bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steatotic liver: a suitable source for the isolation of hepatic progenitor cells
Authors: Tolosa Laia , Bonora‐Centelles Ana , Teresa Donato M. , Pareja Eugenia , Negro Alejandro , López Silvia , Castell José V. , José Gómez‐Lechón M.
Published: August 2011

Background:

Alternative and/or complementary sources of cells such as hepatic progenitor cells (HPC) are under investigation for hepatic cell therapy purposes. Steatotic livers are those most commonly rejected for clinical transplantation and are also unsuitable for good quality hepatocyte isolation.

Aim:

Taken together these two facts, our aim was to investigate whether they could represent a suitable source for the isolation of progenitor cells.

Methods:

Rats fed for 7 weeks with methionine–choline deficient diets showing proved steatotic signs (i.e. increase in hepatic lipids; macrovesicular steatosis) and steatotic and normal human liver samples were used to study the expression of HPC markers and to isolate these cells.

Results:

In the liver of the steatotic rats there was a significant increase in HPC (known as oval cells in rodents) markers such as Thy‐1, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and OV‐6 (2‐, 3‐ and 5‐fold increase respectively). Additionally, there was an increase in the yield of isolated oval cells compared to control rats. Similarly, studies using human livers clearly confirmed an increase in the expression of HPC markers in the steatotic tissue and a significant rise in the number of isolated progenitor cells (EpCAM+, Thy‐1+, OV‐6+) (10, 12 and 11.6 × 104 cells/g of tissue respectively).

Conclusions:

These data suggest that steatotic livers, discarded for orthotopic liver transplantation and hepatocyte isolation, could be a suitable source for large scale isolation of HPC which might be potential candidates in liver cell therapy.
The ventilator care bundle and its impact on ventilator‐associated pneumonia: a review of the evidence
Authors: Lawrence Petra , Fulbrook Paul
Published: August 2011

Aims and objectives: The aim of this review was to critically analyse recent research that has investigated ventilator care bundle (VCB) use, with the objective of analysing its impact on ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) outcomes.

Background: The VCB is a group of four evidence‐based procedures, which when clustered together and implemented as an ‘all or nothing’ strategy, may result in substantial clinical outcome improvement. VAP is a nosocomial lung infection associated with endotracheal tube use in ventilated patients. Since the VCB was introduced there have been several studies that have reported significant VAP rate reductions.

Search strategy: A comprehensive search for research, published between 2004 and 2009, was conducted using Medline and PubMed. Key words were used to identify English language studies reporting VCB implementation within adult intensive care units (ICU) and associated clinical outcomes. Studies that implemented bundle variations that did not include all four elements were excluded.

Conclusions: Because of the limitations of the observational designs used in the studies retrieved, a definitive causal relationship between VCB use and VAP reduction cannot be stated. However, the evidence to date is strongly indicative of a positive association. Several studies reported the use of additional VCB elements. In these cases it is difficult to establish which elements are related to the measured outcomes. Further research is recommended to establish baseline outcome measures using the four‐element VCB, before adding further processes singly, as well as research investigating the effect of audit and feedback on VCB compliance and its effect on clinical outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice: A reduction in VAP is associated with VCB use. The evidence to date, whilst not at the highest experimental level, is at the highest ethically permissible level. In the absence of contradictory research, the current evidence suggests that use of the VCB represents best practice for all eligible adult ventilated patients in ICU.
An evaluation of a critical care course for undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Gallagher Patrick Joseph , Rice Billiejoan , Tierney Paul , Page Karen , McKinney Aidin
Published: August 2011

Aim: The aim of this paper was to evaluate a 2‐day critical care course (CCC) delivered to a cohort of adult branch nursing students.

Background: In today's health care system there is an increase in the number of critically ill patients being cared for in a ward environment. As a result, nurses require the knowledge and skills to effectively manage this patient group. Skills such as prompt recognition of the sick patient, effective communication and performing basic management care skills are necessary.

Methods: The CCC was provided to final year adult branch nursing students (n = 182) within a university in the UK. On completion of the course, participants were invited to undertake a Likert scale questionnaire. The questionnaire also contained a free response section to elicit qualitative information. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 17·0 and descriptive statistics produced. Qualitative responses were analysed thematically.

Results: There was a 73·7% (n = 135) response rate. Overall, there was a positive evaluation of the course. Students (89·6%; n = 121) reported a perceived increase in confidence when caring for critically ill patients following the course and 88·2% (n = 119) felt that their knowledge and skills had improved at the end of the 2‐day course.

Conclusion: This study supports the implementation of critical care training for undergraduate nursing students. There are implications for the development of specific modules, aiming to improve undergraduate nursing students' recognition, assessment and management of the critically ill patient.

Relevance to clinical practice: There is a shortage of critical care practice placements for undergraduate nursing students. It is essential that an undergraduate curriculum incorporates critical care teaching so that critical care skills are evident at the point of registration.
The implementation of a bowel management protocol in an adult intensive care unit
Authors: McPeake Joanne , Gilmour Harper , MacIntosh Graham
Published: August 2011

Aim: A study to explore the impact of implementing a bowel management protocol in a tertiary referral intensive care unit (ICU) in the West of Scotland.

Methods: A three phase study was implemented. Phase 1 – a baseline audit reviewing 26 patients' medical notes and a baseline focus group reviewing the multidisciplinary team's (MDT's) opinions with regard to bowel care management in the ICU. Phase 2 – the implementation of a protocol, updated bowel care chart and education sessions for members of the MDT. Phase 3 – an end of study audit reviewing 27 patients' notes after the implementation of phase 2. Additionally, a further focus group examined the MDT's experiences of the protocol in clinical practice.

Results and Findings: During the phase 1 data collection period, it was evident that there was a haphazard approach to bowel care in the ICU, resulting in poor bowel care documentation and a high incidence of constipation and diarrhoea days. After the interventions of phase 2, bowel care documentation days increased by 13% (p = 0·0003), constipation incidence decreased by 20·7% (p = 0·13) and diarrhoea days reduced by 15·2% (p = 0·18).

Conclusion: Although further evaluation is planned, the protocol implemented in this particular study appears to be a useful tool for the delivery of bowel care in the ICU.

Relevance to Clinical Practice: Ensuring appropriate and timely bowel care in the ICU has major implications for the critically ill patients.
Trading Diamonds Responsibly: Institutional Explanations for Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Bieri Franziska , Boli John
Published: August 2011

This article identifies factors that led to a comprehensive regulatory regime for the global diamond trade, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), established through negotiations among NGOs, states, and the industry. The conflict diamonds case provides important insights into the processes by which global norms redefine how corporations are expected to conduct business. First, we show that global corporate social responsibility (CSR) norms rooted in the construct of world citizenship facilitated the rapid progress of the conflict diamonds campaign. Second, we detail how these norms became institutionalized in the KPCS, stressing the importance of the legitimacy of NGOs as bearers of corporate world citizenship models and the role of moral leaders within the diamond industry itself. We consider two theoretical perspectives on CSR development: management theories, which are strong on practitioner issues but mute regarding the content and authority of CSR ideology, and institutional theories, which offer better frameworks for understanding the impact of cultural and institutional environments on company responses to the moral claims advanced by NGOs. We use the conflict diamonds case to draw conclusions about how NGOs can effectively define new social responsibilities that companies come to see as obligations they must heed as responsible world citizens.
Education, Civic Patriotism, and Democratic Citizenship: Unpacking the Education Effect on Political Involvement1
Authors: Straughn Jeremy Brooke , Andriot Angie L.
Published: August 2011

Previous research argues that political involvement not only reflects instrumental concern with political outcomes, but also involves normative motivations such as commitment to collective ideals. Consistent with this view, Americans with a strong sense of “patriotism” have been found to exhibit higher rates of participation than those with weaker attachment to their country (Huddy and Khatib, 2007). However, citizens with high levels of formal education seem to be an exception. Despite scoring lower on conventional measures of “patriotism,” well‐educated Americans are among the most politically active segments of the population. In this article, it is hypothesized that formal education fosters an alternative, civic form of patriotism that conventional measures are unlikely to capture. Rather than reflecting attachment to a particular nation, civic patriotism is rooted in values and beliefs associated with democratic citizenship. Using data from the 2004 General Social Survey, it is found that civic patriotism helps mediate the education effect on two types of political engagement: grass‐roots activism and voting in elections.
The Rise of Choice in the U.S. University and College: 1910–20051
Authors: Robinson Karen Jeong
Published: August 2011

Over the twentieth century, the curriculum in U.S. universities and colleges was restructured around the individual rather than a set body of knowledge. This is evidenced in the shift from a prescribed curriculum often classical in orientation to the elective system. This article explores these changes and tests whether broader economic factors or institutional cultural factors affect these changes. I argue that the shift from prescribed to elective curricula is due to the institutionalization of the individual in society, the process in which the individual person is increasingly culturally defined and legitimated as the primary actor of reality. I use longitudinal regression models to identify the broader social sources of curricular change for a sample of 30 universities between 1910 and 2005. The findings support my argument that a key condition that led to the decline of prescription and the rise of choice is the institutionalization of the individual. I also find that student enrollment has a significant effect on the structure of the curriculum. I find some support that the socioeconomic status of students matters in affecting the university discourse on the centrality of the student. Little support is given to explanations that emphasize interorganizational competition and economic differentiation.
Parts and Wholes: Goffman and Cooley
Authors: Scheff Thomas
Published: August 2011

This essay begins with an outline of the part‐whole method, a way of relating particular instances to general concepts or propositions. This method is illustrated by seven propositions extracted from Cooley’s work that seem to be illustrated by concrete examples from Goffman’s writing. This method weds qualitative study with theory in a preliminary way, and ultimately, qualitative and quantitative methods. Since Goffman’s examples breathe life into our enterprise, it may be fruitful to use every one of them, connecting them not only with Cooley’s theses, but generating others as well.
Response to Jasper
Authors: Scheff Thomas
Published: August 2011

This essay is a response to Jasper’s essay “Climbing the Scheff Ladder.”
Physical activity level in Achilles tendinosis is associated with blood levels of pain‐related factors: a pilot study
Authors: Bagge J. , Gaida J. E. , Danielson P. , Alfredson H. , Forsgren S.
Published: August 2011

Physical activity affects the pain symptoms for Achilles tendinosis patients. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and their receptors have been detected in human Achilles tendon. This pilot study aimed to compare serum BDNF and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor I (sTNFRI) levels in Achilles tendinosis patients and healthy controls and to examine the influence of physical activity, and BMI and gender, on these levels. Physical activity was measured with a validated questionnaire, total physical activity being the parameter analyzed. Physical activity was strongly correlated with BDNF among tendinosis women [Spearman's rho (ρ)=0.90, P<0.01] but not among control women (ρ=−0.08, P=0.83), or among tendinosis and control men. Physical activity was significantly correlated with sTNFRI in the entire tendinosis group and among tendinosis men (ρ=0.65, P=0.01), but not in the entire control group or among control men (ρ=0.04, P=0.91). Thus, the physical activity pattern is related to the TNF and BDNF systems for tendinosis patients but not controls, the relationship being gender dependent. This is new information concerning the relationship between physical activity and Achilles tendinosis, which may be related to pain for the patients. This aspect should be further evaluated using larger patient materials.
Overweight does not increase asthma risk but may decrease allergy risk at school age after infantile bronchiolitis
Authors: Sidoroff Virpi , Hyvärinen Mari K , Piippo‐Savolainen Eija , Korppi Matti
Published: August 2011

Aim:  Increasing evidence suggests that overweight children are at increased risk of asthma. The association between weight gain and allergy is more complex. The aim was to evaluate the association between overweight or obesity and asthma, allergy, bronchial reactivity or atopic sensitization at school age in children with bronchiolitis in infancy.

Subjects and methods:  Eighty‐one children hospitalized for bronchiolitis at <24 months of age attended control visits at 7.2 and 12.3 years of ages. The visits consisted of medical examinations, weight and height measurements, body mass index (BMI) calculations, skin prick tests and exercise challenge tests. BMI >1.3 SD from age‐ and gender‐specific references meant overweight and BMI >2.0 SD obesity.

Results:  Current or previous overweight or obesity did not increase the risk of asthma, allergy, bronchial reactivity or atopic sensitization at 7.2 or 12.3 years of age. Previous and current obesity decreased the risk of atopic dermatitis, and current overweight and obesity decreased the risk of sensitization to outdoor allergens at 12.3 years of age.

Conclusion:  Previous or current overweight does not increase asthma or allergy risk but current obesity may decrease allergy risk at school age after bronchiolitis in infancy.
Validation of the Environmental Audit Tool in both purpose‐built and non‐purpose‐built dementia care settings
Authors: Smith Ronald , Fleming Richard , Chenoweth Lynn , Jeon Yun‐Hee , Stein‐Parbury Jane , Brodaty Henry
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To provide further validation of the Environmental Audit Tool (EAT) by describing data on scores from 56 facilities and comparing the scores of facilities with a purpose‐built dementia environment with those with non‐purpose‐built designs.

Methods:  Fifty‐six facilities were assessed with the EAT. EAT scores for 24 purpose‐built environments were compared with 32 non‐purpose‐built environments using a Wilcoxon rank‐sum test.

Results:  Descriptive data on EAT scores are presented across all facilities. Facilities scored well on safety/security, familiarity, highlighting useful stimuli and privacy. Purpose‐built unit scores were significantly higher than those for non‐purpose‐built environments for nine of 10 subscales of the EAT and the overall EAT score.

Conclusion:  The EAT can assess the quality of homelike environments in residential aged care facilities for people with dementia, differentiate between the quality of design in various types of facilities and provide an evidence basis for devising improvements.
Necrotizing enterocolitis in a 16‐day‐old, term neonate
Authors: Gill Davinder
Published: August 2011

Necrotizing enterocolitis in a term neonate is a rare presentation to the ED. Prompt diagnosis and management is critical because of its rarity and the reported mortality of 5–20%. We report a case of necrotizing enterocolitis in a term neonate who presented at 16 days of age with bloody stool.
Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza in Australia: Absenteeism and redeployment of emergency medicine and nursing staff
Authors: Considine Julie , Shaban Ramon Z , Patrick Jennifer , Holzhauser Kerri , Aitken Peter , Clark Michele , Fielding Elaine , FitzGerald Gerry
Published: August 2011

Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza on the Australian emergency nursing and medicine workforce, specifically absenteeism and deployment.

Methods: Data were collected using an online survey of 618 members of the three professional emergency medicine or emergency nursing colleges.

Results: Despite significant increases in emergency demand during the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza, 56.6% of emergency nursing and medicine staff reported absenteeism of at least 1 day and only 8.5% of staff were redeployed. Staff illness with influenza‐like illness was reported by 37% of respondents, and 87% of respondents who became ill were not tested for the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza. Of the respondents who became ill, 43% (n= 79) reported missing no days of work and only 8% of respondents (n= 14) reported being absent for more than 5 days. The mean number of days away from work was 3.73 (standard deviation = 3.63). Factors anecdotally associated with staff absenteeism (caregiver responsibilities, concern about personal illness, concern about exposing family members to illness, school closures, risk of quarantine, stress and increased workload) appeared to be of little or no relevance. Redeployment was reported by 8% of respondents and the majority of redeployment was for operational reasons.

Conclusion: Future research related to absenteeism, redeployment during actual pandemic events is urgently needed. Workforce data collection should be an integral part of organizational pandemic planning.
Discovery of two novel HLA‐B alleles, B*46:13:03 and B*15:189, in two Taiwanese volunteer bone marrow donors by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Yang K. L. , Lee S. K. , Lin C. C. , Jiang S. , Chiu H. M. , Lin S. , Chen Y. C. , Yang S. Y. , Jian Y. F. , Shyr M. H. , Lin C. L. , Lin P. Y.
Published: August 2011

We report here two novel HLA‐B alleles, B*46:13:03 and B*15:189, discovered in two Taiwanese volunteer bone marrow donors. The sequence of B*15:189 has a nucleotide sequence possibly derived from a recombination event between HLA‐B*39:01:01 and B*15:01:01:01, while the origin of the sequence B*46:13:03 was less obvious to postulate, considering the low frequency of B*46:13 in the general population and the silent mutations involved. Our report here adds further HLA polymorphism to the growing lists of HLA‐B*46 and HLA‐B*15 and provides an additional HLA information for donor search programme for patients undergoing transplant.
Contrasting Effects of Fire on Arboreal and Ground‐Dwelling Ant Communities of a Neotropical Savanna
Authors: Frizzo Tiago L. M. , Campos Ricardo I. , Vasconcelos Heraldo L.
Published: August 2011

Ants are a dominant group in tropical savannas and here we examined the responses of the arboreal and ground‐dwelling ant fauna to a fire in a Neotropical savanna (cerrado) reserve in Central Brazil. Ants were collected using pitfall traps and baits placed in trees and on the ground beneath each tree. Of the 36 trees marked along two transects, half (from each transect) were burned and half not. The same trees were sampled 1 wk before and again 3 and 12 mo after the fire. Rarefaction curves and ordination analyses using data from all trees from each side of each transect indicated that overall ant species richness and composition did not change after fire. Fire, however, reduced the mean number of ant species per tree, and increased the mean number of species on the ground. Fire increased the average abundance of specialist predators, Camponotini, and opportunistic species, and decreased that of arboreal specialists. Changes in the ground‐dwelling fauna were only detected 12 mo after the fire, while those in the arboreal fauna occurred earlier and were no longer apparent 12 mo after the fire. We suggest that these contrasting results represent mainly an indirect response of the ant communities to fire‐induced changes in vegetation. Given the temporary and small scale nature of the effects detected and the overall resilience of the ant fauna, our results indicate that a single fire in the cerrado vegetation does not greatly impact the structure of ant communities in the short term.
Decisions on Temporal Sampling Protocol Influence the Detection of Ecological Patterns
Authors: Banks‐Leite Cristina , Ewers Robert M. , Pimentel Rafael G. , Metzger Jean Paul
Published: August 2011

Within‐site variability in species detectability is a problem common to many biodiversity assessments and can strongly bias the results. Such variability can be caused by many factors, including simple counting inaccuracies, which can be solved by increasing sample size, or by temporal changes in species behavior, meaning that the way the temporal sampling protocol is designed is also very important. Here we use the example of mist‐netted tropical birds to determine how design decisions in the temporal sampling protocol can alter the data collected and how these changes might affect the detection of ecological patterns, such as the species‐area relationship (SAR). Using data from almost 3400 birds captured from 21,000 net‐hours at 31 sites in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, we found that the magnitude of ecological trends remained fairly stable, but the probability of detecting statistically significant ecological patterns varied depending on sampling effort, time of day and season in which sampling was conducted. For example, more species were detected in the wet season, but the SAR was strongest in the dry season. We found that the temporal distribution of sampling effort was more important than its total amount, discovering that similar ecological results could have been obtained with one‐third of the total effort, as long as each site had been equally sampled over 2 yr. We discuss that projects with the same sampling effort and spatial design, but with different temporal sampling protocol are likely to report different ecological patterns, which may ultimately lead to inappropriate conservation strategies.
A merger mystery: no extended radio emission in the merging cluster Abell 2146
Authors: Russell H. R. , van Weeren R. J. , Edge A. C. , McNamara B. R. , Sanders J. S. , Fabian A. C. , Baum S. A. , Canning R. E. A. , Donahue M. , O'Dea C. P.
Published: August 2011

We present a new 400 ks Chandra X-ray observation and a Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) radio observation at 325 MHz of the merging galaxy cluster Abell 2146. The Chandra observation reveals detailed structure associated with the major merger event including the Mach M= 2.1 ± 0.2 bow shock located ahead of the dense subcluster core and the first known example of an upstream shock (M= 1.6 ± 0.1). Surprisingly, the deep GMRT observation at 325 MHz does not detect any extended radio emission associated with either shock front. All other merging galaxy clusters with X-ray-detected shock fronts, including the Bullet cluster, Abell 520, Abell 754 and Abell 2744, and clusters with candidate shock fronts have detected radio relics or radio halo edges coincident with the shocks. We consider several possible factors which could affect the formation of radio relics, including the shock strength and the presence of a pre-existing electron population, but do not find a favourable explanation for this result. We calculate a 3σ upper limit of 13 mJy on extended radio emission, which is significantly below the radio power expected by the observed Pradio–LX correlation for merging systems. The lack of an extended radio halo in Abell 2146 maybe due to the low cluster mass relative to the majority of merging galaxy clusters with detected radio haloes.
The architecture of the hierarchical triple star KOI 928 from eclipse timing variations seen in Kepler photometry
Authors: Steffen J. H. , Quinn S. N. , Borucki W. J. , Brugamyer E. , Bryson S. T. , Buchhave L. A. , Cochran W. D. , Endl M. , Fabrycky D. C. , Ford E. B. , Holman M. J. , Jenkins J. , Koch D. , Latham D. W. , MacQueen P. , Mullally F. , Prša A. , Ragozzine D. , Rowe J. F. , Sanderfer D. T. , Seader S. E. , Short D. , Shporer A. , Thompson S. E. , Torres G. , Twicken J. D. , Welsh W. F. , Windmiller G.
Published: August 2011

We present a hierarchical triple star system (KIC 9140402) where a low-mass eclipsing binary orbits a more massive third star. The orbital period of the binary (4.988 29 d) is determined by the eclipse times seen in photometry from NASA's Kepler spacecraft. The periodically changing tidal field, due to the eccentric orbit of the binary about the tertiary, causes a change in the orbital period of the binary. The resulting eclipse timing variations provide insight into the dynamics and architecture of this system and allow the inference of the total mass of the binary (0.424 ± 0.017 M⊙) and the orbital parameters of the binary about the central star.
Anselmian Theism
Authors: Nagasawa Yujin
Published: August 2011

In this article, I discuss Anselmian theism, which is arguably the most widely accepted form of monotheism. First, I introduce the core theses of Anselmian theism and consider its historical and developmental origins. I contend that, despite its name, Anselmian theism might well be older than Anselm. I also claim, supporting my argument by reference to research in the cognitive science of religion, that, contrary to what many think, Anselmian theism might be a natural result of human cognitive development rather than a mere philosophical artefact. Second, in the course of explaining the merits of Anselmian theism, I argue that this doctrine seems to benefit from at least three virtues. Third, I discuss existing arguments against Anselmian theism and maintain that most of them can be classified into three types. Finally, I suggest a novel strategy on the basis of which it is possible to defend Anselmian theism from these arguments.
Antimicrobial usage in dogs and cats in first opinion veterinary practices in the UK
Authors: Mateus A. , Brodbelt D. C. , Barber N. , Stärk K. D. C.
Published: August 2011

Objectives: To provide baseline data on patterns of antimicrobial usage in dogs and cats through the analysis of data stored in electronic practice management systems.

Methods: Clinical data from 11 first opinion veterinary practices were extracted for the year 2007. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to assess the usage of antimicrobials.

Results: Widespread usage of systemic broad‐spectrum antimicrobials was observed. Antimicrobials most frequently used in both species were potentiated amoxicillin (44·4% and 46.1% in cats and dogs, respectively) and amoxicillin (14·3% and 20·7%). Cephalexin (13·4%) and cefovecin (15·0%) were also commonly used in dogs and cats, respectively. Systemic critically important antimicrobials in human medicine were widely used in dogs (60·5%) and cats (82·7%). Topical antimicrobials used in both species included fusidic acid (48·4% and 54·8%), framycetin (20·4% and 13·4%), polymyxin B (12·6% and 9·3%) and neomycin (6·5% and 6·6%).

Clinical Significance: Inappropriate usage of broad‐spectrum antimicrobials may contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance and loss of efficacy of antimicrobials in veterinary settings. Data recorded in practice management systems were demonstrated to be a practical source for monitoring antimicrobial usage in pets.
Evolutionary approaches to sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Nesse Randolph M. , Foxman Betsy
Published: August 2011

Evolutionary approaches are particularly valuable for studies of sexually transmitted diseases. Methods for tracing evolutionary phylogenies have powerful new applications that use genetic data to trace the history of pathogens across millions of years, within outbreaks lasting years, and even within individuals. Equally valuable are less widely appreciated evolutionary methods for analyzing how host–pathogen co‐evolution shapes extreme traits whose costs can be substantial. These and other applications of Darwinian medicine will improve understanding and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.
HIV‐1 evolution in relation to molecular epidemiology and antiretroviral resistance
Authors: Skar Helena , Hedskog Charlotte , Albert Jan
Published: August 2011

HIV/AIDS has become one of the most important infectious diseases with a cumulative number of almost 60 million infections worldwide. The prevalence and epidemiological patterns are unevenly distributed across the globe and also within countries. HIV is one of the fastest evolving organisms known. Several genetically distinct subtypes are present and new circulating recombinant forms are continuously emerging. This review discusses HIV‐1 evolution in relation to molecular epidemiology and antiretroviral resistance. Factors and concepts that influence global spread and within‐patient evolution of HIV‐1 are discussed as well as future perspectives on the use of phylodynamics in HIV epidemiology.
Prevalence, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Resistance of Aeromonas Strains from Various Retail Food Products in Mumbai, India
Authors: Nagar Vandan , Shashidhar Ravindranath , Bandekar Jayant R.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  A total of 154 food samples (chicken, fish, and ready‐to‐eat sprouts) from various retail outlets in Mumbai, India, were analyzed for the presence of Aeromonas spp. over a period of 2 y (January 2006 to March 2008). Twenty‐two Aeromonas isolates belonging to 7 different species were isolated from 18 (11.7%) food samples. The highest percentages of isolation were from chicken (28.6%) followed by fish (20%) and sprout (2.5%) samples. Aeromonas caviae, A. veronii bv. sobria, and A. salmonicida were the most frequently isolated species from sprouts, chicken, and fish samples, respectively. The genes encoding for putative virulence factors, cytotoxic enterotoxin (act), hemolysin (hly), aerolysin (aer), elastase (ahyB), and lipase (lip) were detected using polymerase chain reaction method in 59.1%, 40.9%, 22.7%, 54.5%, and 31.8% of the strains, respectively. The isolated Aeromonas strains were found to be positive for virulence factors, that is, amylase, DNase, gelatinase, protease, and lipase production. More than 60% isolates were also positive for β‐hemolytic activity. All these food isolates were found to be resistant to ampicillin and bacitracin, and sensitive to gentamicin, 3rd‐generation cephalosporins (ceftazidime, cephotaxime, ceftriaxone), and chloramphenicol. Seventeen (77.2%) isolates harbored single and/or multiple plasmids (approximately 5 to >16 kb). The XbaI digestion patterns of chromosomal DNA of these isolates, using pulsed field gel electrophoresis, showed high genetic diversity among these isolates. Our results demonstrate the presence of various Aeromonas spp. with virulence potential and antimicrobial resistance in different food products marketed in Mumbai, India. The potential health risks posed by consumption of these raw or undercooked food products should not be underestimated.
Blackberry Seed Extracts and Isolated Polyphenolic Compounds Showing Protective Effect on Human Lymphocytes DNA
Authors: Gođevac Dejan , Tešević Vele , Vajs Vlatka , Milosavljević Slobodan , Stanković Miroslava
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The tentative identification of seed extracts from 3 cultivars of blackberry (blackberry seed extracts [BSEs]) constituents was performed by LC/UV/MS technique. The identified compounds belonged to ellagitannins, galic acid derivatives, and ellagic acid derivatives. Two ellagitannins, Lambertianin C and Sanguiniin H‐6, and an ellagic acid derivative, 4‐α‐L‐arabinofuranosylellagic acid, were isolated using semipreparative High‐performance liquid chromatography. The structure elucidations were based on high resolution‐mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance studies. The BSEs and 3 isolated pure compounds were tested for in vitro protective effect on chromosome aberrations in peripheral human lymphocytes using cytochalasin‐B blocked micronucleus (MN) assay. The frequency of MN was scored in binucleated cells, and nuclear proliferation index was calculated. Among the tested extracts, the seeds of cv. Thornfree at concentration of 1 μg/mL exhibit the most prominent effect decreasing the frequency of MN by 62.4%, when compared with the controls cell cultures. Antioxidant potential of pure ellagitannins cannot explain the strong effect of BSEs. The assumption was that better antioxidant effect of BSEs result from synergistic effects of individual compounds contained in the extracts and/or some minor components possessed strong activity.

Practical Application:  Our results provide evidence of protective effects of BSEs and isolated pure compounds on cytogenetic damages in human lymphocytes. Thus, BSEs could exert beneficial effects in quite a few diseases, because many of the biological actions have been attributed to their antioxidant properties.
Comprehensive Analysis of Umami Compounds by Ion‐Pair Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Coulier Leon , Bas Richard , Hekman Maarten , van der Werff Bianca J. C. , Burgering Maurits , Thissen Uwe
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  An ion‐pair LC‐ESI‐MS method was developed capable of analyzing various reported umami or umami‐enhancing compounds, including glutamic acid and 5′‐ribonucleotides. The method was validated using tomato and potato samples and showed overall good analytical performance with respect to selectivity, detection limit, linearity, and repeatability. The method was applied to various tomato samples resulting in concentrations of glutamic acid and 5′‐ribonucleotides that were in good comparison with literature. The methodology might also be used for the discovery of new umami (enhancing) compounds in an untargeted mode. This was to a certain extent demonstrated for tomato samples by correlating all peaks observed with the ion‐pair liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) method to sensory properties using multivariate statistics.

Practical Application:  This study describes the development and application of a LC‐MS method, which can be used to quantify several known umami (enhancing) compounds in various foods. Furthermore, the method might be useful for the discovery of new umami (enhancing) compounds.
Peripheral ivory osteoma of the mandible in a young female patient
Authors: Mubeen Khan , Vijayalakshmi Konaajji Ramachandra , Abhishek Pati Ranjan
Published: August 2011

Osteoma is an uncommon benign neoplasm composed of mature bone. Growth is slow and continuous and located principally in the cranio‐maxillo‐facial region, and can be central (endosteal) or peripheral (periosteal). Osteomas can be solitary or multiple masses, and they are generally asymptomatic. We discuss a case of ivory osteoma of the mandible in a 35‐year‐old female, which was present at the left body of the mandible since she was 10 years old, and was gradually increasing in size. The osteoma was removed surgically through an intraoral approach, and no recurrence was observed.
Development of a New Method for Pulse Push/Pull Hemodialysis
Authors: Lee Kyungsoo , Wook Lee Dong , Goo Min Byoung , Kap Lee Kyoung , Min Yun Young
Published: August 2011

Although hemodiafiltration is presumed to be a gold standard for higher convective therapy for kidney failure patients, the repetition of forward and backward filtration during hemodialysis increases the total filtration volume and convective clearance. Hence, the authors describe a new method of enhancing forward filtration and backfiltration. The devised method, named pulse push/pull hemodialysis (PPPHD), is based on the utilization of dual pulsation in a dialysate stream; namely, pulsatile devices in the dialysate stream both upstream (a dialysate pump) and downstream (an effluent pump) of the dialyzer. Fluid management accuracy of the unit was assessed using fresh bovine blood, and its hemodialytic performance was investigated in a canine renal failure model. Forward filtration rates during PPPHD were maintained at the levels of dialysate flow rates. Fluid balancing error was less than ±0.84% of total dialysate volume, when 97.4 ± 1.66L of pure dialysate was circulated for 4 hs. The animal remained stable without any complication. Urea and creatinine reductions were 56.9 ± 1.6 and 52.8 ± 2.3%, respectively, and albumin levels remained uniform throughout treatment. The devised PPPHD unit offers a simple, but efficient strategy of combined simultaneous diffusive and convective solute transport for ESRD patients, without the need for external replacement infusion.
Palliative care in Africa since 2005: good progress, but much further to go
Authors: Grant Liz , Downing Julia , Namukwaya Elizabeth , Leng Mhoira , Murray Scott A
Published: August 2011

There has been rapid progress in palliative care in Africa since the World Health Assembly in 2005 which identified palliative care as an urgent humanitarian need. Palliative care is now recognised as a basic human right, and momentum has gathered to translate this into action. From being significantly present in only five countries in 2004, palliative care is now delivered in nearly 50% of African countries. Even so, still less than 5% of people in need currently receive it, and with an estimated 300% increase in the need for palliative care for people with non-communicable diseases over the next 20 years, and with those living with HIV needing more prolonged support, the demand for palliative care will continue to outpace supply. African countries adopting a public health approach and networking together through palliative care associations are beginning to embed and integrate palliative care into health systems and communities. Current challenges are to increase coverage while maintaining quality, to develop dynamic and flexible responses to the changing illness patterns in Africa, and to counter false beliefs. Resourcefulness and harnessing new technologies such as mobile phones while respecting cultural traditions, may be the way forward. The authors review recent progress in policy, service provision and training initiatives in Africa, illustrate the current situation at grass roots level from a recent evaluation of programmes in Kenya, Malawi and Uganda, analyse the current urgent challenges and suggest some ways ahead.
AIRE1A might be involved in cyclin B2 degradation in testicular lysates
Authors: Brahmaraju M. , Bhagya K.P. , Titus Shiny , Sebastian Arun , Devi A.N. , Laloraya Malini , Kumar Pradeep G.
Published: August 2011

The autoimmune regulator gene Aire shows predominant expression in thymus and other immunologically relevant tissues, and is assigned the major function of programming autoreactive T-cell deletion. However, the expression of this gene in tissues outside the immune system raises a question about its possible function beyond the T-cell deletion dogma. We detected Aire in mouse testis, and the expression of AIRE protein was remarkably high in postmeiotic germ cells. Sequencing results indicate that testis expressed Aire variant 1a. AIRE could be detected in spermatozoa, with heavy localization on the principal acrosomal domains. Mouse oocytes stained negatively for AIRE before fertilization, but stained positively for AIRE 30 min after fertilization. In the zygote, the levels of AIRE correlated negatively with cyclin B2 levels. Goat testicular lysates spiked with recombinant human AIRE exhibited augmented cyclin B2 degradation in the presence of protease inhibitors, which was inhibited by MG-132, indicating the operation of proteasomal pathways. Thus, this study identifies a correlation between the presence of AIRE and proteasomal breakdown of cyclin B2, which leads us to speculate that cyclin B2 could be a target of AIRE's E3-ubiquitin ligase activity.
The mitotic phosphorylation of p54nrbmodulates its RNA binding activity
Authors: Bruelle Céline , Bédard Mikaël , Blier Stéphanie , Gauthier Martin , Traish Abdulmaged M. , Vincent Michel
Published: August 2011

The RNA-binding protein p54nrbis involved in many nuclear processes including transcription, RNA processing, and retention of hyperedited RNAs. In interphase cells, p54nrblocalizes to the nucleoplasm and concentrates with protein partners in the paraspeckles via an interaction with the non-coding RNA Neat1. During mitosis, p54nrbbecomes multiphosphorylated and the effects of this modification are not known. In the present study, we show that p54nrbphosphorylation does not affect the interactions with its protein partners but rather diminishes its general RNA-binding ability. Biochemical assays indicate that in vitro phosphorylation of a GST-p54nrbconstruct by CDK1 abolishes the interaction with 5′ splice site RNA sequence. Site-directed mutagenesis shows that the threonine 15 residue, located N-terminal to the RRM tandem domains of p54nrb, is involved in this inhibition. In vivo analysis reveals that Neat1 ncRNA co-immunoprecipitates with p54nrbin either interphase or mitotic cells, suggesting that p54nrb–Neat1 interaction is not modulated by phosphorylation. Accordingly, in vitro phosphorylated GST-p54nrbstill interacts with PIR-1 RNA, a G-rich Neat1 sequence known to interact with p54nrb. In vitro RNA binding assays show that CDK1-phosphorylation of a GST-p54nrbconstruct abolishes its interaction with homoribopolymers poly(A), poly(C), and poly(U) but not with poly(G). These data suggest that p54nrbinteraction with RNA could be selectively modulated by phosphorylation during mitosis.
Effects of fluoride on expression of bone-specific genes in developing Xenopus laevis larvae
Authors: Nair Manoj , Belak Zachery R. , Ovsenek Nick
Published: August 2011

The effect of fluoride treatment on the expression of a panel of osteogenic and stress markers in Stage 55 premetamorphic Xenopus larvae was examined at the precise onset of replacement of the larval cartilaginous skeleton with bone. A dosing regimen of 10 mmol/L sodium fluoride over 8 days was followed, during which time larvae developed to Stage 58, when the process of progressive ossification takes place in the vertebral column and membranous bones of the skull, pelvic, and pectoral girdles and portions of the appendicular skeleton. Markers of bone formation, including COL1A1, the transcription factors Osterix, RUNX2-II, and matrix metalloproteinases MMP1 and MMP13, decreased relative to age-matched controls, though the osteoblast marker BGLAP was not significantly altered. Expression of the pro-osteoclastogenic factor RANKL decreased, whereas expression of the anti-osteoclastogenic factor osteoprotegerin increased. Altered expression of oxidative stress markers, with the exception of superoxide dismutase, was generally not observed. These data demonstrate the potent effects of fluoride on the expression of factors required for osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, as well as on the expression of osteoblast products, including MMP1 and collagen. Importantly, these effects were observed in the absence of significant changes in the expression of oxidative stress markers. The results provide the first molecular insights into the mechanisms underlying skeletal fluorosis in a whole organism developmental model.
Roles of guanylyl cyclase-A signaling in the cardiovascular system
Authors: Saito Yoshihiko , Kishimoto Ichiro , Nakao Kazuwa
Published: August 2011

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) are cardiac hormones synthesized in and secreted from the heart. ANP and BNP bind the common receptor guanylyl cyclase-A (GC-A) and possess biological actions. Based on their diuretic, natriuretic, and vasodilating activities, they are now widely used as therapeutic agents for heart failure. Roles of endogenous ANP and BNP have been investigated using mice lacking the gene encoding GC-A. Here we describe the recent understanding of roles of GC-A in the cardiovascular system.
Atrial natriuretic peptides in heart failure: pathophysiological significance, diagnostic and prognostic value
Authors: Ghosh Nina , Haddad Haissam
Published: August 2011

Neurohormonal activation in patients with heart failure is dominated by the deleterious long-term effects of activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. The natriuretic peptides, including brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), are also upregulated in heart failure, and partially counteract these deleterious effects by promoting vasodilation, natriuresis, and diuresis. Although BNP has been established as an important biomarker in the diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure, growing evidence suggests that measurement of plasma ANP, specifically its metabolite mid-regional pro-ANP, has similar diagnostic and prognostic value. Furthermore, its measurement may provide incremental diagnostic value when BNP levels fall into “grey zone” levels and may be a more potent prognostic marker of mortality.
Designer natriuretic peptides: a vision for the future of heart failure therapeutics
Authors: Zakeri Rosita , Burnett John C.
Published: August 2011

Despite recent pharmacological advances in heart failure therapy, mortality from acute decompensated heart failure remains high. Conventional therapies are often insufficient to address the complex interplay between structural, functional, neurohumoral, and renal mechanisms involved in the heart failure syndrome. The natriuretic peptide system, however, offers a unique pleiotropic strategy which could bridge this gap in heart failure therapy. Exogenous administration of native A-type and B-type natriuretic peptides has been met with both success and limitations, and despite the limitations, remains a worthwhile endeavor. Alternatively, synthetic modification to create “designer” chimeric peptides holds the possibility to extend both the application and therapeutic benefits possible with a natriuretic peptide based approach. Herein we describe the development of natriuretic peptide based heart failure therapies, including the design, rationale, and preliminary studies of the novel chimeric peptides CD-NP and CU-NP.