bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sodium uptake in different life stages of crustaceans: the water fleaDaphnia magnaStrauss
Authors: Bianchini Adalto , Wood Chris M.
Published: February 2008

The concentration-dependent kinetics and main mechanisms of whole-body Na+ uptake were assessed in neonate and adult water flea Daphnia magna Strauss acclimated to moderately hard water (0.6 mmol l–1 NaCl, 1.0 mmol l–1 CaCO3 and 0.15 mmol l–1 MgSO4·7H2O; pH 8.2). Whole-body Na+ uptake is independent of the presence of Cl– in the external medium and kinetic parameters are dependent on the life stage. Adults have a lower maximum capacity of Na+ transport on a mass-specific basis but a higher affinity for Na+ when compared to neonates. Based on pharmacological analyses,mechanisms involved in whole-body Na+ uptake differ according to the life stage considered. In neonates, a proton pump-coupled Na+channel appears to play an important role in the whole-body Na+uptake at the apical membrane. However, they do not appear to contribute to whole-body Na+ uptake in adults, where only the Na+channel seems to be present, associated with the Na+/H+exchanger. In both cases, carbonic anhydrase contributes by providing H+ for the transporters. At the basolateral membrane of the salt-transporting epithelia of neonates, Na+ is pumped from the cells to the extracellular fluid by a Na+,K+-ATPase and a Na+/Cl– exchanger whereas K+ and Cl– move through specific channels. In adults, a Na+/K+/2Cl– cotransporter replaces the Na+/Cl– exchanger. Differential sensitivity of neonates and adults to iono- and osmoregulatory toxicants, such as metals, are discussed with respect to differences in whole-body Na+ uptake kinetics, as well as in the mechanisms of Na+ transport involved in the whole-body Na+ uptake in the two life stages.
Cuticular hydrocarbons as maternal provisions in embryos and nymphs of the cockroach Blattella germanica
Authors: Fan Yongliang , Eliyahu Dorit , Schal Coby
Published: February 2008

Cuticular hydrocarbons of arthropods serve multiple functions, including as barriers to water loss and as pheromones and pheromone precursors. In the oviparous German cockroach, Blattella germanica, long-chain hydrocarbons are produced by oenocytes within the abdominal integument and are transported by a blood lipoprotein, lipophorin, both to the cuticular surface and into vitellogenic oocytes. Using radiotracer approaches, we tracked the location and metabolic fate of 14C- and 3H-labeled hydrocarbons through vitellogenic females and their embryos and nymphs. A considerable amount (∼50%) of radiolabeled maternal hydrocarbons was transferred to oocytes and persisted through a 20-day embryogenesis and the first two nymphal stadia. The maternal hydrocarbons were not degraded or lost during this protracted period, except for significant losses of cuticular hydrocarbons starting with the first-to-second instar molt. Thus, although embryos and nymphs can produce their own hydrocarbons, maternal hydrocarbons provide a significant fraction of the cuticular and hemolymph hydrocarbons of both stages. These results show, for the first time in any insect, that a mother provides a significant complement of her offspring's cuticular hydrocarbons. Further research will be needed to determine whether provisioning hydrocarbons to eggs is a general strategy among insects and other arthropods or if this strategy is limited to taxa where eggs and early instars are susceptible to desiccation.
The hygric hypothesis does not hold water: abolition of discontinuous gas exchange cycles does not affect water loss in the antCamponotus vicinus
Authors: Lighton John R. B. , Turner Robbin J.
Published: February 2008

The discontinuous gas exchange cycle (DGC) of insects and other tracheate arthropods temporally decouples oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide emission and generates powerful concentration gradients for both gas species between the outside world and the tracheal system. Although the DGC is considered an adaptation to reduce respiratory water loss (RWL) – the `hygric hypothesis' – it is absent from many taxa, including xeric ones. The`chthonic hypothesis' states that the DGC originated as an adaptation to gas exchange in hypoxic and hypercapnic, i.e. underground, environments. If that is the case then the DGC is not the ancestral condition, and its expression is not necessarily a requirement for reducing RWL. Here we report a study of water loss rate in the ant Camponotus vicinus, measured while its DGC was slowly eliminated by gradual hypoxia (hypoxic ramp de-DGCing). Metabolic rate remained constant. The DGC ceased at a mean PO2 of 8.4 kPa. RWL in the absence of DGCs was not affected until PO2 declined below 3.9 kPa. Below that value, non-DGC spiracular regulation failed, accompanied by a large increase in RWL. Thus, the spiracular control strategy of the DGC is not required for low RWL, even in animals that normally express the DGC.
Characterisation of neurotransmitter-induced electrolyte transport in cockroach salivary glands by intracellular Ca2+, Na+ and pH measurements in duct cells
Authors: Hille Carsten , Walz Bernd
Published: February 2008

Ion-transporting acinar peripheral cells in cockroach salivary glands are innervated by dopaminergic and serotonergic fibres, but saliva-modifying duct cells are innervated only by dopaminergic fibres. We used microfluorometry to record intracellular Na+, Ca2+ and H+concentrations ([Na+]i, [Ca2+]iand pHi) in duct cells of two types of preparation, viz`lobes' consisting of acini with their duct system and `isolated ducts'without acini, in order to obtain information about the transporters involved in saliva secretion and/or modification. Our results indicate that (1)stimulation of lobes by dopamine (DA) causes a strong drop of pHiand increases in [Na+]i and[Ca2+]i in duct cells; (2) in contrast, DA stimulation of isolated ducts produces only a small pHi drop and no changes in[Na+]i and [Ca2+]i; (3)pHi and [Ca2+]i changes are also induced in duct cells by serotonin (5-HT) stimulation of lobes, but not isolated ducts;(4) in the absence of CO2/HCO3–, the DA-induced pHi drop is strongly reduced by removal of extracellular Cl– or inhibition of the Na+–K+–2Cl– cotransporter(NKCC); (5) in the presence of CO2/HCO3–, the DA-induced pHi drop is not reduced by NKCC inhibition, but rather by inhibition of the Cl–/HCO3–exchanger (AE), Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) or carbonic anhydrase. We suggest that DA and 5-HT act predominantly on acinar peripheral cells. Their activity (secretion of primary saliva) seems to cause changes in ion concentrations in duct cells. NKCC and/or AE/NHE activities are necessary for pHi changes in duct cells; we consider that these transporters are involved in the secretion of the NaCl-rich primary saliva.
Effects of cadmium on cellular protein and glutathione synthesis and expression of stress proteins in eastern oysters, Crassostrea virginica Gmelin
Authors: Ivanina Anna V. , Cherkasov Anton S. , Sokolova Inna M.
Published: February 2008

Cadmium (Cd) is an important toxicant in estuarine and coastal environments that can strongly affect energy balance of aquatic organisms by increasing the organism's basal energy demand and reducing its aerobic capacity. Mechanisms of cadmium-induced increase in basal metabolic costs are not well understood and may involve elevated detoxification costs due to the synthesis of cellular protective proteins and glutathione. We studied the short-term effects of cadmium exposure (4 h) on protein and glutathione (GSH) synthesis and expression of stress proteins (heat shock proteins HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90) and metallothioneins in isolated gill and hepatopancreas cells of the eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica. Our study showed that exposure to cadmium resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the rate of protein synthesis in oyster cells, which reached 150% of the control at the highest tested Cd level (2000 μmol l–1). GSH synthesis was significantly inhibited by the highest Cd concentrations, especially in hepatopancreas,which resulted in a slight but significant decrease in the total GSH concentrations. Elevated protein synthesis was associated with the increased expression of metallothioneins and heat shock proteins. Interestingly, stress protein response differed considerably between gill and hepatopancreas cells. In hepatopancreas, expression of metallothionein mRNA (measured by real-time PCR) increased 2–8-fold in response to Cd exposure, whereas no significant increase in metallothionein expression was found in Cd-exposed gill cells. By contrast, HSP60 and HSP70 protein levels increased significantly in Cd-exposed gill cells (by 1.5–2-fold) but not in hepatopancreas. No change in HSP90 expression was detected in response to Cd exposure in oyster cells. These data indicate that metallothionein expression may provide sufficient protection against Cd-induced damage to intracellular proteins in hepatopancreas, alleviating the need for overexpression of molecular chaperones. By contrast, Cd detoxification mechanisms such as inducible metallothioneins and GSH appear to be insufficient to fully prevent protein damage in gill cells, thus necessitating induction of HSPs as a secondary line of cellular defense. Therefore, gills are likely to be among the most Cd-sensitive tissues in oysters, which may have important implications for impaired oxygen uptake contributing to energy misbalance and reduced aerobic scope in Cd-exposed oysters.
Cryoprotective dehydration and the resistance to inoculative freezing in the Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica
Authors: Elnitsky Michael A. , Hayward Scott A. L. , Rinehart Joseph P. , Denlinger David L. , Lee Richard E.
Published: February 2008

During winter, larvae of the Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica(Diptera, Chironomidae), must endure 7–8 months of continuous subzero temperatures, encasement in a matrix of soil and ice, and severely desiccating conditions. This environment, along with the fact that larvae possess a high rate of water loss and are extremely tolerant of desiccation, may promote the use of cryoprotective dehydration as a strategy for winter survival. This study investigates the capacity of larvae to resist inoculative freezing and undergo cryoprotective dehydration at subzero temperatures. Slow cooling to–3°C in an environment at equilibrium with the vapor pressure of ice reduced larval water content by ∼40% and depressed the body fluid melting point more than threefold to –2.6°C. This melting point depression was the result of the concentration of existing solutes (i.e. loss of body water) and the de novo synthesis of osmolytes. By day 14 of the subzero exposure, larval survival was still >95%, suggesting larvae have the capacity to undergo cryoprotective dehydration. However, under natural conditions the use of cryoprotective dehydration may be constrained by inoculative freezing as result of the insect's intimate contact with environmental ice. During slow cooling within a substrate of frozen soil, the ability of larvae to resist inoculative freezing and undergo cryoprotective dehydration was dependent upon the moisture content of the soil. As detected by a reduction of larval water content, the percentage of larvae that resisted inoculative freezing increased with decreasing soil moisture. These results suggest that larvae of the Antarctic midge have the capacity to resist inoculative freezing at relatively low soil moisture contents and likely undergo cryoprotective dehydration when exposed to subzero temperatures during the polar winter.
RGD-dependent mechanisms in the endoneurial phagocyte response and axonal regeneration in the nervous system of the snail Lymnaea stagnalis
Authors: Hermann Petra M. , Nicol Jennifer J. , Bulloch Andrew G. M. , Wildering Willem C.
Published: February 2008

Activation of phagocytic cells in the injury zone is a crucial step in the regeneration of peripheral axons. Many aspects of the mechanisms underlying the recruitment of active phagocytes remain, however, unclear. Notably, our understanding of the interactions between injury, extracellular matrix (ECM)degradation and phagocyte activation is limited. Most animal cell types,phagocytes included, interact with proteins of the ECM through one or more members of the integrin family, transmembrane cell adhesion receptors that typically bind their ligands through short linear amino acid sequences. This study focused on the role of one of the most common of such integrin recognition sequences, the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif in the recruitment and activation of endoneurial phagocytes in the injury response of the nervous system of the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis. Like the mammalian nervous system, the Lymnaea nervous system responds to injury with recruitment and activation of endoneurial phagocytes (i.e. phagocytes residing in Lymnaea's nerves), a process involving substantial changes in the morphology, motility and adhesion status of these cells. Using synthetic water-soluble RGD-peptides, we investigated the relevance of RGD-dependent mechanisms in the activation of endoneurial phagocytes and injury response of the organ-cultured nervous system of Lymnaea. Our results show that RGD-peptides modulate various aspects of phagocyte activation (i.e. spreading response, particle engulfment, oxidative burst) in vitro and in situ and significantly affect nerve regeneration in this model system. Surprisingly, while linear RGD-analogues suppressed both phagocyte activation and axonal regeneration, a circularized RGD-peptide analogue modulated these parameters in a concentration-dependent, biphasic manner. Collectively, these results emphasize the significance of RGD-dependent mechanisms in the regenerative response of the Lymnaea nervous system and implicate regulation of the cellular immune response as one of the factors in this context.
Competition between immune function and lipid transport for the protein apolipophorin III leads to stress-induced immunosuppression in crickets
Authors: Adamo S. A. , Roberts J. L. , Easy R. H. , Ross N. W.
Published: February 2008

Intense physical activity results in transient immunosuppression in a wide range of animals. We tested the hypothesis that competition between immune function and lipid transport for the protein apolipophorin III (apoLpIII) can cause transient immunosuppression in crickets. Both flying, an energetically demanding behavior, and an immune challenge reduced the amount of monomeric(free) apoLpIII in the hemolymph of crickets. Because both immune function and flying depleted free apoLpIII, these two phenomena could be in competition for this protein. We showed that immune function was sensitive to the amount of free apoLpIII in the hemolymph. Reducing the amount of free apoLpIII in the hemolymph using adipokinetic hormone produced immunosuppression. Increasing apoLpIII levels after flight by pre-loading animals with trehalose reduced immunosuppression. Increasing post-flight apoLpIII levels by injecting purified apoLpIII also reduced flight-induced immunosuppression. These results show that competition between lipid transport and immune function for the same protein can produce transient immunosuppression after flight-or-fight behavior. Intertwined physiological systems can produce unexpected trade-offs.
Shipboard measurements of the hearing of the white-beaked dolphin Lagenorhynchus albirostris
Authors: Nachtigall P. E. , Mooney T. A. , Taylor K. A. , Miller L. A. , Rasmussen M. H. , Akamatsu T. , Teilmann J. , Linnenschmidt M. , Vikingsson G. A.
Published: February 2008

This is the first report of an underwater audiogram from a dolphin in a capture-and-release scenario. Two bow-riding white-beaked dolphins Lagenorhynchus albirostris (a female and a male) were captured using the hoop-net technique in Faxaflói Bay, Iceland. The dolphins were transferred to a stretcher and hoisted into a plastic research tank on board a small fishing vessel. Two underwater transducers were used to cover the frequency range from 16 to 215 kHz. Two human EEG electrodes mounted in suction cups, one placed near the blow hole and the other on the dorsal fin,picked up bioelectrical responses to acoustic stimuli. Responses to about 1000 sinusoidal amplitude modulated stimuli for each amplitude/frequency combination were averaged and analyzed using a fast Fourier transform to obtain an evoked auditory response. Threshold was defined as the zero crossing of the response using linear regression. Two threshold frequencies at 50 kHz and 64 kHz were obtained from the female. An audiogram ranging from 16 to 181 kHz was obtained from an adult male and showed the typical `U' shaped curve for odontocetes. The thresholds for both white-beaks were comparable and demonstrated the most sensitive high frequency hearing of any known dolphin and were as sensitive as the harbor porpoise.
Morphological and biochemical changes in the Harderian gland of hypothyroid rats
Authors: Monteforte Rossella , Santillo Alessandra , Lanni Antonia , D'Aniello Salvatore , Baccari Gabriella Chieffi
Published: February 2008

The secretory activity of the Harderian gland (HG) is influenced by both exogenous (such as light and temperature) and endogenous (such as prolactin,thyroid hormones and steroid hormones) factors, which vary among species. In the present study, the effects of hypothyroidism on the rat HG were examined at morphological and biochemical levels. The decrease in cytoplasmic lipoproteic vacuoles and the increase in mucosubstance secretion in the acinar lumina were the most notable histological effects elicited by hypothyroidism. The release of all granules with nuclei and cellular debris suggested the occurrence of holocrine secretion. Electron microscopy revealed in the glandular cells of hypothyroid rat an increased condensation of chromatin in the nuclei, mitochondria with decreased cristae and vacuolisation, decreased glycogen granules, autophagic vacuoles, and lipofuscins in the cytoplasm. TUNEL reaction indicated DNA fragmentation in hypothyroid HG, indicative of an underlying apoptotic process. Translocation of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol strongly supported this hypothesis. In conclusion, these findings indicate that thyroid hormones play a pivotal role in preserving the structural integrity of the rat HG and, hence, its secretory activity.
Transportation Costs and International Trade in the Second Era of Globalization
Authors: Hummels David
Published: February 2008

While the precise causes of postwar trade growth are not well understood, declines in transport costs top the lists of usual suspects. However, there is remarkably little systematic evidence documenting the decline. This paper brings to bear an eclectic mix of data in order to provide a detailed accounting of the time-series pattern of shipping costs. The ad-valorem impact of ocean shipping costs is not much lower today than in the 1950s, with technological advances largely trumped by adverse cost shocks. In contrast, air shipping costs have dropped an order of magnitude, and airborne trade has grown rapidly as a result. As a result, international trade has also experienced a significant rise in speed.
Beliefs about learning, self‐regulated strategies and text comprehension among Chinese children
Authors: Law Yin‐kum , Chan Carol K. K. , Sachs John.
Published: February 2008

Background

Most studies have investigated college and high school students' epistemological beliefs in Western contexts, with few studies examining how beliefs about learning are related to children's strategies and comprehension in the Chinese cultural context.

Aims

The present study investigated Chinese elementary school children's beliefs about learning and examined their relations with self‐regulated learning strategies and text comprehension.

Sample

The participants were 417 Grade 5 (mean age = 10.8 years) and 420 Grade 6 (mean age = 11.9 years) elementary school children in Hong Kong.

Methods

A questionnaire assessing children's beliefs about learning was constructed; children were also asked to complete the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire and several text comprehension tasks assessing deep understanding.

Results

Factor analysis indicated two contrasting factors of constructivist and reproductive beliefs about learning. High achievers outperformed low achievers on beliefs, strategy and comprehension scores. Multiple regression indicated that constructivist beliefs contributed to text comprehension over and above the effects of grade and strategy.

Conclusions

This study corroborates current research on the roles of beliefs and strategies in text comprehension and suggests that meta‐cognitive beliefs and strategies examined in English reading can also be identified among Chinese children in text comprehension.
Effects of mindful and non‐mindful exercises on people with depression: A systematic review
Authors: Tsang Hector W. H. , Chan Edward P. , Cheung W. M.
Published: February 2008

Purpose

An emerging body of evidence has shown the therapeutic effect of both mindful and non‐mindful physical exercises on the treatment of depression. The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of mindful and non‐mindful physical exercises as an intervention in managing depression or depressive symptoms based on a systematic literature review.

Methods

Our review was conducted among five electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which tested the effects of mindful or/and non‐mindful physical exercises on depression. Studies were classified according to the baseline depression status of participants and its relation to allocation concealment, blinding at outcome assessment, follow‐up, and whether intention to treat analysis was employed.

Results

The results based on 12 RCTs indicated that both the mindful and non‐mindful physical exercises were effective in their short‐term effect in reducing depression levels or depressive symptoms. However, most of studies had methodological problems that only small sample size was used, and the maintenance effects of physical exercise were not reported. Specific comparisons between RCTs on mindful and non‐mindful exercises were not performed because of the limitations on the designs.

Conclusions

We recommend that more well‐controlled studies have to be conducted in the future to address the short‐ and long‐term effects of physical exercise on alleviating depression. Efforts should be focused on unveiling the differential effects of mindful and non‐mindful exercises on depression and the underlying mechanisms of their therapeutic action.
Motivational interviewing with offenders: A systematic review
Authors: McMurran Mary
Published: February 2008

Purpose. Offender motivation is one specific responsivity variable in offender treatment and motivational interviewing (MI) is commonly used by corrections personnel. Although evidence for the effectiveness of motivational interviewing is accruing overall, a review of MI specifically with offender populations is required.

Method. Relevant databases and websites were searched using terms relating to MI with offenders.

Results. In total, 13 published studies and 6 dissertation abstracts were identified. MI is most evaluated in relation to substance misusing offenders (N=10). Other applications are with domestic violence offenders (N=3), drink‐drivers (N=5), and general offending (N=1). In these populations, MI is used to enhance retention and engagement in treatment, improve motivation for change, and change behaviour.

Conclusions. MI can lead to improved retention in treatment, enhanced motivation to change, and reduced offending, although there are variations across studies. To advance the study of MI with offenders, a theory of change needs to be articulated on which testable hypotheses may be based. The integrity of treatment in its application needs to be assured. Based on these foundations, more outcome research is needed to examine who responds to what type of MI in relation to treatment retention, readiness to change, and reconviction.
Effect of (R)-Salsolinol and N-Methyl-(R)-Salsolinol on the Balance Impairment Between Dopamine and Acetylcholine in Rat Brain: Involvement in Pathogenesis of Parkinson Disease
Authors: Zhu Wei , Wang Dan , Zheng Jiaohong , An Yarui , Wang Qingjiang , Zhang Wen , Jin Litong , Gao Hongying , Lin Longnian
Published: February 2008

Background: Parkinson disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease, affects at least 1% of population above the age of 65. Although the specific etiology of PD remains unclear, recently the endogenous neurotoxins such as (R)-salsolinol [(R)-Sal] and N-methyl-(R)-salsolinol [(R)-NMSal] have been thought to play a major role in PD. Much interest is focused on the degeneration of dopamine neurons induced by these neurotoxins. However, little literature is available on the impact of endogenous neurotoxins on the balance between dopamine (DA) and acetylcholine (ACh).

Methods: After injection of (R)-Sal or (R)-NMSal into the rat brain striatum, the concentrations of DA and its metabolites were detected by HPLC with electrochemical detection. We assessed the influence of neurotoxins on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and developed a microdialysis-electrochemical device to measure ACh concentrations with enzyme-modified electrodes.

Results: (R)-Sal and (R)-NMSal led to concentration-dependent decreases in the activity of AChE. ACh concentrations in striatum treated with (R)-Sal or (R)-NMSal were increased to 131.7% and 239.8% of control, respectively. As to the dopaminergic system, (R)-NMSal caused a significant decrease in DA concentrations and (R)-Sal reduced the concentrations of DA metabolites in the striatum.

Conclusions: (R)-Sal and (R)-NMSal exerted a considerable effect on the balance between DA and ACh by impairing the cholinergic system as well as the dopaminergic system. It is likely that the disruption of balance between DA and ACh plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of neurotoxin-induced PD.
Distributed deliberative citizens: Exploring the impact of cyberinfrastructure on transnational civil society participation in global ICT policy processes
Authors: Cogburn Derrick L , Johnsen Jane Finnerup , Bhattacharyya Swati
Published: February 2008

This study explores the impact of a virtual organisational structure called a policy collaboratory on a transnational NGO network participating in the UN World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). A collaboratory is a center without walls, which uses computer-mediated communication (CMC) tools to support geographically distributed knowledge work (Wulf 1989). The interdisciplinary conceptual framework draws primarily on Roger's (1995) diffusion of innovation thesis. To explore the conceptual framework, we asked four grand tour research questions: (1) How is a policy collaboratory introduced into a transnational policy network?; (2) how is the collaboratory used?; (3) what impact does it have on participants?; and (4) to what degree can it be institutionalised? Using the second phase of WSIS as the setting for this longitudinal mixed-methods study, we purposefully selected the participants from the active WSIS civil society networks. After collecting baseline data in December 2003, we designed and implemented the collaboratory in January 2004, continuing to collect multi-modal data (surveys, interviews, email, computer logs) until shortly after the Tunis WSIS in November 2005. Key findings include: (1) training and a visionary change-agent are critical to successful diffusion; (2) participants may not utilise the full potential of the collaboratory; (3) even with limited use, the collaboratory can help to empower network members, especially those from developing countries, (4) institutionalisation of the collaboratory requires at least medium-term commitment and financial support. The study points to some of the challenges and opportunities of using the Internet and CMC tools to enhance geographically distributed participation in global governance processes.
The Lady revolution in the age of technology
Authors: Aragon Janni
Published: February 2008

Girls and young women are participating in unconventional forms of political participation through Ladyfests. The first Ladyfest took place in 2000 in Olympia, Washington, United States. Ladyfests are activist-oriented festivals that include art, spoken word, music, workshops, artisan fairs, and other performances. Since the first Ladyfest there have been approximately one hundred and twenty spanning the globe. I argue that Ladyfests provide the organisers and attendees alternative communities to network, educate, share information, and build offline and online communities. This form of contemporary cultural activism relies heavily on engaging culture as a means of both commentary and action. The use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) by girls and young women is on the rise, including as activist and networking tools. Ladyfesters are web savvy and use ICTs to organise the events, share information about their Ladyfest and others, as well as build networks after the event.
From global village to global marketplace: Metaphorical descriptions of the global Internet
Authors: Shah Nisha
Published: February 2008

Prevailing analyses of globalisation and the Internet posit global politics as the outcome of the Internet's physical-geographical reach. This reach is assumed to compromise the traditional sources of political power associated with the sovereign state by transgressing its territorial boundaries. The shortcoming of this approach is that it fails to acknowledge the degree to which the state and its sovereignty are discursively constituted as normative principles that legitimate a particular type of political order. Thus, in order to locate the transformative potential of globalisation, attention must be directed to globalisation's discursive dimensions. To do this I focus on two metaphors of globalisation global village and global marketplace. In this paper, I outline how these metaphors constitute and legitimate global political order and the impact this has on the global character of the Internet. I specify how each metaphor shapes what the Internet is, who it is for, what kind of global potential it represents according to its understanding of what constitutes legitimate global political order. The structure of global political order cannot, therefore, be easily derived from the Internet's physical reach. We can still study the Internet as emblematic of globalisation and global politics; however, doing so necessitates exploring how the structure and character of the Internet is tied to, and changes with, the production of new systems of global legitimacy and political order.
Adrenal and Pituitary Insufficiency in the Neonate
Authors: Dempsher David
Published: February 2008

Adrenal and pituitary deficiency can present catastrophically with shock and cardiopulmonary arrest or gradually with lethargy and failure to thrive. Lifesaving treatment is safe and simple, and timely recognition of the disorder minimizes the likelihood of death or permanent brain injury from hypoglycemia and hypothyroidism. This article reviews the major causes and clinical presentations of adrenal and pituitary deficiency states in the newborn period as well as evaluation of pituitary and adrenal function and the principles of endocrine replacement therapy.
Atomoxetine for the Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Authors: Bangs Mark E. , Hazell Philip , Danckaerts Marina , Hoare Peter , Coghill David R. , Wehmeier Peter M. , Williams David W. , Moore Rodney J. , Levine Louise ,   for the Atomoxetine ADHD/ODD Study Group
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE. In this study we examined the effectiveness of atomoxetine for the treatment of oppositional defiant disorder comorbid with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

METHODS. Patients were aged 6 to 12 years and met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, diagnostic criteria for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with a Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-Revised attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder subscale score above age and gender norms; Clinical Global Impressions-Severity Scale score of ≥4; and Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-Revised oppositional defiant disorder subscale score of ≥15. Patients were randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive 1.2 mg/kg per day of atomoxetine (n = 156) or placebo (n = 70) for 8 weeks. Treatment effect on oppositional defiant disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms was measured by using the investigator-rated Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-Revised.

RESULTS. Repeated-measures analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference favoring atomoxetine over placebo in the reduction of Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-Revised oppositional defiant disorder total scores. There were significant pairwise treatment differences at weeks 2 and 5 but not at week 8 postbaseline. A last-observation-carried-forward analysis showed Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-Revised scores at endpoint for the atomoxetine and placebo groups were significantly different for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms but not for oppositional defiant disorder symptoms. Atomoxetine was superior to placebo in a last-observation-carried-forward analysis of Clinical Global Impression-Improvement and Clinical Global Impression-Severity scores.

CONCLUSIONS. This study confirms previous findings that patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and comorbid oppositional defiant disorder show statistically and clinically significant improvement in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and global clinical functioning when treated with atomoxetine. It remains uncertain, however, whether atomoxetine exerts a specific and enduring effect on oppositional defiant disorder symptoms.
Effect of Late-Preterm Birth and Maternal Medical Conditions on Newborn Morbidity Risk
Authors: Shapiro-Mendoza Carrie K. , Tomashek Kay M. , Kotelchuck Milton , Barfield Wanda , Nannini Angela , Weiss Judith , Declercq Eugene
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVES. Late-preterm infants (34–36 weeks’ gestation) account for nearly three quarters of all preterm births in the United States, yet little is known about their morbidity risk. We compared late-preterm and term (37–41 weeks’ gestation) infants with and without selected maternal medical conditions and assessed the independent and joint effects of these exposures on newborn morbidity risk.

METHODS. We used 1998–2003, population-based, Massachusetts birth and death certificates data linked to infant and maternal hospital discharge records from the Massachusetts Pregnancy to Early Life Longitudinal data system. Newborn morbidity risks that were associated with gestational age and selected maternal medical conditions, both independently and as joint exposures, were estimated by calculating adjusted risk ratios. A new measure of newborn morbidity that was based on hospital discharge diagnostic codes, hospitalization duration, and transfer status was created to define newborns with and without life-threatening conditions. Eight selected maternal medical conditions were assessed (hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, diabetes, antepartum hemorrhage, lung disease, infection, cardiac disease, renal disease, and genital herpes) in relation to newborn morbidity.

RESULTS. Our final study population included 26170 infants born late preterm and 377638 born at term. Late-preterm infants were 7 times more likely to have newborn morbidity than term infants (22% vs 3%). The newborn morbidity rate doubled in infants for each gestational week earlier than 38 weeks. Late-preterm infants who were born to mothers with any of the maternal conditions assessed were at higher risk for newborn morbidity compared with similarly exposed term infants. Late-preterm infants who were exposed to antepartum hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were especially vulnerable.

CONCLUSIONS. Late-preterm birth and, to a lesser extent, maternal medical conditions are each independent risk factors for newborn morbidity. Combined, these 2 factors greatly increased the risk for newborn morbidity compared with term infants who were born without exposure to these risks.
Analgesic Properties of Oral Sucrose During Routine Immunizations at 2 and 4 Months of Age
Authors: Hatfield Linda A. , Gusic Maryellen E. , Dyer Anne-Marie , Polomano Rosemary C.
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the analgesic properties of oral sucrose during routine immunizations in infants at 2 and 4 months of age.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted at a pediatric ambulatory care clinic. One-hundred healthy term infants scheduled to receive routine immunizations were recruited, randomly stratified into 2- or 4-month study groups, and further randomly assigned to receive 24% oral sucrose and pacifier or the sterile water control solution. The study preparations were administered 2 minutes before the combined diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis, inactivated polio vaccine, and hepatitis B vaccine. Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine was administered 3 minutes after the combined injection, followed by the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 2 minutes after the H influenzae type b injection. The University of Wisconsin Children's Hospital Pain Scale measured serial acute pain responses for the treatment and control groups at baseline and 2, 5, 7, and 9 minutes after solution administration. Repeated-measures analysis of variance examined between-group differences and within-subject variability of treatment effect on overall pain scores.

RESULTS. Two- and 4-month-old infants receiving oral sucrose (n = 38) displayed reductions in pain scores 2 minutes after solution administration compared with 2- and 4-month-old infants in the placebo group (n = 45). Between-group comparisons for the oral sucrose and placebo groups showed lower pain responses at 5, 7, and 9 minutes after solution administration. The oral sucrose and placebo groups demonstrated their highest mean pain score at 7 minutes, with a mean pain score of 3.8 and 4.8, respectively. At 9 minutes, the placebo group had a mean pain score of 2.91 whereas the mean pain score for the oral sucrose group returned to near baseline, reflecting a 78.5% difference in mean pain score (oral sucrose − placebo) relative to the placebo mean.

CONCLUSIONS. Oral sucrose is an effective, easy-to-administer, short-acting analgesic for use during routine immunizations.
Baby Care Products: Possible Sources of Infant Phthalate Exposure
Authors: Sathyanarayana Sheela , Karr Catherine J. , Lozano Paula , Brown Elizabeth , Calafat Antonia M. , Liu Fan , Swan Shanna H.
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVES. Phthalates are man-made chemicals found in personal care and other products. Recent studies suggest that some phthalates can alter human male reproductive development, but sources of infant exposure have not been well characterized. We investigated the relationship between phthalate metabolite concentrations in infant urine and maternal reported use of dermally applied infant care products.

METHODS. We measured 9 phthalate metabolites in 163 infants who were born in 2000–2005. An infant was considered to have been exposed to any infant care product that the mother reported using on her infant within 24 hours of urine collection. Results of multiple linear regression analyses are reported as the ratio of metabolite concentrations (with 95% confidence intervals) in exposed and unexposed infants. We standardized concentrations by forming z scores and examined combined exposure to multiple metabolites.

RESULTS. In most (81%) infants, ≥7 phthalate metabolites were above the limit of detection. Exposure to lotion was predictive of monoethyl phthalate and monomethyl phthalate concentrations, powder of monoisobutyl phthalate, and shampoo of monomethyl phthalate. Z scores increased with number of products used. Most associations were stronger in younger infants.

CONCLUSIONS. Phthalate exposure is widespread and variable in infants. Infant exposure to lotion, powder, and shampoo were significantly associated with increased urinary concentrations of monoethyl phthalate, monomethyl phthalate, and monoisobutyl phthalate, and associations increased with the number of products used. This association was strongest in young infants, who may be more vulnerable to developmental and reproductive toxicity of phthalates given their immature metabolic system capability and increased dosage per unit body surface area.
Prevention and 18-Month Outcomes of Serious Pulmonary Hemorrhage in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants: Results From the Trial of Indomethacin Prophylaxis in Preterms
Authors: Alfaleh Khalid , Smyth John A. , Roberts Robin S. , Solimano Alfonso , Asztalos Elizabeth V. , Schmidt Barbara ,   for the Trial of Indomethacin Prophylaxis in Preterms Investigators
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVES. A patent ductus arteriosus is a risk factor for pulmonary hemorrhage; however, despite halving the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus, indomethacin prophylaxis did not reduce the rate of pulmonary hemorrhage in the Trial of Indomethacin Prophylaxis in Preterms. Inclusion of mild bleeds after trauma to the upper airways may have masked a beneficial drug effect. Using the Trial of Indomethacin Prophylaxis in Preterms database, we studied the effect of prophylactic indomethacin on the prevention of serious hemorrhages in extremely low birth weight infants. We also compared the 18-month outcomes of infants with and without a serious pulmonary bleed.

METHODS. Pulmonary hemorrhage was classified as serious when it was treated with increased ventilator support, a higher concentration of oxygen, or transfusion of blood products. The cumulative risk for serious pulmonary hemorrhage was estimated for the first week of life and for the entire NICU stay. Poor outcome at a corrected age of 18 months was death or survival with cerebral palsy, cognitive delay, blindness, and/or deafness.

RESULTS. A total of 123 (10.2%) of 1202 infants developed a serious pulmonary hemorrhage. During week 1, prophylactic indomethacin reduced the risk for serious pulmonary hemorrhage by 35%; however, during the entire NICU stay, the risk for such hemorrhages was decreased by only 23%. A reduced risk for patent ductus arteriosus explained 80% of the beneficial effect of prophylactic indomethacin on serious pulmonary bleeds. The risks for death or for survival with neurosensory impairment were doubled after a serious pulmonary hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS. Extremely low birth weight infants with serious pulmonary hemorrhage have an increased risk for poor long-term outcome. Prophylactic indomethacin reduces the rate of early serious pulmonary hemorrhage, mainly through its action on patent ductus arteriosus. Prophylactic indomethacin is less effective in preventing serious pulmonary hemorrhages that occur after the first week of life.
Pepsin, a Marker of Gastric Contents, Is Increased in Tracheal Aspirates From Preterm Infants Who Develop Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Farhath Sabeena , He Zhaoping , Nakhla Tarek , Saslow Judy , Soundar Sam , Camacho Jeanette , Stahl Gary , Shaffer Stephen , Mehta Devendra I. , Aghai Zubair H.
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to study the association between pepsin in tracheal aspirate samples and the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants.

METHODS. Serial tracheal aspirate samples were collected during the first 28 days from mechanically ventilated preterm neonates. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia was defined as the need for supplemental oxygen at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. An enzymatic assay with a fluorescent substrate was used to detect pepsin. Total protein was measured by the Bradford assay to correct for the dilution during lavage. Immunohistochemistry using antibody against human pepsinogen was performed in 10 lung tissue samples from preterm infants.

RESULTS. A total of 256 tracheal aspirate samples were collected from 59 preterm neonates. Pepsin was detected in 234 (91.4%) of 256 of the tracheal aspirate samples. Twelve infants had no bronchopulmonary dysplasia, 31 infants developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and 16 infants died before 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. The mean pepsin concentration was significantly lower in infants with no bronchopulmonary dysplasia compared with those who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia or developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia/died before 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. Moreover, the mean pepsin level was significantly higher in infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia compared with moderate bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The mean pepsin level in tracheal aspirate samples from the first 7 days was also lower in infants with no bronchopulmonary dysplasia compared with those who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia or developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia/died before 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. Pepsinogen was not localized in the lung tissues by immunohistochemistry.

CONCLUSION. The concentration of pepsin was increased in the tracheal aspirate of preterm infants who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia or died before 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. Recovery of pepsin in tracheal aspirate samples is secondary to gastric aspiration, not by hematogenous spread or local synthesis in the lungs. Chronic aspiration of gastric contents may contribute in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Chlamydia trachomatis as a Cause of Neonatal Conjunctivitis in Dutch Infants
Authors: Rours Ingrid G.I.J.G. , Hammerschlag Margaret R. , Ott Alewijn , De Faber Tjeerd J.T.H.N. , Verbrugh Henri A. , de Groot Ronald , Verkooyen Roel P.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted pathogen in adults, which at delivery may be transmitted from mother to child and cause conjunctivitis and pneumonia. In the Netherlands, prenatal chlamydial screening and treatment of pregnant women is not routine practice. The contribution of C trachomatis to neonatal ophthalmic disease has not been studied in the Netherlands and remains unclear.

METHODS. At the Sophia Children's Hospital and Rotterdam Eye Hospital, 2 cohorts of infants <3 months of age presenting with conjunctivitis were studied, 1 retrospectively (July 1996 to July 2001) and 1 prospectively (September 2001 to September 2002). Laboratory diagnosis was based on bacterial culture and polymerase chain reaction for C trachomatis.

RESULTS. C trachomatis was detected in 27 (64%) of 42 retrospectively studied infants and 14 (61%) of 23 prospectively studied infants. Mucopurulent discharge was present in 35 (95%) of 37, swelling of the eyes in 27 (73%) of 37, conjunctival erythema in 24 (65%) of 37, respiratory symptoms in 14 (38%) of 37, and feeding problems in 5 (14%) of 37 infants respectively. Before microbiological diagnosis, general practitioners prescribed antichlamydial antibiotics locally to 5 (12%) of 41 and systemically to 4 (10%) of 41 infants who tested positive for chlamydia, and ophthalmologists prescribed to 21 (51%) of 41 and 7 (17%) of 41, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS. C trachomatis was the major cause of bacterial conjunctivitis in this population. Clinically, differentiation from other pathogens was not possible. Many infants who tested positive for chlamydia did not receive appropriate antibiotic treatment.