bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of refractive errors among schoolchildren in Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Yekta AbbasAli , Fotouhi Akbar , Hashemi Hassan , Dehghani Cirous , Ostadimoghaddam Hadi , Heravian Javad , Derakhshan Akbar , Yekta Reihaneh , Behnia Mehdi , Khabazkhoob Mehdi
Published: February 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To determine the prevalence of refractive errors in Shiraz schoolchildren by age and gender.

Methods:  For this cross‐sectional study, random cluster sampling was carried out from students of the 2008–2009 academic year. After the initial interview, ophthalmic examinations including tests of visual acuity, non‐cycloplegic and cycloplegic refraction and binocular vision were performed. Myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent ≤−0.50 dioptre (D), hyperopia as ≥+2.0 D, and astigmatism as a cylinder refraction ≥0.75 D. All values for school grade and gender were directly standardized based on the total student population in the 2008–2009 school year.

Results:  A total of 2130 students were sampled, of which 1872 participated in the study (response rate = 87.88%). The prevalence of uncorrected, best‐corrected, presenting and spectacle corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or worse in the better eye was 6.46%, 0%, 1.49% and 0.9%, respectively. The prevalence rates of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism were 4.35% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.89–5.82%), 5.04% (95% CI: 3.50–6.58%), and 11.27% (95% CI: 9.81–12.74%), respectively. Anisometropia was detected in 2.58% of schoolchildren. The prevalence of hyperopia significantly decreased with age (P = 0.021).

Conclusions:  Compared with other reported rates, the prevalence of myopia in the schoolchildren of Shiraz is similar to that in most places excluding East Asian countries, and that of hyperopia is in the mid range.
Genetic variation of early height growth traits at the xeric limits of Austrocedrus chilensis (Cupressaceae)
Authors: APARICIO ALEJANDRO GABRIEL , PASTORINO MARIO JUAN , GALLO LEONARDO ARIEL
Published: February 2010

The study of the genetic variation of early height growth traits in seedlings helps to predict the possible outcomes of tree populations in the face of climate change. Second‐year height growth of 10 geographically marginal populations of Patagonian cypress (Austrocedrus chilensis (D. Don) Pic. Ser. et Bizzarri) (Cupressaceae) was characterized under greenhouse conditions. Variation among and within an average of 15 open‐pollinated families (comprising 21 seedlings per family) for each population was analysed for six size and timing traits obtained from fitted Boltzmann growth curves. The among‐family and among‐population variances were 4.03% and 2.74% of the total phenotypic variation, while the residual variance was 84.57% on average. Genetic differentiation among populations was low, except for the maximum growth rate (QST = 0.35) and for growth initiation (QST = 1). For most traits, genetic variation and heritability were variable across populations, except for growth initiation, which showed in general null intra‐population levels of genetic variance. Although no direct associations were found between the additive genetic variation and latitude or altitude, the north range of the distribution was more variable for the pool of the analysed traits. Although most extreme‐marginal populations of A. chilensis would be very limited in their ability to evolve if climate in north‐west Patagonia turns drier and warmer, their long‐term persistence could largely rely on a phenotypic diversification strategy.
Secondary seed dispersal of Erodiophyllum elderi, a patchily distributed short‐lived perennial in the arid lands of Australia
Authors: EMMERSON LOUISE , FACELLI JOSÉ M. , CHESSON PETER , POSSINGHAM HUGH
Published: February 2010

We investigated secondary dispersal of propagules of Erodiophyllum elderi (Asteraceae), a short‐lived perennial plant growing in small patches in the arid lands of southern Australia. In spite of its importance for population dynamics, secondary dispersal is a little understood process. We monitored the dispersal of 2280 large woody capitula (seed heads) released in six E. elderi patches for 9 months. Colour‐coded seed heads were located at night using UV light and their distance and direction from the release point were measured. Over the 9‐month period, more seed heads moved, and those that did, moved further in areas with high herbivore activity. Overall dispersal distance across the ground was limited to less than 30 m. Dispersal patterns were related to the topographical slope at the release site: seed heads moved further, and more dispersed on steeper slopes unless the steep slopes had sandy soil in which case seed heads were buried, caught or there was reduced sheet water flow limiting their dispersal potential. After several months, seed head dispersal virtually ceased as seed heads became stuck in the debris and soil after heavy rains or further dispersal became unlikely when seed heads reached locally low‐lying areas. Secondary dispersal patterns suggest two distinctly different influences associated with the presence of herbivores: the direct movement of seed heads by trampling from sheep (an introduced herbivore) and the indirect effect of a reduced standing biomass from grazing. Reduced vegetation cover allows seed head redistribution via sheet water flow during large rainfall events.
Ultrastructural localization and function of dopamine D1‐like receptors in the substantia nigra pars reticulata and the internal segment of the globus pallidus of parkinsonian monkeys
Authors: Kliem Michele A. , Pare Jean‐Francois , Khan Zafar U. , Wichmann Thomas , Smith Yoland
Published: February 2010

The motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are commonly attributed to striatal dopamine loss, but reduced dopamine innervation of basal ganglia output nuclei, the internal globus pallidus (GPi) and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) may also contribute to symptoms and signs of PD. Both structures express dopamine D1 and D5 receptors under normal conditions, and we have recently demonstrated that their local activation reduces neuronal discharge rates and enhances bursts and oscillatory activity in both nuclei of normal monkeys [M.A.Kliemet al.(2007)J. Neurophysiol., 89, 1489–1500]. Here, we determined the ultrastructural localization and function of D1‐like receptors in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐treated parkinsonian monkeys. In both normal and MPTP‐treated monkeys, most of the D1 and D5 receptor immunoreactivity was associated with unmyelinated axons, but we also found significant postsynaptic D5 receptor immunostaining in dendrites of GPi and SNr neurons. A significant proportion of axonal D1 immunostaining was bound to the plasma membrane in both normal and MPTP‐treated monkeys. Local microinjections of the D1/D5 receptor agonist SKF82958 significantly reduced discharge rates in GPi and SNr neurons, while they increased burst firing and oscillatory activity in the 3–15‐Hz band in SNr, but not in GPi, of parkinsonian monkeys. Together with our recent findings from normal monkeys, these data provide evidence that functional D1/D5 receptors are expressed in GPi and SNr in both normal and parkinsonian states, and that their activation by endogenous dopamine (under normal conditions) or dopamine receptor agonists (in parkinsonism) may regulate basal ganglia outflow.
β‐Amyloid activates presynaptic α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors reconstituted into a model nerve cell system: involvement of lipid rafts
Authors: Khan Ghous M. , Tong Mei , Jhun Michelle , Arora Komal , Nichols Robert A.
Published: February 2010

Beta amyloid (Aβ) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. Aβ is the major constituent of senile plaques, but there is a significant presence of Aβ in the brain in soluble forms. The results of functional studies indicate that soluble Aβ interacts with the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) complex with apparent high affinity. However, conflicting data exist as to the nature of the Aβ–α7 nAChR interaction, and whether it is the result of specific binding. Moreover, both agonist‐like and antagonist‐like effects have been reported. In particular, agonist‐like effects have been observed for presynaptic nAChRs. Here, we demonstrate Aβ1‐42‐evoked stimulatory changes in presynaptic Ca2+ level via exogenous α7 nAChRs expressed in the axonal varicosities of differentiated hybrid neuroblastoma NG108‐15 cells as a model, presynaptic system. The Aβ1‐42‐evoked responses were concentration‐dependent and were sensitive to the highly selective α7 nAChR antagonist α‐bungarotoxin. Voltage‐gated Ca2+ channels and internal Ca2+ stores were both involved in Aβ1‐42‐evoked increases in presynaptic Ca2+ following activation of α7 nAChRs. In addition, disruption of lipid rafts by cholesterol depletion led to substantially attenuated responses to Aβ1‐42, whereas responses to nicotine were largely intact. These results directly implicate the nicotinic receptor complex as a target for the agonist‐like action of pico‐ to nanomolar concentrations of soluble Aβ1‐42 on the presynaptic nerve terminal, including the possible involvement of receptor‐associated lipid rafts. This interaction probably plays an important neuromodulatory role in synaptic dynamics.
Mechanisms of hypothermia‐induced cell protection mediated by microglial cells in vitro
Authors: Diestel Antje , Troeller Silke , Billecke Nils , Sauer Igor M. , Berger Felix , Schmitt Katharina R. L.
Published: February 2010

Despite the widespread interest in the clinical applications of hypothermia, the cellular mechanisms of hypothermia‐induced neuroprotection have not yet been clearly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the cellular effects of clinically relevant hypothermia and rewarming on the morphological and functional characteristics of microglia. Microglial cells were exposed to a dynamic cooling and rewarming protocol. For stimulation, microglial cells were treated with 1 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that hypothermia led to morphological changes from ramified to ameboid cell shapes. At 2 h after hypothermia and rewarming, microglial cells were again ramified with extended branches. Moreover, we found enhanced cell activation after rewarming, accompanied by increased phagocytosis and adenosine triphosphate consumption. Interestingly, hypothermia and rewarming led to a time‐dependent significant up‐regulation of the anti‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐10 and interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist in stimulated microglial cells. This is in line with the reduced proliferation and time‐dependent down‐regulation of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor‐alpha and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 in comparison to normothermic control cells after LPS stimulation. Furthermore, degradation of the inhibitor of the nuclear transcription factor‐kappaB (IkappaB‐alpha) was diminished and delayed under conditions of cooling and rewarming in LPS‐stimulated microglial cells. Thus, our results show that hypothermia and rewarming activate microglial cells, increase phagocytosis and shift the balance of cytokine release in stimulated microglial cells towards the anti‐inflammatory cytokines. This could be a new cellular mechanism of hypothermia‐induced neuroprotection mediated by activated microglial cells.
Why do men opt out of prostate‐cancer screening? Attitudes and perception among participants and non‐participants of a screening trial
Authors: Malmi Hanna , Ruutu Mirja , Määttänen Liisa , Stenman Ulf‐Håkan , Juusela Harri , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Auvinen Anssi
Published: February 2010

Study Type – Decision analysis (patient preference) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate attitudes to prostate cancer screening with prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) of men who complied with offered screening and those who declined it within the Finnish randomized population‐based screening trial, and to compare general health‐related quality of life (HRQL) between participants and non‐participants.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Self‐administered questionnaires were sent to 500 men randomized into the screening arm in 1996–99 within the Finnish component of the European Randomized Study on Screening for Prostate Cancer. A similar survey was conducted among 500 non‐participants.

RESULTS

Response proportions among the screening participants and non‐participants were 59% and 28%, respectively. Current smoking was less frequent (P < 0.05) among the participants. In terms of attitude, the participants regarded the prostate cancer study as more important and the invitation letter as more informative than the non‐participants (P < 0.001). There was no clear difference in worry about treatment consequences. The most commonly given reasons for not participating included previous PSA testing (41%), forgetting the invitation (51%), or not wanting to think of prostate cancer (39%) and regarding possible further diagnostic examinations as unpleasant (28%). The non‐participants had a lower mental health score (P < 0.001) than the participants in the RAND‐36 Survey.

CONCLUSION

Most men who chose not to attend screening had a positive attitude, but did not participate due to practical reasons. However, two‐thirds of the non‐participants indicated a willingness to participate in the next screening round.
Effects of phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors on Leydig cell secretory function in oligoasthenospermic infertile men: a randomized trial
Authors: Dimitriadis Fotios , Tsambalas Stavros , Tsounapi Panagiota , Kawamura Hiroshi , Vlachopoulou Evlalia , Haliasos Nikolaos , Gratsias Stavros , Watanabe Takeshi , Saito Motoaki , Miyagawa Ikuo , Sofikitis Nikolaos
Published: February 2010

Study Type – Therapy (RCT) Level of Evidence 1b

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors (PDE5‐i) on Leydig cell secretory function (LCSF).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 75 men with oligoasthenospermia were treated daily for 12 weeks with either vardenafil (23 men, group A), sildenafil (25 men, group B) or l‐carnitine (26 men, group C); a further group of 22 men with oligoasthenospermia (group D) received no treatment. Serum levels of insulin‐like‐3 peptide (INSL3) were evaluated before and after the end of the treatment in each of groups A, B and C, respectively. Serum INSL3 levels were measured in each participant of group D before and after the 12‐week experimental period.

RESULTS

Within group A and B, the peripheral serum mean INSL3 concentration, sperm concentration, percentage of motile spermatozoa, and percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa were significantly greater after PDE5‐i treatment than before.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that PDE5‐i enhances LCSF, as the mean INSL3 concentration was significantly greater after PDE5‐i administration than before, within groups A and B. This enhancement in LCSF might contribute to the increase in sperm concentration and sperm motility after administration of PDE5‐i.
New Atheism and Old Christianity More Majorum Atheist Delusions. The Christian Revolution and Its Fashionable Enemies – By David Bentley Hart
Authors: Peterson Paul Silas
Published: February 2010

David Bentley Hart has challenged the New Atheism with a careful book about the stirring history of Christianity and its vast gifts to occidental culture: the founding of the person and something Hart titles ‘total humanism’. With ease and exactitude, he defends Christianity with historical tools in claiming that the faith is neither inherently violent nor attempted to destroy antique literature. Against its critics, Hart further holds that Christianity was not inimical to the development of natural science, but rather enabled its progress by steering it to practical, human‐oriented purposes. The argument of the book then takes a polemic turn in fearing the decay of this total humanism in an age of secularism. In the following review essay, I attempt to outline some of the main arguments of Hart's praiseworthy book before suggesting that the Christian ‘revolution’ might be better characterized as a renewal of antiquity. A less revolutionary tale of Christianity is one of a slow and liberal amalgamation of the finest wisdom and truest beliefs from the past and pristine worlds of Melchizedek, Akhenaten or Artaxerxes.
Death and prices
Authors: Treisman Daniel
Published: February 2010

Most experts agree that alcohol abuse has been a major cause of Russia’s soaring mortality rate. But why have ever more Russians been drinking themselves to death? Some attribute this to despair in the face of painful economic change. I present evidence that, in fact, the surge in alcohol‐related deaths – and premature deaths in general – was fuelled by a dramatic fall in the real price of vodka, which dropped 77 percent between December 1990 and December 1994. Variation in vodka prices – both over time and across Russia’s regions – closely matches variation in mortality. Although market competition and weak excise collection help explain the fall in prices, the main reason appears to be populist price regulation during inflationary periods.
A Preliminary Examination of the Relationship between Organisational Structure and Emotional Burnout among Correctional Staff
Authors: LAMBERT ERIC G. , HOGAN NANCY L. , JIANG SHANHE
Published: February 2010

Abstract: In any nation, correctional staff are the greatest asset of any correctional facility. In an era where rising costs, shrinking budgets, and personnel shortages are common, it is increasingly important to provide a positive work environment to ensure worker stability. The research indicates that job burnout is a negative response that is influenced by the work environment. This study examined the effects of organisational structure on emotional burnout among correctional staff at a state‐run prison. Promotional opportunity, integration, formalisation, instrumental communication, and input into decision making are the major forms of organisational structure. In addition to the above forms of organisational structure, the amount of daily contact and the personal characteristics of tenure, position, educational level, race, age, gender, and supervisory status were included as independent variables. In a multivariate analysis, supervisory status, degree of inmate contact, promotional opportunity, formalisation, instrumental communication, and input into decision making all had statistically significant associations with emotional burnout. The results support the postulation that organisational structure influences the emotional burnout of correctional staff.
Prodromal symptoms and atypical affectivity as predictors of major depression in juveniles: implications for prevention
Authors: Kovacs Maria , Lopez‐Duran Nestor
Published: February 2010

Background:  Given the long‐term morbidity of juvenile‐onset major depressive disorder (MDD), it is timely to consider whether more effort should be dedicated to its primary and secondary prevention.

Methods:  We reviewed studies of prodromal symptoms that may herald a first episode pediatric MDD and considered whether that literature has made an impact on secondary prevention (efforts to prevent progression from symptoms to full disorder). We also reviewed studies of children at familial risk for MDD that addressed atypical affectivity and the regulation of sad, dysphoric affect (mood repair) and related physiological systems, and considered whether research in those areas has made an impact on primary prevention of pediatric MDD (efforts to prevent the disorder).

Results:  A compelling body of literature indicates that depressive symptoms in youngsters predict subsequent MDD across the juvenile (and early adult) years and that any combination of several symptoms for at least one week is informative in that regard. These findings are echoed in the case selection criteria used by many secondary prevention programs. Convergent findings also indicate that (compared to typical peers) young offspring at familial risk for depression manifest low positive affectivity and compromised mood repair, along with signs of dysfunction in three intertwined physiological systems that contribute to affectivity and mood repair (the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, cerebral hemispheric asymmetry, and cardiac vagal control). While all these affect‐related parameters are suitable for case selection and as intervention targets, they have not yet made an impact on primary prevention programs.

Conclusions:  According to recent meta‐analyses, attempts to prevent pediatric depression have not lived up to expectations. Based on our review, possible reasons for this include: (a) the use of case selection criteria that yield samples heterogeneous with regard to whether the symptoms are truly prodromal to an episode of MDD or are trait‐like (which could affect response to the intervention), (b) failure to fully capitalize on the broad‐ranging literature on vulnerability to pediatric MDD, as evidenced by the infrequent use of family history of depression (a robust index of vulnerability) or combined indices of vulnerability for case selection, and (c) lack of synchrony between dimensions of vulnerability and the content of the prevention program, as indicated by the overwhelming use of cognitive‐behavioral interventions, irrespective of subjects’ age, developmental readiness, and whether or not they evidenced the relevant cognitive vulnerability. Prevention trials of pediatric MDD could benefit from new approaches to case selection that combine various indices of vulnerability, more effective use of existing findings, and new or modified interventions that are developmentally sensitive.
Few fathers‐to‐be prefer caesarean section for the birth of their baby
Authors: Johansson M , Rådestad I , Rubertsson C , Karlström A , Hildingsson I
Published: February 2010

Please cite this paper as: Johansson M, Rådestad I, Rubertsson C, Karlström A, Hildingsson I. Few fathers‐to‐be prefer caesarean section for the birth of their baby. BJOG 2010; DOI: 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2010.02508.x.

The objective of this study was to investigate prospective fathers’ preferences for caesarean section and associated factors. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire given in mid‐pregnancy to 1105 fathers‐to‐be in northern Sweden. In total, 6.4% of fathers preferred a caesarean section. The factors associated with a preference for caesarean section were a wish to plan the date of the baby’s birth [prevalence ratio (PR) 6.0], a previous negative birth experience (PR 8.6) and previous experience of a caesarean section (PR 5.7).
A randomised trial of a retropubic tension‐free vaginal tape versus a mini‐sling for stress incontinence
Authors: Basu M , Duckett J
Published: February 2010

Please cite this paper as: Basu M, Duckett J. A randomised trial of a retropubic tension‐free vaginal tape versus a mini‐sling for stress incontinence. BJOG 2010; DOI: 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2010.02513.x.

Objective  To compare a mini‐sling with a retropubic tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urodynamic stress incontinence (USI).

Design  Randomised trial.

Setting  Urogynaecology unit in large UK district general hospital.

Population  Women with USI resistant to conservative management and requiring a suburethral sling.

Methods  A total of 71 women with SUI and confirmed USI were randomised to undergo treatment with either a retropubic TVT or mini‐sling. Follow‐up was at 6 weeks, with a history, examination and quality of life questionnaire, and at 6 months with further subjective evaluation and twin‐channel subtraction cystometry and pressure‐flow studies.

Main outcome measures  The presence of SUI at 6 weeks and 6 months after treatment.

Results  The mini‐sling was associated with a significantly higher rate of persistent SUI at 6 weeks (OR 9.49, 95% CI 2.8–32.6) and 6 months (OR 8.14, 95% CI 2.7–24.7), and of USI at 6 months (OR 7.58, 95% CI 2.7–24.7). The rate of complication was similar in the two groups.

Conclusions  The mini‐sling is associated with a higher failure rate than a retropubic TVT. Longer term and multicentre outcome data are necessary to explore these findings further. Until this is available, the mini‐sling should be used with caution.
Past and present potential distribution of the Iberian Abies species: a phytogeographic approach using fossil pollen data and species distribution models
Authors: Alba‐Sánchez Francisca , López‐Sáez José A. , Pando Blas Benito‐de , Linares Juan C. , Nieto‐Lugilde Diego , López‐Merino Lourdes
Published: February 2010

Aim  Quaternary palaeopalynological records collected throughout the Iberian Peninsula and species distribution models (SDMs) were integrated to gain a better understanding of the historical biogeography of the Iberian Abies species (i.e. Abies pinsapo and Abies alba). We hypothesize that SDMs and Abies palaeorecords are closely correlated, assuming a certain stasis in climatic and topographic ecological niche dimensions. In addition, the modelling results were used to assign the fossil records to A. alba or A. pinsapo, to identify environmental variables affecting their distribution, and to evaluate the ecological segregation between the two taxa.

Location  The Iberian Peninsula.

Methods  For the estimation of past Abies distributions, a hindcasting process was used. Abies pinsapo and A. alba were modelled individually, first calibrating the model for their current distributions in relation to the present climate, and then projecting it into the past—the last glacial maximum (LGM) and the Middle Holocene periods—in relation to palaeoclimate simulations. The resulting models were compared with Iberian‐wide fossil pollen records to detect areas of overlap.

Results  The overlap observed between past Abies refugia—inferred from fossil pollen records—and the SDMs helped to construct the Quaternary distribution of the Iberian Abies species. SDMs yielded two well‐differentiated potential distributions: A. pinsapo throughout the Baetic mountain Range and A. alba along the Pyrenees and Cantabrian Range. These results propose that the two taxa remained isolated throughout the Quaternary, indicating a significant geographical and ecological segregation. In addition, no significant differences were detected comparing the three projections (present‐day, Mid‐Holocene and LGM), suggesting a relative climate stasis in the refuge areas during the Quaternary.

Main conclusions  Our results confirm that SDM projections can provide a useful complement to palaeoecological studies, offering a less subjective and spatially explicit hypothesis concerning past geographic patterns of Iberian Abies species. The integration of ecological‐niche characteristics from known occurrences of Abies species in conjunction with palaeoecological studies could constitute a suitable tool to define appropriate areas in which to focus proactive conservation strategies.
The influences of snow cover, vegetation and topography on the upper range limit of common wombats Vombatus ursinus in the subalpine zone, Australia
Authors: Matthews Alison , Spooner Peter G. , Lunney Daniel , Green Ken , Klomp Nicholas I.
Published: February 2010

Aim  In subalpine and alpine environments, range shifts of species to higher altitudes are predicted to occur in response to reductions in the snow cover from climate change. However, the distribution of key resources may constrain the range of animal populations and prevent any upward migration. This study examined the local resource constraints on the upper range limit of a large, native herbivore in Australia, the common wombat Vombatus ursinus.

Location  The subalpine zone of the Snowy Mountains, Australia.

Methods  Logistic regression analyses of snow and habitat predictors were conducted on the presence/absence of wombat signs recorded along an altitudinal gradient during winter and summer, using parametric and nonparametric methods.

Results  Wombats responded strongly to the altitudinal gradient, but snow cover alone did not fully explain their upper range limit. Wombat occurrence in the subalpine zone was influenced by local habitat features in combination with maximum snow depth. More rugged, high‐relief terrain was important to wombats in winter, allowing individuals access to a wider range of altitudes, snow depths and shelter sites. During summer, high soil bulk density was an important predictor of occurrence, and in both seasons, occurrence declined in response to a higher cover of burnt grass.

Main conclusions  These models demonstrate that local habitat factors play a role even where there are strong regulating environmental factors. For wombats, this may limit future range expansion into the alpine zone despite the potential for an increase in abundance at their present range limit. These findings show the need for local ecological studies to be conducted in parallel with broad scale climate modelling if we are to understand shifts in species distributions as the climate rapidly changes.
Discerning the impact of human‐mediated factors on biodiversity using bioclimatic envelope models and partial regression techniques
Authors: Zafra‐Calvo Noelia , Rodríguez Miguel Á. , Lobo Jorge M.
Published: February 2010

Aim  Human‐related pressures are growing in species‐rich regions and pose a threat to the conservation of biodiversity. Here, we use the available data for five taxonomic groups (ferns, monocotyledons, dicotyledons, birds and monkeys) to exemplify a procedure directed to discriminate the degree of conflict between human actions and biodiversity.

Location  Bioko island, Equatorial Guinea.

Methods  Using bioclimatic envelope modelling techniques devoted to produce estimations of the potential distributions, we generated geographical representations of the variation in the total number of species as well as in the number of endemic and threatened species. We then employed partial regression techniques to determine how and to what extent current environmental, habitat and human‐derived variables are associated with these potential species richness values.

Results  Although the type of associations we looked for was sometimes difficult to discern since the same patterns could be explained by different types of variables, our results show that potential species richness values are generally positively associated with human‐related factors (mainly agriculture and bushmeat hunting activities), suggesting that the localities with environmental conditions favourable to higher species richness tend to be those exploited by humans.

Main conclusions  We propose that the combined use of distribution models and partial regression techniques can support a better understanding of the relationship between species occurrences/preferences and human‐related factors and inform future conservation initiatives, particularly in small but hyperdiverse territories, in which dispersal limitations do not play a prominent role.
Little evidence of invasion by alien conifers in Europe
Authors: Carrillo‐Gavilán María Amparo , Vilà Montserrat
Published: February 2010

Aim Conifers are invasive species in many parts of the world, especially in the Southern Hemisphere. There are many introduced conifers in Europe, but their status as alien species is poorly documented. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to ascertain the extent to which alien conifers can be considered invasive.

Location Europe.

Methods We reviewed the historical record of alien conifer invasion in Europe (i.e. species with a native range outside the continental boundaries of Europe) by screening the DAISIE database and the ISI Web of Science.

Results According to DAISIE, there are 54 alien conifer species in Europe.Pseudotsuga menziesiiis the species recorded as naturalized in the most countries (12) and the UK is the country with the most naturalized species (18). Thirty‐seven of these conifers have been studied, to some extent, in a total of 131 papers (212 records). Nevertheless, only a few papers have investigated aspects related to biological invasions. In fact, the species are not referred to as alien by the authors in more than half of the papers (66%). Twenty‐five per cent of the papers have investigated plant traits, 46% are about biotic and abiotic factors influencing tree performance and 29% deal with ecological and economic impacts. Most papers are related to entomology, dealing with natural enemies affecting the alien conifers.

Main conclusions Scientists have not yet perceived alien conifers in Europe as problematic species. Moreover, the low introduction effort, long lag‐time since plantation and phylogenetic closeness between alien and native conifers are possible reasons for their low expansion in Europe to date. From a management point of view, careful observations of sites with alien conifers is necessary to watch for new invasions. From a scientific perspective, thorough analyses of the extent that introduction, rates of naturalization and biogeographical differences influence invasive spread between the two hemispheres will prove timely.
Aging well – the role of minimally invasive aesthetic dermatological procedures in women over 65
Authors: Wollina Uwe , Payne Christopher Rowland
Published: February 2010

Background  The western world is getting older. Aging well has become the new target of preventative medicine. Aesthetic dermatology can contribute to this quest. Females over 65 represent an important and growing group of consumers of cosmetic procedures. In this group, there is a paucity of scientific evaluation of aesthetic procedures.

Objective  To review the use of minimally invasive procedures for facial rejuvenation in women over 65.

Methods  Drawing from both the literature and personal experience, the opportunities, modifications, and limitations of minimally invasive techniques for facial rejuvenation in older women are considered.

Results  In this older age group, dermal fillers, chemical and laser peels, and nonablative photorejuvenation remain useful and can each be used as stand‐alone treatments. In this age group, botulinum toxin (BTX) injections are more often used in combination with other procedures.

Conclusions  With respect to aesthetic procedures, women over 65 are different from younger women. More scientific investigation is necessary to better meet needs of this growing part of the population. Available data suggest that aesthetic dermatology can make a major contribution to the complex matter of aging well.
A double‐blind study of tolerance and efficacy of a new urea‐containing moisturizer in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Bissonnette Robert , Maari Catherine , Provost Nathalie , Bolduc Chantal , Nigen Simon , Rougier André , Seite Sophie
Published: February 2010

Background  Atopic dermatitis patients almost all use moisturizers to prevent and treat their skin disease. However, the safety and efficacy of moisturizers are rarely studied in this patient population.

Aims  To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of urea‐containing moisturizers in subjects with atopic dermatitis.

Methods  One hundred subjects with atopic dermatitis were randomized to apply either a new 5% urea moisturizer or a commercially available 10% urea lotion twice a day for 42 days. Scoring Atopic Dermatitis severity index (SCORAD) was performed at Day 0 and Day 42. Cosmetic acceptability questionnaires, adverse events, and a 5‐point tolerance evaluation were administered or performed at Day 42.

Results  Both study products were very well tolerated by subjects and only three subjects discontinued their participation in the study due to adverse events. Mean SCORAD significantly decreased between Day 0 and Day 42 by 19.76% and 19.23%, respectively, for subjects treated with the new 5% urea moisturizer or the 10% urea lotion (P < 0.001). There was no difference between the two products in SCORAD reduction; however, significantly more subjects preferred using the new 5% urea moisturizer as compared with the 10% urea lotion.

Conclusions  Both the new 5% urea moisturizer and the 10% urea lotion improved atopic dermatitis and were very well tolerated. However, the cosmetic acceptability questionnaire showed that subjects preferred using the new 5% urea moisturizer over the 10% urea lotion.
Acne vulgaris and depression: a retrospective examination
Authors: Uhlenhake Elizabeth , Yentzer Brad A , Feldman Steven R
Published: February 2010

Background  Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease that affects patients both physically and mentally.

Purpose  To examine the prevalence of reported depression in acne patients.

Methods  Patient information was obtained from a medical claims database and analyzed using the Total Resource Utilization Benchmarks™ process. Benchmarks in this study include: age, gender, co‐morbid depression, antidepressant utilization, and acne treatment modality. Depression prevalence in acne patients was compared with general population.

Results  Depression was two to three times more prevalent in acne patients than in the general population, with a reported 8.8% of acne patients having clinical depression. The majority of cases of depression and antidepressant therapy utilization were observed in acne patients aged 18 and over with the highest percentage in the 36–64 age group. Approximately 65.2% of the acne patient population was female, with twice as many reported to have depression as males (10.6% females vs. 5.3% males).

Limitations  This analysis included only patients that sought treatment for their acne and had also reported having clinical depression. This may underestimate the total prevalence of acne and associated depression.

Conclusions  Acne is a disease that affects people of all ages both physically and psychologically. A correlation exists between clinical depression and acne patients, particularly those older than 36. “There is no single disease which causes more psychic trauma and more maladjustment between parents and children, more general insecurity and feelings of inferiority and greater sums of psychic assessment than does acne vulgaris” (Sulzberger, 19481).
Review: Surgical Aspects and Biological Considerations of Arteriovenous Fistula Placement
Authors: Achneck Hardean E. , Sileshi Bantayehu , Li Madison , Partington Erin J , Peterson David A. , Lawson Jeffrey H.
Published: February 2010

Since the Fistula First Initiative was formulated in 2003, providers and payers have increasingly emphasized the need to create more arteriovenous fistulae. To maximize the chances of successful fistula maturation, a thorough understanding of the biology and surgical aspects of fistula placement are essential. A functional endothelium in the target vessels is the prerequisite for the adaptive remodeling of the vessel wall, which has to take place after fistula formation. Mechanoreceptors of the endothelium sense the increase in shear stress and, through a variety of activated signaling cascades, induce the necessary changes and vasodilation of the respective vessels. The successful fistula placement starts with a thorough preoperative evaluation, which focuses on protecting the target vessels and avoiding intravenous catheters and devices. Intraoperatively, the risk of endothelial dysfunction and hyperplasia is further minimized through an atraumatic dissection with minimal manipulation of the vein and artery. The surgical technique should also focus on decreasing the vessel compliance mismatch and avoiding an inflammatory response secondary to hematoma formation. Postoperatively, the fistula must be diligently monitored for the complications of thrombosis, postoperative steal syndrome, neuropathy, aneurysm formation, infection, and high‐output cardiac failure. Early recognition of a problem is the key to saving an otherwise doomed fistula. An armamentarium of percutaneous techniques is available to the access surgeon to treat the most common causes of failed access formation. However, in some cases a surgical revision of the access site through patch angioplasty, a jump graft, and graft interposition is necessary to create a fistula which can be successfully used for hemodialysis.
Accuracy of Ultrasound in the Detection of Inflow Stenosis of Arteriovenous Fistulae: Results of a Prospective Study
Authors: Salman Loay , Ladino Marco , Alex Manju , Dhamija Rajiv , Merrill Donna , Lenz Oliver , Contreras Gabriel , Asif Arif
Published: February 2010

While vascular ultrasound (US) has been highlighted to detect vascular access stenosis, its accuracy in the identification of inflow stenosis (IS) (anastomosis and/or juxta‐anastomotic area) compared with the gold standard (angiography) has not been evaluated. One hundred three consecutive fistulae referred for interventions were included in this study. Preprocedure US of inflow segment was performed. Angiography from the feeding artery to the right atrium was then conducted. US comparison to angiography in the detection of IS (anastomosis and/or juxta‐anastomotic area) was evaluated. Additionally, comparison of US to angiography in the assessment of juxta‐anastomotic and anastomotic stenosis was reported separately. Data from 103 patients were available for analysis. Overall, US was negative for IS in 52 cases. Of these, 47 did not show a lesion on angiography. Only five cases demonstrated a stenosis on angiography. Fifty‐one cases had IS by US, 50 were confirmed by angiography while one case did not show a lesion on angiography. Consequently, US had a sensitivity of 91%, specificity of 98%, and positive and negative predictive values were 98% and 90%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, negative, and positive predictive values for juxta‐anastomotic and anastomotic lesions evaluated separately were 92%, 98%, 92%, 98% and 79%, 100%, 95%, 100%, respectively. Linear regression analysis showed a significant positive correlation between US and angiography for anastomotic (r2 = 0.71, p < 0.0001; slope = 0.63 ± 0.098 and intercept = 24 ± 6) and juxta‐anastomotic stenosis (r2 = 0.71, p < 0.0001; slope = 0.68 ± 0.060 and intercept = 23 ± 4). These results reveal that US has a high degree of accuracy in the detection of IS.
Cardiovascular Complications in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Patel Tejas , Charytan David M.
Published: February 2010

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Due to an explosion in the incidence and the prevalence of Type 2 DM, the burden of CKD is expected to increase proportionately. Both DM and CKD are associated with a high incidence of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality, and it is important to understand the unique nature of CV disease in patients with the combination of these two conditions. In this report, we review the traditional and nontraditional risk factors that underlie the high risk of CV disease in this population, with a particular focus on vascular calcification, mineral metabolism, and therapeutic paradigms for the treatment of cardiovascular disease in this unique and high‐risk population.
Can sensitization to aeroallergens disappear over time in children with allergic disease?
Authors: Jacobs KD , Brand PLP
Published: February 2010

Background:  Remittance of aeroallergen sensitization has been shown in population‐based studies, but there is a common perception that sensitization to aeroallergens rarely if ever disappears in children with allergic disease.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed all specific IgE tests carried out in children aged 0–18 years at our hospital laboratory over a 14‐year period. Of 3115 children sensitized to one or more aeroallergens, 244 (7.8%) were retested after a mean (SD) period of 45 (28) months at their physician’s discretion.

Results:  Disappearance of sensitization to individual aeroallergens did occur, with remittance rates ranging from 3.1% for house dust mite to 17.5% for cat. However, complete remittance of aeroallergen sensitization was found in only one subject. In up to 35% of cases, remittance of sensitization was offset by the appearance of one or more new aeroallergen sensitizations. Remittance was only observed in children sensitized to multiple allergens (with a median of 3 aeroallergen sensitizations), and their median degree of sensitization was low (median 2.1 kU/L).

Conclusion: Aeroallergen sensitization can disappear in children with allergic disease, but only in polysensitized individuals. Complete remittance of sensitization to aeroallergens is rare in symptomatic children.
Epigenetic abnormality of SRY gene in the adult XY female with pericentric inversion of the Y chromosome
Authors: Mitsuhashi Tomoko , Warita Katsuhiko , Sugawara Teruo , Tabuchi Yoshiaki , Takasaki Ichiro , Kondo Takashi , Hayashi Fumio , Wang Zhi‐Yu , Matsumoto Yoshiki , Miki Takanori , Takeuchi Yoshiki , Ebina Yasuhiko , Yamada Hideto , Sakuragi Noriaki , Yokoyama Toshifumi , Nanmori Takashi , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Kant Jeffrey A. , Hoshi Nobuhiko
Published: February 2010

In normal ontogenetic development, the expression of the sex‐determining region of the Y chromosome (SRY) gene, involved in the first step of male sex differentiation, is spatiotemporally regulated in an elaborate fashion. SRY is expressed in germ cells and Sertoli cells in adult testes. However, only few reports have focused on the expressions of SRY and the other sex‐determining genes in both the classical organ developing through these genes (gonad) and the peripheral tissue (skin) of adult XY females. In this study, we examined the gonadal tissue and fibroblasts of a 17‐year‐old woman suspected of having disorders of sexual differentiation by cytogenetic, histological, and molecular analyses. The patient was found to have the 46,X,inv(Y)(p11.2q11.2) karyotype and streak gonads with abnormally prolonged SRY expression. The sex‐determining gene expressions in the patient‐derived fibroblasts were significantly changed relative to those from a normal male. Further, the acetylated histone H3 levels in the SRY region were significantly high relative to those of the normal male. As SRY is epistatic in the sex‐determination pathway, the prolonged SRY expression possibly induced a destabilizing effect on the expressions of the downstream sex‐determining genes. Collectively, alterations in the sex‐determining gene expressions persisted in association with disorders of sexual differentiation not only in the streak gonads but also in the skin of the patient. The findings suggest that correct regulation of SRY expression is crucial for normal male sex differentiation, even if SRY is translated normally.
Congenital abnormalities in the offspring of pregnant women with type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes mellitus: A population‐based case‐control study
Authors: Bánhidy Ferenc , Ács Nándor , Puhó Erzsébet H. , Czeizel Andrew E.
Published: February 2010

To estimate the risk of structural birth defects (i.e. congenital abnormalities [CA]) in the offspring of pregnant women with type 1 (DM‐1), type 2 (DM‐2) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to check the efficacy of recent specific care of diabetic pregnant women in the reduction of DM‐related CA. Comparison was made of the occurrence of medically recorded types of diabetes mellitus in pregnant women who had malformed fetuses/newborns (cases) and who delivered healthy babies (controls) in the population‐based Hungarian Case‐Control Surveillance System of Congenital Abnormalities, 1980–1996. In the case group, which included 22 843 offspring, there were 79 (0.35%) pregnant women with DM‐1, 77 (0.34%) pregnant women with DM‐2 and 120 (0.53%) pregnant women with GDM. The control group comprised 38 151 newborns, and 88 (0.23%), 141 (0.37%) and 229 (0.60%) pregnant women with DM‐1, DM‐2 and GDM, respectively. The total rate of cases with CA was higher only in the DM‐1 group (adjusted OR with 95% CI: 1.5, 1.1–2.0) and within four specific types/groups: isolated renal a/dysgenesis, obstructive CA of the urinary tract, cardiovascular CA and multiple CA; namely, caudal dysplasia sequence. The risk of total CA was lower in the present study compared to the risk in previous studies and the DM‐1‐related spectrum of CA was also different. There was no higher risk of total CA in the offspring of pregnant women with DM‐2 and GDM. The certain part of maternal teratogenic effect of DM‐1 is preventable with appropriate periconceptional and prenatal care of diabetic women.