bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fasudil protects hippocampal neurons against hypoxia‐reoxygenation injury by suppressing microglial inflammatory responses in mice
Authors: Ding Jing , Li Qin‐Ying , Wang Xin , Sun Chang‐Hai , Lu Chuan‐Zhen , Xiao Bao‐Guo
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 1619–1629.

Rho kinase (ROCK) may play an important role in regulating biological events of cells, including proliferation, differentiation and survival/death. Blockade of ROCK promotes axonal regeneration and neuron survival in vivo and in vitro, thereby exhibiting potential clinical applications in spinal cord damage and stroke. Our previous studies have demonstrated that Fasudil, a selective ROCK inhibitor, induced neuroprotection in vitro. Here we used an in vivo model of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury to examine the neuroprotective effect of Fasudil, and explore its possible mechanism(s) in vivo. H/R resulted in the loss of hippocampal neurons, accompanied by increased apoptosis of neurons in hippocampus. The expression of ROCK II and activity of ROCK in the brain were increased after H/R, and located only in microglia, but not in astrocytes and neurons. The administration of Fasudil inhibited the activity of ROCK in brain tissue and cultured microglia, and protected hippocampal neurons against H/R injury. Further immunohistochemical analysis and cytokine determination revealed that Fasudil inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase immunoreactivity in microglia and pro‐inflammatory factors in brain tissue after H/R, which is consistent with the observation wherein Fasudil reduced the pro‐inflammatory factors nitric oxide, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α, and increased anti‐inflammatory factor IL‐10 in cultured microglia under normoxic or hypoxic conditions. Our results indicate that inhibition of ROCK by Fasudil may represent a useful therapeutic perspective by inhibiting microglial inflammatory responses in the CNS.
The Liberalisation of Tariff Rate Quotas under Oligopolistic Competition
Authors: Scoppola Margherita
Published: June 2010

Several proposals for liberalising agricultural tariff rate quotas (TRQs) have been proposed within the WTO Doha Development Round. The literature suggests that the effectiveness of liberalisation depends upon which of the three elements of a TRQ constrains imports. Most contributions assume perfect competition. This article uses an oligopoly two‐stage capacity constrained model, in which the mode of competition is endogenous, to investigate the impact of different liberalisation options of TRQs, that is, the reduction in the in‐quota and out‐of‐quota tariffs and the expansion of the quota. This article shows that consideration of the nature of competition between traders may provide unconventional conclusions about the effectiveness of the various TRQ liberalisation options; furthermore, the article shows how an increase in the number of rivals, under certain circumstances, may be more effective in increasing trade than reducing tariffs.
Consequences of Buffelgrass Pasture Development for Primary Productivity, Perennial Plant Richness, and Vegetation Structure in the Drylands of Sonora, Mexico
Authors: FRANKLIN KIMBERLY , MOLINA‐FREANER FRANCISCO
Published: June 2010

Abstract: In large parts of northern Mexico native plant communities are being converted to non‐native buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare) pastures, and this conversion could fundamentally alter primary productivity and species richness.In Sonora, Mexico land conversion is occurring at a regional scale along a rainfall‐driven gradient of primary productivity, across which native plant communities transition from desert scrub to thorn scrub.We used a paired sampling design to compare a satellite‐derived index of primary productivity, richness of perennial plant species, and canopy‐height profiles of native plant communities with buffelgrass pastures.We sampled species richness across a gradient of primary productivity in desert scrub and thorn scrub vegetation to examine the influence of site productivity on the outcomes of land conversion.We also examined the influence of pasture age on species richness of perennial plants.Index values of primary productivity were lower in buffelgrass pastures than in native vegetation, which suggests a reduction in primary productivity.Land conversion reduced species richness by approximately 50% at local and regional scales, reduced tree and shrub cover by 78%,and reduced canopy height.Land conversion disproportionately reduced shrub species richness, which reflects the common practice among Sonoran ranchers of conserving certain tree and cactus species.Site productivity did not affect the outcomes of land conversion.The age of a buffelgrass pasture was unrelated to species richness within the pasture, which suggests that passive recovery of species richness to preconversion levels is unlikely.Our findings demonstrate that land conversion can result in large losses of plant species richness at local and regional scales and in substantial changes to primary productivity and vegetation structure, which casts doubt on the feasibility of restoring native plant communities without active intervention on the part of land managers.
Some Guiding Concepts for Conservation Biology
Authors: LINDENMAYER DAVID , HUNTER MALCOLM
Published: June 2010

Abstract: The search for generalities in ecology has often been thwarted by contingency and ecological complexity that limit the development of predictive rules. We present a set of concepts that we believe succinctly expresses some of the fundamental ideas in conservation biology. (1) Successful conservation management requires explicit goals and objectives. (2) The overall goal of biodiversity management will usually be to maintain or restore biodiversity, not to maximize species richness. (3) A holistic approach is needed to solve conservation problems. (4) Diverse approaches to management can provide diverse environmental conditions and mitigate risk. (5) Using nature's template is important for guiding conservation management, but it is not a panacea. (6) Focusing on causes not symptoms enhances efficacy and efficiency of conservation actions. (7) Every species and ecosystem is unique, to some degree. (8) Threshold responses are important but not ubiquitous. (9) Multiple stressors often exert critical effects on species and ecosystems. (10) Human values are variable and dynamic and significantly shape conservation efforts. We believe most conservation biologists will broadly agree these concepts are important. That said, an important part of the maturation of conservation biology as a discipline is constructive debate about additional or alternative concepts to those we have proposed here. Therefore, we have established a web‐based, online process for further discussion of the concepts outlined in this paper and developing additional ones.
Defining Historical Baselines for Conservation: Ecological Changes Since European Settlement on Vancouver Island, Canada
Authors: BJORKMAN ANNE D. , VELLEND MARK
Published: June 2010

Abstract: Conservation and restoration goals are often defined by historical baseline conditions that occurred prior to a particular period of human disturbance, such as European settlement in North America. Nevertheless, if ecosystems were heavily influenced by native peoples prior to European settlement, conservation efforts may require active management rather than simple removal of or reductions in recent forms of disturbance. We used pre‐European settlement land survey records (1859–1874) and contemporary vegetation surveys to assess changes over the past 150 years in tree species and habitat composition, forest density, and tree size structure on southern Vancouver Island and Saltspring Island, British Columbia, Canada. Several lines of evidence support the hypothesis that frequent historical burning by native peoples, and subsequent fire suppression, have played dominant roles in shaping this landscape. First, the relative frequency of fire‐sensitive species (e.g., cedar [Thuja plicata]) has increased, whereas fire‐tolerant species (e.g., Douglas‐fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii]) have decreased. Tree density has increased 2‐fold, and the proportion of the landscape in forest has greatly increased at the expense of open habitats (plains, savannas), which today contain most of the region's threatened species. Finally, the frequency distribution of tree size has shifted from unimodal to monotonically decreasing, which suggests removal of an important barrier to tree recruitment. In addition, although most of the open habitats are associated with Garry oak (Quercus garryana) at present, most of the open habitats prior to European settlement were associated with Douglas‐fir, which suggests that the current focus on Garry oak as a flagship for the many rare species in savannas may be misguided. Overall, our results indicate that the maintenance and restoration of open habitats will require active management and that historical records can provide critical guidance to such efforts.
Vitamin D Treatment for the Prevention of Falls in Older Adults: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kalyani Rita Rastogi , Stein Brady , Valiyil Ritu , Manno Rebecca , Maynard Janet W. , Crews Deidra C.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVES: To systematically review and quantitatively synthesize the effect of vitamin D therapy on fall prevention in older adults.

DESIGN: Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

SETTING: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, LILACS, bibliographies of selected articles, and previous systematic reviews through February 2009 were searched for eligible studies.

PARTICIPANTS: Older adults (aged ≥60) who participated in randomized controlled trials that both investigated the effectiveness of vitamin D therapy in the prevention of falls and used an explicit fall definition.

MEASUREMENTS: Two authors independently extracted data, including study characteristics, quality assessment, and outcomes. The I2 statistic was used to assess heterogeneity in a random‐effects model.

RESULTS: Of 1,679 potentially relevant articles, 10 met inclusion criteria. In pooled analysis, vitamin D therapy (200–1,000 IU) resulted in 14% (relative risk (RR)=0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.79–0.93; I2=7%) fewer falls than calcium or placebo (number needed to treat =15). The following subgroups had significantly fewer falls: community‐dwelling (aged <80), adjunctive calcium supplementation, no history of fractures or falls, duration longer than 6 months, cholecalciferol, and dose of 800 IU or greater. Meta‐regression demonstrated no linear association between vitamin D dose or duration and treatment effect. Post hoc analysis including seven additional studies (17 total) without explicit fall definitions yielded smaller benefit (RR=0.92, 95% CI=0.87–0.98) and more heterogeneity (I2=36%) but found significant intergroup differences favoring adjunctive calcium over none (P=.001).

CONCLUSION: Vitamin D treatment effectively reduces the risk of falls in older adults. Future studies should investigate whether particular populations or treatment regimens may have greater benefit.
Likelihood of Ordering Physical Restraints: Influence of Physician Characteristics
Authors: Sandhu Satinderpal K. , Mion Lorraine C. , Khan Rabia Halim , Ludwick Ruth , Claridge Jeffrey , Pile James C. , Harrington Michael , Winchell Janice , Dietrich Mary S.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVES: To determine physician knowledge regarding restraint regulations and effectiveness and effect of physician characteristics on likelihood of ordering restraints.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional, factorial research survey.

SETTING: Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS: Interns in all specialties; residents in internal medicine, family practice, emergency medicine, psychiatry, and surgery; and attending faculty at an academic medical center.

MEASUREMENTS: Survey of demographic, professional, and restraint knowledge items and for each of five distinct vignettes; physician ratings of probability of patient harm and likelihood of ordering restraints. For each, physicians rated probability of patient harm and likelihood of ordering restraint.

RESULTS: One hundred eighty‐nine of 246 (77%) surveys were returned. More than half (58%) were men; the median age was 30 (range 25–63), median years experience was 2 (range 0–33), and 60% were U.S. medical school graduates. Mean knowledge score was 68.4% (range 27–100%). Mean likelihood of ordering restraints ranged from 0.6 (not likely) to 9 (absolutely) (overall mean 3.9 ± 2.2). Exploratory hierarchical regression on mean likelihood of ordering restraint (outcome) with independent variables of physician age and sex (Step 1), years experience and physician level (Step 2), specialization (Step 3), restraint knowledge (Step 4), and judgment of harm (Step 5) explained 31.9% of the variance (F=7.19, degrees of freedom 13,159, P<.001). Higher appraisal of harm (P<.001), less knowledge regarding restraint (P=.03), and male sex (P=.005) were unique indicators for the likelihood of ordering restraints. Psychiatry (P=.03) or internal medicine physicians (P=.05) were less likely to order restraints.

CONCLUSION: Physician characteristics and lack of restraint knowledge are associated with likelihood of ordering restraints. Results will guide medical education initiatives to reduce restraint rates.
Platelet quality after washing: the effect of storage time before washing
Authors: Tynngård Nahreen , Trinks Marie , Berlin Gösta
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Patients who have experienced anaphylactic transfusion reactions receive washed platelet (PLT) concentrates (PCs) where the plasma has been substituted with a PLT additive solution. This study compares the in vitro quality of PCs washed at the beginning of the storage period (Day 1) to PCs washed at the end of storage (Day 7).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PLTs were prepared by the buffy coat procedure. Two concentrates were pooled and then split to obtain an identical pair of PCs. One of the PCs was washed with T‐Sol on Day 1 and the other on Day 7 of storage. Swirling, blood gases, and metabolic variables were analyzed before washing. Analyses of surface expression of CD62P and coagulation by free oscillation rheometry (FOR) were performed before and after washing.

RESULTS: pH was acceptable in all PCs. Washing on Days 1 and 7 increased the CD62P surface expression. The FOR variables clotting time and clot retraction were not influenced by washing on either day. Washing resulted in a decrease in the number of PLTs and the decrease was larger on Day 7 compared to Day 1.

CONCLUSIONS: PLTs washed on Days 1 and 7 of storage are effected by washing in a similar manner. However, a larger loss of PLTs occurred during washing on Day 7.
A practical strategy to reduce the risk of passive hemolysis by screening plateletpheresis donors for high‐titer ABO antibodies
Authors: Quillen Karen , Sheldon Sherry L. , Daniel‐Johnson Jennifer A. , Lee‐Stroka A. Hallie , Flegel Willy A.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Hemolytic transfusion reactions (HTRs) can occur from ABO‐incompatible platelet (PLT) transfusions. After a series of cases at our institution, a procedure to screen all plateletpheresis donors for high‐titer ABO antibodies was implemented.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Plasma samples from plateletpheresis donors were screened using pooled 0.8% A1 and 0.8% B red blood cells (RBCs) in buffered gel. Dilutions of 1 in 150, 1 in 200, and 1 in 250 were sequentially evaluated. A component testing positive for high‐titer ABO antibodies was restricted to ABO‐identical or group O recipients or washed.

RESULTS: At the initial dilution of 1 in 150, half of group O components were labeled as high titer. At the current dilution of 1 in 250, 25% of group O components are labeled as high titer. No PLT‐associated HTR has been reported since screening began.

CONCLUSION: Universal screening for high‐titer ABO antibodies in plateletpheresis donors can be implemented efficiently to reduce the risk of HTRs. The cutoff for classifying a unit as high titer depends on the serologic method used and may be customized by the individual facility. Our screening method uses one gel test per donation regardless of blood group and a plasma dilution of 1 in 250 with pooled A1/B RBCs in buffered gel.
Granulocyte antibody screening: evaluation of a bead‐based assay in comparison with classical methods
Authors: Fromont Patricia , Prié Nolwen , Simon Philippe , Cesbron‐Gautier Anne , Quelvennec Erwann , Bignon Jean‐Denis , Muller Jean‐Yves , Audrain Marie
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Granulocyte antibodies have been implicated in allo‐ and autoimmune neutropenia and in transfusion reactions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Fifty‐one sera from suspected alloimmune neutropenia or transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) and 40 sera from suspected autoimmune neutropenia were tested for granulocyte antibodies using LABScreen MULTI (One Lambda, Inc.), compared with classical tests (flow cytometry [FC] and granulocyte agglutination [GAT] followed by monoclonal antibody–specific immobilization of granulocyte antigens [MAIGA]).

RESULTS: In alloimmune situations, 48 sera were concordant (94%), two sera positive for HNA with LABScreen MULTI were negative by FC/GAT and/or MAIGA, and one serum sample negative for HNA with LABScreen MULTI was positive by classical tests. In autoimmune neutropenia, 30 sera were concordant (75%), four sera positive for HNA with LABScreen MULTI were negative by FC/GAT and/or MAIGA, and six sera negative for HNA with LABScreen MULTI were positive by FC/GAT and/or MAIGA. For detection of autoantibodies, the LABScreen MULTI was less concordant. However, with the exception of one case, the discrepancies were observed in sera that did not show a clear specificity.

CONCLUSIONS: LABScreen MULTI correlated well with our classical methods for HNA‐1 and HNA‐2a antibody screening. It can be used for screening blood donors or patients suspected of TRALI, but GAT is still needed for HNA‐3a antibody screening.
Misleading hepatitis B test results due to intravenous immunoglobulin administration: implications for a clinical trial of rituximab in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Arnold Donald M. , Crowther Mark A. , Meyer Ralph M. , Carruthers Julie , DiTomasso Julie , Heddle Nancy M. , McLeod Anne , Kelton John G.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Rituximab may cause reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) even in patients with remote HBV infection. Thus, the presence of hepatitis B core antibodies (anti‐HBc) was an exclusion criterion for a randomized trial of rituximab for patients with immune thrombocytopenia. A high seroprevalence of anti‐HBc observed among patients screened for the trial prompted this substudy to investigate for an association between anti‐HBc seropositivity and exposure to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a retrospective case‐control study that was a substudy of a randomized controlled trial.

RESULTS: Of 24 trial participants screened at one center, 11 (45.8%) were anti‐HBc positive and of those, 10 (90.0%) had received IVIG in the preceding 4 weeks. Of 13 seronegative patients screened, five (38.5%) had received IVIG (odds ratio, 16; 95% confidence interval, 1.5‐166.1). Seven (70%) of 10 seropositive participants subsequently reverted to negative upon repeat testing. Serial testing before and after IVIG (n = 2) demonstrated transient anti‐HBc that lasted for up to 11 weeks after the last dose of IVIG. Samples from three of five different IVIG products were found to contain anti‐HBc.

CONCLUSIONS: Passive transfer of anti‐HBc from certain IVIG products may lead to misinterpretation of hepatitis test results with implications for treatment and clinical trial eligibility. To avoid misleading test results, anti‐HBc should be measured before or 3 months after IVIG administration; alternatively an IVIG product known to be free of anti‐HBc should be used.
Dora's Program: A Constructively Marginalized Paraeducator and Her Developmental Biliteracy Program
Authors: Lucero Audrey
Published: June 2010

This article discusses findings from a case study of one elementary bilingual paraeducator, highlighting how the recognition of situated cultural capital enabled her to move from traditional to constructive marginality. I argue that her actions, the actions of others, and conditions within the school enabled her to use culturally relevant funds of knowledge in working with language‐minority children. I conclude that the resources paraeducators bring can be harnessed when stakeholders are committed to doing so. [paraeducators, cultural capital, constructive marginality, biliteracy, family literacy]
Schooling and Critical Citizenship: Pedagogies of Political Agency in El Alto, Bolivia
Authors: Lazar Sian
Published: June 2010

This article explores the formation of citizenship as social practice in a school in El Alto, Bolivia. I examine interactions between “banking” forms of education, students' responses, and embodied practices of belonging and political agency, and argue that the seemingly passive forms of knowledge transmission so criticized by critical pedagogy need not preclude the development of critical citizenship in young people. [citizenship, El Alto, schooling, political agency, critical pedagogy]
Partial Agonist Therapy in Schizophrenia: Relevance to Diminished Criminal Responsibility
Authors: Gavaudan Gilles , Magalon David , Cohen Julien , Lançon Christophe , Léonetti Georges , Pélissier‐Alicot Anne‐Laure
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Pathological gambling (PG), classified in the DSM‐IV among impulse control disorders, is defined as inappropriate, persistent gaming for money with serious personal, family, and social consequences. Offenses are frequently committed to obtain money for gambling. Pathological gambling, a planned and structured behavioral disorder, has often been described as a complication of dopamine agonist treatment in patients with Parkinson’s disease. It has never been described in patients with schizophrenia receiving dopamine agonists. We present two patients with schizophrenia, previously treated with antipsychotic drugs without any suggestion of PG, who a short time after starting aripiprazole, a dopamine partial agonist, developed PG and criminal behavior, which totally resolved when aripiprazole was discontinued. Based on recent advances in research on PG and adverse drug reactions to dopamine agonists in Parkinson’s disease, we postulate a link between aripiprazole and PG in both our patients with schizophrenia and raise the question of criminal responsibility.
Photoallergic contact dermatitis from benzydamine presenting mainly as lip dermatitis
Authors: Canelas Maria Miguel , Cardoso José Carlos , Gonçalo Margarida , Figueiredo Américo
Published: June 2010

Background: Benzydamine, a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) in use for more than four decades, has been reported to cause photosensitivity.

Objectives: To study the results of photopatch testing to benzydamine and the clinical features of the dermatitis during a 3‐year period (2006–2008).

Patients and methods: During this period, 74 patients with photodermatoses were photopatch tested with an extended baseline series of allergens including benzydamine and in suspicious cases, with drugs that contain it. Test sites were irradiated on D2 with 5 J/cm2 and readings were performed on D2 and D4.

Results: Ten patients (six females/four males), aged 21–84 years (mean 64.9) had a positive photopatch test to benzydamine [1–5% petrolatum (pet.) from Bial‐Aristegui®] and to drugs that contain it (Tantum verde® oral solution and Momen® gel). Nine patients had lower lip cheilitis and one lichenified eczema on photo‐exposed sites.

Conclusion: Photosensitivity from both topical and systemic benzydamine has been occasionally described, mainly in southern Spain. Despite its widespread use and its known photosensitizing capacity, photoallergic contact dermatitis from benzydamine is probably underdiagnosed as the clinical presentation of mainly the lip and chin is not typical of photoallergic contact dermatitis and benzydamine is not part of most photoallergen series.
Formaldehyde‐releasers: relationship to formaldehyde contact allergy. Metalworking fluids and remainder. Part 1
Authors: De Groot Anton , Geier Johannes , Flyvholm Mari‐Ann , Lensen Gerda , Coenraads Pieter‐Jan
Published: June 2010

This is part of a series of review articles on formaldehyde‐releasers and their relationship to formaldehyde contact allergy. Formaldehyde‐releasers used in metalworking fluids (MWF) and a group of releasers not presented in previous articles are discussed. Here, in Part 1 of the article, there is a short overview of the composition and functions of MWF, the function of biocides in them, and adverse reactions to MWF. In addition, the releasers in MWF that have caused contact allergy are presented with CAS, synonyms, molecular formula, chemical structure, applications, patch test studies, and amount of formaldehyde released by them.

In Part 2 of the article, the relationship between formaldehyde‐releasers used in MWF and formaldehyde contact allergy is discussed as are data on miscellaneous releasers not previously presented, followed by a discussion of Parts 1 and 2 of the article.
Fragrance contact allergy: a 4‐year retrospective study
Authors: Cuesta Laura , Silvestre Juan Francisco , Toledo Fernando , Lucas Ana , Pérez‐Crespo María , Ballester Irene
Published: June 2010

Background: Fragrance chemicals are the second most frequent cause of contact allergy. The mandatory labelling of 26 fragrance chemicals when present in cosmetics has facilitated management of patients allergic to fragrances.

Objectives: The study was aimed to define the characteristics of the population allergic to perfumes detected in our hospital district, to determine the usefulness of markers of fragrance allergy in the baseline GEIDAC series, and to describe the contribution made by the fragrance series to the data obtained with the baseline series.

Material and methods: We performed a 4‐year retrospective study of patients tested with the Spanish baseline series and/or fragrance series. There are four fragrance markers in the baseline series: fragrance mix I (FM I), Myroxylon pereirae, fragrance mix II (FM II), and hydroxyisohexyl 3‐cyclohexene carboxaldehyde.

Results: A total of 1253 patients were patch tested, 117 (9.3%) of whom were positive to a fragrance marker. FM I and M. pereirae detected 92.5% of the cases of fragrance contact allergy. FM II and hydroxyisohexyl 3‐cyclohexene carboxaldehyde detected 6 additional cases and provided further information in 8, enabling improved management. A fragrance series was tested in a selected group of 86 patients and positive results were obtained in 45.3%. Geraniol was the allergen most frequently found in the group of patients tested with the fragrance series.

Conclusions: Classic markers detect the majority of cases of fragrance contact allergy. We recommend incorporating FM II in the Spanish baseline series, as in the European baseline series, and using a specific fragrance series to study patients allergic to a fragrance marker.
Beneficial effects of melatonin on reperfusion injury in rat sciatic nerve
Authors: Sayan Hale , Haktan Ozacmak V. , Ozen Oguz Aslan , Coskun Omer , Oktay Arslan S. , Cem Sezen S. , Gulhan Aktas R.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Studies have shown that ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) produces free radicals leading to lipid peroxidation and to damage of the nervous tissue. Melatonin, a main secretory product of the pineal gland, has free radical scavenging and antioxidant properties and has been shown to diminish I/R injury in many tissues. There are a limited number of studies related to the effects of melatonin on I/R injury in the peripheral nervous system. Therefore, in the present study, the protective effect of melatonin was investigated in rats subjected to 2 hr of sciatic nerve ischemia followed by 3 hr of reperfusion. Following reperfusion, nerve tissue samples were collected for quantitative assesment of malondialdehyde (MDA), an oxidative stress marker, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), a principal antioxidant enzyme. Samples were further evaluated at electron microscopic level to examine the neuropathological changes. I/R elevated the concentration of MDA significantly while there was a reduction at SOD levels. Melatonin treatment reversed the I/R‐induced increase and decrease in MDA and SOD levels, respectively. Furthermore, melatonin salvaged the nerve fibers from ischemic degeneration. Histopathologic findings in the samples of melatonin‐treated animals indicated less edema and less damage to the myelin sheaths and axons than those observed in the control samples. Our results suggest that administration of melatonin protects the sciatic nerve from I/R injury, which may be attributed to its antioxidant property.
Protective role of melatonin given either before ischemia or prior to reperfusion on intestinal ischemia‐reperfusion damage
Authors: Ates Burhan , Yilmaz Ismet , Geckil Hikmet , Iraz Mustafa , Birincioglu Mustafa , Fiskin Kayahan
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Tissue injury resulting from ischemia‐reperfusion is of fundamental importance. Experimental evidence suggests that the generation of reactive oxygen species is significantly responsible for this type of injury. In the present study, besides investigating the protective role of melatonin on tissue damage caused by intestinal ischemia‐reperfusion, the protective activity of this compound was also analyzed in both pre‐ and post ischemia melatonin‐treated rats. The activities of the main antioxidative enzymes, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in the intestine showed significant (P < 0.05) increases in melatonin‐treated animals that were subjected to ischemia/reperfusion compared with those subjected only to ischemia/reperfusion. Also, results clearly indicate that the level of malondialdeyhde, an index of lipid peroxidation, decreased significantly (P < 0.05) when rats subjected to intestinal/reperfusion were given melatonin either before ischemia or before reperfusion.
Protective effect of N‐acetyl‐serotonin on the nonenzymatic lipid peroxidation in rat testicular microsomes and mitochondria
Authors: Gavazza Mariana B. , Català Angel
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  N‐acetyl‐serotonin, the immediate precursor of melatonin in the tryptophan metabolic pathway in the pineal gland, has been reported to be an antioxidant. The aim of this study was to test the in vitro protective effect of N‐acetyl‐serotonin on the ascorbate‐Fe++ induced lipid peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) located in testis microsomes and mitochondria. We assayed increasing concentrations (0–10 mm) of N‐acetyl‐serotonin in testis microsomes and (0–1 mm) of N‐acetyl‐serotonin in testis mitochondria. Control experiments were performed by incubating microsomal and mitochondrial membranes with N‐acetyl‐serotonin in the absence of lipid peroxidation‐inducing drugs. Special attention was paid to the changes produced on the highly PUFAs C20:4 n6 and C22:5 n6. The light emission (chemiluminescence) used as a marker of lipid peroxidation was similar in both organelles when the control and peroxidized groups were compared. N‐acetyl‐serotonin reduced lipid peroxidation in testicular microsomes or mitochondria for both C20:4 n6 and C22:5 n6. Both long chain PUFAs were protected when N‐acetyl‐serotonin was incorporated either into microsomes or mitochondria. The N‐acetyl‐serotonin concentration required to inhibit by approximately 70% lipid peroxidation process was 10 mm in microsomes and between 0.50 and 1 mm in mitochondria. IC 50 values calculated from the inhibition curve of N‐acetyl‐serotonin on the chemiluminescence rates were higher in microsomes (4.50 mm) than in mitochondria (0.25 mm). In these experimental conditions, N‐acetyl‐serotonin was about 18 times more potent in testicular mitochondria in inhibiting the oxidative processes than it was in testicular microsomes. These results suggest that the protective role of N‐acetyl‐serotonin in preserving the long PUFAs may be related to its ability to reduce lipid peroxidation.
Melatonin increases cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of maternally separated rats
Authors: Kim Mi‐Ja , Kim Hye Kyung , Kim Bum‐Shik , Yim Sung‐Vin
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Melatonin in mammals, produced by the pineal gland and elsewhere, has shown antioxidant and neuroprotective properties in neuronal cells. We investigated whether melatonin would increase newly born cells (cell proliferation) in the dentate gyrus of maternally separated rats. To examine the effect of melatonin on cell proliferation of the dentate gyrus in maternally separated rats, 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) immunohistochemistry was performed. Rat pups were separated from their mothers and socially isolated on postnatal day 14. Melatonin (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and BrdU (50 mg/kg, i.p.) were given to them for 7 days. The number of BrdU‐positive cells was significantly increased in the dentate gyrus of maternally separated pups with melatonin administration (P < 0.001). In addition, the expression of glucocorticoid receptor was significantly decreased in the dentate gyrus compared with maternally separated pups not given melatonin (P < 0.001). This is the first report that melatonin increases cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of maternally separated rats.
Long‐term effects of melatonin or 17β‐estradiol on improving spatial memory performance in cognitively impaired, ovariectomized adult rats
Authors: Feng Zheng , Cheng Yong , Zhang Jun‐tian
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Melatonin is an endogenously generated potent antioxidant. Our previous studies indicate that melatonin improved learning and memory deficits in APP695 transgenic mouse of Alzheimer's disease. An ovariectomized (OVX) rat model which is characterized by progressive memory deficits, central cholinergic nerve system degeneration and differentiation/apoptosis imbalance is the ideal in vivo model in which to test the neuroprotective effects of melatonin. OVX Sprague–Dawley rats received daily injections of melatonin (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) or 17β‐estradiol (E2, 80 μg/kg) or sesame oil for 16 wk. Morris water maze results showed that ovarian steroid deprivation resulted in spatial memory impairment, while melatonin and E2 significantly ameliorated spatial memory deficits in OVX rats. The latency to find the hidden platform and the distance to reach the platform become shorter in both melatonin and E2‐treated rats compared with those that were only OVX. Four months after OVX, the choline acetyltransferase activity in the frontal cortex and hippocampus were greatly decreased in comparison with the controls. Melatonin and E2 antagonized the effects induced by OVX. Interestingly, the activity of the acetylcholinesterase was not altered in any group of rats. DNA fragmentation was presented in the front cortex of the OVX rats. Melatonin and E2 reduced the number of apoptotic neurons. These findings demonstrate the important effects of melatonin and E2 on cholinergic neurons and support the potential application of melatonin in the treatment of dementia in postmenopausal women. Our results indicate that neuroprotection by melatonin partly correlated to modulation of apoptosis and protection of the cholinergic system. Early long‐term melatonin application is a promising strategy which could potentially be applied in a clinic setting.
Childhood stroke in Sweden I: incidence, symptoms, risk factors and short‐term outcome
Authors: Christerson S , Strömberg B
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To evaluate the incidence, presenting symptoms, diagnostic delay, risk factors and short‐term outcome of childhood stroke in a population‐based cohort of Swedish children.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed the records of children experiencing their first stroke during a 7‐year period in Uppsala‐Örebro Health Care Region covering one‐fifth of the Swedish population. Arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS), cerebral sinus venous stroke and nontraumatic haemorrhagic stroke (HS) in children aged >28 days and <18 years were included.

Results:  We identified 51 children (23 boys and 28 girls; median age 13). The average annual incidence of stroke was 1.8 per 100 000 children. AIS was found in 51% of the children, HS in 41% and cerebral sinus venous stroke in 8%. One‐third of the children had underlying diseases, and one‐third had vascular malformations. Six girls used oral contraceptives, three of these were smokers and two had iron deficiency anaemia. Two children died in the acute stage (4%), and 40/49 (82%) had some neurological dysfunction at discharge.

Conclusion:  The incidence of childhood stroke was 1.8 per 100 000 children and year, and the primary mortality was 4%. Risk factors of importance were oral contraceptives, smoking and anaemia in combinations.
Endogenous Vasoactive Peptides and the Human Vagina—A Molecular Biology and Functional Study
Authors: Rahardjo Harrina E. , Brauer Andreas , Mägert Hans-Jürgen , Meyer Markus , Kauffels Wolfgang , Taher Akmal , Rahardjo Djoko , Jonas Udo , Kuczyk Markus A. , Ückert Stefan
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Endogenous peptides, such as vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), and bradykinin (BK), have been proposed to play a role in the female sexual arousal response by exerting relaxation of clitoral, labial, and vaginal smooth muscle. While the effects of endogenous peptides on the human male erectile tissue have already been described, only very few studies have been conducted to investigate the peptidergic control of female genital tissues, including the vagina.

Aims

To elucidate the expression of mRNA specifically encoding for peptide receptors in the human vagina and the effects of VIP, CNP, and BK on the tension induced by endothelin-1 (ET-1) of isolated human vaginal wall smooth muscle. The production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in response to exposure of the tissue to the peptides was also measured.

Methods

The expression of mRNA encoding for receptor proteins specific for VIP, CNP, and BK were investigated by means of molecular biology (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR] analysis). Using the organ bath technique, the effects of VIP, CNP, and BK (0.1 nM to 1 µM) on the tension induced by 0.1 µM ET-1 of human vaginal strips were investigated. The tissue was also exposed to three different concentrations of VIP, CNP, and BK (0.01 µM, 0.1 µM, 1 µM) and the production of cAMP and cGMP determined by means of radioimmunoassays.

Main Outcome Measures

Characterize the expression of peptide receptors in the human vagina and measure the relaxation exerted by BK, CNP, and VIP on the contraction induced by ET-1 of isolated human vaginal tissue. In addition, the effects of the peptides on the production of cAMP and cGMP were also elucidated.

Results

RT-PCR analysis revealed the expression of mRNA transcripts encoding for the VIP receptors VIP1R/vasoactive intestinal polypeptide receptor type 1 (VPAC1) and VIP2R/VPAC2, CNP receptors natriuretic peptide receptor type A (NPRA), natriuretic peptide receptor type B (NPRB) and natriuretic peptide receptor type C (NPRC), and BK receptor B2R. The tension induced by ET-1 was reversed by the peptides with the following rank order of efficacy: BK (21.7%) > VIP (20.9%) > CNP (13.3%). The relaxing effects of VIP and BK were paralleled by a 4.8-fold and fivefold increase in cAMP, while the production of cGMP was stimulated 38-fold and 119-fold in the presence of CNP or BK, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results are in support of the hypothesis that endogenous peptides may contribute to the control of human vaginal smooth muscle tone through the involvement of the cyclic nucleotide-dependent pathways.
THE FIFTH WORLD CONGRESS ON FAMILY LAW AND THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Authors: Kay Hon. Joseph V.
Published: June 2010

Editor's note on the 5th World Congress on Family Law and Children's Rights held in Halifax Nova Scotia, August 23–26, 2009
FUTURE CHILD'S RIGHTS IN NEW REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY:THINKING OUTSIDE THE TUBE AND MAINTAINING THE CONNECTIONS
Authors: Moyal Dena , Shelley Carolyn
Published: June 2010

This article considers whether children born through assisted human reproduction are entitled to information about their biological origins. It examines the issue both from a clinical perspective, citing social science research and the personal narratives of donor‐conceived children, and from a legal perspective, outlining the extent of a child's “right to know” in different jurisdictions. The article suggests that a uniform legal approach is needed that will recognize the right of all children to access details about their identity and conception, for the sake of their psychological well‐being. The article includes a fact scenario that considers the situation of a donor‐conceived child who has become the subject of a custody dispute, and who has not been told the circumstances of his conception.
NEGLECTED INFANTS IN FAMILY COURT
Authors: Wotherspoon Evelyn , Vellet Sonya , Pirie June , O'Neill‐Laberge Marlene , Cook‐Stanhope Hon. Lynn , Wilson Dee
Published: June 2010

This paper applies the science of early childhood development to the question of neglect in infancy to offer best practice guidance to family law and child protection professionals charged with acting in their best interest. The paper discusses the challenges of presenting cases of infant neglect, particularly emotional neglect, to the court. Current science on the implications of neglect for brain development, and long term mental health are discussed. Recommendations for assessment, intervention and questions that should be addressed in court deliberations are outlined.
THE DIVIDED WORLD OF THE CHILD: DIVORCE AND LONG‐TERM PSYCHOSOCIAL ADJUSTMENT
Authors: Finley Gordon E. , Schwartz Seth J.
Published: June 2010

This study evaluated the extent to which divorce creates the “divided world of the child,” as well as consequences of this “divided world” for long‐term adjustment. An ethnically diverse sample of 1,375 young‐adult university students completed retrospective measures of parental nurturance and involvement, and current measures of psychosocial adjustment and troubled ruminations about parents. Results indicated that reports of maternal and paternal nurturance and involvement were closely related in intact families but uncorrelated in divorced families. Across family forms, the total amount of nurturance or involvement received was positively associated with self‐esteem, purpose in life, life satisfaction, friendship quality and satisfaction, and academic performance; and negatively related to distress, romantic relationship problems, and troubled ruminations about parents. Mother‐father differences in nurturance and involvement showed a largely opposite set of relationships. Implications for family court practices are discussed.
INTIMATE PARTNER ABUSE SCREENING IN CUSTODY MEDIATION: THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSESSING COERCIVE CONTROL
Authors: Beck Connie J. A. , Raghavan Chitra
Published: June 2010

The central point of this paper argues that measuring physical violence alone is insufficient to detect relational distress in child custody/parenting time mediation samples. We present empirical findings from a large study attending custody/ parenting time mediation. Results suggest that the most economical and efficient screening tool should include measures of coercive controlling behavior. Our data suggests that coercive control is able to account for other victim distress variables crucial to mediation, including victim fear, victim safety and ultimately the fairness of the mediation process. We recommend that researchers continue to refine measures of coercive control to be used in custody/parenting time mediation settings.
RELYING ON THE UNRELIABLE: HOW A COURT RULE COULD ALLEVIATE THE PROBLEMS INHERENT IN THE NEUTRAL MENTAL HEALTH EVALUATION PROCESS IN CHILD CUSTODY CASES
Authors: Terzuoli Michael
Published: June 2010

Many states lack standards as to who should be conducting neutral mental health evaluations in child custody proceedings and what these evaluations should be comprised of. This will occasionally result in an unqualified evaluator giving a recommendation to the court as to which parent should receive custody of their child[ren]. This Note advocates for courts to adopt a court rule which specifically enumerates the qualifications of neutral mental health evaluators in the hopes of regularizing the evaluation process. The first part of the proposal addresses who should conduct evaluations by establishing the required credentials of the evaluator and minimizing the amount of evaluator bias by screening the process. The second part of the proposal focuses on the training needed before an evaluator may conduct an examination, as well as the amount of experience required.
Two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis‐based proteomic analysis of the Medicago truncatula–rust (Uromyces striatus) interaction
Authors: Castillejo M.Á. , Susín R. , Madrid E. , Fernández‐Aparicio M. , Jorrín J.V. , Rubiales D.
Published: June 2010

A two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) based proteomic approach has been used to study the Medicago truncatula–Uromyces striatus interaction. The 2‐DE leaf protein profile of three M. truncatula genotypes displaying different phenotypes (susceptible and showing prehaustorial and posthaustorial resistance) in both noninoculated and inoculated plants have been compared. Multivariate statistical analysis identified 63 differential protein spots under the experimental conditions (genotypes/treatments). Variable spots were subjected to tandem mass spectrometry (MS, matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionisation time of flight, MALDI‐TOF/TOF) analysis to identify their possible functions. A total of 27 proteins were identified using a combination of peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) and MSMS fragmentation. Most of these observed changes correspond to enzymes involved in photosynthesis, energy metabolic pathways and stress related, whose pattern expression was different in relation to susceptibility/resistance of the genotypes studied. Results obtained in this work suggest that differences observed could be related to efficiency in energy utilisation and the induction of proteins involved in defence mechanism operating during early stages of infection.
Effects of bark beetle pheromones on the attraction of Monochamus alternatus to pine volatiles
Authors: Fan Jian‐Ting , Miller Daniel R. , Zhang Long‐Wa , Sun Jiang‐Hua
Published: June 2010

Abstract  We evaluated the attraction of Monochamus alternatus Hope (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), Dryocoetes luteus Blandford and Orthotomicus erosus Wollaston (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) to multiple‐funnel traps baited with the pine volatiles, ethanol and (+)‐α‐pinene and the bark beetle pheromones, ipsenol and ipsdienol. M. alternatus were attracted to traps baited with ethanol and (+)‐α‐pinene but not those baited with ipsdienol and ipsenol. Ipsdienol and ipsenol decreased catches of M. alternatus in traps baited with ethanol and (+)‐α‐pinene. Traps baited with either binary combinations of ethanol and (+)‐α‐pinene or ipsdienol and ipsenol were attractive to D. luteus and O. erosus. The addition of ipsenol and ipsdienol to traps baited with ethanol and (+)‐α‐pinene synergized attraction of O. erosus but not D. luteus.