bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opening up: psychiatric nurses’ experiences of participating in reflection groups focusing on the use of coercion
Authors: OLOFSSON B.
Published: May 2005

Psychiatric staff report that the use of coercion towards patients in psychiatric care engenders feelings of discomfort and conflicts. The aim of this study was to describe psychiatric nurses’ experiences of participating in reflection groups focused on the use of coercion, in relation to their views regarding systematic clinical supervision and staff support. Twenty‐one nurses who had participated in reflection groups were interviewed retrospectively. The structured interview focused on: (i) their views of clinical supervision and support in general; (ii) their views of clinical supervision and support specifically concerning the use of coercion; and (iii) their experiences of participating in groups reflecting the use of coercion. Nurses were largely positive about participating in reflection groups, as expressed in the subthemes: having time for reflection; being confirmed; gaining new perspectives; sharing fellowship with colleagues; and relating more effectively to patients. Complications concerning participation in the reflection groups and other forms of clinical supervision as reported by nurses were: providing time for participation; having a common aim; being vulnerable in difficult situations; and assuming that the need for supervision and support could indicate that they were not coping with their job.
Caring for clients with dual diagnosis in rural communities in Australia: the experience of mental health professionals
Authors: DEANS C. , SOAR R.
Published: May 2005

This paper identifies and describes the experiences of 13 rural mental health professionals who care for clients diagnosed with a mental illness and a coexisting alcohol and other drug disorder (dual diagnosis). Dual diagnosis is a common problem which is often poorly understood and managed by mental health professionals. The effect of excessive substance use on a person's mental well‐being can present as a diagnostic challenge as each condition may mask symptoms of the other. The authors utilized a phenomenological approach to discover the experiences of a group of mental health professionals working in rural communities in Victoria, Australia. Caring for clients diagnosed with dual diagnosis was found to be a complex and stressful role that involved high levels of skill and knowledge. Despite the fact that health professionals in rural areas are expected to deliver the most appropriate care to individuals with a dual diagnosis, a number of these rural health professionals have limited preparation and experience in dealing with arising clinical diagnosis issues. Clinicians experience frustration, resentment and powerlessness in their attempt to understand their clients’ drug misuse whilst simultaneously endeavouring to provide a quality mental health service.
Nursing people who are suicidal on psychiatric wards in Taiwan: action/interaction strategies
Authors: SUN F.‐K. , LONG A. , BOORE J. , TSAO L.‐I.
Published: May 2005

Suicide is a major mental health problem in Taiwan. Estimations revealed that approximately 41% of people who committed suicide had a previous history of psychiatric inpatient care. To date, a suicide nursing care theory has not been developed. Consequently, the aim of this study was to formulate a suicide nursing care theory with the aim of enhancing and advancing the nursing care provided to people who attempt suicide or have suicidal thoughts. A qualitative approach using grounded theory was adopted. A total of 15 peoples who had either suicidal ideas or had attempted suicide and 15 psychiatric nurses were interviewed and observed. Data were analysed using open, axial and selective coding and the NUD*IST software program. A substantive theory of suicide nursing care was developed from the emergent findings. Four categories surfaced in the nursing care theory relating to the nurses’‘action/interaction strategies’. They were: the holistic assessment of people who are suicidal; providing protection; providing basic care; and providing advanced care. The findings from this study could be used to influence and advance nurse education and training, clinical practice, management and further research.
Nurses’ perceptions of the working environment: a UK independent sector study
Authors: DICKENS G. , SUGARMAN P. , ROGERS G.
Published: May 2005

The working environment is an important determinant of employee well‐being. Previous UK studies report registered nurses’ perception of the working environment using the Work Environment Scale (WES), but surprisingly few include data for nurses working in mental health or learning disability settings. One hundred and sixty‐one (58.8%) registered nurses working day shifts in five specialist divisions (forensic adult mental health, adolescent mental health, elderly continuing care, adult and adolescent learning disability and brain injury rehabilitation) of a large charitable hospital comprising mostly secure (i.e. ‘locked’) wards completed the WES. Nurses working in separate clinical divisions differed only on the ‘physical comfort’ subscale. These results are discussed in the context of previous UK research: this sample of nurses scored differently on a number of subscales, with the working environment characterized by relatively high levels of support, cohesion and managerial control and slightly lower levels of autonomy. It is unclear whether the differences reflect the organizational (i.e. non‐NHS) context, or a secure environment effect. Previous studies of mental health nurses are now 10 years old and we present data that may provide a benchmark of perceptions of the working environment held by nurses working in mental health and learning disability settings.
Coping with uncertainty within the preceptorship experience: the perceptions of nursing students
Authors: CHARLESTON R. , HAPPELL B.
Published: May 2005

A substantial amount of time and resources are channelled into supporting clinical practicum in nursing education programmes. Attention is targeted at the most effective models to achieve this aim. The provision of sound support models regardless of specific clinical setting is recognized as integral to student development and transition periods throughout nurses’ careers. Within the mental health setting, this situation is compounded by the negative attitudes nursing students tend to hold towards people experiencing a mental illness. Preceptorship has been widely used both nationally and internationally for clinical practicum. Although this model seems to have been endorsed by virtue of its increasing use, additional examination is necessary to assess efficacy and effectiveness across clinical practicum, including those in mental health settings. In utilizing a grounded theory approach, this study addresses the question: what is the experience of preceptorship for undergraduate nursing students in the mental health setting? The major themes identified include: ‘fear of the unknown’, ‘reconciling difference between general acute health and mental health settings’ and ‘supporting practice’.
Action research: the revision of services at one mental health rehabilitation unit in the north of England
Authors: LEIGHTON K.
Published: May 2005

This paper reports the experiences of people in one mental health rehabilitation unit in the north of England, where conventional individualized approaches have repeatedly failed, leading to bed blocking and inertia. An action research approach has been used to identify the key problems concerned, construct appropriate goals and formulate problem‐solving plans, leading to the development of an alternative therapeutic regime. The new facility is based on a society‐centred, recovery approach which emphasizes the principles of community involvement, social responsibility and meaningful occupation of time. This approach may be of transferable interest to others in the field. The paper outlines the history of the unit, describes the action research process, and presents the philosophy of care, nursing model, admission criteria and main assessment tool now being used. It concludes with an open review of the research process, exploring both positive and negative aspects.
The clinical activity of mental health nurse lecturers
Authors: OWEN S. , FERGUSON K. , BAGULEY I.
Published: May 2005

Concerns have been expressed about the ability of mental health lecturers to prepare practitioners with the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to implement the National Service Framework for mental health. Specifically mental health nurse lecturers have been criticized for lacking clinical competence and credibility, and for being out of touch with developments in service delivery. This paper presents a selection of findings from a recent review into the clinical activity of mental health lecturers in higher education institutions in England. The issues discussed include roles in practice, questioning the value of face‐to‐face clinical work, the benefits of being clinically active, the difficulties of clinical academic roles, barriers to maintaining clinical activity, questioning the quality of the clinical workforce, and finally strategies to facilitate clinical activity. Whilst there is support among mental health nurse lecturers for the need to engage with practice at some level, there are inconsistencies in the ways that this is being achieved. Lecturers are, however, getting together to debate how best to keep up with changes in mental health practice and delivery.
Mothers talk about their children with schizophrenia: a performance autoethnography
Authors: SCHNEIDER B.
Published: May 2005

This article presents the script for a performance autoethnography that explores how mothers of adults with schizophrenia talk about their children. The script draws on my own experience as a mother of a person with schizophrenia, interviews I conducted with mothers of people with schizophrenia, and written accounts by mothers of people with schizophrenia. Autoethnography refers to an approach to social science research in which the experience of the researcher is recognized as a salient part of the research process. Autoethnography typically uses non‐traditional genres, such as this script, for presenting research to address ethical and political problems in the representation of research. These genres allow researchers to both break with and continue the ethnographic tradition of representing the lives and experiences of others.
Childhood abuse in Swedish female users of psychiatric services
Authors: NILSSON G. , BENGTSSON‐TOPS A. B. , PERSSON L.
Published: May 2005

Introduction:  The aims of this study were to investigate: (1) the prevalence of childhood abuse in women admitted to psychiatric services in a county in the south of Sweden; (2) who the perpetrators were; and (3) the women's self‐reported consequences of childhood abuse.

Method:  The study had a cross‐sectional design and was a part of a more comprehensive study. An anonymous self‐reported questionnaire was used which included both closed and open‐ended questions. The data material were analysed by means of descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U‐test and manifest content analysis.

Results:  The total number of women who participated in the study was 259, 51% of whom reported experiences of abuse during childhood, with 53% of these having been exposed to more than one type of abuse. The most frequent perpetrator was the woman's parents; mainly the fathers but also the mothers turned out to be frequent perpetrators of abuse. Some 75% of the women reported current psychological problems in adulthood related to abuse in childhood. According to a manifest content analysis, five themes of self‐reported psychological problems emerged: psychiatric problems, shortcomings in social relations, poor self‐confidence, fears and bad memories.
Circulating Epstein–Barr Virus in Children Living in Malaria‐Endemic Areas
Authors: Rasti N. , Falk K. I. , Donati D. , Gyan B. A. , Goka B. Q. , Troye‐Blomberg M. , Akanmori B. D. , Kurtzhals J. A. L. , Dodoo D. , Consolini R. , Linde A. , Wahlgren M. , Bejarano M. T.
Published: May 2005

Children living in malaria‐endemic regions have high incidence of Burkitt's lymphoma (BL), the aetiology of which involves Plasmodium falciparum malaria and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infections. Acute malarial infection impairs the EBV‐specific immune responses with the consequent increase in the number of EBV‐carrying B cells in the circulation. To further understand the potential influence of malarial infection on the EBV persistence in children living in malaria‐endemic areas, we studied the occurrence and quantified cell‐free EBV‐DNA in plasma from 73 Ghanaian children with and without acute malarial infection. Viral DNA was detected in 40% of the samples (47% in the malaria‐infected and 34% in the nonmalaria group) but was absent in plasma from Ghanaian adults and healthy Italian children. These findings provide evidence that viral reactivation is common among children living in malaria‐endemic areas, and may contribute to the increased risk for endemic BL. The data also suggest that the epidemiology of EBV infection and persistence varies in different areas of the world.
Mannan‐Binding Lectin Recognizes Structures on Ischaemic Reperfused Mouse Kidneys and is Implicated in Tissue Injury
Authors: Møller‐Kristensen M. , Wang W. , Ruseva M. , Thiel S. , Nielsen S. , Takahashi K. , Shi L. , Ezekowitz A. , Jensenius J. C. , Gadjeva M.
Published: May 2005

Organ damage as a consequence of ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R) is a major clinical problem in an acute renal failure and transplantation. Ligands on surfaces of endothelial cells that are exposed due to the ischaemia may be recognized by pattern recognition molecules such as mannan‐binding lectin (MBL), inducing complement activation. We examined the contribution of the MBL complement pathway in a bilateral renal I/R model (45 min of ischaemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion), using transgenic mice deficient in MBL‐A and MBL‐C [MBL double knockout (MBL DKO)] and in wildtype (WT) mice. Kidney damages, which were evaluated by levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, showed that MBL DKO mice were significantly protected compared with WT mice. MBL DKO mice, reconstituted with recombinant human MBL, showed a dose‐dependent severity of kidney injury increasing to a comparable level to WT mice. Acute tubular necrosis was evident in WT mice but not in MBL DKO mice after I/R, confirming renal damages in WT mice. MBL ligands in kidneys were observed to be present after I/R but not in sham‐operated mice. C3a (desArg) levels in MBL DKO mice were decreased after I/R compared with that in WT mice, indicating less complement activation that was correlated with less C3 deposition in the kidneys of MBL DKO mice. Our data implicate a role of MBL in I/R‐induced kidney injury.
Treatment of Experimental Arthritis with M2000, a Novel Designed Non‐Steroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drug
Authors: Mirshafiey A. , Cuzzocrea S. , Rehm B. , Mazzon E. , Saadat F. , Sotoude M.
Published: May 2005

The current study was planned to explore the therapeutic potency of M2000 (β‐D‐mannuronic acid), a novel designed non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) in adjuvant‐induced arthritis model. Arthritis was induced in Lewis rats by a single intradermal injection (0.1 ml) of heat‐killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis (0.3 mg) in Freund's incomplete adjuvant into the right footpad. Fourteen days after injection of adjuvant, the contralateral left footpad volume was measured. The animals with paw volumes 0.37 ml greater than normal paws were then randomized into treatment groups. Orally and intraperitoneally administrations of test drugs (M2000, 40/mg/kg/day and indomethacin, 2/mg/kg/day) were started on day 15 post‐adjuvant injection and continued until final assessment on day 25. The left hind limb was removed for histological evaluation. The WEHI‐164 cell line was used for assaying tolerability and matrix metalloproteinase type 2 (MMP‐2) activity. MMP‐2 activity was assessed using zymography. Pharmacotoxicology study was carried out on animal models based on the evaluation of serum and urine determinants, histology of kidney, gastrointestinal tolerability and body temperature. Results showed that the orally administration as well as intraperitoneally injection of M2000 to arthritic rats induced a significant reduction in paw oedema. Histopathological assessment showed a reduced inflammatory cells infiltrate in joints of treated rats, as well as the number of osteoclasts present in the subchondral bone, tissue oedema and bone erosion in the paws were markedly reduced following M2000 therapy. Cytotoxicity analysis of M2000 showed a much higher tolerability compared with other tested drugs (diclofenac, piroxicam and dexamethasone). The inhibitory effect of M2000 in MMP‐2 activity was significantly greater than that of dexamethasone and of piroxicam at a concentration of 200 µg/ml. Moreover, the toxicological study revealed that M2000 had no influence on serum (blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride and cholesterol) and urine (urea and urinary protein excretion) determinants, glomerular histology and body temperature in normothermic rats and had no ulcerogenic effects on rats' stomach. Our data show that M2000, as a novel NSAID, could be strongly suggested as the safest anti‐inflammatory drug for long‐term administration.
CTL‐Based Cancer Preventive/Therapeutic Vaccines for Carcinomas: Role of Tumour‐Associated Carbohydrate Antigens
Authors: Franco A.
Published: May 2005

In this study, we discuss the use of glycopeptides containing tumour‐associated carbohydrate antigens (TACA) as preventive vaccines for carcinomas. The results of our recent studies suggest that CD8+ cytotoxic T cells are capable of recognizing small TACA in a conventional class I MHC‐restricted fashion. TACA‐specific T‐cell receptors are highly degenerate and their fine specificity includes the glycosylated amino acid linker together with the sugar moiety. TF, a disaccharide and Tn, its immediate precursor, are TACA largely expressed in carcinomas that can be successfully used as vaccines when conjugated to designer peptide backbones with optimal binding affinity for class I MHC molecules.
Use of Monoclonal Antibodies in Blocking ELISA Detection of Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus in Faeces of Piglets
Authors: Rodák L. , ŠMíd B. , Nevoránková Z. , Valíček L. , Smítalová R.
Published: May 2005

Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to the transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) nucleoprotein (N) and membrane protein (M) were prepared and used for the comparative assessment of three blocking ELISA variants to detect TGEV. The competitive blocking ELISA format showed the highest sensitivity, allowing detection of 103TCID50TGEV/ml in culture medium. Ninety‐nine porcine field faecal samples obtained from 37 herds affected with diarrhoea were examined, and various TGEV levels were found in nine samples from six herds. However, only in three samples were significant TGEV concentrations demonstrated. The relationship between incidence of TGEV gastroenteritis and the spread of porcine respiratory coronavirus infection in pig farms is discussed.
Anti‐microbial Susceptibility of Streptococcus spp. Isolated from Bovine Mastitis in Argentina
Authors: Denamiel G. , Llorente P. , Carabella M. , Rebuelto M. , Gentilini E.
Published: May 2005

The in vitro susceptibility to penicillin G, erythromycin and clindamycin was determined by the disc diffusion test and by E‐test for a total of 47 streptococcal strains (three Streptococcus uberis, 36 Streptococcus agalactiae, eight Streptococcus dysgalactiae spp. dysgalactiae) isolated from bovine intramammary infections in Argentina. Moreover, resistance phenotypes of erythromycin‐resistant streptococcal isolates was characterized. MIC90 of penicillin G, erythromycin and clindamycin for S. agalactiae were 0.75, 8.0 and 12.0 μg/ml respectively. Resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was detected in 13 (27.6%) and 12 (25.5%) isolates respectively. No isolate was resistant to penicillin G. Resistance against macrolides, lincosamides and streptogramin B (MLSB) represented by the constitutive MLSB phenotype was present in 11 (23.4%) erythromycin‐resistant isolates and two isolates (4.3%) expressed the M phenotype. The inducible MLSB phenotype was not identified. Results suggest that beta‐lactams are the first‐line antibiotics when treating streptococcal udder infections; however, the continuous monitoring of the antibiotic resistance is essential, as the emergence of resistant strains has become a growing concern on the therapy of bovine mastitis.
Studies on Johne's Disease in Egyptian Cattle
Authors: Salem M. , Zeid A. A. , Hassan D. , El‐Sayed A. , Zschoeck M.
Published: May 2005

Johne's disease (JD) or paratuberculosis is a serious problem of cattle industry worldwide. For a long period of time, Egypt was considered to be free of JD. In the present study, 2150 Egyptian cattle were examined clinically for JD. Among these, samples from 160 cows were investigated for the presence ofMycobacterium aviumssp.paratuberculosisusing various laboratory methods including direct microscopic examination, faecal culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). According to the data obtained by the culture method, positive results could be observed for 75 cows from three of five investigated districts in Egypt. Comparably investigated samples from 40 cows of one known positive flock from Hesse, Germany yielded positive reactions for 20 cows. The present study is the first description of JD in Egypt.
Immunohistochemical Identification of Campylobacter fetus in Natural Cases of Bovine and Ovine Abortions
Authors: Campero C. M. , Anderson M. L. , Walker R. L. , Blanchard P. C. , Barbano L. , Chiu P. , Martínez A. , Combessies G. , Bardon J. C. , Cordeviola J.
Published: May 2005

An immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedure for the detection of Campylobacter fetus antigens using an avidin–biotin complex technique was performed on formalin fixed bovine and ovine fetal tissues from 26 natural cases of Campylobacter spp. abortion (four ovine and 22 bovine). The species of Campylobacter isolated included C. fetus ssp. venerealis from 13 bovine fetuses, C. fetus ssp. fetus from two ovine and one bovine fetus, Campylobacter jejuni from seven bovine fetuses, Campylobacter lari from two ovine fetuses and an unspeciated Campylobacter species in one bovine fetus. Histologic lesions identified in the aborted fetuses included placentitis, serositis, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, hepatitis and encephalitis. Campylobacter fetus antigens were identified by IHC in 13 of 13 bovine fetuses from which C. fetus ssp. venerealis was isolated and in two of two ovine fetuses from which C. fetus ssp. fetus was isolated. The IHC stains were negative in tissues from seven bovine fetuses from which C. jejuni was isolated, one bovine fetus infected with C. fetus ssp. fetus, one bovine fetus infected with the unspeciated Campylobacter and two ovine fetuses infected with C. lari. In positive cases, the IHC stain most frequently identified bacteria in the lung and gastrointestinal tract. The C. fetus IHC procedure performed on formalin fixed tissues is a practical tool for the diagnosis of natural cases of ovine and bovine abortion caused by C. fetus.
QTc dispersion in haemodialysis patients with cardiac complications
Authors: NAKAMURA SATOKO , OGATA CHINAMI , AIHARA NAOHIKO , SASAKI OSAMU , YOSHIHARA FUMIKI , NAKAHAMA HAJIME , INENAGA TAKASHI , KIMURA GENJIRO , KAWANO YUHEI
Published: May 2005

Background and Aims:  QTc dispersion (Maximum − Minimum QTc interval on a standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG)) is a useful predictor of tachyarrhythmic events and related sudden cardiac death. Recent studies have reported that QTc dispersion is prolonged in patients receiving haemodialysis (HD), and it is often further prolonged following HD treatment. In the present study, we examine whether the patients who are susceptible to prolongation of QTc dispersion by HD are prone to life‐threatening cardiovascular events and related deaths.

Methods:  Forty‐eight patients with cardiac symptoms such as chest pain (n = 32), arrhythmia (n = 2) or heart failure (n = 14) and receiving chronic HD treatment (40 males and eight females) were subjected to the present study. Twenty‐six of a total 48 patients were given a diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) by coronary angiography. Ten patients had cerebrovascular accidents and 11 patients had peripheral vascular disease. After the ECG recording, a prospective follow up was conducted for 37 ± 24 months.

Results:  During the follow‐up period, 30 patients had cardiac events, and 23 including 18 cardiovascular deaths occurred as outcomes. Throughout the total period, patients who showed prolongation of QTc dispersion after HD had cardiovascular deaths with higher incidence than those did not show the prolongation.

Conclusions:  We consider that prolongation of QTc dispersion after HD treatment can predict the prognosis of patients with renal failure bearing cardiac complications. Great care is necessary for such patients if they show longer QTc dispersion and/or susceptibility for further prolongation after HD treatment.
Erythropoietin‐resistant anaemia in a predialysis patient with Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: SHIMIZU YOSHIO , SUZUKAWA KAZUMI , HIRANO YUKO , SEKI MASANORI , HIRAYAMA KOUICHI , YOH KEIGYO , HIRAYAMA AKI , YAMAGATA KUNIHIRO , NAGASE SOHJI , NAGASAWA TOSHIRO , KOYAMA AKIO
Published: May 2005

SUMMARY:  A diabetic predialysis patient who had significantly reduced sensitivity to erythropoietin therapy was admitted to Tsukuba University Hospital. Many factors that might have been the cause of the erythropoietin resistance were examined, and a diagnosis of refractory anaemia was made based on a bone marrow aspiration biopsy. A cytogenetic abnormality (47, XXY) was also detected in the bone marrow biopsy specimen, and hence the patient was also diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome. It was suspected that the sex chromosome abnormality influenced glucose intolerance, renal insufficiency, and erythropoietin resistance due to myelodysplastic changes in the bone marrow.
Acute interstitial nephritis due to mesalazine
Authors: TADIC MARIO , GRGUREVIC IVICA , SCUKANEC‐SPOLJAR MIRA , BOZIC BORKA , MARUSIC SRECKO , HORVATIC IVICA , GALESIC KRESIMIR
Published: May 2005

SUMMARY:  A case of mesalazine‐induced acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) in a 41‐year‐old patient with ulcerative colitis (UC) is reported here. Clinical symptoms such as fever and arthralgia, and laboratory findings such as eosinophilia and renal failure suggested AIN, which was confirmed by biopsy. With withdrawal of mesalazine and intravenous methylprednisolone the patient's renal function was recovered. It is observed that early discontinuation of mesalazine is associated with amelioration of interstitial nephritis in most patients, so the recommendation is that patients receiving mesalazine should undergo routine monitoring of renal function. Delayed diagnosis may lead to permanent renal function impairment.
Renal hypoplasia and situs inversus totalis
Authors: KAYNAR KUBRA , ULUSOY SUKRU , GUL SEMIH , OZKAN GULSUM , CAYLAN REFIK , KOSUCU POLAT
Published: May 2005

SUMMARY: A spectrum of renal abnormalities of patients with situs inversus has been reported. Renal dysplasia is the most common. Herein is described for the first time, an association of situs inversus totalis, unilateral congenital renal hypoplasia and external ear cartilage deformity.
Bone mineral density and urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐ d‐glucosaminidase activity in paediatric patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria
Authors: SKALOVA SYLVA , PALICKA VLADIMIR , KUTILEK STEPAN
Published: May 2005

Background:  Idiopathic hypercalciuria (IH) is defined as hypercalciuria that persists after correction of dietary inbalances and has no detectable causes. Patients with IH have a higher prevalence of osteoporosis. Defective reabsorption of calcium by the renal tubule is considered a likely mechanism of IH. N‐acetyl‐beta‐ d‐glucosaminidase (NAG) is a lysosomal enzyme that is a very sensitive marker of renal tubular impairment.

Methods:  Fifteen patients (nine boys and six girls, mean age 12.4 ± 4.0 years) with IH (urinary calcium excretion >0.1 mmol/kg per 24 h) had their bodyweight, height, body mass index (BMI), urinary NAG/creatinine ratio (U‐NAG/Cr) and 24‐h urinary calcium excretion (U‐Ca/24 h) assessed. L1–L4 bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry and volumetric BMD (BMDvol) was calculated. The obtained results were expressed as Z‐scores.

Results:  The values of basic anthropometric parameters did not differ significantly from the values of the reference population and there was a tendency to short stature, which did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.08). The values of calciuria and U‐NAG/Cr were significantly higher while BMD was significantly lower when compared to the reference values (P < 0.0006, P < 0.006 and P < 0.001, respectively). Inverse and significant correlations were found between U‐Ca/24 h and  BMD, U‐Ca/24 h and body height, and U‐Ca/24 h and BMDvol (r = −0.64 and −0.70, respectively, P < 0.01; r = −0.55, P < 0.05), while there was no correlation between U‐NAG/Cr and U‐Ca/24 h, nor between BMD and weight or BMD and BMI.

Conclusion:  Tubular impairment is highly probable in children with IH, but there is a poor relationship with the degree of calcium leakage. Idiopathic hypercalciuria should be considered as a risk factor for stunted growth and low bone mass.
New insights into the molecular biology of the glomerular filtration barrier and associated disease
Authors: LEVIDIOTIS VICKI , POWER DAVID A
Published: May 2005

SUMMARY:  The glomerular filtration barrier of the kidney can no longer be considered as an inert and adynamic structure, viewed by electron microscopy. Molecular biology, medical genetics and protein chemistry have enabled us to further understand the complex structure and function of this highly specialized barrier of the kidney. Minor aberrations of physiology can lead to fatal disease. Recent advances in the understanding of the physiology of endothelial cells, glomerular epithelial cells and the glomerular basement membrane and its components, and how these relate to disease, will be considered systematically.
Pathogenesis of lupus nephritis: An update
Authors: TANG SYDNEY , LUI SING LEUNG , LAI KAR NENG
Published: May 2005

SUMMARY:  Lupus nephritis (LN) is a prototypic autoimmune disease. Its immunopathogenesis is characterized by the loss of self‐tolerance. In this article, we review our current understanding of the disease mediators of LN. There is ample evidence to suggest a pathogenic role of nephritogenic autoantibodies. These antibodies cross react with nucleosomal epitopes, and the in vivo generation of nucleosomes requires apoptosis. Furthermore, there is an intriguing and paradoxical relationship between complement and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Immune complex–mediated activation of complement through the classic pathway is traditionally believed to be a major mechanism by which tissue injury occurs. In contrast, hereditary deficiencies of complement components increase the risk of SLE. Finally, the roles of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species are emphasized.
Polyomavirus nephropathy after renal transplantation: A single centre experience
Authors: KIM HYUN CHUL , HWANG EUN AH , HAN SEUNG YEUP , PARK SUNG BAE , PARK KWAN KYU
Published: May 2005

Background:  Polyomavirus associated nephropathy (PVN) in renal transplant recipients has been observed with increasing frequency recently and has emerged as a cause of allograft failure linked to highly potent new immunosuppressive regimens containing tacrolimus or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF).

Methods:  Polyomavirus associated nephropathy was identified in nine out of 182 patients who received renal transplantation between October 1998 and July 2003. PVN was confirmed by allograft biopsy. The clinical records of these nine patients were reviewed, as were all of the allograft biopsies. Electron microscopy was performed in all nine cases. After the diagnosis of PVN, maintenance immunosuppression was reduced. The clinical course and outcome of the PVN patients were reviewed in relation to manipulation of immunosuppressive agents.

Results:  There were nine cases of PVN in renal transplant recipients and the incidence of PVN was 4.9%. All patients with PVN were under triple immunosuppression comprising tacrolimus and MMF. The mean time to a diagnosis of PVN was 7.8 months after transplantation. Three of the nine patients received antirejection therapy prior to PVN. Seven out of nine PVN patients presenting acute allograft dysfunction were initially treated with high‐dose intravenous steroid pulse or OKT3 before reduction of the immunosuppression. After reduction of the immunosuppression, seven patients stabilized their renal function. Two (22%) lost their grafts due to persistent PVN and chronic rejection. Two (22%) patients later developed acute rejection after reduction of the immunosuppression.

Conclusion:  PVN can cause allograft dysfunction and graft loss. Renal allograft recipients who are at risk of PVN should be routinely screened with urine cytology and quantitative measurements of viral load in the blood, particularly patients who had graft dysfunction. Early diagnosis and judicious alteration of immunosuppressive agents might permit a superior prognosis and reduce the graft loss from PVN in renal transplant recipients.
Diagnostic challenge of secondary (metastatic) ovarian tumors simulating primary endometrioid and mucinous neoplasms
Authors: Hart William R.
Published: May 2005

Secondary (metastatic) neoplasms to the ovary often cause diagnostic problems, especially those tumors that produce large, symptomatic ovarian tumors that masquerade clinically and pathologically as primary ovarian tumors of surface epithelial type. Most of these tumors arise from organs of the digestive system. Except for typical Krukenberg tumors, which usually originate in the stomach and generally are easily recognized, the most diagnostically problematic secondary ovarian tumors are those that originate in the large intestine, appendix, and pancreas. Metastases from these sites typically produce histologic patterns resembling primary ovarian endometrioid carcinoma or mucinous epithelial neoplasms of borderline and malignant types. This review focuses on the diagnostic challenge of distinguishing these secondary ovarian tumors from primary ovarian neoplasms. Studies on useful or potentially applicable immunohistochemical stains are also detailed.
Human leukocyte antigen‐class II‐negative long‐term cultured human T‐cell leukemia virus type‐I‐infected T‐cell lines with progressed cytological properties significantly induce superantigen‐dependent normal T‐cell proliferation
Authors: Nagasaki Makoto , Zhang Jie , Morikawa Shigeru , Harada Takayuki , Nabika Toru , Tanaka Yuetsu
Published: May 2005

While most human T‐cell leukemia virus type‐I (HTLV‐I)‐infected T cells express abundant class II antigens, some aggressive‐type adult T‐cell leukemia (ATL) cells lose their expression. To investigate the significance of the class II antigen of HTLV‐I infected cells, the progressiveness of HTLV‐I‐infected long‐term cultured T‐cell lines was evaluated, and then their antigen‐presenting capacity was examined using a superantigen, staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB). Among the cell lines derived from peripheral blood, HPB‐ATL‐T (ATL‐T), HPB‐ATL‐2 (ATL‐2) and HPB‐ATL‐O were more progressed than Tax exclusively expressing HPB‐CTL‐I (CTL‐I), because the former deleted p16 gene (polymerase chain reaction (PCR)) and strongly transcribed survivin (reverse transcriptase‐PCR). Notably, interferon γ‐independent loss of class II expression of ATL‐T and ATL‐2 was found. In antigen‐presenting experiments, however, both cell lines induced SEB‐dependent significant T‐cell proliferation estimated by [3H] thymidine uptake. No class II‐re‐expressed ATL‐2 cells were observed in the SEB‐presenting cultures by indirect immunofluorescence, and only minimum inhibition of SEB‐dependent T‐cell response by anti‐human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR monoclonal antibody was observed. These findings suggest that both ATL‐T and ATL‐2 very effectively present SEB to T cells less dependently on class II molecules. These less immunogenic leukemic cells of aggressive ATL may contribute to disease aggression.
Distinguishing between proliferating nodal lymphoid blasts in chronic myelogenous leukemia and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: Report of three cases and detection of a bcr/abl fusion signal by single‐cell analysis
Authors: Yashima‐Abo Akiko , Satoh Takashi , Abo Toru , Aoki Yusei , Kowata Shugo , Ito Shigeki , Ishida Yoji , Fujiwara Hitomi , Maesawa Chihaya , Masuda Tomoyuki
Published: May 2005

Lymph node biopsies were analyzed from three patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) showing nodal blast proliferation. Immunohistochemically, the blasts from all three patients had an immature marker profile with a T‐blast population (cCD3+, CD4–, CD7+, CD8–, CD99+, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase +) and a hematopoietic progenitor cell marker (CD34). In two patients, the blasts also expressed myeloid lineage specificity (naphthol AS‐D chloroacetate esterase activity and myeloperoxidase positivity). However, it was difficult to distinguish between blast  proliferation  in  CML  and  non‐Hodgkin  lymphoma from these immunohistopathological findings alone. Subsequently, bcr gene rearrangement and bcr/abl mRNA expression were detected by Southern blot and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis of the lymph nodes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of lymph node touch smears also disclosed bcr/abl gene fusion signals in the blasts of all patients, confirming that the blasts were derived from Philadelphia chromosome‐positive CML. Accurate discrimination between the proliferating nodal blasts of CML and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma is essential for determining subsequent therapy. FISH analysis of bcr/abl in single‐cell blast preparations is an efficient tool that allows rapid, accurate cytopathological diagnosis of extramedullary blast‐phase CML and its discrimination from non‐Hodgkin lymphoma.
Pigmented solid‐pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: Daum Ondrej , Sima Radek , Mukensnabl Petr , Vanecek Tomas , Brouckova Martina , Benes Zdenek , Michal Michal
Published: May 2005

A hitherto unrecognized variant of solid‐pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas is reported. The tumor presented in  the  pancreatic  head  of  a  57‐year‐old  female  patient.  It was a well‐circumscribed, encapsulated nodule measuring 27 mm in diameter, with variegated yellow to brown and gray cut surface. Histologically, the neoplasm was composed of uniform polyhedral cells arranged around delicate fibrovascular cores retaining their solid pattern in the periphery, whereas central parts of the tumor were characterized by the formation of papillae and smaller pseudocysts. Neither mitotic activity nor invasive growth were found. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells were positive for vimentin, neuron‐specific enolase, and CD56, whereas they were negative in reactions with antibodies directed against other neuroendocrine markers, cytokeratins, melanocytic markers, and pancreatic amylase. In addition to these typical findings, intracellular pigmented granules were found in the darker brown zones of the tumor. They were positively stained in periodic acid–Schiff reaction after diastase digestion, sudan black B, and in Schmorl stain. In contrast, they were not stained with Fontana‐Masson, Ziehl–Neelsen, and Perls stains. Ultrastructurally, the pigment consisted of dense granules with lipid droplets resembling modified lysosomes. These results exclude the possibility of a melanogenic nature of the pigment and instead determine it as lipofuscin.
Parasitism of the lucerne pestSitona discoideusGyllenhal (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and non‐target weevils byMicroctonus aethiopoidesLoan (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) in south‐eastern Australia, with an assessment of the taxonomic affinities of non‐target hosts ofM. aethiopoidesrecorded from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Barratt Barbara I P , Oberprieler Rolf G , Ferguson Colin M , Hardwick Scott
Published: May 2005

Abstract The braconid parasitoidMicroctonus aethiopoidesLoan has been released in Australia and New Zealand for biological control of the lucerne pestSitona discoideusGyllenhal. In New Zealand, the parasitoid attacks a number of endemic weevil species. A survey of Curculionoidea found in and near lucerne in south‐eastern Australia was carried out to investigate whether similar non‐target parasitism was occurring, and to relate this to levels of parasitism found in the target host,S. discoideus. Some of the originalM. aethiopoidesrelease sites were particularly targeted in the survey of 25 sites in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. Almost 2500 weevils were collected, of which over 90% wereS. discoideus, with the remaining 197 other weevils comprising 29 species found at 15 of the 25 sites. Parasitism ofS. discoideusbyM. aethiopoidesoccurred at 12 lucerne sites, with levels ranging from 0 to 25%. A single incidence of parasitism of a species of an Australian native weevilProsayleussp. byM. aethiopoideswas recorded. No parasitism of any other weevil species was observed. The taxonomic affinities betweenSitonaand native Australian and New Zealand weevils are discussed, concluding that non‐target host range inM. aethiopoidesmay be determined more by ecological factors than by taxonomic affinities among its hosts.
Three new species of Austrophlebioides Campbell and Suter (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae: Atalophlebiinae) from the Wet Tropics bioregion of north‐eastern Australia
Authors: Christidis Faye , Dean John C
Published: May 2005

Abstract  Three new species of the mayfly genus Austrophlebioides Campbell and Suter are described from the Wet Tropics bioregion of north‐eastern Australia: A. rieki sp. n., A. wooroonooran sp. n. and A. porphyrobranchus sp. n. The three species are similar, and are characterised in the male imago by the presence of a prominent ventral projection on each lobe of the penes and segment one of the claspers narrowing at about one‐third length, and in the nymph by the absence of fine setae along the outer margin of the mandible between the median setal tuft and the outer incisor. The generic diagnosis of the nymphal stage is modified slightly to accommodate the three new species.
Systematics and biology of Penthaleus tectus sp. n. (Acari: Penthaleidae), a recently discovered pest of grain crops in eastern Australia
Authors: Halliday R Bruce
Published: May 2005

Abstract  A new species of pest mite, Penthaleus tectus sp. n. (Acari: Penthaleidae) is described from south‐eastern Australia, where it attacks several grain crops including wheat, in which it can cause significant damage. It has previously been confused with the blue oat mite Penthaleus major (Dugès). Penthaleus tectus differs from P. major morphologically and genetically, and in geographical distribution, response to pesticides, and the timing of diapause. Previous records of ‘P. major’ from Australia and other countries probably include a mixture of several species. Penthaleus minor (Canestrini) is recorded from South Africa for the first time.
Identity of Monomorium occidaneum Crawley, a species inquirenda, and status of Monomorium micron Crawley (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Heterick Brian E
Published: May 2005

Abstract  Because the original type material has been made available, Monomorium occidaneum Crawley, a species inquirenda in Heterick's revision of the Australian Monomorium, can now be regarded as a junior synonym of Monomorium leae Forel. In addition, the status of a primary type specimen of Monomorium micron Crawley cited in the same publication is altered from ‘holotype’ to ‘syntype’. This specimen has now been designated a lectotype to ensure stability of the name.
Mass‐rearing and sterilisation alter mating behaviour of male Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Weldon Christopher W
Published: May 2005

Abstract  The effects of domestication and irradiation on the mating behaviour of males of Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae) were investigated by caging wild, laboratory‐domesticated and sterile (laboratory‐domesticated, gamma‐irradiated) males with wild females. Mating behaviour of mass‐reared males was different from that of wild males, although behaviour of wild and sterile males was similar. Mass‐reared males engaged in mounting of other males much more frequently than wild and sterile males, and began calling significantly earlier before darkness. Unnatural selection pressures imposed in mass‐rearing conditions may explain these changes in mass‐reared male behaviour. Male calling did not appear to be associated with female choice of mating partners, although this does not exclude the possibility that calling is a cue used by females to discriminate among mating partners. Despite differences in behaviour, frequency of successful copulations and mating success were similar among wild, mass‐reared and sterile males.
Influence of fruit traits on oviposition preference and offspring performance of Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae) on three tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum) cultivars
Authors: Balagawi Solomon , Vijaysegaran S , Drew Richard A I , Raghu S
Published: May 2005

Abstract  In Queensland, three tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum) cultivars, Grosse Lisse, Roma and Cherry, are infested by Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt). In this study, we examined if there was a correlation between oviposition preference and offspring performance of B. tryoni among the three tomato cultivars. We also investigated host plant traits that may explain any variation in preference and performance. Choice and no‐choice experiments were carried out under laboratory conditions. A positive correlation between oviposition preference and offspring performance of B. tryoni was observed in the three tomato cultivars. Grosse Lisse and Roma cultivars were highly preferred by B. tryoni over Cherry cultivar. Performance (measured as proportion of eggs developing to the pupal stage) was significantly higher in Grosse Lisse and Roma cultivars than in Cherry cultivar. The pericarp toughness of Cherry cultivar appears responsible for its low rate of infestation, while the presence of 2‐butanol and 1,4‐butanediamine in Roma and Grosse Lisse, respectively, may partly be responsible for the high oviposition preference shown by B. tryoni towards these cultivars.
Biology and natural enemies of the leafhopper Balclutha incisa (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) in south‐western Australia
Authors: Narhardiyati Marsusi , Bailey Winston J
Published: May 2005

Abstract  Balclutha incisa is a widely distributed leafhopper common on grasses. In Perth, Western Australia, crab grass (Digitaria sanguinalis) and veldt grass (Ehrharta longiflora) were identified as host plants. Mating and subsequent oviposition occurred in late summer to early winter (August) on the panicles and stems of crab grass. We describe the biology and phenology of B. incisa within a restricted habitat over a 2‐year period and we comment on oviposition sites, eggs and emergence of B. incisa. We describe the behaviour of two main predators, the Pacific damsel bug, Nabis kinbergii Reuter and muscid fly belonging to the genus Coenosia Meigen, particularly in regard to their response to visual and auditory signals produced by the leafhoppers.