bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alterations of neonatal thyroid function
Authors: Grüters A , Krude H , Biebermann H , Liesenkötter KP , Schöneberg T , Gudernamm T
Published: April 2008

Grüters A, Krude H, Biebermann H, Liesenkötter KP, Schöneberg T, Gudermann T. Alterations of neonatal thyroid function. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 17–22. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

Recent progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis of neonatal thyroid disorders. Autosomal recessive inheritance of mutations of the thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin genes has been described in some patients with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and a family history of CH. Autosomal recessive inheritance of mutations of the thyrotrophin (TSH) receptor gene has also been reported in patients with CH and thyroid hypoplasia, and autosomal dominant mutations of the PAX8 gene have been described in patients with different forms of thyroid dysgenesis. These discoveries are important for patients with CH diagnosed by neonatal screening, as these patients will have normal fertility. The molecular genetic analysis of mutations of the TSH gene in patients with familial and sporadic cases of isolated central CH, who are missed by TSH screening programmes, now enables rapid diagnosis and appropriate therapy in the neonate. In newborn infants with severe non‐autoimmune hyperthyroidism, autosomal dominant gain‐of‐function mutations in the TSH receptor gene have been demonstrated. In these patients, molecular genetic studies are extremely helpful in therapeutic decision making, as early thyroid ablation is the only effective treatment that avoids the sequelae of long‐term hyperthyroidism. Molecular genetic studies are therefore useful in the diagnostic work‐up of neonatal thyroid alterations. □Congenital hypothyroidism, molecular pathogenesis, neonatal hyperthyroidism
Sexual dimorphism in the neonatal gonad
Authors: Hughes IA , Coleman N , Ahmed S Faisal , Ng K‐L , Cheng A , Lim HN , Hawkins JR
Published: April 2008

Hughes IA, Coleman N, Faisal Ahmed S, Ng K‐L, Cheng A, Lim HN, Hawkins JR. Sexual dimorphism in the neonatal gonad. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 23–30. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

The neonatal gonad has two distinct forms (i.e., is sexually dimorphic), as judged by morphological and endocrine characteristics. The dimorphic process begins early in embryogenesis. It is well established by the time of birth, by which time the genital ridge has developed into either a testis or an ovary. The mechanisms involved in sex determination involve the Y chromosome, autosomal genes, transcription factors and possibly other unidentified control networks. This review paper describes the morphological changes that occur and the endocrine functions in the developing gonads. It highlights a number of important differences in fetal and neonatal gonadal function. The testis has early histological definition, several determining genes, delayed germ cell maturation, early autonomous steroid secretion, luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor and steroid enzyme expression, high fetal testicular testosterone content, prominent postnatal Leydig and Sertoli cells and high postnatal serum testosterone levels. The ovary has a prolonged monomorphic state, probably one determining gene, germ cells in early meiotic arrest, delayed expression of LH receptor and aromatase, low ovarian oestradiol content, prominent postnatal follicles and low postnatal serum oestradiol levels. □Dimorphism, endocrine function, gonads, morphology, ovary, testis
Mechanisms of in utero overgrowth
Authors: D'Ercole AJ
Published: April 2008

D'Ercole AJ. Mechanisms of in utero overgrowth. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 31–6. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

Determination of the mechanisms that lead to in utero overgrowth has proved elusive. Recently, however, our knowledge has significantly expanded as a result of the generation of experimental mouse models, engineered to disrupt the expression of one or more genes (knockout mice), and by detailed molecular and genetic analyses of infants and children with overgrowth syndromes. Studies of knockout mice have largely defined the essential roles of the insulin‐like growth factors (IGF‐I and IGF‐II), insulin and their receptors in embryonic and fetal growth, and have provided compelling evidence that increased IGF‐II gene expression and/or abundance can stimulate excessive fetal somatic growth. The IGF‐II gene is usually expressed only by the paternally derived allele; however, when this imprinting is erased and IGF‐II expression is biallelic, fetal overgrowth ensues. Such increased IGF‐II expression would appear to explain the overgrowth in Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome. Using the information gathered from knockout mice as a guide to human studies, detailed genetic investigations are likely to unravel the mechanisms behind other human overgrowth syndromes. □Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome, gene expression, imprinting, insulin, insulin‐like growth factors, insulin‐like growth factor receptors, insulin receptor, overgrowth syndromes
Neuroendocrine regulation of food intake
Authors: Seeley RJ , Schwartz MW
Published: April 2008

Seeley RJ, Schwartz MW. Neuroendocrine regulation of food intake. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 58–61. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

Maintenance of appropriate stores of metabolic fuels depends on carefully matching caloric intake to caloric expenditure. Achieving such‘energy balance’is a product of complex interactions of peripheral hormones with effector systems in the central nervous system (CNS) that regulate food intake and energy expenditure. Leptin is a hormone that is made in the adipocytes, circulates in the blood and interacts with receptors in the CNS. These receptors can be found in two different types of systems. One effector system is termed‘anabolic’and is activated by low levels of leptin during negative energy balance. This system (exemplified by the hypothalamic neuropeptide Y system) increases food intake and decreases energy expenditure to facilitate the regaining of lost energy stores. The other effector system is termed‘catabolic’and is activated by high levels of leptin during positive energy balance. This system (exemplified by the hypothalamic melanocortin and corticotrophin‐releasing hormone systems) decreases food intake and increases energy expenditure to facilitate the loss of excess energy stores. Further understanding of these systems is necessary to develop adequate treatments for disorders of energy balance, such as obesity and wasting. □Corticotrophin‐releasing hormone, energy balance, food intake, leptin, melanocortin, neuropeptide Y
When and how to combine growth hormone with a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue
Authors: Tanaka T , Satoh M , Yasunaga T , Horikawa R , Tanae A , Katsumata N , Tachibana K , Nose O , Hibi I
Published: April 2008

Tanaka T, Satoh M, Yasunaga T, Horikawa R, Tanae A, Katsumata N, Tachibana K, Nose O, Hibi I. When and how to combine growth hormone with a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 85–8. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

The effect of combined treatment with growth hormone (GH) and a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue, or GH alone, on pubertal height gain was assessed in an uncontrolled study in 15 boys and 10 girls with GH deficiency (GHD). Seven boys and six girls were treated with GH alone (group 1), and eight boys and four girls were treated with a combination of GH and an LHRH analogue during puberty (group 2). Mean ages (□ SD) at the start of GH treatment and at the onset of puberty were significantly lower in group 2 (8.0 □ 3.3 years and 11.2 □ 0.8 years, respectively, in boys, and 6.3 □ 1.6 years and 10.8 □ 0.7 years in girls) than in group 1 (12.8 □ 1.9 years and 13.7 □ 1.4 years in boys, and 11.2 □ 1.0 years and 12.5 □ 1.2 years in girls). Height at the onset of puberty was less in group 2 than in group 1, but the difference was significant only for the boys. Combination treatment was started at a mean age of 11.7 □ 1.2 years in boys and 11.5 □ 1.0 years in girls. The duration of the combination treatment was 5.1 □ 1.5 years in boys and 2.3 □ 0.7 years in girls. The duration of the period between the onset of puberty and the end of GH treatment was significantly longer in group 2 (6.8 □1.2 years in boys and 5.5 □ 1.0 years in girls) than in group 1 (4.3 □ 1.6 years in boys and 3.6 □1.4 years in girls). The pubertal height gain was also significantly greater in group 2 (36.7 □ 6.5 cm in boys and 29.0 □ 8.3 cm in girls) than in group 1 (21.9 □ 4.1 cm in boys and 18.6 □ 4.1 cm in girls). Final height was significantly greater in group 2 than in group 1 in boys. Although there was no significant difference in final height between groups in the girls, the change in height SDS from the start of GH treatment until final height was significantly greater in group 2 (2.7 □ 1.6 in boys and 4.5 □ 0.5 SD in girls) than in group 1 (1.0 □ 0.8 in boys and 1.8 □ 0.9 SD in girls), in both boys and girls. In conclusion, it appears that combination of an LHRH analogue and GH may increase the pubertal height gain and the final height of children with GHD. The improvement is attributed to the prolongation of the treatment period, permitting slow bone maturation, and to the maintenance of height velocity. This combination treatment appears to be more effective in boys than girls. To fully assess this therapeutic approach, prospective controlled studies are needed. □Growth hormone deficiency, growth hormone treatment, luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue, pubertal height gain
Quality of life in Turner syndrome is related to chromosomal constitution: implications for genetic counselling and management
Authors: Skuse D , Elgar K , Morris E
Published: April 2008

Skuse D, Elgar K, Morris E. Quality of life in Turner syndrome is related to chromosomal constitution: implications for genetic counselling and management. Acta Pædiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 110–13. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

Issues of self‐appraisal, friendships and academic attainments are uniquely salient for all adolescents. For girls with Turner syndrome, social problems and learning difficulties often become more serious at this time, yet may be unacknowledged by those responsible for Pædiatric care because their focus is on growth and sexual maturation. Data on the social and educational adjustment of 110 45,X (monosomic) females aged between 6 and 25 years is presented. Detailed information on the patients’precise karyotype was used to demonstrate systematic differences in adjustment between those whose single X chromosome was maternally derived and those in whom it was paternal. Implications for educational support and parental guidance are discussed. □Educational attainments, karyotype, non‐verbal intelligence, quality of life, social adjustment, Turner syndrome, verbal intelligence
Human growth disorders: molecular genetics of the growth hormone–insulin‐like growth factor I axis
Authors: Rotwein P
Published: April 2008

Rotwein P. Human growth disorders: molecular genetics of the growth hormone‐insulin‐like growth factor I axis. Acta Paidiatr 1999; Suppl 428: 148–51. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5326

The critical role of the growth hormone‐insulin‐like growth factor I axis in controlling somatic growth in humans and other vertebrate species has been known for many years. Through molecular cloning and other related techniques many of the components of this axis have been characterized, with the most recent additions being key transcription factors required for pituitary development and for pituitary‐specific gene expression. Several of these genes have been shown to be mutated in familial and sporadic human growth deficiency syndromes, thereby validating the central roles of the encoded proteins in the endocrine pathways regulating somatic growth. The purpose of this review is to highlight these recent advances from the perspective of the molecular genetics of human growth disorders. □Growth hormone, growth hormone receptor, growth hormone‐releasing hormone, growth hormone‐releasing hormone receptor, insulin‐like growth factor‐I, insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor, Pit‐1, Prop‐1
Survivors of childhood cancer: long‐term edocrine and metabolic problems dwarf the growth distrubance
Authors: Murray RD , Brennan BMD , Rahim A , Shalet SM
Published: April 2008

The long‐term effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy are becoming increasingly reconginzed as the cure rates of certain childhood malignancies improve. The endocrine system is particularly sensitive to cancer therapies. Long‐term survivors of childhood cancer who received cranial irradiation have been shown to have lower than predicted height, an increased prevalence of obesity and redutions in strength, exercise tolerance, bone mineral density, quality of life and academic achievement. Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is the most frequent endocrine deficiency observed following cranial irradiation. Adults with GHD resulting from primary hypothalamic‐pituitary disease during childhood have been shown to exhibit a clinical picture similar to that described in long‐term survivors of childhood cancer: increased fat mass and reduced lean mass, strength, exercise tolerance, bone mineral density and quality of life. This review considers the possible contributin of GHD to the adverse sequelae observed in long‐term survivors of childhood malignancy and includes our preliminary experience in treating 14 adults with GHD resulting from the treatment of childhood malignancies.
Thyroid consequences of the Chernobyl nuclear accident
Authors: Pacini F , Vorontsova T , Molinaro E , Shavrova E , Agate L , Kuchinskaya E , Elisei R , Demidchik EP , Pinchera A
Published: April 2008

It is well recognized that the use of external irradiation of the head and neck to treat patients with various non‐thyroid disorders increases their risk of developing papillary thyroid carcinoma years after radiation exposure. An increased risk of thyroid cancer has also been reported in survivors of the atomic bombs in Japan, as well as in Marshall Island residents exposed to radiation during the testing of hydrogen bombs. More recently, exposure to radioactive fallout as a result of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident has clearly caused an enormous increase in the incidence of childhood thyroid carcinoma in Belarus, Ukraine, and, to a lesser extent, in the Russian Federation, starting in 1990. When clinical and epidemiological features of thyroid carcinomas diagnosed in Belarus after the Chernobyl accident are compared with those of naturally occurring thyroid carcinomas in patients of the same age group in Italy and France, it becomes apparent that the post‐Chernobyl thyroid carcinomas were much less influenced by gender, virtually always papillary (solid and follicular variants), more aggressive at presentation and more frequently associated with thyroid autoimmunity. Gene mutations involving the RET proto‐oncogene, and less frequently TRK, have been shown to be causative events specific for papillary cancer. RET activation was found in nearly 70% of the patients who developed papillary thyroid carcinomas following the Chernobyl accident. In addition to thyroid cancer, radiation‐induced thyroid diseases include benign thyroid nodules, hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis, with or without thyroid insufficiency, as observed in populations after environmental exposure to radioisotopes of iodine and in the survivors of atomic bomb explosions. On this basis, the authors evaluated thyroid autoimmune phenomena in normal children exposed to radiation after the Chernobyl accident. The results demonstrated an increased prevalence of circulating thyroid antibodies not associated with significant thyroid dysfunction. This finding is consistent with the short period of follow‐up, but it is highly likely that these children will develop clinical thyroid autoimmune diseases in the future. Therefore, screening programmes for this at‐risk population should focus, not only on the detection of thyroid nodules and cancer, but also on the development of thyroid autoimmune diseases.
Premature adrenarche: findings in prepubertal African‐American and Caribbean‐Hispanic girls
Authors: DiMartino‐Nardi J
Published: April 2008

Premature adrenarche was previously thought to be a benign condition. However, the authors and several other research groups have noted hyperinsulinism and insulin resistance in many girls with premature adrenarche. African‐American and Caribbean‐Hispanic girls with premature adrenarche are frequently obese with marked hyperandrogenism, signs which correlate with the degree of insulin resistance (i.e., those girls who are obese and insulin resistant tend to have higher levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone‐stimulated androgens). Also, girls with premature adrenarche and reduced insulin sensitivity can have subtle decreases in their high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) profile. Many of these girls have a strong family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Preliminary data regarding long‐term follow‐up of girls with premature adrenarche indicate that those girls who remain obese are at risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The term 'syndrome X’refers to the constellation of laboratory and clinical findings associated with hyperinsulinism stemming from insulin resistance. These findings include obesity, acanthosis nigricans, glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia with reduced HDL and elevated low‐density lipoprotein, cardiovascular disease and PCOS. Hence, for certain girls, premature adrenarche may be a part of the clinical spectrum of syndrome X.
Genetic abnormalities in Prader‐Willi syndrome and lessons from mouse models
Authors: Nicholls RD , Ohta T , Gray TA
Published: April 2008

Prader‐Willi syndrome is a multigenic disorder with developmental and neurobehavioural abnormalities. There are multiple genetic causes, although all ultimately involve the loss of paternally derived gene expression of chromosome region 15q11‐q13. Multiple imprinted genes expressed only from the paternal allele have been identified in the specific region of human chromosome 15q associated with Prader‐Willi syndrome and in the syntenic mouse chromosome 7C region, including a novel polycistronic gene (SNURF‐SNRPN) that encodes two independent proteins. The latter genetic locus may play a key role in Prader‐Willi syndrome and the evolution of imprinting in this domain, because it is uniquely involved with mutations in the imprinting process and balanced translocations in this syndrome. Indeed, based on the co‐localization of SNURF and SNRPN within the imprinting control region critical to Prader‐Willi syndrome, evolutionary arguments would suggest that this genetic locus is a prime candidate for mutations producing the failure‐to‐thrive phenotype of neonates with this syndrome and of corresponding mouse models. Hence the SNURF‐SNRPN gene may encode a paternally derived postnatal growth factor.
Alternative binding proteins: Affibody binding proteins developed from a small three‐helix bundle scaffold
Authors: Nygren Per‐Åke
Published: April 2008

In recent years, classical antibody‐based affinity reagents have been challenged by novel types of binding proteins developed by combinatorial protein engineering principles. One of these classes of binding proteins of non‐Ig origin are the so‐called affibody binding proteins, functionally selected from libraries of a small (6 kDa), non‐cysteine three‐helix bundle domain used as a scaffold. During the first 10 years since they were first described, high‐affinity affibody binding proteins have been selected towards a large number of targets for use in a variety of applications, such as bioseparation, diagnostics, functional inhibition, viral targeting and in vivo tumor imaging/therapy. The small size offers the possibility to produce functional affibody binding proteins also by chemical synthesis production routes, which has been found to be advantageous for the site‐specific introduction of various labels and radionuclide chelators.
THE EFFECTS OF INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENT DISCHARGE ON LIPID PEROXIDE LEVELS OF PUNTI FISH (PUNTIUS SOPHORE) TISSUE IN COMPARISON WITH THOSE OF FRESHWATER FISH
Authors: MAHABUB‐UZ‐ZAMAN MD. , SARKER SATYA RANJAN , SHAHDAT HOSSAIN MD.
Published: April 2008

The effect of industrial effluent on the oxidative stress of Puntius sophore (punti fish) tissue was investigated. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring lipid peroxide (LPO) and fatty acid profile as bioindicators. Punti fishes were collected from a river where textile mill effluent is discharged, as well as from fresh water as controls. Homogenized tissues were used for LPO, fatty acid, total cholesterol, phospholipid and protein measurements. LPO levels in both hepatic and extrahepatic tissues increased significantly in the industrial‐effluent‐exposed fish tissue as compared with those of the freshwater fish (control versus industrial‐effluent‐exposed fish: hepatic tissues, 54.0 ± 5.0 and 89.0 ± 9.0 nmol/mg protein; extrahepatic tissues, 52.0 ± 9.0 and 270 ± 16.0 nmol/mg protein). Five biologically important polyunsaturated fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n‐3), docosapentaenoic acid (C22:5n‐3), eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n‐3), arachidonic acid (C20:4n‐6) and linolenic acid (C18:3n‐3), significantly decreased, and saturated fatty acid, stearic acid (C18:0), significantly increased in the effluent‐exposed fish tissue than those of the freshwater counterpart. Cholesterol level of industrial‐effluent‐exposed punti fish was 1.5‐fold lower than those of the freshwater fish. This study thus suggests that industrial effluent poses a threat, at least partially, through oxidative insult to fish tissues.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The study reported here indicates that fish exposed to industrial effluent induce a greater risk of oxidative stress with a resultant increased level of lipid peroxides. Consequently, if these fish with increased oxidative species are ingested by humans, they may cause physiological problems such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer involving disruption of cellular homeostasis. Therefore, an investigation about the oxidative stress of fish tissue in terms of lipid peroxidation could be of considerable significance in Third World countries where consumers remain unaware about the quality of the fish sold in the local markets and are ignorant of the oxidative stress and its consequences. The information of the present investigation may help in providing some preliminary information about the impact of unplanned industrialization on aquatic ecosystem.
DISTRIBUTION PROFILES OF TOCOPHEROLS AND FATTY ACIDS OF PHOSPHOLIPIDS IN ADZUKI BEANS (VIGNA ANGULARIS)
Authors: YOSHIDA HIROMI , YOSHIDA NAOKO , TOMIYAMA YUKA , SAIKI MASAYUKI , MIZUSHINA YOSHIYUKI
Published: April 2008

Extracted lipids from adzuki beans (Vigna angularis) were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography for tocopherol homologues. Fatty acid distributions of triacylglycerols (TAGs) and major phospholipids (PLs) were analyzed by gas chromatography, and their tocopherol contents were determined. δ‐Tocopherol was present in highest concentration (77.6%), and γ‐tocopherol in small amounts (22.4%). However, α‐ and β‐tocopherols were not detected in adzuki beans. The major lipid components were PL (63.5%) and TAG (27.1%), while other components were also present in minor proportions (0.2–5.1%). The major PL components were phosphatidylcholine (45.3%), phosphatidylethanolamine (25.8%) and phosphatidylinositol (21.5%). The positional distribution of fatty acids in these PLs was evident in the beans: unsaturated fatty acids were predominantly located in the sn‐2 position, while saturated fatty acids primary occupied the sn‐1 position in these lipids.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study describes the characteristics of lipid components, positional distribution of fatty acids in the major phospholipids as well as the tocopherol profiles of adzuki beans. These results were not similar to the positional fatty acid distributions in the oilseeds such as peanuts, soybeans and sesame seeds. The data obtained would be useful to both consumers and producers for manufacturing traditional adzuki confectionaries (wagashi) in Japan and elsewhere.
Dissolved organic matter in leachate from different treatment processes
Authors: Huo Shou‐liang , Xi Bei‐dou , Yu Hai‐chan , Liu Hong‐liang
Published: April 2008

The main objectives of this study were to investigate the characteristics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) extracted from the leachate of different treatment process using the chemical and spectroscopic analysing methods. The humic acid (HA), fulvic acid (FA) and hydrophilic (HyI) were isolated and purified by the XAD‐8 resin combined with the cation exchange resin method. The analytical results of fluorescence excitation‐emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMs) revealed that the fluorescence peaks were protein‐like fluorescence for equalization basin and discharge of reverse osmosis (RO), while the fluorescence peaks for second sedimentation tank were humic‐like and fulvic‐like fluorescence. Moreover, the results also showed that protein‐like organic matter are readily removed by biological process and HA and FA can be removed by RO process. Elemental analysis indicated that the nitrogen content in these isolated fractions followed: HA>HyI>FA. The information on the characteristics of DOM indicated important role in optimization of leachate treatment processes.
Fate of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals in percolating domestic wastewater effluent
Authors: Súlleabháin C. Ó , Gill L. W. , Misstear B. D. R. , Johnston P. M.
Published: April 2008

Septic tanks and other on‐site systems are a common means of disposing domestic wastewater effluent in Ireland. In assessing site suitability, subsoils below the percolation trench have an important role in attenuating pollutants and hence in protecting groundwater. As part of an investigation into the hydraulic performance of treatment systems at four sites in Ireland with different subsoil characteristics, a series of samples were analysed for endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including oestrogens, surfactants and organic oxygen compounds. EDCs were found at all four sites, but only at low concentrations (often below those at which their presence could be confirmed) and generally only in samples known to be percolating effluent. Further research should target oestrogen compounds, as these appear to be present in higher concentrations than the other EDCs and also have greater potency.
Age‐related changes in hematocrit in the Galápagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) and the Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii)
Authors: Trillmich Fritz , Rea Lorrie , Castellini Michael , Wolf Jochen B. W.
Published: April 2008

Abstract

In mammals, hematocrit (Hct) is optimized between the divergent requirements of blood flow characteristics and oxygen transport and storage capacity. This trade‐off plays a particularly major role in marine mammals, in which oxygen demand during sustained diving requires high Hct levels. Galápagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) need a long time after birth to develop from terrestrial life to the state of an independent forager at sea. We here show that pups were born with high Hct of 45%, then reduced Hct during the first 40 d of life to 31% while they remain constantly ashore, and increased Hct again until the adult level (57%) is reached at 1 yr of age when they begin to dive for foraging at sea. A similar, but much more rapidly changing pattern is seen in Weddell seal pups, but not in northern elephant seals, where no reduction in Hct is seen after birth. These and similarly changing patterns in terrestrial mammals likely reflect species specific functional adjustments during development due to a trade‐off between the costs of circulation and the changing need to store and transport oxygen.
A simple new algorithm to filter marine mammal Argos locations
Authors: Freitas Carla , Lydersen Christian , Fedak Michael A. , Kovacs Kit M.
Published: April 2008

Abstract

During recent decades satellite telemetry using the Argos system has been used extensively to track many species of marine mammals. However, the aquatic behavior of most of these species results in a high number of locations with low or unknown accuracy. Argos data are often filtered to reduce the noise produced by these locations, typically by removing data points requiring unrealistic swimming speeds. Unfortunately, this method excludes a considerable number of good‐quality locations that have high traveling speeds that are the result of two locations being taken very close in time. We present an alternative algorithm, based on swimming speed, distance between successive locations, and turning angles. This new filter was tested on 67 tracks from nine different marine mammal species: ringed, bearded, gray, harbor, southern elephant, and Antarctic fur seals, walruses, belugas, and narwhals. The algorithm removed similar percentages of low‐quality locations (Argos location classes [LC] B and A) compared to a filter based solely on swimming speed, but preserved significantly higher percentages of good‐quality positions (mean ± SE% of locations removed was 4.1 ± 0.8%vs. 12.6 ± 1.2% for LC 3; 6.8 ± 0.6%vs. 15.7 ± 0.9% for LC 2; and 11.4 ± 0.7%vs. 21.0 ± 0.9% for LC 1). The new filter was also more effective at removing unlikely, conspicuous deviations from the track's path, resulting in fewer locations being registered on land and a significant reduction in home range size, when using the Minimum Convex Polygon method, which is sensitive to outliers.
Modeling whale entanglement injuries: An experimental study of tissue compliance, line tension, and draw‐length
Authors: Winn Jeremy P. , Woodward Becky L. , Moore Michael J. , Peterson Michael L. , Riley John G.
Published: April 2008

Abstract

Two test systems were developed to evaluate the influence of draw‐length and tissue compliance on entanglement‐induced epidermal abrasion in humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) and right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) tissue samples. Under straight pull abrasion tests, an adult right whale fluke required 3.7 times the load and 15 times the draw‐length of a right whale calf flipper to induce epidermal failure whereas a humpback fluke was intermediate between these extremes. A load applied tangentially to the leading edge of the fluke or flipper resulted in a substantial, but reversible, deflection of the leading edge in the direction of the applied load. The maximum possible deformation of the leading edge under shear load, prior to the line slipping relative to the skin, was defined as the tissue compliance limit. Oscillatory abrasion tests revealed that line draw‐lengths exceeding the tissue compliance limit resulted in substantially increased tissue abrasion. In actual entanglements, line draw‐length relative to the tissue compliance may determine if the line will cut into the body or simply press against the skin. Increasing the entangling line's ability to stretch in response to a load could potentially minimize sliding of the line relative to the skin and help mitigate entanglement injuries.
Hazards due to erythrocyte alloantibodies
Authors: Mayr W. R.
Published: April 2008

The hazardous effects of blood group alloantibodies with respect to immediate and delayed haemolytic transfusion reactions, the destruction of fetal red blood cells, and the damage of transplanted tissue (in kidney transplantation) are described.
Building and managing a biological resource centre
Authors: Rebulla Paolo
Published: April 2008

The Organisation for the Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has defined a biological resource centre (BRC) as a service provider and a repository of living cells, genomes, organisms and information relating to heredity and the functions of biological systems. To promote a rational use of resources and to facilitate the exchange of biological materials among different countries, the OECD has proposed to establish a global BRC network. The building of a BRC is a process similar to those applied to several other types of facilities involved in biomedical laboratory research and therapy, with a special attention to cryobiology and information technology. The latter issues represent core elements for long‐term storage at subzero temperatures of biological materials and for their management and distribution to interested users in compliance to predefined rules. The management of a BRC does not differ from the management of a biomedical institution. However, general management rules must be translated into specific modalities and tools fit for the organization of a BRC. This article describes the management of the Center of Transfusion Medicine, Cellular Therapy and Cryobiology (CTMC), which is the BRC of a large public university hospital in Northern Italy. The CTMC currently stores 92 561 biological samples (vials) collected and studied by 15 clinical and research groups within the hospital. The samples are stored and distributed according to individual contracts between the CTMC and each hospital unit using its services.
Experiences on e‐learning projects
Authors: Peterson D. , Robinson K. , Verrall T. , Quested B.
Published: April 2008

In 2007, new criteria covering the clinical aspects of blood transfusion were introduced into hospital accreditation schemes in Australia. One of the components of this was a requirement for appropriate staff to be ‘... trained and credentialed in (i) blood sample collection, (ii) blood component therapy prescription and administration, [and] (iii) the storage and transportation of blood components.’ In response to this, BloodSafe developed an online education (e‐learning) package (http://www.bloodsafelearning.org.au). Initial implementation occurred in South Australia, with demand from other states and territories resulting in a plan to implement in all areas of Australia. The programme has seen significant uptake and ready acceptance by users, with very strong positive feedback on the content, educational design and delivery. This e‐learning tool incorporates a range of media and activities designed to engage the learner emotionally, psychologically and physically. It has also been designed to cater for different learning styles and to further engage and support the learner through the use of video, audio, interactive animations and best practice examples in an authentic learning environment. The success of this project has been due to a number of factors including: (i) input from a wide range of transfusion experts across medical, nursing and laboratory disciplines, (ii) involvement of qualified and experienced educators with a clear understanding of e‐learning, and (iii) the use of professionals from other disciplines including graphic design, photography, video production, computer programming, acting and production. During the production of this tool, many lessons were learnt that can be applied to other e‐learning projects and resources. These include the time required to produce a quality product, budget and production time estimation, personnel resources required, the value of storyboarding and review of content and learning materials, governance structure and project management. e‐Learning is a cost‐effective delivery mechanism for provision of educational materials and resources. If well designed, it can be as effective as traditional forms of teaching and is readily accepted by users. It has the potential to standardize policies and procedures and improve clinical practice, resulting in improved patient outcomes and better use of a scarce resource. If made freely available, via the world‐wide web, it is also a way that the developed world can assist disadvantaged regions and countries at little or no additional cost.
A comparative analysis across the globe: blood transfusion therapy in thalassaemia major
Authors: Eleftheriou A. , Demetriades M. , Kokkinos K. , Eleftheriou P.
Published: April 2008

The major arms of the clinical management of thalassaemia major include life‐long regular blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy – essential to address the consequences of the genetic defect, mainly the severe anaemia and the bone marrow hyperactivity. Effective blood transfusion therapy requires adequate and safe blood. However, the standards for both blood screening and blood transfusion practices vary depending on the geographical area, from country to country and even within the same country, between different regions and medical centres. The Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF), a patients’ parents‐driven organization with 98 member thalassaemia or thalassaemia‐related associations from 60 countries around the world, was established in 1987 with the mission to promote the quality of medical care and its access to every patient with thalassaemia across the world. An important activity contributing towards the fulfilment of its goals has been the establishment of an educational programme, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, with which in official relations since 1996. The educational programme that now enjoys international recognition focuses on providing awareness to the community at large and information and training to patients/parents and health professionals, and includes (i) preparation, publication, translation and distribution of educational books, leaflets and other material, (ii) the organization of local, national, regional and international conferences, workshops, seminars and field trips. In the context of TIF's educational programme, a survey has been conducted covering a period of 2 years, the aim of which was to evaluate the effectiveness of blood transfusion therapy in patients with thalassaemia major, in a number of affected countries around the world.
The impact of mode of onset of psychosis on pathways to care in a hospitalized, predominantly African‐American, first‐episode sample
Authors: Chien Victoria H. , Compton Michael T.
Published: April 2008

Aim: Given recent findings that mode of onset is a determinant of duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), along with a dearth of research coupling the mode of onset and pathways to care constructs, this study explored the possible effects of mode of onset on pathways to care.

Methods: The study included 76 patients hospitalized for first‐episode, nonaffective psychosis in two urban, public‐sector psychiatric units. Consensus‐based best estimates were derived for mode of onset, pathways to care variables and DUP. Associations between mode of onset and several types of pathways to care variables were examined: (i) two key duration variables during the pathway; (ii) four variables pertaining to services contacted, sources of help and reasons for psychiatric contact; and (iii) the number of help‐seeking contacts during the pathway.

Results: None of the sociodemographic or clinical variables examined (except DUP) were associated with mode of onset. In further assessing the association between mode of onset and DUP, mode of onset was related to the first component of DUP – delay in initiating any help contact – but not with the duration from initiating the first help contact until hospitalization. Mode of onset was not significantly associated with a number of other key pathways to care variables (e.g. type of first help‐seeking contact, number of help‐seeking contacts).

Conclusion: The present findings suggest that both community‐wide informational campaigns and early intervention programmes may benefit from focusing on gradually developing psychosis, which confers a longer delay to initiating care.
Psychiatric genetic counselling for parents of individuals affected with psychotic disorders: a pilot study
Authors: Austin Jehannine C. , Honer William G.
Published: April 2008

Aim: There has been increasing interest in the concept of applying genetic counselling to psychiatric disorders, but despite its relevance to psychiatric illness, and interest from the target group, there have been no empiric investigations of psychiatric genetic counselling. In a population of unaffected parents of individuals with first episode as well as more chronic psychotic disorders, we aimed to investigate whether psychiatric genetic counselling: is perceived to be useful, could increase understanding of the causes of psychiatric illness and decrease concern about other relatives becoming affected.

Methods: Subjects (n = 13) participated in a genetic counselling session. The session was a clinical intervention similar to what would be carried out as part of a referral for any disease with a hereditary component, but specific for psychosis. Questionnaires were used to assess (pre‐counselling): motivations for attending, concern about other relatives developing psychiatric illness, and (post‐counselling) whether the intervention: (i) improved understanding of mental illness; (ii) modified concern about other relatives becoming affected; and (iii) was perceived to be useful.

Results: Desire for knowledge motivated participation. Immediately after the session, and 1 month later >92% and 100% of participants, respectively, felt that the session was useful. Genetic counselling reduced concern about other relatives becoming affected as risks were lower than participants had expected. All participants felt that their understanding of the causes of psychiatric illness had improved through genetic counselling.

Conclusion: Psychiatric genetic counselling may benefit parents of individuals with psychiatric illnesses. Avenues for future research are highlighted.
Providing online support for young people with mental health difficulties: challenges and opportunities explored
Authors: Webb Marianne , Burns Jane , Collin Philippa
Published: April 2008

Despite its growing popularity there is a paucity of information exploring the potential of the Internet to build a trusted community that helps reduce stigma, facilitates help‐seeking and aids in the prevention or helps in the management of mental health difficulties for young people. Unsupervised online forums or chat rooms hold potential dangers for young people including the possibility of attracting adults who may take advantage of vulnerable adolescents. Contagion with members organizing suicide pacts, or describing suicidal or self‐harming intentions and methods and young people ruminating about feeling depressed are also potential risks. This paper describes the development and conceptual underpinnings of the Reach Out! Online Community Forum, a moderated bulletin board, developed in consultation with, and facilitated by young people aged 16–25. The Forum, although facilitated by young people, is supported and monitored by trained moderators. Anecdotal evidence collected via unsolicited feedback from young people using the Forum suggests that it is a positive, unique and helpful online experience although little is known about the impact on stigma reduction and help seeking in the offline world. Given the proliferation of unsupervised forums and chat rooms there is a need for further research to determine the effectiveness or potential dangers of online forums in mental health prevention and early intervention work.
ON INFLATION
Authors: Mohr Philiph
Published: April 2008

There is currently much more common sense in the South African inflation debate than a few decades ago. In particular, the South African Reserve Bank exhibits a pragmatic, eclectic approach to inflation (as reflected in its bi‐annual Monetary Policy Reports). This is in stark contrast to the narrow, monetarist‐type thinking that tended to dominate during the 1980s.

This paper is an attempt to contribute to the debate by highlighting a few issues, including the widespread substitution of the CPI by the CPIX, the fact that inflation is a process, the need to combat inflation, the causes of the decline in inflation in South Africa and the essential features of an inflation‐targeting framework for monetary policy.
Kawagoe 300kW Class MCFC/TCG Compact System: Thermal Efficiency and Endurance Test Results
Authors: Yoshiba Fumihiko
Published: April 2008

A 300kW class molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC)/gas turbine combined compact system has been designed; the system has a 250-cell MCFC stack and a turbocharger generator (TCG) as part of its gas turbine. The 250-cell stack had trouble with a gas leakage; thus, a modified 125-cell stack was refabricated and operated in the system. Using the operation results of the 125-cell+TCG system, the thermal efficiency was estimated for the 250-cell+TCG system of the original design. The estimated thermal efficiency is 41.0% high heating value (HHV) (45.4% low heating value); the efficiency is 2% lower than the expected value of the original design. The difference of the thermal efficiency between the estimated and expected values of the 250-cell MCFC stack is due to the increase of the internal resistance caused by the stacking procedure. The 125-cell stack was operated for 1700h with the TCG and 3200h with an external air supply system at an operating current density of ∼1500A∕m2; the maximum thermal efficiency of the 250-cell+TCG system was estimated (43.0% HHV) at an operating current density of 1500A∕m2. The cell voltage degradation rate was converted to be 0.39%∕1000h at an operating current density of 2000A∕m2. The thermal efficiency, the stack performance, the temperature distribution of the stack, the performance of the TCG, etc., are discussed in detail.
Test Results and Efficiency Estimation of 1.2MPa Pressurized MCFC Module
Authors: Yoshiba Fumihiko
Published: April 2008

A module part of a 7MW class centralized molten carbonate fuel cell/gas turbine (GT) combined system has been tested. Since the designed (GT) working pressure is 1.2MPa, the operating pressure of the module was high (1.2MPa). In order to realize a high steam-reforming efficiency of the fuel gas under high-pressure operation, the module has an additional adiabatic reformer, which changes the CH4 remaining in the exhausted anode gas to H2. Using a 125-cell stack, the module was operated and the performance of the stack was evaluated; the CO2 partial pressure of the cathode inlet gas was kept low during the operation. The maximum operating current density of the stack was limited to 1600A∕m2; however, the maximum total steam-reforming efficiency of the fuel gas was 96% in the module. The heat loss of the module was evaluated in the pressure swing test. Using these operation results, the efficiency of the module, at the designed operating current density of 2000A∕m2, was estimated; the result was 39.6% low heating value (LHV) by applying the normal cell performance, whereas 44.4% LHV by applying the best performance cell. The module efficiency of 44.4% LHV corresponds to the system’s net efficiency of 48% high heating value in the 7MW system.
Control Strategy Optimization of a Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicle
Authors: Paladini Vanessa , Donateo Teresa , de Risi Arturo , Laforgia Domenico
Published: April 2008

In the last decades, due to emission reduction policies, research focused on alternative powertrains among which electric vehicles powered by fuel cells are becoming an attractive solution. The main issues of these vehicles are the energy management system and the overall fuel economy. An overview of the existing solutions with respect to their overall efficiency is reported in the paper. On the bases of the literature results, the more efficient powertrain scheme has been selected. The present investigation aims at identifying the best control strategy to power a vehicle with both fuel cell and battery to reduce fuel consumption. The optimization of the control strategy is achieved by using a genetic algorithm. To model the powertrain behavior, an on purpose made simulation program has been developed and implemented in MATLAB/SIMULINK. In particular, the fuel cell model is based on the theory of Amphlett et al. (1995, “Performance Modeling of the Ballard Mark IV Solid Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell. II. Empirical Model Development,” J. Electrochem. Soc., 142(1)) whereas the battery model also accounts for the charge/discharge efficiency. The analyzed powertrain is equipped with an energy recovery system. During acceleration, power is demanded to the storage system, while during deceleration the battery is recharged. All the tested control strategies assume charge sustaining operation for the battery and that the fuel cell system has to work around its maximum efficiency. All the tested strategies have been validated on four driving cycles.