bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal cell carcinoma marker reliably discriminates central nervous system haemangioblastoma from brain metastases of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ingold B , Wild P J , Nocito A , Amin M B , Storz M , Heppner F L , Moch H
Published: April 2008

Aims:  The distinction between central nervous system (CNS) metastases of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and CNS haemangioblastoma still poses a challenge to the pathologist. Since both entities occur in von Hippel–Lindau disease, this aggravates the issue. The antibody renal cell carcinoma marker (RCC‐ma) has been suggested to identify primary RCCs specifically, but its value for diagnosing metastases of RCC is controversial. The aim was to assess two distinct clones of the RCC‐ma for their potential to: (i) identify primary RCCs and (ii) differentiate between CNS metastases of clear cell RCC and CNS haemangioblastomas.

Methods and results:  Using tissue microarrays, 77% (n = 363; PN‐15) and 66% (n = 355; 66.4C2) of clear cell RCCs, and 93% (PN‐15) and 74% (66.4C2) of papillary RCCs (n = 46) were immunopositive for RCC‐ma, whereas none of the investigated chromophobe RCCs (n = 22) or any of the oncocytomas (n = 15) showed immunoreactivity. Importantly, 50.9% of CNS metastases of clear cell RCCs (n = 55) exhibited RCC‐ma expression, whereas all CNS haemangioblastomas (71) were negative.

Conclusions:  Both RCC‐ma clones, despite some variation in their sensitivity to detect clear cell and papillary RCCs, are of value in differentiating subtypes of primary RCC and are excellent markers for discriminating clear cell lesions in the brain.
Activated B cells modified by electroporation of multiple mRNAs encoding immune stimulatory molecules are comparable to mature dendritic cells in inducing in vitro antigen‐specific T‐cell responses
Authors: Lee Jaewoo , Dollins Claudia M. , Boczkowski David , Sullenger Bruce A. , Nair Smita
Published: April 2008

Ex‐vivo‐activated B cells are an alternative source of antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) and a potential replacement for dendritic cells (DCs) in immunotherapy. However, the ability of ex‐vivo‐activated B cells to function as potent APCs has been a concern, especially when compared to DCs. Our study investigated whether modification of activated B cells with immune stimulatory molecules could enhance the ability of activated B cells to stimulate T cells. We show that murine splenic B cells, activated with a combination of Toll‐like receptor agonist and agonistic anti‐CD40, stimulated antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells more efficiently than cells activated with Toll‐like receptor agonist or anti‐CD40 alone, probably by down‐regulation of the immune regulatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). However, the activated B cells were still poor T‐cell stimulators compared to mature DCs. Therefore, we modified the activated B cells by simultaneous electroporation of multiple messenger RNAs encoding costimulatory molecules (OX40L and 4‐1BBL), cytokines (IL‐12p35 and IL‐12p40) and antigen. We found that de novo expression or overexpression of OX40L, 4‐1BBL and IL‐12p70 on activated B cells synergistically enhanced proliferation as well as IL‐2 and interferon‐γ production by CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, the RNA‐modified activated B cells induced antigen‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses as efficiently as mature DCs in vitro. Unexpectedly, modified activated B cells were inferior to mature DCs at in vivo induction of CD8+ T‐cell responses. In summary, activated B cells modified to express immune stimulatory molecules are a potent alternative to DCs in immunotherapy.
How ethical is ethical research? Recruiting marginalized, vulnerable groups into health services research
Authors: Smith Linda J.
Published: April 2008

Title.  How ethical is ethical research? Recruiting marginalized, vulnerable groups into health services research.

Aim.  This paper is a discussion of how tensions in research ethics guidelines can have an impact on the recruitment of marginalized, vulnerable groups of people into health services research.

Background.  Research ethics guidelines in the United Kingdom (UK) predominantly reflect requirements for clinical trials and medical research but apply to all types of research conducted in the National Health Service. Guidelines emphasize the process of informed consent to protect individuals’ autonomy and rights, and avoid harm to vulnerable people. This focus, however, can result in the exclusion of and discrimination against marginalized groups at a time when user involvement in research and health service developments is increasingly emphasized in policy.

Method.  This paper is based on a critical reflection on tensions observed in current research ethics guidelines in the UK. These tensions became apparent following recruitment of nine postnatal drug‐using women to a qualitative phase of an evaluation in 2005 of a specialist health visitor service.

Findings.  The main ethical tensions identified concerned the sampling and recruitment of marginalized groups, which can affect the validity and reliability of research findings. Consideration needs to be given to sampling and accessing such groups and assessing the capacity of individuals to give informed consent. This is to avoid coercion and exploitation of vulnerable individuals and groups in research, increase validity and reliability, and avoid pre‐emptive exclusion of such groups in the research design.

Conclusion.  Ethical judgements and decisions about research can be contradictory and be influenced by competing paradigms. Use of the concept of ‘responsible advocacy’, with due consideration to the principles of autonomy, beneficence, non‐maleficence and justice, is recommended.
Nurses’ perceptions of evidence‐based nursing practice
Authors: Koehn Mary L. , Lehman Karen
Published: April 2008

Title.  Nurses’ perceptions of evidence‐based nursing practice.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to investigate Registered Nurses’ perceptions, attitudes and knowledge/skills associated with evidence‐based practice.

Background.  Evidence‐based practice has emerged as a marker for healthcare quality. Previous studies have primarily used researcher‐developed descriptive surveys to examine nurses’ perceptions, as well as facilitators and barriers, related to evidence‐based practice. Research suggests the value of understanding the organizational context prior to taking steps to implement evidence‐based practice.

Methods.  This study, conducted in 2006, had a descriptive, cross‐sectional survey design using a psychometrically‐validated measure of evidence‐based practice. All Registered Nurses (n = 1031) employed by a large medical centre in the United States of America were asked to complete the questionnaires. The final response rate was 40·9% (n = 422).

Findings.  Participants had moderate scores on practice and attitudes towards evidence‐based practice. The knowledge/skills mean scores were somewhat lower. Statistically significant differences were found for attitudes between those with baccalaureate and higher education compared to those with associate and diploma education. The two most cited barriers to implementing evidence‐based practice were time and knowledge.

Conclusion.  The findings suggest the value of a methodical assessment when developing a systematic plan for implementing an institutional culture of evidence‐based practice.
Kinematics of massive stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Evans Christopher J. , Howarth Ian D.
Published: April 2008

We present radial velocities for 2045 stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), obtained from the 2dF survey by Evans et al. The great majority of these stars are of OBA type, tracing the dynamics of the young stellar population. Dividing the sample into ad hoc ‘bar’ and ‘wing’ samples (north and south, respectively, of the line: δ=−77°50′+[4α]′, where α is the right ascension in minutes of time) we find that the velocities in the SMC bar show a gradient of 26.3 ± 1.6 km s−1 deg−1 at a position angle of 126°± 4°. The derived gradient in the bar is robust to the adopted line of demarcation between the two samples. The largest redshifts are found in the SMC wing, in which the velocity distribution appears distinct from that in the bar, most probably a consequence of the interaction between the Magellanic Clouds that is predicted to have occurred 0.2 Gyr ago. The mean velocity for all stars in the sample is +172.0 ± 0.2 km s−1 (redshifted by ∼20 km s−1 when compared to published results for older populations), with a velocity dispersion of 30 km s−1.
Airway inflammation in obese and nonobese patients with difficult‐to‐treat asthma
Authors: Van Veen I. H. , Ten Brinke A. , Sterk P. J. , Rabe K. F. , Bel E. H.
Published: April 2008

Background:  Asthma and obesity are associated disorders, but the contribution of obesity to difficult‐to‐treat asthma as well as the mechanisms responsible for this relationship are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between obesity (body mass index ≥ 30) and factors related with asthma severity in patients with difficult‐to‐treat asthma.

Methods:  One hundred and thirty‐six nonsmoking asthmatic adults with persistent symptoms despite high doses of inhaled or oral corticosteroids and long‐acting bronchodilators were studied [70% female, median (range) age 44.6 (18–75) years, 32% on daily oral corticosteroids]. The association between obesity, lung function parameters [forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), functional residual capacity/total lung capacity (FRC/TLC)], inflammatory markers [blood eosinophils, sputum eosinophils and neutrophils, exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), airway hyperresponsiveness, C‐reactive protein (CRP)] and aggravating co‐morbid factors (severe chronic sinus disease, gastro‐esophageal reflux, recurrent respiratory infections, psychopathology and obstructive sleep apnea) was investigated.

Results:  Obese patients (n = 29) had a higher FEV1%pred (P = 0.05) and a lower FRC/TLC%pred (P < 0.01) compared with nonobese patients (n = 107). Body mass index was inversely related with sputum eosinophils (r = −0.36, P < 0.01) and FENO (r = −0.30, P < 0.01). Obese patients had an increased risk for gastro‐esophageal reflux (OR = 2.3) and sleep apnea (OR = 3.1).

Conclusion:  Obesity in patients with difficult‐to‐treat asthma is inversely related with sputum eosinophils and FENO, and positively associated with the presence of co‐morbid factors and reduced lung volumes. This suggests that other factors than airway inflammation alone explain the relationship between obesity and asthma severity.
Thresholds for food allergens and their value to different stakeholders
Authors: Crevel R. W. R , Ballmer‐Weber B. K. , Holzhauser T. , Hourihane J. O’B. , Knulst A. C. , Mackie A. R. , Timmermans F. , Taylor S. L.
Published: April 2008

Thresholds constitute a critical piece of information in assessing the risk from allergenic foods at both the individual and population levels. Knowledge of the minimum dose that can elicit a reaction is of great interest to all food allergy stakeholders. For allergic individuals and health professionals, individual threshold data can inform allergy management. Population thresholds can help both the food industry and regulatory authorities assess the public health risk and design appropriate food safety objectives to guide risk management. Considerable experience has been gained with the double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC), but only recently has the technique been adapted to provide data on thresholds. Available data thus vary greatly in quality, with relatively few studies providing the best quality individual data, using the low‐dose DBPCFC. Such high quality individual data also form the foundation for population thresholds, but these also require, in addition to an adequate sample size, a good characterization of the tested population in relation to the whole allergic population. Determination of thresholds at both an individual level and at a population level is influenced by many factors. This review describes a low‐dose challenge protocol developed as part of the European Community‐funded Integrated Project Europrevall, and strongly recommends its wider use so that data are generated that can readily increase the power of existing studies.
Carbohydrate‐based particles reduce allergic inflammation in a mouse model for cat allergy
Authors: Neimert‐Andersson T. , Thunberg S. , Swedin L. , Wiedermann U. , Jacobsson‐Ekman G. , Dahlén S.‐E. , Scheynius A. , Grönlund H. , Hage M. van , Gafvelin G.
Published: April 2008

Background:  Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (ASIT) is the only treatment of allergic disease that gives long‐lasting relief of symptoms. However, concerns for safety and efficiency have highlighted the need for improvement of the therapy. We have previously suggested carbohydrate‐based particles (CBPs) as a novel adjuvant and allergen carrier for ASIT. Our aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of CBPs in ASIT, employing a mouse model for cat allergy.

Methods:  BALB/c mice were subcutaneously immunized with the recombinant (r) cat allergen Fel d 1 followed by intranasal challenge with cat dander extract (CDE). The sensitized mice were therapeutically treated with rFel d 1 covalently coupled to CBPs (CBP‐rFel d 1). Airway hyper‐reactivity (AHR), infiltration of leucocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, allergen‐specific serum immunoglobulin levels and in vitro splenocyte responses were evaluated.

Results:  Mice treated with CBP‐rFel d 1 showed reduced features of allergic inflammation. They responded with (i) significantly decreased AHR and infiltration of eosinophils in BAL fluid after CDE challenge, (ii) the serum level of rFel d 1‐specific IgE was reduced and the level of IgG2a was more pronounced after CBP‐rFel d 1 treatment, and (iii) there was also a tendency of decreased allergen‐specific cellular response.

Conclusions:  Carbohydrate‐based particles are effective tools as adjuvant and allergen carriers for use in ASIT and constitutes a promising strategy to improve allergy treatment.
Treatment of exercise‐induced asthma, respiratory and allergic disorders in sports and the relationship to doping: Part II of the report from the Joint Task Force of European Respiratory Society (ERS) and European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) in cooperation with GA2LEN*
Authors: Carlsen K. H. , Anderson S. D. , Bjermer L. , Bonini S. , Brusasco V. , Canonica W. , Cummiskey J. , Delgado L. , Del Giacco S. R. , Drobnic F. , Haahtela T. , Larsson K. , Palange P. , Popov T. , Van Cauwenberge P.
Published: April 2008

Aim:  The aims of part II is to review the current recommended treatment of exercise‐induced asthma (EIA), respiratory and allergic disorders in sports, to review the evidence on possible improvement of performance in sports by asthma drugs and to make recommendations for their treatment.

Methods:  The literature cited with respect to the treatment of exercise induced asthma in athletes (and in asthma patients) is mainly based upon the systematic review given by Larsson et al. (Larsson K, Carlsen KH, Bonini S. Anti‐asthmatic drugs: treatment of athletes and exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction. In: Carlsen KH, Delgado L, Del Giacco S, editors. Diagnosis, prevention and treatment of exercise‐related asthma, respiratory and allergic disorders in sports. Sheffield, UK: European Respiratory Journals Ltd, 2005:73–88) during the work of the Task Force. To assess the evidence of the literature regarding use of β2‐agonists related to athletic performance, the Task Force searched Medline for relevant papers up to November 2006 using the present search words: asthma, bronchial responsiveness, exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction, athletes, sports, performance and β2‐agonists. Evidence level and grades of recommendation were assessed according to Sign criteria.

Results:  Treatment recommendations for EIA and bronchial hyper‐responsiveness in athletes are set forth with special reference to controller and reliever medications. Evidence for lack of improvement of exercise performance by inhaled β2‐agonists in healthy athletes serves as a basis for permitting their use. There is a lack of evidence of treatment effects of asthma drugs on EIA and bronchial hyper‐responsiveness in athletes whereas extensive documentation exists in treatment of EIA in patients with asthma. The documentation on lack of improvement on performance by common asthma drugs as inhaled β2‐agonists with relationship to sports in healthy individuals is of high evidence, level (1+).

Conclusions:  Exercise induced asthma should be treated in athletes along same principles as in ordinary asthma patients with relevance to controller and reliever treatment after careful diagnosis. There is very high level of evidence for the lack of improvement in athletic performance by inhaled β2‐agonists.
A novel HLA‐B*40 allele, HLA‐B*4083, identified in a Korean individual
Authors: Lee K. W.
Published: April 2008

HLA‐B*4083 differs from the closest aligned sequence HLA‐B*400601 by three nucleotide substitutions at codons 31 (ACG →ACC), 32 (CTG →CAG), and 41 (ACG → GCG), resulting in two amino acid changes at residues 32 (Leu to Gln) and 41 (Thr to Ala).
Hepatitis G virus: a suitable marker of in vivo efficacy for pathogen inactivation
Authors: Lefrère J.‐J. , Laperche S. , Roudot‐Thoraval F.
Published: April 2008

Being an orphan virus despite a large number of investigations, hepatitis G virus is a blood‐borne agent for which screening is not required in blood donations. The in vivo efficacy of pathogen inactivation methods could be assessed by the absence of hepatitis G virus markers after transfusion of pathogen‐inactivated blood products, in recipients susceptible to infection before the transfusion.
Screening platelet concentrates for bacterial contamination: low numbers of bacteria and slow growth in contaminated units mandate an alternative approach to product safety
Authors: Murphy W. G. , Foley M. , Doherty C. , Tierney G. , Kinsella A. , Salami A. , Cadden E. , Coakley P.
Published: April 2008

Background and Objectives  We introduced 100% screening of platelets for bacterial contamination in 2005 to reduce the risk of clinical sepsis from platelet transfusion. We test all outdating units again at expiry to assess the sensitivity of the initial test.

Materials and Methods  We test all platelet concentrates prior to release for clinical use using a large volume automated culture technique on the day after manufacture. All units that expire unused are retested. Platelets still in stock on day 4 of storage may have a repeat culture performed, and are returned to stock with two extra days of shelf life.

Results  Of 43 230 platelet units screened, 35 (0·08%) were positive; of 8282 expired unused, 18 (0·22%) were positive; and of 3310 day‐4 retests, four (0.12%) were positive. Overall sensitivity of the initial screening test was 29·2% (95% confidence interval 19·4 to 39·1%). Thirteen of the 35 positive screening tests would have been expected to grow in both aerobic and anaerobic bottles; eight grew in aerobic culture only and five grew in anaerobic culture only, indicating that the likely number of bacteria in the contaminated platelet units at the time of sampling was less than 60 colony‐forming unit per platelet unit.

Conclusions  Screening platelet concentrates for bacterial contamination using the most sensitive method available has a sensitivity of less than 40% because of the low numbers of bacteria in the initial contamination. Effective resolution of this problem will require a pathogen‐inactivation technique.
Functional and molecular identification of pH‐sensitive K+ channels in murine urinary bladder smooth muscle
Authors: Beckett Elizabeth A.H. , Han Insoo , Baker Salah A. , Han Junguk , Britton Fiona C. , Koh Sang Don
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of pH‐sensitive K+ channels in setting the resting membrane potential in murine bladder smooth muscle, as bladder contractility is influenced by the resting membrane potential, which is mainly regulated by background K+ conductances.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using conventional microelectrode recordings, isometric tension measurements, patch‐clamp recordings, reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, we assessed bladder smooth muscle cells and tissues.

RESULTS

Acidic pH (pH 6.5) depolarized the resting membrane potential of murine bladder smooth muscles and increased muscle tone and contractility. The pH‐induced changes were not abolished by neuronal blockers or classical K+‐channel antagonists. Lidocaine (1 mm) and bupivacaine (100 µm) mimicked the effects of acidifying the external solution, and in the presence of lidocaine no further increase in contractility was induced by reducing the pH to 6.5. Voltage‐clamp experiments on freshly dispersed bladder myocytes showed that pH 6.5 decreased the outward current. Pre‐treatment of bladder myocytes with the classical K+ antagonists tetraethylammonium (10 mm), 4‐aminopyridine (5 mm), glibenclamide (10 µm) or apamin (300 nm) did not inhibit the effects of low pH on outward current. However, treatment with lidocaine (1 mm) abolished the effects of acidic pH on outward current. RT‐PCR showed the expression of the acid‐sensitive K+ channel (TASK)‐1 and TASK‐2 gene transcripts in murine bladder, and immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis showed TASK‐1 and TASK‐2 channel expression and distribution in smooth muscle tissues and cells.

CONCLUSION

TASK channels are expressed in bladder smooth muscle and contribute to the basal K+ conductances responsible for resting membrane potential.
Generic Product Advertising, Spillovers, and Market Concentration
Authors: Norman George , Pepall Lynne , Richards Dan
Published: April 2008

We examine the decision to advertise a homogenous good. We show that the likelihood of inefficiently low advertising rests heavily on how one models the mechanism by which advertising affects demand. Regardless of this mechanism, however, there is always a lower bound of concentration below which no advertising occurs even when welfare‐enhancing. In such cases, mandatory programs will raise welfare if they induce entry, although producer surplus may decline. Our model also provides an explanation for the stylized fact that advertising intensity first rises and then falls as concentration increases.
Rights‐Based Management and Alaska Pollock Processors' Supply
Authors: Fell Harrison
Published: April 2008

Using data from the Alaska pollock fishery, this study investigates the link between the implementation of rights‐based management and processors' price‐responsiveness in a multiproduct fishery. The analysis is based on cointegration with structural breaks to provide empirical evidence of a change in the long‐run relationship between processors' production, product prices, and whole fish deliveries. The results indicate that the endogenously determined structural breaks happened near the time when this fishery implemented individual fishing quotas. Furthermore, the estimation of the cointegrating vector indicates that the processors of this fishery are significantly more price‐responsive after the change in management.
Protecting Watershed Ecosystems through Targeted Local Land Use Policies
Authors: Langpap Christian , Hascic Ivan , Wu JunJie
Published: April 2008

Land use change is the most pervasive force driving the degradation of watershed ecosystems. This article combines an econometric model of land use choice with models of watershed health indicators to examine the effects of land use policies on watershed ecosystems through their effect on land use. Our results suggest that incentive‐based land use policies and property acquisition programs can have relatively large positive impacts on watershed health, while policies that change the returns to land use are less effective. The results suggest that there is potential for targeting these policies because their impacts vary across watersheds with different land use mixes.
What Explains the Increased Utilization of Powder River Basin Coal in Electric Power Generation?
Authors: Gerking Shelby , Hamilton Stephen F.
Published: April 2008

This article examines possible explanations for increased utilization of Powder River Basin (PRB) coal in electric power generation that occurred over the last two decades. Did more stringent environmental policy motivate electric power plants to switch to less polluting fuels? Or, did greater use of PRB coal occur because relative price changes altered input markets in favor of this fuel. A key finding is that factors other than environmental policy such as the decline in railroad freight rates together with elastic demand by power plants were major contributors to the increased utilization of this fuel.
Effects on Welfare Measures of Alternative Means of Accounting for Preference Heterogeneity in Recreational Demand Models
Authors: Hynes Stephen , Hanley Nick , Scarpa Riccardo
Published: April 2008

Multiattribute‐revealed preference data are used to investigate heterogeneity in a sample of kayakers for a panel of whitewater sites in Ireland. This article focuses on a comparison of preference heterogeneity using a random parameter logit model with correlated tastes and a latent class model, in terms of the implications for welfare measures of environmental quality and site‐access changes. Recreationalists' skill levels are found to affect preferences in both approaches. Statistics for the estimated distribution of welfare changes for the average respondent are computed for changes in site attributes, but contrary to previous work, these are found to be of similar magnitude.
Polymorphism in the sorbin and SH3‐domain‐containing‐1 (SORBS1) gene and the risk of brain infarction in the Japanese population: the Fukuoka Stroke Registry and the Hisayama study
Authors: Hagiwara N. , Kitazono T. , Kamouchi M. , Kuroda J. , Ago T. , Hata J. , Ninomiya T. , Ooboshi H. , Kumai Y. , Yoshimura S. , Tamaki K. , Fujii K. , Nagao T. , Okada Y. , Toyoda K. , Nakane H. , Sugimori H. , Yamashita Y. , Wakugawa Y. , Kubo M. , Tanizaki Y. , Kiyohara Y. , Ibayashi S. , Iida M.
Published: April 2008

Background and purpose:  Sorbin and SH3‐domain‐containing‐1 (SORBS1) is an important adaptor protein in insulin‐signalling pathway, and its genetic polymorphism may regulate the activity of insulin resistance. We investigated the association between the SORBS1 T228A polymorphism and ischaemic stroke.

Methods:  Genotyping was achieved by a rapid‐cycle PCR and melting curve analysis using fluorescent probes in 1049 incident cases of ischaemic stroke and 1049 age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects recruited from the Hisayama study.

Results:  The allele distributions of the SORBS1 T228A polymorphism were similar amongst cases and controls. The multivariate‐adjusted odds ratio (OR) of the AA genotype for ischaemic stroke was 2.897 (95% CI, 0.907–8.018) compared with the TT genotype. In terms of stroke subtype, there was a trend toward a difference in the AA genotypes for lacunar infarction, compared with the TT genotype (OR = 8.740, P = 0.0510), and combined TT and TA genotypes (OR = 8.768, P = 0.0505). The other polymorphisms genotyped were not associated with any subtypes of ischaemic stroke. T228A polymorphism of SORBS1 was not associated with the prevalence of diabetes.

Conclusions:  The AA genotype of SORBS1 T228A polymorphism may play a role in lacunar infarction in the Japanese population.
The polymorphous light eruption–severity assessment score does not reliably predict the results of phototesting
Authors: Schornagel IJ , Guikers KLH , Van Weelden H , Brijnzeel‐Koomen CAFM , Sigurdsson V
Published: April 2008

Background  Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) is a very common photodermatosis in which patient history is highly specific. Phototesting is used to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the action spectrum and the severity of this disease. In daily practice and in research studies, it would be convenient to assess disease severity by patient history only.

Objectives  This study aims to assess PLE disease severity via patient history and compares this with severity assessment via phototesting.

Patients and methods  Sixty‐one patients with PLE were asked 10 standard questions and all were phototested. The answers to the standard questions were coded with linear scores ranging from 0 to 10. The score of each question was plotted as independent variable in a multiple linear regression model against the score of the phototest (minimal number of irradiations necessary to elicit a positive skin lesion, with a maximum of 6 irradiations) as dependent variable using an enter approach. Furthermore, the scores of the separate questions were added to form a total score, the PLE–severity assessment score (PLE‐SAS). The medians of these PLE‐SASs were compared with the result scores obtained by phototesting. Phototesting was done with ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B irradiation.

Results  Fifty‐seven of the 61 patients had a positive test result (93%). Using the multiple linear regression model, the severity assessment by patient history (PLE‐SAS) compared with the result of phototesting showed two significant contributing questions (adjusted PLE‐SAS) (P < 0.05) but with a regression coefficient of 0.2. A significant difference in median scores with the severity assessment (PLE‐SAS and adjusted PLE‐SAS) between patients testing positive after 1–3 irradiations compared with those testing positive after 4–6 irradiations was present (P < 0.05). However, the overlap quartile range between both groups was such that the PLE‐SAS and the adjusted PLE‐SAS have little predictive value in individual patients.

Conclusions  We showed that in PLE, disease severity as determined using the PLE‐SAS or adjusted PLE‐SAS did not reliably predict severity as assessed by phototesting. Two significant contributing questions were not discriminating enough to be used as predicting questions to assess severity. Accurate patient history proved to be a reliable method to diagnose PLE. Phototesting is useful to determine the responsible ultraviolet action spectrum and to exclude differential diagnoses like photosensitive eczema, lupus erythematosus or chronic actinic dermatitis. PLE‐SAS cannot replace phototesting for determining the severity of PLE.
SHORT TERM EFFECTS OF METHYLPHENIDATE ON THE COGNITIVE, LEARNING AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF CHILDREN WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER IN THE LABORATORY AND THE CLASSROOM*,†
Authors: Douglas V. I. , Barr R. G. , O'Neill M. E. , Britton B. G.
Published: April 2008

Abstract— Sixteen children meeting diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (ADD‐H) were tested on methylphenidate (0.3 mg/kg) and placebo on cognitive, learning, academic and behavioral measures in a double‐blind study. Assessments were carried out in the laboratory and in the children's regular classrooms. Results indicate methylphenidate‐induced improvements on a majority of the measures. Drug‐induced changes reflected increased output, accuracy and efficiency and improved learning acquisition. There was also evidence of increased effort and self‐correcting behaviours. It is argued that reviewers have underestimated the potential of stimulants to improve the performance of ADD‐H children on academic, learning and cognitive tasks.
XLVIII.—A List of the Birds obtained by Mr. Henry Whitely in British Guiana
Authors: Salvin Osbert
Published: April 2008

Before comparing the birds of Guiana with those of the chief portions of America bearing some relationship to them, it seems necessary to eliminate the migratory species and also the sea‐birds from our consideration. Thus we have:–
I.—Taxonomic and Field Notes on some Birds of North‐Eastern Tanganyika Territory.—Part III*
Authors: Sclater W. L. , Moreau R. E.
Published: April 2008

This part contains an account of the Muscicapidæ, Turdidæ, and Sylviidae.
XXXV.—A Contribution to the Ornithology of the Libyan Desert.
Authors: Moreau R. E.
Published: April 2008

The Libyan Desert is described and the specimens collected in the interior by British and Italian workers are listed. Among the otherwise very scanty resident population Falcons are surprisingly abundant. The evidence for migration across the desert is reviewed for each longitude. The Cyrenaican list of passage migrants closely resembles the Egyptian list without its eastern elements. I conclude that a broad‐front migration of northern forms takes place at least from long. 21° to long. 31° (600 miles) and that a large proportion of all the birds travelling through N.E. Africa see nothing of the Nile. The new data for several individual forms are discussed, especially Storks and Shrikes.
Territory and Polygamy in a Bishop‐bird, Euplectes hordeacea hordeacea (Linn.).
Authors: Lack David
Published: April 2008

In the region studied the males of Euplectes hordeacea hordeacea (Linn.) hold territories with rigidly defined boundaries, which they rarely leave and which they defend against all other males and strange females.

 Each male has a succession of females, courting with and building for one at a time. There were sometimes three females with nests in the territory simultaneously, sometimes only one.

 The female adds to the nest and alone incubates and feeds the young. It takes no cognisance of the territory, gathering building material and food for the young from well outside it, and not infrequently settling in the territory of a neighbouring male.

 4. The territory appears to have no food value.

 5. The value of the territory is probably to achieve isolation for the cocks, and so to assist the hens to find mates.

 6. The display, which shows off the bright colours, is correlated with the territory and not with courtship, which is simple.
Miscellaneous Notes on some Birds of Northern Rhodesia
Authors: Winterbottom J. M.
Published: April 2008

The following notes were made during my second tour in Northern Rhodesia, from December 1935 to July 1938. Notes relating to some of the species seen during that tour have, however, already appeared in ‘The Ibis’ (1938, pp. 269–277). References are also made to the notes on the birds observed during my first tour (Ibis, 1936, pp. 763–791; ‘L’Oiseau et la Revue française d'Ornithologie, 1936, pp. 77–85), where the same species are dealt with again.
A Contribution to the Ornithology of the East Side of Lake Tanganyika
Authors: Moreau. R. E.
Published: April 2008

A description is given of the more interesting features of a collection from the Ufipa and the Kungwe‐Mahare highland areas on the east side of Lake Tanganyika. The forest avifauna proved to be of exceptional interest, fourteen new forms being discovered. On topographical grounds the Kungwe‐Mahare avifauna would be expected to have rather stronger affinities with the highlands north of the Malagarasi Depression than with the Ufipa highlands on the south of the Karema Gap. But, in fact, northern affinities are so predominant on Kungwe‐Mahare as to indicate the Karema Gap as a major zoo‐geographical barrier. This agrees with the tendency of recent geological work to show that the Karema Gap represents a rift valley older than the Lake Tanganyika trough and running north‐west from Rukwa.

The breeding season in Ufipa apparently bears the same relation to the rainy season as in Iringa and in Nyasaland. that is, starting, for many species, just before the rains break. But on Kungwe‐Mahare the forest birds seem to breed appreciably later, and not before the rains.
The Two Phases of Stercorarius parasitieus (Linnæus)
Authors: Southern H. N.
Published: April 2008

The distribution of polymorph ratios in wild populations, and changes or evolution in such distribution, are peculiarly suitable to quantitative treatment. Cases of polymorphism, whether in equilibrium, due to a balance of selective factors, or transient, due to the favouring and spread of one or more of the phases, are known among birds, and the following instances are discussed:the Guillemot (Uria aalge), the Screech‐Owl (Otus asio), the Reef‐Heron (Demigretta sacra) and the Fulmar Petrel (Fulmarus glacialis).

Melanic polymorphs are well known in birds, and replacement has been demonstrated within historic times for Coereba saccharina, and Rhipidura flabellifera.

In the Skuas S. longicaudus has very rare melanics, S. pomarinus about one in ten or twenty, S. parasiticus from 0–95 per cent. Considerations are advanced for and against the hypothesis that the melanic form is the mutant.

Data on distribution of S. parasiticus, which is circumpolar, are collated and discussed. Greatest population concentrations are in the areas of the north Pacific and north Atlantic. Further data suggest that the control of the two phases may be unifactorial, and that the young may be identifiable the same season in which they are hatched.

References in the literature to proportions of the phases throughout the range are given in Table 1, and the distribution pattern shows that dark birds are much commoner in the oceanic and southern areas, while in the high north and the continental areas of the range pale birds predominate, sometimes to the exclusion of the dark. Pale birds are commoner in the Old World than in the New World areas, and it is possible that the melanic has spread from the two oceanic areas northward and along the continental edges—more rapidly in the Pacific, where the northernmost populations still have a fair number of dark birds. Isolines for 25, 50 and 75 pale birds per cent, are given in text‐fig. 5.

The dimorph‐ratio cline thus revealed is probably of the “stepped ramp” type, though only in a few places can an intra‐group cline be distinguished (e.g. Iceland). Reversals and anomalies occur in areas of discontinuous and small populations (e. g. the British Isles). Remarkable rates of change in dimorph ratio are also recorded in such places. No reliable indication of long‐term change is to be found, though there are some suggestive instances.

Temperature does not appear to be correlated with the cline. Humidity shows broad relations, but on close scrutiny the coincidence breaks down.

Heterogeneity, due to selective mating, occurred in one sample examined, but not in three others.
On the Races and Distribution of the White‐eyes belonging to the Zosterops senegalensis and Zosterops virens Groups
Authors: Mackworth‐Praed C. W. , Grant C. H. B.
Published: April 2008

This group is admittedly difficult, not only in distinguishing between the species, especially where, in the majority of specimens, no habitat is given on the labels, but even when this has been done, in distinguishing the recognizable races.

Zosterops eurycricotus and Zosterops kikuyuensis are not so difficult if the eye‐ring and broad yellow forehead are carefully compared. These two species may be confused with Zosterops virens jacksoni, but the) have a larger eye‐ring and a broader and bright yellow forehead.

Zosterops senegalensis is variable individually and alters somewhat between fresh and worn specimens, the young bird being rather darker than the adults. This species is always brighter above and clearer yellow below than Zosterops virens and, except for Zosterops S. anderssoni, has a shorter bill and the black at the base of the bill does not extend well up on to thc lores. Zosterops s. anderssoni can be distinguished from Zosterops virens stierlingi by the brighter upper side and the rather clearer yellow below, but the bill is not shorter and the black at the babe of the bill in some specimens extende on to the lores, and these specimens can only be distinguished by very careful comparison of colour in a aeries.

With Zoskrops virens the females are generally rather greener above and duller below than the males, and the young bird is even more dull. Zosterops v. jacksoni and Zosterops v. schoana arc quite well defined races, but Zosterops v. stuhlmanni and Zosterops u. sterlingi are very close and can only be dist, inguished one from the other in a series, when a differential general tone of colour is observable and which precludes them being placed as synonyms of each other. We can see no character by which the rows we have placed as synonyms can be recognized. In both Zosterops senpgalemis and Zosterops oirene there is some individual variation. and there is no evidence that there is any seasonal change of dress.

The habitats given by collectors for Zosterops senegalensis and Zosterops virens seem to show that both these species inhabit the same type of country, and although it can be said that the former inhabits more open and dryer country, i. e., the open hush, savannahs and gallery forests, there is little doubt that in search of food, and perhaps more especially when in mixed bird parties, both species may be found in the same type of country, and the habitat as given under A and B must be considered as only generally correct and, perhaps, more so in the breeding than the non‐breeding season. In view of the confusion that has existed between the species some of the published field notes may be unreliable.
On the Plumages and Moults of Males of the Sunbirds occurring in Eastern Africa
Authors: Mackworth‐Praed C. W. , Grant C. H. B.
Published: April 2008

In Group (1) we find that in adults the head and body are moulted twice a year, and the wings and tail only once a year, i. e. when moulting from non‐breeding to breeding dress, except with the genus Hedydipna, which moults the wings and tail twice a year. The young birds complete their moult, including wings and tail, from first young dress direct to a breeding dress. In Group (2) the adults have a complete moult once a year from a breeding dress to a breeding dress, but the young birds have a complete moult, including wings and tail, from the first young dress to an immature (intermediate) dress, and another complete moult, including wings and tail, from the immature dress to the breeding dress, In Group (3) the adults moult direct from 8 breeding dress to a breeding dress, and the young birds moult, including wings and tail, from first young dress to a breeding dress.

It may be remarked that all these three different sequences of plumage are also found in some of the Sunbirds of India, i. e. Cinnyris minima Sykes and Cinnyris asiatica (Latham) have non‐breeding dresses, whereas Cinnyris zelonica (LinnEus) and Cinnyris loteina (Linnsus) do not have a non‐breeding dress, and Æthopyga ignicauda (Hodgson) has an immature (intermediate) dress.

Some species no doubt breed during both the long and short rains, and those which appear to have an individual breeding cycle and subsequent moult may he found to fit into these seasons, and certainly some of the recorded breeding months point to this being so; but whether the same birds breed twice in the year seems doubtful.

As the British Museum series is mainly evacuated owing to the present emergency this paper must be accepted as being based only on present available material, and we hope to publish more detailed information, especially on the species in Group (4), at a later date.

It is interesting to note that the genus Chalcomitra has, as far as we know, no non‐breeding dress, and that the genus Anthreptes has, so far as we know, no non‐breeding or immature dress. It must also be remarked that whereas Nectarinia famosa has a non‐breeding dress throughout its distribution from Abyssinia to South Africa, Cinnyris after has no non‐breeding dress in South Africa, but one of its races has a non‐breeding dress in central Africa.

The evidence accumulated is by no means conclusive, and there are some species (Group (4)) about which we know very little, either of their moults or breeding, but it has taken us a step further in our knowledge, and we trust will serve as a basis for future workers both in the field and in the laboratory.
GEOGRAPHICAL VOICE‐VARIATION IN AFRICAN BIRDS
Authors: Benson C. W.
Published: April 2008

From experience from southern Abyssinia southwards to the Union of South Africa, 176 instances are given of no geographical voice‐variation within a single species, or pairs of allopatric species (List 1 A), as compared to only 33 instances of variation (2 A), most of which are of but small degree, and one of which is in fact ecological. In closely allied sympatric species, in some cases there is a voice‐difference (2 C), but which may be very slight. Where there is no difference at all (1 B), in some cases there is an ecological difference, but in others no such barrier exists. Variation in allopatric species of Tauraco is recorded in 2 B.

A postscript gives the results of some later experience on the coasts of Angola and the Cape Province.
THE AFRICAN PLAIN‐BACKED PIPITS—A CASE OF SIBLING SPECIES.
Authors: White C. M. N.
Published: April 2008

Evidence is adduced to show that two species of Plain‐backed Pipit occur in Africa with partially overlapping ranges, but with a considerable degree of ecological segregation. The races are denned, those of South and Central Africa being treated with rather fuller detail. The clines exhibited are described, and also a complex of hybrid populations of an unstable nature in Uganda and adjacent areas. Reasons are given why it is not advisable to include Anthus pallidiventris in either of these species on present knowledge.
TRANSCRIBING BIRD‐SONG.
Authors: North M. E. W.
Published: April 2008

The objects are (1) to suggest a field method of transcribing bird‐song which is not only accurate, but also as error‐proof as possible, and (2) to draw attention to certain aspects of the gramophone recorder's and the physicist's techniques which are of value to the field observer.

The field method suggested is an attempt to produce a balanced aural means of defining pitch, time, loudness, quality and phonetics. Pitch, time and loudness are best interpreted by music; quality and phonetics by verbal methods. In certain sounds the musical features are important; in others the verbal; but accurate definition of all five features is usually required to produce a balanced result.

The value of music is stressed, particularly as a medium for comparisons of pitch and time. Music can also help identification, but its effectiveness will depend upon the degree to which quality and phonetics can also he suggested.

Cuckoos, doves, waders and crows are, among others, ideal fcr musical methods, thrushes provide a field for advanced study; some of the warblers may he impossibly difficult.

A number of technical features are suggested, which include: a field notation thought to have advantages over the orthodox staff; a modified staff; one name for each note of the scale; signs to show notes grossly out of tune with our scale; a slide rule for staff/sol‐fa conversions; a system of octave numbering, serially from the lowest audible note to the highest; signs for rises and falls in pitch; semitone figures to indicate pitch ranges; a table for staff/frequency conversions; the types of portable instrument recommended for indicating pitch; an approximate method of indicating pitch without an instrument; the calculation of tempo by a sum.

Other matters discussed include: why bird‐songs often fit the keys of our musical scale and how this coincidence can be used to our advantage; the transcribing of quality and loudness; why it is desirable for observers to be given hearing tests.

A few examples of the field notation are provided.