bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crossed cerebral lateralization for verbal and visuo‐spatial function in a pair of handedness discordant monozygotic twins: MRI and fMRI brain imaging
Authors: Lux Silke , Keller Simon , Mackay Clare , Ebers George , Marshall John C. , Cherkas Lynne , Rezaie Roozbeh , Roberts Neil , Fink Gereon R. , Gurd Jennifer M.
Published: February 2008

To examine the nature of hemispheric lateralization for neural processes underlying verbal fluency and visuo‐spatial attention, we investigated a single pair of handedness discordant monozygotic (MzHd) twins. Imaging of the brain was undertaken using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in combination with manual performance tasks. The twins were discordant for MRI anatomical asymmetries of the pars triangularis and planum temporale, whose asymmetry was consistent with verbal laterality on fMRI. Thus, the right‐handed twin had left lateralized verbal with right lateralized visuo‐spatial attention, while the left‐handed twin had right lateralized verbal with left lateralized visuo‐spatial activation; these data lend further support for to the conclusions of Sommer et al.
Regional structural characteristics of bovine periodontal ligament samples and their suitability for biomechanical tests
Authors: Bosshardt Dieter D. , Bergomi Marzio , Vaglio Giovanna , Wiskott Anselm
Published: February 2008

Mechanical testing of the periodontal ligament requires a practical experimental model. Bovine teeth are advantageous in terms of size and availability, but information is lacking as to the anatomy and histology of their periodontium. The aim of this study, therefore, was to characterize the anatomy and histology of the attachment apparatus in fully erupted bovine mandibular first molars. A total of 13 teeth were processed for the production of undecalcified ground sections and decalcified semi‐thin sections, for NaOH maceration, and for polarized light microscopy. Histomorphometric measurements relevant to the mechanical behavior of the periodontal ligament included width, number, size and area fraction of blood vessels and fractal analysis of the two hard–soft tissue interfaces. The histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed at four different root depths and at six circumferential locations around the distal and mesial roots. The variety of techniques applied provided a comprehensive view of the tissue architecture of the bovine periodontal ligament. Marked regional variations were observed in width, surface geometry of the two bordering hard tissues (cementum and alveolar bone), structural organization of the principal periodontal ligament connective tissue fibers, size, number and numerical density of blood vessels in the periodontal ligament. No predictable pattern was observed, except for a statistically significant increase in the area fraction of blood vessels from apical to coronal. The periodontal ligament width was up to three times wider in bovine teeth than in human teeth. The fractal analyses were in agreement with the histological observations showing frequent signs of remodeling activity in the alveolar bone – a finding which may be related to the magnitude and direction of occlusal forces in ruminants. Although samples from the apical root portion are not suitable for biomechanical testing, all other levels in the buccal and lingual aspects of the mesial and distal roots may be considered. The bucco‐mesial aspect of the distal root appears to be the most suitable location.
Unique features of spermiogenesis in the Musky Rat‐kangaroo: reflection of a basal lineage or a distinct fertilization process?
Authors: Lloyd Shan , Carrick Frank , Hall Les
Published: February 2008

Previous research has found the mature spermatozoon of the Musky Rat‐kangaroo to share many characteristics with other macopodoids, some phalangeroids and even the dasyurids. While there have been several studies published on the ultrastructure of the mature marsupial spermatozoon, there are only a few detailed studies on marsupial spermatogenesis. Furthermore, there have been no studies undertaken which combine the staging of the epithelial cell cycle with transmission electron microscopy to describe the ultrastructural changes in the developing spermatozoon during these stages. Such studies have the potential to be used in determining the required time taken for certain components of the spermatozoa to develop. During this study, eight stages of the seminiferous epithelium were observed and the ultrastructure of spermatogenesis was divided into nine phases. Maturational processes in the epididymides are also described. Among the features reported are: the formation of a unique acrosomal granule different from those reported in any other marsupial, the absence of contraction of the nuclear ring, a conspicuous acrosomal compaction process despite the almost 100% coverage of the dorsal nuclear surface and the retention of late spermatids within the seminiferous tubules until the early spermatids have developed to the nuclear protrusion phase.
Structure‐function relationships in tendons: a review
Authors: Benjamin M. , Kaiser E. , Milz S.
Published: February 2008

The purpose of the current review is to highlight the structure‐function relationship of tendons and related structures to provide an overview for readers whose interest in tendons needs to be underpinned by anatomy. Because of the availability of several recent reviews on tendon development and entheses, the focus of the current work is primarily directed towards what can best be described as the ‘tendon proper’ or the ‘mid‐substance’ of tendons. The review covers all levels of tendon structure from the molecular to the gross and deals both with the extracellular matrix and with tendon cells. The latter are often called ‘tenocytes’ and are increasingly recognized as a defined cell population that is functionally and phenotypically distinct from other fibroblast‐like cells. This is illustrated by their response to different types of mechanical stress. However, it is not only tendon cells, but tendons as a whole that exhibit distinct structure‐function relationships geared to the changing mechanical stresses to which they are subject. This aspect of tendon biology is considered in some detail. Attention is briefly directed to the blood and nerve supply of tendons, for this is an important issue that relates to the intrinsic healing capacity of tendons. Structures closely related to tendons (joint capsules, tendon sheaths, pulleys, retinacula, fat pads and bursae) are also covered and the concept of a ‘supertendon’ is introduced to describe a collection of tendons in which the function of the whole complex exceeds that of its individual members. Finally, attention is drawn to the important relationship between tendons and fascia, highlighted by Wood Jones in his concept of an ‘ectoskeleton’ over half a century ago – work that is often forgotten today.
Lizards with rhythm? Multi‐day patterns in total daily movement
Authors: Kerr G. D. , Bottema M. J. , Bull C. M.
Published: February 2008

Irregular and unpredictable day‐to‐day patterns in locomotor activity are often observed in animal movement patterns. While ecological processes may drive some variability in activity, underlying rhythms may modulate activity patterns independently of exogenous factors. We investigated multiple day (infradian) locomotor activity rhythms, in long‐term continuous records of individual daily step counts, in a natural population of the Australian sleepy lizard Tiliqua rugosa. We examined temporal periodicity in locomotor activity using spectral analysis of sequential, overlapping 12‐day windows of activity data. Lizards were inactive on average 1 day in 6, independent of ambient temperature, and showed infradian locomotor activity rhythms. In a drought year, 2002/2003, rhythms did not exceed randomized activity patterns. In an average rainfall year, 2003/2004, 6 and 2‐day cycles occurred significantly more often than by chance. Individuals normally moved independently of conspecifics, although there was some short‐term synchrony of activity rhythms. Rainfall did not consistently produce a synchronized pulse of activity in the population. We propose individually based rhythms, associated with differing optimal thermoregulatory requirements for foraging and digestion. In studies of population ecology, individual activity rhythms may explain day‐to‐day variation in encounter rates.
Trematode infection induced malformations in the common hourglass treefrogs
Authors: Rajakaruna R. S. , Piyatissa P. M. J. R. , Jayawardena U. A. , Navaratne A. N. , Amerasinghe P. H.
Published: February 2008

Reports on malformations in amphibians due to trematode infections prompted this study on an endemic frog species in Sri Lanka. The effect of an infection with a monostome‐type cercaria is reported here. Ten days post‐hatch, tadpoles (Gosner stage 27) of the common hourglass treefrog Polypedates cruciger (Anura: Ranidae), were exposed to a monostome‐type cercaria, in a dose‐dependent manner, under laboratory conditions. Malformations, survival and growth of the tadpoles were monitored for four treatments having different doses of cercariae (control=0, low=16, intermediate=32 and high=48). The severity and the number of malformations varied depending on the dose of the infection. A higher percentage (90%) of malformations was observed at higher doses of cercariae. Overall, malformations in the limbs, spine and skin pigmentation were common after parasite exposure. Survival declined with increasing doses of parasite infections, declining to 88% in the high treatment group, although not statistically significant. The growth rates of tadpoles as measured by weight and snout to vent length showed that exposed individuals were significantly smaller and had higher variance in growth compared with that of the controls. Thus, this trematode infection significantly affected the growth and induced severe malformations in P. cruciger, under laboratory conditions. Such malformed tadpoles and adults may face high predation under natural conditions. Here, we present the first empirical evidence of the effect of a trematode infection on the development of malformations, growth and survivorship in an endemic amphibian species in Sri Lanka.
Basic fibroblast growth factor‐induced protection from light damage in the mouse retina in vivo
Authors: O’Driscoll Carolyn , O’Connor Jeremy , O’Brien Colm J. , Cotter Thomas G.
Published: February 2008

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has proven neuroprotective efficacy in the rodent retina against a diverse array of injurious stimuli. However, there is no consensus to date as to the molecular mechanisms underlying this neuroprotection. The study presented herein demonstrates increased expression of endogenous bFGF in the albino mouse retina in response to acute exposure to sublethal levels of light stress. The increased expression correlates with significant photoreceptor protection from light damage. The neuroprotection is likely to be mediated by bFGF as we demonstrate that a shorter exposure to bright light stress that does not up‐regulate bFGF fails to protect photoreceptors from light damage. Furthermore, intravitreal bFGF injection into the retina of mice 3 h prior to light damage affords almost complete photoreceptor protection from light‐induced degeneration. In addition, injected bFGF induces the activation of protein kinase B and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 signalling which correlate directly with the pathways we find to be activated in response to light stress and up‐regulated bFGF. Moreover, we demonstrate that both bright light pre‐conditioning and intravitreal bFGF injection result in dramatic increases in levels of inactive glycogen synthase kinase 3β and cyclic AMP response element binding protein phosphorylation indicating a potential mechanism by which bFGF promotes survival of photoreceptors in vivo.
Social isolation rearing‐induced impairment of the hippocampal neurogenesis is associated with deficits in spatial memory and emotion‐related behaviors in juvenile mice
Authors: Ibi Daisuke , Takuma Kazuhiro , Koike Hiroyuki , Mizoguchi Hiroyuki , Tsuritani Katsuki , Kuwahara Yusuke , Kamei Hiroyuki , Nagai Taku , Yoneda Yukio , Nabeshima Toshitaka , Yamada Kiyofumi
Published: February 2008

Experiences during brain development may influence the pathogenesis of developmental disorders. Thus, social isolation (SI) rearing after weaning is a useful animal model for studying the pathological mechanisms of such psychiatric diseases. In this study, we examined the effect of SI on neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) relating to memory and emotion‐related behaviors. When newly divided cells were labeled with 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) before SI, the number of BrdU‐positive cells and the rate of differentiation into neurons were significantly decreased after 4‐week SI compared with those in group‐housed mice. Repeated treatment of fluoxetine prevented the SI‐induced impairment of survival of newly divided cells and ameliorated spatial memory impairment and part of aggression in SI mice. Furthermore, we investigated the changes in gene expression in the DG of SI mice by using DNA microarray and real‐time PCR. We finally found that SI reduced the expression of development‐related genes Nurr1 and Npas4. These findings suggest that communication in juvenile is important in the survival and differentiation of newly divided cells, which may be associated with memory and aggression, and raise the possibility that the reduced expression of Nurr1 and/or Npas4 may contribute to the impairment of neurogenesis and memory and aggression induced by SI.
Interleukin‐1β: a bridge between inflammation and excitotoxicity?
Authors: Fogal Birgit , Hewett Sandra J.
Published: February 2008

Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) is a proinflammatory cytokine released by many cell types that acts in both an autocrine and/or paracrine fashion. While IL‐1 is best described as an important mediator of the peripheral immune response during infection and inflammation, increasing evidence implicates IL‐1 signaling in the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders. The biochemical pathway(s) by which this cytokine contributes to brain injury remain(s) largely unidentified. Herein, we review the evidence that demonstrates the contribution of IL‐1β to the pathogenesis of both acute and chronic neurological disorders. Further, we highlight data that leads us to propose IL‐1β as the missing mechanistic link between a potential beneficial inflammatory response and detrimental glutamate excitotoxicity.
Proteasomes remain intact, but show early focal alteration in their composition in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Kabashi Edor , Agar Jeffrey N. , Hong Yu , Taylor David M. , Minotti Sandra , Figlewicz Denise A. , Durham Heather D.
Published: February 2008

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caused by mutations in Cu/Zn‐superoxide dismutase (SOD1), altered solubility and aggregation of the mutant protein implicates failure of pathways for detecting and catabolizing misfolded proteins. Our previous studies demonstrated early reduction of proteasome‐mediated proteolytic activity in lumbar spinal cord of SOD1G93A transgenic mice, tissue particularly vulnerable to disease. The purpose of this study was to identify any underlying abnormalities in proteasomal structure. In lumbar spinal cord of pre‐symptomatic mice [postnatal day 45 (P45) and P75], normal levels of structural 20S α subunits were incorporated into 20S/26S proteasomes; however, proteasomal complexes separated by native gel electrophoresis showed decreased immunoreactivity with antibodies to β3, a structural subunit of the 20S proteasome core, and β5, the subunit with chymotrypsin‐like activity. This occurred prior to increase in β5i immunoproteasomal subunit. mRNA levels were maintained and no association of mutant SOD1 with proteasomes was identified, implicating post‐transcriptional mechanisms. mRNAs also were maintained in laser captured motor neurons at a later stage of disease (P100) in which multiple 20S proteins are reduced relative to the surrounding neuropil. Increase in detergent‐insoluble, ubiquitinated proteins at P75 provided further evidence of stress on mechanisms of protein quality control in multiple cell types prior to significant motor neuron death.
Normal limits for left ventricular ejection fraction and volumes determined by gated single photon emission computed tomography – a comparison between two quantification methods
Authors: Lomsky Milan , Johansson Lena , Gjertsson Peter , Björk Jonas , Edenbrandt Lars
Published: February 2008

To compare gender‐related normal limits for left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), end‐diastolic and end‐systolic volumes (EDV and ESV), obtained using two myocardial perfusion‐gated single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) quantification methods. A total of 185 patients were retrospectively selected from a consecutive series of patients examined for coronary artery disease (CAD) or for management of known CAD. Patients were included in the study group if they had normal or probably normal results with stress and rest perfusion imaging and if the combined interpretation of perfusion studies and gated rest studies showed no signs or suspicion of myocardial infarction. The gated SPECT studies were performed using a 2‐day stress/gated rest Tc‐99m sestamibi protocol. All patient studies were processed using CAFU and quantitative‐gated SPECT (QGS), the two software packages for quantification of gated SPECT images. The lower normal limits for EF were higher for CAFU compared with QGS for both women (59% versus 53%) and men (54% versus 47%). The upper normal limits for EDV were also higher for CAFU compared with QGS for both women (133 versus 107 ml) and men (182 versus 161 ml). The differences between the software packages were small for ESV (women 44 versus 44 ml; men 69 versus 74 ml). Gender‐specific normal limits need to be applied for LV EF and volumes determined by gated SPECT. Separate criteria for abnormal LV EF and EDV need to be used for women and men depending on the software package used.
Dense array EEG: Methodology and new hypothesis on epilepsy syndromes
Authors: Holmes Mark D.
Published: February 2008

Summary

Dense array EEG is a method of recording electroencephalography (EEG) with many more electrodes (up to 256) than is utilized with standard techniques that typically employ 19–21 scalp electrodes. The rationale for this approach is to enhance the spatial resolution of scalp EEG. In our research, dense array EEG is used in conjunction with a realistic model of head tissue conductivity and methods of electrographic source analysis to determine cerebral cortical localization of epileptiform discharges. In studies of patients with absence seizures, only localized cortical regions are involved during the attack. Typically, absences are accompanied by “wave–spike” complexes that show, both at the beginning and throughout the ictus, repetitive cycles of stereotyped, localized involvement of mainly mesial and orbital frontal cortex. Dense array EEG can also be used for long‐term EEG video monitoring (LTM). We have used dense array EEG LTM to capture seizures in over 40 patients with medically refractory localization‐related epilepsy, including both temporal and extra temporal cases, where standard LTM failed to reveal reliable ictal localization. One research goal is to test the validity of dense array LTM findings by comparison with invasive LTM and surgical outcome. Collection of a prospective series of surgical candidates who undergo both procedures is currently underway. Analysis of subjects with either generalized or localization‐related seizures suggest that all seizures, including those traditionally classified as “generalized,” propagate through discrete cortical networks. Furthermore, based on initial review of propagation patterns, we hypothesize that all epileptic seizures may be fundamentally corticothalamic or corticolimbic in nature. Dense array EEG may prove useful in noninvasive ictal localization, when standard methods fail. Future research will determine if the method will reduce the need for invasive EEG recordings, or assist in the appropriate placement of novel treatment devices.
Mapping seizure pathways in the temporal lobe
Authors: McIntyre Dan C. , Gilby Krista L.
Published: February 2008

Summary

Interest in temporal lobe seizure pathways has a long history based initially on the human condition of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). This interest in TLE has extended more recently into explorations of experimental models. In this review, the network structures in the temporal lobe that are recruited in animal models during various forms of limbic seizures and status epilepticus are described. Common to all of the various models is recruitment of the parahippocampal cortices, including the piriform, perirhinal, and entorhinal areas. This cortical involvement is seen in in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological recordings throughout the network, in trans‐synaptic neuroplastic changes in associated network structures manifest at the molecular level, in network energy utilization visualized by
14C
2‐deoxyglucose uptake, and finally, in the behavioral consequences of network lesions. The conclusions of the animal models reviewed here are very similar to those described for the human condition presented recently in the 2006 Lennox lecture by Warren Blume, and addressed 53 years ago in the quadrennial meeting of the ILAE in 1953 by Henri Gastaut.
Neurometabolism in human epilepsy
Authors: Pan Jullie W. , Williamson Anne , Cavus Idil , Hetherington Hoby P. , Zaveri Hitten , Petroff Ognen A. C. , Spencer Dennis D.
Published: February 2008

Summary

Purpose: Because of the large and continuous energetic requirements of brain function, neurometabolic dysfunction is a key pathophysiologic aspect of the epileptic brain. Additionally, neurometabolic dysfunction has many self‐propagating features that are typical of epileptogenic processes, that is, where each occurrence makes the likelihood of further mitochondrial and energetic injury more probable. Thus abnormal neurometabolism may be not only a chronic accompaniment of the epileptic brain, but also a direct contributor to epileptogenesis.

Methods: We examine the evidence for neurometabolic dysfunction in epilepsy, integrating human studies of metabolic imaging, electrophysiology, microdialysis, as well as intracranial EEG and neuropathology.

Results: As an approach of noninvasive functional imaging, quantitative magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) measured abnormalities of mitochondrial and energetic dysfunction (via 1H or 31P spectroscopy) are related to several pathophysiologic indices of epileptic dysfunction. With patients undergoing hippocampal resection, intraoperative 13C‐glucose turnover studies show a profound decrease in neurotransmitter (glutamate–glutamine) cycling relative to oxidation in the sclerotic hippocampus. Increased extracellular glutamate (which has long been associated with increased seizure likelihood) is significantly linked with declining energetics as measured by 31P MR, as well as with increased EEG measures of Teager energy, further arguing for a direct role of glutamate with hyperexcitability.

Discussion: Given the important contribution that metabolic performance makes toward excitability in brain, it is not surprising that numerous aspects of mitochondrial and energetic state link significantly with electrophysiologic and microdialysis measures in human epilepsy. This may be of particular relevance with the self‐propagating nature of mitochondrial injury, but may also help define the conditions for which interventions may be developed.
Henry George, Emile de Laveleye, and the Issue of Peasant Proprietorship
Authors: Heavey Jerome F.
Published: February 2008

Abstract.  In Emile de Laveleye's demonstration that communal landholding was universally a characteristic of primitive societies, Henry George saw evidence of a golden age before the development of private ownership of land. Though he agreed with George that unequal access to land was a major cause of the social evil of poverty, de Laveleye did not consider it the sole cause of poverty. Where George would nationalize land rent, de Laveleye would make private ownership more widespread; and he faulted George for giving too little attention to the question of how government would use the revenue from a land tax, and for failing to consider the concentration of capital as a cause of poverty.
Henry George's Political Critics
Authors: Hudson Michael
Published: February 2008

Abstract.  Twelve political criticisms of George were paramount after he formed his own political party in 1887: (1) his refusal to join with other reformers to link his proposals with theirs, or to absorb theirs into his own campaign; (2) his singular focus on ground rent to the exclusion of other forms of monopoly income, such as that of the railroads, oil and mining trusts; (3) his almost unconditional support of capital, even against labor; (4) his economic individualism rejecting a strong role for government; (5) his opposition to public ownership or subsidy of basic infrastructure; (6) his refusal to acknowledge interest‐bearing debt as the twin form of rentier income alongside ground rent; (7) the scant emphasis he placed on urban land and owner‐occupied land; (8) his endorsement of the Democratic Party's free‐trade platform; (9) his rejection of an academic platform to elaborate rent theory; (10) the narrowness of his theorizing beyond the land question; (11) the alliance of his followers with the right wing of the political spectrum; and (12) the hope that full taxation of ground rent could be achieved gradually rather than requiring a radical confrontation involving a struggle over control of government.
The Skill Plot: A Graphical Technique for Evaluating Continuous Diagnostic Tests
Authors: Briggs William M. , Zaretzki Russell
Published: February 2008

Summary We introduce the Skill Plot, a method that it is directly relevant to a decision maker who must use a diagnostic test. In contrast to ROC curves, the skill curve allows easy graphical inspection of the optimal cutoff or decision rule for a diagnostic test. The skill curve and test also determine whether diagnoses based on this cutoff improve upon a naive forecast (of always present or of always absent). The skill measure makes it easy to directly compare the predictive utility of two different classifiers in an analogy to the area under the curve statistic related to ROC analysis. Finally, this article shows that the skill‐based cutoff inferred from the plot is equivalent to the cutoff indicated by optimizing the posterior odds in accordance with Bayesian decision theory. A method for constructing a confidence interval for this optimal point is presented and briefly discussed.
Spatial Multistate Transitional Models for Longitudinal Event Data
Authors: Nathoo F. S. , Dean C. B.
Published: February 2008

Summary Follow‐up medical studies often collect longitudinal data on patients. Multistate transitional models are useful for analysis in such studies where at any point in time, individuals may be said to occupy one of a discrete set of states and interest centers on the transition process between states. For example, states may refer to the number of recurrences of an event, or the stage of a disease. We develop a hierarchical modeling framework for the analysis of such longitudinal data when the processes corresponding to different subjects may be correlated spatially over a region. Continuous‐time Markov chains incorporating spatially correlated random effects are introduced. Here, joint modeling of both spatial dependence as well as dependence between different transition rates is required and a multivariate spatial approach is employed. A proportional intensities frailty model is developed where baseline intensity functions are modeled using parametric Weibull forms, piecewise‐exponential formulations, and flexible representations based on cubic B‐splines. The methodology is developed within the context of a study examining invasive cardiac procedures in Quebec. We consider patients admitted for acute coronary syndrome throughout the 139 local health units of the province and examine readmission and mortality rates over a 4‐year period.
Does participation in the conservation reserve program impact the economic well‐being of farm households?
Authors: Chang Hung‐Hao , Lambert Dayton M. , Mishra Ashok K.
Published: February 2008

This study uses U.S. farm household survey data to examine how participation in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) affects farm household economic well‐being. Further, the study also examines the effects of CRP participation on farm household consumption, income, and imputed savings. In contrast to previous studies that assume the relationships are homogenous across the population, quantile regression is used to investigate the association between CRP participation across the entire distribution of farm household consumption and income. Empirical findings suggest that the effect of CRP participation on household economic well‐being differs across the income and consumption distribution. For households in the lower percentiles of the distribution, the CRP participation is associated with an increase in household consumption, but a decrease in farm household income and savings. In contrast, farm households at the median and higher income and consumption quantiles, participation in CRP is associated with lower levels of household consumption and income, but with higher levels of savings.
Melatonin decreases TLR3‐mediated inflammatory factor expression via inhibition of NF‐κB activation in respiratory syncytial virus‐infected RAW264.7 macrophages
Authors: Huang Sheng‐Hai , Cao Xiu‐jing , Wei Wei
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Double‐stranded (ds) RNA has been identified as a ligand for Toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a single‐stranded RNA virus and a major respiratory pathogen and pneumovirus in human infants pathogenesis of which relies on early inflammatory and immune events of the host in response to RSV, could be recognized by TLR3 sensing viral dsRNA produced during replication. The downstream signaling pathway from TLR3 leads to activation of IFN regulatory factor (IRF)‐3 and/or NF‐κB and subsequent expression of numerous proinflammatory factors. Melatonin (MT) is an effective regulator of the immune system. To determine the molecular mechanisms responsible for the suppressive effect of MT on RSV infection, we analyzed signaling molecules involved in the TLR3‐mediated activation of inflammatory factors in macrophages infected with RSV and the modulatory role of MT on these mediators. We report that RSV infection of RAW264.7 macrophages time‐dependently stimulate the rapid activation of TLR3 and NF‐κB, as well as subsequent NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression such as those encoding TNF‐α and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Moreover, we demonstrate that MT decreased TLR3‐mediated downstream gene expression in RSV‐infected macrophages in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, and that MT inhibition of NF‐κB activity seemed to be the key event required to explain the reduction in inflammatory gene expression caused by MT. But MT did not influence TLR3 at either the protein or mRNA level or MyD88 transcription. These results could be related to the beneficial immunoregulatory role of MT in RSV‐infected macrophages and address the possible therapeutic potential of this indoleamine in human RSV diseases.
The Effects of Unintended Pregnancy on Infant, Child, and Parental Health: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Gipson Jessica D. , Koenig Michael A. , Hindin Michelle J.
Published: February 2008

This article provides a critical review of studies assessing the effects of unintended pregnancy on the health of infants, children, and parents in developed and developing countries. A framework for determining and measuring the pathways between unintended pregnancy and future health outcomes is outlined. The review highlights persistent gaps in the literature, indicating a need for more studies in developing countries and for further research to assess the impact of unintended pregnancy on parental health and long‐term health outcomes for children and families. The challenges in measuring and assessing these health impacts are also discussed, highlighting avenues in which further research efforts could substantially bolster existing knowledge.
Refining the Criteria for Stalled Fertility Declines: An Application to Rural KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa, 1990‐2005
Authors: Moultrie Tom A. , Hosegood Victoria , McGrath Nuala , Hill Caterina , Herbst Kobus , Newell Marie‐Louise
Published: February 2008

Stalled fertility declines have been identified in several regions across the developing world, but the current conceptualization of a stalled fertility decline is poorly theorized and does not lend itself to objective measurement. We propose a more rigorous and statistically testable definition of stalled fertility decline that can be applied to time‐series data. We then illustrate the utility of our definition through its application to data from rural South Africa for the period 1990‐2005 collected from a demographic surveillance site. Application of the approach suggests that fertility decline has indeed stalled in rural KwaZulu‐Natal, at about three children per woman. The stall, some 20 percent above the replacement fertility level, does not appear to be associated with a rise in wanted fertility or attenuated access to contraceptive methods. This identification of a stalled fertility decline provides the first evidence of such a stall in southern Africa, the region with the lowest fertility levels in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Women's Acceptance of Intimate Partner Violence within Marriage in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Schuler Sidney Ruth , Islam Farzana
Published: February 2008

Violence against women perpetrated by husbands and male partners occurs worldwide, and an increasing number of surveys indicate that it is widely condoned. This article presents findings from a 2002 survey conducted in six rural villages in Bangladesh suggesting that an extremely high proportion of women believe that husbands’ use of violence against their wives is acceptable. To investigate the reliability and the psychosocial underpinnings of these survey findings, we also examine data from 110 in‐depth interviews and 14 small group discussions. The results suggest that although most abused women in the study had resigned themselves to accept a certain level of violence, they did not condone it, and many abused women said that perpetrators of violence should be punished, and in some cases the punishments they suggested were harsh. We conclude by raising questions regarding the meaning of responses to commonly used questions intended to measure women's attitudes toward intimate partner violence and by discussing policy implications.
Hospital Policies and Practices Concerning Normal Childbirth in Jordan
Authors: Sweidan Mary , Mahfoud Ziyad , DeJong Jocelyn
Published: February 2008

We investigated reported policies and practices of normal delivery in Jordanian hospitals to assess whether these practices are evidence‐based and whether women are given choices in delivery. Staff at a nationally representative sample of 30 hospitals were interviewed using a semistructured questionnaire. The surveyed hospitals were found to be well equipped to deal with obstetric emergencies, and many follow evidence‐based procedures. The internal evaluation system, however, typically is based on team feedback, and 20 percent of hospitals reported having no internal evaluation procedure. Some unnecessary procedures, including pubic shaving and enemas, are frequently practiced. Women are restricted in their movement during labor, and the lithotomy position is usually adopted for delivery; the majority of hospitals report strapping women in the delivery position. Most hospitals do not allow social support during labor and delivery. Measures are needed to encourage the best evidence‐based practices regarding normal childbirth, including better evaluation. Jordanian women need much more information about their delivery options so that they can exercise their preferences wherever possible.
A BACTERIAL DISEASE OF THE MANGO. BACILLUS MANGIFERAE N.SP
Authors: M. DOIDGE ETHEL
Published: February 2008

A disease of mangoes, hitherto undescribed, has for the last few years been causing considerable loss to mango growers in the Union.

So far as can be ascertained the disease is not known outside South Africa, and it occurs in this country in the neighbourhood of Barberton and Warmbaths, in the coast region of Natal and at Delagoa Bay.

Dark angular spots are formed on the leaves which do not noticeably affect the general health of the tree, but serve as a source of infection for the fruit. On the latter the disease causes discoloured roughened areas and deep cracking; infected fruit is detached from the tree by the slightest air movement and falls rotting to the ground.

Infection is carried by the wind, and by rain dripping from infected leaves. Very few insects are found on the mango foliage.

Spraying experiments have been conducted which show that spraying with Bordeaux mixture, iron sulphide or Hycol is useless in checking the disease.

The cause of the trouble is a flagellate bacillus Bacillus mangi‐ferae n. sp. It invades the parenchyma, wedging apart and killing the cells and causing gummosis; lignified tissues are not touched.

The organism is described in detail and a resume is given of its salient characters.
PINK DISEASE OF PLANTATION RUBBER.
Authors: BROOKS F. T. , SHARPLES A.
Published: February 2008

The distribution, hosts, and mode of action of Pink Disease are described and its importance as a disease of plantation rubber is emphasised.

The various forms of Corticium salmonicolor are described. It is pointed out that the fungus is not a typical Corticium and that the pink incrustation is very frequently sterile.

Corticium salmonicolor often affects the wood as well as the bark of rubber trees. Its action on the wood is described in detail. The formation of tyloses appears to be a response to the presence of the fungus in the wood.

Pure cultures of Corticium salmonicolor have been established on salep agar and on Hevea wood.

Inoculation experiments both with natural material and with the fungus grown in pure culture have been successful.

Treatment, (a) Spraying is not recommended except in particular cases, (b) The disease is best dealt with either by cutting out infected branches, or by treating affected parts with tar. Detailed instructions are given as to the manner in which these operations should be carried out by a pest gang.
THE EFFECT OF VARIOUS CHEMICALS ON BLOW‐FLY
Authors: COOPEE W. F. , WALLING W. A. B.
Published: February 2008

In conclusion, the preliminary ‐character of our experiments may again be emphasised. Final conclusions as to the insecticidal value of any preparation can never be drawn, at least with any degree of satisfaction, from laboratory experiments alone. These should obviously be followed by field work under natural conditions, which unfortunately is not possible in this country.

The general results, which we summarise below, are intended therefore to afford s6me indication as to possible lines upon which future field work might profitably be pursued, rather than as definite recommendations of substances, by the employment of which the Blow‐fly Pest may be controlled.

Of substances repellent to. the Blow‐fly, and therefore capable of protecting sheep from their ravages, the following appear to be the most suitable: methyl salicylate, p‐nitraniline, picric acid, creosote, green oil, boracic acid, fusel oil, pine oil, alizarine oil, origanum oil, mustard oil, sod oil, iodoform, dimethylaniline, quinoline, allyl alcohol, aloin, saponin, copper carbonate, nitrobenzene, sinapis oil and aniseed oil.

For the application of toxic agents, a powder form has been found to be very convenient and efficient, precipitated chalk forming a suitable and cheap basis. The substances, applied in this form, which appear to be most toxic to the Blow‐fly larva, comprise the following: arsenic sulphide, nitrobenzene, eucalyptus oil, methyl salicylate, cedarwood oil, p‐nitraniline, β‐naphthylamine, oxalic acid, borax, quinoline, allyl alcohol, picric acid, dimethylaniline, copper carbonate, oil of cloves, turpentine, β‐naphthol, creosote, fusel oil, sinapis oil, aniseed oil and iodoform. Since the young larvae are much more susceptible than the old, in field work, the medicated powder should be applied either previous to, or in the very earliest days of, the larval stage.

Various vapours have been shown to be toxic to the Blow‐fly larvae, and of these the most successful are brombenzene, chloral hydrate, ethyl acetate, iodine and pyridine.
A BLOSSOM WILT and CANKER OF APPLE TREES.
Authors: WORMALD H.
Published: February 2008

A “Blossom Wilt and Canker” of apple trees, produced by a species of Monilia, is causing great loss to fruit growers in the southeast of England.

Infection takes place through the open flowers; the fungus invades the tissues of the flowering spur, thus killing the inflorescence and the leaves of the spur; the disease may reach the branch and produce a canker.

Spurs killed during the summer, together with the accompanying cankers, produce pustules of conidia during the following winter and spring; these conidia, falling on the flowers as they open, give rise to a new outbreak of the blossom‐wilt disease.

When a canker has shed its crop of conidia it becomes covered with callus which eventually heals the lesion.

Inoculation of apple flowers with conidia from pure cultures of the fungus resulted in the death of the inflorescences and the spurs; in some cases cankers were produced. Conidia‐bearing pustules of the organism appeared on these dead spurs and cankers during the following winter.

The causal organism is a grey Monilia easily distinguished from M. fructigena; at present it is to be referred to Monilia cinerea Bon.

On culture media the habit of the fungus is different from that of the grey Monilia (also referred to M. cinerea by American workers) which is commonly found in North America.

The, disease may be kept in check by cutting out all dead spurs and cankers before the flowers open; on the first appearance of the disease all wilted trusses and dead spurs should be promptly removed. Spraying operations can be efficacious only when they kill the conidial pustules or prevent them from shedding their conidia during the flowering period.
INVESTIGATION OF BULB ROT OF NARCISSUS1
Authors: WELSFORD E. J.
Published: February 2008

The bulb rot disease, or ring disease, of Narcissus is due to the attack of an eelworm, Tylenchus devastatrix. These eelworms are of constant occurrence in the diseased bulbs, and the disease can be produced by infecting healthy plants with the eelworm.

A description is given of the symptoms and course of the disease as it appears in nature, and certain precautionary measures are suggested.

I have great pleasure in expressing my thanks to Mr J. W. Barr (Messrs Barr and Sons), Mr Hales (Chelsea Physic Gardens), Mr Leake (The Floral Farms, Wisbech), Mr Pearson (Messrs J. E. Pearson and Sons), and Mr J. Walker (Walker Bros.) without whose cordial cooperation and generous help the work could not have been carried out. I am also indebted to Mr J. C. Fryer for help and suggestions with regard to treatment.

I should also like to take this opportunity of thanking both Professor V. H. Blackman and Professor J. B. Farmer for their stimulating and helpful criticism.
STUDIES IN BACTERIOSIS. III.: A BACTERIAL LEAF‐SPOT DISEASE OF PEOTEA CYNAROIDES, EXHIBITING A HOST REACTION OF POSSIBLY BACTERIOLYTIC NATURE.
Authors: PAINE SYDNEY G. , STANSFIELD. H.
Published: February 2008

A description is given of a disease of Protea cynaroides which is characterised by the development on the leaves of blister‐like spots of a brown colour, or of sunken spots of a brown colour with bright vermilion border.

The causal organism described is a bacterial parasite for which the name Pseudomonas Proteamaculans is suggested.

The attacked cells become filled with an amber coloured resin‐like substance in which apparently the bacteria become embedded and suffer a process of solution. This solution is either one of autolysis, or there may possibly be an analogy with the bacteriolytic action of the serum of an immunised animal.

The vermilion pigment is shown to be closely allied to phlorotannin red and the resin‐like substance is believed to be of the nature of a resino‐tannin.
A PHYTOPHTHORA ROT OF PEARS AND APPLES
Authors: WORMALD H.
Published: February 2008

In wet seasons Phytophthora Cactorum (Lebert et Cohn) Schröer sometimes produces a rot of apples and pears in this country, causing the fruit to fall.

The rot in pears is characterized by a dark brown discoloration of the affected tissues accompanied by the appearance, at the surface, of clusters of sporangia, seen with the naked eye as glistening particles.

In apples the discoloration is paler and sporangia are less readily produced; frequently the skin splits and the mycelium of the fungus is seen on the exposed surface as a whitish bloom.

To keep the disease in‐check rotting fruit, whether on the ground or still on the tree, should be collected and destroyed.
DAILY PERIODICITY IN THE NUMBERS OF ACTIVE SOIL FLAGELLATES: WITH A BRIEF NOTE ON THE RELATION OF TROPHIC AMOEBAE AND BACTERIAL NUMBERS.
Authors: CUTLER D. WARD , CRUMP L. M.
Published: February 2008

There is a daily fluctuation in the number of trophic forms of the three species of flagellates Oicomonas sp. (Martin), Cercomonas longicauda and Bodo sp., in the soil of arable fields.

The numbers of bacteria and trophic amoebae in the soil are correlated, varying inversely over a period of 14 days.

Temperature and rainfall appear to have no influence on the numbers of active protozoa in the soil.
THE KILLING OF BOTRYTIS SPORES BY PHENOL1
Authors: SMITH J. HENDERSON
Published: February 2008

Summary

It is shown that if Botrytis spores be exposed to the action of 0–4 per cent, phenol, the spores do not all die simultaneously, but some die in a few minutes and some not till two or three hours have elapsed. The curve showing the numbers surviving at different times has a sigmoid shape.

If the strength of phenol be progressively raised, the curve becomes less and less sigmoid, approaching the logarithmic type of curve.

With the same suspension it is possible to obtain either a logarithmic or a sigmoid curve according to the strength of phenol used.

Both types of curve are shown to be explicable on the assumption that the individual spores differ in resistance and that a frequency curve showing the distribution in the resistance grades approaches the normal curve.

The influence of the number of spores used is shown to be very considerable; and the consecutive transition from the sigmoid to the logarithmic type occurs, whether we raise the phenol strength, keeping the spore number constant, or reduce the spore number keeping the phenol constant, or use younger and younger spores.