bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient adherence in an individualized rehabilitation programme: A clinical follow-up
Authors: Engström Lena Oldfors , Öberg Birgitta
Published: December 2004

Aims: This investigation aims to describe patients with longstanding pain who did not complete their participation and/or participated infrequently in physiotherapy (PT) treatment based on their own activity and responsibility, and in addition to understand the phenomenon of adherence from a behavioural theoretical perspective. Methods: The phenomenon compliance/adherence was studied in relation to health locus of control (HLC) factors and health belief (HB) variables. Outcome measures were based on a questionnaire answered by all patients before the beginning of treatment. Definitions of adherence were completed treatment period and exercise frequency respectively. Patients completing treatment were compared with those who did not. Exercise frequencies of those completing treatment were also studied. Results: Those who did not complete treatment reported higher pain intensity, higher Oswestry score, and worse general health than those completing treatment. Results also showed that those who exercised once a week or less often valued the significance of healthcare treatment less, perceived higher pain intensity, presented a higher Oswestry score, worse general health, more pain locations, lower expectations, were younger and almost solely women, than those who exercised more often. Conclusions: Individuals exercising irregularly were above all women. This fact needs further investigation. Individuals' belief in treatment effects is of significance to adherence. Adherence is a comprehensive concept and depending on how we look at it we find different populations.
β1-Integrin Orients Epithelial Polarity via Rac1 and Laminin
Authors: Yu Wei , Datta Anirban , Leroy Pascale , O'Brien Lucy Erin , Mak Grace , Jou Tzuu-Shuh , Matlin Karl S. , Mostov Keith E. , Zegers Mirjam M.P.
Published: December 2004

Epithelial cells polarize and orient polarity in response to cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion. Although there has been much recent progress in understanding the general polarizing machinery of epithelia, it is largely unclear how this machinery is controlled by the extracellular environment. To explore the signals from cell-matrix interactions that control orientation of cell polarity, we have used three-dimensional culture systems in which Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells form polarized, lumen-containing structures. We show that interaction of collagen I with apical β1-integrins after collagen overlay of a polarized MDCK monolayer induces activation of Rac1, which is required for collagen overlay-induced tubulocyst formation. Cysts, comprised of a monolayer enclosing a central lumen, form after embedding single cells in collagen. In those cultures, addition of a β1-integrin function-blocking antibody to the collagen matrix gives rise to cysts that have defects in the organization of laminin into the basement membrane and have inverted polarity. Normal polarity is restored by either expression of activated Rac1, or the inclusion of excess laminin-1 (LN-1). Together, our results suggest a signaling pathway in which the activation of β1-integrins orients the apical pole of polarized cysts via a mechanism that requires Rac1 activation and laminin organization into the basement membrane.
Exact transient full–field analysis of a finite crack subjected to dynamic anti–plane concentrated loadings in anisotropic materials
Authors: Ing Yi-Shyong , Ma Chien-Ching
Published: December 2004

In this study, the elastodynamic full–field response of a finite crack in an anisotropic material subjected to a dynamic anti–plane concentrated loading with Heaviside–function time dependence is investigated. A linear coordinate transformation is introduced to simplify the problem. The linear coordinate transformation reduces the anisotropic finite–crack problem to an equivalent isotropic problem. An alternative methodology, different from the conventional superposition method, is developed to construct the reflected and diffracted wave fields. The transient solutions are determined by superposition of two proposed fundamental solutions in the Laplace transform domain. The fundamental solutions to be used are the problems for applying exponentially distributed traction and displacement on the crack faces and along the crack–tip line in the Laplace transform domain, respectively. Exact analytical transient solutions for dynamic shear stresses, displacement and stress–intensity factor are obtained by using the Cagniard–de Hoop method of Laplace inversion and are expressed in explicitly compact formulations. The solutions have accounted for the contributions of all diffracted waves generated from two crack tips. Numerical results for the time history of shear stresses and stress–intensity factors during the transient process are calculated based on analytical solutions and are discussed in detail. The transient solutions of stresses have been shown to approach the corresponding static values after the first eight waves have passed the field point. The dynamic stress–intensity factor will reach a maximum value when the incident wave arrives at the crack tip, and remain constant before the first diffracted wave generated from the other crack tip arrives, and then will oscillate near the static value. A simple explicit expression of the dynamic overshoot for stress–intensity factors is derived as a function of the location for applied loadings, the crack length and material constants.
Smurf2 up-regulation activates telomere-dependent senescence
Authors: Zhang Hong , Cohen Stanley N.
Published: December 2004

Progressive telomere shortening activates replicative senescence, which prevents somatic cells from being propagated indefinitely in culture. The limitation of proliferative capacity imposed by replicative senescence is thought to contribute to both organismal aging and the prevention of tumor development. Here we report that up-regulation of Smurf2, an E3 ubiquitin ligase previously implicated in TGF-β signaling, is a specific consequence of telomere attrition in human fibroblasts and that such up-regulation is sufficient to produce the senescence phenotype. Adventitious production of the Smurf2 protein in early passage fibroblasts at the same physiological level observed during telomere-mediated senescence resulted in proliferative arrest in a viable state, morphological and biochemical alterations characteristic of senescence, acquisition of senescence-specific alterations in gene expression, and reversal of cellular immortalization by telomerase. We show that the senescence-inducing actions of Smurf2 occur in the absence of detectable DNA damage or stress response, that Smurf2's effects require a novel function distinct from its E3 activity, that Smurf2 recruits the Rb and p53 pathways for senescence induction, and that while p21 is elevated by Smurf2, Smurf2-mediated senescence is independent of p21. Smurf2 is the first gene found to be both up-regulated by telomere attrition and sufficient to induce senescence.
Posttraining increases in REM sleep intensity implicate REM sleep in memory processing and provide a biological marker of learning potential
Authors: Smith Carlyle T. , Nixon Margaret R. , Nader Rebecca S.
Published: December 2004

Posttraining rapid eye movement (REM) sleep has been reported to be important for efficient memory consolidation. The present results demonstrate increases in the intensity of REM sleep during the night of sleep following cognitive procedural/implicit task acquisition. These REM increases manifest as increases in total number of rapid eye movements (REMs) and REM densities, whereas the actual time spent in REM sleep did not change. Further, the participants with the higher intelligence (IQ) scores showed superior task acquisition scores as well as larger posttraining increases in number of REMs and REM density. No other sleep state changes were observed. None of the pretraining baseline measures of REM sleep were correlated with either measured IQ or task performance. Posttraining increases in REM sleep intensity implicate REM sleep mechanisms in further off-line memory processing, and provide a biological marker of learning potential.
Reverberation, storage, and postsynaptic propagation of memories during sleep
Authors: Ribeiro Sidarta , Nicolelis Miguel A.L.
Published: December 2004

In mammals and birds, long episodes of nondreaming sleep (“slow-wave” sleep, SW) are followed by short episodes of dreaming sleep (“rapid-eye-movement” sleep, REM). Both SW and REM sleep have been shown to be important for the consolidation of newly acquired memories, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here we review electrophysiological and molecular data suggesting that SW and REM sleep play distinct and complementary roles on memory consolidation: While postacquisition neuronal reverberation depends mainly on SW sleep episodes, transcriptional events able to promote long-lasting memory storage are only triggered during ensuing REM sleep. We also discuss evidence that the wake-sleep cycle promotes a postsynaptic propagation of memory traces away from the neural sites responsible for initial encoding. Taken together, our results suggest that basic molecular and cellular mechanisms underlie the reverberation, storage, and propagation of memory traces during sleep. We propose that these three processes alone may account for several important properties of memory consolidation over time, such as deeper memory encoding within the cerebral cortex, incremental learning several nights after memory acquisition, and progressive hippocampal disengagement.
Sleep, dreams, and memory consolidation: The role of the stress hormone cortisol
Authors: Payne Jessica D. , Nadel Lynn
Published: December 2004

We discuss the relationship between sleep, dreams, and memory, proposing that the content of dreams reflects aspects of memory consolidation taking place during the different stages of sleep. Although we acknowledge the likely involvement of various neuromodulators in these phenomena, we focus on the hormone cortisol, which is known to exert influence on many of the brain systems involved in memory. The concentration of cortisol escalates over the course of the night's sleep, in ways that we propose can help explain the changing nature of dreams across the sleep cycle.
Communication between paired chondrocytes in the superficial zone of articular cartilage
Authors: Chi Simon S. , Rattner Jerome B. , Matyas John R.
Published: December 2004

The regeneration and repair of cartilage damaged by injury or disease, a major goal of orthopaedic science, depends on understanding the structure and function of both the extracellular matrix and the chondrocytes. In this study, we explored the in situ organization and potential interactions between chondrocytes in the superficial zone of adult rabbit articular cartilage. Some chondrocytes in this zone were observed close together and appeared to be paired whereas others were solitary. The shared surfaces of a chondrocyte pair were separated by a narrow plate of extracellular matrix, into which extended small cytoplasmic projections from both cells. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of major cellular landmarks, such as the nucleus and centrosome as well as some intracellular proteins such as connexin‐43, tended to be mirrored about this matrix plate. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching revealed the fluorescent dye calcein–AM dye can pass between paired cells, and that the passage of this dye can be inhibited by the gap junction blocker octanol. These results illustrate that rapid cellular communication is possible between cells in the superficial layer of adult articular cartilage, which challenges the current thinking that these chondrocytes function in isolation.
INTERNET, SCALE AND THE GLOBAL GRASSROOTS: GEOGRAPHIES OF THE INDYMEDIA NETWORK OF INDEPENDENT MEDIA CENTRES
Authors: MAMADOUH VIRGINIE
Published: December 2004

This paper addresses the role of the Internet in global collective action through an analysis of the scale practices of the Indymedia network. Indymedia is a worldwide network of interlinked websites run by volunteers organised in local Independent Media Centres (IMCs). These websites, a global site at http://www.indymedia.org and over one hundred local sites, are meant to empower activists groups by providing them with a media platform. The case study focuses on the role of the Internet in four facets of collective action: grievances and alternatives, organisation, mobilisation and identities. The analysis deals more specifically with scales, examining scaling practices in the light of three scale metaphors (scale as level, scale as size, scale as relation). While scales are also framed as bounded areas (territorial communities to be served) and as levels when targeting specific government agencies, the prevailing scale frame is that of a network of scales in which the local and the global mutually constitute each other.
THE COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ETHNIC RESIDENTIAL SEGREGATION IN THE USA, 1980–2000
Authors: JOHNSTON RON , POULSEN MICHAEL , FORREST JAMES
Published: December 2004

Although there are many studies of the residential segregation of ethnic groups in cities in various parts of the world, very few address the degree to which segregation levels vary across an urban system, let alone rigorously analyse those variations. Data on segregation across all US Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in 1980 and 2000 at the census tract scale have been analysed, using a modified index of isolation, to examine variations in segregation levels, according to their size, the relative size of the various ethnic minorities there, their ethnic diversity, and their location. Strong relationships are identified for all three of the country's major ethnic minority groups – Blacks, Asians and Hispanics. These suggest that Asians and Hispanics are disadvantaged in the labour and housing markets, so that as their number increases so does their level of segregation. Blacks are disadvantaged too: their segregation is compounded by a legacy of decades of discrimination, especially in the older‐established parts of the country.
Low‐dose prophylactic platelet transfusions in recipients of an autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplant and patients with acute leukemia: a randomized controlled trial with a sequential Bayesian design
Authors: Tinmouth Alan , Tannock Ian F. , Crump Michael , Tomlinson George , Brandwein Joseph , Minden Mark , Sutton David
Published: December 2004

BACKGROUND:  Prophylactic platelet (PLT) transfusions are standard treatment for patients receiving high‐dose chemotherapy, but the optimal dose is not known. A randomized controlled trial was undertaken to examine the effectiveness of low‐dose PLT transfusions and to determine the need for further studies.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Patients (n = 111) with acute leukemia or undergoing autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) transplantation were randomly assigned to receive low‐dose (3 PLT units) or standard‐dose (5 PLT units) prophylactic PLT transfusions and were monitored daily for bleeding. Using a sequential Bayesian design, the difference in major bleeding events was determined.

RESULTS:  The percentage of patients with major bleeding events was 10.7 percent (95% credible region, 5.1%‐21.2%) in the low‐dose PLT group and 7.3 percent (95% credible region, 2.9%‐17.2%) in the standard‐dose PLT group. The two additional events in the low‐dose group occurred when the PLT count exceeded 100 × 109 per L. There is an 89 percent probability that the absolute increase in major bleeds is less than 10 percent with low‐dose PLT transfusions. The number of minor bleeding events was higher in the standard‐dose group. Patients receiving low‐dose PLT transfusions received 25 percent fewer PLT units. There was an 89 percent probability that low‐dose transfusions reduced PLT utilization in patients with acute leukemia and a 60 percent probability in patients undergoing PBPC transplantation.

CONCLUSION:  Low‐dose PLT transfusions appear to be safe and effective and reduce PLT utilization. They should be further evaluated in clinical trials designed to evaluate equivalency.
Prevention of immunization to D+ red blood cells with red blood cell exchange and intravenous Rh immune globulin
Authors: Nester T.A. , Rumsey D.M. , Howell C.C. , Gilligan D.M. , Drachman J.G. , Maier R.V. , Kyles D.M. , Matthews D.C. , Pendergrass T.W.
Published: December 2004

BACKGROUND:  Although young women who are D– occasionally receive unintentional transfusions with D+ red blood cells (RBCs), there are little data to assist with management of such an event. Two cases of D– girls transfused with D+ RBCs are reported. In an effort to prevent formation of anti‐D, RBC exchange followed by administration of intravenous (IV) Rh immune globulin (RhIg) was used.

CASE REPORTS:  Patient 1, a 56‐kg, 16‐year‐old D– girl, was involved in a motor vehicle crash. She received 4 units of Group O uncrossmatched D+ RBCs. Thirty‐six hours after admission, she underwent RBC exchange with 10 units of D– RBCs, followed by a total of 2718 µg of IV RhIg over 32 hours. Six months later, her antibody screen was negative. Patient 2, a 39‐kg, 10‐year‐old D– girl with aplastic anemia, received 1 unit of D+ RBCs. She underwent RBC exchange on the same day with 5 units of D– RBCs, followed by a total of 900 µg of IV RhIg over 8 hours. Six months later her antibody screen was negative.

CONCLUSION:  RBC exchange followed by a calculated dose of IV RhIg was successful in preventing allo‐immunization to D. Several small studies suggest that both trauma and hematology patients may be less capable of becoming immunized with the transfusion of D+ blood components. Until these findings are more clearly defined, there will be times when prevention of immunization of any D– girl is desired. RBC exchange followed by RhIg appears to be one way to achieve this goal.
Acute and transient decrease in neutrophil count in transfusion‐related acute lung injury: cases at one hospital
Authors: Nakagawa Mayumi , Toy Pearl
Published: December 2004

BACKGROUND:  Transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a rare but serious complication of blood transfusion. The syndrome is characterized by new acute lung injury developing during or within 6 hours of blood transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  The study design was observational in nature.

RESULTS:  All three cases of TRALI were associated with acute but transient decrease in the white blood cell (WBC) count. Implicated donors had HLA antibodies that matched the recipients’ HLA antigens. The implicated units were a plateletpheresis in one case and fresh frozen plasma units in the other two. All implicated donors were multiparous women. The implicated antibody specificities were anti‐HLA Class I and Class II in one case and anti‐HLA Class II in the other two cases. Interestingly, patient neutrophil counts decreased by 80 to 90 percent in all three cases, including the two cases associated with HLA Class II antibodies.

CONCLUSION:  An acute and transient decrease in WBC count may be a previously underrecognized feature of TRALI. A drop in the neutrophil count can occur even when the implicated antibodies have specificities to HLA Class II antigens, although they are expressed only on stimulated neutrophils. Based on the observations in these cases, it is recommended that a complete blood count and differential be obtained when TRALI is suspected. Further investigations into the mechanisms of the decrease in circulating neutrophils that is associated with infusion of HLA Class II antibody may yield new insights into the mechanism of TRALI.
Financial Integration, Dis‐integration and Emerging Re‐integration in the Eastern Mediterranean, c.1850 to the Present
Authors: Tschoegl Adrian E
Published: December 2004

The financial integration that concerns us is that of the linking of national banking systems through the opening of branches by banks of one country in another. In the inter‐war period, banks from England and France established branches in the countries of the eastern Mediterranean, as did banks originating in those countries. However, after World War II there came a period of nationalization and nostrification that cut the countries’ banks off from each other's markets. If domestic financial systems matter to economic development and growth, and if foreign banks contribute to the development of financial systems, then these policies were a self‐inflicted wound. As barriers to foreign banks have fallen since the mid‐1970s the region has started to integrate again, but in a process that is far from complete.
Structural Impedimentsto Economic Globalizationin the Middle East
Authors: Kamrava Mehran
Published: December 2004

Dr. Kamrava is professor and chair of the Political Science Department at California State University, Northridge. His latest book is The Modern Middle East: A Political History since the First World War (University of California Press, forthcoming 2005).
Size, Skill and Sorting
Authors: Belman Dale , Levine David I.
Published: December 2004

Abstract.  The rise in inequality between the 1970s and the 1990s and the persistent gap in pay between large and small employers are two of the most robust findings in the study of labor markets. Mainstream economists focus on differences in observable and unobservable skills to explain both the overall rising inequality and the size–wage gap. In this paper we model how increasing returns to skill can affect the size–wage gap both with constant sorting and with size‐biased, skill‐biased technological change (e.g. if large firms always had access to computers, but small firms gained access to computers with the rise of affordable personal computers).

We analyze the Current Population Surveys from 1979 to 1993 to determine whether large and small employers are converging in terms of mean wages (the employer size–wage effect), wage structures by occupation and education, characteristics of employees, and wage structures by region. We find mixed evidence of convergence and no consistent support for any single version of human capital theory.
Unequal Opportunities for Young People with Immigrant Backgrounds in the Swedish Labour Market
Authors: Behtoui Alireza
Published: December 2004

Abstract.  This paper investigates labour‐market performance for ‘young people with immigrant backgrounds’ and those ‘born in Sweden with native‐born parents’ in the Swedish labour market. It focuses on young people who were aged 18–20 during 1990, and their labour‐market status after 8 years, in 1998. The results indicate that young people of immigrant descent have lower annual wage income and are at higher risk of not being employed than those born in Sweden with native‐born parents. Differences in human capital characteristics cannot explain these results. Other theories, which stress the effect of discriminatory behaviour and the power of social network composition, are discussed as alternative interpretations. Having one native‐born parent is considered to be important to labour market success. However, having a native‐born father rather than a native‐born mother is associated with better labour‐market achievement.
The Male–Female Wage Gap and the Firm Effect: The Case of Young Italian Workers
Authors: Capellari Saveria , Chies Laura , Zaccarin Susanna
Published: December 2004

Abstract.  The idea that wages are determined by firm and individual characteristics suggests that there is a firm effect that influences wage differentials. This paper presents the results of an empirical analysis of gender wage differentials — based on INPS data for people between the ages of 20 and 25 employed in the private sector in 1996 — which takes into account the characteristics of workers and firms using a two‐level random‐effects model. Firm variables proved to be significant, and the proportion of females in the firm showed a negative effect on the wages of both men and women.
Alcoholic subtypes: are two sufficient?
Authors: Windle Michael , M. Scheidt Douglas
Published: December 2004

Aims  Guided by the literature on alcohol subtypes, cluster analytical solutions ranging from two to five were evaluated for a large (n = 802), ethnically diverse sample of alcoholic in‐patients.

Design  Personal interview data were collected from in‐patients regarding their substance abuse and psychiatric disorder status, risk factors for psychopathology and health outcomes.

Setting  The data were collected at five alcohol in‐patient treatment settings in New York; three settings were in New York City, one in Rochester and one in Buffalo.

Participants  The sample included 802 participants (481 males and 321 females) with racial/ethnic group diversity (418 blacks, 180 whites, 187 Hispanics, 17 of other ethnic origin).

Measurements  Subjects were assessed with standardized measures of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders, family history of alcoholism, psychopathy, temperament, alcohol expectancies and clinical health variables.

Findings  Based on internal and external criteria and compatibility with the existing literature, four subtypes were identified: mild course, polydrug, negative affect and chronic/antisocial. On external criteria, the polydrug subtype had the highest rate of family criminality, high‐risk sexual behavior and intravenous drug use; the negative affect subtype had the highest rate of childhood sexual abuse, attempted suicide and childhood homelessness; the chronic/antisocial personality (ASP) subtype had the most severe pattern of drinking and antisocial behavior.

Conclusions  Findings are discussed with regard to the etiological and clinical utility of the four‐subtype formulation, and consistency with recent studies in molecular genetics and pharmacology.
Immunogenicity, reactogenicity and adherence to a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine in illicit drug users
Authors: Lugoboni Fabio , Quaglio GianLuca , Pajusco Benedetta , Civitelli Paolo , Romanò Luisa , Bossi Carlo , Spilimbergo Irene , Mezzelani Paolo
Published: December 2004

Aims  The use of illegal drugs is associated with an increase in infective risk for the hepatitis viruses, against which the vaccination of drug users (DUs) is recommended unanimously. The aim of the study was to determine tolerability, adherence and immune response of a combined vaccine providing dual protection against hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Methods  The vaccine was administered to 38 DU, attending three public health centres for drug users in northern Italy, with a three‐dose schedule (at 0, 1 and 6 months). The vaccine was well tolerated: only one adverse reaction (fever) was recorded after the 110 doses administered (0.9%). The vaccine schedule was completed successfully in 35 cases (92.1%). At month 8, in 34 subjects (89.5%) antibody response was evaluated: all showed seroprotection for HAV and in 33 subjects (97.1%) for HBV.

Conclusions  The vaccine, studied for the first time in DUs, proved to be safe, well accepted and immunogenic; anti‐HAV response was 1272 mIU/ml and 1726 mIU/ml for anti‐HBV, titres lower than reported in literature for the general population. This study suggests that DUs who are HAV/HBV‐negative could be vaccinated with combined vaccine.
Acute effect of a brief bout of exercise on alcohol urges
Authors: Ussher Michael , Sampuran Amandeep K. , Doshi Reena , West Robert , Drummond D. Colin
Published: December 2004

Aim  To examine whether a brief bout of moderate intensity exercise reduces alcohol urges and mood disturbance in those with alcohol dependence.

Design  A counterbalanced cross‐over design (within‐subjects).

Setting  A hospital‐based alcohol rehabilitation clinic.

Participants  Twenty males and females [mean (SD) age = 40.1 (8.2) years, mean (SD) Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire score = 34.2 (13.4)] who had recently completed alcohol detoxification [mean (SD) days since completing detoxification = 3.5 (2.3)].

Intervention  On the first day of experimentation all participants (N = 20) were randomized to undergo one of two conditions, either: (i) a single bout of 10 minutes of moderate intensity cycling (experimental), or (ii) a single bout of 10 minutes of very light intensity cycling (control). On the following day they underwent the remaining condition.

Measurements  All participants completed the Alcohol Urge Questionnaire and a six‐item measure of mood disturbance at the following times: (i) immediately before exercise (baseline), (ii) during exercise (at 5 minutes), (iii) immediately following exercise, (iv) 5 minutes following exercise and (v) 10 minutes after exercise.

Findings  Relative to baseline, there was a significant decline in alcohol urges for the experimental condition versus control during exercise (P = 0.02) but not at any measurement point following exercise. At baseline, by chance, there was a non‐significant tendency for there to be higher ratings of alcohol urges for the experimental condition versus the control. For mood, there was no evidence for significant differences between treatment conditions for baseline versus any subsequent measurement point.

Conclusions  A brief bout of moderate intensity exercise may provide some short‐term relief from alcohol urges during exercise. Further studies are required to replicate the present findings and to confirm whether any moderating effect of exercise on alcohol urges is sustained following exercise.
Carbon cycling and storage in world forests: biome patterns related to forest age
Authors: Pregitzer Kurt S. , Euskirchen Eugénie S.
Published: December 2004

Forest age, which is affected by stand‐replacing ecosystem disturbances (such as forest fires, harvesting, or insects), plays a distinguishing role in determining the distribution of carbon (C) pools and fluxes in different forested ecosystems. In this synthesis, net primary productivity (NPP), net ecosystem productivity (NEP), and five pools of C (living biomass, coarse woody debris, organic soil horizons, soil, and total ecosystem) are summarized by age class for tropical, temperate, and boreal forest biomes. Estimates of variability in NPP, NEP, and C pools are provided for each biome‐age class combination and the sources of variability are discussed. Aggregated biome‐level estimates of NPP and NEP were higher in intermediate‐aged forests (e.g., 30–120 years), while older forests (e.g., >120 years) were generally less productive. The mean NEP in the youngest forests (0–10 years) was negative (source to the atmosphere) in both boreal and temperate biomes (−0.1 and –1.9 Mg C ha−1 yr−1, respectively). Forest age is a highly significant source of variability in NEP at the biome scale; for example, mean temperate forest NEP was −1.9, 4.5, 2.4, 1.9 and 1.7 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 across five age classes (0–10, 11–30, 31–70, 71–120, 121–200 years, respectively). In general, median NPP and NEP are strongly correlated (R2=0.83) across all biomes and age classes, with the exception of the youngest temperate forests. Using the information gained from calculating the summary statistics for NPP and NEP, we calculated heterotrophic soil respiration (Rh) for each age class in each biome. The mean Rh was high in the youngest temperate age class (9.7 Mg C ha−1 yr−1) and declined with age, implying that forest ecosystem respiration peaks when forests are young, not old. With notable exceptions, carbon pool sizes increased with age in all biomes, including soil C. Age trends in C cycling and storage are very apparent in all three biomes and it is clear that a better understanding of how forest age and disturbance history interact will greatly improve our fundamental knowledge of the terrestrial C cycle.
The effect of packaging treatment on the storage quality of minimally processed bunched onions
Authors: Hong Seok‐In , Kim Dongman
Published: December 2004

Storage quality of minimally processed (MP) bunched onions, as affected by plastic film packaging, was investigated to determine the optimum packing method for this vegetable product. Five different packaging treatments, including two passive modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), two active MAP and a moderate vacuum packaging (MVP), were used for MP bunched onions. Quality attributes of the samples were evaluated periodically in terms of weight loss, colour, decay ratio, microbial counts and sensory properties during storage at 10 °C for 28 days. Various sealed‐packaging treatments did not significantly influence changes in colour of white stem and green leaf tissues, flesh weight loss and microbiological populations including mesophiles, psychrotrophs and lactic acid bacteria. However, sensory attributes and disease incidence were affected by packaging type. MVP with a gas‐permeable plastic film retained better quality bunched onions, with reduced microbial decay and visual sensory aspects, as compared with the other packages.
Optimization of the chopping process using at‐line human evaluations and response surface methodology
Authors: Curt Corinne , Francon Cécile , Trystram Gilles
Published: December 2004

The objective of this investigation was to test the hypothesis that it is possible to optimize processing conditions using Response Surface Methodology and human measurements, called sensory indicators, directly at the processing line. Chopping during the manufacture of meat emulsion was studied. The independent variables were process parameters: chopping duration (D), speed (S), temperature (T) and pressure (P). The effects of these four variables on a global index called chopping degree (CD) were determined. CD was calculated by the fusion of five sensory indicators via the implementation of the fuzzy sets theory. The statistical analysis showed that D and S had a significant influence on CD. Utilizing an economic compromise, optimum‐processing conditions for CD consisted of a speed of 2000 r.p.m. for duration of 3 min.
Lancefield group C Streptococcus dysgalactiae infection responsible for fish mortalities in Japan
Authors: Nomoto R , Munasinghe L I , Jin D‐H , Shimahara Y , Yasuda H , Nakamura A , Misawa N , Itami T , Yoshida T
Published: December 2004

A Lancefield serological group C Streptococcus sp. was isolated from cultured amberjack, Seriola dumerili Risso, and yellowtail, Seriola quinqueradiata Temminck and Schlegel, immunized with Lactococcus garvieae commercial vaccines in Japan. The isolated bacteria were Gram‐positive cocci, auto‐aggregating in saline, morphologically long chains in growth medium, catalase negative and α‐haemolytic on blood agar. An almost complete gene sequence of the 16S rDNA of two isolates was determined and compared with that of bacterial strains in the database. The isolates were identified as Streptococcus dysgalactiae based on the results of the 16S rDNA sequence, the bacteriological properties and the Lancefield serological grouping. Oligonucleotide primers specifically designed for the 16S–23S rDNA intergenic spacer region of S. dysgalactiae amplified a gene from all the fish isolates, as well as the type strains α‐haemolytic S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae ATCC430738 and β‐haemolytic S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis ATCC35666, but not those of S. equi ATCC33398, Lactococcus garvieae ATCC43921 and L. garvieae KG9408. The severe necrotic lesions of the caudal peduncle seen in experimentally infected fish were similar to those seen in naturally infected fish.
Oxygen consumption during leaf nitrate assimilation in a C3 and C4 plant: the role of mitochondrial respiration
Authors: COUSINS A. B. , BLOOM A. J.
Published: December 2004

Measurements of net fluxes of CO2 and O2 from leaves and chlorophyll a fluorescence were used to determine the role of mitochondrial respiration during nitrate (NO3–) assimilation in both a C3 (wheat) and a C4 (maize) plant. Changes in the assimilatory quotient (net CO2 consumed over net O2 evolved) when the nitrogen source was shifted from NO3– to NH4+ (ΔAQ) provided a measure of shoot NO3– assimilation. According to this measure, elevated CO2 inhibited NO3– assimilation in wheat but not maize. Net O2 exchange under ambient CO2 concentrations increased in wheat plants receiving NO3– instead of NH4+, but gross O2 evolution from the photosynthetic apparatus (JO2) was insensitive to nitrogen source. Therefore, O2 consumption within wheat photosynthetic tissue (ΔΟ2), the difference between JO2 and net O2 exchange, decreased during NO3– assimilation. In maize, NO3– assimilation was insensitive to changes in intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci); nonetheless, ΔΟ2 at low Ci values was significantly higher in NO3–‐fed than in NH4+‐fed plants. Changes in O2 consumption during NO3– assimilation may involve one or more of the following processes: (a) Mehler ascorbate peroxidase (MAP) reactions; (b) photorespiration; or (c) mitochondrial respiration. The data presented here indicates that in wheat, the last process, mitochondrial respiration, is decreased during NO3– assimilation. In maize, NO3– assimilation appears to stimulate mitochondrial respiration when photosynthetic rates are limiting.
Productivity, carbon isotope discrimination and leaf traits of trees of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. in relation to water availability
Authors: MACFARLANE C. , ADAMS M. A. , WHITE D. A.
Published: December 2004

The stand basal area, carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) in tree rings and leaves, leaf area index and leaf traits of trees were measured in 6‐ to 8‐year‐old stands of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. across a gradient of rainfall of 600–1400 mm year−1 in south‐western Australia to better understand the importance of leaf traits and gas‐exchange as determinants of stand productivity. Δ ranged from 17‰ to 21‰. Δ and basal area were highly, positively correlated with each other and the ratio of mean annual rainfall to potential evaporation (P/PE). Leaf area index, soil water holding capacity and leaf nitrogen content were only weakly correlated with basal area. Δ and P/PE were negatively correlated with leaf nitrogen content. Δ was negatively correlated with leaf density but positively correlated with specific leaf area. This is consistent with the theory that larger leaf nitrogen content and smaller specific leaf area are associated with increased photosynthetic capacity and increased leaf‐scale water‐use‐efficiency, and that Δ is influenced by mesophyll conductance. It is concluded that canopy conductance is a more important determinant of growth in water‐limited conditions than either leaf area index or leaf traits in fertilized stands of E. globulus. Water availability was dictated more by rainfall than soil type.
Immunohistochemical Detection of CD4‐, CD8‐ and MHC II‐Expressing Immune Cells and Endoglin in the Canine Corpus Luteum at Different Stages of Dioestrus
Authors: Hoffmann B , Büsges F , Baumgärtner W
Published: December 2004

Contents

Specific immunohistochemical methods were applied to detect the presence of CD4‐, CD8‐ and major histocompatibility complex II (MHC II)‐expressing immune cells and of endoglin in the canine corpus luteum between days 15 and 75, after ovulation. Corpora lutea were obtained from groups of three clinically healthy beagle bitches, ovariohysterectomized at the respective days. For all four parameters, the effect of time was highly significant. Quantitative evaluation yielded high values on day 15, followed by a decrease on day 30 (CD4, CD8 and endoglin) and day 45 (MHC II). While there were no further changes for cells staining positive for CD4 and endoglin, CD8‐positive immune cells increased from day 45 to day 60 to drop again on day 75; MHC II‐positive staining increased from day 45 to days 60–75. These data suggest an involvement of the immune system in control of luteal function also in the dog that may have both stimulatory and inhibiting effects.
Constant Light Exposure Causes Dissociation in Gonadotrophin Secretion and Inhibits Partially Neuroendocrine Differentiation of Leydig Cells in Adult Rats
Authors: Ortega HH , Lorente JA , Mira GA , Baravalle C , Salvetti NR
Published: December 2004

Contents

The objective of this work was to study the changes that occur in the Leydig cells of rats exposed to continuous light. The laboratory rat is considered a non‐photoperiodic species because exposure to short photoperiod has little or no effect on the reproductive status. However, exposure of adult female rats to constant light induces polycystic ovaries, indicating that extreme changes in the photoperiod affect the reproductive function seriously. Adult male rats were placed under continuous light conditions for a duration of 15 weeks. After this period, the animals were killed and testicles were dissected and processed by routine histologic protocols. Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) serum levels were determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The visualization of antigens was achieved by the streptavidin‐peroxidase immunohistochemical method. Antibodies against chromogranin A, S‐100 protein, P substance, synaptofisin, neurofilament protein‐200, gliofibrillary acidic protein and neurone‐specific enolase were used. The mean LH serum concentration was significantly lower, while the mean FSH level was significantly higher in treated animals. The expression of S‐100, NSE, CrA, SP and SYN was significantly lower in treated animals. In conclusion, the constant light exposure acting directly at the pituitary level decreases LH secretion. The increased FSH secretion may be due to a partial reduction of the negative androgen feedback in the pituitary gland. Moreover, the constant light exposure affects the expression of some immunomarkers in Leydig cells, possibly because of the changes found in the gonadotrophin level and feedback mechanism.
Different Culture Media Requirements of IVF and Nuclear Transfer Bovine Embryos
Authors: Mastromonaco GF , Semple E , Robert C , Rho GJ , Betts DH , King WA
Published: December 2004

Contents

Important differences exist between in vitro fertilized (IVF) and nuclear transfer (NT) bovine embryos. Studies have shown that although in vitro development is comparable, post‐implantation survival is greatly reduced in NT embryos. In this study, we compare serum and bovine serum albumin (BSA) supplementation during oocyte maturation and embryo culture of IVF and NT embryos. In experiment 1, oocytes and embryos were randomly distributed into different treatment groups consisting of synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) medium supplemented with either serum, fatty acid‐free BSA (FAF) or fraction V BSA during maturation and/or culture to assess IVF embryo development. In experiment 2, oocytes were matured in SOF + serum or SOF + FAF and reconstructed embryos were cultured in SOF + FAF to assess NT embryo development. Among the IVF treatment groups, a greater number of blastocysts were observed in the steer serum (SER) group (IVM and IVC in SOF + serum) on day 6; however, no significant differences were seen in blastocyst development from day 8 onwards. Hatching frequencies on days 8 and 9 were significantly greater in groups with serum, with the exception of FAF (IVM and IVC in SOF + FAF) on day 9. For the NT treatment groups, the presence of serum during IVM resulted in a higher proportion of MII oocytes and increased blastocyst development and hatching rates were compared with supplementation of FAF. These results indicate that both serum and FAF provide comparable embryo development for IVF but not for NT bovine embryos.
Liver abscess in inflammatory bowel disease: Report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: MARGALIT MAYA , ELINAV HILA , ILAN YARON , SHALIT MEIR
Published: December 2004

Hepatic abscesses are a rare complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite the fact that certain hepatobiliary complications of IBD, including cholelithiasis, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and cholangiocarcinoma predispose patients with IBD to ascending cholangitis, previously published data does not demonstrate that biliary infection is an important mechanism underlying liver abscess development in these patients. We describe two patients with inflammatory bowel disease, both with PSC, who developed multiple liver abscesses, and review the literature on liver abscesses in association with inflammatory bowel disease.

© 2004 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Utilization of eye care services by Victorians likely to benefit from eye care
Authors: Bylsma Guy W , Le Anhchuong , Mukesh Bickol N , Taylor Hugh R , McCarty Catherine A
Published: December 2004

Aim: To assess the utilization of eye care services by Australians most likely to benefit from eye assessment.

Methods: The Melbourne Visual Impairment Project was a population‐based study that collected demographic, health and vision‐related information including use of eye care services. A standardized detailed ophthalmic examination was performed. Utilization of eye care services by those who might most benefit from eye care was assessed and compared to the general population. These participants include those with undiagnosed glaucoma, unoperated visually significant cataract, undercorrected refractive error, diabetes mellitus, age‐related macular degeneration and visual acuity < 6/12. Sociodemographic characteristics were assessed for their influence on eye care utilization among these participants.

Results: A total of 4744 urban and rural residents participated (86% of those eligible) and 4612 (83% of total eligible) of these had a complete data set for the use of eye care services and were included. There were 933 participants (20.2%) who did not report eye assessment in the previous 5 years, and 891 participants (19.3%) had one or more aforementioned conditions potentially benefiting from eye care. Of these, between 34.4% and 59.4% reported no examination in the previous year and between 9% and 25% reported no examination within the previous 5 years. These participants were more likely to seek eye care within the short term (1 year) if they had a family history of eye disease, otherwise a noticed change in vision was the main influence in the longer term (2–5 years). Male participants, younger participants and those whose main spoken language was not English were less likely to seek eye care in the longer term.

Conclusions: In Victoria 19% of those >40 years of age have potentially unmanaged eye disease including glaucoma, unoperated visually significant cataract, undercorrected refractive error, age‐related macular degeneration, diabetes mellitus or visual acuity < 6/12. A substantial proportion of these report no eye assessment in the previous 1, 2 or 5 years or ever before. Younger age, male sex and main language other than English make assessment less likely. Many may have these conditions despite having had a recent eye assessment.
Analysis of symptoms associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments
Authors: Polkinghorne Philip J , Craig Jennifer P
Published: December 2004

Aim: The symptoms associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments are variable and can be associated with other vitreoretinal and neuro‐ophthalmic entities. The present study sought to determine the frequency and type of symptoms associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), and analyse any relationships with the premorbid state.

Methods: An observational case series was undertaken. A patient questionnaire together with clinical data was collected for patients presenting with RRD.

Results: The data on 141 patients presenting with RRD were evaluated prospectively. More than 90% of patients reported a variety of symptoms including visual loss, floaters and flashes. The speed of visual loss was not associated with the extent of retinal break. Rather unexpectedly, patients with a history of retinal pathology were not any more likely to be symptomatic either in their presenting or fellow eye. The absence of symptoms was not associated with age, high myopia or previous cataract surgery.

Conclusion: Both patients and physicians need to be aware of the importance of the symptoms associated with RRD.