bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How much longer will Africa have to depend on western nations for support of its capacity‐building efforts for biomedical research?
Authors: Laabes Emmanuel Philip , Desai Rizwana , Zawedde Stella Muyanja , Glew Robert Hayes
Published: January 2011

Advances in biomedical research techniques have resulted in the conquest of many diseases and the improvement in the health and well‐being of populations, yet sub‐Saharan Africa continues to lag behind western nations in terms of research infrastructure and capacity. The increasing numbers of links and collaborations between western institutions of higher learning and teaching hospitals and universities in sub‐Saharan Africa have undoubtedly promoted scholarly research activity on the continent. However, most of the research agenda is, understandably, dominated by western collaborators who provide the much needed funding. Given the recent exposure by events on Wall Street of the frailties of western economies, Africa urgently needs to look inwards in its quest to train biomedical researchers of repute and to secure funding for its capacity‐building needs.
Effect of Intrauterine Infusion with Liquid Paraffin on Phagocytes Migrating to Mucus of External os of the Cervix in Cows
Authors: Lu W , Zabuli J , Kuroiwa T , Tanaka T , Kamomae H
Published: December 2010

Contents

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of intrauterine infusion with liquid paraffin (LP) on phagocytic migration into the uterus of cows. Smears of swab samples of the external os of the cervix and discharges collected inside the vagina were obtained in multiparous dairy cows (n = 10) that had been infused with 50 ml of LP (LP group: n = 5) or physiological saline (PS group: n = 5) on day 10 or 11 after ovulation (day 0: ovulation). The samples were collected for cytological examination 0 (just before), 0.25, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h after LP or PS infusion and then at daily intervals until subsequent ovulation. The number of neutrophils increased significantly (p < 0.05) for 8 days compared with the pre‐infusion level in the LP group and for 2 days in the PS group. The average numbers of neutrophils in the LP group were significantly (p < 0.05) greater than those in the PS group on 3, 4, 5 and 8 days after infusion. The number of monocytes from 6 h to 8 days after LP infusion was significantly higher than that before infusion (p < 0.05). The average numbers of monocytes at 4 and 6 h and 1 day after infusion in the LP group were significantly higher than those in the PS group. These findings indicate that LP stimulates phagocytic migration into the uterine lumen in cows and that LP infusion into the uterus might enhance uterine defence mechanisms during uterine infection.
Expression of Pluripotency Genes in Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Amniotic Fluid Cells
Authors: Yadav PS , Mann A , Singh V , Yashveer S , Sharma RK , Singh I
Published: December 2010

Contents

Recent findings suggest that mammalian amniotic fluid (AF) is a source of multipotent stem cells (SCs), which can be used in regenerative medicine and assisted reproduction. We report the isolation, culture and characterization of amniotic fluid‐derived cells from pregnant water buffalo uterus. These undifferentiated AF cells expanded without feeder layer over a period of 100 days up to passages 20 and the expression of alkaline phosphatase (AP), Oct‐4, Nanog and Sox‐2, GAPDH and β‐actin could be detected by RT‐PCR. The cells exhibited uniform morphology and normal chromosome number. The up‐regulation or down‐regulation of transcription factors of each gene varied with passage number. We conclude that putative bubaline AF cells can be cultured and maintained in vitro for a prolonged period and offer a potential source of multipotent cells for applications including assisted reproduction in buffalo.
Testicular Fluid Content Evaluated by Ultrasound Image Computer‐Assisted Analysis Increases with Small‐Dose Multiple GnRH Injections in Rams
Authors: Ungerfeld R , Fila D
Published: December 2010

Contents

The aim of the work was to determine whether multiple small doses of GnRH induce an increase in testicular blood flow and scrotal temperature in rams. The experiment was performed during the late breeding season (May–June) with 14 one‐year‐old rams. Seven rams received hourly doses of 7 ng of a GnRH analogue (busereline acetate) iv starting at 8:00 on the morning, and the other seven rams remained as controls. One week later, treatments were overcrossed. One hour before the first GnRH dose (7:00), and 0, 1, 2, 4, 7 and 10 h later, ultrasonographic examinations of the testes were performed with a B‐mode ultrasound scanner with a 7.5 MHz linear array transducer. Each testicle was examined separately by placing the transducer vertically. Images were analysed with specific software using the spot metering technique in four spots with a diameter of 1 cm on the same place of the image. At the same times, rectal, anal and scrotal surface temperatures were measured with a laser thermometer. Pixel intensity was lower with time (blacker, p < 0.0001), as a consequence of GnRH treatment (p < 0.0001). Differences between pixel intensities were significant starting 1 h after the first GnRH dose (p < 0.0001). Perineal temperature (33.9 ± 0.2°C) was not affected by treatment or time (p > 0.1). Rectal temperature was similar in both groups (p < 0.05) until 4 h after the beginning of the treatment (13:00 h). The differences between treatments increased since 4 h after the first dose of GnRH. Scrotal surface temperatures were not affected by treatment (p > 0.1). We concluded that multiple small GnRH doses trigger a rapid increase in testicular fluid content not accompanied by changes on scrotal surface temperature.
The Expression of Thrombopoietin and its Receptor During Different Physiological Stages in the Bovine Ovary
Authors: Sarkar M , Schilffarth S , Schams D , Meyer HHD , Berisha B
Published: December 2010

Contents

Thrombopoietin (TPO) is known to be involved in megakaryocytopoiesis, but its role in the control of ovarian function is unknown in cattle. The aims of this study were to demonstrate the expression of TPO and its receptor (c‐MPL) in detail in bovine corpus luteum (CL) obtained from different stages of the oestrous cycle and during pregnancy – and to demonstrate that TPO/c‐MPL system is expressed clearly in bovine follicles. Real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR) and ELISA were applied to investigate mRNA expression of examined factors and TPO protein, respectively. In this investigation, increases in the concentrations of TPO protein and the mRNA expression of TPO and c‐MPL were noticed during both early luteal stage and late luteal stage of the oestrous cycle. Furthermore, the expression of TPO/c‐MPL system does not show any significant regulation in the CL throughout pregnancy. Highest co‐expression of TPO/c‐MPL system in both theca interna (TI) and granulosa cells (GC) in small follicles (<10 mm in diameter) was observed in this study that may suggest the possible role of TPO/c‐MPL system in proliferation of TI and GC cells. To conclude, the results demonstrate the possible involvement of locally produced TPO/c‐MPL system as a ‘physiological filter’ in bovine ovary where they may promote cell selection by inducing proliferation of viable cells and scavenging non‐viable cells and thereby may play an important role in modulation of ovarian function.
The Comparison of Antioxidative/Oxidative Profile in Blood, Colostrum and Milk of Early Post‐partum Cows and Their Newborns
Authors: Albera E , Kankofer M
Published: December 2010

Contents

Act of delivery is supposed to be connected with antioxidative/oxidative imbalance not only in female but also in her newborn. The aim of the study was to compare antioxidative/oxidative profile of cows and their newborns in blood, colostrum and milk during early post‐partum period. Twenty‐five healthy pregnant cows and their newborns were included into study. Blood and colostrum/milk samples were obtained immediately after parturition, 24, 48 h as well as 6 and 12 days post‐partum. Parameters of antioxidative defence including total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) as well as parameters of lipid (LPI) and protein (SH) peroxidation intensity were determined spectrophotometrically. Obtained results indicated dynamic changes in values of examined parameters during time of experiment, which were significantly marked between 24 and 48 h post‐partum, and the relationship between mother and her newborn. All parameters except for GSH‐Px were markedly higher in blood of newborns as in their mothers. Moreover, TAC and GSH‐Px in colostrum were lower as in blood of mothers and their newborns during first 24 h and showed opposite relationship later on. LPI was higher in colostrum as in plasma of mothers and their newborns during first 48 h, while SH was lower in colostrum as in plasma of examined animals. Values of antioxidative parameters increased significantly within examined period of time, while the content of SH groups tended to decrease and lipid peroxidation intensity fluctuated. Dynamics in changes of examined parameters may suggest temporary imbalance in antioxidative/oxidative status and adequate answer of organism to current challenge resulting from overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Present study may bring new knowledge into studies of post‐parturient and post‐natal period in cows and calves and may help preventing from diseases of this period.
Closing the gap: Supporting occupational therapists to partner effectively with First Australians
Authors: Nelson Alison , Gray Marion , Jensen Heather , Thomas Yvonne , McIntosh Kelli , Oke Lin , Paluch Tamar
Published: January 2011

Background/aim: Occupational therapists need to be able to work competently with all clients, including First Australians. Currently, there are no national standards for occupational therapists working with First Australian clients. This article presents current issues in practice and education with First Australians and makes recommendations for the future.

Methods: A survey of 41 occupational therapists working with, or interested in First Australian health issues was conducted at a workshop held at the Australian National Occupational Therapy Conference in 2008. Results of the workshop group discussions were also collated.

Results: Several themes emerged from both survey data and discussions. A substantial proportion of participants rated their confidence and competence to work with First Australians as low to moderate. Higher levels of perceived confidence and competence were associated with current experience in the field. Discussions centred around six major themes: building relationships, service provision and design, education and training of occupational therapists, increasing First Australian representation within occupational therapy, professional issues and political issues. These themes were further collapsed into areas of action, which could be taken by individuals, managers, researchers and professional bodies to improve practice with First Australians.

Conclusions: Occupational therapists will benefit from coordinated efforts, on individual and systemic levels, to work more effectively, and in partnership with, First Australians. Such developments should include guidelines for practice, education and research; professional development and networking opportunities; and improved collaboration, especially with First Australian partners, on a national level.
When should we expect no residual tumor (pT0) once we submit incidental T1a‐b prostate cancers to radical prostatectomy?
Authors: Capitanio Umberto , Briganti Alberto , Suardi Nazareno , Gallina Andrea , Salonia Andrea , Freschi Massimo , Rigatti Patrizio , Montorsi Francesco
Published: December 2010

Objectives:  To date, no tool exists to predict pT0 at radical prostatectomy (RP) in patients with T1a–T1b prostate cancer (PCa) after surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (SxBPH). We aimed to fill this gap by developing a user‐friendly flowchart to assist urologists when incidental PCa is diagnosed and a clinical decision is required.

Methods:  We analyzed 158 T1a–T1b prostate cancers patients who underwent RP between 1996 and 2009. A risk stratification tool was developed applying the tree modeling technique of classification and regression tree analysis (CART) and relying on all the available pre‐RP characteristics (age, prostate‐specific antigen [PSA] before SxBPH, PSA after SxBPH, cT1a–T1b stage, prostate volume and Gleason sum at SxBPH). Then, the accuracy of the proposed model using 200 bootstrap resamples for internal validation was calculated.

Results:  A total of 95 patients (60.1%) were stage T1a, and 63 (39.9%) were stage T1b. The median values of PSA before and after SxBPH were 4.2 and 1.1 ng/mL, respectively. A total of 22 patients (13.9%) showed no residual tumor (pT0) at RP. The CART analyses identified three groups at risk of having residual disease at RP: (i) PSA after SxBPH > 1.0 ng/mL (pT0 prevalence: 3.8%); (ii) PSA after SxBPH < 1.0 ng/mL and PSA before SxBPH > 2.0 ng/mL (pT0 prevalence: 14.8%); and (iii) PSA after SxBPH < 1.0 ng/mL and PSA before SxBPH < 2.0 ng/mL (pT0 prevalence: 42.3%). The accuracy of the proposed model was 77.1%. Clinical stage (T1a vs T1b) was not associated with pT0 (P = 0.4).

Conclusions:  Clinical stage (T1a vs T1b) assessment does not help in predicting pT0 cases. An accurate and clinically useful flowchart to predict pT0 at RP after incidental prostate cancer diagnosis is provided herein.
Organization of GABAergic inhibition in the motor output layer of the superior colliculus
Authors: Sooksawate Thongchai , Isa Kaoru , Behan Mary , Yanagawa Yuchio , Isa Tadashi
Published: December 2010

The direction and amplitude of saccadic eye movements are determined by the location of the center of gravity of burst activity over a neuronal population on the spatial map of the intermediate gray layer (SGI) of the superior colliculus (SC). GABAergic interneurons might play critical roles in shaping the activation field on the topographical map but, to understand the mechanism, basic information on the organization of inhibitory circuits is essential. In the present study, we investigated the electrophysiological and morphological properties of GABAergic neurons in SGI by whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings and intracellular staining using biocytin in GAD67‐GFP knock‐in mice (PND17‐22), in which GABAergic neurons specifically express GFP fluorescence. The most common firing properties among these GABAergic neurons (n = 231) were fast spiking (58%), followed by burst spiking (29%), late spiking (8%) and, the least common, regular spiking (2%) and rapid spike inactivation (3%). Morphological analysis of axonal trajectories of intracellularly‐labeled GABAergic neurons revealed three major subclasses: (i) intralaminar interneurons, which were further divided into two subclasses, local and horizontal interneurons; (ii) interlaminar interneurons; and (iii) commissural and tectofugal neurons. These results reveal distinct subsets of GABAergic neurons including neurons that mediate local and long‐range inhibition in the SC, neurons that potentially modulate visual and other sensory inputs to the SC, and neurons that project to nuclei outside the SC.
Cholinergic and non‐cholinergic mesopontine tegmental neurons projecting to the subthalamic nucleus in the rat
Authors: Kita Takako , Kita Hitoshi
Published: December 2010

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) receives cholinergic and non‐cholinergic projections from the mesopontine tegmentum. This study investigated the numbers and distributions of neurons involved in these projections in rats using Fluorogold retrograde tracing combined with immunostaining of choline acetyltransferase and a neuron‐specific nuclear protein. The results suggest that a small population of cholinergic neurons mainly in the caudoventral part of the pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPN), approximately 360 neurons (≈10% of the total) in the homolateral and 80 neurons (≈2%) in the contralateral PPN, projects to the STN. In contrast, the number of non‐cholinergic neurons projecting to the STN was estimated to be nine times as much, with approximately 3300 in the homolateral side and 1300 in the contralateral side. A large gathering of the Fluorogold‐labeled non‐cholinergic neurons was found rostrodorsomedial to the caudolateral PPN. The biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) anterograde tracing method was used to substantiate the mesopontine–STN projections. Injection of BDA into the caudoventral PPN labeled numerous thin fibers with small en‐passant varicosities in the STN. Injection of BDA into the non‐cholinergic neuron‐rich area labeled a moderate number of thicker fibers with patches of aggregates of larger boutons. The densities of labeled fibers and the number of retrogradely labeled cells in the mesopontine tegmentum suggested that the terminal field formed in the STN by each cholinergic neuron is more extensive than that formed by each non‐cholinergic neuron. The findings suggest that cholinergic and non‐cholinergic mesopontine afferents may carry different information to the STN.
Feminist Perspectives on the Internationalization of The State
Authors: Sauer Birgit , Wöhl Stefanie
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  The state is often described in transition: public spaces are rearranged by private companies, national social welfare is being privatized to some extent, and supranational institutions have more influence on national policies. “A view from the kitchen” (Diane Elson) is helpful for understanding the changing dynamics of states and societies because different women are affected by these policies in different and often ambiguous ways: women of the globalized South migrate to the North, creating global care chains, while women in Western industrialized countries are confronted with changing welfare regimes, leaving mainly highly educated women to profit from this situation. This article contributes to feminist debates on economic globalization and state internationalization. Our feminist materialist perspective allows a critical view on dominance and power in “governance”. Thus, the article adds to feminist debates on globalization from the perspective of state transformation and to debates on governance from the perspective of state transformation grounded in gendered social relations.
Sensuous Solidarities: Emotion, Politics and Performance in the Clandestine Insurgent Rebel Clown Army
Authors: Routledge Paul
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  This paper is concerned with the political performance of the Clandestine Insurgent Rebel Clown Army (CIRCA) during the protests against the G8 meeting in Gleneagles, Scotland in 2005. In particular, the paper is concerned with how emotional experiences within political moments or events can be constituted through performances that fashion “sensuous solidarities”. Sensuous solidarities are generated through diverse bodily movements and techniques, and are indicative of both the performative character of activist subjectivities and the content of activists’ public (political) performances. Reflecting on my participation in CIRCA, this paper will argue that sensuous solidarities constituted a series of complex, contradictory and emotive co‐performances and resonances with police, other protestors and the public and in doing so will consider the efficacy of those forms of activism that Duncombe (2007, Dream: Reimagining Progressive Politics in an Age of Fantasy. London: The New Press) has termed “ethical spectacles”.
Parental behaviour and infant development in Owl monkeys (Aotus trivirgatus griseimembra)
Authors: Dixson A. F. , Fleming D.
Published: December 2010

Behavioural interactions between parents and their developing offspring were studied in 13 captive groups of Owl monkeys. The male parent plays an important role in carrying the offspring and in ensuring the development of its independence. Older siblings also carry infants, but this behaviour is infrequent and age or sex differences are not measurable. Patterns of parental behaviour in Owl monkeys are compared to those observed in other monogamous primates and their adaptive significance is discussed. Some experimental studies of clinging positions in infant Owl monkeys are also described. The newborn possesses some innate ability to cling in a distinctive ventro‐lateral position upon the mother's body.
The cephalic sense organs of adult female Hammerschmidtiella diesingi (Nematoda: Oxyuroidea)
Authors: Trett M. W. , Lee D. L.
Published: December 2010

The ultrastructure of the cephalic sense organs of Hummerschmidtiella diesingi (Hammer‐Schmidt, 1838), a parasite of cockroaches, is described using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The four cephalic papillae are apparently mechanoreceptors and terminate as flattened dendritic processes within the cuticle. The hypodermis and sheath cells associated with these are described. The amphids resemble those described for other nematodes and are thought to be chemosensory. Each contains six main dendritic processes within the amphidial canal. Double and single microtubules, of varying arrangement, are present within these processes but basal bodies have not been found. The association between the amphids, the amphidial sheath cells and the hypodermis is also described.

The inner and outer labial papillary neurons terminate beneath the cuticle and do not innervate cuticular sense organs. The outer labial dendrites, however, do produce dendritic processes.

Possible functions of these sense organs are discussed.
Ultrastructure of the striated ventromental plates and associated structures of larval Chironominae (Diptera: Chironomidae) and their rôle in silk‐spinning
Authors: Webb C. J. , Wilson R. S. , Mcgill J. D.
Published: December 2010

The ultrastructure of striated ventromental plates and their relationship to other parts of the larval head capsule have been studied in two Chironominae species,Microtendipes pedellus(Degeer) andChironomus ripariusMeigen, by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy, including observation of thin sections. In both species the inner surface of the striated plates has a complex microarchitecture and is closely associated with a cuticular structure termed the maxillary plate. It is suggested that the striated and associated maxillary plates play an important rr̂le in the process by which larvae of the Chironominae spin silk.
The population of the louse‐fly, Crataerina pallida (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) on the European swift, Apus apus (Aves, Apodidae)
Authors: Hutson A. M.
Published: December 2010

Data are presented on the seasonal changes in the population of the louse‐fly Crataerina pallida, parasitic on swifts, Apus apus, from the examination of 4094 birds. The swifts arrive to breed in Britain free from this parasite, but the flies soon emerge from pupae in the hosts’nests. The population of adult flies builds up rapidly towards the time when the young birds start to hatch. At this stage up to 70% of the birds trapped were infested. By the time the main hatch of young birds occurs the population on the full grown birds is declining, and continues to decline until flies are absent by the time the birds migrate. Male flies emerge first, and as the season progresses the proportion of males declines and males disappear first. Heavy infestations were frequent with up to 31 flies per bird, but there seemed no relationship between these heavy infestations and poor condition of host (in weight, plumage, etc.). Seven juvenile birds were trapped, but were not heavily infested. Only one fly was found on the 37 first‐year birds examined.
The weight of the thymus gland in a population of wild Bank voles, Clethrionomys glareolus, from Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire
Authors: Kendall Marion D. , Twigg G. I.
Published: December 2010

Changes in the thymus weights of a population of wild Bank voles were studied from four‐weekly samples taken over a 4‐year period in an area of fenland. By considering physiological state it is possible to distinguish first year young from older individuals and to correlate the changes in thymus size with stages in the reproductive cycle.
Biology and relationships of the nudibranch mollusc Notobryon wardi in South Africa, with a review of the Scyllaeidae
Authors: Thompson T. E. , Brown Gregory H.
Published: December 2010

The Scyllaeidae is an important but little understood family of dendronotacean nudibranchs distinguished principally by having one or two pairs of latero‐dorsal flattened cerata which bear mesial arborescent gills. Most published records of scyllaeids have related to the world‐wide species of Scyllaea found in association with Sargassum, feeding upon attached hydroids. Other scyllaeids belonging to the genera Crosslandia and Notobryon are predominantly benthic, although they may swim to escape predators. Very little is known about them; on the South African coast, for example, benthic scyllaeids have been confused with Scyllaea pelagica. The present paper includes an investigation of these South African animals, with observations from life. Furthermore, a comparative account is given of living material of Crosslandia from Tanzania and of Scyllaea from the Gulf of Mexico. It is concluded that Scyllaea, Crosslandia and Notobryon are all valid and well founded genera; they are re‐defined in the light of the present study.
The siphons of Scrobicularia plana (Bivalvia: Tellinacea). Observations on movement and extension
Authors: Hodgson A. N. , Trueman E. R.
Published: December 2010

Simultaneous recordings of mantle cavity pressure and valve movements, together with observations of the siphons of Scrobicularia show that extension is achieved both by the intrinsic musculature of the siphon wall and by low pressure (0.3‐0.4 kPa) generated in the mantle cavity water by valve adductions. Such low pressures are produced by valve movements of less than 0.5 mm at their ventral margins. Experiments on isolated siphons, relaxed by narcotization, confirm that pressures of 0.4 kPa are sufficient to elongate them.
Nycteris grandis (Nycteridae): an African carnivorous bat
Authors: Fenton M. B. , Thomas D. W. , Sasseen R.
Published: December 2010

Nycteris grandis in Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe regularly include a variety of vertebrates and arthropods in their diet, ranging from fish through frogs, bats and birds, to different Orthoptera, Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Analysis of the faeces of these bats suggests a considerable range in size of prey taken, from the 10 g birds and bats to caddis flies 15 mm long.
Dispersal and population density of the fox (Vulpes vulpes) in an area of London
Authors: Page R. J. C.
Published: December 2010

Unlike most other European capitals much of urban and suburban London is frequented by foxes. For five years, litters of fox cubs were tagged in West London and their dispersal studied. Aerial photographs were examined to aid litter location. Twenty‐five per cent of the litters found were under garden sheds with raised wooden floors. Sixteen per cent of tagged cubs have been recaptured. Mean dispersal distances were 7.9 km for males and 3.1 for females. Most of the observed cub dispersal was away from the centre of London towards rural areas. Immigration from rural areas into the study area was not recorded. Adult fox population density, estimated from the number of litters found, was a minimum of 2.06 foxes per square kilometre. The significance of suburban and urban fox population densities and their dispersal patterns are considered in relation to the epidemiology of wildlife rabies.
A study of the factors influencing the timing of breeding in the Grey seal Halichoerus grypus
Authors: Coulson J. C.
Published: December 2010

The Grey seal has a restricted distribution in the North Atlantic and Baltic but within this area there are differences of almost six months in the breeding dates in individual colonies, although there is little variation between years in the same colony. The date of breeding shows an irregular geographical distribution which excludes photoperiod as being the main factor determining the time of breeding. The timing of breeding is most likely to be determined by the factors which terminate the period of suspended embryonic development (“delayed implantation”) and studies of both the year to year variation in the mean date of births on the Farne Islands, Northumberland, and also the geographical differences in the date of breeding are correlated with the sea‐surface temperature in the period just prior to the end of the suspended development. On average, a one degree Celsius lower sea‐surface temperature between colonies at this time results in the date of pupping being 13 days later. Evidence is also presented that the size of the seal colony has an influence on the date of breeding and there is reason to believe that the breeding season on the Farne Islands in the 1930s, when the colony was much smaller than it is now, was at least 10 days later than in recent years. It is suggested that this influence of numbers is possibly a social facilitation effect which slightly modifies the date of termination of the period of suspended embryonic development. It is also suggested that the two days later mean birth date of female pups is caused by a minor alteration to the restart of embryonic development caused by the sex of the embryo. A model of the manner in which the breeding season is determined in the Grey seal is presented and attention is drawn to possible selective advantages stemming from synchronized breeding rather than pupping at a particular time of year.
The Importance of Checking for Delayed Reactions in Pediatric Patch Testing
Authors: Matiz Catalina , Russell Kathryn , Jacob Sharon E.
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  Patch testing is often performed with the final reading being completed at 72 hours. Studies in adults have shown that performing an additional reading several days later increases the yield of relevant positive reactions. We report a study of this matter in children. We conducted a prospective patch test study of 38 affected children aged 6 to 17 (mean 11.6 years), with presumed allergic contact dermatitis between April and July 2009. The patients were required to return at 48 hours for patch test removal and assessment of early reactions, at 72 to 96 hours (3–4 days) for evaluation of delayed reactions, and again at 168 to 216 hours (7–9 days) for a final late delayed reading. We tallied the number of patients with “equivocal” (+/?), +, ++, and +++ reactions and noted these as potential positive reactions by reading date. Twenty‐five of the 38 children (66%) had a positive reaction at 48 hours; 32 children (84%) had a positive reaction at 72 hours (day 3); 19 children (50%) had a positive reaction at 168 to 216 hours (day 7–9). Of those 19, 16 (42%) had persistent reactions, while 5 children (13%) had new late delayed reactions. Among the new late delayed reactions, there were six allergens identified, four of which were considered of probable clinical relevance. When patch testing with Thin Layer Rapid‐Use Epicutaneous test panels, a delayed reading beyond 72 hours may be needed to identify the offending agent(s) responsible for allergic contact dermatitis in some children. Additional studies are needed to assess optimal readings schedules.
Elevated Defibrillation Threshold Despite Programmable Tilt, Pulse Width, or Implant of Subcutaneous Coil: Role of Higher Energy Devices
Authors: NAGEH MAGED F.
Published: January 2011

The value of defibrillation threshold testing (DFT) has been debated in recent years, especially with developments in the technology of manufactured defibrillators, most of which are capable of delivering high energies (35 Joules [ J]) and have programmable features such as tilt percentage and pulse width duration that increase the efficiency of biphasic shocks. The following is an unusual case of elevated DFT despite all attempts of invasive and noninvasive approaches—it highlights the importance of performing DFT testing particularly when implantable cardioverter defibrillator is indicated for secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death and the need for devices capable of delivering higher energies >35 J. (PACE 2012; 35:e179–e181)
Successful Epicardial Ablation of Idiopathic Mitral Annular Ventricular Tachycardia from the Great Cardiac Vein
Authors: JIA‐FENG LIN , YUE‐CHUN LI , JIA LI , KANG‐TING JI , JIA‐XUAN LIN , JI‐FEI TANG , PENG‐LIN YANG
Published: January 2011

This case report describes idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT) originating from the anterolateral site of mitral annulus. Radiofrequency (RF) energy application at an endocardial site of mitral annulus could not eliminate the tachycardia. The earliest epicardial activation preceding the onset of the QRS complex by 34 ms was found at the great anterior cardiac vein just opposite to the endocardial ablation catheter, pace mapping provided an identical (12/12) match with the VT morphology at the site, and RF ablation effectively eliminated the VT from the great cardiac vein within the coronary venous system. (PACE 2012; 35:e120–e123)
Feature and Configuration in Face Processing: Japanese Are More Configural Than Americans
Authors: Miyamoto Yuri , Yoshikawa Sakiko , Kitayama Shinobu
Published: January 2011

Previous work suggests that Asians allocate more attention to configuration information than Caucasian Americans do. Yet this cultural variation has been found only with stimuli such as natural scenes and objects that require both feature‐ and configuration‐based processing. Here, we show that the cultural variation also exists in face perception—a domain that is typically viewed as configural in nature. When asked to identify a prototypic face for a set of disparate exemplars, Japanese were more likely than Caucasian Americans to use overall resemblance rather than feature matching. Moreover, in a speeded identity‐matching task, Japanese were more accurate than Americans in identifying the spatial configuration of features (e.g., eyes). Together, these findings underscore the robustness of culture’s influences on cognition.
Osteoporosis — an update
Authors: Samsioe Göran
Published: December 2010

Osteoporosis and subsequent fractures is a rapidly growing major health problem in many parts of the world. Even if prevalence and incidence are high in Europe, rate of increase is even higher in Asia. The majority of fractures occur in women underlining the importance of ovarian deficiency. Genetic factors and lifestyle greatly influence the incidence and prevalence both in men and women and the importance of estrogen deficiency at ages over 85, where a large number of fractures actually occur, may well be questioned. Among several risk factors the amount of bone mass remains crucial. Several techniques adequate in accuracy and precision exist to determine bone mass. The costs for these measurements are not negligible. Several pharmacologic regimens look promising for the prevention of osteoporosis and indeed for treatment of established osteoporosis. However, long‐term data and clinical experience are warranted prior to establishing these pharmacological tools in the field of osteoporosis. For HRT and ERT such data are available. ERT and indeed HRT may halve the risk of osteoporotic fractures in women at least in current users. The effect at least on bone mass wears off after discontinuation of treatment but is never totally lost. In the interest of health care costs it is suggested that HRT could be started 15–20 years after the menopause and still provide protection for subsequent fractures.
Impaired glucose tolerance during pregnancy is associated with increased fetal mortality in preceding sibs
Authors: Åberg Anders , Rydhström Håkan , Källén Bengt , Källén Karin
Published: December 2010

Objectives, To analyze whether women with a diagnosis of gestational diabetes in the current pregnancy had an increased rate of stillbirths or of large for gestational age infants in previous pregnancies without an overtly present/diagnosed gestational diabetes. Design. A case‐control analysis with two controls for each case, matched for year of delivery, maternal age (5 year class), and parity. Material ami methods. All women with a diagnosis of gestational diabetes and delivered between 1987 and 1992 were identified from the Swedish Medical Birth Registry. For each woman, the first delivery with that diagnosis was used as proband case (n = 3,958). To each case and control, all previous sibs since 1973 were identified. Comparisons were made between cases and controls but also between sibs of cases and sibs of controls. Results. No significant difference was found in stillbirth rate between cases and controls (OR 1.33. CL 0.64: 2.77). The rate of intrauterine deaths was significantly increased among previous sibs of the cases compared with the sibs of the controls: after stratification for year of birth, maternal age and parity an odds ratio of 1.56 (95% CL 1.12;2.19) was found. Infants born of women with gestational diabetes were heavier (mean 145 g, 95% CL 123; 168 g). Similar differences were seen between immediately previous sibs of cases and controls (mean 155g. 95% CL 127: 183 g). Conclusions. The figures indicate that in pregnancies before a delivery with gestational diabetes the perinatal prognosis was significantly poorer than expected which could be due to the presence of undiagnosed and untreated gestational diabetes. The results argue for an improved screening for gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Cervico‐vaginal fetal fibronectin: Predictive value during false labor
Authors: Langer Bruno , Boudier Eric , Schlaeder Guy
Published: December 2010

Objective. The purpose was to determine to what extent fetal fibronectin was a discriminative tesl of preterm delivery in patients hospitalized for uterine contractions without modification of I he cervix. Study design. The prospective double‐blind study included patients hospitalized between 24 and 34 weeks for false labor. Cervicovaginal swabs were obtained and assayed for the presence of fetal fibronectin by means of a monoclonal antibody assay. Results. Out of the 61 patients included, 18 showed a positive swab. The correlation of a positive result with preterm delivery revealed a sensitivity of 56%, a specificity of 81%, and positive and negative predictive values of 56% and 81% respectively. Meta‐analysis of studies published shows that the presence of fibronectin represents a significant relative risk of 3.3 (IC: 2.5–42) of preterm delivery. Conclusion. The presence of fetal fibronectin in cervicovaginal secretions of patients presenting with false labor indicates a major risk of preterm delivery.
Sonographic assessment of symphyseal joint distention intra partum
Authors: Björklund Kenneth , Lindgren P. G. , Bergström Staffan , Ulmsten Ulf
Published: December 2010

Objective. To elucidate whether there is a distention of the symphysis pubis intra partum and whether a history of pelvic pain during pregnancy is associated with increased distention during delivery. Methods. Using ultrasonography, the width of the symphysis pubis was measured on two occasions during delivery; firstly, upon engagement of the fetal head in the pelvic inlet, secondly, when the largest diameter of the fetal head was at the level of the ischiadic spines. The first measurement was conducted in 24 patients, the second measurement was obtained in 16 of these patients. Results. The average width of the symphysis pubis at onset of labor was 5.8 mm. The average distention of the symphysis during labor was 1.1 mm for those without pelvic pain and 0.2 mm for those with a history of pelvic pain during pregnancy (p = 0.02). Parity and ensuing birth weight had no statistically significant influence on degree of distention. Conclusion. The symphyseal distention during labor is minimal regardless of parity and size of the child. No added symphyseal distensibility was found in patients with a history of pelvic pain.
The epidemiology of infertility in a rural population
Authors: Buckett William , Bentick Bernard
Published: December 2010

Background. To study the prevalence of infertility, outcome of pregnancy, and uptake of medical services in a rural population. Methods. 1000 women aged 45–54 years, randomly selected from the Shropshire FHSA primary care register were sent a postal questionnaire. Outcome Measures. Response rate, time to pregnancy, pregnancy outcome, medical advice sought, diagnoses, and any treatments. Results. Of the initial one thousand women, two had to be excluded by age and 142 women were excluded because of wrong address. A total of 728 completed questionnaires were returned leading to a response rate of 85.0%. A total of 74.6% women reported no infertility and 8.1% women were voluntarily sterile. The prevalence of infertility at 12 months was 17.3% and 12.0% at 24 months. The prevalence of primary infertility was 10.6%, of whom 77.9% eventually conceived, and 6.7% had secondary infertility, of whom 71.4% eventually conceived. There were a total of 1680 pregnancies, of which 8.6% ended in spontaneous abortion. The highest proportion of spontaneous abortions (11.4%) was amongst women who had experienced primary infertility. Of all infertile women 51.6% did not seek any advice or treatment and only 34.1% attended for hospital appointments. Ovulatory disorder was the commonest diagnosis. There appeared no association between occupation and infertility, outcome of pregnancy, or uptake of services. Conclusion. These findings are similar to other epidemiological studies, although in this population the uptake of medical services is low.
Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound detection of levonorgestrel IUD in the uterus
Authors: Palo Perth
Published: December 2010

Background The aim was to study by ultrasound the location of levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine device in the uterus in a prospective, open study.

Methods. Twenty women of fertile age with normal size uterus were examined transabdominally and transvaginally before and after insertion of levonorgestrel releasing device with three different ultrasound devices.

Results. Leumorgeslrel releasing device was detected in all cases in the uterus with both transabdominal and transvaginal probes. The proximal and the distal ends of the vertical arm of the device were detectable. It was possible to ensure the fundal position of the device in the uterus

Conclusion. Ultrasonography is also well suited for determining the location of levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine device within the uterus. Both transabdominal and transvaginal examinations can be used.
Does endometrial resection help dysmenorrhea?
Authors: Molnár Béla G. , Baumann Ralf , Magos Adam L
Published: December 2010

Background. Menorrhagia is a common symptom and is often associated with dysmenorrhea. Methods. The effect of transcervical resection of the endometrium (TCRE) on dysmenorrhea associated with menorrhagia was investigated in a prospective study. Ninety consecutive women were monitored before surgery and for a period of up to 12 months after resection. The amount of pelvic pain experienced was scored daily on a scale of 0–3, and was timed in relation to menstruation.

Results. There was a significant decrease in the level of pain experienced during menstruation and overall during the menstrual cycle (p <0.001), but not in the premenstruum. The effect on pain was immediate and was maintained throughout the follow‐up period of the study. The presence of adenomyosis or leiomyomata in the surgical specimen did not influence the beneficial effect on pain.

Conclusions. Based on these findings, dysmenorrhea during menstruation should not be a contraindication to transcervical endometrial resection in women with menorrhagia.
Paratracheal lymph node dissection during laryngectomy after previous (chemo)radiotherapy: a retrospective analysis of complications and histopathological results
Authors: van der Putten L. , de Bree R. , Kuik D.J. , Doornaert P. , Eerenstein S.E.J. , Leemans C.R.
Published: December 2010

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2011, 36, 37–44

Objectives:  To evaluate complications and histopathological results of paratracheal lymph node dissection (PTLND) at laryngectomy after (chemo)radiotherapy.

Design, setting and participants:  In a retrospective analysis, complications and histopathological results of paratracheal lymph node dissections were analysed in 191 patients with a recurrent or second primary laryngeal or hypopharyngeal carcinoma following radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy.

Main outcome measures:  The percentage of complications in patients with bilateral, unilateral or without PTLND.

Results:  Forty‐seven patients underwent laryngectomy with bilateral paratracheal lymph node dissection, 52 with unilateral and 92 without paratracheal lymph node dissection. Although the difference in total complications was not significant, significantly more fistulae developed in patients with bilateral paratracheal lymph node dissection (40%versus 22%; P = 0.016). In multivariate analysis, this difference maintained significant (P = 0.038). Pathological examination of the lymph node dissection specimen showed tumour in 3 of the 96 ipsilateral dissections (3%) and in 1 of the 50 contralateral dissections (2%). This suggests that if unilateral instead of a bilateral paratracheal lymph node dissection had been performed, 17% less fistulae would have occurred in this group of patients, while paratracheal lymph node (PTLN) metastases would have been missed in one patient. Three of four patients with paratracheal lymph nodeparatracheal lymph node metastases had glottic carcinoma, all with subglottic extension.

Conclusion:  Because of the low incidence of lymph node metastases and the increased risk of fistulae, there is a need for a strict selection of patients who need a bilateral paratracheal lymph node dissection at laryngectomy after previous (chemo)radiotherapy.
Long‐term survivability of hydroxyapatite‐coated implants: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou W. , Liu Z. , Xu S. , Hao P. , Xu F. , Sun A.
Published: January 2011

Objective:  Numerous studies have showed a primary stability of dental implant coated with hydroxyapatite (HA). However, over the long‐term stability of the HA‐coated implant the discussion is still controversial. Present study focuses on literature analysis in order to evaluate the long‐term clinic outcome of HA‐coated implants.

Materials and methods:  Concerning the survival of HA‐coated implants a systematic search for English literature over clinical trials (published from 1996 to 2009) was performed. On the basis of the inclusion criteria, nine studies were selected for final data analysis, which included 1051 patients with 3470 HA‐coated dental implants. Clinical treatment followed a two stage surgical approach with an unloaded healing period of 3–6 months. The period of clinical follow‐up ranged from 3 to 10 years. The obtained data were statistically analysed using chi‐square test. Cumulative survival rate (CSR) and success rate were calculated.

Results:  The overall cumulative survival rate over 5 years was 93.15% compared with the success rate of 86.12%. The 10‐year CSR was 87.39% compared with the 10‐year success rate of 63.84%. There was significant difference between CSR and success rate (P < 0.05). Considering the time factor, the 5‐year CSR is better than the 10‐year results, but there was no significant difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  The 5‐year CSR is better than the 10‐year results, but without significant difference; the survival rates reported for HA‐coated implants were similar to the other implants, but the success rates were significantly lower than the overall survival rates.