bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of self‐complexity on mood‐incongruent recall1
Authors: SAKAKI MICHIKO
Published: May 2004

Abstract:  Some people cope with negative moods by retrieving positive memories, which is mood‐incongruent recall. Though mood‐incongruent recall is helpful for mood‐regulation, the factors that influence people's ability to utilize mood‐incongruent recall are not well understood. This study investigated whether complex knowledge structure is a factor for the ability of mood‐incongruent recall, based on self‐complexity. In the experiment, 50 participants were requested to recall positive memories in both neutral and negative moods. The results of this study indicated that self‐complexity was an important factor associated with participants’ ability to recall positive memories while they were in negative moods. Participants who rated high in self‐complexity were those whose knowledge is structured in a complex way, recalled more highly positive memories in negative moods than in neutral moods. On the other hand, participants who were rated low in self‐complexity with simple knowledge structures recalled memories with a lower extent of positivity in negative moods than those in neutral moods.
Cytopathology in France
Authors: Cochand‐Priollet B. , Vincent S. , Vielh P.
Published: May 2004

In France, organization of the cytopathology seems to be quite different from that specifically regulated in the USA and in some other European countries. The aim of this article is to underline these specificities and to describe the solutions we advocate concerning new technologies, teaching, quality assurance, national guidelines…, to make our current practice compatible with the international recommendations. Moreover, we highlight the peculiar status of French cytotechnologists’ and comment on the recent dramatic decrease of the medical demography in France, the consequence of which may promote a controlled transfer of competence.
Fish habitat requirements as the basis for rehabilitation of eutrophic lakes by oxygenation
Authors: Müller R. , Stadelmann P.
Published: May 2004

Eutrophic lakes often suffer from hypolimnetic oxygen depletion during summer and autumn, and the accumulation of reduced substances in the hypolimnion. The space fish can occupy is therefore reduced, and the potential for fish kills caused by toxic algae and the upwelling of anoxic water increases. Fish, such as coregonids, require at least 4 mg O2 L−1 to survive in the long‐term. This critical level has been postulated as one of the major goals for the rehabilitation of several eutrophic Swiss lakes. It was predicted that this oxygen criterion would reduce phosphorus release from the sediment and increase phosphorus retention, and re‐establish natural reproduction of coregonids. Rehabilitation measures applied to three eutrophic Swiss lakes were hypolimnetic oxygenation during summer stratification, and artificial mixing using compressed air to enhance circulation in winter. These lake‐internal measures carried out for more than 15 years showed the 4 mg O2 L−1 criterion can be achieved most of the time. The measures have led to an expansion of habitat for oxygen‐dependent organisms to greater depths. However, other goals were not attained, such as increasing phosphorus retention by the sediment. In addition, natural reproduction of coregonids could not be re‐established. Excessive oxygen consumption by the sediment, arising from the decomposition of deposited organic matter produced during summer, caused death by suffocation of coregonid eggs developing on the sediment. Thus rehabilitation of eutrophic lakes by oxygenating the hypolimnion and artificial mixing will not be successful, unless it is accompanied by lowering the nutrient loading and thus primary production and oxygen consumption by the sediment. Nevertheless, positive effects of lake aeration were the expansion of living space for fish and benthic invertebrates, and the prevention of fish kills by upwelling anoxic hypolimnetic water.
Rehabilitation of freshwater fisheries: tales of the unexpected?
Authors: Cowx I. G. , Van Zyll de Jong M.
Published: May 2004

The maintenance and development of freshwater fisheries is based on an understanding of the many biotic and abiotic factors influencing the fish population dynamics. This information has been used to derive models on the most suitable habitats for different fish species and predict carrying capacities of the water bodies concerned. They are also used to determine the impact of various anthropogenic activities on the fish stocks and the possible outcome of enhancement and rehabilitation activities. Unfortunately, rehabilitation schemes based on such a narrow approach are not always as effective as predicted. This is because the schemes have failed to address the wider catchment problems affecting the fish communities. This paper presents two case studies to illustrate this point, and suggests that strategic management is required to improve the success of future rehabilitation schemes.
Prevalence and attitudes to fissure sealants in the general dental service in England
Authors: Hassall D.C. , Mellor A.C. , Blinkhorn A.S.
Published: May 2004

Objectives. The study objectives were to investigate changes in the prevalence of fissure sealants over a 5‐year period among a comparable group of 14–15‐year‐old regular dental attenders registered with general dental practitioners in 1989 and 1994, and to investigate attitudes towards this form of care amongst general dental practitioners in 1994.

Methods. Random samples of 14–15‐year‐old pupils were selected from school lists in three areas in England (Doncaster, Hereford/Worcester and Wycombe) in 1989 and 1994. Once parental consent had been gained to examine the children, the Dental Practice Board (DPB) indicated which subjects were ‘regular attenders’, only these subjects were included in the study. All the subjects in each area were examined by a single trained and calibrated examiner using a standardized technique. In 1994, a group of randomly selected dentists in each area completed a telephone questionnaire assessing attitudes and treatment patterns regarding fissure sealants.

Results. In 1989, 2836 letters were posted to parents asking for consent to examine their child and 2174 positive responses were received (response rate 77%). Of the 1919 children examined, 459 were classed as regular attenders, 140 in Doncaster, 159 in Hereford/Worcester and 160 in Wycombe.

In 1994, 2560 consent letters were distributed to children in school to pass to their parents and 1587 positive responses were received (response rate 62%). Of the 1388 children examined, 891 were classed as regular attenders, 294 in Doncaster, 318 in Hereford/Worcester and 279 in Wycombe. Large rises in sealant prevalence were observed in all areas, but particularly in Doncaster where sealant prevalence increased from 13% in 1989 to 50% in 1994. In Hereford/Worcester it increased from 25% to 47% and in Wycombe it increased from 16% to 30%. There was also a fall in mean DMFT in all areas. In Doncaster it fell from 2·97 in 1989 to 1·82 in 1994, in Hereford/Worcester it fell from 2·60 to 1·83 and in Wycombe it fell from 1·86 to 1·29. In all three areas the changes in sealant prevalence and DMFT were statistically significant. The questionnaire revealed positive attitudes towards fissure sealants and their usage as well as a number of areas of concern that could potentially hinder sealant usage.

Conclusions. Dramatic increases in sealant prevalence and considerable reductions in dental caries among these regularly attending adolescents have been demonstrated. Some concerns were highlighted regarding sealant usage, which may be prejudicing further increases in their application.
Dental maturation in British children: are Demirjian's standards applicable?
Authors: Liversidge H.M. , Speechly T. , Hector M.P.
Published: May 2004

Objective. The objective of this study was to determine if the standards of dental maturation of Demirjian et al. (1973, 1976) are applicable to British children.

Design. The design was cross‐sectional, retrospective.

Sample and method. The sample comprised 521 London children of Bangladeshi and white Caucasian (English, Welsh and Scottish) origin aged between 4 and 9 years. Dental age was assessed by crown and root stages of seven mandibular teeth from rotational pantomographs. Dental age was compared to chronological age using a t‐test.

Results. Differences in dental maturation between the two ethnic groups were not significant. British children as a group were dentally advanced compared to the Canadian standards. The mean (± standard deviation) advancement in girls was 0·51 ± 0·79 years and in boys was 0·73 ± 0·73 years.

Conclusions. The standards of dental maturation described by Demirjian et al. (1973, 1976) may not be suitable for British children.
Eruption disturbances of maxillary permanent central incisors associated with anomalous adjacent permanent lateral incisors
Authors: Kobayashi H. , Taguchi Y. , Noda T.
Published: May 2004

Several causes of eruption disturbances in upper permanent central incisors have been described. This report describes six cases in which the failure of maxillary permanent central incisors to erupt appears to be associated with developmental anomalies in the adjacent permanent lateral incisors. The root formation of the unerupted central incisors was delayed in comparison to the contralateral incisors as was the development of the adjacent lateral incisors. The shapes of the crowns were abnormal and in five cases out of the six described, the primary predecessors of the unerupted incisors were fused.
Age, performance and sleep deprivation
Authors: Philip Pierre , Taillard Jacques , Sagaspe Patricia , Valtat Cédric , Sanchez‐Ortuno Montserrat , Moore Nicholas , Charles André , Bioulac Bernard
Published: May 2004

Young subjects are frequently involved in sleep‐related accidents. They could be more affected than older drivers by sleep loss and therefore worsen their driving skills quicker, or have a different perception of their level of impairment. To test these hypotheses we studied variations of reaction time (RT), a fundamental prerequisite for safe performing, as measured by lapses, i.e. responses ≥500 ms and self‐assessment of performance and sleepiness after a night awake and after a night asleep in a balanced crossover design in young versus older healthy subjects. Ten young (20–25 years old) and 10 older volunteers (52–63 years old) were tested with and without 24 h of sleep deprivation. Without sleep deprivation, RTs were slower in older subjects than in the younger ones. However, after sleep deprivation, the RTs of young subjects increased while that of the older subjects remained almost unaffected. Sleepiness and self‐perception of performance were equally affected in both age groups showing different perception of performance in the age groups. Our findings are discussed in terms of vulnerability to sleep‐related accidents.
Evaluation of catch‐up growth after liver transplantation in children with biliary atresia
Authors: Alonso G. , Duca P. , Pasqualini T. , D'Agostino D.
Published: May 2004

Abstract:  Orthotopic liver transplantation (Tx) has improved survival in infants with extrahepatic biliary atresia (BA) when portoenteroanastomosis fails. Symptoms leading to Tx include liver failure, poor quality of life and growth failure. The objective of the study was to determine catch‐up growth in children with BA. Medical records and growth data of 36 patients (24 girls) who received a Tx due to BA were analyzed. Thirty‐two patients completed 3 yr and 15 patients 7 yr of follow‐up after Tx. At Tx, the median age was 2.7 yr (range 0.7–12.6) and mean height Z score (±s.d.) was −1.56 (±1.3). Patients were divided in two groups according to age at Tx: group I (n = 10), younger than 1.0 yr, and group II (n = 26) older than 1.0 yr. Median age (range) at Tx in group I was 0.8 yr (0.7–1.0) and in group II it was 3.35 yr (1.25–12.6). Thirteen patients (nine in group I) were receptors of living related donors. We evaluated linear growth, liver and renal function, immunosuppressive regimen and allograft rejection episodes. We did not find any significant differences in allograft or renal function, immunosuppressive therapy and number of acute rejection episodes or height Z score at Tx, second and third year post‐Tx between both groups. The mean height Z score at Tx in group I was −1.61 and in group II −1.54; at the second year, group I −0.66 and group II −1.08; at the third year, group I −0.17 and group II −0.85; and at the seventh year (total group) −0.3. However, the height gain at the third year was better in group I than in group II (p < 0.01, t‐test). Height Z score at the third year improved more than 1 SDS in seven out of eight patients in group I and in only nine out of 24 in group II (odds ratio 11.6). We also found a correlation between height gain at the third year and age at Tx (r−0.65) and between height gain at the third year and height Z score at Tx (r−0.54) (Pearson, p < 0.05). Children with BA who are transplanted before 12 months of age presented better catch‐up growth without change survival and morbidity. Orthotopic liver Tx improves survival and also enables height gain in these children.
Distribution of South African C3 and C4 species of Cyperaceae in relation to climate and phylogeny
Authors: STOCK W. D. , CHUBA D. K. , VERBOOM G. A.
Published: May 2004

Abstract  In this study the contribution of climatic factors and phylogenetic relationships affecting the geographical distribution of C3 and C4 genera of the Cyperaceae in South Africa was investigated. The δ13C values of herbarium specimens of 68 southern African species from 22 genera and eight tribes were used to assign the species to either the C3 or C4 photosynthetic pathway. Geographical distribution data for the Cyperaceae were used to investigate relationships between climatic factors and the number of species and proportional abundance of C4 species per region. The number of Cyperaceae species per 2° × 2° square across South Africa varied from less than five in the north‐western regions to more than 15 in the south‐western and north‐eastern regions of South Africa where rainfall exceeds 800 mm y‐1. Of the 68 species investigated, 28 had C4 photosynthesis and these were scattered among nine genera of four tribes (Cypereae, Scirpeae, Abildgaardieae and Rhyncosporeae). The proportional abundance of C4 species ranged from 14% in the winter rainfall regions of the south‐west of South Africa to 67% in the summer rainfall areas of the north‐east. The geographical distribution of species was related to their phylogenetic position such that the distributions of C3 and C4 species in Cypereae, Scirpeae and Schoeneae was quite distinct. Linear regression analysis showed that the transition temperatures (equal C3 and C4 species numbers) for the Cyperaceae were different to those obtained for the Poaceae from the same region. No strong relationships were found between the proportional abundance of C4 species and other climate factors such as altitude and rainfall. Our analysis of the current geographical distribution of C4 Cyperaceae in southern Africa in a phylogenetic context suggests that the ecological advantages conferred by the C4 pathway differ amongst the different plant groups.
Glucosamine‐induced insulin resistance in L6 muscle cells
Authors: Bailey C. J. , Turner S. L.
Published: May 2004

Background:  Glucosamine increases flux through the hexosamine pathway, causing insulin resistance and disturbances similar to diabetic glucose toxicity.

Aim:  This study examines the effect of glucosamine on glucose uptake by cultured L6 muscle cells as a model of insulin resistance.

Methods:  Glucose uptake by L6 myotubes was measured using the non‐metabolized glucose analogue 2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose after incubation with glucosamine for 4 and 24 h, with and without insulin and several other agents (metformin, peroxovanadium and d‐pinitol) that improve glucose uptake in diabetic states.

Results:  After 4 h, high concentrations of glucosamine (5 × 10−3 and 10−2 M) reduced basal and insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake by up to 50%. After 24 h, the effect of insulin was completely abolished by 10−2 M glucosamine and reduced over 50% by 5 × 10−3 M glucosamine. Lower concentrations of glucosamine did not significantly alter glucose uptake. The effect of glucosamine could not be attributed to cytotoxicity assessed by the Trypan Blue test. Metformin, peroxovanadium and d‐pinitol, each of which increased glucose uptake by L6 cells, did not prevent the decrease in glucose uptake with glucosamine.

Conclusion:  Glucosamine decreased insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake by L6 muscle cells, providing a potential model of insulin resistance with similarities to glucose toxicity. Insulin resistance induced by glucosamine was not reversed by three agents (metformin, peroxovanadium and d‐pinitol) known to enhance or partially mimic the effects of insulin.
Antidiabetic effect of diasulin, a herbal drug, on blood glucose, plasma insulin and hepatic enzymes of glucose metabolism in hyperglycaemic rats
Authors: Pari L. , Saravanan R.
Published: May 2004

Aim:  The present study was designed to investigate the effect of diasulin, a polyherbal drug, on blood glucose, plasma insulin and the activities of hepatic glucose metabolic enzymes in alloxan‐induced diabetic rats.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats, body weight of 180–200 g (12 normal and 30 diabetic rats), were used in this study. The rats were divided into seven groups after the induction of alloxan diabetes. In the experiment, six rats were used in each group. Group 1: normal rats given 2 ml of saline; group 2: normal rats given aqueous solution of diasulin (0.20 g/kg of body weight); group 3: diabetic control rats given 2 ml of saline; group 4: diabetic rats given aqueous solution of diasulin (0.05 g/kg of body weight); group 5: diabetic rats given aqueous solution of diasulin (0.10 g/kg of body weight); group 6: diabetic rats given aqueous solution of diasulin (0.20 g/kg of body weight) and group 7: diabetic rats given aqueous solution of glibenclamide (600 µg/kg of body weight). The treatment was given for 30 days. After the treatment, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, urine sugar and the activities of hepatic glucose metabolic enzymes were determined in normal and experimental animals.

Results:  Treatment with diasulin resulted in a significant reduction in blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin and an increase in plasma insulin and total haemoglobin and a significant improvement in glucose tolerance. Diasulin also resulted in a significant reduction in the activities of glucose‐6‐phosphatase and fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase in the liver, whereas the level of plasma insulin and hepatic hexokinase activity was significantly increased in alloxan diabetic rats.

Conclusions:  The present investigation suggests that diasulin, a polyherbal drug, controls the blood glucose level by increasing glycolysis and decreasing gluconeogenesis with a lower demand of pancreatic insulin than in untreated rats. This is possible, because it regulates the activities of hepatic glucose metabolic enzymes.
Generation of volatile fatty acids by axillary bacteria1
Authors: James A. G. , Hyliands D. , Johnston H.
Published: May 2004

Synopsis

It is generally accepted that short‐chain (C2–C5) volatile fatty acids (VFAs) are among the causal molecules of axillary malodour. It is also widely acknowledged that malodour generation is attributable to the biotransformation of odourless natural secretions, into volatile odorous products, by axillary bacteria. However, little information is available on the biochemical origins of VFAs on axillary skin. In these studies, assay systems were developed to investigate the generation of VFAs from substrates readily available to the bacteria resident on axillary skin. Propionibacteria and staphylococci were shown to ferment glycerol and lactic acid to the short‐chain (C2–C3) VFAs, acetic and propionic acid. Furthermore, staphylococci are capable of converting branched aliphatic amino acids, such as leucine, to highly odorous short‐chain (C4–C5) methyl‐branched VFAs, such as isovaleric acid, which are traditionally associated with the acidic note of axillary malodour. However, in vitro kinetic data indicates that these pathways contribute less to axillary VFA levels, than fatty acid biotransformations by a recently defined sub‐group of the Corynebacterium genus, corynebacteria (A). The results of these studies provide new understanding on the biochemical origins of VFA‐based axillary malodour which, in turn, should lead to the development of novel deodorant systems.
Dielectric spectroscopy of concentrated cosmetic W/O‐emulsions: possibilities to distinguish product changes caused by coalescence, sedimentation and variation of ingredients
Authors: Friedrich S. , Brummer R. , Wittern K.‐P. , Hochstein B.
Published: May 2004

Synopsis

A quick result whether a newly developed cosmetic water‐in‐oil (W/O)‐emulsion shows constant sensory behavior (stable) or whether it changes its behavior over time (instable) is an important aspect in cosmetic research. In order to observe changes as quickly as possible, analytic methods are used. An established method is rheology, a sensitive method that gives direct information on sensory aspects. Additional information concerning the kind of instability allows a more focused improvement of formulation in the case of instabilities. In order to gain this information, an additional analytic method with a more ingredient specific focus is needed. In this article, the possibilities of using dielectric spectroscopy in order to get additional information are discussed. For concentrated W/O‐emulsions a dependence of emulsion behavior from volume median droplet diameter dv50 is visible by both methods: rheology and dielectric spectroscopy. A variation of droplet size distribution at constant volume median droplet diameter dv50 does not change the results for the examined emulsions. Quantitative information about mean droplet size is possible with calibration. Because of their different physical forci, rheology and dielectric spectroscopy complement each other in high‐sensitive detection of coalescence. In contrast to the mechanical properties of W/O‐emulsion, dielectric spectroscopy gives additional information concerning some reasons of change in emulsion structure. Mechanism like sedimentation and coalescence can be distinguished and the phase where changes take place (oil phase or water phase) can be located. The latter is possible by a new parameter – the correlation between maximum of dielectric loss ɛ′′(fR) and the relaxation frequency fR. Their correlation can be described by a simple power law. By coupling rheology and dielectric spectroscopy, an improvement in fast emulsion development and production control may be achieved without losing the advantage of a quick and easy measurement procedure.
Development of lip treatment on the basis of desquamation mechanism
Authors: Hikima R. , Igarashi S. , Ikeda N. , Matsumoto M. , Hanyama A. , Egawa Y. , Horikoshi T. , Hayashi S.
Published: May 2004

Lip chapping is a serious cosmetics problem, though remedies other than moisturization have not been proposed. We investigated changes in the surface configurations of lip corneocytes and activities of desquamation‐regulating proteinases associated with lip chapping. Using scanning electron microscopy, villus‐like projections were observed on the inner surfaces of most corneocytes from normal lips, whereas those with flatter surface were predominantly found in chapped lips. Furthermore, cell surface area increased with the severity of lip chapping. Cathepsin D‐like and chymo‐trypsin‐like proteinase, which are also present in skin as desquamation‐regulating proteinases, were detected in lip corneocytes, though only cathepsin D activity was found to decrease in severely chapped lips. Hydration was also lower in areas of lip chapping. Sequential topical application of apricot extract essence increased cathepsin D activity and improved chapping severity. Our results suggest that lip chapping can be characterized as similar to senile xerosis rather than dry skin such as winter xerosis, as it shows a delayed transition of corneocytes through the stratum corneum, and the reduced cathepsin D activity may be one of the mechanisms that is further decreased by low hydration. We propose that an enhancement of both cathepsin D activity and lip moisture may be effective to improve lip chapping.
Versican expression by dermal papilla‐regenerated hair follicles – a promising tool for hair‐regrowth products
Authors: Kishimoto J. , Soma T. , Burgeson R. , Hibino T.
Published: May 2004

Hair follicle stem cells and dermal papilla cells play essential roles in the cyclical hair regeneration process. However, compared with the recent progress of follicular stem cell research, detailed analysis of dermal papilla cells is virtually unknown. We have focused on a large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan molecule, versican, and prove its pivotal role in hair follicle induction both in vitro and in vivo. First, we examined versican expression with hair cycling by in situ hybridization (mRNA) and immunohistochemistry (protein). Results clearly showed specific versican expression in anagen onset of dermal papilla cells implying a function role of versican in hair induction. We then generated transgenic lines with LacZ or green fluorescent protein reporter genes under a versican regulatory element (promoter) control, and confirmed dermal papilla‐specific activation of the reporter. These transgenic lines were utilized to isolate the dermal papilla cell population by means of a fluorescent activated cell sorter.

While freshly isolated dermal papilla cells were able to induce hair growth in a skin reconstitution assay when grafted with undifferentiated epidermal cells, this ability and versican expression were rapidly lost during passages in culture. In order to examine the functional role of versican in hair growth induction, versican full‐length cDNAs were transfected into inactive passaged dermal papilla cells. Impressively, this forced expression of versican molecules partially restored hair inductivity of dermal papilla cells in a skin reconstitution assay. These results demonstrated the pivotal role of versican in hair induction both in vitro and in vivo and will connect the missing link between the signal from dermal papilla cells to follicular stem cells, and initiation of hair regeneration. We have also shown that the hair growth‐promoting compound, cyclosporin A, can upregulate versican expression implying the application of a novel screening approach for hair growth‐promoting compounds by monitoring versican expression as an indicator.
Using fragrance as a stress‐relief agent
Authors: Warrenburg S.
Published: May 2004

One of the most important claims within aromatherapy is that certain aromas are stress‐relief agents. In the early 1990s, we developed a self‐report instrument, called Mood‐MappingTM, that taps consumers’ emotional responses to fragranced products. Based on our experience with extensive testing, we predicted that the most relaxing fragrances would also be stress‐relieving. In order to determine whether this was true in a consumer in‐home setting, we compared a variety of fragranced bubble bath samples with matched unfragranced control samples in a home‐use test. We employed self‐report measures of stress, relaxation, and other moods before and after each subject took a bath. We found that baths taken with a fragranced sample were significantly more stress‐relieving and relaxing than those using an unfragranced control. Furthermore, specific odor qualities of the fragrances were more stress‐relieving than others. We next examined whether these specific types of relaxing fragrances were stress‐relieving as measured physiologically. We utilized a standard laboratory stressor, the Stroop test, in a series of studies of various relaxing fragrances. We obtained the electromyogram (EMG) from the Trapezius muscle (back of the shoulder) as well as other physiological measures during these experiments. Trapezius EMG levels reliably increase during the Stroop test. We have found that a special type of relaxing Myo‐relax® fragrances (patent pending) have a muscle relaxing effect, namely, they will significantly reduce the Trapezius EMG response during the Stroop test as compared to an unfragranced control. One of these, Relaxscent from Colgate's Project Dionysos, will be featured. Thus, we have shown that Mood‐Mapped relaxing fragrances are demonstrably stress‐relieving as measured both physiologically as well as by self‐report in a consumer setting.
Massage and aroma therapy
Authors: Field T.
Published: May 2004

Massage therapy has been shown to (1) facilitate growth and development; (2) reduce depression and anxiety and related stress hormones; (3) enhance sleep; (4) reduce pain; (5) reduce autoimmune disorders; and (6) enhance immune function. These effects have been noted in samples, for example, of preterm neonates, depressed children and adults, chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and migraines, autoimmune disorders including asthma and diabetes and immune disorders including HIV and Cancer. Potential underlying mechanisms are enhanced parasympathetic activity (increased vagal tone) following massage therapy, decreased stress hormone (cortisol), increased serotonin (body's natural pain killer and antidepressant) and enhanced immune function leading to increased natural killer cell activity (front line of immune system, warding off viral and cancer cells). Aromatherapy has been noted to relax babies and adults and shift their EEG patterns in the direction of a more positive mood and heightened alertness.
Exceedingly Rare
Authors: Hoffield Jeffrey
Published: May 2004

Book reviewed:

Richard Marks and Paul Williamson (eds), Gothic: Art for England 1400–1547
Efficacy of pharmacological treatment of dystonia: evidence‐based review including meta‐analysis of the effect of botulinum toxin and other cure options
Authors: Balash Y. , Giladi N.
Published: May 2004

The treatment of both generalized and focal dystonia is symptomatic. There is no evidence‐based information about the efficacy of the different methods of the pharmacological therapeutic options currently being applied in dystonia. The specific questions addressed by this study were which treatments for dystonia have proven efficacy and which of them have unproven results. Following evidence‐based principles, a literature review based on MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library, augmented by manual search of the most important journals was performed to identify the relevant publications issued between 1973 and 2003. All articles appearing in the professional English literature, including case reports, were considered. In the presence of comparable studies the meta‐analysis was performed to obtain pooled information and make a reasonable inference. Based on this review, we conclude: (i) botulinum toxin has obvious benefit (level A, class I–II evidence) for the treatment of cervical dystonia and blepharospasm; (ii) trihexyphenidyl in high dosages is effective for the treatment of segmental and generalized dystonia in young patients (level A, class I–II evidence); (iii) all other methods of pharmacological intervention for generalized or focal dystonia, including botulinum toxin injections, have not been confirmed as being effective according to accepted evidence‐based criteria (level U, class IV studies).
Possession and Use of Illegal Guns Among Offenders in England and Wales
Authors: Bennett Trevor , Holloway Katy
Published: May 2004

Abstract: There is a growing concern about the extent of gun possession and use among criminals. Despite this concern, relatively little is known about gun ownership in the offender population. This article aims to help fill this gap by drawing on the results of interviews with arrestees conducted in 16 locations in England and Wales as part of the NEW‐ADAM (New English and Welsh Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring) programme. In order to monitor gun crime and to take effective action, it is important to increase current knowledge about the possession and use of guns among offenders.
Imprisonment and Penal Policy in Ireland
Authors: O'Donnell Ian
Published: May 2004

Abstract: The penal landscape in the Republic of Ireland has changed significantly since the mid‐1990s. Most notably, the average daily prison population grew swiftly at a time when recorded crime was falling. This contradictory trend was due to a combination of factors including the politicisation of the debate about crime, a build up of long‐sentence prisoners, an expansion of the remand population and a reduction in the use of early release to ease overcrowding. The costs of incarceration, especially prison officer overtime, became the focus of acute concern and for the first time foreign nationals became a significant presence in Irish prisons.
Measuring the Impact of Crime Reduction Interventions Involving Sports Activities for Young People
Authors: Nichols Geoff , Crow Iain
Published: May 2004

Abstract: This article considers the complexity of measuring the impact on crime reduction of different types of intervention with young people, which use the medium of sports activity. It draws on the authors' experience of sports‐related programmes. Interventions are categorised using a combination of Brantingham and Faust's (1976) categorisation of programmes as primary, secondary, or tertiary prevention and the mechanism by which the intervention is likely to work (Pawson and Tilley 1997). This shows that the impact of some types of intervention is not only inherently more difficult to measure, but also demands far more resources to do so. This applies particularly to interventions such as the Youth Justice Board supported summer Splash programmes, which involve casual participation, and target geographical areas rather than individuals. The relationship of the categorisation to the technical and practical difficulties of measuring impact shows that the ideal of evidence‐led policy is not easy to achieve, however, using this categorisation, the article makes some suggestions for evaluation methods, based on experience. The article also shows that in some cases the resources required to produce the evidence exceeds those available to many programmes. The implications of this are considered.
The Use of Optical Coherence Tomography for Monitoring the Subsurface Morphologies of Archaic Jades
Authors: Yang M.‐L. , Lu C.‐W. , Hsu I.‐J. , Yang C. C.
Published: May 2004

We demonstrate the use of the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technique for non‐invasive scanning of the subsurface morphologies of jade objects. The two‐dimensional tomography images show the refractive index or dielectric constant variations in the samples, reflecting their structures. Three samples of archaic jade objects from the Qijia and Liangzhu cultures in China are scanned in order to understand the subsurface morphologies of the naturally whitened jades. Also, two jade objects with artificial treatments (burning) are scanned and compared with the original materials in subsurface structures. In the original objects, the jade materials can generally be quite transparent, such that the backscattering intensity is weak, although the large‐scale (tens of microns or larger) subsurface morphology can be clearly observed. After burning, small‐scale (smaller than a few microns) structures are formed and the backscattering intensity is enhanced. In this situation, the large‐scale structures may be preserved or even newly generated. On the other hand, in an archaic object with natural whitening, small‐scale structures are also formed. Hence, the deeper distributions of significant backscattering intensity are observed, when compared with the unwhitened objects. Nevertheless, the large‐scale features diminish during the whitening process. With OCT scanning, such differences in subsurface morphology can provide us a valuable reference for authenticating archaic jade objects.
Black Gloss Pottery: Production Sites and Technology in Northern Etruria, Part II: Gloss Technology
Authors: Gliozzo E. , Kirkman I. W. , Pantos E. , Turbanti I. Memmi
Published: May 2004

The present study aims to understand the reasons for the visual differences of black gloss pottery found in northern Etruria. The results obtained by conventional (scanning electron microscope, electron microprobe) and synchrotron (X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy) techniques indicate that the thickness, porosity or chemical composition of the different types of gloss cannot be used as the principal distinguishing factor. The size of quartz or feldspar crystals may well be a critical factor responsible for the matt effect in some samples, while the range of mixtures of iron compounds indicated by XRD and XAS could be the reason for differences in colour and reflectivity. The Fe L‐edge XAS results in particular show that a correlation does exist between the oxidation state characteristics and the visual appearance. The Si, Fe and Al contents seem to further discriminate the different types of gloss that have differing visual appearances.
Coloured Prints of the 16th Century: Non‐Destructive Analyses on Coloured Engravings from Albrecht DÜrer and Contemporary Artists
Authors: Hahn O. , Oltrogge D. , Bevers H.
Published: May 2004

Qualitative investigations of pigments and dyes using micro X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (micro‐XRF) and visible spectrophotometry (VIS) are suitable non‐destructive methods for the characterization of different colorants in art objects. In this study, several rare coloured engravings from the work of Albrecht Dürer—and, in addition, from the work of Cornelis Cort, Servatius Raeven and Johannes Sadeler—were investigated. The analyses result in specific palettes of colours that were used by different artists or in different workshops for the coloration of engraved images. Starting from these different palettes, it is possible to distinguish coeval colorations that were added in the 16th century from those that were carried out at a later date (e.g., the 19th century).
Laser Desorption Mass Spectrometry as a Tool for the Analysis of Colorants: The Identification of Pigments Used in Illuminated Manuscripts*
Authors: Grim D. M. , Allison J.
Published: May 2004

Laser desorption mass spectrometry (LDMS) is demonstrated as a versatile analytical tool for the identification of pigments used in items of historical and archaeological interest. To demonstrate the LDMS technique, two illuminated manuscripts, reported to be 17th‐century and 19th‐century documents, were analysed. Using isotopic pattern analysis of peaks in the resulting LD mass spectra, multiple colour components were positively identified. The analysis of the pigments present on the documents offers insights into their authenticity.
Criminal Justice on Trial
Authors: Bird Sheila M. , Fairweather Clive B.
Published: May 2004

The range of initiatives for young or drug-dependent offenders is bewildering, and includes arrest referral (to drugs worker), drug treatment and testing orders, drugs courts, random mandatory drugs testing of prisoners, transitional care between prison and community, and Scotland's now disbanded Airborne Initiative. Yet judges prescribe sentence on lesser evidence about what works, is safe and is cost effective than that relied on by doctors prescribing licensed medicines. Sheila M. Bird and Clive B. Fairweather make a passionate plea for an evidence-based approach to investigating the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of criminal justice initiatives
Indicators for Democratic Debate
Authors: Longva Svein
Published: May 2004

One possible way for official statistics to become more useful and visible in public debate is to time the publication programme to match major events in society, such as local and general elections. Svein Longva, head of Statistics Norway, describes how, in the run-up to the last three Norwegian elections, Statistics Norway has published statistics and background analyses considered relevant to issues addressed in the election campaign. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and there have been no complaints that Statistics Norway interferes in the political debate or presents biased information.
Control Charts in Practice
Authors: Caulcutt Roland
Published: May 2004

In the first issue of Significance, Roland Caulcutt suggested that a common feature of many successful companies is their development of a “management-by-fact” culture. He further suggested that such a culture requires that managers focus on processes, and that control charts be used at all levels throughout the organisation. In this follow-up article he explains how the various types of control chart are set up and used in practice.
You've Got Direct Mail
Authors: Mohamed Omar
Published: May 2004

Predictive modelling provides a way to increase profitability and customer satisfaction in the financial services sector. Following on from Career Story, Omar Mohamed describes the successful use of this technique in recent marketing activities for the M&S “&More” credit card.
Differential Cellular Requirements for Activation of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Early (tk) and Late (gC) Promoters by ICP4
Authors: Zabierowski Susan , DeLuca Neal A.
Published: May 2004

The herpes simplex virus type 1 immediate-early protein, ICP4, activates the transcription of viral early and late genes and is essential for viral growth. It has been shown to bind DNA and interact with components of the general transcription machinery to activate or repress viral transcription, depending upon promoter context. Since early and late gene promoters have different architectures and cellular metabolism may be very different at early and late times after infection, the cellular requirements for ICP4-mediated activation of early and late genes may differ. This hypothesis was tested using tk and gC as representative early and late promoters, respectively. Nuclear extracts and phosphocellulose column fractions derived from nuclear extracts were able to reconstitute basal and ICP4-activated transcription of both promoters in vitro. When examining the contribution of the general transcription factors on the ability of ICP4 to activate transcription, the fraction containing the general transcription factor TFIIA was not essential for ICP4 activation of the gC promoter, but it was required for efficient activation of the tk promoter. The addition of recombinant TFIIA restored the ability of ICP4 to efficiently activate the tk promoter, but it had no net effect on activation of the gC promoter. The dispensability of TFIIA for ICP4 activation of the gC promoter required an intact INR element. In addition, microarray and Northern blot analysis indicated that TFIIA abundance may be reduced at late times of infection. This decrease in TFIIA expression during infection and its dispensability for activation of late but not early genes suggest one of possibly many mechanisms for the transition from viral early to late gene expression.
Involvement of Glutathione as a Mechanism of Indirect Protection against Spontaneous Ex Vivo Apoptosis Associated with Bovine Leukemia Virus
Authors: Sanchez Alcaraz Teresa , Kerkhofs Pierre , Reichert Michal , Kettmann Richard , Willems Luc
Published: May 2004

Viruses have developed strategies to counteract the apoptotic response of the infected host cells. Modulation of apoptosis is also thought to be a major component of viral persistence and progression to leukemia induced by retroviruses like human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and bovine leukemia virus (BLV). Here, we analyzed the mechanism of ex vivo apoptosis occurring after isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from BLV-infected sheep. We show that spontaneous apoptosis of ovine B lymphocytes requires at least in part a caspase 8-dependent pathway regardless of viral infection. Cell death is independent of cytotoxic response and does not involve the tumor necrosis factor alpha/NF-κB/nitric oxide synthase/cyclooxygenase pathway. In contrast, pharmaceutical depletion of reduced glutathione (namely, γ-glutamyl-l-cysteinyl-glycine [GSH]) by using ethacrynic acid or 1-pyrrolidinecarbodithioic acid specifically reverts inhibition of spontaneous apoptosis conferred indirectly by protective BLV-conditioned media; inversely, exogenously provided membrane-permeable GSH-monoethyl ester restores cell viability in B lymphocytes of BLV-infected sheep. Most importantly, intracellular GSH levels correlate with virus-associated protection against apoptosis but not with general inhibition of cell death induced by polyclonal activators, such as phorbol esters and ionomycin. Finally, inhibition of apoptosis does not correlate with the activities of GSH peroxidase and GSH reductase. In summary, our data fit into a model in which modulation of the glutathione system is a key event involved in indirect inhibition of apoptosis associated with BLV. These observations could have decisive effects during therapeutic treatment of δ-retroviral pathogenesis.
Insertion of Host-Derived Costimulatory Molecules CD80 (B7.1) and CD86 (B7.2) into Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Affects the Virus Life Cycle
Authors: Giguère Jean-François , Bounou Salim , Paquette Jean-Sébastien , Madrenas Joaquín , Tremblay Michel J.
Published: May 2004

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) carries virus-encoded and host-derived proteins. Recent advances in the functional characterization of host molecules inserted into mature virus particles have revealed that HIV-1 biology is influenced by the acquisition of host cell membrane components. The CD28/B7 receptor/ligand system is considered one of the fundamental elements of the normal immune response. Two major cell types that harbor HIV-1 in vivo, i.e., monocytes/macrophages and CD4+T cells, express the costimulatory molecules CD80 (B7.1) and CD86 (B7.2). We investigated whether CD80 and CD86 are efficiently acquired by HIV-1, and if so, whether these host-encoded molecules can contribute to the virus life cycle. Here we provide the first evidence that the insertion of CD80 and CD86 into HIV-1 increases virus infectivity by facilitating the attachment and entry process due to interactions with their two natural ligands, CD28 and CTLA-4. Moreover, we demonstrate that NF-κB is induced by CD80- and CD86-bearing virions when they are combined with the engagement of the T-cell receptor/CD3 complex, an event that is inhibited upon surface expression of CTLA-4. Finally, both CD80 and CD86 were found to be efficiently incorporated into R5- and X4-tropic field strains of HIV-1 expanded in cytokine-treated macrophages. Thus, besides direct interactions between the virus envelope glycoproteins and cell surface constituents, such as CD4 and some specific chemokine coreceptors, HIV-1 may attach to target cells via interactions between cell-derived molecules incorporated into virions and their natural ligands. These findings support the theory that HIV-1-associated host proteins alter virus-host dynamics.