bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeochemistry and dissolved oxygen dynamics at a subglacial upwelling, Midtre Lovénbreen, Svalbard
Authors: Irvine-Fynn T.D.L. , Hodson A.J.
Published: June 2011

There is a growing awareness that biological processes affect solute acquisition in glacial meltwaters. An unprecedented, high-resolution record of dissolved oxygen (DO) in emergent subglacial meltwaters at polythermal Midtre Lovénbreen, Svalbard, is discussed in conjunction with the major-ion chemistry of periodic water samples within the catchment. The subglacial outburst increased solutes passing through the proglacial area and was coupled to a seasonal transition in upwelling character from suboxic waters to those with large diurnal fluctuations in the levels of DO saturation, latterly returning to sustained suboxic runoff. During the period of daily variation, DO correlated positively with discharge and inversely to total dissolved solute concentration. Consideration of SO42−concentrations showed they exceed those achievable with complete consumption of DO in saturated supraglacial meltwater, and dissolution experiments illustrated protracted abiotic sulphide oxidation remains an unlikely cause. Similarly, relatively elevated ratios of NO3−/Cl−preclude denitrification aiding the catalysis of sulphide oxidation. Results here tentatively suggest sulphide oxidation is mediated by both aerobic and anoxic biochemical processes and that transition metals are the most likely oxidants. Bacteria are shown to impart a major control on the ionic composition of subglacial upwelling with variability in the ratio of oxygenated surface meltwaters and suboxic subglacial waters.
Biogeography of terrestrial cyanobacteria from Antarctic ice-free areas
Authors: Namsaraev Z. , Mano M.-J. , Fernandez R. , Wilmotte Annick
Published: June 2011

Cyanobacteria inhabit the Antarctic continent and have even been observed in the most southerly ice-free areas of Antarctica (86–87° S). The highest molecular diversity of cyanobacterial communities was found in the areas located between 70° S and 80° S. Further south and further north from this zone, the diversity abruptly decreased. Seventy-nine per cent (33 of 42 operational taxonomic units) of Antarctic terrestrial cyanobacteria have a cosmopolitan distribution. Analysis of the sampling efforts shows that only three regions (southern Victoria Land, the Sør Rondane Mountains and Alexander Island) have been particularly well studied, while other areas did not receive enough attention. Although cyanobacteria possess a capacity for long-range transport, regional populations in Antarctic ice-free areas seem to exist. The cyanobacterial communities of the three most intensively studied regions, separated from each other by a distance of 3000–3400 km, had a low degree of similarity with each other. Further development of microbial biogeography demands a standardized approach. For this purpose, as a minimal standard, we suggest using the sequence of cyanobacterial 16S rRNA gene between Escherichia coli positions 405 and 780.
Methane flux and high-affinity methanotrophic diversity along the chronosequence of a receding glacier in Greenland
Authors: Bárcena Teresa G. , Yde Jacob C. , Finster Kai W.
Published: June 2011

Methane consumption in upland soils represents an important part of the biologically mediated sink of tropospheric methane. The present study focuses on the role of glacier forefields as a potential methane sink. The role of these environments, though increasing in size, has not yet been taken into account in the global methane budget. Net methane fluxes were analysed based on a static chamber method on a proglacial chronosequence from the Mittivakkat valley, southeast Greenland. Methane uptake could be measured in 7of the 12 study sites, with highest rates in the oldest materials from the chronosequence, suggesting that methane oxidation potential may increase during glacier recession (80–150 years). In the chamber located at the glacier front, net methane production was observed, indicating that the microbial community changes after glacial recession from being net methanogenic to becoming net methanotrophic. Diversity analyses based on denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) from the methanotrophic communities responsible for methane uptake at atmospheric levels demonstrate that methanotrophic microbial diversity changes along the chronosequence and show that there is a tendency to a larger diversity in the oldest part of the chronosequence. Sequencing of DNA retrieved from the DGGE revealed a restricted diversity of the methanotrophic community: GenBank accession numbers HM534684–HM534736.
Benthic diatom flora in supraglacial habitats: a generic-level comparison
Authors: Yallop M.L. , Anesio A.M.
Published: June 2011

Meltwaters on the surface of glaciers have been identified as hot spots for microbial activity. Records indicate that cyanobacteria and green algae dominate the autotrophic assemblages found in the benthic debris in cryoconite holes. Diatoms are commonly recorded in lentic and lotic ecosystems within polar habitats and, in line with the ubiquity principle for microbial communities, potentially, diatoms should be frequently found in the cryoconite of supraglacial environments. In this study, we cultured debris from cryoconite material collected in Svalbard and Greenland, to promote the growth of diatoms. Diatom generic richness varied between 12 and 17 between sites and was ∼5-fold higher than previously reported. Cryoconite supported aerophytic, halophytic, epipelic and bryophilic diatoms, suggesting multiple origins of colonizing cells. Twenty-seven genera were cultured from material that had been frozen (–20°C) for >1 year, indicating their long-term cryotolerance. The diatom flora composition was similar to that recorded in relatively acidic arctic lakes of low conductivity, and bore similarities at the generic level to those from terrestrial/semi-terrestrial moss communities from both the Arctic and Antarctic. As glaciers retreat, the diatom cells residing in cryoconite have the potential to act as seeding agents for a variety of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in proglacial regions and beyond.
Seed germination, seedling traits, and seed bank of the tree Moringa peregrina (Moringaceae) in a hyper‐arid environment
Authors: Gomaa Nasr.H. , Picó F. Xavier
Published: June 2011

• Premise of the study: Water‐limited hot environments are good examples of hyper‐aridity. Trees are scarce in these environments but some manage to survive, such as the tree Moringa peregrina. Understanding how trees maintain viable populations in extremely arid environments may provide insight into the adaptive mechanisms by which trees cope with extremely arid weather conditions. This understanding is relevant to the current increasing aridity in several regions of the world.

• Methods: Seed germination experiments were conducted to assess variation in seed mass, seed germination, and seedling traits of Moringa peregrina plants and the correlations among these traits. A seed burial experiment was also designed to study the fate of M. peregrina seeds buried at two depths in the soil for two time periods.

• Key results: On average, seeds germinated in three days and seedling shoots grew 0.7 cm per day over three weeks. Larger seeds decreased germination time and increased seedling growth rates relative to smaller seeds. Seeds remained quiescent in the soil and germination was very high at both depths and burial times.

• Conclusions: The after‐ripening time of Moringa peregrina seeds is short and seeds germinate quickly after imbibition. Plants of M. peregrina may increase in hyper‐arid environments from seeds with larger mass, shorter germination times, and faster seedling growth rates. The results also illustrate the adjustment in allocation to seed biomass and correlations among seed and seedling traits that allows M. peregrina to be successful in coping with aridity in its environment.
Effect of natural root grafting on growth response of jack pine (Pinus banksiana; Pinaceae)
Authors: Tarroux Emilie , DesRochers Annie
Published: June 2011

• Premise of study: Trees are traditionally considered as distinct entities even though they can share a communal root system through root grafts, which are morphological unions between two or more roots. Little is known regarding the ecological significance of natural root grafting, but because grafted trees can share resources and secondary compounds, growth of linked trees can be affected directly by the presence of root grafts. Traditional forest ecology concepts may have to be revised to include direct interactions between connected trees.

• Methods: We hydraulically excavated six 30–50‐m2 plots (three natural stands and three plantations). We measured yearly radial growth and determined the influence of root grafting on radial growth of grafted trees.

• Key results: During periods of root graft formation, root grafting tended to reduce radial growth of jack pine trees, after which growth generally increased. The influence of root grafting on growth was more significant in natural stands, where root grafting was more frequent than in plantations.

• Conclusions: These results suggest that root grafting initially is an energetically costly process but that it is afterward nonprejudicial and maybe beneficial to tree growth. The use of a communal root system allows for a maximum use of resources by redistributing them among trees, leading to increased tree growth.
Au-delà de la féminité et du maternel, le travail du care
Authors: Molinier Pascale
Published: June 2011

L’éthique du care qui trouve son origine dans les travaux de Carol Gilligan en psychologie du développement moral conduit à une critique de la justice mais aussi de certaines conceptions psychologiques de la féminité, du féminin et de la maternité comme catégories normatives aisément réversibles dans des formes de stigmatisation sociale. L’auteure aborde la perspective du care selon cinq descriptions : 1) le care comme gentleness , 2) le care comme savoir faire discret, 3) le care comme sale boulot, 4) le care comme travail inestimable, 5) le care comme récit éthique. Chacune d’entre elles permet de rompre avec l’idée du care comme sentimentalisme ou morale féminine et de transformer les représentations des agent-e-s du care en insistant sur la pluralité de leurs expériences et la nécessité de surmonter certains clivages disciplinaires pour en rendre compte.
Usage du droit et discriminations multiples : le genre des plaintes visant à lutter contre les discriminations raciales
Authors: Carles Isabelle
Published: June 2011

L’article s’inscrit dans la lignée des travaux menés en sociologie juridique sur la conscience du droit. Il a pour objectif d’évaluer l’effectivité des lois visant à lutter contre les discriminations raciales à partir du point de vue du sujet et dans une perspective de genre. L’hypothèse principale est que les rapports sociaux de sexe, de classe et ethnique ont un impact tant sur la perception de la discrimination raciale que sur le traitement institutionnel des plaintes. Des méthodes quantitatives (analyse de dossiers de plainte) et qualitatives (entretiens avec des juristes et des plaignants) sont utilisées pour parvenir à analyser les différences par genre à trois niveaux : celui de l’expérience genrée de la discrimination raciale, celui de l’utilisation des ressources, celui du traitement genré des plaintes par les institutions.
Monsieur Drogue. Claude Olievenstein, trente ans d'interventions médiatiques
Authors: Blaise Mario , Rossé Elizabeth
Published: June 2011

Résumé Du début des années 1970 à la fin des années 1990, le docteur Claude Olievenstein incarnera le « problème drogue » sur le petit écran et dans les journaux au point de devenir le « Monsieur Drogue ». L’émergence de ce personnage médiatique est issue de la rencontre d’une personnalité, d’un produit et d’un moment socio-culturel, ce qui n’est pas sans rappeler sa définition de la toxicomanie. Qui est donc ce Monsieur Drogue ? Cet article se propose d’explorer les différentes facettes de ce personnage complexe et contradictoire, ardent défenseur des personnes toxicomanes allant jusqu’à faire don de sa personne et fondateur du centre expérimental Marmottan. Remarquable pour son sens de la formule, tantôt parano et moraliste, tantôt visionnaire et provocateur, il prend un sérieux coup de vieux après l’épidémie du sida. Le personnage de Monsieur Drogue disparaît avec le XX e siècle, sans connaître ni être reconnu par le média le plus en vogue : Internet.
Estimación del tiempo de vida bajo fatiga térmica para una placa de inconel 625lCF, mientras se expone a radiación solar concentrada
Authors: Rojas-Morín A. , Fernández-Reche J.
Published: June 2011

En el concentrador solar de disco parabólico DISTAL-I, situado en la Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), en España, se ha instalado un sistema para pruebas de ciclado térmico de materiales. Este sistema permite realizar pruebas abruptas de calentamiento y enfriamiento, en materiales para receptores solares de torre central, al exponerlos a radiación solar concentrada. Estas pruebas se realizan para simular las condiciones de operación de un receptor solar, las condiciones críticas y las condiciones normales. Con este sistema se ha estimado el tiempo de vida bajo fatiga térmica, en una placa de INCONEL 626LCF®, cuando es sometida a radiación solar concentrada. Asimismo, hemos desarrollado un modelo numérico que evalúa el desarrollo térmico en el material de la placa: adicionalmente, el modelo obtiene los esfuerzos de tensión-compresión en la placa, los cuales permiten la estimaciónde las curvas de fatiga vidaesfuerzo (S-N). Estas curvas muestran que la vida útil de la placa se encuentra dentro de la región de Fatiga de Alto Ciclado (HCF) a temperaturas de operación de 650 °C y 900 °C.
Transcriptional Control of Rapid Recall by Memory CD4 T Cells
Authors: Lai Wendy , Yu Minjun , Huang Min-Nung , Okoye Francesca , Keegan Achsah D. , Farber Donna L.
Published: June 2011

Memory T cells are distinguished from naive T cells by their rapid production of effector cytokines, although mechanisms for this recall response remain undefined. In this study, we investigated transcriptional mechanisms for rapid IFN-γ production by Ag-specific memory CD4 T cells. In naive CD4 T cells, IFN-γ production only occurred after sustained Ag activation and was associated with high expression of the T-bet transcription factor required for Th1 differentiation and with T-bet binding to the IFN-γ promoter as assessed by chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis. By contrast, immediate IFN-γ production by Ag-stimulated memory CD4 T cells occurred in the absence of significant nuclear T-bet expression or T-bet engagement on the IFN-γ promoter. We identified rapid induction of NF-κB transcriptional activity and increased engagement of NF-κB on the IFN-γ promoter at rapid times after TCR stimulation of memory compared with naive CD4 T cells. Moreover, pharmacologic inhibition of NF-κB activity or peptide-mediated inhibition of NF-κB p50 translocation abrogated early memory T cell signaling and TCR-mediated effector function. Our results reveal a molecular mechanism for memory T cell recall through enhanced NF-κB p50 activation and promoter engagement, with important implications for memory T cell modulation in vaccines, autoimmunity, and transplantation.
Knockdown of HMGB1 in Tumor Cells Attenuates Their Ability To Induce Regulatory T Cells and Uncovers Naturally Acquired CD8 T Cell-Dependent Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Liu Zuqiang , Falo Louis D. , You Zhaoyang
Published: June 2011

Although high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) in tumor cells is involved in many aspects of tumor progression, its role in tumor immune suppression remains elusive. Host cell-derived IL-10 suppressed a naturally acquired CD8 T cell-dependent antitumor response. The suppressive activity of tumor-associated Foxp3+CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg) was IL-10 dependent. Neutralizing HMGB1 impaired tumor cell-promoted IL-10 production by Treg. Short hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of HMGB1 (HMGB1 KD) in tumor cells did not affect tumor cell growth but uncovered naturally acquired long-lasting tumor-specific IFN-γ– or TNF-α–producing CD8 T cell responses and attenuated their ability to induce Treg, leading to naturally acquired CD8 T cell- or IFN-γ–dependent tumor rejection. The data suggest that tumor cell-derived HMGB1 may suppress naturally acquired CD8 T cell-dependent antitumor immunity via enhancing Treg to produce IL-10, which is necessary for Treg-mediated immune suppression.
Connexin 43 Signaling Enhances the Generation of Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Kuczma Michal , Lee Jeffrey R. , Kraj Piotr
Published: June 2011

Despite their importance for the functioning of the immune system, thymic development and peripheral maintenance of Foxp3+ regulatory T (TR) cells are poorly understood. We have found that connexin 43 (Cx43), expressed by thymic TR cells progenitors, supports TR development. Mice with deletion of the Cx43 gene induced in T cells produce only few TR cells and had increased proportion of activated T cells in the lymph nodes, suggesting impaired peripheral tolerance. Reduction of the TR cell numbers was accompanied by increased presence of CD4+CD25+GITR+Foxp3− T cells, which did not produce inflammatory cytokines and lost suppressor function. These results strongly argue that we have discovered a novel signaling pathway, controlled by Cx43, that enhances the generation of TR cells. We propose that a possible mechanism of Cx43 activity is by regulating Foxp3 expression in TR lineage cells.
Binding of Flavivirus Nonstructural Protein NS1 to C4b Binding Protein Modulates Complement Activation
Authors: Avirutnan Panisadee , Hauhart Richard E. , Somnuke Pawit , Blom Anna M. , Diamond Michael S. , Atkinson John P.
Published: June 2011

The complement system plays a pivotal protective role in the innate immune response to many pathogens including flaviviruses. Flavivirus nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) is a secreted nonstructural glycoprotein that accumulates in plasma to high levels and is displayed on the surface of infected cells but absent from viral particles. Previous work has defined an immune evasion role of flavivirus NS1 in limiting complement activation by forming a complex with C1s and C4 to promote cleavage of C4 to C4b. In this study, we demonstrate a second mechanism, also involving C4 and its active fragment C4b, by which NS1 antagonizes complement activation. Dengue, West Nile, or yellow fever virus NS1 directly associated with C4b binding protein (C4BP), a complement regulatory plasma protein that attenuates the classical and lectin pathways. Soluble NS1 recruited C4BP to inactivate C4b in solution and on the plasma membrane. Mapping studies revealed that the interaction sites of NS1 on C4BP partially overlap with the C4b binding sites. Together, these studies further define the immune evasion potential of NS1 in reducing the functional capacity of C4 in complement activation and control of flavivirus infection.
Is prophetic discourse adequate to address global economic justice?
Authors: Naudé Piet J.
Published: June 2011

This article outlined key features of prophetic discourse and investigated whether this form of moral discourse adequately addresses issues of economic injustice. It is shown that the strength of prophetic discourse is its ability to denounce instances of injustice whilst at the same time announcing a God-willed alternative future. The ‘preferential option for the poor’ in Latin American liberation theologies is treated as a case study of the influence of prophetic discourse in contexts of perceived economic injustice. Also the core weaknesses of prophetic discourse are investigated, specifically its incomplete moral argument, weak moral analyses, silence on transition measures, and its inability to take a positive stance on reforms in the system from which itself benefits. In the final section it is concluded that prophetic discourse plays an indispensable role in addressing issues of global economic justice, but – taken by itself – it is not an adequate form of moral discourse to address concrete matters of justice.
Angels as arguments? The rhetorical function of references to angels in the Main Letters of Paul
Authors: Tolmie D. Francois
Published: June 2011

The issue investigated in this article is the rhetorical function fulfilled by the references to angels in the Main Letters of Paul. For this purpose all the references to angels in Galatians, 1 and 2 Corinthians and Romans are investigated systematically and thoroughly. This study shows that Paul never uses any of the references to angels as a main argument in these letters. Furthermore, it is shown that Paul refers to quite a variety of (possible) roles that angels might fulfil, or characteristics that angels possess. From a rhetorical perspective, it is evident that Paul mostly mentions angels in contexts that can broadly be typified as hyperbolic – in the sense that the extent or broad scope of the issue under discussion is emphasised.
1, 2 en 3 Johannes: ‘n Oorsig van die huidige stand van navorsing oor die inleidingsvraagstukke
Authors: Van der Watt Jan
Published: June 2011

1, 2 and 3 John: An overview of the current state of research on the introductory questions This article has presented an overview of the most important positions taken on certain introductory issues related to 1, 2 and 3 John. The article has not focussed on the detailed discussion of problems, but has rather provided a broad overview of the most important current positions. A typical characteristic of the introductory questions is their interrelatedness. The research inter alia examined the way in which decisions about the relation between the Gospel and Letters of John influence the question of authorship or the place and date of the Letters and how decisions about the level of conflict in the Letters influence their sequence.
The moral economy of the Didache
Authors: Draper Jonathan A.
Published: June 2011

This article applies the model of the moral economy in the ancient world, as formulated by Karl Polanyi and applied by Halvor Moxnes, to the economic relations reflected in the Didache. The study partly confirms Aaron Milavec’s contention that the instructions in the text would provide an ‘economic safety net’ for members of the community by putting in place a system of generalised reciprocity and redistribution, although Milavec’s depiction of the community as an ‘urban working class’ movement is found to be anachronistic. The ‘communion of the saints’ is very much an economic system with aspects of resistance to the Roman imperial system. However, the moral economy of the Didache is seen to reflect a number of ambiguities, particularly in its adoption of the Christian Housetable ethic but also in its adoption of the patron client terminology in the dispute between prophets and teachers on the one side and bishops and deacons on the other.
Judas, the disciple who was known to the high priest: A deconstruction of the betrayal based on John 18:15
Authors: Chatelion Counet Patrick
Published: June 2011

After his arrest, Jesus is taken to the high priest. According to John 18:15 he is accompanied by ‘another disciple’. In this article, I discuss the possibility that this other disciple was Judas. He is the one who was known to the high priest. The arguments to put him in this position are derived from a narrative analysis of the Gospel. What is the actantial role of Judas in the Gospel? Tradition describes him as an opponent of Jesus. Against this, one can see him as a helper who supports Jesus’ intention to convince the high priest and the Sanhedrin of his divine mission. In the group of Jesus Judas carries the purse. The text of the Gospel uses a curious Greek word (almost a hapax legoumenon), glôssokomon, for ‘purse’. In the Septuagint, this word indicates the Ark of the Covenant. It is highly significant for the role of Judas. It shows that the text of the Gospel sometimes generates meanings that the author cannot control.
Constructing the economic–historic context of 1 Peter: Exploring a methodology
Authors: Janse van Rensburg Fika
Published: June 2011

This article explored a methodology to construct the economic–historic context of the addressees of 1 Peter, which could serve as basis for an economic interpretation of 1 Peter and other New Testament books. After discussing 1 Peter as letter, external sources were used to construct the economic–historic context of the addressees of 1 Peter. This construction was then refined utilising the letter itself, by identifying, categorising and interpreting the economically relevant portions of 1 Peter. Finally, the economic–historic context of the addressees of 1 Peter was concluded and the method summarised.
The comforted comforter: The meaning of παρακαλέω or παράκλησις terminology in 2 Corinthians
Authors: Bieringer Reimund
Published: June 2011

In the Pauline homologoumena, παρακαλέω or παράκλησις terminology is used almost two and a half times (in 2 Corinthians even six and a half times) as frequently as in the remainder of the New Testament. In the first part of this article, a survey of the use of παρακαλέω or παράκλησις in the undisputed letters and its three major meanings was given: to request strongly, to exhort and to encourage or comfort. In the second part of the article, the LXX background of the unprecedented use of παρακαλέω or παράκλησις in 2 Corinthians 1:3–7 and 7:4.5–13, where God is the subject, was discussed. The conclusion was that when writing 2 Corinthians 1:3–7 and 7:4.5–13 Paul made use of the prophet Isaiah’s Book of Comfort and in his use of παρακαλέω or παράκλησις allows himself to be influenced by the way the LXX translator uses παρακαλέω to translate נחם.
Medical anthropology as an antidote for ethnocentrism in Jesus research? Putting the illness–disease distinction into perspective
Authors: Craffert Pieter F.
Published: June 2011

Medicine often has side-effects or unintended consequences that are more harmful than the original disease. Medical anthropology in general and the illness–disease distinction in particular has been introduced into historical Jesus research with the intent to protect it from medicocentrism and thus to offer ways of comprehending sickness and healing in the world of Jesus and his first followers without distorting these phenomena by imposing the biomedical framework onto the texts. In particular the illness–disease distinction is used for making sense of healing accounts whilst claiming to cross the cultural gap. Based on an analysis of the illness–disease distinction in medical anthropology and its use in historical Jesus research this article suggests that instead of protecting from ethnocentrism this distinction actually increases the risk of ethnocentrism and consequently distorts in many instances the healing accounts of the New Testament.
Role of glutathione-s-transferase and CYP1A1FNx012A polymorphisms in the therapy outcome of south Indian acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients
Authors: Suneetha K J , Nancy K Nirmala , Rajalekshmy K R , Rama R , Sagar T G , Rajkumar T
Published: June 2011

Background: Polymorphisms in the drug-metabolizing enzymes are found to be associated with the inter-individual variation in response to a particular drug. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are involved in the metabolism of several anticancer drugs, including alkylating agents, anthracyclines, and cyclophosphamides. Aim: The present study is aimed to examine the association of GST and CYP1A1FNx012A polymorphisms in the susceptibility to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and the prognostic significance. Materials and Methods: A total of 92 immunophenotyped patients and 150 cord blood controls were genotyped by PCR for GSTM1 and GSTT1, RQ-PCR allelic discrimination assay for GSTP1 and PCR-RFLP for CYP1A1FNx012A polymorphism. Results: We have previously reported the significant association of GSTM1 (null) and combined GSTP1 {(Ile/Val)/ (Val/Val)} /GSTM1 (null) genotype with the susceptibility to ALL. No significant association was observed with GSTT1 (P=0.75) and CYP1A1FNx012A (P=0.61 for +/- and P=0.86 for -/- respectively) in the susceptibility to ALL. Survival analysis was performed in 50 of the 92 patients who were followed for three years. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for three years showed significant lower event-free survival in patients harboring GSTP1 (Ile/Val) and GSTP1 (Val/Val) (P=0.038 and 0.0001, respectively) genotype. Cox regression analysis revealed GSTP1 as an independent prognostic marker with 6-fold higher risk with Val/Val genotype (P=0.003). Conclusions: Our results show that GSTP1 (Ile/Val) polymorphism has a role in the susceptibility to ALL and also influence treatment outcome.
Childhood cancer in developing society: A roadmap of health care
Authors: Ramesh P M , Marwaha R K , Anish T S
Published: June 2011

Background: We assessed referral patterns of children with hematological malignancies (HM) in North India. Materials and Methods: The parents/guardians were interviewed at presentation, in the period between October 2001 and November 2002. Patient delay (symptom-contact), health system delay (contact-diagnosis), total delay (symptom-diagnosis), and number of contacts were compared between high- and standard-risk disease group. Results: Of the 79 children (55 boys; 69.6%) with HM, 47 (59.5%) had Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Forty-four children had high-risk disease. The patient, system and total delay were a median of 2 days (with Interquartile range IQR of 1−6), 37 days (IQR 13−55), and 38 days (IQR 15−60) respectively. Majority of patients (64/79; 81%) went to private sector (non governmental health care providers) for health care. Number of contacts, which was the most significant, correlate with system delay. Conclusions: Sensitizing the private sector practitioners about cancer in symptomatic children (pallor, bleeding, fever) may be effective.
The relationship between serum lipid levels and the risk of oral cancer
Authors: Chawda Jyoti G , Jain Shikha S , Patel Hemali R , Chaduvula Nandini , Patel Kunal
Published: June 2011

Background: Lipids are the major cell membrane components essential for various biological functions including cell growth and division for the maintenance of cell integrity of normal and malignant tissues. The changes in lipid profile have long been associated with cancer. Hypocholesterolemia has been observed in patients with cancers of various organs. Therefore, a causative relationship might exist between plasma lipid levels and oral cancer patients. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the alterations and clinical significance of plasma lipid profiles in untreated head and neck cancer patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 subjects (25 oral cancer patients and 5 controls) were included. Fasting blood lipid profile including cholesterol (C), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) were evaluated using spectrophotometric kits, with CHOD PAP technique. The values were then statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc methods. Results: The levels of total lipids, cholesterol and HDL were significantly lower in oral cancer patients as compared to controls, but LDL and VLDL values were not significant. Conclusion: An inverse relationship was found between the lipid levels and the occurrence of oral cancer. Hence, the lower plasma lipid status may be a useful indicator to detect the initial changes seen in neoplastic process.
The Relationship between Sensory Processing Difficulties and Anxiety Level of Healthy Adults
Authors: Engel-Yeger Batya , Dunn Winnie
Published: June 2011

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between extreme sensory reactivity as expressed in daily living situations, and trait and state anxiety, among healthy individuals.

Procedures:

One hundred and thirty-five healthy individuals filled in the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile regarding their responses to daily sensory experiences. Anxiety was assessed by Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

Findings:

Participants with sensory hypersensitivity, as well as those with Low Registration of sensory input, showed elevated trait anxiety and state anxiety. Men with lower registration had more elevated trait anxiety than women. Sensation Avoiding was found to be the significant predictor for state anxiety.

Conclusion:

Trait anxiety and state anxiety might be related to extreme sensory processing patterns. Occupational therapy intervention with people who express enhanced anxiety level should refer to their sensory reactivity as a means to optimise intervention outcomes, increase their self-confidence, improve their functioning and participation in daily living, and enhance their wellbeing.
Reliability and Validation Properties of the Malaysian Language Version of the Occupational Self Assessment Version 2.2 for Injured Workers with Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Murad Mohd Suleiman , Farnworth Louise , O'Brien Lisa
Published: June 2011

Introduction:

It has been difficult for occupational therapists in Asia to use occupational therapy assessments, such as the Occupational Self Assessment (OSA) version 2.2, that are not validated in the local language. This study aimed to produce and assess the psychometric properties of a Malaysian version of the 21-item OSA.

Method:

The translation process involved the forward and back translation from the original English version into the Malaysian version, followed by field tests conducted with a small group of occupational therapists and workers to confirm the translation's equivalence and appropriateness. A total of 35 Malaysian injured workers with musculoskeletal disorders who were not involved in a return to work programme were assessed using the Malaysian version of the OSA. Twenty-three were reassessed 7–14 days later to determine test-retest reliability.

Results:

The Malaysian version of the OSA showed acceptable reliability (internal consistency, corrected item correlation and test-retest reliability) and validity (convergent and discriminant validity).

Conclusion:

The results suggest that the OSA is reliable and valid in assessing occupational functioning for injured Asian workers with musculoskeletal disorders.
Appreciative Inquiry in Occupational Therapy Education
Authors: Rubin Rona , Kerrell Rupert , Roberts Gwilym
Published: June 2011

Introduction:

The background to this study is the growing literature on the potential of applying appreciative inquiry (AI), commonly associated with business, to health care. As AI encourages creative thinking and is based on considering what can be done as opposed to what cannot, it seems suitable for educating occupational therapy students. To date, just one school of occupational therapy in the United Kingdom is known to have incorporated AI into its problem-based learning programme, whereby students are encouraged to think positively and creatively about clients and themselves. This study aimed to evaluate this pedagogic innovation with a focus on usefulness in practice placements.

Method:

Participants comprised students (n = 25) and relevant teaching staff (n = 6). Data collection was by semi-structured interviews withstaff, and focus groups with students. Qualitative thematic content analysis was undertaken inductively.

Findings:

The findings suggested that students found AI an enjoyable and interesting learning method, and staff enjoyed teaching using this paradigm. Moreover, AI encouraged students to think more positively about clients on practice placement, especially in mental health settings.

Conclusion:

The implications for practice are an ability to think more creatively in therapeutic interventions, and to provide therapists with another tool that they could use when working with clients.
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network: the first 15 years (1993–2008)
Authors: Harbour R , Lowe G , Twaddle S
Published: June 2011

The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) was established in 1993. One of the first national programmes of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, it has played a lead role internationally in many of the developments in guideline methodology. The challenges faced from the beginning of the organisation up to its integration into the National Health Service and how they were addressed are set out and
Scientific surgeon of the Enlightenment or ‘plagiarist in everything’: a reappraisal of Benjamin Bell (1749–1806)
Authors: Macintyre IMC
Published: June 2011

The Edinburgh surgeon Benjamin Bell has been regarded as a scientific thinker in the Enlightenment tradition, despite being accused during his lifetime of both plagiarism and a failure to be innovative. Yet subsequent historical accounts regard him much more favourably. A review of his life and work discusses possible explanations for this apparent lack of concordance.
Randomised controlled trials: important but overrated?
Authors: Boylan JF , Kavanagh BP , Armitage J
Published: June 2011

Practising physicians individualise treatments, hoping to achieve optimal outcomes by tackling relevant patient variables. The randomised controlled trial (RCT) is universally accepted as the best means of comparison. Yet doctors sometimes wonder if particular patients might benefit more from treatments that fared worse in the RCT comparisons. Such clinicians may even feel ostracised by their peers for stepping outside treatments based on RCTs and guidelines. Are RCTs the only acceptable evaluations of how patient care can be assessed and delivered?

In this controversy we explore the interpretation of RCT data for practising clinicians facing individualised patient choices. First, critical care anaesthetists John Boylan and Brian Kavanagh emphasise the dangers of bias and show how Bayesian approaches utilise prior probabilities to improve posterior (combined) probability estimates. Secondly, Jane Armitage, of the Clinical Trial Service Unit in Oxford, argues why RCTs remain essential and explores how the quality of randomisation can be improved through systematic reviews and by avoiding selective reporting.
Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer
Authors: Kulshrestha Meeta
Published: June 2011

The incidence of pregnancy associated with breast cancer can be expected to increase as maternal age at the time of pregnancy continues to increase. Women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy have similar disease characteristics to age-matched controls. Surgical treatment may be performed as for the nonpregnant women. Radiotherapy and endocrine or antibody treatment should be postponed until after delivery. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for optimal clinical decision-making. But physicians should be aggressive in the work-up of breast symptoms in the pregnant population to expedite diagnosis. It is generally agreed that therapeutic radiation, if necessary, should be delayed until completion of pregnancy.
Comparative Study of Nonstress Test and Fetal Acoustic Stimulation Test in Assessment of Fetal Well-being
Authors: Arshad Zakia , Bano Imam , Noor Nasreen , Motwani Lata
Published: June 2011

Objectives

To compare and evaluate the role of nonstress test and acoustic stimulation test on the perinatal outcome.

Materials and methods

Around 100 patients above 34 weeks of gestation were selected and subjected to nonstress test (NST) and acoustic stimulation test (AST) on weekly basis to find whether fetus is reactive or nonreactive, and followed till delivery to find out the perinatal outcome.

Results

When comparison of reactive NST and reactive AST was done, the incidence of meconium staining was 8 (9%) and 9 (9.6%), clinical fetal distress 16 (18.8%) and 18 (19.3%), operative interference for fetal distress 17 (19.3%) and 20 (21.5%), low Apgar score at 5 minutes 1 (1.1%) and 1 (1%), neonatal deaths 3 (3.3%) and 3 (3.2%), low birth weight 27 (30.6%) and 29 (31.1%), and NICU admission 13 (14.7%) and 13 (13.9%) respectively. While the incidence of meconium staining was 4 (33.3%) and 3 (42.8%), clincal fetal distress 8 (66.6%) and 6 (85.7%), operative interference 6 (50%) and 3 (42.8%), low Apgar score at 5 minutes 3 (25%) and 3 (42.8%), neonatal death 4 (33.3%) and 4 (57.1%), low birth weight 7 (58.3%) and 5 (71.4%) respectively in nonreactive NST and nonreactive AST groups.
Hysteroscopy—A Mode of Screening Women with Postmenopausal Bleeding: Our Experience
Authors: Naik Sejal , Lodha Pooja , Tandulwadkar Sunita , Agarwal Bhavana , Deshmukh Prashant
Published: June 2011

Study Objective

1. To study the etiology of postmenopausal bleeding.

2. To study the significance of hysteroscopy in evaluation of the etiopathogenic factors.

3. Correlating the diagnosis after transvaginal sonography (TVS), hysteroscopy and histopathology.

4. Feasibility of conservative management with hysteroscopy in postmenopausal bleeding.

Design

Prospective study from January 2009 to June 2010.

Setting

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Sample size

Sixty postmenopausal women with complaint of bleeding per vaginum.

Interventions

Clinical and sonographic evaluation followed by diagnostic and/or therapeutic hysteroscopy and guided biopsy. Hysteroscopic images were analyzed and compared with histopathological results.

Measurements and main results

On hysteroscopy, endometrium is classified as suggestive of normal, atrophic, endometrial hyperplasia or endometrial carcinoma. Histopathological diagnosis was taken as a gold standard to determine the efficacy of hysteroscopy in diagnosing endometrial pathologies. The sensitivity and specificity of hysteroscopy in diagnosing endometrial pathologies was assessed.

Conclusions

In women with postmenopausal bleeding, hysteroscopy is a valuable tool that allows precise diagnosis of various endouterine pathologies. In our study, the sensitivity of hysteroscopy was 97% and the specificity was 98.66%. Hence, we can conclude that it is highly accurate for evaluating endometrial pathologies. For obvious benign lesions, it also provides treatment in the same sitting, therefore avoiding an extensive, morbid, and expensive procedure like hysterectomy.
Screening of Peri- and Postmenopausal Women for Hypothyroidism
Authors: Jain Sheela , Joshi Sulabha Avinash , Vaidya Madhuri , Sherawat Nidhi
Published: June 2011

Objectives

1. To study the prevalence of hypothyroidism in peri- and postmenopausal women

2. To study the correlation of menopausal symptoms with hypothyroidism.

Methods

Hospital based cross-sectional study carried out at Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, 200 women relatives of indoor patients in obstetrics and gynecology ward were included in study. Subjects included in study were in peri- and postmenopausal age group between 40 to 55 years, provided they fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria. History was noted, menopause rating scale (MRS) score was obtained and height and weight was measured and serum TSH estimation was done. Results were noted and analyzed.

Results

Out of 200 women 25 women had raised TSH levels. Three women had overt hypothyroidism (TSH high, free T4 low), and 22 women had subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH high, free T4 normal). It was observed that out of 94 women who had MRS score, more than 8, 16 (16.6%) women had hypothyroidism and out of 106 women with lower MRS score (1 to 8), nine (8.49%) women had hypothyroidism.

Conclusions

Prevalence of hypothyroidism is high in peri- and postmenopausal age group (12.5%). Though women with high score are more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism, low score does not preclude the possibility of hypothyroidism. Screening should be done in this age group to prevent complications of hypothyroidism.
Maternal and Perinatal Outcome of Pregnancy with Hepatitis E Infection
Authors: Singh Asha , Shrestha Nira Singh , Shrestha Sanjaya Kumar , Malla Kasturi , Thapa Laxmi Bikram
Published: June 2011

Objective

To see the prevalence of HEV infection in the cases of acute hepatitis among pregnant women, and maternal and perinatal outcome of pregnancy complicated by HEV infection.

Methods

This was a descriptive study done at two tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal between July 2006 and June 2007. Women presenting with acute hepatitis were tested for HEV using commercial rapid HEV test kit (assure HEV IgM Rapid test by MP diagnostics). Pregnant women, who tested positive for HEV, were enrolled as study group. Maternal and perinatal outcome of these women were analyzed.

Results

Ninety-three pregnant women with acute hepatitis due to HEV were admitted during the study period. Of these 93 cases, acute liver failure occurred in 24 (25.8%), acute renal failure in eight (8.6%) and maternal mortality occurred in 18 (19.35 %). Five women (5.4%) had miscarriage and 79 delivered (53 preterm and 26 term). Pregnancy continued in nine. Perinatal mortality occurred in 16 (20.2%) of which nine were still birth and seven neonatal deaths.

Conclusion

Hepatitis E virus infection is a major cause of acute hepatitis in pregnant women with adverse maternal and perinatal outcome.
Ormeloxifene versus Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA) in the Treatment of Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bellad MB , Mekhala D , Shravage Jyotsna , Ganachari MS , Dhumale HA
Published: June 2011

Objective

To find the effectiveness of ormeloxifene vs medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) to reduce blood loss in dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB).

Materials and methods:

Design—A double blind randomized controlled trial.

Data source—The women attending gynecology OPD in teaching hospital attached to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belgaum, India for menorrhagia, meeting the selection criteria were enrolled into the study.

Randomization—Computer-generated randomization, with block size of two, was done into two groups.

Intervention—One group (group A) received capsule ormeloxifene 60 mg to be taken two days a week at an interval of 3 days, and a placebo form of medroxyprogesterone acetate for 21 days starting from day 2 to 5 of the menstrual cycle for three consecutive cycles. Other group (group B) received medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) 10 mg for 21 days starting from day 2 to 5 of the menstrual cycle, and a placebo form of ormeloxifene for 2 days a week with an interval of 3 days for three consecutive cycles. The drug and its placebo were in similar capsular form. All the participants were ensured to use the similar type of sanitary napkins, and transvaginal ultrasonography was done to note the endometrial thickness (ET) before and after the drug therapy.

Blinding—The department of clinical pharmacy prepared the drug packets and kept the randomization code till the data was analyzed, thus ensuring the double blinding.

Outcome

Participants were interviewed during subsequent cycle. Pictorial blood assessment chart (PBAC) score was used to calculate blood loss during menses at the first and subsequent three months.

Data analysis

The mean PBAC scores and endometrial thickness were compared in two groups.

Results

The mean pretreatment PBAC scores in group A and group B were 262.26 and 238.71 ml respectively. The mean PBAC scores at the end of the study period were 73 and 108 in group A and B respectively, reporting an overall reduction in mean blood loss by 85.7 and 54.76% (p = 0.0205) in group A and B respectively. Thus, there was a significant reduction in blood loss in the group receiving ormeloxifene. The reduction in the mean endometrial thickness was more in ormeloxifene group. However, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.0942).

Conclusion

Ormeloxifene is more effective as compared to MPA in reducing the blood loss in the treatment of DUB.