bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An audit designed to assess the need for planned pretreatment PEG placement in patients with stage III & stage IV oral cancer
Authors: Dawson F.R. , Jackson M. , MacGregor C.A. , Soutar D.S. , Robertson A.G. , Camilleri I.
Published: November 2004

Background:  Nutritional support is a crucial and challenging part of treatment for patients with oral cancer. The aim of this audit was to assess the need for planned pretreatment percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement in this group of patients and to assess diet consistency as a predictor of poor outcomes.

Method:  This was a retrospective study of 77 consecutive patients with stage III and IV squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity treated by radical surgery and post‐operative radiotherapy between January 1999 and December 2001. Information was taken from dietitians’ records. Patients were divided into two groups according to survival: group 1 (40 patients) comprised nonsurvivors and group 2 (37 patients), survivors. All patients were enterally fed post‐operatively. After approximately 10 days, swallowing was assessed and, if deemed competent, patients progressed to a fluid diet. Tube feeding was gradually reduced and then stopped when oral nutrition was sufficient to maintain weight. Patients progressed to soft diet as they were able. During radiotherapy, liquid diet or tube feeding was instigated as required.

Results:  In group 1, 65% required tube feeding for less than 30 days (mean 17 days), 20% for 31–100 days (mean 51 days) and 15% for over 100 days (mean 231 days). The overall mean length of tube feeding was 97 days. Thirty‐eight per cent of nonsurvivors developed recurrence and went on to subsequent operations necessitating further tube feeding for an average of 129 days. In group 2, 70% were tube fed for less than 30 days (mean 11 days), 14% for between 31–100 days (mean 43 days), and 17% for more than 100 days. The overall mean length of tube feeding was 72 days. The dietary consistency of nonsurvivors was worse than survivors throughout treatment. At first presentation, only 37% of nonsurvivors managed a normal diet, 8% managed a near normal diet and 3% required tube feeding, whereas 48% of survivors managed a normal diet and 16% a near normal diet. At 1 year, there was a significant difference between the two groups’ diets. No patients in group 1 managed a normal or near normal diet, whilst 62% required tube feeding. In group 2, 12 and 32% managed a normal and near normal diet, respectively and only 9% required or wished to remain on tube feeding to supplement their diet. Five per cent of patients in this group remained nil by mouth due to fistula.

Conclusion:  Deciding whether a patient has a naso‐gastric tube, PEG or radiologically inserted gastrostomy tube placed can be a difficult decision. However, a gastrostomy should be considered prior to treatment in patients whose diet is of poor consistency at presentation or who have an inadequate oral intake to maintain or increase weight and in those with a fistula, expected slow recovery of swallowing function, for example, pharyngeal tumour or undergoing brachytherapy or chemoradiotherapy.
National institute for clinical excellence (NICE) guidance for anti‐obesity medication: is it being followed?
Authors: Hayton B.
Published: November 2004

Background:  Anti‐obesity medication is being used increasingly by some general practitioners (GP) for obesity management (Lawrence, 2002). The aim of this audit was to identify whether the anti‐obesity medication prescribed by GPs was in accordance with the NICE guidance (NICE, 2001a,b).

Method:  The medical notes and electronic patient records of 154 patients prescribed either orlistat or sibutramine between September 2002 and April 2003, were examined. Information about patients’ weight, previous weight loss, previous dietary and physical activity advice, behaviour modification, time on medication, weight loss achieved and blood pressure were recorded and comparisons made with the NICE guidance.

Results: 

NICE guidance
Orlistat (n = 103)
Sibutramine (n = 51)

Only for individuals who have lost at least 2.5 kg in the preceding month
20% achieved this weight loss
56% attempted to lose weight

BMI calculated
66% calculated
71% calculated

Dietary advice given
80% received advice
49% received advice

Physical activity discussed
36% physical activity discussed
26% physical activity discussed

Behavioural modification
10% documented
0% documented

Weight loss after starting drug

 4 weeks
None required by NICE
22% lost at least 2 kg weight

 3 months
17% patients lost >5% of initial body weight
16% patients lost >5% of initial body weight

 6 months
3% lost >10% of initial body weight
8% lost >10% initial body weight

Blood pressure /pulse rate monitoring
None required
74% BP initially checked; 20% BP >145/90 mm Hg; 9% pulse rate checked

No more than 12 months on medication
8% patients prescribed for >12 months
4% patients prescribed for >12 months

BMI, body mass index; BP, blood pressure.

Conclusion:  The results show that the majority of patients prescribed with orlistat and sibutramine are not treated in accordance with the NICE guidance. The recommendation is that GPs are given further training about the optimum treatment associated with the prescription of anti‐obesity medication.

References: Lawrence, G. (2002) Prescribing Advisor. Personal communication.

NICE (2001a) NHS National Institute for Clinical ExcellenceGuidance. Technology Appraisal Guidance No 22. Guidance on the use of orlistat for the treatment of obesity.

NICE (2001b) NHS National Institute for Clinical Excellence Guidance. Technology Appraisal Guidance No 31. Guidance on the use of sibutramine for the treatment of obesity.
The coping of an adolescent who has been in psychiatric inpatient care and her mother in everyday life
Authors: PUOTINIEMI T. A. , KYNGÄS H. A.
Published: November 2004

The purpose of this study was to describe the coping of an adolescent girl who had been psychiatric inpatient care and her mother in everyday life. The case study design was used to gain intimate knowledge of the persons’ condition, thoughts, feelings, actions, intentions and environment. The data were collected by interviewing the adolescent and her mother during 1999–2001. The informants were interviewed three times. The data were analysed by inductive content analysis. Six categories were formulated to describe the coping demands faced by the adolescent who had been in psychiatric inpatient care. They were: suicidal behaviour, failing mental health, narrow social network, weakening sense of reality, low self‐esteem and negative feedback from others. Her coping strategies were hobbies, praying and occasionally withdrawal into a fantasy world. Emotional support was her most important coping resource. The coping demands faced by the mother concerned her daughter's aggressive behaviour, withdrawal from personal relationships and inability to concentrate. The mother worried about her daughter's unstable mental health and future. She was also extremely concerned about the relationships between the family members. On top of everything else, the mother developed new somatic diseases. The mother took care of herself by studying and doing handiwork. Social life was very important to her. Her main coping resource was emotional support. She got emotional support from friends and members of the family. The family had previously kept in touch with friends, but the husband had broken off all contacts.
Perspectives of a nurse, a social worker and a psychiatrist regarding patient assessment in acute inpatient psychiatry settings: a case study approach
Authors: HAMILTON B. , MANIAS E. , MAUDE P. , MARJORIBANKS T. , COOK K.
Published: November 2004

This case study explores what informs and organizes the assessment of patients, as undertaken by a nurse, a social worker and a psychiatrist in public, metropolitan, acute mental health service settings. The research data are the transcripts of in‐depth interviews with three experienced practitioners, one from each of the three disciplines. The analysis draws on Foucauldian concepts: discourse as constructed through practices of discipline and the gaze. We explored examples of taken‐for‐granted assessment practices and their interplay with discourse. The findings suggest that participating practitioners use language in assessment in ways that support the powerful discourses of the professional disciplines. The competing discourse of management, associated with industry and economics, is evident in hospital admission processes, dictating the times and places of assessment. Professional and management discourses both effectively marginalize the perspective of another player in assessment, the patient.
Quality of life: a basis for clinical decision‐making in community psychiatric care
Authors: CLARK E. H.
Published: November 2004

This descriptive study used grounded theory methodology to illuminate how the concept of quality of life influences the practice of community psychiatric nurses caring for individuals with serious mental illnesses. In‐depth interviews captured the practice wisdom of expert nurses. Data were verified through focus groups, member checks and peer debriefing. The constant comparative method was used to categorize data and identify key themes and concepts. Informants regarded the concept of quality of life as central to nursing practice. They cited examples of how it serves as a goal and philosophy of care, a basis for forming relationships, and a lens through which the nursing role becomes clearer. Quality of life is acknowledged to be a subjective concept. It is assessed in light of the individual's hopes, dreams and values, and within the context of his or her whole life. A quality of life focus is supported by the philosophies of holism and empowerment. Nurses promote quality of life through symptom management, educating and advocating for clients. Minimizing barriers to quality of life and helping the individual to have a broader vision of what his or her life could be, are also central to the psychiatric nursing role.
Phylogeography ofBufo fowleriat its northern range limit
Authors: SMITH M. A. , GREEN D. M.
Published: November 2004

Many of the species that recolonized previously glaciated areas in the Great Lakes basin of North America over the past 10–12 000 years exhibit genetic evidence of multiple invasion routes and present‐day secondary contact between deeply divergent lineages. With this in mind, we investigated the phylogeographical structure of genetic variability in Fowler's toads (Bufo fowleri) at the northern edge of its distribution where its range encircles the Lake Erie basin. BecauseB. fowleriis so closely tied to habitats along the Lake Erie shoreline, we would expect to find clear evidence of the number of invasions leading to the species’ colonization of the northern shore. A 540 bp sequence from the mitochondrial control region was amplified and analysed for 158 individuals from 21 populations. Interpopulation sequence variation ranged from 0% to 6%. Phylogenetic analysis of p‐distance using the neighbor‐joining method revealed two deeply divergent (6% sequence divergence) mtDNA lineages (Phylogroup 1 and 2), possibly arising as a result of secondary contact of populations that entered the region from two separate glacial refugia. However, the phylogeographical pattern was not simple. The populations at Long Point, on the north shore of Lake Erie, clustered with the population from Indiana Dunes on Lake Michigan to form Phylogroup 2 whereas all otherB. fowleripopulations examined from both sides of Lake Erie constituted Phylogroup 1. Furthermore, mtDNA sequences from the related speciesBufo americanus,obtained from populations outside the range ofB. fowleri, clustered with mtDNA haplotypes ofB. fowleriPhylogroup 1, indicating the possibility of partial introgression of mitochondria from one species to the other.
Population genetics and phylogeography of endangered Oxytropis campestris var. chartacea and relatives: arctic‐alpine disjuncts in eastern North America
Authors: CHUNG MELISSA , GELEMBIUK GREG , GIVNISH THOMAS J.
Published: November 2004

Fassett's locoweed (Oxytropis campestris var. chartacea, Fabaceae) is an endangered perennial endemic to Wisconsin. Patterns of genetic variation within and among six remaining populations and their relationship to other members of the O. campestris complex were analysed using AFLPs from 140 accessions across northern North America. Within‐population measures of genetic diversity were high (mean expected heterozygosity HE = 0.16; mean nucleotide diversity π = 0.015) compared with other herbaceous plants. Estimates of among‐population differentiation were low (FST = 0.12; ΦST = 0.29), consistent with outcrossing. Genetic and geographical distances between populations were significantly correlated within Fassett's locoweed (r2 = 0.73, P < 0.002 for Mantel test) and O. campestris as a whole (r2 = 0.63, P < 0.0001). Individual and population‐based phylogenetic analyses showed that Fassett's locoweed is monophyletic and sister to O. campestris var. johannensis. Morphometric analyses revealed significant differences between Fassett's locoweed and populations of var. johannensis. The first chromosome count for Fassett's locoweed indicates that it is tetraploid (2n = 32), unlike hexaploid var. johannensis. High within‐population diversity and relatively low among‐population differentiation are consistent with populations of Fassett's locoweed being relicts of a more continuous Pleistocene distribution. Our data support the continued recognition of Fassett's locoweed and protection under federal and state regulations. High levels of genetic diversity within populations suggest that maintain‐ing the ecological conditions that favour the life cycle of this plant may be a more pressing concern than the erosion of genetic variation.
New evidence for parallel evolution of colour patterns in Malagasy poison frogs (Mantella)
Authors: CHIARI Y. , VENCES M. , VIEITES D. R. , RABEMANANJARA F. , BORA P. , RAMILIJAONA RAVOAHANGIMALALA O. , MEYER A.
Published: November 2004

Malagasy poison frogs of the genus Mantella are diurnal and toxic amphibians of highly variable and largely aposematic coloration. Previous studies provided evidence for several instances of homoplastic colour evolution in this genus but were unable to sufficiently resolve relationships among major species groups or to clarify the phylogenetic position of several crucial taxa. Here, we provide cytochrome b data for 143 individuals of three species in the Mantella madagascariensis group, including four newly discovered populations. Three of these new populations are characterized by highly variable coloration and patterns but showed no conspicuous increase of haplotype diversity which would be expected under a scenario of secondary hybridization or admixture of chromatically uniform populations. Several populations of these variable forms and of M. crocea were geographically interspersed between the distribution areas of Mantella aurantiaca and Mantella milotympanum. This provides further support for the hypothesis that the largely similar uniformly orange colour of the last two species evolved in parallel. Phylogenies based on over 2000 bp of two nuclear genes (Rag‐1 and Rag‐2) identified reliably a clade of the Mantella betsileo and Mantella laevigata groups as sister lineage to the M. madagascariensis group, but did not support species within the latter group as monophyletic. The evolutionary history of these frogs might have been characterized by fast and recurrent evolution of colour patterns, possibly triggered by strong selection pressures and mimicry effects, being too complex to be represented by simple bifurcating models of phylogenetic reconstruction.
Grounded citizens’ juries: a tool for health activism?
Authors: Kashefi Elham , Mort Maggie
Published: November 2004

Involving the public in decision‐making has become a bureaucratic pre‐occupation for every health agency in the UK. In this paper we offer an innovative approach for local participation in health decision‐making through the development of a ‘grounded’ citizens’ jury. We describe the process of one such jury commissioned by a Primary Care Group in the north‐west of England, which was located in an area suffering intractable health inequalities. Twelve local people aged between 17 and 70 were recruited to come together for a week to hear evidence, ask questions and debate what they felt would improve the health and well‐being of people living in the area. The jury process acted effectively as a grass‐roots health needs assessment and amongst other outcomes, resulted in the setting up of a community health centre run by a board consisting of members of the community (including two jurors) together with local agencies. The methodology described here contrasts with that practiced by what we term ‘the consultation industry’, which is primarily interested in the use of fixed models to generate the public view as a standardized output, a product, developed to serve the needs of an established policy process, with little interest in effecting change. We outline four principles underpinning our approach: deliberation, integration, sustainability and accountability. We argue that citizens’ juries and other consultation initiatives need to be reclaimed from that which merely serves the policy process and become ‘grounded’, a tool for activism, in which local people are agents in the development of policies affecting their lives.
Structural and immunogenicity analysis of chimeric B‐cell epitope constructs derived from the gp46 and gp21 subunits of the envelope glycoproteins of HTLV‐1
Authors: Sundaram R. , Beebe M. , Kaumaya P. T. P.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  B‐cell epitopes were selected from the gp21 and gp46 subunits of the envelope glycoprotein of human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) by computer‐aided analyses of protein antigenicity. Molecular modeling was used to design and synthesize the epitopes as chimeric constructs with promiscuous T‐helper epitopes derived either from the tetanus toxoid (amino acids 947–967) or measles virus fusion protein (amino acids 288–302). Circular dichroism measurements revealed that the peptides had a secondary structure that correlated well with the crystal structure data or predicted structure. The chimeric peptides were then evaluated for their immunogenicity in rabbits or mice. Antibodies against one of the epitopes derived from the gp21 subunit were found to be neutralizing in its ability to inhibit the formation of virus‐induced syncytia. These studies underscore the importance of the gp21 transmembrane region for the development of vaccine candidates. The applicability of a chimeric approach is discussed in the context of recent findings regarding the role of gp21 transmembrane region in the viral fusion process.
A combined extended and helical backbone for Boc‐(Ala‐Leu‐Ac7c‐)2‐OMe*
Authors: Karle I.L. , Prasad S. , Balaram P.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  The structure of the peptide Boc‐Ala‐Leu‐Ac7c‐Ala‐Leu‐Ac7c‐OMe (Ac7c,1‐aminocycloheptane‐1‐carboxylic acid) is described in crystals. The presence of two Ac7c residues was expected to stabilize a 310‐helical fold. Contrary to expectation the structural analysis revealed an unfolded amino terminus, with Ala(1) adopting an extended β‐conformation (φ = −93°,ψ = 112°). Residues 2–5 form a 310‐helix, stabilized by three successive intramolecular hydrogen bonds. Notably, two NH groups Ala(1) and Ac7c(3) do not form any hydrogen bonds in the crystal. Peptide assembly appears to be dominated by packing of the cycloheptane rings that stack against one another within the molecule and also throughout the crystal in columns.
Absence of humoral and cellular alloreactivity in baboons sensitized to pig antigens
Authors: Baertschiger R. M. , Dor F. J. M. F. , Prabharasuth D. , Kuwaki K. , Cooper D. K. C.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Aim:  to study whether sensitization to pig antigens results in humoral and/or cellular sensitization to alloantigens in baboons, and thus increases the risks of organ allotransplantation after xenotransplantation. Serum from baboons that were naive (n = 4), sensitized to Galα1,3Gal (Gal) antigens (n = 2), or sensitized to Gal + non‐Gal pig antigens (n = 2) were tested by flow cytometry for the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies that bind to pig or baboon peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Two allosensitized baboons were used as positive controls. The same 10 sera were tested in a complement‐mediated cytotoxicity assay to detect cytotoxic antibodies against pig, allo and self‐PBMC. The T‐cell responses of the same baboons to allogeneic and pig PBMC stimulators in mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) were studied. All baboon sera contained cytotoxic antibodies that bound to pig PBMC. Binding and cytotoxicity were higher in xenosensitized baboons, particularly in those sensitized to Gal + non‐Gal antigens (P < 0.001). None of the naive or xenosensitized baboon sera bound to baboon PBMC. Serum from allosensitized baboons showed anti‐baboon IgG and IgM binding, but there was no increase in binding to pig PBMC or in cytotoxicity to pig cells. The MLR response to pig stimulators in baboons sensitized to non‐Gal pig antigens was greater than that of naive or Gal‐sensitized baboons (P < 0.001), but there was no increase in the response to baboon cells. In baboons, no in vitro evidence that a previous pig xenograft might endanger the outcome of a subsequent allograft was documented.
Blockade of indirect recognition mediated by CD4+ T cells leads to prolonged cardiac xenograft survival
Authors: Singh Narendra P. , Guo Luping , Que Xingyi , Shirwan Haval
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  The T‐cell response to xenografts is induced by direct and indirect recognition of xenoantigens. Although the importance of indirect recognition is well established in vitro, the contribution of this pathway to xenograft rejection in vivo remains to be fully elucidated. We herein investigated the direct contribution of indirect recognition to cardiac xenograft rejection in the rat‐to‐mouse (PVG.R8‐to‐C57BL/10) concordant model. Rat xenoantigens invoked a vigorous proliferative response in mouse T cells harvested from naïve or graft recipients at rejection. Indirect recognition predominated the response, as antibodies against mouse class II I‐Ab, CD80, or CD86 molecules significantly (45 to 60%) blocked the proliferative response. Importantly, the blockade of indirect recognition in vivo by treating the graft recipients with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against class II I‐Ab molecule on days 0, 1, and 3 post‐transplantation resulted in significant (P < 0.009) prolongation of cardiac xenograft survival (Mean Survival Time (MST) >94 ± 55 days vs. 7 ± 0.8 days for controls). In contrast, treatment of recipients with a mAb against mouse class I H‐2Kb/Db molecules did not significantly affect graft rejection (MST = 8 ± 1 days). These results demonstrate that indirect recognition mediated by CD4+ T cells plays a critical role in the rejection of cardiac grafts in the rat‐to‐mouse xenogeneic model.
Enhanced expression of glutathione peroxidase protects islet β cells from hypoxia‐reoxygenation
Authors: Lepore Diana A. , Shinkel Trixie A. , Fisicaro Nella , Mysore Tharun B. , Johnson Lucinda E. A. , D'Apice Anthony J. F. , Cowan Peter J.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  The survival of pancreatic islet β–cell xenografts and allografts may be affected by damaging reactive oxygen and nitrogen species generated during hypoxia‐reoxygenation. Peroxynitrite, which is formed from superoxide and nitric oxide, appears to be an important mediator of β‐cell destruction. The intracellular antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase‐1 (Gpx‐1) and copper–zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZn SOD) detoxify peroxynitrite and superoxide, respectively. The aim of this study was to examine whether enhanced expression of Gpx‐1 and/or CuZn SOD protected NIT‐1 mouse insulinoma cells from hypoxia–reoxygenation injury. Stable transfectants expressing human Gpx‐1 or CuZn SOD were isolated and tested for their resistance to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and menadione, which generates superoxide intracellularly. Clones expressing one or both enzymes were subjected to hypoxia in glucose‐free medium for 18 h, followed by reoxygenation in complete medium for 1.5 h. Cell viability was measured using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) reduction assay. Increases of up to two fold in Gpx or total SOD activity protected NIT‐1 cells from H2O2 and menadione. Expression of Gpx‐1 significantly increased NIT‐1 survival following hypoxia‐reoxygenation (viability 65 ± 9% vs. control 15 ± 3%, P < 0.001) but CuZn SOD expression had no effect (15 ± 1%). Expression of both enzymes was no more protective (60 ± 6%) than expression of Gpx‐1 alone. Genetic manipulation of islet β cells to increase expression of Gpx‐1 may protect them from oxidative injury associated with the transplantation procedure.
Initial investigation of the potential of modified porcine erythrocytes for transfusion in primates
Authors: Eckermann Jan M. , Buhler Leo H. , Zhu Alex , Dor Frank J. M. F. , Awwad Michel , Cooper David K. C.
Published: November 2004

Abstract: There is a shortage of human blood for transfusion. The possibility of usingα‐galactosidase‐treated pig red blood cells (pRBCs) for transfusion into humans has been investigated. pRBCs were treated in vitro withα‐galactosidase. In vitro binding of antibodies (Abs) in baboon or human sera to untreated/treated pRBCs was assessed by flow cytometry and serum cytotoxicity. In vivo clearance rates of (1) autologous baboon red blood cells (RBCs), (2) unmodified pRBCs, and (3)α‐galactosidase‐treated pRBCs were measured after transfusion into baboons receiving either no treatment or depletion of complement ± depletion of anti‐Galα1–3Gal (Gal) Ab or of macrophage phagocytes. In vitro binding of baboon or human Abs to treated pRBCs was absent or minimal compared with untreated pRBCs, and serum cytotoxicity was completely inhibited. In vivo autologous baboon RBCs survived for >16 days and unmodified pRBCs for <15 min in an untreated baboon. Treated pRBCs survived for 2 h in an untreated baboon, for 24 h in a complement‐depleted baboon, and for 72 h when the baboon was depleted of both complement and anti‐Gal Ab, or of complement and macrophage phagocytes. All baboons, however, became sensitized to Gal antigens. Failure to prolong the in vivo survival of treated pRBCs could be due to inadequate removal of Gal epitopes because sensitization to Gal developed, or could imply other, as yet unidentified, causes for RBC destruction. To fully assess the potential of pRBC transfusion in humans, more completeα‐galactosidase treatment of pRBCs will be required.
A perspective on the use of psychoeducation, cognitive‐behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy for bipolar patients
Authors: Colom Francesc , Vieta Eduard
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  Although pharmacological treatment is at present essential for treating bipolar patients, a number of psychological interventions have recently been shown to be efficacious as add‐on therapies for the prophylactic treatment of bipolar illness. The study aimed critically to examine the efficacy of several tested patient‐focused therapies.

Methods:  A systematic review of the literature on this topic was performed, using MEDLINE, PSYCLIT and CURRENT CONTENTS. ‘Bipolar’, ‘Psychotherapy’, ‘Psychoeducation’, ‘Interpersonal’ and ‘Cognitive‐behavioral’ were entered as keywords.

Results:  To date, psychoeducation and cognitive‐behavioral therapy are the psychological interventions that have been shown to be more efficacious in the prophylaxis of new recurrences. There remains a need for studies investigating the role and efficacy of psychological interventions during acute phases of the illness.

Conclusions:  As their therapeutic goals are complementary, a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy may allow patients to achieve better symptomatic and functional recovery. Further research is needed to determine which patients may be better candidates for psychological interventions and to estimate the relative effects of the different components of psychological approaches on outcome.
A functional MRI study of working memory task in euthymic bipolar disorder: evidence for task‐specific dysfunction
Authors: Monks Paul J , Thompson Jill M , Bullmore Edward T , Suckling John , Brammer Michael J , Williams Steve CR , Simmons Andrew , Giles Nicola , Lloyd Adrian J , Louise Harrison C , Seal Marc , Murray Robin M , Nicol Ferrier I , Young Allan H , Curtis Vivienne A
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  Even when euthymic bipolar disorder patients can have persistent deficits in working memory, but the neural basis of this deficit remains unclear. We undertook an functional magnetic resonance imaging investigation of euthymic bipolar disorder patients performing two working memory paradigms; the two‐back and Sternberg tasks, selected to examine the central executive and the phonological loop respectively. We hypothesized that neuronal dysfunction would be specific to the network underlying the executive rather than the phonological loop component of working memory.

Methods:  Twelve right‐handed euthymic bipolar I males receiving lithium carbonate monotherapy were matched with 12 controls. The two‐back task comprised a single working memory load contrasted with baseline vigilance condition. The Sternberg paradigm used a parametric design incorporating variable working memory load with fixed delay between presentation of an array of items to be remembered and a target item. Functional activation data were acquired during performance of the tasks and were analysed to produce brain activation maps representing significant group differences in activation (ANOVA). Load–response curves were derived from the Sternberg task data set.

Results:  There were no significant between‐group differences (t‐test) in performance of the two‐back task, or in 2 × 5 group by memory load ANOVA for the performance data from Sternberg task. In the two‐back task, compared with controls bipolar disorder patients showed reductions in bilateral frontal, temporal and parietal activation, and increased activations with the left precentral, right medial frontal and left supramarginal gyri. No between‐group differences were observed in the Sternberg task at any working memory load.

Conclusions:  Our findings support the notion that, in euthymic bipolar disorder, failure to engage fronto‐executive function underpins the core neuropsychological deficits.
Posttraumatic stress disorder in patients with bipolar disorder: a review of prevalence, correlates, and treatment strategies
Authors: Otto Michael W , Perlman Carol A , Wernicke Rachel , Reese Hannah E , Bauer Mark S , Pollack Mark H
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  In this article, we review the evidence for, and implications of, a high rate of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Methods:  We reviewed studies providing comorbidity data on patients with bipolar disorder, and also examined the PTSD literature for risk factors and empirically supported treatment options for PTSD.

Results:  Studies of bipolar patients have documented elevated rates of PTSD. Based on our review, representing 1214 bipolar patients, the mean prevalence of PTSD in bipolar patients is 16.0% (95% CI: 14–18%), a rate that is roughly double the lifetime prevalence for PTSD in the general population. Risk factors for PTSD that are also characteristic of bipolar samples include the presence of multiple axis I disorders, greater trauma exposure, elevated neuroticism and lower extraversion, and lower social support and socio‐economic status.

Conclusions:  These findings are discussed in relation to the cost of PTSD symptoms to the course of bipolar disorder. Pharmacological and cognitive‐behavioral treatment options are reviewed, with discussion of modifications to current cognitive‐behavioral protocols for addressing PTSD in individuals at risk for mood episodes.
Guidelines for maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder: are there discrepancies between European and North American recommendations?
Authors: Vestergaard Per
Published: November 2004

Practice policies and guidelines for the long‐term management of bipolar patients have appeared in many parts of Europe and North America. Although recommendations in most areas do concur remarkable differences are apparent both regarding diagnostic practice and pharmacological management. Differences among recommendations point towards professional and cultural differences between Europe and North America but also towards areas with unresolved research questions and lack of scientific evidence.
Parasitized Male Field Crickets Exhibit Reduced Trilling Bout Rates and Durations
Authors: Xochitl Orozco S. , Bertram Susan M.
Published: November 2004

The reproductive compensation hypothesis suggests that recently parasitized animals could offset future reproductive losses by increasing their current reproductive effort. We test this hypothesis by determining how male Texas field crickets (Gryllus texensis) alter their mate attraction displays following parasitism by acoustically orienting female parasitoid flies Ormia ochracea (Diptera, Tachinidae, Ormiini). Larval tachinid parasitoids cause little damage in phase I of host infestation. However, substantial host damage occurs in phase II, which results in parasitoid emergence and host death. We predicted that recently parasitized crickets would increase their mate attraction behaviour over pre‐parasitism levels to enhance their abilities to attract a mate in phase I. Contrary to our prediction, during phase I neither total signalling time, trilling bout duration, trilling bout rate or amplitude changed from pre‐parasitism levels. During phase II male crickets had significantly reduced total signalling times, and produced calls of significantly shorter duration at significantly slower trilling bout rates. Our results suggest that male Texas field crickets do not compensate for their shortened lifespan by increasing their reproductive effort following parasitism.
A Test of the Effect of Male Song on Female Nesting Behaviour in the Serin (Serinus serinus): a Field Playback Experiment
Authors: Mota Paulo G. , Depraz Violaine
Published: November 2004

It is well established, through laboratory experiments, that male song in birds can stimulate female reproductive activity, affecting their behaviour and physiology, such as follicular growth, nest building and egg‐laying. However no clear demonstration has yet been provided that this effect works under natural conditions. Previous work in natural populations of serins showed that female nest‐building behaviour correlated with male singing time. Furthermore male serin song peaked exactly in the day that rapid follicular growth was estimated to start in females, suggesting that in this species song may also serve to stimulate the female's reproductive development. Direct causal evidence, however, was lacking. We conducted field playback experiments to investigate how song can influence female nesting activity during nest building. Our results show that females who listened daily to playbacks of serin songs, during the nest‐building stage, spent more time nest building than females that were not exposed to additional songs. Moreover, the singing behaviour of the mated males was not affected by the playbacks, suggesting that the song playback treatment had a direct positive effect on female nesting behaviour.
Management of Italian and Perennial Ryegrasses for Seed and Forage Production in Crop Rotations
Authors: Kunelius H. T. , McRae K. B. , Dürr G. H. , Fillmore S. A. E.
Published: November 2004

Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and perennial ryegrass (L. perenne L.) can be grown for seed and forage in cold winter regions provided the stand persists well over winter. Seed yield and plant characteristics during primary growth, and forage yield during regrowth, were determined for two Italian and one perennial ryegrass cultivars in Atlantic Canada. Establishment methods and dates included sowing ryegrass in cultivated soil alone or with barley in mid‐May and, after harvesting the barley crop, by sowing ryegrass following conventional or reduced cultivation and by no‐till drilling into barley stubble in mid‐August and early September. Despite some winterkill, particularly in Italian ryegrass, seed and forage yields were adequate in post‐establishment growing seasons. Seed yield for Italian ryegrass was greatest (1270 kg ha−1) when it was sown into cultivated soil in mid‐August and least (890 kg ha−1) when sown alone in May. Italian ryegrass yielded 15–17 % more seed when plots were established in mid‐August rather than in mid‐May or early September. Italian ryegrass cv. Lemtal had a greater density of fertile tillers (1030 m−2) in the sward than cv. Ajax (860 m−2) and its tiller density was greater when seeded into cultivated soil in September than in mid‐August. There were fewer spikelets per seed head for sowing Italian ryegrass with barley in May than for the other methods of establishment. Forage yield in regrowth was greater for Italian ryegrass cv. Ajax (2770 kg ha−1) than for cv. Lemtal (2480 kg ha−1). Seed yield of perennial ryegrass was greater when seeded in mid‐May than in mid‐August or early September. The seed yield of perennial ryegrass was greater when it was sown with barley in May and harvested for grain, than when it was sown alone or with barley harvested at late milk stage. The establishment methods for mid‐August and early September sowing had little effect on seed yield. However, the no‐till and reduced tillage methods resulted in a greater tiller density than sowing into the cultivated seedbed. Fertile tillers tended to be denser under reduced cultivation for sowing in August. Forage yield of perennial ryegrass regrowth was not influenced by the sowing method and timing. In conclusion, Italian and perennial ryegrasses produce adequate seed and forage regrowth under different establishment methods and timing. However, the poor persistence of Italian ryegrass may limit commercial production after the establishment year in Atlantic Canada.
Effect of Water‐Deficit Stress on Germination and Early Seedling Growth in Sugar Beet
Authors: Sadeghian S. Y. , Yavari N.
Published: November 2004

Sugar beet progeny lines screened for both high water use efficiency and high sugar yield under drought stress conditions in the field were assessed for the rate of seed germination and early seedling growth in water deficit stress, induced by mannitol solutions. Seeds of nine different sugar beet progeny lines were grown in three experimental conditions using filter paper, perlite and water agar as substrate. Three levels of 0.0, 0.2 and 0.3 m mannitol concentrations were applied in each experiment. A factorial design was used with three replications. Germination percentage was determined in all experiments. Seedling growth parameters such as cotyledon fresh weight, cotyledon dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight (RDW) and root length (RL) were measured experimentally. Abnormality was only recorded in the filter paper experiment. The results showed that drought stress could be simulated by mannitol solution and significant differences were found between stress levels for seedling characteristics. Distinct genetic variances were found among progeny lines with respect to germination and early seedling growth characteristics, except for cotyledons and RDW. Seedling growth and germination rates severely declined at the highest concentration of mannitol. The rate of abnormality was increased progressively at the germination stage with an increase in mannitol concentration but it was more pronounced in the drought‐susceptible progeny lines. The highest values of relative germination % and relative growth % of RL were obtained for the most tolerant line. In conclusion, seedling characteristics, in addition to other physiological components involved in the seed germination process under specific stress conditions, may be considered for breeding purposes.
Plasma lipids, lipoprotein composition and profile during induction and treatment of hepatic lipidosis in cats and the metabolic effect of one daily meal in healthy cats
Authors: Blanchard G. , Paragon B. M. , Sérougne C. , Férézou J. , Milliat F. , Lutton C.
Published: November 2004

Anorexia in obese cats may result in feline hepatic lipidosis (FHL). This study was designed to determine plasma lipids and lipoprotein profiles in queens at different stages during experimental induction of FHL (lean, obese, FHL), and after 10 weeks of treatment. Results were compared with those obtained from lean queens of same age fed the same diet but at a maintenance level, once a day. Hepatic lipidosis led to an increase in plasma triacylglycerol (TG), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL), and an enrichment of LDL with TG and of high density lipoprotein (HDL) with cholesterol, suggesting that VLDL secretion is enhanced, VLDL and LDL catabolism is lowered, and lipoprotein exchanges are impaired in FHL. This study also showed that cholesterolaemia is increased in cats fed at a dietary rhythm of one meal per day compared toad libitumfeeding.
Energy metabolism and substrate oxidation in pigs during feeding, starvation and re‐feeding
Authors: Chwalibog A. , Tauson A‐H. , Thorbek G.
Published: November 2004

Energy metabolism and substrate oxidation was measured in 12 growing pigs by means of indirect calorimetry and nutrient balances. The measurements were carried out during 5 days of feeding followed by 4 days of starvation and 5 days of re‐feeding. During the feeding period, dietary carbohydrates were the main energy source, sufficient to cover energy requirements without oxidation of fat. Starvation reduced the total heat production and affected the oxidation pattern by reducing protein oxidation and shifting from carbohydrate to fat oxidation. On the second day of starvation, the main energy source was body fat and there was no oxidation of carbohydrate. On the second day of re‐feeding, the heat production reached the same level as during the feeding period. Also, during the second day of re‐feeding, the pattern of nutrient oxidation was similar to the feeding period with oxidation of carbohydrate providing 90% and oxidation of protein providing 10% of the total heat production. There was no fat oxidation. The results demonstrated that the growing pigs were able to re‐establish oxidative patterns already 2 days after re‐alimentation.
Evolution of blood parameters during weight loss in experimental obese Beagle dogs
Authors: Diez M. , Michaux C. , Jeusette I. , Baldwin P. , Istasse L. , Biourge V.
Published: November 2004

The effects of weight loss on hormonal and biochemical blood parameters were measured monthly [carnitine, creatinine, urea, free T4 (fT4), total T4 (TT4), plasma alkaline phosphatases (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), potassium and total proteins] or bimonthly [cholesterol, triglycerides, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA), insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I), glucose, insulin] in eight obese Beagles dogs fed either a high protein dry diet, DP (crude protein 47.5%, on dry matter basis) or a commercial high fibre diet, HF (crude protein 23.8%, crude fibre 23.3%). The dogs were allotted to two groups according to sex and body weight (BW) and they were respectively fed with the DP or the control HF diet during 12–26 weeks, until they reach their optimal BW. The plasma basal triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations were decreased by the two diets but the difference was only significant for the DP diet. The plasma mean NEFA concentration increased regularly over the period with the HF diet, without significant difference between the two diets. No effect of diet or weight loss was observed on plasma carnitine, urea, creatinine, ALP, AST, ALT, potassium, TT4, FT4, IGF‐I, glucose and insulin. Weight loss induced a decrease in fT4 plasma concentration (p < 0.001). The high protein diet allowed a safe weight loss.
Molecular markers in Brassica oilseed breeding: current status and future possibilities
Authors: Snowdon R. J. , Friedt W.
Published: November 2004

As PCR techniques have developed over the last 15 years, a wealth of new DNA marker technologies have arisen which have enabled the generation of high‐density molecular maps for all the major Brassica crop species. Molecular markers have also been heavily used in analyses of genetic diversity in Brassica crops. The majority of the work utilizing molecular markers in Brassica oilseed breeding has to date been based on genetic mapping using various DNA marker systems in segregating populations generated for specific investigations of particular traits of interest. For numerous qualitative traits, traditional mapping approaches have led to the development of marker‐assisted selection strategies in oilseed Brassica breeding, and in some cases to map‐based cloning of the responsible genes. For quantitative traits, however, it has become apparent that traditional mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) is often not sufficient to develop effective markers for trait introgression or for identification of the genes responsible. In this case, allele‐trait association studies in non‐structured genetic populations represent an interesting new approach, provided the degree of gametic phase disequilibrium between the QTL and the marker loci is sufficient. Because Brassica species represent the closest crop plant relatives to the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, significant progress will be achieved in the coming years through integration of candidate gene approaches in crop brassicas, using the detailed information now available for the Arabidopsis genome. Integration of information from the model plant with the increasing supply of data from physical mapping and sequencing of the diploid Brassica genomes will undoubtedly give great insight into the genetics underlying both simple and complex traits in oilseed rape. This review describes the current use of available genetic marker technologies in oilseed rape breeding and provides an outlook for use of new technologies, including single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers, candidate gene approaches and allele‐trait association studies.