bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latent variable approach to the measurement of physical disability in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Escalante Agustín , Del Rincón Inmaculada , Cornell John E.
Published: June 2004

Objective

To measure physical disability in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a latent variable derived from a generic and a disease‐specific self‐reported disability instrument and an observer‐assessed functional status scale.

Methods

Consecutive patients with RA completed the modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (M‐HAQ) and the Short Form 36 (SF‐36) physical function scale. An observer assigned a Steinbrocker functional classification. We used principal component factor analysis to extract a latent variable from the 3 scales. We used the Bayesian Information Criterion to compare how well the new latent variable and the 3 primary scales fit the criterion standards of current work status; vital status at 6 years; grip strength; walking velocity; the timed‐button test; pain; and joint tenderness, swelling, and deformity.

Results

Complete data were available for 776 RA patients. The extracted latent variable explained 75% of the variance in the 3 primary scales. On a scale of 0–100, higher scores representing less disability, its mean ± SD was 56.4 ± 22.5. Correlation between the latent variable and the M‐HAQ was −0.87; between the latent variable and SF‐36 physical function scale was 0.89, and between the latent variable and Steinbrocker class was −0.85. Multivariate models that included the latent variable had superior fit than did models containing the primary scales for the criteria of current working; death by 6 years; pain; joint tenderness, swelling, or deformity; grip strength; walking velocity; and timed button test.

Conclusion

A latent variable derived from the M‐HAQ, the SF‐36 physical function scale, and the Steinbrocker functional class provides a parsimonious scale to measure physical disability in RA. The fit of the latent variable to comparison standards is equivalent or superior to that of the primary scales.
Health‐related quality of life in juvenile‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus and its relationship to disease activity and damage
Authors: Ruperto Nicolino , Buratti Silvia , Duarte‐Salazar Carolina , Pistorio Angela , Reiff Andreas , Bernstein Bram , Maldonado‐Velázquez Maria Rocío , Beristain‐Manterola Rosalía , Maeno Nobuaki , Takei Syuji , Falcini Fernanda , Lepore Loredana , Spencer Charles H. , Pratsidou‐Gertsi Polixeni , Martini Alberto , Ravelli Angelo
Published: June 2004

Objective

To assess the health‐related quality of life (HRQL) of patients with juvenile‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) and its relationship with disease activity and accumulated damage.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, HRQL was assessed using the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), disease activity using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), and accumulated damage using the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI).

Results

A total of 297 patients were included. The mean ± SD physical and psychosocial summary scores of the CHQ were 40.2 ± 15.0 and 44.8 ± 10.7, respectively. The most impaired CHQ subscales were global health, general health perceptions, and parent impact–emotional. The SLEDAI score was significantly correlated with both the physical summary score (r = −0.29, P < 0.0001) and psychosocial summary score (r = −0.25, P < 0.0001), whereas the SDI score was significantly correlated only with the physical summary score (r = −0.23, P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

We found that patients with JSLE have significant impairment of their HRQL, particularly in the physical domain. HRQL may be affected by both disease activity and accumulated damage, particularly in the renal, central nervous, and musculoskeletal systems.
Anxiety in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: VanDyke Melanie M. , Parker Jerry C. , Smarr Karen L. , Hewett James E. , Johnson Gail E. , Slaughter James R. , Walker Sara E.
Published: June 2004

Objective

To examine the level of anxiety experienced by individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Data from 2 previous studies were used to compare the level of anxiety (measured by the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory) in the following 4 subgroups: a general RA sample, a general osteoarthritis sample, a sample with both RA and major depression, and a normative sample of age‐equivalent, working adults. Canonical correlations were used to examine associations between measures of anxiety and measures of both stress and depression. The relationship between anxiety and duration of RA was also explored.

Results

The general RA sample had state anxiety levels that were comparable to the normative sample, although trait anxiety levels were significantly higher (P < 0.001). In addition, individuals with RA who also met criteria for depression exhibited significantly higher levels of both state anxiety (P < 0.0001) and trait anxiety (P < 0.0001) than was observed in the normative sample. Canonical correlations revealed that measures of anxiety were correlated with both measures of depression (r = 0.83) and measures of stress (r = 0.50). Anxiety was not found to be significantly related to RA disease duration.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that individuals with RA, especially if concomitantly depressed, tend to exhibit levels of anxiety that are generally higher than a normative group of age‐equivalent, working adults. The substantial canonical correlations between anxiety and both depression and stress revealed that anxiety shares variance with these more frequently studied variables in RA. However, anxiety was not found to be related to RA disease duration.
Influence of topography on the Phoenix CO2 dome: a computational study
Authors: Wang Ge , Ostoja‐Starzewski Martin
Published: May 2004

Recent measurements reveal that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in the urban core of Phoenix, Arizona, are often 200 ppmv above the surrounding areas. This increase is up to two orders of magnitude higher than comparable values in other cities. In this investigation, we examine the role of topographically induced circulation as a contributor to the CO2 dome. A three‐dimensional time‐dependent regional model shows that frequently occurring katabatic winds generate a mesoscale circulation in Phoenix conducive to the accumulation of CO2 in the center of the city. We conclude that local topography and associated circulation regimes are important in understanding the high levels of CO2 in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society
Prospective study of routine contrast radiology after total gastrectomy
Authors: Lamb P J , Griffin S M , Chandrashekar M V , Richardson D L , Karat D , Hayes N
Published: June 2004

Background

The practice of routine contrast radiology before recommencing oral nutrition after total gastrectomy is not evidence based. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical role and timing of this investigation.

Methods

Seventy-six consecutive patients underwent total gastrectomy with a stapled oesophagojejunal anastomosis. A contrast swallow using non-ionic contrast and barium was performed routinely 5 and 9 days after surgery. The surgeon was blinded to the result of the first of these examinations. Patients with clinical evidence of a leak underwent contrast radiology and upper gastrointestinal videoendoscopy.

Results

Eight patients (11 per cent) developed a clinical leak from the oesophagojejunal anastomosis, seven before the first scheduled contrast swallow. Contrast radiology identified a leak in four of six patients. Endoscopy detected a leak in both patients with a false-negative swallow and in two patients who were not fit to undergo contrast radiology. Routine contrast radiology identified a subclinical leak in a further five patients (7 per cent), none of whom developed clinical signs. Four of seven in-hospital deaths were associated with an anastomotic leak.

Conclusion

There is no role for routine contrast swallow after total gastrectomy with a stapled oesophagojejunal anastomosis, but patients with clinical suspicion of leakage should undergo urgent contrast radiology, plus endoscopy if the contrast examination is normal.
Aminoglycoside Microarrays To Explore Interactions of Antibiotics with RNAs and Proteins
Authors: Disney Matthew D. , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: May 2004

RNA is an important target for drug discovery efforts. Several clinically used aminoglycoside antibiotics bind to bacterial rRNA and inhibit protein synthesis. Aminoglycosides, however, are losing efficacy due to their inherent toxicity and the increase in antibiotic resistance. Targeting of other RNAs is also becoming more attractive thanks to the discovery of new potential RNA drug targets through genome sequencing and biochemical efforts. Identification of new compounds that target RNA is therefore urgent, and we report here on the development of rapid screening methods to probe binding of low molecular weight ligands to proteins and RNAs. A series of aminoglycosides has been immobilized onto glass microscope slides, and binding to proteins and RNAs has been detected by fluorescence. Construction and analysis of the arrays is completed by standard DNA genechip technology. Binding of immobilized aminoglycosides to proteins that are models for study of aminoglycoside toxicity (DNA polymerase and phospholipase C), small RNA oligonucleotide mimics of aminoglycoside binding sites in the ribosome (rRNA A‐site mimics), and a large (≈400 nucleotide) group I ribozyme RNA is detected. The ability to screen large RNAs alleviates many complications associated with binding experiments that use isolated truncated regions from larger RNAs. These studies lay the foundation for rapid identification of small organic ligands from combinatorial libraries that exhibit strong and selective RNA binding while displaying decreased affinity to toxicity‐causing proteins.
Alkenyl Selenols and Selenocyanates: Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization by Photoelectron Spectroscopy, and Quantum Chemical Study
Authors: Bajor Gábor , Veszprémi Tamás , Riague El Hassan , Guillemin Jean‐Claude
Published: June 2004

Vinyl, allyl, and homoallyl selenols were easily prepared by a chemoselective reduction of the corresponding selenocyanates with aluminum hydrides. Two stable vinyl and five stable allyl conformers of both series were predicted on the potential‐energy surface. The interaction of SeH or SeCN groups with the vinyl group has been investigated with UV photoelectron spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations, using the MP2/cc‐pVTZ and B3LYP/cc‐pVTZ levels. In the vinyl derivatives, a surprisingly strong direct conjugation of the selenium lone electron pair and the CC double bond was observed. On the other hand, in allyl position the selenium lone pair is independent on the CC double bond, and the hyperconjugation between the SeC bond and the double bond is the ruling effect. Thus is clarified the type and extent of the interaction between the SeH or SeCN group and the unsaturated moiety.
Supratentorial gangliogliomas: Histopathologic grading and tumor recurrence in 184 patients with a median follow‐up of 8 years
Authors: Luyken Cordelia , Blümcke Ingmar , Fimmers Rolf , Urbach Horst , Wiestler Otmar D. , Schramm Johannes
Published: May 2004

BACKGROUND

Supratentorial gangliogliomas (GGs) are rare tumors of the central nervous system and are commonly associated with chronic seizures. To date, only case reports and small series of patients with short‐term follow‐up have been available for the assessment of the potential of GGs to recur and progress.

METHODS

Data from 184 patients who underwent resection of GGs between 1988 and 2001 were available from the University of Bonn Epilepsy Surgery Center (Bonn, Germany). Analysis of factors that influenced tumor recurrence and patient survival, such as preoperative history, age at operation, tumor location, histopathologic findings (including immunohistochemical findings), extent of tumor resection, and recurrence evaluated on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was performed.

RESULTS

The median follow‐up period was 8 years (range, 1–14 years). One hundred seventy‐eight patients (97%) presented with long‐term seizures (≥ 2 years). The median age at surgery was 26 years (range, 2–65 years). Tumor location was temporal in 79% of patients and frontal in 12% of patients. Eleven tumors (6%) were classified as World Health Organization (WHO) Grade 2 lesions, and 2 tumors were classified as anaplastic WHO Grade 3 lesions. For 38 patients (21%), postoperative MRIs revealed residual tumors. Two years after surgery, 5 patients (3%) experienced tumor recurrence, which resulted in malignant progression in 3 patients (2%) and death in 2 patients (1%). Eighty‐four percent of patients with epilepsy had complete and sustained seizure relief. The calculated 7.5‐year recurrence‐free survival rate was 97%. Lower rates of recurrence were found in patients with tumors classified as WHO Grade 1 lesions (P < 0.0001), patients with temporal lesions (P < 0.0001), patients who underwent complete tumor resection (P = 0.0278), and patients with long‐standing epilepsy (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Supratentorial GGs are benign tumors, and the surgical goal for patients with GG should be complete resection. Residual tumor masses, frontal tumor location, and WHO Grade 2 or 3 lesions are associated with a greater risk of recurrence or malignant progression. Patients with such characteristics should be considered for long‐term clinical follow‐up using MRI. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Tobacco use outcomes among patients with head and neck carcinoma treated for nicotine dependence
Authors: Garces Yolanda I. , Schroeder Darrell R. , Nirelli Liza M. , Croghan Gary A. , Croghan Ivana T. , Foote Robert L. , Hurt Richard D.
Published: May 2004

BACKGROUND

The current study described tobacco use outcomes among patients with head and neck carcinoma who underwent treatment for nicotine dependence at the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center (NDC; Rochester, MN).

METHODS

Using a 1:1 matched‐pair design, conditional logistic regression was employed to compare the 6‐month tobacco abstinence outcomes of patients with head and neck carcinoma (n = 101) with controls (n = 101) from the general patient population treated for nicotine dependence between 1988 and 2001. The two groups were matched with regard to age, gender, date of treatment, and type of NDC treatment service.

RESULTS

Baseline demographics were similar between both groups. However, patients with head and neck carcinoma smoked significantly more cigarettes per day (cpd) than controls (P = 0.003). The self‐reported tobacco abstinence rate at the 6‐month follow‐up was 33% for patients with head and neck carcinoma compared with 26% for matched controls (P = 0.279; after adjusting for baseline cpd and stage of change, P = 0.205). Among patients with head and neck carcinoma, the tobacco abstinence rates were 47%, 22%, and 19%, respectively, for those receiving an NDC consult within 3 months, between 3 months and 5 years, and > 5 years after their diagnosis (P = 0.021). Furthermore, the patients with head and neck carcinoma treated within 3 months of diagnosis who received surgery (with or without radiation therapy) were more likely to be tobacco abstinent than those who received primary radiation therapy (P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that nicotine dependence treatments were effective among patients with head and neck carcinoma, particularly when delivered shortly after initial diagnosis and for those who received surgery as their primary treatment. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Pediatric gastrointestinal stromal tumors and leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Cypriano Monica S. , Jenkins Jesse J. , Pappo Alberto S. , Rao Bhaskar N. , Daw Najat C.
Published: May 2004

BACKGROUND

With the introduction of molecularly targeted therapy for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), it became important to distinguish GISTs from leiomyosarcomas (LMSs). The authors sought to characterize the clinicopathologic features of these tumors in pediatric patients.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the medical records of 11 patients for whom GIST or LMS was diagnosed between March 1962 and July 2002 at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and reclassified the tumors according to current histologic and immunophenotypic criteria. The authors also reviewed the literature pertaining to pediatric GISTs and LMSs.

RESULTS

Seven patients had GISTs, and four had LMS. The median age of the patients at diagnosis was 11.5 years. At diagnosis, metastases were present in one patient with GISTs and in another with LMS. Unlike the focal distribution of CD117 (KIT) in LMS, diffuse and strong immunostaining was observed in GISTs. Only GISTs expressed CD34. Six patients underwent complete resection (four with GISTs and two with LMS), four patients underwent incomplete resection (three with GISTs and one with LMS), and one patient (with LMS) underwent a biopsy only. Radiotherapy or chemotherapy was used to treat one patient with GISTs and three patients with LMS. One patient with a high‐risk GIST (largest dimension of 32 cm and high mitotic count) was treated with adjuvant imatinib mesylate outside the preferred setting of a clinical trial, due to concerns regarding the high risk of tumor recurrence. Four patients with GISTs and two with LMS survived median disease‐free a median of 10.4 years and 4.3 years after diagnosis, respectively. Tumors in all but one survivor were completely resected.

CONCLUSIONS

KIT staining helped to distinguish GISTs from LMSs. Surgery was the treatment of choice for both entities, and tumor resectability was a key prognostic factor. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in routine Papanicolaou smears
Authors: Martínez‐Girón Rafael , Ribas‐Barceló Andrés , García‐Miralles M Teresa , López‐Cabanilles Dolores , Tamargo‐Peláez M Luisa , Torre‐Bayón Concepción , Fernández‐Álvarez Lorena
Published: May 2004

The objective was to demonstrate the presence of airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in smears and establish their significance. Microscopic examination was of smears stained by the Papanicolaou technique. We found several types of airborne spores (Alternaria, Exserohilum, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Epicoccum, Curvularia, and Ascosmycete), pollen grains (Lilium, bullrush, Pinus, Acacia, hazelnut, and oak), and several types of vegetable cells. The existence of these structures may be due to intrinsic or to extrinsic contamination of the sample. Anemophilous fungi spores and pollen grains have been shown to possess great allergenic capacity. Pollen grains and vegetable cells may be mistaken for certain microorganisms or malignant cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:381–385. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pitfalls in the cytological classification of borderline leprosy in the Ridley‐Jopling scale
Authors: Singh Navjeevan , Manucha Varsha , Bhattacharya S.N. , K. Arora Vinod , Bhatia Arati
Published: May 2004

This is a blinded, retrospective, correlative study of classification of leprosy by cytomorphology, clinical examination, and bacterial density. One hundred consecutive adequate aspirates from skin lesions of leprosy were studied. The Ridley‐Jopling (R‐J) five‐group classification system was used. May‐Gruenwald‐Giemsa (MGG) and Ziehl‐Neelsen (Z‐N) stains were employed. Complete clinical, cytological, and bacteriological concordance was found in 88 patients. One‐step mismatch in classification was seen in 12 patients with cytomorphological features of borderline‐borderline (BB/mid‐borderline) leprosy. Cytomorphological features of BB leprosy in aspirates from skin lesions should alert the cytopathologist to the possibility that the bacteriological index (BI) may vary widely. Appropriate steps must be taken to ensure accurate reporting of BI. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:386–388. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration of the parotid gland
Authors: Romanas Maria M. , Cherian Rachel , McGregor Douglas H. , Wu Yaping , May Corrie L. , Baranda Joaquina C.
Published: May 2004

Hepatocellular carcinoma rarely metastasizes to the salivary glands. We report a case of a 47‐yr‐old man who presented with a right parotid lesion that was diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy as a metastatic lesion suggestive of hepatocellular carcinoma with similar findings in a subsequent intraoral incisional biopsy. The patient's serum α‐fetoprotein level was within normal limits at the time of diagnosis. CT scan revealed a mass in the liver, but a liver biopsy was not performed. The patient deteriorated rapidly and died about 4 mo later. An autopsy confirmed the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma with distant metastases to unusual sites, including the parotid gland, orbit, and calvarium, bypassing more common sites such as the lungs. This is the second known reported case in which hepatocellular carcinoma presented as a salivary gland metastasis. In both cases the diagnosis was made by FNA biopsy, illustrating the utility of this method for diagnosing uncommon metastatic salivary gland lesions. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:401–405. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interobserver agreement of a probabilistic approach to reporting breast fine‐needle aspirations on ThinPrep®
Authors: Gornstein Bradley , Jacobs Timothy , Bédard Yvan , Biscotti Charles , Ducatman Barbara , Layfield Lester , McKee Grace , Sneige Nour , Wang Helen
Published: May 2004

We have previously demonstrated the accuracy and reproducibility of a probabilistic/categorical approach for reporting breast fine‐needle aspiration (FNA). However, the interobserver agreement in the application of this approach has not been assessed. Twenty breast FNA cases (each on one ThinPrep® slide) were pulled from the cytology files of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The cases included benign epithelial proliferative lesions (6), DCIS (4), and infiltrating carcinoma (10), as shown by subsequent histology. Six pathologists with 14–25 yr of experience in interpreting breast FNA and 0–8 yr of experience with ThinPrep preparations rendered diagnoses according to the probabilistic approach. The kappa statistic for the unremarkable/proliferative, atypical, suspicious, and positive categories were 0.64, 0.08, 0.43, and 0.75, respectively (P < 0.001 for all except for the atypical category [P = 0.09]). Spearman's rho correlating the individual pathologist's diagnosis and the histologic diagnosis ranged from 0.51 (P = 0.02) to 0.78 (P < 0.0001). This was not correlated with the pathologists' years of experience interpreting breast FNA (P = 1.0) or with their years using ThinPrep preparations for breast FNA (P = 0.96). In conclusion, the interobserver agreement was excellent for the positive category in the probabilistic approach, poor for the atypical category, and fair to good for the other categories. The specific level of experience interpreting breast FNA or using ThinPrep among experienced pathologists did not seem to influence their accuracy in reporting the cases in our study. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:389–395. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence and typing of HPV DNA by hybrid capture II in women with ASCUS, ASC‐H, LSIL, and AGC on ThinPrep® Pap tests
Authors: Rowe Leslie R. , Aldeen William , Bentz Joel S.
Published: May 2004

Testing for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA is now a viable option for the management of women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS). The utility of reflexive HPV DNA testing for women with a cytologic diagnosis of atypical glandular cells–not otherwise specified (AGC‐NOS), ASCUS subtypes, and low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) has not been well established. In the present investigation, reflex Hybrid Capture II HPV DNA testing results were evaluated for HPV prevalence and type in 371 women with abnormal cytologic diagnoses of ASCUS–not otherwise specified (ASCUS‐NOS), ASCUS–suspicious for low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASCUS‐L), atypical squamous cells–cannot exclude high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC‐H), AGC‐NOS, and LSIL on ThinPrep® Pap tests. Positive high‐risk HPV DNA was identified in 53.6% of the study samples, including ASCUS‐NOS 40.2% ASCUS‐L 71.4%, ASC‐H 37.5%, LSIL 88.6%, and AGC‐NOS 0%. We conclude that reflex HPV DNA testing appears to not be useful for colposcopy triage for cytologic diagnoses of LSIL or AGC‐NOS. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:426–432. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytologic diagnosis of endosalpingiosis with pregnant women presenting in peritoneal fluid: A case report
Authors: Kobayashi Tadao K. , Moritani Suzuko , Urabe Mamoru , Bamba Masamichi , Ueda Masami , Nishino Toshihiro , Muramatsu Mitsue , Kaneko Chiyuki
Published: May 2004

The cytologic appearance of endosalpingiosis in peritoneal fluid cytology smears has not been extensively described. We report a case of endosalpingiosis in a 29‐year‐old pregnant female who presented with peritoneal fluid. Dense papillary epithelial clusters with indistinct ciliated cells were found in the Papanicolaou‐stained smears. However, long and delicate cilia were obvious in papillary cluster with scanning electron microscopy. Cell nuclei were oval, with finely dispersed chromatin and uniform nuclear membrane. Peritoneal fluid cytology with these findings may be helpful to suggest the probable preoperative diagnosis of endosalpingiosis or benign glandular inclusions involving the pelvic peritoneum. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:422–425. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HbA1c screening for undiagnosed diabetes in New Zealand
Authors: Ellison Tracy L. , Elliott Robert , Moyes Simon A.
Published: May 2004

Objectives

To describe a screening programme to detect undiagnosed diabetes in high‐risk ethnic groups in New Zealand and determine the specificity and sensitivity of HbA1c to detect fasting hyperglycaemia.

Research design and methods

HbA1c was offered to subjects over 20 years of age participating in a screening programme for hepatitis B that was targeted at non‐European populations. Two hundred and forty‐four predominantly Maori subjects, with HbA1c levels 5 to 7.9% and who were not known to have diabetes, were tested with an oral glucose tolerance test. Comparison was made with fasting and 2‐h samples.

Results

Fifty thousand eight hundred and nineteen subjects were screened using HbA1c. 12% had HbA1c levels of 6.1% or more, and in 4% of the population HbA1c was 7.1% or more. Maori, Pacific Island people, and Indians had particularly high rates of elevated HbA1c. HbA1c levels of 6.1% and greater were 94% sensitive and 77% specific in detecting the 32 subjects who had a fasting glucose of 7.0 mmol/L or more, and 90% sensitive and 73% specific for 20 subjects with a 2‐h glucose of 11.1 mmol/L or more.

Conclusions

Rates of elevated HbA1c levels in non‐Europeans in New Zealand are very high, particularly in Maori, Pacific Island Peoples', and Indians, reflecting their high risk of diabetes and vascular disease. HbA1c can be used as an opportunistic screening test for diabetes and glucose intolerance, but a high level should be followed by an oral glucose tolerance test. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cellular expression of eve1 suggests its requirement for the differentiation of the ameloblasts and for the initiation and morphogenesis of the first tooth in the zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Laurenti Patrick , Thaëron Christelle , Allizard Françoise , Huysseune Ann , Sire Jean‐Yves
Published: June 2004

even‐skipped‐related (evx) genes encode homeodomain‐containing transcription factors that are involved in a series of developmental processes such as posterior body patterning and neurodifferentiation. Although evx1 and evx2 were not reported to be expressed during mammalian tooth development, we present here evidence that eve1, the closest paralog of evx1 in the actinopterygian lineage, is expressed during pharyngeal tooth formation in the zebrafish, Danio rerio. We have performed whole‐mount in situ hybridization on zebrafish embryos and larvae ranging from 24 to 192 hours postfertilization (hpf). A detailed analysis of serial sections through the pharyngeal region of whole‐mount hybridized and control specimens indicates that only dental epithelial cells express eve1. eve1 transcription was activated at 48 hpf, in the placode of the first tooth (i.e., the initiation site of tooth 4V1), and maintained in the dental epithelium throughout morphogenesis. Then, by 72 hpf, eve1 expression was restricted to the differentiating ameloblasts of the enamel organ during early differentiation stage, and this expression decreased as soon as matrix was deposited. In subsequent primary teeth (3 V1 and 5 V1) as well as in their successors (replacement teeth 4V2, 3V2, and 5V2), eve1 expression was restricted to the differentiating ameloblasts and, again, disappeared when matrix was deposited. Therefore, in the zebrafish, eve1 expression in the pharyngeal region is correlated with two key steps of tooth development: initiation and morphogenesis of the first tooth, and ameloblast differentiation of all developing teeth. Developmental Dynamics 230:727–733, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retinoic acid receptor α is required for synchronization of spermatogenic cycles and its absence results in progressive breakdown of the spermatogenic process
Authors: Chung Sanny S.W. , Sung Wengkong , Wang Xiangyuan , Wolgemuth Debra J.
Published: June 2004

Targeted mutagenesis of the retinoic acid receptor α (RARα) gene has revealed its essential role in spermatogenesis. Although cells in all stages of spermatogenesis were detected in RARα‐/‐ testes, there was an increase in degenerating pachytene spermatocytes and a temporary developmental arrest in step 8–9 spermatids in the first wave of spermatogenesis, a delay in the onset of the second wave, and a temporary arrest in preleptotene to leptotene spermatocytes in the first, second, and third waves. A striking aspect of the mutant phenotype was the failure of spermatids to align at the tubular lumen at stage VIII. Furthermore, there were missing or decreased numbers of the predicted cell types in tubules, and they exhibited a profound asynchrony of mixed spermatogenic cell types. In vivo bromodeoxyuridine labeling revealed a significant decrease in germ cell proliferation in both juvenile and adult RARα‐/‐ testes and confirmed the arrest at step 8–9 spermatids. Retinoid signaling through RARα, thus, appears to be critical for establishment of synchronous progression of spermatogenesis and the subsequent establishment of correct cellular associations. Developmental Dynamics 230:754–766, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of expression of mouse interferon‐induced transmembrane protein like gene‐3, Ifitm3 (mil‐1, fragilis), in germ cells
Authors: Tanaka Satomi S. , Nagamatsu Go , Tokitake Yuko , Kasa Miyuki , Tam Patrick P.L. , Matsui Yasuhisa
Published: June 2004

Mouse interferon‐induced transmembrane protein (IFITM) gene, Ifitm3 (previously known as mil‐1 and fragilis), is expressed in primordial germ cells (PGCs), in their precursors, and in germ cells of the fetal gonads (Saitou et al. [2002] Nature 418:293–300; Tanaka and Matsui [2002] Mech Dev 119S:S261–S267). By examining the expression of green fluorescent protein transgene under the control of DNA sequences flanking exon 1, we have identified domains that direct Ifitm3 transcription in PGCs and their precursors in gastrula stage and 13.5 days post coitum embryos. Germ cell‐specific expression is achieved by the activity of a consensus element unique to the Ifitm genes, which may act to suppress Ifitm3 expression in somatic tissues. The lack of any influence of the interferon‐stimulable response elements on transgene expression in the germ‐line suggests that interferon‐mediated response is not critical for activating Ifitm3. Developmental Dynamics 230:651–659, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
cProx1 immunoreactivity distinguishes progenitor cells and predicts hair cell fate during avian hair cell regeneration
Authors: Stone Jennifer S. , Shang Jia Lin , Tomarev Stanislav
Published: June 2004

In birds, mature sensory hair cells are regenerated continually in vestibular epithelia and after damage in the auditory basilar papilla. Molecular mechanisms governing the cellular processes associated with hair cell regeneration are poorly understood. Transcription factors are critical regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation in developing tissues. We examined immunoreactivity for cProx1 during both ongoing and damage‐induced hair cell regeneration in chickens. Homologues of this divergent homeobox transcription factor are required for cell cycle withdrawal and differentiation in several vertebrate and invertebrate tissues. In the mitotically quiescent basilar papilla, a population of resting progenitor cells (supporting cells) shows faint nuclear immunoreactivity for cProx1. When auditory hair cell regeneration is triggered by experimental damage, nuclear cProx1 immunolabel is highly elevated in approximately 50% of dividing progenitor cells. Shortly after cytokinesis, all sibling pairs show symmetric patterns of nuclear cProx1 labeling, but pairs with asymmetric labeling emerge shortly thereafter. Strongly immunoreactive cells acquire the hair cell fate, whereas cells with low nuclear immunoreactivity differentiate as supporting cells. By contrast, cProx1 is not detected in any dividing progenitor cells during ongoing regeneration in the utricle. However, nuclear cProx1 immunoreactivity becomes asymmetric in postmitotic sibling cells, and as in the basilar papilla, cells with elevated cProx1 label differentiate as hair cells. In conclusion, cProx1 immunolabeling varies across sensory epithelial progenitors and distinguishes early differentiating hair cells from supporting cells. cProx1 may regulate the proliferative or differentiative capacities of progenitor cells and specify hair cell fate in postmitotic cells during avian hair cell regeneration. Developmental Dynamics 230:597–614, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of tyrosine kinases expressed in the male mouse gubernaculum during development
Authors: Verma‐Kurvari Sunita , Parada Luis F.
Published: June 2004

The gubernaculum is a mesenchymal tissue that connects the gonads to the inguinal abdominal wall in the mammalian embryo. During gestation in the male, differential development of the gubernaculum and regression of the cranial suspensory ligament coordinate the first phase of testicular descent. As many as 1–3% newborn boys show impaired testicular descent, in part due to problems in gubernacular development. Little is known about the signaling molecules and cascades that are required for the development and differentiation of the gubernaculum. Protein tyrosine kinases comprise a large class of proteins that play important roles in proliferation, differentiation, and many aspects of cell–cell signaling in tissues. To date, no information on the existence of members of tyrosine kinase family in gubernaculum is available. We used a reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction approach to identify 25 individual members of cytoplasmic and receptor tyrosine kinase classes in the developing male gubernaculum. The analysis of cellular distribution suggests that each tyrosine kinase examined may play a unique role in gubernacular development and differentiation. Developmental Dynamics 230:660–665, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular localization and signaling activity of β‐catenin in migrating neural crest cells
Authors: de Melker Annemieke A. , Desban Nathalie , Duband Jean‐Loup
Published: June 2004

In the vertebrate embryo, development of the neural crest is accompanied by sequential changes in cellular adhesiveness, allowing cells to delaminate from the neural epithelium, to undergo migration through extracellular matrix material, and to coalesce into ganglia of the peripheral nervous system. Because of its dual role in cell adhesion, as a link between cadherins and the actin cytoskeleton, and in cell signaling, as a key mediator of the Wnt‐signaling pathway, β‐catenin is a good candidate to play a central role in the control of neural crest cell development. In the present study, we analyzed, by using an in vitro culture system, whether the cellular localization and the signaling activity of β‐catenin are regulated in conjunction with cell migration during ontogeny of trunk neural crest cells in the avian embryo. β‐Catenin molecules were found primarily in association with N‐cadherin in the regions of intercellular contacts in most migrating neural crest cells, and only early‐migrating cells situated in proximity with the dorsal side of the neural tube showed detectable β‐catenin in their nuclei. This finding indicates that β‐catenin may be recruited for signaling in neural crest cells only transiently at the onset of migration and that sustained β‐catenin signals are not necessary for the progression of migration. The nuclear distribution of β‐catenin within crest cells was not affected upon modification of the N‐cadherin–mediated cell–cell contacts, revealing that recruitment of β‐catenin for signaling is not driven by changes in intercellular cohesion during migration. Overstimulation of β‐catenin signals in neural crest cells at the time of their migration, using LiCl treatment or coculture with Wnt‐1–producing cells, induced nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and Lef‐1 up‐regulation in neural crest cells and provoked a marked inhibition of cell delamination and migration. The effect of LiCl and exogenous Wnt‐1 on neural crest cells could be essentially attributed to a dramatic decrease in integrin‐mediated cell–matrix adhesion as well as a massive reduction of cell proliferation. In addition, although it apparently did not affect expression of neural crest markers, Wnt‐1 exposure dramatically affected signaling events involving Notch–Delta, presumably also accounting for the strong reduction in cell delamination. In conclusion, our data indicate that β‐catenin functions primarily in cell adhesion events during migration and may be recruited transiently for signaling during delamination possibly to regulate the balance between cell proliferation and cell differentiation. Developmental Dynamics 230:708–726, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MAP kinase activation in avian cardiovascular development
Authors: Liberatore Christine M. , Yutzey Katherine E.
Published: June 2004

Signaling pathways mediated by receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation have multiple functions in the developing cardiovascular system. The localization of diphosphorylated extracellular signal regulated kinase (dp‐ERK) was monitored as an indicator of MAPK activation in the forming heart and vasculature of avian embryos. Sustained dp‐ERK expression was observed in vascular endothelial cells of embryonic and extraembryonic origins. Although dp‐ERK was not detected during early cardiac lineage induction, MAPK activation was observed in the epicardial, endocardial, and myocardial compartments during heart chamber formation. Endocardial expression of dp‐ERK in the valve primordia and heart chambers may reflect differential cell growth associated with RTK signaling in the heart. dp‐ERK localization in the epicardium, subepicardial fibroblasts, myocardial fibroblasts, and coronary vessels is consistent with MAPK activation in epicardial‐derived cell lineages. The complex temporal–spatial regulation of dp‐ERK in the heart supports diverse regulatory functions for RTK signaling in different cell populations, including the endocardium, myocardium, and epicardial‐derived cells during cardiac organogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 230:773–780, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polysialic acid regulates cell contact‐dependent neuronal differentiation of progenitor cells from the subventricular zone
Authors: Petridis Athanasios K. , El Maarouf Abderrahman , Rutishauser Urs
Published: June 2004

Expression of polysialic acid (PSA) promotes migration of progenitor cells from the subventricular zone (SVZ) to the olfactory bulb, where they differentiate into interneurons. This differentiation has been found to coincide with a loss of PSA. Moreover, specific removal of PSA from the mouse SVZ by endoneuraminidase‐N was found to cause premature differentiation, as evidenced by neurite outgrowth and tyrosine hydroxylase synthesis in vivo and by expression of neurofilament‐L and βIII‐tubulin in SVZ explant cultures. This differentiation involved activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase through p59fyn and was blocked by its inhibition. The effects of PSA removal were found to be cell contact‐dependent and to be reduced by anti–neural cell adhesion molecule antibodies. These findings indicate that PSA expression regulates the fate of SVZ precursors by two contact‐dependent mechanisms, the previously reported reduction in cell–cell adhesion that allows cell translocation, and the postponement of cell differentiation that otherwise would be induced by signals generated through surface molecule‐mediated cell–cell interactions. Developmental Dynamics 230:675–684, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pax6 is a direct, positively regulated target of the circadian gene Clock
Authors: Morgan Richard
Published: June 2004

Clock is a member of a highly conserved transcription control network that underlies the circadian cycle. During early embryogenesis, its expression is developmentally regulated and may be required for the normal development of the head. In this report, the transcription factor Pax6, a highly conserved regulator of anterior development, is shown to be a direct target of Clock regulation. Developmental Dynamics 230:643–650, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
‘Objective‐led’ SEA in a Scottish local authority
Authors: Esson Graham , Reekie Bruce , Jackson Tony
Published: May 2004

Scottish planners have expanded environmental effect assessment of development plans into the policy appraisal of their sustainability impacts. The application of this methodology is demonstrated in our review of the appraisal of the Perth and Kinross structure plan, which demonstrates the strengths and limitations of this objective‐led approach to strategic environmental assessment when compared with a baseline‐led one. Scottish Executive interim planning guidance for the European Union directive on strategic environmental assessment integrates the two approaches. This requires the local baseline to be clearly established and plan‐induced movements in it to be predicted, monitored and evaluated. It also requires the use of techniques capable of assessing all forms of impact, and better engagement with the public and environmental authorities. Implementation of the directive will tax the capacity of Scottish planning authorities to meet these requirements whilst retaining their preference for an objective‐led policy‐based approach to assessment. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Implementing the strategic environmental assessment (SEA) Directive in the South West of England
Authors: Brooke Clare , James Emma , Jones Rhian , Therivel Riki
Published: May 2004

The South West of England is famous as being an area rich in environmental features and heritage. The tools available to local authorities and other organizations to protect this valued environment are being expanded to include strategic environmental assessment (SEA). SEA is being introduced under a European Community directive, which will be incorporated into UK law in 2004. The directive will require national, regional and local authorities to carry out environmental assessment on certain plans and programmes that they promote.

To ensure that the effectiveness of SEA in the South West is maximized, the South West Regional Assembly is working with local authorities and regional partners to consider the implications of the directive, and help the region prepare for its implementation. The aim of the project is to more clearly define the potential for SEA within the South West, examine the barriers that organizations may face when implementing the directive and establish good practice within the region.

Work has been carried out to examine specific requirements of the SEA Directive, including the baseline data requirements for undertaking SEAs, and methodological differences between SEA and sustainability appraisals. Existing practice was examined to consider how current planning processes can be adapted to fulfil the requirements of the directive. Case studies were also undertaken to examine the issues around implementing the directive for non‐land‐use plans, including transport, economic development, waste management, renewable energy and flood management. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Implementing the SEA Directive in Italy: opportunities and barriers
Authors: Gazzola Paola , Caramaschi Maristella , Fischer Thomas B.
Published: May 2004

Strategic environmental assessment is emerging in Italy. At the same time, the ‘traditional’ Italian planning system is evolving, introducing new concepts, competences, tools and practices at the regional level. A reorganization of the environmental normative framework takes place as well, with direct consequences for existing environmental assessment procedures. This paper provides an overview of the state of the art of SEA in Italy. Opportunities and barriers for an effective implementation of the SEA Directive in this country are highlighted. It is concluded that the successful implementation of SEA in Italy will largely depend on a changing political context. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Strategic environmental impact assessment in Slovenia
Authors: Koblar Jasna
Published: May 2004

Environmental considerations have been a part of the decision‐making system in Slovenia for more than 30 years. Throughout this time, assessments of environmental aspects of plans and programmes have been produced in various forms. In the period of the ‘integrated approach’ (pre‐1990), environmental protection was an equal part of the social planning system. In the transitional period (1990–1997), the manner and scope of including strategic environmental assessments were strongly marked by the Spatial Planning Act, the Environmental Protection Act and the National Programme for Motorway Construction. During the preparation period for EU membership, Slovenia undertook to transpose Directive 2001/42/EC into its legal system, by means of the new Environmental Protection Act and implementing regulations. The paper discusses past experiences with the different environmental assessment approaches and recent activities for the implementation of Directive 2001/42/EC in Slovenia. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.