bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of ferromagnetism in Fe-doped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Balcells Ll. , Frontera C. , Sandiumenge F. , Roig A. , Martínez B. , Kouam J. , Monty C.
Published: September 2006

The structural and magnetic properties of Ti1−xFexO2−ε (x≈0.13) nanoparticles prepared by vaporization-condensation method are analyzed. Samples, mainly of rutile phase, exhibit a pronounced mosaic structure and are free of secondary phases or impurities. Mössbauer spectroscopy evidences the absence of magnetic ordering and shows features indicative of the existence of two doublets assigned to two different structural arrangements of Fe3+ ions substituting for Ti4+ ions in the rutile structure. The application of the Goodenough-Kanamori rules clearly indicates that conventional FM ordering should not be expected in Fe-doped TiO2 with rutile structure.
Three-dimensional photonic crystals based on double-angled etching and wafer-fusion techniques
Authors: Takahashi Shigeki , Okano Makoto , Imada Masahiro , Noda Susumu
Published: September 2006

We propose a method for the realization of three-dimensional photonic crystals by combining a wafer-fusion technique with a two-stage angled etching process. Etching at an angle of 45° to the substrate creates woodpile (or stacked striped) structures, and artificial defects and light emitters can then be introduced by the wafer-fusion technique, thereby considerably reducing the number of processes required. Here, we determine the required thickness of the photonic crystals by calculating the transmission properties and quality factors of point-defect cavities. Furthermore, we demonstrate the feasibility of angled etching using an inductively coupled plasma-etching system at cryogenic temperatures.
Effect of real contact geometry on adhesion
Authors: Varenberg M. , Peressadko A. , Gorb S. , Arzt E.
Published: September 2006

The effect of real contact geometry on adhesion was studied by measurement of pull-off force, real contact area, and real contact perimeter of fibrillar and dimpled flat surfaces. The structures, made of polyvinylsiloxane, were brought in contact with a flat glass substrate. These experiments demonstrate that adhesion does not correlate with the real contact area. The real contact perimeter is found to be the main geometrical factor governing adhesion. This results in a natural scaling effect with finer structures exhibiting stronger adhesion.
Tailoring stacking fault energy for high ductility and high strength in ultrafine grained Cu and its alloy
Authors: Zhao Y. H. , Zhu Y. T. , Liao X. Z. , Horita Z. , Langdon T. G.
Published: September 2006

Bulk ultrafine grained (UFG) materials produced by severe plastic deformation often have low ductility. Here the authors report that simultaneous increases in ductility and strength can be achieved by tailoring the stacking fault energy (SFE) via alloying. Specifically, UFG bronze (Cu 10wt.% Zn) with a SFE of 35mJ∕m2 was found to have much higher strength and ductility than UFG copper with a SFE of 78mJ∕m2. Accumulations of both twins and dislocations during tensile testing play a significant role in enhancing the ductility of the UFG bronze. This work demonstrates a strategy for designing UFG alloys with superior mechanical properties.
Variable phase-contrast fluorescence spectrometry for fluorescently stained cells
Authors: Inoue Yusuke , Ishimaru Ichirou , Yasokawa Toshiki , Ishizaki Katsumi , Yoshida Makoto , Kondo Masahiko , Kuriyama Shigeki , Masaki Tsutomu , Nakai Seiji , Takegawa Kaoru , Tanaka Naotaka
Published: September 2006

This letter describes the spectroscopic measurements of fluorescently stained cells. Variable phase-contrast fluorescence spectrometry was used on fluorescently stained cells to achieve high two-dimensional spatial resolution. Phase shift interferometry by autocorrelation interference made it possible to measure fluorescence spectra in the field of view without the separation of wavelengths, as in the case of a conventional dispersive spectrometer. In this letter, the authors describe the experimental characteristics of fluorescence spectra generated from fluorescently stained cells and verify that the fluorescence spectra of the stained area in the cells can be measured by our method.
Scalar Strategies in Climate-Change Politics: Debating the Environmental Consequences of a Natural Gas Project
Authors: Lindseth Gard
Published: September 2006

In this paper I argue that environmental policy research could benefit from developing an understanding of how the concepts of ‘scale’, ‘scalar strategies’, and ‘struggles over scale’ play out empirically in processes of environmental policymaking and planning. I emphasise how scale, as an issue in environmental governance, is not merely an independent variable causing specific outcomes; rather, it is negotiable, allowing actors to adopt different strategies in order to pursue their varying agendas. I show how a local struggle can be represented as a global struggle: a case study concerning the domestic use of natural gas in the Norwegian city of Stavanger, and how this metamorphosed into a struggle about what was the appropriate geographical scale at which the environmental and climatic consequences of a natural gas project should be assessed, is described. By framing climate change as a global issue, local actors were able to portray the natural gas project as environmentally friendly. I argue that the realisation of this natural gas project should be seen in light of how strategies over scale—which were developed in the debate—fitted with climate discourses institutionalised in national policy and politics.
Do Institutional Arrangements Make a Difference to Transport Policy and Implementation? Lessons for Britain
Authors: Marsden Greg , May Anthony D
Published: September 2006

The authors describe local government decisionmaking in transport in three areas of the United Kingdom—London, West Yorkshire, and Edinburgh—in which major changes in local government decisionmaking structures have taken place over the last decade, and between which arrangements are now very different. They discuss whether institutional change has had a beneficial or adverse effect, and whether any of the current structures provides a more effective framework for policy development and implementation. The results suggest that, although the sites share a broadly common set of objectives, there are differences in devolved responsibilities and in the extent to which various policy options are within the control of the bodies charged with transport policy delivery. The existence of several tiers of government, coupled with the many interactions required between these public sector bodies and the predominantly private sector public transport operators, appears to create extra transactional barriers and impedes the implementation of the most effective measures for cutting congestion. There is, however, a compelling argument for the presence of an overarching tier of government to organise travel over a spatial scale compatible with that of major commuter patterns. The extent to which such arrangements currently appear to work is a function of the range of powers and the funding levels afforded to the coordinating organisation.
Ecological versus Social Restoration? How Urban River Restoration Challenges but Also Fails to Challenge the Science – Policy Nexus in the United Kingdom
Authors: Eden Sally , Tunstall Sylvia
Published: September 2006

Ecological restoration is an expanding area of science and practice for environmental management, but in urban environments in particular its challenge to traditional approaches can be limited because it is seen primarily as a scientific or practical endeavour rather than a social one. In general, the restoration literature, especially on the scientific and practitioner side, suffers from the ‘deficit model’ of public understanding and from a lack of fit between the expectations of restoration and policy workers and those of their local publics. Hence, the irony is that, although restorationists may be seen as radical in scientific and policy terms because of their challenge to the tradition of the ‘hard engineering’ of rivers, they are not radical in social science terms because they fail to challenge the tradition of technocratic environmental management of the public and its deficit model. We illustrate this through two examples of urban river restoration in England—the Alt and the Brent—and we conclude by suggesting how such problems might be addressed through more emphasis on and integration of social science within research and practical agendas for urban restoration projects.
The Evidence – Policy Interface in Strategic Waste Planning for Urban Environments: The ‘Technical’ and the ‘Social’ Dimensions
Authors: Davoudi Simin
Published: September 2006

In the last decade there has been an upsurge in governmental interest in evidence-based policy, coupled with an emphasis on a utilitarian view of research. This emphasis on research for the benefit of policy has contributed to the highly selective nature of the construction of knowledge on urban environments, with those areas that have not been regarded as a policy problem failing to attract investment in research. Strategic waste planning has been a striking example of such policy areas. The first part of this paper provides an overview of the disjuncture between policy and evidence and argues that the lack of research has contributed to the underdevelopment of intellectual capital in this field. This overview sets the context for the second and third parts of the paper which draw on a case study of recent attempts to improve the evidence base for urban waste policy at the regional level. The author examines the interface between the technical and the social dimensions of knowledge production and knowledge transfer as experienced in the work of the Regional Technical Advisory Body (RTAB) in the North West of England. By drawing on five basic tenets of technical rationality, the author provides a critical analysis of how the NWRTAB's adoption of a predominantly technical – rational approach affected the dynamics of knowledge – policy interplay. It is argued that technical rationality proved to be inadequate in satisfying some of the rhetorical expectations that are often associated with it, and which help perpetuate its continuing popularity among professionals and policymakers.
Bridging the Science – Policy Divide in Urban Air-Quality Management: Evaluating Ways to Make Models More Robust through Public Engagement
Authors: Yearley Steven
Published: September 2006

The author identifies lessons about bridging the science – policy divide to be learned from two studies of attempts to encourage public participation in the process of local air-quality management in urban areas in England. These studies were concerned with exploring the potential for public engagement with technical environmental matters as a means of connecting scientific expertise with publicly accepted policymaking. The studies differed in that the first was primarily an attempt to use citizen forums as a form of extended peer review for official air-quality modelling and monitoring procedures; the second was an exploration of novel techniques for allowing local citizens to express their knowledge of local geographies of air pollution. The author compares the underlying conceptions of public consultation or participation and draws lessons about the most practicable and appropriate role for public participation in the business of bridging the science – policy divide.
Would Local Currencies Make a Good Local Economic Development Policy Tool? The Case of Ithaca Hours
Authors: Grover David
Published: September 2006

The author investigates the relationship between local currencies and local economic development (LED) with the aid of evidence from a case study of the ‘Ithaca Hours’ currency in Ithaca, New York, USA. He aims to answer two related questions: (1) are local currencies good for local economic development? And (2) would they make a good local economic development policy tool? The circulation of Hours is found both to increase economic activity and to preserve local skills which might have been lost if the currency system had not been in place. He concludes, however, that the Hours model should not be adopted as policy without modifications, because the design suffers from poor incentive structures which depress circulation and limit the positive effects of the currency on LED.
Repeated supratherapeutic doses of paracetamol in children—a literature review and suggested clinical approach
Authors: Kozer Eran , Greenberg Revital , Zimmerman Deena R. , Berkovitch Matitiahu
Published: September 2006

The safety of paracetamol when given in the recommended dosage is well documented. However, in recent years there have been many reports of liver failure associated with repeated exposure to supratherapeutic doses of paracetamol. This paper reviews the literature on chronic supratherapeutic paracetamol exposure in children and the different dosing guidelines. Based on which, we suggest the following approach: liver injury secondary to repeated dosing of paracetamol should be considered when a child has received more than 75 mg/kg/d for at least 2 d, or if risk factors for paracetamol toxicity have been identified. Liver transaminases, coagulation factors, and paracetamol serum concentrations should be measured in these children and in symptomatic children with vomiting, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, and jaundice who have taken paracetamol. Treatment with N‐acetyl cysteine should be started regardless of paracetamol concentrations if transaminases or INR are elevated.

Conclusion: Liver injury secondary to repeated dosing of paracetamol is rare but may result in severe morbidity and mortality. The cumulative dose of paracetamol should not exceed 75 mg/kg/d. Children treated with higher doses for more than 2 d should be evaluated for possible liver injury and treated with N‐acetyl cysteine if evidence of liver injury is found.
Effect of a six‐month training programme on the physical capacities of Romanian schoolchildren
Authors: Serbescu Carmen , Flora Dorina , Hantiu Iacob , Greene David , Benhamou Claude Laurent , Courteix Daniel
Published: September 2006

Aim: To analyse the effects of a training programme on the motor performance of Romanian schoolchildren. Methods: A total of 178 boys (9.5±0.8 y, 34±9 kg, 137.6±8 cm) and 192 girls (9.6±0.4 y, 32.7±7.6 kg, 136.9±7.5 cm) were randomly selected for the training group (TG) (n=198, 109 girls, 89 boys) and control group (CG) (n=172, 83 girls, 89 boys). The TG completed a 6‐mo extracurricular training programme (two 50‐min sessions per week) involving moderate‐intensity impact exercises. At baseline and at follow‐up, the EUROFIT tests were administered, and body composition, skeletal maturation and BMI were calculated. Results: At baseline there were no differences in physical characteristics between TG and CG. With the exception of cardiorespiratory endurance, both groups improved motor performances at follow‐up. However, for TG boys the improvement was greater than for CG boys in the plate‐tapping (+37.2%), sit‐up (+20.4%), standing broad‐jump (+13%) and shuttle‐run tests (+3.8%). TG girls improved more than CG girls only in the standing broad‐jump (+18.8%) and shuttle‐run (+8.5%) tests.

Conclusion: Boys and girls in trained groups demonstrated greater increases in some tests of motor performance compared to their untrained peers. Two extra sessions of physical education per week were sufficient to elicit improvements in a number of components of motor fitness.
School science and citizenship: whose science and whose citizenship?
Authors: Jenkins Edgar W.
Published: September 2006

Attempts to link school science education with citizenship are not new. They range from the General Science movement of the first half of the last century to more recent initiatives such as21st Century Sciencein the UK andChemComin the USA. This article reviews some of these earlier attempts, with particular reference to the UK, examines their rationale and outcomes, and comments upon some of their implications for current attempts to re‐engage school science with citizenship.
Validity and worth in the science curriculum: learning school science outside the laboratory
Authors: Braund Martin , Reiss Michael
Published: September 2006

It is widely acknowledged that there are problems with school science in many developed countries of the world. Such problems manifest themselves in a progressive decline in pupil enthusiasm for school science across the secondary age range and by the fact that fewer students are choosing to study the physical sciences at higher levels and as careers. Responses to these developments have included proposals to reform the curriculum, pedagogy and the nature of pupil discussion in science lessons. We support such changes but argue from a consideration of the aims of science education that secondary school science is too rooted in the science laboratory; substantially greater use needs to be made of out‐of‐school sites for the teaching of science. Such usage should result in a school science education that is more valid and more motivating and is better at fulfilling defensible aims of school science education. Our contention is that laboratory‐based school science teaching needs to be complemented by out‐of‐school science learning that draws on the actual world (e.g. through field trips), the presented world (e.g. in science centres, botanic gardens, zoos and science museums) and via the virtual worlds that are increasingly available through information and communications technologies (ICT).
Teachers' perceptions of the role of evidence in teaching controversial socio‐scientific issues
Authors: Levinson Ralph
Published: September 2006

Eighty‐three teachers across the curriculum were interviewed to explain their views on and approaches to, the teaching of socio‐scientific controversial issues to 14–19 year olds, particularly with regard to developments in biomedicine and biotechnology. This study focused on teachers' views on the nature of evidence in controversial issues and how they deployed evidence in illuminating an issue and making judgements. Three main themes emerged: the need for facts; the reliability and validity of evidence; and the contrast between facts and values. In the first theme, three ‘outlier’ cases suggested ambivalence about the relevance of scientific facts or knowledge for discussion of controversy. It is suggested that there needs to be more support, focus and practice in a range of contexts in the teaching of evidence in controversial socio‐scientific issues and that all sources of knowledge need to be examined critically.
Prisoner perspectives on managing long term conditions: A qualitative study
Authors: Gately Claire , Bowen Andrew , Kennedy Anne , MacDonald Wendy , Rogers Anne
Published: September 2006

This paper explores the perceptions of prisoners to the barriers and opportunities for managing long term conditions in a prison setting. A qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews was conducted with prisoners from two local prisons in England. All the prisoners involved in the study had a long term condition and were attending an Expert Patients Programme (EPP) course, a lay‐led self care programme. A number of themes emerge from the data in relation to the impact prison has had on lifestyle and control of long term conditions. The structured prison regime allowed some to regain control over previously chaotic lifestyles but the lack of access to a healthy diet and exercise
facilities as well as lack of opportunities to practice new health behaviours learnt whilst in prison, prevented a healthier lifestyle being adopted. Another main theme was in relation to the ability of prisoners to negotiate access to health care services and professionals. The study found a number of pre‐existing factors which would need to be addressed if prisoners were to become fully engaged in future health initiatives, such as EPP.
Continuity of health impairment and substance misuse among adult prisoners in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Kinner Stuart A.
Published: September 2006

Prisoners experience high rates of chronic physical health problems, poor mental health and high rates of substance misuse. However, little is known about what happens to prisoners after release from custody, except that many re‐offend and a disproportionate number die from drug overdose, suicide, accidents and other causes. Using a prospective design, 160 prisoners in Queensland, Australia were interviewed prior to release then 1 and 4 months post‐release. Most prisoners had a history of substance misuse and many reported poor mental health pre‐release. The prevalence of these problems was also high post‐release and there was a high degree of continuity of impairment. These
findings add support to calls for (a) population‐level pre‐release planning and post‐release support for prisoners returning to the community, and (b) screening and targeted intervention for those most at risk of poor post‐release outcomes.
HIV/AIDS and HCV in prisons: A select annotated bibliography (part 2)
Authors: Ju¨rgens Ralf
Published: September 2006

The rates of HIV infection among prisoners in most countries are significantly higher than in the general population. HCV seroprevalence rates are even higher. While most prisoners living with HIV or AIDS and/or HCV contract their infection(s) outside the institutions before imprisonment, there is
evidence that the risk of being infected in prison, in particular through sharing of contaminated injecting equipment and through unprotected sex, is great. Outbreaks of HIV infection have been documented in a number of countries. Since the early 1990s, various countries have introduced HIV and, to a lesser extent, HCV prevention programmes in prisons. Part 2 of the select annotated bibliography on HIV/AIDS and HCV in prisons contains selected “essential” articles and reports that provide information about (1) prevalence of HIV, HCV, and risk behaviours in prisons; (2) transmission of HIV and HCV in prisons; and (3) measures aimed at preventing HIV and HCV infection in prisons: education, voluntary testing and counselling, provision of condoms, prevention of rape, sexual violence and coercion and bleach and needle and syringe programmes. Each section also contains a brief review of the evidence, based on recent work undertaken by WHO.
Prison Health is Public Health! A report on two German Language conferences
Authors: Stöver Heino , Knorr Bärbel , Weilandt Caren
Published: September 2006

This short report concerns two recent regional prison health conferences for German speaking nations. Most international conferences use English as the common language. Unfortunately, language barriers do exist and regional conferences are important because they provide an opportunity to bring people, both those working in the field and policy
makers, who share the same language, together. In many European countries such conferences are already in existence, for example, in Italy, France and Spain. For German speaking countries the first two conferences on health promotion in prisons were organised in 2004 in Bonn, Germany (www.wiad.de) and in 2006 in Vienna, Austria. The conferences were jointly organised by the Scientific Institute of the German Medical Association (WIAD), German AIDS Support (DAH,) and the University of Bremen (Institute for Drug Research). There were over 150 experts from four countries from either prison or community health care services who attended each conference.
Impact of grazing around a watering point on soil status of a semi‐arid rangeland in Ethiopia
Authors: Gebremeskel Kidane , Pieterse P. J.
Published: September 2006

The influence of long‐term livestock grazing on the soil status of a semi‐arid rangeland was studied along a grazing gradient from a watering point in southern Afar Region of Ethiopia for two seasons. The soil samples were analysed for organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), exchangeable cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+), acidity (pH), cation exchange capacity, and particle size distribution (clay, silt and sand). No significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed for particle size distribution, OC, N, P and K contents along the grazing gradient further than 1500 m from the watering point. Ca2+ and Mg2+ were found to be dominant cations particularly in the severely degraded area contributing about 74% to the exchangeable cations. The study has also recognized high concentrations of Na+ and more than 11% exchangeable sodium percentage. Total exchangeable bases significantly declined (P < 0.05) along the grazing gradient and were indicative of the exchange complex of the soil being saturated with Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. Thus this study concluded that there are soil differences in the grazing gradient caused by impact of grazing, particularly in the severely degraded area.
Marker‐assisted selection based on a multi‐trait economic index in chicken: experimental results and simulation
Authors: Lahav T. , Atzmon G. , Blum S. , Ben‐Ari G. , Weigend S. , Cahaner A. , Lavi U. , Hillel J.
Published: September 2006

A method proposed herein allows simultaneous selection for several production traits, taking into consideration their marginal economic values (i.e. the economic value of a trait's additional unit). This economic index‐marker assisted selection (EI‐MAS) method is based on the calculation of the predicted economic breeding value (BV), using information on DNA markers that have previously been found to be associated with relevant quantitative trait loci. Based on the proposed method, results with real birds showed that sire progeny performance was significantly correlated with expected performance (r = 0.61–0.76; P = 0.03–0.01). Simulation analysis using a computer program written specifically for this purpose suggested that the relative advantage of EI‐MAS would be large for traits with low heritability values. As expected, the response to EI‐MAS was higher when the map distance between the marker and the quantitative trait gene was small, and vice versa. A large number of distantly located markers, spread 10 cM apart, yielded higher response to selection than a small number of closely located markers spread 3 cM apart. Additionally, the response to EI‐MAS was higher when a large number (ca.150) of progeny was used for the prediction equation.
Comparison of DNA variants in the PRNP and NF1 regions between bovine spongiform encephalopathy and control cattle
Authors: Geldermann H. , He H. , Bobal P. , Bartenschlager H. , Preuß S.
Published: September 2006

DNA from 252 bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) cattle and 376 non‐diseased control cattle were genotyped for nine loci in the prion protein (PRNP) gene region, three loci in the neurofibromin 1 (NF1) region and four control loci on different chromosomes. The allele and genotype frequencies of the control loci were similar in BSE and control cattle. In the analysed 7.4 Mb PRNP region, the largest differences between BSE and control cattle were found for the loci REG2, R16 and R18, which are located between +300 and +5600 bp, spanning PRNP introns 1 to 2. Carriers of the REG2 genotype 128/128 were younger at BSE diagnosis than those with the other genotypes (128/140 or 140/140). The predominant haplotype REG2 128 bp–R18 173 bp occurred more frequently (P < 0.001), and the second‐most frequent haplotype (REG2 140 bp–R18 175 bp) occurred less frequently (P < 0.05) in BSE than in control cattle. The largest frequency differences between BSE and control groups were observed in the Brown Swiss breed. Across all breeds, most of the same alleles and haplotypes of the PRNP region were associated with BSE. In the 23‐cM NF1 region, associations with BSE incidence were found for the RM222 allele and for the DIK4009 genotype frequencies. Cattle carrying RM222 genotypes with the 127‐ or 129‐bp alleles were about half a year older at BSE incidence than those with other genotypes. Across the breeds, different alleles and genotypes of the NF1 region were associated with BSE. The informative DNA markers were used to localize the genetic disposition to BSE and may be useful for the identification of the causative DNA variants.
Do the limits of serum prolactin in disconnection hyperprolactinaemia need re‐definition? A study of 226 patients with histologically verified non‐functioning pituitary macroadenoma
Authors: Karavitaki Niki , Thanabalasingham Gaya , Shore Helena C. A. , Trifanescu Raluca , Ansorge Olaf , Meston Niki , Turner Helen E. , Wass John A. H.
Published: September 2006

Background  The differentiation of a pituitary non‐functioning macroadenoma from a macroprolactinoma is important for planning appropriate therapy. Serum PRL levels have been suggested as a useful diagnostic indicator. However, values between 2500 and 8000 mU/l are a grey area and are currently associated with diagnostic uncertainty.

Objective  We wished therefore, to investigate the serum PRL values in a large series of patients presenting with apparently non‐functioning pituitary macroadenomas.

Patients and methods  All patients presenting to the Department of Endocrinology in Oxford with clinically non‐functioning pituitary macroadenomas (later histologically verified) between 1990 and 2005 were studied. Information documented in the notes on the medications and on the presence of conditions capable of affecting the serum PRL levels at the time of blood sampling was also collected.

Results  Two hundred and twenty‐six patients were identified (median age at diagnosis 55 years, range 18–88 years; 146 males/80 females; 143 gonadotroph, 46 null cell, 25 plurihormonal and 12 silent ACTH adenomas). All tumours had suprasellar extension. At the time of blood sampling 41 subjects were taking medications capable of increasing serum PRL. Hyperprolactinaemia was found in 38·5% (87/226) of the patients. The median serum PRL values in the total group were 386 mU/l (range 16–3257) (males: median 299 mU/l, range 16–1560; females: median 572 mU/l, range 20–3257) and in those not taking drugs capable of increasing serum PRL 363 mU/l (range 16–2565) (males: median 299 mU/l, range 16–1560; females: median 572 mU/l, range 20–2565). Serum PRL < 2000 mU/l was found in 98·7% (223/226) of the total group and in 99·5% (184/185) of those not taking drugs. Among the three subjects with serum PRL > 2000 mU/l, two were taking oestrogen preparations.

Conclusions  Based on a large series of histologically confirmed cases, serum PRL > 2000 mU/l is almost never encountered in nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas. Values above this limit in the presence of a macroadenoma should not be surrounded by diagnostic uncertainty (after acromegaly or Cushing's disease have been excluded); a prolactinoma is the most likely diagnosis and a dopamine agonist should be considered as the treatment of choice.
Drug dosing in children – special considerations
Authors: PENCHARZ P. B.
Published: September 2006

Summary.  During growth the body composition, protein and energy metabolism of children changes. This paper aims to assess these changes as they relate to factors which might affect the metabolism of factor concentrates, through a review of body composition, protein and energy metabolism literature in childhood.

Key findings were that protein metabolism is four times higher in neonates and twice as high in infants as compared with adults. In addition the interstitial fluid space in infants and younger children is approximately double that in adults. On the basis that protein metabolism relates most closely to lean body mass, which in turn relates to body weight one can conclude that factor concentrate doses should be based on body weight.

We concluded that clearance of protein factor concentrates might be faster in infants and young children due to their higher protein turnover rate.
Pharmacokinetic studies of coagulation factors: relevance of plasma and extracellular volume and body weight
Authors: KOMWILAISAK P. , BLANCHETTE V.
Published: September 2006

Summary. The clinical utility of pharmacokinetic (PK) studies of infused clotting factor concentrates in subjects with inherited coagulation disorders (e.g. haemophilia) remains unproven. In this regard, differences in drug distribution and elimination between very young children and older subjects is likely to be of importance, and there is preliminary information to suggest that the elimination half‐life of infused factor VIII (FVIII) is shorter in very young boys with haemophilia A as compared to older subjects. The cause for this difference is likely multifactorial and may relate, in part, to the relatively larger liver/whole body weight in very young children as compared to older children and adults. Since plasma volume correlates better with lean body mass than with observed weight in overweight/obese subjects, we suggest that the current practice of using observed weight for dosing of FVIII/IX concentrates be discontinued in subjects who are overweight/obese, and that dosing in such subjects be calculated using ideal weight for height.
Factor VIII pharmacokinetics: impact of low titer non‐neutralizing inhibitors and use in determination of successful immune tolerance
Authors: DIMICHELE D.
Published: September 2006

Summary. Factor VIII (FVIII) pharmacokinetics (PK) plays a key role in haemophilia patient management and in the regulation of FVIII products. Clinically, FVIII PK is used to (i) optimize dosing in the treatment of major acute haemorrhage and in surgical prophylaxis; (ii) dose cost‐effectively for primary and secondary prophylaxis; and (iii) detect and treat FVIII inhibitors. Despite its ubiquitous use in practice, the accurate analysis of FVIII PK is affected by multiple methodological challenges and variability in patient physiology. Recently, additional important questions have emerged relating to the impact of low titer inhibitory and non‐neutralizing antibodies on both FVIII PK determination itself and on the ability of FVIII PK to define successful ITI. Ultimately, the extent to which sub‐clinical anti‐FVIII inhibitors or non‐neutralizing anti‐FVIII antibodies contribute to clinical heterogeneity in PK assessment remains unclear and awaits further study. Future investigation of this phenomenon could also provide critical insight into the relative importance of the postulated mechanisms of FVIII inhibition. Furthermore, well‐designed PK studies in children of all ages are needed to further understand the impact of very low titer antibodies on post‐ITI FVIII PK and to develop a more evidence‐based definition of successful ITI, particularly in children.
Pharmacokinetics of factors IX, recombinant human activated factor VII and factor XIII
Authors: POON M.‐C.
Published: September 2006

Summary.  There is now a volume of literature on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of coagulation factor concentrates, although the majority is on factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX). PK of FIX and FVIII are different with FIX having a larger volume of distribution (Vdss), higher elimination clearance (CL), longer mean resident time (MRT) and longer terminal half‐life (T1/2,β). Factor IX in vivo recovery (IVR) is also much shorter possibly due to reversible binding of FIX to the endothelium and possibly to platelets. There is considerable FIX PK variability between products (particularly between plasma‐derived FIX and recombinant FIX), and between individuals. Important inter‐individual factors leading to PK variability include age and body weight because plasma volume as a fraction of body weight decreases with increasing weight and hence age. Thus, IVR increases with body weight and hence age and is consequently lower in children than in adults. Absolute Vdss and CL increase linearly with body weight and age in children and adolescents, becoming stable in adults with more stable weight. Inter‐individual variability also likely applies to other clotting factors, particularly to recombinant activated FVII (rFVIIa) but likely also to the less well studied factor XIII (FXIII). The former is known to have an extremely short T1/2,β, large Vdss, high CL, short MRT, whereas the latter has an extremely long T1/2,β, large Vdss, short CL and long MRT. Both are discussed in this article. Understanding of PK of specific clotting factors in individual patients is important in order to make decisions regarding appropriate dosage and dosage intervals to treat patients, and to allow by means of computer modelling the determination of dosage to achieve target trough level at various dosing intervals for patients undergoing prophylaxis.
Work‐related fatigue and recovery: the contribution of age, domestic responsibilities and shiftwork
Authors: Winwood Peter C. , Winefield Antony H. , Lushington Kurt
Published: September 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study of the relationship between age, domestic responsibilities (being partnered and having dependents), recovery from shiftwork‐related fatigue and the evolution of maladaptive health outcomes among full‐time working female nurses.

Background.  Several studies have suggested that full‐time working women with family responsibilities are at greater risk of developing work‐related fatigue problems than single women without these responsibilities.

Method.  A questionnaire was distributed in 2004 to 2400 nurses at two hospitals in Australia, and 1280 responses were obtained (response rate 54%). The data from a purposive sample of 846 full‐time working nurses are reported here.

Findings.  Domestic responsibilities were not related to differences in fatigue and recovery. Our results suggested that for full‐time shiftworking nurses, being part of a family structure, may actually be protective against the development of maladaptive fatigue. The most important factor determining maladaptive fatigue outcome was shift pattern worked, particularly rotation including night duty. The effect of age was equivocal. The youngest age group reported the highest fatigue and poorest recovery compared to the oldest group, who reported the best characteristics. However, this latter group may represent a particularly well‐adapted ‘survivor cohort’. The relationship between age and fatigue was partly confounded by older, experienced, nurses with greater job responsibilities, working fewer multiple shifts including night duty. In general, increasing age was not associated with poorer recovery or higher maladaptive fatigue.

Conclusions.  Unpredictable internal shift rotations, including night duty, which are traditional and typical in nursing, are inimical to maintaining nurses’ health. More creative approaches to rostering for nurses working multiple shifts are a necessary step towards reducing wastage from the profession due to chronic work‐related fatigue. Younger nurses in particular, may need more support than is currently recognized if they are to be retained within the profession.
Screening tools for depressed mood after childbirth in UK‐based South Asian women: a systematic review
Authors: Downe Soo M. , Butler Elaine , Hinder Susan
Published: September 2006

Aim.  This paper is a report of a systematic review to answer the question: what is the relevance, acceptability, validity and effectiveness of tools designed to screen for postnatal depressed mood for South Asian women living in the UK?

Background.  Standard methods to screen women for postnatal depressed mood were developed with Caucasian populations. This study reviews postnatal screening tools adapted or developed for United Kingdom‐based South Asian women.

Method.  A structured systematic review of English language studies initially was completed between 1980 and May 2003, and later updated to January 2005. The review was based on an a priori search strategy with inclusion and exclusion criteria and analysis included a quality assessment tool. Findings were tabulated against criteria for acceptability and effectiveness of diagnostic tools.

Results.  Seven papers were included in the review. None addressed all preset quality criteria. Four papers among them reported on translations of two existing tools (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and General Household Questionnaire). Two new tools were reported between the remaining three papers (Punjabi Postnatal Depression Scale and ‘Doop Chaon’©). Doop Chaon is a visual tool. The other tools used either Bengali or Punjabi, based on written scales. The General Household Questionnaire did not appear to be appropriate for this population. None of the studies were rigorous enough to demonstrate generalizable sensitivity or specificity. Qualitative data indicated that women preferred face‐to‐face interviews to self‐complete questionnaires.

Conclusions.  None of the tools are currently sufficiently evaluated for clinical practice. Questions are raised specifically about use of language‐based tools to measure postnatal depressed mood in this population and about the extent to which focused interviews could be used as an alternative for specific sub‐sections of population groups.
Quantitative palaeobiogeography: GIS, phylogenetic biogeographical analysis, and conservation insights
Authors: Stigall Alycia L. , Lieberman Bruce S.
Published: September 2006

Aim  The utility of GIS‐based and phylogenetic biogeographical analysis in palaeobiogeography is reviewed with reference to its ability to elucidate patterns of interest for modern conservation biology, specifically the long‐term effects of invasive species.

Location  Emphasis is on biogeographical patterns in the Appalachian basin and mid‐continent of North America during the Devonian. Global palaeobiogeographical patterns of the Cambrian are also considered.

Methods  Palaeobiogeographical patterns are assessed within a GIS framework, including both direct range reconstruction and niche modelling methods, and within phylogenetic biogeographical analysis. Biogeographical patterns are considered within multiple clades of fossil invertebrates, including trilobites, crustaceans, brachiopods, and bivalves.

Results  GIS‐based analysis (including niche modelling methods) of Devonian invertebrates demonstrates a tightly correlated relationship between sea‐level rises and range expansion, dispersal events, and species invasions. The predominance of range expansion and species invasions during the Late Devonian reduced opportunities for vicariant speciation during this interval. Comparison of phylogenetic biogeographical patterns between Cambrian and Devonian trilobites allows discernment of the relative roles of tectonics and eustacy in driving biogeographical patterns.

Main conclusions  GIS analysis and phylogenetic biogeography are powerful tools for analysing the coevolution of the Earth and its biota. Analyses can identify episodes of vicariance and geo‐dispersal and produce testable hypotheses for further analysis within the fossil record.
Local and regional determinants of stream fish assemblage structure: inferences based on taxonomic vs. functional groups
Authors: Hoeinghaus David J. , Winemiller Kirk O. , Birnbaum Jenny S.
Published: September 2006

Aim  To examine the roles of local and regional environmental variables and biotic interactions in determining the structure of local stream fish assemblages, and to compare results derived from analyses based on taxonomic and functional groups.

Location  Texas, USA.

Methods  Species abundance data were compiled for 157 stream fish assemblages in several river basins across Texas. Species were condensed into functional groups based on trophic and life‐history characteristics. Local and regional environmental variables were either measured at each location or determined from scale maps and public‐access data bases. The original taxonomic and functional group data sets were analysed using similarity indices, null models of co‐occurrence, and direct and indirect ordination techniques. Results derived from taxonomic and functional group data sets are compared.

Results  Inferences regarding the relative roles of local and larger‐scale factors in determining stream fish assemblage structure differ dramatically between analyses of taxonomic and functional groups. Taxonomic analyses suggest a prominent role of regional‐scale environmental factors, and local assemblages sorted according to a biogeographic pattern. Functional group analyses suggest almost equal roles of factors representative of local and larger scales, and assemblages were distinguished by a habitat template irrespective of geographic region.

Main conclusions  The structure of local stream fish assemblages is determined ultimately by factors representing multiple scales, with the relative importance of each depending on the biological unit employed (species or functional groups). We suggest that analyses using functional groups can more directly infer ecological responses to environmental variation, and therefore may provide a more fruitful avenue for developing and testing ecological theory of community organization across biogeographic scales.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Freshwater paths across the ocean: molecular phylogeny of the frog Ptychadena newtoni gives insights into amphibian colonization of oceanic islands
Authors: John Measey G. , Vences Miguel , Drewes Robert C. , Chiari Ylenia , Melo Martim , Bourles Bernard
Published: September 2006

Aim  Amphibians are a model group for studies of the biogeographical origins of salt‐intolerant taxa on oceanic islands. We used the Gulf of Guinea islands to explore the biogeographical origins of island endemism of one species of frog, and used this to gain insights into potential colonization mechanisms.

Location  São Tomé and Príncipe, two of the four major islands in the Gulf of Guinea, West Africa, are truly oceanic and have an exceptionally high biodiversity.

Methods  Mitochondrial DNA is used to test the endemic status of a frog from São Tomé and compare it with congeneric taxa from tropical Africa. Existing data on surface currents, surface salinity, atmospheric circulation and bird migration in the Gulf of Guinea are summarized to address hypotheses concerning colonization mechanisms.

Results  The endemic status of Ptychadena newtoni (Bocage) is supported here by mitochondrial DNA sequences, and analysis of this and other molecular data indicates that an East African species close to Ptychadena mascareniensis (Duméril and Bibron) is its nearest relative. We refute the possibility that this population was anthropogenically introduced, in favour of a natural dispersal mechanism.

Main conclusions  With six endemic frogs and one caecilian, the Gulf of Guinea islands harbour a diverse amphibian fauna. Five of these species appear to have their closest relatives in East Africa. Insufficient evidence exists for transportation by storms, birds or rafts alone. However, we propose a synergy of rafting, favourable surface currents and a reduction in salinity of surface waters. Catastrophic events, or wet periods in climatic history, could allow freshwater paths to open far enough to enable continental flora and fauna to reach these and other isolated oceanic islands.
Tissue‐specific mechanical microdissection of higher plants
Authors: Thome Marco , Skrablin Mirja D. , Brandt Stephan P.
Published: September 2006

Higher plants are multicellular organisms, which exhibit a high degree of differentiation with respect to their anatomy, metabolism and gene expression. Analysing entire plants or organs results in an average of information of all tissues and cells included in the sample. In this way neither physiological processes nor gene expression can be attributed to particular tissues. For revealing the contributions of specific tissues to the overall metabolism and the gene expression, highly spatially resoluted cell sampling is a prerequisite. Here, mechanical microdissection (MMD), a low cost and easy to handle alternative to existing sampling techniques (e.g. laser‐assisted microdissection or glass capillary–based sampling) was tested on several plant species (Arabidopsis thaliana L., Cucurbita maxima Duch., Hordeum vulgare L. and Pelargonium hybrid cultivar ‘Graveolens’). The applicability and potential of MMD for separating tissues from different organs of these plants was demonstrated. Furthermore, A. thaliana samples were, as examples, tested for their RNA quality by reverse transcription–PCR and for tissue specificity by amplifying messenger RNA of tissue marker genes.