bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postnatal lung and metabolic development in two marsupial and four eutherian species
Authors: Szdzuy Kirsten , Zeller Ulrich , Renfree Marilyn , Tzschentke Barbara , Janke Oliver
Published: January 2008

Two marsupial species (Monodelphis domestica, Macropus eugenii) and four eutherian species(Mesocricetus auratus, Suncus murinus, Tupaia belangeriandCavia aperea) were examined to compare and contrast the timing of lung and metabolic development during the postnatal maturation of the mammalian respiratory apparatus. Using light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, the lung structural changes were correlated with indirect calorimetry to track the metabolic development. Marsupial and eutherian species followed the same pattern of mammalian lung development, but differed in the developmental pace. In the two newborn marsupial species, the lung parenchyma was at the early terminal sac stage, with large terminal air sacs, and the lung developed slowly. In contrast, the newborn eutherian species had more advanced lungs at the late terminal sac stage in altricial species (M. auratus, S. murinus) and at the alveolar stage in precocial species (T. belangeri, C. aperea). Postnatal lung development proceeded rapidly in eutherian species. The marsupial species had a low metabolic rate at birth and achieved adult metabolism late in postnatal development. In contrast, newborn eutherian species had high metabolic rates and reached adult metabolism during the first week of life. The time course of the metabolic development is thus tightly linked to the structural differentiation of the lungs and the timing of postnatal lung development. These differences in the neonatal lung structure and the timing of postnatal lung maturation between marsupial and eutherian species reflect their differing reproductive strategies.
Activation of cortical and inhibited differentiation of medullary epithelial cells in the thymus of lymphotoxin‐beta receptor‐deficient mice: an ultrastructural study
Authors: Milićević N. M. , Nohroudi K. , Milićević Ž. , Westermann J.
Published: January 2008

The reciprocal influences of thymic lymphocyte and nonlymphocyte populations, i.e. thymic cross‐talk, are necessary for the proper maturation of thymocytes and the development/maintenance of thymic stromal microenvironments. Although the molecular influences exerted by thymic stromal cells on maturing thymocytes have been extensively studied, the identity of signalling molecules used by thymocytes to influence the thymic stromal cells is still largely unknown. Our study provides the first ultrastructural evidence that the functional lymphotoxin‐beta receptor (LTβR) signalling pathway is engaged in the cross‐talk between thymocytes and the thymic stromal cell population. We show that LTβR signalling is of the utmost significance for the preservation of the subcellular integrity of all thymic epithelial cells. In the absence of LTβR there is (1) hypertrophy and activation of cortical thymic epithelial cells, (2) the complete loss of fully differentiated medullary thymic epithelial cells, and (3) the inhibited differentiation of remaining medullary thymic epithelial cells with the appearance of prominent intercellular cysts in the thymic medulla.
Morphological study of the lingual papillae of the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) by scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Pastor J. F. , Barbosa M. , De Paz F. J.
Published: January 2008

Due to the scarcity of giant pandas, there are few descriptions of their morphology and even fewer of their microscopic anatomy and the ultrastructure of their organs. In this study of the complete tongue of an adult male giant panda, we describe the morphology of its lingual surface, the different types of papillae, their characteristics and topographic distribution. It was seen that there are four main types of lingual papillae: filiform, conical, fungiform and vallate. There was no sign of foliate papillae, tuberculum intermolare or sublingua. Papilla distribution was not limited to the dorsum of the tongue, but was also seen on the anterior and ventral surfaces of the tongue. In the anterior third of the midline there is a smooth area with no papillae at all. Morphology of the microgrooves and pores is similar to that observed in other mammals. The papillae share characteristics encountered in Carnivora and herbivorous species of mammals. A narrow bamboo‐based diet and specialized manner of eating have together resulted in modification of the tongue of a carnivoran, giving it some characteristics typical of an herbivore.
Rating Pakistani medical journals using the principles of citation analysis
Authors: Ullah Midrar , Farooq Butt Idrees
Published: January 2008

Objective:   To quantify the impact of Pakistani Medical Journals using the principles of citation analysis.

Methods:   References of articles published in 2006 in three selected Pakistani medical journals were collected and examined. The number of citations for each Pakistani medical journal was totalled. The first ranking of journals was based on the total number of citations; second ranking was based on impact factor 2006 and third ranking was based on the 5‐year impact factor. Self‐citations were excluded in all the three ratings.

Results:   A total of 9079 citations in 567 articles were examined. Forty‐nine separate Pakistani medical journals were cited. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association remains on the top in all three rankings, while Journal of College of Physicians and Surgeons—Pakistan attains second position in the ranking based on the total number of citations. The Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences moves to second position in the ranking based on the impact factor 2006. The Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad moves to second position in the ranking based on the 5‐year impact factor.

Conclusion:   This study examined the citation pattern of Pakistani medical journals. The impact factor, despite its limitations, is a valid indicator of quality for journals.
Effectiveness of sources of HIV/AIDS awareness in a rural community in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwagwu Williams E.
Published: January 2008

Aims and objectives:   The effectiveness of each of the 14 sources of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) awareness available to women and adolescent girls dwelling in a rural community in Imo State, Nigeria was measured in order to understand the relative contribution of the sources to the general knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS possessed by the women and the girls.

Methods:   The details of the research methods adopted in this study, which involved 734 in‐school and out‐of‐school adolescents and 434 women, have been described previously [Nwagwu, W. Di Nwanna and the reproductive health of the girl child in Imo State, Nigeria. Final Report (04 83064 000 GSS) submitted to MacArthur Fund for Leadership and Development, Abuja, 2006].

Results:   Friends and relatives emerged as the most effective source of AIDS awareness for women (29%), followed by community meetings (26%) and then television (20%), whereas the most effective sources for the girls were television (28%), followed by friends and relatives, and radio (17% and 14.4%, respectively).

Conclusions:   Each of the information sources listed made some contribution to the general knowledge about HIV/AIDS possessed by the respondents, although the level of awareness would have been low among women in the absence of friends and relatives, and among the girls in the absence of television. Information awareness programmes should be selected according to the needs of social groups and the most effective information sources concentrated upon.
Co‐expression of mu and delta opioid receptors as receptor‐G protein fusions enhances both mu and delta signalling via distinct mechanisms
Authors: Snook L. A. , Milligan G. , Kieffer B. L. , Massotte D.
Published: January 2008

Mu and delta opioid receptors (MORs and DORs) were co‐expressed as fusion proteins between a receptor and a pertussis insensitive mutant Gαi/oprotein in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Signalling efficiency was then monitored following inactivation of endogenous Gαi/oproteins by pertussis toxin. Co‐expression resulted in increased delta opioid signalling which was insensitive to the mu specific antagonistd‐Phe‐Cys‐Tyr‐d‐Trp‐Arg‐Thr‐Pen‐Thr‐NH2. Under these conditions, mu opioid signalling was also increased and insensitive to the delta specific antagonist Tic‐deltorphin. In this latter case, however, no G protein activation was observed in the presence of the delta specific inverse agonistN,N(CH3)2‐Dmt‐Tic‐NH2. When a MOR fused to a non‐functional Gα subunit was co‐expressed with the DOR‐Gα protein fusion, delta opioid signalling was not affected whereas mu opioid signalling was restored. Altogether our results suggest that increased delta opioid signalling is due to enhanced DOR coupling to its tethered Gα subunit. On the other hand, our data indicate that increased mu opioid signalling requires an active conformation of the DOR and also results in activation of the Gα subunit fused the DOR.
Gene expression in the rat brain during prostaglandin D2 and adenosinergically‐induced sleep
Authors: Terao Akira , Huang Zhi‐Li , Wisor Jonathan P. , Mochizuki Takatoshi , Gerashchenko Dmitry , Urade Yoshihiro , Kilduff T. S.
Published: January 2008

Previous studies have supported the hypothesis that macromolecular synthesis occurs in the brain during sleep as a response to prior waking activities and that prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is an endogenous sleep substance whose effects are dependent on adenosine A2a receptor‐mediated signaling. We compared gene expression in the cerebral cortex, basal forebrain, and hypothalamus during PGD2‐induced and adenosinergically‐induced sleep to results from our previously published study of recovery sleep (RS) after sleep deprivation (SD). Immediate early gene expression in the cortex during sleep induced by PGD2‐ or by the selective adenosine A2a agonist CGS21680 showed limited similarity to that observed during RS while, in the basal forebrain and hypothalamus, widespread activation of immediate early genes not seen during RS occurred. In all three brain regions, PGD2 and CGS21680 reduced the expression of arc, a transcript whose expression is elevated during SD. Using GeneChips®, the majority of genes induced by either PGD2 or CGS21680 were induced by both, suggesting activation of the same pathways. However, gene expression induced in the brain after PGD2 or CGS21680 treatment was distinct from that described during RS after SD and apparently involves glial cell gene activation and signaling pathways in neural‐immune interactions.
Expression of the neurosecretory process in pc12 cells is governed by rest
Authors: D’Alessandro Rosalba , Klajn Andrijana , Stucchi Laura , Podini Paola , Malosio Maria Luisa , Meldolesi Jacopo
Published: January 2008

The neurosecretory process is acquired during differentiation and can be lost en block by differentiated cells. To investigate the role of REST/NRSF, a transcription repressor, in the maintenance of the process we studied two PC12 clones, one wt and one defective, expressing low and high levels of endogenous RE‐1 silencing transcription (factor) (REST), respectively. Stable transfection of constructs demonstrated that REST represses 10 genes coding for proteins of neurosecretory vesicles and their exocytosis, eight including and two lacking the REST‐binding sequence, RE‐1. Of these genes, those of chromogranins were strongly repressed by fewfold increases of REST, those of VAMP2 and syntaxin1a required much higher levels. Moreover, in wt cells transfected with an active construct the dense‐core vesicles, still competent for regulated exocytosis, were much smaller, with lighter cores; in defective cells, the dominant‐negative construct induced the rescue of many vesicle/exocytosis genes but not of those of chromogranins. Small dense‐core vesicles, exocytized upon stimulation, were rescued when the construct‐transfected defective cells were transfected also with chromograninA or treated with trichostatinA, a blocker of histone deacetylases. Our results identify REST, working by direct and indirect mechanisms, as the factor governing the maintenance of the neurosecretory process and the properties of dense‐core vesicles in PC12 cells.
Anti‐aging properties of resveratrol: review and report of a potent new antioxidant skin care formulation
Authors: Baxter Richard A
Published: January 2008

Resveratrol, an antioxidant polyphenol from red wine, has been the subject of intense interest in recent years due to a range of unique anti‐aging properties. These include cardiovascular benefits via increased nitric oxide production, down‐regulation of vasoactive peptides, lowered levels of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein, and cyclooxygenase inhibition; possible benefits on Alzheimer's disease by breakdown of beta‐amyloid and direct effects on neural tissues; phytohormonal actions; anticancer properties via modulation of signal transduction, which translates into anti‐initiation, antipromotion, and antiprogression effects; antimicrobial effects; and sirtuin activation, which is believed to be involved in the caloric restriction‐longevity effect. Here we report a resveratrol‐based skin care formulation, with 17 times greater antioxidant activity than idebenone. The role of resveratrol in prevention of photoaging is reviewed and compared with other antioxidants used in skin care products.
A novel treatment option for photoaged skin
Authors: Knott Anja , Koop Urte , Mielke Heiko , Reuschlein Katja , Peters Nils , Muhr Gesa‐Meike , Lenz Holger , Wensorra Ursula , Jaspers Sören , Kolbe Ludger , Raschke Thomas , Stäb Franz , Wenck Horst , Gallinat Stefan
Published: January 2008

Background  DNA damage as a result of ultraviolet (UV) exposure plays an important role in the progression of cutaneous aging. Both folic acid and creatine have been linked to the process of DNA protection and repair.

Aims  This study aims to investigate the effects of a commercially available folic acid– and creatine‐containing formulation to fight the clinical signs of premature skin aging.

Patients/methods  Both in vitro and in vivo home‐in‐use studies using a folic acid– and creatine‐containing formulation were performed aiming to elucidate the efficacy in terms of improvement of skin regeneration, protection from UV‐induced DNA damage (Comet assay), reduction of wrinkle volume, and skin visco‐elasticity. Furthermore, clinical evaluation and photography were carried out to determine the improvement of clinically graded parameters after treatment.

Results  Cultured full‐thickness epidermal skin models supplemented with folic acid and creatine after epithelial perturbation showed an accelerated skin regeneration compared to untreated control models. Similarly, application of a folic acid– and creatine‐containing formulation significantly improved epidermal turnover in vivo as evidenced by smaller corneocytes derived from the treated sites relative to the vehicle‐treated sides. In addition, topical in vivo application of this formulation significantly protected from UV‐induced DNA lesions, increased skin firmness, and reduced wrinkle volume compared to untreated control areas. Expert grading confirmed a significant decrease of fine and coarse wrinkles in the periocular region as well as overall wrinkles, tactile roughness, and laxity.

Conclusions  Taken together, these results show that the combination of folic acid and creatine significantly accelerates epidermal skin regeneration in vitro and in vivo. Together with the finding of improved biomechanical skin properties, we conclude that the described topical formulation provides an effective treatment option for (photo)‐aged skin.
THE PROPERTIES AND IDENTIFICATION OF MARBLE FROM PROCONNESOS (MARMARA ISLAND, TURKEY): A NEW DATABASE INCLUDING ISOTOPIC, EPR AND PETROGRAPHIC DATA*
Authors: ATTANASIO D. , BRILLI M. , BRUNO M.
Published: January 2008

This paper reports an updated and enlarged archaeometric database of Proconnesos marbles with the aim of attaining more reliable inter‐ and intra‐site identification. Quarry and artefact samples (n = 397) from 23 different quarrying areas were characterized using petrographic, isotopic and EPR results. The most distinct property of Proconnesos marbles is their extremely weak EPR intensity, associated with the low concentration of Mn2+impurities. This feature, supported by the contribution of other important isotopic and petrographic variables, forms the basis for the correct identification of Proconnesos marbles. Within the site the distribution of properties is relatively homogeneous; only limited intra‐site discrimination is possible. All the experimental results, as well as the quarry samples are made available to other researchers willing to measure additional experimental properties, thus increasing the rate of within the site discrimination. Extensive survey has proved that, although about 10% of the samples exhibit maximum grain size below 1.0 mm, no locations exist where fine grained marbles could be intentionally quarried. The historical aspects of Proconnesos marble quarrying and usage are also discussed.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE WORKING QUALITY OF ASTURIAN JETS (SPAIN) AND THEIR STRUCTURE USING PARAMETERS DEFINED BY 1H‐NMR*
Authors: BLANCO CARLOS GUTIERREZ , GONZÁLEZ AZPÍROZ M. DOLORES , VALDÉS ADOLFO FERNÁNDEZ
Published: January 2008

A collection of seven representative jets from Asturias (Spain) was studied. Some artisans of the Asturian jet industry established the quality criteria of the jet based on the user‐friendly properties of this material. In this work, we study the relationship between the working quality of asturian jets and their structure using parameters defined by liquid 1H‐NMR. With this aim, certain parameters calculated from the NMR results were used to provide information about the structure of compounds extracted from jets.
Present at creation: Italian mass support for European integration in the formative years
Authors: ISERNIA PIERANGELO
Published: January 2008

Abstract.  This article analyzes a period usually neglected in empirical studies of public opinion and European integration: the formative years between the early 1950s and the late 1960s. The analysis is based on one country – Italy – in which the European process was a source of deep political cleavage in the formative phase. The study of the sources and dynamics of support in these years sheds a different light on the determinants of support. More specifically, a pooled multivariate logistic analysis of six surveys conducted between 1952 and 1970 shows two things. First, it shows that public support in Italy was driven mostly by considerations that were affective and political rather than economic and utilitarian. Second, it explains under which conditions the political factors behind support (and opposition) for European integration in the 1950s and 1960s changed over time, mostly in reactions to international events and to developments in European institutionalization. The article points to the bottom‐up nature of change in public support for European integration; changes in public opinion affected party positions, rather than vice versa.
Welfare state structures and the structure of welfare state support: Attitudes towards social spending in Canada, 1993–2000
Authors: MATTHEWS J. SCOTT , ERICKSON LYNDA
Published: January 2008

Abstract.  The comparative welfare state literature contends that different welfare state structures engender different structures of welfare state support. The argument is that social welfare regimes that distribute their benefits selectively tend to produce patterns of support graduated by the likelihood of accessing these selective (or ‘targeted’) social benefits, especially as indexed by social class. Where benefits are universally distributed, by contrast, support is expected to be more consensual and to cut across class and related cleavages. This article empirically tests this ‘interest‐based’ account and extends it by adding a ‘values‐based’ component. The authors find that the impact of both interests and values – specifically, orientations toward the capitalist system – on welfare state support is conditional on welfare state structures. It is argued that these results help to resolve a paradox in the comparative welfare state literature: strong evidence for differentiation in social welfare support by program type, but weak evidence for differentiation in class effects by program type. Data for the analysis come from the Canadian Election Studies of 1993, 1997 and 2000.
Are Family Physicians Good for You? Endogenous Doctor Supply and Individual Health
Authors: Gravelle Hugh , Morris Stephen , Sutton Matt
Published: January 2008

Objective.To investigate the impact of family physician (FP) supply on individual health, adjusting for factors that affect both health and FPs' choice of location.

Study Population.A total of 49,541 individuals in 351 English local authorities (LAs).

Data Sources.Data on individual health and personal characteristics from three rounds (1998, 1999, and 2000) of the Health Survey for England were linked to LA data on FP supply.

Study Design.Three methods for analyzing self‐reported health were used. FP supply, instrumented by house prices and by age‐weighted capitation payments for patients on FP lists, was included in individual‐level health regressions along with individual and LA covariates.

Results.When no instruments are used FPs have a positive but statistically insignificant effect on health. When FP supply is instrumented by age‐related capitation it has markedly larger and statistically significant effects. A 10 percent increase in FP supply increases the probability of reporting very good health by 6 percent.

Conclusion.After allowing for endogeneity, an increase in FP supply has a significant positive effect on self‐reported individual health.
Hospital Nurse Practice Environments and Outcomes for Surgical Oncology Patients
Authors: Friese Christopher R. , Lake Eileen T. , Aiken Linda H. , Silber Jeffrey H. , Sochalski Julie
Published: January 2008

Objective. To examine the effect of nursing practice environments on outcomes of hospitalized cancer patients undergoing surgery.

Data Sources. Secondary analysis of cancer registry, inpatient claims, administrative and nurse survey data collected in Pennsylvania for 1998–1999.

Study Design. Nurse staffing (patient to nurse ratio), educational preparation (proportion of nurses holding at least a bachelor's degree), and the practice environment (Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index) were calculated from a survey of nurses and aggregated to the hospital level. Logistic regression models predicted the odds of 30‐day mortality, complications, and failure to rescue (death following a complication).

Principal Findings. Unadjusted death, complication, and failure to rescue rates were 3.4, 35.7, and 9.3 percent, respectively. Nurse staffing and educational preparation of registered nurses were significantly associated with patient outcomes. After adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics, patients in hospitals with poor nurse practice environments had significantly increased odds of death (odds ratio, 1.37; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.07–1.76) and of failure to rescue (odds ratio, 1.48; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.07–2.03). Receipt of care in National Cancer Institute‐designated cancer centers significantly decreased the odds of death, which can be explained partly by better nurse practice environments.

Conclusions. This study is one of the first to examine the predictive validity of the National Quality Forum's endorsed measure of the nurse practice environment. Improvements in the quality of nurse practice environments could reduce adverse outcomes for hospitalized surgical oncology patients.
Ronsard and the ‘sein verdelet’ of Cassandre: uncovering an unexplored Italian source*
Authors: DellaNeva JoAnn
Published: January 2008

In a well‐known essay, Michael Riffaterre has explained a puzzling reference in one of Ronsard's sonnets, celebrating the beauty of the beloved's Cassandre's breast: “un coeur ja meur dans un sein verdelet” (“an already mature heart in a greenish bosom”). Riffaterre interprets the phrase “un sein verdelet” as an allusion to Ariosto's description of Alcina's breasts as “due pome acerbe” (“two unripe [i.e., green] apples”). But a further look at Italian lyric poetry of this period reveals that there is another possible explanation for this odd expression, one that is instead related to a famous sonnet by Pietro Bembo, which contains a reference to his lady's “senno maturo a la più verde etate” (“mature wisdom in the greenest [i.e., youngest] age”). Ronsard appears to have conflated (intentionally or otherwise) the Italian words “senno” (wisdom) and “seno” (bosom) in this fragmentary citation. He thus shows himself to be far more influenced by graphic and accoustic (but not necessarily semantic) similarities between Italian and French words, engaging in bilingual and intertextual paronomasia or punning, a tendency that might be considered characteristic of his playful approach to imitatio and intertextual allusion.
Masque scenery and the tradition of immobilization in The First Part of The Countess of Montgomery's Urania
Authors: Campbell Julie D.
Published: January 2008

This study addresses two of the pivotal magical interventions in The First Part of The Countess of Montgomery's Urania, specifically those in which Wroth makes use of the masque tradition of immobilization: the Three Towers of the House of Love and the Marble Theatre on an island in the Gulf of Venice. In these enchantments, which include architecturally fantastic structures, music, and the symbolically posed, stilled characters, Wroth creates masque‐like ‘idealized fictions’ that emblematize the romantic relationships she depicts. They are meant to elevate the sometimes sordid realities of real relationships to a higher allegorical plane on which the virtue of constancy and the vice of inconstancy may contend. Within the narrative as a whole, Wroth uses these aspects of masque tradition to gesture toward and to complicate what Christopher Booker has called ‘the cosmic happy ending.’
A Graph‐Theory Framework for Evaluating Landscape Connectivity and Conservation Planning
Authors: MINOR EMILY S. , URBAN DEAN L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract:  Connectivity of habitat patches is thought to be important for movement of genes, individuals, populations, and species over multiple temporal and spatial scales. We used graph theory to characterize multiple aspects of landscape connectivity in a habitat network in the North Carolina Piedmont (U.S.A).. We compared this landscape with simulated networks with known topology, resistance to disturbance, and rate of movement. We introduced graph measures such as compartmentalization and clustering, which can be used to identify locations on the landscape that may be especially resilient to human development or areas that may be most suitable for conservation. Our analyses indicated that for songbirds the Piedmont habitat network was well connected. Furthermore, the habitat network had commonalities with planar networks, which exhibit slow movement, and scale‐free networks, which are resistant to random disturbances. These results suggest that connectivity in the habitat network was high enough to prevent the negative consequences of isolation but not so high as to allow rapid spread of disease. Our graph‐theory framework provided insight into regional and emergent global network properties in an intuitive and visual way and allowed us to make inferences about rates and paths of species movements and vulnerability to disturbance. This approach can be applied easily to assessing habitat connectivity in any fragmented or patchy landscape.
Behavioral Assumptions of Conservation Policy: Conserving Oak Habitat on Family‐Forest Land in the Willamette Valley, Oregon
Authors: FISCHER A. PAIGE , BLISS JOHN C.
Published: January 2008

Abstract: Designing policies that harness the motivations of landowners is essential for conserving threatened habitats on private lands. Our goal was to understand how to apply ethnographic information about family‐forest owners to the design of conservation policy for Oregon white oak (Quercus garryana) in the Willamette Valley, Oregon (U.S.A.). We examined owners' knowledge, beliefs, values, and socioeconomic contexts through in‐depth individual and focus‐group interviews to understand their motivations to conserve oak. We then usedSchneider and Ingram's (1990)policy analysis framework to compare owners' motivations to the logic of policy. Owners had complex motivations for conserving oak. Despite this complexity, all 5 categories of policy that Schneider and Ingram describe hold promise. Policies that use symbolism to inspire behavior and policies that build capacity can harness owners' stewardship ethics and moral obligations. Policies that offer tangible rewards can build on owners' utilitarian motives. Policies that permit and prohibit behavior can tap owners' concerns about rule violations. Policies that promote voluntary, collaborative efforts can accommodate owners' need for autonomy and flexibility.
Effects of Local Disturbance of Tropical Forests on Frugivores and Seed Removal of a Small‐Seeded Afrotropical Tree
Authors: KIRIKA JASPER MBAE , FARWIG NINA , BÖHNING‐GAESE KATRIN
Published: January 2008

Abstract:  Small‐scale, local disturbance of tropical forests, for example from selective logging, is widespread, but its effects on biodiversity and ecosystem function have rarely been studied. In 3 East African tropical rainforests, we investigated the effect of different levels of local forest disturbance on the frugivore community and on tree visitation and fruit removal rates of the small‐seeded tree Celtis durandii. We quantified birds and primates in little and heavily disturbed sites, distinguishing between forest specialists, forest generalists, and forest visitors. We quantified frugivorous tree visitors and seed removal rates of C. durandii trees in the same sites. Forest disturbance reduced the species richness and density of the frugivore community and of forest specialists. Frugivorous species and individuals visiting the study trees were reduced significantly, which led to a marginally significant decline in fruit removal by all frugivores and a significant reduction in removal by forest specialists. Reduction in fruit removal by forest specialists was not compensated for by increases in removal by forest generalists or visitors. Results did not differ among the 3 rainforests, which suggests they were consistent at a regional scale. So local forest disturbance led to a loss of frugivores and their seed removal services. This suggests that large‐seeded tree species and trees with small fruits are losing seed dispersers. Thus, local forest disturbance appears to have a more general negative impact on frugivores and their seed dispersal services than anticipated previously.
Bayesian Decision Analysis for Evaluating Management Options to Promote Recovery of a Depleted Salmon Population
Authors: PESTES LYNSEY R. , PETERMAN RANDALL M. , BRADFORD MICHAEL J. , WOOD CHRIS C.
Published: January 2008

Abstract:  The endangered population of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) in Cultus Lake, British Columbia, Canada, migrates through commercial fishing areas along with other, much more abundant sockeye salmon populations, but it is not feasible to selectively harvest only the latter, abundant populations. This situation creates controversial trade‐offs between recovery actions and economic revenue. We conducted a Bayesian decision analysis to evaluate options for recovery of Cultus Lake sockeye salmon. We used a stochastic population model that included 2 sources of uncertainty that are often omitted from such analyses: structural uncertainty in the magnitude of a potential Allee effect and implementation uncertainty (the deviation between targets and actual outcomes of management actions). Numerous state‐dependent, time‐independent management actions meet recovery objectives. These actions prescribe limitations on commercial harvest rates as a function of abundance of Cultus Lake sockeye salmon. We also quantified how much reduction in economic value of commercial harvests of the more abundant sockeye salmon populations would be expected for a given increase in the probability of recovery of the Cultus population. Such results illustrate how Bayesian decision analysis can rank options for dealing with conservation risks and can help inform trade‐off discussions among decision makers and among groups that have competing objectives.
The Role of Medical Directors in Dialysis Facilities Series Editor: Robert A. Gutman: How Dialysis Is Paid For: What the Dialysis Medical Director Should Know, and Why
Authors: DeOreo Peter B.
Published: January 2008

While Medicare funds neither 100% of the patients, nor 100% of the costs incurred by dialysis patients, Medicare’s policies dominate reimbursement. The medical director is well advised to understand these mechanisms and the processes leading to change. Medicare pays for dialysis according to laws and rules enacted by Congress. Congress is re‐evaluating the funding of the end‐stage renal disease program. The rules are changing. They are changing in a way designed to encourage better outcomes, and increased provider accountability. The new terms of art are “budget neutrality,”“quality incentive payments,” and “bundled composite rate.” Providers will need to make choices that may impact the quality of care and the experience of the patient. It is up to the medical director to ensure that these choices result in benefit to their patients.
A pilot trial of levetiracetam in eyelid myoclonia with absences (Jeavons syndrome)
Authors: Striano Pasquale , Sofia Vito , Capovilla Giuseppe , Rubboli Guido , Di Bonaventura Carlo , Coppola Antonietta , Vitale Giuseppina , Fontanillas Luis , Giallonardo Anna Teresa , Biondi Roberto , Romeo Antonino , Viri Maurizio , Zara Federico , Striano Salvatore
Published: January 2008

Summary

Objective:Eyelid myoclonia with absences (EMA) or Jeavons syndrome characterized by eyelid myoclonia (EM) (with or without absences), eye closure‐induced EEG paroxysms, and photosensitivity. We conducted an open‐label trial of levetiracetam in EMA.

Patients and Methods: Patients were recruited in different Italian Epilepsy Centres. Levetiracetam was administrated at starting dose of 10 mg/kg/day up to 50–60 mg/kg/day in two doses. Treatment period included a 5–6 week up‐titration phase and a 12‐week evaluation phase. The number of days with EM (i.e., days with seizures, DwS) and number of generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTCS) were evaluated. Analysis of intent‐to‐treat population was performed using Fisher's and Wilcoxon tests.

Results: Thirty‐five patients (23 F) with a mean age of 19 ± 6 years were recruited. Twenty‐seven had previously undergone one to five adequate trials of antiepileptic drugs. The median number of DwS/month was 12 ± 8.2. Twenty‐one patients experienced GTCS (median number/month: 1 ± 0.2). Thirty‐four subjects completed the trial. Levetiracetam was well tolerated (mean dose: 1985 mg/day). Responders were 28/35 (80%) patients, nine taking levetiracetam as monotherapy. Six patients were seizure‐free, 15 had ≥75% and seven >50% seizure reduction. GTCS remitted in 14 out of 21 (66.6%) patients. The number/month of DwS (median: 12 vs 5; p = 0.0001) and of GTCS (median: 1 vs 0; p = 0.0001) decreased compared to baseline period. Disappearance or clear reduction in paroxysmal abnormalities at eye closure occurred in 20 of the responders and photoparoxysmal response in 19. Mean follow‐up was 23.9 ± 18.5 months.

Conclusion: Levetiracetam is effective and well tolerated in EMA. Placebo‐controlled studies should confirm these findings.
Can Dopamine Beta‐Hydroxylase Levels Predict Adverse Reactions to Disulfiram?
Authors: Ewing John A. , Rouse Beatrice A. , Mueller Robert A. , Silver David
Published: February 2008

Disulfiram had more pronounced sedative effects on healthy normal subjects with low levels of plasma dopamines‐β‐hydroxylase (DBH) than it did on subjects with higher levels. It is suggested that DBH levels might provide a means of predicting increased susceptibility to disulfiram side effects.
Alcohol Problems and the Availability of Alcohol
Authors: Parker Douglas A. , Wolz Michael W.
Published: February 2008

This study assesses the statistical effects of the physical availability of alcohol as measured by the number of liquor store employees per 100,000 persons. Controlling for the effects of per capita income and urbanism, it is found that there are effects of physical availability on current tangible consequences but not on alcoholism rates or frequent heavy drinking.
A Sweat‐Patch Test for Alcohol Consumption: Evaluation in Continuous and Episodic Drinkers
Authors: Phillips Michael , McAloon Margaret H.
Published: February 2008

We evaluated the sweat‐patch test for its ability to detect alcohol consumption. During an 8‐day study, volunteers drank whisky while wearing sweat‐patches that collected sweat continuously at a steady rate. We offered 1.0, 2.0, or 5.0 g etha‐nol/kg/day to 6 continuous drinkers, and 5.0 g ethanol/kg/day for 2 days to 8 episodic drinkers, and removed sweat patches after 2. 4. 6, and 8 days. The concentration of ethanol in the collected sweat (Cs) rose: (1) progressively with the amount of alcohol consumed; and (2) linearly with the mean concentration of ethanol in the blood (C̄b) jduring the sweat collection period (In Cs= 0.80 In Cb ‐ 1.40; r = 0.93, p < 0.001). The test clearly distinguished drinkers from nondrinkers (Cs < 0.0022 G/L when no ethanol consumed; Cs > 0.0067 G/LWhen 0.5 G ethanol/kg/day consumed and when Cb > 0.013 G/L). The sweat patch test provides an objective index of drinking behavior with potential applications in clinical practice and research.
Acute Ethanol Administration Causes Transient Impairment of Blue‐Yellow Color Vision
Authors: Russell Robert M. , Carney Elizabeth A. , Feiock Katharine , Garrett Michele , Karwoski Patricia
Published: February 2008

The higher incidence of blue‐yellow color blindness (tritanopia) found among alcoholics could be due to genetic or acquired factors. The acute administration of ethanol to alcoholics and normal subjects transiently resulted in poorer color discrimination in all spectra but with significantly more errors in the blue‐yellow versus the red‐green color range (p < 0.005, p < 0.01). Thus, ethanol appears to act as a toxin to inner retinal layers, which could account for the higher incidence of tritanopia found among alcoholics.
Plasma Glutamate Dehydrogenase: Clinical Application in Patients With Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Worner T. M. , Lieber C. S.
Published: February 2008

The time course of plasma glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) elevation was studied in 42 male alcoholics admitted for alcohol detoxification or for the treatment of medical complications of alcoholism and in 2 volunteers consuming 2 g/kg/day of ethanol under metabolic ward conditions. GDH values were usually highest during or immediately after cessation of drinking; thereafter, they fell rapidly toward the normal range. Early GDH values correlated well with liver histology in 37 patients who subsequently underwent diagnostic liver biopsy.
Alcohol Abuse During Pregnancy: An Epidemiologic Study
Authors: Sokol Robert J. , Miller Sheldon I. , Reed George
Published: February 2008

In a medical‐record‐based prospective cohort study of 12,127 pregnancies consecutively delivered during a 52‐mo period at a single institution, 204 (1.7%) were complicated by maternal alcohol abuse. A profile of these patients' concomitant risk factors and their pregnancy outcomes indicated that they tended to be older multigravidas who were not currently married. Their obstetric histories were marked by excesses of previous spontaneous abortions, low‐birth‐weight infants, and fetal anomalies. They were more likely to smoke cigarettes and abuse other drugs. During labor, their risks of infection and of premature placental separation were increased. Evidence of fetal distress during labor and neonatal depression were more common in their infants. Infant birth weights were lower in the alcohol‐abusing group by an average of approximately 190 g. This was accounted for by intrauterine growth retardation, which was increased 2.7‐fold overall; preterm delivery was not more common. The risk of intrauterine growth retardation was estimated to be increased 2.4‐fold in association with alcohol abuse alone, 1.8‐fold with smoking alone, and 3.9‐fold with these risks together. A significant increase in congenital anomalies (38%) was also identified, though there were no differences between the mortality rates or placental pathology of the alcohol‐abusing and comparison groups. These adverse infant outcomes did not appear to be related to demographic factors, the medical care, or nutritional status of the alcohol‐abusing patients. Moreover, cigarette smoking did not appear to account for the congenital anomalies observed in the alcohol‐abusing group. The findings of this study suggest that alcohol abuse during pregnancy constitutes a significant risk for a range of adverse perinatal outcomes in as many as 50% of the offspring, and hence, should be considered a major public health concern.
Effects of Maternal Alcohol, Nicotine, and Caffeine Use During Pregnancy on Infant Mental and Motor Development at Eight Months
Authors: Streissguth Ann Pytkowicz , Barr Helen M. , Martin Donald C. , Herman Cynthia S.
Published: February 2008

Infant mental and motor development at 8 mo of age is significantly related to maternal alcohol use during early pregnancy. Data on 462 infants were analyzed with multiple regression techniques, adjusting for effects of nicotine, caffeine, gestational age, parity, and maternal education. Other possible intervening variables were evaluated and not found to explain the results. This study presents further evidence that maternal alcohol use during pregnancy at levels of about four drinks per day and above has an adverse effect on offspring, even in a sample that is basically low risk.
Prevention of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: A Model Program
Authors: Little Ruth E. , Streissguth Ann Pytkowicz , Guzinski Gay M.
Published: February 2008

This article describes a new 3‐yr demonstration program, funded by NIAAA, to intervene in female alcohol abuse during pregnancy and to prevent fetal alcohol syndrome.
Further Evidence for a Continuum‐of‐Impairment Encompassing Male Alcoholic Korsakoff Patients and Chronic Alcoholic Men
Authors: Ryan Christopher , Butters Nelson
Published: February 2008

A battery of challenging tests was used to assess learning ability and short‐term memory in groups of detoxified chronic alcoholics with and without complaints of memory impairment, alcoholic Korsakoff patients, and nonalcoholic controls. While alcoholics without memory complaints did not differ from controls on standardized clinical memory tests, their performance was significantly impaired on our more demanding experimental tests. In contrast, the performance of alcoholics reporting memory complaints was impaired, relative to the other alcoholics, on both clinical and experimental memory tests, overlapping that of the alcoholic Korsakoff patients. These results are consonant with Ryback's continuum‐of‐impairment hvnothesis.
Evidence of Genetic Predisposition to Alcoholic Cirrhosis and Psychosis: Twin Concordances for Alcoholism and Its Biological End Points by Zygosity among Male Veterans
Authors: Hrubec Zdenek , Omenn Gilbert S.
Published: February 2008

Medical histories of the 15,924 male twin pairs in the National Academy of Sciences‐National Research Council Twin Registry were examined to determine, within pairs, concordances for alcoholism and its medical end points. Prevalences per 1,000 among individual twin subjects were 29.6 for alcoholism, 4.1 for alcoholic psychosis, 14.2 for liver cirrhosis, and 2.1 for pancreatitis. Prevalences were similar for monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins. Prevalences in percent among co‐twins of diagnosed subjects, that is case‐wise twin concordance rates, were, respectively, by diagnosis: alcoholism: 26.3 (MZ), 11.9 (DZ); alcoholic psychosis: 21.1 (MZ), 6.0 (DZ); and liver cirrhosis: 14.6 (MZ), 5.4 (DZ). No twin pairs concordant for pancreatitis were found.

The greater concordance for alcoholic psychosis and for liver cirrhosis among MZ than DZ twins could not be explained by the difference in alcoholism concordance between them. The difference in concordance between MZ and DZ twins persisted when, in addition, it was assumed that only half of the actually occurring cases of alcoholism and of each of the end points have been ascertained. These results provide evidence in favor of genetic predisposition to organ‐specific complications of alcoholism and should serve to stimulate searches for the underlying biochemical mechanisms.
A Data‐Based Examination of Selection‐Bias in the Evaluation of a Job‐Based Alcoholism Program
Authors: Trice Harrison M. , Beyer Janice M.
Published: February 2008

We describe the strategy of constructive confrontation present in most job‐based alcoholism programs, and conclude that it is compatible with the major concepts and practices of discipline in the workplace. We review past evaluation studies of these programs, noting the rather remarkable positive outcomes often reported. We then review reasons for both accepting and rejecting these unusual findings. One of the major biases that could produce the favorable findings–selectivity bias–is then examined, using both field data and record data from a large national corporation. Samples from records in the review period 1964 through 1977 generated 377 case histories. The study also used field interviews in the same corporation in a national sample of 19 locations. We interviewed supervisors who had experienced an employee in the alcoholism program (A sample = 154) and a sample of all other supervisors (B sample = 351) who described a nonalcoholic problem employee and how he/she had been managed. The remainder of the report focuses upon two possible sources of selection bias: suspected but not referred cases in the field data, and incomplete, “lost,” cases in the record data. In both instances, the selectivity seemed to be quite minimal, insufficient to damage the conclusion that the program intervention had produced significant positive changes in job performance.
Evidence of a Reduced Sialic Acid Content in Serum Transferrin in Male Alcoholics
Authors: Stibler Helena , Borg Stefan
Published: February 2008

A qualitative change of the microheterogeneity of serum transferrin, demonstrated by isoelectric focusing, has previously been found to occur frequently and with high specificity in alcoholic patients during current abuse, and has been proposed as a new marker of alcoholism. Certain indirect evidence has supported the assumption that the basis for the altered transferrin heterogeneity would be a reduced sialic acid content. In this investigation serum transferrin from healthy controls and alcoholic patients was purified by affinity chromatography on antitransferrin Sepharose 4B. The sialic acid content in transferrin was thereafter determined directly. Transferrin from alcoholic patients showed a 22% lower sialic acid concentration than control transferrin, which was highly significant. These data together with results from experiments with neuraminidase and galactose‐binding lectin provide evidence that in alcoholism at least two sialic acid residues are missing in a significant fraction of serum transferrin. This observation may indicate that sialic acid metabolism is one important target of the biological action of ethanol.