bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do good stories produce good health?
Authors: Ramírez-Esparza Nairán , Pennebaker James W.
Published: September 2007

There is a culturally-held belief that good narratives are associated with good mental or physical health. Scores of studies have demonstrated that writing about emotional upheavals can have salutary health effects. Despite the writing-health relationship, there is scant evidence that expressive writing samples that are judged to be good narratives are themselves linked to health change. Across multiple studies, linguistic features of essays have been empirically linked to health changes. For example, use of positive emotions, increasing use of causal and other cognitive words, and shifts in pronoun use are correlated with fewer physician visits. These language markers, however, are not strongly related to the quality of narrative. Whereas most research has been conducted with English-speaking samples, new analytic methods suggest that many of the language findings can be exported to other languages and cultures. Implications for our understanding narrative, language, and culture within the context of new language analytic methods are discussed.
Producing culturally appropriate narratives in English as a foreign language
Authors: Kang Jennifer Yusun
Published: September 2007

Cross-cultural and second/foreign language (L2) studies on oral narratives have suggested that one’s native language and culture affect discourse production in an L2 and have detected areas of difficulty for L2 learners in producing extended discourse. However, written narrative has received less attention, although it can provide rich data on cross-cultural differences and hold important implications for L2 literacy acquisition and pedagogy. This study was designed to investigate culturally preferred written discourse styles and their effects on L2 writing of personal narratives. It explored cross-cultural differences in the use of narrative structural features including evaluation between first language written narratives produced by native speakers of American English and first- and second-language narratives written by Koreans learning English. Differences in first language narrative styles were used to explain how Korean EFL learners’ narrative discourse in English could vary from native English speakers’ discourse norms. Participants were Korean adult EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners and American native-English speakers in the U.S. The findings show that specifically Korean cultural strategies were evident in the Korean English learners’ English narrative discourse rather than the preferred discourse style of the target language and culture. The findings hold implications for L2 writing pedagogy and L2 training in discourse production.
Building a concept hierarchy from corpus analysis
Authors: Barrière Caroline
Published: September 2007

Corpus analysis is today at the heart of building Terminological Knowledge Bases (TKBs). Important terms are usually first extracted from a corpus and then related to one another via semantic relations. This research brings the discovery of semantic relations to the forefront to allow the discovery of less stable lexical units or unlabeled concepts, which are important to include in a TKB to facilitate knowledge organization. We suggest a concept hierarchy made of concept nodes defined via a representational structure emphasizing both labeling and conceptual representation. The Conceptual Graph formalism chosen for conceptual representation allows a compositional view of concepts, which is relevant for their comparison and their organization in a concept lattice. Examples manually extracted from a scuba-diving corpus are presented to explore the possibilities of this approach. Subsequently, steps toward a semi-automatic construction of a concept hierarchy from corpus analysis are presented to evaluate their underlying hypothesis and feasibility.
Analysing adjectives used in a histopathology corpus with NLP tools
Authors: Normand Sylvie , Bourigault Didier
Published: September 2007

Our work deals with the domain of hispathology. In diagnosis histopathological images are described differently by different observers and even by the same observer at different times. This divergence in the identification of specific morphological features is partly due to varying levels of expertise among pathologists and to differences in subjective analysis and comprehension of pathological images. As linguists and developers of Natural Language Processing (NLP) systems, we started a collaboration with the Medical Informatics Department at the Broussais Hospital in order to explore a new method for corpus-based medical glossary acquisition. We focused our analysis on adjectives because they are the main linguistic category involved in the evaluation process. The first results of this study show the relevance of a corpus-based approach to cope with the “subjective” interpretations given by pathologists when they analyse microscopic images.
Utilización de técnicas de corpus en la representación del conocimiento médico
Authors: Faber Pamela , López Rodríguez Clara I. , Tercedor Maribel
Published: September 2007

Advances in corpus linguistics are of vital importance in terminology. The information obtained from corpora can be used to complement data already codified in dictionaries and termbases. In this article, we describe a framework of linguistic analysis that facilitates the extraction of conceptual information from corpora, and thus contributes to the study and analysis of terminological contexts. We are presently using this methodology in a research project called Oncoterm. One of the objectives of this project is to elaborate a bilingual terminological database, whose conceptual structure is an extension of an existing knowledge resource, the Mikrokosmos Ontology. In our termbase, medical concepts are organized in categories represented by templates, which are systematically applied to all category members. The application of the template to more specific concepts generates values that show the inheritance of knowledge structures within a specialized domain. The definitional information within each term entry is thus totally coherent with the information regarding other terms within the same conceptual category. This is conducive to the specification of a language of terminographic definition, which is concise, consistent and applicable not only to the domain of oncology, but also extensive to other medical domains and other languages.
Can bilingual word alignment improve monolingual phrasal term extraction?
Authors: Tiedemann Jörg
Published: September 2007

This paper focuses on the improvement of statistically-extracted phrase lists by applying word alignment approaches to bitext. Such phrase lists serve several tasks such as the compilation of terminology or translation databases. Our investigations are based on the assumption that word alignment favors well-formed phrase structures rather than irregular text segments. If this is the case, word alignment will filter out irregular structures from automatically generated phrase lists. As a result, an improved phrase list, in terms of precision, may be compiled. Furthermore, word alignment approaches can be used to identify additional multi-word units, e.g. multi-word cognates. Our investigations are focused on a Swedish/English text corpus that has been aligned with the Uppsala Word Aligner (UWA). Finally, we describe and apply three approaches to evaluate the automatically generated phrase lists: an evaluation by comparing results with existing reference data (prior reference), an evaluation against given syntactic patterns (prior reference patterns), and a manual evaluation of sample data (posterior reference). The evaluations of the extraction of phrasal terms in English substantiate the assumption: precision has improved significantly with little loss in recall.
An empirical investigation of the terminology profession in Canada in the 21st century
Authors: Bowker Lynne
Published: September 2007

This article contains an investigation into the terminology profession in Canada in the 21st century. Terminologists themselves have their own opinion about the state of the profession, but the aim of this study is to investigate terminology from the perspective of those who employ terminologists by analyzing a corpus of job advertisements for a variety of terminology- and translation-related positions that were collected between January 2000 and June 2002. Spurred on by the effects of globalization, the language industry, including terminology, is in a period of change. Based on empirical evidence collected from the corpus, this article attempts to evaluate the current state of the profession in Canada and to determine what employers are looking for.
Health Professionals’ Recognition of Co-Occurring Alcohol and Depressive Disorders in Youth: A Survey of Australian General Practitioners, Psychiatrists, Psychologists and Mental Health Nurses Using Case Vignettes
Authors: Lubman Dan I. , Hides Leanne , Jorm Anthony F. , Morgan Amy J.
Published: September 2007

Objective: To examine whether health professionals who commonly deal with mental disorder are able to identify co-occurring alcohol misuse in young people presenting with depression.

Method: Between September 2006 and January 2007, a survey examining beliefs regarding appropriate interventions for mental disorder in youth was sent to 1710 psychiatrists, 2000 general practitioners (GPs), 1628 mental health nurses, and 2000 psychologists in Australia. Participants within each professional group were randomly given one of four vignettes describing a young person with a DSM-IV mental disorder. Herein is reported data from the depression and depression with alcohol misuse vignettes.

Results: A total of 305 psychiatrists, 258 GPs, 292 mental health nurses and 375 psychologists completed one of the depression vignettes. A diagnosis of mood disorder was identified by at least 83.8% of professionals, with no significant differences noted between professional groups. Rates of reported co-occurring substance use disorders were substantially lower, particularly among older professionals and psychologists.

Conclusions: GPs, psychologists and mental health professionals do not readily identify co-occurring alcohol misuse in young people with depression. Given the substantially negative impact of co-occurring disorders, it is imperative that health-care professionals are appropriately trained to detect such disorders promptly, to ensure young people have access to effective, early intervention.
Overview of Psychiatric Ethics V: Utilitarianism and the Ethics of Duty
Authors: Robertson Michael , Morris Kirsty , Walter Garry
Published: September 2007

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the ethical theories of utilitarianism and the ethics of duty (Kant's ethics) and to evaluate their value as theoretical bases of psychiatric ethics.

Conclusions: Utilitarianism is a well-established moral philosophy and has significant instrumental value in dealing with common ethical problems faced by psychiatrists. Despite its capacity to generate solutions to ethical problems, utilitarianism requires a process of what Rawls described as ‘reflective equilibrium’ to avoid morally repugnant choices, based on utility. The criticisms of utilitarianism, such as the problems of quantifying utility and the responsibility for consequences, are very relevant for psychiatry. Singer's model of utilitarian thinking is particularly problematic for our profession. Kant's ethics provides the pretext for duty bound codes of ethics for psychiatrists, but suffers from problems of flawed claims to the universalizability prescribed by Kant's ‘categorical imperative’. Kant's valorization of reason as the core of the autonomy of persons is a valuable insight in understanding psychiatrists’ ethical obligations to their patients.
Medication Decision-Making by Adults with Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Stephan Alice , Krawitz Roy , Jackson Wendy
Published: September 2007

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe an effective construct for medication decision-making by adults diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.

Conclusion: A collaborative decision-making process with an emphasis, wherever possible, on the decision-making of the adult diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, provides a relationship structure promoting effective medication decision-making.
What Makes Psychiatry such a Stressful Profession? A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fischer Jesse , Kumar Shailesh , Hatcher Simon
Published: September 2007

Objective: We aimed to elucidate causative and protective factors associated with burnout in New Zealand psychiatrists, to identify signs and symptoms of the burnout syndrome, and to identify any difference in the perspectives of psychiatrists who scored high versus low on the emotional exhaustion (EE) subscale of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI).

Method: Twelve participants were randomly selected, six from each group of psychiatrists (high versus low EE). A face-to-face interview based on a semi-structured questionnaire was carried out with each participant. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were manually analysed by two independent reviewers using a grounded theory approach for qualitative analysis.

Results: Major features of burnout were changes in appearance, behaviour and mood. Causes of burnout identified were external, internal and interpersonal factors, and changing work environment. Protective factors associated with burnout included supportive relationships, extracurricular activities, variety in one's work, a positive attitude towards one's work and high job satisfaction.

Conclusions: A preliminary profile of the burnout syndrome was established and has a potential role in the prevention of burnout in psychiatrists. Causative factors associated with burnout were identified and supported previous findings. Novel factors protective against burnout were suggested and require further investigation. No differences were apparent between the two subgroups of psychiatrists (high versus low EE).
TURKISH YOUTH IN THE EUROPEAN KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY
Authors: Faas Daniel
Published: September 2007

Globalisation and Europeanisation are complementary and partly overlapping processes that identify the increasingly supranational context in which political and educational systems are operating. This article explores how Turkish youth in two German and English secondary schools relate to the European knowledge economy, and how their political identities are shaped by school dynamics (ethos, curriculum and peer cultures) and social class positioning.1 Drawing upon mainly qualitative data, the paper indicates that when the concept of Europe is allied to multiculturalism, there is the possibility of including minority ethnic groups like the Turkish Muslims and giving them the opportunity of relating to the European knowledge economy. If, however, Europe is understood as a white Christian concept, then Turkish teenagers will struggle to relate positively to Europe as a political identity. The article not only gives voice to young Turkish Muslims in Europe but also assesses the potential for Europe to be a common ground for all youth to negotiate their identities.
Comparative protein structure modeling by combining multiple templates and optimizing sequence-to-structure alignments
Authors: Fernandez-Fuentes Narcis , Rai Brajesh K. , Madrid-Aliste Carlos J. , Eduardo Fajardo J. , Fiser András
Published: September 2007

Motivation: Two major bottlenecks in advancing comparative protein structure modeling are the efficient combination of multiple template structures and the generation of a correct input target-template alignment.

Results: A novel method, Multiple Mapping Method with Multiple Templates (M4T) is introduced that implements an algorithm to automatically select and combine Multiple Template structures (MT) and an alignment optimization protocol (Multiple Mapping Method, MMM). The MT module of M4T selects and combines multiple template structures through an iterative clustering approach that takes into account the ‘unique’ contribution of each template, their sequence similarity among themselves and to the target sequence, and their experimental resolution. MMM is a sequence-to-structure alignment method that optimally combines alternatively aligned regions according to their fit in the structural environment of the template structure. The resulting M4T alignment is used as input to a comparative modeling module. The performance of M4T has been benchmarked on CASP6 comparative modeling target sequences and on a larger independent test set, and showed favorable performance to current state of the art methods.

Availability: A web server was established for the method at http://www.fiserlab.org/servers/M4T

Contact:  afiser@aecom.yu.edu or andras@fiserlab.org
John Burns Brooksby. 25 December 1914 — 17 December 1998
Authors: Sellers R. F.
Published: September 2007

John Brooksby was an outstanding veterinary virologist, who worked at the Animal Virus Diseases Research Institute, Pirbright, for 40 years, for 16 of which he was Director of the Institute. He will be remembered for his contributions to the diagnosis of foot-and-mouth disease, for his discovery of four new types, for the classification of subtypes and for fundamental studies of the virus. As Deputy Director and Director he was responsible for programmes on fundamental investigations of foot–and–mouth disease virus and other viruses exotic to the UK and for the application of the results both in the UK and worldwide. His advice on the distribution and the control of foot–and–mouth disease was sought by international organizations and by individual countries and was responsible for reducing the risk of spread of disease.
Alec David Young. 15 August 1913 — 27 January 2005
Authors: Clarke J. F. , Riley N.
Published: September 2007

Alec Young, one of the UK's most distinguished twentieth–century aerodynamicists, was brought up in Stepney, where his father was a furrier. He was the sixth of eight children; both of his parents were refugees fleeing, in the late 1880s with their respective mothers, the pogroms and vicious anti-semitism that characterized the Russian empire after the assassination of Alexander II in 1881. The fate of Alec's grandfathers is not known.
Douglas Geoffrey Northcott. 31 December 1916 — 8 April 2005
Authors: Rees D. , Sharp R. Y.
Published: September 2007

Douglas Northcott was born Douglas Geoffrey Robertson, the son of Geoffrey Douglas Spence Robertson, who was an electrical engineer, and Clara Freda Behl. Geoffrey Robertson was killed in an accident soon after the young Douglas was born; Douglas was about 2 years old when his mother married Arthur Hugh Kynaston Northcott, and he grew up not knowing of his mother's remarriage. It was only in his teens that Douglas learnt that Arthur Northcott was, in fact, his stepfather; Douglas changed his surname by deed poll in 1935, and he always felt himself to be part of the Northcott family and referred to Arthur Northcott as his father.
Sivaramakrishna Chandrasekhar. 6 August 1930 — 8 March 2004
Authors: Gray G. W. , Luckhurst G. R. , Raynes E. P.
Published: September 2007

Sivaramakrishna Chandrasekhar died at the age of 73 years at his home in Bangalore. This sad news came from Chandrasekhar's daughter, Indira. She wrote: ‘My father had a mild heart attack followed by a stroke at the end of January, but he was recovering very positively. James, the children and I had been to see him only a few weeks ago. He was full of his usual enthusiasm and was planning various trips to conferences and meetings, and a paper on biaxial nematics, an idea that he had pursued for a long time, had just been accepted. It was a very happy visit. Since he was forced to slow down a little, he was able to relax and enjoy all the visitors who called on him. We were all shocked when he was struck down by a massive cerebral haemorrhage on the night of 7 March and are trying to face the grief and emptiness.’ As this sad news spread, the sorrow of Indira and of her brother Ajit, and that of Chandrasekhar's wife Ila, was shared by all working in the field of liquid crystals, to which Chandrasekhar had devoted his scientific talents and efforts since the 1960s.
Alan Arthur Wells. 1 May 1924 — 8 November 2005
Authors: Burdekin Michael , Crossland Bernard
Published: September 2007

Alan Wells was probably best known for his seminal contributions to studies of brittle fracture and fracture mechanics conducted during his period at the British Welding Research Association (BWRA) from 1951 to 1964. He was Professor of Structural Science at Queen's University Belfast from 1964 to 1977, when he returned to the Welding Institute (as the BWRA had then become) as Director General until his retirement in 1988. In his later years, he worked on wave energy devices and was responsible for the development of the innovative ‘Wells’ turbine, a device that continues to rotate in the same direction under oscillatory air flows.
Glenn Theodore Seaborg. 19 April 1912 — 25 February 1999
Authors: Hoffman Darleane C.
Published: September 2007

Glenn T. Seaborg was a world-renowned nuclear chemist, educator, scientific adviser to ten US presidents, humanitarian, and Nobel laureate in chemistry. He is probably best known for his leadership of the team that in 1941 accomplished the first chemical separation and positive identification of plutonium and for his ‘revolutionary’ actinide concept in which he placed the first 14 elements heavier than actinium in the periodic table of elements as a 5f transition series under the lanthanide 4f transition series. He went on to be co-discoverer of nine elements beyond plutonium, culminating in 1974 in the production of element 106, later named seaborgium in his honour.
Targeted optical fluorescence imaging of human ovarian adenocarcinoma using a galactosyl serum albumin‐conjugated fluorophore
Authors: Gunn Andrew J. , Hama Yukihiro , Koyama Yoshinori , Kohn Elise C. , Choyke Peter L. , Kobayashi Hisataka
Published: September 2007

Achieving maximal cytoreduction during surgery is a critical prognostic factor for women with advanced‐stage ovarian cancer. Targeting optical imaging agents directly to ovarian cancer cells by attaching them to galactosyl (galactosamine‐conjugated) serum albumin, whose sugar residues bind surface lectins that are expressed in certain ovarian adenocarcinomas, may improve metastatic tumor identification and resection. Thus, we sought to demonstrate that galactosyl serum albumin‐conjugated fluorophores would be a robust mechanism through which to target ovarian cancer by evaluating its tumor‐targeting capability in nine human ovarian adenocarcinoma cell lines. The optical fluorophore rhodamine green was conjugated to galactosyl serum albumin, a non‐immunogenic targeting molecule. Galactosyl serum albumin–rhodamine green's ability to target nine human ovarian adenocarcinoma cell lines was evaluated by flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy and in vivo optical fluorescence imaging using female athymic nu/nu mice. All nine cell lines tested bound galactosyl serum albumin–rhodamine green more effectively than non‐glycosylated controls (P < 0.0001). Fluorescence microscopy demonstrated that galactosyl serum albumin–rhodamine green was internalized into each cell line in a galactosamine‐dependent manner. In vivo optical fluorescence images of intraperitoneal tumor‐bearing mice acquired 3 h after intraperitoneal injection of galactosyl serum albumin–rhodamine green successfully differentiated between tumor and normal tissue. This technique also allowed the visualization of submillimeter‐sized ovarian tumor implants. These results indicate that galactosyl serum albumin–rhodamine green can selectively target a variety of human ovarian adenocarcinomas for optical fluorescence imaging and thus may improve intraoperative tumor detection and resection. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1727–1733)
Illegal meat hunting in serengeti: dynamics in consumption and preferences
Authors: Ndibalema Vedasto G. , Songorwa Alexander N.
Published: September 2007

Although wild meat is an important source of protein across Africa, patterns and reasons for its demand are poorly defined. A study was conducted on consumption by inhabitants of ten villages in five districts to the west of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. The first sample of 600 villagers was systematically selected from village registers and surveyed using a questionnaire. The second sample consisted of 341 arrested illegal meat hunters. Nine species dominated by eland (Taurotragus oryx) and wildebeest (Connachaetes taurinus) in terms of meat taste and hunting vulnerability respectively were found to be most preferred or consumed. There were remarkable variations in consumption and preferences for each species amongst ethnic groups and localities. The economics of protein consumption indicates that wild meat is consistently cheaper and hence consumed more frequently than other meats. Respondents’ topmost tasty meat – eland and topi (Damaliscus lunatus) – were rare; consequently, common species e.g. buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and wildebeest were the substitutes mostly consumed to supplement beef and fish. Presence of carnivore species on the menu clearly demonstrates survival techniques when availability changes. Wildlife managers should, therefore, bestow attention to the conservation of all species for a balanced ecosystem and species survival.
The estimation of inspired desflurane concentration in a low‐flow system
Authors: GOWRIE‐MOHAN S. , MURALITHARAN V. , LOCKWOOD G. G.
Published: September 2007

We have examined the predictability of inspired desflurane concentration during low‐flow anaesthesia using a to‐and‐fro breathing system. Twenty‐two adult patients requiring mechanical ventilation of the lungs during surgery took part in the study. Using a fresh gas flow of 1 l.min1, the ratio of inspired desflurane concentration to desflurane vaporizer setting was found to be approximately 0.75 after 9 min of anaesthesia and at 2 l.min1 fresh gas flow the ratio was approximately 0.9 after 2 min of anaesthesia. These ratios were maintained throughout the procedure, except for a few minutes following each change in vaporizer setting.
Configuration of the SCOTI device with different tracheal tubes
Authors: NANDWANI N. , CARANZA R. , LIN E. S. , RAPHAEL J. H.
Published: September 2007

We have evaluated the Sonomatic Confirmation of Tracheal Intubation device (SCOTI) by testing its ability to be correctly configured with a variety of tracheal tubes of differing internal diameter and length. The device only configured correctly for RAE tubes with internal diameter of 7.0 mm or greater and for armoured tubes of internal diameter 8.5 mm. For conventional tubes of varying internal diameter cut to different lengths, configuration was only successful with certain dimensions. The inability to configure the device correctly with all types and lengths of tracheal tubes limits its usefulness as a indicator of tracheal intubation.
Attitudes of consultant anaesthetists to the Caiman proposals: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Dempsey G. A. , Skinner A.
Published: September 2007

We undertook a postal survey to determine the views of all consultant anaesthetists within the North West (Mersey) Regional Health Authority on the Caiman proposals for a consultant‐based service: replies were received from 110 (84%). Fifty (45%) indicated that they would not resume emergency residential duties, 32 (29%) indicated that they would withdraw from the emergency duty rota, 12 (11%) said they would withdraw I retire from the NHS and 27 (25%) would change hospital under these circumstances. Most consultants had experience in the major anaesthetic subspecialties within the preceding 5 years (obstetrics 67%, ITU 81%, major trauma 91%). Consequently the need for retraining amongst consultant anaesthetists prior to resuming residential emergency duties would be low. When questioned about the impact on anaesthetic services, 67 (61%) felt the proposals would be detrimental whilst 23 (21%) fell there would be beneficial effects. Most consultants remain antagonistic toward the Caiman proposals, with a reluctance to return to residential duties.
Distinguishing tectonic from climatic controls on range‐front sedimentation
Authors: Quigley M. C. , Sandiford M. , Cupper M. L.
Published: September 2007

Geologic and chronometric studies of alluvial fan sequences in south‐central Australia provide insights into the roles of tectonics and climate in continental landscape evolution. The most voluminous alluvial fans in the Flinders Ranges region have developed adjacent to catchments uplifted by Plio‐Quaternary reverse faults, implying that young tectonic activity has exerted a first‐order control on long‐term sediment accumulation rates along the range front. However, optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of alluvial fan sequences indicates that late Quaternary facies changes and intervals of sediment aggradation and dissection are not directly correlated with individual faulting events. Fan sequences record a transition from debris flow deposition and soil formation to clast‐supported conglomeritic sedimentation by ∼30 ka. This transition is interpreted to reflect a landscape response to increasing climatic aridity, coupled with large flood events that episodically stripped previously weathered regolith from the landscape. Late Pleistocene to Holocene cycles of fan incision and aggradation post‐date the youngest‐dated surface ruptures and are interpreted to reflect changes in the frequency and magnitude of large floods. These datasets indicate that tectonic activity controlled long‐term sediment supply but climate governed the spatial and temporal patterns of range‐front sedimentation. Mild intraplate tectonism appears to have influenced Plio‐Quaternary sedimentation patterns across much of the southern Australian continent, including the geometry and extent of alluvial fans and sea‐level incursions.
Calculating the costs of local authority care for children with contrasting needs
Authors: Ward Harriet , Holmes Lisa
Published: September 2007

Activity data from practitioners can be combined with financial data to develop unit costs for the eight processes that underpin social work activity for children looked after away from home. The frequency and duration of processes can then be calculated, and the data are used to cost different pathways through care. Costs vary according to children's needs, types of placements and local policies and practices. Combinations of need add to costs. This paper compares the costs accrued by children who show no evidence of additional support needs with a group of troubled children with emotional or behavioural difficulties who also commit offences. The latter show the most costly care pathways and also appear to experience the least positive outcomes, leading us to question whether different configurations of services might better meet their needs.
Abnormal heart rate recovery after maximal cardiopulmonary exercise stress testing in young overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Giallauria Francesco , Palomba Stefano , Manguso Francesco , Vitelli Alessandra , Maresca Luigi , Tafuri Domenico , Lombardi Gaetano , Colao Annamaria , Vigorito Carlo , Orio Francesco
Published: September 2007

Objective  Heart rate recovery (HRR) is a measure derived from exercise test, defined as the fall in heart rate during the first minute after maximal exercise. Abnormal HRR is a measure of autonomic dysfunction associated with an increased mortality. This study was performed to evaluate the HRR in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Design  Prospective controlled clinical study.

Patients  Seventy‐five PCOS women compared to 75 healthy women matched for age (21·7 ± 2·1 years vs. 21·9 ± 1·8 years, respectively) and body mass index (BMI) (29·0 ± 2·6 kg/m2 vs. 29·1 ± 2·9 kg/m2, respectively).

Measurements  Subjects were studied for their hormonal and metabolic profile, and underwent cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX).

Results  PCOS women showed a significantly reduced HRR (12·9 ± 1·8 vs. 20·4 ± 3·1 beats/min, P < 0·001) compared to healthy controls, an impairment in maximal oxygen consumption (18·0 ± 2·3 ml/kg/min vs. 29·3 ± 3·9 ml/kg/min) and in oxygen consumption at anaerobic threshold (13·6 ± 2·6 ml/kg/min vs. 24·2 ± 3·0 ml/kg/min). In PCOS women, abnormal HRR was inversely correlated to BMI (r = −0·582, P < 0·001) and to the area under the curve for insulin (r = −0·596, P < 0·001).

Conclusions  Our data demonstrate an abnormal HRR after maximal CPX in young overweight PCOS patients, and that HRR should be investigated as a further potential marker of increased cardiovascular risk in PCOS.
Total and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin levels and measures of glucose and lipid metabolism following pioglitazone treatment in a randomized placebo‐controlled study in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Glintborg Dorte , Frystyk Jan , Højlund Kurt , Andersen Kristian Kjær , Henriksen Jan Erik , Hermann Anne Pernille , Hagen Claus , Flyvbjerg Allan , Andersen Marianne
Published: September 2007

Objective  Recent studies suggested that the effect of adiponectin on insulin‐stimulated glucose metabolism is mediated primarily by the high molecular weight (HMW) form of adiponectin. In the present study we evaluated total and HMW adiponectin in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and controls and examined possible mechanisms for increased insulin sensitivity during pioglitazone treatment.

Study subjects  Thirty PCOS patients randomized to pioglitazone, 30 mg/day, or placebo for 16 weeks and 14 weight‐matched healthy females were studied.

Design  Total and HMW adiponectin levels were measured, and euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamps and indirect calorimetry were performed. Δ‐values denoted changes during pioglitazone treatment (16 weeks – basal).

Results  Pretreatment adiponectin levels were decreased in PCOS patients vs. controls (P < 0·05), whereas no significant differences were found in HMW adiponectin levels. Following pioglitazone treatment, total and HMW adiponectin increased (all P < 0·05), whereas no significant changes were observed with placebo. Δ‐total adiponectin levels correlated positively with the rate of Δ‐insulin‐stimulated glucose disposal (Rd) (r = 0·89) and Δ‐oxidative glucose metabolism (r = 0·71) and inversely with Δ‐fasting free fatty acid (FFA) levels (r = –0·69) and Δ‐lipid oxidation (r = –0·73) during insulin stimulation (all P < 0·01). Weaker correlations were found between Δ‐HMW adiponectin levels and Δ‐measures of glucose and lipid metabolism during insulin stimulation than with Δ‐total adiponectin.

Conclusion  A close correlation between increased total adiponectin levels and increased insulin‐stimulated glucose metabolism during pioglitzone treatment supports the hypothesis that the insulin‐sensitizing effect of pioglitazone in PCOS is, at least in part, mediated by adiponectin. Measures of changes in HMW adiponectin did not add further information to this relationship.
Evaluation of CDKN2C/p18, CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN2B/p15 mRNA expression, and CpG methylation status in sporadic and MEN1‐associated pancreatic endocrine tumours
Authors: Lindberg Daniel , Åkerström Göran , Westin Gunnar
Published: September 2007

Objective  Menin, encoded by the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) gene at 11q13, enhances transcription of the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors (CDIs), CDKN2C (p18) and CDKN1B (p27) in mouse pancreatic islets, and inactivation of menin reduced CDKN2B (p15) expression in this mouse model. Here, we have compared the relative mRNA expression level and CpG methylation status of p18, p27 and p15 in 18 pancreatic endocrine tumours (PETs) with or without MEN1 gene mutations.

Design  Real‐time quantitative PCR, DNA sequencing and pyrosequencing methylation analysis were employed.

Results  The p18 gene was expressed in 15 out of the 18 analysed PETs. The expression level was within the range of the normal pancreatic tissues or higher. Of the three remaining tumours with no expression, two displayed loss of heterozygocity (LOH) at 11q13, one derived from a MEN1 patient. The p27 gene was expressed in all PETs at a level higher than the normal pancreatic tissues, except for one tumour. Promoter methylation was not detected for p18 and p27. p15 expression was undetectable in 8/18 (44%) of the PETs, and no general relations to tumour syndrome, malignancy or MEN1 gene mutations were evident. This was not due to homozygous gene deletions, but the p15 promoter was hypermethylated in two insulinomas. No mutations were found in the p15 gene.

Conclusions  Expression of p15, p18 and p27 was not generally related to the MEN1 gene mutational status of the investigated 18 PETs. The p15 gene was silenced by promoter hypermethylation in two tumours. Dysregulation of menin and the CDIs are important in PET tumorigenesis, and their interrelations remain to be elucidated.
Pathogenesis of haemophilic synovitis: experimental studies on blood‐induced joint damage
Authors: VALENTINO L. A. , HAKOBYAN N. , RODRIGUEZ N. , HOOTS W. K.
Published: September 2007

Summary.  Hemarthrosis is a common manifestation of haemophilia, and joint arthropathy remains a frequent complication. Even though the exact mechanisms related to blood‐induced joint disease have not yet been fully elucidated, it is likely that iron deposition in the synovium induces an inflammatory response that causes not only immune system activation but also stimulates angiogenesis. This process ultimately results in cartilage and bone destruction. Investigating the processes that occur in the early stages of blood‐induced joint disease in humans has been very limited. Therefore, the use of haemophilic animal models is critical to augment the understanding of this phenomenon. This article discusses three cellular regulators (p53, p21 and TRAIL) induced in synovial tissue that are important for iron metabolism. A cartilage remodelling programme induced by the release of cytokines and growth factors that result in articular damage is also discussed. Full elucidation of the pathogenesis of haemophilic joint disease is required to identify new avenues for prevention and therapy.
The fracture and osteoporosis outpatient clinic: an effective strategy for improving implementation of an osteoporosis guideline
Authors: Van Helden Svenhjalmar , Cauberg Evelyne , Geusens Piet , Winkes Bjorn , Van Der Weijden Trudy , Brink Peter
Published: September 2007

Background  Clinical screening for osteoporosis in women aged over 50 years following a fracture is advocated by all guidelines on osteoporosis, but such attitude is widely reported to be inadequate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a strategy comparing referral for a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan as part of the osteoporosis guideline by a dedicated osteoporosis nurse with referral in hospitals without the presence of an osteoporosis nurse.

Methods  We retrospectively compared one reference hospital with five surrounding hospitals in the Netherlands. During a 2‐week period, all female patients aged over 50 years who presented with a fracture at the emergency department of the six hospitals were included. Follow‐up was minimal 11 weeks. The primary outcome was the referral for DXA measurement.

Results  In total, 135 patients were included, of whom 33 were seen in the reference hospital and 102 in the surrounding hospitals. In both groups, mean age and fracture location were similar. In the reference hospital, 14 patients qualified for DXA measurement, of whom 10 patients effectively underwent a DXA scan (71%). In the surrounding hospitals, 78 patients qualified for DXA measurement, of whom only three effectively underwent a DXA scan (4%). Taking into account a refusal percentage for DXA of 33% as was found in the reference centre, 47 patients in the surrounding hospitals should have been qualified for DXA measurement. Thus, successful referral in the surrounding hospitals was three out of 47 (6%) patients. The presence of an osteoporosis nurse did have a significant influence on the amount of DXA scans after fractures [RR 11 (95% CI: 3.6–35.1)].

Conclusions  This study indicates that referral for DXA is low in surrounding hospitals, and suggests that the presence of an osteoporosis nurse in the reference hospital significantly increased the number of patients receiving adequate osteoporosis screening with DXA measurement after a recent fracture. With this strategy patients who are at risk of osteoporosis are identified effectively, after which treatment can be started, in order to reduce the risk of future fractures.
Home enteral tube feeding in patients with inherited metabolic disorders: safety issues
Authors: Evans S. , MacDonald A. , Daly A. , Hopkins V. , Holden C.
Published: September 2007

Background  Many children with inherited metabolic disorders (IMD), at risk of hypoglycaemia and metabolic decompensation, are dependent on long‐term home overnight enteral tube feeding but its safety issues have not been evaluated.

Objective  To identify common safety issues and carer pressures for patients with IMD on home enteral tube feeds (HETF).

Methods  Thirty‐four patients (53% male; median age 4.1, range: 1.2–15.8 years), with IMD on home continuous overnight tube feeds were recruited. They were all following specialized feeding regimens. A questionnaire, administered by face‐to‐face interview with carers identified family members involved in feeding, training they received; child safety issues; equipment reliability and carer night time disturbance.

Results  The principal problems were: carer sleep disturbance (100%); tube entanglement (71%); untrained secondary carers (71%); faulty pumps (50%); tube blockages (45%); faulty equipment (32%); and child tampering with pumps and feeding equipment (29%).

Conclusions  Significant risks for children on HETF with IMD were identified, potentially leading to metabolic decompensation and hospitalization. The safety of feeding equipment, lack of training of extended family members and practical support for carers requires urgent attention.
Quantitative analysis of surface micro‐roughness alterations in human spermatozoa using atomic force microscopy
Authors: KUMAR SUNIL , CHAUDHURY KOEL , SEN PRASENJIT , GUHA SUJOY K.
Published: September 2007

A new male contraceptive given the name RISUG® (an acronym for Reversible Inhibition of Sperm Under Guidance) has been developed by our research group. RISUG® is a bioactive polymer and is injected into the lumen of the vas deferens using a no‐scalpel approach. The polyelectrolytic nature of this contraceptive induces a surface charge imbalance on sperm membrane system leading to its destabilization. Complete disintegration of the plasma membrane with subsequent rupture and dispersion of the acrosomal contents is observed on RISUG® treatment. In the present study, micro‐structural properties of human spermatozoa exposed to RISUG®in vitro have been quantitatively analysed using atomic force microscopy. The parameters used to quantify these morphological changes include amplitude (peak–valley height difference, arithmetic roughness, root mean square roughness) and spatial roughness. Factor loadings (Varimax rotation) have been used to determine the parameters displaying maximum variation. Further, sperm cells have been classified in various principal‐component planes using principal‐component analysis. The periodic structural features of the atomic force microscopy images have also been obtained using power spectral analysis.
Salivary secretion, taste and hyposalivation
Authors: MESE H. , MATSUO R.
Published: September 2007

Summary  Saliva has many essential functions. As the first digestive fluid in the alimentary canal, saliva is secreted in response to food, assisting intake and initiating the digestion of starch and lipids. During this process, saliva acts as a solvent of taste substances and affects taste sensitivity. Clinically, a more important role is in the maintenance of oral health, including the protection of teeth and mucosa from infections, maintenance of the milieu of taste receptors, and communication ability through speech. Variations in salivary flow can be affected, reversibly or irreversibly, by numerous physiological and pathological factors. Decreased salivary flow results in clinically significant oral discomfort that may manifest as increased caries, susceptibility to oral candidiasis, altered taste sensation or as a host of other problems. Hyposalivation is a condition that is frequently encountered in dental practice. The most common cause is the use of certain systemic medications, which put the elderly at greater risk because they are usually more medicated. Other causes include high doses of radiation and certain diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome. This article reviews the mechanism of salivary secretion, effect of saliva on taste, importance of saliva in oral health, and hyposalivation in relation to ageing, medicine and/or disease and management of hyposalivation.
Effect of silymarin and vitamin E on gentamicin‐induced nephrotoxicity in dogs
Authors: VARZI H. N. , ESMAILZADEH S. , MOROVVATI H. , AVIZEH R. , SHAHRIARI A. , GIVI M. E.
Published: September 2007

Drug‐induced nephrotoxicity is an important cause of renal failure in dogs. Aminoglycoside antibiotics, such as gentamicin, can produce nephrotoxicity in dogs, due to in part to an imbalance of pro‐ and antioxidants (oxidative stress). Silymarin (the mixture of flavonolignans extracted fromSilybum marianum) has potentially beneficial antioxidant properties. A control group (saline, group 1,n = 5) was compared with dogs that were administrated gentamicin by intramuscular injection, at dosage of 20 mg/kg, once daily for 9 days (groups 2–5,n = 5 per group). The effects of vitamin E (group 3) and silymarin (group 4) alone and in combination (group 5) were compared for induced nephrotoxicity.

Renal function was assessed using serum biochemical markers (creatinine and urea). Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were measured as a marker of lipid peroxidation. The activity of total serum antioxidants (TSAO) was assessed as a marker of antioxidant defences.

Serum creatinine and urea concentrations were increased significantly and TSAO was decreased significantly in group 2 compared with group 1. Serum creatinine concentrations but not urea concentrations were significantly lower in groups 3 and 4 than in group 2 (P = 0.001). Serum MDA concentrations was significantly different between groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.01), 2 and 4 (P < 0.001) and 4 and 5 (P = 0.01). TSAO activity was significantly in group 4 (silymarin) than in group 2 (P = 0.002). Silymarin and vitamin E decreased gentamicin‐induced nephrotoxicity in dogs.