bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Mortality in Grow‐finishing Pigs in Belgium
Authors: Maes D. G. D. , Duchateau L. , Larriestra A. , Deen J. , Morrison R. B. , de Kruif A.
Published: November 2004

The present study investigated risk factors for mortality in grow‐finishing pigs of 137 pig herds belonging to one integration company during a period of 2.5 years. Mortality data, expressed as the number of dead pigs divided by the number of pigs placed in the fattening unit were investigated retrospectively. The following potential risk factors were evaluated: type of pig herd, season and year of placement in the fattening unit, pig density in the municipality, management practices (density of the pigs in the barn, origin of the pigs), housing conditions and feeding practices. The overall average mortality percentage was 4.70%. Three variables in a multivariable regression model were significantly associated with mortality: season of placement in the fattening unit, origin of the piglets and duration of the fattening period. Pigs placed in October, November and December, were at higher risk than pigs placed in other months. Herds that purchased pigs from a merchant, used pigs from other herds with an excess of piglets for filling their fattening units or herds that purchased pigs from more than five origin herds also suffered higher mortality. The mortality also increased in case of longer duration of the fattening period. This study documented for the first time that in addition to seasonal effects and a longer duration of the fattening period, purchasing feeder pigs from one or a limited number of herds is of crucial importance to achieve low mortality in the grow‐finishing pigs.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella spp. in Non‐diarrhoeic Dogs in Trinidad
Authors: Seepersadsingh N. , Adesiyun A. A. , Seebaransingh R.
Published: November 2004

The estimated prevalence and antimicrobial resistances of Salmonella spp. in non‐diarrhoeic dogs across Trinidad was determined. The serotypes of Salmonella spp. isolated were also identified. Of a total of 1391 dogs sampled, 50 (3.6%) were positive for Salmonella spp. with 28 different serotypes, the predominant serotypes were Javiana (12), Newport (6), Arechavaleta (5) and Heidelberg (5). Fifty‐seven (85.1%) of 67 isolates exhibited resistance to one or more antimicrobial agents. Of eight antimicrobial agents tested, resistance was exhibited to streptomycin (80.6%), cephalothin (37.3%), neomycin (38.8%) and gentamicin (9.0%). All isolates were sensitive to ampicillin, norfloxacin, choramphenicol and sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim. It was concluded that the isolation of the Salmonella spp. from non‐diarrhoeic dogs could pose health hazard to their owners as most serotypes are known to be virulent. Furthermore, the prevalence of resistance to antimicrobial agents amongst the Salmonella isolates from these animals indicates susceptibility testing may influence chemotherapeutic choices when treating these isolates.
Rabies in Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) Experimentally Infected with European Bat Lyssavirus Type 1
Authors: Vos A. , Müller T. , Neubert L. , Zurbriggen A. , Botteron C. , Pöhle D. , Schoon H. , Haas L. , Jackson A. C.
Published: November 2004

The susceptibility of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to European bat lyssavirus type 1 (EBLV‐1) infection was examined. Eight foxes were inoculated intramuscularly (i.m.) with 104.9 foci‐forming units (FFU) (n = 4) and 105.1 FFU (n = 4) and observed for up to 90 days. All foxes showed manifestations of a neurologic disorder (e.g. seizures, myoclonus, agitation), starting as early as 5 days post‐infection (p.i.). Subsequently, all animals showed improvement followed by one or more relapses. One fox was killed 3 days after it recovered, 26 days post‐infection. Two other foxes were also killed 38 and 54 days post‐infection after severe neurologic signs returned. All foxes developed a humoral immune response against EBLV‐1 as determined in serum and brain tissues. However, no rabies virus antigen was detected in the brain, other tissues and secretions examined (e.g. salivary gland, saliva, tonsils, lungs) by using different standard diagnostic techniques [fluorescent antibody test, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), rabies tissue culture inoculation test], with the exception of one fox in which EBLV‐1 RNA was detected by RT‐PCR in only the spinal cord. Brain tissues showed moderate to severe multifocal, mononuclear encephalomyelitis in the three foxes that were killed during the observation period, although no EBLV‐1 virus was detectable in these tissues.
Melioidosis in Animals: A Review on Epizootiology, Diagnosis and Clinical Presentation
Authors: Sprague L. D. , Neubauer H.
Published: November 2004

Melioidosis, an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei is an emerging disease with high impact on animals and man. In different animal species, the clinical course varies and delayed diagnosis poses risks for the dissemination of the agent in non‐endemic areas. Not only migration and transport of animals around the world but also tourism increases the risk that melioidosis can leave its endemic boundaries and establish itself elsewhere. Detection of the agent is a major challenge, as the agent has to be handled in laboratories of biosafety level 3 and test kits are not yet commercially available. Veterinarians and doctors should be aware of melioidosis not only as an agent of public interest but also in terms of a bioterrorist attack. The aim of this review is to describe the agent, its aetiology, the manifestation in a variety of animal species as well as to describe diagnostic procedures, typing techniques and countermeasures.
Institutions and Policies for Pro‐poor Agricultural Growth
Authors: Dorward Andrew , Fan Shenggen , Kydd Jonathan , Lofgren Hans , Morrison Jamie , Poulton Colin , Rao Neetha , Smith Laurence , Tchale Hardwick , Thorat Sukhadeo , Urey Ian , Wobst Peter
Published: November 2004

Global experience with pro‐poor growth and empirical work spanning India, Malawi and Zimbabwe demonstrates the importance of agricultural growth for poverty reduction in poor rural areas, while also pointing to the need for complementary non‐farm sector growth. Theoretical arguments, historical evidence and livelihoods modelling in poor medium‐potential rural economies suggest that, contrary to thinking dominating much of current development policy, subsidies to relieve critical seasonal credit and cash restraints and reduce market and input supply uncertainties need to help in ‘kick‐starting’ agricultural markets if increased smallholder productivity in food‐grains is to drive rural non‐farm growth. Establishing the base conditions for these to work, designing and implementing them to be effective, and then phasing them out are major challenges facing policymakers.
Dyslipidemia, elevated LDL cholesterol and reduced nocturnal blood pressure dipping denote lacunar strokes occurring during nighttime
Authors: Matz K. , Tatschl C. , Sebek K. , Dachenhausen A. , Brainin M.
Published: November 2004

Previous studies have shown a peak occurrence of ischemic stroke in the morning but no consistent finding has been attributed to this. Focused on lacunar strokes we performed a prospective study with a detailed diagnostic protocol including parameters of recent infection, indicators of sleep apnea and cerebral vasoreactivity (CVR), aimed at defining differences in risk profiles between diurnal and nocturnal strokes. Consecutively we included 33 nocturnal and 54 diurnal strokes. Baseline characteristics, known risk factors, stroke severity and topology were not different between groups. The mean low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level was significantly higher amongst patients with nocturnal strokes (133.3 ± 35.2 mg/dl vs. 115.5 ± 39.8 mg/dl; P = 0.04), as well as the proportion of patients with any dyslipidemia (94% vs. 77.8%; P = 0.047). Twenty‐four‐hour blood pressure recordings showed a reduced nocturnal decrease of blood pressure in subjects with strokes that occurred between 10 pm and 6 am in comparison with those whose strokes occurred between 6 am and 2 pm (5.0 ± 7.3% vs. 11.0 ± 6.7%; P = 0.049). No significant differences were found for parameters of recent infection (including seroreactivity against Chlamydia pneumoniae and cytomegalovirus), CVR, indicators of sleep apnea and the degree of white matter disease assessed by magnetic resonance tomography. Dyslipidemia, especially elevated LDL cholesterol is more prevalent in nocturnal lacunar strokes especially when combined with a reduced nocturnal dipping of blood pressure. This risk factor profile can be regarded as an additional target for stroke prevention.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of galantamine in patients with mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease: multicenter trial
Authors: Pirttilä T. , Wilcock G. , Truyen L. , Damaraju C. V.
Published: November 2004

In clinical trials, short‐term galantamine treatment produces consistent positive effects on global ratings, cognitive tests, and assessments of activities of daily living and behavior in patients with mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD), providing the rationale for longer‐term, open‐label treatment. In this continuation trial following enrollment in previous 12‐month trials, patients received galantamine 24 mg/day for a total of 24 months (total exposure up to 36 months). Primary efficacy measures were the ADAS‐cog/11 and DAD. Adverse events (AEs) were coded to WHO preferred terms, including AEs begun in previous trials. Initial improvement in cognitive function was followed by a gradual decline, as measured by increased ADAS‐cog/11 scores. At 36 months, ADAS‐cog/11 scores increased by a mean (SEM) of 12.4 (0.80) points (P < 0.001) versus a projected 22‐point increase for untreated patients. Functional abilities, as measured by the DAD, had decreased significantly at each time point versus baseline (P < 0.001). The most common treatment‐emergent AEs were agitation (16.1%), insomnia (12.4%), fall (11.2%), and urinary tract infection (10.2%). AEs were mainly mild to moderate, appropriate for an elderly population, with few judged treatment related. Galantamine 24 mg/day is safe and effective for long‐term treatment of mild‐to‐moderate AD. Potential exists for prolonged benefit with galantamine therapy versus lack of treatment for the long‐term.
Undulating toe movements in brain death*
Authors: Saposnik G. , Mauriño J. , Saizar R. , Bueri J. A.
Published: November 2004

For many years, death implied immobility. Nevertheless, there are anecdotal reports of spontaneous or reflex movements (SRMs) in patients with Brain death (BD). The presence of some movements can preclude the diagnosis of BD, and consequently, the possibility of organ donation for transplantation. McNair and Meador [(1992), Mov Dord7: 345–347] described the presence of undulating toe flexion movements (UTF) in BD patients. UTF consists in a sequential brief plantar flexion of the toes. Our aim was to determine the frequency, characteristics and predisposing factors of UTF movements in a prospective multicenter cohort study of patients with BD. Patients with confirmed diagnosis of BD were assessed to evaluate the presence of UTF using a standardized protocol. All patients had a routine laboratory evaluation, CT scan of the head, and EEG. Demographic, clinical, hemodynamic and blood gas concentration factors were analyzed. amongst 107 BD patients who fulfilled the AAN requirements, 47 patients (44%) had abnormal movements. UTF was observed in 25 (23%) being the most common movement (53%). Early evaluation (OR 4.3, CI95% 1.5–11.9) was a predictor of UTF in a multivariate regression model. The somato‐sensory evoked potential (SSEPs) as well as brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) did not elicit a cortical response in studied patients with UTF. This spinal reflex is probably integrated in the L5 and S1 segments of the spinal cord. Abnormal movements are common in BD, being present in more than 40% of individuals. UTF was the most common spinal reflex. In our sample, early evaluation was a predictor of UTF. Health care professionals, especially those involved in organ procurement for transplantation, must be aware of this sign. The presence of this motor phenomenon does not preclude the diagnosis of BD.
Associated conditions in myasthenia gravis: response to thymectomy
Authors: Téllez‐Zenteno J. F. , Cardenas G. , Estañol B. , Garcia‐Ramos G. , Weder‐Cisneros N.
Published: November 2004

To compare the response of thymectomy in patients with associated conditions (PWAC) and without associated conditions (PWOAC). Comparative, retrospective. 198 patients with the established diagnosis of myasthenia gravis who had a thymectomy between 1987 and 2000, and who were folowed up for at least 3 years. We formed two groups, one with associated conditions and the second without associated conditions. The patients were divided into four groups: (i) patients in remission, (ii) patients with improvement, (iii) patients without changes, and (iv) patients whose condition worsened. Associated conditions (AC) were found in 49 patients (26%). The main associated conditions were hyperthyroidism in 16 patients (33%) hypothyroidism in seven (14%), rheumatoid arthritis in five (10%) and hypothyroidism and Sjögren syndrome in three (6%). Concerning the response of thymectomy, 13 patients WAC showed remission (27%), vs. 54 patients WOAC (39%). Twenty patients WAC showed improvement (41%) vs. 46 WOAC (33%). Thirteen patients WAC had no changes (27%) vs. 37 WOAC (26%). Finally, in three patients WAC their condition worsened (6%) vs. three WOAC (2%). The response to thymectomy was high (69%) in both groups. We did not identify significant differences.
In vivo expression of aquaporin‐4 by reactive microglia
Authors: Tomás‐Camardiel Mayka , Venero José L. , De Pablos R. M. , Rite I. , Machado Alberto , Cano Josefina
Published: November 2004

Aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) is the most abundant aquaporin in the brain and it is widely accepted that this AQP is solely expressed by astrocytes and ependymal cells. AQP4 is particularly enriched in plasma membranes of ependymal cells and astrocyte membrane domains facing blood vessels and pia. AQP4 has gained much attraction due to its involvement in the physiopathology of brain edema, a major cause of death in humans. Consequently, it is of paramount importance to ascertain the phenotypic nature of AQP4 mRNA‐expressing cells in the CNS before attempting future clinical studies aimed at minimizing the development of brain edema. We have used intranigral injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a potent immunostimulant that causes disruption of the blood brain barrier, vasogenic edema, loss of reactive astrocytes and activation of microglial cells. These LPS‐induced features are ideal for testing the possibility that reactive microglial cells express AQP4 in the adult brain. We have studied AQP4 at the mRNA and protein level. We provide strong evidence that reactive microglial cells highly express AQP4 mRNA and protein in response to LPS injections.
Operator dependent variability in quantitative analysis of myocardial perfusion images
Authors: Åkesson L. , Svensson A. , Edenbrandt L.
Published: November 2004

The purpose of this study was to evaluate variability in the quantification of myocardial perfusion images obtained by a group of experienced operators using two widely used programs. The Cedars Emory quantitative analysis program (CEqual) was used to quantify the size of perfusion defects and the Cedars‐Sinai quantitative gated single‐photon emission tomography program was used to quantify left ventricular function. Five patients with reversible apical defects, five with fixed apical defects and three patients with normal perfusion were selected. Eight experienced medical laboratory technologists processed the studies from raw projection data. The manual steps consisted of defining two alignment axes parallel to the long axis of the left ventricle, and for the CEqual program selecting apex and base in the short axis slices in the rest and stress studies. Wide variability between the operators in the quantification of reversibility could be seen in all three vascular territories. A range >10% was found in at least one vascular territory for nine of the 13 patients. The differences in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) between operators were <5% for all 13 patients. The large variability in the quantification of reversible apical perfusion defects may influence the clinical interpretation and cause false conclusions. In contrast, inter‐operator variability for the quantification of the LVEF was low.
Myocardial SPECT perfusion defect size compared to infarct size by delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in patients with acute or chronic infarction
Authors: Hedström Erik , Palmer John , Ugander Martin , Arheden Håkan
Published: November 2004

Background:  Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) perfusion imaging has been considered a reference method for non‐invasive estimation of infarct size in man. Recently, delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DE‐MRI) has evolved as an accurate tool to quantify infarct size. Therefore, the present study was designed to compare perfusion defect size by SPECT to hyperenhanced volume by DE‐MRI.

Methods:  DE‐MRI was performed in 30 patients. Fourteen were patients with revascularized first‐time acute infarctions, eight revascularized chronic infarctions, and eight clinically referred non‐revascularized patients. SPECT was performed in the same patients and analysed by a commercial package.

Results:  The hypoperfused volume by SPECT was larger than the hyperenhanced volume by DE‐MRI by 8 ± 8 ml (6% ± 5 percentage points), 10 ± 18 ml (6% ± 11 percentage points), and 26 ± 30 ml (12% ± 10 percentage points) in the acute, chronic and clinical populations, respectively. Left ventricle wall volume was smaller by SPECT in all settings.

Conclusion:  The SPECT perfusion defect size was comparable with but generally slightly larger than the hyperenhanced volume by DE‐MRI in both absolute and relative terms in patients with acute and chronic infarction. The results may be related to systematic differences between modalities but could also be influenced by biological phenomena such as wall thinning or hypoperfused but viable myocardium.
Reliability of three commercially available heart rate variability instruments using short‐term (5‐min) recordings
Authors: Sandercock G. R. H. , Bromley P. , Brodie D. A.
Published: November 2004

Aim:  To assess the reliability of heart rate variability (HRV) measures made by three commercially available analysers in healthy subjects.

Methods:  Twenty‐nine volunteers (20 males, mean age 35 ± 13 years and nine females, mean age 29 ± 11 years) underwent repeated HRV measures under three conditions: lying supine, standing, lying supine with controlled breathing. HRV was measured simultaneously by three instruments. Reliability was assessed statistically by calculating coefficient of variation (CV), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and limits of agreement (LoA).

Results:  A wide range of values were found for CV (1–235%) and ICC (R = 0·16–0·99) dependent on the HRV measure assessed and the position in which the measurement was made. For the most part the analysers gave similar values in each condition. The values for CV and ICC were high but within the range reported in the literature. Values for LoA were also high and showed a wide range of values.

Conclusions:  The similarity in measures between systems indicates that biological variation and experimental error play a major role in determining the repeatability of HRV measurements. It is therefore recommended that population‐specific reliability coefficients should be published where possible and that authors should take into account the reliability of measures when making sample size calculations.
Gender differences in rival characteristics that evoke jealousy in response to emotional versus sexual infidelity
Authors: Buunk Bram P. , Dijkstra Pieternel
Published: November 2004

Previous research has shown that in men jealousy is evoked more by a rival's status‐related characteristics than in women, whereas in women jealousy is evoked more by a rival's physical attractiveness than in men. The present study examined whether the occurrence of this gender difference depends upon the type of infidelity one's partner engages in, i.e., emotional or sexual infidelity, and whether these types of jealousy evoke different emotional responses. An experiment was conducted using hypothetical jealousy situations with a 2 (participant gender: male vs. female) × 2 (rival physical attractiveness: high vs. low) × 2 (rival dominance: high vs. low) × 2 (type of infidelity: sexual vs. emotional) mixed‐factor design. Jealousy evoked by emotional infidelity was primarily characterized by feelings of threat, and jealousy after sexual infidelity was primarily characterized by feelings of betrayal and anger. Following emotional infidelity, in men, a rival's dominance, and in women, a rival's physical attractiveness, evoked feelings of threat but not feelings of anger‐betrayal. In contrast, after sexual infidelity, in men, but not in women, a rival's physical attractiveness evoked feelings of betrayal‐anger but not anxiety or suspicion.
How do holidays influence relationship processes and outcomes? Examining the instigating and catalytic effects of Valentine's Day
Authors: Morse Katherine A. , Neuberg Steven L.
Published: November 2004

Might Valentine's Day, despite its marketing as a holiday to enhance romantic relationships, paradoxically facilitate their demise? Because Valentine's Day provides a useful opportunity for exploring the potential influences of recurring culture‐wide events on relationships, we asked college students in romantic relationships about relationship stability, quality, beliefs, and processes, both 1 week prior to and 1 week after Valentine's Day. As predicted, those participating during the time period straddling Valentine's Day were more likely to break up than were those participating in comparison time periods. This increase in relationship dissolution appeared attributable to the catalyzing effect that Valentine's Day had on moderately strong and weak relationships already on a downward trajectory: These relationships were particularly likely to dissolve during the Valentine's Day period. We view this research as a useful illustration of how to conceptualize and empirically investigate the effects of holidays and other cultural events on relationship dynamics and outcomes.
Scripts, close relationships, and symbolic meanings of contraceptives
Authors: Conley Terri D. , Rabinowitz Joshua L.
Published: November 2004

In four studies, we documented the symbolic meanings of the progression of contraceptive use in close relationships. In Study 1A, participants perceived a couple in which one partner suggests changing contraceptive method from condoms to the pill (a normative transition script) as having a more positive relationship than a couple in which one partner suggests changing from the pill to condoms (a counternormative transition script). In Study 1B, participants believed that couples who followed a counternormative transition script had higher likelihood of infidelity/STDs and a lower degree of closeness than couples who followed a normative transition script. In Study 2A, the association of counternormative transition with perceptions of greater infidelity and lower closeness was demonstrated among a group of college students imagining their own relationship partners suggesting the transition. In Study 2B, participants who imagined that their partner suggested a counternormative transition reported more negative emotions than did participants who imagined that their partner suggested a normative transition. These findings suggest that the symbolic meaning of condoms and birth control pills may contribute to the relative lack of safer sex behaviors in close relationships.
Marital quality of African American and white partners in interracial couples
Authors: Leslie Leigh A. , Letiecq Bethany L.
Published: November 2004

In light of the growing number of interracial marriages in this country, the present study set out to examine the relative strength of one's racial identity, social support, and experience of discrimination in predicting interracial marriage quality. A total of 76 interracial couples (52 African American male/White female and 24 African American female/White male) participated in the study by completing mail surveys. Results revealed that for African American partners, and to a lesser extent White partners, racial identity was the strongest predictor of marital quality. Partners who had pride in their race but were also accepting of other races and cultures experienced higher marital quality. These findings are discussed in light of the literature that suggests interracial couples often minimize the relevance of race in their relationships.
Anthropo‐Technology
Authors: SLOTERDIJK PETER
Published: November 2004

Information in our era of networks and genome maps, according to Sloterdijk, binds man and his tools that transform nature into one operative system. This “post‐metaphysical” condition not only tends to abolish the separation between the subjective person and “objective spirit,” but the distinction between culture and nature as well.

For Sloterdijk, one co‐intelligent system now encompasses subject and object, culture and nature. This information ecology gives man a new fused identity with the other, with his world and his tools. He is no longer an identity apart.

Such a civilization of co‐intelligent “anthropo‐technology” requires an entirely new perspective on ethics. For Sloterdijk, today's passionate debates over man's domination of nature or technology's domination of man miss the point because they are fearfully rooted in the obsolete master‐slave dichotomy that holds such a hallowed place in Western philosophy. As Sloterdijk sees it, this dichotomy, based as it was on the opposition between subject and object and between culture and nature, needs to be updated: In our time, master and slave are dissolved in the advance of intelligent technologies whose operability is non‐dominating. One can only talk about self‐manipulation, not slavery; not about a master, but about self‐mastery.

Unleashing the basic force of nature against the people of Hiroshima may have been possible prior to the information revolution when “allo‐technology” (the division between man and machine) still predominated. But, the anthropo‐technology of the post‐metaphysical 21st century, Sloterdijk contends, holds out a generous promise. In this system bound together by information feedback and artificial intelligence, the preservationist instinct of the co‐beneficiaries of co‐intelligence will limit the destructive acts of anthropo‐technology against itself.

Between the lines, Sloterdijk even seems to suggest that the “astraying” fate of alienated Being may at last find its dwelling place rejoined with nature and the world.

In May 2000, Sloterdijk gave lectures at the Goethe Institute in Boston and in Los Angeles that covered these topics. Some excerpts appear below.

          —NATHAN GARDELS, editor
Axis II comorbidity of borderline personality disorder: description of 6‐year course and prediction to time‐to‐remission
Authors: Zanarini M. C. , Frankenburg F. R. , Vujanovic A. A. , Hennen J. , Reich D. B. , Silk K. R.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to compare the axis II comorbidity of 202 patients whose borderline personality disorder (BPD) remitted over 6 years of prospective follow‐up to that of 88 whose BPD never remitted.

Method:  The axis II comorbidity of 290 patients meeting both DIB‐R and DSM‐III‐R criteria for BPD was assessed at baseline using a semistructured interview of demonstrated reliability. Over 96% of surviving patients were reinterviewed about their co‐occurring axis II disorders blind to all previously collected information at three distinct follow‐up waves: 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐year follow‐up.

Results:  Both remitted and non‐remitted borderline patients experienced declining rates of most types of axis II disorders over time. However, the rates of avoidant, dependent, and self‐defeating personality disorders remained high among non‐remitted borderline patients. Additionally, the absence of these three disorders was found to be significantly correlated with a borderline patient's likelihood‐of‐remission and time‐to‐remission; self‐defeating personality disorder by a factor of 4, dependent personality disorder by a factor of 3, and avoidant personality disorder by a factor of almost 2.

Conclusion:  The results of this study suggest that axis II disorders co‐occur less commonly with BPD over time, particularly for remitted borderline patients. They also suggest that anxious cluster disorders are the axis II disorders which most impede symptomatic remission from BPD.
The potential relationship between levels of perceived stress and subtypes of major depressive disorder (MDD)
Authors: Farabaugh A. H. , Mischoulon D. , Fava M. , Green C. , Guyker W. , Alpert J.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  We wanted to explore whether major depressive disorder (MDD) subtypes (melancholic depression, atypical depression, double depression, and MDD with anger attacks) were related to levels of perceived stress, as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

Method:  Our sample [n = 298; female = 163 (55%); mean age 40.1 ± 10.5 years] consisted of out‐patients with MDD. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐III‐R, the 17‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, the Anger Attack Questionnaire, and the PSS were administered prior to initiating treatment.

Results:  Depressed women had significantly higher levels of perceived stress (P = 0.02) than depressed men. Greater severity of depression at baseline was significantly related to higher levels of perceived stress (P < 0.0001). After adjusting for age, gender, and severity of depression at baseline, higher levels of perceived stress were significantly related to the presence of anger attacks (P < 0.0001; t = −4.103) as well as to atypical depression (P = 0.0013; t = 3.26).

Conclusion:  Out‐patients with MDD who are more irritable and/or present with atypical features have higher levels of perceived stress, indicating a potential reactive component to their depression.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and suicide: a review of possible associations
Authors: James A. , Lai F. H. , Dahl C.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  To review the evidence of a possible association between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and suicide.

Design:  We searched the electronic data bases: Medline, Psych LIT, between 1966 and March 2003 looking for articles on ADHD, attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity and suicide.

Results:  An association of ADHD and completed suicide was found, especially for younger males. However, the evidence for any direct or independent link was modest with an overall suicide rate from long‐term follow‐up studies of ADHD of 0.63–0.78%. The estimated relative risk ratio, compared with US national suicide rates (males 5–24 years) is 2.91 (95% confidence interval 1.47–5.7, χ2 = 9.3, d.f. = 1, P = 0.002). ADHD appears to increase the risk of suicide in males via increasing severity of comorbid conditions, particularly conduct disorder (CD) and depression.

Conclusion:  Identification of those at risk, particularly males with comorbid ADHD, depression and CD, may represent a useful clinical means of reducing completed suicide.
Stressful life events as predictors of functioning: findings from the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study
Authors: Pagano M. E. , Skodol A. E. , Stout R. L. , Shea M. T. , Yen S. , Grilo C. M. , Sanislow C. A. , Bender D. S. , McGlashan T. H. , Zanarini M. C. , Gunderson J. G.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  Although much attention has been given to the effects of adverse childhood experiences on the development of personality disorders (PDs), we know far less about how recent life events influence the ongoing course of functioning. We examined the extent to which PD subjects differ in rates of life events and the extent to which life events impact psychosocial functioning.

Method:  A total of 633 subjects were drawn from the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study (CLPS), a multi‐site study of four personality disorders – schizotypal (STPD), borderline (BPD), avoidant (AVPD), obsessive‐compulsive (OCPD) – and a comparison group of major depressive disorders (MDD) without PD.

Results:  Borderline personality disorder subjects reported significantly more total negative life events than other PDs or subjects with MDD. Negative events, especially interpersonal events, predicted decreased psychosocial functioning over time.

Conclusion:  Our findings indicate higher rates of negative events in subjects with more severe PDs and suggest that negative life events adversely impact multiple areas of psychosocial functioning.
Rates of lifetime suicide attempt and rates of lifetime major depression in different ethnic groups in the United States
Authors: Oquendo M. A. , Lizardi D. , Greenwald S. , Weissman M. M. , Mann J. J.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  Rates of major depression and suicide vary across ethnic groups within the US. This also may be true of suicide attempts.

Method:  Data on lifetime suicidal behavior and major depression among Mexican American, Cuban American, and Puerto Rican adults who participated in the Hispanic Health and Nutrition Epidemiologic Survey were pooled with Epidemiological Catchment Area Study data for Blacks, Whites and Hispanics.

Results:  Rates of major depression ranged from 9.3 (Puerto Ricans) to 3.24% (Cuban Americans). Puerto Ricans and whites had the highest rates of depression. Similarly, suicide attempt rates ranged from 9.1% for Puerto Ricans to 1.9% for Cuban Americans. Puerto Ricans had higher suicide attempt rates compared with other groups.

Conclusion:  This study underscores that there are differences between Hispanic ethnic groups. The impact of the migration process, socioeconomic status, and acculturation may underlie differences in major depression and suicide attempt rates across ethnic groups.
Antidepressants and suicidal behaviour in unipolar depression
Authors: Yerevanian B. I. , Koek R. J. , Feusner J. D. , Hwang S. , Mintz J.
Published: November 2004

Objective:  To compare the rates of suicidal behaviour during vs. after discontinuation of treatment with antidepressants, and to determine the comparative rates of suicidal behaviour for patients maintained on tricyclic (TCA) vs. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants.

Method:  Charts were reviewed for 521 patients with major depressive disorder and/or dysthymic disorder. Periods of active treatment or discontinuation with SSRIs or TCAs were determined. Rates of completed suicide, suicide attempts, and hospitalization for suicidality were analyzed.

Results:  There was greater than a five‐fold increase in risk for suicidal behaviour after discontinuation of antidepressant treatment (P < 0.0001). The rates of suicidal behavior during treatment with SSRIs or TCAs were similar.

Conclusion:  Suicidal behaviour in unipolar depressed patients treated with antidepressants increases substantially after medication discontinuation. This effect occurred in both patients who were maintained on SSRIs and TCAs. The findings support a possible protective effect on suicidal behaviour for both SSRIs and TCAs.
Specific antibodies to mouse Sca‐1‐ (Ly‐6A/E) or Thy‐1‐positive haematopoietic progenitor cells induce formation of nitric oxide which inhibits subsequent colony formation
Authors: Bøyum Arne , Fjerdingstad Hege B. , Tennfjord Vivi‐Ann , Benestad Haakon B. , Løvhaug Dagfinn
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Mouse bone marrow cells were exposed to specific monoclonal antibodies, so that lineage positive (Lin+) cells could be removed with magnetic beads. The Lin− cells were cultured with Sca‐1 or CD90 (Thy‐1) monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) in semi‐solid medium for 7 d. We found that Sca‐1 MoAb suppressed colony formation (20–30%), and the effect was largely abolished by N‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME), an inhibitor of nitric oxide (NO) synthase. Similar results were obtained with antibodies to CD90. The findings suggest that the unknown physiological ligands to Sca‐1 and Thy‐1 markers on haematopoietic progenitor cells can inhibit colony formation, with NO as a pivotal mediator. Primitive progenitors may be a primary target of this Sca‐1 ligand, as the Sca‐1+ cell population contains the major part of the multipotent haematopoietic stem cells.
Recommendations on haematological criteria for the diagnosis of epoetin‐induced pure red cell aplasia
Authors: Casadevall Nicole , Cournoyer Denis , Marsh Judith , Messner Hans , Pallister Chris , Parker‐Williams John , Rossert Jérôme
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare condition characterised by an arrest in red blood cell production, which may be congenital or acquired. Recombinant human erythropoietin (epoetin) was introduced in 1989 for the treatment of anaemia of chronic kidney disease patients and has maintained an excellent therapeutic and safety record while treating hundreds of thousands of patients. A very rare, but serious adverse event associated with epoetin administration is a condition in which patients develop neutralising anti‐erythropoietin antibodies and, consequently, PRCA. This condition is referred to as epoetin‐induced PRCA (epo‐PRCA). Since it is a rare condition, many haematologists and nephrologists around the world see the condition infrequently and may be uncertain about the diagnosis. For this reason, an ad hoc international working group of expert haematologists and nephrologists met together to derive new recommendations for the haematological diagnosis of epo‐PRCA. These recommendations, which represent the consensus opinions of the working group, address haematological approaches to monitor and investigate suspected epo‐PRCA and should help physicians differentiate between PRCA and other bone marrow diseases, as well as, between PRCA and epo‐PRCA.
3‐D Structure of Multilaminar Lysosomes in Antigen Presenting Cells Reveals Trapping of MHC II on the Internal Membranes
Authors: Murk Jean‐Luc A. N. , Lebbink Misjaël N. , Humbel Bruno M. , Geerts Willie J. C. , Griffith Janice M. , Langenberg Dennis M. L. , Verreck Frank A. W. , Verkleij Arie J. , Koster Abraham J. , Geuze Hans J. , Kleijmeer Monique J.
Published: November 2004

In late endosomes and lysosomes of antigen presenting cells major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) molecules bind peptides from degraded internalized pathogens. These compartments are called MHC class II compartments (MIICs), and from here peptide‐loaded MHC II is transported to the cell surface for presentation to helper T‐lymphocytes to generate an immune response. Recent studies from our group in mouse dendritic cells indicate that the MHC class II on internal vesicles of multivesicular late endosomes or multivesicular bodies is the main source of MHC II at the plasma membrane. We showed that dendritic cell activation triggers a back fusion mechanism whereby MHC II from the inner membranes is delivered to the multivesicular bodies' outer membrane. Another type of MIIC in B‐lymphocytes and dendritic cells is more related to lysosomes and often appears as a multilaminar organelle with abundant MHC II‐enriched internal membrane sheets. These multilaminar lysosomes have a functioning peptide‐loading machinery, but to date it is not clear whether peptide‐loaded MHC II molecules from the internal membranes can make their way to the cell surface and contribute to T cell activation. To obtain detailed information on the membrane organization of multilaminar lysosomes and investigate possible escape routes from the lumen of this organelle, we performed electron tomography on cryo‐immobilized B‐lymphocytes and dendritic cells. Our high‐resolution 3‐D reconstructions of multilaminar lysosomes indicate that their membranes are organized in such a way that MHC class II may be trapped on the inner membranes, without the possibility to escape to the cell surface.
Location, Location, Location: Trafficking and Function of Secreted Proteases of Toxoplasma and Plasmodium
Authors: Binder Emily M. , Kim Kami
Published: November 2004

The Apicomplexan parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium species are obligate intracellular parasites that rely upon unique secretory organelles for invasion and other specialized functions. Data is emerging that proteases are critical for the biogenesis of micronemes and rhoptries, regulated secretory organelles reminiscent of dense core granules and secretory lysosomes of higher eukaryotes. Proteases targeted to the Plasmodium food vacuole, a unique organelle dedicated to hemoglobin degradation, are also critical to parasite survival. Thus study of the targeting and function of the proteases of the Apicomplexa provides a fascinating model system to understand regulated secretion and secretory organelle biogenesis.
Post‐traumatic use of dental implants to rehabilitate anterior maxillary teeth
Authors: Schwartz‐Arad Devorah , Levin Liran
Published: November 2004

Abstract –  The treatment sequel of post‐traumatic teeth for the use of dental implants in the anterior maxillary region to rehabilitate anterior maxillary missing teeth was evaluated. Files of 53 healthy patients reporting anterior dental trauma were reviewed. All patients had an anterior maxillary dental implant because of tooth loss after trauma. At initial examination, 18 patients (34%) had root canal treatment and an inflammatory lesion, 15 (28.3%) had a missing tooth on admission, 12 (22.6%) had a prior operation (i.e. root‐end surgery or crown lengthening), 4 (7.5%) presented an ankylotic root, and 4 (7.5%) had a root remnant not suitable for rehabilitation, with no inflammatory periapical lesion. Treatment sequences and complications were recorded. Augmentation procedure (i.e. onlay bone graft or guided bone regeneration) was performed in 43 patients (81.1%), and 2 patients (3.8%) had orthodontic extrusion prior to tooth extraction and implantation. Implants were placed immediately in 25 patients (47.2%) and 4 (7.5%) had immediate loading at the time of implantation. Complications and postoperative incidents (fistula, inflammation, swelling hematoma, etc.) were observed in 24 patients (45.3%). There was no difference in complication and postoperative incident rates with regards to the implantation technique. Complications were found at the prosthetic phase in seven patients (13.2%; six fistula and one implant failure). When patients were divided into two groups, with and without an inflammatory lesion, a significantly lower complication and postoperative incident rate were found in the non‐inflammatory group (P = 0.057). This study reaffirmed the necessity for scrupulous diagnosis of teeth and alveolar bone after a traumatic injury. Treatment is multidisciplinary, requiring surgical, orthodontic, endodontic, operative, and prosthetic compliance. A specially designed treatment plan for each patient is necessary. General rules do not apply.
Linking traditional treatments of maternal anaemia to iron supplement use: an ethnographic case study from Pemba Island, Zanzibar
Authors: Young Sera L. , Ali Said M.
Published: November 2004

Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common form of malnutrition in the world. Pregnant women are particularly at risk for anaemia. Insufficient attention has been paid to the reasons underlying the only moderate success of iron supplementation. In this article an additional factor that can affect the use of iron supplements is proposed: their relevance to ‘traditional’ or nonbiomedical treatments of anaemia. This paper represents what is to our knowledge the first ethnographic description of nonbiomedical treatments for maternal anaemia. The research was conducted over several months on Pemba, one of the islands of the Zanzibar archipelago. Data were collected using a variety of qualitative methods, including in‐depth interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation. Informants included 25 mothers and 27 traditional and biomedical health care workers. The resulting ethnography elucidates Pembans’ beliefs about the relationship of food, traditional medicine, spirits and biomedical medicine in relation to anaemia. In the analysis of the ethnography, both anthropology and public health perspectives are incorporated to suggest how the understanding of these beliefs is useful for increasing iron supplement use.
Enterobacter sakazakii and other bacteria in powdered infant milk formula
Authors: Forsythe Stephen J.
Published: November 2004

Recently there has been considerable concern related to the presence of bacteria, in particular Enterobacter sakazakii, in powdered infant formula milk. This paper considers the bacteria in these products at point of sale, with reference to current microbiological testing and the need for good hygienic practice in their subsequent preparation before feeding. The ingestion of raised numbers of E. sakazakii resulting from temperature abuse after reconstitution is highlighted as well as the uncertain routes of E. sakazakii product contamination.
Mechanotransduction in spider slit sensilla
Authors: French Andrew S , Torkkeli Päivi H
Published: November 2004

Mechanoreception is a vital constituent of several sensory modalities and a wide range of internal regulatory processes, but fundamental mechanisms for neural detection of mechanical stimuli have been difficult to characterize because of the morphological properties of most mechanoreceptors and the nature of the stimulus itself. An invertebrate preparation, the VS-3 lyriform slit sense organ of the spider, Cupiennius salei, has proved useful because it possesses large mechanosensory neurons, whose cell bodies are close to the sites of sensory transduction, and accessible to intracellular recording during mechanotransduction. This has made it possible to observe and experiment with all the major stages of mechanosensation. Here, we describe several important findings from this preparation, including the estimated number, conductance and ionic selectivity of the ion channels responsible for mechanotransduction, the major voltage-activated ion channels responsible for action potential encoding and control of the dynamic properties of the neurons, the location of action potential initiation following mechanical stimulation, and the efferent control of mechanoreception. While many details of mechanosensation remain to be discovered, the VS-3 system continues to offer important opportunities to advance our understanding of this crucial physiological process.Key words: mechanosensation, noise analysis, sensory adaptation, encoding, dendritic conduction, efferent control, peripheral modulation.