‐2 expression was detected in 30 tumors (71%), and TIMP‐2 expression was detected in 31 tumors (74%). MMP‐9 expression was detected in 22 of 36 tumors (61%), and TIMP‐1 expression was detected in only 7 tumors (19%). MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 expression levels were very low (10% and 0%, respectively) in noninvasive tumors but were very high (91% and 97%, respectively) in invasive tumors. In thymic epithelial tumors, the more progressive the clinical stage of tumor, the higher the strongly positive rate of MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 expression. There was no correlation between positivity for MMP‐9 and stage. Twenty‐five percent of Type AB thymomas and 50% of Type B1 thymomas expressed MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2. Most of Type A, Type B2, Type B3, and Type C thymomas expressed MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2. There were significant differences in disease‐free survival at 5 years between patients without and with MMP‐2 expression (91% vs. 55%, respectively) and patients without and with TIMP‐2 expression (100% vs. 53%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 are key enzymes for invasiveness of thymic epithelial tumors. The expression of these proteins can predict a poor outcome in patients with thymoma. Cancer 2003. © 2003 American Cancer Society.