bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enemy release or invasional meltdown? Deer preference for exotic and native trees on Isla Victoria, Argentina
Authors: NUÑEZ MARTIN A. , RELVA MARIA A. , SIMBERLOFF DANIEL
Published: April 2008

Abstract  How interactions between exotic species affect invasion impact is a fundamental issue on both theoretical and applied grounds. Exotics can facilitate establishment and invasion of other exotics (invasional meltdown) or they can restrict them by re‐establishing natural population control (as predicted by the enemy‐release hypothesis). We studied forest invasion on an Argentinean island where 43 species of Pinaceae, including 60% of the world's recorded invasive Pinaceae, were introduced c. 1920 but where few species are colonizing pristine areas. In this area two species of Palearctic deer, natural enemies of most Pinaceae, were introduced 80 years ago. Expecting deer to help to control the exotics, we conducted a cafeteria experiment to assess deer preferences among the two dominant native species (a conifer, Austrocedrus chilensis, and a broadleaf, Nothofagus dombeyi) and two widely introduced exotic tree species (Pseudotsuga menziesii and Pinus ponderosa). Deer browsed much more intensively on native species than on exotic conifers, in terms of number of individuals attacked and degree of browsing. Deer preference for natives could potentially facilitate invasion by exotic pines. However, we hypothesize that the low rates of invasion currently observed can result at least partly from high densities of exotic deer, which, despite their preference for natives, can prevent establishment of both native and exotic trees. Other factors, not mutually exclusive, could produce the observed pattern. Our results underscore the difficulty of predicting how one introduced species will effect impact of another one.
Cyclic dormancy, temperature and water availability control germination of Carrichtera annua, an invasive species in chenopod shrublands
Authors: FACELLI JOSÉ M. , CHESSON PETER
Published: April 2008

Abstract  We studied the germination of seeds of Carrichtera annua L. from a single cohort, stored in the field for up to 18 months, when retrieved at different times and subject to different combinations of temperature and water availability. Germination was affected by season of retrieval, and temperature and water availability in a complex interactive way. Germination rates were lowest when seeds were retrieved during summer or spring, but seeds germinated readily when retrieved during autumn and winter, if exposed to temperatures simulating autumn or winter conditions, and provided water equivalent to at least 50% field capacity. High temperatures and low water availability reduced germination substantially. The results indicate that this species has a combination of cyclic dormancy and germination requirements that minimizes the risk of germination during periods when the risk of prereproductive mortality is high. Given the short life of the seeds of this species, these mechanisms may be essential for the persistence of the species in the highly unpredictable arid lands of southern Australia.
The role of the subthalamic nucleus in ‘compulsive’ behavior in rats
Authors: Winter Christine , Flash Shira , Klavir Oded , Klein Julia , Sohr Reinhard , Joel Daphna
Published: April 2008

Different lines of evidence point to dysfunction of basal ganglia‐thalamocortical circuits in obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). It has been hypothesized that the circuits' dysfunction in OCD may be characterized by a relative under‐activity of the indirect compared with the direct pathway within these circuits. The present study tested whether lesions of the subthalamic nucleus (STN), a major node of the indirect pathway, would affect compulsive behavior, using the signal attenuation rat model of OCD. In this model, compulsive lever‐pressing is induced by the attenuation of an external signal of reward delivery; an attenuation that is hypothesized to simulate the deficient response feedback suggested to underlie obsessions and compulsions in patients with OCD. Rats sustaining lesions to the STN showed a selective increase in compulsive lever‐pressing compared with sham‐operated rats. A post mortem biochemical analysis revealed a decrease in serotonin content in the prelimbic and infralimbic cortices, caudate‐putamen (but not nucleus accumbens), globus pallidus and substantia nigra‐ventral tegmental area, as well as a decrease in dopamine content in the caudate‐putamen in STN‐lesioned compared with sham rats. A comparison to recent findings that lesions to the orbitofrontal cortex, which also result in a selective increase in compulsive lever‐pressing, lead to a decrease in serotonin and dopamine content in the caudate‐putamen suggests that there may be a final common pathway by which different brain pathologies may lead to a pro‐compulsive state.
Insulin increases excitability via a dose‐dependent dual inhibition of voltage‐activated K+ currents in differentiated N1E‐115 neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Lima Pedro A. , Vicente M. Inês , Alves Frederico M. , Dionísio José C. , Costa Pedro F.
Published: April 2008

A role in the control of excitability has been attributed to insulin via modulation of potassium (K+) currents. To investigate insulin modulatory effects on voltage‐activated potassium currents in a neuronal cell line with origin in the sympathetic system, we performed whole‐cell voltage‐clamp recordings in differentiated N1E‐115 neuroblastoma cells. Two main voltage‐activated K+ currents were identified: (a) a relatively fast inactivating current (Ifast − time constant 50–300 ms); (b) a slow delayed rectifying K+ current (Islow − time constant 1–4 s). The kinetics of inactivation of Ifast, rather than Islow, showed clear voltage dependence. Ifast and Islow exhibited different activation and inactivation dependence for voltage, and have different but nevertheless high sensitivities to tetraethylammonium, 4‐aminopyridine and quinidine. In differentiated cells − rather than in non‐differentiated cells − application of up to 300 nm insulin reduced Islow only (IC50 = 6.7 nm), whereas at higher concentrations Ifast was also affected (IC50 = 7.7 µm). The insulin inhibitory effect is not due to a change in the activation or inactivation current–voltage profiles, and the time‐dependent inactivation is also not altered; this is not likely to be a result of activation of the insulin‐growth‐factor‐1 (IGF1) receptors, as application of IGF1 did not result in significant current alteration. Results suggest that the current sensitive to low concentrations of insulin is mediated by erg‐like channels. Similar observations concerning the insulin inhibitory effect on slow voltage‐activated K+ currents were also made in isolated rat hippocampal pyramidal neurons, suggesting a widespread neuromodulator role of insulin on K+ channels.
Classical and melanopsin photoreception in irradiance detection: negative masking of locomotor activity by light
Authors: Thompson Stewart , Foster Russell G. , Stone Edwin M. , Sheffield Val C. , Mrosovsky N.
Published: April 2008

Studies in mice lacking either classical or melanopsin photoreception have been useful in describing the photoreceptor contribution to irradiance detection in accessory visual responses. However, application of these findings to irradiance detection in intact animals is problematical because retinal degeneration or manipulation can induce secondary changes in the retina. Among responses dependent on irradiance detection, the suppression of activity by light (negative masking) has had limited study. To further understand the function of classical and melanopsin photoreceptors we studied irradiance and spectral sensitivity of masking by light, primarily in mice with intact retinae. The sensitivity of negative masking was equivalent for medium (∼500 nm) and short wavelengths (∼365 nm) in three strains of wild‐type mice, identifying a marked short‐wavelength‐sensitive‐cone input. At medium wavelengths, spectral sensitivity above 500 nm had closest fit to the nomogram for the medium‐wavelength‐sensitive‐cone, but a combined input of cone and melanopsin photoreceptors in wild‐type mice seems likely. Under white light a decompression of the irradiance range of masking in C3H rd/rd cl mice, lacking rods and cones, identified a functional deficiency presumably resulting from the absence of classical photoreceptor input. Together the evidence demonstrates a pronounced and sustained classical photoreceptor input to irradiance detection for negative masking, and suggests one role of classical photoreceptor input is to constrain dynamic range.
Local oscillations of spiking activity in organotypic spinal cord slice cultures
Authors: Czarnecki Antonny , Magloire Vincent , Streit Jürg
Published: April 2008

The origin of rhythm generation in mammalian spinal cord networks is still poorly understood. We have previously proposed that disinhibition‐induced rhythms are based on intrinsic firing, recurrent excitation and several mechanisms to de‐activate the network. In order to clarify these mechanisms we here investigated spontaneous spike discharge oscillations in rat spinal cord slice cultures using multi‐electrode arrays and patch clamp. Episodes of such oscillations at 8.5 Hz spontaneously appeared in the ventral parts of the cultured slices. The rising phase of their initial cycles was entirely based on AMPA/kainate receptor‐dependent recurrent excitation. Initial oscillations were changed into persistent activity by bicuculline and other blockers of GABA A, but not by blockers of glycine receptors, suggesting a role for GABAergic synaptic inhibition in network de‐activation during oscillation cycles. Blockade of glycine receptors by strychnine caused a prolongation of oscillations and their spreading in the slice, suggesting that these receptors are mainly involved in the spatial and temporal restriction of oscillations. In most cultures, oscillations reappeared under disinhibition after an initial phase of persistent activity. Both spontaneous and disinhibition‐induced oscillations were facilitated by riluzole, which enhances fast sodium current inactivation and thus leads to early cessation of firing during strong depolarization (depolarization block). In single cell recordings, episodes of strong depolarization were mostly seen during oscillations induced by disinhibition, but occasionally also during spontaneous oscillations. We conclude that both GABA A‐mediated synaptic inhibition and depolarization block contribute to the de‐activation of spinal cord networks during oscillation cycles.
Stress accelerates neural degeneration and exaggerates motor symptoms in a rat model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Smith Lori K. , Jadavji Nafisa M. , Colwell Keri L. , Katrina Perehudoff S. , Metz Gerlinde A.
Published: April 2008

The causes of most cases of Parkinson's disease (PD) are still poorly understood. Here we show that chronic stress and elevated corticosterone levels exaggerate motor deficits and neurodegenerative events in a Parkinson's disease rat model. Animals were tested in skilled and non‐skilled movement while being exposed to daily restraint stress or oral corticosterone treatment. Stress and corticosterone compromised normal motor function and exaggerated motor deficits caused by unilateral 6‐hydroxydopamine lesion of the nigrostriatal bundle. Moreover, stress and corticosterone treatments diminished the ability to acquire compensatory strategies in limb use during skilled reaching and skilled walking. In contrast, lesion control animals were able to significantly improve in the ability of skilled limb use during the repeated test sessions. The exaggerated motor impairments in stress‐treated animals were related to accelerated loss of midbrain dopamine‐producing neurons during the first week postlesion. Correlation analysis revealed a significant connection between loss of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive cells and increase in Fluoro‐Jade‐positive cells only in stress‐ and corticosterone‐treated animals. Furthermore, stress and elevated corticosterone levels caused greater permanent loss of midbrain neurons than found in non‐treated lesion animals. These findings demonstrate that stress and elevated corticosterone levels can exaggerate nigral neuronal loss and motor symptoms in a rat analogue of PD. It is therefore possible that stress represents a key factor in the pathogenesis of human PD by impeding functional and structural compensation and exaggerating neurodegenerative processes.
Oxytocin reduces anxiety via ERK1/2 activation: local effect within the rat hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus
Authors: Blume Annegret , Bosch Oliver J. , Miklos Sandra , Torner Luz , Wales Lynn , Waldherr Martin , Neumann Inga D.
Published: April 2008

The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) modulates social behaviours and is an important anxiolytic substance of the brain. However, sites of action and the intracellular signalling pathways downstream of OT receptors (OTR) within the brain remain largely unknown. In the present studies, we localized the anxiolytic effect of OT by bilateral microinfusion of OT (0.01 nmol/0.5 µL) into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in male rats using both the elevated plus‐maze and the light–dark box. Moreover, intracerebroventricular administration of OT, but not of the related neuropeptide vasopressin (VP), dose‐dependently activated the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) cascade. Specifically, OT induced the phosphorylation of Raf‐1, MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 in the hypothalamus in vivo and in hypothalamic H32 neurons via EGF receptors. OT‐induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation was immunohistochemically localized within VP neurons of the PVN and the supraoptic nucleus. Importantly, the anxiolytic effect of OT within the PVN was prevented by local inhibition of the MAP kinase cascade with a MEK1/2 inhibitor (U0126, 0.5 nmol/0.5 µL) locally infused prior to OT, indicating the causal involvement of this intracellular signalling cascade in the behavioural effect of OT. OT effects within the hypothalamus may have far‐reaching implications for the regulation of emotionality and social behaviours and, consequently, for the development of possible therapeutic strategies to treat affective disorders. Thus, OTR agonism or activation of the ERK1/2 cascade, specifically within the hypothalamus, may provide therapeutically relevant mechanisms.
Varietal susceptibility of potatoes to wireworm herbivory
Authors: Johnson Scott N. , Anderson Eric A. , Dawson Gregory , Griffiths D. Wynne
Published: April 2008

1 Wireworms, the soil dwelling larvae of click beetles, Agriotes spp., have recently become a more prevalent pest of potatoes. The present study investigated whether potato varieties showed variable susceptibility to wireworm herbivory, and also tested whether increased susceptibility was associated with lower concentrations of glycoalkaloids. Twelve varieties were originally screened across a range of experimental scales, including laboratory and tunnel experiments and a large‐scale field trial involving over 2000 tubers.

2 In laboratory no‐choice tests, Maris Peer, Marfona and Rooster varieties were significantly more susceptible to wireworm attack, with 63% of tubers showing damage, compared with just 15% of the less susceptible varieties of King Edward, Nadine and Maris Piper. There was also greater tissue consumption and weight gain when wireworms were reared on the most susceptible varieties.

3 In choice tests, wireworms showed a significant preference for those varieties previously identified as being the most susceptible to wireworm herbivory (4.2 holes per tuber) compared with the least susceptible (1.2 holes per tuber). Similar patterns of susceptibility were seen in the field trial, although there was generally more variation in susceptibility.

4 In a tunnel experiment, Marfona and Maris Peer were significantly more susceptibile to wireworm attack (47% of tubers showing damage) compared with Nadine, King Edward and Maris Piper (27% of tubers showing damage). Although Nadine, in particular, had the highest glycoalkaloid concentrations (309.33 mg/kg) and lowest amounts of wireworm herbivory, the relationship between susceptibility and glycoalkaloid concentrations was weak, suggesting that this is unlikely to be the sole mechanism underpinning varietal susceptibility.
Host location and oviposition of lepidopteran herbivores in diversified broccoli cropping systems
Authors: Broad S. T. , Schellhorn N. A. , Lisson S. N. , Mendham N. J.
Published: April 2008

1 Host location and oviposition are crucial steps in the life cycles of insect herbivores. A diversified cropping system may interfere with these processes, ultimately reducing pest colonization of crops and the need for chemical interventions.

2 In the present study, nonhost vegetation was added to a broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) cropping system to determine the effect of plant diversification on host location and colonization of broccoli by Lepidopteran pests. The two diversification strategies applied consisted of a broccoli/potato (Solanum tuberosum) strip crop, made up of 1.65 m (tractor width) replications of two rows of potatoes and two rows of broccoli, and a cereal rye (Secale cereale) cover crop, which formed a sacrificial planting that was killed and rolled flat to minimize weed competition and improve the agronomic performance of the subsequent broccoli crop.

3 Diamondback moth Plutella xylostella eggs, and subsequent larvae and pupae, were less abundant on broccoli with the cover crop, probably due to interference with host location and oviposition processes. The strip crop had no effect.

4 Numbers of cabbage white butterflies Pieris rapae eggs and larvae did not differ among treatments, probably due to the superior ability of these Lepidoptera to visually locate hosts and their active egg‐dispersing behaviour.

5 These results of the present study indicate that the success of crop diversification strategies are contingent on the relative ability of the target herbivore to locate its host plant and the scale of diversity (e.g. the distance between the host and the nonhost plants), rather than diversity itself.
Identification of intermediates formed during anaerobic benzene degradation by an iron‐reducing enrichment culture
Authors: Kunapuli Umakanth , Griebler Christian , Beller Harry R. , Meckenstock Rainer U.
Published: April 2008

Anaerobic benzene degradation is an important process in contaminated aquifers but is poorly understood due to the scarcity of microbial cultures for study. We have enriched a ferric iron‐reducing culture that completely mineralizes benzene to CO2. With 13C6‐labelled benzene as the growth substrate, ring‐labelled benzoate was identified as a major intermediate by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) analysis of culture supernatants. With increasing incubation time, 13C7‐labelled benzoate appeared, indicating that the carboxyl group of benzoate derived from CO2 that was produced from mineralization of labelled benzene. This was confirmed by growing the culture in 13C‐bicarbonate‐buffered medium with unlabelled benzene as the substrate, as the label appeared in the carboxyl group of benzoate produced. Phenol was also identified as an intermediate at high concentration. However, it was clearly shown that phenol was formed abiotically by autoxidation of benzene during the sampling and analysis procedure as a result of exposure to air. The results suggest that, in our culture, anaerobic benzene degradation proceeds via carboxylation and that caution should be exercised in interpreting hydroxylated benzene derivatives as metabolic intermediates of anaerobic benzene degradation.
Robotic salvage retropubic prostatectomy after radiation/brachytherapy: initial results
Authors: Kaouk Jihad H. , Hafron Jason , Goel Rajk , Haber George‐Pascal , Jones J. Stephen
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To report on the initial four patients who had robotic salvage retropubic prostatectomy (SRP) for biochemical recurrence after radiation therapy, and to review the surgical outcome of robotic cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer in two patients who previously had prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Since February 2006, four patients had SRP for biochemical failure after radiation and/or brachytherapy. Transrectal biopsy of the prostate confirmed locally recurrent disease and a metastatic evaluation including bone scan and computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis were negative in all cases. The SRP was done using a six‐port transperitoneal approach. An additional two patients had a robotic cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer, in whom radiation was provided previously for prostate cancer. A retrospective analysis of the immediate and short‐term surgical outcome was reviewed.

RESULTS

SRP was completed in all patients with no major complication or conversion to an open approach. The mean operative duration was 125 min, the mean (range) blood loss was 117 (50–250) mL and the mean hospital stay was 2.7 days. Of the four patients undergoing SRP, three had extracapsular extension and the first two had positive margins, while no patients had rectal injuries or significant blood loss. The lymph nodes were negative in all the patients. Three patients were continent within a month while one continued to use two to three pads/day at 3 weeks of follow‐up. In the two patients who had cystoprostatectomy there were no major complications or increased surgical difficulty.

CONCLUSIONS

SRP is technically possible and with limited perioperative morbidity. Further studies are warranted to validate the oncological and functional outcomes of SRP after radiation and/or brachytherapy. Moreover, the robotic approach for radical cystoprostatectomy in patients who have had prostate radiation is feasible, with no increase in perioperative morbidity.
Mitochondrial DNA in serum of patients with prostate cancer: a predictor of biochemical recurrence after prostatectomy
Authors: Ellinger Jörg , Müller Stefan C. , Wernert Nicolas , Von Ruecker Alexander , Bastian Patrick J.
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of circulating mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in patients with localized prostate cancer, as recent reports show that patients with advanced cancer have increased levels of mtDNA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

DNA was isolated from the serum of 100 patients with prostate cancer and 18 with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify 79 bp and 230 bp fragments of the mitochondrial 16s‐RNA gene, the short fragment representing total mtDNA, including mtDNA truncated by apoptosis, and the long fragment representing mostly mtDNA from other cell death entities. mtDNA integrity was defined as the ratio of long to short mtDNA fragments.

RESULTS

The short and long mtDNA levels, and mtDNA integrity, were similar in patients with BPH and cancer (P = 0.940, 0.211 and 0.441, respectively), and were not correlated with clinical or pathological variables, e.g. age, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, cT stage, pT stage, seminal vesicle infiltration, lymph node invasion, or Gleason score (P = 0.075 to 0.961). However, patients with high levels of short mtDNA (>75th percentile) had a greater risk of PSA progression and this variable was the strongest predictor of PSA recurrence in a multivariate Cox analysis (P = 0.023; hazard ratio 0.31; 95% confidence interval 0.113–0.851).

CONCLUSION

Circulating mtDNA levels did not distinguish between patients with prostate cancer or BPH. However, there was a significant increase in short mtDNA fragments in patients with early PSA recurrence after radical prostatectomy.
Application of transcript profiling in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded diagnostic prostate cancer needle biopsies
Authors: Rogerson Lynsey , Darby Steve , Jabbar Talal , Mathers Marie E. , Leung Hing Y. , Robson Craig N. , Sahadevan Kanagasabai , O’Toole Kieran , Gnanapragasam Vincent J.
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of transcript profiling in diagnostic formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) biopsies for prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Laser‐capture microdissection (LCM) was used to microdissect glandular epithelium as well as stromal tissue in archival prostate needle biopsies. Optimized RNA extraction, reverse transcription and real‐time PCR (QPCR) protocols were used to detect transcript expression. RNA degradation effects were assessed using hydrolysed cell line RNA and matched xenograft FFPE and frozen tumours.

RESULTS

LCM and RNA extraction was achieved in all biopsies from a pilot cohort of five patients. cDNA produced was successfully used to detect expression of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, RPL13, prostate‐specific antigen, vimentin, inhibitor of differentiation/DNA binding 1 (Id‐1) and polycomb group protein enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) transcripts. In the cell line and xenograft models, we investigated the effect of RNA degradation on transcript quantification by QPCR. In both models normalization of transcript quantity with a housekeeping gene resulted in restored expression in all degraded samples to within a 50% difference of control samples. Using an extended cohort of 29 biopsies, we tested application in detecting differences in EZH2 and Id‐1 expression between malignant and benign epithelium. The results confirmed that our technique was capable of quantifying significant differences in expression between malignant and benign epithelium consistent with the reported trends.

CONCLUSION

This study reports the use of standard FFPE needle biopsies for transcript profiling and supports the concept of molecular prognostic studies in tissue acquired at diagnosis in prostate cancer.
Type 4 phosphodiesterase inhibitor suppresses experimental bladder inflammation
Authors: Kitta Takeya , Tanaka Hiroshi , Mitsui Takahiko , Moriya Kimihiko , Nonomura Katsuya
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of orally administered YM976, a specific inhibitor of type 4 phosphodiesterase (PDE4), on bladder activity in a rat model with hydrochloric acid (HCl)‐induced cystitis (IC), hypothesizing that a PDE4 inhibitor might suppress bladder overactivity and bladder pain responses in bladder‐hypersensitive disorders such as IC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats with HCl‐induced IC were treated with YM976 or vehicle and their voiding observed and assessed by cystometry. The severity of bladder inflammation (BI) was quantified using the BI index (BII), which comprises three factors (oedema, leukocyte infiltration and haemorrhage). Nociceptive neural activity was also examined using an immunohistochemical study of spinal c‐fos expression.

RESULTS

YM976 significantly reduced the number of voids, and the volume per void was significantly higher than in control (vehicle) group. Cystometry showed a significant increase in bladder capacity, voided volume and voiding efficiency, and a decrease in the amplitude of voiding pressure in rats treated with YM976. All BII scores were significantly lower in the YM976 than in the control group. c‐fos expression in the spine was less in the YM976 than in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral administration of YM976 significantly improved the voiding behaviour and histological damage in rats with IC induced by HCl. These results indicate that PDE4 inhibitor might be effective in relieving bladder symptoms with IC.
The phenomenology of children's influence on parents
Authors: De Mol Jan , Buysse Ann
Published: April 2008

Starting from the core systemic premise that humans influence each other, this paper focuses on child influences in the bidirectional parent–child relationship. Following a co‐constructionist approach on bidirectionality, meaning constructions of children and their parents concerning child influences are explored. The authors used in‐depth interviews separately with children and their parents. Phenomenological analysis shows similarities and differences in children's and parents' thinking. Both stress the difficulty and existential dimension of the subject and refer to this influence as mainly unintentional. In particular, children disentangle influence from power. Children focus on the responsiveness of their parents. Parents emphasize the overwhelming effects on their personal development. The importance of making room for constructive child influences in family therapy is acknowledged.
Observing the therapeutic alliance in family therapy: associations with participants' perceptions and therapeutic outcomes
Authors: Escudero Valentín , Friedlander Myrna L. , Varela Nuria , Abascal Alberto
Published: April 2008

Positive and negative alliance‐related behaviours of thirty‐seven families seen in brief family therapy were rated from videotapes using the System for Observing Family Therapy Alliances (Friedlander et al., 2006b). Positive associations were found between in‐session behaviour and participants' perceptions of the alliance and improvement so far both early (session 3) and later in therapy (session 6). Binary logistic regression showed that successful outcomes (defined as consensus by therapist and all family members on general improvement and reduced problem severity) were significantly predicted by positive individual behaviour (Engagement in the Therapeutic Process, Emotional Connection with the Therapist, Safety within the Therapeutic System) in session 3 and productive within‐family collaboration (Shared Sense of Purpose within the Family) in session 6. Shared Sense of Purpose was the alliance indicator most consistently associated with clients' and therapists' perceptions of therapeutic progress; moreover, it was the only alliance indicator to improve significantly over time in treatment.
PRICE COMPETITION IN U.S. BREWING*
Authors: ROJAS CHRISTIAN
Published: April 2008

This study utilizes a brand‐level dataset that captures a unique natural experiment, a 100% increase in the excise tax, to evaluate different pricing models in the U.S. beer industry. To assess the plausibility of different models, the increase in marginal cost resulting from the tax increase is exploited: observed prices in the post‐increase period are compared to the prices that should be observed under various pricing models. Three types of models are analyzed: Bertrand‐Nash, leadership, and collusion. Results indicate that extreme cases of collusion can be confidently ruled out while several models may explain the observed prices equally well.
COST PASS‐THROUGH IN DIFFERENTIATED PRODUCT MARKETS: THE CASE OF U.S. PROCESSED CHEESE*
Authors: KIM DONGHUN , COTTERILL RONALD W.
Published: April 2008

In this paper, we estimate a mixed logit model for demand in the U.S. processed cheese market. The estimates are used to determine pass‐through rates of cost changes under different behavioral regimes. We find that, under collusion, the pass‐through rates for all brands fall between 21% and 31% while, under Nash‐Bertrand price competition, the range of pass‐through rates is between 73% and 103%. The mixed logit model provides a more flexible framework for studying pass‐through rates than the logit model since the curvature of the demand functions depends upon the empirical distribution of consumer types.
THE ROLE OF COST IN DETERMINING WHEN FIRMS OFFER BUNDLES*
Authors: EVANS DAVID S. , SALINGER MICHAEL A.
Published: April 2008

We model competitive bundling and tying, allowing for marginal cost savings from bundling, fixed costs of product offerings, and variation in customer preferences. Pure bundling can arise either because few people demand only one component or because, with high fixed costs, a single product efficiently satisfies customers with diverse tastes. We conclude by analyzing empirically the bundling of pain relievers with decongestants. The discount for the bundled product is large. We argue that our model provides a simpler, more compelling explanation for the size of the discount than the demand‐centered approach to bundling by a monopolist.
THE MEDICAL DECISION‐MAKING PROCESS AND THE FAMILY: THE CASE OF BREAST CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR HUSBANDS
Authors: GILBAR ROY , GILBAR ORA
Published: April 2008

Objectives:  The objectives of the study were (1) to assess similarities and differences between breast cancer patients and their husbands in terms of doctor‐patient/spouse relationships and shared decision making; and (2) to investigate the association between breast cancer patients and husbands in terms of preference of type of doctor, doctor‐patient relationship, and shared decision making regarding medical treatment.

Method:  Fifty‐seven women with breast cancer, and their husbands, completed questionnaires measuring doctor‐patient/spouse relationships (paternalism, autonomy), and decision making regarding medical treatment.

Results:  Patients believe they have a key role in the medical decision‐making process (93%) and that the participation of their husbands, and their agreement with the decision, is important (84% and 89%, respectively). Both breast cancer patients and their husbands prefer a shared decision‐making process to paternalistic or autonomy‐based approaches.

Conclusion:  In contrast to legal and bioethical approaches, which focus on the patient as the primary decision maker, this study reflects a practical recognition of the role of the breast cancer patient's husband in the decision‐making process. It also reflects a relational rather than an individualistic perception of patient autonomy.
REASSESSING INSURERS' ACCESS TO GENETIC INFORMATION: GENETIC PRIVACY, IGNORANCE, AND INJUSTICE
Authors: FEIRING ELI
Published: April 2008

Many countries have imposed strict regulations on the genetic information to which insurers have access. Commentators have warned against the emerging body of legislation for different reasons. This paper demonstrates that, when confronted with the argument that genetic information should be available to insurers for health insurance underwriting purposes, one should avoid appeals to rights of genetic privacy and genetic ignorance. The principle of equality of opportunity may nevertheless warrant restrictions. A choice‐based account of this principle implies that it is unfair to hold people responsible for the consequences of the genetic lottery, since we have no choice in selecting our genotype or the expression of it. However appealing, this view does not take us all the way to an adequate justification of inaccessibility of genetic information. A contractarian account, suggesting that health is a condition of opportunity and that healthcare is an essential good, seems more promising. I conclude that if or when predictive medical tests (such as genetic tests) are developed with significant actuarial value, individuals have less reason to accept as fair institutions that limit access to healthcare on the grounds of risk status. Given the assumption that a division of risk pools in accordance with a rough estimate of people's level of (genetic) risk will occur, fairness and justice favour universal health insurance based on solidarity.
Long‐term reaction to bone cement in osteoporotic bone: new bone formation in vertebral bodies after vertebroplasty
Authors: Braunstein Volker , Sprecher Christoph M. , Gisep Armando , Benneker Lorin , Yen Kathrin , Schneider Erich , Heini Paul , Milz Stefan
Published: April 2008

Elderly patients frequently suffer from osteoporotic vertebral fractures resulting in the need of vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. Nevertheless, no data are available about the long‐term consequences of cement injection into osteoporotic bone. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the long‐term tissue reaction on bone cement injected to osteoporotic bone during vertebroplasty. The thoracic spine of an 80‐year‐old female was explanted 3.5 years after vertebroplasty with polymethylmethacrylate. The treatment had been performed due to painful osteoporotic compression fractures. Individual vertebral bodies were cut in axial or sagittal sections after embedding. The sections were analysed using contact radiography and staining with toluidine blue. Furthermore, selected samples were evaluated with scanning electron microscopy and micro‐compted tomography (in‐plane resolution 6 µm). Large amounts of newly formed callus surrounding the injected polymethylmethacrylate were detected with all imaging techniques. The callus formation almost completely filled the spaces between the vertebral endplate, the cancellous bone, and the injected polymethylmethacrylate. In trabecular bone microfractures and osteoclast lacuna were bridged or filled with newly formed bone. Nevertheless, the majority of the callus formation was found in the immediate vicinity of the polymethylmethacrylate without any obvious relationship to trabecular fractures. The results indicate for the first time that, contrary to established knowledge, even in osteoporosis the formation of large amounts of new bone is possible.
Fibrillin‐1 in incisional hernias: an immunohistochemical study in scar and non‐scar regions of human skin and muscle fasciae
Authors: Fricke Martin , Langer Claus , Brunner Edgar , Sakai Lynn Y. , Füzesi Laszlo , Reinhardt Dieter P. , Quondamatteo Fabio
Published: April 2008

Incisional hernias represent one of the most common complications after laparotomy. Specific pre‐operative risk factors have not yet been identified. Recent studies indicate that changes in extracellular matrix components such as collagen I and collagen III may be involved in hernia development. In the present study we have evaluated the significance of fibrillin‐1 in hernia development as one of the main components of the extracellular matrix. Tissue samples from non‐scar skin and muscle fascia of 12 patients with incisional hernias as well as from the respective scar tissues were obtained. Corresponding tissue samples of 10 patients with normal postoperative wound healing served as controls. Distribution of fibrillin‐1 was evaluated immunohistochemically. Differences in fibrillin‐1 distribution in the non‐scar tissues of muscle fascia have been found in patients with incisional hernia, compared to those without hernia. In scar regions of both patient groups, slight differences in the pattern of fibrillin‐1 were observed. A tendency to a differential deposition of fibrillin‐1 in skin samples, although hardly quantifiable, was observed as well. Our results suggest that fibrillin‐1 is a relevant factor contributing to tissue stability. Disturbances in its deposition, even before scar formation, may be an important factor to the development of incisional hernias.
Genetic diversity in the North American captive African elephant collection
Authors: Lei R. , Brenneman R. A. , Louis E. E.
Published: April 2008

One hundred and eight mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences were used in combination with multilocus genotypes generated from 19 nuclear microsatellite loci to assess the genetic diversity in the North American captive African elephant collection. The analysis of 4488 bp of mitochondrial nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogenenase subunit 4‐cytochrome b (ND4‐cyt b) sequence revealed the existence of three distinct mtDNA lineages (Haplogroups I–III). The genetic distance between Haplogroups I/II and Haplogroup III was determined to be 0.046. The nucleotide diversity for the elephant mtDNA ND4‐cyt b was <0.004. Analysis of multilocus genotypes indicated an average observed heterozygosity of 0.53 compared with the expected heterozygosity of 0.64. No subdivision in the data was detected including data partitioned by mtDNA haplogroup. Relatedness among the 108 individuals did not differ from that expected in random mating populations.
Health promoting schools: integrated practices to develop critical thinking and healthy lifestyles through farming, growing and healthy eating
Authors: Lakin Liz , Littledyke Michael
Published: April 2008

This paper reports on two case study examples of schools identified from Gloucestershire primary schools as showing particularly good practice in developing the concept of a Health Promoting School. The schools were selected from research projects linked to the Growing Schools programme for promoting children's understanding of food production and consumption, and the Gloucestershire Food Strategy for promoting healthy eating patterns in school children. Examples of curriculum development and associated pedagogy, school organization for democratic involvement of all its participants, and practical changes in the provision of eating choices are presented. These illustrate how integration of critical thinking and changes to the schools' provision of choices for healthy eating patterns can influence children's understanding and behaviour towards diet and health. The key factors that influenced such changes in the schools are identified as: clear leadership with vision from the head teacher, community involvement, ownership of processes of change by all participants, critical thinking as a focus for processes of learning; integrated practice to link experience and understanding, and the school acting as a model for good practice in health and environmental matters.
Chronic consumer debtors: the need for specific intervention
Authors: Townley‐Jones Maureen , Griffiths Margaret , Bryant Mary
Published: April 2008

Many studies of consumer debtors have identified risk factors associated with chronic consumer debt. Chronic consumer debtors exist in an environment of ongoing efforts to survive financially and meet their debt commitments. Despite otherwise favourable economic conditions for the community at large such as low interest rates and low levels of unemployment, the chronic consumer debtor remains continuously at peril of overcommitment. An analysis of financial counselling interviews in New South Wales (the largest state in Australia) has been used to identify the group that the authors believe to be most at risk of chronic consumer debt in Australia. Other independent studies are provided to support the choice of the identified group. The situation for chronic consumer debtors is contrasted to the situation for acute cases. While financial literacy and support programmes can be provided to the community, the ability to target programmes towards a specifically identifiable group concentrates activities on measures aimed to alleviate the distress caused by ongoing financial hardship for one particular consumer group. The challenge of reducing chronic consumer debt has the potential to raise awareness and understanding of risk factors for consumer debtors generally. Thus, concentrated efforts towards alleviating chronic consumer debt may lead to a reduction in consumer financial overcommitment.
Store cards: is it a matter of convenience or is the facility used to sustain lavish consumption?
Authors: Erasmus Alet C. , Lebani Kethuswegape
Published: April 2008

Store cards are generally much easier to obtain than most other credit systems, and are therefore afforded less respect than, for example, bank credit cards. Many consumers who adopt store cards are not necessarily competent to manage the credit limits that are so generously approved. Overspending thus seems almost inevitable. Evidence to substantiate concerns about store card use will be useful to alert consumers about responsible use of store cards and will support the basic sentiments of consumerism, i.e. to enhance consumer education and to properly inform and protect consumers. The intention is to compare the most important reasons provided for the adoption of store cards and buyer behaviour, as well as satisfaction with store cards of two dissimilar groups of store cardholders, based on the premise that exposure to and experience with large shopping malls and related facilities would be influential. Store cardholders' control of credit limits and use of supplementary store card services are correlated with satisfaction with the commodity. The research is exploratory and descriptive in kind. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data during August to October 2006: 267 questionnaires were retrieved. A remarkable congruence in the reasons why store cards were acquired by the two samples was evident. Both valued the convenience of store card use and were impressed by the open‐ended revolving credit options. Additional incentives, however, seemed of limited importance. Noticeable differences between the samples are mostly related to the financial consequences of store card use. Impulsive buying and poor planning were blamed for a continual increase in store card installments. This coincides with Soman and Cheema's conclusion that less experienced consumers tend to optimize a credit limit as an indication of their future earnings potential. More experienced store cardholders seemed significantly more satisfied with the facility than their counterpart. Rapid reuse of store cards after settlement of accounts indicates difficulty to quit using the facility. This supports the notion that self‐control over spending is effortful. The consequent challenge to retailers would be to exercise greater caution with the approval of credit limits to encourage more responsible use of store credit accounts.
Epileptic encephalopathy with continuous spikes and waves during sleep in children with shunted hydrocephalus: A study of nine cases
Authors: Caraballo Roberto Horacio , Bongiorni Lucas , Cersósimo Ricardo , Semprino Marcos , Espeche Alberto , Fejerman Natalio
Published: April 2008

Summary

Purpose:We present a series of nine patients with early‐onset hydrocephalus who had seizures and continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (CSWS) associated with neurocognitive and motor deterioration.

Methods:Six boys and three girls aged 9–16 years (mean 11.3 years) were studied. [Correction added after online publication 12‐Apr‐2008: Number of girls and boys has been updated.] All patients underwent clinical examinations, electroencephalographic evaluations, neuroradiological imaging and neuropsychological assessment at first examination. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were given in all cases and changed according to clinical and EEG evolution.

Results:Onset of epilepsy occurred from age 8 to 60 months (mean 19.6 months and median 14 months) with focal seizures with or without secondary generalized tonic–clonic seizures. Between ages 6 and 13 years (mean 10.4 years and median 8 years), hyperkinesia, aggressiveness, and poor socialization appeared in all nine cases. Reduced attention span, deterioration of language, and temporospatial disorientation were found in three of them. Negative myoclonus was found in two patients. The EEG showed CSWS. Response to change in treatment was good in all patients. None of the patients had relapses, seven of them have remained seizure free, and two continued having sporadic focal motor seizures during 2–5 years (mean 3 years) of follow‐up.

Conclusion:In children with early‐onset hydrocephalus, particularly with behavioral and language disturbances and/or motor deterioration, CSWS should be considered. Periodic EEG recordings during sleep should be done in these children.

The early identification of this particular electroclinical picture is crucial to start adequate treatment to avoid progressive cognitive deterioration.