bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trace metal enrichment in sugarcane soils due to the long-term application of fertilisers, North Queensland, Australia: geochemical and Pb, Sr, and U isotopic compositions
Authors: Lottermoser Bernd G.
Published: May 2009

This study aimed to determine whether >80 years of fertiliser application has led to recognisable changes in the trace metal (Cd, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sr, Th, U, Zn) chemistry of topsoils (0–0.10 m) from sugarcane land, northern Queensland, Australia. The metal concentrations of commercial nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) fertilisers currently used in northern Queensland were generally lower than those of phosphate fertilisers and fertiliser blends. Composite topsoil samples (0–0.10 m depth) taken from canelands had higher median Cd, Mo, Pb, Sr, Th, U, and Zn concentrations than topsoils from forested areas of the catchment. Niobium, Ta, and Ti were confirmed as refractory immobile elements and used as reference elements for the evaluation of trace metal enrichments. Bivariate plots of trace metal/immobile element ratios verified that Cd, Mo, Pb, Sr, Th, U, and Zn are enriched in sugarcane soils compared with background forest soils. Isotopic ratios for Pb, Sr, and U highlight that fertilisers, cane soils, and forest soils have isotopically distinct compositions. Phosphate fertilisers currently used in the agricultural industry possess the most radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr, 234U/238U, 207Pb/206Pb, and 208Pb/206Pb ratios. Background forest soils have the highest 87Sr/86Sr, 207Pb/206Pb, and 208Pb/206Pb and lowest 234U/238U ratios. By contrast, cane soils exhibit 207Pb/206Pb and 208Pb/206Pb ratios that appear on a mixing line between the isotopically distinct background soils and phosphate fertilisers. Also, cane soils possess 234U/238U ratios similar to phosphate fertilisers. Thus, the application of phosphate fertilisers to canelands has resulted in higher Cd, Mo, Pb, Sr, Th, U, and Zn concentrations and more radiogenic Pb, Sr, and U isotope ratios in cane soils. Trace metal ratios and the Pb, Sr, and U isotopic composition of topsoils and fertilisers are useful tools to recognise fertiliser-derived trace metals in agricultural landscapes.
Distribution and causes of intricate saline - sodic soil patterns in an upland South Australian hillslope
Authors: Thomas M. , Fitzpatrick R. W. , Heinson G. S.
Published: May 2009

We describe a soil–landscape investigation conducted in a South Australian upland hillslope (128 ha) to understand the distribution and causes of saline–sodic soil patterns using convenient, ground-based geophysical surveys of the hillslope. These surveys included: (i) EM31 for deep (~6 m) apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) patterns, (ii) EM38 for shallow (>1.5 m) ECa patterns, and (iii) Bartington MS2-D loop sensor for surface volume magnetic susceptibility (κ) patterns. From these surveys we inferred hillslope distributions of: (i) deep (~6 m) concentrations of salinity associated with deep groundwater systems and deposits of magnetic gravels (dominated by maghemite and hematite) (EM31 sensor); (ii) shallow (<1.5 m) soil salinity (EM38 sensor); and (iii) preservation of pedogenic magnetic materials (e.g. maghemite and hematite) (MS2-D loop sensor). We also describe terrain analysis to locate near-surface hydropedological patterns using topographic wetness index. When combined in 3D geographic information system, strong visual matches were identified between patterns in: (i) geophysical surveys, (ii) terrain, and (iii) soil survey data, thus allowing integrated interpretations of soil–landscape pedogenic processes to be made on a whole-of-landscape basis. Such mechanistic interpretations of soil–landscape processes reveal and map intricate saline and sodic soil–regolith patterns and groundwater and fresh surface water flow paths that were not revealed during a previous traditional soil survey.
Genetic characterisation and symbiotic proprieties of native sinorhizobia trapped by Medicago sativa on Tunisian soils
Authors: Saidi S. , Zribi K. , Badri Y. , Aouani M. E.
Published: May 2009

Medicago sativa, a perennial species of the genus Medicago, is particularly cultivated in the Tunisian oases. Three M. sativa cultivated varieties (Magali A, Gabès2355, ABT805) and 1 genotype from a local provenance (Widhref) were cultivated on 4 Tunisian soil samples exhibiting contrasting pedo-climatic characteristics. Results showed that nodulation and aerial growth were significantly dependent on both variety and soil factors. Magali A showed the highest number of nodules, and varieties grown in Amra and Mateur soils produced the largest nodulation and aerial growth. A collection of 250 rhizobial isolates was obtained from the 4 soils by trapping them on M. sativa. Molecular characterisation by PCR/RFLP of 16S genes showed that almost all isolates (158 of 160 isolates) belong to Sinorhizobium meliloti. The subsequent analysis of isolates from 2 contrasting soils (Mateur, in the north of Tunisia, and Rgim Maatoug, in the south) demonstrated that strains harbour polymorphism at symbiotic genes, with 4 nodC genotypes, 2 nifDK genotypes and 2 nodA genotypes. The 2 soils contained different symbiont genotypes. The distribution of various profiles types was different according to geographic sites. The soils of Mateur and Rgim Maatoug do not contain the same genotypes. Eleven representative strains from this collection were evaluated for their nodulation and nitrogen fixation capacities. Results showed a high degree of variability among strains for nodulation and aerial growth parameters, and only 2 strains, GII/M1 and LII/M1, seem to be effective with all 4 varieties of M. sativa tested. Strains isolated from the soil of northern Tunisia were more efficient and produced fewer nodules than those trapped on southern soil.
Control of lead solubility in soil contaminated with lead shot: effect of soil moisture and temperature
Authors: McLaren R. G. , Rooney C. P. , Condron L. M.
Published: May 2009

An incubation experiment was carried out to assess the rate of oxidation of lead (Pb) shot and subsequent transfer of Pb to the soil under different soil moisture and temperature regimes. Lead was readily released from Pb shot into the soil environment due to rapid corrosion of the Pb shot; however, the rate of Pb shot dissolution was slower at 70% than at 100% field moisture capacity. The corrosion and development of crust material on Pb shot, and corresponding increases in soil solution Pb and Pb associated with the soil solid phase, were also slower at 10°C than 25 or 30°C. Soil moisture and temperature also influenced the speciation of soil solution Pb as modelled using WHAM 6, mainly through the effects of moisture and temperature on soil pH, total soluble Pb, and dissolved organic C. The rate of approach to equilibrium of the Pb shot–soil–soil solution system will be much slower where soil moisture and temperature limit Pb shot corrosion. Calculated free ion Pb2+ concentrations suggest that after 6 months, almost all samples contaminated with Pb shot exceeded soil critical limits for Pb toxicity.
The disruption of Sox21-mediated hair shaft cuticle differentiation causes cyclic alopecia in mice
Authors: Kiso Makoto , Tanaka Shigekazu , Saba Rie , Matsuda Satoru , Shimizu Atsushi , Ohyama Manabu , Okano Hirotaka James , Shiroishi Toshihiko , Okano Hideyuki , Saga Yumiko
Published: May 2009

Hair is maintained through a cyclic process that includes periodic regeneration of hair follicles in a stem cell-dependent manner. Little is known, however, about the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the layered differentiation of the hair follicle. We have established a mutant mouse with a cyclic alopecia phenotype resulting from the targeted disruption of
Sox21
, a gene that encodes a HMG-box protein. These mice exhibit progressive hair loss after morphogenesis of the first hair follicle and become completely nude in appearance, but then show hair regrowth. Sox21 is expressed in the cuticle layer and the progenitor cells of the hair shaft in both mouse and human. The lack of this gene results in a loss of the interlocking structures required for anchoring the hair shaft in the hair follicle. Furthermore, the expression of genes encoding the keratins and keratin binding proteins in the hair shaft cuticle are also specifically down-regulated in the Sox21-null mouse. These results indicate that Sox21 is a master regulator of hair shaft cuticle differentiation and shed light on the possible causes of human hair disorders.
A critical role for phosphatase haplodeficiency in the selective suppression of deletion 5q MDS by lenalidomide
Authors: Wei Sheng , Chen Xianghong , Rocha Kathy , Epling-Burnette P. K. , Djeu Julie Y. , Liu Qing , Byrd John , Sokol Lubomir , Lawrence Nick , Pireddu Roberta , Dewald Gordon , Williams Ann , Maciejewski Jaroslaw , List Alan
Published: May 2009

Lenalidomide is the first karyotype-selective therapeutic approved for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) owing to high rates of erythroid and cytogenetic response in patients with chromosome 5q deletion [del(5q)]. Although haploinsufficiency for theRPS14gene and others encoded within the common deleted region (CDR) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the del(5q) phenotype, the molecular basis of the karyotype specificity of lenalidomide remains unexplained. We focused our analysis on possible haplodeficient enzymatic targets encoded within the CDR that play key roles in cell-cycle regulation. We show that the dual specificity phosphatases, Cdc25C and PP2Acα, which are coregulators of the G2-M checkpoint, are inhibited by lenalidomide. Gene expression was lower in MDS and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) specimens with del(5q) compared with those with alternate karyotypes. Lenalidomide inhibited phosphatase activity either directly (Cdc25C) or indirectly (PP2A) with corresponding retention of inhibitory phospho-tyrosine residues. Treatment of del(5q) AML cells with lenalidomide induced G2arrest and apoptosis, whereas there was no effect in nondel(5q) AML cells. Small interfering RNA (shRNA) suppression ofCdc25CandPP2Acα gene expression recapitulated del(5q) susceptibility to lenalidomide with induction of G2arrest and apoptosis in both U937 and primary nondel(5q) MDS cells. These data establish a role for allelic haplodeficiency of the lenalidomide inhibitable Cdc25C and PP2Acα phosphatases in the selective drug sensitivity of del(5q) MDS.
Conformational changes in a pore-forming region underlie voltage-dependent “loop gating” of an unapposed connexin hemichannel
Authors: Tang Qingxiu , Dowd Terry L. , Verselis Vytas K. , Bargiello Thaddeus A.
Published: May 2009

The structure of the pore is critical to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying selective permeation and voltage-dependent gating of channels formed by the connexin gene family. Here, we describe a portion of the pore structure of unapposed hemichannels formed by a Cx32 chimera, Cx32*Cx43E1, in which the first extracellular loop (E1) of Cx32 is replaced with the E1 of Cx43. Cysteine substitutions of two residues, V38 and G45, located in the vicinity of the border of the first transmembrane (TM) domain (TM1) and E1 are shown to react with the thiol modification reagent, MTSEA–biotin-X, when the channel resides in the open state. Cysteine substitutions of flanking residues A40 and A43 do not react with MTSEA–biotin-X when the channel resides in the open state, but they react with dibromobimane when the unapposed hemichannels are closed by the voltage-dependent “loop-gating” mechanism. Cysteine substitutions of residues V37 and A39 do not appear to be modified in either state. Furthermore, we demonstrate that A43C channels form a high affinity Cd2+ site that locks the channel in the loop-gated closed state. Biochemical assays demonstrate that A43C can also form disulfide bonds when oocytes are cultured under conditions that favor channel closure. A40C channels are also sensitive to micromolar Cd2+ concentrations when closed by loop gating, but with substantially lower affinity than A43C. We propose that the voltage-dependent loop-gating mechanism for Cx32*Cx43E1 unapposed hemichannels involves a conformational change in the TM1/E1 region that involves a rotation of TM1 and an inward tilt of either each of the six connexin subunits or TM1 domains.
Continuous central haemodynamic measurements during the six‐minute walk test and daily life in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Braunschweig Frieder , Linde Cecilia , Adamson Philip B. , Magalski Anthony , Erdmann Erland , Kjellstrom Barbro , Bennett Tom
Published: May 2009

Aims

To compare haemodynamic responses during the 6‐min walk test (6MWT) and daily living activities in heart failure (HF) patients.

Methods and results

Eighteen HF patients received an implantable haemodynamic monitor, which continuously measured heart rate (HR), estimated pulmonary artery diastolic pressure (ePAD), and several right ventricular (RV) pressure parameters. During the 6MWT, haemodynamics were assessed at rest and peak exercise. Ambulatory values were measured as the daily minimum, maximum, and median, averaged over the 14‐day period surrounding each 6MWT. During the 6MWT, HR increased from 71 ± 17 to 101 ± 20 b.p.m. and ePAD from 20 ± 5 to 34 ± 8 mmHg. Daily minimum values were significantly lower and daily maximum values higher compared with rest and peak exercise. Patients with a walked distance above the median (402 m) had lower resting HR (64 ± 10 vs. 77 ± 20, P = 0.001) and ePAD (18 ± 4 vs. 21 ± 7, P = 0.022) compared to patients with walked distances below the median; values at peak exercise were similar. This pattern was also observed during the ambulatory periods.

Conclusion

Ranges of HR and RV pressures are significantly larger during daily living activities compared with 6MWT in HF patients. Haemodynamic characteristics of patients with greater exercise capacity include lower resting HR and RV pressures and are similar during the 6MWT and daily life.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in heart failure with normal left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Bitter Thomas , Faber Lothar , Hering Detlef , Langer Christoph , Horstkotte Dieter , Oldenburg Olaf
Published: May 2009

Aims

In patients with systolic heart failure (SHF) a high prevalence of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) has been documented. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and type of SDB in patients with heart failure with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (HFNEF).

Methods and results

Two hundred and forty‐four consecutive patients (87 women, aged 65.3 ± 1.4 years) with HFNEF underwent capillary blood gas analysis, measurement of NT‐proBNP concentrations, echocardiography, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX), cardiorespiratory polygraphy, and simultaneous right and left heart catheterization. Sleep‐disordered breathing was defined as an apnoea–hypopnoea‐index (AHI) ≥5/h. Sleep‐disordered breathing was documented in 69.3% of all patients, 97 patients (39.8%) presented with OSA and 72 patients (29.5%) with CSA. With an increasing impairment of diastolic function the proportion of SDB, and CSA in particular, increased. Patients with SDB performed worse on CPX and six‐minute walk test. Partial pressure of CO2 was lower in CSA, whereas AHI, left atrial diameter, NT‐proBNP, LVEDP, PAP, and PCWP were higher.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of SDB in HFNEF. In parallel to SHF, CSA patients in particular are characterized by a more impaired cardiopulmonary function. Whether SDB is of prognostic relevance in HFNEF needs to be determined.
Clinical trials update from the American College of Cardiology 2009: ADMIRE‐HF, PRIMA, STICH, REVERSE, IRIS, partial ventricular support, FIX‐HF‐5, vagal stimulation, REVIVAL‐3, pre‐RELAX‐AHF, ACTIVE‐A, HF‐ACTION, JUPITER, AURORA, and OMEGA
Authors: Cleland John G.F. , Coletta Alison P. , Clark Andrew L. , Cullington Damien
Published: May 2009

This article provides information and a commentary on trials relevant to the pathophysiology, prevention and treatment of heart failure presented at the American College of Cardiology meeting in 2009. Unpublished reports should be considered as preliminary, since analyses may change in the final publication. 123I‐mIBG myocardial scintigraphy was a good predictor of mortality in patients with heart failure in ADMIRE‐HF. In PRIMA, use of individualized target NT‐proBNP levels failed to improve outcomes compared with usual care in patients hospitalized with symptomatic heart failure. In the STICH trial, additional ventricular reconstruction surgery failed to improve outcomes in patients with ischaemic heart failure undergoing CABG. Cardiac resynchronization therapy may modify disease progression in patients with mild heart failure, according to data from REVERSE. Implantation of a defibrillator early after MI in high‐risk patients in the IRIS study failed to improve outcomes compared with usual care. Cardiac contractility modulation showed some beneficial effects on symptoms and exercise capacity in the unblinded FIX‐HF‐5 study. Data from pre‐RELAX‐AHF show that relaxin may have potential as a treatment for acute heart failure. HF‐ACTION showed that patients who complied with an exercise training regime achieved a better outcome, although this may be confounded by the ability of patients with a good prognosis to exercise for longer.
Remorin, a Solanaceae Protein Resident in Membrane Rafts and Plasmodesmata, ImpairsPotato virus XMovement
Authors: Raffaele Sylvain , Bayer Emmanuelle , Lafarge David , Cluzet Stéphanie , German Retana Sylvie , Boubekeur Tamy , Leborgne-Castel Nathalie , Carde Jean-Pierre , Lherminier Jeannine , Noirot Elodie , Satiat-Jeunemaître Béatrice , Laroche-Traineau Jeanny , Moreau Patrick , Ott Thomas , Maule Andrew J. , Reymond Philippe , Simon-Plas Françoise , Farmer Edward E. , Bessoule Jean-Jacques , Mongrand Sébastien
Published: May 2009

Remorins (REMs) are proteins of unknown function specific to vascular plants. We have used imaging and biochemical approaches and in situ labeling to demonstrate that REM clusters at plasmodesmata and in ∼70-nm membrane domains, similar to lipid rafts, in the cytosolic leaflet of the plasma membrane. From a manipulation of REM levels in transgenic tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants, we show that Potato virus X (PVX) movement is inversely related to REM accumulation. We show that REM can interact physically with the movement protein TRIPLE GENE BLOCK PROTEIN1 from PVX. Based on the localization of REM and its impact on virus macromolecular trafficking, we discuss the potential for lipid rafts to act as functional components in plasmodesmata and the plasma membrane.
Ovine acyl CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1– molecular characterization, polymorphisms and association with milk traits
Authors: Scatà M. C. , Napolitano F. , Casu S. , Carta A. , De Matteis G. , Signorelli F. , Annicchiarico G. , Catillo G. , Moioli B.
Published: May 2009

The objective of this work was to characterize the complete coding region of the ovine acylCoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) gene of three Italian sheep breeds: Sarda, Altamurana and Gentile di Puglia. Characterization was accomplished by direct sequencing of 8676 bp of the relevant DNA, including introns and partial 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs). We detected five novel SNPs; one SNP (g.5553C>T) is located in intron 2, has similar frequencies in the three breeds and showed a negative association with milk fat content. More interesting is an SNP in the 5′ UTR (g.127C>A), the occurrence of which is rare in the higher milk‐fat breeds (Altamurana and Gentile di Puglia); it is located in the core sequence of Sp1, a putative binding site of transcription factors. This SNP showed a significant negative association with milk fat content in the Sarda sheep. Because DGAT1 plays a fundamental role in triacylglycerol synthesis, the novel detected SNP in the 5′ UTR of the DGAT1 gene might explain, at least partially, the variation of fat content in the milk of Sarda sheep.
Association analyses of a SNP in the promoter of IGF1 with fat deposition and carcass merit traits in hybrid, Angus and Charolais beef cattle
Authors: Islam K. K. , Vinsky M. , Crews R. E. , Okine E. , Moore S. S. , Crews D. H. , Li C.
Published: May 2009

A SNP in the promoter region of insulin like growth factor‐1 (IGF1) (c.−512C>T) was analysed for associations with 10 fat deposition and carcass merit traits in hybrid (n = 455), Angus (n = 204) and Charolais (n = 186) beef cattle populations. Significant associations of the SNP were found for ultrasound backfat thickness (P = 0.030), carcass average backfat (P = 0.015) and carcass lean meat yield (LMY) (P = 0.023) in the Angus beef population, with the ‘CC’ genotype showing higher fat depth and lower LMY than the ‘TT’ genotype. Analyses of transcription factor binding sites based on transcription element search system prediction revealed that the ‘C’ allele introduces a binding site for nuclear factor I, which has an adipose tissue‐specific regulatory role and thus may contribute to the SNP effect on fat deposition in the population of pure Angus cattle, a breed with greater fat depth than the hybrid and Charolais breeds.
Fine mapping of the FecL locus influencing prolificacy in Lacaune sheep
Authors: Drouilhet L. , Lecerf F. , Bodin L. , Fabre S. , Mulsant P.
Published: May 2009

In the Lacaune sheep population, two major loci influencing ovulation rate are segregating: FecX and FecL. The FecXL mutation is a non‐conservative substitution (p.Cys53Tyr) in BMP15 that prevents the processing of the protein. Using a statistical approach, FecL has been shown to be an autosomal major gene. A full genome scan localized the FecL locus on sheep chromosome 11. Fine mapping reduced the interval containing FecL to markers BM17132 and FAM117A, corresponding to a synteny block of 1.1 megabases on human chromosome 17, which encompasses 20 genes. The expression of 16 genes from this interval was observed in tissues of the reproductive axis, but expression was not affected in homozygous FecLL females. In this interval, a unique haplotype was associated with the FecLL mutation. This particular haplotype could be predicted by the DLX3:c.*803A>G SNP in the 3′ UTR sequence of the DLX3 gene. This SNP provided accurate classification of animals (99.5%) as carriers or non‐carriers of the mutation and therefore maybe useful in marker assisted selection. A synergistic action of FecLL and FecXL mutations on both ovulation rate and litter size was demonstrated. Until now, all the Fec genes identified in sheep belong to the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) system. Based on the human orthologous region, none of the 20 genes in the FecL region corresponds to known molecules in the BMP system. The identification of the FecLL mutation could lead to the discovery of a new pathway involved in the regulation of ovulation rate.
Influence of transdermal rotigotine on ovulation suppression by a combined oral contraceptive
Authors: Braun Marina , Elshoff Jan‐Peer , Andreas Jens‐Otto , Müller Louise Ischen , Horstmann Rolf
Published: May 2009

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• The non‐ergolinic dopamine agonist rotigotine was developed for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome as a silicone‐based matrix‐type transdermal system.

• Dopamine agonists have been recommended as initial treatment in young patients with restless legs syndrome which has a higher prevalence in females. It is therefore likely that the rotigotine transdermal patch will be administered to young women taking oral contraceptives.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• Concomitant administration of 3 mg (24 h)−1 transdermal rotigotine has no impact on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of a combined oral contraceptive containing 0.03 mg ethinyloestradiol and 0.15 mg levonorgestrel.

• The study results suggest that application of the transdermal rotigotine patch has no influence on contraceptive efficacy.

AIMS

To assess the influence of the transdermally applied dopamine agonist rotigotine on ovulation suppression by a combined oral contraceptive (0.03 mg ethinyloestradiol and 0.15 mg levonorgestrel) in a randomized, double‐blind crossover study in 40 healthy females.

METHODS

Treatment A consisted of the combined oral contraceptive for 28 days plus rotigotine for the first 13 days (2 mg (24 h)−1 on days 1–3, 3 mg (24 h)−1 maintenance dose thereafter). During treatment B, subjects received matching placebo patches instead of rotigotine. Pharmacodynamic parameters (progesterone, oestradiol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone serum concentrations), pharmacokinetic parameters for ethinyloestradiol/levonorgestrel and rotigotine, and safety and tolerability of the treatment were assessed.

RESULTS

Progesterone serum concentrations remained below 2 ng ml−1 in all subjects during the luteal phase. Median serum concentrations of all other pharmacodynamic parameters were similar during both treatments. Pharmacokinetic parameters Cmax,ss and AUC(0,24 h)ss at steady state were similar with or without co‐administration of rotigotine for both ethinyloestradiol and levonorgestrel with geometric mean ratios close to 1 and 90% confidence intervals within the acceptance range of bioequivalence (0.8, 1.25): Cmax,ss 1.05 (0.93, 1.19), AUC(0,24 h)ss 1.05 (0.9, 1.22) for ethinyloestradiol; Cmax,ss 1.01 (0.96, 1.06), AUC(0,24 h)ss 0.98 (0.95, 1.01) for levonorgestrel. Mean plasma concentrations of unconjugated rotigotine remained stable throughout the patch‐on period (day 13).

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant administration of 3 mg (24 h)−1 transdermal rotigotine had no impact on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of a combined oral contraceptive containing 0.03 mg ethinyloestradiol and 0.15 mg levonorgestrel, suggesting that the dopamine agonist does not influence contraception efficacy.
Low free testosterone levels are associated with prevalence and incidence of depressive symptoms in older men
Authors: Joshi Devina , Van Schoor Natasja M. , De Ronde Willem , Schaap Laura A. , Comijs Hannie C. , Beekman Aartjan T. F. , Lips Paul
Published: May 2009

Objective  The prevalence of both low testosterone levels and depression increases with age. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the existence of an association. Our study analyses the cross‐sectional association of testosterone levels with depressive symptoms and its prospective association with the development of incident depressive symptoms.

Design  Longitudinal population‐based study; based on the data of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) including 608 men aged ≥65 years (median age 75·6 years).

Measurements  Linear and logistic regression between total and free testosterone levels and depressive symptoms as measured by the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) scale, taking into account medical and lifestyle factors. Cox Proportional Hazards model was used to assess incident depressive symptoms.

Results  Unadjusted linear regression between square‐root transformed CES‐D scores and free testosterone levels showed a significant inverse association as a continuous variable (β = −0·10, P < 0·05), lowest quartile compared to highest (β = 0·12, P < 0·05) and with a threshold value of 170 pmol/l (β = 0·13, P < 0·05). The results remained significant for the group below threshold after adjustment for all confounders (β = 0·09, P < 0·05). Cox Proportional Hazards Model showed a decreased risk for incident depressive symptoms for men with higher free testosterone levels [HR = 0·997 CI (0·995–1·000)]. Men with the threshold value below 220 pmol/l were at increased risk of incident depressive symptoms [HR = 1·989 CI (1·173–3·374)].

Conclusions  Free testosterone levels below 170 pmol/l are associated with depressive symptoms, while free testosterone levels below 220 pmol/l (lowest quintile of our population) predict the onset of depressive symptoms.
Catheter ablation vs. amiodarone plus losartan for prevention of atrial fibrillation recurrence in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lan X. , Su L. , Ling Z. , Liu Z. , Wu J. , Yang X. , Zrenner B. , Yin Y.
Published: May 2009

Background  Although amiodarone plus angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and catheter ablation may improve sinus rhythm maintenance of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF), their clinical efficacies have not been compared. This prospective cohort study was designed to compare clinical efficacy of catheter ablation and amiodarone plus losartan on sinus rhythm maintenance in patients with paroxysmal AF.

Materials and methods  A total of 240 patients with paroxysmal AF were assigned to four groups. CPVA group (n = 60) was treated with circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA), SPVI group (n = 60) with segmental pulmonary vein isolation, AMIO group (n = 60) with amiodarone and AMIO + LO group (n = 60) with amiodarone plus losartan. The endpoint was documented recurrence of AF > 30 s by Holter or conventional 12‐lead ECG in the 1‐year follow‐up period.

Results  During 12 months of follow‐up, the primary end point was reached in 28 patients in CPVA group, 14 patients in SPVI group, 25 patients in AMIO group and 13 patients in AMIO + LO group, respectively. The sinus rhythm in SPVI and AMIO + LO group were significant higher than that in CPVA and AMIO group (P < 0·01 and 0·025), and no difference between CPVA and AMIO group. The maintenance rate of sinus rhythm in SPVI group was similar to that in AMIO + LO group.

Conclusions  This study demonstrates that segmental pulmonary vein isolation in preventing AF recurrence is similar to amiodarone plus losartan, but it is superior to CPVA and amiodarone alone in patients with paroxysmal AF. Larger multicentre studies are needed to confirm its long‐term outcomes.
Cardiac performance during exercise in hypertensive patients without ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Storto G. , Nicolai E. , Petretta M. , Spinelli L. , Acampa W. , Evangelista L. , Daniele S. , Trimarco B. , Cuocolo A.
Published: May 2009

Background  Reduced systolic reserve on effort may be present in subjects with hypertension but no evidence of hypertensive cardiomyopathy. We assessed the determinants of abnormal cardiac performance during exercise in hypertensive patients without left ventricular hypertrophy.

Materials and methods  Thirty‐five newly diagnosed, never‐treated‐earlier hypertensive patients without definite indication for left ventricular hypertrophy at echocardiography underwent radionuclide ambulatory monitoring of left ventricular function at rest and during upright bicycle exercise testing.

Results  The patients were classified into two groups according to their ejection fraction response to exercise. In 21 patients (group 1), the ejection fraction increased ≥ 5% with exercise and in 14 patients (group 2), the ejection fraction either increased < 5% or decreased with exercise. Patients of group 1 had lower peak filling rate at rest and less augmentation in end‐diastolic volume during exercise (both P < 0·01) when compared with patients of group 2. A significant relationship between the magnitude of change in ejection fraction with exercise and both peak filling rate at rest (r = 0·58, P < 0·01) and exercise‐induced change in end‐diastolic volume (r = 0·45, P < 0·01) was found.

Conclusions  In newly diagnosed, never‐treated‐earlier hypertensive subjects with no evidence of hypertensive cardiomyopathy, the cardiac response to exercise is dependent on adequate diastolic filling volume to maintain systolic performance.
The use of potential field data in revealing the basement structure in sub‐basaltic settings: an example from the Møre margin, offshore Norway
Authors: Reynisson R.F. , Ebbing J. , Skilbrei J.R.
Published: May 2009

This study investigates the utility of the potential fields (gravity and magnetics) in volcanic settings as observed on the Møre margin. Synthetic models are used to investigate the effect of volcanics on the gravity and magnetic fields. The focus is on detecting sub‐basaltic basement structures. The methods applied to the models are Euler deconvolution on magnetic data, gravity gradients and integrated 3D gravity and magnetic forward modelling. The same methods are used on the Møre margin and the results compared to the synthetic models. The Euler deconvolution on the magnetic signal does provide limited depth solutions in the volcanic environment and the use of different observation levels does not enhance the results. Forward gravity and magnetic models provide a valuable tool to estimate both the basalt and sub‐basaltic sedimentary thickness but are limited by the ambiguity inherent in potential field methods. The use of gravity gradients significantly decreases the available model solutions and provides boundary detection even in sub‐basaltic settings.
Influence of Slimming World’s lifestyle programme on diet, activity behaviour and health of participants and their families
Authors: Pallister C. , Avery A. , Stubbs J. , Lavin J.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Understanding the impact of commercial weight management programmes on behaviour change is an area that requires greater evidence. The present study investigated the impact of a commercial weight management organisation’s diet and activity programmes on the lifestyles of those accessing the services and their families.

Methods:  This survey was based on self‐reports from a group of people involved in their own weight control. A questionnaire consisting of multiple choice and open‐ended questions regarding diet, activity patterns and health was distributed in a commercial slimming organisation’s magazine and was available on the website for a 4 week period. Two thousand eight hundred and twelve respondents were analysed, including the organisation’s members (53%) and nonmembers (47%).

Results:  Those following the dietary programme reported significant changes towards healthier food choices in line with current guidelines (P < 0.01). Over 80% reported an improvement in their own health and over 26% reported an improvement in their partner’s or family’s health (P < 0.01). Respondents reported increasing physical activity after being made aware of the organisation’s activity programme (P < 0.001). Members were more likely to have become more active than nonmembers (P = 0.011). The longer respondents had been members, the more likely they were to report an increased participation in physical activity (P = 0.02). Half of those reporting increased activity indicated that their partner or whole family had also increased their activity levels.

Conclusions:  The commercial slimming organisation’s programme appeared to be having a beneficial impact on the diet and activity behaviours of those accessing the service. Group members were more likely to make positive behaviour changes and health improvements tended to increase with the duration of membership. The improvements observed with respect to both diet and activity levels also reached the wider family network.
Dietetic service provision for burn care in the United Kingdom: are nutrition support standards being met?
Authors: Windle E. M.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Catabolism and lean body mass losses in severe burn injury present an extreme challenge to the dietitian. A high level of nutritional intervention is often required, but service levels have not been described in the UK. This study aimed to identify levels of current dietetic services with respect to burns and to assess adequacy against existing nutrition support standards.

Methods:  A postal survey of 34 UK dietetic departments known to provide care to burned adult and paediatric admissions was undertaken. Data were collected on burns settings, hospital service characteristics, staffing and caseload issues, and absence cover. Comparison was made between funding and activity to National Health Service standards for the nutritional care of inpatients.

Results:  The response rate was 71% and data were analysed for 20 departments Clinical settings were either burn units or plastic surgery wards. Dietetic care was provided to critically ill burned patients in 16 hospitals. Most hospitals had no dietetic funding assigned for burn care. The funding deficit for critical care compared to recommendations was 5.9 full‐time equivalents and no individual hospital met funding standards. Thirty‐seven percent of dietitians were unable to provide daily follow up for critically ill patients. Absence cover was limited in 60% of cases. Approximately one‐third of dietitians were members of a nutrition support team.

Conclusions:  Compared to national guidelines for nutrition support, deficiencies of dietetic service provision exist within UK burns settings. This is further reinforced when practice is compared with existing multi‐professional burns management standards.
The effect of low‐fat versus whole‐fat dairy product intake on blood pressure and weight in young normotensive adults
Authors: Alonso A. , Zozaya C. , Vázquez Z. , Alfredo Martínez J. , Martínez‐González M. A.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Epidemiologic and experimental studies suggest that higher intake of dairy products could be associated with lower risk of hypertension and obesity. Differences in nutrient composition of distinct dairy products suggest that their effect on these outcomes might be heterogeneous. However, little experimental research has examined the potentially different effects of low‐ and whole‐fat dairy products on blood pressure (BP) and weight change. The present study aimed to assess whether supplementing diets with low‐ or whole‐fat dairy products would differentially affect BP levels and weight.

Methods:  A randomised crossover trial in 45 normotensive volunteers (18–24 years old, 49% female) was conducted. Participants alternatively received 3.5 servings/day of whole‐fat or low‐fat dairy products (milk and yogurt) in addition to their usual diet during two 8‐week periods, with a 4‐week washout period between both interventions. Weight and BP were measured at the beginning and end of each intervention.

Results:  Whole‐fat dairy supplementation significantly increased systolic BP [2.1 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.1–4.0, P = 0.04] and weight (1.0 kg, 95% CI = 0.5–1.5, P = 0.0002), but not diastolic BP (P = 0.34). Weight and BP did not change significantly after the low‐fat dairy intervention (P > 0.10). There were no significant differences in the effect of low‐fat or whole‐fat dairy products on BP (P > 0.60), but whole‐fat dairy increased weight significantly compared to low‐fat dairy (1.2 kg, 95% CI = 0.5–1.8, P = 0.0007).

Conclusions:  In a young nonhypertensive population, dietary supplementation with whole‐fat dairy products, compared to low‐fat dairy, was associated with weight gain. No differential effects were observed for levels of BP.
Heat stress activates phospholipase D and triggers PIP2accumulation at the plasma membrane and nucleus
Authors: Mishkind Michael , Vermeer Joop E.M. , Darwish Essam , Munnik Teun
Published: May 2009

Heat stress induces an array of physiological adjustments that facilitate continued homeostasis and survival during periods of elevated temperatures. Here, we report that within minutes of a sudden temperature increase, plants deploy specific phospholipids to specific intracellular locations: phospholipase D (PLD) and a phosphatidylinositolphosphate kinase (PIPK) are activated, and phosphatidic acid (PA) and phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2) rapidly accumulate, with the heat‐induced PIP2localized to the plasma membrane, nuclear envelope, nucleolus and punctate cytoplasmic structures. Increases in the steady‐state levels of PA and PIP2occur within several minutes of temperature increases from ambient levels of 20–25°C to 35°C and above. Similar patterns were observed in heat‐stressed Arabidopsis seedlings and rice leaves. The PA that accumulates in response to temperature increases results in large part from the activation of PLD rather than the sequential action of phospholipase C and diacylglycerol kinase, the alternative pathway used to produce this lipid. Pulse‐labelling analysis revealed that the PIP2response is due to the activation of a PIPK rather than inhibition of a lipase or a PIP2phosphatase. Inhibitor experiments suggest that the PIP2response requires signalling through a G‐protein, as aluminium fluoride blocks heat‐induced PIP2increases. These results are discussed in the context of the diverse cellular roles played by PIP2and PA, including regulation of ion channels and the cytoskeleton.
Identification of a novel HLA‐B*07 allele in an Iranian family: B*0769
Authors: Testi M. , Battarra M. , Troiano M. , Testa G. , Andreani M.
Published: May 2009

New allele B*0769 showed one nucleotide difference with B*0732 at codon 272 (TTC→TGC).
Association analysis of food allergens
Authors: Kanagawa Yoshiyuki , Matsumoto Shinya , Koike Soichi , Imamura Tomoaki
Published: May 2009

Food allergy patients are known to present with allergic reactions to multiple allergens, but extrapolating these associations is difficult. Data mining, a procedure that analyzes characteristic combinations among large amounts of information, is often used to analyze and predict consumer purchasing behaviour. We applied this technique to the extrapolation of food allergen associations in allergy patients. We sent 1510 families our ‘Questionnaire survey for the prevention of food allergies’. Responses noting 6549 allergens came from 878 families with 1383 patients, including 402 with anaphylaxis. Some results of the survey have already been published and here we presented the results of our association analysis of combinations of food allergens. Egg, milk, wheat, peanuts, and buckwheat are the most common food allergens. The most common simultaneous combinations of these allergens were ‘egg‐milk’, ‘egg‐wheat’, and ‘milk‐wheat’. The occurrence probability of a combination (i.e. one person suffering from a certain allergen also suffers from another) is called ‘confidence’. Confidence was higher for ‘chicken‐egg’, ‘abalone‐salmon eggs’, and ‘matsutake mushroom‐milk’. As well, the combinations of ‘crab‐shrimp’, ‘squid‐shrimp’, and ‘squid‐crab’ also indicated higher values in a statistical examination of the occurrence probabilities of these allergen combinations (Z‐score). From the results of the association analysis, we speculated that some food allergens, such as abalone, orange, salmon, chicken, pork, matsutake mushroom, peach and apple did not independently induce food allergies. We also found that combinations, such as ‘crab‐shrimp’, ‘squid‐shrimp’, ‘squid‐crab’, ‘chicken‐beef’, and ‘salmon‐mackerel’ had strong associations.
Associations between cat keeping, allergen exposure, allergic sensitization and atopic diseases: Results from the Children of Lübeck Allergy and Environment Study (KLAUS)
Authors: Schäfer Torsten , Stieger Björn , Polzius Rainer , Krauspe Anja
Published: May 2009

The role of cat keeping on the promotion of allergies is discussed controversially. We investigated the associations between cat keeping, allergen exposure, allergic sensitization and atopic diseases in pre‐school children. A total of 606 children (5‐ to 6‐yr old) were studied in the course of the mandatory school entrance examination. Information on doctor diagnosed asthma and allergic rhinitis, pet keeping and confounders was obtained by questionnaire. The prevalence of atopic eczema was determined by dermatological examination, allergic sensitization was assessed by skin prick test, and the allergen exposure to cat allergen Fel d 1 was measured by a commercial wipe test. Cats were present in 16% of the households and results of the exposure categories (0–III) on cat allergen were 47.2%, 25.5%, 24.3% and 3.0% respectively. The prevalence of cat keeping increased significantly with exposure categories from 0.5% to 61.5% (ptrend < 0.001). Children (6.3%) were sensitized to cat allergen and sensitization rates increased also significantly with exposure categories from 3.0% to 15.4% (ptrend < 0.001). Children (9.3%) were diagnosed with atopic eczema and a positive history of asthma/rhinitis was given in 3.6% and 3.9% respectively. Sensitization to cat was associated with atopic eczema (23.3% vs. 7.4%; ORadj.= 3.8, CI: 1.4–10.8), asthma (12.5% vs. 3.7%; ORadj.= 4.9, CI: 1.1–21.2), allergic rhinitis (6.9% vs. 2.7%; ORadj.= 3.1, CI: 0.7–15.2) and any atopic disease (43.5% vs. 16.3%; ORadj.= 3.8, CI: 1.5–9.5). The data suggest a promoting effect of cat keeping for atopic diseases.
Attraction and fecundity of adult codling moth, Cydia pomonella, as influenced by methoxyfenozide‐treated electrostatic powder
Authors: Huang J. , Stelinski L. L. , Miller J. R. , Gut L. J.
Published: May 2009

The attractiveness and responsiveness of adult codling moths, Cydia pomonella (L.), exposed to EntostatTM powder with or without the ecdysteroid agonist, methoxyfenozide, were investigated in a flight tunnel. Coating males with either EntostatTM powder alone or powder plus methoxyfenozide 1 or 24 h prior to flight tunnel assays did not influence the mean percentages of males successfully orienting to a female‐equivalent lure relative to unexposed control moths. The fecundity of females paired with males exposed to EntostatTM powder plus methoxyfenozide was significantly lower than that for females paired with unexposed males. This reduction in egg output was similar to that observed when methoxyfenozide‐treated females were paired with untreated males, indicating that males can successfully pass methoxyfenozide to their partners during copulation. However, EntostatTM powder alone carried by male moths did not affect female fecundity after mating. EntostatTM powder has the potential to carry pesticides for C. pomonella control by autodissemination.
Comparative bioefficacy of biorational ethylene glycol diesters and sucrose octanoate against Lipaphis erysimi (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Koul O. , Singh G. , Singh R. , Walia S. , Kaul V. K.
Published: May 2009

We report the toxicological effects of new series of biorational glycol esters and compare the efficacy with the known commercial sugar ester, sucrose octanoate. Ethylene glycol diesters were easy to prepare without any isomeric constraints and very safe compounds that were applied as sprays or as residues. The compounds were equally toxic to mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi nymphs and adults and the activity was significantly comparable with sucrose octanoate activity. In spray assays LC50 of various compounds ranged from 1.32 to 11.5 mg/ml and in residual assay the range was 20.3–51.4 μg/cm2. In residual assay, ethylene glycol di‐2‐ethylhexanoate (5) and dioctanoate (6) were as effective as sucrose octanoate. Structure activity relationship suggested that higher number of carbon chains in these two compounds may be playing a role in the stability of compounds under residual operation of the insecticide. Based on these results, glycol esters would be useful and easy to prepare biorational compounds in integrated pest management.