bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant–soil feedbacks: a meta‐analytical review
Authors: Kulmatiski Andrew , Beard Karen H. , Stevens John R. , Cobbold Stephanie M.
Published: June 2008

Plants can change soil biology, chemistry and structure in ways that alter subsequent plant growth. This process, referred to as plant–soil feedback (PSF), has been suggested to provide mechanisms for plant diversity, succession and invasion. Here we use three meta‐analytical models: a mixed model and two Bayes models, one correcting for sampling dependence and one correcting for sampling and hierarchical dependence (delta‐splitting model) to test these hypotheses. All three models showed that PSFs have medium to large negative effects on plant growth, and especially grass growth, the life form for which we had the most data. This supports the hypothesis that PSFs, through negative frequency dependence, maintain plant diversity, especially in grasslands. PSFs were also large and negative for annuals and natives, but the delta‐splitting model indicated that more studies are needed for these results to be conclusive. Our results support the hypotheses that PSFs encourage successional replacements and plant invasions. Most studies were performed using monocultures of grassland species in greenhouse conditions. Future research should examine PSFs in plant communities, non‐grassland systems and field conditions.
Host‐specificity of environmentally transmitted Mycoplasma‐like isopod symbionts
Authors: Fraune Sebastian , Zimmer Martin
Published: June 2008

Mycoplasms are known as pathogens of economic and medical interest in plants, animals and man. Here, we show a positive correlation between the presence of Mycoplasma‐like symbionts in their isopod hosts and survivorship on low‐quality food. Most isopods that survived feeding on a cellulose‐based low‐quality diet for 90 days harboured ‘Candidatus Hepatoplasma’ in their midgut glands, while those that died within 90 days mostly either harboured no or other bacterial symbionts. We detected ‘Candidatus Hepatoplasma’ in all but one of the examined species of terrestrial isopods from different habitats and locations, suggesting an evolutionarily ancient association between terrestrial isopods and their Mycoplasma‐like symbionts. Phylogenetic analyses clustered symbionts from different populations of the same isopod species together, and clearly distinguished between symbionts of different isopod species, indicating host‐specificity of ‘Candidatus Hepatoplasma’, although a previous study provided evidence for environmental symbiont transmission. Nonetheless, horizontal exchange of symbionts between species may have been possible in evolutionary earlier stages, as suggested by only limited congruency of phylogenetic trees of hosts and symbionts. Another symbiont, ‘Candidatus Hepatincola porcellionum’, was only detected in midgut glands of the most terrestrial tribe of isopods (Crinocheta), suggesting an evolutionarily younger host–symbiont association. This symbiont proved to be negatively correlated with host longevity, even on high‐quality food.
Family Relationships among Immigrants and Majority Members in the Netherlands: The Role of Acculturation
Authors: Arends‐Tóth Judit , Van de Vijver Fons J.R.
Published: June 2008

This study examined the nature and size of differences in family relationships in five cultural groups in the Netherlands (Dutch mainstreamers, and Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese, and Antillean immigrants). In order to get a better insight into the differences in family relationships, a distinction was made between family values and family ties. Family values refer to obligations and beliefs about family relationships whereas family ties involve more behavior‐related relational aspects. Results confirmed that the cultural differences in mean scores between immigrants and majority members were larger for family values than for family ties. Individual background variables had a much stronger association with family values than with family ties. In addition, first‐generation immigrants had more traditional family values and reported stronger family ties than did Dutch mainstreamers. Second‐generation immigrants had more traditional family values than Dutch mainstreamers but they did not report stronger family ties. In conclusion, the distinction between family values and family ties as different expressions of family relationships is highly relevant in an acculturation context, because cultural differences between the various immigrant groups and the mainstream group are not the same for values and ties, and acculturative changes are different for both.

On se penche dans cette étude sur les relations familiales, leur nature et leurs différences dans cinq groupes culturels des Pays‐Bas (Hollandais de souche et immigrants turcs, marocains, surinamiens et antillais). Pour accéder à une meilleure appréhension des différences dans les relations familiales, on a opéré une distinction entre les valeurs et les liens familiaux. Les valeurs familiales font référence aux obligations et aux croyances concernant les relations familiales alors que les liens familiaux touchent des aspects relationnels plus comportementaux. Les résultats confirment que les différences culturelles (estimées au niveau des moyennes) entre les immigrants et les membres de la majorité de la population sont plus nettes pour les valeurs que pour les liens familiaux. Le fond culturel des individus est plus fortement associé aux valeurs qu’aux liens familiaux. De plus, les migrants de première génération présentent davantage de valeurs familiales traditionnelles et témoignent de liens familiaux plus forts que ceux des Hollandais de souche. Les migrants de seconde génération ont également plus de valeurs familiales traditionnelles que les Hollandais de souche, mais pas de liens familiaux plus étroits. Disons pour conclure que distinguer valeurs et liens familiaux comme étant des expressions différentes des relations en famille est tout à fait pertinent dans un contexte d’acculturation puisque les différences culturelles entre les divers groupes de migrants et les autochtones ne sont pas identiques pour les valeurs et les liens et que l’impact dûà l’acculturation n’est pas le même dans les deux cas.
Employability and Employees’ Well‐Being: Mediation by Job Insecurity1
Authors: Cuyper Nele De , Bernhard‐Oettel Claudia , Berntson Erik , Witte Hans De , Alarco Barbara
Published: June 2008

The current study's aims are twofold: first, we investigate the relationship between employability and both work‐related (engagement) and general (life satisfaction) well‐being. Second, we study how employability may be relevant in times of high job insecurity. Specifically, we hypothesise (1) a positive relationship between employability and employees’ well‐being, (2) a negative relationship between employability and job insecurity, and (3) a negative relationship between job insecurity and employees’ well‐being, so that (4) job insecurity mediates the relationship between employability and employees’ well‐being. Results based on a sample of 559 respondents from divisions of seven Belgian organisations support our hypotheses. We conclude that employability may be a means to secure one's labour market position, rather than a means to cope with job insecurity.

Les objectifs de cette étude sont doubles: nous étudions d’abord la relation entre l’employabilité et à la fois le bien‐être relatif au travail (implication) et le bien‐être global (la satisfaction provenant de l’existence). Ensuite, nous nous interrogeons sur la pertinence de l’employabilité en période de grande insécurité professionnelle. Plus précisément, nous posons les hypothèses 1) d’une relation positive entre l’employabilité et le bien‐être des employés, 2) d’une relation négative entre l’employabilité et l’insécurité professionnelle et 3) d’une relation négative entre l’insécurité professionnelle et le bien‐être des salariés, si bien que 4) l’insécurité professionnelle régule la relation entre l’employabilité et le bien‐être des salariés. Les résultats issus d’un échantillon de 559 répondants provenant de départements de sept organisations belges confortent nos hypothèses. On conclut que l’employabilité peut être une façon de sécuriser sa situation sur le marché du travail plutôt qu’un moyen pour affronter l’insécurité professionnelle.
Work Engagement in Japan: Validation of the Japanese Version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale
Authors: Shimazu A. , Schaufeli W.B. , Kosugi S. , Suzuki A. , Nashiwa H. , Kato A. , Sakamoto M. , Irimajiri H. , Amano S. , Hirohata K. , Goto R. , Kitaoka‐Higashiguchi K.
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this study was to validate the Japanese version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES‐J). Employees from three independent samples completed the questionnaire (total N= 2,334). Confirmatory factor analyses using the multiple‐group method revealed that, instead of the original three‐factor model, a one‐factor model that assumes that all engagement items load on one single factor fitted the data. Moreover, the one‐factor structure was invariant across all three samples. Internal consistency of the scale was sufficiently high (α= .92) and the test–retest reliability with an interval of two months was .66. A series of second‐order confirmatory factor analyses to examine construct validity confirmed the hypothesised model, indicating that work engagement was positively related to job satisfaction whereas it was negatively related to strain and burnout. However, as in previous studies, professional efficacy, a component of burnout, loaded on the engagement factor. These results, in general, suggest the reliability (internal consistency and stability), factorial invariance, and construct validity of the UWES‐J in three independent samples.

Cette étude avait pour objectif de valider la version japonaise de l’Echelle d’Implication au Travail d’Utrecht (UWES‐J). 2,334 salariés provenant de trois échantillons indépendants ont rempli le questionnaire. Une analyse factorielle confirmatoire faisant appel à la méthode des groupes multiples a montré que le modèle originel en trois facteurs devait laisser la place à un modèle unifactoriel puisque tous les items d’implication étaient saturés sur un unique facteur qui rendait compte à lui seul des données. En outre, la structure monofactorielle restait identique à elle‐même sur les trois échantillons. La consistance interne de l’échelle était suffisamment élevée (α= .92) et la fidélité test‐retest après une période de deux mois était de .66. Une série d’analyses factorielles confirmatoires de second ordre destinées àétudier la validité de construction ont confirmé le modèle hypothétique, indiquant que l’implication dans le travail était en corrélation positive avec la satisfaction professionnelle tandis qu’elle était en relation négative avec la tension nerveuse et le burnout. Comme dans des travaux antérieurs, l’efficacité professionnelle, une composante du burnout, était saturée dans le facteur d’implication. Ces résultats, vont dans le sens de la fidélité (consistance interne et stabilité), de la solidité factorielle et de la validité de construction de l’UWES‐J dans ces trois échantillons indépendants.
Psychology: Is It Applied Enough?
Authors: Drenth Pieter J.D.
Published: June 2008

The question “Is psychology applied enough?” can be regarded in two ways. In the first place, it could refer to the distinction “pure versus applied science”, and the reproach that modern scientific experimental psychology has little to offer to the practitioner. It is argued that this distinction has lost much of its topicality in modern science, and certainly with respect to psychology. In this sense “applied psychology” is an outmoded notion. Secondly, it could refer to the question whether psychology is utilised enough in dealing with the great many pressing problems in modern society. And it is shown that this question cannot be answered in the affirmative. Too often psychological aspects of problems escape notice and too often potential psychological contributions are neglected in governmental and organisational decision‐making, also in cases where such a contribution would prove valuable indeed. A number of reasons for such a neglect are discussed and some ways of improvement are suggested.

La question de savoir si la psychologie est suffisamment appliquée peut être abordée de deux façons. Elle peut d’abord renvoyer à la distinction entre science fondamentale et science appliquée et à la critique selon laquelle la psychologie expérimentale moderne a peu à offrir au praticien. Nous pensons que cette distinction a perdu beaucoup de son actualité, surtout en psychologie. Dans ces conditions, la « psychologie appliquée » est une notion désuète. Ensuite, cette question peut faire référence au fait de savoir si la psychologie est suffisamment exploitée dans le traitement des nombreux problèmes sociaux qu’il est urgent de résoudre. Il apparaît qu’il n’est pas possible de répondre par l’affirmative. Trop souvent, les dimensions psychologiques des problèmes passent inaperçues et les contributions potentielles de la psychologie sont négligées dans les décisions gouvernementales et organisationnelles, même quand cet apport serait manifestement précieux. On analyse les raisons de cette négligence et l’on suggère quelques pistes en vue d’une amélioration.
Impact of fesoterodine on quality of life: pooled data from two randomized trials
Authors: Kelleher Con J. , Tubaro Andrea , Wang Joseph T. , Kopp Zoe
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of fesoterodine on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pooled data from two randomized placebo‐controlled phase III studies were analysed. Eligible patients with frequency and urgency or urgency urinary incontinence were randomized to placebo or fesoterodine 4 or 8 mg for 12 weeks; one trial also included tolterodine extended release (tolterodine‐ER) 4 mg. HRQoL was assessed using the King’s Health Questionnaire (KHQ), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Short Form (ICIQ‐SF), a six‐point Likert scale measuring the severity of bladder‐related problems, and treatment response.

RESULTS

By the end of treatment, all active‐treatment groups had significantly improved HRQoL compared with those on placebo, as shown by an improvement in the KHQ and ICIQ‐SF scores, treatment response rate, and a major improvement in self‐reported bladder‐related problems. The fesoterodine 8‐mg group had statistically significant improvements over placebo in eight of nine KHQ domains. Fesoterodine 4 mg and tolterodine‐ER produced statistically significant improvements in seven of nine KHQ domains. Fesoterodine 8 mg gave better results than 4 mg in two domains; Emotions and Symptom Severity (P < 0.05). A major improvement (≥2 points) in bladder‐related problems was reported by 33% of patients on fesoterodine 4 mg, 38% on fesoterodine 8 mg, and 34% on tolterodine‐ER, vs 21% on placebo (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Fesoterodine significantly improved HRQoL in patients with OAB. Both fesoterodine 4 and 8 mg produced significant improvements on most KHQ domains, the ICIQ‐SF, treatment response rate, and a Likert scale measuring bladder‐related problems.
Regional differences in sensory innervation and suburothelial interstitial cells in the bladder neck and urethra
Authors: Grol Simone , Van Koeveringe Gommert A. , De Vente Jan , Van Kerrebroeck Philip E.V. , Gillespie James I.
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVE

To identify and characterize possible structural specialisations in the wall of the lower urinary tract (LUT) in the region of the bladder urethral junction (BUJ), with the specific objective of identifying regional variations in sensory nerve fibres and interstitial cells (ICs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bladder base and urethra was removed from five male guinea pigs killed by cervical dislocation. Tissue pieces were incubated in Krebs’ solution at 36 °C, gassed with 95% O2 and 5% CO2, fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and processed for immunohistochemistry. The nonspecific marker vimentin and the general neuronal marker protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 were used to identify ICs and nerve fibres, respectively. Specific antibody binding was visualized using the appropriate secondary antibodies.

RESULTS

The wall of the LUT in the region immediately between the bladder base and the urethra, the BUJ, differed in its cellular composition relative to the adjacent areas. PGP‐positive (PGP+) nerve fibres, presumptive afferent fibres, lay within the urothelium running between the epithelial cells. There were two general nerve patterns: branching fibres with no varicosities, and complex fibres with varicosities. Fibre collaterals with varicosities exited the urothelium and occupied the space under the urothelium adjacent to the layer of suburothelial ICs. The latter, lamina propria and around the muscle bundles were identified using vimentin (vim+). In the base a few vim+ cells were also PGP+. In the region of the BUJ there was a decrease in the amount of smooth muscle. In this region, below the lamina propria, there was an area densely populated with vim+/PGP+ ICs. Nerve fibres ran between the cells in this region.

CONCLUSION

These structural specialisations within the urothelium and deeper layers of the BUJ suggest that they might be associated with specific functions. The localized highly branched network of the putative afferent nerves suggests the presence of a local axonal reflexes involving possible cross‐talk between the urothelium and suburothelial layer. The function of the specialized region of ICs is not known and must await further information on the functional properties of this novel cell type. These observations show further the cellular heterogeneity of the cells in the LUT and the complexity of the structures. One of the major current challenges in functional urology is to understand the relationships between these novel structures and overall bladder and urethral function.
Penile erection induced in vivo by a purified toxin from the Brazilian spider Phoneutria nigriventer
Authors: Andrade Enrico , Villanova Fabiola , Borra Priscila , Leite Katia , Troncone Lanfranco , Cortez Italo , Messina Leonardo , Paranhos Mario , Claro Joaquim , Srougi Miguel
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVES

To verify the effect on erectile tissue of mice of two neuropeptides extracted from the poison of a spider, Phoneutria nigriventer, (Tx2‐5 and ‐6, termed ‘eretina’) after direct injection into the corpus cavernosum, to assess the minimum dosage necessary for effect, the time for initiation of action, the local duration of the erection, histological effects and the presence of local and systemic side‐effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

When applied intraperitoneally, eretina promotes the relaxation of cavernous smooth muscle, thus causing penile erection. Thirty‐five mice were divided in two groups; 10 control mice were injected 20 µL of saline solution, and in the treated group, 25 mice were divided into groups of five and each subgroup received eretina in decreasing doses (0.024, 0.012, 0.006, 0.003 and 0.0015 µg/kg) until the minimum dose that produced an erection was determined. After treatment all mice were monitored to determine the response and any collateral effects.

RESULTS

The minimum dose producing an erection was 0.006 µg/kg, the five mice in this group having evidence of an erection at 35–45 min after injection. The histology of the cavernosum of mice treated with eretina showed dilatation and congestion of the vascular spaces with more blood than in controls. With the minimum dose there were no local or systemic collateral effects and the erection was lost after 120–140 min.

CONCLUSION

The minimum dose of eretina producing an erection in mice was determined, and the agent was safe for this use as it did not produce any collateral toxic effects. These studies indicate a possible means of determining the mechanism of action of eretina.
Semi‐Parametric Models for the Multivariate Tail Dependence Function – the Asymptotically Dependent Case
Authors: KLÜPPELBERG CLAUDIA , KUHN GABRIEL , PENG LIANG
Published: June 2008

Abstract.  In general, the risk of joint extreme outcomes in financial markets can be expressed as a function of the tail dependence function of a high‐dimensional vector after standardizing marginals. Hence, it is of importance to model and estimate tail dependence functions. Even for moderate dimension, non‐parametrically estimating a tail dependence function is very inefficient and fitting a parametric model to tail dependence functions is not robust. In this paper, we propose a semi‐parametric model for (asymptotically dependent) tail dependence functions via an elliptical copula. Under this model assumption, we propose a novel estimator for the tail dependence function, which proves favourable compared to the empirical tail dependence function estimator, both theoretically and empirically.
The classical classroom: enhancing learning for pupils with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Authors: Rees Siân A. , Skidmore David
Published: June 2008

This paper seeks to draw parallels between different approaches to classroom instruction and two contrasting musical styles and to examine how pupils with Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI) might fare in each. A polyphonic classroom is defined as one where an awareness of multiple layers of meaning are encouraged to enhance the learning opportunities, whereas in a classical classroom most of the layers expressly support a single dominant line. While this analogy cannot be stretched too far, it is suggested that, after an ABI, a pupil might progress their learning more easily in a classical‐style classroom.
The neuronal RhoA GEF, Tech, interacts with the synaptic multi‐PDZ‐domain‐containing protein, MUPP1
Authors: Estévez Marcel A. , Henderson Jennifer A. , Ahn David , Zhu Xin‐Ran , Poschmann Gereon , Lübbert Hermann , Marx Ruth , Baraban Jay M.
Published: June 2008

Tech is a RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that is highly enriched in hippocampal and cortical neurons. To help define its function, we have conducted studies aimed at identifying partner proteins that bind to its C‐terminal PDZ ligand motif. Yeast two hybrid studies using the Tech C‐terminal segment as bait identified MUPP1, a protein that contains 13 PDZ domains and has been localized to the post‐synaptic compartment, as a candidate partner protein for Tech. Co‐transfection of Tech and MUPP1 in human embryonic kidney 293 cells confirmed that these full‐length proteins interact in a PDZ‐dependent fashion. Furthermore, we confirmed that endogenous Tech co‐precipitates with MUPP1, but not PSD‐95, from hippocampal and cortical extracts prepared from rat brain. In addition, immunostaining of primary cortical cultures revealed co‐localization of MUPP1 and Tech puncta in the vicinity of synapses. In assessing which PDZ domains of MUPP1 mediate binding to Tech, we found that Tech can bind to either PDZ domain 10 or 13 of MUPP1 as mutation of both these domains is needed to disrupt their interaction. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that Tech binds to MUPP1 and suggest that it regulates RhoA signaling pathways in the vicinity of synapses.
Pregnancy‐related changes in tobacco, alcohol and cannabis use reported by antenatal patients at two public hospitals in South Australia
Authors: HOTHAM Elizabeth , ALI Robert , WHITE Jason , ROBINSON Jeffrey
Published: June 2008

Background: Australian substance use data do not demonstrate pregnancy‐related changes or distinguish between pregnant and lactating women.

Aims: To determine such changes by antenatal patients at two South Australian public hospitals accounting for 35% of the state's births.

Methods: In 2005–2006, all first visit antenatal women at the two hospitals were asked by clinic staff to complete an anonymous, self‐administered questionnaire prompting details of substance use, current and previous (while not pregnant or lactating).

Results: Questionnaires were returned by 748 women, 34.4% of 2173 eligible in the study period. Women reported use at significantly lower rates than before pregnancy. Tobacco was most used in pregnancy (18.5%), followed by alcohol (11.8%) and cannabis (4.5%), with negligible use of other illicit substances. There was no significant difference in substance use related to trimester. Women with previous pregnancy losses were significantly more likely to use tobacco and alcohol. Younger women were more likely to use tobacco and cannabis, with no age‐related differences in alcohol consumption. First pregnancy was the only factor independently associated with the likelihood of ceasing substance use when pregnant, but only in relation to alcohol.

Conclusions: Women were less likely to use all substances when pregnant, and health‐care providers should reinforce and support these decisions. The use of cannabis and alcohol while pregnant was below expectations. Reported tobacco use was concordant with existing data and confirms that the risk of smoking in pregnancy remains a message difficult to communicate in the context of chronic nicotine dependence.
Birth at hospitals with co‐located paediatric units for infants with correctable birth defects
Authors: ALGERT Charles S. , BOWEN Jennifer R. , HADFIELD Ruth M. , OLIVE Emily C. , MORRIS Jonathan M. , ROBERTS Christine L.
Published: June 2008

Objectives: To determine the percentage of liveborn infants with selected antenatally identifiable and correctable birth defects who were delivered at hospitals with co‐located paediatric surgical units (co‐located hospitals). Additionally, to determine the survival rates for these infants.

Patients and methods: Data were from linked New South Wales hospital discharge records from 2001 to 2004. Livebirths with one of the selected defects were included if they underwent an appropriate surgical repair, or died during the first year of life. Infants with multiple lethal birth defects were excluded. Deliveries at co‐located hospitals were identified, but no data on antenatal diagnosis were available.

Results: The study identified 287 eligible livebirths with the selected defects. The highest rates of delivery at co‐located hospitals were for gastroschisis (88%), exomphalos (71%), spina bifida (63%) and diaphragmatic hernia (61%), and the lowest for transposition of the great arteries (43%) and oesophageal atresia (40%). Mothers resident outside of metropolitan areas, where the co‐located hospitals are located, had a similar rate of delivery at co‐located hospitals as metropolitan women. For the non‐metropolitan mothers of infants with a birth defect, this represented a 30‐fold increase over the baseline delivery rate of 1.8%. Post‐surgery survival rates were 87% or higher. Overall survival rates were ≥ 86% except for infants with a diaphragmatic hernia.

Conclusions: Delivery rates at co‐located hospitals were high for mothers of infants with these correctable birth defects. Regionalised health care appears to work well for these pregnancies, as women living outside metropolitan areas had a similar rate of delivery at co‐located hospitals to that of urban women.
The effect of early removal of indwelling urinary catheter on postoperative urinary complications in anterior colporrhaphy surgery
Authors: SEKHAVAT Leila , FARAJKHODA Tahminah , DAVAR Robab
Published: June 2008

Objective: To assess whether immediate removal of an indwelling catheter after anterior colporrhaphy influences the rate of re‐catheterisation and symptomatic urinary tract infections.

Methods: A prospective randomised study conducted on 90 women divided into two groups who underwent anterior repair. The indwelling catheter was removed immediately (early catheter removal), and at least 24 h after the operation in case and control groups, respectively. The association between clinical variables and the duration of catheterisation and continuous data were analysed by χ2 test and two‐tailed t‐test, respectively. Excel and SPSS 15.0 software were used, and a P‐value of 0.05 or less was considered to indicate statistically significant differences.

Result: Symptomatic urinary tract infection was significantly lower in early catheter‐removal group; also patients in this group reported significantly less pain and voiding disturbances. Only a few of women required re‐catheterisation after failing to void and all were able to resume normal voiding, also had shorter ambulation time and hospital stay.

Conclusion: Early removal of an indwelling catheter immediately after anterior colporrhaphy was not associated with adverse events and increased rate of re‐catheterisation. In this group, symptomatic urinary tract infection was significantly lower. Moreover, early removal of indwelling catheters immediately after operation seemed to decrease the ambulation time and hospital stay.
Transvaginal radiofrequency thermal ablation: A day‐care approach to symptomatic uterine myomas
Authors: CHO Hyun Hee , KIM Jin Hong , KIM Mee Ran
Published: June 2008

Background: In patients with myoma, the traditional surgical treatment of choice is myomectomy for women who wish to retain their uterus. However, myomectomy must be performed under general anaesthesia, and the patient requires a long time to recover.

Aims:  In the present study, we report our experience with a group of patients who underwent transvaginal radiofrequency (RF) thermal ablation of uterine myomas, with emphasis on the safety and efficacy of this procedure.

Methods:  Premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine myoma or recently growing myoma were included in this study. The pre‐ and postoperative myoma volumes were measured by 3D ultrasonography. The impact of the symptoms on health‐related quality of life (HRQL) was assessed using the Uterine Fibroids Symptom and Quality of Life questionnaire.

Results:  The mean initial size of the dominant myoma was 5.3 cm (standard deviation ± 1.58). The reoperation rate was 4.3%. The final reduction rate of the volume of the dominant fibroid was 73%. The symptom scores and HRQL scores showed great improvement after 18 months of myolysis.

Conclusions:  The results of this study suggest that RF ablation may represent a safe, well‐tolerated, and effective day‐care alternative to conventional surgery for the treatment of uterine myomas.
Pregnancy characteristics of women giving birth to children with fetal alcohol syndrome in Far North Queensland
Authors: COYNE Katherine L. , DE COSTA Caroline M. , HEAZLEWOOD Richard J. , NEWMAN Helen C.
Published: June 2008

Background: Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) has been identified as a major cause of impairment to normal physical and intellectual development among Indigenous children in Far North Queensland; however, little is known of the pregnancy characteristics of mothers of those children diagnosed with FAS or of interventions that might assist in lowering the prevalence of the syndrome.

Aim: To review the pregnancy records of women whose infants were subsequently diagnosed with FAS by the Paediatric Outreach Service (POS) of the Cairns Base Hospital, and to determine how such women might be identified prospectively in pregnancy and offered intervention to reduce alcohol consumption.

Methods: A retrospective case–control study involving all children diagnosed with FAS by the POS between 1994 and 2006; maternal pregnancy records were accessed and details obtained.

Results: Mothers of cases were older, of higher parity, smoked more cigarettes, attended fewer antenatal visits and experienced more antenatal and delivery complications than mothers of controls. The average gestational age at booking was not statistically significant between the two groups. There was a significant difference between the two groups in self‐reported alcohol consumption both before and during pregnancy and in numbers of women who decreased alcohol consumption once the diagnosis of pregnancy was known to them.

Conclusions: There is the potential to identify prospectively women presenting for antenatal care who are heavy drinkers and risk FAS in their infants, using the self‐reported information about alcohol intake already being collected by our service; such women may then be offered specific interventions to try to reduce alcohol consumption in pregnancy.
Fertility and pain outcomes following laparoscopic segmental bowel resection for colorectal endometriosis: A review
Authors: WILLS Hannah J. , REID Geoffrey D. , COOPER Michael J. W. , MORGAN Matthew
Published: June 2008

Intestinal involvement in endometriosis is thought to occur in up to 12% of all endometriosis cases. While colorectal resection is being increasingly advocated as a feasible management option in patients with severe disease, there still remains significant resistance towards this surgery. This article aims to review the current literature to determine the pain and fertility outcomes following segmental bowel resection for colorectal endometriosis.
Plasma concentrations of lamotrigine and its 2‐N‐glucuronide metabolite during pregnancy in women with epilepsy
Authors: Öhman Inger , Beck Olof , Vitols Sigurd , Tomson Torbjörn
Published: June 2008

Summary

Objective: To further characterize pregnancy‐induced alterations in the pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine (LTG).

Methods: Fifteen women treated with LTG were studied during 17 pregnancies. Complete trough blood samples from all trimesters and baseline > 1 month after delivery were available for 12 pregnancies (Group A), whereas, five contributed with samples only from the third trimester and baseline (Group B). High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine LTG plasma concentrations, and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry to assay the main metabolite 2‐N‐lamotrigine glucuronide (2‐N‐GLUC) in plasma.

Results: In group A, the mean dose/plasma concentration ratio (D/C) of LTG at baseline after pregnancy was 66.5 ± 17.9 (± SD) L/day and approximately 250% higher in late pregnancy. The mean lamotrigine‐2‐N‐glucuronide/lamotrigine plasma concentration ratio (2‐N‐GLUC/LTG) was 0.349 ± 0.141 (± SD) at baseline and 147% higher in late pregnancy. Taking group A and B together, the 2‐N‐GLUC/LTG ratio was 175% higher in the third trimester compared to baseline.

Conclusion: Our study confirms a significant decline in LTG plasma levels during pregnancy in women on monotherapy with LTG. An increased 2‐N‐GLUC/LTG ratio suggests that this decline may be related to an increased metabolism of LTG by glucuronidation.
Focal motor seizures induced by alerting stimuli in critically ill patients
Authors: Hirsch Lawrence J. , Pang Trudy , Claassen Jan , Chang Craig , Khaled Karine Abou , Wittman John , Emerson Ronald G.
Published: June 2008

Summary

Purpose: We have previously demonstrated that it is common for alerting stimuli to induce electrographic seizures and other periodic or rhythmic patterns in the critically ill; however, only 1 of the first 33 patients we reported with this phenomenon had a detectable clinical correlate.

Methods: Review of charts and video EEG findings in critically ill patients in a neurological ICU at a tertiary care medical center in Manhattan.

Results: We identified nine patients who had focal motor seizures repeatedly induced by alerting stimuli. All patients were comatose, and 8/9 had nonconvulsive status epilepticus at some point during their acute illness. Imaging abnormalities involved bilateral thalami in three patients, upper brainstem in one, and the perirolandic region in five.

Discussion: We hypothesize that in encephalopathic patients, alerting stimuli activate the arousal circuitry, and, when combined with hyperexcitable cortex, result in epileptiform activity or seizures. This activity can be focal or generalized, and is usually nonconvulsive, as is true of seizures in general in the critically ill. However, when the cortex is hyperexcitable in a specific region only, focal EEG findings arise. If the electrographic seizure activity is adequately synchronized and involves motor pathways, this can present as focal motor seizures, as seen in these nine patients.

Alerting can induce seizures in encephalopathic/comatose patients. The observation of clear focal clinical seizures removes the last remaining doubt that these stimulus‐induced patterns are indeed seizures by any definition, not simply abnormal arousal patterns.
THE ROLE OF N265 OF THE GABAA RECEPTOR β2 SUBUNIT IN THE ACTIONS OF ALCOHOLS AND ANESTHETICS
Authors: McCracken Mandy L. , Borghese Cecilia M. , Adron Harris R.
Published: June 2008

Alcohols and volatile anesthetics enhance the function of γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors containing α, β, and γ subunits, and the presence of an alcohol and volatile anesthetic binding site has been identified in the α1, α2, and β1 subunits. However, the specific role of the β2 subunit has not been elucidated. The present study examined whether amino acid residue Asparagine‐265 (N265), which is homologous to the implicated residue in the α subunits, contributes to an alcohol and volatile anesthetic binding site in the GABAA receptor β2 subunit. Cysteine was substituted at the candidate residue, and cRNAs encoding wild‐type α1β2γ2S or mutant α1β2(N265C)γ2S receptors were injected into Xenopus laevis oocytes. Using two‐electrode voltage clamp electrophysiology, we asked whether the cysteine mutation affected receptor sensitivity to alcohols, and if octyl methanethiosulfonate (OMTS), an alcohol and anesthetic analog, reacted with the substituted cysteine and irreversibly altered GABA‐induced currents. Further, the potentiation of GABA‐induced currents by alcohols and anesthetics was measured before and after the application of OMTS, which has been shown to convalently bind to cysteine residues located at alcohol and anesthetic binding sites. We found that potentiation of GABA‐induced currents by butanol or octanol was significantly reduced in mutant 1β2(N265C)γ2S receptors compared to wild‐type receptors, and submaximal GABA‐induced currents of mutant receptors were irreversibly potentiated following the application of OMTS, presumably due to the covalent reaction between OMTS and the thiol group in the substituted cysteine. Moreover, the potentiation of GABA‐induced currents by butanol or isoflurane was abolished in mutant receptors following the application of OMTS, suggesting that an alcohol and volatile anesthetic binding site at position 265 of the β2 subunit was irreversibly occupied by OMTS and consequently prevented alcohols and anesthetics from binding and producing their effects. Taken together, our findings provide evidence that N265 may contribute to an alcohol and anesthetic binding site, and ultimately we propose that the GABAA receptor β2 subunit may be important for the actions of these compounds.
Testing Repeatability and Error of Coordinate Landmark Data Acquired from Crania*
Authors: Ross Ann H. , Williams Shanna
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  This study evaluates issues of precision, repeatability, and validation in three‐dimensional (3D) landmark coordinates. Two observers collected 19 homologous cranial landmarks from three skulls during three separate digitizing sessions. Statistical analysis was conducted on the 171 interlandmark distances (ILDs) derived from the original coordinate data. A mixed model ANOVA detected significant within‐subject error in 54 of the 171 ILDs (i.e., 32%). A GLM procedure revealed significant between‐observer variation in 14 ILDs and significant observer‐by‐session differences in 13 ILDs. The majority of these differences involved ILDs with type 3 landmarks as endpoints, such as euryon and alare. Unlike type 1 and 2 landmarks which are biologically informative in all directions, type 3 landmarks contain a substantial arbitrary component. Thus, it is not surprising type 3 landmarks displayed significant digitizing error. Given these results, we caution researchers to be mindful of type 3 landmarks measurement discrepancies when selecting landmarks for coordinate data evaluation.
Desorption Electrospray Tandem MS (DESI‐MSMS) Analysis of Methyl Centralite and Ethyl Centralite as Gunshot Residues on Skin and Other Surfaces
Authors: Zhao Mengxia , Zhang Sichun , Yang Chengdui , Xu Yucai , Wen Yuxiu , Sun Lianshan , Zhang Xinrong
Published: June 2008

Abstract: A direct and sensitive method for the detection of methyl centralite (MC) and ethyl centralite (EC) as gunshot residues (GSRs) has been developed. This method uses desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)‐tandem mass spectrometry and directly desorbs and detects analytes from surfaces without any sampling process. Typical transitions for MC and EC,m/z241 tom/z134 andm/z269 tom/z148, respectively, were used to improve the assay sensitivity. It has been shown that MC and EC can be detected on various surfaces, with detection limits of 5–70 pg/cm2. Interferences, detection time after shooting and the number of times hands were washed after shooting were also evaluated. None of the materials interfered with the results and the detection window for organic GSRs was up to 12 h and hands could be washed at least six times. Further samples were analyzed to confirm the reliability of this method, and showed that it could discriminate shooters from nonshooters. This method should be of significance in forensic science, especially in analyzing GSRs, because of its simplicity, high throughput, and the direct detection of MC and EC on suspects’ hands, clothes, and hair.
Riboflavin‐ultraviolet light induced cross‐linking in endothelial decompensation
Authors: Ehlers Niels , Hjortdal Jesper
Published: June 2008

Purpose:  To evaluate the potential of collagen cross‐linking in the treatment of corneal oedema caused by endothelial decompensation.

Methods:  Riboflavin‐ultraviolet (UV) treatment induces cross‐linking and reduces stromal swelling. Eleven patients with corneal oedema were treated. The technique comprised: epithelial abrasion; instillation of 0.1% riboflavin in saline, and 5.4 J/cm2 illumination with 365 nm UV‐A light over approximately 30 mins (3 mW/cm2).

Results:  A reduction in corneal thickness was observed in 10 patients. The majority also experienced improvement in vision. The effect occurred over weeks and lasted for months.

Conclusions:  The study shows a potential application of collagen cross‐linking in the management of patients with corneal oedema. Experimental and additional clinical studies are necessary in order to define the precise indications for this type of treatment.
Hand eczema severity and quality of life: a cross‐sectional, multicentre study of hand eczema patients
Authors: Agner Tove , Andersen Klaus E. , Brandao Francisco M. , Bruynzeel Derk P. , Bruze Magnus , Frosch Peter , Goncalo Margarida , Goossens An , Le Coz Cristophe J. , Rustemeyer Thomas , White Ian R. , Diepgen Thomas ,   EECDRG
Published: June 2008

Background and Objectives:  Hand eczema is a chronic disease with negative impact on quality of life (QoL). In this study, QoL in hand eczema patients is assessed and related to age, sex, severity, and diagnostic subgroups.

Methods:  A total of 416 patients with hand eczema from 10 European patch test clinics participated in the study. Data on QoL were obtained from a self‐administered questionnaire using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Severity was assessed by a scoring system (Hand Eczema Severity Index, HECSI) as well as frequency of eruptions and sick leave due to hand eczema.

Results:  No significant difference was found between males and females with respect to QoL [DLQI median values and 25/75 percentiles for males and females being 7.0 (3–14) and 8.0 (3–13), respectively], although males were more severely affected than females (P < 0.025). A significant positive correlation was found for hand eczema severity and age (P < 0.001), while no significant correlation was found for QoL and age. QoL was found increasingly reduced when sick leave was getting higher (P < 0.001). A statistically significant correlation between QoL (as measured by DLQI) and hand eczema severity as measured by HECSI was found (P < 0.001). No significant difference in QoL was found between diagnostic subgroups.

Conclusions:  QoL was found markedly negatively affected in hand eczema patients and was significantly correlated to disease severity. No significant difference in QoL was found between males and females, in spite of significantly more severe eczema in males, indicating that QoL in female patients is more easily affected.
The susceptibility to vitiligo is associated with NF‐E2‐related factor2 (Nrf2) gene polymorphisms: a study on Chinese Han population
Authors: Guan Cui‐Ping , Zhou Miao‐Ni , Xu Ai‐E , Kang Ke‐Fei , Liu Ji‐Feng , Wei Xiao‐Dong , Li Yong‐Wei , Zhao De‐Kuang , Hong Wei‐Song
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary disorder and its pathogenesis remains unclear. Oxidative stress is considered to be the initial pathogenic event in the melanocyte destruction. NF‐E2‐related factor2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor regulating the expression of detoxifying and antioxidant genes. To investigate the association of the Nrf2 gene promoter polymorphisms with vitiligo in Chinese Han population, the genotypes of –686A/G, –684G/A and –650C/A and the genotyping of variable number of tandem repeat were detected. The data were analysed by the chi‐square test and the risk was evaluated by calculating OR and 95% CI. There was statistically significant difference in genotypic and allelic frequencies of –650C/A between the two groups (P < 0.05). A−650 allele was significantly associated with the risk for vitiligo (OR = 1.724, χ2 = 18.096). Polymorphism of the Nrf2 gene promoter at –650C/A was associated with the development of vitiligo and A−650 allele may be one of the risk factors.
Secretory Outposts for the Local Processing of Membrane Cargo in Neuronal Dendrites
Authors: Hanus Cyril , Ehlers Michael D.
Published: June 2008

The large size and geometric complexity of neuronal dendrites necessitate specialized mechanisms to both deliver postsynaptic cargo over extended distances and regulate dendritic composition on a submicron scale. Despite the fundamental importance of membrane trafficking in dendrite growth, synapse formation and plasticity, the organelles and cellular rules governing postsynaptic trafficking are only now emerging. Here we review what is currently known about dendritic secretory organelles and their role in the development, maintenance and plasticity of postsynaptic compartments.
The secretory omega‐class glutathione transferase OvGST3 from the human pathogenic parasite Onchocerca volvulus
Authors: Liebau Eva , Höppner Jana , Mühlmeister Mareike , Burmeister Cora , Lüersen Kai , Perbandt Markus , Schmetz Christel , Büttner Dietrich , Brattig Norbert
Published: June 2008

Onchocerciasis or river blindness, caused by the filarial nematode Onchocerca volvulus, is the second leading cause of blindness due to infectious diseases. The protective role of the omega‐class glutathione transferase 3 from O. volvulus (OvGST3) against intracellular and environmental reactive oxygen species has been described previously. In the present study, we continue our investigation of the highly stress‐responsive OvGST3. Alternative splicing of two exons and one intron retention generates five different transcript isoforms that possess a spliced leader at their 5′‐end, indicating that the mechanism of mature mRNA production involves alternative‐, cis‐ and trans‐splicing processes. Interestingly, the first two exons of the ovgst3 gene encode a signal peptide before sequence identity to other omega‐class glutathione transferases begins. Only the recombinant expression of the isoform that encodes the longest deduced amino acid sequence (OvGST3/5) was successful, with the purified enzyme displaying modest thiol oxidoreductase activity. Significant IgG1 and IgG4 responses against recombinantly expressed OvGST3/5 were detected in sera from patients with the generalized as well as the chronic hyperreactive form of onchocerciasis, indicating exposure of the secreted protein to the human host’s immune system and its immunogenicity. Immunohistological localization studies performed at light and electron microscopy levels support the extracellular localization of the protein. Intensive labeling of the OvGST3 was observed in the egg shell at the morula stage of the embryo, indicating extremely defined, stage‐specific expression for a short transient period only.