bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional‐seismic coherency signature of Niger Delta growth faults: integrating sedimentology and tectonics
Authors: Back S. , Höcker C. , Brundiers M. B. , Kukla P. A.
Published: September 2010

This case study of growth faults and associated deltaic sedimentation in the shallow‐offshore Niger Delta uses an integrated analysis of three‐dimensional (3D)‐seismic coherence facies and wireline data that supports an evaluation of the sedimentary response to delta tectonics. The study area comprises four fault blocks bounded by a set of kilometre‐scale, basinward‐dipping, synsedimentary normal faults. Correlation of highly variable growth stratigraphy across faults was achieved by a systematic visualization and interpretation of series of coherence horizon‐slices: the detection and matching of erosive and depositional patterns (e.g. channels) across faults allowed the establishment of sedimentology‐controlled links between diverse footwall and hanging‐wall growth successions. At the same time, this interpretation approach helped to visualize seismic‐sedimentological and seismic‐geomorphological features survey‐wide at all depth levels. The integration of this extensive 3D database with lithology information from wireline logs provides a powerful tool for subsurface sedimentology interpretation.

Synoptic analysis of the 3D‐seismic sedimentology interpretation with stratigraphy based fault‐kinematic analysis using throw vs. depth plots (Th–Z plots) enabled a discussion of the relation between delta tectonics and sedimentary‐system development, and the evaluation of the Th–Z method for subsurface‐lithology prediction. The interpretation results document that both motion analysis of synsedimentary deltaic faults and Th–Z‐based lithology prediction are only feasible when supported by detailed 3D information on palaeoenvironment and palaeotopography at and around studied fault systems. We therefore recommend the use of fast‐track fault‐kinematic and subsurface‐lithology predictions based on Th–Z plots only when supported by comprehensive 3D seismic‐sedimentological interpretations.
Morphometric and Kinetic Studies On the Changes Induced In the Intestinal Mucosa of Rats By Intraperitoneal Administration of Quinacrine
Authors: Senior P. V. , Sunter J. P. , Appleton D. R. , Watson A. J.
Published: September 2010

The intraperitoneal administration of large doses of quinacrine in rats results in a state of enteromegaly affecting mainly the distal small bowel, caecum and proximal colon. This enteromegaly is associated with mucosal crypt hyperplasia, and hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the Muscularis propria. In order to investigate the changes in the intestinal mucosal crypts, morphometry and a metaphase‐arrest experiment with vincristine were undertaken on a group of rats given 12 mg of quinacrine hydrochloride by intraperitoneal injection daily for 5 days 2 weeks previously, and comparisons drawn with a group of control animals.

In the quinacrine‐treated animals there was marked enteromegaly affecting the distal small bowel, caecum and proximal colon, and in these segments there was clear crypt hyperplasia. Proximal and distal to the dilated bowel hyperplasia was not seen. No consistent pattern of change in crypt‐cell birth rate was evident. the mechanisms by which quinacrine may effect kinetic and morphometric changes in the intestinal crypts are considered.
Circadian‐Stage Dependence of Methotrexate In A Keratinized Epithelium. an in‐vivo Study Using Flow Cytometry On the Hamster Cheek Pouch Epithelium
Authors: Møller Ulla , Larsen Jørgen Knud , Keiding Niels , Christensen Ib Jarle
Published: September 2010

The partially synchronized cell system of the hamster cheek pouch epithelium shows a characteristic diurnal rhythm of cell proliferation. Bolus injections of methotrexate (Mtx) in both lethal (10 g/m2) and non‐lethal (2 g/m2) doses were found to inhibit cell‐cycle progression primarily by impairing the G1/S transition. the results were obtained by flow cytometric DNA analysis. the inhibitory effect of Mtx manifested itself as a relative decrease of the S fraction (drug‐effector phase), and was found to be dependent both on the dose and on the time of the day it was given. A bolus injection of Mtx was given either at 1200 hr (when a minimal number of cells are in S phase) or at 0200 hr (when a maximum number of cells are in S phase). the greatest cumulative decrease in S fraction was seen when the injection was given at 1200 hr. the time between injection and the effect (seen as a decrease in S fraction) was independent of the time of the Mtx injection, but seemed instead to be related to the natural diurnal period of increasing flux from G1 to S phase (at the onset of the dark period). the main effect (the relative decrease in S fraction) was repeated during the following 24‐hr period, pointing to a protracted effect of Mtx on G1 cells. G1 cells affected by the initial high Mtx plasma concentration seem to be responsible for the reduced influx into S phase in both the first and second 24‐hr period. In earlier toxicological studies, the survival rate of hamsters was dependent on the time of injection and was highest after injection at 1200 hr. Thus maximum cytokinetic effect on epithelial cells was found at the time of the day when there was a minimum lethal effect on the animal.
Effect of Methotrexate On Cells In A Keratinized Epithelium With an Active Thymidine Salvage Pathway Assessed By Autoradiography*
Authors: Møller Ulla , Keiding Niels , Larsen Jörgen Knud
Published: September 2010

In the partially synchronized cell system of the hamster cheek pouch epithelium, the inhibitory effect of a bolus injection of methotrexate (Mtx) (2 g/m2, injected at 1200 hr) was analysed by means of both autoradiography and flow cytometry (FCM) in a 21‐hr experiment. For autoradiography [3H]TdR and [3H]UdR were used as tracers for salvage andde nouopathways of thymidylate (TMP) synthesis, respectively. For FCM no tracers were injected. the autoradiographic studies demonstrated an active TdR salvage pathway for DNA synthesis, not affected by the impairedde novoTMP synthesis. the blockedde novoTMP synthesis was partially released 7 hr after Mtx injection, but it had not totally recovered at the end of the experiment. the decrease in the fraction of S‐phase cells detected about 10 hr after Mtx injection by autoradiographic labelling with [3H]TdR and by FCM was found to be caused by a decrease in the number of cells entering S phase. However, Mtx did not influence the salvage TMP synthesis rate of cells entering S phase.)
Liver Cell Hyperplasia: On the Suitability of Using the Metaphase‐ Arrest Technique
Authors: Alabi J. A. , Alison M. R.
Published: September 2010

This study has explored the possibility of applying the metaphase‐arrest method with colchicine to two models of induced liver growth in the rat, regenerative growth and phenobarbital‐induced growth. At a dosage of 0.5 mg/kg body weight (BW), colchicine caused a linear accumulation of mitoses for up to 90 min when administered at 3 days after the start of phenobarbital treatment; however these mitoses included a number of anaphases and telophases. No anaphase escape was seen when this dose of colchicine was given at various times after partial hepatectomy, though the arrested mitoses were invariably more fragmented and some may have even degenerated beyond recognition as early as 90 min after injection. It is concluded that the optimal dose of stathmokinetic agent is heavily dependent on the relative liver weight, and thus would change continuously during compensatory hyperplasia.
Aspects of Statistics In Studies of Cell Proliferation
Authors: Appleton David R.
Published: September 2010

In cell kinetic experiments, as in many other branches of biological science, we often sample at various stages of an experiment: we may for example take a sample of animals, then from each study a sample of sites, and from each site take replicate observations. This sampling process can be optimized to give maximum precision to an estimated quantity, but care must be taken in analysing data so gathered because the analysis depends on the precise sampling strategy.
Human CD34+ stem cells produce bone nodules in vivo
Authors: Graziano A. , D’Aquino R. , Laino G. , Proto A. , Giuliano M. T. , Pirozzi G. , De Rosa A. , Di Napoli D. , Papaccio G.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  Objectives: The aim of this study was to select and provide enough stem cells for quick transplantation in bone engineering procedures, avoiding any in vitro expansion step. Materials and Methods: Dental germ pulp, collected from 25 healthy subjects aged 13–20 years, were subjected to magnetic‐activated cell sorting to select a CD34+ stem cell population capable of differentiating into pre‐osteoblasts. These cells were allowed to adhere to an absorbable polylactic–coglycolic acid scaffold for 30 min, without any prior expansion, and the CD34+ cell‐colonized scaffolds were then transplanted into immunocompromised rats, subcutaneously. Results: After 60 days, analysis of recovered transplants revealed that they were formed of nodules of bone, of the same dimensions as the original scaffold. Bone‐specific proteins were detected by immunofluorescence, within the nodules, and X‐ray diffraction patterns revealed characteristic features of bone. In addition, presence of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule and von Willebrand factor immunoreactivity were suggestive of neo‐angiogenesis and neovasculogenesis taking place within nodules. Importantly, these vessels were HLA‐1+ and, thus, clearly human in origin. Conclusions: This study indicates that CD34+ cells obtained from dental pulp can be used for engineering bone, without the need for prior culture expanding procedures. Using autologous stem cells, this schedule could be used to provide the basis for bone regenerative surgery, with limited sacrifice of tissue, low morbidity at the collection site, and significant reduction in time needed for clinical recovery.
Knocking‐down the expression of nucleostemin significantly decreases rate of proliferation of rat bone marrow stromal stem cells in an apparently p53‐independent manner
Authors: Jafarnejad S. M. , Mowla S. J. , Matin M. M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  Objectives: Nucleostemin (NS) is a recently identified GTP‐binding protein, predominantly expressed in embryonic and adult stem cells but not in terminally differentiated cells. NS is expressed in bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells, and its expression ceases upon induction of neural differentiation. The major aim of this study was to determine whether down‐regulation of NS expression acts as a promoter, or otherwise as a by‐product of differentiation and senescence processes. Materials and methods: We used RNA interference protocols to specifically knock down NS in rat bone marrow‐derived stromal stem cells. Changes in rate of proliferation and cell cycle profile after knocking‐down of NS were measured. In addition, changes in expression of associated genes were studied by semiquantitative RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunocytochemistery. Results: Knocked‐down expression of NS caused a significant decrease in the rate of cell proliferation with concomitant shutting off of expression of cyclin D1 and survivin, two other well‐known regulators of cell proliferation. Interestingly, we noticed no obvious changes in expression level of p21, the main effector of p53 for its cell cycle repressing function. Conclusion: Our findings revealed a master role for NS in promoting proliferation of rat bone marrow‐derived stromal stem cells. Moreover, we suggest that despite previous proposals, the cell cycle arrest/inhibitory role of NS is unlikely to be related to its proposed property of interaction with p53.
Involvement of PKC‐ι in glioma proliferation
Authors: Patel R. , Win H. , Desai S. , Patel K. , Matthews J. A. , Acevedo‐Duncan M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  Atypical protein kinase C‐iota (PKC‐ι) protects cells against apoptosis and may play a role in cell proliferation. However, in vivo, the status and function of PKC‐ι in human normal brain tissue, gliomas, benign and malignant meningiomas as well as its in vitro status in proliferating and confluent glioma cells, remains unknown. Objectives: The objectives of our research were to determine whether expression of PKC‐ι is altered either in gliomas or in benign and malignant meningiomas, compared to normal brain. In addition, we wished to establish the expression of PKC‐ι in proliferating plus in cell cycle‐arrested glioma cell lines, as well as the relationship between PKC‐ι siRNA on PKC‐ι protein content and cell proliferation. Materials and Methods: Western blot analyses for PKC‐ι were performed on 12 normal brain biopsies, 15 benign meningiomas, three malignant meningiomas and three gliomas. Results: Results demonstrated no (n = 9) or very weak (n = 3) detection of PKC‐ι in normal brain tissue. In comparison, PKC‐ι was robustly present in the majority of the benign meningiomas. Similarly, PKC‐ι was abundant in all malignant meningiomas and gliomas. Western blotting for PKC‐ι in confluent or proliferating glioma cell lines depicted substantial quantities of PKC‐ι in proliferating T98G and U‐138MG glioma cells. In contrast, confluent cells had either 71% (T98G) or 21% (U‐138MG) less PKC‐ι than proliferating cells. T98 and U‐138 MG glioma cells treated with 100 nm PKC‐ι siRNA had lower levels of cell proliferation compared to control siRNA‐A and complete down‐regulation of PKC‐ι protein content. Conclusion: These results support the concept that presence of PKC‐ι may be required for cell proliferation to take place.
Persistence of a chimerical phenotype after hepatocyte differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lysy P. A. , Campard D. , Smets F. , Malaise J. , Mourad M. , Najimi M. , Sokal E. M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  Objectives: Recent studies have suggested the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into a hepatocyte‐like lineage. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of hepatocyte differentiation of MSCs by studying acquisition of hepatocyte‐like features together with alteration of the native mesenchymal phenotype. Material and methods: In vitro, we have investigated protein and mRNA level expression of hepatocyte and mesenchymal markers of mesenchymal‐derived hepatocyte‐like cells (MDHLCs) and we have evaluated their functionality using metabolic assays. In vivo, we investigated co‐expression of hepatocyte (albumin, α‐foetoprotein, cytokeratin 18) and mesenchymal (fibronectin, vimentin) markers after transplantation of MSCs or MDHLCs into severe combined immune deficiency mice. Results: We observed that while in vitro these cells acquired some phenotypic and functional features of mature hepatocytes, they partially preserved their mesenchymal phenotype. After intrasplenic transplantation, engrafted MSCs with isolated expression of fibronectin and α‐foetoprotein were observed. When these cells were injected into the liver, they expressed all analysed markers, confirming the chimaeric co‐expression observed in vitro. Conversely, liver‐engrafted MDHLCs conserved their hepatocyte‐lineage markers but lost their chimaeric phenotype. Conclusions: Hepatocyte differentiation of MSCs predominantly allows the acquisition of phenotypic hallmarks and provides chimaeric cells that maintain expression of initial lineage markers. However, advanced maturation to the hepatocyte‐like phenotype could be obtained in vivo by conditioning MSCs prior to transplantation or by infusing cells into the liver micro‐environment.
Parthenotes as a source of embryonic stem cells
Authors: Brevini T. A. L. , Gandolfi F.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  The derivation and study of human embryonic stem cell lines, despite their potential therapeutic usefulness, raise considerable ethical, religious, legal and political concerns because it inevitably leads to the destruction of viable embryos. In an attempt to bridge the division between ethical questions and potential scientific and medical benefits, considerable efforts have been devoted to the search for alternative sources of pluripotent cell lines. In this review we discuss the use of artificial parthenogenesis as a way to create entities, called parthenotes, that may represent an alternative ethical source for pluripotent cell lines. We describe the biological differences between parthenotes and embryos, in order to provide a rationale for the discussion on whether their use can be acceptable as a source of stem cells. We present data derived from animal models on the extent parthenogenetic stem cells are similar to biparental cell lines and discuss these aspects in the context of their extension to the human species. Finally, we present experiments recently carried out in our laboratory that allowed us to generate human parthenotes through artificial activation of human oocytes and to use them as a source for the derivation of parthenogenetic pluripotent cell lines.
Stem cells and genetic disease
Authors: Mackay‐Sim A. , Silburn P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  Stem cell research is now a very broad field encompassing cells derived from all stages of life from the embryonic stem cells of the early blastocyst through to the adult stem cells of many tissues of the body. Adult stem cells from a variety of tissues are proving to be pluripotent and can differentiate into cell types different from the tissues from which they derive. Pre‐clinical animal models indicate that adult stem cells do not cause tumours, not even, teratomas when transplanted. These properties, combined with the possibility of autologous transplantation, indicate significant advantages over embryonic stem cells in many proposed clinical applications.
Potential for access to embryonic‐like cells from human umbilical cord blood
Authors: McGuckin C. P. , Forraz N.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  All too often media attention clouds the reality that there are many types of stem cell. The embryos, bone marrow and umbilical cord blood (UCB) are the three most used sources. However, despite what it would appear, embryonic stem cells have not been the first to yield life‐saving cures at present. Faster routes to clinical intervention have been using adult stem cells that can be sourced from bone marrow and from cord blood, and that are readily accessible and are more ethically acceptable to the general public. Both these non‐embryonic sources have been able to provide sufficient numbers of cells to allow development of clinical translational protocols. Bone marrow‐derived cells have been used successfully in myocardial infarct therapy where relining by endothelial tissue has allowed limited reperfusion to damaged cardiac tissue. UCB have also demonstrated significant success for around 20 years in haematotransplantation. With a global human population in excess of 6 billion, births thus UCB, remain the largest untouched source of stem cells available every year. UCB also provide a distinct advantage over other adult stem cells due to the length of the telomere and also due protected immunological status of the developing neonatal environment. The total mutation load in the UCB populations is clearly likely to be significant less than in adult tissues.
The problem of deception in embryonic stem cell research
Authors: Doerflinger R. M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract.  The field of embryonic stem cell research has been plagued by exaggeration and misrepresentation, as three major journals have had to retract significant claims about progress in this field. This problem is exacerbated by the politicized climate in which the research is conducted and defended; it may also lie deeper, in a utilitarian ethic that in principle could justify unethical actions for admittedly worthwhile long‐term goals. Such an ethic risks undermining the credibility of science, which must show a commitment to the facts that is independent of social and political goals.
Refocusing children’s services: evaluation of an initial assessment process
Authors: Platt
Published: September 2010

This paper describes a small scale evaluation carried out in a social services department in England. It was concerned with the impact of a pilot initial assessment process used by social workers with children in need. The pilot was, in part, an attempt to adopt the ‘refocusing’ agenda of the late 1990s, and the analysis is presented within this context. The research involved quantitative examination of 47 cases, and qualitative interviews with the social worker and main carer/parent in a subsample of 10. The results suggested a high level of consumer satisfaction with the assessment/family support approach, and very little evidence that the use of broadly based assessments where there are low‐key concerns about a child’s safety would be a dangerous form of practice. A wholehearted commitment to refocusing children’s services will, however, require attention to resourcing and management issues.
Preventing emotional and behavioural problems: the effectiveness of parenting programmes with children less than 3 years of age
Authors: Barlow J. , Parsons J. , Stewart‐Brown S.
Published: September 2010

Background  Emotional and behavioural problems in children under 3 years of age have a high prevalence, and parenting practices have been shown to be strongly associated with their development. A number of recent systematic reviews have shown that group‐based parenting programmes can be effective in improving the emotional and behavioural adjustment of older children (aged 3–10 years). The aim of this review was to establish whether there is evidence from controlled trials that group‐based parenting programmes are effective in improing the emotional and behavioural adjustment of children less than 3 years of age, and their role in the primary prevention of emotional and behavioural problems.

Methods  English and non‐English language articles published between January 1970 and July 2001 were retrieved using a keyword search of a number of electronic databases.

Results  Five studies were included and two meta‐analyses were conducted, the first combining data from parent reports and the second combining data from independent observations of children's behaviour. The combined parent reports showed a non‐significant difference favouring the intervention group, while the combined independent observations showed a significant difference favouring the intervention group.

Conclusion  It is concluded that this review points to the potential of parenting programmes to improve the emotional and behavioural adjustment of children less than 3 years of age, but that there is insufficient evidence from controlled trials to assess whether the short‐term benefit is maintained over time, or the role that such programmes might play in the primary prevention of emotional and behavioural problems. This review points to the need for further primary preventive research on this important public health issue.
Development of a questionnaire to collect public health data for school entrants in London: Child Health Assessment at School Entry (CHASE) project
Authors: Edmunds S. , Haines L. , Blair M.
Published: September 2010

Background  To develop a multiprofessional consensus about the relative contributions of the components of children's health and well‐being and to develop a questionnaire that can be used to assess these in London's children.

Methods  Semi‐structured interviews with health, education and social services professionals were used to identify areas to include in the questionnaire. These ideas were used as the basis for a wider Delphi consultation, with 79 experts in the area of child health. Round 1 of the Delphi asked panellists to rate 54 items as to whether they should be included in the questionnaire or not. Responses were divided into four categories: item to be included measurement method agreed, item to be included measurement method not agreed, no consensus, or excluded. In round 2, consensus was sought for the categories where there was none following round 1.

Results  Themes identified by the interviews were: economic factors, ethnicity, environment, nutrition, hygiene and physical activity, growth, suffers from chronic/serious illness, development, disability and learning, accidents and hospital attendances, self‐regulation, psychological well‐being, significant life events. After Delphi round 1, items included, where quality measurement method was agreed, were: deprivation index (from postcode), child's ethnicity, temporary accommodation, care status, registered with general practitioner, dental visits, height, weight, special educational needs status, baseline educational assessment result, immunization status, visual and hearing function. Following round 2, items relating to chronic illness, mental health, physical functioning, general health, self‐esteem, family cohesion and accident status were agreed for inclusion with a measurement method also agreed. The questionnaire was acceptable to parents.

Conclusion  The validity, reliability and feasibility of this questionnaire must now be examined. This data set, if collected across London, would substantially increase the public health data available and allow trends in health to be monitored.
Socially unbiased parenting support on the Internet: a cross‐sectional study of users of a large Swedish parenting website
Authors: Sarkadi A. , Bremberg S.
Published: September 2010

Background  The Internet is becoming increasingly recognized as a source of social support. Parents of children with cancer and autism have been shown to find social support online, and many parents of healthy infants and children seek information about parenting online. However, access and use of the Internet is greater among socio‐economically advantaged groups, a phenomenon known as the ‘digital divide’. Our aim was to investigate whether users of a Swedish general parenting website perceived support in the parenting role and, if so, whether this support was socially biased because of the digital divide phenomenon.

Methods  Users of the largest Swedish parenting website were asked to participate in the study. A total of 2221 users completed the anonymous survey posted on the website during a one‐week period.

Results  Most respondents (95%) were female (mean age 30.6 years). Respondents’ educational level was slightly, but not significantly, higher than that in the general population, whereas 68% had income levels at or under the national average, contradicting the intuitive hypothesis that users would be socio‐economically privileged. Perceived social support, measured by the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL) appraisal subscale, indicated high perceived support. Living without a partner and having lower levels of income and education increased perceived support. The perception that other parents’ opinions are more valuable than the advice of experts was influential in the regression equation for ISEL scores, indicating that peer help is important in online social support.

Conclusions  Internet use for general parenting issues in Sweden, mainly by women, does not seem to follow the digital divide phenomenon. Therefore, the internet provides an exciting opportunity for future infant and child public health work. The lack of fathers, however, was a surprising finding and introduces a gender bias into this seemingly socially unbiased medium.
Cancers and immune related diseases associated with Down's syndrome: a record linkage study
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

Objective  To determine the risk of cancers and selected immune‐related diseases in people with Down's syndrome, relative to risk in other people.

Design  Cohort analysis of a linked dataset of abstracts of hospital and death records; results expressed as the ratios of rates of disease in people with and without Down's syndrome.

Setting  The former Oxford health region, England, 1963–1999.

Subjects  Cohort of 1453 people with Down's syndrome and cohort of 460 000 people with other conditions for comparison.

Main outcomes  As expected, the rate ratio for leukaemia was substantially elevated in people with Down's syndrome: it was 19‐fold higher (95% confidence intervals 10.4–31.5) than the rate in the comparison cohort. For other cancers combined, excluding leukaemia, the rate ratio was not significantly elevated (1.2; 0.6–2.2). The risk of testicular cancer was increased (12.0; 2.5–35.6), although this was based on only three cases in the cohort of subjects with Down's syndrome. Significantly, elevated risks were found for coeliac disease (4.7; 1.3–12.2), acquired hypothyroidism (9.4; 3.4, 20.5), other thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes mellitus (2.8; 1.0–6.1). A decreased risk was found for asthma (0.4; 0.2–0.6).

Conclusions  Our data add to the body of information on the risks of co‐morbidity in people with Down's syndrome. The finding on asthma needs to be confirmed or refuted by other studies.
Diagnosing and treating attentional difficulties: a nationwide survey
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

Aims  To ascertain from paediatricians and child psychiatrists their views regarding the aetiology, assessment and diagnosis of attentional difficulties in children, and the prescribing of stimulant medication for such difficulties.

Methods  Using a questionnaire devised by the authors, 465 paediatricians and 444 child psychiatrists were surveyed.

Results  The overall response rate was 73%. Some 94% of child psychiatrists and 29% of paediatricians routinely dealt with attentional difficulties. Views on aetiology, classification and diagnosis were varied. More than 60% of both groups were prepared to prescribe stimulant medication without a formal diagnosis being made. Co‐morbid conduct disorder and the views of other professionals and of parents have an impact on practice.

Conclusions  This survey demonstrates that there is a range of approaches to attentional difficulties by both paediatricians and child psychiatrists.
Association between parental depression and children's health care use
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

.
 
Sills M.R.,
Shetterly S.,
Xu S.,
Magid D. &
Kempe A.
(
2007
)

,
119
,
e829
–
e836
.
 
DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006‐2399.

Objective  The objective of this study was to determine the association between parental depression and paediatric health care use patterns.

Methods  We selected all children who were 0–17 years of age, enrolled in Kaiser Permanente of Colorado during the study period July 1997 to December 2002, and linked to at least 1 parent/subscriber who was enrolled for at least 6 months during that period. Unexposed children were selected from a pool of children whose parents did not have a depression diagnosis. Outcome measures were derived from the child's payment files and electronic medical charts and included 5 categories of use: well‐child‐care visits, sick visits to primary care departments, specialty clinic visits, emergency department visits, and inpatient visits. We compared the rate of use per enrolment month for these 5 categories between exposed and unexposed children within each of the 5 age strata.

Results  Our study population had 24 391 exposed and 45 274 age‐matched, unexposed children. For the outcome of well‐child‐care visits, teenagers showed decreased rates of visits among exposed children. The rate of specialty department visits was higher in exposed children in the 4 oldest age groups. The rates of both emergency department visits and sick visits to primary care departments were higher for exposed children across all 5 age categories. The rate of inpatient visits was higher among exposed children in 2 of the 5 age groups.

Conclusions  Overall, having at least 1 depressed parent is associated with greater rate of emergency department and sick visits across all age groups, greater use of inpatient and specialty services in some age groups, and a lower rate of well‐child‐care visits among 13‐ to 17‐year‐olds. This pattern of increased use of expensive resources and decreased use of preventive services represents one of the hidden costs of adult depression.
Effectiveness of universal school‐based programs to prevent violent and aggressive behaviour: a systematic review
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

.
 
Hahn R.,
Fuqua‐Whitley D.,
Wethington H.,
Lowy J.,
Crosby A.,
Fullilove M.,
Johnson R.,
Liberman A.,
Moscicki E.,
Price L.,
Snyder S.,
Tuma F.,
Cory S.,
Stone G.,
Mukhopadhaya K.,
Chattopadhyay S. &
Dahlberg L.
(
2007
)

,
33
(
Suppl. 2)
,
S114
–
S129
.
 
DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2007.04.012.
Healing of hymenal injuries in prepubertal and adolescent girls: a descriptive study
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

.
 
McCann J.,
Miyamoto S.,
Boyle C. &
Rogers K.
(
2007
)

,
119
,
e1094
–
e1106
.
 
DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006‐0964.

Objective  The objective of this study was to identify the healing process and outcome of hymenal injuries in prepubertal and adolescent girls.

Methods  This multicentre, retrospective project used photographs to document the healing process and outcome of hymenal trauma that was sustained by 239 prepubertal and pubertal girls whose ages ranged from 4 months to 18 years.

Results  The injuries that were sustained by the 113 prepubertal girls consisted of 21 accidental or noninflicted injuries, 73 secondary to abuse, and 19 ‘unknown cause’ injuries. All 126 pubertal adolescents were sexual assault victims. The hymenal injuries healed at various rates and except for the deeper lacerations left no evidence of the previous trauma. Abrasions and ‘mild’ submucosal haemorrhages disappeared within 3–4 days, whereas ‘marked’ haemorrhages persisted for 11–15 days. Only petechiae and blood blisters proved to be ‘markers’ for determining the approximate age of an injury. Petechiae resolved within 48 h in the prepubertal girls and 72 h in the adolescents. A blood blister was detected at 34 days in an adolescent. As lacerations healed, their observed depth became shallower and their configuration smoothed out. Of the girls who sustained ‘superficial’, ‘intermediate,’ or ‘deep’ lacerations, 15 of 18 prepubertal girls had smooth and continuous appearing hymenal rims, whereas 24 of 41 adolescents' hymens had a normal, ‘scalloped’ appearance and 30 of 34 had no disruption of continuity on healing. The final ‘width’ of a hymenal rim was dependent on the initial depth of the laceration. No scar tissue formation was observed in either group of girls.

Conclusions  The hymenal injuries healed rapidly and except for the more extensive lacerations left no evidence of a previous injury. There were no significant differences in the healing process and the outcome of the hymenal injuries in the 2 groups of girls.
The effects of television advertisements for junk food versus nutritious food on children's food attitudes and preferences
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

.
 
Dixon H.G.,
Scully M.L.,
Wakefield M.A.,
White V.M. &
Crawford D.A.
(
2007
)

,
65
,
1311
–
1323
.
 
DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.05.011.
An evaluation of UK secondary data sources for the study of childhood obesity, physical activity and diet
Authors: Pearce A. , Jenkins R. , Kirk C. , Law C.
Published: September 2010

Background  This study assesses the potential of secondary datasets for measuring recent and future trends in childhood obesity, physical activity and diet in the UK, at national, regional and sub‐regional levels, and in relation to inequalities.

Methods  Relevant datasets were identified using online searches; they were excluded if they had low sample sizes, were assembled prior to 1990 or on only one occasion, were not potentially accessible, or were limited to a specific population. Remaining datasets were assessed according to content, sampling frame and size, timing and ability to be used to assess inequalities and regional trends.

Results  A total of 96 datasets were identified, but only 11 had the potential to be used to assess trends. Eight of these contained data on physical activity, 8 on diet and 3 on obesity. The period over which trends might be assessed varied from 2 years to over 10, with over half of the datasets expected to continue data collection into the future. Most had the potential to be used to assess inequalities and also regional and sub‐regional level trends, albeit with relatively small sample sizes. There were some limitations to the datasets, such as non‐objective measures of diet and physical activity and, in some, low response rates, which would require further consideration when utilizing individual datasets.

Conclusions  Awareness of the potential of secondary datasets for monitoring trends in childhood obesity should be raised, alongside the financial and intellectual capacity to enhance and exploit them.
Qualitative analysis of Coroners’ data into the unnatural deaths of children and adolescents
Authors: Valle V. , Gosney H. , Sinclair J.
Published: September 2010

Introduction  Unintentional injury and suicide are leading causes of death for adolescents, and reducing these is an important health priority. Coroners’ records provide a valuable source of information on the events leading up to the death of an individual, and analysis of these records may help our understanding of the causal pathway, and elucidate potential areas for intervention.

Method  All cases of unnatural death (poisoning, violence, unintentional injury) in young people aged 8–18 between 1996 and 2002 were identified from the death registers of one region in the UK. Data from Coroners’ inquests were analysed to determine cause of death and involvement of professional agencies. A thematic analysis of the transcripts of statements presented at inquests aimed to identify areas of concern in the time immediately prior to death.

Results  A total of 77 cases were identified of whom 16 (20.8%) died from alcohol/drug misuse, 20 (26%) by suicide or probable suicide and 41 (53.2%) by other injuries and poisoning. Thematic analysis highlighted: bullying, teenage sexualization and pregnancy, alcohol and substance misuse, reconstituted family difficulties and out of control behaviour as being significant factors on the causal pathway.

Conclusion  This study based on comprehensive data from one region highlights some of the difficulties faced by young people as they negotiate how to deal with complex emotions and relationships. It also demonstrates how some parents and carers are uncertain about how to address their concerns. Finally, it shows how mortality among young people could potentially be markedly reduced if availability of alcohol and illicit and prescribed substances were reduced.
Barriers to bicycle helmet use among Dutch paediatricians
Authors: Villamor E. , Hammer S. , Martinez‐Olaizola A.
Published: September 2010

Background  In the Netherlands, bicycle helmet wearing rates are very low and perceived social barriers to helmet use are important. We aimed to determine why Dutch paediatricians do or do not wear helmets while bicycling and whether their personal behaviour is influencing their position about the promotion of helmet use.

Methods  Attendants to the annual meeting of the Dutch Paediatric Society (7–9 November 2006) were surveyed about bicycle riding frequency, helmet use, reasons for not wearing a helmet, helmet use among their own children and personal position about the promotion and legislation of bicycle helmet use.

Results  Of the 1110 paediatricians who are active in the Netherlands, 258 answered the survey. Ninety‐six per cent of the respondents ride a bicycle (68% more than once a week). Bicycle was used as a mean of transport (32%), as a recreation/sport (11%) or with both purposes (57%). When cycling for transportation, 94% never wear a helmet and 2% always wear it. When cycling for recreation, 70% never wear a helmet and 18% always wear it. The most common reasons given for not wearing a helmet were: ‘I never thought about that’ (43%), ‘Poor appearance’ (31%), ‘Nobody uses it in the Netherlands’ (27%) and ‘Uncomfortable’ (25%). A majority (91%) of the respondents agreed that bicycle helmets are effective in reducing the rate of head injury to bicyclists and that they should be advised to children (82%) and adolescents (54%).

Conclusions  Our results indicate that among Dutch paediatricians, cycling rate is high and helmet wearing rate is very low and that they experience numerous personal barriers to bicycle helmet use. This might explain why bicycle helmet promotion campaigns are scarcely supported by Dutch paediatricians.
The impact of exposure to domestic violence on children and young people: a review of the literature
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: September 2010

Holt S.,
Buckley H. &
Whelan S.
(
2008
)

,
32
,
797
–
810
.

Objective  This article reviews the literature concerning the impact of exposure to domestic violence on the health and developmental well‐being of children and young people. Impact is explored across four separate yet interrelated domains (domestic violence exposure and child abuse, impact on parental capacity, impact on child and adolescent development and exposure to additional adversities), with potential outcomes and key messages concerning best practice responses to children's needs highlighted.

Method  A comprehensive search of identified databases was conducted within an 11‐year framework (1995–2006). This yielded a vast literature that was selectively organized and analysed according to the four domains identified above.

Results  This review finds that children and adolescents living with domestic violence are at increased risk of experiencing emotional, physical and sexual abuse, of developing emotional and behavioural problems and of increased exposure to the presence of other adversities in their lives. It also highlights a range of protective factors that can mitigate against this impact, in particular a strong relationship with and attachment to a caring adult, usually the mother.

Conclusion  Children and young people may be significantly affected by living with domestic violence, and impact can endure even after measures have been taken to secure their safety. It also concludes that there is rarely a direct causal pathway leading to a particular outcome and that children are active in constructing their own social world. Implications for interventions suggest that timely, appropriate and individually tailored responses need to build on the resilient blocks in the child's life.

Practice implications  This study illustrate the links between exposure to domestic violence, various forms of child abuse and other related adversities, concluding that such exposure may have a differential yet potentially deleterious impact for children and young people. From a resilient perspective this review also highlights range of protective factors that influence the extent of the impact of exposure and the subsequent outcomes for the child. This review advocates for a holistic and child‐centred approach to service delivery, derived from an informed assessment, designed to capture a picture of the individual child's experience and responsive to their individual needs.
TWENTY‐FOUR‐HOUR PROFILES OF GROWTH HORMONE, PROLACTIN AND CORTISOL IN THE CHRONIC VEGETATIVE STATE
Authors: VOGEL H.‐P. , KROLL M. , FRITSCHKA E. , QUABBE H.‐J.
Published: September 2010

The 24‐h profiles of growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL) and Cortisol were obtained from 11 patients in the chronic vegetative state in order to gain more insight into the neuroendocrine alterations caused by widespread suprahypo‐thalamic brain damage. Age and sex‐matched normal subjects served as a control group. Patients had fewer high‐amplitude GH peaks (>20 mU/1: 6 peaks/24 h vs 21 peaks/24‐h in controls) and a (non‐significant) tendency towards higher basal GH concentrations. PRL concentrations were higher in patients (296 ± 212 (SD) vs 120±28 mU/1). Cosinor analysis also showed that 24‐h rhythmicity was preserved, but acrophases were more dispersed. A nocturnal PRL acrophase occurred in only three of 11 patients but in 10 of 11 control subjects. The number of PRL peaks was the same in patients and controls. Cortisol concentrations were also higher in patients (298.3 ± 114.6 vs 193.6 ± 97.4 nmol/1) with a preserved circadian rhythm. The acrophases, however, were likewise more dispersed. There was no difference in the number of Cortisol peaks between patients and controls, but the mean peak duration was shorter in patients (75.4 ± 28.1 vs 109.5 ± 28.2 min). The stage of remission was negatively correlated with the 24‐h mean and the mean peak amplitude of PRL. No patient showed a normal organization of sleep stages. On visual analysis there was no apparent association between EEG patterns and hormonal parameters. These results suggest that the endocrine hypothalamus is essentially intact in the chronic vegetative state. The observed changes may be due to an altered input from extrahypothalamic brain structures.
The effect of recombinant IGF‐I on anterior pituitary function in healthy volunteers
Authors: Trainer P. J. , Holly J. , Medbak S. , Rees L. H. , Besser G. M.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE Insulin‐like growth factor‐I is the mediator of many of the actions of GH and is a potent metabolic regulator. Recombinant IGF‐I (rhIGF‐I) is of potential value in the treatment of syndromes associated with either GH or insulin resistance. This study was designed to assess the effects of subcutaneous (s.c.) rhIGF‐I on anterior pituitary function.

DESIGN Double‐blind, placebo controlled, randomized cross‐over study. The interval between investigations was 2 weeks.

SUBJECTS Twelve normal volunteers received on one occasion a single S.C. dose of 40 μg/kg rhIGF‐I and on the other, placebo.

MEASUREMENTS Circulating levels were measured, over 24 hours, of GH, LH, FSH, PRL, TSH, cortisol, ACTH, glucose, IGF‐I, IGF‐II, Insulin, C‐peptide; IGF binding proteins by Western ligand blotting; total IGF bioactivity using FRTL‐5 thyroid cells; and glucose by the glucose oxidase method.

RESULTS Recombinant IGF‐I Increased AUC for plasma IGF‐I, measured by radioimmunoassay (rhIGF‐I mean 7065 ± SEM 33 vs 3895 ± 204 μg/l, P < 0·0001) and IGF bioactivity (22·5 ± 3·4 vs 14·2 ± 1·8 U/ml, P < 0·001) but plasma IGF‐II fell (9308 ± 403 vs 11052 ± 451 μg/l, P < 0·0001). There was no biochemical or clinical evidence of hypoglycaemia and no difference in mean glucose levels. No difference existed in AUC for GH, LH, FSH, ACTH and cortisol between rhIGF‐I and placebo; additionally, pulse number and amplitude for GH and LH were unaffected. TSH fell following rhIGF‐I (33·0 ± 3·36 vs 42·5 ± 5·98 mU h/l, P= 0·01). Both mean plasma C‐peptlde (0·73 ± 0 06 vs 0·91 ± 0±05 nmol/l, P= 0·03), and insulin (10·81 ± 1·02 vs 15·36 ± 1·18 mU/l, P= 0·03) were lower following rhIGF‐I. There was no change In IGFBPs.

CONCLUSION A single injection of 40 μg/kg of subcutaneous rhIGF‐I does not cause hypoglycaemia. IGF bioactivity was increased without inhibition of GH secretion. The only change observed in anterior pituitary function was a fall in plasma TSH.