bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acrodermatitis Enteropathica‐like Dermatosis Associated with Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency
Authors: Pascual José C. , Matarredona Jaime , Mut José
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The urea cycle is the major metabolic pathway for excretion of waste nitrogen. Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency is the most frequent urea cycle disorder. It is a hereditary‐X‐linked disease with over 150 mutations described (1).Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency causes vomiting, lethargy, hyperventilation, and even death, mainly in the neonatal period (2). Ammonia, an extremely toxic molecule for the organism, is generated during protein catabolism and is accumulated in patients with this deficiency. Part of the treatment consists of a low‐protein diet, to avoid hyperammonemia episodes, which can even have a fatal outcome. Patients can become deficient in several amino acids, either through the low‐protein diet or directly through the primary enzyme deficiency; this in turn can cause an acrodermatitis enteropathica‐like dermatosis.
Childhood Pustular Psoriasis Associated with Panton‐Valentine Leukocidin‐Producing Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Pouessel Guillaume , Ythier Hubert , Carpentier Olivier , Vachée Anne , Etienne Jerome , Catteau Benoit
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  We report the association of a generalized pustular psoriasis and infection by Staphylococcus aureus which produced Panton‐Valentine leukocidin in a 5‐year‐old child. Another S. aureus strain with the same toxin gene content was also isolated among three family members presenting with cutaneous lesions. Although a methicillin‐resistant staphylococcal strain has been reported in association with pustular psoriasis, this is the first report of a Panton‐Valentine leukocidin strain associated with generalized pustular psoriasis. The causal relationship between S. aureus produced Panton‐Valentine leukocidin and skin lesions is discussed.
Isotretinoin‐Induced Agranulocytosis
Authors: OZDEMIR MEHMET AKIF , KOSE MEHMET , KARAKUKCU MUSA , FERAHBAS AYTEN , PATIROGLU TURKAN , KOKLU ESAD
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Isotretinoin is used to treat a spectrum of dermatologic conditions. The present article reports the case of a 15‐year‐old female patient who exhibited agranulocytosis after the initiation of isotretinoin administration. Agranulocytosis is a rare but life‐threatening side effect of isotretinoin use, and clinicians must be aware of agranulocytosis.
Nevus Sebaceous Syndrome with Facial Hemihypertrophy
Authors: OGUNBIYI A. O. , LAGUNJU IKE
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Nevus sebaceous syndrome is a member of the epidermal nevus syndromes group, and is characterized by extensive nevus sebaceous, seizures, and mental retardation. We present an affected 5‐month‐old boy who had facial hemi‐hypertrophy and recurrent seizures.
ICTAL EEG Fast Activity in West Syndrome: From Onset to Outcome
Authors: Panzica Ferruccio , Binelli Simona , Canafoglia Laura , Casazza Marina , Freri Elena , Granata Tiziana , Avanzini Giuliano , Franceschetti Silvana
Published: September 2007

Summary

Purpose: To characterize the fast EEG activities associated with infantile spasms in West syndrome, and their value in predicting the recurrence and localization of late seizures.

Methods: We selected 23 infants who were followed for at least 2 years. Selected EEG recordings underwent autospectra, coherence, and phase analyses in order to assess the changes during follow‐up.

Results: Short discharges of fast‐rhythms (331 ± 190 ms) with a lateralized onset were detected in 18 of the 23 infants (78.3%). There were no significant differences in the parameters characterizing ICTAL beta‐activity (frequency, duration, inter‐hemispheric coherence, or transfer time) between the infants with or without seizure recurrence. However, beta‐discharges with a consistent location formed part of the ICTAL EEG in all 10 infants with seizure recurrence, but only in eight (61.5%) of those who remained seizure‐free (SF) (p < 0.05). In all but one of the infants experiencing seizure recurrence, the ICTAL discharges associated with the late seizures apparently originated from the same hemisphere as that involved at the beginning of the spasm‐associated beta‐activity, although the precise location varied.

Conclusions: Spectral, coherence and phase analyses detected spasm‐associated runs of lateralized beta‐rhythms in many of our infants with West syndrome. This ICTAL pattern significantly correlated with seizure recurrence. The consistent lateralization of the ICTAL EEG events associated with both the early spasms and late seizures suggests that EEG beta‐activities should be considered as indicating local cortical dysfunction in infants who fail to respond to early treatment and often progress toward severe epilepsy.
Synchronization Clusters of Interictal Activity in the Lateral Temporal Cortex of Epileptic Patients: Intraoperative Electrocorticographic Analysis
Authors: Ortega Guillermo J. , Menendez de la Prida Liset , Sola Rafael G. , Pastor Jesus
Published: September 2007

Summary

Objective:Drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) can be treated by tailored surgery guided by electrocorticography (ECoG). Although its value is still controversial, ECoG activity can provide continuous information on intracortical interactions that may be useful to understand the pathophysiology of TLE. The goal of this study is to characterize local interactions in multichannel ECoG recordings of the lateral cortex of TLE patients using three synchronization measures and to link this information with surgical outcome.

Methods:Intraoperative ECoG recordings from 29 TLE patients were obtained using grids of 20 electrodes (4 × 5) covering regions T1, T2, and T3 of the lateral temporal lobe. Linear correlation, mutual information, and phase synchronization were calculated to quantify lateral intracortical interactions. Surrogate data files were generated to test results statistically.

Results:By distributing locally the interactions between the electrodes, we characterized the spatial patterns of ECoG activity. We found clusters of synchronized activity at specific areas of the lateral temporal cortex in most patients. Methodologically, linear correlation and phase synchronization performed better than mutual information for cluster discrimination. ROC analysis suggested that surgical removal of sharply defined synchronization clusters correlated with seizure control.

Conclusions:Our results show that synchronous intraoperative ECoG activity emerges from specific cortical areas that are highly differentiated from the rest of the temporal cortex. This suggests that synchronization analysis could be used to functionally map into the temporal cortex of TLE patients. Moreover, our results suggest that these sites might be involved in the circuits that participate in clinical seizures.
Dramatic Weight Loss with Levetiracetam
Authors: Gelisse Philippe , Juntas‐Morales Raul , Genton Pierre , Hillaire‐Buys Dominique , Diaz Ophélie , Coubes Philippe , Crespel Arielle
Published: September 2007

Summary

Background: Levetiracetam is considered a “weight‐neutral” drug. We report 19 cases of significant weight loss associated with levetiracetam at a dose ranging from 500 to 2000 mg/day.

Methods: The population was divided into two groups. Group 1 includes patients in whom levetiracetam was the only possible cause of weight loss and Group 2 those in whom other factors may have played a role. Similar cases reported by the French national drug safety center were added (Group 3).

Results: Group 1 included 9 females and 3 males (weight loss ranging from 8.1% to 28.6%). Three patients had levetiracetam in monotherapy. Prior levetiracetam only three were overweight. One patient was hospitalized for a thorough assessment of weight loss. Seven patients reported reduced caloric intake due to decreased pleasure with food. The other five did not report any changes in feeding behavior. Group 2 included seven females with a weight loss ranging from 10% to 26.6%. One patient was on topiramate since two years prior to levetiracetam. Weight loss started with the introduction of levetiracetam. In 4 patients, there was a decreased dosage or cessation of a previous drug known to produce weight gain in some cases simultaneously to the introduction of levetiracetam, but in two of these patients these drugs had not produced any weight gain. Group 3 included only two patients (weight loss: 7 and 20 kg).

Conclusions: This study provides evidence that levetiracetam can cause significant weight loss. Women are at higher risk while initial weight is not a factor.
Steady‐state Pharmacokinetics of Lamotrigine when Converting from a Twice‐daily Immediate‐release to a Once‐daily Extended‐release Formulation in Subjects with Epilepsy (The COMPASS Study)
Authors: Tompson Debra J , Ali Imran , Oliver‐Willwong Ruth , Job Sarah , Zhu Li , Lemme Francesca , Hammer Anne E , Vuong Alain , Messenheimer John A
Published: September 2007

Summary

Purpose: To compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of lamotrigine (LTG) when converting from twice‐daily immediate‐release (LTG‐IR) to once‐daily extended‐release (LTG‐XR) in subjects with epilepsy.

Methods: An open‐label, conversion study was conducted, consisting of a 2‐week LTG‐IR Baseline Phase, followed by a 2‐week LTG‐XR Treatment Phase and a 1‐week LTG‐IR Phase. Forty‐four subjects (≥13 years of age) were enrolled and grouped as metabolically neutral (15), induced (15), or inhibited (14) based on the effects of the concomitant antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) on the clearance of LTG. The primary outcome was LTG PK parameters upon conversion. Secondary outcomes included seizure frequency, adverse events, and subject's preference.

Results: LTG‐XR and LTG‐IR regimens were similar with respect to area under curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC (0–24)), apart from the induced group, where the AUC (0–24) of LTG‐XR was on average 21% lower than for LTG‐IR. A reduction in the LTG Cmax was observed for LTG‐XR compared to LTG‐IR resulting in a decrease in the peak‐to‐trough fluctuation in serum LTG concentrations. The steady‐state, dose‐normalized, trough concentrations for LTG‐XR were similar to those of LTG‐IR. The median time to peak concentration (Tmax) following administration of LTG‐XR ranged from 4 to 6 h, 6 to 10 h, and 9 to 11 h in the induced, neutral, and inhibited groups, respectively. In comparison, the median Tmax following administration of LTG‐IR was between 1 and 1.5 h.

Conclusions: Trough concentrations of LTG can be maintained on conversion from twice‐daily LTG‐IR to once‐daily LTG‐XR at the same total daily dose.
Cost‐effectiveness of Add‐on Therapy with Pregabalin in Patients with Refractory Partial Epilepsy
Authors: Vera‐Llonch Montserrat , Brandenburg Nancy A. , Oster Gerry
Published: September 2007

Summary

Purpose: To estimate the cost‐effectiveness of pregabalin as add‐on therapy in patients with refractory partial epilepsy.

Methods: We developed a model to estimate clinical and economic outcomes over 1 year in a hypothetical cohort of patients with refractory partial epilepsy assumed alternatively to receive add‐on therapy with pregabalin (300 mg/day) or no add‐on therapy. For each patient in the model, we estimated the occurrence of seizure and side effects, using techniques of stochastic simulation. We assigned health‐state utilities to each day of follow‐up based on whether or not seizure or side effects were predicted to occur. Patients could discontinue therapy due to lack of efficacy or side effects. Outcomes included expected numbers of days without seizure (“seizure‐free [SF] days”), quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs), and costs of therapy. Cost‐effectiveness was assessed alternatively in terms of incremental cost per SF day gained and incremental cost per QALY gained.

Results: Add‐on therapy with pregabalin was estimated to result in an average gain of 23.8 SF days over one year; the estimated additional cost of therapy was $678. Incremental cost (mean, 95% CI) per SF day gained was $28.45 ($27.25, $29.44); corresponding estimates of incremental cost per QALY gained were $52,893 ($49,249, $56,983).

Conclusions: In patients with refractory partial epilepsy, the cost‐effectiveness of pregabalin 300 mg/day compares favorably with published estimates of cost‐effectiveness for other add‐on antiepileptic drugs.
High‐Temperature Proton‐Conducting LaNbO4‐Based Materials: Powder Synthesis by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Mokkelbost Tommy , Andersen Øystein , Strøm Ruth Astrid , Wiik Kjell , Grande Tor , Einarsrud Mari‐Ann
Published: September 2007

Submicrometer lanthanum ortho‐niobate (LaNbO4 (LN))‐based powders have been prepared by spray pyrolysis of an aqueous solution containing stable La–EDTA and Nb–malic acid complexes. The powders had a particle size of ∼0.1 μm, a narrow particle size distribution, and high purity after calcination above 800°C. The powders possessed excellent sintering properties resulting in >98% dense materials at 1200°C. The present route is shown to be excellent for the large‐scale preparation of high‐quality LaNbO4‐based powders.
Influence of Solid Fraction on the Optimum Molecular Weight of Polymer Dispersants in Aqueous TiO2 Nanoparticle Suspensions
Authors: Sato Kimitoshi , Kondo Soichi , Tsukada Mayumi , Ishigaki Takamasa , Kamiya Hidehiro
Published: September 2007

The effects of solid fraction and molecular weight of a polymer dispersant—sodium polyacrylate—on the apparent viscosity of an aqueous TiO2 nanoparticle suspension were investigated by varying the particle solid fractions from 15 to 37 vol% and the molecular weight of the dispersant from 1200 to 30 000. When the solid fraction was increased, the molecular weight of the dispersant was decreased to obtain the lowest suspension viscosity. The effect of the molecular weight of the dispersant on the suspension viscosity was discussed based on the surface interaction between TiO2 particles characterized by a colloid probe atomic force microscope. The polymer dispersant adsorbed on a particle surface enhanced the repulsive force between the TiO2 particles and reduced adhesion by electrosteric interaction, which reduced the suspension viscosity. The size of the dispersant in the aqueous solution determined by a dynamic light scattering method was compared with the estimated particle surface distance. As the solid fraction increased, the average surface distance and the size of the dispersant attainable to the particle surface reduced; therefore, the optimum molecular weight of the dispersant for a dense suspension is also reduced.
The effects of childhood trauma in patients with first‐episode schizophrenia
Authors: Üçok A. , Bıkmaz S.
Published: September 2007

Objective:  To evaluate the impact of childhood trauma on psychopathology in 57 patients with first‐episode schizophrenia.

Method:  Psychopathology was assessed by Brief Psychiatric Research Scale (BPRS), Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) at first admission. Childhood trauma was assessed by Childhood Abuse Questionnaire and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) after discharge.

Results:  Frequencies of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), emotional abuse (CEA) and physical abuse (CPA) were reported by 29.8%, 40.9% and 13.6% of the patients respectively. Histories of childhood emotional neglect (CEN) and physical neglect were found in 29.5% and 20.5% of the patients respectively. The patients reporting CSA had higher SAPS scores at admission, and had more suicide attempts before admission. The patients with history of CEA had more hallucinations and delusions of mind reading at admission. CPA, CEA and mean scores of CTQ correlated with the number of siblings.

Conclusion:  Our findings suggest that childhood trauma may alter the presentation of schizophrenia in first admission.
Characterization of liver X receptor expression and function in human skin and the pilosebaceous unit
Authors: Russell Louise E. , Harrison Wesley J. , Bahta Adiam W. , Zouboulis Christos C. , Burrin Jacky M. , Philpott Michael P.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The nuclear receptors liver X receptor alpha (LXRα) and liver X‐receptor beta (LXRβ) have a well documented role in cholesterol homeostasis and lipid metabolism within tissues and cells including the liver, small intestine and macrophages. In keratinocytes, LXRs have been shown to up‐regulate differentiation in vitro via increased transcription of proteins of the AP1 complex and to down‐regulate proliferation in vivo. In this study, we provide a detailed description of the location and possible role of LXRs within human skin and its associated glands and appendages. Using RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, we have demonstrated expression of LXRα and LXRβ mRNA and proteins in whole human skin as well as within a range of primary and immortalized human cell lines derived from human skin, hair follicle and sebaceous glands. Furthermore, we have shown that synthetic LXR specific agonists GW683965 and TO901317 significantly inhibit cell proliferation in primary epidermal keratinocytes, immortalized N/TERT keratinocytes and the immortalized SZ95 sebocyte line, and significantly increase lipogenesis in SZ95 sebocytes. In addition, we showed that the synthetic agonist TO901317 significantly reduced hair growth, in vitro.
The co‐catalytic effect of chlorpromazine on peroxidase‐mediated oxidation of melatonin: enhanced production of N1‐acetyl‐N 2‐formyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine
Authors: Ximenes Valdecir F. , Rodrigues Ana Paula , Cabello Cláudio , Menezes Manoel L. de , Fernandes João Roberto
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Accumulating evidence points to relationships between increased production of reactive oxygen or decreased antioxidant protection in schizophrenic patients. Chlorpromazine (CPZ), which remains a benchmark treatment for people with schizophrenia, has been described as a pro‐oxidant compound. Because the antioxidant compound melatonin exerts protective effects against CPZ‐induced liver disease in rats, in this investigation, our main objective was to study the effect of CPZ as a co‐catalyst of peroxidase‐mediated oxidation of melatonin. We found that melatonin was an excellent reductor agent of preformed CPZ cation radical (CPZ•+). The addition of CPZ during the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐catalyzed oxidation of melatonin provoked a significant increase in the rate of oxidation and production of N1‐acetyl‐N2‐formyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine (AFMK). Similar results were obtained using myeloperoxidase. The effect of CPZ on melatonin oxidation was rather higher at alkaline pH. At pH 9.0, the efficiency of oxidation of melatonin was 15 times higher and the production of AFMK was 30 times higher as compared with the assays in the absence of CPZ. We suggest that CPZ is able to exacerbate the rate of oxidation of melatonin by an electron transfer mechanism where CPZ•+, generated during the peroxidase‐catalyzed oxidation, is able to efficiently oxidize melatonin.
Restoration of Peroxisomal Catalase Import in a Model of Human Cellular Aging
Authors: Koepke Jay I. , Nakrieko Kerry‐Ann , Wood Christopher S. , Boucher Krissy K. , Terlecky Laura J. , Walton Paul A. , Terlecky Stanley R.
Published: September 2007

Peroxisomes play an important role in human cellular metabolism by housing enzymes involved in a number of essential biochemical pathways. Many of these enzymes are oxidases that transfer hydrogen atoms to molecular oxygen forming hydrogen peroxide. The organelle also contains catalase, which readily decomposes the hydrogen peroxide, a potentially damaging oxidant. Previous work has demonstrated that aging compromises peroxisomal protein import with catalase being particularly affected. The resultant imbalance in the relative ratio of oxidases to catalase was seen as a potential contributor to cellular oxidative stress and aging. Here we report that altering the peroxisomal targeting signal of catalase to the more effective serine‐lysine‐leucine (SKL) sequence results in a catalase molecule that more strongly interacts with its receptor and is more efficiently imported in both in vitro and in vivo assays. Furthermore, catalase‐SKL monomers expressed in cells interact with endogenous catalase subunits resulting in altered trafficking of the latter molecules. A dramatic reduction in cellular hydrogen peroxide levels accompanies this increased peroxisomal import of catalase. Finally, we show that catalase‐SKL stably expressed in cells by retroviral‐mediated transduction repolarizes mitochondria and reduces the number of senescent cells in a population. These results demonstrate the utility of a catalase‐SKL therapy for the restoration of a normal oxidative state in aging cells.
RCAS1 Decidual Immunoreactivity in Severe Pre‐Eclampsia: Immune Cell Presence and Activity
Authors: Wicherek Lukasz , Basta Pawel , Sikora Jerzy , Galazka Krystyna , Rytlewski Krzysztof , Grabiec Marek , Lazar Agata , Kalinka Jaroslaw
Published: September 2007

Problem

Pre‐eclampsia seems to be related to the disturbance of immune tolerance regulation during pregnancy. Receptor‐binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells (RCAS1) decidual level alterations were concomitant with changes in immune cell number and activity in decidua. As decidual immunomodulating activity participates in the development of immune tolerance during pregnancy, we aimed to evaluate the immunoreactivity level of decidual RCAS1 with respect to the presence and activity of immune cells.

Method of study

RCAS1, CD3, CD56, CD69, and CD25 immunoreactivity was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 30 decidual samples derived from patients with severe pre‐eclampsia (sPE) and from a healthy control group.

Results

RCAS1 immunoreactivity was statistically significantly higher in decidual tissue samples derived from patients with sPE tissue than in those derived from healthy patients in whom elective cesarean section at term was performed. A statistically significantly lower number of CD56+ and CD3+ cells and lower immunoreactivity level of CD69 were found in patients with sPE compared with those from the control group.

Conclusion

The limited immune cells infiltration in decidua during sPE is associated with increase in RCAS1 decidual level.
An occult foreign body aspiration with bronchial anomaly mimicking asthma and pneumonia
Authors: Yurdakul Ahmet Selim , Kanbay Asiye , Kurul Cüneyt , Yorgancılar Deniz , Demircan Sedat , Ekim Numan
Published: September 2007

Abstract –  Foreign body aspiration has a wide range of outcomes, including immediate resolution, acute asphyxia, recurrent pulmonary disease and death. A 52‐year‐old man was misdiagnosed with asthma and pneumonia for 6 months. A thoracic computed tomography (CT) scan showed an endobronchial lesion in the right main bronchus. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed and the teeth were detected in the right main bronchus, in addition to tracheal bronchus. Aspirated teeth were removed using a rigid bronchoscope under general anesthesia. The patient having a trauma should always be carefully and systematically examined for foreign bodies. A rapid diagnosis depends on high clinical suspicion, clinical signs and radiological findings and the clinician must be aware of all complications of foreign body aspiration.
Patterns of oral manifestation of HIV/AIDS among 225 Nigerian patients
Authors: Adedigba MA , Ogunbodede EO , Jeboda SO , Naidoo S
Published: September 2007

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of the oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS and to correlate the prevalence of these lesions with the stages of the disease in the Ife‐Ijesa zone, Nigeria. No comprehensive data were available for correlating it with the staging of HIV/AIDS in this region.

Subjects:  The pattern of oral HIV lesions as classified by the EC‐Clearinghouse was studied in 225 confirmed consecutive HIV‐infected patients in this zone.

Methods:  Clinical dental examinations were conducted under natural daylight on all consenting HIV patients, sitting in an upright chair, using dental mirrors and probes.

Results:  The prevalence of oral HIV lesions was 84.0%, with lesions ranging in number from one to six. The commonest HIV lesion was pseudo‐membranous candidiasis (43.1%) followed by erythematous candidiasis (28.9%), angular cheilitis (28.9%), linear gingival erythema (24.0%) and ulcerations (8.9%). Lesions less commonly found were oral hairy leukoplakia (1.3%) and salivary gland swellings (1.3%). Heterosexual intercourse was the most common mode of transmission (94.7%) and HIV‐1 (96.9%) the most prevalent pathogen among the study population. The majority of the patients were in the WHO clinical stage III (59.1%) and presented late.

Conclusions:  The prevalence of oral HIV lesions in the present study was high.
A Near Electoral Majority of Pensioners: Prospects and Policies
Authors: Sanderson Warren C. , Scherbov Sergei
Published: September 2007

In the first half of this century in many of today's developed countries, the proportion of voting age populations 65 years old or older will roughly double. As voting age populations age, the proportion of net contributors to national budgets (mainly through taxes) will fall and the proportion of net beneficiaries (mainly through public pension and health care benefits) will rise. By mid‐century in many wealthy countries, a near majority of electorates will become net beneficiaries of government expenditures, producing unprecedented changes in their political landscapes. We analyze three aspects of this phenomenon in Germany, Japan, and the United States.
The Influence of Parents' Marital Relationship and Women's Status on Children's Age at First Sex in Cebu, Philippines
Authors: Upadhyay Ushma D. , Hindin Michelle J.
Published: September 2007

This study examines the intergenerational effects of parents' marital relationship and the status of women on children's age at first sexual intercourse in Cebu, Philippines. Matched longitudinal data for 1,661 mothers and their children are analyzed. The mothers were interviewed in 1994, when their children were aged 9 to 11, about sociodemographic characteristics, their marital relationships, and women's status. Cox proportional hazards models are used to assess unmarried children's age at first sex as reported by the children in 2005 at ages 20 to 22. After multivariate adjustment, the analysis indicates that when parents make household decisions jointly, sons report delaying first sex. In households in which mothers have higher status, daughters report delayed first sex. The results demonstrate that long‐term positive effects on children, particularly delaying first sex, occur in families in which parental decisionmaking is cooperative and in which women have high status.
Underreporting of Induced and Spontaneous Abortion in the United States: An Analysis of the 2002 National Survey of Family Growth
Authors: Jones Rachel K. , Kost Kathryn
Published: September 2007

Underreporting of induced abortions in surveys is widespread, both in countries where the procedure is illegal or highly restricted and in those where it is legal. In this study, we find that fewer than one half of induced abortions performed in the United States in 1997–2001 (47 percent) were reported by women during face‐to‐face interviews in the 2002 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG). Hispanic and black women and those with low income were among the least likely to report their experience of abortion. Women were also less likely to report abortions that occurred when they were in their 20s. Second‐trimester abortions were more likely to be reported than first‐trimester terminations. The levels of recent spontaneous abortion reported in the 2002 NSFG were consistent with the accumulated body of clinical research, although substantially more lifetime pregnancy losses were reported on self‐administered surveys than in face‐to‐face interviews. Subsequent research should explore strategies to improve information collected on abortion, and, in the interim, research involving pregnancy outcomes should be adjusted for unreported induced abortions.
Challenging the Presumption of Diminished Capacity to Parent: Does Divorce Really Change Parenting Practices?*
Authors: Strohschein Lisa
Published: September 2007

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine whether divorced parents exhibit a diminished capacity to parent in the period following divorce. Using 2 waves of data from a national survey of Canadian children, the current study prospectively follows 5,004 children living in 2–biological parent households at initial interview and compares changes in parenting practices between households that subsequently divorce and those that remain intact. Results show that divorce is unrelated to changes in parenting behavior, suggesting that there are more similarities than differences in parenting among recently divorced and continuously married parents.
Coparental Identity and Mothers’ Cooperation in Coparental Relationships*
Authors: Markham Melinda S. , Ganong Lawrence H. , Coleman Marilyn
Published: September 2007

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relations between divorced mothers’ (N= 196) coparental role identity and their perceptions of how cooperatively they coparent. Data were gathered by questionnaires mailed to mothers who had participated in a court‐mandated divorce education program. Using structural equation modeling, it was determined that mothers’ perceptions of others’ expectations for them to coparent and their own expectations, as well as their commitment to a coparental identity, were positively related to their perceived level of coparenting cooperation. Parent educators and therapists working with mothers should focus on the value of coparenting for mothers and their children; social pressure and legal requirements are less effective motivators.
Influences of Risk History and Adoption Preparation on Post‐Adoption Services Use in U.S. Adoptions*
Authors: Wind Leslie H. , Brooks Devon , Barth Richard P.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:In spite of the need for pre‐ and post‐adoption support, studies indicate low levels of services utilization among adoptive families, particularly those involving children with special needs. This study examines the relationship between utilization of adoptions services and adoptive child and family characteristics, pre‐adoptive risk history, and provision of adoption preparation services. A longitudinal survey of 560 adoptive parents reveals significant but differential influences of pre‐adoptive risk history and pre‐adoptive preparation services on use of both general and clinical post‐adoption services over time. Findings support the need for long‐term post‐adoption services for adoptive families, especially for families who adopt a child with special needs. Implications for practice, policy, and future research are discussed.
Mothers’ Racial, Ethnic, and Cultural Socialization of Transracially Adopted Asian Children*
Authors: Johnston Kristen E. , Swim Janet K. , Saltsman Brian M. , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Petrill Stephen A.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:This study examined maternal and child predictors of White mothers’ cultural socialization/pluralism and preparation for bias of Chinese and Korean adopted children in families participating in the Northeast‐Northwest Collaborative Adoption Project. Mother’s psychological connection to Asian Americans, but not White identity, and children’s age predicted cultural socialization/pluralism and preparation for bias. Birth country was related to cultural socialization/pluralism but not preparation for bias. Cultural socialization/pluralism was related to fewer externalizing problems but not to internalizing problems. Preparation for bias was not related to behavioral problems. The implications of these findings are summarized in terms of interventions aimed at increasing mothers’ connections to Asian American communities or individuals, providing Korean cultural information to parents of Korean adoptees, and the timing of interventions.
Theorizing the Process of Leaving: Turning Points and Trajectories in the Stages of Change*
Authors: Khaw Lyndal , Hardesty Jennifer L.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: The Stages of Change Model (J. O. Prochaska & C. C. DiClemente, 1984) has been used to explore women’s process of leaving relationships involving intimate partner violence. Using a strengths‐based approach, this study aims to build upon the model to further theorize the process of leaving. We conducted secondary data analysis of interviews with 19 mothers who left their abusive husbands. Turning points marked mothers’ movements from one stage of change to another, resulting in linear and nonlinear trajectories of leaving. All turning points were similar across cases except for the turning point between the stages of action and preparation. Consequently, 3 variations in the trajectories of leaving were found. The theoretical and practical implications for future work with abused mothers are discussed.
Structural flexibility in Trypanosoma brucei enolase revealed by X‐ray crystallography and molecular dynamics
Authors: Navarro Marcos V. de A. S. , Gomes Dias Sandra M. , Mello Luciane V. , da Silva Giotto Maria T. , Gavalda Sabine , Blonski Casimir , Garratt Richard C. , Rigden Daniel J.
Published: September 2007

Enolase is a validated drug target in Trypanosoma brucei. To better characterize its properties and guide drug design efforts, we have determined six new crystal structures of the enzyme, in various ligation states and conformations, and have carried out complementary molecular dynamics simulations. The results show a striking structural diversity of loops near the catalytic site, for which variation can be interpreted as distinct modes of conformational variability that are explored during the molecular dynamics simulations. Our results show that sulfate may, unexpectedly, induce full closure of catalytic site loops whereas, conversely, binding of inhibitor phosphonoacetohydroxamate may leave open a tunnel from the catalytic site to protein surface offering possibilities for drug development. We also present the first complex of enolase with a novel inhibitor 2‐fluoro‐2‐phosphonoacetohydroxamate. The molecular dynamics results further encourage efforts to design irreversible species‐specific inhibitors: they reveal that a parasite enzyme‐specific lysine may approach the catalytic site more closely than crystal structures suggest and also cast light on the issue of accessibility of parasite enzyme‐specific cysteines to chemically modifying reagents. One of the new sulfate structures contains a novel metal‐binding site IV within the catalytic site cleft.
Two newly identified, relatively old star clusters in the Small Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Piatti Andrés E. , Sarajedini Ata , Geisler Doug , Gallart Carme , Wischnjewsky Marina
Published: September 2007

We present the results on the age and metallicity estimates of the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) clusters L110, L112 and L113 obtained from CCD Washington CT1 photometry. We confirm L113 as a relatively old and metal-poor cluster, and report for the first time that L110 and 112 are also relatively old clusters (t∼ 6.5 Gyr). Their derived ages and metallicities reinforce previous suggestions that the farther a cluster is from the centre of the galaxy, the older and more metal-poor it is, with some dispersion. In addition, the bursting star formation model still appears to be the most probable paradigm to describe the SMC's star formation history. We call attention to a second possible burst at ∼6–7 Gyr, besides the known burst at ∼3 Gyr.
Non‐invasive measurement of the mean alveolar O2 tension from the oxygen uptake versus tidal volume curve
Authors: Jordanoglou J. , Latsi P. , Chroneou A. , Koulouris N. G.
Published: September 2007

Aims:  The classical equations for measuring the mean and the ideal alveolar O2 tension are based on assumptions, which are shown to be invalid. So we thought to develop a new, non‐invasive method for measuring the mean alveolar P,O2 within the volume domain (PA,O2(Bohr)). This method is based on the oxygen uptake vs. tidal volume curve (VO2 vs. VT) obtained during tidal breathing of room air and/or air enriched with oxygen.

Methods:  PA,O2(Bohr) and the ideal alveolar PO2 (PA,O2(ideal)) were simultaneously measured in 10 healthy subjects and 34 patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) breathing tidally room air at rest. Additionally, 10 subjects (three healthy subjects and seven COPD patients) were studied while breathing initially room air and subsequently air enriched with oxygen.

Results:  According to the results, PA,O2(Bohr) considerably differed from PA,O2(ideal) (P = 0.004). The cause of the difference, at the individual's R, is: (1) the difference between the arterial and Bohr's alveolar CO2 tension, mainly in COPD patients, and (2) the inequality between Bohr's alveolar part of the tidal volume for CO2 and O2. Furthermore, end‐tidal gas tension (PET,CO2 and PET,O2) differed from Pa,CO2 and PA,O2(Bohr) respectively.

Conclusion:  The deviation of PA,O2(Bohr) from PA,O2(ideal) has a definite impact on Bohr's dead space ratio for O2 and CO2, and on the alveolar–arterial O2 difference. The difference (PA,O2(Bohr) − PA,O2(ideal)) is not related to the pathology of the disease. So, gas exchange within the lungs should be assessed at the subject's R from PA,O2(Bohr) and PA,CO2(Bohr) but not from PA,O2(ideal) nor Pa,CO2.
Isolation and Characterization of Collagen from the Skin of Deep‐Sea Redfish (Sebastes mentella)
Authors: Wang L. , An X. , Xin Z. , Zhao L. , Hu Q.
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:  To make more effective use of underutilized resources, acid‐solubilized collagen (ASC) and pepsin‐solubilized collagen (PSC) were isolated from the skin of deep‐sea redfish (Sebastes mentella) and characterized for their potential in commercial applications. The yield of ASC (47.5%) was lower compared to PSC (92.2%), but the purity of ASC was significantly higher. The intrinsic viscosity of ASC (15.9 dL/g) was greater than PSC (14.6 dL/g), indicating a higher average molecular weight of ASC on account of the high proportion of polymers of collagen. The denaturation temperatures of ASC and PSC were 16.1 and 15.7 °C, respectively, suggesting the triple helical structure of PSC was still predominant. The amino acid profiles of ASC and PSC were similar with lower imino acid content than most other species, which might be the reason for the lower denaturation temperature. SDS‐PAGE and FTIR showed that both ASC and PSC were type I mainly with slight structure differences. ASC held its triple helical structure well, and possessed a higher extent of intermolecular cross‐link. While the structure of PSC was changed slightly due to the loss of N‐ and C‐terminus domains, the triple helical structure was still predominant as a result of the formation of more and/or stronger hydrogen bond.
Potent Inhibition of Human Cytochrome P450 3A4, 2D6, and 2C9 Isoenzymes by Grapefruit Juice and Its Furocoumarins
Authors: Girennavar B. , Jayaprakasha G.K. , Patil B.S.
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT: The cytochrome P450 enzyme family is the most abundant and responsible for the metabolism of more than 60% of currently marketed drugs and is considered central in many clinically important drug interactions. Seven different grapefruit and pummelo juices as well as 5 furocoumarins isolated from grapefruit juice were evaluated at different concentration on cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), and cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) isoenzyme activity. Grapefruit and pummelo juices were found to be potent inhibitors of cytochrome CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 isoenzymes at 25% concentration, while CYP2D6 is inhibited significantly low at all the tested concentration of juices (P< 0.05). Among the 5 furocoumarins tested, the inhibitory potency was in the order of paradisin A > dihydroxybergamottin > bergamottin > bergaptol > geranylcoumarin at 0.1 μM to 0.1 mM concentrations. The IC50value was lowest for paradisin A for CYP3A4 with 0.11 μM followed by DHB for CYP2C9 with 1.58 μM.
Improved Shelf Life of Protein‐Rich Tofu Using Ocimum sanctum (tulsi) Extracts to Benefit Indian Rural Population
Authors: Anbarasu K. , Vijayalakshmi G.
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:  A nutrition survey carried out in India revealed that the diets of the rural population are inadequate and deficient in most of the nutrients especially protein. India being the 5th‐largest producer of soybean, a protein‐rich cereal, can redress protein‐energy malnutrition through diversification of soybean uses by developing high‐value and health‐based food products. Tofu, a nonfermented soybean product rich in high‐quality protein, B‐vitamins, and isoflavones, could be an excellent substitute for meat in Indian recipes. Tofu being rich in protein has a very short shelf life. Hence an attempt was made to improve the shelf life using extracts of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) commonly available in rural areas. Tofu was prepared traditionally using MgCl2:CaSO4 as coagulating agents. Aqueous extract of Ocimum sanctum (tulsi) was added during the preparation and storage of tofu to prolong its shelf life. Water used in this study was free from microflora, plant extract used contained mesophilic count of 2.527 × 104 CFU/g, and no yeasts and molds were detected. Tofu with tulsi extract had 76.4% moisture and was softer than control. Not much difference in mesophilic count was observed between control and treated samples during storage; however, treated tofu was organoleptically good until the end of the study with less lipid‐peroxidation and exhibited 50% (4.7 units) less protease activity than control (9.6 units) after 7 d. By using extracts of naturally available, easily cultivable tulsi, the shelf life was successfully extended to 7 to 8 d from 3 to 4 d of normal storage without refrigeration.
Lupus syndrome with neutropenia following minocycline therapy – a case report
Authors: AHMED F. , KELSEY P. R. , SHARIFF N.
Published: September 2007

An 18‐year‐old patient is described who presented with febrile neutropenia and hepatitis caused by minocycline therapy. This rare complication of minocycline‐induced lupus syndrome is discussed here.
Automatic Emotion Regulation
Authors: Mauss Iris B. , Bunge Silvia A. , Gross James J.
Published: September 2007

How do people effectively regulate their emotional reactions? Why are some people better at this than others? Most prior research has addressed these questions by focusing ondeliberateforms of emotion regulation. We argue that this focus has left out an important aspect of emotion regulation, namely,automaticemotion regulation (AER). Our review of the behavioral literature suggests that AER is pervasive in everyday life, and has far‐reaching consequences for individuals’ emotions. However, the behavioral literature has yet to address the mechanisms underlying the observed effects. Because it is difficult to directly measure the processes involved in AER, evidence from neuroscientific studies is particularly helpful in addressing these questions. Our review of the neuroscientific literature suggests distinct neural bases for different types of AER, which provides important clues about the cognitive and behavioral processes that might be involved in AER.
Toward More Creative and Innovative Group Idea Generation: A Cognitive‐Social‐Motivational Perspective of Brainstorming
Authors: Paulus Paul B. , Brown Vincent R.
Published: September 2007

In many meetings and work sessions, group members exchange ideas in order to come up with novel, creative solutions for problems and to generate ideas for future innovations. This type of group idea generation or brainstorming process has been studied in detail, and we have discovered much about the cognitive and social processes that underlie group idea generation. It appears that the brainstorming performance of groups is often hindered by various social and cognitive influences, but under the appropriate conditions, group idea exchange can be quite effective. In this article, we summarize the present state of knowledge, point out some significant gaps in our knowledge, and suggest a cognitive‐social‐motivational perspective to integrate the major findings and to guide future research in the area of group creativity and group idea generation.
Low awareness of COPD among physicians
Authors: Sundblad Britt‐Marie , Larsson Kjell , Nathell Lennart
Published: September 2007

Introduction:  Early identification of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the health care system followed by successful smoking cessation may prevent rapid lung function deterioration, development of severe COPD and respiratory failure.

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of under‐diagnosed chronic obstructive lung diseases among current smokers.

Materials and methods:  The under‐diagnosis of COPD among smokers was determined in subjects who participated in a screening procedure aimed at recruiting COPD patients for a smoking cessation programme. In order to identify current smokers, a questionnaire was sent out to persons who had been on sick leave for various reasons certified by a physician for more than 2 weeks. Subjects who stated that they currently smoked more than eight cigarettes per day were invited to perform a lung function test.

Results:  A total of 3887 subjects performed spirometry, i.e. forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced expirations, and among these, 674 (17.3%) had COPD according to the European Respiratory Society (ERS) consensus guidelines. Of those, 103 (17.3%) had physician‐diagnosed COPD. Productive cough was reported by 16.6% of the COPD subjects.

Despite the fact that smokers were on sick leave certified by a physician, more than 80% of those with COPD had no previous diagnosis. As the COPD diagnosis cannot be based on reported symptoms, a spirometry on persons at risk must be performed.

Conclusion:  The awareness of COPD among primary care physicians has to increase and smokers above the age of 40, with and without respiratory symptoms, have to undergo spirometry if it is regarded important to establish the COPD diagnosis at an early stage.

Please cite this paper as: Sundblad B‐M, Larsson K and Nathell L. Low awareness of COPD among physicians. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 11–16.
Retrospective Characterization of a Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 1 Isolate from Sewage in Greece
Authors: Dedepsidis Evaggelos , Kyriakopoulou Zaharoula , Pliaka Vaia , Kottaridi Christine , Bolanaki Eugenia , Levidiotou-Stefanou Stamatina , Komiotis Dimitri , Markoulatos Panayotis
Published: September 2007

Retrospective molecular and phenotypic characterization of a vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) type 1 isolate (7/b/97) isolated from sewage in Athens, Greece, in 1997 is reported. VP1 sequencing of this isolate revealed 1.87% divergence from the VP1 region of reference strain Sabin 1, while further genomic characterization of isolate 7/b/97 revealed a recombination event in the nonstructural part of the genome between a vaccine strain and a nonvaccine strain probably belonging to
Enterovirus
species C. Amino acid substitutions commonly found in previous studies were identified in the capsid coding region of the isolate, while most of the attenuation and temperature sensitivity determinants were reverted. The ultimate source of isolate 7/b/97 is unknown. The recovery of such a highly divergent derivative of a vaccine strain emphasizes the need for urgent implementation of environmental surveillance as a supportive procedure in the polio surveillance system even in countries with high rates of OPV coverage in order to prevent cases or even outbreaks of poliomyelitis that otherwise would be inevitable.