bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiling of oxygen-modulated gene expression in early human placenta by systematic sequencing of suppressive subtractive hybridization products
Authors: Mondon Françoise , Mignot Thérèse-Marie , Rebourcet Régis , Jammes Hélène , Danan Jean-Louis , Ferré Françoise , Vaiman Daniel
Published: March 2005

Villi from first-trimester human placenta were exposed to oxygen concentrations of either 2 or 20% during 3 h to construct two reciprocally subtracted libraries using the suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH) methodology. After cloning, sequencing, and gene identification, the genes (1,071 clones corresponding to 822 different sequences) were classified according to 1) the subtracted library from which they originated and 2) within 58 groups of gene functions. We then developed a logarithm of the odds (LOD) test to identify a possible excess of genes in each group. We show that genes involved in angiogenesis are significantly overrepresented in the “hypoxic” condition (2% O2), whereas apoptotic genes are overrepresented in the “normoxic” condition (20% O2). Furthermore, we observed an excess of kinases relative to phosphatases and an excess of genes involved in proliferation over genes involved in cell growth in the hypoxic condition. To validate our results, we used quantitative RT-PCR to analyze the set of eight genes involved in angiogenesis on six independent placentas. Finally, we studied the distribution of gene clusters on human chromosomes to check whether their chromosomal distribution was random or not. We observed on human chromosome 11 a clear clustering of genes regulated similarly by O2tension, and we also discovered indications that such clustering exists on chromosomes 6 and 12.
Height, Weight, IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and Thyroid Functions in Prepubertal Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Effect of Methylphenidate Treatment
Authors: Bereket Abdullah , Turan Serap , Karaman M. Goksin , Haklar Goncagul , Ozbay Fatih , Yazgan M. Yanki
Published: March 2005

Objective: To investigate if there are any disease-related or methylphenidate-induced aberrations in growth parameters, growth hormone insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I, IGFBP-3 axis and the thyroid function tests in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods: Newly diagnosed and untreated prepubertal children with ADHD were longitudinally followed before and approximately every 4 months after methylphenidate treatment for up to 16 months. Height SDS, weight SDS, BMI SDS, serum GH, IGF-I, IGFBP-3, T4, free T4, T3, and TSH were measured at each visit. Results: All of the examined parameters were within normal limits for age before treatment. Methylphenidate treatment did not significantly affect SDS of height, weight, BMI, IGF-I and IGFBP-3 in the long run. Serum T4 and free T4 levels showed modest reductions within normal limits in a time-dependent manner. Conclusions: Prepubertal children with ADHD had normal height, weight, BMI, serum IGF-I and IGFBP-3 and thyroid functions. Methylphenidate treatment had no sustained effects on growth parameters, IGF-I and IGFBP-3 during the follow-up period of this study. However, it caused a mild decrease in total and free T4 which may warrant further monitoring.
Hereditary Paraganglioma/Pheochromocytoma and Inherited Succinate Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Favier Judith , Brière Jean-Jacques , Strompf Laurence , Amar Laurence , Filali Mounir , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Rustin Pierre , Gimenez-Roqueplo Anne-Paule
Published: March 2005

Mitochondrial complex II, or succinate dehydrogenase, is a key enzymatic complex involved in both the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and oxidative phosphorylation as part of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Germline succinate dehydrogenase subunit A (SDHA) mutations have been reported in a few patients with a classical mitochondrial neurodegenerative disease. Mutations in the genes encoding the three other succinate dehydrogenase subunits (SDHB, SDHC and SDHD) have been identified in patients affected by familial or ‘apparently sporadic’ paraganglioma and/or pheochromocytoma, an autosomal inherited cancer-susceptibility syndrome. These discoveries have dramatically changed the work-up and genetic counseling of patients and families with paragangliomas and/or pheochromocytomas. The subsequent identification of germline mutations in the gene encoding fumarase – another TCA cycle enzyme – in a new hereditary form of susceptibility to renal, uterine and cutaneous tumors has highlighted the potential role of the TCA cycle and, more generally, of the mitochondria in cancer.
Lack of Telomere Shortening with Age in Mouse Resting Zone Chondrocytes
Authors: Nwosu Benjamin U. , Nilsson Ola , Mitchum Jr. Robert D. , Coco Marilena , Barnes Kevin M. , Baron Jeffrey
Published: March 2005

Background and Aim: Telomeres are hexameric repeat sequences that flank eukaryotic chromosomes. The telomere hypothesis of cellular aging proposes that replication of normal somatic cells leads to progressive telomere shortening which induces replicative senescence. Previous studies suggest that growth plate chondrocytes have a finite proliferative capacity in vivo. We therefore hypothesized that telomere shortening in resting zone chondrocytes leads to replicative senescence. Method: To test this hypothesis we compared the telomere restriction fragment (TRF) length of Mus casteneus at 1, 4, 8, and 56 weeks of age. Results and Conclusions: We found that TRF length did not diminish measurably with age, suggesting that telomere shortening in resting zone chondrocytes is not the mechanism that limits proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes in vivo.
Ghrelin in Growth and Development
Authors: Chanoine J.-P.
Published: March 2005

Exogenous administration of ghrelin increases caloric intake and stimulates growth hormone (GH) secretion, two effects that are mediated through binding of ghrelin to the GH secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). In addition, ghrelin is thought to inhibit adipogenesis by GHS-R-independent mechanisms. In adults, ghrelin is mainly produced by the stomach. In contrast, in the fetal and early postnatal period, ghrelin gene expression is abundant in the pancreas but not in the stomach. While knockout animal studies demonstrate that ghrelin is not required for perinatal development under normal nutritional conditions, the characteristics of ghrelin metabolism during fetal development suggest that ghrelin could contribute to the programming of mechanisms involved in energy balance, such as β-cell maturation, orexigenic pathways and adipogenesis. In humans, ghrelin concentrations progressively decrease during childhood and adolescence, as well as with advancing puberty. In adolescents, similar to adults, ghrelin concentrations are inversely related to body mass index and to circulating insulin. One notable exception is the presence of elevated ghrelin concentrations in subjects with Prader-Willi syndrome, raising the possibility that ghrelin could be part of the etiology of excess food intake in this condition. These data raise a number of fascinating questions on the potential physiologic role of this hormone during growth and development.
Manifestation, Management and Molecular Analysis of Candidate Genes in Two Rare Cases of Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis
Authors: Schalin-Jäntti Camilla , Laine Tiina , Valli-Jaakola Kaisa , Lönnqvist Tuula , Kontula Kimmo , Välimäki Matti J.
Published: March 2005

Background: Hypokalemic periodic paralysis as a complication of thyrotoxicosis (THypoKPP) is common in Asians but not well recognized in Western countries or pediatric patients, where most cases are due to the familial variant (FHypoKPP). Ion channel gene mutations may underlie these diseases. We describe the first pediatric and a rare adult Caucasian case of THypoKPP in Finland. Methods: Manifestation and management of two THypoKPP cases. We studied for possible mutations in KCNE3, KCNJ2, SCN4A and CACNA1S genes. Results: A 15-year-old Vietnamese boy presented with sudden-onset paralysis and severe hypokalemia, 1.8 mmol/l. The case was first regarded as FHypoKPP, but thyroid function testing revealed a suppressed TSH and highly elevated FT4. A 37-year-old Caucasian male presented with acute tetraparesis. His plasma potassium was only 1.4 mmol/l. Treatment with carbimazole had been initiated two weeks earlier, but FT4 was still elevated. No mutations in KCNE3, KCNJ2, SCN4A or CACNA1S genes were detected. Conclusions: THypoKPP is a potentially life-threatening condition which bares many similarities with FHypoKPP. THypoKPP is rare in Western countries but should be considered in sudden-onset paralysis, independently of age and especially in males. Mutations in ion channel candidate genes did not underlie the disease in the present cases.
What Causes Increased Stroke Mortality in Patients with Prestroke Dementia?
Authors: Appelros Peter , Viitanen Matti
Published: March 2005

Background and Purpose: In patients with dementia, the incidence of stroke is higher and strokes are more severe and lethal. The purpose of this population-based study was to describe in what way previous dementia affects mortality in stroke patients. Methods: Subjects were all persons ≧65 years old who had a first-ever stroke during 1 year (n = 327). The prestroke dementia (PSD) diagnosis was made at the time of the stroke diagnosis using data from next of kin and from patient records. Patients were followed prospectively and causes of death were evaluated. Results: The 28-day case fatality was 44% for PSD patients and 15% for non-PSD patients. Corresponding ratios at 1 year were 71 and 36%, respectively. Twenty-eight percent of the PSD patients had a new stroke during the first year, compared to 8% of the non-PSD patients. More patients in the PSD group died as a direct or indirect consequence of their stroke. Multivariate analysis showed that PSD, in addition to age, atrial fibrillation and stroke severity, was an independent predictor of mortality. Conclusions: The PSD patients more often had a stroke-related death, even when we adjusted for a number of other factors. The cause for this is most likely multifactorial, including an increased tendency to contract complications in the acute phase, and iatrogenic causes. The brain of the PSD patients may also be frailer and more susceptible to ischemic or hemorrhagic damage than the nondemented brain.
What Has Diffusion Imaging in Animals Told Us about Diffusion Imaging in Patients with Ischaemic Stroke?
Authors: Rivers Carly S. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: March 2005

Background and Purpose: In acute ischaemic stroke, the amount (and type) of cellular damage underlying diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesion appearances is unclear.We summarized all information from experimental studies of DWI in focal ischaemia models. Methods: We systematically reviewed all published studies of DWI in focal ischaemic stroke models. We extracted key experimental details to determine correlations between histological features and DWI lesion characteristics. Results: Of 141 potentially eligible papers (including more than 2,817 animals, mostly rats), details of key experimental methods were unfortunately often omitted. Consistent findings amongst high-quality studies with blinded analysis included: neuronal damage persists or progresses despite early DWI lesion ‘normalisation’; the apparent diffusion coefficient is not very sensitive to the amount of neuronal damage; the ‘brighter’ the DWI lesion, the greater the neuronal damage; and the DWI lesion may reflect glial more than neuronal changes. Anaesthesia and fixation techniques may inadvertently affect these findings. Conclusions: The relationship between cellular damage and DWI lesion appearance, particularly recovery patterns in reperfusion experiments, remains imprecise. Key experimental details could be reported more completely and consistently. Potential problems from repeated anaesthetics need to be addressed. Early DWI lesion ‘recovery’ in acute stroke patients may largely reflect glial rather than neuronal ‘recovery’.
Hydrogen-Cyanamide-Related Severe Cutaneous Reactions Simulating Erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Inamadar Arun C. , Palit Aparna
Published: March 2005

Fifteen grapevine workers developed skin reactions resembling erythema multiforme (EM) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) following exposure to Dormex, a plant growth regulator, the active ingredient of which is hydrogen cyanamide. Five patients needed hospitalization, and all recovered following treatment. Whether these were contact EM-like reactions due to hydrogen cyanamide or classical EM, SJS-TEN induced by this chemical remains elusive. An awareness regarding the safe use of agricultural chemicals is needed among the general population.
Mild Cognitive Impairment: An Operational Definition and Its Conversion Rate to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Geslani Daphne M. , Tierney Mary C. , Herrmann Nathan , Szalai John P.
Published: March 2005

Objective: Because of discrepant findings regarding the accuracy of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in predicting Alzheimer’s disease (AD), further study of this construct and conversion rates is essential before use in clinical settings. We aimed to develop an operational definition of MCI consistent with criteria proposed by the Mayo Alzheimer’s Disease Center, and to examine its conversion rate to AD. Methods: Patients were identified from an inception cohort of patients with at least a 3-month history of memory problems, and referred to a 2-year university teaching hospital investigation by primary care physicians. We classified 161 nondemented patients at baseline using MCI criteria. Diagnostic workups were completed annually, and patients were classified as meeting criteria for AD or showing no evidence of dementia after 1 and 2 years. Results: Of 161 patients, 35% met MCI criteria at baseline. Conversion rates to AD were 41% after 1 year, and 64% after 2 years. Logistic regression analyses to examine predictive accuracy of MCI after 1 and 2 years, with age and education as covariates, were significant (p < 0.0001). After 1 year, MCI showed an optimal sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 79%, and after 2 years, these values were 88 and 83%, respectively. Conclusions: MCI is an accurate predictor of AD over 1 and 2 years in patients referred by their primary care physicians. Discrepancies in conversion rates may be due to the manner in which patients are recruited to studies as well as the use of different measures to operationalize the construct.
Follicular Cell-Derived Thyroid Cancer in Children
Authors: Leboulleux Sophie , Baudin Eric , Hartl Dana W. , Travagli Jean-Paul , Schlumberger Martin
Published: March 2005

Thyroid carcinoma is a rare disease in chidhood. The only known causative factor is radiation exposure during childhood. Most cases can be cured by surgery and eventually radioiodine. The aim of initial treatment should be the total removal of neoplastic foci with a minimal morbidity. Some cancer-related deaths have been reported decades after initial treatment.
Mal-Positioned Umbilical Venous Catheter Causing Liver Abscess in a Preterm Infant
Authors: Lam H.S. , Li A.M. , Chu W.C.W. , Yeung C.K. , Fok T.F. , Ng P.C.
Published: March 2005

Neonatal liver abscess is uncommon, carries a high mortality and is difficult to diagnose. We report an unusual case of liver abscess in a preterm infant presenting with abdominal distension and suspected gastrointestinal perforation, rather than the more usual features of fever, hepatomegaly, abdominal tenderness, right-sided pleural effusion, and leukocytosis. We discuss current treatments for neonatal liver abscess and argue that in view of the high mortality and difficulty in diagnosis, prevention should be the primary objective. We believe that mal-positioning the umbilical venous catheter in the liver substantially increases the life-threatening risk of this complication, and advocate extreme care in the placement and use of these catheters.
Overweight, Obesity and Body Fat Composition in Spanish Adolescents
Authors: Moreno Luis A. , Mesana María I. , Fleta Jesús , Ruiz Jonatan R. , González-Gross Marcela , Sarría Antonio , Marcos Ascensión , Bueno Manuel
Published: March 2005

Objective: To describe the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the Spanish adolescent population and its relationship with the socioeconomic status, and to assess their body fat composition and compare these results with previous data from our own country. Design: Cross-sectional multicenter study conducted in five Spanish cities (Granada, Madrid, Murcia, Santander and Zaragoza) in 2000–2002. Subjects: 2,320 adolescents with complete set of anthropometric measurements, 1,192 boys and 1,128 girls. Measurements: Body mass index calculated from weight and height measurements, and body fat percentage calculated from skinfold thickness measurements. Results: Overweight + obesity prevalences were 25.69 and 19.13% in boys and girls, respectively. Overweight + obesity prevalence increased in boys from high to medium-low socioeconomic status categories (p = 0.015); meanwhile, there was not a significant effect of socioeconomic status in girls. In males, overweight + obesity prevalence changed from 1985 to 2000–2002 from 13 to 35% and in females from 16 to 32%. The rate of change in overweight + obesity prevalences seems to increase in the last years; from 0.88 (1985 to 1995) to 2.33%/year (1995 to 2000–2002) in males and from 0.5 (1985 to 1995) to 1.83%/year (1995 to 2000–2002) in females. The rate of body fat percentage increase was similar between 1980 and 1995 and between 1995 and 2000–2002: 0.26 and 0.23%/year, respectively, at 13 years of age, and 0.16 and 0.17%/year, respectively, at 14 years of age. Conclusion: We observed elevated overweight and obesity prevalences in Spanish adolescents, similar to those observed in other European countries. There is a significant inverse relationship between socioeconomic status and overweight + obesity, but only in boys. The rate of change in overweight prevalence in Spanish adolescents seems to increase, and the rate of increase of body fat percentage seems to be similar as in previous years.
Adult Hypophosphatasia and a Low Level of Red Blood Cell Thiamine Pyrophosphate
Authors: Luong Khanh Vinh Quoc , Nguyen Lan Thi Hoang
Published: March 2005

Objective: To report the first adult case of hypophosphatasia and absence of intestinal alkaline phosphatase (ALP) isoenzymes associated with a low level of red blood cell thiamine pyrophosphate. Methods: We describe the clinical manifestation and laboratory findings in our patient and discuss underlying factors that potentially contribute to her condition. Results: A 33-year-old Vietnamese-American female was referred for a long history of low levels of serum ALP and absence of intestinal ALP isoenzyme. She had a normal level of urinary phosphoethanolamine and a high level of plasma pyridoxal-5p-phosphate. She was found to have a low level of red blood cell thiamine pyrophosphate. Conclusion: Our adult case of hypophosphatasia presented with an absence of intestinal ALP isoenzyme that might result in decreasing the absorption of thiamine in the intestinal tract. Therefore, the thiamine level should be considered in hypophosphatasia with absence of intestinal ALP isoenzyme.
Assessment of Body Composition and Breast Milk Volume in Lactating Mothers in Pastoral Communities in Pokot, Kenya, Using Deuterium Oxide
Authors: Ettyang G.A. , van Marken Lichtenbelt W.D. , Esamai F. , Saris W.H.M. , Westerterp K.R.
Published: March 2005

Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, the practice of breast-feeding infants is common. Records documenting the intake of breast milk amongst infants are limited. This study evaluated the association between maternal body composition and the intake of breast milk in infants from the pastoral communities within Pokot, Kenya. Methods: The study was conducted in 10 lactating mothers who were participating in a longitudinal study aimed at determining maternal body composition, iron stores and vitamin A status during the third trimester pregnancy and four months after they had given birth. Maternal and infant anthropometric measurements were made, and maternal blood samples were taken to determine serum retinol and ferritin levels. Infant milk intake and maternal fat-free mass (FFM) and percent body fat (% BF) were measured using ‘the dose to the mother method’. A measured deuterium oxide (2H2O) dose was given to the mother. Urine and breast milk from the mother, and saliva samples from the infant, were collected on days 1, 8 and 14 after dosing. Results: The mean (± SD) maternal mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and body mass index (BMI) were 21.8 (0.9) cm and 18.6 (1.0) kg/height (m2), respectively. Infant weight and weight/age Z score were 4.956 (0.874) kg and –1.750 (0.77), respectively. Throughout the study, the infants gained 20 (4) g/day in body weight and had a milk intake of 555 (22) ml/day. The energy intake of the infant was 1,602 (148) kJ/day and was lower (p < 0.05) than the 2,404 (423) kJ/day estimated requirement by the FAO/WHO/UNU. The maternal FFM, %BF, Hb, Hct, ferritin and retinol were 32.8 (3.1) kg, 17.24 (7.0), 11.5 (1.3) g/dl, 33.9 (4.9), 16.2 (0.1) µg/l and 0.894 (0.16) µmol/l, respectively. Infant milk intake was significantly and positively correlated to maternal pregnancy triceps (r = 0.679) p < 0.05) and pregnancy MUAC (r = 0.725) p < 0.05). Maternal pregnancy MUAC was an important predictor of infant breast milk intake. Conclusion: Data on volume of breast milk consumed by the infants suggests, at least for this group of infants, that adequate growth may not be achieved. There is a possibility that lactating mothers practicing exclusive breast-feeding and living under harsh conditions may experience periods of low breast milk volume. Body composition and biochemical findings among this group of Pokot mothers indicate dietary inadequacies that require nutritional intervention.
Ruminations on Smell as a Sociocultural Phenomenon
Authors: Low Kelvin E. Y.
Published: March 2005

This article looks at arguments concerning the supposed low status of smell in relation to the other senses to shed light on how smell has been perceived historically, across time. It also locates olfactory enquiries beyond scientific, biological concerns and argues for smell as a social medium present in our everyday life experiences. The article explores smell in the fields of history, anthropology, religion, gender and sociospatial analysis, enabling us to comprehend and critique theoretical/conceptual trajectories employed in social science research on olfaction. By looking at theoretical and methodological approaches towards an understanding of our olfactory capacities, ideas are developed about how one can ‘do’ a sociology of smell, where smell is perceived as a social intermediary that affects our ways of knowing, understanding and (re)creating social realities, premised upon the use of smell as a moral judgement of others. These ideas are exemplified through preliminary findings from an ongoing research project on the social construction(s) of smell in Singapore.
Alienation Incorporated: ‘F*** the Mainstream Music’ in the Mainstream
Authors: Halnon Karen Bettez
Published: March 2005

This article is about one of the most popular and profitable music styles in the United States and internationally, one that gives a loud, hostile and otherwise alienated ‘finger’ to the ‘mainstream’. Drawing on four years of concert fieldwork and extensive music media analysis, the author illustrates how self-labeled ‘white trash’, ‘rejects’, ‘failures’ and ‘freaks’ delineate their alienation experiences in lyrics and stage performances, and how anti-commercialistic youth, seeking something ‘different’ and/or ‘real’ in a society of the spectacle, consume alienation as authenticity. The ultimate critique of this article is that alienation incorporated - or the commodification of alienated artists and their alienation experiences, and the assimilation of potentially troublesome and estranged anti-commercialistic consumer youth - not only transforms alienation (at both points of production and consumption) into a source of profit, but also forestalls more conscious, directed and pragmatic avenues of rebellion. This article extends and elaborates work on spectacle, consumer society, the ‘globalization of nothing’ and the ‘commodification of dissent’.
The Rise of Alevism as a Public Religion
Authors: Şahin Şehriban
Published: March 2005

The article explores why and how Alevism, a religious creed and tradition that had been kept esoteric and transmitted only orally at secret rituals, has emerged in public spheres within Turkey and the European diaspora since the late 1980s. It draws attention to two major actors, transnational Alevi networks and the state actively inducing and shaping the transformation of Alevism from secret to public culture in national and transnational public spheres. Networks, social and political opportunity structures, and communicative praxis are used to analyse this process. By taking transnational networks into account this article goes beyond traditional network analysis.

Networks are articulators of new spaces to host culture and identity formation processes. Social actions are not just about networks and opportunity structures but also about the construction of meaning. The article investigates the communicative praxes of dissenting and consenting actors shaping Alevism in the arena of national and transnational publics.
The Work-Care Balance: Is it Possible to Identify Typologies for Cross-National Comparisons?
Authors: Haas Barbara
Published: March 2005

This article explores the relationship between work, care and gender equality on a theoretical level to develop multifaceted and dynamic models both within a country, as well as cross-nationally. It is necessary to go beyond static single-country classifications and do country clustering. Existing models are synthesized with five new types of work-care balance as theoretical baseline: the traditional breadwinner and modified breadwinner model, the egalitarian employment model, the universal carer model, as well as the reversed role model. Depending on the research questions countries belong to different models. The article analyses first the practices about working time for unpaid and paid work in households. Second, family and social policies are examined. Finally, it is shown how and to what extent these facts conform to social values and norms (culture). The approach is exemplified by comparing Austria, the Netherlands and Sweden.
Relation of Physical Form to Spatial Knowledge in Largescale Virtual Environments
Authors: Cubukcu Ebru , Nasar Jack L.
Published: March 2005

This study used a desktop virtual environmental simulation of 18 large-scale residential environments to test effects of plan layout complexity, physical differentiation, and gender on acquired spatial knowledge. One hundred sixty people (95 males and 65 females) were assigned at random to the different conditions. After a learning phase, participants were asked to (a) estimate the direction from the start point to a destination, (b) navigate to the destination, and (c) select the layout of the environment and sketch the route they took. Higher scores for acquired spatial knowledge emerged for simple over complex environments, for moderate or high differentiation over no differentiation, and for landmark or road differentiation over no such differentiation. For direction and navigation errors males performed marginally better than females, and for navigation errors younger respondents performed better. The results suggest that designs with physical differentiation and fewer choices at nodes will help people learn their way around.
A Powerful Theory and a Paradox
Authors: Scott M. M.
Published: March 2005

Roger Barker, influenced by Lewin, developed a powerful theory in psychology, behavior setting theory. Paradoxically, this theory is still not widely known or understood in mainstream American psychology. Oral histories of the core group whoworked with Barker were collected and examined to determine influences on them and subsequent directions in the field of ecological psychology in an attempt to understand this paradox. Three clusters of factors emerged. Behavior setting theory has been affirmed in a number of places, including other behavioral sciences, but has not as yet moved into mainstream psychology, although there are some indications that the theory is moving in that direction. These directions as well as barriers are discussed.
A Longitudinal Assessment of Psychological Adaptation During a Winter-Over in Antarctica
Authors: Décamps Greg , Rosnet Elisabeth
Published: March 2005

The seasonal variations of psychological reactions in isolated and confined environments have been studied and theorized in terms of the third-quarter phenomenon; the third quarter of the isolation period is the moment when the most discomfort is reported by the winterers. Referring to Rivolier's comparative study, this article examines the manifestations of the third-quarter phenomenon by analyzing the data collected with an observation grid completed by the mission's doctor. The stress reactions of 27 winterers are observed during a 50-week period. The results show that the third-quarter phenomenon does not appear after the middle of the stay but more precisely after the middle of the isolation period. Changes in moods and personal reactions are reported but also in social and physical reactions. The results are discussed in terms of externalization of stress reactions and the influence of the data collection method emphasized.
Combining Behavioral Theories to Predict Recycling Involvement
Authors: Valle Patrícia Oom Do , Rebelo Efigénio , Reis Elizabeth , Menezes João
Published: March 2005

This study merges insights from two well-known attitude-behavior theories—the theory of planned behavior and the model of altruistic behavior—with elements from two broader models from environmental psychology—the model of environmental behavior and the model of environmental concern—to propose a comprehensive structural equation model to explain recycling behavior. The specified model is estimated using data from the most recent national survey performed in Portugal on the subject. In general, results support the use of the theory of planned behavior as a basis for modeling recycling participation. However, the integration of this theory with the Schwartz's model is only partially achieved. Another important finding is that recycling behavior is indirectly determined by personal psychological features, such as social conscience, but not by general ecological attitudes.
Using Place Rules and Affect to Understand Environmental Fit
Authors: Moore Keith Diaz
Published: March 2005

This article describes a multimethod intrinsic case study of environmental fit—as conceptualized by Lawton—in an adult day facility through assessing the relationship between competence and interpreted place rules as an indicator of consensually understood environmental press and observable affect as a measurable outcome. This research study of an adult day care serving people experiencing dementia suggests that Canter's concept of place rules may be conceptualized as a consensual aspect of environmental press, interpreted largely through the observation of patterns of activity within a given physical setting. The congruence between the purposes that underlie these rules and those sought by participants is assessed through the aggregation of affect observations. The findings suggest that the degree of fit between the participants and their environmental milieu varies for each of four distinct groupings of participants. Aspects of the physical setting and its use associated with the assessed misfit are discussed.
Treatment of Schizophrenia: Implications Derived from an Intercultural Hospital Comparison between Germany and Japan
Authors: Hubner-Liebermann B. , Spießl H. , Iwai K. , Cording C.
Published: March 2005

Objectives: The study was aimed at evaluating facets of psychiatric inpatient care of patients with schizophrenia in a German and a Japanese hospital. Methods: Based upon a sample of 865 inpatients of the Psychiatric State Hospital Regensburg (BKR) and 50 inpatients of the Tokyo Women’s Medical University (TWMU) admitted in 1997, data of a psychiatric basic documentation system (BADO) were analysed with regard to essential process and outcome indicators.

Results: Despite dissimilarities between both patient groups with respect to schizophrenic subtype, duration of illness as well as severity of illness and psychosocial functioning, the differences regarding therapeutic treatment and outcome were marked. In 1997, the rate of atypical neuroleptics was 18% at the BKR and 12% at the TWMU. Inpatients of the TWMU were given benzodiazepines and anticholinergic drugs significantly more frequently. Male patients of the TWMU showed more severe side-effects. Psychotherapy and sociotherapy were less frequently applied at the TWMU. Although the patient groups did not differ with regard to suicidal behaviour and overt aggressions during hospitalisation, we found a higher rate of mechanical restraints at the TWMU. In 1997, the average length of stay was significantly higher at the TWMU (153 days) than at the BKR (52 days), but inpatients of the TWMU improved only slightly better with regard to global psychosocial functioning (GAF) and severity of illness (CGI).

Conclusions: The revealed differences in treatment are likely due to differences in service provision and national practices in Germany and Japan and provide clues for quality improvements. The BADO is a useful tool for continuous quality management and an ongoing international exchange concerning psychiatric inpatient care.
A Preliminary Study of Eat and Bite Scores for One School Year in Bermuda: Increased Early Anorexic Measures Related to Socio-Economic Factors
Authors: Marlowe Karl
Published: March 2005

Background: Bermuda is a unique heterogeneous ethnic population in which it is possible to study the interaction of ethnicity, culture, gender and economic factors that influence abnormal eating attitudes.

Method: A cross-sectional survey of 836 adolescents, one total school year in Bermuda. The BITE and EAT self-report questionnaires were administered in a classroom setting. The analysis was for caseness and for total scores. Caseness represents possible developing anorexic or bulimic eating disorder pathology for this non-adult population.

Results: 7.3% fulfilled EAT caseness, 0.24% fulfilled BITE caseness. There was no gender or ethnic difference for caseness. Multivariate analysis for EAT caseness found Odds Ratios of 2.89 (95% CI 1.37, 6.11) for Manual maternal job status.

Conclusion: Despite the limitation of a questionnaire analysis, lower socioeconomic status increases the risk of possible eating disorder pathology in this adolescent population. Developing anorexic eating attitudes were more prevalent compared to bulimic attitudes for schoolchildren in this unique cultural setting.
The Use of Carers’ and Users’ Expectations of Services (CUES) in an Epidemiological Survey of Need
Authors: MacPherson Rob , Summerfield Louise , Haynes Roger , Slade Mike , Foy Chris
Published: March 2005

Background and Method: This study surveyed need in a group of psychiatric patients in Gloucester, using a new instrument, the CUES. Keyworkers gave out questionnaires to all patients with psychosis in contact with specialist services. A total of 148 forms were anonymously completed, with a response rate of 37% of the mental health services caseload.

Results: 53.5 to 83.2% of patients were satisfied and 61.5 to 89.6% expressed their experiences ‘as good as’ a normative statement across the 16 domains. There was mostly ‘moderate’ agreement between satisfaction and normative questions by Kappa correlations, although responses to normative questions tended to be about 10% higher. Extensive free text responses were subject to content analysis, demonstrating needs across a wide range of health, social and leisure areas, many of which were not directly linked to the adequacy or otherwise of psychiatric treatment.

Conclusions: The results imply that the CUES may be of value at an individual level to aid in care planning, and also have some value in aggregated form to benchmark user experiences of services.
Microcounseling Skills Training for Informal Helpers in Uganda
Authors: Kabura Paschal , Fleming Linda M. , Tobin David J.
Published: March 2005

Background: Years of political instability, civil unrest, and disease have left scores of Ugandans in need of mental health services. However, there are few formal mental health services available in the country. Professional helpers such as clergy, teachers, and healthcare workers who have strong ties to their communities are frequently placed in formal counseling roles.

Aims: To develop, implement, and evaluate a training model for developing micro-counseling skills designed specifically for informal helpers in Uganda.

Methods: Forty-four professional helpers were provided with a one-week, 40-hour training program in microcounseling skills.

Results: Following the training program, trainees demonstrated proficiency in basic counseling skills and attained an increased knowledge of those skills.

Conclusions: This training was readily assimilated and supported the ecological validity of the microcounseling model.
On the Relationship between Cultural Values and Preferences and Affective Health in Nepal
Authors: Furr L. Allen
Published: March 2005

Background: The westernization of developing countries has improved physical health and life expectancy. Modernization, however, is believed to have injurious effects on mental health. Some research suggests that the effects of modernization vary, hurting some but benefiting others. Economic disparity is usually presumed to cause the mental health problems. The purpose of this study was to determine if aspects of westernization other than economic status predicted depression scores in a sample of adults occupying similar economic stations in Nepal.

Methods: Survey data were collected from 276 teachers in Nepal. The questionnaire was administered in Nepali. Statistical tests sought to determine the relationship between scores on a measure of depression and having a western cultural orientation.

Results: Bivariate and multi-variate analyses indicate that a higher western orientation was associated with lower depression scores. Non-traditional attitudes towards the Nepalese caste system and gender political equality predicted lower depression scores. Attitudes regarding gender economic equality and a preference for western music and film and English language were not associated with depression scores.

Conclusion: Findings suggest that the relationship between modernization and psychological well-being are contextual.
Public service vouchers
Authors: Colin Frédéric
Published: March 2005

The public voucher system is a means of paying for a given public service. Vouchers are issued by the public authorities to individual users to enable them to gain access to any institution that is approved by the public authorities, for a specific purpose. The provider of the service is paid back the amount of the voucher by the public institution that provides the funding for the voucher. This system provides a means of reviewing the relationship between the user and the public service in terms of efficiency and freedom. The voucher system is designed to improve competition among public service providers and to make public service offerings more flexible. While it does offer some interesting possibilities in terms of diversification of the services on offer, nonetheless the voucher system poses certain risks. In particular, it may lead to community behaviour patterns among beneficiaries and undermine equal opportunity. In any case, as the voucher system brings closer together the practical arrangements for defraying services in the private and public sectors, it opens up some useful avenues of reflection for the modernization of public services.
Outsourcing and public service values: the Australian experience
Authors: Mulgan Richard
Published: March 2005

With the increasing use of private organizations to provide public services and the corresponding blurring of boundaries between the public and private sectors, can public servants be held to a distinct code of ethics or should public sector ethical standards be applied to private providers? This question is explored in the context of the Australian Commonwealth which has recently codified a set of public service values in legislation and where agencies are being asked to report on the extent to which they require contractors to comply with public service values. Practice is evolving, with most emphasis on values relating to direct service to the public. Public service values dealing with internal organization and employment conditions, including the merit principle, are less likely to be extended to private contractors.
Budgetary control of Australian police services and the new governance of security
Authors: Dupont Benoît
Published: March 2005

Through the example of the Australian police services, this article examines the impact of the New Public Management tools on strengthening administrative accountability. Governments, faced with increasing social demand for security, have launched into political auctions on the themes of police activity and social control. Relationships between the authorities and the police administrators have been redefined, mainly through more rigorous budgetary control. After a rapid examination of the administrative context that led to the implementation of programme budgeting — the main government tool in this area — the article examines the tensions that resulted from its introduction. Particular emphasis is placed upon the limitations of such a tool in the field of security, which is undergoing profound reconfiguration as a result of increasingly frequent cooperation between public, private and hybrid actors.
Developing a leadership cadre for the 21st century: a case study of management development in the UK’s new civil service
Authors: Hockey Julia , Kakabadse Andrew P. , Kakabadse Nada K.
Published: March 2005

The UK civil service has experienced considerable challenges in introducing new ways of working as well as alternative organizational designs, both for the purposes of achieving ‘best value’ during the last two decades of the last century. In addition to the strategic changes introduced, people development and training has been equally vigorously pursued in order to facilitate the reconfigurations that have been implemented. This article presents the findings of a study exploring how extensive development and training strategies are assisting managers to confront and address the challenges they face better, now and into the future. A mixed picture emerges principally highlighting the challenges of aligning human resource management (HRM) strategy with organizational strategy within a devolved organizational civil service configuration.
Accessing e-government: challenges for citizens and organizations
Authors: Dugdale Anni , Daly Anne , Papandrea Franco , Maley Maria
Published: March 2005

The Internet is becoming more integral to governments and their modes of doing business and delivering services. This is creating a new imperative to address the digital divide. In Australia, as shown in this article, citizens who are the biggest users of government services are the least likely to be connected to the internet. What can be done to connect the unconnected? The article explores what has been learned from some of the Australian initiatives for connecting the unconnected to online government services. It concludes that greater attention to community-based human capital development is needed. It gives examples of factors needed for success in building socially marginalized communities’ interest, enthusiasm and capacity to interact and communicate via online technologies, thereby contributing to how successful e-government can be in delivering gains in efficiency and improved services.
Moving towards the virtual state: integrating services and service channels for citizen-centred delivery
Authors: Kernaghan Kenneth
Published: March 2005

Governments around the world are increasingly seeking to provide integrated, citizen-centred service delivery. The aim is to organize the delivery of services from the perspective of citizens rather than of governments and to deliver these services seamlessly across governments and across the delivery channels of the internet, the telephone and the service-counter. The four major categories of barriers to integrated service delivery are political/legal, structural, operational/managerial and cultural ones. The means of overcoming these barriers include such approaches as creating new service delivery models, perfecting partnerships, establishing an effective governance framework and providing dedicated funding. There are similar barriers — and similar solutions — to the challenge of integrated channel delivery. The challenge to integrating services and service channels becomes greater as initiatives move from the interdepartmental sphere to the interjurisdictional and intersector spheres.
Ethical regulation of the Internet: the challenges of global governance
Authors: Astier Stéphane
Published: March 2005

Multiregulation, a central support system for the ethical regulation of the Internet, provides a solution which is both complex and difficult to realize. It gives another vision of the methods of law production, as the characteristics of the internet imply an almost instantaneous and largely harmonized law. It also gives another vision of the application of the law since priority will be given to the means of making the players responsible in the context of promoting self-regulation tools.

Accordingly, the harmonization of international law must make the progressive creation of a global public order system possible, to which all states will be likely to commit themselves. This harmonization aims at a progressive reconciliation of the rules, particularly those applicable within cyberspace.

Agreement on a common denominator of rules can only come about through an ethical consensus-seeking process. Regulation and ethics must join forces to give the digital universe a framework of rules responding to a double imperative: to protect the rights and liberties of individuals and ensure the security of goods, without creating new abuses which themselves are destructive of freedom and dangerous for the security of people.

Instituting an International Internet Committee or an equivalent body at the global level can be the means of achieving such a reform and important changes in present-day geopolitical and legal structures. Defining rules of such a planetary nature means asking ourselves questions about the shape of an international society and the form such a global governance could take. Clearly, the question implies major upheavals as the present balances are fragile, being based on excessively great inequalities. The coming of the information society could, in fact, cause these inequalities to increase even further.

For the network of networks is a luxury which only a privileged minority of the population of the world can afford. This last point will certainly be one of the upcoming major issues of information technologies. The democratization of the Internet, by means of generalized facilitated access, could no doubt provide an element of reconciliation for the societies of the globe, many of which do not even know of the existence of these networks. The Internet therefore cannot continued to be thought of today as a simple means of communication to be added to the others.

Using and regulating the Internet to include rather than just exclude a little more would also make it possible for cultural, philosophical and religious traditions to understand each other while continuing to be different, and to participate in the construction of a more equitable global society.