bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are quality differences responsible for different adverse reactions reported for SD‐plasma from USA and Europe?
Authors: Salge‐Bartels U. , Breitner‐Ruddock S. , Hunfeld A. , Seitz R. , Heiden M.
Published: September 2006

summary Thromboembolic adverse reactions reported after transfusion of SD‐plasma in the United States (US) prompted us to perform a comparative study with SD‐plasma from the US and the European (EU) market. In SD‐plasma from US, residual tri‐N‐butyl phosphate was found, and citrate concentrations were lower than in EU‐plasma. Except for substantial losses of FV, FVIII and antiplasmin found for all SD‐plasmas, clotting factor activities were mainly retained. However, for SD‐plasma from US, markedly elevated concentrations of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], fibrin monomer and a particularly high degree of complement activation (C3a des‐Arg) were observed. Furthermore, pronounced differences were found for protein S. Although SD‐plasma pools from US contained nearly normal concentrations of free and bound protein S antigen, protein S activities were almost completely absent. In contrast to this, SD‐plasma from EU showed a moderate loss of both protein S activity and free antigen. Antitrypsin inhibitor activities were much more diminished in SD‐plasma from US than from EU. In view of a possible thrombogenicity of SD‐plasma from US, the loss of protein S and elevated Lp(a) concentrations could be of significance. The very high levels of C3a des‐Arg in US plasma could possibly have an additional effect, through priming platelet activation after transfusion.
Prestorage leucoreduction improves several in vitro red cell storage parameters following gamma irradiation
Authors: Wagner S. J. , Myrup A. C.
Published: September 2006

summary Gamma irradiation (GI) can prevent transfusion‐associated graft‐vs.‐host disease, result in a small decrement in 24‐h in vivo red blood cell (RBC) recovery and in a minor loss of maintenance of several in vitro parameters during routine storage. Results from studies by Davey et al. (Transfusion 1995, 35, 55S) demonstrated that the decrement in 24‐h recovery was not observed if units were first leucoreduced (LR), suggesting that RBC damage on leucocytes from GI was secondary to the effects of irradiation . In this study, we further investigated how leucoreduction affected eight in vitro storage parameters of gamma‐irradiated units by using a matched sample study design.

Leucoreduction significantly reduced (P < 0·05) the deleterious effect of GI on adenosine triphosphate glucose levels, haemolysis and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) for AS‐3 units and significantly decreased (P < 0·05) the deleterious effect of GI on glucose levels, haemolysis and MCV for AS‐1 units. Leucoreduction did not influence (P >> 0·5) the enhanced potassium release associated with GI. Some, but not all, the observed RBC damage caused by GI appears to be secondary to the effect of irradiation on leucocytes. Based on the in vivo survival studies of Davey et al. and the results of this study, there is justification to consider performing additional survival studies to support extended storage of LR gamma‐irradiated RBC.
Maturity of judgement in decision making for predictive testing for nontreatable adult‐onset neurogenetic conditions: a case against predictive testing of minors
Authors: Richards FH
Published: September 2006

International guidelines developed to minimize harm from predictive testing for adult‐onset, nontreatable neurogenetic conditions such as Huntington disease (HD) state that such testing should not be available to minors. Some authors have proposed that predictive testing for these conditions should be available to minors at the request of parents and/or of younger adolescents themselves. They highlight the lack of empirical evidence that predictive testing of minors causes harm and suggest that refusing to test minors may be detrimental. The current study focuses on the context of predictive test requests by adolescents younger than 18 years, and presents arguments and evidence that the risk of potential harm from testing such young people is sufficiently high to justify continued caution in this area. A study based on a model of psychosocial maturity found that the 3 factors involved in maturity of judgement in decision making – responsibility, temperance and perspective – continue to develop into late adolescence. There is also evidence that the prefrontal areas of the brain, which are involved in executive functions such as decision making, are not fully developed until early adulthood. Combined with evidence of adverse long‐term effects, from research with adults who have undergone predictive testing, these findings constitute grounds for retaining a minimum age of 18 years for predictive testing for nontreatable conditions. Further research on assessment of maturity will assist with reaching a consensus on this issue.
Second‐line treatment in invasive mould infections
Authors: Karthaus Meinolf , Cornely Oliver A.
Published: September 2006

A prevalence of up to 30% of invasive fungal infections (IFI) has been reported from autopsy studies in patients treated for haematological malignancies. Despite substantial advances in the last decade, IFI are still associated with a mortality of up to more than 70%, in particular for those patients suffering from invasive aspergillosis. Some progress has been made in diagnostics with the advent of new non‐culture based tools and the improvement of imaging techniques. However, the response rates are about 40–60% in the first‐line treatment of IFI. Salvage therapy will be necessary for those being intolerant or refractory towards the respective first‐line antifungal. Following a long period of stagnation, there has been a considerable progress during the last five years in the treatment of refractory IFI. This review highlights the new treatment options for the salvage setting in the context of the state‐of‐the‐art management of IFI in cancer patients.
Pilot study of pegylated interferon‐alpha 2a in dialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: CHAN TAK MAO , HO STEPHEN K N , TANG COLIN S O , TSE KAI CHUNG , LAM MAN FAI , LAI KAR NENG , YUNG SUSAN
Published: September 2006

Aim:  Pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) combined with ribavirin is recommended for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients without renal failure. The optimal treatment of hepatitis C in dialysis patients remains to be established. A high incidence of adverse effects has been observed with conventional interferon and PEG‐IFN alpha‐2b in dialysis patients.

Methods:  We conducted a prospective study to investigate the tolerability and efficacy of PEG‐IFN alpha‐2a (135 µg weekly for 48 weeks) in six dialysis patients with chronic HCV infection.

Results:  Two patients completed 48 weeks of treatment. Treatment was stopped in three patients (beyond 24 weeks) when they developed unrelated complications, and stopped in one patient due to failure of viral clearance. None required treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects, and PEG‐IFN alpha‐2a was subjectively well tolerated. Marrow suppression with mild anaemia, leucopenia, or thrombocytopenia remained common. Two patients (infected with genotypes 3a and 1b, respectively) had sustained virological response.

Conclusions:  Results from this pilot study showed that PEG‐IFN alpha‐2a appeared relatively well tolerated in dialysis patients with chronic HCV infection, and about one‐third of patients could achieve sustained virological response.
Non diabetic renal disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: SONI SACHIN S , GOWRISHANKAR SWARNALATA , KISHAN A GOPAL , RAMAN ANURADHA
Published: September 2006

Aim:  The aim of this analysis of renal biopsies in people with type 2 diabetes was to know the prevalence and nature of non‐diabetic renal disease (NDRD) and to note its correlation with the duration of diabetes, extent of proteinuria and presence or absence of retinopathy.

Methods:   From January 2000 to December 2004, 160 people with type 2 diabetes with clinically suspected NDRD underwent renal biopsy reported by a single pathologist. The case records of these patients were retrospectively analysed. Based on the biopsy findings, patients were grouped as Group I, isolated NDRD; Group II, NDRD with underlying diabetic glomerulosclerosis; and Group III, isolated diabetic glomerulosclerosis. The relation of histology with clinical profile in each group was noted and statistically analysed using strata 6 software.

Results:   Of the 160 patients studied, 118 were males and 42 were females (2.8:1). The average age was 51.35 years (30–79). Indications for renal biopsy included: nephrotic syndrome in 55 (34.37%), acute renal failure (ARF) in 49 (30.62%), rapidly progressive renal failure (RPRF) in 24 (15%), absent retinopathy in 19 (11.87%), haematuria in 10 (6.25%) and acute on chronic renal failure (CRF) in three (1.87%) patients. Group I included 68 patients (42.50%), Group II included 48 patients (30%) and Group III included 44 patients (27.50%). The mean duration of diabetes was 5.37, 10.12 and 6.86 years in Groups I, II and III respectively. The duration of diabetes was significantly less in Group I compared with Group II and III combined (5.37 vs 8.53; P < 0.001). Diabetic retinopathy was absent in 61 (38.13%) patients, of whom 41 (67.21%) had isolated NDRD. The most common NDRD were acute interstitial nephritis (18.1%), post infectious glomerulonephritis (17.24%), membranous nephropathy (11.20%) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (7.75%).

Conclusions:  Prevalence of NDRD (either isolated or superimposed on underlying diabetic glomerulosclerosis) is very high in appropriate clinical settings. The shorter duration of diabetes and the absence of retinopathy, especially when associated with nephrotic proteinuria, strongly predict NDRD.
Different dimensions of social support for the caregivers of patients with schizophrenia: Main effect and stress‐buffering models
Authors: LEE TIEN CHEN , YANG YEN KUANG , CHEN PO SEE , HUNG NI CHUN , LIN SHIH HSIEN , CHANG FONG LIN , CHENG SHU HUI
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The aims of this study were: (i) to assess the impact of caring for patients with schizophrenia on the mental health status of the caregivers; and (ii) to examine the direct and buffer effects of social support on the mental health status of these caregivers. A total of 61 key caregivers of patients with schizophrenia were administered the Chinese Health Questionnaire (CHQ) and the Measure of Support Function (MSF) self‐report questionnaire to assess their mental health and social support status. The MSF questionnaire constitutes four subscales, including: (i) the perceived crisis support (PCS); (ii) the perceived routine support (PRS); (iii) the received crisis support (RCS); and (iv) the received routine support (RRS) subscale. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess the psychopathology severity of the patients they cared for. Then the authors used the hierarchical multiple regression model to analyze the relationship between these variables. The psychopathology severity of the patients reflected by the PANSS scores correlated inversely with the caregivers’ CHQ scores. Besides, the PCS subscale scores correlated positively with the caregivers’ CHQ scores. Moreover, the interaction between the RCS subscale scores and the PANSS scores was significant. Significant positive correlation between the RCS and CHQ exists only in the higher PANSS subgroup, but not in the lower PANSS subgroup. The psychopathological severity of the patients has a negative impact on their caregivers’ mental health. PCS has a direct effect, and RCS has a buffer effect on the mental health status of these caregivers.
Psychological and physical correlates of disordered eating in male and female Turkish college students
Authors: EROL ATILA , TOPRAK GULSER , YAZICI FADIME
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between disordered eating and three psychological variables (obsessive and depressive symptoms, self‐esteem) and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of male and female college students in Turkey. Maudsley Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory (MOCI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES), Eating Attitude Test (EAT), and Bulimic Investigatory Test, Edinburgh (BITE) scales were administered to 408 college students (279 women; 129 men). By multiple regression analysis, the scales of MOCI, BDI, RSES and BMI were used as potential predictors of EAT and BITE scores for each gender. Obsessionality and BMI were the strongest predictors of bulimic and anorexic symptoms in women. In men, while the strongest predictors of bulimic symptoms were the depressive and obsessive symptoms, the best predictor of anorexic symptoms was obsession scores. There were significant differences and some similarities between male and female Turkish college students.
Relationships among mental health status, social context, and demographic characteristics in Taiwanese aboriginal adolescents: A structural equation model
Authors: YEN CHENG‐FANG , HSU CHIA‐CHUANG , LIU SHU‐CHUN , HUANG CHI‐FEN , KO CHIH‐HUNG , YEN JU‐YU , CHENG CHUNG‐PING
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The purposes of this study were to examine the relationships among mental health status, demographic characteristics, and social contexts, including family conflict and support, connectedness to school, and affiliation with peers who exhibit delinquent behavior and who use substances, among Taiwanese aboriginal adolescents. A total of 251 aboriginal junior high school students in an isolated mountainous area of southern Taiwan were recruited, and the relationships among mental health status, demographic characteristics, and social contexts among them were examined using a structural equation model (SEM). The SEM revealed that family conflict and support had direct influences on mental health status and connectedness to school. Family conflict had a direct relationship with affiliation with peers who use substances, and family conflict and support were both indirectly linked with affiliation with peers who exhibit delinquent behavior and who used substances; these were mediated by a poor mental health status. Female and older age were directly linked with a poor mental health status and were indirectly linked with a greater number of peers who exhibit delinquent behavior and who use substances via the poor mental health status. Disruptive parenting was directly linked with affiliation with peers who use substances. The authors suggest that those who devise strategies to improve aboriginal adolescents’ mental health and discourage substance use should take these relationships among mental health, demographic characteristics, and social contexts into account.
Association study of a functional promoter polymorphism of the X‐box binding protein 1 gene in Japanese patients with schizophrenia
Authors: WATANABE YUICHIRO , FUKUI NAOKI , MURATAKE TATSUYUKI , AMAGANE HIDEKI , KANEKO NAOSHI , NUNOKAWA AYAKO , SOMEYA TOSHIYUKI
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The functional promoter polymorphism −116C/G of the X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1) gene was found to be associated with schizophrenia in Han Chinese and Japanese subjects, although contradictive negative findings were also reported in European populations. To confirm this association in a Japanese population, the authors conducted a case‐control association study. There was no significant difference in both genotype and allele frequencies between the patients and control subjects, suggesting that the XBP1 –116C/G polymorphism might not confer increased susceptibility for schizophrenia in a Japanese population. However, further studies using a larger sample with detailed clinical data should be performed in several populations.
Unawareness in schizophrenia: Neuropsychological and neuroanatomical findings
Authors: PIA LORENZO , TAMIETTO MARCO
Published: September 2006

Abstract  The lack of insight in schizophrenia has so far been interpreted as a primary symptom of the illness, namely a defensive mechanism rather than a neurologically‐based condition. However, recent findings have emphasized its relationship with damage to specific brain areas as well as the domain specificity in which it may occur. This supports a neuropsychological interpretation of the lack of insight in schizophrenia. The present article reviews the foregoing data, and takes into account the most relevant anatomo‐clinical results. There is evidence that the lack of insight in schizophrenia may occur as a neurological disease per se following brain damage that seems related to frontal lobe areas. Additionally, it could either be related to all aspects of the disease or be domain‐specific, occurring for one kind of symptom but not for others. These data indicate several analogies with the phenomenon called anosognosia for a neurological deficit.
Increased preoperative serum C‐reactive protein level predicts a poor prognosis in patients with localized renal cell carcinoma
Authors: KOMAI YOSHINOBU , SAITO KAZUTAKA , SAKAI KUNIHIKO , MORIMOTO SHINJI
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the value of the preoperative serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) level in the prognosis of patients with localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study comprised 101 patients who had a radical nephrectomy for localized RCC (pT1–3N0M0). An elevated CRP was defined as >0.5 mg/dL before surgery. Survival rates for each variant were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method, with the difference between survival curves evaluated using the log‐rank test. Multivariate analysis was by Cox proportional hazard model; for all analyses the difference was considered significant when P < 0.05.

RESULTS

The median (range) follow‐up was 55  (2–187) months; 26 patients (26%) had high CRP levels, and 12 (46%) of these and three (4.0%) of the remaining 75 died from disease. The 5‐ and 10‐year disease‐specific survival rates (75% and 30%, respectively) in patients with high CRP levels were significantly worse than those in patients with normal CRP levels (both 93%, P < 0.001). In other variants, preoperative haemoglobin concentration, pathological stage, grade, histological type and microvascular tumour invasion were also related to disease‐specific survival. By the Cox proportional hazards model, pathological stage and an elevated CRP were the most important prognostic factors for disease‐specific survival in patients with localized RCC (P = 0.008 and 0.012, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The preoperative CRP level was associated with poor survival in patients with localized RCC.
Pudendal nerve stimulation of a preparation of isolated guinea‐pig urethra
Authors: Walters Richard D. , McMurray Gordon , Brading Alison F.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To assess the functional response of the urethral striated muscle to activation of its nerves, using a novel isolated organ‐bath preparation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The urethra of the female guinea‐pig was chosen as a suitable model for investigation, as it is functionally and structurally similar to the human urethra. Female Dunkin–Hartley guinea‐pigs (400–500 g) were used; for the histochemical and immunohistochemical experiments, unfixed urethras were cryo‐sectioned (14 µm thick) and were stained using established methods. For in vitro experiments, whole urethras were suspended vertically, with pudendal nerves intact, for isometric tension and intraluminal pressure recording in a 40‐mL organ bath. Drugs were applied directly to the bathing solution.

RESULTS

In the striated muscle layer of the urethra there was positive β‐NADPH‐diaphorase activity. In organ‐bath studies the pudendal nerve‐evoked contractions (0.2 ms pulses, 5 s trains, 70 V and 1–100 Hz) were abolished in the presence of tubocurarine (10−6m), and unaffected by guanethidine and atropine (both 10−6m). Pre‐incubation with sodium nitroprusside and SIN‐1 chloride significantly reduced the initial peak pressure responses (P < 0.05, anova for paired data) evoked by electrical field stimulation of the pudendal nerves at stimulus parameters of 0.2 ms pulses, 5 s trains, 70 V and 25 Hz.

CONCLUSION

Electrically induced contractions were abolished by tubocurarine, confirming that the pudendal nerve innervates the striated muscle of the guinea‐pig external urethral sphincter via nicotinic receptors. β‐NADPH‐diaphorase histochemistry gave positive staining around guinea‐pig striated muscle cells and possibly identified neuromuscular junction sites staining positively for the nitric oxide synthase marker. Together with the results of the organ‐bath experiments, the results suggest that the striated muscle cells of the guinea‐pig urethra have the machinery to respond to nitric oxide.
Approaches to achieve high‐level heterologous protein production in plants
Authors: Streatfield Stephen J.
Published: September 2006

Plants offer an alternative to microbial fermentation and animal cell cultures for the production of recombinant proteins. For protein pharmaceuticals, plant systems are inherently safer than native and even recombinant animal sources. In addition, post‐translational modifications, such as glycosylation, which cannot be achieved with bacterial fermentation, can be accomplished using plants. The main advantage foreseen for plant systems is reduced production costs. Plants should have a particular advantage for proteins produced in bulk, such as industrial enzymes, for which product pricing is low. In addition, edible plant tissues are well suited to the expression of vaccine antigens and pharmaceuticals for oral delivery. Three approaches have been followed to express recombinant proteins in plants: expression from the plant nuclear genome; expression from the plastid genome; and expression from plant tissues carrying recombinant plant viral sequences. The most important factor in moving plant‐produced heterologous proteins from developmental research to commercial products is to ensure competitive production costs, and the best way to achieve this is to boost expression. Thus, considerable research effort has been made to increase the amount of recombinant protein produced in plants. This research includes molecular technologies to increase replication, to boost transcription, to direct transcription in tissues suited for protein accumulation, to stabilize transcripts, to optimize translation, to target proteins to subcellular locations optimal for their accumulation, and to engineer proteins to stabilize them. Other methods include plant breeding to increase transgene copy number and to utilize germplasm suited to protein accumulation. Large‐scale commercialization of plant‐produced recombinant proteins will require a combination of these technologies.
Export Promotion Policies and the Crowding‐out Effect in Developing Countries*
Authors: Ghani Gairuzazmi
Published: September 2006

Critics of export promotion policies have pointed out a fallacy of composition, where what is viable for a small country acting in isolation might not be viable when pursued by a group of countries simultaneously. This paper investigates the crowding‐out effect of the fallacy of composition; that is, whether developing countries that specialize in exports of manufactured products compete and crowd out one another's exports. The results of fixed‐effects panel estimation suggest that developing countries are not crowding out one another's exports. Instead, they are crowding out Western European countries’ exports of manufactured products.
Water rights for variable supplies*
Authors: Freebairn John , Quiggin John
Published: September 2006

The relative merits of different systems of property rights to allocate water among different extractive uses are evaluated for the case where variability of supply is important. Three systems of property rights are considered. In the first, variable supply is dealt with through the use of water entitlements defined as shares of the total quantity available. In the second, there are two types of water entitlements, one for water with a high security of supply and the other a lower security right for the residual supply. The third is a system of entitlements specified as state‐contingent claims. With zero transaction costs, all systems are efficient. In the realistic situation where transaction costs matter, the system based on state‐contingent claims is globally optimal, and the system with high‐security and lower security entitlements is preferable to the system with share entitlements.
Water rights: a comparison of the impacts of urban and irrigation reforms in Australia
Authors: Crase Lin , Dollery Brian
Published: September 2006

Although there has been a policy thrust towards making all Australians more cognisant of the relative scarcity of water resources, the approach adopted for urban dwellers differs markedly from that applied to irrigators. These differences are examined from a property‐rights perspective focussing primarily on the institutional hierarchies in the Victorian water sector. The analysis reveals significant attenuation of urban dwellers’ rights, presumably on the basis of the information deficiencies that circumscribe urban water use. Alternative policy options are then proposed, which might alleviate some of these information deficiencies and simultaneously address the efficiency losses that attend the present arrangements.
ORDER FROM VIRTUAL STATES: A DIALOGUE ON THE RELEVANCE OF QUANTUM THEORY TO RELIGION
Authors: Klein Stanley A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. Lothar Schäfer has written a poetic tribute pointing out the relevance of quantum theory to religious beliefs. Two items in his article trouble me greatly. First are the excessive claims about the relevance of quantum mechanisms for the creation and evolution of life. Schäfer's claim that “everything that can happen must happen” can be dangerously misleading. The quantum rules predict that most outcomes have a near‐zero chance of occurring. Although “anything can happen” can be a wonderful metaphor for living life, it can be dangerous if taken literally. It can also be misleading when applied to Darwinian mechanisms. My second trouble was with Schäfer's desire to extract moral values from quantum principles in a literalist manner. Extracting ethics from science has always been problematic. Luckily, Schäfer provides balance to these objections by including many wonderful passages that in my opinion correctly point out how quantum theory should change the way we conceive of our place in the universe. I list twelve points in which the quantum ontology differs from our normal Newtonian ontology. Awareness of these aspects is typically missing from our usual appreciation of nature, so Schäfer's poetry on a number of these points is well appreciated.
A RESPONSE TO ERVIN LASZLO: QUANTUM AND CONSCIOUSNESS
Authors: Schäfer Lothar
Published: September 2006

Abstract. I respond to Ervin Laszlo's suggestions and criticism regarding my essay in this issue of Zygon. Virtual atomic orbitals are used as a model to illustrate the existence of a general realm of potentiality in physical reality from which the actual world emanates. Laszlo's suggestions for “paradigm repair” are supported and accepted as essentially being in agreement with my intentions and as offering highly useful clarifications. I compare virtual states to historic ideas of forms as metaphysical principles of being that inspire thoughts regarding the actions of a Cosmic Consciousness in the processes of the universe. Metaphysical and theological interpretations of the results of scientific research are defended, provided that they are not used to interfere a priori with the technical program of scientific research.
EMERGENCE AND HUMAN UNIQUENESS: LIMITING OR DELIMITING EVOLUTIONARY EXPLANATION?
Authors: Van Huyssteen J. Wentzel
Published: September 2006

Abstract. Philip Clayton's book Mind and Emergence presents a highly sophisticated argument against any kind of uncritical theology that might want to follow science into a world of overly narrow, compartmentalized disciplines that do not sufficiently communicate between themselves. Clayton argues persuasively that the basic structure of the phenomenal world is multileveled, with emergent properties and degrees of freedom that cannot be adequately described, predicted, or explained in terms of lower‐level phenomena only. Moreover, the various levels of organization are linked to one another by interfaces of mutual constraint in terms of upward and downward causation. The most valuable part of Clayton's argument, however, is that in a philosophy of emergence one must also, if not especially, account for the role of the biological sciences and especially for the influence of human thoughts and skills, human choices and actions, and—one of the most important causes of all—human purposes. Clayton's biggest challenge is that the level of human personhood offers us the only appropriate level to introduce the question of God and the possibility of divine agency. I critically evaluate this central claim and its implications not only for the extent of divine influence on the world but also for the scope and limitations of the interdisciplinary dialogue between theology and the sciences.
GOD EMBODIED IN, GOD BODYING FORTH THE WORLD: EMERGENCE AND CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
Authors: Crain Steven D.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. I expand on Philip Clayton's application of emergence—in the context of a metaphysical position he calls emergent monism—to conceiving God's relationship to the world. Like Clayton, I adopt a panentheistic perspective, but in a way that I argue is consistent with classical philosophical theism and its grammatical analysis of Christian discourse about divine transcendence. In order to exploit further the analogical potential of an emergentist account of human mentality and agency, I argue that the standard panentheistic metaphor The world is the body of God should be complemented by the metaphor God is the body of the world.
EMERGENCE FROM PHYSICS TO THEOLOGY: TOWARD A PANORAMIC VIEW
Authors: Clayton Philip
Published: September 2006

Abstract. At its best, the emergence debate provides a helpful model of what religion‐science scholarship can and should involve. (At its worst it represents the faddishness and bandwagon effects to which our field is also prone.) Those involved in the debate must pay close attention to concrete theories and results in the natural sciences. They rely on the careful conceptual distinctions that philosophers of science draw concerning complexity, novelty, and organization. The resulting views about human mentality and consciousness are tested against these results and checked for their adequacy to the phenomena of human experience. Emergentist theories of nature and personhood have entailments for one's theory of religion and for theological reflection; conversely, theological accounts may constrain one's interpretation of emergent phenomena. In my response to the four symposiasts I draw out these deeper dimensions of the emergence debate.
Use of intense pulsed light and a retinyl‐based cream as a potential treatment for cellulite: a pilot study
Authors: Fink Joshua S , Mermelstein Harold , Thomas Andrew , Trow Robert
Published: September 2006

Background  There are few therapeutic treatments established for cellulite.

Objective  We studied the response of intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment with or without a compounded prescription retinyl‐based cream on a small group of patients who had visible cellulite present on the buttocks and thigh regions.

Patients and methods  Twenty patients were selected to complete a 12‐week course of IPL treatment either with or without a retinyl‐based cream. Assessment was based on visual evaluation, photographs, skin ultrasounds, and patient satisfaction.

Results  Fifteen (75%) completed the study, and nine (60%) had a self‐improvement rating of ≥ 50%. Seven (78%) of nine patients used IPL/cream. Of the remaining six (40%) completing the study, four (27%) had self‐improvement ratings of 25–50% and two (13%; IPL only) were considered treatment failures with a rating of 10–25%. Both IPL/cream and IPL‐only groups exhibited an improvement in the smoothness of the affected area even following weight gain. Skin ultrasounds confirmed an increase in the deposition of collagen. During an 8‐month phone follow‐up, 8 (67%) of 12 responding reported the same or improved results.

Conclusion  IPL treatment with or without a retinyl‐based cream can improve the appearance of peau d’orange cellulite, though the cream may augment cosmetic improvement. This approach is well tolerated, has minimal side effects, and is accompanied by a high degree of patient satisfaction.
Cosmetic use of polylactic acid for hand rejuvenation: report on 27 patients
Authors: Redaelli A
Published: September 2006

Objective  Polylactic acid (PLA) is effectively used on the face. In the Author's opinion it can also be applied successfully to other body areas. The aim of the present retrospective study is to estimate the safety and results of this new technique in order to improve the hand skeletal status in old patients.

Materials and methods  Twenty‐seven patients were treated in the period from January 2004 to April 2005 (a total of 109 sessions). Their age averaged 65.9 years. In all cases the hand treatment was associated with a face or neck treatment. 150 mg polylactic acid was diluted with 0.5 mL of 3% Carbocain and water for injectable preparations (from 5 to 8 mL). Intermetacarpal spaces were injected with this solution in dosages ranging from 2 to 4 mL with a particular and rigorous technique. The protocol, consisting of 3–6 consecutive sessions, is discussed below.

Results  The results have been evaluated by a Definitive Graduated Score (DGS) based on the patient's and doctor's satisfaction scores (from 1 to 10) and by the photograph score. They have ranged from 4 to 9 (average of 6.55). No important side effects have been detected. There has been one case of fine unnoticeable nodulations. In six cases the result has not been satisfactory. In seven cases the DGS was higher than 8.

Conclusion  The fibro‐connectival restoration of hands is an important step in the global aesthetic treatment of old patients. This technique can give good results, particularly if associated with peelings and sclerotherapy. Side effects have been acceptable.
A Question of Rites? Perspectives on the Colonial Encounter with Sati
Authors: Major Andrea
Published: September 2006

Although a rare occurrence, sati has become a highly controversial issue in modern India. In the wake of the now notorious burning of Roop Kanwar in 1987, sati and its glorification became a terrain on which wider issues about religion, identity, modernity and tradition were contested. In this debate both supporters and opponents of sati invoked the rhetoric of ‘rights’. It is generally agreed that such terms in the contemporary debate have their roots in the colonial period; some supporters of sati go as far as to argue that those who condemn sati as a violation of women's rights are adopting a ‘Western’ perspective without appreciating sati's ‘true’ social, religious and cultural significance. In doing so, however, they assume a homogenous and consistent colonial condemnation of sati. New perspectives suggest, however, that the British response to sati was more multifaceted than this allows and the link between colonial discourses and modern protagonists more complex.
Violence and Vulnerability in East Africa before 1800 CE: An Agenda for Research
Authors: Schoenbrun David
Published: September 2006

Little is known about the history of violence and vulnerability in east Africa before 1800 CE despite its obvious importance to virtually any larger theme in the region's history. This essay suggests that although the fraught moral valences of violence and vulnerability – especially with respect to their importance in modern African history – may explain this state of affairs, historians must meet the challenge of studying the earlier histories of violence and vulnerability as part of a full‐fleshed sense of the African past. With a focus on east Africa before the nineteenth century, the essay considers some of the particular transitions which a regional history of violence and vulnerability might cause us to rethink. It closes with a broad definition of violence crafted in the light of the value of a long‐term regional history of such fraught categories.
Depression and Epilepsy: A New Perspective on Two Closely Related Disorders
Authors: Kanner Andres M.
Published: September 2006

Depression is the most frequent psychiatric comorbidity in epilepsy. Yet, it remains under-recognized and untreated in a significant number of patients. It may mimic primary depressive disorders, but in a significant percentage of patients, depression presents with atypical pleomorphic characteristics. The use of screening self-rating scales may help to identify depressive episodes in patients with epilepsy, but a diagnosis cannot be established by the sole use of these instruments without an additional, in-depth evaluation. Timely recognition and treatment of depression is of the essence in epilepsy patients, as its persistence is an independent predictor of poor quality of life, increased suicidal risk, greater use of health services, and higher medical costs not related to the psychiatric treatment. Neurologists will often find themselves in the position of being the only health care provider available to initiate treatment. Accordingly, they should be well trained to provide psychopharmacologic treatment for major depressive episodes, dysthymic disorders, and minor depression. However, patients with suicidal ideation, psychotic symptoms, or bipolar disorders should be referred immediately to the care of a psychiatrist.
Searching for Autism Symptomatology in Children with Epilepsy—A New Approach to an Established Comorbidity
Authors: Malow Beth A.
Published: September 2006

The Prevalence of Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Children Surveyed in a Tertiary Care Epilepsy Clinic

Clarke DF, Roberts W, Daraksan M, Dupuis A, McCabe J, Wood H, Snead OC 3rd, Weiss SK

Epilepsia 2005;46:1970–1977.

It is well documented that children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) have an increased prevalence of seizures; however, studies have not been done to evaluate the prevalence of ASD in children with epilepsy. This comorbidity is important to define as early diagnosis and intervention in some children with ASD has been shown to improve outcome.

Method

Children with epilepsy seen in a tertiary care epilepsy clinic were evaluated using validated autism screening questionnaires (ASQ). In addition, questions about sleep-related disorders, behavior, seizure characteristics, antiepileptic agents, and body mass index (BMI) were requested. An attempt was then made to determine if there was a correlation between the factors identified and ASD.

Results

Of the 107 questionnaires returned, 97 ASQs were properly completed and used in this study. Approximately 32% of children fit the ASQ criteria for having ASD. Most children had not been previously diagnosed. Worst behavior and daytime sleepiness was seen in those at greater risk ( p < 0.01). Seizures also occurred earlier (approximately 2 years) in children at risk of having ASD.

Conclusion

Though confirmatory diagnostic evaluations are needed, this questionnaire-based study suggests that children with epilepsy are at greater risk of having ASD, and illustrates the need for more clinical vigilance. Behavioral difficulties and daytime sleepiness identified in these children could potentially affect their ability to learn. It is of interest that the age of seizure onset identified in those at greater risk corresponds with the approximate age of regression identified in some children with ASD.
Medical Intractability and Imaging: Can MRI Predict the Future?
Authors: Garcia Paul
Published: September 2006

MRI Evidence of Mesial Temporal Sclerosis in Sporadic “Benign” Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

Labate A, Ventura P, Gambardella A, Le Piane E, Colosimo E, Leggio U, Ambrosio R, Condino F, Messina D, Lanza P, Aguglia U, Quattrone A

Neurology 2006;66:562–565.

Objective

To determine whether there is MRI-detectable mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) in patients with sporadic benign temporal lobe epilepsy (BTLE).

Methods

Brain MRIs were obtained from 101 consecutive, unrelated patients (51 women; mean age 37.3 ± 17.5 years; range 10–83 years) with BTLE, who reported rarely or never having had seizures at the time of long-term (>2 years) follow-up. The mean age at seizure onset was 22.3 ± 17.4 years; the mean duration of epilepsy was 16.4 ± 14.1 years. MRI diagnosis of MTS was based on the occurrence of hippocampal formation atrophy on T1 slices, an increased mesial temporal signal intensity alteration on fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) or T2 images, or both.

Results

Thirty-nine of 101 patients (38.6%) had MRI evidence of unilateral MTS (19/39 left MTS, 20/39 right MTS), which correlated with the epileptiform activity. Hyperintense FLAIR and T2 signal with or without atrophy was observed in 24 of 39 individuals. There was no difference between patients with or without MRI-detected MTS in age at onset and duration of epilepsy. Family history of epilepsy or febrile convulsions (FCs) was more frequent in patients with MRI-detected MTS (36%) as compared with patients with normal MRI (22.7%), but the difference was not significant. Antecedent FCs were more frequent ( p = 0.03) in patients with MRI-detected MTS (9/39; 23%) vs those with normal MRI (5/62; 8%).

Conclusions

MRI-detected mesial temporal sclerosis is often encountered in patients with sporadic benign temporal lobe epilepsy.
Clusterin expression in primary and metastatic melanoma
Authors: Busam Klaus J. , Kucukgol Derya , Eastlake‐Wade Susannah , Frosina Denise , Delgado Ruby , Jungbluth Achim A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Clusterin is a pleiotrophic glycoprotein that has been implicated in diverse physiologic processes. Recent studies of gene expression profiling found clusterin to be expressed in desmoplastic variants of malignant melanoma. In this study, we extended those observations and examined clusterin expression in a larger number of primary as well as in metastatic melanomas and melanocytic nevi. We used tissue microarray panels as well as selected conventional sections from formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissue blocks. Positive staining for clusterin was found in seven of 21 (30%) primary desmoplastic and three of 21 (7%) non‐desmoplastic melanoma. Among metastatic tumors, clusterin expression was found in five of 37 tumors (13.5%). Clusterin expression was not seen in melanocytes of normal skin or in any of the 10 melanocytic nevi tested. Clusterin expression was not entirely restricted to melanoma; it was also seen in a few non‐neoplastic tissues, including perifollicular fibroblasts, occasional sebocytes, and the epithelial cells lining sebaceous duct and the isthmus of the hair follicle. Our findings confirm the observation that clusterin can be expressed in melanoma, in particular primary desmoplastic melanoma. However, clusterin appears to be present only in a minority of melanomas.
Cutaneous involvement by angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma: a unique histologic presentation, mimicking an infectious etiology
Authors: Jayaraman Anu G. , Cassarino David , Advani Ranjana , Kim Youn H. , Tsai Eunice , Kohler Sabine
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (AILT) is an aggressive peripheral T‐cell lymphoma that is frequently accompanied by a cutaneous eruption. The cutaneous findings most commonly consist of a maculopapular eruption on the trunk. However, purpura, infiltrated or urticarial plaques, papulovesicular lesions, nodules, and erythroderma have also been reported. Histologic findings in the lymph node are characteristic, while those in the skin may show one of four patterns. Here, we review the previously reported histologic patterns and present a case of AILT involving the skin with a unique histologic appearance of necrotizing granulomas with abundant histiocytes and eosinophils, mimicking an infectious etiology.
CD99 immunoreactivity in atypical fibroxanthoma and pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma: a useful diagnostic marker
Authors: Hartel Paul H. , Jackson Jeffrey , Ducatman Barbara S. , Zhang Peilin
Published: September 2006

Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX), a benign lesion, and pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) are thought to represent points along the same neoplastic spectrum but with different prognoses and treatments. Diagnosis based on histology and clinical parameters alone is sometimes difficult, and a reliable cost‐effective immunohistochemical marker to help distinguish these lesions would be beneficial. The diagnosis of AFX or MFH was based upon published clinical and microscopic criteria. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissues of 17 cases of AFX and 26 cases of MFH were immunostained with monoclonal antibody to CD99. For all cases, CD99 expression was scored on a four‐tiered scale: negative, weak (1+), moderate (2+), or strong (3+). Two pathologists blinded to tumor diagnoses and type of immunostain evaluated each case independently. The interobserver correlation coefficient was calculated. Seventeen patients with AFX (16 males and one female; mean age = 79) and 26 patients with MFH (16 males and 10 females; mean age = 60) were included. AFX lesions were from the head and the face, mean size = 1.5 cm, and MFH lesions were from the head, the neck, the trunk, and the upper/lower extremities, mean size = 5.2 cm. The 17 cases of AFX demonstrated moderate or strong (2 to 3+) immunoreactivity with CD99, compared to nine of 26 (35%) MFH cases (chi‐square = 18.38; p < 0.001; interobserver correlation coefficient = 0.83). Of these, 16 of 17 (94%) AFX cases stained diffusely with CD99, while only four of 26 (15%) MFH cases stained diffusely. Control slides were adequate. Our study demonstrated that CD99 can help distinguish AFX from MFH, in addition to other immunohistochemistry as well as clinical and histologic criteria.
Lipodermatosclerosis as a form of vascular compromise‐associated radiation recall dermatitis: case report and a review of literature
Authors: Sroa Novie , Bartholomew Deborah A. , Magro Cynthia M.
Published: September 2006

Lipodermatosclerosis (LDS) is a prototypic ischemic dermopathy that is most commonly associated with venous insufficiency. There have been no prior reports describing LDS as a form of radiation recall dermatitis (RRD). We present a case of a 47‐year‐old female affected by squamous cell carcinoma of the anus who underwent irradiation and subsequent chemotherapy with 5‐fluorouracil and cisplatin. She then developed tender, erythematous, indurated plaques on skin of the buttocks, corresponding closely to one of the previous radiotherapy fields. As histopathological studies were compatible with LDS and the skin eruption coincided with drug intake 3 months after radiotherapy, the diagnosis of RRD with LDS features was rendered. This is the first case providing evidence of the causative role of 5‐fluorouracil and cisplatin in potentially inducing RRD.
Atypical primary carcinoid tumour of the skin
Authors: Eloy‐Garcia Carrasco Carmen , Benguigui Benadiva Jacob , Martinez Garcia Silvestre , Sanz Trelles Andres , Palacios Sebastian
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  We present a new case of a primary carcinoid tumour of the skin. The mitotic index (4/10 HPF) warrants classification of this case as atypical. The patient was a 58‐year‐old woman with a 1‐year history of a mass on the scalp. Literature review showed this to be only the seventh case of primary carcinoid tumour of the skin. Importantly, the evolution has been favourable in all seven tumours, with a mean follow‐up of 2.5 years for the previous six cases. Although the number of cases is too small to draw definitive conclusions, information to date suggests that this type of tumour can be expected to have a benign behaviour, despite the presence in some cases of criteria suggestive of uncertainty, such as the presence of mitosis.