bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The correspondence between persistent self-reported post-traumatic problems and general practitioners' reports after a major disaster
Authors: DROGENDIJK ANNELIEKE N. , DIRKZWAGER ANJA J. E. , GRIEVINK LINDA , VAN DER VELDEN PETER G. , MARCELISSEN FRANS G. H. , KLEBER ROLF J.
Published: October 2006

Background. Little is known about the correspondence between persistent self-reported disaster-related psychological problems and these problems reported by general practitioners (GPs). The aim of this study is to analyse this correspondence and to identify the factors associated with GPs' detection of persistent psychological problems.

Method. This study was conducted in a sample of 879 adult disaster-affected victims, taken from two longitudinal sources: the Enschede Firework Disaster Study and the GP-Monitor Study. Participants filled out a questionnaire 2–3 weeks and 18 months post-disaster and these data were combined with data from a GP-monitor collected up to 18 months post-disaster. The correspondence between persistent self-reported and GP-reported psychological problems was analysed with cross-tabulations. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify variables which predicted GPs' detection of psychological problems.

Results. The correspondence rate among victims who visited their GP 18 months post-disaster was 60·4% for persistent intrusions and avoidance reactions, 72·6% for persistent general psychological distress and less than 20% for persistent depression and anxiety symptoms or sleep disturbances. Characteristics that predict GPs' identification of post-traumatic reactions or psychological distress were the level of self-reported post-traumatic symptoms/mental health, the number of contacts the victims had with their GP and the level of the victims' disaster-related experiences.

Conclusions. In general, there is a considerable correspondence between GP-reported and persistent self-reported incidences of post-traumatic stress and general psychological distress in disaster-affected victims. However, the correspondence declines in the case of more specific psychological symptoms.
On the plurality of inhabited worlds: a brief history of extraterrestrialism
Authors: Brake Mark
Published: October 2006

This paper delineates the cultural evolution of the ancient idea of a plurality of inhabited worlds, and traces its development through to contemporary extraterrestrialism, with its foundation in the physical determinism of cosmology, and its attendant myths of alien contact drawn from examples of British film and fiction. We shall see that, in the evolving debate of the existence of extraterrestrial life and intelligence, science and science fiction have benefited from an increasingly symbiotic relationship. Modern extraterrestrialism has influenced both the scientific searches for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), and become one of the most pervasive cultural myths of the 20th century. Not only has pluralism found a voice in fiction through the alien, but fiction has also inspired science to broach questions in the real world.
Increased sensitivity to stress associated with noradrenergic hyperactivity, involving dopaminergic hyperactivity in spontaneous recurrences in methamphetamine psychosis
Authors: Yui Kunio , Goto Kimihiko , Ikemoto Shigenori , Jima Koichi Nisi , Kamada Yoshinori , Ishiguro Takeo
Published: October 2006

The study examined the significance of increased sensitivity to stress associated with noradrenergic hyperactivity and dopaminergic changes in spontaneous recurrences of methamphetamine (MAP) psychosis (flashbacks). Plasma monoamine metabolite levels were assayed in the subjects: 19 flashbackers, 18 non‐flashbackers with a history of MAP psychosis and 37 controls. Monoaminergic values underwent a square‐root transformation. All flashbackers had been exposed to stressful events plus MAP‐induced fear‐related psychotic symptoms (n = 11) or fear‐related symptoms alone (n = 8). Factors triggering flashbacks met the DSM‐III‐R criteria for mild psychosocial stressors. During flashbacks norepinephrine levels increased markedly and 3‐methoxytyramine, which is indicative of dopaminergic activity, increased to a lesser extent. Among the flashbackers, 11 with a history of stressful events plus fear‐related symptoms displayed further a small increase in 3‐methoxytyramine levels. Thus, stressful events plus fear‐related symptoms, together with MAP use, may induce noradrenergic hyperactivity and some degree of dopaminergic hyperactivity in response to mild stressors. Increased sensitivity to stress associated with a predominance of noradrenergic over dopaminergic hyperactivity may be a precipitating factor in flashbacks.
Alcohol genetics: will the promise be fulfilled?
Authors: Cook Chris
Published: October 2006

Genetic research into alcohol‐related problems has a long history, but only with the recent advent of molecular biological techniques does it seem poised to fulfill its promise. While such research might be thought to reinforce views of the inevitability and immutability of drinking problems, there have been bold promises of important developments in our understanding of the aetiology of alcohol misuse, as well as promises of innovations in prevention and treatment. A brief consideration of recent research, and of the possibilities that are now before us, reveals that the promise of increased understanding of the aetiology of alcohol misuse is already being fulfilled. Promises of new preventive and therapeutic interventions, if they also are to be fulfilled, require that a number of practical and ethical issues be addressed. Clinicians, researchers and others in the addictions field need to begin to address the ethical issues that are raised.
Book and Media Reviews
Authors: Ball David
Published: October 2006

Books reviewed in this article:

Book reviews in this column will primarily be of titles focusing completely, or in part, on biological aspects of addiction. However, significant titles of general relevance to the addictions field will also be included, even if they are not “biological”, as will titles of general methodological and clinical relevance, even if they are not on “addictions”. Similar considerations will apply to other media (software, audio tapes and CDs, videos, etc). However, specific “addictions” software applications seem to be relatively uncommon and, as these items are rarely reviewed elsewhere, we will endeavour to include reviews of some of the older programmes that are still useful, as well as new titles that appear. I would appreciate suggesti ons of any items suitable for reviews, but especially software and other media of specifi c relevance to the addictions. Please contact: Dr David Ball, National Addiction Centre, 4 Windsor Walk, London SE5 8AF, UK.

Dual Diagnosis and Treatment: substance abuse and co‐morbid medical and psychiatric disorders HENRY R. KRANZLER & BRUCE J. ROUNSAVILLE (Eds)

Improving the Care of People in Substance Misuse Ser vices: clinical audit project examples KIRSTY MACLEAN STEEL & CLAIRE PALMER

Software
 
European Legal Texts on Drugs (CD‐Rom)
Neuroendocrine pathways of addictive behaviour
Authors: Kiefer F , Wiedemann K
Published: October 2006

Alcohol intake is known to modulate plasma concentrations of neuroendocrine peptides. However, recent results suggest that the endocrine system may not only respond passively to alcohol intake but that, vice versa, it also actively modulates alcohol intake behaviour. The most coherent body of data concerns the hypothalamo ‐ pituitary ‐ adrenocortical (HPA) axis, with low corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH) being associated with more intense craving and increased probability of relapse after acute detoxification. Leptin, β‐endorphin and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), which indirectly regulate the HPA system, also may modulate the intensity of craving or the intensity of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Although most of the currently available data demonstrate association rather than causality between neuroendocrine changes and alcohol‐related behaviours, they do provide testable hypotheses and open up perspectives of treating alcohol dependence via manipulation of the neuroendocrine axis.
Gender difference in the pancreatic trypsinogen response to ethanol withdrawal in rat pups
Authors: García‐benítez O , Delgado‐Villa MJ , Murillo ML , Carreras O
Published: October 2006

This study was designed to examine the effects of ethanol withdrawal on offspring rats that consumed ethanol during gestation and lactation, in order to examine whether there was an improvement in pancreatic trypsinogen and lipase activities at 2 months postpartum with respect to offspring that fed on ethanol until death. A second purpose for our study was to determine if a folic acid supplement during gestation and lactation was sufficient or insufficient to reverse the negative effects of ethanol consumption. Both genders were used with the aim of investigating any differential pancreatic behaviour. The animals were randomized into five groups: the control group (CG) received water and a basic rat diet during pregnancy, lactation and growth; the ethanol group (EG) was fed an ethanol diet during pregnancy, the suckling period and growth until death; the ethanol ‐ water group's (E + WG) ethanol was eliminated after lactation; The ethanol ‐ folic acid group (E + FG) received a folic acid supplemented diet during pregnancy and the suckling period and in the ethanol + folic acid group (E + FG + FG) this supplementation continued during growth. Our results showed that ethanol administration or ethanol withdrawal did not significantly alter lipase activity in the pancreas. Ethanol administration decreased trypsinogen levels in the pancreas of males and females. However, in males, as opposed to females, the withdrawal of ethanol did not recover the values of pancreatic trypsinogen content, nor did a folic acid supplementation significantly alter the parameters we studied. Our treatment produced no effect on lipase levels. There was a gender‐related difference in pancreatic trypsinogen content, the implication being that in future all results on exocrine pancreas function in male and female animals should be analysed separately.
REVIEW: Movement disorders and alcohol misuse
Authors: Hess Christopher W. , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel
Published: October 2006

Many movement disorders, including tics, chorea, tremor, myoclonus and parkinsonism, may result from substance abuse. However, alcohol in particular is associated in a more complex manner with two specific movement disorders, essential tremor (ET) and myoclonus–dystonia (M‐D). In this review we discuss the comorbidity of alcohol abuse in both ET and M‐D, the ameliorative effects of alcohol in both diseases, and review the data evaluating alcohol abuse secondary to self‐medication. We also discuss shared pathophysiologic mechanisms in the understanding of both of these disorders, as the elucidation of the mechanisms by which alcohol exerts its effects may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.
CLINICAL STUDY: Cortisol concentrations, stress‐coping styles after withdrawal and long‐term abstinence in alcohol dependence
Authors: Walter Marc , Gerhard Urs , Gerlach Manfred , Weijers Heinz‐Gerd , Boening Jobst , Wiesbeck Gerhard A.
Published: October 2006

Alcohol‐dependent patients face a substantial risk of relapse after detoxification. A major risk factor for relapse is stress which is reflected biologically by various physiological changes that include an activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis and release of glucocorticoids. The prospective study examined cortisol concentrations and stress‐coping styles in relation to abstinence 1 year following discharge from treatment. Cortisol concentrations were measured in the plasma of 46 alcohol‐dependent patients (12 women) on initial presentation for treatment (day 1), and again in plasma and in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) after 6 weeks of abstinence (day 40). These results were compared with those of 26 age‐ and sex‐matched, healthy control subjects. After withdrawal, the patients completed a comprehensive baseline assessment including a stress‐coping questionnaire (Stressverarbeitungsfragebogen SVF120) and were monitored for 1 year after discharge. Negative stress‐coping styles (e.g. flight, resignation) positively correlated with higher cortisol concentration in plasma and in CSF after withdrawal (day 40). Compared with relapsers after 1 year, abstainers had significantly lower levels for cortisol in CSF, whereas the stress‐coping styles did not differ between abstainers and relapsers in this sample. These findings suggest that relatively stable personality traits like stress‐coping styles have no measurable influence on abstinence. The lower cortisol concentration in CSF as an indicator for HPA axis functioning is associated with long‐term abstinence in detoxified alcoholics.
Allelopathic potential of K21, selected as a promising allelopathic rice
Authors: MA HYUK JUN , SHIN DONG HYUN , LEE IN JUNG , KOH JAE CHUL , PARK SOON KI , KIM KIL UNG
Published: October 2006

The agronomic characteristics of a newly bred potent allelopathic rice, K21, including morphological appearance, resembled its female parent, Dongjinbyeo, except for 8 days’ earlier heading and 9 cm shorter plant height. The water extract of K21 showed a greater inhibitory effect on the shoot and root growth of barnyardgrass than its female parent, but less than the male parent, Kouketsumochi. At the highest extract concentration of 5.0%, the inhibitory effect of K21 on the shoot growth of barnyardgrass was ≈ 64%, similar to its male parent. The dry weight of the barnyardgrass shoot was reduced by 13.0% when grown with K21 and 30.2% when grown with its male parent. There was no inhibitory effect on the shoot dry weight of barnyardgrass when grown with the female parent. The activity of cinnamic acid 4‐hydroxylase in K21 was ≈ 1.8‐fold higher than that of the female parent, but significantly lower than that of the male parent. The ρ‐coumaric acid content in K21 was ≈ 60% higher than that of the female parent, but it was about half of the male parent. The total amount of phenolic compounds in K21 was ≈ 11.5% higher than in the female parent, but about half of the male parent. The results obtained suggest that the newly bred K21 contains desirable allelopathic traits derived from the male parent, Kouketsumochi, and acceptable agronomic traits from its female parent, Dongjinbyeo.
Appropriateness of inexpensive, hand‐held global positioning system units for creating weed maps in a pasture
Authors: NASHIKI MAMORU , NARITA HIRONOBU , HIGASHIYAMA YUMI
Published: October 2006

This paper describes the practical use of a global positioning system receiver (hand‐held GPS) as a means of measuring and describing pasture areas invaded by weeds. The accuracy of two GPS units, a hand‐held GPS with an external antenna (GPS with an antenna) and the differential global positioning system receiver (DGPS), were examined in Morioka, northern Japan. In addition, an area of weed patches and a pasture, determined using the GPS with an antenna, were compared to the measurements made with a conventional tape and a weed map was created based on the coordinate data of latitude and longitude measurements. The accuracy of the GPS with an antenna was poor (8.3 m); however, the precision of the unit was reasonable in measuring area. An area estimation error by the GPS with an antenna was 7% when practically measuring weed patches of 141 m2 and 1% in a paddock of 12 566 m2. From these results, it appears that the GPS with an antenna might have an acceptable error in measuring areas for weed control in a pasture. A weed map produced from the coordinate data surveyed using the GPS with an antenna enables the state of weed growth and its domination in an area of pasture to be visually understood. Therefore, GPS technologies easily can be applied to quickly obtain information on weed infestation.
Abundance of arthropods on the branch tips of the invasive plant, Rosa multiflora (Rosaceae)
Authors: JESSE LAURA C. , MOLONEY KIRK A. , OBRYCKI JOHN J.
Published: October 2006

Rosa multiflora Thunb. (Rosaceae) is an invasive species in the USA, where it grows in pastures and wooded areas. A disease of unknown etiology, rose rosette disease (RRD), infects R. multiflora and other Rosa spp. The goal of this research was to determine the effects of habitat and disease symptoms on the abundance of Phyllocoptes fructiphilus Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae), the presumed vector of RRD, and other arthropods on R. multiflora. We collected branch tips from healthy R. multiflora plants growing in the sun and shade, as well as RRD‐infected R. multiflora growing in the sun. The samples were collected from June 2002 to April 2004 from three sites in Iowa, USA. The samples were collected approximately every 2 weeks during the summer, monthly during the fall, and once during early spring. The fall samples were only taken from RRD‐infected plants because they retain leaves throughout the winter. We found that P. fructiphilus was present on diseased and healthy R. multiflora growing in the sun and on healthy R. multiflora growing as understory plants under a tree canopy (shaded), but the greatest numbers were observed on the diseased plants growing in the sun. Several other mite species, both predatory and phytophagous, Chaetosiphon sp. aphids, and the thrips species, Frankliniella exigua Hood and Neohydatothrips variabilis Beach, occur in the same plant microhabitat as P. fructiphilus. This is the first study to document the presence of additional arthropods in the same microhabitat (branch tips) as P. fructiphilus. Future research needs to isolate and identify the causal agent of RRD so it can be confirmed that, of the many arthropods feeding on R. multiflora, only P. fructiphilus vectors RRD.
Reduced rates of tank mixtures for red sprangletop (Leptochloa chinensis	[L.] Nees) and greater club‐rush (Scirpus grossus [L.] f.) control in rice
Authors: CHUAH TSE‐SENG , MAZIAH BINTI MOHAMAD , NURAZIAH BINTI MOHAMAD YUSUF , CHA THYE‐SAN
Published: October 2006

A study on the efficacy of tank‐mix combinations on the growth of Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees and Scirpus grossus (L.) f. at the 3–4‐leaf stage was conducted under glasshouse conditions. Sethoxydim plus cyhalofop‐butyl at 8 + 25, 16 + 25, 32 + 25, 32 + 12.5, and 32 + 6.25 g ai ha−1 provided good control of L. chinensis, ranging from 89–95%. However, a comparison of the costs of herbicide mixtures revealed that sethoxydim at 32 g ai ha−1 plus cyhalofop‐butyl at 6.25 g ai ha−1 were the most cost‐effective among the combinations. For Scirpus grossus, bensulfuron plus 2,4‐D dimethylamine at 2.5 + 18, 5.0 + 18, 1.25 + 36, 2.5 + 36, and 5.0 + 36 g ai ha−1 gave good control that ranged from 88–93%. Tank‐mixing bensulfuron with 2,4‐D at 1.25 + 36 g ai ha−1 was, however, the most cost‐effective mixture compared to the other mixtures. None of the tank mixtures tested in this study caused injury to the rice seedlings. However, further field studies need to be undertaken to verify these findings.
Control of soil rot of sweet potato by the incorporation of the fresh aerial tissue of Geranium carolinianum L. into the soil
Authors: OOSHIRO ATSUSHI , KAWANO SHINJI , TAKUSHI TETSUYA , OOMI NORIKO , TOKESHI MIKA , OOSHIRO NORIO
Published: October 2006

In a previous study, we found that a 70% aqueous ethanol extract of the fresh aerial tissue of Geranium carolinianum L. showed antimicrobial activity against the pathogen causing soil rot of sweet potato. As the appropriate time for cultivation of sweet potato and the growing period of G. carolinianum do not overlap in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, the fresh aerial tissue is available in order to control soil rot of sweet potato. Thus, we examined the control effect of fresh aerial tissue against soil rot of sweet potato. The various trials (a single repetition of 20 m2) were performed in fields that had undergone 8 years of continuous cropping of sweet potato at Okinawa Prefectural Agricultural Experiment Station, Horticultural branch. After harvest, when the disease severity was evaluated by determining the necrotic area of the storage root, the incorporation of fresh aerial tissue (5000 kg 1000 m‐2) into the soil was considered to be highly effective, with a protective value of 75.4. This result shows that G. carolinianum could be used as a biological agent for the control of soil rot of sweet potato.
Post‐polio syndrome patients treated with intravenous immunoglobulin: a double‐blinded randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Farbu E. , Rekand T. , Vik‐Mo E. , Lygren H. , Gilhus N. E. , Aarli J. A.
Published: October 2006

Post‐polio syndrome (PPS) is characterized by new muscle weakness, atrophy, fatigue and pain developing several years after the acute polio. Some studies suggest an ongoing inflammation in the spinal cord in these patients. From this perspective, intravenous immunoglobulin (IvIg) could be a therapeutic option. We performed a double‐blinded randomized controlled pilot study with 20 patients to investigate the possible clinical effects of IvIg in PPS. Twenty patients were randomized to either IvIg 2 g/kg body weight or placebo. Primary endpoints were changes in pain, fatigue and muscle strength 3 months after treatment. Surrogate endpoints were changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytokine levels. Secondary endpoints were pain, fatigue and isometric muscle strength after 6 months. Patients receiving IvIg reported a significant improvement in pain during the first 3 months, but no change was noted for subjective fatigue and muscle strength. CSF levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were increased compared with patients with non‐inflammatory neurological disorders. In conclusion, in this small pilot study no effect was seen with IvIg treatment on muscle strength and fatigue, however IvIg treated PPS patients reported significantly less pain 3 months after treatment. TNF‐α was increased in the CSF from PPS patients. The results are promising, but not conclusive because of the low number of patients studied.
Circulating microemboli in patients with myeloproliferative disorders
Authors: Weber C. A. , Matzdorff A. C. , Gerriets T. , Villmow T. , Stolz E.
Published: October 2006

Myeloproliferative disorders (MPD) are associated with an increased risk for thrombembolic events. In this study, we examined the prognostic value of transcranial Doppler (TCD) microemboli detection regarding clinical events and correlated TCD findings with results of blood cell counts and platelet flow cytometry to gain insight into the composition of circulating microemboli in these patients. In a cohort of 42 patients with MPD TCD microemboli detection was performed on a single occasion and correlated with thrombembolic events during a prospective follow up of 29.7 ± 7.3 month. In all patients, a complete blood count and in 17 patients platelet flow cytometry were performed on the day of the TCD examination. Microembolic signals (MES) were recorded in 15 (35.7%) patients, however, without any correlation with the type of MPD, blood cell counts, or thrombembolic events [9 (21.4%)]. MES positive and negative patients did not differ regarding the levels of activated platelets, platelet microaggregates, or microparticles. We found a strong trend for higher rates of platelet–neutrophil conjugates in MES positive patients (P = 0.09). Detection of MES by TCD on a single occasion in MPD patients has only limited prognostic value. MES do not correlate with the type of MPD, nor blood cell counts. Flow cytometry suggests that MES in MPD may consist of platelet–neutrophil aggregates.
Botulinum toxin injection in patients with hereditary spastic paraparesis
Authors: Rousseaux M. , Launay M. J. , Kozlowski O. , Daveluy W.
Published: October 2006

In an open label study, we analyzed the efficacy of botulinum toxin injection at the lower limbs of patients with hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP). Fifteen patients who showed disabling spasticity with no or poor effect of oral treatment were recruited consecutively. Botulinum toxin was injected (400 U; Botox®) into the spastic muscles identified by clinical examination (equinus, varus, and pathological hip adduction). Patients were regularly assessed from the first day to the fifth month: spasticity (Ashworth), motor strength, range of movements, Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC), gait parameter, Rivermead Motor Assessment, self‐analysis of benefit and satisfaction. We observed a moderate and significant (P < 0.05) reduction of ankle plantar flexor and hip adductor spasticity, with a partial increase in the range of the active and passive motion at the ankle and in gait velocity. At an individual level, six of 15 patients showed an increase in gait velocity. The FAC and RMA did not change. Patients often reported partial improvement in foot position and lower limb propulsion, and fair satisfaction. In conclusion, botulinum toxin injection can be effective in HSP patients with relatively ancient spasticity. This technique can be introduced into the therapeutic panel, which also includes physiotherapy, oral treatment and baclofen pump.
ON CLIFFORD SUBALGEBRAS, SPACETIME SPLITTINGS AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: DA ROCHA R. , VAZ J.
Published: October 2006

ℤ2-gradings of Clifford algebras are reviewed and we shall be concerned with an α-grading based on the structure of inner automorphisms, which is closely related to the spacetime splitting, if we consider the standard conjugation map automorphism by an arbitrary, but fixed, splitting vector. After briefly sketching the orthogonal and parallel components of products of differential forms, where we introduce the parallel [orthogonal] part as the space [time] component, we provide a detailed exposition of the Dirac operator splitting and we show how the differential operator parallel and orthogonal components are related to the Lie derivative along the splitting vector and the angular momentum splitting bivector. We also introduce multivectorial-induced α-gradings and present the Dirac equation in terms of the spacetime splitting, where the Dirac spinor field is shown to be a direct sum of two quaternions. We point out some possible physical applications of the formalism developed.
Physical Training Attenuates the Stress-Induced Changes in Rat T-Lymphocyte Function
Authors: Leandro Carol Góis , Martins de Lima Thais , Folador Alessandra , Alba-Loreiro Tatiana , do Nascimento Elizabeth , Manhães de Castro Raul , de Castro Célia M.M.B. , Pithon-Curi Tânia , Curi Rui
Published: October 2006

Backgorund/Aims: Modulations in the immune function by stress are a well-known phenomenon. Acute restraint stress may induce impaired T-lymphocyte responses. Moderate physical training is associated with beneficial effects on immunological functions. We investigated the effects of a moderate physical training on T-lymphocyte function in rats submitted to acute restraint stress. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 210–226 g were randomly divided into four groups: non-trained rats (NT, n = 7), and non-trained rats submitted to stress (NT + S, n = 8); trained rats (T, n = 7), and trained rats submitted to stress (T + S, n = 8). Trained rats were submitted to a program of moderate running over a period of 8 weeks. Rats subjected to restraint stress were kept immobilized in glass cylinders (8 cm in diameter and 24 cm long) during 60 min. Plasma corticosterone concentration, peripheral blood leukocyte number, indicators of apoptosis of T lymphocytes in blood and lymphoid organs, and mitogen-induced proliferation of T lymphocytes in lymphoid organs were evaluated. Results: Acute stress exposure raised plasma corticosterone concentration (p < 0.001), but not in previously trained animals. Restraint stress induced an increase in the percentage of lymphocytes in apoptosis, and a decrease in the concanavalin-A-induced proliferation of lymphocytes from the thymus and lymph nodes, and an increase in lymphocytes of the spleen. Neither of these alterations was observed in trained animals submitted to acute restraint stress. Conclusions: Our data confirm that acute restraint stress is associated with changes in T-lymphocyte function. Moreover, moderate physical training attenuates the effects of acute stress by a mechanism that involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and an increase in tolerance of leukocytes.
Recombinant factor VIII and factor VIII-von Willebrand factor complex do not present danger signals for human dendritic cells
Authors: Pfistershammer Katharina , Stöckl Johannes , Siekmann Jürgen , Turecek Peter , Schwarz Hans , Reipert Birgit
Published: October 2006

Several lines of evidence have shown that antibody responses to coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) in patients with hemophilia A depend on the help of activated CD4+ T cells. The primary activation of CD4+ T cells requires interaction with mature dendritic cells (DCs) that present antigenic peptides in the context of MHC class II and express costimulatory molecules. Maturation of DCs requires danger signals provided by exogenous or endogenous stimuli such as pathogen-derived products or inflammatory cytokines. We asked the question whether FVIII itself, FVIII complexed with von Willebrand factor (VWF) or thrombin-activated FVIII contain danger signals for human DCs that induce the upregulation of costimulatory molecules or the expression of proinflammatory cytokines necessary for effec tive activation of CD4+ T cells. Human peripheral monocytes were differentiated into DCs. FVIII, thrombin-activated FVIII, VWF, VWF-FVIII, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), LPS+FVIII, LPS+VWF or LPS+FVIII-VWF were added either on day 0 or on day 5 of differentiation cultures. Differentiation markers, cytokines in cell culture supernatants and the capacity of DCs to stimulate autologous and allogeneic T cells were analysed after seven days of differentiation cultures. Our results indicate that neither FVIII, thrombin-activated FVIII, VWF nor a complex of FVIII and VWF modulate the maturation of human DCs or their capacity to stimulate autologous or allogeneic T cells. We conclude that neither of these proteins present danger signals to human DCs.
Preeclampsia and pregnancy loss in women with a history of venous thromboembolism and prophylactic low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) during pregnancy
Authors: Alguel Guelay , Vormittag Rainer , Simanek Ralph , Kyrle Paul , Quehenberger Peter , Mannhalter Christine , Husslein Peter , Pabinger Ingrid
Published: October 2006

Limited data are available regarding complications of pregnancy and pregnancy outcome under prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in women with a history of thromboembolism (TE).We retrospectively evaluated pregnancy complications ina cohort of 80 women. All hada history of TE (76 venous, two arterial and two venous and arterial) and received prophylactic LMWH during 86 pregnancies. The rate of preeclampsia and stillbirth in these women was compared to that of a control group of 313 women without a history of TE and LMWH. Prophylaxis was started at a median of 10 weeks of gestation and usually continued until six weeks post partum. In 94% of the cases the outcome of pregnancy was favourable with a live birth. Four pregnancies (4.7%) ended in miscarriage. Two (2.3%) pregnancies were complicated bya thromboembolic event (one deep leg vein thrombosis and PRIND, respectively). One patient developed HELLP-syndrome. Severe preeclampsia occurred in three (3.8%) and stillbirth in one (1.3%) of the patients (n=80), whereas this was the case in four (1.3%, odds ratio 3.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66–13.73, p=0.15) and 10 (3.2%, OR=0.38; 95% CI 0.05–3.04, p=0.72) control women. Mean birth weight and standard deviation of infants was 3,160± 930 g in patients and 3,300 ± 540 g in controls (p=0.11).We conclude that a favourable pregnancy outcome in women with a history of thromboembolism who use prophylactic LMWH during pregnancy can be expected. There was a trend towardsa higher risk of preeclampsia, and these women should be carefully monitored for this complication.
Acute and subchronic effects of amitriptyline 25mg on actual driving in chronic neuropathic pain patients
Authors: Veldhuijzen Dieuwke S. , van Wijck Albert J.M. , Verster Joris C. , Kenemans J. Leon , Kalkman Cor J. , Olivier Berend , Volkerts Edmund R.
Published: October 2006

The acute and subchronic effects of low doses nocturnally administered amitriptyline were compared to placebo in a double-blind crossover randomized study on driving ability and driving-related skills involving seven chronic neuropathic pain patients. Performance testing occurred at the first and last day of each 15-day drug administration period, which was preceded by a 6-day washout phase. A standardized method of measuring driving ability, the on-the-road driving test, was performed on all visits. Patients were instructed to drive with a steady lateral position while maintaining a constant speed of 95km/h. The primary outcome of the driving test is the Standard Deviation of Lateral Position (SDLP, cm), which is an index of weaving of the car. At the first treatment day, driving performance was significantly impaired in patients after nocturnal administration of 25mg amitriptyline compared to placebo. The increase in SDLP of 3cm was higher than the increment generally observed with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.5mg/ml or higher, the legal limit for driving in many countries. Also, reaction times on a memory test were significantly increased, indicating worse performance after acute treatment of amitriptyline compared to placebo. In contrast, after 2 weeks of treatment, no significant differences were found between amitriptyline and placebo, suggesting that tolerance had developed to the impairing effects of amitriptyline.
Cognitive processing of drug-related stimuli: the role of memory and attention
Authors: Weinstein Aviv , Cox W. Miles
Published: October 2006

Recent studies have investigated the role of attentional biases and memory in alcohol and other drugs of dependence and the relationship between the motivation to use alcohol or other drugs and vigilance for relevant stimuli in alcohol and drug dependence. Based on this research, we describe relationships among motivation, memory, and attentional biases in order to enable better understanding of their multiple and interacting roles in the maintenance and development of alcohol and other drug dependence. We argue that memory and attentional processes are critical in the development and maintenance of addiction processes. Furthermore, we assume that attentional bias is not simply a by-product of an addiction disorder but plays a vital role in its development and maintenance, and it serves to enhance actual drug use. Finally, we predict that the motivation to use alcohol or other drugs will increase vigilance for substance-related stimuli, which in turn can lead to actual use. Future research is needed to ll gaps in our knowledge and lead to a more dened and articulated cognitive-behavioural model of drug dependence.
Improvement of patient compliance after switching from conventional neuroleptics to the atypical neuroleptic amisulpride
Authors: Linden Michael , Scheel Tabea , Eich Franz-Xaver
Published: October 2006

Medication noncompliance of schizophrenic outpatients is an important problem in clinical practice, causing relapse and illness deterioration. Because atypical neuroleptics have, in controlled clinical studies, been shown to be better tolerated and accepted by patients, the question is whether switching from conventional to atypical neuroleptics such as amisulpride can increase patient compliance also under conditions of routine care.

In a drug utilization observation study 570 schizophrenic outpatients, who had been pretreated with conventional neuroleptics and then been switched for individual clinical reasons to amisulpride, were observed for 3 months. Sociodemographic, illness and treatment related variables (e.g. Positive and Negative Symptom Scale, side effects), patients' subjective attitudes, and premedication and treatment compliance were assessed using standardized instruments.

A total of 43.7% were rated as being noncompliant with the premedication, while 85.8% were rated as compliant after being switched to amisulpride, including 82.7% of the former noncompliant patients. Patients who had become compliant showed a signicantly better psychopathological status after 3 months as compared to still noncompliant patients, including a lower rate of inpatient stays.

Switching noncompliant patients from conventional to atypical neuroleptics like amisulpride can improve patient compliance and psychopathology under conditions of routine treatment.
Dynamic Control of Uncertain Manipulators Through Immersion and Invariance Adaptive Visual Servoing
Authors: Zachi Alessandro R. L. , Hsu Liu , Ortega Romeo , Lizarralde Fernando
Published: October 2006

In this paper a control theoretical solution is presented for the direct adaptive visual dynamic control of planar manipulators using a fixed camera, when both camera calibration and robot dynamics are uncertain. The proposed scheme is developed for image-based look-and-move visual systems to allow tracking of a moving target. In order to solve the multivariable parameter adaptive problem, the recently proposed Immersion and Invariance (I&I) method is used. The scheme is then combined with an adaptive controller for the manipulator, taking into account its nonlinear dynamics. This leads to an overall stable adaptive visual servoing system. An extension of the I&I approach for 3 D visual servoing is shown to be possible by a convenient control reparametrization associated with a proper image-based depth control scheme.
Prevalence of oedema of the lower limbs in multiple sclerosis patients: a vascular and lymphoscintigraphic study
Authors: Solaro C , Uccelli M Messmer , Brichetto G , Augello G , Taddei G , Boccardo F , Buffoni F , Campisi C , Lopes L , Battaglia M A , Mancardi G L
Published: October 2006

The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of oedema of the lower limbs in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients utilizing a multidisciplinary approach. A total of 205 patients with definite MS were included in the study. Seventy-five were male and 130 female, with a mean age of 50.53, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 5.27 and mean disease duration of 16.6 years. Seventy-one patients had a relapsing-remitting (RR) disease course, 85 were secondary progressive (SP) and 49 were primary progressive (PP). Ninety-three patients (45%) showed oedema at the examination. EDSS, disease duration and disease course, but not gender, were statistically different between oedema and non-oedema patients.

Out of 93 patients with oedema, 69 agreed to undergo a vascular examination. Of 69 patients, 45 (65.2%) had a CEAP score (specific rating scale for oedema) of 3 (presence of oedema) and 24 (34.8%) had a score of 4 (presence of a trophic disorder). Out of 69 subjects, 33 agreed to undergo a lymphoscintigraphy, which was normal in only 29 extremities out of 66.

Lower limb oedema is common in MS patients, especially in those with reduced mobility. Early screening is advised in patients with an elevated EDSS.
Production of interferon-γ by microglia
Authors: Kawanokuchi J , Mizuno T , Takeuchi H , Kato H , Wang J , Mitsuma N , Suzumura A
Published: October 2006

Neural cells do not usually interact with immune cells because of the lack of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen expression. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) enables this interaction via induction of MHC antigen expression in neural cells. Thus, IFN-γ is a critical cytokine for the development of central nervous system (CNS) pathologies. IFN-γ, however, is considered to be produced exclusively by lymphoid cells. Here, we show for the first time that murine microglia produce IFN-γ in response to IL-12 and/or IL-18, using RT-PCR detection of IFN-γ mRNA and Western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis for cytoplasmic expression of IFN-γ. Stimulation of microglia with IL-12 and IL-18 resulted in MHC class II mRNA expression in microglia. Since IL-12 and IL-18 are produced in the CNS by glial cells, these cytokines may play a critical role in the initiation of neural immune cell interaction and the induction of autoimmune processes in the CNS via induction of IFN-γ and MHC antigens.
Elevated urinary excretion of aluminium and iron in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Exley Christopher , Mamutse Godwin , Korchazhkina Olga , Pye Eleanor , Strekopytov Stanislav , Polwart Anthony , Hawkins Clive
Published: October 2006

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system of as yet unknown aetiology. A consensus of opinion has suggested that the disorder is the result of an interplay between environmental factors and susceptibility genes. We have used a battery of analytical techniques to determine if the urinary excretion of i) markers of oxidative damage; ii) iron and iii) the environmental toxin aluminium and its antagonist, silicon, are altered in relapsing remitting (RRMS) and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Urinary concentrations of oxidative biomarkers, MDA and TBARS, were not found to be useful indicators of inflammatory disease in MS. However, urinary concentrations of another potential marker for inflammation and oxidative stress, iron, were significantly increased in SPMS ( P<0.01) and insignificantly increased in RRMS ( P>0.05). Urinary concentrations of aluminium were also significantly increased in RRMS ( P<0.001) and SPMS ( P<0.05) such that the levels of aluminium excretion in the former were similar to those observed in individuals undergoing metal chelation therapy. The excretion of silicon was lower in MS and significantly so in SPMS ( P<0.05). Increased excretion of iron in urine supported a role for iron dysmetabolism in MS. Levels of urinary aluminium excretion similar to those seen in aluminium intoxication suggested that aluminium may be a hitherto unrecognized environmental factor associated with the aetiology of MS. If aluminium is involved in MS then an increased dietary intake of its natural antagonist, silicon, might be a therapeutic option.
Workplace Diversity and Group Relations: An Overview
Authors: Christian Julie , Porter Lyman W. , Moffitt Graham
Published: October 2006

The study of conflict and diversity within groups, ranging from small workgroups to multinational organizations, has become an increasingly important focus for contemporary research. A key question is how the inevitable social diversity within groups can be developed as a productive asset rather than becoming a source of conflict and prejudice. The aim of this Special Issue of the journal is to report cutting edge empirical and theoretical work that addresses the broad issue of diversity and group-based conflict within workgroups. In this introduction, we briefly examine approaches that have been applied, and review what has been learned. We conclude by providing an overview to the Special Issue articles, highlighting central themes and implications for future research.
Financial news journalism
Authors: Doyle Gillian
Published: October 2006

The collapse of Enron and other corporate scandals have raised concerns about the efficacy of financial journalism. Based on research on where reporters get their ideas for stories and how they approach their work, this article explores the particular circumstances in which production of financial and economic news takes place. The author argues that, while reporters are generally highly sceptical about ‘spin’ and strongly inclined towards highlighting instances of corporate underperformance and mismanagement, the circumstances and constraints they work within nonetheless make it unlikely that financial irregularities obscured within company accounts will be detected on a routine or consistent basis. Moreover, the way in which the commercial sector is organized (with in-depth analysis generally confined to specialist media whose audiences are already financially literate) means that the task of facilitating a sound public grasp over the significance of financial and economic news developments is largely being neglected.
Submicro- and Nanocrystals of Cyano-bridged FeLa Coordination Polymer in Reversed Micelle
Authors: Kondo Nobuyuki , Nakajima Aya , Sasaki Yayoi , Kurihara Masato , Yamada Mami , Miyake Mikio , Mizukami Fujio , Sakamoto Masatomi
Published: October 2006

Submicro- and nanocrystals of a d–f heteronuclear coordination polymer, La[Fe(CN)6]·nH2O, were prepared in the water-in-oil microemulsion using AOT or NP-5 as a surface-protecting agent. When AOT was used, size and shape of the crystals were remarkably influenced by their preparation conditions, whereas little changed when NP-5 was used. These results were explained by the different protecting abilities of anionic AOT and nonionic NP-5.
Unusual causes of unilateral serous otitis media
Authors: Facer George W. , Piepgras David G. , Weiland Louis H. , Mokri Bahram
Published: October 2006

Two cases of nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinoma (transitional cell carcinoma), both of which arose in the Eustachian tube, and two cases of neurilemoma of the nasopharynx are reported. All four patients presented with unilateral serous otitis media. The duration of the unilateral serous otitis media in these patients ranged from 1 1/2 to 8 years. This emphasizes the fact that adult patients with unilateral serous otitis media without a history of an upper respiratory tract infection or of barotrauma should undergo thorough examination to rule out the presence of an unusual underlying pathologic condition.
The effects of ototoxicity on the auditory brain stem response and the scalp‐recorded cochlear microphonic in guinea pigs
Authors: Schwent Vincent L. , Williston John S. , Jewett Don L.
Published: October 2006

“ldquo;ldquo;ldquo;he objective determination of hearing impairment with evoked response techniques may be of value in the early detection of ototoxic reactions, especially in infants and other “difficult” patient populations. In this study the auditory brain stem response to “clicks” at two intensities and two repetition rates were recorded from guinea pigs that had been given one of two dosage levels of kanamycin or no drug. The scalp‐recorded cochlear microphonic to continuous tones was also recorded. Hearing loss was seen in one‐third of the animals receiving kanamycin. The temporal course of the deficit varied considerably between animals. Auditory system change was most readily detected in response to low‐intensity stimuli, while change in repetition rate of the clicks did not affect the results. The cochlear microphonic potentials correlated with the auditory brain stem response.
Job's syndrome
Authors: Ballard Robert W. , Cummings Charles W.
Published: October 2006

Job's syndrome is characterized by the clinical features of fair skin, red hair, recurrent cold staphylococcal skin abscesses with concurrent other bacterial infections and skin lesions. This case report chronicles a classic presentation of Job's syndrome.
Unusual presentation of head and neck neoplasm
Authors: Nigri Peter T. , Khasgiwala Chandra K.
Published: October 2006

We have a 67‐year‐old Caucasian male presenting with a (T4, N1b, M0) Stage III squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. He subsequently underwent a total laryngectomy and right radical neck dissection. It was only determined by the pathology report that the cervical nodes in the neck specimen obtained the associated disease, Hodgkin's (mixed cellular lymphoma), rather than the expected well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma found in the larynx. Metastatic work‐up was unrevealing.

Reviewing the English literature fails to reveal a similar case report of squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx with Hodgkin's disease in the associated neck dissection. It was unfortunate that this patient died of a third pathology, cerebral hemorrhage, in the immediate post‐op period.