bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histological evaluation of hyperpigmentation on female Filipino axillary skin1
Authors: James A. G. , Pople J. E. , Parish W. E. , Moore A. E. , Dunbar N.
Published: July 2006

Synopsis

Females in South East Asia (Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines) show concern about dark areas of skin which develop in their underarms, but little is known about the features differentiating pale and hyperpigmented axillary skin in the general population. To investigate this, a histology study was undertaken in the Philippines to define the aetiology of underarm darkening, which is postulated to be a mild form of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIHP). Punch biopsies were taken from dark and light axillary skin sites of 20 female subjects, of whom seven had hyperpigmented underarms, based on an instrumental (Mexameter MX‐18, Courage and Khazaka Electronic GmbH, Cologne, Germany) measure, and 13 had not. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were undertaken using a range of stains and antibodies, including haematoxylin‐eosin for general histopa‐thology, Masson‐Fontana for melanin, anti‐CD68 for monocytes and macrophages, Van Gieson's technique for fibrosis, anti‐proliferating cell nuclear antigen for cell mitosis, and the melanocyte‐specific immunostains, anti‐tyrosinase and anti‐tyrosinase‐related protein 1. In most cases, dark skin sites from hyperpigmented panellists had increased intensity of Masson‐Fontana, anti‐tyrosinase and/or anti‐TRP1 staining, indicative of melanocyte stimulation and increased melanin production. Furthermore, hair plucking emerged as a key stimulus to increased pigmentation. The trauma of hair plucking slightly increased the number of infiltrating mononuclear cells and macrophages that ingested melanosomes leaking from the damaged epidermis, more so in the skin of hyperpigmented panellists; this, in turn, potentially increases pigmentation. However, cell infiltration was focal, mainly near the plucked follicles, and not indicative of diffuse inflammation. The results from this study support the hypothesis that axillary darkening is mild PIHP, characterized by increased epidermal melanin, following stimulation or mild irritation of skin, with hair plucking as a key factor in this process.
Induction of the skin endogenous protective mitochondrial MnSOD byVitreoscilla filiformisextract
Authors: Mahé Y. F. , Martin R. , Aubert L. , Billoni N. , Collin C. , Pruche F. , Bastien P. , Drost S. S. , Lane A. T. , Meybeck A.
Published: July 2006

Synopsis

Vitreoscilla filiformis(Vf), a filamentous bacteria living in fresh water is thought to contribute to the observed beneficial effects of Spa water on skin. An active fraction obtained from a Vf biomass was evaluated for its ability to modulate mRNA expression in cultured skin cells. cDNA array analysis was conducted first using a customized membrane including 1176 selected and fully identified genes involved in skin physiology and homeostasis then the newly developed full genome U133 plus 2.0 GeneChip from Affymetrix. The mitochondrial protective manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD/SOD‐2) was identified as a preferentially induced mRNA target in both normal human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Induction at the transcriptional level in both cell types was confirmed using quantitative real time/polymerase chain reaction and a kinetic analysis revealed a maximal increase in mRNA expression 20 h after stimulation with Vf extract (Vfe). Using immunofluorescent (fluorescent cell sorter) analysis, an induction of MnSOD protein in both normal human dermal skin fibroblasts (×1.6;P < 0.01) and epidermal keratinocytes (×1.4;P < 0.01) was confirmed. As MnSOD is a major inducible free‐radical scavenger in skin, these results suggest that the Vfe could induce skin cells to produce their own endogenous protective defencesin vivoagainst both exogenous environmental stressors such as UV irradiation or microflora as well as to combat endogenous sources of deleterious free radicals involved in skin ageing. Finally, in order to confirm thein vivopotential of this original extract in human, we evaluated its protective activity vs. placebo on the generation of sunburn cells in epidermis under UVB stress. As expected fromin vitroprofiling, Vfe was indeed found to significantly inhibit the appearance of sunburn cells in UVB‐exposed areas, a signature of skin alteration which has been suggested to be linked to a defect in MnSOD protective activity. Altogether, those data suggest that the combination of a suitable protective UV filter together with this bioactive Vfe might improve skin protection through complementary pathways.
Protective effects of taurine on human hair follicle grownin vitro1
Authors: Collin C. , Gautier B. , Gaillard O. , Hallegot P. , Chabane S. , Bastien P. , Peyron M. , Bouleau M. , Thibaut S. , Pruche F. , Duranton A. , Bernard B. A.
Published: July 2006

Synopsis

Taurine is a naturally occurringβ‐amino acid produced by methionine and cysteine metabolism. It is involved in a variety of physiological functions, including immunomodulatory and antifibrotic. Taking advantage of the ability of human hair follicle grownin vitroto recapitulate most of the characteristic features of normal hair folliclein vivo, we studied (i) taurine uptake by isolated human hair follicles; (ii) its effects on hair growth and survival rate; and (iii) its protective potential against transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, an inhibitor ofin vitrohair growth and a master switch of fibrotic program. We showed that taurine was taken up by the connective tissue sheath, proximal outer root sheath and hair bulb, promoted hair survivalin vitroand prevented TGF‐β1‐induced deleterious effects on hair follicle.
School‐based interventions for childhood and adolescent obesity
Authors: Sharma M.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this article was to review population‐based interventions for preventing childhood obesity carried out in school settings published between 1999 and 2004. A total of 11 such interventions were found from USA and UK. The grade of the interventions was from kindergarten, primary grades, middle school to high school. Most of these interventions targeted both physical activity and nutrition behaviours although there were some interventions that focused on only one dimension such as TV watching or restricting drinking of carbonated drinks or increasing physical education time in the school. Most of the interventions were based on some behavioural theory and the most popular theory was social cognitive theory. Most of the interventions focused on individual level behaviour change approaches. Most of the interventions focused on short‐term changes right after the intervention. On the whole, interventions resulted in modest changes in behaviours and mixed results with indicators of obesity. TV watching seems to be most modifiable behaviour, followed by physical activity and nutrition behaviours. The outcome measures such as lowered BMI (body mass index), triceps skin‐fold thickness and waist circumference have not been measured by all studies. Recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of school‐based childhood obesity interventions are presented.
Musculoskeletal disorders associated with obesity: a biomechanical perspective
Authors: Wearing S. C. , Hennig E. M. , Byrne N. M. , Steele J. R. , Hills A. P.
Published: July 2006

Despite the multifactorial nature of musculoskeletal disease, obesity consistently emerges as a key and potentially modifiable risk factor in the onset and progression of musculoskeletal conditions of the hip, knee, ankle, foot and shoulder. To date, the majority of research has focused on the impact of obesity on bone and joint disorders, such as the risk of fracture and osteoarthritis. However, emerging evidence indicates that obesity may also have a profound effect on soft‐tissue structures, such as tendon, fascia and cartilage. Although the mechanism remains unclear, the functional and structural limitations imposed by the additional loading of the locomotor system in obesity have been almost universally accepted to produce aberrant mechanics during locomotor tasks, thereby unduly raising stress within connective‐tissue structures and the potential for musculoskeletal injury. While such mechanical theories abound, there is surprisingly little scientific evidence directly linking musculoskeletal injury to altered biomechanics in the obese. For the most part, even the biomechanical effects of obesity on the locomotor system remain unknown. Given the global increase in obesity and the rapid rise in musculoskeletal disorders, there is a need to determine the physical consequences of continued repetitive loading of major structures of the locomotor system in the obese and to establish how obesity may interact with other factors to potentially increase the risk of musculoskeletal disease.
Food for thought or thought for food? – A stakeholder dialogue around the role of the snacking industry in addressing the obesity epidemic
Authors: Astrup A. , Bovy M. W. L. , Nackenhorst K. , Popova A. E.
Published: July 2006

The current obesity epidemic is generally considered multi‐causal. Certain foods, including snacks such as potato chips, and their marketing are often highlighted as needing particular attention. This forces potato chip producers to take position on their role and responsibility. Based on expert interviews and a literature review, a systems analysis approach is presented that distinguishes between basic physiology, self‐control and what we call jam transmitters, signals and pressures from the environment that hinder or frustrate self‐control. Examples of the latter are commercial push and seduction, obesogenic cultures, obesogenic physical environment, socioeconomic factors, genes, hormones and instincts. Solution of the epidemic demands an approach that involves all factors and all related actors. As for the snacking industry, the comprehensive responses are: to introduce specific diet products; to improve the nutritional quality of its products; the latter combined with supporting and engaging in healthy lifestyle marketing; to practice responsible targeting of marketing; and to limit the promotion of unhealthy consumption patterns.
Different patterns of Mini Mental Status Examination responses in primary progressive aphasia and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Le Rhun E. , Richard F. , Pasquier F.
Published: July 2006

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) syndrome is frequently misdiagnosed – particularly in favour of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Misdiagnosis is related to the heterogeneity of language disorders at onset, variability in the rate of clinical progression and the low prevalence of PPA syndrome, compared with AD. The aim of this study was to determine whether a patient's first Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) might provide insight into differentiating between PPA and AD. We compared item scores for the first, complete MMSE in consecutive patients with PPA versus matched patients with AD. Word recall and constructional praxis were significantly better in patients subsequently diagnosed as suffering from PPA. Patients with AD performed significantly better in terms of word registration, object naming, repetition and verbal direction. Our findings indicate that the various MMSE item scores may be helpful in differentiating PPA and AD in the first few years of the disease.
EFNS guidelines on the diagnosis and management of orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Lahrmann H. , Cortelli P. , Hilz M. , Mathias C. J. , Struhal W. , Tassinari M.
Published: July 2006

Orthostatic (postural) hypotension (OH) is a common, yet under diagnosed disorder. It may contribute to disability and even death. It can be the initial sign, and lead to incapacitating symptoms in primary and secondary autonomic disorders. These range from visual disturbances and dizziness to loss of consciousness (syncope) after postural change. Evidence based guidelines for the diagnostic workup and the therapeutic management (non‐pharmacological and pharmacological) are provided based on the EFNS guidance regulations. The final literature research was performed in March 2005. For diagnosis of OH, a structured history taking and measurement of blood pressure (BP) and heart rate in supine and upright position are necessary. OH is defined as fall in systolic BP below 20 mmHg and diastolic BP below 10 mmHg of baseline within 3 min in upright position. Passive head‐up tilt testing is recommended if the active standing test is negative, especially if the history is suggestive of OH, or in patients with motor impairment. The management initially consists of education, advice and training on various factors that influence blood pressure. Increased water and salt ingestion effectively improves OH. Physical measures include leg crossing, squatting, elastic abdominal binders and stockings, and careful exercise. Fludrocortisone is a valuable starter drug. Second line drugs include sympathomimetics, such as midodrine, ephedrine, or dihydroxyphenylserine. Supine hypertension has to be considered.
Brain MRI white matter lesions in migraine patients: is there a relationship with antiphospholipid antibodies and coagulation parameters?
Authors: Intiso D. , Di Rienzo F. , Rinaldi G. , Zarrelli M. M. , Giannatempo G. M. , Crociani P. , Di Viesti P. , Simone P.
Published: July 2006

Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in migraine patients have demonstrated lesions consisting of focal regions of increased signal intensity within the white matter. Antiphospholipid antibodies are known to have a role in many diseases including migraine. The aim of the present study was to ascertain the relationship between MRI‐visualized cerebral focal hyperintense lesions and serum antiphospholipid antibody levels, as well as blood coagulation parameters in migraine patients. One hundred and two (77 females, 25 males, mean age 33.8 ± 11.1) consecutive migraine patients and a control group of 94 (70 females, 24 males, mean age 33.2 ± 10.8) healthy subjects were enrolled. All individuals underwent brain MRI. Complete blood examinations, autoantibodies, antiphospholipids antibodies including anticardiolipin and lupus anticoagulant (aCL, LAC), antithrombin III, Protein C and S serum levels were ascertained in the subjects who presented white matter lesions on MRI. Twenty‐seven (26.4%) migraine patients and six (6.3%) healthy subjects in the control group showed focal regions of increased intensity signal within cerebral white matter (odds ratio 5.3, 95% CI: 1.98–16.36). In migraine patients with white matter lesions, antiphospholipid antibodies were not detected and serum levels of antithrombin III, and proteins C and S were normal. White matter lesions in migraine patients are fairly common. This finding is not associated with antiphospholipid antibodies or abnormal coagulation parameters. The significance of such lesions at present remains unclear.
Peripheral large nerve fibre function in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis
Authors: Chroni E. , Georgiou S. , Polychronopoulos P. , Sagriotis A. , Monastirli A. , Pasmatzi E. , Tsambaos D.
Published: July 2006

Accumulating evidence suggests the involvement of neurogenic inflammation in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Moreover, the concomitant occurrence of peripheral neuropathy has been reported in several psoriatic patients. Thus, the aim of the present study was to answer the question whether an impairment of peripheral large nerve fibre function may exist in psoriasis. Thirty‐two patients with severe and generalized chronic plaque psoriasis and 32 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls were evaluated by detailed clinical neurological and standard neurophysiological examination. The latter included motor nerve conduction study of one nerve in the upper and one in the lower extremities and sensory nerve conduction study of one nerve in the upper and two in the lower extremities. Neurological examination failed to demonstrate any clinical evidence of large fibre neuropathy. Furthermore, all values of the examined neurophysiological parameters were within normal limits; comparisons of the corresponding mean values in the patient and the control group showed no statistically significant differences. These findings demonstrate no measurable abnormalities of the peripheral large nerve fibres in psoriatic patients and therefore an association of psoriasis with peripheral large fibre neuropathy cannot be suggested.
Side-Shifting Hemicrania Continua with Aura (Migraine with Aura with Autonomic Symptoms Responsive to Indomethacin?)
Authors: Peres MFP , Masruha MR , Young WB
Published: July 2006

Atypical features of hemicrania continua (HC), including both visual aura and side shifting, have been reported previously. However, auras and variable unilaterality have never been reported together in HC. We report two patients with side-shifting HC with aura. These patients' symptoms are unilateral headaches, visual aura, autonomic features, throbbing pain, nausea and photo/phonophobia. One could speculate that the unilaterality and/or the autonomic symptom modules are indomethacin responsive. The patients can also be classified as chronic migraine with aura, with autonomic symptoms, responsive to indomethacin. Neither migraine subtype nor side-shifting HC with aura is included in the current International Headache Society (IHS) classification, so these patients are not classifiable. Side-shifting HC with aura implies the need to revisit the traditional IHS categorization of headaches into unique diagnostic groups. The modular headache theory may be a tool for the understanding of these rare and complex cases.
Generalized Hyperalgesia in Patients With Chronic Tension-Type Headache
Authors: Ashina S , Bendtsen L , Ashina M , Magerl W , Jensen R
Published: July 2006

Increased pain sensitivity in the central nervous system may play an important role in the pathophysiology of chronic tension-type headache (CTTH). Previous studies using pain thresholds as a measure of central pain sensitivity have yielded inconsistent results and only a few studies have examined perception of muscle pain without involvement of adjacent tissues. It has been suggested that suprathreshold testing might be more sensitive than threshold measurements in evaluation of central hyperexcitability in CTTH. The aim of the study was to compare pain ratings to suprathreshold single and repetitive (2 Hz) electrical stimulation of muscle and skin in cephalic (temporal and trapezius) and extracephalic (anterior tibial) regions between patients with CTTH and healthy subjects. In addition, we aimed to examine gender differences in pain ratings to suprathreshold stimulation and degree of temporal summation of pain between patients and controls. Pain ratings to both single and repetitive suprathreshold stimulation were higher in patients than in controls in both skin and muscle in all examined cephalic and extracephalic regions ( P < 0.04). Pain ratings to both single and repetitive suprathreshold electrical stimulation were significantly higher in female compared with male patients ( P < 0.001) and in female compared with male controls ( P ≤ 0.001). The degree of temporal summation of muscular and cutaneous pain tended to be higher in patients than in controls but the differences were not statistically different. This study provides evidence for generalized increased pain sensitivity in CTTH and strongly suggests that pain processing in the central nervous system is abnormal in this disorder. Furthermore, it indicates that suprathreshold stimulation is more sensitive than recording of pain thresholds for evaluation of generalized pain perception.
Do Migraineurs have Difficulty Judging Direction of Simulated Heading?
Authors: McKendrick AM , Turpin A , Webb S , Badcock DR
Published: July 2006

Some migraineurs have increased thresholds for the detection of global dot motion. We investigated whether migraineurs show consequential abnormalities in the determination of direction of self-motion (heading) from simulated optic flow. The ability to determine heading from optic flow is likely to be necessary for optimal determination of self-motion through the environment. Twenty-five migraineurs and 25 controls participated. Global dot motion coherence thresholds were assessed, in addition to performance on two simulated heading tasks: one with a symmetrical flow field, and the second with differing velocity of optic flow on the left and right sides of the participant. While some migraineurs demonstrated abnormal global motion coherence thresholds, there was no difference in performance on the heading tasks at either simulated walking (5 km/h) or driving (50 km/h) speeds. Increased global motion coherence thresholds in migraineurs do not result in abnormal judgements of heading from 100± coherent optic flow.
Prevalence of Patent Foramen Ovale in Migraine Patients with and Without Aura Compared with Stroke Patients. A Transcranial Doppler Study
Authors: Carod-Artal FJ , Ribeiro L da Silveira , Braga H , Kummer W , Mesquita HM , Vargas AP
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a consecutive unselected cohort of migraine patients (with and without aura) and compare it with a group of ischaemic young and elderly stroke patients. One hundred and forty-one migraine patients were compared with 330 stroke patients (130 young patients; 200 elderly patients) selected from our hospital stroke data bank. PFO was assessed with transcranial Doppler sonography with i.v. injection of agitated saline. The prevalence of PFO was 51.7± in migraine with aura (MA) patients, 33.7± in migraine without aura (MoA) patients, 33.8± in young stroke patients and 20.5± in elderly stroke patients ( P < 0.001). The prevalence of PFO in cryptogenic stroke in young and elderly stroke patients was, respectively, 41.1± and 25± ( P = 0.04). The difference between MA and MoA patients was significant (odds ratio = 2.1). The prevalence of PFO in MA patients is higher than in MoA patients and in young cryptogenic stroke patients.
Efficacy of Physiotherapy Including a Craniocervical Training Programme for Tension-Type Headache; A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: van Ettekoven H , Lucas C
Published: July 2006

We conducted a multicentre, randomized controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment. The treatment period was 6 weeks with follow-up assessment immediately thereafter and after 6 months. The objective was to determine the effectiveness of a craniocervical training programme combined with physiotherapy for tension-type headache. Eighty-one participants meeting the diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache were randomly assigned to an exercise group (physiotherapy and an additional craniocervical training programme) and a control group (physiotherapy alone). The primary outcome measure was headache frequency. Secondary outcomes included headache intensity and duration, Quality of Life (SF-36) and the Multidimensional Headache Locus of Control scale (MHLC). At 6 months' follow-up, the craniocervical training group showed significantly reduced headache frequency, intensity and duration ( P < 0.001 for all). Effect sizes were large and clinically relevant. Loss to follow-up amounted to 3.7±. Physiotherapy including craniocervical training reduces symptoms of tension-type headache significantly over a prolonged time frame.
Service Delivery to Parents with an Intellectual Disability: Family‐Centred or Professionally Centred?
Authors: Wade Catherine M. , Mildon Robyn L. , Matthews Jan M.
Published: July 2006

Background  Studies support the use of family‐centred practices in service delivery to families where a parent has an intellectual disability. This paper examines the importance of such practices to parents.

Materials and Methods  Interview responses from 32 parents with intellectual disability were coded by two independent raters as reflecting family‐centred or professionally centred practice. Responses reflecting family‐centred practice were then coded as ‘relational’ or ‘participatory’ helpgiving.

Results  Service characteristics considered helpful by parents were more likely to be rated as family‐centred practice than professionally centred practice. Family‐centred practices considered helpful were more likely to be coded participatory than relational helpgiving.

Conclusions  The results support the conclusion that parents find family‐centred practices more helpful than professionally centred practices, and participatory helpgiving more helpful than relational helpgiving. The findings are discussed in relation to the tendency for an ‘implementation lag’ in service delivery to families.
Social Ecology of a Residential Special School for Young People with Challenging Behaviours: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Smith Kate , Powlitch Stephanie , Little David , Furniss Frederick
Published: July 2006

Background  Little is known about the social ecology of residential schools. This study examined staff/student interaction and student activity in a traditional residential unit and an ‘independent living unit’ (ILU) in a school for students with intellectual disabilities and challenging behaviour.

Method  Staff and student behaviours were observed for 23 students aged 8–16 years, five from the ILU and 18 from the traditional unit.

Results  Students received staff assistance to complete activity for under 6% and 1% of time, and were constructively engaged for under 50% and 20% of time, in the traditional unit and ILU respectively. Few differences were found between the units.

Conclusions  Despite higher staffing ratios, levels of staff assistance and attention and resident activity in the school resemble mean levels in comparable adult community services. Further research into outcomes in residential schools seems warranted.
Residential Provision for Adult Persons with Intellectual Disabilities in Ireland
Authors: Mulvany Fiona , Barron Steve , McConkey Roy
Published: July 2006

Background  The type of accommodation provided for persons with an intellectual disability is a major indicator of the social policy for this client group. This is likely to vary within and across countries; hence the importance of undertaking national and international comparisons. Estimations of future need are also required to assist service planning.

Method  A database of all persons in receipt of intellectual disability services has been operating in the Republic of Ireland since 1995. In Northern Ireland, regional databases were used to provide similar information.

Results  Around 10 000 people live in some form of residential provision: 56% in special settings, 35% in ordinary housing and 9% in hospitals. Most residents were classed as having ‘severe’ disabilities and were aged over 35 years. There were marked differences in the amount and type of provision provided in the two parts of the island. This was also mirrored in differences across health service areas within each country. The demand for future places was greater in Northern Ireland.

Conclusions  A planning target of 3.5 places per 1000 adult population is proposed although substantial investments in services is required to achieve this. Longitudinal surveys are an important way of monitoring the impact of new policy initiatives.
Attitudes of Social Service Providers towards the Sexuality of Individuals with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Bazzo Giuseppe , Nota Laura , Soresi Salvatore , Ferrari Lea , Minnes Patricia
Published: July 2006

Background  The sexual lives of people with intellectual disability is made complex by the involvement and influence of social service providers, whose beliefs and values have a great impact on the support they provide. We hypothesized that social service providers’ role, educational level and service in which they worked could affect attitudes towards the sexual behaviour of individuals with intellectual disability.

Materials and methods  The current study describes attitudes of social service providers towards the sexuality of individuals with disability measured by 20 items of Sexuality and Mental Retardation Attitudes Inventory (SMRAI). This instrument was devised by Brantlinger [Mental Retardation (1983) Vol. 21, pp. 17–22] to assess the attitudes of the staff employed by organizations that supplied services to individuals with intellectual disability. Specifically, analysis of variance (type of service × professional role × education) was performed on participants’ scores.

Results  Results suggested that the social service providers participating in this research study tended to have moderately liberal attitudes. Educational level and role carried out did not produce differences in their attitudes. A significant difference emerged between those who operated in different services. It was especially the staff of the outpatient treatment services who revealed the most liberal and positive attitudes towards the sexuality of individuals with intellectual disability.

Conclusions  The data reported in the present study seem to underline some differences between the data collected from the Italian and the Anglo‐Saxon social service providers. Failure to record influences associated with the role carried out and previous training could be related to the different contextual differences. Results suggest that particular attention should be paid to the training of those who hold managerial posts in Italian residential services.
Caregiving Perceptions of Chinese Mothers of Children with Intellectual Disability in Hong Kong
Authors: Mak Winnie W. S. , Ho Gladys S. M.
Published: July 2006

Background  In this study, we tested the effects of three different coping strategies (i.e. problem‐focused, emotion‐focused and relationship‐focused coping) on both positive and negative caregiving perceptions.

Materials and Methods  Two hundred and twelve Chinese mothers of children with intellectual disability from a major non‐governmental organization were recruited across various districts in Hong Kong. Chinese versions of the Daily Caregiving Stress Scale, Modified Family Support Scale, COPE Inventory, Relationship‐Focused Coping Scale, Caregiver Burden Inventory, and subscales of the Kansas Inventory of Parental Perceptions were completed.

Results:  Findings of the hierarchical regression analyses indicated that whereas problem‐focused and emotion‐focused coping was differentially related to positive and negative perceptions, respectively, relationship‐focused coping was significantly related to both types of perceptions. Results of the relationship between positive and negative perceptions showed preliminary support for their orthogonality.

Conclusions:  Relationship‐focused coping was found to be more suitable for understanding caregiver perceptions within collectivistic cultures. Implications for professional services were discussed.
‘Burnout’ Amongst Direct Care Workers in Services for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Research Findings and Initial Normative Data
Authors: Skirrow Paul , Hatton Chris
Published: July 2006

Background  Burnout has been highlighted as a significant problem for workers in the intellectual disabilities field. A growing number of studies have investigated the levels of burnout and its correlates amongst this population, although they have often reported somewhat contradictory findings.

Materials and methods  The present paper sought to systematically review the literature describing the levels and correlates of burnout amongst direct care workers of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Results  Meta‐analytic comparisons suggested that the levels of burnout are somewhat lowered in this population compared with normative samples and that there appeared to be a trend of burnout rates decreasing steadily over the past 20 years.

Discussion  Burnout appears to represent a useful construct for measuring the distress of workers supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. Gaps and inconsistencies were highlighted in the research literature and future research directions discussed.
Reproductive biology and postnatal development in the tent‐making batArtibeus watsoni(Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)
Authors: Chaverri G. , Kunz T. H.
Published: July 2006

In this study we investigated the reproductive patterns and postnatal development in the tent‐making batArtibeus watsoni. We sampled two populations in the Golfito Wildlife Refuge and Corcovado National Park, south‐western Costa Rica, from June 2003 to March 2005. Most females were pregnant during the months of January and June, and most were lactating in March and July, indicating that this species exhibits seasonal bimodal polyoestry, with the first parturition peak occurring in February–March and the second in June–July. Additionally, we observed a postpartum oestrus following the first parturition, but not after the second. Females entered oestrus again in November–December and had a gestation period ofc. 3 months. A female‐biased sex ratio of neonates was observed during the second parturition period, and young were born at 32 and 56% of their mothers' body mass and length of forearm, respectively. Adult proportions in length of forearm were attained faster than adult proportions in body mass, and sustained flight was only possible after 35 days of age, when pups had achieved 100 and 80% of adult length of forearm and body mass proportions, respectively. Weaning and roosting independence occurred when young werec. 30–40 days old, and young females appeared to remain close to their place of birth, at least for their first mating period, whereas adult males were never recaptured near their birth site. In addition, sexual maturity was reached in as little as 3 months in females born during the first parturition period, whereas females born during the second birth period in June–July seemed to reach maturity at 6 months of age. Our results show thatA. watsonibelongs to the faster lane of the slow–fast continuum of life‐history variation in bats, which may be attributed primarily to its roosting and feeding ecology.
Lynx (Lynx lynx) killing red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in boreal Sweden – frequency and population effects
Authors: Helldin J. O. , Liberg O. , Glöersen G.
Published: July 2006

We studied the frequency and pattern of lynxLynx lynxpredation on red foxesVulpes vulpesin boreal Sweden by the radio tracking of foxes and the snow tracking of lynx. We also assessed the population trend of red foxes after the re‐establishment of lynx in the region, based on various population indices. Fifty per cent of recorded fox mortalities in the radio‐tracking study (four of eight) were lynx kills. Adult‐sized foxes killed by lynx during radio tracking were in normal condition and of prime age, and were killed after the assumed annual population bottleneck. Albeit based on a small number of kills, this pattern may suggest that lynx predation, at least to some extent, is additive to other mortality in foxes. The annual lynx predation rate was 14% on radio‐tracked foxes and 4% on snow‐tracked foxes. The population indices of foxes in the main study area decreased by about 10% annually during the study period. The population decrease could potentially be explained by lynx predation alone, but we acknowledge some alternative explanations. Our results point out the possibility that red fox populations can be significantly limited by allowing lynx populations to recover.
Long‐distance movements by a small carnivorous marsupial: how Sminthopsis youngsoni (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) uses habitat in an Australian sandridge desert
Authors: Haythornthwaite A. S. , Dickman C. R.
Published: July 2006

This study investigated the extent of movement, habitat use and foraging behaviour of the lesser hairy‐footed dunnart Sminthopsis youngsoni, a small (9 g) insectivorous marsupial, in the dunefields of the Simpson Desert, western Queensland, Australia. Radio‐telemetry was used to track nightly movements of dunnarts while foraging and to determine their diurnal resting places. Both males and females travelled comparatively long distances while foraging (mean distance 412 m per night), but some males travelled much further (>2 km in a night). Females travelled frequently between the swales (interdunal valleys) and dune tops in the breeding season (spring), but remained in the swales in the colder months, whereas males were restricted mostly to the swales throughout the year. Females probably travel to the dune tops in response to increased seasonal food resources (invertebrates), at a time when their energy requirements are high (reproduction and lactation) and mobility may be restricted (with pouch‐ or nest‐young). Long‐distance movements and low rates of recapture (<10%) indicate that this species is serially nomadic and is able to move to areas of greater resource availability when local resources are depleted. We suggest that the ability to travel long distances in search of food is a successful strategy for this species, resulting in its persistent abundance in an environment where food resources are often patchy and unreliable.
Dairy research in Canadian universities
Authors: GOFF H DOUGLAS , DALGLEISH DOUGLAS G , GRIFFITHS MANSEL W , POULIOT YVES , TURGEON SYLVIE L , JELEN PAUL
Published: July 2006

The research activities in dairy science at the University of Guelph, Université Laval, and the University of Alberta are presented. At the University of Guelph, the Ontario dairy industry (producers and processors) and the federal government sponsor two dairy research chairs, one in dairy chemistry/technology and the other in dairy microbiology/food safety. This activity is complemented by other food science faculty with dairy research interests. At Université Laval, the dairy research group STELA, comprised of several faculty and support staff, focuses on the chemistry and technology of milk proteins, milk lipids and lactic acid fermentations. The University of Alberta also supports an active dairy research group. Dairy research is very strong at these institutions due to very proactive funding arrangements with dairy industry groups.
Milk protein polymorphisms in Holstein cattle†
Authors: ONER YASEMIN , ELMACI CENGIZ
Published: July 2006

Milk samples from 203 Holstein cows were phenotyped for genetic variants αs1‐casein, β‐casein, κ‐casein and β‐lactoglobulin using starch‐gel electrophoresis. All of the four milk protein loci exhibited polymorphism with allele frequencies of 0.862 ± 0.017 for αs1‐casein B, 0.966 ± 0.0009 for β‐casein A, 0.712 ± 0.0224 for κ‐casein A and 0.567 ± 0.0245 for β‐lactoglobulin B. The mean heterozygosity estimated over all the four milk protein loci was 0.3015. Genetic equilibrium was observed among all of the loci investigated, except κ‐casein. Chi‐squared tests revealed that there was no significant linkage among studied milk protein phenotypes.
Microbiological and chemical characterization of Fiore Sardo, a traditional Sardinian cheese made from ewe's milk
Authors: PISANO M BARBARA , FADDA M ELISABETTA , DEPLANO MAURA , CORDA ARIANNA , COSENTINO SOFIA
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to assess the chemical and microbial characteristics of 12 batches of artisanal Fiore Sardo, a protected designation of origin (PDO) hard cheese made from raw ewe's milk without addition of starters, during maturation. High standard deviations were observed for moisture percentage, total solids percentage and NaCl percentage content, possibly owing to differences in manufacturing processes and/or milk composition. Total mesophilic bacteria varied between 10 log10 cfu/g in 48‐h‐old cheese samples and 3 log10 cfu/g in 9‐month‐old samples. Total coliforms and staphylococci showed the highest counts at 48 h of ripening then decreased significantly, dropping to levels below 2 log10 cfu/g at 3 months of maturation. Lactic acid bacteria and enterococci were the dominant micro‐organisms throughout maturation. They were mainly represented by the species Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus casei group. Low levels of yeasts were detected throughout the maturation period of the cheese. Debaryomyces hansenii and Kluyveromyces lactis var. lactis were the prevalent yeast species isolated.
Relationship between A and B variants of κ‐casein and β‐lactoglobulin and coagulation properties of milk (Part II)
Authors: MOLINA L H , BENAVIDES T , BRITO C , CARRILLO B , MOLINA I
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to relate the genetic variants A and B of κ‐casein (κ‐CN) and β‐lactoglobulin (β‐Lg) of the milk of 10 Chilean Holstein–Friesian cows and its coagulation properties (coagulation ability of milk, curd firmness and syneresis of the curd).

The results showed that β‐Lg AB phenotypes have a significant effect on the studied properties in comparison with the samples containing the AA phenotype. A and B variants of κ‐CN did not have a significant effect on the coagulation properties, although there was a favourable interaction between β‐Lg AB and κ‐CN B.
Measurement of ionic calcium in milk
Authors: LIN M‐J , LEWIS M J , GRANDISON A S
Published: July 2006

There are many reports in the literature regarding the effects of ionic calcium on reactions related to casein micelle stability, such as heat stability, ethanol stability and susceptibility to gelation, sediment formation and fouling. However, experimental evidence supporting these assertions is much less readily available.

This paper evaluates three selective ion electrode systems for measuring ionic calcium directly in milk as well as looking at the effects on pH reduction and addition of calcium chloride.

The best electrode system was the Ciba Corning 634 system, which was designed for blood but has been modified for milk. This was found to be reproducible and stable when calibrated daily and allowed direct measurements to be taken on milk in 70 s. This has been found to perform well now for 3 years. The other systems were not so useful, as they took longer to stabilize, but may be useful for higher ionic calcium concentrations, which are found in acidified milk products.

Reducing the pH increased ionic calcium and reduced ethanol stability. Calcium chloride addition reduced pH, increased ionic calcium and reduced the ethanol stability. Readjusting the pH to its value before calcium addition reduced the ionic calcium, but not back to its original value. Milks from individual cows showed wide variations in their ionic calcium concentrations.

This establishes the methodology for a more detailed investigation on measurement of ionic calcium in milks from individual cows and from bulk milks, to allow a better understanding of its role in casein micelle stability.
Syneresis in set yogurt as affected by EPS starter cultures and levels of solids
Authors: AMATAYAKUL THANUT , SHERKAT FRANK , SHAH NAGENDRA P
Published: July 2006

This study compared the pattern of whey separation determined by siphon, drainage and centrifugation method in set yogurts as affected by solid contents (9% and 14%) and exopolysaccharide (EPS)‐producing starter cultures. The level of whey separation determined by all three methods decreased as the total solids increased. There was a further decrease in whey separation in yogurts made using EPS‐producing starter cultures as determined by the siphon method at both solid contents as compared with those made with non‐EPS starter cultures. There was no difference in the level of whey separation as determined by the drainage method in products made at the same solids content (both 9% and 14%). A higher level of whey separation was observed in the product made using EPS starter cultures as determined by centrifugation method than that with non‐EPS starter cultures at 9% solids. At 14% solids level, the values were higher in the product made by non‐EPS starter cultures than that made with EPS starter cultures.
N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonists enhance histamine neuron activity in rodent brain
Authors: Faucard Raphaël , Armand Vincent , Héron Anne , Cochois Véronique , Schwartz Jean‐Charles , Arrang Jean‐Michel
Published: July 2006

The modulation of histamine neuron activity by various non‐competitive NMDA‐receptor antagonists was evaluated by changes intele‐methylhistamine (t‐MeHA) levels and histidine decarboxylase (hdc) mRNA expression induced in rodent brain. The NMDA open‐channel blockers phencyclidine (PCP) and MK‐801 enhancedt‐MeHA levels in mouse brain by 50–60%. Ifenprodil, which interacts with polyamine sites of NR2B‐containing NMDA receptors, had no effect. PCP also increasedhdcmRNA expression in the rat tuberomammillary nucleus. The enhancement oft‐MeHA levels elicited by MK‐801 (ED50of ∼0.1 mg/kg) was observed in the hypothalamus, cerebral cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Controlt‐MeHA levels and thet‐MeHA response to MK‐801 were not different in male and female mice. Double immunostaining for HDC and NMDA receptor subunits showed that histamine neurons of the rat tuberomammillary nucleus express NMDA receptor subunit 1 (NR1) with NMDA receptor subunit 2A (NR2A) and NMDA receptor 2B subunit (NR2B). In addition, immunoreactivity for the neuronal glutamate transporter EAAC1 was observed near most histaminergic perikarya. Hence, these findings support the existence of histamine/glutamate functional interactions in the brain. The increase in histamine neuron activity induced by NMDA receptor antagonists further suggests a role of histamine neurons in psychotic disorders. In addition, the decrease in MK‐801‐induced hyperlocomotion observed in mice after administration of ciproxifan further strengthens the potential interest of H3‐receptor antagonist/inverse agonists for the symptomatic treatment of schizophrenia.
RNA interference targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase ζ/receptor‐type protein tyrosine phosphatase β suppresses glioblastoma growth in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ulbricht Ulrike , Eckerich Carmen , Fillbrandt Regina , Westphal Manfred , Lamszus Katrin
Published: July 2006

The protein tyrosine phosphatase ζ/receptor‐type protein tyrosine phosphatase β (PTPζ/RPTPβ) and its ligand pleiotrophin (PTN) are overexpressed in human glioblastomas. Both molecules are involved in neuronal cell migration during CNS development. In addition, PTN can induce glioma cell migration which is at least in part mediated through binding to PTPζ/RPTPβ. To study the relevance of this ligand–receptor pair for glioma growth in vitro and in vivo, we transfected the human glioblastoma cell line U251‐MG with small interfering RNA (siRNA) directed against PTPζ/RPTPβ. Stable siRNA transfection resulted in strong down‐regulation of PTPζ/RPTPβ expression. When injected subcutaneously into nude mice, clones that expressed normal levels of PTPζ/RPTPβ (PTPζ + clones) formed exponentially growing tumours, whereas tumour growth was almost completely abrogated for clones that expressed reduced PTPζ/RPTPβ levels (PTPζ – clones). Similar results were obtained using an orthotopic intracerebral model. Proliferation of PTPζ – cells in vitro was significantly reduced compared with that of control clones. Matrix‐immobilized PTN stimulated the proliferation of PTPζ + cells but not of PTPζ – cells. Haptotactic migration induced by PTN was reduced for PTPζ – clones compared with control clones. Our findings suggest that antagonization of PTPζ/RPTPβ expression can inhibit glioma growth in vivo and may thus represent a potentially promising treatment strategy.