bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolution of Alzheimer's disease‐related cytoskeletal pathology in the human raphe nuclei
Authors: Rüb U. , Del Tredici K. , Schultz C. , Thal D. R. , Braak E. , Braak H.
Published: March 2003

The cross‐sectional analyses currently available show that the Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related cytoskeletal alterations within the human brain affect variously susceptible areas of the cerebral cortex in a uniform sequence with very little interpatient variability. This sequence has been divided for research and comparative purposes into six stages (cortical NFT/NT‐stages I–VI). Among the subcortical nuclei affected in AD are those belonging to the raphe system. Efforts were focused on the lesions present in these nuclei to see in which of the six stages the AD‐related cytoskeletal anomalies begin and whether a correlation exists between the AD‐related pathology developing within the cerebral cortex and the cytoskeletal damage that occurs in the nuclei of the raphe system. To this end, serial sections from the brainstems of 27 post‐mortem cases with stages I–VI of cortical cytoskeletal lesions were examined. The cytoskeletal pathology was visualized using the modified silver iodide–Gallyas staining technique and the antibody AT8. The latter is directed specifically against the abnormally phosphorylated cytoskeletal protein tau. The dorsal raphe nucleus manifests the cytoskeletal lesions early on (stages I–II). The central and linear raphe nuclei, by contrast, do so initially in stages III–IV, and the caudal raphe nuclei register the first changes in stages V–VI. In stages V and VI, the dorsal raphe nucleus displays the most severe cytoskeletal pathology within the raphe system, followed by the central and linear raphe nuclei, whereas the cytoskeletal anomalies in the caudal raphe nuclei are slight. The developing damage within the nuclei of the raphe system correlates with the stages I–VI and, furthermore, progresses in the oral raphe nuclei in close connection with the evolution of the pathological process in cortical projection destinations of these nuclei. As the source of the ascending serotonergic system, the involvement of the oral raphe nuclei may be partially responsible for the early manifestation of the non‐cognitive and emotional deficiencies possibly traceable to dysfunctions within the ascending serotonergic system.
Episodic demyelination and subsequent remyelination within the murine central nervous system: changes in axonal calibre
Authors: Mason J. L. , Langaman C. , Morell P. , Suzuki K. , Matsushima G. K.
Published: March 2003

Exposure of young adult C57BL/6 mice to cuprizone in the diet initiated profound and synchronous demyelination of the corpus callosum, which was virtually complete by 4 weeks of exposure. Interestingly, even in the face of a continued exposure to cuprizone, there was spontaneous remyelination 2 weeks later. This remyelination preferentially involved smaller calibre axons. There was a suggestion of yet another cycle of demyelination (at 10 weeks) and remyelination (at 12 weeks), but by 16 weeks of exposure, the regenerative capacity was exhausted and the animals were near death. The relapsing–remitting pattern suggests this may be a useful model for certain human demyelinating disorders. In contrast to the above chronic model, the corpus callosum from mice exposed to cuprizone for only 6 weeks continued to remyelinate, with 67% of the axons being myelinated or remyelinated at 10 weeks. Interestingly, a significant reduction in the mean value for axonal diameter was observed during acute demyelination. Upon remyelination, however, the axonal calibre distribution returned to near‐normal. In contrast, when mice were maintained on a cuprizone diet for 16 weeks, the mean value for axonal diameter was reduced to 60% of normal. These results provide further evidence that the interactions between oligodendrocytes and axons alter axonal calibre.
Domicile constructing phlaeothripine Thysanoptera from Acacia phyllodes in Australia: Dunatothrips Moulton and Sartrithrips gen.n., with a key to associated genera
Authors: Mound Laurence A. , Morris David C.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. Domiciles are constructed by adult females of species in several genera of Australian phlaeothripine Thysanoptera. This is done by glueing or sewing together two or more Acacia phyllodes, or by weaving a tentlike structure on a phyllode surface. These thrips then breed within the domiciles, sometimes for multiple generations. Mature females become dealate in seven of twelve species discussed, through fracture of the distal four‐fifths of each wing, although young females and all males have complete wings. Of these twelve species, six are placed in Dunatothrips Moulton and six in a new genus, Sartrithrips. Adults of the latter genus have a spinelike structure dorsal to the anus, ‘the supra‐anal process’, that is not found in any other member of Phlaeothripidae. Despite the many structural and biological character states shared by these twelve species, molecular methods using one nuclear gene (wingless) and one mitochondrial gene (cytochromome oxidase 1) demonstrated that the two genera are monophyletic but do not have a sister‐group relationship. Identification keys are provided to nineteen described phlaeothripine genera that are known to be associated with Acacia phyllodes, and to the twelve species in Dunatothrips and Sartrithrips, of which ten are described as new.
The use of endogenous nitrogen for microbial crude protein synthesis in the rumen of growing bulls
Authors: Kluth H. , Gabel M. , Voigt J. , Schönhusen U.
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to quantify endogenous nitrogen (N) recycled for microbial protein synthesis in the rumen. Four growing bulls (Schwarzbuntes Milchrind; bodyweight: 240–310 kg) with duodenal T‐shaped cannulas were fed diets containing four levels of crude protein content (200, 156, 102 and 63 g/kg dry matter, respectively). The diets were based on wheat, barley, tapioca meal, soybean extracted meal, dried beet pulp, meadow hay and straw. The diets had an energy level of 11.1, 10.9, 10.2 and 9.6 MJ metabolizable energy/kg dry matter. Faeces and urine were collected in four 7‐day balance periods. Duodenal flow rate was estimated by TiO2, pelleted with grain, as a marker. The relationship between urine N excretion, the amount of microbial N reaching the duodenum, ruminal N balance and N retention were examined and the amount of endogenous N available for microbial protein synthesis without negative effects on the N retention was determined. It can be concluded that up to 16% of the microbial N supply could be covered by recycled endogenous N, but N retention should not be decreased by more than 1.5 residual standard deviations of maximal N retention.
Eukaryotic features of the Xanthomonas type III effector AvrBs3: protein domains involved in transcriptional activation and the interaction with nuclear import receptors from pepper
Authors: Szurek Boris , Marois Eric , Bonas Ulla , Van den Ackerveken Guido
Published: March 2003

The AvrBs3 protein of the phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria is targeted to host‐plant cells by the bacterial Hrp type III secretion system. In pepper plants containing the Bs3 resistance gene, AvrBs3 induces the hypersensitive response (HR). AvrBs3 recognition is thought to occur in the plant cell nucleus as HR induction is dependent on nuclear localization signals (NLSs) and an acidic transcription activation domain (AAD). In a search for AvrBs3‐interacting pepper proteins using the yeast two‐hybrid system, we have isolated eight different classes of cDNA inserts including two genes for importin α proteins. Importin α is part of the nuclear import machinery and interacts with AvrBs3 through an NLS in the carboxy‐terminus of the protein, both in yeast and in vitro. The mechanism of AvrBs3 recognition was further studied by analysis of the C‐terminal AAD. This putative transcription‐activation domain was shown to be required for AvrBs3 HR‐inducing activity, and could be functionally replaced with the VP16 AAD from the Herpes simplex virus. Our data support the model in which the AvrBs3 effector localizes to the nucleus, where the Bs3‐mediated surveillance system of resistant plants detects AvrBs3 through its interference with host gene transcription.
Fetal intracranial hemorrhage: is minor maternal trauma a possible pathogenetic factor?
Authors: Strigini F. A. L. , Cioni G. , Canapicchi R. , Nardini V. , Capriello P. , Carmignani A.
Published: March 2003

Objective

The occurrence of fetal intracranial hemorrhage before labor has been repeatedly observed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sonographic appearance of fetal intracranial hemorrhage in relation to its location. Possible causative factors were also evaluated.

Design

Five consecutive cases of fetal intracranial hemorrhage were identified at a single ultrasound unit between 1996 and 1999. In utero magnetic resonance imaging was also performed in four of these cases. Autopsy was performed after pregnancy termination or intrauterine fetal death (one case of each), and neurological follow‐up was initiated in the three surviving infants.

Results

Hydrocephaly was the predominant sonographic finding associated with intraventricular or subependymal hemorrhage; sonography provided the correct diagnosis in the former (two cases), whereas magnetic resonance imaging was necessary in the latter. Massive intraparenchymal hemorrhage was depicted as an irregular echoic mass, whereas extradural hemorrhage had a cystic appearance. History of minor maternal physical trauma without maternal or placental injury was elicited in all cases. Ultrasound examinations performed before or shortly after the trauma were available in all cases and showed normal fetal anatomy.

Conclusions

The sonographic appearance of fetal intracranial hemorrhage is variable, depending on its location. Even though sonography detected an intracranial anomaly in all cases, magnetic resonance imaging was necessary to establish the hemorrhagic nature of isolated subependymal and extradural hemorrhage. The similarity of histories involving minor maternal physical trauma in all cases, together with the absence of any known factor predisposing to fetal hemorrhage, may suggest that trauma is at least a contributing factor to the pathogenesis of fetal intracranial hemorrhage. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Effects of malaria infection on vitellogenesis in Anopheles gambiae during two gonotrophic cycles
Authors: Ahmed A. M. , Maingon R. , Romans P. , Hurd H.
Published: March 2003

We report changes in the abundance of vitellogenin (Vg) mRNA, and concentration of haemolymph Vg and ovarian vitellin (Vn) in Anopheles gambiae following infection with Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis. A parasite‐induced reduction in Vg mRNA abundance was first detected 24 h after feeding on an infective blood meal, when ookinetes were invading the midgut. During a second gonotrophic cycle post‐infection, developing oocysts reduced Vg mRNA abundance by up to 33% and the effect was detected from 2 h post blood meal. Concentrations of Vg were initially reduced by infection during the second cycle, as predicted from Vg mRNA measurements. However, after 24 h, excess Vg had accumulated in the haemolymph. This accumulation may be due to impaired uptake, since ovarian vitellin accumulation was significantly decreased by infection during both gonotrophic cycles.
Genetic diversity of heavy metal‐tolerant populations inSilene paradoxaL. (Caryophyllaceae): a chloroplast microsatellite analysis
Authors: Mengoni A. , Barabesi C. , Gonnelli C. , Galardi F. , Gabbrielli R. , Bazzicalupo M.
Published: March 2003

Eight populations ofSilene paradoxaL. (Caryophyllaceae) growing in copper mine deposits, in serpentine outcrops or in uncontaminated soil in central Italy were studied. Genetic diversity was estimated using five polymorphic chloroplast microsatellite loci (cpSSR), identifying 27 different chloroplast haplotypes. The effective number of alleles, the haplotypic diversity and a stepwise mutational model‐based parameter (DSH2) were computed. The effective number of alleles observed within populations from copper mine deposits was 20% that of the serpentine neighbouring populations, suggesting the occurrence of a founder effect. Moreover, 13 of the 27 different haplotypes scored were exclusive to only one population, indicating genetic isolation for all tolerant populations. Even the copper‐tolerant populations appeared to have evolved independently. Finally, analysis of molecular variance (amova) of the cpSSR markers gave statistical significance to the grouping of populations according to their geographical location. This study demonstrates that cpSSR markers could be a useful complementary tool to isoenzymes or random amplified polymorphic DNA markers for elucidating the pattern of genetic differentiation in heavy metal‐tolerant populations.
‘Neighbourhood’ size, dispersal and density estimates in the prickly forest skink (Gnypetoscincus queenslandiae) using individual genetic and demographic methods
Authors: Sumner J. , Rousset F. , Estoup A. , Moritz C.
Published: March 2003

Dispersal, or the amount of dispersion between an individual’s birthplace and that of its offspring, is of great importance in population biology, behavioural ecology and conservation, however, obtaining direct estimates from field data on natural populations can be problematic. The prickly forest skink,Gnypetoscincus queenslandiae, is a rainforest endemic skink from the wet tropics of Australia. Because of its log‐dwelling habits and lack of definite nesting sites, a demographic estimate of dispersal distance is difficult to obtain. Neighbourhood size, defined as 4πDσ2(whereDis the population density and σ2the mean axial squared parent–offspring dispersal rate), dispersal and density were estimated directly and indirectly for this species using mark–recapture and microsatellite data, respectively, on lizards captured at a local geographical scale of 3 ha. Mark–recapture data gave a dispersal rate of 843 m2/generation (assuming a generation time of 6.5 years), a time‐scaled density of 13 635 individuals * generation/km2and, hence, a neighbourhood size of 144 individuals. A genetic method based on the multilocus (10 loci) microsatellite genotypes of individuals and their geographical location indicated that there is a significant isolation by distance pattern, and gave a neighbourhood size of 69 individuals, with a 95% confidence interval between 48 and 184. This translates into a dispersal rate of 404 m2/generation when using the mark–recapture density estimation, or an estimate of time‐scaled population density of 6520 individuals * generation/km2when using the mark–recapture dispersal rate estimate. The relationship between the two categories of neighbourhood size, dispersal and density estimates and reasons for any disparities are discussed.
The population genetics of host specificity: genetic differentiation in dove lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera)
Authors: Johnson Kevin P , Williams Barry L , Drown Devin M , Adams Richard J , Clayton Dale H
Published: March 2003

Some species of parasites occur on a wide range of hosts while others are restricted to one or a few host species. The host specificity of a parasite species is determined, in part, by its ability to disperse between host species. Dispersal limitations can be studied by exploring the genetic structure of parasite populations both within a single species of host and across multiple host species. In this study we examined the genetic structure in the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene of two genera of lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) occurring on multiple sympatric species of doves in southern North and Central America. One genus,Columbicola, is generally less host‐specific than the other,Physconelloides. For both genera we identified substantial genetic differentiation between populations of conspecific lice on different host species, generally 10–20% sequence divergence. This level of divergence is in the range of that often observed between species of these two genera. We used nested clade analysis to explore fine scale genetic structure within species of these feather lice. We found that species ofPhysconelloidesexhibited more genetic structure, both among hosts and among geographical localities, than did species ofColumbicola. In many cases, single haplotypes within species ofColumbicolaare distributed on multiple host species. Thus, the population genetic structure of species ofPhysconelloidesreveals evidence of geographical differentiation on top of high host species specificity. Underlying differences in dispersal biology probably explain the differences in population genetic structure that we observed betweenColumbicolaandPhysconelloides.
Microarrays in ecology and evolution: a preview
Authors: Gibson Greg
Published: March 2003

Microarray technology provides a new tool with which molecular ecologists and evolutionary biologists can survey genome‐wide patterns of gene expression within and among species. New analytical approaches based on analysis of variance will allow quantification of the contributions of among individual variation, genotype, sex, microenvironment, population structure, and geography to variation in gene expression. Applications of this methodology are reviewed in relation to studies of mechanisms of adaptation and divergence; delineation of developmental and physiological pathways and networks; characterization of quantitative genetic parameters at the level of transcription (‘quantitative genomics’); molecular dissection of parasitism and symbiosis; and studies of the diversification of gene content. Establishment of microarray resources is neither prohibitively expensive nor technologically demanding, and a commitment to development of gene expression profiling methods for nonmodel organisms could have a tremendous impact on molecular and genetic research at the interface of organismal and population biology.
First‐year survival of brown trout in three Norwegian streams
Authors: Lund E. , Olsen E. M. , Vøllestad L. A.
Published: March 2003

Monthly survival rates during the first year of life were estimated for the 1999 cohort of stream‐resident brown troutSalmo truttain three Norwegian streams, using capture‐mark‐recapture methods and the Cormack–Jolly–Seber model. It was hypothesized that reduced survival would occur during the winter. For one of the study populations, the data did support seasonal variation in survival, with monthly survival rates being lower during winter than during summer (0·65v. 0·99). For the remaining two populations, there was no evidence for seasonal variations in monthly survival rates, but monthly survival rates were significantly different (0·87v. 0·99). No evidence was found for size‐dependent winter survival. Some marked individuals emigrated from the study sites, suggesting that survival rates were underestimated and that different survival rates among populations were partly due to different emigration rates. Net immigration of brown trout was evident at all three study sites.
cDNA arrays: Gene expression profiles of Hodgkin's disease and anaplastic large cell lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Thorns Christoph , Gaiser Timo , Lange Karin , Merz Hartmut , Feller Alfred C.
Published: March 2003

cDNA arrays are a powerful tool for the identification of differentially expressed genes in malignant tumors. We used this technique to study the gene expression profiles of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) and Hodgkin's disease (HD). Gene expression of 11 lymphoma cell lines was analyzed covering 1176 cDNA sequences. Comparing these data to the expression profiles of B‐ and T‐lymphocytes, we identified 27 genes that were deregulated in all cell lines or in a particular entity. For the establishment of gene expression profiles the 27 genes were assigned to four groups composed of genes deregulated in (i) all lymphoma cell lines, (ii) ALCL and HD, (iii) only HD, and (iv) ALCL exclusively. Our results indicate that ALCL and HD share the differential expression of at least five genes. In addition, both entities are characterized by the differentially deregulated expression of four genes in HD and seven genes in ALCL. Because the expression profiling was performed on cell lines, further studies are needed to clarify the biological significance of the differentially expressed genes.
Glucose screening test results in first and early third trimester of pregnancy: Is there any correlation?
Authors: Bhattacharya Sudhindra Mohan
Published: March 2003

Objective: This study aims to find correlation between glucose screening test (GST) results done in the first trimester and again in the early third trimester of pregnancy.

Methods: Analysis of the records of 458 cases of pregnant women (non‐diabetic in early pregnancy as detected by glucose screening test and glucose tolerance test) between 22 and 35 years of age with a body mass index of less than 25 kg/m2 was done. These women underwent GST in the first trimester (GST‐1) and again in the early third trimester (GST‐2). When the GST‐2 was 140 mg% or above, a standard ‘3 hour glucose tolerance test’ was done (GT TEST) with 100 g of glucose. The GST was done by measuring the plasma glucose level 1 hour after taking 50 g of glucose, irrespective of food intake.

Results: A substantial correlation between the two groups of measurements was found. Based on the available data, a GST‐1 value of 99 mg% or less was seldom associated with GST‐2 value of 140 mg% or more (GT TEST was positive in none). It was observed that 100% of cases with GST‐1 value of 140 mg% or more had GST‐2 of 140 mg% or more. Out of those having GST‐2 value of 140 mg% or more, 72% had GT TEST positive. In the intermediate group (i.e. those patients having GST‐1 value of 100 mg% − 139 mg%), 51.7% had GST‐2 values of 140 mg% or more. Out of these 51.7% cases, only 23% cases turned out to be GT TEST positive. The correlation coefficients (CC) worked out to be 0.38 (substantial correlation for 0.20 < CC < 0.70).

Conclusion: From the observations stated above, it is concluded that for women with GST‐1 of 99 mg% or less, a GST‐2 is not necessary. For those having GST‐1 of 140 mg% or more, a GT TEST is absolutely necessary instead of repeating the screening test again in the third trimester. But it is in the intermediate group (i.e. with GST‐1 value of 100 mg%–139 mg%) where the glucose screening test should be repeated in the early third trimester and GT TEST as and when necessary.
Involvement of peroxynitrite in LPS‐induced apoptosis of trophoblasts
Authors: Asagiri Kazuo , Nakatsuka Mikiya , Konishi Hideki , Noguchi Soichi , Takata Masayo , Habara Toshihiro , Kudo Takafumi
Published: March 2003

Objective:  To examine whether or not peroxynitrite was involved in trophoblastic apoptosis induced by a bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods:  Levels of nitrite/nitrate, stable metabolites of nitric oxide (NO), in culture medium of trophoblasts, were determined using Griess reagents. Trophoblastic apoptosis was identified morphologically and confirmed using in situ nick end labeling technique. The amount of nitrotyrosine, a footprint of peroxynitrite, was quantified by dot blotting. Statistical significance was determined by anova.

Results:  Treatment of trophoblasts with LPS leads to apoptosis accompanied by formation of NO and nitrotyrosine. Aminoguanidine, an inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS), reduced peroxynitrite formation and prevented apoptosis. Scavengers of peroxynitrite also prevented apoptosis in this culture model.

Conclusion:  Peroxynitrite was involved in trophoblastic apoptosis induced by LPS. Peroxynitrite scavengers or inhibitors of NOS may thus be candidate therapeutic agents for infectious diseases, which is associated with overproduction of NO and peroxynitrite.
Non‐invasive cutaneous cardiovascular dynamics (CVD) as a predictor of preterm delivery: A pilot study
Authors: Ogunyemi Dotun , Vargas Noemi , Fukushima Teiichiro , Hon Edward
Published: March 2003

Aim:  To assess the clinical value of cardiovascular dynamics (CVD) pattern of ‘positive cycling’ in predicting true preterm labor.

Methods:  Patients with a clinical diagnosis of preterm labor had CVD measurement with a non‐invasive miniature pressure transducer applied to the fingertip concomitantly with uterine activity monitoring. Based on previous work by our group, the rapid ejection time (RET) reflects arterial compliance; an elevated RET is suggestive of vasoconstriction. Positive cycling is present when the RET shows elevation with uterine contractions and negative cycling is present when there are no changes in the RET with uterine contractions.

Results:  Twenty‐seven women had negative CVD cycling and nine had positive CVD cycling. There was no difference between the two groups in initial gestational age, cervical effacement or cervical dilation at testing. However, the mean interval from testing to delivery was 1.56 (SEM ± 0.29) days for positive cycling and 39 days (± 5.25) for negative cycling (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Non‐invasive cardiovascular patterns of positive cycling appear predictive of preterm delivery.
Problems of young people in community psychiatric care
Authors: Alestalo A. , Munnukka T. , Pukuri T.
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to describe the problems of young people who need professional help and who have been referred to community psychiatric care. The aim was to develop both the type of care and the system of referral. The research data comprised all referrals (n = 184) to the outpatients’ youth psychiatric clinic of one university hospital in 1997, and documentation related to the adolescents’ interviews on admission. The data were analysed by both deductive and inductive content analysis. Young people’s problems could be identified in all central spheres of life as difficulties in relation to the self, school, parents, peers, dating and the future. The difficulties were interrelated and varied in their degree of seriousness. When assessing young people’s difficulties and need for care, focus should be made on the inner world of the young person, as well as on their behaviour within the different spheres of life. Only in this way is it possible to get a full picture of the adolescent’s individual situation and need for help.
Two natural cerato‐ulmin (CU)‐deficient mutants of Ophiostoma novo‐ulmi: one has an introgressed O. ulmi cu gene, the other has an O. novo‐ulmi cu gene with a mutation in an intron splice consensus sequence
Authors: Pipe N. D. , Brasier C. M. , Buck K. W.
Published: March 2003

The nucleotide sequences of the cerato‐ulmin (cu) genes of two naturally occurring pathogenic CU‐deficient mutants, PG470 and MAFf8, of the Dutch elm disease fungus, Ophiostoma novo‐ulmi, were determined. The PG470 cu gene sequence was identical to that of CU‐secreting isolates of O. novo‐ulmi, except for a G to A mutation in the GT splice consensus sequence at the start of intron 1, suggesting that the CU deficiency was due to a splicing defect in the premRNA. In contrast, the MAFf8 cu gene showed a 99.1% sequence identity with cu genes of O. ulmi isolates, but only 92.8% sequence identity with cu genes of CU‐secreting isolates of O. novo‐ulmi, and in a dendrogram clustered with cu gene sequences of O. ulmi isolates with 100% bootstrap support. Restriction fragment length polymorphisms of the ribosomal RNA region, random amplified polymorphic DNA markers, and many biological properties of MAFf8, including pathogenicity, were typical of O. novo‐ulmi. It is therefore likely that the cu gene of MAFf8 has been introgressed from O. ulmi, probably as a result of rare hybrid formation between O. ulmi and O. novo‐ulmi, followed by backcrossing of the hybrid with O. novo‐ulmi. The presence of an O. ulmi‐like cu gene in MAFf8 is consistent with its CU deficiency, since the O. ulmicu gene is known to be poorly expressed and O. ulmi isolates secrete little or no CU in culture.
Impact and image: improving the library's contribution*
Authors: CARMEL MICHAEL
Published: March 2003

Librarians are engaged in the process of health care and their main priority should be to look at how the library may contribute to the work of health care in the parent organization. This will involve a new approach. Subordinating techniques to the needs of users, understanding the organization, absorbing its priorities and bringing the library's role into line with these are crucial to improving the library's contribution in the context of the complex information needs encountered today.
Networks and Communications: issues for the library manager*
Authors: COLLIER MEL
Published: March 2003

An overview of current developments in telecommunications is given and the implications for libraries are indicated. Library managers must address the problems of resource allocation and changing work patterns, which will affect staff at all levels, if networking systems are to be developed to their full potential for improving services to library users.
Using evaluation research methods to improve quality
Authors: GARD MARSHALL JOANNE
Published: March 2003

The idea of evaluation, or the measurement of a person, a service or a programme against some type of yardstick, has been around for a long time. In everyday language, the term evaluation is used to refer to everything from employee performance appraisal, to informal opinions about whether a particular service appears to be working well, to carefully planned and executed programmes of evaluation. In the past, librarians have tended to rely on their own professional judgement as a primary means of informal evaluation, and as long as the librarian was considered competent by others in the oganization, this method seemed to work reasonably well. In the rapidly changing fiscal climate of the 1990s, greater demands for accountability are altering the standards of evaluation, and informal methods based on professional judgement are less and less likely to be seen as adequate. Formal evaluation is becoming even more important as management strategies, such as total quality management (TQM) and continuous quality improvement (CQI), are adopted—strategies that rely on gathering and using data for measuring service quality. Although programme jargon such as TQM and CQI may change in the future, it is likely that the evaluation process inherent in these approaches will continue to be an important management tool for deciding on the allocation of scarce resources.
EVINCE: The value of information in developing nursing knowledge and competence
Authors: URQUHART CHRISTINE , DAVIES REBECCA
Published: March 2003

The aims ofthe EVINCE research project included examination of the impact of infomation on the clinical knowledge and practice of nurses, midwives and health visitors. EVINCE (Establishing the Value oflnfomation to Nursing Continuing Education) was funded by the British Library R&D Department for 1 year, from 1 November 1995 to 31 October 1996. The methods employed (based on those used in the Value project) included a critical incident type study to establish patterns of information need and use among a random sample of nursing professionals. The nature of the impact of infomation obtained on present and future competencies was assessed from a survey ofthe searches and requests presented to library and information services. Nurses, midwives and health visitors did value the information (96% of respondents agreed that there was, or would be an effct on future practice through enhanced competence in one or more areas). The impact findings can be used to guide a more precise assessment of information needs.
The research process: a beginner's guide
Authors: CLARK JOHN R.
Published: March 2003

The introduction of evidence‐based health care and the importance of library services in supporting this trend mean that librarians should at the very least understand the research process. The research process is often misunderstood and feared. This paper explains the research process step by step, giving examples. The major research designs, experimental, quasi‐experimental, survey and action research are described. This paper is deliberately practical rather than academically focused. Its structure could be used to structure a small‐scale research project, with the help of the literature in the annotated bibliography.
Becoming ADEPT: delivering distance learning on evidence‐based medicine for librarians
Authors: HICKS ALISON , BOOTH ANDREW , SAWERS CAROLINE
Published: March 2003

Evidence‐based medicine (EBM) brings new challenges and opportunities for librarians. However, their ability to respond to this agenda is constrained by their difficulties in acquiring the requisite new skills and techniques while continuing to work in a busy information practice setting. The authors describe a joint initiative, between a specialist evidence‐based healthcare information unit and a regional library network, to deliver training materials using a mixed workshop and distance learning format. The Applying Diagnosis, Etiology, Prognosis, and Therapy filters (ADEPT) Programme draws upon research conducted at McMaster University, Canada and, using techniques adapted from the teaching evidence‐based medicine paradigm, seeks to equip health care librarians with the skills and techniques required to support evidence‐based practice locally.

The authors describe the thinking behind the programme, its main features, the extensive evaluation mechanisms incorporated into the course, the results of the evaluation and the lessons learnt. They conclude with a description of the way forward for participants on the programme who are adapting their newly acquired knowledge to their work situations. Further planned developments from the course's designers are also outlined briefly.
Older people’s health information needs
Authors: Cawthra Lynette
Published: March 2003

This paper, originally given at the Health Libraries Group conference ‘First aid for the front line’ in September 1998, argues that older people’s health information needs are in many respects little different to anyone else’s. It looks at different formats of information that may be helpful for older people, and at the needs of two specific groups, carers and elders from ethnic groups. Direct user involvement in the development of information is seen as important.

It is emphasized that there is a particular need for primary care workers to know how other services, such as those within social care and the voluntary sector, operate. The paper ends by looking at the information professional’s role in providing resources and training to such workers, and suggests a broader remit for the profession as a whole, to help to ensure social inclusion for older people.
Information services for primary care: the organizational culture of General Practice and the information needs of partnerships and Primary Care Groups
Authors: Lacey Bryant Sue
Published: March 2003

In a primary‐care led National Health Service it is imperative for librarians not only to develop user‐centred services for health professionals based in the community but also to facilitate information management within Primary Care Groups. In this article recent research in the field is discussed, and challenges intrinsic to delivering information services to primary care are identified. Drawing on the experience of one Practice Librarian in the Aylesbury area, the importance of organizational culture is considered, along with its implications for making successful approaches to partnerships. Five factors that motivated these practices to contract the services of an independent librarian are identified. The information needs of Primary Care Groups are discussed and the essential characteristics of future service provision are noted.
Users’ perceptions of the impact of information provided by a Consumer Health Information service: an in‐depth study of six users
Authors: Sweetland Jane
Published: March 2003

This paper describes the impact of providing six users of the Health Facts Consumer Health Information Centre at Frenchay Hospital with health information. Comments from a previous user satisfaction questionnaire survey implemented by the researcher provided themes to explore. These were: (1) cognitive effects (2) affective effects (3) behavioural effects. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with six consecutive users of the centre asking about a health problem for themselves.

Health Facts information improved knowledge and understanding, reduced anxiety, and helped respondents accept and self‐manage illness, facilitated by quality of content and presentation. Everyone took some subsequent action in support of their condition. The centre saved users’ time searching for information elsewhere and staff were key players providing it. Information was shared with others, extending its impact. Increased publicity for the service was the main suggested improvement.

Health Facts information was mostly rated higher than other information sources, and unexpectedly as high as information from doctors. Even well‐informed users gained new understanding.

Health Facts information is highly valued, and complements advice given by health professionals. Findings reflect recent literature and government policy to get patients more involved in their own health care. The methodology may help other health information services investigate this subject.
A Hungarian example for handsearching specialized national healthcare journals of small countries for controlled trials. Is it worth the trouble?
Authors: Bereczki Dániel , Gesztelyi Gyöngyi
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to determine whether a Hungarian language journal of clinical neuroscience, which is not indexed in medline, contains any reports of randomized or quasi‐randomized clinical trials that are not also reported in
medline‐indexed publications. A cover‐to‐cover handsearch was performed of the journal Clinical Neuroscience/Ideggyógyászati Szemle, the official journal of Hungarian societies of neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry and related clinical neurosciences, from its first volume in 1950 to the end of 1998; and a search of
medline for other reports of the trials identified. Clinical trials in which patients were allocated to interventions by randomized, quasi‐randomized or possibly randomized means were identified. Controlled trials were tabulated and coded as randomized controlled trials or controlled clinical trials according to the definitions of the Handsearch Manual of the Cochrane Collaboration. We identified three randomized and eight quasi‐randomized trials. Six of the 11 trials were not reported in
medline indexed publications.

In conclusion, to obtain a comprehensive controlled trials register, specialized healthcare journals printed in small numbers in the national languages of small countries should be searched.
Nurses’ use of computer databases to identify evidence for practice —a cross‐sectional questionnaire survey in a UK hospital
Authors: Griffiths Peter , Riddington Lucy
Published: March 2003

The objectives of this study were to determine nurses’ use of electronic databases to inform practice.

A questionnaire survey of 114 nurses working on five acute wards in a large inner city teaching hospital investigated their general use of computers and the three databases, cinahl, medline and the Cochrane Library. Eighty‐two qualified nurses responded (response rate 72%).

The results show limited confidence and low frequency in using the databases. Thirty‐four per cent expressed low confidence using cinahl. Twenty‐seven per cent used cinahl on a regular basis. Twenty‐two per cent never used it. Eighteen per cent were unaware that it was available locally. Knowledge and use of medline was even lower with only 18% using it regularly. Knowledge of the Cochrane Library was extremely limited, with 75% unaware of its existence. Use of a home computer and higher education were associated with higher frequency of use of cinahl and medline.

If nurses are to make use of electronic resources to contribute to evidence‐based practice, effort needs to be put into ensuring that already qualified nurses have basic computer skills and specific knowledge of available resources. More emphasis should be placed on ‘evidence‐based’ resources, such as the Cochrane library, as sources of information for practice.
Opportunities on the Web: a role for information professionals, using the development of the BMA Library Online Service as a case study*
Authors: Rowlands Jane , Forrester William , Coelho Lina , Cardy Lisa , Yeadon Jane
Published: March 2003

The paper considers how attributes and skills fundamental to the information profession may be applied to the development and management of Web‐based services and resources. It also looks at the need for the acquisition of new skills as part of a continuing professional development programme. The report considers the changing role of the Webmaster and the implications this might have in terms of the role of information professionals.

To offer a practical example, from within the healthcare sector, the article goes on to describe the development of BMA Library Online. This is the BMA Library's own suite of Web‐based information services and resources for personal members, institutional members and staff. The library's own Web team has been responsible for the development and maintenance of BMA Library Online.

To conclude, the paper looks forward to future possibilities for information professionals as Web developers and at how this might be influenced by changes in the Webmaster role. It is crucial that skills and expertise are shared as the roles that go to make up a Webmaster or Webmaster team continue to merge and evolve, and with the possible wider distribution of provision of Web content within organizations.
Solitary fibrous tumour: significance of p53 and CD34 immunoreactivity in its malignant transformation
Authors: Yokoi  , Tsuzuki  , Yatabe  , Suzuki  , Kurumaya  , Koshikawa  , Kuhara  , Kuroda  , Nakamura  , Nakatani  , Kakudo
Published: March 2003

Aims

To clarify the association of p53 and CD34 expression with development of malignant solitary fibrous tumour we have studied 10 cases of solitary fibrous tumour arising in the pleura, retroperitoneum and pelvic cavity with clinicopathological features of malignancy.

Methods and results

Tumours were localized solid masses with or without necrosis in eight and they nearly totally occupied the pleural cavity in two. Basic histology of the tumours was the proliferation of spindle cells arranged in ‘patternless’ pattern or in interlacing bundles with nuclear atypia and mitotic activities of various degree. In two, high‐grade foci were present within low or intermediate‐grade tumours. Recurrent tumours also showed more atypical features than primary tumours in two. Immunohistochemical studies showed CD34 positivity in seven, but three of them showed marked diminution or complete loss of CD34 expression in high‐grade foci or a recurrent tumour. Three high‐grade cases showed totally negative staining for CD34. p53 was strongly expressed in cases with fatal outcome, clinical recurrence, nuclear atypia, high mitotic activity or local invasion, whereas almost negative in benign tumours.

Conclusions

Malignant solitary fibrous tumours may occur de novo or by transformation within benign or low‐grade tumours and may be associated with p53 mutation. Although CD34 is a useful marker in the diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumour, one should bear in mind that its expression can be lost in high‐grade tumours.
Angiomyolipoma predominantly composed of smooth muscle cells: problems in histological diagnosis
Authors: Nonomura A , Minato H , Kurumaya H
Published: March 2003

Aims

Five cases of angiomyolipoma (AML) composed exclusively or predominantly of smooth muscle cells (SMC) are presented to emphasize the histological diversity and to caution against errors in histological diagnosis.

Methods and results

Four tumours were located in the liver and one in the renal capsule. Three patients were female and two were male, ranging from 36 to 76 years of age with a mean age of 50 years. One patient with a renal capsular tumour was associated with tuberous sclerosis. Two tumours were composed predominantly of a spindle‐shaped SMC component, whereas three others were composed predominantly of epithelioid SMC elements. AMLs composed exclusively or predominantly of spindle‐shaped smooth muscle cells (SMCs) simulated leiomyoma, whereas AMLs composed exclusively or predominantly of epithelioid SMCs resembled epithelioid leiomyoma or leiomyosarcoma or other sarcoma when cellular atypia was present. However, both spindle and epithelioid SMCs were characteristically positive for HMB‐45 melanoma‐specific antibody; no other tissue components in either the liver or kidney were reactive to HMB‐45.

Conclusions

AML is often composed predominantly of SMC elements, and morphological features of the SMC elements are quite variable. Therefore, careful attention must be given to histological assessment of AML. Whenever a pathologist encounters an unfamiliar hepatic or renal tumour, the possibility of AML should be considered. Reactivity for HMB‐45, however, confirmed the diagnosis of AML.
Loss of basement membrane components laminin and type IV collagen parallels the progression of oral epithelial neoplasia
Authors: Tosios K I , Kapranos N , Papanicolaou S I
Published: March 2003

Aims: To determine the immunohistochemical localization of basement membrane components laminin and type IV collagen in premalignant and malignant lesions of the oral epithelium.

Methods and results

Formalin‐fixed tissue sections of 12 epithelial hyperplasias with no dysplasia and 30 dysplasias, clinically diagnosed as leukoplakia and/or erythroplakia, as well as 50 invasive squamous cell carcinomas, were stained with mouse monoclonal antibodies to human laminin and type IV collagen. Statistical analysis showed that there was a linear trend for discontinuous distribution of laminin from epithelial hyperplasia to epithelial dysplasia and invasive squamous cell carcinoma (P < 0.001). Laminin staining showed a linear trend for discontinuity with increasing grade of dysplasia (P < 0.05) and was more frequently discontinuous in areas of deep tumour invasion than in central or superficial areas (P < 0.05). Brush‐shaped thickening and reduplication of the basement membrane were also identified.

Conclusions

Alterations in the distribution of laminin and type IV collagen in oral premalignant and malignant lesions indicate that the loss of continuity of the subepithelial basement membrane parallels the progression of the neoplastic transformation process in oral epithelium.