bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA-Alloimmunization in Pregnancy
Authors: Bellati U. , Liverani A. , Noia G. , Purpura M.
Published: November 2009

The authors analyzed the correlations between the presence of anti-HLA antibodies and fetal neonatal problems. There are specific data in the literature on the protective effect of anti-HLA antibodies against abortion. Nevertheless our study shows a significant correlation between their presence and perinatal problems.
Neural Tube Defects: Considerations on the Pathogenesis and Correlation with Myelodysplasia in Man
Authors: Di Rocco Concezio , Rende Mario
Published: November 2009

In this second part, the authors report the results obtained by evaluating the presence of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the brain of rat fetuses with neural tube defects and hydrocephalus, secondary to the administration of trypan blue during pregnancy. A decrease in the GAG content was found. The authors hypothesize that this anomaly in GAG formation is responsible for both the neural tube defect and the associated malformations, namely hydrocephalus and hypoplasia of the posterior cranial fossa.
Antenatal Treatment of Central Nervous System Defects: Current and Future Developments in Experimental Therapies
Authors: Michejda Maria
Published: November 2009

Pathogenesis and intrauterine treatment of central nervous system defects are described. Current and future developments in fetal therapies and/or surgical correction of malformations and stem cell engraftments are discussed.
Equal Opportunities, Segregation and Gender-Based Wage Differences: The Case of a Swedish University
Authors: Gonäs Lena , Bergman Ann
Published: November 2009

There are considerable numbers of studies showing that women and men in Sweden work in different sectors and in different occupations; also that men to a greater extent than women work in higher hierarchical positions. Not only are segregation patterns persistent, but wage differences as well. Even though the wage gap between men and women in Sweden has decreased, it still persists. The article starts with a discussion of the framework for wage setting and more specifically regulations aiming at eliminating gendered wage differences at a more general level. Then we turn to a specific case study where we describe methods and data used. This is followed by two empirical sections, where the first is a quantitative description of segregation and wage patterns found between the two occupations in question. The second part is based on qualitative data and presents and analyses the wage formation process as experienced by these two groups. The article gives an illustration of both how decentralized wage negotiations and individualization of wage work for the higher educated employees and it also presents an aspect of the formation of gendered wage differences.
Protection Against Economic Dismissals: Australian Law Compared with Five Other OECD Countries
Authors: Forsyth Anthony
Published: November 2009

This research note is based on a study carried out in 2007 for the Victorian Office of the Workplace Rights Advocate, updated to reflect more recent developments including the passage of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). The note analyses how the regulation of economic dismissals under Australian law compares with Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. The six countries’ laws are ‘benchmarked’ against the following criteria: coverage of unfair dismissal protection; tests for determining the fairness of economic dismissals; procedural fairness requirements; employee rights to severance payments; and notice, information and consultation obligations of employers. The note finds that under the Coalition Government’s Work Choices legislation, Australia provided employees with weaker protection against economic dismissals than all of the other countries examined, except for the USA. However, the Labor Government’s changes to economic dismissals regulation mean that Australian law now ranks towards the stronger end of the spectrum of protection.
Conducting Systematic Reviews of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Common Pitfalls
Authors: Wider Barbara , Boddy Kate
Published: November 2009

Systematic reviews (SRs) are considered the best tools for summarizing the evidence for or against the effectiveness of health care interventions. The principles and methods of SRs apply equally to both, mainstream and complementary/alternative medicine (CAM). Certain challenges are, however, more commonly encountered in CAM or even specific to it; this article is aimed at raising awareness of these among systematic reviewers. When searching for literature, specific issues relating to specialist databases, indexing, access, foreign language studies, and certain forms of publication bias need to be considered. Researchers also need to be aware of the difficulties of comparing CAM studies and address the variability between studies. CAM modalities are highly diversified and great variations exist in the standardization of herbal products and other dietary supplements. Individualization of treatment as well as different classifications of disease and different diagnostic methods need to be addressed. Expectation bias is high in CAM, and finding appropriate controls and blinding are often challenging. It is important that these issues are taken into account early on in the planning stages of an SR so that proper consideration can be given to the search strategies, inclusion/exclusion criteria and methods of analysis with the overall aim of reducing bias.
Searching for perfect sleep: the continuing evolution of GABAAreceptor modulators as hypnotics
Authors: Nutt David J , Stahl S M
Published: November 2009

The non-benzodiazepine GABAAreceptor modulators (‘Z-drugs’) — zaleplon, zolpidem, zopiclone and eszopiclone — have become the accepted treatments for insomnia where they are available. However, recent randomized, placebo-controlled trials suggest that, for these drugs, there may be particular efficacy and tolerability profiles and distinct clinical outcomes in specific patient populations. This is particularly apparent when hypnotic/ selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor co-therapy is used to treat patients with co-morbid insomnia and psychiatric disorders, as patient recovery appears to be accelerated and enhanced by some drugs but not others. Emerging evidence of why this should be the case is that these hypnotic drugs may differ significantly from each other in their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles. Functional selectivity for specific GABAAreceptor subtypes may determine each drug’s clinical attributes, while the pharmacokinetic characteristics of Z-drugs also determine to a large extent how they perform in the clinic. For example, activity at GABAAalpha 1 receptor subtypes may be associated with sedative effects, whereas activity at alpha 2 and alpha 3 receptor subtypes may be associated with anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. In summary, the distinct clinical outcomes of zaleplon, zolpidem, zopiclone and eszopiclone may be explained by each drug’s unique GABAAreceptor subunit selectivity and pharmacokinetic profile. Further investigation of GABAAreceptor subtype effects would help to increase understanding of current hypnotic drug effects, while knowledge of each drug’s specific binding profile should enable clinicians to tailor treatment to individual patient’s needs.
Evidence of vasopressinergic-noradrenergic mechanisms in depression with above-normal plasma vasopressin concentration with and without psychotic features
Authors: Goekoop Jaap G , de Winter Remco FP , Wolterbeek Ron , van Kempen Godfried MJ , Wiegant Victor M
Published: November 2009

Previous studies in the field of melancholic or endogenous depression have resulted in support for a subcategory of depression with above-normal plasma vasopressin (AVP) concentration (ANA). Since an analogous animal model with increased release of above-normal plasma vasopressin exhibits reduced Sympathetic-Nervous-System activity, the present study investigated the plasma norepinephrine concentration and the correlation between plasma norepinephrine and AVP in this ANA depression. As psychotic–melancholic patients may have increased plasma norepinephrine concentration, and noradrenergic activation may stimulate AVP release, potentially confounding effects of psychotic features were also investigated. The data set of the same depressed patient sample that was used before, but limited to those with complete hormonal data ( n = 75), was re-analysed. ANA depression ( n = 14) had negatively correlating AVP and norepinephrine concentrations. A very small subcategory of ANA depression with psychotic features ( n = 3) had high plasma norepinephrine concentration, suggesting that this could be an independent subcategory. This was supported by the combination of relatively low above-normal plasma AVP concentrations with the highest severity scores for depression in this subcategory, which does not correspond with the positive correlation between AVP concentration and severity in non-psychotic ANA depression. The results further support the validity of ANA depression and the analogy with the High Anxiety Behaviour animal model of depression. Further investigations are needed to replicate these findings and to search for genetic and traumatic factors involved.
Chronic stress and antidepressant treatment have opposite effects on P-glycoprotein at the blood—brain barrier: an experimental PET study in rats
Authors: de Klerk Onno L , Bosker Fokko J , Willemsen Antoon TM , Van Waarde Aren , Visser Anniek KD , de Jager Tim , Dagyte Girstaute , den Boer Johan A , Dierckx Rudi A , Meerlo Peter
Published: November 2009

The multi-drug efflux transporter P-glycoprotein is expressed in high concentrations at the blood—brain barrier and has a major function in the transport of drugs. In a recent PET-study evidence was found for an increased function of P-glycoprotein at the blood—brain barrier in medicated patients suffering from major depressive disorder. We used small-animal PET and [11C]-verapamil to study P-glycoprotein function at the blood—brain barrier of rats, either being administered as venlafaxine, an antidepressant, or subjected to chronic stress, a factor contributing to the development of depression. In a first experiment, male Wistar rats underwent a three-week foot shock procedure as a model of human depression. In a second experiment, rats were chronically treated with the antidepressant venlafaxine (25 mg/kg/d via an implanted osmotic minipump). In both experiments, a [11C]-verapamil PET scan was performed. In the chronically stressed rats, the distribution volume (VT) of [11C]-verapamil was significantly increased, whereas treatment with venlafaxine had the opposite effect and caused a significant reduction in VT. The changes in VT could not be attributed to the influx rate constant (K1). Our data suggest that P-glycoprotein function at the blood—brain barrier is inhibited by chronic stress and increased by chronic administration of venlafaxine.
Cyproterone to treat aggressivity in dementia: a clinical case and systematic review
Authors: Bolea-Alamanac Blanca M , Davies Simon JC , Christmas David M , Baxter Hazel , Cullum Sarah , Nutt David J
Published: November 2009

Aggressivity is a common problem in the management of elderly patients with dementia. Medications currently used to diminish aggressive behaviour in dementia can have problematic side effects. We present a case and systematic review of the current knowledge about the use of cyproterone acetate to treat aggressivity (excluding hypersexuality related behaviours) in dementia. An 82-year-old man required psychiatric inpatient admission due to agitation and aggressivity and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. After failed trials of atypical antipsychotics (quetiapine 100 mg/day and risperidone 1 mg/day), drugs for dementia (memantine 20 mg/day and rivastigmine 9 mg/day) and benzodiazepines (lorazepam 0.5–1 mg prn) he was started on cyproterone acetate titrated up to 50 mg twice daily. After two weeks he was calmer and did not express aggressivity. Two months later he was discharged to a community placement where he subsequently remained settled on cyproterone. We reviewed literature on the use of cyproterone in aggressivity (excluding hypersexuality) associated with dementia. We searched the main medical databases including articles in English, Spanish, French and Italian. Only one randomized double-blind trial was found, comparing cyproterone with haloperidol ( n = 27). Cyproterone was more effective controlling aggressivity and had lower incidence of side effects. In the one uncontrolled naturalistic observational study identified ( n = 19), cyproterone was associated with significant reductions in aggressivity without causing major side effects. Further literature was limited to theoretical discussions. Despite there being evidence to support our observations of a useful role for cyproterone in aggressivity in dementia, further studies are needed to establish the efficacy and safety of this therapeutic option.
Determination of leaching behaviour of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from contaminated soil by column leaching test
Authors: Zand Ali Daryabeigi , Grathwohl Peter , Nabibidhendi Gholamreza , Mehrdadi Nasser
Published: November 2009

Column leaching tests become increasingly important for assessing the risk of release of pollutants from a wide variety of solid materials into water. In this study a column leaching test was designed to provide insight into the fate of selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils and their leaching behaviour. The results showed relatively high initial concentrations of naphthalene, anthracene, and pyrene for column B2. Two proportions of contaminated soil (5 and 20%) used in the columns yielded different leaching behaviour. Different contact time applied in columns B1 and B2 affected the initial amounts of leached PAHs. Results indicated that the distribution pattern of PAH compounds in solid phase considerably affected leached concentrations of PAHs. Released amounts of PAH compounds decreased with increasing molecular size, or rather the hydrophobicity of the compound. The effect of dissolved organic carbon on PAH leaching was also investigated in this study. The mobilization of colloids did not show any significant effect on leached concentrations of PAH compounds. Approximately 4.6 and 2.2% of the total initial amounts of studied PAHs in the soil were leached in columns B1 and B2, respectively. Therefore high PAH concentrations in the solid phase does not imply serious groundwater contamination risk during a leaching event (e.g. raining) and significant amount of contaminants may stay in the soil layer for a long time and do not leach down into groundwater.
Urban solid waste collection system using mathematical modelling and tools of geographic information systems
Authors: Arribas Claudia Andrea , Blazquez Carola Alejandra , Lamas Alejandro
Published: November 2009

A poorly designed urban solid waste collection system has an enormous impact on labour, operational and transport costs, and on society in general due to road contamination and negative effects on public health and the environment. This study proposes a methodology for designing an urban solid waste collection system. This methodology uses combinatorial optimisation and integer programing, and GIS tools to minimise collection time, and operational and transport costs while enhancing the current solid waste collection system. This methodology establishes feasible collection routes, determines an adequate vehicle fleet size and presents a comparative cost and sensitivity analysis of the results. The implementation of this methodology in a study case of a zone in Santiago yields significant cost savings in the total collection system.
Toxic effects of T-2 toxin on reproductive system in male mice
Authors: Jian Ying Yang  , Yong Fa Zhang  , Ai Min Liang  , Xiang Feng Kong  , Yuan Xiao Li  , Kai Wang Ma  , Ai Hua Jing  , Shu Ying Feng  , Xiao Lan Qiao
Published: November 2009

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of T-2 toxin on semen quality, fertility and serum testosterone concentration in mice. Adult male mice were mated with sexually mature untreated female mice after being exposed to intraperitoneal injection of T-2 toxin at 0, 5, 10 or 15 mg/kg body weight daily for 7 successive days. Semen quality, serum testosterone concentration and fertility of treated mice were assessed. The results showed that the number of abnormal spermatozoa increased significantly and a significant decrease in spermatozoa with integrated acrosome was observed in males treated with T-2 toxin at all doses, As well, the amount of live spermatozoa decreased significantly in mice treated with 10 and 15 mg/kg body weight T-2 toxin. Low pregnancy rate and high fetal resorption rate were observed when females were mated with T-2 toxin—exposed males. Testicular and cauda epididymal sperm counts, efficiency of sperm production and serum testosterone concentration were significantly reduced in mice treated with T-2 toxin at all doses in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, these findings indicated that T-2 toxin presented toxic effects on reproductive system of adult male mice.
Synthesis and Characterization of Aliphatic-aromatic Random Copolyester/clay Nano-biocomposites
Authors: Siva Kumar G. , Nanthini R.
Published: November 2009

Aliphatic-aromatic biodegradable random copolyester, poly (butylene sebacate-co-butylene isophthalate) (PBSeI) was synthesized by a two step direct melt polycondensation method. This copolyester was characterized by solubility studies, viscosity measurements, infrared, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and thermal data. However, to be a real alternative to classical synthetic polymers and find applications, the thermal properties of biodegradable polymers have to be improved. Synthesis of nano-biocomposites, which are obtained by incorporation of nanofillers into a biomatrix, is an interesting way to create polymers with characteristic properties. In the present study, the nano-biocomposites were synthesized by dispersing different weight percentages (1, 3 and 5%) of organo-modified montmorillonite clay (OMMT) into the biodegradable polyester matrix by the solvent intercalation method. Structural characterization and thermal analysis were carried out to better understand, the relationship between the structuring of the nanofillers and the properties of nano-biocomposites. The X-ray diffraction patterns obtained for the systems confirmed the nanodispersion of the OMMT-clay in the polyester networks. The scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy analyses showed that there was no phase separation between the two components which confirmed the compatibility of polyester with the organo-modified clay system. The results show that clay incorporation improved the thermal properties of PBSeI due to the exfoliated structure of the nanocomposites formed, and thus may increase the applicability of this biodegradable polymer in different fields.
Film Properties of Polyazomethines (1). Effect of Incorporation of Intramolecular Cyclodehydrating Units
Authors: Ishhii Junichi , Ohshima Naoko , Tanaka Yuma , Hasegawa Masatoshi
Published: November 2009

Polyazomethines (PAzMs) were polycondensed from terephthalaldehyde (TPAL) with 2,2′bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB) and 2,2-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl] hexafluoropropane (HFBAPP). The PAzMs showed high solubility in N -methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) ( > 15 wt.%) at room temperature and good film-formability. The film properties of the TPAL/TFMB-based PAzM copolymers were evaluated in the present study. In spite of their rod-like backbone structures, the PAzM films showed much higher coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) in comparison with initial expectation. The results suggest that the simple casting process from the NMP solutions can not be a trigger for inducing pronounced chain orientation toward the direction parallel to the film plane (in-plane orientation). On the other hand, the incorporation of intramolecular cyclodehydrating (thermally imidizable) sites into the rigid TPAL/TFMB-based PAzM backbone by using pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) or 4,4′ -oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) allowed the formation of low-CTE films upon imidization even for rather low reactive site contents. A possible mechanism to explain the present results is proposed. The TPAL/TFMB-based poly(imide-azomethine)s (PIAzMs) achieved excellent combined film properties in addition to low CTE (= 6.7-25.5 ppm K-1); namely, they have relatively high Tg values exceeding 300 °C, very low water absorption ( < 0.17%), sufficient toughness, high tensile modulus, and good thermal stability. Accordingly, the PIAzM systems investigated in the present study could be promising candidates for a new type of heat-resistant dielectric material for use in microelectronic applications.
Lipoatrophy of the Footpad in HIV-Treated Patients Is Associated With Increased PAI-1
Authors: Eriksson Lars E. , Nilsson Schönnesson Lena , Bratt Göran A.
Published: November 2009

Purpose: To describe lipoatrophy of the plantar pedis fat pads in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients with or without long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART); to compare the characteristics of ART patients with and without plantar pedis lipoatrophy; and to examine the effects of HIV and metabolic/cardiovascular risk parameters and treatment history on plantar pedis lipoatrophy. Design: Participants included 134 patients who started protease inhibitors in antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 1996 and 49 treatment-naive patients, recruited in 2004. Participants were examined and graded for lipoatrophy of five body compartments including the plantar fat pads. Baseline HIV- and ART-related factors were documented together with follow-up metabolic/ cardiovascular risk parameters. Results: Plantar pedis lipoatrophy occurred more often among ART patients (60%) than among treatment-naive patients (12%; p < .001). ART patients with plantar lipoatrophy were older, had higher plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) values, a higher prevalence of lipoatrophy in other body compartments, and longer stavudine and didanosine treatment history as compared to patients without plantar lipoatrophy. Multiple logistic regression modeling revealed that among the metabolic/cardiovascular parameters, increased PAI-1 was strongly and positively associated with plantar lipoatrophy. Among the treatment history parameters, didanosine was the strongest independent predictor for plantar lipoatrophy. Increased PAI-1 was not associated to lipoatrophy in any other location. Conclusions: Plantar lipoatrophy is common among patients on long-term ART and, though often overlooked, may cause significant discomfort. The association to PAI-1, a well-known marker of increased cardiovascular risk, is intriguing and places further focus on the need for an active approach to evaluating and lowering cardiovascular risk factors in long-term HIV treatment.
What is the ‘International’ in the International Baccalaureate?
Authors: Tarc Paul
Published: November 2009

The International Baccalaureate (IB) emerged in the 1960s after a significant demand arose for an internationally recognized secondary school-leaving diploma among a subset of the international school community. In tension with the practical demands of producing and sustaining a mobile diploma were underlying liberal-humanist visions of a progressive model of schooling for ‘international understanding’ in an era of embedded liberalism. This article examines three structuring tensions (citizenship, curricular aims and operation) of the ‘International’ of IB and how they were managed by the IB Organization in the founding period (1962—1973).
The Role of the Arts in Organizational Settings
Authors: Pruetipibultham Oranuch , Mclean Gary N.
Published: November 2009

This article explores the significance of three of the arts in organization development (OD). The art of storytelling is discussed through the lenses of music, drama, and poetry. The article discusses how narrative presented through corporate song lyrics, theatrical scripts and techniques, and poems encourages organization members to make creative sense of the organization culture and change. The application of these media to OD was identified through a review of the literature that verified the use of these three arts in developing people at the corporate level.
Building a Latina/o Student Transfer Culture: Best Practices and Outcomes in Transfer to Universities
Authors: Pérez Patricia A. , Ceja Miguel
Published: November 2009

Although most Latina/o transfer students declare intentions to transfer from a community college, few move on to 4-year colleges and universities. The authors provide an overview of the existing information related to transfer objectives and rates. Using the theoretical models of Latina/o critical race theory and validation theory the authors also highlight key practices that promote transfer. Finally, based on previous scholarship the authors outline a Latina/o transfer culture and provide recommendations for future research and policy.
ExprAlign - the identification of ESTs in non-model species by alignment of cDNA microarray expression profiles
Authors: Li Weizhong , Gracey Andrew Y , Mello Luciane Vieira , Brass Andrew , Cossins Andrew R
Published: November 2009

Background

Sequence identification of ESTs from non-model species offers distinct challenges particularly when these species have duplicated genomes and when they are phylogenetically distant from sequenced model organisms. For the common carp, an environmental model of aquacultural interest, large numbers of ESTs remained unidentified using BLAST sequence alignment. We have used the expression profiles from large-scale microarray experiments to suggest gene identities.

Results

Expression profiles from ~700 cDNA microarrays describing responses of 7 major tissues to multiple environmental stressors were used to define a co-expression landscape. This was based on the Pearsons correlation coefficient relating each gene with all other genes, from which a network description provided clusters of highly correlated genes as 'mountains'. We show that these contain genes with known identities and genes with unknown identities, and that the correlation constitutes evidence of identity in the latter. This procedure has suggested identities to 522 of 2701 unknown carp ESTs sequences. We also discriminate several common carp genes and gene isoforms that were not discriminated by BLAST sequence alignment alone. Precision in identification was substantially improved by use of data from multiple tissues and treatments.

Conclusion

The detailed analysis of co-expression landscapes is a sensitive technique for suggesting an identity for the large number of BLAST unidentified cDNAs generated in EST projects. It is capable of detecting even subtle changes in expression profiles, and thereby of distinguishing genes with a common BLAST identity into different identities. It benefits from the use of multiple treatments or contrasts, and from the large-scale microarray data.
Pharmaceutical cost control in primary care: opinion and contributions by healthcare professionals
Authors: Prados-Torres Alexandra , Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia , Sicras-Mainar Antoni , March-Llull Sebastià , Oliván-Blázquez Bárbara
Published: November 2009

Background

Strategies adopted by health administrations and directed towards drug cost control in primary care (PC) can, according to earlier studies, generate tension between health administrators and healthcare professionals. This study collects and analyzes the opinions of general practitioners (GPs) regarding current cost control measures as well as their proposals for improving the effectiveness of these measures.

Methods

A qualitative exploratory study was carried out using 11 focus groups composed of GPs from the Spanish regions of Aragon, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. A semi-structured guide was applied in obtaining the GPs' opinions. The transcripts of the dialogues were analyzed by two investigators who independently considered categorical and thematic content. The results were supervised by other members of the team, with overall responsibility assigned to the team leader.

Results

GPs are conscious of their public responsibility with respect to pharmaceutical cost, but highlight the need to spread responsibility for cost control among the different actors of the health system. They insist on implementing measures to improve the quality of prescriptions, avoiding mere quantitative evaluations of prescription costs. They also suggest moving towards the self-management of the pharmaceutical budget by each health centre itself, as a means to design personalized incentives to improve their outcomes. These proposals need to be considered by the health administration in order to pre-empt the feelings of injustice, impotence, frustration and lack of motivation that currently exist among GPs as a result of the implemented measures.

Conclusion

Future investigations should be oriented toward strategies that involve GPs in the planning and management of drug cost control mechanisms. The proposals in this study may be considered by the health administration as a means to move toward the rational use of drugs while avoiding concerns about injustice and feelings of impotence on the part of the GPs, which can lead to lack of interest in and disaffection with the current measures.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GA1 as a source of potent antibiotics and other secondary metabolites for biocontrol of plant pathogens
Authors: Arguelles-Arias Anthony , Ongena Marc , Halimi Badre , Lara Yannick , Brans Alain , Joris Bernard , Fickers Patrick
Published: November 2009

Background

Phytopathogenic fungi affecting crop and post-harvested vegetables are a major threat to food production and food storage. To face these drawbacks, producers have become increasingly dependent on agrochemicals. However, intensive use of these compounds has led to the emergence of pathogen resistance and severe negative environmental impacts. There are also a number of plant diseases for which chemical solutions are ineffective or non-existent as well as an increasing demand by consumers for pesticide-free food. Thus, biological control through the use of natural antagonistic microorganisms has emerged as a promising alternative to chemical pesticides for more rational and safe crop management.

Results

The genome of the plant-associated B. amyloliquefaciens GA1 was sample sequenced. Several gene clusters involved in the synthesis of biocontrol agents were detected. Four gene clusters were shown to direct the synthesis of the cyclic lipopeptides surfactin, iturin A and fengycin as well as the iron-siderophore bacillibactin. Beside these non-ribosomaly synthetised peptides, three additional gene clusters directing the synthesis of the antibacterial polyketides macrolactin, bacillaene and difficidin were identified. Mass spectrometry analysis of culture supernatants led to the identification of these secondary metabolites, hence demonstrating that the corresponding biosynthetic gene clusters are functional in strain GA1. In addition, genes encoding enzymes involved in synthesis and export of the dipeptide antibiotic bacilysin were highlighted. However, only its chlorinated derivative, chlorotetaine, could be detected in culture supernatants. On the contrary, genes involved in ribosome-dependent synthesis of bacteriocin and other antibiotic peptides were not detected as compared to the reference strain B. amyloliquefaciens FZB42.

Conclusion

The production of all of these antibiotic compounds highlights B. amyloliquefaciens GA1 as a good candidate for the development of biocontrol agents.
Relationship between the EQ-5D index and measures of clinical outcomes in selected studies of cardiovascular interventions
Authors: Goldsmith Kimberley A , Dyer Matthew T , Schofield Peter M , Buxton Martin J , Sharples Linda D
Published: November 2009

Background

The EuroQoL 5D (EQ-5D) has been widely used in studies of cardiac disease, but its measurement properties in this group are not well established. The study aimed to quantify the relationship between measures commonly used in studies of cardiac disease and the EQ-5D index across different levels of disease severity.

Methods

Patient-level data from 7 studies of cardiac interventions were used, which included randomised trials and observational studies. Relationships between the EQ-5D index and commonly used cardiac measures, Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) angina severity class, treadmill exercise time (ETT) and scales of the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) were examined. Mixed effects linear regression was used to assess these relationships, with the EQ-5D index as the response.

Results

Study sample sizes ranged from 68 to 2419. Mean baseline EQ-5D index ranged from 0.77 in patients at diagnosis (95% CI 0.75, 0.78) to 0.43 in patients with advanced disease (95% CI 0.39, 0.48) and differed significantly across studies (p < 0.001). There was evidence of a ceiling effect in patients at diagnosis. The minimum clinically important difference of a one minute increase in ETT was associated with a 0.019 (95% CI 0.014, 0.025) increase in EQ-5D index. One class increase in CCS was associated with a 0.11 (95% CI 0.09, 0.13) decrease in EQ-5D index. A 10 unit increase in SAQ scales was associated with increases between 0.04 and 0.07 in EQ-5D index (95% CIs 0.03, 0.05 and 0.05, 0.08). Tests of heterogeneity indicated the EQ-5D-covariate relationships were consistent across levels of disease severity for ETT and the treatment satisfaction scale of the SAQ, but heterogeneous for age, gender, CCS angina class and other scales of the SAQ.

Conclusion

The EQ-5D index varies with coronary disease severity. The relationship between the EQ-5D index and an outcome measure used in cardiac intervention studies, ETT, was consistent across disease severity levels, but the relationship between demographic variables, CCS angina class and most of the SAQ scales and the EQ-5D index was heterogeneous for patients with different levels of coronary disease. Differences in the EQ-5D index associated with clinically important differences in cardiac measures can be quantified and vary between three important examples - angina class, ETT and SAQ.
Let-7 microRNAs are developmentally regulated in circulating human erythroid cells
Authors: Noh Seung-Jae , Miller Samuel H , Lee Y Terry , Goh Sung-Ho , Marincola Francesco M , Stroncek David F , Reed Christopher , Wang Ena , Miller Jeffery L
Published: November 2009

Background

MicroRNAs are ~22nt-long small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate protein expression through mRNA degradation or translational repression in eukaryotic cells. Based upon their importance in regulating development and terminal differentiation in model systems, erythrocyte microRNA profiles were examined at birth and in adults to determine if changes in their abundance coincide with the developmental phenomenon of hemoglobin switching.

Methods

Expression profiling of microRNA was performed using total RNA from four adult peripheral blood samples compared to four cord blood samples after depletion of plasma, platelets, and nucleated cells. Labeled RNAs were hybridized to custom spotted arrays containing 474 human microRNA species (miRBase release 9.1). Total RNA from Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines provided a hybridization reference for all samples to generate microRNA abundance profile for each sample.

Results

Among 206 detected miRNAs, 79% of the microRNAs were present at equivalent levels in both cord and adult cells. By comparison, 37 microRNAs were up-regulated and 4 microRNAs were down-regulated in adult erythroid cells (fold change > 2; p < 0.01). Among the up-regulated subset, the let-7 miRNA family consistently demonstrated increased abundance in the adult samples by array-based analyses that were confirmed by quantitative PCR (4.5 to 18.4 fold increases in 6 of 8 let-7 miRNA). Profiling studies of messenger RNA (mRNA) in these cells additionally demonstrated down-regulation of ten let-7 target genes in the adult cells.

Conclusion

These data suggest that a consistent pattern of up-regulation among let-7 miRNA in circulating erythroid cells occurs in association with hemoglobin switching during the fetal-to-adult developmental transition in humans.
Investigation on the occurrence of Echinococcus multilocularisin Central Italy
Authors: Calderini Pietro , Magi Marta , Gabrielli Simona , Brozzi Alberto , Kumlien Susanna , Grifoni Goffredo , Iori Albertina , Cancrini Gabriella
Published: November 2009

Background

Recent studies on geographic distribution of Echinococcus multilocularis in Europe show that it has a wider range than previously thought. It is unclear, however, if the wider distribution is due to its recent spreading or to a lack of previous data from the new areas. Italy, previously considered E. multilocularis-free, is now part of these new areas: infected foxes (the main definitive host of the tapeworm) have been observed in a Northern Alpine territory. Thus, more surveys need to be done in other Italian regions in order to monitor the spreading of E. multilocularis. The aim of the present study was to look for this parasite in 283 foxes collected in an Apennine area of Central Italy by different diagnostic methods.

Results

The foxes were heavily parasitized by 11 helminthic genera, but none of the animals was infected by E. multilocularis neither by E. granulosus (harboured adult worms or their DNA). Low specificity was observed in commercially available ELISA kits for the detection of E. multilocularis antigens in the faeces. Molecular diagnostics were sensitive and specific for the detection and identification of tapeworm eggs in faeces, but less sensitive, although specific, to adult tapeworms in the intestinal content.

Conclusion

Preliminarily, we can say that no E. multilocularis could be found in the study area. These data will enable us to follow temporal changes of the spatial distribution of the parasite in the study area of the Central Apennines. Due to its low specificity the ELISA kit for E. multilocularis coproantigens is not suitable for epidemiological surveys, whereas molecular diagnostics applied to faecal samples give useful results. Finally, absence of E. granulosus in foxes living in the endemic areas studied confirms the thought that this tapeworm prefers a different definitive host.
Schwannoma of the vagus nerve, a rare middle mediastinal neurogenic tumor: case report
Authors: Rammos Kyriakos St , Rammos Stylianos K , Foroulis Christophoros N , Zaramboukas Thomas K
Published: November 2009

Schwannoma originating from the vagus nerve within the mediastinum is a rare, usually benign tumor. A 44-year old male was presented with chest pain. Chest radiography, CT scan and MRI showed a well circumscribed mass, 5 × 4 cm located in the aortopulmonary window. The mass was found at surgery to be in close proximity with the aortic arch and the left pulmonary hilum, alongside the left vagus nerve. The encapsulated tumor was completely resected through a left thoracotomy incision and it was found to be a benign schwannoma in pathology. The patient is free of recurrence 6 years after surgery.
A questionnaire for determining prevalence of diabetes related foot disease (Q‐DFD): construction and validation
Authors: Bergin Shan M , Brand Caroline A , Colman Peter G , Campbell Donald A
Published: November 2009

Background

Community based prevalence for diabetes related foot disease (DRFD) has been poorly quantified in Australian populations. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a survey tool to facilitate collection of community based prevalence data for individuals with DRFD via telephone interview.

Methods

Agreed components of DRFD were identified through an electronic literature search. Expert feedback and feedback from a population based construction sample were sought on the initial draft. Survey reliability was tested using a cohort recruited through a general practice, a hospital outpatient clinic and an outpatient podiatry clinic. Level of agreement between survey findings and either medical record or clinical assessment was evaluated.

Results

The Questionnaire for Diabetes Related Foot Disease (Q‐DFD) comprised 12 questions aimed at determining presence of peripheral sensory neuropathy (PN) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD), based on self report of symptoms and/or clinical history, and self report of foot ulceration, amputation and foot deformity. Survey results for 38 from 46 participants demonstrated agreement with either clinical assessment or medical record (kappa 0.65, sensitivity 89.0%, and specificity 77.8%). Correlation for individual survey components was moderate to excellent. Inter and intrarater reliability and test re‐test reliability was moderate to high for all survey domains.

Conclusion

The development of the Q‐DFD provides an opportunity for ongoing collection of prevalence estimates for DRFD across Australia.
Foot posture influences the electromyographic activity of selected lower limb muscles during gait
Authors: Murley George S , Menz Hylton B , Landorf Karl B
Published: November 2009

Background

Some studies have found that flat‐arched foot posture is related to altered lower limb muscle function compared to normal‐ or high‐arched feet. However, the results from these studies were based on highly selected populations such as those with rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare lower limb muscle function of normal and flat‐arched feet in people without pain or disease.

Methods

Sixty adults aged 18 to 47 years were recruited to this study. Of these, 30 had normal‐arched feet (15 male and 15 female) and 30 had flat‐arched feet (15 male and 15 female). Foot posture was classified using two clinical measurements (the arch index and navicular height) and four skeletal alignment measurements from weightbearing foot x‐rays. Intramuscular fine‐wire electrodes were inserted into tibialis posterior and peroneus longus under ultrasound guidance, and surface EMG activity was recorded from tibialis anterior and medial gastrocnemius while participants walked barefoot at their self‐selected comfortable walking speed. Time of peak amplitude, peak and root mean square (RMS) amplitude were assessed from stance phase EMG data. Independent samples t‐tests were performed to assess for significant differences between the normal‐ and flat‐arched foot posture groups.

Results

During contact phase, the flat‐arched group exhibited increased activity of tibialis anterior (peak amplitude; 65 versus 46% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction) and decreased activity of peroneus longus (peak amplitude; 24 versus 37% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction). During midstance/propulsion, the flat‐arched group exhibited increased activity of tibialis posterior (peak amplitude; 86 versus 60% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction) and decreased activity of peroneus longus (RMS amplitude; 25 versus 39% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction). Effect sizes for these significant findings ranged from 0.48 to 1.3, representing moderate to large differences in muscle activity between normal‐arched and flat‐arched feet.

Conclusion

Differences in muscle activity in people with flat‐arched feet may reflect neuromuscular compensation to reduce overload of the medial longitudinal arch. Further research is required to determine whether these differences in muscle function are associated with injury.
Unilateral simultaneous renal oncocytoma and angiomyolipoma: case report
Authors: Theodosopoulos Theodosios , Yiallourou Anneza , Kyriazi Maria , Anastasopoulos Georgios , Kairi-Vassilatou Evi , Dafnios Nicolaos , Vassiliou Ioannis
Published: November 2009

A rare case of synchronous angiomyolipoma and oncocytoma in the same kidney of a 70 year old man is presented. A left renal mass was found incidentally by ultrasound. Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 1,3 cm mass in the mid-portion of the left kidney, whereas on the lower pole of the same kidney, a 3,3 cm mass was also revealed, consistent with angiomyolipoma. A working diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma was made. A radical nephrectomy was performed. Microscopically, the tumor of the lower pole was found to be an angiomyolipoma, whereas the mid-portion tumor was an oncocytoma. Until now, only 16 cases of unilateral simultaneous presence of renal angiomyolipoma and oncocytoma have been reported. Of these cases, all except one were female and three were associated with the tuberous sclerosis complex. It is well worth remarking, that renal oncocytoma overlap with other renal neoplasms, therefore nephrectomy remains the treatment of choice.

Renal angiomyolipoma and oncocytoma are uncommon neoplasms and their simultaneous presence in the same kidney is rare. Only 16 cases have been reported until now in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to present an additional case without evidence of tuberous sclerosis.
Infliximab concentration monitoring improves the control of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mulleman Denis , Méric Jean-Camille , Paintaud Gilles , Ducourau Emilie , Magdelaine-Beuzelin Charlotte , Valat Jean-Pierre , Goupille Philippe ,   the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 6239 GICC
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Adjustment of infliximab dosage for individuals may be useful in improving therapeutic response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Herein, we aimed to determine whether measurement of infliximab serum concentration modifies the therapeutic decision and improves the control of disease activity.

Methods

RA patients routinely treated with infliximab were included in an observational open-label study. On visit 1 (V1), according to the disease activity, a preliminary therapeutic decision was selected among four therapeutic options and a blood sample was collected to measure trough serum infliximab concentration. The final therapeutic decision, based on both disease activity and serum infliximab concentration assessed at V1, was applied at the following infusion (V2). Clinical and biological evaluations were performed at V3 and V4 and compared with those at V1.

Results

We included 24 patients. The final therapeutic decision differed from the preliminary decision for 12 patients (50%). For patients with increased infliximab dosage at V2, mean disease activity score for 28 joints (DAS28) decreased by about 20% at V3 or V4 as compared with V1 (P < 0.05). Decreased DAS28 was correlated with increased serum infliximab concentration (P < 0.02).

Conclusions

The measurement of infliximab trough concentration modifies the therapeutic decision for RA patients and helps improve control of disease activity. Therapeutic drug monitoring of infliximab in RA may be useful for individual dosage adjustment.