bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penalized likelihood and multi-objective spatial scans for the detection and inference of irregular clusters
Authors: Cançado André LF , Duarte Anderson R , Duczmal Luiz H , Ferreira Sabino J , Fonseca Carlos M , Gontijo Eliane CDM
Published: October 2010

Background

Irregularly shaped spatial clusters are difficult to delineate. A cluster found by an algorithm often spreads through large portions of the map, impacting its geographical meaning. Penalized likelihood methods for Kulldorff's spatial scan statistics have been used to control the excessive freedom of the shape of clusters. Penalty functions based on cluster geometry and non-connectivity have been proposed recently. Another approach involves the use of a multi-objective algorithm to maximize two objectives: the spatial scan statistics and the geometric penalty function.

Results & Discussion

We present a novel scan statistic algorithm employing a function based on the graph topology to penalize the presence of under-populated disconnection nodes in candidate clusters, the disconnection nodes cohesion function. A disconnection node is defined as a region within a cluster, such that its removal disconnects the cluster. By applying this function, the most geographically meaningful clusters are sifted through the immense set of possible irregularly shaped candidate cluster solutions. To evaluate the statistical significance of solutions for multi-objective scans, a statistical approach based on the concept of attainment function is used. In this paper we compared different penalized likelihoods employing the geometric and non-connectivity regularity functions and the novel disconnection nodes cohesion function. We also build multi-objective scans using those three functions and compare them with the previous penalized likelihood scans. An application is presented using comprehensive state-wide data for Chagas' disease in puerperal women in Minas Gerais state, Brazil.

Conclusions

We show that, compared to the other single-objective algorithms, multi-objective scans present better performance, regarding power, sensitivity and positive predicted value. The multi-objective non-connectivity scan is faster and better suited for the detection of moderately irregularly shaped clusters. The multi-objective cohesion scan is most effective for the detection of highly irregularly shaped clusters.
Cyanidin-3-Glucoside inhibits ethanol-induced invasion of breast cancer cells overexpressing ErbB2
Authors: Xu Mei , Bower Kimberly A , Wang Siying , Frank Jacqueline A , Chen Gang , Ding Min , Wang Shiow , Shi Xianglin , Ke Zunji , Luo Jia
Published: October 2010

Background

Ethanol is a tumor promoter. Both epidemiological and experimental studies suggest that ethanol may enhance the metastasis of breast cancer cells. We have previously demonstrated that ethanol increased the migration/invasion of breast cancer cells expressing high levels of ErbB2. Amplification of ErbB2 is found in 20-30% of breast cancer patients and is associated with poor prognosis. We sought to identify agents that can prevent or ameliorate ethanol-induced invasion of breast cancer cells. Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), an anthocyanin present in many vegetables and fruits, is a potent natural antioxidant. Ethanol exposure causes the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study evaluated the effect of C3G on ethanol-induced breast cancer cell migration/invasion.

Results

C3G attenuated ethanol-induced migration/invasion of breast cancer cells expressing high levels of ErbB2 (BT474, MDA-MB231 and MCF7ErbB2) in a concentration dependent manner. C3G decreased ethanol-mediated cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as the amount of focal adhesions and the formation of lamellipodial protrusion. It inhibited ethanol-stimulated phosphorylation of ErbB2, cSrc, FAK and p130Cas, as well as interactions among these proteins. C3G abolished ethanol-mediated p130Cas/JNK interaction.

Conclusions

C3G blocks ethanol-induced activation of the ErbB2/cSrc/FAK pathway which is necessary for cell migration/invasion. C3G may be beneficial in preventing/reducing ethanol-induced breast cancer metastasis.
Adiponectin promotes syncytialisation of BeWo cell line and primary trophoblast cells
Authors: Benaitreau Delphine , Santos Esther Dos , Leneveu Marie-Christine , De Mazancourt Philippe , Pecquery René , Dieudonné Marie-Noëlle
Published: October 2010

Background

In human pregnancy, a correct placentation depends on trophoblast proliferation, differentiation, migration and invasion. These processes are highly regulated by placental hormones, growth factors and cytokines. Recently, we have shown that adiponectin, an adipokine, has anti-proliferative effects on trophoblastic cells. Here, we complete this study by demonstrating that adiponectin modulates BeWo and human villous cytotrophoblast cell differentiation.

Results

We showed that hCG secretion was up-regulated by adiponectin treatment in both BeWo cells and human cytotrophoblasts from very early placentas (5-6 weeks). The expression of two trophoblast differentiation markers, leptin and syncytin 2, was also up-regulated by adiponectin in BeWo cells. Moreover, adiponectin treatment induced a loss of E-cadherin staining in these cells. In parallel, we demonstrated that AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 are up-regulated during forskolin induced BeWo cell differentiation, reinforcing the role of adiponectin in trophoblast syncytialization. SiRNA mediated down-regulation of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 was used to demonstrate that adiponectin effects on differentiation were essentially mediated by these receptors. Finally, using a specific inhibitor, we demonstrated that the PKA signalling pathway could be one pathway involved in adiponectin effects on trophoblast differentiation.

Conclusion

Adiponectin enhances the differentiation process of trophoblast cells and could thus be involved in functional syncytiotrophoblast formation.
Coexpression of adrenomedullin and its receptor component proteins in the reproductive system of the rat during gestation
Authors: Li Lei , Tang Fai , O Wai-Sum
Published: October 2010

Background

Adrenomedullin (ADM), a novel vasorelaxant peptide, was found in human/rat ovaries and uteri. Plasma ADM level increases in pregnant women and pregnant rats.

Methods

The gene expression levels of Adm and its receptor components - Crlr, Ramp1, Ramp2 and Ramp3, the ADM peptide concentration and localization in the rat female reproductive system during gestation were studied by real-time RT-PCR, EIA and immunohistochemical techniques.

Results

The mRNAs of Adm and its receptor component and ADM were differentially distributed between implantation sites and inter-implantation sites of the pregnant uterus. The day on which vaginal sperm were found was taken to be pregnancy day 1. The Adm mRNA levels in the implantation sites of the uteri in mid- (day 12) and late pregnancy (day 17) were more than 10-fold higher than those in nonpregnancy, pre-implantation (day 3) or early (day 7) pregnancy. ADM was localized in the endometrial stroma with increased immunoreactivity from nonpregnancy to pregnancy. The ADM level and the mRNA levels of Adm, Crlr, Ramp2 and Ramp3 in the corpus luteum all increased in late pregnancy compared with early pregnancy. The gene expression of Adm and it receptor components and intense immunostaining of ADM were also found in the oviduct during pregnancy.

Conclusions

The gene expressions levels of Adm and its receptor components - Crlr, Ramp1, Ramp2 and Ramp3, and ADM peptide concentration exhibited a spatio-temporal pattern in the rat female reproductive system during gestation and this suggests that ADM may play important roles in gestation.
Deletion of 1.8-kb mRNA of Marek's disease virus decreases its replication ability but not oncogenicity
Authors: Sun Aijun , Li Yanpeng , Wang Jingyan , Su Shuai , Chen Hongjun , Zhu Hongfei , Ding Jiabo , Cui Zhizhong
Published: October 2010

Background

The 1.8-kb mRNA was reported as one of the oncogenesis-related genes of Marek's disease virus (MDV). In this study, the bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clone of a MDV field strain GX0101 was used as the platform to generate mutant MDV to examine the functional roles of 1.8-kb mRNA.

Results

Based on the BAC clone of GX0101, the 1.8-kb mRNA deletion mutant GX0101Δ(A+C) was constructed. The present experiments indicated that GX0101Δ(A+C) retained a low level of oncogenicity, and it showed a decreased replication capacity in vitro and in vivo when compared with its parent virus, GX0101. Further studies in vitro demonstrated that deletion of 1.8-kb mRNA significantly decreased the transcriptional activity of the bi-directional promoter between 1.8-kb mRNA and pp38 genes of MDV.

Conclusion

These results suggested that the 1.8-kb mRNA did not directly influence the oncogenesis but related to the replication ability of MDV.
Ethnopharmacological survey among migrants living in the Southeast Atlantic Forest of Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Garcia Daniel , Domingues Marcus Vinicius , Rodrigues Eliana
Published: October 2010

Background

Understanding how people of diverse cultural backgrounds have traditionally used plants and animals as medicinal substances during displacements is one of the most important objectives of ethnopharmacological studies. An ethnopharmacological survey conducted among migrants living in the Southeast Atlantic Forest remnants (Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil) is presented herein.

Methods

Ethnographical methods were used to select and interview the migrants, and botanical and zoological techniques were employed to collect the indicated resources.

Results

We interviewed five migrants who described knowledge on 12 animals and 85 plants. Only 78 plants were present in Diadema, they belong to 37 taxonomic families; 68 were used exclusively for medicinal purposes, whereas 10 were reported to be toxic and/or presented some restriction of use. These taxa were grouped into 12 therapeutic categories (e.g., gastrointestinal disturbances, inflammatory processes or respiratory problems) based on the 41 individual complaints cited by the migrants. While the twelve animal species were used by the migrants to treat nine complaints; these were divided into six categories, the largest of which related to respiratory problems. None of the animal species and only 57 of the 78 plant species analysed in the present study were previously reported in the pharmacological literature; the popular knowledge concurred with academic findings for 30 of the plants. The seven plants [Impatiens hawkeriW. Bull.,Artemisia canphorataVill.,Equisetum arvensisL.,Senna pendula(Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby,Zea maysL.,Fevillea passifloraVell. andCroton fuscescensSpreng)] and the two animals (Atta sexdensandPeriplaneta americana) that showed maintenance of use among migrants during their displacement in Brazilian territory, have not been studied by pharmacologists yet.

Conclusions

Thus, they should be highlighted and focused in further pharmacology and phytochemical studies, since the persistence of their uses can be indicative of bioactive potentials.
Predicting direct protein interactions from affinity purification mass spectrometry data
Authors: Kim Ethan DH , Sabharwal Ashish , Vetta Adrian R , Blanchette Mathieu
Published: October 2010

Background

Affinity purification followed by mass spectrometry identification (AP-MS) is an increasingly popular approach to observe protein-protein interactions (PPI) in vivo. One drawback of AP-MS, however, is that it is prone to detecting indirect interactions mixed with direct physical interactions. Therefore, the ability to distinguish direct interactions from indirect ones is of much interest.

Results

We first propose a simple probabilistic model for the interactions captured by AP-MS experiments, under which the problem of separating direct interactions from indirect ones is formulated. Then, given idealized quantitative AP-MS data, we study the problem of identifying the most likely set of direct interactions that produced the observed data. We address this challenging graph theoretical problem by first characterizing signatures that can identify weakly connected nodes as well as dense regions of the network. The rest of the direct PPI network is then inferred using a genetic algorithm.

Our algorithm shows good performance on both simulated and biological networks with very high sensitivity and specificity. Then the algorithm is used to predict direct interactions from a set of AP-MS PPI data from yeast, and its performance is measured against a high-quality interaction dataset.

Conclusions

As the sensitivity of AP-MS pipeline improves, the fraction of indirect interactions detected will also increase, thereby making the ability to distinguish them even more desirable. Despite the simplicity of our model for indirect interactions, our method provides a good performance on the test networks.
Surgical management of life threatening events caused by intermittent aortic insufficiency in a native valve: case report
Authors: Martin Mary H. , Perry Stanton B. , Prochazka James V. , Hanley Frank L. , Silverman Norman H.
Published: October 2010

We describe a case of a patient admitted with apparent life threatening events characterized by hypotension and bradycardia. The patient was ultimately found to have intermittent severe aortic insufficiency. Upon surgical exploration, abnormalities were discovered in the aortic valve, which had a small left coronary cusp with absence of the nodulus of Arantius. Following surgical repair of the valve, aimed at preventing the small cusp from becoming stuck in the open position, the patient has remained episode free for over one year.
Systemic treatment with liver X receptor agonists raises apolipoprotein E, cholesterol, and amyloid-β peptides in the cerebral spinal fluid of rats
Authors: Suon Sokreine , Zhao Jie , Villarreal Stephanie A , Anumula Nikesh , Liu Mali , Carangia Linda M , Renger John J , Zerbinatti Celina V
Published: October 2010

Background

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a major cholesterol transport protein found in association with brain amyloid from Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and theε4allele of apoE is a genetic risk factor for AD. Previous studies have shown that apoE forms a stable complex with amyloid β (Aβ) peptidesin vitroand that the state of apoE lipidation influences the fate of brain Aβ, i.e., lipid poor apoE promotes Aβ aggregation/deposition while fully lipidated apoE favors Aβ degradation/clearance. In the brain, apoE levels and apoE lipidation are regulated by the liver X receptors (LXRs).

Results

We investigated the hypothesis that increased apoE levels and lipidation induced by LXR agonists facilitates Aβ efflux from the brain to the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). We also examined if the brain expression of major apoE receptors potentially involved in apoE-mediated Aβ clearance was altered by LXR agonists. ApoE, cholesterol, Aβ40, and Aβ42 levels were all significantly elevated in the CSF of rats after only 3 days of treatment with LXR agonists. A significant reduction in soluble brain Aβ40 levels was also detected after 6 days of LXR agonist treatment.

Conclusions

Our novel findings suggest that central Aβ lowering caused by LXR agonists appears to involve an apoE/cholesterol-mediated transport of Aβ to the CSF and that differences between the apoE isoforms in mediating this clearance pathway may explain why individuals carrying one or two copies of APOEε4have increased risk for AD.
Prognostic value of lymph node metastases of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) according to the local advancement and range of surgical excision
Authors: Czarniecka Agnieszka , Jarzab Michal , Krajewska Jolanta , Chmielik Ewa , Szcześniak-Klusek Bogna , Stobiecka Ewa , Kokot Robert , Sacher Aleksander , Poltorak Stanisław , Wloch Jan
Published: October 2010

In differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) with primary tumor smaller than 1 cm, the routine central lymph node (LN) dissection is questioned, due to increased risk of post-surgery complications and lack of confirmed benefit.

Aim

The analysis of prognostic significance of LN metastases, in DTC patients to verify the potential role of central neck lymphadenectomy on disease staging.

Materials and methods

The group of 195 DTC patients, primarily operated between 2004 and 2005, was retrospectively analyzed. 184 patients after radical operation, with no distant metastases diagnosed before surgery, were included into analysis. LN metastases were observed in 55 of cases (28%). In 124 cases only dissection of central LN compartment was performed, in 36 patients also uni- or bilateral modified cervical lymphadectomy was carried out. In 24 patients with tumor limited to the thyroid gland without suspicious lymph nodes, the routine central lymph node dissection was not done.

Results

Median follow-up was 4 years. The 5-year overall and disease free survival standardized ratio were 100% and 95% respectively. The risk of LN metastases increased with the more locally advanced cancer. In the group of 124 patients, in whom only central LN dissection was performed, LN metastases were diagnosed in 15 cases (12%). No significant relation between multifocality and frequency of central and/or lateral LN metastases was noticed. Significant correlation between N feature and extrathyroidal invasion was observed (p = 0,0003). The presence of LN metastases was related to worsening of disease free survival from 99 to 90%. During the follow-up recurrence occurred in 6 (3%) cases. In 24 patients in whom only total thyroidectomy was done, no local or distant recurrence was observed. The assessment of early postoperative complications (hypoparathyroidism, paresis of vocal cords) indicated that the frequency of early calcium balance disturbances was significantly lower in patients in whom central LN dissection was not performed (p = 0,04)

Conclusions

Our result indicate that in the early diagnosis of thyroid cancer, the occurrence of LN DTC metastases is rarer and was observed only in 12% of elective dissections of central LN node compartment, if no lateral dissection was indicated due to the lack of clinical suspicion. In DTC patients with tumor diameter <1 cm and no sonographical or inraoperative suspicion on LN involvement, routine central lymphadenectomy may be not obligatory.
Induction of gastric cancer cell adhesion through transforming growth factor-beta1-mediated peritoneal fibrosis
Authors: Lv Zhi-Dong , Na Di , Liu Fu-Nan , Du Zong-Min , Sun Zhe , Li Zhen , Ma Xiao-Yang , Wang Zhen-Ning , Xu Hui-Mian
Published: October 2010

Background

Peritoneal dissemination is one of the main causes of death in gastric cancer patients. Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1), one of the most potent fibrotic stimuli for mesothelial cells, may play a key role in this processing. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the effects of TGF-β1 on regulation of gastric cancer adhesion to mesothelial cells.

Methods

Peritoneal tissues and peritoneal wash fluid were obtained for hematoxylin and eosin staining or ELISA to measure fibrosis and TGF-β1 levels, respectively. The peritoneal mesothelial cell line, HMrSV5, was used to determine the role of TGF-β1 in regulation of gastric cancer cell adhesion to mesothelial cells and expression of collagen, fibronectin, and Smad 2/3 by using adhesion assay, western blot, and RT-PCR.

Results

The data showed that TGF-β1 treatment was able to induce collagen III and fibronectin expression in the mesothelial cells, which was associated with an increased adhesion ability of gastric cancer cells, but knockdown of minimal sites of cell binding domain of extracellular matrix can partially inhibit these effects.

Conclusion

Peritoneal fibrosis induced by TGF-β1 may provide a favorable environment for the dissemination of gastric cancer.
Pharmacological treatment of depression and bipolar disorder in children and adolescents
Authors: Dubicka Bernadka , Wilkinson Paul , Kelvin Raphael G. , Goodyer Ian M.
Published: October 2010

Major depression and bipolar disorder in children and adolescents are serious conditions associated with considerable morbidity as well as increased risk of suicide. The treatment of depression in young people is currently controversial and this article reviews the evidence base and potential risks and benefits of antidepressants. Although the diagnosis of bipolar disorder is also controversial, medication is the first-line treatment of choice in cases that meet diagnostic criteria. The limited evidence base in children and adolescents is presented, along with current treatment guidelines. Despite the controversies in this field, this article concludes that medication remains an important part of the treatment approach for both disorders, although the risks and benefits of pharmacotherapy need to be carefully assessed in each patient.
Drug misuse in older people: old problems and new challenges
Authors: Badrakalimuthu Vellingiri Raja , Rumball Daphne , Wagle Ajay
Published: October 2010

Very little attention has been paid to the invisible epidemic of substance misuse among older people in the UK. This article looks at the prevalence of substance misuse in the people over the age of 60. The reasons for difficulty in diagnosing substance misuse are explored and ways to improve diagnostic ability are discussed. Substance misuse leads to severe physical and psychiatric morbidity that is being managed by meagre resources. The article provides recommendations on specific issues related to interventions, biological and psychosocial, and training of psychiatrists.
Life coaching for mental health recovery: the emerging practice of recovery coaching
Authors: Bora Rani , Leaning Saija , Moores Alison , Roberts Glenn
Published: October 2010

Mental health services are increasingly expected to engage in a process of cultural change to fulfil guiding values and hopes for choice, personalisation, self-determination, social inclusion and personal recovery. It is unclear how this will be achieved. This transformational agenda also engages with an ambition for progressive change in practice across mental health professions to support people in self-care and self-management, based on a new relationship between practitioners and users of mental health services. There is little consistent guidance on the content of recovery-oriented and socially inclusive practice and what may be the new competencies and skills that would most effectively support recovery outcomes. Life coaching to support recovery for people with mental health needs is emerging as a creative possibility with considerable potential to support this ambition. This is an exploratory article which offers an overview of experience so far, suggests further routes for development and, in line with the College's Fair Deal campaign, underlines the need for evaluation.
The Human Rights Act 1998: implications for the medical treatment of children and young people
Authors: Curtice Martin , Hawkins Tim
Published: October 2010

Issues pertaining to the medical treatment of children and young people can be both complex and emotive for all involved. At such times the courts may be asked to intervene and decide. Cases invariably need to consider issues of capacity to consent and treatment under best interests. Furthermore, such cases inevitably have human rights aspects. This article analyses the diverse role of the Human Rights Act 1998 in these cases and illustrates key underlying Human Rights Act principles that can be applied in clinical practice.
Advance statements: the view from Scotland† Commentary on … Advance Statements in Adult Mental Health
Authors: Atkinson Jacqueline M.
Published: October 2010

Advance statements in Scotland have a specific legal meaning and come into effect when someone is subject to the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003. This Act requires a person being compulsorily treated to have significantly impaired decision-making ability in respect of medical decisions. The advance statement is intended to cover treatment wishes – both refusal and acceptance of treatment. In addition, a personal statement can be made which covers wider issues. There is evidence that in many statements these are being combined, raising questions about what is meant by treatment. Issues of revoking advance statements are also considered.
Early intervention services, cognitive–behavioural therapy and family intervention in early psychosis: systematic review
Authors: Bird Victoria , Premkumar Preethi , Kendall Tim , Whittington Craig , Mitchell Jonathan , Kuipers Elizabeth
Published: October 2010

Background

Early intervention services for psychosis aim to detect emergent symptoms, reduce the duration of untreated psychosis, and improve access to effective treatments.

Aims

To evaluate the effectiveness of early intervention services, cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) and family intervention in early psychosis.

Method

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials of early intervention services, CBT and family intervention for people with early psychosis.

Results

Early intervention services reduced hospital admission, relapse rates and symptom severity, and improved access to and engagement with treatment. Used alone, family intervention reduced relapse and hospital admission rates, whereas CBT reduced the severity of symptoms with little impact on relapse or hospital admission.

Conclusions

For people with early psychosis, early intervention services appear to have clinically important benefits over standard care. Including CBT and family intervention within the service may contribute to improved outcomes in this critical period. The longer-term benefits of this approach and its component treatments for people with early and established psychosis need further research.
Physical activity and common mental disorders
Authors: Harvey Samuel B. , Hotopf Matthew , Øverland Simon , Mykletun Arnstein
Published: October 2010

Background

Previous studies have suggested that physical activity may have antidepressant and/or anti-anxiety effects.

Aims

To examine the bidirectional relationship between physical activity and common mental disorders and establish the importance of context, type and intensity of activity undertaken.

Method

A clinical examination of 40 401 residents of Norway was undertaken. Participants answered questions relating to the frequency and intensity of both leisure-time and workplace activity. Depression and anxiety were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Biological and social data were also collected.

Results

There was an inverse relationship between the amount of leisure-time physical activity and case-level symptoms of depression. This cross-sectional association was only present with leisure-time (as opposed to workplace) activity and was not dependent on the intensity of activities undertaken. Higher levels of social support and social engagement were important in explaining the relationship between leisure activity and depression. Biological changes such as alterations to parasympathetic vagal tone (resting pulse) and changes to metabolic markers had a less important role.

Conclusions

Individuals who engage in regular leisure-time activity of any intensity are less likely to have symptoms of depression. The context and social benefits of exercise are important in explaining this relationship.
Association of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein with de novo major depression
Authors: Pasco Julie A. , Nicholson Geoffrey C. , Williams Lana J. , Jacka Felice N. , Henry Margaret J. , Kotowicz Mark A. , Schneider Hans G. , Leonard Brian E. , Berk Michael
Published: October 2010

Background

Although there is cross-sectional evidence that changes in the immune system contribute to the pathophysiology of depression, longitudinal data capable of elucidating cause and effect relationships are lacking.

Aims

We aimed to determine whether subclinical systemic inflammation, as measured by serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) concentration, is associated with an increased risk of de novo major depressive disorder.

Method

Major depressive disorder was diagnosed using a clinical interview (SCID–I/NP). This is a retrospective cohort study; from a population-based sample of 1494 randomly selected women recruited at baseline during the period 1994–7, 822 were followed for a decade and provided measures of both exposure and outcome. Of these women, 644 (aged 20–84 years) had no prior history of depression at baseline and were eligible for analysis.

Results

During 5827 person-years of follow-up, 48 cases of de novo major depressive disorder were identified. The hazard ratio (HR) for depression increased by 44% for each standard deviation increase in log-transformed hsCRP (ln-hsCRP) (HR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.04–1.99), after adjusting for weight, smoking and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Further adjustment for other lifestyle factors, medications and comorbidity failed to explain the observed increased risk for depression.

Conclusions

Serum hsCRP is an independent risk marker for de novo major depressive disorder in women. This supports an aetiological role for inflammatory activity in the pathophysiology of depression.
Quality of life of people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other psychotic disorders
Authors: Saarni Samuli I. , Viertiö Satu , Perälä Jonna , Koskinen Seppo , Lönnqvist Jouko , Suvisaari Jaana
Published: October 2010

Background

Health utility and quality of life (QoL) are increasingly important outcome measures in healthcare and health economics.

Aims

To compare the loss of subjective QoL and utility-based health-related quality of life (HRQoL) associated with psychotic disorders.

Method

A representative sample of 8028 Finns was screened for psychotic disorders and bipolar I disorder. Lifetime psychotic disorders were diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM–IV and/or case records. Health-related quality of life was measured with EQ–5D and 15D, and QoL was measured with a 10-point scale.

Results

Schizoaffective disorder was associated with the largest losses of QoL and HRQoL, with bipolar I disorder associated with similar or smaller losses than schizophrenia. Current depressive symptoms explained most of the losses.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms are the strongest predictors of poor QoL/HRQoL in psychotic disorders. Subjective loss of QoL associated with psychotic disorders may be smaller than objective loss of functioning suggests. The EQ–5D is problematic as an outcome measure in psychotic disorders.

Declarations of interest

None.
Mental health of UK military personnel while on deployment in Iraq
Authors: Mulligan Kathleen , Jones Norman , Woodhead Charlotte , Davies Mark , Wessely Simon , Greenberg Neil
Published: October 2010

Background

Most research on the mental health of UK armed forces personnel has been conducted either before or after deployment; there is scant evidence concerning personnel while they are on deployment.

Aims

To assess the mental health of UK armed forces personnel deployed in Iraq and identify gaps in the provision of support on operations.

Method

Personnel completed a questionnaire about their deployment experiences and health status. Primary outcomes were psychological distress (General Health Questionnaire–12, GHQ–12), symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and self-rating of overall health.

Results

Of 611 participants, 20.5% scored above the cut-off on the GHQ–12 and 3.4% scored as having probable PTSD. Higher risk of psychological distress was associated with younger age, female gender, weaker unit cohesion, poorer perceived leadership and non-receipt of a pre-deployment stress brief. Perceived threat to life, poorer perceived leadership and non-receipt of a stress brief were risk factors for symptoms of PTSD. Better self-rated overall health was associated with being a commissioned officer, stronger unit cohesion and having taken a period of rest and recuperation. Personnel who reported sick for any reason during deployment were more likely to report psychological symptoms. Around 11% reported currently being interested in receiving help for a psychological problem.

Conclusions

In an established operational theatre the prevalence of common psychopathology was similar to rates found in non-deployed military samples. However, there remains scope for further improving in-theatre support mechanisms, raising awareness of the link between reporting sick and mental health and ensuring implementation of current policy to deliver pre-deployment stress briefs.
Polymorphisms in BDNF (Val66Met) and 5-HTTLPR, morning cortisol and subsequent depression in at-risk adolescents
Authors: Goodyer Ian M. , Croudace Tim , Dudbridge Frank , Ban Maria , Herbert Joe
Published: October 2010

Background

There is increasing evidence for genetic effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary axis system. More than one gene is likely to moderate corticoid-mediated activity.

Aims

To investigate whether the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphism (rs6265, Val66Met) is associated with morning waking salivary cortisol and moderates the corticoid-mediated risk for subsequent depressive episode onset independently of the known effects of 5-HTTLPR (the serotonin transporter gene promoter).

Method

High-risk adolescents (n = 401) were genotyped for Val66Met BDNF and 5-HTTLPR. Salivary samples were obtained on four consecutive school days within 1 h of waking. There were 365 (91%) remaining participants reassessed at 12 months for episodes of psychiatric disorder in the follow-up period. Of these, 357 (89%) had complete data for multivariate modelling.

Results

There were 41 (11.2%) individuals who reported a new episode of clinical depression over the follow-up period. Increased risk for subsequent depression was found in carriers of the Val66Val genotype in BDNF with higher morning waking cortisol. This remained present when the known interaction between carriers of a short allele of 5-HTTLPR with higher morning salivary cortisol was taken into account.

Conclusions

Both BDNF and 5-HTTLPR genes show evidence of modifying the risk of a subsequent new depressive episode associated with elevated morning salivary cortisol. In adolescents morning salivary cortisol levels may constitute a biomarker for some forms of unipolar depression.
Common mental disorders, subthreshold symptoms and disability: longitudinal study
Authors: Rai Dheeraj , Skapinakis Petros , Wiles Nicola , Lewis Glyn , Araya Ricardo
Published: October 2010

In a representative sample of the UK population we found that common mental disorders (as a group and in ICD–10 diagnostic categories) and subthreshold psychiatric symptoms at baseline were both independently associated with new-onset functional disability and significant days lost from work at 18-month follow-up. Subthreshold symptoms contributed to almost half the aggregate burden of functional disability and over 32 million days lost from work in the year preceding the study. Leaving these symptoms unaccounted for in surveys may lead to gross underestimation of disability related to psychiatric morbidity.
From predisposition to illness: genetically sensitive intermediate pathways to mood disorders
Authors: Duffy Anne
Published: October 2010

The contemporary model of mood disorders proposes that multiple susceptibility genes interact with multiple other risk factors. However, the specific nature of the genetic vulnerability and the intermediate causal pathways are not known. In this edition of the Journal, Goodyer and colleagues report new findings suggesting genetic moderation of an association between elevated cortisol and depression in high-risk adolescents.
Authorship, gender and geography in journals published by the
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Authors: Ochuko-Emore Mercy E. , Beezhold Julian , Morakinyo Jide
Published: October 2010

Aims and method

To determine female authorship of original articles and editorials
between January 1997 and December 2008 in the British Journal of
Psychiatry and the Psychiatric Bulletin.
Editorials from Advances in Psychiatric Treatment and
the geographical region of the female first author of original articles
were also included in the study.

Results

The gender was determined for 99.2% of the 2324 first authors of original
articles and 100% of the 614 editorials. The percentage of original
articles by female first authors fluctuated over the study period,
ranging from 22.5 to 42.1% (mean 33.6) in the British Journal of
Psychiatry, and from 25.5 to 46.8% (mean 37.6) in the
Psychiatric Bulletin. There was a gross
underrepresentation of females as first authors of editorials in all
three journals. The percentage of female first authors of original
articles from low- and middle-income countries ranged from 0.3 to 3.4% in
both the British Journal of Psychiatry and the
Psychiatric Bulletin.

Clinical implications

There is an increasing trend in female first authorship of original
articles. However, females remain underrepresented, especially in
editorials, in the British psychiatric journals examined. The
representation of female first authors from low- and middle-income
countries is disproportionately low. Strategies to address these
inequalities should be implemented.
What is the core expertise of the psychiatrist?
Authors: Craddock Nick , Kerr Mike , Thapar Anita
Published: October 2010

Psychiatrists make important and specific contributions to the care of those
with mental health problems and high-quality services should enable patients
to benefit optimally from a psychiatrist's distinctive skills. In this
article we seek to identify and consider the core expertise of the
psychiatrist.
The flow fields involved in hydrodynamic imaging by blind Mexican cave fish (Astyanax fasciatus). Part I: open water and heading towards a wall
Authors: Windsor Shane P. , Norris Stuart E. , Cameron Stuart M. , Mallinson Gordon D. , Montgomery John C.
Published: October 2010

Blind Mexican cave fish (Astyanax fasciatus) sense the presence of nearby objects by sensing changes in the water flow around their body. The information available to the fish using this hydrodynamic imaging ability depends on the properties of the flow field it generates while gliding and how this flow field is altered by the presence of objects. Here, we used particle image velocimetry to measure the flow fields around gliding blind cave fish as they moved through open water and when heading towards a wall. These measurements, combined with computational fluid dynamics models, were used to estimate the stimulus to the lateral line system of the fish. Our results showed that there was a high-pressure region around the nose of the fish, low-pressure regions corresponding to accelerated flow around the widest part of the body and a thick laminar boundary layer down the body. When approaching a wall head-on, the changes in the stimulus to the lateral line were confined to approximately the first 20% of the body. Assuming that the fish are sensitive to a certain relative change in lateral line stimuli, it was found that swimming at higher Reynolds numbers slightly decreased the distance at which the fish could detect a wall when approaching head-on, which is the opposite to what has previously been expected. However, when the effects of environmental noise are considered, swimming at higher speed may improve the signal to noise ratio of the stimulus to the lateral line.
Long-term effects of the trehalase inhibitor trehazolin on trehalase activity in locust flight muscle
Authors: Wegener Gerhard , Macho Claudia , Schlöder Paul , Kamp Günter , Ando Osamu
Published: October 2010

Trehalase (EC 3.2.1.28) hydrolyzes the main haemolymph sugar of insects, trehalose, into the essential cellular substrate glucose. Trehalase in locust flight muscle is bound to membranes that appear in the microsomal fraction upon tissue fractionation, but the exact location in vivo has remained elusive. Trehalase has been proposed to be regulated by a novel type of activity control that is based on the reversible transformation of a latent (inactive) form into an overt (active) form. Most trehalase activity from saline-injected controls was membrane-bound (95%) and comprised an overt form (∼25%) and a latent form (75%). Latent trehalase could be assayed only after the integrity of membranes had been destroyed. Trehazolin, a potent tight-binding inhibitor of trehalase, is confined to the extracellular space and has been used as a tool to gather information on the relationship between latent and overt trehalase. Trehazolin was injected into the haemolymph of locusts, and the trehalase activity of the flight muscle was determined at different times over a 30-day period. Total trehalase activity in locust flight muscle was markedly inhibited during the first half of the interval, but reappeared during the second half. Inhibition of the overt form preceded inhibition of the latent form, and the time course suggested a reversible precursor–product relation (cycling) between the two forms. The results support the working hypothesis that trehalase functions as an ectoenzyme, the activity of which is regulated by reversible transformation of latent into overt trehalase.
Biparental mucus feeding: a unique example of parental care in an Amazonian cichlid
Authors: Buckley Jonathan , Maunder Richard J. , Foey Andrew , Pearce Janet , Val Adalberto L. , Sloman Katherine A.
Published: October 2010

Vertebrates display a wide variety of parental care behaviours, including the guarding of offspring pre and post nutritional independence as well as the direct provision of nutrients during the early development period. The Amazonian cichlid Symphysodon spp. (discus fish) is unusual among fish species, in that both parents provide offspring with mucus secretions to feed from after hatching. This extensive provision of care, which can last up to a month, imposes a physiological demand on both parents and gives rise to conflict between the parent and offspring. Here, we investigated the relationship between parents and offspring during a breeding cycle, determining both mucus composition (total protein, cortisol, immunoglobulin, and Na+, K+ and Ca2+ concentrations) and the behavioural dynamics of the parent–offspring relationship. Over the course of a breeding cycle, a significant increase in offspring bite rate was recorded, with a concomitant increase in the frequency of turns the male and female parent took at caring for their young. A peak in mucus antibody provision was seen as offspring reached the free-swimming stage, suggesting a role analogous to colostrum provision in mammals. Mucus protein content was lowest during the second and third weeks of free swimming, and a weaning period, similar to that seen in mammalian parental care, occurred when the offspring had been free swimming for ∼3 weeks. In many ways, the parental behaviour of discus fish is more similar to mammalian and avian parental care than other fish species, and represents an exciting aquatic model for studying the parent–offspring conflict.
Relationships between metabolic status, corticosterone secretion and maintenance of innate and adaptive humoral immunities in fasted re-fed mallards
Authors: Bourgeon Sophie , Kauffmann Marion , Geiger Sylvie , Raclot Thierry , Robin Jean-Patrice
Published: October 2010

The prolonged exposure of birds to environmental stressors known to affect energy status and glucocorticoid secretion may have several physiological consequences including a decrease in immunocompetence, further compromising the survival of individuals. However, the relationships between these parameters remain poorly understood. To this end, changes in body energy content, plasma corticosterone, adaptive (total plasma immunoglobulin Y; IgY) and innate (natural antibodies; NAbs) immune systems were assessed in female mallards (Anas plathyrhynchos) throughout prolonged fasts of different intensities and subsequent re-feeding. Plasma IgY and NAb scores were decreased by 36% and 50%, respectively, during phase II of fasting (protein-sparing phase) and by up to 40% and 80%, respectively, during phase III (protein-wasting phase), indicating a selective regulation of immune function. These results are consistent with the hypothesis of a trade-off between immune function and other energy-demanding activities. However, despite full repletion of fuel reserves and NAbs, only 76% of initial IgY levels were recovered, further supporting a trade-off between innate and adaptive branches of immunity. Although fasting induced significant increases in corticosterone levels to up to 6 times higher than baseline levels during phase III, baseline levels were recovered within 1 day of re-feeding. Our data do not support the hypothesis of a direct regulation of immunocompetence by corticosterone, at least during periods of energy repletion. Finally, the mismatch between the kinetics of body fuels and the two arms of the immune system during fasting and re-feeding suggests that variations in immune system components do not strictly covary with body mass under fluctuating food conditions.
Short-range allelochemicals from a plant–herbivore association: a singular case of oviposition-induced synomone for an egg parasitoid
Authors: Conti E. , Salerno G. , Leombruni B. , Frati F. , Bin F.
Published: October 2010

Oviposition-induced plant synomones are semiochemical cues used by egg parasitoids during host selection, and are therefore considered important elements of plant defence. In this paper we show that, in the tritrophic system Brassica oleracea–Murgantia histrionica–Trissolcus brochymenae, the latter responded in a closed arena and in a static olfactometer to induced chemicals that are perceived from a very short range and after parasitoid contact with the leaf surface opposite the treated surface. An additive or synergistic effect due to (1) egg deposition, (2) feeding punctures and (3) chemical footprints of M. histrionica was observed. When all three phases were present, the parasitoid reacted to the induced synomone locally on the treated leaf area, at a close distance to the treated area, and on the leaf above the treated one, showing that there is also a systemic effect. When plants with host footprints combined with feeding punctures or with oviposition were tested, responses were obtained both locally and at a close distance, whereas in the remaining assays only local responses were observed. Induction time was less than 24 h, whereas signal duration was apparently related to the suitability of the host eggs, as parasitoids did not respond to plants carrying old or hatched eggs. These oviposition-induced short-range plant synomones might have an important role in the host location process after parasitoid landing on the plant, in different combinations with the host kairomones involved in the system studied here.