bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Planning for Peace in Contested Space
Authors: MORRISSEY MIKE , GAFFIKIN FRANK 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThis article explores the debate about contested space in urban policy and planning. Beginning with a review of key concepts and theories, it proceeds to identify models for understanding such spaces and for effective public intervention. It takes a case study of Belfast, on which there is substantial literature and data, to explore whether the recent history of this city can contribute to the debate about the role of urban planning and policy in contested space. Finally, it suggests that the Belfast experience indicates the need for a broader framework of intervention than is possible within a purely planning paradigm.
A Markov Chain Monte Carlo Method for Estimating Population Mixing Using Y‐chromosome Markers: Mixing of the Han People in China
Authors: Jow H. , Amos W. , Luo H. , Zhang Y. , Burroughs N. J. 
Published: December 2006

SummaryWe present a new approach for estimating mixing between populations based on non‐recombining markers, specifically Y‐chromosome microsatellites. A Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) Bayesian statistical approach is used to calculate the posterior probability distribution of population parameters of interest, including the effective population size and the time to most recent common ancestor (MRCA). To test whether two populations are homogeneously mixed we introduce a “mixing” statistic defined for each coalescent event that weights the contribution of that ancestor's descendants to the two subpopulations, and an associated population “purity” statistic. Using simulated data with low levels of migration between two populations, we demonstrate that our method is more sensitive than other commonly used distance‐based methods such as RST and DSW. To illustrate our method, we analysed mixing between 11 pre‐defined Chinese ethnic/regional populations, using 5 microsatellite markers from the non‐recombining region of the Y‐chromosome (NRY), demonstrating a significant clustering of a subset of subpopulations with a high mutual relative degree of mixing (homogeneous mixing with support >0.99). Our analysis suggests that there is a strong correlation between effective population size and mixing with other subpopulations. Thus, despite considerable mixing between these groups, the purity statistic still identifies significant heterogeneity, suggesting that periods of historical isolation continue to leave a recoverable signal despite modern introgression.
Annotation: Neurofeedback – train your brain to train behaviour
Authors: Heinrich Hartmut , Gevensleben Holger , Strehl Ute 
Published: December 2006

Background:  Neurofeedback (NF) is a form of behavioural training aimed at developing skills for self‐regulation of brain activity. Within the past decade, several NF studies have been published that tend to overcome the methodological shortcomings of earlier studies. This annotation describes the methodical basis of NF and reviews the evidence base for its clinical efficacy and effectiveness in neuropsychiatric disorders.Methods:  In NF training, self‐regulation of specific aspects of electrical brain activity is acquired by means of immediate feedback and positive reinforcement. In frequency training, activity in different EEG frequency bands has to be decreased or increased. Training of slow cortical potentials (SCPs) addresses the regulation of cortical excitability.Results:  NF studies revealed paradigm‐specific effects on, e.g., attention and memory processes and performance improvements in real‐life conditions, in healthy subjects as well as in patients. In several studies it was shown that children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) improved behavioural and cognitive variables after frequency (e.g., theta/beta) training or SCP training. Neurophysiological effects could also be measured. However, specific and unspecific training effects could not be disentangled in these studies. For drug‐resistant patients with epilepsy, significant and long‐lasting decreases of seizure frequency and intensity through SCP training were documented in a series of studies. For other child psychiatric disorders (e.g., tic disorders, anxiety, and autism) only preliminary investigations are available.Conclusions:  There is growing evidence for NF as a valuable treatment module in neuropsychiatric disorders. Further, controlled studies are necessary to establish clinical efficacy and effectiveness and to learn more about the mechanisms underlying successful training.
A prospective Swedish cohort study on psychosocial factors influencing anxiety in women referred for colposcopy*
Authors: Hellsten C , Sjöström K , Lindqvist PG 
Published: December 2006

Objectives  To elucidate risk factors for high state anxiety in women referred for colposcopy.Design  Prospective cohort study.Setting  Department of Gynaecology, Malmö University Hospital, Sweden.Population  A total of 100 consecutive women referred for colposcopy for the first time after an abnormal cervical smear.Methods  Women in the study group completed prior to colposcopy the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale–self‐rate, and were interviewed about their psychosocial situation.Main outcome measures  Variables related to high state anxiety were determined in bivariate and multiple logistic regression analysis.Results  High depression scores and the wording of the referral letter for colposcopy were related to high state anxiety in a multivariate analysis. Women with high depression scores had a nine‐fold risk for higher levels of state anxiety and did not respond with lower state anxiety levels after information and examination. Women who received a letter stating ‘some changes’ were at a five‐fold increased risk for high levels of state anxiety than those who received a letter stating ‘light changes’.Conclusion  A depressive mood and the wording of the referral letter for colposcopy after an abnormal smear were predictive of high state anxiety levels.
Magnesium sulphate given before very‐preterm birth to protect infant brain: the randomised controlled PREMAG trial*
Authors: Marret S , Marpeau L , Zupan‐Simunek V , Eurin D , Lévêque C , Hellot M‐F , Bénichou J ,   PREMAG trial group
Published: December 2006

Objective  To evaluate whether magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) given to women at risk of very‐preterm birth would be neuroprotective in preterm newborns and would prevent neonatal mortality and severe white‐matter injury (WMI).Design  A randomised study.Setting  Eighteen French tertiary hospitals.Population  Women with fetuses of gestational age < 33 weeks whose birth was planned or expected within 24 hours were enrolled from July 1997 to July 2003 with follow up of infants until hospital discharge.Methods  Five hundred and seventy‐three mothers were randomly assigned to receive a single 40‐ml infusion of 0.1 g/ml of MgSO4 (4 g) solution or isotonic 0.9% saline (placebo) over 30 minutes. This study is registered as an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial, number 00120588.Main outcome measures  The primary endpoints were rates of severe WMI or total mortality before hospital discharge, and their combined outcome. Analyses were based on intention to treat.Results  After 6 years of enrolment, the trial was stopped. Data from 688 infants were analysed. Comparing infants who received MgSO4 or placebo, respectively, total mortality (9.4 versus 10.4%; OR: 0.79, 95% CI 0.44–1.44), severe WMI (10.0 versus 11.7%; OR: 0.78, 95% CI 0.47–1.31) and their combined outcomes (16.5 versus 17.9%; OR: 0.86, 95% CI 0.55–1.34) were less frequent for the former, but these differences were not statistically significant. No major maternal adverse effects were observed in the MgSO4 group.Conclusion  Although our results are inconclusive, improvements of neonatal outcome obtained with MgSO4 are of potential clinical significance. More research is needed to assess the protective effect of MgSO4 alone or in combination with other neuroprotective molecules.
The AmRo study: pregnancy outcome in HIV‐1‐infected women under effective highly active antiretroviral therapy and a policy of vaginal delivery
Authors: Boer K , Nellen JF , Patel D , Timmermans S , Tempelman C , Wibaut M , Sluman MA , Van Der Ende ME , Godfried MH 
Published: December 2006

Objective  To explore pregnancy outcome in HIV‐1‐positive and HIV‐negative women, and mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) according to mode of delivery under effective highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).Design  Cohort of 143 pregnant HIV‐1‐infected women including a matched case–control study in a 2:1 ratio of controls to cases (n = 98).Setting  Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam and Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.Population  Consecutive referred HIV‐1 infected pregnant women treated with HAART and matched control not infected pregnant women.Main outcome measures  MTCT, preterm delivery, low birthweight, pre‐eclampsia.Results  MTCT was 0% (95% CI 0–2.1%). Seventy‐eight percent of HIV‐1‐infected women commenced and 62% completed vaginal delivery. The calculated number of caesarean sections needed to prevent a single MTCT was 131 or more. Preterm delivery rates were 18% (95% CI 11–27) in women infected with HIV‐1 and 9% (95% CI 5–13) in controls (P = 0.03). HAART used at <13 weeks of gestation was associated with a 44% preterm delivery rate compared with 21% when HAART was started at or after 13 weeks and 14% in controls. (Very) low birthweight and incidence of pre‐eclampsia were not different between HIV‐1 and controls.Conclusions  We have not demonstrated any MTCT after vaginal delivery in women effectively treated by HAART. The HAART‐associated increase in preterm delivery rate is mainly seen after first trimester HAART use.
A pilot project of a cancer patient library in Italy: results of a customer‐satisfaction survey and its products
Authors: Truccolo Ivana , Bianchet Katia , Capello Fabia , Russell‐Edu William , Dal Maso Luigino , Colombatti Alfonso , Ciolfi Laura , Tirelli Umberto , De Paoli Paolo 
Published: December 2006

Abstract Aims: The purpose of this study is to determine the degree of satisfaction of users of the Cancer Information Point section of the Library for Patients (CIP‐LP), active since 1998 at the National Cancer Institute of Aviano, Italy. The CIP‐LP is based on a skilled intermediary, adequate informative material and a specific location, within the Scientific Library of the Institute. Patients and methods: A survey was developed to assess service functionality and quality from the users’ viewpoint. During a 6‐month period, a questionnaire was mailed to 194 patients and relatives who previously used the CIP‐LP; 113 (58%) were returned and processed. Results: Of the respondents, 91% were pleased with the CIP‐LP and 95% would recommend the service to other people. The information obtained contributed to a clearer understanding of the illness and treatment (45% as first answer) and a better control of the situation (33%). Fifty‐one per cent evaluated the information received as ‘good’, 42%‘excellent’ and 4%‘of sufficient quality’. Conclusion: This survey shows the appreciation and usefulness in the users’ perception of a specific hospital library for cancer patients and their relatives, providing an information service supplementary to doctor–patient communication.
The costs and effectiveness of information‐skills training and mediated searching: quantitative results from the EMPIRIC project
Authors: Brettle Alison , Hulme Claire , Ormandy Paula 
Published: December 2006

Abstract Objectives: To compare the effectiveness and costs of providing information for patient care via librarian‐mediated searches and information‐skills training. Methods: A questionnaire survey to library staff and health professionals in the North West. Data was collected on perceptions of services, satisfaction and service usage, allowing a cost analysis to be undertaken. Statistical data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (spss). Results: Using satisfaction and use of skills as outcome measures, both mediated searches and information skills training are effective. A breakdown of costs per type of training session and literature search is provided. Cost‐effectiveness is dependent on whether costs are viewed from a library or trust point of view. Providing information skills training does not reduce the volume of mediated‐search requests. Conclusions: No one method of providing information for health professionals is more effective or cost‐effective than another. A decision about which services to provide cannot be made on the basis of effectiveness or costs alone; the views of library staff and the health professionals they serve should also be taken into account. A proactive approach and targeting training towards those who are most likely to benefit may be an appropriate way forward.
Two physiotherapists, one librarian and a systematic literature review: collaboration in action
Authors: Swinkels Annette , Briddon Jason , Hall Jane 
Published: December 2006

Abstract Aim: This paper explores the processes of collaboration between a librarian and two academic physiotherapists working on a systematic review jointly funded by the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, and the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases (RNHRD), Bath, UK. The aim of this paper is to describe and evaluate some of the processes of collaboration between the three authors in their work in progress on a funded systematic literature review on the topic of hydrotherapy and pain. Methods: The vehicle for describing and analysing these processes is a joint (National Health Service Trust and University) funded systematic literature review currently in progress on the topic of hydrotherapy and pain. Results: Systematic review methodology is becoming increasingly complex and is rapidly developing its own research base. Librarian input is a key element in a successful systematic review. Conclusions: Systematic reviews play a critical role in informing healthcare delivery and research in the UK. The individual nature and inherent complexity of each review demands close collaboration between librarians, academics and clinicians. In addition to enhancing the reviews themselves, there are many other personal and institutional benefits of collaborative working. Consideration may need to be given to library staff structures and roles if these benefits are to be maximized and sustained.
Endogenous N‐acetylaspartylglutamate reduced NMDA receptor‐dependent current neurotransmission in the CA1 area of the hippocampus1
Authors: Bergeron Richard , Imamura Yukio , Frangioni John V. , Greene Robert W. , Coyle Joseph T. 
Published: December 2006

Abstract N‐Acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) is a neuropeptide found in high concentrations in the brain. Using whole‐cell recordings of CA1 pyramidal neurons in acute hippocampal slices, we found that either (i) the application of exogenous NAAG or (ii) an increase of endogenous extracellular NAAG, caused by the inhibition of its catabolic enzyme glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCP II), resulted in a significant reduction in the amplitude of the isolated NMDA receptor (NMDAR) component of the evoked excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC). Conversely, reduction of endogenous extracellular NAAG caused by either (i) perfusion with a soluble form of pure human GCP II or (ii) affinity purified antibodies against NAAG, enhanced the amplitude of the isolated NMDAR current. Bath application of GCP II inhibitor induced a progressive loss of spontaneous NMDAR miniatures. Furthermore, NAAG blocked the induction of long‐term potentiation at Schaffer collateral axons–CA1 pyramidal neuron synapses. All together, these results suggest that NAAG acts as an endogenous modulator of NMDARs in the CA1 area of the hippocampus.
Cellular prion protein modulates the intracellular calcium response to hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Krebs Bjarne , Wiebelitz Antje , Balitzki‐Korte Beate , Vassallo Neville , Paluch Sandra , Mitteregger Gerda , Onodera Takashi , Kretzschmar Hans A. , Herms Jochen 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThe physiological function of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) is still under intense investigation. It has been suggested that PrPC has a protective role in neuronal cells, particularly against environmental stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here we analysed the acute effect of a major ROS, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), on intracellular calcium homeostasis in cultured cerebellar granule cells and immortalized hippocampal neuronal cells. Both neuronal cell culture models showed that the rise in intracellular calcium following application of H2O2 was strongly dependent on the presence of PrPC. Moreover, the N‐terminal octapeptide repeats of PrPC were required for this effect, because neuronal cells expressing a PrPC lacking the N‐terminus resembled the PrPC‐deficient phenotype. Neurones deficient of fyn kinase, or pharmacological inhibition of fyn, also abrogated the calcium response to H2O2 treatment, indicating that fyn activation is a critical step within the PrPC signalling cascade. Finally, we identified a possible role of this PrPC signalling pathway in the neuroprotective response of PrPC to oxidative stress. In conclusion, we put forward the hypothesis that PrPC functions as a sensor for H2O2, thereby activating a protective signalling cascade involving fyn kinase that leads to calcium release from intracellular stores.
Selective blockade of dopamine D3versus D2receptors enhances frontocortical cholinergic transmission and social memory in rats: a parallel neurochemical and behavioural analysis
Authors: Millan Mark J. , Di Cara Benjamin , Dekeyne Anne , Panayi Fany , De Groote Lotte , Sicard Dorothée , Cistarelli Laetitia , Billiras Rodolphe , Gobert Alain 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThough dopaminergic mechanisms modulate cholinergic transmission and cognitive function, the significance of specific receptor subtypes remains uncertain. Here, we examined the roles of dopamine D3versus D2receptors. By analogy with tacrine (0.16–2.5 mg/kg, s.c.), the selective D3receptor antagonists, S33084 (0.01–0.63) and SB277,011 (0.63–40.0), elicited dose‐dependent, pronounced and sustained elevations in dialysis levels of acetylcholine (ACh) in the frontal cortex, but not the hippocampus, of freely‐moving rats. The actions of these antagonists were stereospecifically mimicked by (+)S14297 (1.25), whereas its inactive distomer, (–)S17777, was ineffective. The preferential D2receptor antagonist, L741,626 (10.0), failed to modify levels of ACh. S33084 (0.01–0.63) and SB277,011 (0.16–2.5) also mimicked tacrine (0.04–0.63) by dose‐dependently attenuating the deleterious influence of scopolamine (1.25) upon social memory (recognition by an adult rat of a juvenile conspecific). Further, (+)S14297 (1.25) versus (–)S17777 stereospecifically blocked the action of scopolamine. Using an intersession interval of 120 min (spontaneous loss of recognition), S33084 (0.04–0.63), SB277,011 (0.16–10.0) and (+)S14297 (0.63–10.0) likewise mimicked tacrine (0.16–2.5) in enhancing social memory. In contrast, L741,626 (0.16–10.0) displayed amnesic properties. In conclusion, selective blockade of D3receptors facilitates frontocortical cholinergic transmission and improves social memory in rats. These data support the pertinence of D3receptors as a target for treatment of disorders in which cognitive function is compromised.
FAP: an exclusion‐based parental assignment program with enhanced predictive functions
Authors: TAGGART JOHN B. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractIn molecular‐based parentage analyses, the accurate prediction of resolving power for a panel of loci is important for the critical assessment of results. A DOS‐based computer program, fap (Family Analysis Program), is described that calculates exclusion‐based family assignment probabilities within family mixtures where all parental genotypes are known. Three levels of hierarchy can be explored (sample, groups of families, individual families). The package also provides useful aids to identify problematic loci/misscoring during actual assignment. fap is available for free download from http://www.aqua.stir.ac.uk/rep‐general/downloads.html.
Development of microsatellite markers in the grey‐crowned babbler (Pomatostomus temporalis)
Authors: KAWANO KATSURA M. , EGUCHI KAZUHIRO , UEDA KEISUKE , NOSKE RICHARD 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThe grey‐crowned babbler (Pomatostomus temporalis) is a cooperative breeding bird species in which nonbreeding helpers of both sexes care for the young of breeding individuals. To measure the genetic relatedness between breeders and their offspring and helpers, we developed nine microsatellite markers. Most of the loci were highly polymorphic. These loci will be useful in understanding the evolution and maintenance of cooperative breeding and helping behaviour in this species.
Development of 15 polymorphic genic microsatellite DNA markers of Pacific abalone Haliotis discus hannai
Authors: SUN XIUQING , ZHEN MINGGANG , YANG GUANPIN 
Published: December 2006

AbstractFifteen polymorphic genic microsatellite DNA markers were developed based on the expressed sequence tags of Pacific abalone Haliotis discus hannai we ourselves generated, which were used to type 32 individuals representing a cultured population. The number of alleles each locus ranged from two to 12. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.094 to 0.969 and from 0.091 to 0.878, respectively. Among 15 loci, four were found to deviate significantly from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (PHW < 0.001). No linkage disequilibrium was found between these loci. It is certain that these markers will facilitate the management and exploitation of the genetic resource of Pacific abalone.
Characterization of 18 SNP markers for sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)
Authors: MORIN PHILLIP A. , AITKEN NICOLA C. , RUBIO‐CISNEROS NADIA , DIZON ANDREW E. , MESNICK SARAH 
Published: December 2006

AbstractWe report the characterization of 18 new single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers for an endangered species, the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), developed using a targeted gene approach. SNP markers were derived from autosomal regions of the genome using primers originally characterized for genome mapping in other mammals. These SNP markers are the first to be designed for genotyping sperm whale populations and will provide a necessary addition to the genetic tools employed for understanding population structure on a global scale and for developing a conservation management strategy for this endangered species.
No association between socio‐economic status and white blood cell telomere length
Authors: Adams Jean , Martin‐Ruiz Carmen , Pearce Mark S. , White Martin , Parker Louise , Von Zglinicki Thomas 
Published: December 2006

SummaryIt has been hypothesized that more socio‐economically deprived individuals age faster and, thus, have shorter telomeres than their more affluent counterparts. A weak association between white blood cell telomere length and socio‐economic status in a large heterogeneous sample of females has recently been reported. In 318 individuals from a homogeneous birth cohort, we found no evidence of an association between any measure of socio‐economic status and peripheral blood mononucleocyte telomere length at age 50 after control for lifestyle variables, gender and paternal age at birth. The results of this, and the previous study, suggest that there is little evidence of a strong or consistent correlation between white blood cell telomere length and markers of socio‐economic status.