bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secular variations in seawater chemistry as a control on the chemistry of basinal brines: test of the hypothesis
Authors: LOWENSTEIN T. K. , TIMOFEEFF M. N.
Published: March 2008

The hypothesis that basinal brines inherited their major ion chemistries and elevated salinities from evaporated paleoseawaters is tested by comparing the compositions of basinal brines in Silurian (Michigan basin, Illinois basin, Appalachian basin in eastern Ohio) and Jurassic/Cretaceous (Central Mississippi Salt Dome basin, Arkansas shelf, and south‐central Texas) host rocks, when the world oceans were ‘CaCl2 seas’, with those from Permian and Pennsylvanian rocks (Palo Duro basin, Central Basin Platform, and Delaware basin, Texas and New Mexico) when the world oceans were ‘MgSO4 seas’. Basinal brines examined are assumed to have originally formed from evaporation of the same seawaters that produced major evaporites. Sulfate, Mg and K levels in basinal brines are below the concentrations expected from evaporation of seawater of any type, which emphasizes the importance of diagenetic mineral–brine interactions in controlling basinal brine chemistry. There are no major differences in SO4, Mg and K concentrations between basinal brines hosted by rocks originally formed during ages when the world oceans were MgSO4 seas versus CaCl2 seas. Basinal brines in Pennsylvanian–Permian rocks are compositionally distinct (relatively high Na and low Ca) from basinal brines in Silurian, Jurassic and Cretaceous host rocks, which may reflect original differences in seawater chemistry. Basinal brines enriched in Ca and depleted in Na relative to evaporated seawater of any type have traditionally been interpreted to form by albitization of plagioclase feldspar. A new explanation for Ca enrichment and Na depletion of basinal brines is the mixing of evaporated CaCl2‐type seawater with more dilute water. Some basinal brines are similar in major ion composition to evaporated seawater of a particular age, for example basinal brines in the Cretaceous Edwards Group carbonates, Texas, where dolomitization is the only reaction required to convert evaporated Mesozoic CaCl2 seawater into Edwards Group brine.
Emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD): the special educational need justifying exclusion
Authors: Jull Stephen K.
Published: March 2008

Students identified with emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD) present a special case within special educational needs (SEN) and inclusion. EBD is perhaps the only category of SEN that exposes a child to increased risk of exclusion as a function of the very SEN identified as requiring special provision in the first instance. Students identified with EBD share an increased risk for disruptive behaviour. The use of exclusions as a strategy for responding to the special educational needs of these children is contrary to the notion of inclusion. Exclusions, by definition, reduce the ability of schools and associated agencies to work with children identified with SEN. Assuming a positive school effect on the academic and social development, reducing and/or interrupting the continuity of attendance via sanctions such as exclusion may exacerbate negative socio–behavioural developmental patterns, compounding identified risk factors and associated deleterious socio–emotional and cognitive/learning outcomes.
Understanding children's constructions of meanings about other children: implications for inclusive education
Authors: Messiou Kyriaki
Published: March 2008

This paper explores the factors that influence the way children construct meanings about other children, and especially those who seem to experience marginalisation, within school contexts. The research involved an ethnographic study in a primary school in Cyprus over a period of 5 months. Qualitative methods were used, particularly participant observations and interviews with children. Interpretation of the data suggests that children's perceptions about other children, and especially those who come to experience marginalisation, are influenced by the following factors: other children and the interactions between them; adults’ way of behaving in the school; the existing structures within the school; and the cultures of the school and the wider educational context. Even though the most powerful factor was viewed to be the adults’ influence, it was rather the interweaving between different factors that seemed to lead to the creation of particular meanings for other children. In the end, it is argued that children's voices should be seen as an essential element within the process of developing inclusive practices.
Neuroprotective actions of deferiprone in cultured cortical neurones and SHSY‐5Y cells
Authors: Molina‐Holgado Francisco , Gaeta Alessandra , Francis Paul T. , Williams Robert J. , Hider Robert C.
Published: March 2008

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder, but the initiating molecular processes contributing to neuronal death are not well understood. AD is associated with elevated soluble and aggregated forms of amyloid beta (Aβ) and with oxidative stress. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence for a detrimental role of iron in the pathogenic process. In this context, iron chelation by compounds such as 3‐hydroxypyridin‐4‐one, deferiprone (Ferriprox™) may have potential neuroprotective effects. We have evaluated the possible neuroprotective actions of deferiprone against a range of AD‐relevant insults including ferric iron, H2O2 and Aβ in primary mouse cortical neurones. We have investigated the possible neuroprotective actions of deferiprone (1, 3, 10, 30 or 100 μM) in primary neuronal cultures following exposure to ferric iron [ferric nitrilotriacetate (FeNTA); 3 and 10 μM], H2O2 (100 μM) or Aβ1–40 (3, 10 and 20 μM). Cultures were treated with deferiprone or vehicle either immediately or up to 6 h after the insult in a 24‐well plate format. In order to elucidate a possible neuroprotective action of deferiprone against Parkinson’s disease relevant insults another group of experiments were performed in the human neuroblastoma catecholaminergic SHSY‐5Y cell line. SHSY‐5Y cells were treated with MPP+ iodide, the active metabolite of the dopaminergic neurotoxin MPTP and the neuroprotective actions of deferiprone evaluated. Cytotoxicity was assessed at 24 h by lactate dehydrogenase release, 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium‐bromide turnover (FeNTA and hydrogen peroxide) and morphometric analysis of cell viability by Hoechst 33324/propidium iodide (FeNTA, Aβ and MPP+) or 6‐carboxyfluorescein diacetate and annexin V‐Cy3 (Aβ). The present study demonstrates that deferiprone protects against FeNTA, hydrogen peroxide, MPP+ and Aβ1–40‐induced neuronal cell death in vitro, which is consistent with previous in vitro and in vivo studies that have demonstrated similar protection with other iron chelators.
Mechanisms of DJ‐1 neuroprotection in a cellular model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Liu Fang , Nguyen Jamie L. , Hulleman John D. , Li Li , Rochet Jean‐Christophe
Published: March 2008

Mitochondrial dysfunction, proteasome inhibition, and α‐synuclein aggregation are thought to play important roles in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Rare cases of early‐onset PD have been linked to mutations in the gene encoding DJ‐1, a protein with antioxidant and chaperone functions. In this study, we examined whether DJ‐1 protects against various stresses involved in PD, and we investigated the underlying mechanisms. Expression of wild‐type DJ‐1 rescued primary dopaminergic neurons from toxicity elicited by rotenone, proteasome inhibitors, and mutant α‐synuclein. Neurons with reduced levels of endogenous DJ‐1 were sensitized to each of these insults, and DJ‐1 mutants involved in familial PD exhibited decreased neuroprotective activity. DJ‐1 alleviated rotenone toxicity by up‐regulating total intracellular glutathione. In contrast, inhibition of α‐synuclein toxicity by DJ‐1 correlated with up‐regulation of the stress‐inducible form of Hsp70. RNA interference studies revealed that this increase in Hsp70 levels was necessary for DJ‐1‐mediated suppression of α‐synuclein aggregation, but not toxicity. Our findings suggest that DJ‐1 acts as a versatile pro‐survival factor in dopaminergic neurons, activating different protective mechanisms in response to a diverse range of PD‐related insults.
Neuropeptide Y stimulates retinal neural cell proliferation – involvement of nitric oxide
Authors: Álvaro Ana Rita , Martins João , Araújo Inês M. , Rosmaninho‐Salgado Joana , Ambrósio António F. , Cavadas Cláudia
Published: March 2008

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a 36 amino acid peptide widely present in the CNS, including the retina. Previous studies have demonstrated that NPY promotes cell proliferation of rat post‐natal hippocampal and olfactory epithelium precursor cells. The aim of this work was to investigate the role of NPY on cell proliferation of rat retinal neural cells. For this purpose, primary retinal cell cultures expressing NPY, and NPY Y1, Y2, Y4and Y5receptors [Álvaroet al., (2007)Neurochem. Int.,50, 757] were used. NPY (10–1000 nM) stimulated cell proliferation through the activation of NPY Y1, Y2and Y5receptors. NPY also increased the number of proliferating neuronal progenitor cells (BrdU+/nestin+cells). The intracellular mechanisms coupled to NPY receptors activation that mediate the increase in cell proliferation were also investigated. The stimulatory effect of NPY on cell proliferation was reduced byl‐nitroarginine‐methyl‐esther (l‐NAME; 500 μM), a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, 1H‐[1,2,4]oxadiazolo‐[4, 3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐one (ODQ; 20 μM), a soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor or U0126 (1 μM), an inhibitor of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2). In conclusion, NPY stimulates retinal neural cell proliferation, and this effect is mediated through nitric oxide–cyclic GMP and ERK 1/2 pathways.
Promoter‐specific induction of the phosphatase SHP‐1 by viral infection and cytokines in CNS glia
Authors: Christophi George P. , Hudson Chad A. , Gruber Ross , Christophi Christoforos P. , Massa Paul T.
Published: March 2008

We have previously shown that the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP‐1 is highly expressed in CNS glia and is an important modulator of cytokine signaling. As such, mice genetically lacking SHP‐1 display constitutive myelin abnormalities, severe virus‐induced demyelinating disease, and defects in innate anti‐viral responses in the CNS. In this study, we show the differential distribution of the SHP‐1 promoter‐specific transcripts and demonstrate that several cytokines significantly induce SHP‐1 expression in CNS glia. Consistent with these cytokine effects, infection with a neurotropic virus both in vitro and in vivo up‐regulates SHP‐1 transcripts and protein in CNS cells. Using CNS glial cultures of gene knockout mice, we show that interferons‐β and interferons‐γ act through STAT‐1 and interferon regulatory factor‐1 to induce the SHP‐1 promoter I transcripts. Conversely, interferons‐β and IL‐6 act through STAT‐3 to induce SHP‐1 promoter II transcripts. This study demonstrates that interferons and other cytokines associated with virus infections in the CNS can significantly induce the expression of SHP‐1 through STAT‐1/3 activity and provides a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating cytokine‐induced expression important for multiple homeostatic functions of SHP‐1 in the CNS.
Foraging behaviour of non‐breeding Western Sandpipers Calidris mauri as a function of sex, habitat and flocking
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ GUILLERMO , LANK DAVID B.
Published: March 2008

Individuals within a population may vary considerably in the way they exploit available food resources. If the sexes differ in the size of their feeding apparatus, there can be differences in foraging behaviour and habitat use, hence one sex may be more susceptible to competition. We examined relationships between sexual dimorphism in bill size and foraging behaviour, and habitat and microhabitat use of non‐breeding Western Sandpipers Calidris mauri at Bahía Santa María, northwestern Mexico. Western Sandpipers are sexually dimorphic, with females about 15% longer‐billed than males. Males used a higher proportion of pecks, had a lower probing–pecking rate, walked at higher rates, foraged at sites with lower water content, and had greater variation in foraging technique than females. Moreover, males decreased their proportion of pecks and foraged at a higher rate than females when they changed from feeding alone to feeding in flocks, suggesting a greater safety advantage or susceptibility to conspecific interference when flock feeding. We compared behaviour and microhabitat usage in three habitats: brackish flats, mangroves, and cattail marshes. Sex‐related differences in foraging behaviour and microhabitat use were consistent among habitats. Birds in brackish flats and mangroves used a higher proportion of pecks, foraged at lower rates and walked at higher rates, and foraged at deeper sites, with a lower proportion of water cover, than those in cattail marshes. Sex‐related differences in foraging behaviour and microhabitat should reduce the level of competition between sexes, and may account for sex differences in Western Sandpiper distribution observed between habitats in Bahía Santa María.
Unhatched eggs: methods for discriminating between infertility and early embryo mortality
Authors: BIRKHEAD T. R. , HALL J. , SCHUT E. , HEMMINGS N.
Published: March 2008

Unhatched eggs are a common phenomenon in birds and are often referred to as being ‘infertile’, which (confusingly) can mean at least two things: (1) that the ovum has not been fertilized or (2) that the embryo has died during development. These two broad categories of hatching failure can be difficult to distinguish, particularly in the early stages of embryo development. We describe methods to distinguish between infertility (due to insufficient sperm) and early embryo mortality in passerine eggs using the Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata as a model. We also describe how we successfully adapted these methods for use on eggs from a wild species, the Tree Sparrow Passer montanus, collected after the incubation period, and show that sperm can be visualized on the perivitelline layer of unhatched eggs even several weeks after laying.
Aging and cancer cell biology, 2008
Authors: Campisi Judith
Published: March 2008

There is increasing support for the idea that aging and cancer are intimately connected by the activity of specific genes and the cellular responses to potentially oncogenic insults. This Hot Topics review discusses some recently published articles that shed light on both the commonalities – and intricacies – of the cancer–aging relationship. These articles reveal the expected complexities, but also surprising conservation, in mechanisms that link cancer and aging.
Oxidation as a crucial reaction for cholesterol to induce tissue degeneration: CD36 overexpression in human promonocytic cells treated with a biologically relevant oxysterol mixture
Authors: Leonarduzzi Gabriella , Gamba Paola , Gargiulo Simona , Sottero Barbara , Kadl Alexandra , Biasi Fiorella , Chiarpotto Elena , Leitinger Norbert , Vendemiale Gianluigi , Serviddio Gaetano , Poli Giuseppe
Published: March 2008

Oxidative stress, inflammation and altered cholesterol metabolism and levels are among the pathogenetic mechanisms of cognitive impairment that may accompany aging. Within the research area of hypercholesterolemia and age‐related disease processes, the molecular mechanisms of cholesterol interaction with the inflammatory cells of the macrophage lineage are yet to be elucidated. We thus investigated the effect of both non‐oxidized and oxidized cholesterol on monocytic cell differentiation and foam cell formation, as it occurs within vascular lesions during progression of atherosclerosis. In vitro experiments performed on human U937 promonocytic cells showed that a biologically representative mixture of oxysterols markedly stimulated CD36 expression and synthesis. In contrast, non‐oxidized cholesterol did not exert any effect on CD36 mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, the oxysterol‐induced up‐regulation of CD36 appeared to be based on the subsequent activation of protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ), extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Cells overexpressing CD36 were indeed able to actively take up oxidized low‐density lipoproteins, and become foam cells. The essential role of ERK pathway and CD36 receptor in oxysterol‐induced foam cell formation was proved by the prevention of the latter event when monocytic cells were incubated in the presence of MEK1/2 selective inhibitor or anti‐CD36 specific antibody. These experimental findings point to cholesterol oxidation as an essential reaction for this sterol to exert cellular stress and tissue damage in age‐related diseases in which inflammation represents a main driving force.
Association Between Colonic Symptoms and Inattention/Hyperactivity in British Children
Authors: Ryan Christopher W.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Functional faecal retention and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common in childhood. There is some evidence, mostly from clinical samples, of an association between them.

Methods:  The association between parental reports of inattention/hyperactivity and colonic symptoms in children between four and ten years of age was examined using the Health Survey for England 2000.

Results:  Boys were about twice as likely to be rated by their parents as inattentive/hyperactive if they had colon symptoms.

Conclusions:  This study adds to existing evidence associating bowel function and behavioural symptoms, especially in boys. Given the high prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms in general, and the increasing personal and societal impact of childhood behavioural problems, further exploration of the relationship is warranted, with particular attention to causal pathways.
Assessing Validity of ICD‐9‐CM and ICD‐10 Administrative Data in Recording Clinical Conditions in a Unique Dually Coded Database
Authors: Quan Hude , Li Bing , Duncan Saunders L. , Parsons Gerry A. , Nilsson Carolyn I. , Alibhai Arif , Ghali William A. ,   for the IMECCHI Investigators
Published: March 2008

Objective. The goal of this study was to assess the validity of the International Classification of Disease, 10th Version (ICD‐10) administrative hospital discharge data and to determine whether there were improvements in the validity of coding for clinical conditions compared with ICD‐9 Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) data.

Methods. We reviewed 4,008 randomly selected charts for patients admitted from January 1 to June 30, 2003 at four teaching hospitals in Alberta, Canada to determine the presence or absence of 32 clinical conditions and to assess the agreement between ICD‐10 data and chart data. We then recoded the same charts using ICD‐9‐CM and determined the agreement between the ICD‐9‐CM data and chart data for recording those same conditions. The accuracy of ICD‐10 data relative to chart data was compared with the accuracy of ICD‐9‐CM data relative to chart data.

Results. Sensitivity values ranged from 9.3 to 83.1 percent for ICD‐9‐CM and from 12.7 to 80.8 percent for ICD‐10 data. Positive predictive values ranged from 23.1 to 100 percent for ICD‐9‐CM and from 32.0 to 100 percent for ICD‐10 data. Specificity and negative predictive values were consistently high for both ICD‐9‐CM and ICD‐10 databases. Of the 32 conditions assessed, ICD‐10 data had significantly higher sensitivity for one condition and lower sensitivity for seven conditions relative to ICD‐9‐CM data. The two databases had similar sensitivity values for the remaining 24 conditions.

Conclusions. The validity of ICD‐9‐CM and ICD‐10 administrative data in recording clinical conditions was generally similar though validity differed between coding versions for some conditions. The implementation of ICD‐10 coding has not significantly improved the quality of administrative data relative to ICD‐9‐CM. Future assessments like this one are needed because the validity of ICD‐10 data may get better as coders gain experience with the new coding system.
Anal incontinence in women with third or fourth degree perineal tears and subsequent vaginal deliveries
Authors: Sangalli M. R. , Floris L. , Faltin D. , Weil A.
Published: March 2008

We contacted 208 women 13 years after they suffered an obstetrical anal sphincter tear in order to estimate the effect of subsequent vaginal deliveries on anal continence. Among the 177 eligible responders, 129 sustained a partial or complete 3rd degree and 48 a 4th degree tear; 114 women had subsequent vaginal deliveries. Anal incontinence was more common in women with 4th (25.0%) than with 3rd degree tears (11.5%, p = 0.049). Subsequent vaginal deliveries were associated with a higher prevalence of severe incontinence in women with 4th degree tears (p = 0.023). No aggravation or increase in prevalence of incontinence was observed in women with 3rd degree tears. These results suggest that in a subsequent pregnancy, careful evaluation is necessary and an abdominal delivery may be advisable for women with previous major sphincter trauma.
Occipital posterior and occipital transverse positions: reappraisal of the obstetric risks
Authors: To William WK , Li Ivy CF
Published: March 2008

Malpositions in labour in a vertex‐presenting fetus are known to be associated with increased risks of operative delivery. A retrospective analysis of all deliveries over 4 years in a university teaching obstetric unit was performed using the available obstetric database. All cases of live births with cephalic presenting babies after 36 completed gestational weeks were analysed, and included 17,533 out of 20,533 total deliveries over the study period. The study group included those cases with occipital posterior and transverse positions, based on the documentation of the position of the vertex at the time of delivery, or at the last clinical examination before obstetric intervention, while occipital anterior cases constituted the control group. The overall incidence of malpositions was 14%, and operative delivery rate in the study group was 82.5% versus 20.7% in the control group. After excluding cases of operative delivery for non‐mechanical indications, such as fetal distress, the adjusted odds ratio for the malposition group was 9.8 (95% CI 8.91–10.8) for total assisted delivery and 30.2 (95% CI 25.6–35.5) for Caesarean section compared to the occipital anterior group. Malpositions are definitely associated with a marked increase in the risk of operative delivery including Caesarean section. Labour complicated by malposition should be considered high risk, and should warrant due preparation for obstetric intervention.
Pregnancy outcome in women with reflux nephropathy and the inheritance of vesico‐ureteric reflux
Authors: North Robyn A. , Taylor Rennae S. , Gunn Tania R.
Published: March 2008

In women with reflux nephropathy, we investigated whether pre‐existing hypertension and impaired renal function influence the rates of preeclampsia, renal function deterioration and preterm birth. The infants were investigated for vesico‐ureteric reflux (VUR). A prospective audit of 54 pregnancies in 46 women with reflux nephropathy was performed. Preeclampsia complicated 24% of pregnancies and was increased in women with pre‐existing hypertension (42%) compared with normotensive women (14%), (RR 3.0 (95% CI 1.1–7.8)). Nine (18%) women experienced deterioration in renal function during pregnancy. Women with mild or moderate renal impairment were at increased risk of renal function deterioration (RR 12.7 (95% CI 1.6–98.5); RR 19.8 (95% CI 2.6–155)), respectively. A third of infants were delivered preterm. The risk of preterm birth was increased if the mother had pre‐existing hypertension (p = 0.01) or moderate renal impairment (p = 0.002). Seventeen (43%) of the 40 infants who underwent micturating cystourethrography had VUR, consistent with autosomal dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance. In reflux nephropathy, pre‐existing hypertension was associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia and pre‐existing renal impairment with deterioration in renal function. Infants of women with reflux nephropathy should be screened for VUR.
Haematopoietic indicators of fetal metabolic acidosis
Authors: Spencer Michael K. , Khong T Yee , Matthews Brian L. , MacLennan Alastair H.
Published: March 2008

We aimed to study the haematopoietic response in normal and acidotic deliveries following vaginal and abdominal delivery and to compare this to the surrogate markers of perinatal acidosis.

Blood gas analyses, complete blood pictures and erythropoietin assays were performed on umbilical or early neonatal blood samples. Placental sections were examined for the presence of nucleated red blood cells. Perinatal clinical risk factors and major neonatal outcomes were collected.

The control population was 78 deliveries where the cord arterial pH was > 7.10. Controls born after labour were compared to those born prior to the onset of labour and to 14 acidotic infants born after labour.

Nucleated red blood cells did not increase with labour in the control groups but were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the acidotic group. Erythropoietin did not significantly change with either labour or acidosis. The predictive values from nucleated red blood cell counts were higher than those from low Apgar scores, atypical cardiotocograph traces, meconium‐stained amniotic fluid, erythropoietin and the presence of nucleated red blood cells in placental sections.

Nucleated red blood cell counts may be a useful surrogate marker of acidosis where blood gas analysis is unavailable. Further studies are required to examine the timing of the increase of erythropoiesis to help define the onset of the stimulus.
The management of pulsion enterocoele with the Zacharin abdominoperineal technique (and mesh sacrocolpopexy)
Authors: Kuah SES , Lee Kai‐Wan , Houghton CRS , Korda AR
Published: March 2008

Our aim was to evaluate the technique, results and complications in 126 women with pulsion enterocoele treated with the combined abdominoperineal repair. Mean follow‐up was 25 months with a range of 0–83 months. Operative morbidity included bladder trauma (0.7%), bowel injury (3.1%), wound breakdown (0.7%), infection (10%), pulmonary embolus (0.7%) and blood transfusion (40%). Long‐term complications included prolonged urinary retention (11%), incisional hernia (4.7%) and constipation (40.4%). 92.4% of women were cured.
Sarcomas and the conservative management of uterine fibroids: a cause for concern?
Authors: Dover Richard W. , Ferrier Alan J. , Torode Hugh W.
Published: March 2008

The introduction of conservative management options has further increased the choices available to clinicians treating women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. However, in the absence of a tissue diagnosis, the possibility of mismanaging an underlying uterine sarcoma is still present, placing these patients at potential risk of a delayed diagnosis of this serious pathology. Evidence suggests that 1 in 250–400 women presenting with what are thought to be symptomatic fibroids, will in fact have an underlying sarcoma, making this an important clinical issue. This paper therefore reviews the methods currently available for the assessment of women in whom conservative management of symptomatic fibroids is contemplated.
Universal antenatal group B streptococcus screening? The opinions of obstetricians and neonatologists within Australia
Authors: McLaughlin Kristin , Crowther Caroline
Published: March 2008

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is the leading infectious cause of morbidity and mortality in Australian newborns. Although intrapartum chemoprophylaxis is recommended to reduce the risk of neonatal GBS transmission and disease, controversy exists as to the best method to select women ‘at risk’ for this treatment. Our study aimed to survey the opinions of obstetricians and neonatologists currently in practice in Australia on GBS screening and treatment. Of the 488 obstetricians and 68 neonatologists currently in practice who responded to the survey, 271 obstetricians (56%) and 40 neonatologists (61%) supported universal antenatal screening. Of those respondents who did not support a universal antenatal screening policy, 196 (93%) and 24 (92%) of the obstetricians and neonatologists respectively, supported antenatal screening based on risk factors. This diversity in practitioner opinion highlights the lack of certainty in the literature as to the best management strategy to prevent neonatal GBS sepsis.
An Integrated Framework for the Instrumental Valuation of Nature
Authors: Weesie Peter D. M. , Van Andel Jelte
Published: March 2008

Nature is most often valued in terms of its provision of ecosystem goods and services to meet human needs. However, such instrumental valuations, informed by ecological economics, are limited by the mainly anthropocentric orientation. We present a framework to assess anthropocentric and nonanthropocentric instrumental values of nature in a balanced way, in association with sustainability science. Particular attention is paid to ecosystem functions, to be valued both for their benefits to human beings and for their importance to the ecological and evolutionary functioning of the global ecosystem.
Rethinking Avian Response toTamarixon the Lower Colorado River: A Threshold Hypothesis
Authors: Van Riper Charles , Paxton Kristina L. , O’Brien Chris , Shafroth Patrick B. , McGrath Laura J.
Published: March 2008

Many of the world’s large river systems have been greatly altered in the past century due to river regulation, agriculture, and invasion of introducedTamarixspp. (saltcedar, tamarisk). These riverine ecosystems are known to provide important habitat for avian communities, but information on responses of birds to differing levels ofTamarixis not known. Past research on birds along the Colorado River has shown that avian abundance in general is greater in native than in non‐native habitat. In this article, we address habitat restoration on the lower Colorado River by comparing abundance and diversity of avian communities at a matrix of different amounts of native and non‐native habitats at National Wildlife Refuges in Arizona. Two major patterns emerged from this study: (1) Not all bird species responded toTamarixin a similar fashion, and for many bird species, abundance was highest at intermediateTamarixlevels (40–60%), suggesting a response threshold. (2) InTamarix‐dominated habitats, the greatest increase in bird abundance occurred when small amounts of native vegetation were present as a component of that habitat. In fact,Tamarixwas the best vegetation predictor of avian abundance when compared to vegetation density and canopy cover. Our results suggest that to positively benefit avian abundance and diversity, one cost‐effective way to rehabilitate larger monocultureTamarixstands would be to add relatively low levels of native vegetation (∼20–40%) within homogenousTamarixhabitat. In addition, this could be much more cost effective and feasible than attempting to replace allTamarixwith native vegetation.
Riparian Butterfly (Papilionoidea and Hesperioidea) Assemblages Associated with Tamarix‐Dominated, Native Vegetation–Dominated, and Tamarix Removal Sites along the Arkansas River, Colorado, U.S.A.
Authors: Nelson S. Mark , Wydoski Rick
Published: March 2008

We studied butterfly assemblages at eight riparian sites over five years. Sites included Tamarix spp.–dominated riparian areas; sites where mechanical means or biological control agents (Diorhabda elongata deserticola) were used to limit Tamarix; sites that were mixtures of native woody vegetation (e.g., Populus and Salix) and Tamarix; and native vegetation sites. We identified a gradient in butterfly community composition that changed from treated Tamarix sites, through mixed vegetation, to native vegetation sites. Tamarix sites had lower butterfly metric (riparian butterfly index [RBI]) values than did native vegetation sites. The RBI is based on a combination of richness measures and the presence of specific species and groups of butterflies. There was no significant change in the RBI over sampling periods at any sites, including both Tamarix eradication sites. The RBI at sites where Tamarix control took place did not approach restoration goals based on values at unimpacted sites. Positive effects on riparian butterfly assemblages were not linked to any Tamarix control efforts, nor did we detect a decline from initial butterfly metrics at Tamarix sites. Direct ordination provided information on environmental variables, such as amount of nectar and herbaceous plant richness, which may be important in riparian restoration efforts.
Seizures in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Koch Marcus , Uyttenboogaart Maarten , Polman Susan , De Keyser Jacques
Published: March 2008

Summary

Seizures have long been recognized to be part of the disease spectrum of multiple sclerosis (MS). While they occur in only a minority of patients with MS, epileptic seizures can have serious consequences. The treatment of MS can be epileptogenic, and antiepileptic treatment can conversely worsen the symptoms of MS. In this article we present an overview of the current literature on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathology, imaging, prognosis and treatment of epileptic seizures in MS.
Cancer incidence in patients with schizophrenia and their first‐degree relatives – a meta‐analysis
Authors: Catts V. S. , Catts S. V. , O’Toole B. I. , Frost A. D. J.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  Controversy concerning cancer incidence in schizophrenia exists because of heterogeneous study findings.

Method:  A meta‐analysis was performed on standardized incidence ratios (SIR) of cancer in patients with schizophrenia and first‐degree relatives and compared with general population samples.

Results:  The pooled overall cancer incidence in patients was not significantly increased (SIR = 1.05, CI 0.95–1.15). Lung cancer incidence was slightly increased (SIR = 1.31, CI 1.01–1.71), but was reduced after adjusting for smoking prevalence. The incidence of several cancers unrelated to smoking was reduced in patients. Breast cancer rates were significantly increased in female patients. The pooled overall cancer incidence in siblings (SIR = 0.89, CI 0.84–0.94) and parents (SIR = 0.90, CI 0.88–0.93) was significantly reduced. A meta‐regression detected a significant relationship between cancer risk in the general population and relative risk in patients.

Conclusion:  The meta‐analysis aided exploration of inconsistent study findings. There is a discrepancy between cancer risk exposure and cancer incidence in schizophrenia consistent with a protective effect.
Applicants for stereotactic neurosurgery for psychiatric disorders: role of the Flemish advisory board
Authors: Gabriëls L. , Nuttin B. , Cosyns P.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  Research on stereotactic neurosurgery for psychiatric disorders (SNPD) is rapidly evolving. Knowledge on patients undergoing SNPD is of crucial importance. We describe applicants for SNPD and examine the necessity for a multidisciplinary advisory board.

Method:  Summary of the current practice of the Flemish advisory board (SNPD committee) and analysis of a questionnaire investigating the attitude of clinicians on SNPD.

Results:  In 7 years, 91 applications were submitted, nine patients did not fulfill diagnostic criteria for OCD, 65 patients received a positive recommendation, 50 SNPD procedures were performed. The prevalence of SNPD in the current year in Belgium is 0.6/million inhabitants. Ninety‐seven per cent of clinicians consider the expertise and advice of the SNPD committee essential for indication setting. Forty‐four percent of clinicians consider referral of a patient for capsulotomy, 82% for electrical brain stimulation.

Conclusion:  Neurosurgery is exclusively considered for severe, treatment‐refractory psychiatric disorders. Clinicians consider the SNPD committee essential in the decision‐making process prior to intervention.
Oligodipsia and dissociative experiences in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Hoeschel K. , Guba K. , Kleindienst N. , Limberger M. F. , Schmahl C. , Bohus M.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To test the frequency of attenuated fluid intake behavior (oligodipsia) in patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and to test if there is an inverse correlation between oligodipsia and the intensity of current dissociative experience in a pilot study.

Method:  Analyses were based on a sample of 15 BPD patients and 15 healthy controls. Fluid intake per diem and intensity of dissociative experience were measured by standardized self‐reports daily for 7 days.

Results:  The BPD patients ingested a significantly lower fluid volume per diem when compared with healthy controls (P < 0.001). We found a strong correlation between intensity of co‐occurring dissociative experience and fluid intake or urine osmolality (r = 0.762 and 0.665), independently of sleep quality and general BPD symptom severity.

Conclusion:  The results indicate that oligodipsia may constitute a serious problem at least for a subgroup of BPD patients, and may be correlated with some of the most problematic symptoms of BPD.
Clinical case management of revolving door patients – a semi‐randomized study
Authors: Lichtenberg P. , Levinson D. , Sharshevsky Y. , Feldman D. , Lachman M.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To assess the effectiveness of psychiatric clinical case management.

Method:  Subjects with at least three admissions in the previous 2 years were randomized into a clinical case management group (CMG; n = 122) and a standard care group (SCG; n = 95). Individuals who refused or were not located were included in a third, non‐randomized no‐treatment group (NTG; n = 153). Parameters assessed included utilization of in‐patient services and psychosocial functioning.

Results:  We found no difference between the CMG and the SCG in psychosocial functioning as evaluated by interviewers, and no difference between the three groups in hospitalization. In subjects’ self‐ratings, the CMG showed slight improvement in psychosocial functioning.

Conclusion:  Clinical case management did not prove itself superior to standard care in a revolving door population.
Association of IQ scores and school achievement with suicide in a 40‐year follow‐up of a Swedish cohort
Authors: Andersson L. , Allebeck P. , Gustafsson J‐E. , Gunnell D.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  Few studies have investigated the association of childhood IQ and school achievement with suicide. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of childhood IQ with suicide in a cohort of Swedish women and men.

Method:  21 809 subjects born in 1948 and 1953 who completed IQ and school tests at age 13 years have been followed until 2003. Information on paternal education and in‐patient care for psychosis was linked using the Swedish personal identification number.

Results:  There were 180 suicides amongst subjects with measured IQ. High IQ was associated with reduced suicide risk among men (OR per unit increase in age‐adjusted model 0.90, 95% CI 0.83–0.99), while there was no statistical evidence of an association in women (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.90–1.20). Among men with a history of psychosis, high IQ was associated with an increased risk of suicide.

Conclusion:  Low childhood IQ at age 13 years is associated with an increased risk of suicide in men but not in women; however, amongst those with psychosis, low IQ appears to be protective.
Oral mucosal melanoma with unusual clinicopathologic features
Authors: Kumar Satish K. S. , Shuler Charles F. , Sedghizadeh Parish P. , Kalmar John R.
Published: March 2008

Oral mucosal melanoma (OMM) is an extremely rare malignancy, accounting for < 0.5% of all melanomas and all oral malignancies. The rarity of OMM, the heterogeneity in clinical and histopathologic appearances, and the paucity of molecular and genetic studies to date have limited our knowledge of the etiopathogenesis of these cancers. A 39‐year‐old Hispanic male presented for evaluation of a large, pigmented, plaque‐like and nodular growth of the maxillary gingival and palatal mucosa. On presentation, a presumptive clinical diagnosis of mucosal melanoma was made, which was confirmed by incisional biopsy with subsequent histopathologic evaluation. Macroscopically, the morphology and highly pigmented nature of the tumor was suggestive of a rarer subtype of melanoma known as animal‐type melanoma, also referred to as pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma. However, microscopically, the tumor showed histopathologic features consistent with a high‐grade acral (mucosal) lentiginous melanoma with overt cytomorphologic features of malignancy in addition to showing prominent pigment synthesis resembling animal‐type melanoma. A detailed search of the literature did not identify a previous report of OMM with prominent pigment synthesis resembling animal‐type melanoma. Identification of melanoma subtypes has specific implications for therapeutic approach, and thus their recognition is important to successful patient management.
The histological and pathogenetic spectrum of cutaneous disease in monoclonal gammopathies
Authors: Rongioletti Franco , Patterson James W. , Rebora Alfredo
Published: March 2008

The dermatological disorders associated with monoclonal gammopathies are clinically heterogeneous and may be divided into four groups with distinctive pathogenetic mechanisms (a) specific (infiltrative) disorders including primary and secondary cutaneous plasmacytoma and cutaneous lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of Waldenström’s disease (b) skin disorders because of the deposition of monoclonal immunoglobulin (M protein), including amyloidoisis macroglobulinemia cutis, light chain deposition of Randall’s disease, follicular spicules of the nose, and cryoglobulinemia (c) skin disorders associated with monoclonal gammopathies, including highly associated (>50%), weakly associated (<50%) or anecdotal and (d) miscellaneous (non specific). In most cases, histopathology is crucial to confirm or to diagnose those skin conditions and is also very useful to understand their pathogenetic mechanisms.
Clinical relevance of soluble HLA class I molecules in Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia
Authors: Moreau Anne‐Sophie , Sebti Yasmine , Duhamel Alain , Roccaro Aldo M. , Coiteux Valérie , Gastinne Thomas , Friec Gaëlle Le , Burwick Nicholas , Amiot Laurence , Ho Allen W. , Poulain Stephanie , Hennache Bernadette , Hunter Zachary R. , Dessaint Jean‐Paul , Ghobrial Irene M. , Treon Steven P. , Facon Thierry , Zorn Emmanuel , Leleu Xavier
Published: March 2008

Objectives:  Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a B‐cell neoplasm characterised by secretion of IgM by lymphoplasmacytic bone marrow cells and by cytopenias and hypogammaglobulinemia in a subset of patients. Beta‐2 microglobulin (b2m) is a major prognostic factor in WM and the heavy chain of HLA class I molecules, which are known to have immunosuppressive properties and have been implicated in the pathogeny of several malignancies.

Methods:  We assessed the serum levels of the total soluble HLA‐I molecules and the HLA‐Gs molecules in 105 patients with IgM‐related disorders [WM (n = 42) and IgM MGUS (n = 63)], and compared the results to 41 healthy subjects.

Results:  We found higher levels of HLA‐Is in WM, compared to IgM MGUS and healthy donors. HLA‐Gs levels were similar in WM and in IgM MGUS, but higher than in healthy donors. The association between HLA‐Is at the cut‐off of 1.8 μg/mL and known markers of poor prognosis was then evaluated among WM patients using univariate and multivariate methods. Based on this, high HLA‐Is level was strongly associated with high serum β2M level >3 mg/L [OR = 2, (CI 95% 1.1–5.7); P = 0.04], age > 65 yrs [OR = 1.5, (CI 95% 0.5–4.1), P = 0.06] and haemoglobin ≤11.5 g/dL [OR = 3.3, (CI 95% 1.2–9.7); P = 0.03]. High levels of serum HLA‐Is were also found in patients with cryoglobulinemia, however irrespectively of WM or IgM‐MGUS status.

Conclusion:  Together our results suggest a possible role for soluble MHC class I molecules in WM disease. Further investigations are necessary to further demonstrate the prognostic impact of soluble MHC class I molecules in Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia.
CNOP (mitoxantrone) chemotherapy is inferior to CHOP (doxorubicin) in the treatment of patients with aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (meta‐analysis)
Authors: Magnus Björkholm , Tomas Andersson , Anders Ahlbom , Eva Ösby
Published: March 2008

Mitoxantrone has a broad anti‐tumour activity including lymphoma with potentially less cardiotoxicity than doxorubicin, which may be of particular importance in elderly patients. However, an important issue is whether mitoxantrone is as efficacious as doxorubicin in the treatment of aggressive lymphomas. Through search of several relevant databases and contacts with lymphoma investigators worldwide, we identified nine randomised studies of previously untreated patients comparing CHOP and CNOP chemotherapy in aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. Five trials were included where doxorubicin (50 mg/m2) was compared with mitoxantrone (10–12 mg/m2) and the interval between chemotherapy courses was 3–4 wk. In none of these trials rituximab was used. Odds ratios of complete remission (CR) were pooled using a fixed effects model, and odds ratios of overall survival (OS) were pooled using a random effects model. CNOP was significantly inferior to CHOP with regard to CR rate. CNOP was also inferior, but not significantly to CHOP with regard to OS. No formal testing of side effects could be made. However, the two regimens were equally myelosuppressive. Clinical evidence of symptomatic congestive heart disease was not more frequent among patients treated with CHOP. However, gastrointestinal toxicities and alopecia were more common in this group. CHOP chemotherapy is more efficacious than CNOP at equitoxic (myelosuppression) doses. CHOP is, however, associated with more alopecia and gastrointestinal toxicity.
Staphylokinase reduces plasmin formation by endogenous plasminogen activators
Authors: Jin Tao , Bokarewa Maria , Zhu Yihong , Tarkowski Andrej
Published: March 2008

Hyperfibrinolysis is a consequence of imbalance between fibrinolytic activators and their inhibitors. Increased levels of circulating plasminogen (Plg) activators such as tissue‐ or urokinase‐type plasminogen activators (tPA or uPA respectively) are the most common causes of hyperfibrinolysis, occasionally causing major hemorrhages. We found that staphylokinase (SAK), a well‐known Plg activator of bacterial origin, inhibits Plg activation mediated by endogenous tPA and uPA. Furthermore, mixture of SAK with tPA led to a significantly reduced Plg‐dependent fibrinolysis. This inhibitory effect was exerted through direct action of SAK on Plg rather than indirectly on tPA or uPA. Inhibition of Plg activation by SAK is readily abrogated by interaction of SAK with human neutrophil peptides (HNPs). Finally, we show that NH2‐terminal residues of SAK are important for the inhibitory effect of SAK on tPA‐ and uPA‐mediated Plg activation. In conclusion, SAK reduces tPA/uPA‐mediated Plg activation by means of SAK.Plg complex formation, consequently downregulating tPA/uPA‐induced fibrinolysis.