bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental Stage, Phenotype, and Migration Distinguish Naive- and Effector/Memory-like CD4+ Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Huehn Jochen , Siegmund Kerstin , Lehmann Joachim C.U. , Siewert Christiane , Haubold Uta , Feuerer Markus , Debes Gudrun F. , Lauber Joerg , Frey Oliver , Przybylski Grzegorz K. , Niesner Uwe , de la Rosa Maurus , Schmidt Christian A. , Bräuer Rolf , Buer Jan , Scheffold Alexander , Hamann Alf
Published: February 2004

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) fulfill a central role in immune regulation. We reported previously that the integrin αEβ7 discriminates distinct subsets of murine CD4+ regulatory T cells. Use of this marker has now helped to unravel a fundamental dichotomy among regulatory T cells. αE−CD25+ cells expressed L-selectin and CCR7, enabling recirculation through lymphoid tissues. In contrast, αE-positive subsets (CD25+ and CD25−) displayed an effector/memory phenotype expressing high levels of E/P-selectin–binding ligands, multiple adhesion molecules as well as receptors for inflammatory chemokines, allowing efficient migration into inflamed sites. Accordingly, αE-expressing cells were found to be the most potent suppressors of inflammatory processes in disease models such as antigen-induced arthritis.
Editing Anti-DNA B Cells by Vλx
Authors: Li Yijin , Louzoun Yoram , Weigert Martin
Published: February 2004

Receptor editing is performed by replacement of Vκ genes that contribute to autoreactivity. In addition, the Cκ locus can be deleted by Vκ rearrangement to intronic or 3′ of Cκ RS sequences (also referred to as κ deletion elements). B cells that delete the Cκ can then express λ light chains. However, the λ locus, either of man or mouse, does not allow V gene replacement. Nor does it appear to be deleted. Therefore, editing of autoreactive λ B cells may require alternative pathways. We have found that in anti-DNA heavy chain transgenic mice (tgs) VH3H9/56R, B cells that express anti-DNA receptors comprised of λ1 in association with an anti-DNA heavy chain often coexpress a κ chain that prevents DNA binding. We speculate that such isotypically included cells may have low anti-DNA receptor densities, a feature that may lead to self-tolerance. Here we describe a mechanism of preventing DNA binding by expression of a rarely used member of the Vλ family, Vλx. The λx B cells of the tgs also express CD25 and may represent B cells that have exhausted light chain editing possibilities.
Survivin Loss in Thymocytes Triggers p53-mediated Growth Arrest and p53-independent Cell Death
Authors: Okada Hitoshi , Bakal Chris , Shahinian Arda , Elia Andrew , Wakeham Andrew , Suh Woong-Kyung , Duncan Gordon S. , Ciofani Maria , Rottapel Robert , Zúñiga-Pflücker Juan Carlos , Mak Tak W.
Published: February 2004

Because survivin-null embryos die at an early embryonic stage, the role of survivin in thymocyte development is unknown. We have investigated the role by deleting the survivin gene only in the T lineage and show here that loss of survivin blocks the transition from CD4− CD8− double negative (DN) thymocytes to CD4+ CD8+ double positive cells. Although the pre–T cell receptor signaling pathway is intact in survivin-deficient thymocytes, the cells cannot respond to its signals. In response to proliferative stimuli, cycling survivin-deficient DN cells exhibit cell cycle arrest, a spindle formation defect, and increased cell death. Strikingly, loss of survivin activates the tumor suppressor p53. However, the developmental defects caused by survivin deficiency cannot be rescued by p53 inactivation or introduction of Bcl-2. These lines of evidence indicate that developing thymocytes depend on the cytoprotective function of survivin and that this function is tightly coupled to cell proliferation but independent of p53 and Bcl-2. Thus, survivin plays a critical role in early thymocyte development.
The Effect of Social Conformity on Collective Voting Behavior
Authors: Coleman Stephen
Published: February 2004

This article investigates the effect of social conformity on voting behavior. Past research shows that many people vote to conform with the social norm that voting is a civic duty. The hypothesis here is that when conformity motivates people to vote, it also stimulates conformist behavior among some voters when they decide which party to vote for. This produces a distinctive relationship between voter turnout and the distribution of votes among parties—a relationship not anticipated by rational choice theory. I test a mathematical model of this behavior with linear and nonlinear regression analyses of state-level data for presidential elections in the United States from 1904 to 1996, longitudinal data on parliamentary elections in Western Europe over most of the twentieth century, and cross-sectional data for recent elections in Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and Russia. The results generally validate the model.
Time Series Intervals and Statistical Inference: The Effects of Temporal Aggregation on Event Data Analysis
Authors: Shellman Stephen M.
Published: February 2004

While many areas of research in political science draw inferences from temporally aggregated data, rarely have researchers explored how temporal aggregation biases parameter estimates. With some notable exceptions (Freeman 1989,Political Analysis1:61–98; Alt et al. 2001,Political Analysis9:21–44; Thomas 2002, “Event Data Analysis and Threats from Temporal Aggregation”) political science studies largely ignore how temporal aggregation affects our inferences. This article expands upon others' work on this issue by assessing the effect of temporal aggregation decisions on vector autoregressive (VAR) parameter estimates, significance levels, Granger causality tests, and impulse response functions. While the study is relevant to all fields in political science, the results directly apply to event data studies of conflict and cooperation. The findings imply that political scientists should be wary of the impact that temporal aggregation has on statistical inference.
Estimating Latent Structure Models with Categorical Variables: One-Step Versus Three-Step Estimators
Authors: Bolck Annabel , Croon Marcel , Hagenaars Jacques
Published: February 2004

We study the properties of a three-step approach to estimating the parameters of a latent structure model for categorical data and propose a simple correction for a common source of bias. Such models have a measurement part (essentially the latent class model) and a structural (causal) part (essentially a system of logit equations). In the three-step approach, a stand-alone measurement model is first defined and its parameters are estimated. Individual predicted scores on the latent variables are then computed from the parameter estimates of the measurement model and the individual observed scoring patterns on the indicators. Finally, these predicted scores are used in the causal part and treated as observed variables. We show that such a naive use of predicted latent scores cannot be recommended since it leads to a systematic underestimation of the strength of the association among the variables in the structural part of the models. However, a simple correction procedure can eliminate this systematic bias. This approach is illustrated on simulated and real data. A method that uses multiple imputation to account for the fact that the predicted latent variables are random variables can produce standard errors for the parameters in the structural part of the model.
Dimensional Reduction of Word-Frequency Data as a Substitute for Intersubjective Content Analysis
Authors: Simon Adam F. , Xenos Michael
Published: February 2004

This paper presents a method for using dimensional reduction in the analysis of political content. We draw inspiration from latent semantic analysis (LSA) theory, which posits that factor analysis can successfully model human language. We suggest that the factor analysis of word frequencies generated from any political text—for example, open-ended survey responses—provides adequate content analysis categories and can substitute for more commonly practiced techniques. The method proceeds in three steps: data preparation, exploratory factor analyses, and hypothesis testing. This method may produce other benefits by allowing the data to speak more clearly in the development of coding dictionaries while avoiding the problems of inferential circularity common in other data-driven approaches. We demonstrate the method using responses collected in the execution of an experimental design dealing with the topic of partial-birth abortion and assess the demonstration by presenting a human coding of the same material.
Public worry about specific food safety issues
Authors: Miles Susan , Brennan Mary , Kuznesof Sharron , Ness Mitchell , Ritson Christopher , Frewer Lynn J.
Published: February 2004

Consumers may encounter a number of potential food hazards through their food choice decisions and consumption behaviour. It is psychologically determined risk perceptions that drive acceptance of such potential food hazards, and define people's risk‐taking or self‐protective behaviours. As such, it is necessary to understand exactly what consumers are worried about. Food issues of concern to consumers were identified in a previous exploratory focus group study. A list of 18 food safety issues was developed for the purpose of the study reported here, with the aim of comparing worry about the different issues and investigating any demographic differences. Factor analysis indicated that attitudes to the 18 food safety issues reflected two underlying constructs, the first relating to technological food issues and the second to lifestyle food issues. In general, people were more worried about technological food hazards compared to lifestyle hazards. Demographic differences were observed for gender, age and social class, but not for geographical region, or having children; furthermore, experience of food allergy or intolerance increased worry about technological issues.
Chemical food safety, public awareness and risk communication
Authors: Brimer Leon
Published: February 2004

The choice of subject for a credit paper to pass a university course in food toxicology was analysed as a measure of the curiosity towards different topics. The investigation covers 575 students over 28 years. The choices were analysed against investigations on food safety concerns, the development in the period, the official risk communication campaigns and media detailed scandals. Food additives (131 papers) followed by plant toxins were the most popular subjects, with artificial sweeteners as the most attractive within the additives. Pesticides were only chosen by 21 students, residues of veterinary drugs being even less attractive. To a certain extent choices differed among the two genders. The article proposes a theoretical device “the common basic level of specific curiosity”. This is fairly stable over time, and specific in that the curiosity towards subgroups within the additives differ. These findings should be taken into account when planning risk communication.
“International” human resource management
Authors: Ozbilgin Mustafa
Published: February 2004

Despite over 20 years of academic hype, international human resource management (IHRM) literature has been only partly successful in its original claim to offer a universal panacea for complexities of managing people that can transcend national, cultural and economic divides. This paper provides evidence from earlier studies on limited nature of geographic coverage of the mainstream IHRM writing and surveys the editorial membership, policies and guidelines of a select number of journals with a view to contribute to our understanding of North American and Western European domination in this field. Exploring the major constraints in geographical and cultural reach of the IHRM journals and the geographic homogeneity in the membership profiles of their editorial boards, the paper offers strategies for change towards a more inclusive approach to research and writing in the field of IHRM.
Organisational change and employee turnover
Authors: Morrell Kevin M. , Loan‐Clarke John , Wilkinson Adrian J.
Published: February 2004

Using insights from the relevant literature and recent empirical data, this paper investigates the relationship between organisational change and employee turnover. It proposes a mechanism for how widespread change translates into individual decisions to quit, and corroborates four relevant hypotheses. The paper also illustrates the importance for managers of understanding avoidability – the extent to which turnover decisions can be prevented – and concludes with a research agenda, encapsulated by a model describing the relationship between organisational change and turnover.
Family breakdown
Authors: Lewis Philip , Saunders Mark N.K. , Thornhill Adrian
Published: February 2004

Analyses the introduction and first three years of the operation of a new reward system in a financial services organisation. The purpose of the study was to develop an explanatory theory associated with reward system change effectiveness. Following a description of the organisation and its operational context, analyses the new reward system, together with an examination of the specific objectives the organisation's managers hoped it would achieve. Provides an explanation of the methods employed to collect and analyse the data. The main part of the paper comprises an analysis of these data, which provides evidence that the system was not meeting its objectives. Subsequently uses the literature on reward theory and organisational behaviour to help explain the reasons for such apparent ineffectiveness. Concludes by suggesting a tentative theory of reward system change effectiveness.
Commitment to change
Authors: Swailes Stephen
Published: February 2004

Organisational commitment is a desired outcome of human resource management (HRM) strategies given its links to positive attitudes and behaviour in the pursuit of change. The organisation, however, is just one of several foci for employee commitment and this paper explores the links between multiple commitments and employee behaviour. Cluster analysis of data from public accountants identified four main commitment profiles. Private sector accountants also showed profiles 1 and 4 together with a cluster showing commitment to the work group only and a cluster showing commitment to the supervisor only. Profiles explained variation in behaviour aimed at task achievement and innovation for public but not private accountants. Behaviour was highest for profile 1. HRM strategies need to look beyond organisational commitment and engender commitment to other foci in order to win the behaviour required to support successful change programmes.
Manufacturing strategy: understanding the fitness landscape
Authors: McCarthy Ian P.
Published: February 2004

This theoretical paper presents, extends and integrates a number of systems and evolutionary concepts, to demonstrate their relevance to manufacturing strategy formulation. Specifically it concentrates on fitness landscape theory as an approach for visually mapping the strategic options a manufacturing firm could pursue. It examines how this theory relates to manufacturing competitiveness and strategy and proposes a definition and model of manufacturing fitness. In accordance with fitness landscape theory, a complex systems perspective is adopted to view manufacturing firms. It is argued that manufacturing firms are a specific type of complex system – a complex adaptive system – and that by developing and applying fitness landscape theory it is possible to create models to better understand and visualise how to search and select various combinations of capabilities.
Lean or agile: A solution for supply chain management in the textiles and clothing industry?
Authors: Bruce Margaret , Daly Lucy , Towers Neil
Published: February 2004

The textiles and apparel industry has been neglected in terms of supply chain management research. Recently, the industry has undergone a great deal of change, particularly with global sourcing and high levels of price competition. In addition, textiles and clothing has market characteristics, such as short product lifecycle, high volatility, low predictability, and a high level of impulse purchase, making such issues as quick response of paramount importance. This article discusses characteristics of the textiles and apparel industry and identifies the perspectives of lean, agile and leagility (a combination of these) within existing supply chain literature, which have been proffered as solutions to achieving quick response and reduced lead times. Through case studies of textile and apparel companies, different approaches to supply chain management are illustrated.
Manufacturing practices, strategic fit and performance
Authors: Ketokivi Mikko , Schroeder Roger
Published: February 2004

This article challenges and advances the extant manufacturing practice‐performance research in three ways. First and most fundamentally, the article offers a sound theoretical foundation for the proposition that manufacturing practices have competitive value. Second, typical studies do not pay enough attention to the multidimensional nature of performance and often collapse strategic position (performance) into a one‐dimensional index. The article will show that this does not do justice to the multidimensional nature of operational performance. Third, extant research, aside from a few exceptions, pays little attention to the strategic contingencies involved in adopting and implementing specific practices. The overarching goal of this article is to move us toward better‐informed empirical inquiry of the strategic contingency argument in operations strategy research. The article builds a theoretical argument of manufacturing practices, strategic contingency and performance and tests it in a sample of 164 manufacturing plants using a series of regression analyses. Results show that both the best practice and strategic contingency arguments have merit in explaining operational performance; however, the contingency argument has stronger support.
Reification and representation in the implementation of quality improvement programmes
Authors: Baxter Lynne F. , Hirschhauser Constanze
Published: February 2004

The object of this paper is to explore superficiality in implementing improvement programmes. The reported lack of success of some quality improvement programmes in realising stated objectives is recognised, but what constitutes the superficial attempts at implementation may well be highly complex symbolic forms of representation and reification which have a multiplicity of meanings for the individuals involved. The project managers try to implement and the tools and activities used to do so are superficial and trivial, and very difficult for observers to associate with improving operations. However, for the managers themselves the superficial has a high degree of significance for their own progression in the organisation and, curiously enough, the means of convincing some outsiders of the organisation's competence. The dominant community of practice was not that of performance improvement, but creating the impression of doing so.
Changes in vascular endothelial growth factor production associated with decidualization by human endometrial stromal cells in vitro
Authors: Matsui Naohiko , Kawano Yasushi , Nakamura Satomi , Miyakawa Isao
Published: February 2004

Background. The aim of this study was to clarify changes in the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) during decidualization by endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) in vitro.

Methods.  ESCs were separated by enzymic digestion and filtration, and were cultured with RPMI 1640 in 10% fetal calf serum (FCS) and treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and dibutyryl‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate (db‐cAMP) to induce decidualization in vitro. The levels of prolactin (PRL) in the culture media were measured by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and the levels of VEGF were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of VEGF mRNA by ESCs and decidualized cells was analyzed by Northern blot analysis.

Results.  In treated cells, PRL production was significantly increased due to treatment with both db‐cAMP (0.5 mmol/L) and MPA (100 nmol/L). VEGF mRNA expression was detected without any stimulation by ESCs. VEGF production was also significantly greater in cells treated with db‐cAMP (0.5 mmol/L) and MPA (1 nmol/L or 100 nmol/L) than in control cells. VEGF mRNA was also increased in association with decidualization in vitro.

Conclusions.  VEGF production increased in association with decidualization in this in vitro study. Decidualization of ESCs may play a role in the induction of growth in the human fetus and/or placentation. The mechanism involved may include influencing the production of angiogenic growth factors such as VEGF.
Arterial oxygen tension during sleep in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Prodromakis E. , Trakada G. , Tsapanos V. , Spiropoulos K.
Published: February 2004

Background.  Changes during pregnancy include reduced functional residual capacity (FRC) and residual volume (RV), increased alveolar difference for oxygen and, in the supine position, reduced cardiac output. In conjunction with sleep‐related disturbances, these changes could lead to maternal oxygen desaturation during sleep.

Objectives.  Because of conflicting data from respiratory sleep studies in pregnancy, we performed complete polysomnography on 21 pregnant women at the 36th week of gestation and again postpartum. We also measured the partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood (PaO2) in the supine and sitting positions.

Methods.  We tested 21 healthy pregnant women at the 36th week of gestation. Arterial samples were taken in the sitting position. Complete polysomnography was performed in all of the pregnant women. Before the polysomnography arterial samples were taken in the supine and sitting positions and then every 2 h until termination of the study.

Results.  We did not find any correlation between SaO2/PaO2 levels and apnea, hypopnea or percent of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The frequency of apnea and hypopnea was significantly lower during pregnancy (5.81 ± 2.1 apneas or hypopneas per hour of sleep) than postpartum (12.1 ± 2.7 apneas or hypopneas per hour of sleep) (p < 0.001), which may be due to the raised level of progesterone. The PaO2 levels in the supine position were significantly lower than in the sitting position at 36 weeks of gestation (p < 0.001). No differences were found between PaO2 levels in the sitting and supine positions postpartum (p < 0.5).

Conclusions.  According to our results we conclude that 1) the frequency of apnea and hypopnea in pregnancy was significantly lower than postpartum, and 2) a significant difference in PaO2 levels in the sitting and supine positions was observed at 36 weeks of gestation.
Plasma homocysteine in early and late pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia and isolated intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: D'Anna Rosario , Baviera Giovanni , Corrado Francesco , Ientile Riccardo , Granese Domenico , Stella Narciso Carlo
Published: February 2004

Background.  Elevated circulating homocysteine is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Increased homocysteine plasma levels have been reported to occur in approximately 20–30% of women with preeclampsia and it has been suggested that they may predict the subsequent development of preeclampsia.

Methods.  In a cohort of 1874 pregnant women followed longitudinally, who participated in the Down screening program, 27 developed preeclampsia and 36 intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). A control group of 63 uneventful pregnancies was selected. Plasma homocysteine was assayed in the early second trimester and at delivery in all groups. Data were compared with Wilcoxon's matched‐pair test.

Results.  No statistically significant difference of plasma homocysteine between controls and preeclamptic or IUGR pregnancies in the early second trimester were found. There was a significant difference, only at delivery, between the preeclamptic subjects and the controls.

Conclusions.  We failed to demonstrate a plasma homocysteine predictive value in pregnancies subsequently complicated by preeclampsia and IUGR. As previously stated, we found that an elevated homocysteine plasma level is associated with overt preeclampsia.
Sexuality after total vs. subtotal hysterectomy
Authors: Zobbe Vibeke , Gimbel Helga , Andersen Birthe Margrethe , Filtenborg Thomas , Jakobsen Kristian , SØrensen Helle Christina , Toftager‐Larsen Kim , Sidenius Katrine , MØller Nini , Madsen Ellen Merete , Vejtorp Mogens , Clausen Helle , Rosgaard Annie , Gluud Christian , Ottesen Bent S. , Tabor Ann
Published: February 2004

Background.  The effect of hysterectomy on sexuality is not fully elucidated and until recently total and subtotal hysterectomies have only been compared in observational studies.

Aims.  To compare total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) to subtotal abdominal hysterectomy (SAH) regarding effects on sexuality.

Methods.  In a Danish multicenter trial 319 women were randomized to TAH (n = 158) or SAH (n = 161); 185 women had self‐selected TAH (n = 80) or SAH (n = 105) in a simultaneously conducted observational study. Women were followed for 1 year by strict data collection procedures, including postal questionnaires. Results were analyzed by intention to treat (ITT) analyses.

Results.  No significant differences were observed between TAH and SAH at 1‐year follow‐up in both the randomized trial and the observational study regarding women's desire for sex, frequency of intercourse, frequency of orgasm, quality of orgasm, localization of orgasm, satisfaction with sexual life, and dyspareunia. None of these sexual variables changed significantly from entry to the 1‐year follow‐up, apart from dyspareunia, which was significantly (p = 0.009) reduced in both intervention groups. Significant (p < 0.05) predictors for satisfaction with sexual life after hysterectomy were the preoperative satisfaction with sexual life [odds ratio (OR) 32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 10–125], good relationship with partner (OR 50, 95% CI 9–354), physical well‐being (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.09–0.88) and hormone replacement therapy (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.06–0.78).

Conclusions.  Both TAH and SAH significantly reduce dyspareunia without having a negative effect on sexual function. The shift toward SAH seems unwarranted.
Are health expectations of term breech infants unrealistically high?
Authors: Ulander Veli‐Matti , Gissler Mika , Nuutila Mika , Ylikorkala Olavi
Published: February 2004

Background.  The aim of this study was to compare the effect of fetal presentation and mode of delivery on infant outcome in a nation‐wide study.

Methods.  In a retrospective observational cohort study, we compared, with the help of Finnish Medical Birth Register and other nation‐wide registers, the short‐term and long‐term outcome of infants born by breech vaginal (n = 1270) or by vertex vaginal delivery (n = 128 683) or through planned cesarean section (CS) in breech (n = 1640) or vertex (n = 4997); the pregnancies were otherwise entirely normal.

Results.  One perinatal death occurred in the breech vaginal group and 23 deaths in the vertex vaginal group (p = 0.112), but none in either CS group. Breech vaginal delivery was associated with increased risk of Apgar scores 6 or less at age 1 min (OR 7.65, CI 6.41–9.12) and at age 5 min (OR 6.42, CI 4.36–9.45) as compared with vertex vaginal delivery. These odd ratios were also elevated (OR 4.59, CI 3.48–7.08 and OR 7.58, CI 3.09–18.66, respectively) when compared with breech planned CS. Yet the risk for birth trauma of infants in the breech vaginal group was smaller (OR 0.70, CI 0.51–0.96) than that in the vertex vaginal group but this risk was smallest in the planned CS groups. A number of other neonatal complications occurred equally commonly in each group. Breech infants born vaginally needed fewer admissions (OR 0.58, 0.47–0.72) to out‐patient departments and the cumulative incidence of long‐term morbidity in the breech vaginal group was smaller (OR 0.47, CI 0.28–0.80) to the age of 7 years than that in the breech planned CS. The maturity for starting school and school performance during the first two school years showed no dependence on mode of delivery.

Conclusion.  Apart from Apgar suppression, elective vaginal delivery of a full‐term breech fetus in highly selected pregnancies does not cause additional neonatal hazards as compared with full‐term vertex deliveries. The immediate outcome was best for breech or vertex infants born through elective CSs.
Frequency of spontaneously occurring postmenopausal bleeding in the general population
Authors: Astrup Karen , Olivarius Niels de Fne
Published: February 2004

Background.  To determine the frequency of spontaneously occurring postmenopausal bleeding in the population, a prospective observational population study was undertaken.

Methods.  Out of a population‐based sample of 2000 Danish women aged 45–54 years, 1616 women responded to an initial questionnaire. Of these, 1059 women with natural gynecologic functions were eligible for the diary study, and of these, 951 (89.8%) women completed 1 year of daily recording of bleeding, medication relevant to bleeding, and medical consultations for gynecologic matters. Of the 951 women, 271 were postmenopausal.

Main outcome measures.  Occurrence of spontaneous postmenopausal bleeding including strength and length of each bleeding.

Results.  Of 271 postmenopausal women, 29 (10.7%, 95% confidence interval 7.3–15.0%) recorded spontaneous postmenopausal bleeding. The incidence of women with bleeding was strongly correlated with time since menopause (P = 0.0001), with an estimated incidence of 409/1000 (218/1000–771/1000) person‐years immediately after the first 12 months of amenorrhea following the menopause falling to 42/1000 (17/1000–102/1000) more than 3 years after menopause.

Conclusions.  This study indicates that recurrence of bleeding is very common in the time immediately after the 12 months of amenorrhea after what is currently defined as the final menstrual period, declining to low frequencies more than 3 years after the final menstrual period.
Menstrual bleeding patterns in pre‐ and perimenopausal women: a population‐based prospective diary study
Authors: Astrup Karen , Olivarius Niels de Fine , MØller Susanne , Gottschau Adam , Karlslund Willy
Published: February 2004

Background.  To investigate natural menstrual bleeding patterns in pre‐ and perimenopausal women, a prospective observational population study was carried out.

Methods.  A total of 1616 (80.8%) of a population‐based sample of 2000 Danish women aged 45–54 years answered an initial questionnaire. Of 1059 women with natural gynecological functions, 951 (89.8%) completed 1 year of daily recording of bleeding. Of these women, 592 were pre‐ or perimenopausal and were included in this study.

Main outcome measures.  Length and heaviness of bleeding episodes, including frequency of spotting, flooding and prolonged bleeding, according to regularity of cycles.

Results.  The proportion of women with irregular cycles increased from 58.3% at age 45–46 years to 100% at age 53–54 years (P < 0.001). Irregularity of cycles was accompanied by increased variation in both length and subjective assessment of heaviness of bleeding episodes in the individual woman and between women (P < 0.001). Episodes of spotting (P < 0.001) and prolonged bleeding (10 days or more) (P < 0.001) were more common in women with irregular cycles. Subjective assessment of heaviness of bleeding episodes, however, was higher in women with regular cycles (P < 0.001). One or more episodes of flooding were recorded by 24.0% of all women irrespective of regularity of cycles (P = 0.40) but more frequently in younger women (P < 0.001).

Conclusions.  Irregularity of cycle lengths at the end of the fertile period is common, and is accompanied by an increased inter‐ and intraindividual variation in the length and heaviness of bleeding episodes, including increased frequency of prolonged bleeding and spotting.
Human chorionic gonadotropin in maternal serum in relation to fetal gender and utero‐placental blood flow
Authors: Steier Johan Arnt , Bergsjø Per B. , Thorsen Thor , Myking Ole L.
Published: February 2004

Background.  To investigate whether fetal gender differences in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in maternal serum and the presence of hCG receptors in the wall of the uterine arteries influence the utero‐placental blood flow.

Method and material.  Sixty‐six healthy women with singleton uncomplicated pregnancies were examined at 8–10, 16–19 and 31–37 weeks of gestation. The pulsatility index (PI) was measured in the uterine arteries, simultaneously with sampling of peripheral maternal blood for hCG determination. Volume flow in the uterine arteries was determined in the second and third trimesters only.

Results.  In the first and second trimesters no gender differences in the hCG levels were observed. From the second to the third trimester the hCG levels increased significantly in pregnancies with female fetuses (P < 0.05), while in pregnancies with male fetuses the hCG levels tended to decline. The PI declined significantly from the first to the third trimester in both genders (P < 0.001). In the first and third trimesters no gender differences were seen. In the second trimester the PI values were significantly higher in pregnancies with male fetuses than in those with female fetuses (P < 0.02). The flow volume increased significantly in both genders from the second to the third trimester (P < 0.001). In the third trimester the flow volume was higher in pregnancies with female fetuses than in those with male fetuses (P = 0.05).

Conclusion.  The gender differences in uterine artery PI and flow volume were not correlated to maternal serum hCG levels.
Male contraception – quo vadis?
Authors: Perheentupa Antti , Huhtaniemi Ilpo
Published: February 2004

Recent developments in the regulation of fertility have taken place mainly within female contraception. New hormones and forms of their application are being regularly introduced. The concept of male hormonal contraception is decades old. However, until very recently, little effort has been spent trying to develop this new form of contraception for the market. Condoms and vasectomy are widely used despite their shortcomings. This reflects the willingness of male partners to share the responsibility of contraception. Condoms offer good protection from sexually transmitted disease and will therefore not be fully replaced by other forms. However, development of reliable male hormonal contraception is important in offering more choice for men and couples when choosing long‐term contraception, particularly in cases where female contraception presents significant side‐effects or other problems.
Correlations between umbilical and maternal serum adiponectin levels and neonatal birthweights
Authors: Chan Te‐Fu , Yuan Shyng‐Shiou F. , Chen Hung‐Sheng , Guu Chen‐Feng , Wu Lee‐Chen , Yeh Yao‐Tsung , Chung Yueh‐Fang , Jong Shiang‐Bin , Su Jinu‐Huang
Published: February 2004

Objective.  To measure adiponectin levels in maternal serum and umbilical cord serum at delivery, and examine whether or not there are correlations between adiponectin levels and neonatal birthweights, maternal body weights and body mass indexes.

Study design.  The study included 84 healthy mothers who had given birth to healthy neonates. Adiponectin levels in maternal serum and umbilical cord serum were determined by radioimmunoassay and compared.

Results.  The ranges of adiponectin levels for umbilical cord serum and maternal serum were 22.7–78.4 µg/ml and 4.0–43.3 µg/ml, respectively. Umbilical serum adiponectin levels (46.9 ± 1.2 µg/ml) were significantly higher than maternal serum adiponectin levels (16.1 ± 0.8 µg/ml) (p < 0.001). No correlation was found between the adiponectin levels in maternal serum and those in umbilical cord serum (r = 0.158, p = 0.151). Umbilical serum adiponectin levels were significantly correlated with both neonatal birthweights (r = 0.454, p < 0.001) and gestational ages at birth (r = 0.295, p = 0.006), but not with maternal serum adiponectin levels. Maternal serum adiponectin levels were only negatively correlated to maternal weights and body mass index at delivery (r = 0.288, p = 0.008; r = 0.372, p < 0.001).

Conclusion.  The levels of adiponectin were higher in umbilical cord serum than in maternal serum. Moreover, the adiponectin levels in umbilical cord serum were found to correlate positively with neonatal birthweights. Therefore, fetal adiponectin, not maternal serum adiponectin, may be involved in fetal development during late pregnancy.
Urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase activity in healthy children
Authors: SKÁLOVÁ SYLVA , CHLÁDEK JAROSLAV
Published: February 2004

Aim:  The principal aim was to establish paediatric reference data for the urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase  (U‐NAG)  activity.

Method and Results:  Two  hundred  and  sixty‐two  healthy  children  aged  0–18 years (0–1 month, n = 38; 1 month−1 year, n = 50; 1–3 years, n = 50; 3–6 years, n = 46; 6–10 years, n = 29; 10–18 years, n = 49) had a urine sample collected and the U‐NAG activity was evaluated by using fluorimetry and related to urinary creatinine as a nkat/mmol ratio. A strong age dependence of the U‐NAG/creatinine ratio and its high interindividual variability in children was observed; the highest values of upper reference range being in the 0–1 month and 1 month−1 year groups (134.8 and 50, respectively), which dropped gradually to 7.25 in the oldest age group (10–18 years).

Conclusion:  The establishment of urinary NAG reference paediatric values is a potentially useful tool for the proper evaluation of renal tubular impairment in children.
Cost of renal replacement therapy in Turkey
Authors: EREK EKREM , SEVER MEHMET ŞÜKRÜ , AKOGLU EMEL , SARIYAR MUZAFFER , BOZFAKIOGLU SEMRA , APAYDIN SUHEYLA , ATAMAN REZZAN , SARSMAZ NEDIM , ALTIPARMAK MEHMET RIZA , SEYAHI NURHAN , SERDENGEÇTI KAMIL
Published: February 2004

Background and Results:  By the end 2000, 22 224 patients were on renal replacement therapy (RRT) in Turkey. We investigated the cost of RRT in three medical faculties and one private dialysis centre. Yearly expenses were US$22 759 for haemodialysis (HD), US$22 350 for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), and US$23 393 and US$10 028, respectively, for the first and second years of transplantation (Tx). In the first year, renal Tx was significantly more expensive than CAPD. However, after the first year of renal transplantation, Tx became significantly more economical than both CAPD and HD. The sum of all yearly RRT expenses for the country was US$488 958 709, which corresponds to nearly 5.5% of Turkey's total health expenditure.

Conclusion:  Measures such as early construction of vascular access, promoting home dialysis and the reuse of the dialysers, strict control of the use of some expensive drugs like erythropoietin and active vitamin D, and also increasing the number of transplantations, especially if pre‐emptive transplantation is possible, should be taken into account in order to reduce these expenses.
Acute renal tubular injury with acute hepatitis A infection: Is it just a coincidence?
Authors: SHROFF GAUTAM R , BADVE SUNIL V , JOSHI ANAND G , DESAI DEVENDRA C , ABRAHAM PHILIP , SIRSAT RASIKA A
Published: February 2004

SUMMARY:  Acute renal failure has rarely been reported in association with acute hepatitis A infection. The commonest form of renal injury in such patients has been found to be acute tubular necrosis. We report two cases of hepatitis A infection in which acute renal failure occurred very early in the course of the illness and had a clinical presentation and recovery pattern suggestive of acute tubular necrosis. In both patients, the clinical course of renal dysfunction was almost parallel to the course of hepatic dysfunction. Patient 1 needed dialysis, whereas patient 2 did not need dialysis and had a very rapid recovery from renal function in spite of having more severe azotaemia. Patient 2 was administered acetylcysteine in high doses for suspected fulminant hepatic failure. A potential benefit of a high dose of acetylcysteine in recovery of renal function from acute tubular necrosis is postulated.
Effect of intraguild predation on the survival and development of three species of aphidophagous ladybirds: consequences for invasive species
Authors: Sato Satoru , Dixon Anthony F. G.
Published: February 2004

Abstract  1 Survival and development of hatchling larvae of three aphidophagous ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Harmonia axyridis Pallas, Coccinella septempunctata brucki Mulsant and Adalia bipunctata Linnaeus, when fed their own and the other species eggs were recorded.

2 In all three species, the larvae survived when fed conspecific eggs.

3 The percentage of larvae of H. axyridis that survived decreased to 35% and 85% when fed eggs of A. bipunctata and C. s. brucki, respectively. All the larvae of A. bipunctata and C. s. brucki died after eating eggs of H. axyridis. None of the larvae of C. s. brucki died after eating eggs of A. bipunctata, whereas 46% of those of A. bipunctata died after eating eggs of C. s. brucki.

4 In general, larvae were reluctant to eat the eggs of other species. However, larvae of C. s. brucki showed less reluctance than H. axyridis to eat the eggs of A. bipunctata.

5 The consequence of this for invasive species of ladybird is discussed.
Occurrence of Steinernema species in cabbage fields and the effect of inoculated S. feltiae on Delia radicum and its parasitoids
Authors: Nielsen Otto , Philipsen Holger
Published: February 2004

Abstract  1 Seven organically grown cabbage fields were surveyed for entomopathogenic nematodes in the autumn by baiting. Nematodes were obtained from three fields with bait larvae infection ranging from 1.3–4.0%.

2 Inoculation of Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) in the spring increased bait larvae infection to 16.0–32.0%.

3 Four different species were found (Steinernema affine, Steinernema bicornutum, S. feltiae and Steinernema C1).

4 The number of Delia radicum (L.) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) puparia was significantly reduced at plants where S. feltiae had been inoculated.

5 Delia radicum parasitoids were also affected by S. feltiae. The results indicated that Aleochara species (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) were more negatively affected than Trypliographa rapae (Westw.) (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae).
Genetic diversity of the green spruce aphid (Elatobium abietinum Walker) in north‐west Europe
Authors: Halldórsson G. , Sigurdsson V. , Thórsson Æ. TH. , Oddsdóttir E. S. , Sigurgeirsson A. , Anamthawat‐Jónsson K.
Published: February 2004

Abstract  1 The Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) method was used to investigate genetic diversity of anholocyclic populations of the green spruce aphid, Elatobium abietinum Walker, in north‐west Europe.

2 The results showed that the aphid in this region was divided genetically into three major groups. Aphids from the British Isles and north‐west France comprised the first group, the second group consisted of aphids from Denmark and Iceland, and the third group consisted of aphids from Norway.

3 The results indicated a significant level of gene flow within and between sites and geographical regions, especially in the British Isles and north‐west France. Lateral migration of the aphid and/or sexual reproduction is likely to have facilitated the gene flow.

4 The implications of these findings on management of the green spruce aphid are discussed.
Male‐produced aggregation pheromone of Carpophilus sayi, a nitidulid vector of oak wilt disease, and pheromonal comparison with Carpophilus lugubris
Authors: Bartelt Robert J. , Kyhl John F. , Ambourn Angie K. , Juzwik Jennifer , Seybold Steven J.
Published: February 2004

Abstract  1 Carpophilus sayi, a nitidulid beetle vector of the oak wilt fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum, was shown to have a male‐produced aggregation pheromone.

2 Six male‐specific chemicals were identified from collections of volatiles. The two major compounds were (2E,4E,6E,8E)‐3,5‐dimethyl‐7‐ethyl‐2,4,6,8‐undecatetraene and (2E,4E,6E,8E)‐3,5,7‐trimethyl‐2,4,6,8‐undecatetraene, in a ratio of 100 : 18. These compounds, in a similar ratio, were previously reported to be the pheromone of Carpophilus lugubris, a closely related species. The four minor C. sayi compounds (less than 4% as abundant as the first) were also alkyl‐branched hydrocarbons and consisted of two additional tetraenes and two trienes.

3 The pheromone of C. lugubris was re‐examined to refine the comparison with C. sayi, and C. lugubris was found to have the same additional, minor tetraenes as C. sayi, but not the trienes.

4 A synthetic mixture of the two major compounds was behaviourally active for both sexes of C. sayi in oak woodlands in Minnesota. The pheromone was tested in combination with fermenting whole wheat bread dough (a potent synergist of nitidulid pheromones). The combination of the 500‐µg pheromone dose and dough attracted at least 30‐fold more C. sayi than either pheromone or dough by itself. The synergized pheromone has potential as a tool for monitoring insect vector activity in an integrated management program for oak wilt.

5 Although C. lugubris was not present at the Minnesota test sites, two other Carpophilus species, Carpophilus brachypterus and Carpophilus corticinus, were clearly cross‐attracted to the synergized pheromone of C. sayi.
The effects of feeding by the rice water weevil, Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel, on the growth and yield components of rice, Oryza sativa
Authors: Zou Li , Stout Michael J. , Dunand Richard T.
Published: February 2004

Abstract  1 The effects of feeding by larvae of the rice water weevil, Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel, on the growth and yield components of rice, Oryza sativa, were evaluated using four varieties of rice, ‘Cocodrie’, ‘Cypress’, ‘Bengal’ and ‘XP1003’, over 2 years.

2 Both adults and larvae of L. oryzophilus feed on rice plants, but it is feeding by the larval stage that causes economic losses. Feeding by L. oryzophilus larvae resulted in extensive damage to root systems. Pruning of root systems resulted in a decrease in tiller number and shoot biomass of rice plants in the vegetative stage of growth.

3 Yield losses were due to a combination of decreases in panicle densities, numbers of grains per panicle, and grain weights. Decreases in panicle densities were a direct result of the reductions in tiller numbers. Reductions in numbers of grains per panicle and grain weights probably resulted from decreases in shoot biomass.

4 Injury by rice water weevil larvae is chronic. The tillering stage of rice suffered the majority of weevil damage, but the growth effects were not manifested until later.