bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐erosive reflux disease, functional heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease; insights into pathophysiology and clinical presentation
Authors: QUIGLEY Eamonn MM
Published: October 2006

Non‐erosive reflux disease (NERD) has emerged as a real entity in the spectrum of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may, indeed, represent the most common manifestation of reflux disease. Recent information indicates NERD can be further subclassified based on the results of pH studies and suggests that functional heartburn needs to be differentiated as that subgroup of patients in which there appears to be no relationship between symptoms, however ‘typical’ of GERD, and acid exposure. Other aspects of NERD need to be appreciated, including overlap with functional dyspepsia and the potential variations in response to such therapeutic interventions as acid‐suppressive therapy and fundoplication. It seems quite possible that our failure to separate functional heartburn from NERD, in general, has contributed, in large measure, to diagnostic difficulties and therapeutic disappointment in GERD. An appreciation of the range of entities, of different etiology and pathology, within NERD will foster the development of effective approaches to the assessment and therapy of this challenging disorder.
Effect of indomethacin on Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen in colon cancer cell line HCT116 cells
Authors: WANG Juan , ZHANG Gui Ying , LI Xin Hua
Published: October 2006

BACKGROUND:  Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs such as indomethacin can inhibit the growth of tumors through both the cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) dependant and COX‐2 independent pathways, but the exact mechanism has not yet been shown. In our previous study, COX‐2 independent proteins (Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigens [PCNA]) in indomethacin‐treated colorectal cancer cells with the use of proteomics technology had been identified.

OBJECTIVES:  To study and confirm the effect of indomethacin on the expression of Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and PCNA in human colon cancer line HCT116 cells and the COX‐2 independent tumor inhibiting pathway.

METHODS:  Human colon cancer cell line HCT116 cells were divided into a treatment with indomethacin (IC 50) group, and a treatment with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a control group for 48 h. The expression of Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and PCNA, mRNA and protein were determined by a real‐time quantitative PCR and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS:  Indomethacin down‐regulated the expression of Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and PCNA mRNA in vitro (9.53 ± 0.15 vs 27.87 ± 0.12, 7.37 ± 0.58 vs 20.17 ± 0.58, 5.17 ± 0.06 vs 0.87 ±  0.06). Indomethacin also down‐regulated the expression of Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and PCNA protein (40.01 ± 1.61 vs 43.76 ± 1.63, 22.50 ± 1.17 vs 30.30 ± 1.55, 17.69 ± 1.18 vs 20.80 ± 1.08).

CONCLUSIONS:  Inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation contribute to the anticancer activity of indomethacin via COX‐2 independent pathway of Bfl‐1, WISP‐1 and PCNA. This further confirms the results of our previous study.
Alternation of substance P‐containing neural pathways in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome with rectal distension
Authors: WANG Wei Feng , YANG Yun Sheng , PENG Li Hua , SUN Gang
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE:  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder in clinical practice, but the pathophysiology of IBS has not been completely elucidated yet. Experiments have revealed that the concentrations of some kinds of brain–gut peptides, such as substance P, were abnormal in the plasma and/or the intestinal mucosa. In order to explore further the possible role of substance P containing nerve fibers in the enteric nervous system and central nervous system, the expression of c‐fos, a well‐established marker of activated neural pathway, was induced to show substance P containing a neural pathway in the rat model of constipation‐predominant IBS by rectal distention.

METHODS:  The rat model was set up by intragastric instillation of 2.0 mL water at 0–4°C in 20 male Wistar rats for two weeks. Both the model group and the controls underwent rectal distention under deep anesthesia. Sections containing the anatomical areas of interest were obtained and processed for c‐fos protein and substance P immunohistochemistry using the strept avidin‐biotin complex (SABC) method. The staining results were analyzed semi‐quantitatively, using a computerized color image analyzer with two parameters: opacity density and immunoreactive areas. The statistical difference of the opacity density and immunoreactive areas between the two groups was analyzed by a t‐test. Correlation analysis was used to investigate the relationship between the expression of substance P and c‐fos protein of the same region in the model group.

RESULTS:  The opacity density of substance P immunoreactive tissues in the ileocecal junction, colon, the posterior horn of the spinal cord and the hypothalamus of the model group were all significantly higher compared with those in the control group (176.6 vs 155.5, 172.3 vs 152.0, 182.1 vs 160.2, 128.3 vs 117.9; P < 0.05, respectively). Meanwhile in the ileocecal junction, colon, the posterior horn of the spinal cord and the hypothalamus of the model group, the opacity density of c‐fos protein‐positive tissue were all significantly higher than those of the same region in the controls (120.9 vs 109.0, 101.3 vs 92.2, 125.4 vs 88.7, 115.5 vs 88.6; P < 0.05, respectively). The distribution of c‐fos protein‐positive tissue is similar to that of the substance P and the analysis shows that there is close correlation between the expression of substance P and c‐fos protein of the same region in the model group (r = 0.594–0.721, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:  The expression of substance P and c‐fos protein in both the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system of the constipation‐predominant IBS rat model is abnormal, which suggests that an abnormal change in substance P may be involved in the pathogenesis of IBS and the substance P‐containing neural pathway may be one of the neural pathways that play important role in the regulation of the gastrointestinal function.
ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF THE COMMON CAROTID ARTERY BIFURCATION
Authors: Lo Albert , Oehley Michael , Bartlett Adam , Adams Dave , Blyth Phil , Al‐Ali Saad
Published: October 2006

Background:  The correlation of the common carotid artery (CCA) bifurcation and its surrounding structures is poorly described. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomy of the CCA bifurcation relative to its surrounding structures.

Method:  We dissected a total of 67 carotid specimens from 36 embalmed cadavers. CCA bifurcation occurred at the superior border of thyroid cartilage in 39% and at the body of hyoid bone in 40% of specimens.

Results:  The superior thyroid artery arose more commonly from the CCA (52.3%) than the external carotid artery (46.2%). The vagus nerve was posterior to the carotid bifurcation in 40 (60%), posterior–lateral in 24 (36%), posterior–medial in 2 (3%) and anterior–lateral in 1 specimen (1.5%). The hypoglossal nerve was closer to the CCA bifurcation when the CCA bifurcated at the level of the hyoid bone than when it bifurcated at the superior border of the thyroid cartilage (P < 0.05). The correlation of the common facial vein and the carotid artery was highly variable.

Conclusion:  The presence of a high CCA bifurcation should caution surgeons that the hypoglossal nerve lies in closer proximity and is more vulnerable. Preoperatively documenting the level of the CCA bifurcation may be helpful in identifying those patients at increased risk of iatrogenic injury.
TUMOUR SIZE AS A PREDICTOR OF AXILLARY NODE METASTASES IN PATIENTS WITH BREAST CANCER
Authors: Laura Sharon , Coombs Nathan J. , Ung Owen , Boyages John
Published: October 2006

Background:  The ability to predict the behaviour of breast cancer from its dimensions allows the clinician to inform a woman about the absolute benefits of adjuvant therapies or further surgery to control her disease. Tumour size and grade are independent predictors of nodal disease. This study aims to generate a tool, using Australian data, allowing surgeons to calculate the probability of axillary lymph node involvement in a preoperative setting.

Methods:  The histological reports of patients with breast cancer treated in 1995 in New South Wales were examined and tumour size, grade and nodal status recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified predictors of node positivity and, using linear regression analysis, a simple formula to predict nodal involvement was derived.

Results:  In a 6‐month period, 754 women had non‐metastatic, unifocal breast cancer treated with surgery and complete axillary dissection and 283 (37.5%) had positive nodes. Tumour size remained an independent predictor of node positivity and the probability (%), y, of nodal involvement may be predicted by the formula y = 1.5 × tumour size (mm) + 7, r = 0.939 and P = 0.001.

Conclusions:  This paper shows the need to assess the axilla in every patient because even patients with small tumours (0–5 mm) have the possibility of axillary involvement (7–14.5%). Use of this simple formula allows clinicians and patients to make informed decisions about the possible need for a full axillary dissection to reduce the chance of understaging and potentially undertreating a woman’s breast cancer.
XANTHOGRANULOMATOUS PYELONEPHRITIS: OUR EXPERIENCE WITH REVIEW OF PUBLISHED REPORTS
Authors: Dwivedi Udai S. , Goyal Neeraj K. , Saxena Vaibhav , Acharya Rajiba L. , Trivedi Sameer , Singh Pratap B. , Vyas Nachiket , Datta Biswajeet , Kumar Abhay , Das Suren
Published: October 2006

Background:  The aim of this study was to analyse the cases of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis with review of published reports.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed all nephrectomy specimens during February 1995 to January 2006. We found 26 cases of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. We prepared a chart of these cases consisting of preoperative symptoms, laboratory findings, radiological imaging results and preoperative diagnosis. Open nephrectomy was carried out in all cases.

Results:  Age group of the patients was 6–65 years and male : female ratio was 1.6:1. Twenty‐two patients presented to us with intermittent high‐grade fever, 21 with flank pain, 18 with loin mass, 2 with haematuria and 1 was detected during screening of vague gastrointestinal symptoms. Twenty‐five patients had pyuria and only 10 had sterile urine culture. In all patients, only one kidney was affected. All patients had renal calculi 10–42 mm in size with bilaterally enlarged kidneys. Ipsilateral kidney was enlarged because of hydronephrosis or pyonephrosis in all cases and contralateral kidney was enlarged because of compensatory hypertrophy in 13 cases. Ipsilateral kidney had severely compromised renal function in all cases. Associated psoas abscess was present in one and tuberculosis in another.

Conclusion:  Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis is a relatively rare entity that is associated with obstruction, stones and infection of the urinary tract. Late presentation leads to loss of renal parenchyma. It cannot be differentiated preoperatively with renal tumours (renal cell carcinoma and Wilms’ tumour), pyonephrosis, infected hydronephrosis and renal lymphoma. Nephrectomy and antibiotics are the treatment of choice.
SEQUENTIAL SLIPPED CAPITAL FEMORAL EPIPHYSES: WHO IS AT RISK FOR A SECOND SLIP?
Authors: Bidwell Terri A. , Susan Stott N.
Published: October 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine as to which of the children who present to our unit with a unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) are most at risk of presenting with a subsequent contralateral SCFE. Between 1988 and 2000, 171 patients presented with unilateral SCFE to our unit, whereas 40 presented with bilateral SCFE. At a minimum of 3 years follow up, 56 of the 171 patients had re‐presented with a contralateral SCFE (31%). Age less than 12 years at the time of the first SCFE (odds ratio (OR) = 3.809, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.631–8.891, P < 0.002) and New Zealand European ethnicity (OR = 3.989, 95%CI = 1.824 to 8.720, P < 0.001) were significantly predictive of a second SCFE. Sex (OR = 0.722, 95%CI = 0.326–1.601, P = 0.4) and stability of the first slip (OR = 1.558, 95%CI = 0.582–4.172, P = 0.38) were not significantly associated with an increased probability of a second SCFE.
CALCIFYING HAEMATOMA MIMICKING A SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA AND MYOSITIS OSSIFICANS
Authors: Rajapakse Bishan N. , Kiddle Grant
Published: October 2006

We describe a case of calcifying haematoma in a 78‐year‐old war veteran with a mass in his right lower leg. The likely differential diagnosis of myositis ossificans and soft tissue sarcoma was worked up. We discuss some of the difficulties of diagnosis despite having computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging examinations and the unexpected final diagnosis of calcifying haematoma that was made on incisional biopsy.
PIP3EA and PD‐168077, two selective dopamine D4 receptor agonists, induce penile erection in male rats: site and mechanism of action in the brain
Authors: Melis Maria Rosaria , Succu Salvatora , Sanna Fabrizio , Melis Tiziana , Mascia Maria Stefania , Enguehard‐Gueiffier Cécile , Hubner Harald , Gmeiner Peter , Gueiffier Alain , Argiolas Antonio
Published: October 2006

PIP3EA (2‐[4‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)piperazin‐1‐yl‐methyl]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine) and PD‐168077 (N‐[4‐2‐cyanophenylpiperazin‐1‐ylmethyl]‐3‐methylbenzamide maleate), two selective dopamine D4 agonists, administered systemically, intracerebroventricularly or into the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus induce penile erection in male Sprague–Dawley rats. A U‐inverted dose–response curve was found with either compound when given subcutaneously (1–100 µg/kg) or intracerebroventricularly (0.1–20 µg/rat), but not into the paraventricular nucleus (10–200 ng/rat). The pro‐erectile effect of PIP3EA and of PD‐168077 occurs concomitantly with an increased nitric oxide (NO) production in the paraventricular nucleus, as measured by the increased concentration of nitrites and nitrates found in the dialysate obtained from the paraventricular nucleus by intracerebral microdialysis. These effects of PIP3EA and PD‐168077 were reduced by L‐745,870 (3‐[4‐(4‐chlorophenyl)piperazin‐1‐ylmethyl]‐1H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridine trihydrochloride), a selective dopamine D4 receptors antagonist, by ω‐conotoxin, a blocker of voltage‐dependent Ca2+channels of the N‐type, byS‐methyl‐thiocitrulline, a neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, and byd(CH2)5Tyr(Me)2‐Orn8‐vasotocin, an oxytocin receptor antagonist, given into the lateral ventricles, but not into the paraventricular nucleus. Comparison of the dose–response curves of PIP3EA and PD‐168077 revealed that PIP3EA is as potent as PD‐168077 when given into the paraventricular nucleus, but more potent when given systemically. However, both compounds are less efficacious (e.g. induce a lower number of penile erection episodes) than apomorphine, a classical mixed dopamine receptor agonist, irrespective of the route of administration. These results confirm previous findings showing that central D4 receptors mediate penile erection and show that dopamine D4 receptor agonists act in the paraventricular nucleus to facilitate penile erection by increasing central oxytocinergic neurotransmission.
Endocannabinoids modulate stress‐induced suppression of hippocampal cell proliferation and activation of defensive behaviours
Authors: Hill Matthew N. , Kambo Jaspreet S. , Sun Jane C. , Gorzalka Boris B. , Galea Liisa A. M.
Published: October 2006

The endocannabinoid system has been shown to regulate both the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and emotionality. The present experiment was designed to examine whether pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system would affect the suppression of hippocampal cell proliferation and increase in defensive behaviours seen following exposure to predator odour (trimethylthiazoline; TMT) stress. Rats were administered either an endocannabinoid uptake inhibitor (AM404; 2 mg/kg) or a cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist (AM251; 5 mg/kg) 30 min prior to exposure to TMT. Exposure to TMT reduced cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus and increased the expression of defensive burying. Administration of AM404 significantly inhibited defensive burying, and attenuated the reduction in cell proliferation in response to TMT exposure. Administration of AM251 alone significantly increased cell proliferation; however, pretreatment with AM251 prevented neither the stress‐induced suppression of cell proliferation nor the stress‐induced increase in behavioural responses. These results support previous research demonstrating that augmentation of endocannabinoid signalling can suppress stress‐responsive systems. They also suggest that endocannabinoids may play a complex role in the regulation of neurogenesis via cell proliferation in the hippocampus.
Viral‐induced inflammation is accompanied by β‐amyloid plaque reduction in brains of amyloid precursor protein transgenic Tg2576 mice
Authors: Stahl Tobias , Reimers Christine , Johne Reimar , Schliebs Reinhard , Seeger Johannes
Published: October 2006

Amyloid plaques, one of the neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, and their main constituent, the amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ), are triggers of the activation of innate inflammatory mechanisms involving the activation of microglia. To dissect the effects of a non‐Aβ‐specific microglial activation on the Aβ metabolism, we employed a viral infection‐based model. Transgenic mice expressing a mutated form of the human amyloid precursor protein (Tg2576) were used. In preceding experiments, 2‐week‐old transgenic mice and non‐transgenic littermates were infected intracerebrally with the neurotropic Borna disease virus and investigated at 2, 4 and 14 weeks post‐infection. The Borna disease virus‐inoculated mice showed a persisting, subclinical infection of cortical and limbic brain areas characterized by slight T‐cell infiltrates, expression of cytokines and a massive microglial activation in the hippocampus and neocortex. Viral‐induced effects reached their peak at 4 weeks post‐infection. In 14‐month‐old Tg2576 mice, characterized by the deposition of diffuse and dense‐core amyloid plaques in cortical brain regions, Borna disease virus‐induced microglial activation in the vicinity of Aβ deposits was used to investigate the influence of a local inflammatory response on these deposits. At 4 weeks post‐infection, histometric analyses employing Aβ immunohistochemistry revealed a decrease of the cortical and hippocampal Aβ‐immunopositive area. This overall decrease was accompanied by a decrease of parenchymal thioflavin‐S‐positive amyloid deposits and an increase of such deposits in the walls of cerebral vessels, which indicates that the elicitation of a non‐Aβ‐specific microglial activation may contribute to a reduction of Aβ in the brain parenchyma.
Altered cortico‐striatal synaptic plasticity and related behavioural impairments in reeler mice
Authors: Marrone Maria Cristina , Marinelli Silvia , Biamonte Filippo , Keller Flavio , Sgobio Carmelo Alessio , Ammassari‐Teule Martine , Bernardi Giorgio , Mercuri Nicola B.
Published: October 2006

Reelin‐deficient mice have been used to investigate the role of this extracellular protein in cortico‐striatal plasticity and striatum‐related behaviours. Here we show that a repetitive electrical stimulation of the cortico‐striatal pathway elicited long‐term potentiation (LTP) in homozygous reeler (rl/rl) mice, while causing long‐term depression in their wild‐type (+/+) littermates. The N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist d‐(–)‐2 amino‐5‐phosphonopentanoic acid prevented the induction of LTP in (rl/rl) mice, thus confirming that this form of synaptic plasticity was NMDA receptor‐dependent. Interestingly, in the presence of tiagabine, a blocker of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) re‐uptake system, the probability that (rl/rl) mice showed LTP decreased significantly, thus suggesting an impaired GABAergic transmission in reeler mutants. Consistent with this view, a decreased density of parvalbumin‐positive GABAergic striatal interneurons was found in (rl/rl) mice in comparison to (+/+) mice. Finally, compatible with their abnormal striatal function (rl/rl) mice exhibited procedural learning deficits. Our data, showing alterations in cortico‐striatal plasticity largely depending on a depressed GABAergic tone, delineate a mechanism whereby the lack of reelin may affect cognitive functions.
An in vivo analysis of Schwann cell programmed cell death in embryonic mice: the role of axons, glial growth factor, and the pro‐apoptotic gene Bax
Authors: Winseck Adam K. , Oppenheim Ronald W.
Published: October 2006

Building upon previous in vitro studies, the present investigation involves an in vivo examination of Schwann cell programmed cell death (PCD) and development in the brachial spinal ventral roots of embryonic mice. The period of Schwann cell PCD was found to occur between embryonic days (E) 11.5 and 18.5, which is in close coincidence with the PCD period of associated brachial motoneurons (E13.5–E18.5). Additionally, Schwann cells exhibited a peak in proliferation at E11.5, and differentiation from the precursor to the immature Schwann cell stage between E12.5 and E14.5. Axon‐mediated Schwann cell survival was demonstrated in vivo by excitotoxic elimination of motoneurons and their axons, via NMDA treatment in utero. This treatment increased apoptotic Schwann cell death within degenerating ventral roots. Conversely, in utero co‐treatment of glial growth factor (GGF) with NMDA resulted in decreased Schwann cell death, a finding which supports previous reports of the promotion of Schwann cell survival by GGF. Analysis of mice lacking Bax, a pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 protein, revealed that Schwann cell PCD occurred independently of Bax. However, owing to the lack of motoneuron PCD in Bax‐knockout mice, and the corresponding increase in the number of ventral root axons, a decrease in Schwann cell PCD was observed during the normal period of motoneuron PCD. In conclusion, our findings regarding the regulation of Schwann cell development in vivo are consistent with the conclusions from in vitro studies, including a dependency on axons for survival and proliferation signals, timing of differentiation, and a dependency on GGF.
Differential disinhibition of the neonatal hypothalamic– pituitary–adrenal axis in brain‐specific CRH receptor 1‐knockout mice
Authors: Schmidt M. V. , Deussing J. M. , Oitzl M. S. , Ohl F. , Levine S. , Wurst W. , Holsboer F. , Müller M. B. , De Kloet E. R.
Published: October 2006

In the adult, corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) is the key mediator for the behavioural and neuroendocrine response to stress. It has also been hypothesized that, during postnatal development of the stress system, CRH controls the activity of the HPA axis and mediates the effects of early disturbances, e.g. 24 h of maternal deprivation. In the current study we investigated the function of specific brain corticotropin‐releasing hormone receptor type 1 (CRHR1) subpopulations in the control of the HPA axis during postnatal development under basal conditions as well as after 24 h of maternal deprivation. We used two conditional CRHR1‐deficient mouse lines which lack this receptor, either specifically in forebrain and limbic structures (Cam‐CRHR1) or in all neurons (Nes‐CRHR1). Basal circulating corticosterone was increased in Nes‐CRHR1 mice compared to controls. Corticosterone response to maternal deprivation was significantly increased in both CRHR1‐deficient lines. In the paraventricular nucleus, Cam‐CRHR1 animals displayed enhanced CRH and decreased vasopressin expression levels. In contrast, gene expression in Nes‐CRHR1 pups was strikingly similar to that in maternally deprived control pups. Furthermore, maternal deprivation resulted in an enhanced response of Cam‐CRHR1 pups in the brain, while expression levels in Nes‐CRHR1 mouse pups were mostly unchanged. Our results demonstrate that brainstem and/or hypothalamic CRHR1 contribute to the suppression of basal corticosterone secretion in the neonate, while limbic and/or forebrain CRHR1 dampen the activation of the neonatal HPA axis induced by maternal deprivation.
Beyond macronutrients: element variability and multielement stoichiometry in freshwater invertebrates
Authors: Karimi Roxanne , Folt Carol L.
Published: October 2006

We contrasted concentrations of macronutrients (C, N and P), essential (As, Cu, Zn and Se) and non‐essential metals (Pb, Hg and Cd) in invertebrates across five lakes and June to October in one lake. We predicted that somatic concentrations of tightly regulated elements would be less variable than weakly and unregulated elements. Within each taxon, variation was lowest in macronutrients, intermediate in essential micronutrients, and highest in non‐essential metals, which corresponded in rank to homeostatic regulation strength for the same elements calculated from the literature. Hence, homeostatic regulation may strongly influence variation in element concentrations of biotain situ. Of the individual elements, only taxonomic differences in C and N were consistent across lakes and over a season. Nevertheless, canonical discriminant analyses successfully discriminated among taxa based on taxonomic multielement composition. Thus, relative taxonomic differences in multielement composition appear more informative than absolute stoichiometric formulae when considering the role of inherently variable trace elements in ecological investigations.
Community maturity, species saturation and the variant diversity–productivity relationships in grasslands
Authors: Guo Qinfeng , Shaffer Terry , Buhl Thomas
Published: October 2006

Detailed knowledge of the relationship between plant diversity and productivity is critical for advancing our understanding of ecosystem functioning and for achieving success in habitat restoration efforts. However, effects and interactions of diversity, succession and biotic invasions on productivity remain elusive. We studied newly established communities in relation to preexisting homogeneous vegetation invaded by exotic plants in the northern Great Plains, USA, at four study sites for 3 years. We observed variant diversity–productivity relationships for the seeded communities (generally positive monotonic at three sites and non‐monotonic at the other site) but no relationships for the resident community or the seeded and resident communities combined at all sites and all years. Community richness was enhanced by seeding additional species but productivity was not. The optimal diversity (as indicated by maximum productivity) changed among sites and as the community developed. The findings shed new light on ecosystem functioning of biodiversity under different conditions and have important implications for restoration.
Diabetes care in rest homes in Christchurch, New Zealand
Authors: Gill E. A. , Corwin P. A. , Mangin D. A. , Sutherland M. G.
Published: October 2006

Aim  To determine the prevalence and describe the management of known diabetes in a group of New Zealand rest homes.

Methods  A random sample of 54 rest homes in Christchurch were studied. Residents with known diabetes were identified by rest home staff and interviewed. Selected staff members of all rest homes were also interviewed using structured questionnaires. The medical and nursing records and laboratory results of all residents with known diabetes were reviewed and all information pertaining to diabetes management recorded.

Results  The prevalence of known diabetes in Christchurch rest homes was 11.7%. Residents with known diabetes had a mean of five other comorbidities and were prescribed a mean of 7.5 medications. Of residents with diabetes, 45% were taking oral glucose‐lowering agents, 28% were on a diet alone and 27% on insulin treatment. The mean blood pressure was 134/73 mmHg. The mean HbA1c was 7.3%. Routine blood glucose monitoring was performed often but residents with possible hypoglycaemic episodes frequently did not have their blood glucose level checked.

Conclusions  The prevalence of known diabetes in Christchurch rest homes is similar to that found in British studies but less than that found in studies from the USA. Indicators of quality of care in residents with diabetes in this study appeared to be satisfactory, in contrast to other studies. There was poor recognition by staff of the necessity of checking acutely blood glucose levels in residents with diabetes who became unwell.
Mother to child transmission of diabetes mellitus: does gestational diabetes program Type 2 diabetes in the next generation?
Authors: McLean M. , Chipps D. , Cheung N. Wah
Published: October 2006

Aim  Type 2 diabetes is frequently familial. Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy might act in addition to genetic factors to cause diabetes in the children of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The first manifestation of this in female offspring is likely to be GDM in their own pregnancies. We compared the incidence of GDM in daughters of diabetic mothers and diabetic fathers to determine if in utero exposure to hyperglycaemia increased the risk of a diabetes‐prone phenotype in offspring.

Methods  We analysed the outcome of a GDM screening programme in women with a family history of diabetes in their mother (n = 535), father (n = 566), both parents (n = 77) or neither (n = 4672).

Results  GDM was twice as common in the daughters of diabetic mothers (11%) than diabetic fathers (5%, P = 0.002). Women with two diabetic parents were no more likely to have GDM than women with only a diabetic mother.

Conclusions  Genetic predisposition to GDM should be equally shared by daughters of diabetic mothers and fathers. An excess of maternal transmission of diabetes is consistent with an epigenetic effect of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy acting in addition to genetic factors to produce diabetes in the next generation.
A randomized controlled trial of Sweet Talk, a text‐messaging system to support young people with diabetes
Authors: Franklin V. L. , Waller A. , Pagliari C. , Greene S. A.
Published: October 2006

Aims  To assess Sweet Talk, a text‐messaging support system designed to enhance self‐efficacy, facilitate uptake of intensive insulin therapy and improve glycaemic control in paediatric patients with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods  One hundred and twenty‐six patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria; Type 1 diabetes for > 1 year, on conventional insulin therapy, aged 8–18 years. Ninety‐two patients were randomized to conventional insulin therapy (n = 28), conventional therapy and Sweet Talk (n = 33) or intensive insulin therapy and Sweet Talk (n = 31). Goal‐setting at clinic visits was reinforced by daily text‐messages from the Sweet Talk software system, containing personalized goal‐specific prompts and messages tailored to patients’ age, sex and insulin regimen.

Results  HbA1c did not change in patients on conventional therapy without or with Sweet Talk (10.3 ± 1.7 vs. 10.1 ± 1.7%), but improved in patients randomized to intensive therapy and Sweet Talk (9.2 ± 2.2%, 95% CI −1.9, −0.5, P < 0.001). Sweet Talk was associated with improvement in diabetes self‐efficacy (conventional therapy 56.0 ± 13.7, conventional therapy plus Sweet Talk 62.1 ± 6.6, 95% CI +2.6, +7.5, P = 0.003) and self‐reported adherence (conventional therapy 70.4 ± 20.0, conventional therapy plus Sweet Talk 77.2 ± 16.1, 95% CI +0.4, +17.4, P = 0.042). When surveyed, 82% of patients felt that Sweet Talk had improved their diabetes self‐management and 90% wanted to continue receiving messages.

Conclusions  Sweet Talk was associated with improved self‐efficacy and adherence; engaging a classically difficult to reach group of young people. While Sweet Talk alone did not improve glycaemic control, it may have had a role in supporting the introduction of intensive insulin therapy. Scheduled, tailored text messaging offers an innovative means of supporting adolescents with diabetes and could be adapted for other health‐care settings and chronic diseases.
Dirty surplus accounting flows and valuation errors
Authors: Isidro Helena , O’Hanlon John , Young Steven
Published: October 2006

For France, Germany, the U.K. and the U.S. for the period from 1994 to 2001, this study explores empirically the association between valuation errors from a standard empirical application of the residual income valuation model and violations of the clean surplus relationship (dirty surplus accounting flows). Motivated by concern that the effect of dirty surplus accounting on the applicability of accounting‐based valuation models might vary across accounting regimes, the study also documents differences across pairs of countries in the relationship between valuation errors and dirty surplus flows. The study finds some weak evidence of predicted relationships between valuation errors and dirty surplus flows in the U.S., but finds little evidence of such relationships elsewhere. There is some limited evidence of cross‐country difference in the relationship between valuation errors and dirty surplus flows, mostly involving the U.S.
Effects of database choice on international accounting research
Authors: Lara Juan Manuel García , Osma Beatriz García , Noguer Belén Gill de Albornoz
Published: October 2006

Data availability is one of the traditional obstacles confronting researchers carrying out international empirical studies in accounting. In recent years several databases have claimed to offer comprehensive coverage of accounting and financial data of firms worldwide. We analyse whether the choice of database has an effect on the results of empirical studies. We find that the results of a simple empirical adaptation of the Ohlson (1995) model for fourteen member states of the European Union change significantly depending on the database chosen (Datastream, Global Vantage, Company Analysis, Worldscope, Thomson Financial, Financials and BvD Osiris). These differences are mainly attributable to differences in the samples across databases. When we match observations across all databases the differences persist but are much less pronounced. Our main conclusion is that database choice matters, as it leads to different results when the same research design is used.
International financial reporting standards and experts’ perceptions of disclosure quality
Authors: Daske Holger , Gebhardt Günther
Published: October 2006

From 2005, over 7,000 listed firms in the European Union and many more around the world are required to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The introduction of a uniform accounting regime is expected to ensure greater comparability and transparency of financial reporting around the world. However, recent research has questioned the quality of financial statements prepared under IFRS standards, particularly in the presence of weak enforcement mechanisms and adverse reporting incentives (Ball et al., 2003). In this paper, we assess the quality of the financial statements of Austrian, German and Swiss firms which have already adopted internationally recognized standards (IFRS or U.S. GAAP). The study makes use of available disclosure quality scores extracted from detailed analyses of annual reports by reputed accounting scholars (‘experts’). This work complements other contemporary research on the quality of IFRS financial statements where the properties of earnings are used as an evaluation metric (Barth et al., 2005). Our evidence shows that disclosure quality has increased significantly under IFRS in the three European countries we analyse. This result holds not only for firms which have voluntarily adopted IFRS or U.S. GAAP, but also for firms which mandatorily adopted such standards in response to the requirements of specific stock market segments. Although we cannot establish direct causality due to the inherent self‐selection issues for most of our sample firms, the evidence shows that the quality of financial reports has increased significantly with the adoption of IFRS.
Differences in the Performance of Public Organisations in Ghana: Implications for Public‐Sector Reform Policy
Authors: Owusu Francis
Published: October 2006

This article uses survey data from Ghana to examine whether there are significant differences in the characteristics of poor and well performing public organisations, and finds that they differ in two respects: remuneration and hiring criteria. It argues that transforming those that perform poorly is, however, more complex than simply addressing these differences: it requires fundamental changes in the cultures of organisations. Recommendations are made for designing comprehensive public‐sector reform strategies that focus on both the enabling environment and achieving cultural change in specific organisations, avoiding a one‐size‐fits‐all approach.
Are the needs of children and young people with social, emotional and behavioural needs being served within a multi‐agency framework?
Authors: SOAN SUE
Published: October 2006

This article discusses the effect that recent policy and legislation has had on services for children and young people with social, emotional and behavioural needs (SEBN), particularly ‘Looked After Children.’ The article highlights the Government's overarching plan to promote social inclusion and effective multi‐agency collaboration and discusses the confusions arising from the use of ‘multi‐agency’ terminology. Two case studies of individual children then illustrate the manner in which collaborative working is either supportive of, or hinders, positive intervention. Finally the article discusses how general policy issues impact on practice with children with SEBN.
New Public Spheres in Brazil: Local Democracy and Deliberative Politics
Authors: AVRITZER LEONARDO
Published: October 2006

Brazilian cities have been the sites of significant experiments in participatory and deliberative governance. Participatory budgeting has to be singled out as one of the most important of these. After the landmark experience in Porto Alegre, participatory budgeting has been expanded to 170 Brazilian cities. Is the expansion of participatory budgeting equivalent to the expansion of the deliberative and distributive characteristics of the Porto Alegre experience? This article argues that the conditions that account for the emergence of participatory budgeting in Porto Alegre are unique to that city’s social or political characteristics. It focuses on the role of existing civil society associations in the emergence of participatory budgeting, as well as in its institutional format. It also shows that the presence of civic associations is linked to the deliberative and distributive results of participatory budgeting and that these conditions may not be present in other participatory budgeting experiences.
Walking Activity, Body Composition and Blood Pressure in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Stanish Heidi I. , Draheim Christopher C.
Published: October 2006

Background  Individuals with intellectual disabilities engage in limited physical activity which places their health at risk. This study examined the walking activity, body composition and blood pressure of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Methods  A group of male and female adults (n = 103) wore a pedometer for 7 days and were categorized into walking levels based on step counts. Measures of health variables were also taken.

Results  Mean blood pressure was 126/82 mmHg and 125/79 mmHg for males and females, respectively. Approximately 80% of the sample was overweight or obese. Most participants accumulated 5000–7999 steps/day while the fewest accumulated >10 000 steps/day. Individuals who walked more did not have significantly lower blood pressure or healthier body composition.

Conclusion  The intensity of walking may have been inadequate for individuals in the higher walking levels to achieve health benefits. Furthermore, intake of high‐fat food may have contributed to blood pressure and body composition and countered the benefits of walking.
The Quality of Life of Family Caregivers of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Yueh‐Ching , Lin Li‐Chan , Chang Ai‐Ling , Schalock Robert L.
Published: October 2006

Background  Taiwanese family carers of people with intellectual disabilities not only suffer from long‐term stress but also need to cope with social difficulties. The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of life (QOL) among family carers of people with intellectual disabilities.

Materials and methods  A census interview survey was conducted in Hsin‐Chu City in Taiwan and included the primary family caregivers of 792 adults with intellectual disability who were living with their families. The survey packet contained the WHOQOL‐BREF Taiwan‐version scale with four core domains and the activities of daily life/instrumental activities of daily life (ADL/IADL) scales.

Results  The mean score for ‘physical’ was highest and that for ‘environment’ was lowest. The strongest predictors of caregivers QOL were the caregiver's health status, their family income and the level of severity of the intellectual disability of the adult.

Conclusions  The results of the study support the need to expand services and individualize support to families of adults with intellectual disability living in family homes.
Supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate during carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Hove Jens D. , Rosenberg Iben , Sejrsen Per , Hove Karin D. , Secher Niels H.
Published: October 2006

Background:  The supraorbital skin region is supplied by the supraorbital artery, which is a branch of the internal carotid artery. The supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate may therefore be influenced by changes in the internal carotid artery flow during carotid endarterectomy.

Methods:  The supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate was measured by the application of heat to the skin and following the subsequent dissipation of the heat in seven patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. At the same time, the oxygenation in the right and left frontal region was monitored by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).

Results:  During cross‐clamping of the carotid artery, the ipsilateral NIRS‐determined frontal oxygenation tended to decrease [67 ± 13% to 61 ± 11% (P = 0·06); contralateral 68 ± 11% to 66 ± 8%] as did the supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate from 56 ± 23 to 44 ± 7 ml 100 g−1 min−1. With the opening of the external carotid artery, the NIRS‐determined frontal oxygenation reversed to 66 ± 8% (P<0·05) on the ipsilateral side, with no significant change on the contralateral side and the supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate increased to 53 ± 11 (P<0·05). Opening of the internal carotid artery did not significantly affect the NIRS (67 ± 8% and 69 ± 9%; ipsilateral, contralateral), but the supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate increased to 88 ± 10 ml 100 g−1 min−1 (P<0·001).

Conclusion:  Cross‐clamping of the internal carotid artery affects the supraorbital cutaneous blood flow rate as well as the frontal lobe oxygenation.
Pre‐ and postoperative evaluation of the metabolic activity in muscles associated with ruptured rotator cuffs by 18F‐FDG PET imaging
Authors: Shinozaki Tetsuya , Takagishi Kenji , Ohsawa Toshihisa , Yamaji Takehiko , Endo Keigo
Published: October 2006

We examined uptake of 2‐[18F]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose (FDG) using positron emission tomography (PET) into the bilateral shoulder muscles of four patients before and after unilateral rotator cuff repair. The relative ratio of the subtracted standardized uptake value on the supraspinatus with a torn supraspinatus tendon to that of the subscapularis on the ipsilateral side was significantly lower than that on the normal side (0·69 ± 0·05 versus 1·06 ± 0·36). The relative ratio of the infraspinatus on the rupture side was also significantly lower than that on the normal side (0·91 ± 0·09 versus 1·41 ± 0·35). However, by 6 months postoperative, the reduced glucose metabolism in these muscles had recovered to the same levels as those on the normal side. As indicated by FDG PET, muscle metabolism in rotator cuff tears was reduced, subsequently recovering to the level of the normal side after operative repair.
The acute effects of different whole body vibration amplitudes on the endocrine system of young healthy men: a preliminary study
Authors: Cardinale Marco , Leiper John , Erskine Julie , Milroy Mark , Bell Steve
Published: October 2006

Whole body vibration (WBV) has been suggested as an alternative form of exercise producing adaptive responses similar to that of resistance training. Very limited information is available on the effects of different vibration parameters on anabolic hormones. In this study, we compared the acute effects of different WBV amplitudes on serum testosterone (T) and insulin growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1). Nine healthy young recreationally active adult males (age 22 ± 2 years, height 181 ± 6.3 cm, weight 77·4 ± 9·5 kg) voluntarily participated in this randomized controlled (cross‐over design) study. The subjects performed 20 sets of 1 min each of WBV exercise in the following conditions: Non‐vibration condition (control), low amplitude vibration [low (30 Hz, 1·5 mm peak‐to‐peak amplitude)] and high amplitude vibration [high (30 Hz, 3 mm peak‐to‐peak amplitude)]. Blood samples were collected before, after 10 sets, at the end (20th set) and after 24 h of the exercise bout. WBV exercise did not produce significant changes in serum T and IGF‐1 either with low or high amplitude when compared with the control condition. The results of this study demonstrate that a single session of WBV exposure with a frequency of 30 Hz and amplitudes of 1·5 and 3 mm does not noticeably alter serum T and IGF‐1 levels.
A Measurement Method for Birefringent Plate using Elliptically Polarized Light
Authors: Kihara T.
Published: October 2006

Abstract:  The principal axis ψ and total relative phase retardation ρtot of a birefringent plate are obtained automatically using an elliptically polarized incident light source and a phase unwrapping technique. The technique overcomes the error associated with the quarter‐wave plate by making use of incident light of different wavelengths, and the unwrapping technique allows ψ and ρtot to be determined using an arctangent function without interpolation or construction of a calibration table. The proposed method is validated analytically and experimentally for a circular disk under diametral compressive load.