bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Validity of Psychometric Testing in Children with Congenital Malformations of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Fishman Marvin A. , Palkes Helen S.
Published: July 2010

Serial psychometric testing from infancy to five years or older was performed on 31 patients with congenital malformations of the central nervous system. The developmental quotient obtained on the Cattell Intelligence Scale administered at 18 months was found to have a high correlation coefficient with later intellectual achievement—as measured by Stanford‐Binet Intelligence Scale at five years of age. Psychometric testing performed in infancy in this group of patients appears to have predictive value for later intelligence and may supply useful information for counseling parents and in planning educational needs.

Des evaluations psychométriques successives depuis la premiere enfance jusqu à cinq ans ont été réalisées chez 35 sujets présentant des malformations congénitales du système nerveux central. Le quotient de développement obtenu avec l'échelle d'intelligence de Catell à l'âge de 18 mois ont présenté une forte correlation avec l'efficience intellectuelle ultérieure mesurée à l'âge de cinq ans avec un test de Stanford‐Binet. Les evaluations psychométriques réalisées durant la premiere enfance chez ces sujets ont donc une valeur predictive pour l'appréciation ultérieure de l'intelligence et peuvent fournir des indications utiles pour conseiller les parents et établir les besoins éducatifs.

Bei 31 Patienten mit congenitalen Mißbildungen des Zentralnervensystems wurden psychometrische Untersuchungsserien vom Säuglingsalter bis zum fünften lebensijahr durchgeführt. Der Entwicklungsquotient, bewertet im Alter von 18 Monaten anhand der Cattell‐Intelligenz‐Skala zeigte eine gute Korrelation zur späteren intellektuellen Leistungs‐fähigkeit, gemessen mit dem Stanford‐Binet Intelligenztest im Alter von fünf Jahren. Psychometrische Untersuchungen bei diesen Patienten im Säuglingsalter durchgeführt scheinen einen Voraussagewert für die spätere Intelligenz zu haben und können nützliche Informationen für die Beratung der Eltern und für die Planung der notwendigen Förderungsmaßnahmen bieten.
The Validity of Psychometric Studies on Children with Spina Bifida
Authors: Tew Brian , Laurence K. M.
Published: July 2010

The iq scores of 57 cases of spina bifida cystica on tests administered after an interval of five years were compared with earlier scores. The comparison showed highly significant correlations for nine cases with encephalocele, 16 with meningocele and 32 with myelocele, indicating that stability rather than variability is characteristic of the iq scores of children with malformations of the central nervous system.

Les résultats de 57 enfants atteints de spina bifida aux tests d'intelligence relevés sur une période de cinq ans ont été compares. Les résultats montrent une correlation hautement significative pour 9 cas d'encéphalocèles, 16 cas de méningocèles et 32 cas de myélocèles, indiquant que la stabilité plus que la variation est caractéristique des qi d'enfants présentant des malformations du système nerveux central.

Die Ergebnisse von Intelligenztesten, die an 57 Kindern mit Spina bifida cystica über eine Zeitspanne von fünf Jahren durchgeführt worden waren, wurden verglichen. Die Ergebnisse zeigten hochsignifikante Korrelationen für neun Fälle mit Encephalocele, 16 Fälle mit Meningocele und 32 Fälle mit Myelozele, was darauf hinweist, daß für die iq‐Scores der Kinder mit Mißbildungen im Bereich des zns eher Stabilität als Variation charakteristisch ist.

Se compararon los puntajes de 57 niños con espina bifida cistica en tests de inteligencia aplicados durante un intervalo de 5 años. Los resultados mostraron correlaciones altamente significativas en 9 casos de encefalocele, 16 casos de meningocele y 32 casos de mielocele indicando una estabilidad más bien que una variación de las caracteristicas de los puntajes de ci en niños con malformaciones de snc.
Tay‐Sachs Disease: Neurophysiological Studies in 20 Children
Authors: Pampiglione G. , Privett G. , Harden Ann
Published: July 2010

Twenty children with proven Tach‐Sachs disease underwent neurophysiological investigations during the course of their illness. Although the enzyme defect is demonstrable before birth, the electroencephalograms showed relatively mild abnormalities during the first year of life, but there was a rapid progressive deterioration thereafter until death, which usually occurred before the age of four years. The electroretinogram remained unaffected through the course of the disease, in keeping with the preservation of function of retinal receptor elements, although the ganglion cell layer was grossly affected. Visual evoked responses were recordable in the early stages of the disease, but after 16 months no cortical response to flashes of light could be detected. This combination of neurophysiological features and their evolution are of interest as they differ from those of other neurometabolic diseases of early childhood.

Bei 20 Kindern mit diagnostiziertem Morbus Tay‐Sachs wurden Untersuchung vorgenommen während ihres Krankheitsverlaufs neurophysiologische. Obgleich dieser Enzymdefekt schon vor der Geburt feststellbar ist, finden sich innerhalb des ersten Lebensjahres nur relativ milde Abnormitäten im eeg mit einer raschen Verschlechterung danach bis zum Tode, der gewöhnlich vor Erreichen des Alters von vier Jahren eintritt. Das Elektroretinogramm (erg) blieb während des gesamten Krankheitsverlaufs unbeeinträchtigt mit der Erhaltung der Funktion der retinalen Receptorelemente, obgleich die Ganglienzellschicht stark betroffen ist. Die visuell evozierten Reaktionen (ver) waren in den frühen Abschnitten noch feststellbar, aber über den 16. Lebensmonat hinaus konnten keine corticalen Reaktionen auf Lichtblitze mehr beobachtet werden. Diese Kombination neurophysiologischer Befunde und ihrer Entwicklung sind von Interesse, da sie sich von denen anderer neurometabolischer Erkrankungen der frühen Kindheit unterscheiden.

Se realizaron investigaciones neurofisiológicas en 20 niños con enfermedad de Tay‐Sachs probada, durante el curso de su enfermedad. Aunque el defecto enzimático es demonstrable antes del nacimiento, el eeg mostró anomalías relativamente moderadas, con una rápida y progresiva deterioración posterior hasta la muerte, que habitualmente ocurrió antes de los cuatro años. El electroretinograma no se afectó durante todo el curso de la enfermedad, paralelamente con la preservación de la función de los elementos retinianos receptores, a pesar de estar muy afectada la capa de células ganglionares. Las respuestas visuales evocadas podían detectarse en los estadíos precoces, pero no se pudo detectar ninguna respuesta cortical a relámpagos luminosos después de los 16 meses. Esta combinación de características neurofisiológicas y su evolución tienen su interés, pues difiere de las de otras enfermedades neurometabólicas de la primera infancia.
Fatal Hepatic Failure in a Child Treated with Phenytoin and Valproic Acid
Authors: Höjer B. , Rane A.
Published: July 2010

A fatal case of hepatic failure in a five‐year‐old girl who had been treated with phenytoin and valproic acid is presented. The report emphasizes the need for caution in the use of valproate, especially in children with altered liver function, and in combination with phenytoin or phenobarbitone.

Insuffisance hépatique mortelle chez un enfant traité par phénytoine et acide valproïque

L'article rapporte le cas d'une insuffisance hépatique mortelle chez une fillette de cinq ans qui avait été traitée par phénytoïne et acide valproïque. Les auteurs insistent sur la nécessité de prudence dans l'usage du valproate, spécialement chez les enfants ayant une fonction hépatique altérée et en cas d'association avec phénytoïne ou phénobarbital.

Tödliches Leberversagen bei einem Kind, das mit Phenytoin und Valproat behandelt wurde

Es wird über ein fünfjähriges Mädchen berichtet, das mit Phenytoin und Valproat behandelt worden war und an einem Leberversagen gestorben ist. In dem Bericht wird die Notwendigkeit unterstrichen, bei der Anwendung von Valproat vorsichtig zu sein, insbesondere bei Kindern mit veränderter Leberfunktion und in Kombination mit Phenytoin oder Phenobarbital.

Fallo hepatico fatal en un niño tratado con fenitoina y acido valproico

Se presenta un caso fatal de fallo hepatico en una niña de cinco años de edad que habia sido tratada con fenitoina y acido valproico. La comunicacion insiste en la necesidad de ser cauteloso en el uso del valproato, especialmente en niños con funcion hepatica alterada y en combinacion con fenitoina o fenobarbital.
75,000 SEVERELY DISABLED CHILDREN
Authors: Bradshaw Jonathan , Lawton Dorothy
Published: July 2010

This article explores the epidemiological potential of the computerised record of applications to the Family Fund, which contains details of75,000 children with severe disabilities in the UK. It illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of the record, with an analysis of variation in the characteristics of the children and their families by principal handicapping conditions.

75 mille enfanls en incapacité sévère

Cet article analyse le potentiel épidémiologique des dossiers analysés sur ordinateur provenant du Family

Fund et qui contiennent des données se rapportant à 75 mille enfants du Royaume Uni, avec incapacité sévère. Cette analyse démontre les forces et les faiblesses du dossier type et permet une analyse des variations des caractéristiques des enfants et de leur famille en fonction des principals conditions d'incapacité.

75,000 schwer behinderte Kinder

Dieser Artikel untersucht das epidemiologische Potential der komputermäßig erfaßten Anträge an den Familienfond, die Einzelheiten über 75,000 Kinder mit schweren Behinderungen im Vereinigten Königreich enthalten. Es werden die Stärken und Schwächen der Komputererfassung dargestellt und es wird eine Analyse über die Veränderung der Charakteristika dieser Kinder und ihrer Familien durch besondere Behinderungsbedingungen gegeben.

75,000 niños con minusvalias graves

Este articulo expìora el potencial epidemiológico de la gravación computarizada de instancias realizada en la Fundación de la Familia, que contiene detalles de75,000 niños con minusvalencias graves en el Reino Unido. Ilustra sobre los puntos fuertes y los débiles de los archivos, con un análisis de la variatión de las características de los niños y de sus familias de acuerdo con sus principals minusvalencias.
Measuring mobility limitations in children with cerebral palsy: content and construct validity of a mobility questionnaire (MobQues)
Authors: VAN RAVESTEYN NICOLIEN T , SCHOLTES VANESSA A , BECHER JULES G , ROORDA LEO D , VERSCHUREN OLAF , DALLMEIJER ANNET J
Published: July 2010

Aim  The objective of this study was to assess the validity of a mobility questionnaire (MobQues) that was developed to measure parent‐reported mobility limitations in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method  The parents of 439 children with CP (256 males and 183 females; age range 2–18y; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I–IV) completed the mobility questionnaire (MobQues). To assess content validity, we linked all meaningful concepts of the MobQues items to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). To assess construct validity, we compared the total scores of the two versions of the MobQues (MobQues47 and MobQues28) according to GMFCS level, and determined Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) with the Gross Motor Function Measure‐66 (GMFM‐66).

Results  Content validity was demonstrated by the fact that 46 of the 47 MobQues items were linked to categories in the ‘Mobility’ chapter of the ICF. Construct validity was demonstrated by the finding that MobQues scores decreased with increasing GMFCS levels (p<0.001). In a subgroup of 162 children, positive correlations were found between total scores and the GMFM‐66 (MobQues47, r=0.75; MobQues28, r=0.67, p<0.001).

Interpretation  The results of this study provide evidence supporting the content and construct validity of the MobQues as a measure of mobility limitation in children with CP.
Level of motivation in mastering challenging tasks in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: MAJNEMER ANNETTE , SHEVELL MICHAEL , LAW MARY , POULIN CHANTAL , ROSENBAUM PETER
Published: July 2010

Aim  The aim of this study was to describe and identify factors associated with motivation in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method  Children with CP were recruited for this cross‐sectional study. Children were assessed using the Leiter Intelligence Test, the Gross Motor Function Measure, and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. Parents completed the Dimensions of Mastery Questionnaire (DMQ) and questionnaires on demographics, child behaviour, and family functioning.

Results  The parents of 74 children (46 males, 28 females; mean age 9y 2mo, SD 2y 1mo, range 5y 10mo–12y 11mo) completed the DMQ. Just over half of the children (39/74) were classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I, with 13 classified at GMFCS level II, one at level III, six at level IV, and 14 at level V; one child was not classified. The most common diagnoses were spastic hemiplegia and quadriplegia (23 each), followed by diplegia (14). The highest motivation scores were obtained for the dimensions of mastery pleasure and social persistence and the lowest for persistence with motor or cognitive tasks. Age and sex were not predictive of scores on the DMQ. Higher IQ (r=0.41), better motor ability (r=0.43), and fewer limitations in self‐care, communication, and socialization (r=0.44–0.53) were positively associated with motivation total score. A negative impact of the child’s disability on the family was associated with lower motivation (r=−0.44). Positive social behaviours were positively correlated with motivation (r=0.38–0.66), whereas hyperactivity and peer problems were negatively associated.

Interpretation  High motivation was associated with fewer activity limitations and behavioural problems and reduced family burden. Low motivation may adversely influence a child’s functional potential and the effectiveness of interventions. Strategies focusing on the child, peers, adults, or activities are proposed to enhance the children’s motivation to engage in more challenging activities.
Physical activity measurement instruments for children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: CAPIO CATHERINE M , SIT CINDY H P , ABERNETHY BRUCE , ROTOR ESMERITA R
Published: July 2010

Aim  This paper is a systematic review of physical activity measurement instruments for field‐based studies involving children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method  Database searches using PubMed Central, MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and PEDro located 12 research papers, identifying seven instruments that met the inclusion criteria of (1) having been developed for children aged 0 to 18 years, (2) having been used to evaluate a physical activity dimension, and (3) having been used in a field‐based study involving children with CP. The instruments reviewed were the Activities Scale for Kids – Performance version (ASKp), the Canada Fitness Survey, the Children’s Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment/Preferences for Activities of Children (CAPE/PAC), the Compendium of Physical Activities, the Physical Activity Questionnaire – Adolescents (PAQ‐A), StepWatch, and the Uptimer. Second‐round searches yielded 11 more papers, providing reliability and validity evidence for the instruments.

Results  The instruments measure physical activity frequency, mode, domain, and duration. Although most instruments demonstrated adequate reliability and validity, only the ASKp and CAPE/PAC have established reliability and validity for children with physical disabilities; the Uptimer has established concurrent validity. No instrument measuring intensity in free‐living has been validated or found reliable for children with CP.

Interpretation  The findings suggest that further studies are needed to examine the methodological properties of physical activity measurement in children with CP. Combining subjective and objective instruments is recommended to achieve better understanding of physical activity participation.
BH3‐only protein Bid is dispensable for seizure‐induced neuronal death and the associated nuclear accumulation of apoptosis‐inducing factor
Authors: Engel Tobias , Caballero‐Caballero Aurelien , Schindler Clara K. , Plesnila Nikolaus , Strasser Andreas , Prehn Jochen H.M. , Henshall David C.
Published: July 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 92–101.

Prolonged seizures activate members of the Bcl‐2 homology domain 3‐only sub‐group of the Bcl‐2 protein family, which are essential for initiation of apoptosis signaling. Bid is a potent pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 homology domain 3‐only protein, which upon proteolytic activation translocates to mitochondria to promote activation of the Bax/Bak sub‐group of the pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 family and thereby contributes to release of apoptogenic molecules, such as cytochrome c and possibly apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF). Bid‐deficient mice have been reported to show reduced lesion volumes after ischemia and trauma in vivo but a causal role for Bid in the setting of seizure‐induced neuronal death has not been investigated. In this study, we studied Bid activation following status epilepticus in mice and compared hippocampal damage between wild‐type and Bid‐deficient animals. Full‐length Bid was detected in normal mouse hippocampus and the cleaved (activated) p15 fragment of Bid was detected shortly after status epilepticus. Bid‐deficient mice underwent equivalent electrographic seizure responses during status epilepticus as wild‐type animals. Hippocampal counts of degenerating neurons and surviving neuron‐specific nuclear protein‐positive cells were not significantly different between wild‐type and Bid‐deficient mice. Additionally, nuclear translocation of AIF was not reduced in Bid‐deficient compared with wild‐type animals subjected to status epilepticus. The present study demonstrates that AIF is not dependent on Bid for mitochondrial release and nuclear import in this model and that while Bid is cleaved during seizure‐induced neuronal death, it may be functionally redundant or even not essential.
Sense of coherence and other predictors of pain and health following laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Barthelsson Cajsa , Nordström Gun , Norberg Åke
Published: July 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 143–150
 
Sense of coherence and other predictors of pain and health following laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Introduction:  Pain is the most common symptom following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and might delay discharge from hospital after day surgery. A patient’s ability to manage stressful situations can be assessed by the sense of coherence (SOC) and has been proposed to predict health. The aim of this study was to investigate predictors of average pain the first postoperative week after LC, and predictors of changes in perceived health, with special reference to individual coping resources measured by the Sense of Coherence Scale. Furthermore, a test–re‐test was performed on SOC to evaluate the stability in the context of LC surgery.

Method:  Seventy‐three patients completed questionnaires about SOC, health status, pain, anxiety, symptom occurrence and symptom distress preoperatively, postoperative day 1–7 and after 1 and 6 months following LC.

Results:  By multiple regression, 23% of the variability in pain intensity could be explained by the variables age, SOC and education. Age was the strongest predictor. Further, 19% of the change in health between day 7 and 1 month could be explained by the two variables symptom distress the first postoperative day and SOC. The test–re‐test of SOC had a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.55. Forty‐six patients (63%) remained within ± 10% of their preoperative SOC score at 6 months, 11 patients (15%) decreased and 16 patients (22%) increased their SOC values.

Conclusion:  SOC was found to be a significant but weak predictor of pain intensity the first week after LC. Furthermore, patients scoring low SOC values experienced a delay in their health improvement. SOC was more unstable over time than previously suggested. Further, interventional studies are needed to clarify if SOC might be a clinically useful measure to identify vulnerable patients undergoing LC surgery.
BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH: Geographical linkages between threats and imperilment in freshwater fish in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Clavero Miguel , Hermoso Virgilio , Levin Noam , Kark Salit
Published: July 2010

Aim  The level of imperilment of mediterranean freshwater fish is among the highest recorded for any group of organisms evaluated to date. Here, we describe the geographical patterns in the incidence of threats affecting mediterranean freshwater fish and test whether the effects of specific threats are spatially related to the degree of imperilment of fish faunas.

Location  The Mediterranean Basin Biome.

Methods  From the IUCN Red List, we recorded the six main threats to 232 endemic freshwater fish species. We used data on fish distributions from IUCN to characterize the spatial patterns in the incidence of threats (as percentage of species affected) through multivariate statistics. We studied the relationships between threat incidence and two estimators of imperilment (proportion of species threatened and an index of extinction risk) at two spatial scales (10 × 10 km and basins) using partial least squares regressions (PLSR) that incorporated the effects of species richness and mean range size.

Results  The main axis of variation in the incidence of threats to freshwater fish split areas mainly affected by invasive species from those areas where species are threatened by pollution and agriculture. Wherever invasive species and water extraction were predominant threats, fish assemblages consistently tended to be more imperilled.

Main conclusions  As far as we know, this is the first large‐scale analysis on the spatial relationships between the incidence of threats and level of imperilment of any taxonomic group. Our results highlight the primary role of invasive species and water extraction as drivers of native fish declines in the Mediterranean Basin. Large‐scale patterns described here should be generated by local‐scale impacts of both threats on fish biodiversity, widely reported in Mediterranean areas. Because all the species under concern are endemic, control of invasive species and reducing overexploitation of freshwater resources should be conservation priorities for mediterranean freshwater systems.
English in the real world vs. English at school: Finnish English teachers' and students' views
Authors: Ranta Elina
Published: July 2010

In this study, 108 students and 34 non‐native teachers of English in Finnish upper secondary schools were surveyed regarding their views on the teaching targets and practical goals underpinning their use of English inside and outside school. Two questionnaires were distributed, covering both quantitative and qualitative questions. The results suggest that Finnish students and teachers are well aware of the lingua franca role of English in the ‘real world’ and generally welcome diversity. At the same time, standard models and goals appear to surround ‘school English’, as reflected in the examinations which terminate upper secondary education.

Tutkimuksessa tarkasteltiin suomalaisten lukion englanninopettajien ja opiskelijoiden näkemyksiä englanninopetuksen tavoitteista ja päämääristä lingua franca –englannin näkökulmasta, ts. miten englannin rooli kansainvälisenä kielenä näkyy opettajien ja opiskelijoiden ajatuksissa suhteessa kouluopetukseen. Laadullisia ja määrällisiä kysymyksiä sisältäneeseen kyselytutkimukseen vastasi 108 opiskelijaa ja 34 lukion englanninopettajaa. Tulokset osoittavat, että sekä opettajat että oppilaat ovat hyvin tietoisia englannin roolista kansainvälisenä lingua francana ‘tosielämässä’, mutta tämä tietoisuus ei juurikaan näy ‘kouluenglannissa’, joka nähdään edelleen paljolti standardikielen ja äidinkielisen puhujan näkökulmasta. Ristiriita johtuu todennäköisesti ainakin osittain lukion päättävästä ylioppilaskokeesta ja sen asettamista vaatimuksista.
Influence of glutathione S‐transferase M1 and T1 homozygous null mutations on the risk of antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity in a Caucasian population
Authors: Leiro Virginia , Fernández‐Villar Alberto , Valverde Diana , Constenla Lucía , Vázquez Rafael , Piñeiro Luis , González‐Quintela Arturo
Published: July 2010

Objectives: Genetic variations in enzymes of isoniazid metabolism confer an increased risk for antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity in Asian populations. The present study was aimed at investigating the possible association of antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity with polymorphisms at the glutathione S‐transferase (GST) gene in a Caucasian population.

Methods: A prospective case–control study was nested in a cohort of patients with active tuberculosis who were treated with a combination of isoniazid, rifampicin and pyrazinamide. Cases constituted patients with antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity (n=35), and controls constituted patients without any evidence of this complication (n=60). Homozygous null polymorphisms at GST loci M1 and T1 were analysed from genomic DNA from all participants.

Results: The GSTT1 homozygous null polymorphism was significantly associated with antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity [odds ratio (OR) 2.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–6.24, P=0.03]. No significant association was observed between the GSTM1 homozygous null polymorphism and antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.31–1.73, P=0.48).

Conclusion: The GSTT1 homozygous null polymorphism may be a risk factor of antituberculosis drug‐induced hepatotoxicity in Caucasians.
Bird's Response to Revegetation of Different Structure and Floristics—Are “Restoration Plantings” Restoring Bird Communities?
Authors: Munro Nicola T. , Fischer Joern , Barrett Geoff , Wood Jeff , Leavesley Adam , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: July 2010

Revegetation plantings have been established throughout the world to mitigate the effects of clearing, including loss of faunal habitat. Revegetation plantings can differ substantially in structural complexity and plant diversity, with potentially differing habitat qualities for fauna. We studied bird occurrence in revegetation of different complexity and floristics in southern Australia. We assessed bird species richness and composition in remnant forest and cleared agricultural land as reference points, and in two types of plantings differing in structure and floristics—(1) “woodlot plantings” composed of native trees only and (2) “ecological plantings” composed of many species of local trees, shrubs and understorey. By approximately 20 years of age, both types of plantings had a similar bird species richness to that in remnants. Bird species richness was greater in ecological plantings than woodlot plantings. Species composition also differed. Ecological plantings contained a shrub‐associated bird assemblage, whereas woodlot plantings were dominated by generalist bird species. Remnants contained a unique bird assemblage, which were not found in either of the two types of plantings, suggesting that plantings are not a viable replacement of remnant vegetation over this time period. Bird species richness responded positively to structural complexity, but not to floristic richness. Bird species richness was greater in plantings that were older, in riparian locations, and where weed cover was lower. We conclude that plantings in general can provide habitat for many species of birds, and that structurally complex ecological plantings in particular will provide unique and valuable additional habitat for birds.
The Effects of Peatland Restoration on Water‐Table Depth, Elemental Concentrations, and Vegetation: 10 Years of Changes
Authors: Haapalehto Tuomas O. , Vasander Harri , Jauhiainen Sinikka , Tahvanainen Teemu , Kotiaho Janne S.
Published: July 2010

We studied the effects of restoration on water‐table depth (WTD), element concentrations of peat and vegetation composition of peatlands drained for forestry in southern Finland. The restoration aimed to return the trajectory of vegetation succession toward that of undisturbed systems through the blockage of ditches and the removal of trees. Permanent plots established on a bog and a fen were sampled 1 year before, and 1, 2, 3, and 10 years after the restoration. The restoration resulted in a long‐term rise of the water‐table in both peatlands. Ten years after restoration, the mineral element concentrations (Ca, K, Mg, Mn, and P) of peat corresponded to those reported from comparable pristine peatlands. In particular, the increase of K and Mn concentrations at both sites suggests the recovery of ecosystem functionality in terms of nutrient cycling between peat and plants. The restoration resulted in the succession of plant communities toward the targeted peatland vegetation of wetter condition at both sites. This was evident from the decreased abundance of species benefiting from drainage and the corresponding increase of peatland species. However, many species typical of pristine peatlands were missing 10 years after restoration. We conclude that the restoration led to a reversal of the effects of drainage in vegetation and studied habitat conditions. However, due to the slow recovery of peatland ecosystems and the possibility that certain failures in the restoration measures may become apparent only after extended time periods, long‐term monitoring is needed to determine whether the goals of restoration will be met.
Linking the Distribution of an Invasive Amphibian (Rana catesbeiana) to Habitat Conditions in a Managed River System in Northern California
Authors: Fuller Terra E. , Pope Karen L. , Ashton Donald T. , Welsh Hartwell H.
Published: July 2010

Extensive modifications of river systems have left floodplains some of the most endangered ecosystems in the world and made restoration of these systems a priority. Modified river ecosystems frequently support invasive species to the detriment of native species. Rana catesbeiana (American bullfrog) is an invasive amphibian that thrives in modified aquatic habitats. In 2004–2005 we studied the distribution of bullfrogs along a 98‐km reach of the Trinity River below the Lewiston Dam to identify habitat characteristics associated with bullfrogs and to recommend actions to reduce their prevalence in the system. We also examined native amphibian distributions relative to bullfrogs and disturbance regimes. We used regression techniques to model the distribution of bullfrogs in relation to environmental conditions. Models assessing breeding habitat outperformed models assessing bullfrog presence. Top‐ranked predictor variables of bullfrog distribution included water depth, percent rooted floating vegetation, and river km. Most breeding sites of bullfrogs were relict mine tailing ponds or inactive side channels created during restoration activities in the 1990s. Native species were more common in the lower reach where habitats were less modified, in contrast to the distribution of bullfrogs that dominated the upper, more modified reach. To control bullfrogs along a managed river, we suggest reducing the suitability of breeding sites by decreasing depth or reducing hydroperiod and increasing connection with the active river channel. Current management goals of restoring salmonid habitat and returning the river to a more natural hydrologic condition should aid in control of bullfrogs and improve conditions for native amphibians.
Restoring Beaches for Atlantic Coast Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus): A Classification and Regression Tree Analysis of Nest‐Site Selection
Authors: Maslo Brooke , Handel Steven N. , Pover Todd
Published: July 2010

To effectively restore wildlife habitat, ecological research must be easily translated into practical design criteria. Clear directives from research can support arguments that promote more appropriate restoration strategies. For the federally threatened piping plover (Charadrius melodus), beach stabilization practices often accelerate the degradation of suitable breeding habitat and could be revised to provide more advantageous conditions. Several studies of piping plover habitat selection have been conducted, yet useful and detailed design directives remain undeveloped. In this study, we use classification and regression tree analysis to (1) identify microhabitat characteristics and important variable interactions leading to nest establishment and (2) develop target, trigger, and threshold values for use in effective design and adaptive management of piping plover habitat. We found that nests primarily occur in three distinct habitat conditions defined by percent shell and pebble cover, vegetative cover, and distance to nearest dunes and the high tide line. Nest‐site characteristics vary depending on where in the landscape a nest is initiated (backshore, overwash fan, or primary dune). We translate these results into the following pragmatic target design parameters: (1) vegetative cover: less than 10% (backshore), 13% (primary dune); (2) shell/pebble cover: 17–18%; (3) dune height: ≤1.1 m; and (4) dune slope: ≤13%. We also recommend threshold values for adaptive management to maintain habitat that is attractive to plovers. This technique can be applied to many other wildlife habitat restorations. Future studies on niche parameters driving chick survival are necessary to realize the full potential of habitat restoration in increasing overall reproductive success.
Ketogenic diet exhibits neuroprotective effects in hippocampus but fails to prevent epileptogenesis in the lithium‐pilocarpine model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy in adult rats
Authors: Linard Benjamin , Ferrandon Arielle , Koning Estelle , Nehlig Astrid , Raffo Emmanuel
Published: July 2010

Purpose: Although the number of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is increasing, none displays neuroprotective or antiepileptogenic properties that could prevent status epilepticus (SE)–induced drug‐resistant epilepsy. Ketogenic diet (KD) and calorie restriction (CR) are proposed as alternative treatments in epilepsy. Our goal was to assess the neuroprotective or antiepileptogenic effect of these diets in a well‐characterized model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy following initial SE induced by lithium‐pilocarpine in adult rats.

Methods: Seventy‐five P50 male Wistar rats were fed a specific diet: normocalorie carbohydrate (NC), hypocalorie carbohydrate (HC), normocalorie ketogenic (NK), or hypocalorie ketogenic (HK). Rats were subjected to lithium‐pilocarpine SE, except six NC to constitute a control group for histology (C). Four rats per group were implanted with epidural electrodes to record electroencephalography (EEG) during SE and the next six following days. From the seventh day, the animals were video‐recorded 10 h daily to determine latency to epilepsy onset. Neuronal loss in hippocampus and parahippocampal cortices was analyzed 1 month after the first spontaneous seizure.

Results: After lithium‐pilocarpine injection, neither KD nor CR modified SE features or latency to epilepsy. In hippocampal layers, KD or CR exhibited a neuroprotective potential without cooperative effect. Parahippocampal cortices were not protected by the diets.

Conclusion: The antiepileptic effect of KD and/or CR is overwhelmed by lithium‐pilocarpine injection. The isolated protection of hippocampal layers induced by KD or CR or their association failed to modify the course of epileptogenesis.
Early cognitive development in children born to women with epilepsy: A prospective report
Authors: Bromley Rebecca L. , Mawer George , Love Jenna , Kelly James , Purdy Laura , McEwan Lauren , Briggs Maria , Smith Jill Clayton , Sin Xin , Baker Gus A
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  In this prospective study the early cognitive development of children born to women with epilepsy (n = 198) was assessed and compared to a group of children representative of the general population (n = 230).

Methods:  The children were assessed when younger than the age of 2 years using the Griffiths Mental Development Scales, either in their local participating hospital or in their home. The assessments were completed by an assessor who was blinded to whether the child’s mother had epilepsy and to antiepileptic drug type.

Results:  Children exposed to sodium valproate had a statistically significant increased risk of delayed early development in comparison to the control children. Linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant effect of sodium valproate exposure on the child’s overall developmental level that was not accounted for by confounding variables. Delayed early development is also noted for children within an ad hoc group of less commonly utilized antiepileptic drugs, although conclusions cannot be drawn due to the size of this group (n = 13). Children exposed to either carbamazepine or lamotrigine in utero did not differ significantly in their overall developmental ability. Differences noted in specific developmental areas for these two groups were not statistically significant after the control for confounders such as socioeconomic status and maternal IQ.

Discussion:  Women with epilepsy should be informed of the risks posed to their potential offspring prior to pregnancy to allow for informed decisions regarding treatment. Children exposed in utero to antiepileptic drugs should be monitored throughout childhood to allow for early intervention when necessary.
Epilepsy surgery in tuberous sclerosis complex: Emphasis on surgical candidate and neuropsychology
Authors: Liang Shuli , Li Anmin , Zhao Ming , Jiang Hong , Yu Suming , Meng Xiaolun , Sun Yajing
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  To discuss neuropsychological outcome and candidate of epilepsy surgery for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Methods:  To retrospectively analyze clinical data of 25 patients with TSC and epilepsy who underwent epilepsy surgery between 2001 and 2007. Seizure reduction was analyzed at 1‐year (1FU), 2‐year (2FU), and 5‐year (5FU) follow‐up visits after surgery, and outcomes of intelligence quotient (IQ) and quality of life (QOL) were evaluated at 2FU.

Results:  Resective procedures included 14 tuber resections, 9 lobectomies, and 2 tuber resections and lobectomies. Corpus callosotomies (CCTs) were performed as the adjunctive approach in eight cases with low IQ and behavioral problems. The percentages of seizure‐free cases were 72% at 1FU, 60% at 2FU, and 54.5% at 5FU, and the factors predicting seizure freedom included the course of seizures and ages of patients. Significant improvement was found in performance IQ in patients with preoperative low IQ or CCT. Significant improvement in mean QOL score was observed in all patients, especially patients with preoperative low IQ and CCT but postoperative seizure freedom.

Conclusion:  To be surgical candidates, patients with TSC and epilepsy should have identified epileptogenic tubers, and candidates should include patients with low IQ and multiple epileptogenic tubers. Satisfactory seizure control was often achieved with early operation, whereas improved QOL was observed frequently in postoperative seizure‐free patients. CCT could be performed as an adjunctive approach to resective operation for TSC patients with epilepsy and low IQ and render improvement of performance IQ and QOL.
Efficacy, tolerability, and safety of rapid initiation of topiramate versus phenytoin in patients with new‐onset epilepsy: A randomized double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Ramsay Eugene , Faught Edward , Krumholz Allan , Naritoku Dean , Privitera Michael , Schwarzman Lesley , Mao Lian , Wiegand Frank , Hulihan Joseph ,   for the CAPSS‐272 Study Group
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  To evaluate topiramate (TPM) and phenytoin (PHT) monotherapy following rapid oral initiation in new‐onset epilepsy.

Methods:  Randomized, double‐blind, 28‐day trial of TPM (100 mg/day beginning on day 1) versus PHT (1,000 mg on day 1 followed by 300 mg/day maintenance dosing) in 261 patients with new‐onset epilepsy. The primary end point was time to seizure, and the primary objective was to establish noninferiority of TPM to PHT in the risk of seizure.

Results:  At day 28, the estimated seizure‐free rate was 81.1% for TPM treatment in comparison with 90.3% for PHT treatment. Noninferiority of TPM to PHT (primary objective) could not be established [hazard ratio (HR) 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.98 to 4.12, p = 0.366), and PHT could not be shown to be superior to TPM. A higher percentage discontinued with PHT compared to TPM for all reasons (21.1 vs. 12.8%) and due to adverse events (13.4 vs. 6.8%). The most common treatment‐related adverse events in both groups were dizziness, paresthesia, and somnolence. A post hoc analysis showed that TPM was superior to PHT in time to discontinuation (retention rate) for all causes (89.4% vs. 80.3%, p = 0.047).

Conclusion:  This study was inconclusive in establishing noninferiority of TPM 100 mg/day compared to a standard regimen of oral PHT in seizure risk in this population of patients with new‐onset epilepsy. Given the superiority of TPM in overall retention and favorable tolerability without titration, it may nonetheless be an appropriate option in some patients with new‐onset epilepsy requiring rapid treatment initiation.
Imaging of P‐glycoprotein–mediated pharmacoresistance in the hippocampus: Proof‐of‐concept in a chronic rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Bartmann Hero , Fuest Christina , La Fougere Christian , Xiong Guoming , Just Theresa , Schlichtiger Juli , Winter Petra , Böning Guido , Wängler Björn , Pekcec Anton , Soerensen Jonna , Bartenstein Peter , Cumming Paul , Potschka Heidrun
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  Based on experimental findings, overexpression of P‐glycoprotein at the blood–brain barrier has been suggested to be a contributor to pharmacoresistance of the epileptic brain. We test a technique for evaluation of interindividual differences of elevated transporter function, through microPET analysis of the impact of the P‐glycoprotein modulator tariquidar. The preclinical study is intended for eventual translation to clinical research of patients with pharmacoresistant seizure disorders.

Methods:  We made a microPET evaluation of the effects of tariquidar on the brain kinetics of the P‐glycoprotein substrate [18F]MPPF in a rat model with spontaneous recurrent seizures, in which it has previously been demonstrated that phenobarbital nonresponders exhibit higher P‐glycoprotein expression than do phenobarbital responders.

Results:  Mean baseline parametric maps of the [18F]MPPF unidirectional blood–brain clearance (K1; ml/g per min) and the efflux rate constant (k2; per min) did not differ between the nonresponder and responder group. Tariquidar pretreatment increased the magnitude of [18F]MPPF K1 in hippocampus by a mean of 142% in the nonresponders, which significantly exceeded the 92% increase observed in the responder group. The same treatment decreased the mean magnitude of [18F]MPPF k2 in hippocampus by 27% in nonresponders, without comparable effects in the responder group.

Discussion:  These results constitute a proof‐of‐concept for a novel imaging approach to evaluate blood–brain barrier P‐glycoprotein function in animals. By extension, [18F]MPPF positron emission tomography (PET) with tariquidar pretreatment may be amenable for clinical applications exploring further the relevance of P‐glycoprotein overexpression, and for enabling the rational design of pharmacotherapy according to individual differences in P‐glycoprotein expression.
Loneliness and Emergency and Planned Hospitalizations in a Community Sample of Older Adults
Authors: Molloy Gerard J. , McGee Hannah M. , O'Neill Desmond , Conroy Ronan M.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether loneliness is independently associated with emergency hospitalization and planned hospital inpatient admissions in a population sample of older adults.

DESIGN: Nationally representative cross‐sectional interviews in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

SETTING: Private homes in the community.

PARTICIPANTS: Randomly selected older people in the community (aged ≥65, N=2,033).

MEASUREMENTS: Emergency hospitalization and planned hospital admissions.

RESULTS: Eleven percent of the sample had an emergency hospitalization, and 15% had a planned hospital admission. Forty‐two percent reported being bothered by loneliness. A higher frequency of loneliness was associated with emergency hospitalization only (odds ratio=1.29, 95% confidence interval=1.08–1.55), and this association was independent of a range of potential confounders in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION: In this community‐based sample of older adults, greater loneliness was independently associated with emergency hospitalization but not planned inpatient admissions.
Development of a Frailty Index for Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Freiheit Elizabeth A. , Hogan David B. , Eliasziw Misha , Meekes Miranda F. , Ghali William A. , Partlo Lisa A. , Maxwell Colleen J.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES: To construct a brief frailty index for older patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing coronary angiography that includes physical, cognitive, and psychosocial criteria and accurately predicts future disability and decline in health‐related quality of life (HRQL).

DESIGN: Prospective cohort.

SETTING: An urban tertiary care hospital in Alberta, Canada.

PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred seventy‐four patients aged 60 and older (73% male) undergoing cardiac catheterization for CAD between October 2003 and May 2007.

MEASUREMENTS: Potential frailty criteria examined at baseline (before the procedure) included measures of balance, gait speed, cognition, self‐reported health, body mass index (BMI), depressive symptoms, and living alone. The outcomes assessed over 1 year were dependency in activities of daily living (ADLs) and HRQL.

RESULTS: The five best‐fitting criteria from regression analyses for ADL decline were poor balance (risk ratio (RR)=2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.4–4.0), abnormal BMI (RR=1.8, 95% CI=1.1–3.0), impaired Trail‐Making Test Part B performance (RR=2.3, 95% CI=1.3–4.2), depressive symptoms (RR=1.8, 95% CI=1.1–3.1), and living alone (RR=2.2, 95% CI=1.3–3.8). Using the five criteria as separate variables or as a summary frailty index yielded identical areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.76, 95% CI=0.66–0.84). Patients with three or more criteria (vs none) were at statistically significant greater risk for increased disability (RR=10.4, 95% CI=4.4–24.2) and decreased HRQL (RR=4.2, 95% CI=2.3–7.4) after 1 year.

CONCLUSION: This brief frailty index including physical, cognitive, and psychosocial criteria was predictive of increased disability and decreased HRQL at 1 year in older patients with CAD undergoing angiography. This index may have applications for clinicians and researchers but requires further validation.