bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The in vivo neurochemistry of the brain during general anesthesia
Authors: Müller Christian P. , Pum Martin E. , Amato Davide , Schüttler Jürgen , Huston Joseph P. , De Souza Silva Maria A.
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 419–446.

Anesthesia describes a complex state composed of immobility, amnesia, hypnosis (sleep or loss of consciousness), analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Bottom‐up approaches explain anesthesia by an interaction of the anesthetic with receptor proteins in the brain, whereas top‐down approaches consider predominantly cortical and thalamic network activity and connectivity. Both approaches have a number of explanatory gaps and as yet no unifying view has emerged. In addition to a direct interaction with primary target receptor proteins, general anesthetics have massive effects on neurotransmitter activity in the brain. They can change basal transmitter levels by interacting with neuronal activity, transmitter synthesis, release, reuptake and metabolism. By that way, they can affect a great number of neurotransmitter systems and receptors. Here, we review how different general anesthetics affect extracellular activity of neurotransmitters in the brain during induction, maintenance, and emergence from anesthesia and which functional consequences this may have. Commonalities and differences between different groups of anesthetics in their action on neurotransmitter activity are discussed. We also review how general anesthetics affect the response dynamics of the neurotransmitter systems after sensory stimulation. More than 30 years of research have now yielded a complex picture of the effects of general anesthetics on brain neurotransmitter basal activity and response dynamics. It is suggested that analyzing the effects on neurotransmitter activity is the logical next step after protein interactions in a bottom‐up analysis of anesthetic action in the brain on the way to a unifying view of anesthesia.
Highly conserved tyrosine 37 stabilizes desensitized states and restricts calcium permeability of ATP‐gated P2X3 receptor
Authors: Jindrichova Marie , Khafizov Kamil , Skorinkin Andrei , Fayuk Dmitriy , Bart Genevieve , Zemkova Hana , Giniatullin Rashid
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 676–685.

Tyrosine 37 in the first transmembrane (TM1) domain is highly conserved in ATP‐gated P2X receptors suggesting its fundamental role. We tested whether Y37 contributes to the desensitization of P2X3 receptors, which is currently not well understood. By combining electrophysiological, imaging and modeling approaches, we studied desensitization of various Y37 P2X3 mutants and potential partners of Y37. Unlike the membrane current of the WT receptor, which desensitized in seconds, Y37A mutant current did not fully desensitize even after minutes‐long applications of β,γ‐meATP, α,β‐meATP, ATP or 2MeS‐ATP. The fractional calcium current was enhanced in the Y37A mutant. Y37F did not rescue the native P2X3 phenotype indicating a role for the hydroxyl group of Y37 for the WT receptor. Homology modeling indicated I318 or I319 in TM2 as potential partners for Y37 in the receptor closed state. We tested this hypothesis by creating a permanent interaction between the two residues via disulfide bond. Whereas single Y37C, I318C and I319C mutants were functional, the double mutants Y37C‐I318C and Y37C‐I319C were non‐functional. Using a cyclic model of receptor operation, we suggest that the conserved tyrosine 37 links TM1 to TM2 of adjacent subunit to stabilize desensitized states and restricts calcium permeability through the ion channel.
Chloroquine inhibits glutamate‐induced death of a neuronal cell line by reducing reactive oxygen species through sigma‐1 receptor
Authors: Hirata Yoko , Yamamoto Hideko , Atta Mostafa Shukry Moursy , Mahmoud Shawky , Oh‐hashi Kentaro , Kiuchi Kazutoshi
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 839–847.

Chloroquine, a widely used anti‐malarial and anti‐rheumatoid agent, has been reported to induce apoptotic and non‐apoptotic cell death. Accumulating evidence now suggests that chloroquine can sensitize cancer cells to cell death and augment chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis by inhibiting autophagy. However, chloroquine is reported to induce GM1 ganglioside accumulation in cultured cells at low μM concentrations and prevent damage to the blood brain barrier in mice. It remains unknown whether chloroquine has neuroprotective properties at concentrations below its reported ability to inhibit lysosomal enzymes and autophagy. In the present study, we demonstrated that chloroquine protected mouse hippocampal HT22 cells from glutamate‐induced oxidative stress by attenuating production of excess reactive oxygen species. The concentration of chloroquine required to rescue HT22 cells from oxidative stress was much lower than that sufficient enough to induce cell death and inhibit autophagy. Chloroquine increased GM1 level in HT22 cells at low μM concentrations but glutamate‐induced cell death occurred before GM1 accumulation, suggesting that GM1 induction is not related to the protective effect of chloroquine against glutamate‐induced cell death. Interestingly, BD1047 and NE‐100, sigma‐1 receptor antagonists, abrogated the protective effect of chloroquine against glutamate‐induced cell death and reactive oxygen species production. In addition, cutamesine (SA4503), a sigma‐1 receptor agonist, prevented both glutamate‐induced cell death and reactive oxygen species production. These findings indicate that chloroquine at concentrations below its ability to inhibit autophagy and induce cell death is able to rescue HT22 cells from glutamate‐induced cell death by reducing excessive production of reactive oxygen species through sigma‐1 receptors. These results suggest potential use of chloroquine, an established anti‐malarial agent, as a neuroprotectant against oxidative stress, which occurs in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases.
Ifenprodil restores GDNF‐evoked Ca2+ signalling and Na+/K+‐ATPase expression in inflammation‐pretreated astrocytes
Authors: Lundborg Christopher , Westerlund Anna , Björklund Ulrika , Biber Björn , Hansson Elisabeth
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 686–696.

Glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) plays an important role in neuroinflammatory and neuropathic pain conditions. Astrocytes produce and secrete GDNF, which interacts with its receptors to induce Ca2+ transients. This study aimed first to assess intracellular Ca2+ responses of astrocytes in primary culture when exposed to the neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory peptide GDNF. Furthermore, incubation with the inflammatory inducers lipopolysaccharide (LPS), NMDA, or interleukin 1‐β (IL‐1β) attenuated the GDNF‐induced Ca2+ transients. The next aim was to try to restore the suppressed GDNF responses induced by inflammatory changes in the astrocytes with an anti‐inflammatory substance. Ifenprodil, an NMDA receptor antagonist at the NR2B subunit, was tested. It was shown to restore the GDNF‐evoked Ca2+ transients and increased the Na+/K+‐ATPase expression. Ifenprodil seems to be a potent anti‐inflammatory substance for astrocytes which have been pre‐activated by inflammatory stimuli.
Determinants of fine‐scale homogenization and differentiation of native freshwater fish faunas in a Mediterranean Basin: implications for conservation
Authors: Hermoso Virgilio , Clavero Miguel , Kennard Mark J.
Published: September 2011

Aim  Increasing threats to freshwater biodiversity are rapidly changing the distinctiveness of regional species pools and local assemblages. Biotic homogenization/differentiation processes are threatening the integrity and persistence of native biodiversity patterns at a range of spatial scales and pose a challenge for effective conservation planning. Here, we evaluate the extent and determinants of fine‐scale alteration in native freshwater fish assemblages among stream reaches throughout a large river basin and consider the implications of these changes for the long‐term conservation of native fishes.

Location  Guadiana River basin (South‐Western Iberian Peninsula).

Methods  We quantified the magnitude of change in compositional similarity between observed and reference assemblages and its potential effect on natural patterns of compositional distinctiveness. Reference assemblages were defined as the native species expected to occur naturally (in absence of anthropogenic alterations) and were reconstructed using a multivariate adaptive regression splines predictive model. We also evaluated the role of habitat degradation and introduced species as determinants of biotic homogenization/differentiation.

Results  We found a significant trend towards homogenization for native fish assemblages. Changes in native fish distributions led to the loss of distinctiveness patterns along natural environmental gradients. Introduced species were the most important factor explaining the homogenization process. Homogenization of native assemblages was stronger in areas close to reservoirs and in lowland reaches where introduced species were more abundant.

Main conclusions  The implementation of efficient conservation for the maintenance of native fish diversity is seriously threatened by the homogenization processes. The identification of priority areas for conservation is hindered by the fact that the most diverse communities are vanishing, which would require the selection of broader areas to adequately protect all the species. Given the principal role that introduced species play in the homogenization process and their relation with reservoirs, special attention must be paid to mitigating or preventing these threats.
Broad wintering range and intercontinental migratory divide within a core population of the near‐threatened pallid harrier
Authors: Terraube J. , Mougeot F. , Cornulier T. , Verma A. , Gavrilov A. , Arroyo B.
Published: September 2011

Aim  To identify the migration routes and wintering grounds of the core populations of the near‐threatened pallid harrier, Circus macrourus, and highlight conservation needs associated with these phases of the annual cycle.

Location  Breeding area: north‐central Kazakhstan; Wintering areas: Sahel belt (Burkina Faso to Ethiopia) and north‐west India.

Methods  We used ring recovery data from Kazakhstan and satellite tracking data from 2007 to 2008 on six adults breeding in north‐central Kazakhstan to determine migration routes and locate wintering areas. In addition, one first‐year male was tagged in winter 2007–2008 in India.

Results  Data evidenced an intercontinental migratory divide within the core pallid harrier population, with birds wintering in either Africa or India. The six individuals tagged in north‐central Kazakhstan followed a similar route (west of the Caspian Sea and Middle East) towards east Africa, before spreading along the Sahel belt to winter either in Sudan, Ethiopia, Niger or Burkina Faso. Spring migration followed a shorter, more direct route, with marked interindividual variation. The bird tagged in India spent the summer in central Kazakhstan. Half of the signal losses (either because of failure or bird mortality) occurred on the wintering areas and during migration.

Main conclusions  Our study shows that birds from one breeding area may winter over a strikingly broad range within and across continents. The intercontinental migratory divide of pallid harriers suggests the coexistence of distinct migratory strategies within the core breeding population, a characteristic most likely shared by a number of threatened species in central Asia. Conservation strategies for species like the pallid harrier, therefore, require considering very large spatial scales with possibly area‐specific conservation issues. We highlight urgent research priorities to effectively inform the conservation of these species.
Predicting patch occupancy in fragmented landscapes at the rangewide scale for an endangered species: an example of an American warbler
Authors: Collier Bret A. , Groce Julie E. , Morrison Michael L. , Newnam John C. , Campomizzi Andrew J. , Farrell Shannon L. , Mathewson Heather A. , Snelgrove Robert T. , Carroll Raymond J. , Wilkins Robert N.
Published: September 2011

Aim  Our objective was to identify the distribution of the endangered golden‐cheeked warbler (Setophaga chrysoparia) in fragmented oak–juniper woodlands by applying a geoadditive semiparametric occupancy model to better assist decision‐makers in identifying suitable habitat across the species breeding range on which conservation or mitigation activities can be focused and thus prioritize management and conservation planning.

Location  Texas, USA.

Methods  We used repeated double‐observer detection/non‐detection surveys of randomly selected (n = 287) patches of potential habitat to evaluate warbler patch‐scale presence across the species breeding range. We used a geoadditive semiparametric occupancy model with remotely sensed habitat metrics (patch size and landscape composition) to predict patch‐scale occupancy of golden‐cheeked warblers in the fragmented oak–juniper woodlands of central Texas, USA.

Results  Our spatially explicit model indicated that golden‐cheeked warbler patch occupancy declined from south to north within the breeding range concomitant with reductions in the availability of large habitat patches. We found that 59% of woodland patches, primarily in the northern and central portions of the warbler’s range, were predicted to have occupancy probabilities ≤0.10 with only 3% of patches predicted to have occupancy probabilities >0.90. Our model exhibited high prediction accuracy (area under curve = 0.91) when validated using independently collected warbler occurrence data.

Main conclusions  We have identified a distinct spatial occurrence gradient for golden‐cheeked warblers as well as a relationship between two measurable landscape characteristics. Because habitat‐occupancy relationships were key drivers of our model, our results can be used to identify potential areas where conservation actions supporting habitat mitigation can occur and identify areas where conservation of future potential habitat is possible. Additionally, our results can be used to focus resources on maintenance and creation of patches that are more likely to harbour viable local warbler populations.
New anticoagulants for the prevention of stroke in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Höchtl Thomas , Huber Kurt
Published: September 2011

Oral anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation is obligatory to lower the risk of spontaneous cerebrovascular and systemic thromboembolism. For this purpose, vitamin K antagonists (coumarins) have been recommended as the most effective drugs for a long time. However, problems with the practical use of these agents, e.g. the need for frequent and regular coagulation controls, the inter‐individual differences in maintaining a stable therapeutic range, as well as drug or food interactions, have led to the search and investigation of alternative compounds characterized by a more simple use (e.g. without regular controls of therapeutic levels), high efficacy, as well as low risk of bleeding. The direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran and the direct factor Xa inhibitors rivaroxaban and apixaban have recently been investigated to prove whether they fulfill the high expectancy of an ideal anticoagulant with respect to a more favorable efficacy/safety profile and without the need for coagulation controls, thereby improving quality of life. Dabigatran (RE‐LY) achieved an impressive reduction in stroke and non‐central nervous system (non‐CNS) embolism (110 mg: 1.5%/year; 150 mg: 1.1%/year) in contrast to warfarin (1.7%/year; P = 0.34 and P < 0.001) with a favorable action on bleeding hazards. The results of rivaroxaban which were obtained in the ROCKET AF study (on treatment analysis: stroke and non‐CNS embolism: 1.7%/year vs. 2.15%/year with warfarin; P = 0.015; primary safety endpoint major and minor bleeding: 14.91 vs. 14.52%; P = 0.442) point in the same direction. And finally, compared to aspirin, apixaban reduced the combined primary efficacy endpoint by 52% with comparable rates of bleeding (AVERROES). This review gives a summary of the current knowledge about these agents and their potential future importance.
Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics of thienopyridines: clinically relevant?
Authors: Close Sandra L.
Published: September 2011

Pharmacogenetics have been touted as the future of personalized medicine where genetic biomarkers will guide therapeutic approach. The currently approved thienopyridines, prasugrel and clopidogrel, are prodrugs requiring conversion to active metabolite through the cytochrome P450 system. Genetic variation has been associated with the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and clinical response to clopidogrel, but not to prasugrel. This review aims to summarize the recent pharmacogenetic findings associated with the response to thienopyridine treatment. Additionally, considerations for the incorporation of genetic biomarkers into clinical practice will be discussed in the context of thienopyridines.
Using Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fs/QCA) to Explore the Relationship between Medical “Homeness” and Quality
Authors: Marcus Thygeson Nels , Solberg Leif I. , Asche Stephen E. , Fontaine Patricia , Gregory Pawlson Leonard , Scholle Sarah Hudson
Published: September 2011

Objective

Determine, using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA), the relationship between patient‐centered medical home (PCMH) systems and quality in 21 NCQA recognized medical homes.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Primary data collected in 2009, including measures of optimal diabetes care (ODC), preventive services up‐to‐date (PSUTD), patient experience (PEX), survey data assessing PCMH capabilities (PPC‐RS), and other clinic characteristics.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study identifying associations between PPC‐RS domains, demographic, socioeconomic, and co‐morbidity measures, and quality outcomes.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

PPC‐RS scores were obtained by surveying clinic leaders. PSUTD and ODC scores were obtained from provider performance data. PEX data were obtained from patient surveys. Demographic, socioeconomic, and co‐morbidity data were obtained from EMR and census data.

Principal Findings

fs/QCA identified associations between all three outcomes and PCMH capabilities: ODC and team‐based care; PSUTD and preventive services systems; and all three outcomes and provider performance reporting systems. Previous statistical analysis of this data had failed to identify these relationships.

Conclusions

fs/QCA identified important associations that were overlooked using conventional statistics in a small‐N health services data set. PCMH capabilities are associated with quality outcomes.
Accuracy of Data Entry of Patient Race/Ethnicity/Ancestry and Preferred Spoken Language in an Ambulatory Care Setting
Authors: Azar Kristen M.J. , Moreno Maria R. , Wong Eric C. , Shin Jessica J. , Soto Christy , Palaniappan Latha P.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To describe data collection methods and to audit staff data entry of patient self‐reported race/ethnicity/ancestry and preferred spoken language (R/E/A/L) information.

Data Source/Study Setting

Large mixed payer outpatient health care organization in Northern California, June 2009.

Study Design

Secondary analysis of an audit planned and executed by the Department of Clinical Services.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We analyzed concordance between patient written responses and staff data entry.

Principal Findings

The data entry accuracy rate across questions was high, ranging from 92 to 97 percent. Inaccuracies were due to human error (62 percent), flaws in system design (2 percent), or some combination of both (35 percent).

Conclusions

This study highlights the high accuracy of patient self‐reported R/E/A/L data entry and identifies some areas for improvement in staff training and technical system design to facilitate further progress.
Relationship between Patient Safety and Hospital Surgical Volume
Authors: Hernandez‐Boussard Tina , Downey John R. , McDonald Kathryn , Morton John M.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To examine the relationship between hospital volume and in‐hospital adverse events.

Data Sources

Patient safety indicator (PSI) was used to identify hospital‐acquired adverse events in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database in abdominal aortic aneurysm, coronary artery bypass graft, and Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass from 2005 to 2008.

Study Design

In this observational study, volume thresholds were defined by mean year‐specific terciles. PSI risk‐adjusted rates were analyzed by volume tercile for each procedure.

Principal Findings

Overall, hospital volume was inversely related to preventable adverse events. High‐volume hospitals had significantly lower risk‐adjusted PSI rates compared to lower volume hospitals (p < .05).

Conclusion

These data support the relationship between hospital volume and quality health care delivery in select surgical cases. This study highlights differences between hospital volume and risk‐adjusted PSI rates for three common surgical procedures and highlights areas of focus for future studies to identify pathways to reduce hospital‐acquired events.
β2‐Adrenoceptors increase translocation of GLUT4 via GPCR kinase sites in the receptor C‐terminal tail
Authors: Dehvari Nodi , Hutchinson Dana S , Nevzorova Julia , Dallner Olof S , Sato Masaaki , Kocan Martina , Merlin Jon , Evans Bronwyn A , Summers Roger J , Bengtsson Tore
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE β‐Adrenoceptor stimulation induces glucose uptake in several insulin‐sensitive tissues by poorly understood mechanisms.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We used a model system in CHO‐K1 cells expressing the human β2‐adrenoceptor and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) to investigate the signalling mechanisms involved.

KEY RESULTS In CHO‐K1 cells, there was no response to β‐adrenoceptor agonists. The introduction of β2‐adrenoceptors and GLUT4 into these cells caused increased glucose uptake in response to β‐adrenoceptor agonists. GLUT4 translocation occurred in response to insulin and β2‐adrenoceptor stimulation, although the key insulin signalling intermediate PKB was not phosphorylated in response to β2‐adrenoceptor stimulation. Truncation of the C‐terminus of the β2‐adrenoceptor at position 349 to remove known phosphorylation sites for GPCR kinases (GRKs) or at position 344 to remove an additional PKA site together with the GRK phosphorylation sites did not significantly affect cAMP accumulation but decreased β2‐adrenoceptor‐stimulated glucose uptake. Furthermore, inhibition of GRK by transfection of the βARKct construct inhibited β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation, and overexpression of a kinase‐dead GRK2 mutant (GRK2 K220R) also inhibited GLUT4 translocation. Introducing β2‐adrenoceptors lacking phosphorylation sites for GRK or PKA demonstrated that the GRK sites, but not the PKA sites, were necessary for GLUT4 translocation.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Glucose uptake in response to activation of β2‐adrenoceptors involves translocation of GLUT4 in this model system. The mechanism is dependent on the C‐terminus of the β2‐adrenoceptor, requires GRK phosphorylation sites, and involves a signalling pathway distinct from that stimulated by insulin.
EuroSDR And Its Role In Developing Links Between Science And National Mapping
Authors: Woodsford Peter A.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes the process of transfer of technology from research to its employment by national mapping agencies. Starting with the activities in photogrammetry of OEEPE it leads on to the current wider remit of EuroSDR in spatial data provision, management and delivery. It also reflects on current research challenges in imagery from an information management perspective and summarises the contribution to OEEPE/EuroSDR of Professor Ian Dowman.
Impaired renal function in morbid obese patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Machado Mariana V. , Gonçalves Sara , Carepa Fátima , Coutinho João , Costa Adília , Cortez‐Pinto Helena
Published: September 2011

Introduction and aims:

Obesity is a common risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). NAFLD and CKD have been associated in many epidemiological studies. We hypothesize that more severe liver disease, namely nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is related with further renal impairment. We aimed to evaluate if changes in renal function were present in morbid obese patients with NAFLD.

Methods

Prospective and consecutive recruitment of morbid obese patients with biopsy proven NAFLD obtained during bariatric surgery. Renal function was evaluated with CKD‐Epidemiology Collaboration estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Plasmatic adiponectin, leptin and active ghrelin concentrations were determined.

Results

One hundred and forty‐eight patients were included of whom 25% had NASH and 75% simple steatosis. NASH patients were older, with higher body mass index and had more frequently metabolic syndrome and lower eGFR (97 ± 22 vs 106 ± 16 ml/min/1.732, P = 0.035). NASH conferred an odds ratio (OR) 3.0 (1.3–7.0) for eGFR < 90 and OR 9.7 (1.0–96.4) for eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.732. eGFR < 90 ml/min/1.732 associated with aspartate aminotransferase [OR 2.9 (1.1–7.6)] and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase elevation [OR 3.0 (1.3–7.2)], NASH [OR 3.0 (1.3–7.0)], any lobular inflammatory activity [OR 3.0 (1.3–7.0)] and severe fibrosis [OR 3.4 (1.1–10.8)]. Neither eGFR nor liver histology was associated with adipokines levels.

Conclusions

In morbid obese patients, NASH, particularly lobular inflammation and advanced fibrosis, associates with mild decreases in eGFR, suggesting a common inflammatory link between liver and renal lesion.
N‐methylpicolinium esters as co‐initiators in dye photosensitiser systems for the polymerisation of acrylate monomers
Authors: Kabatc Janina
Published: September 2011

The photoinitiation ability of several dyeing photoinitiating systems composed of positively chargedN,N’‐diethylthiacarbocyanine iodide and 3‐ethyl‐2‐(p‐N,N‐dimethylaminostyryl)benzothiazolium iodide acting as light absorbers,n‐butyltriphenylborate anion being the electron donor, and diphenylacetic acid (N‐methylpyridinium)methyl ester cation acting as a ground state electron acceptor are compared. Both co‐initiators in the polymerising formulations were present, either as tetrabutylammonium salt and diphenylacetic acid (N‐methylpyridinium)methyl ester perchlorate, respectively, or as an ion pair. The best photoinitiating ability was observed when the borate anion and diphenylacetic acid (N‐methylpyridinium)methyl ester cation formed an ion pair. Modification of the ability of the photoinitiating system was concerned with the possibility of elimination of a diffusion process. This was achieved by synthesis of a properly designed dye‐possessing diphenylacetic acid (N‐methylpyridinium)methyl ester group. This dye, after electron transfer, forms anN‐methylpicolinium derivative radical that fragments, forming an (N‐methylpyridinium)methyl radical, organic acid anion and reduced dye. Finally, from a combination of either anN‐methylpicolinium derivative or alkyltriphenylborate salts with a suitable sensitiser or a properly designed dye and alkyltriphenylborate salt, two radicals can be generated per one absorbed photon, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the polymerisation.
Broadband luminescence and emission enhancement
Authors: Sun Yi‐Feng , Xu Shu‐Hong , Chen Zhi‐Yong , Pan Wen‐Long , Song Hua‐Can , Chen Jiang‐Han
Published: September 2011

Three novel quinoline– and fluorene–coumarin hybrids were prepared and characterised by Fourier Transform–infrared spectroscopy, proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis and ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry. Their photoluminescence properties were investigated. All of these hybrid molecules exhibited a broadband emission from ca. 450 to 800 nm when excited by a 325 nm helium–cadmium laser at room temperature. Importantly, the fluorene–coumarin hybrid shows a very bright red emission at ca. 650 nm and displays up to a 10‐fold increase in fluorescence emission intensity, as compared with the other samples. The experimental results confirm that remarkable enhancements in the fluorescence emission intensity can be obtained by introducing a fluorene group into the azo‐bridged coumarin‐based π‐conjugated framework. The geometry structures and frontier orbitals are calculated by the ab initio Hartree–Fock method.
Dyeing of cotton yarn with the aqueous extract of the leaves of Eupatorium odoratum L. in Thailand and associated extract toxicity studies
Authors: Chairat Montra , Darumas Udomsak , Bremner John B , Bangrak Phuwadol
Published: September 2011

Flavonoid constituents from the aqueous extract of the leaves of Eupatorium odoratum, an invasive weed in Thailand, have potential use as dyestuffs for cotton dyeing. It was found that cotton yarn, which was pretreated with a chitosan solution (with and without a crosslinking glyoxal solution), followed by dyeing with E. odoratum extract in the presence of the inorganic mordant, alum, provided better depth of shade (K/S) and also gave better fastness to light and washing than the untreated cotton yarn. Pretreated cotton yarn with the biomordant solution from Memecylon scutellatum leaves gave relatively poor light and wash fastness of the resultant dyed cotton in the presence of alum. From the toxicity studies, the aqueous extract of the leaves of E. odoratum before and after dyeing showed a high toxicity level to the earthworm (Diplocardia communis) and the guppy fish (Poecilia reticulate). Therefore, it is strongly suggested that E. odoratum aqueous extract after dyeing should be significantly diluted before discharged into the environment.
Thrombectomy of Prosthetic Dialysis Grafts Using Mechanical Plus “No‐Wait Lysis” Approach Requires Less Procedure Time and Radiation Exposure
Authors: Almehmi Ammar , Broce Mike , Wang Shouwen
Published: September 2011

In spite of the existence of various strategies, dialysis graft thrombectomy remains time‐consuming and requires substantial radiation exposure. The authors report a new approach for graft thrombectomy, “no‐wait lysis”, with the objective to examine its effect on procedure time and radiation exposure. Based on the use of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the 88 retrospectively reviewed graft thrombectomies were divided into “no‐tPA” group (n = 35) and “no‐wait lysis” group (n = 53). Fogarty thrombectomy and balloon angioplasty were used similarly in both groups. In the “no‐wait lysis” group, small‐dose tPA was added directly into the graft during the procedure. Comparing the “no‐wait lysis” group with the “no‐tPA” group, the procedure time was reduced: 27.2 ± 10.2 vs. 55.5 ± 19.9 minutes (p < 0.0001), and the radiation exposure time was decreased correspondingly: 159.4 ± 61.6 vs. 243.9 ± 101.9 seconds (p < 0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the use of “no‐wait lysis” approach was the major significant predictor for shorter procedure time and radiation exposure time. In conclusion, our data support that the use of “no‐wait lysis” approach for dialysis graft thrombectomy substantially reduces procedure time and radiation exposure, and it may serve as an efficient and economical alternative to other existing approaches.
Decolonization to Prevent Infections with Staphylococcus aureus in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Kallen Alexander J. , Jernigan John A. , Patel Priti R.
Published: September 2011

Staphylococcus aureus infections remain common in patients undergoing hemodialysis, and the consequences of these infections are potentially severe. Although a number of evidence‐based practices have been shown to decrease the healthcare‐associated infections that this organism can cause, many questions remain about the utility of decolonization as a mechanism to prevent these infections. This brief review describes the current epidemiology of S. aureus infections in patients undergoing hemodialysis and reviews the evidence surrounding decolonization as an infection prevention strategy.
Public Perceptions of the Attractiveness of Restored Nature
Authors: van Marwijk Ramona B. M. , Elands Birgit H. M. , Kampen Jarl K. , Terlouw Sander , Pitt David G. , Opdam Paul
Published: September 2011

Ecological restoration efforts often encounter public resistance. Recreational visitors resist imposition of restoration efforts they fear may result in a visually unattractive area. Public support is, however, essential for restoration efforts on public lands. This study seeks insight into hiker perceptions of perceived attractiveness of nature before and after efforts to restore exotic conifer plantations to native communities containing bog and wet forest communities. Visitors (N= 247) to a Dutch National Park sorted 32 photographs depicting landscapes before and after restoration efforts. Findings show that the most attractive landscape types (bog and wet forest communities containing visible water) are results of restoration efforts and the least attractive landscape types (young deciduous and coniferous forest) are representative of traditional nature before restoration. However, the “middle category” consists of landscape types existing both before and after restoration efforts. Visitors value old coniferous and old deciduous forests as much as products of restoration that lack water. These perceptions are unrelated to either visitor characteristics or the provision of information to visitors explaining restoration goals. The continued existence of resistance to restoration strategies despite their effect on perceived landscape attractiveness implies that the experience of nature has more than only visual dimensions. We expect that more acceptable results of restoration efforts will emerge from the active engagement of the public before restoration practices take place in processes that specifically address feelings of attachment and resistance to change.
Nursery Culture Impacts Cold Hardiness in Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris) Seedlings
Authors: Davis Anthony S. , Ross‐Davis Amy L. , Dumroese R. Kasten
Published: September 2011

Success in restoring longleaf pine ecosystems depends on outplanting high‐quality longleaf pine seedlings. One important and relatively understudied attribute of seedling quality is cold hardiness. A suite of trials was conducted to investigate the influence of common nursery cultural practices on longleaf pine cold hardiness. Cold hardiness was increased with higher rates of nitrogen, unaffected by copper coating containers, greater for foliage than for root‐collar tissue, and tended to increase with increases in container size.
Restoring Remote Ecosystems
Authors: Higgs Eric S. , Roush William M.
Published: September 2011

Indirect effects from climate‐driven changes in ecosystems that are remote from direct human activity pose challenges for ecological restoration. Significant and often indirect impacts on alpine ecosystems, the primary ecosystem under consideration in this article, threaten historical‐reference conditions and the viability of some species. The impetus for restoration is similar to projects involving more direct and proximate impacts, but the issues are more complicated in remote ecosystems. Restoration efforts in remote ecosystems might do more harm than good, and the effort required for effective restoration might be greater than easily justified given the shortfall of resources for restoring more heavily impacted ecosystems. The long duration and integration of impacts on remote landscapes pose a distinct set of challenges to restorationists. Intervening in remote ecosystems makes them less remote by definition (they are now affected by human agency). In this article, we examine scientific, technical, and moral issues and offer an initial model for assessing the appropriateness of restoring remote landscapes.
Sumatriptan–Naproxen Migraine Efficacy in Allodynic Patients: Early Intervention
Authors: Landy Stephen , Hoagland Rebecca , Hoagland Nancy A.
Published: September 2011

Objective.— This study evaluated the effectiveness of a single fixed‐dose tablet of sumatriptan 85 mg/naproxen sodium 500 mg (sumatriptan–naproxen) using a very early treatment paradigm in migraine patients whose attacks were historically accompanied by cutaneous allodynia.

Background.— Evidence suggests that allodynic migraineurs may demonstrate a better response when treated prior to developing central sensitization, and that these patients are treated more effectively with a compound of sumatriptan and naproxen sodium than either drug alone. This study targeted patients who have accompanying allodynia using a very early treatment paradigm where treatment was initiated while symptoms were still mild.

Methods.— This was an open‐label prospective, outpatient study of adult migraineurs who had screened positive for cutaneous allodynia and typically experienced moderate to severe pain preceded by an identifiable mild pain phase. Patients were treated with sumatriptan–naproxen using a very early intervention paradigm in 4 test migraines over 12 weeks where dosage occurred within 30 minutes of symptom onset. Data from diaries and questionnaires were used to evaluate the primary endpoints of sustained pain‐free response at 24 hours post dose (using no second dose of study drug and no other rescue drugs), and overall satisfaction with sumatriptan–naproxen.

Results.— Forty allodynic migraineurs enrolled in this study and reported a total of 160 migraines. Of these migraines, 78 (49%) achieved sustained pain‐free at 24 hours and 94 (59%) were reported as pain‐free at 2 hours. The number of patients who rated their Overall Satisfaction following treatment with sumatriptan–naproxen as “Satisfied” (satisfied or very satisfied) was 32 (80%) after the first migraine and 25 (63%) after 3 or more migraines.

Conclusions.— In this open‐label study, allodynic patients reported that their migraine attacks responded well and they achieved a high degree of satisfaction following treatment with a fixed‐dose tablet of sumatriptan 85 mg/naproxen sodium 500 mg administered in a very early treatment paradigm.
IMPACT OF TAXONOMY, GEOGRAPHY, AND DEPTH ON δ13C AND δ15N VARIATION IN A LARGE COLLECTION OF MACROALGAE1
Authors: Marconi Michele , Giordano Mario , Raven John A.
Published: September 2011

The natural abundance of carbon stable isotopes (δ13C) of marine macrophytes has been measured in previous studies and used to analyze differences in Ci assimilation among the three macroalgal phyla, Chlorophyta, Ochrophyta, and Rhodophyta, and seagrasses, distinguishing diffusive CO2 entry from the operation of a CO2‐concentrating mechanisms (CCM). The work reported here further resolves the patterns of δ13C variation in aquatic macrophytes related to their taxonomy, geographic location (and consequently climatic conditions), and vertical zonation. Analyses of δ13C for 87 species are reported, including eight that have not been previously examined, belonging to taxa in the three macroalgal phyla, plus two species of seagrasses, collected at different latitudes. For one species of each phylum, analyses were also conducted through a vertical depth gradient. Representative species were used in a pH drift experiment, in order to compare the mechanism of Ci acquisition for photosynthesis with the δ13C subsequently determined on the same specimen. Our results suggest that the δ13C values were mostly determined by taxonomy. Depth effects on C stable isotope composition differed among taxa. The parallel measurements of δ15N are more difficult to interpret mechanistically; there are no robust phylogenetic and large‐scale biogeographic correlations; local factors of natural (e.g., upwellings) and anthropogenic (e.g., sewage outfall) inputs predominate in determining the macrophyte δ15N.
Cortisol, Insulin, and Glucose and the Risk of Delirium in Older Adults with Hip Fracture
Authors: Bisschop Peter H. , de Rooij Sophia E. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , van Oosten Hannah E. , van Munster Barbara C.
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relationship between perioperative delirium and cortisol, glucose, and insulin in older adults acutely admitted for hip fracture.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Tertiary university center.

PARTICIPANTS: Consecutive individuals aged 65 and older acutely admitted for hip fracture were invited to participate.

MEASUREMENTS: All participants were repeatedly examined to determine presence and severity of delirium. Blood samples for cortisol, glucose, and insulin were drawn at 11:00 a.m. Differences in characteristics of participants with and without delirium were evaluated using t‐tests and Mann‐Whitney tests. A logistic regression analysis was performed to correct for other important risk factors for delirium.

RESULTS: One hundred forty‐three participants, 70 (49%) with delirium and 73 (51%) without, were included. In univariate analyses, there was a trend toward higher cortisol levels (odds ratio=1.003 (95% confidence interval=1.001–1.004, P=.004), but this association was not statistically significant after multivariable analysis and may reflect an association between high cortisol and preexisting cognitive and functional impairment, and there was no association with insulin or glucose levels. Adjusting for sex and prefracture cognitive and functional impairment made the trend with cortisol and delirium statistically nonsignificant.

CONCLUSION: Delirium in older adults acutely admitted for hip fracture may be linked with higher cortisol concentrations, but it may be that this association reflects an association between higher cortisol and preexisting cognitive and functional impairment.
Effect of Chronic Disease–Related Symptoms and Impairments on Universal Health Outcomes in Older Adults
Authors: Tinetti Mary E. , McAvay Gail , Chang Sandy S. , Ning Yuming , Newman Anne B. , Fitzpatrick Annette , Fried Terri R. , Harris Tamara B. , Nevitt Michael C. , Satterfield Suzanne , Yaffe Kristine , Peduzzi Peter
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVES: To determine the extent to which disease‐related symptoms and impairments, which constitute measures of disease severity or targets of therapy, account for the associations between chronic diseases and universal health outcomes.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional.

SETTING: The Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS) and the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study (Health ABC).

PARTICIPANTS: Five thousand six hundred fifty‐four CHS members and 2,706 Health ABC members.

MEASUREMENTS: Diseases included heart failure (HF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), osteoarthritis, and cognitive impairment. The universal health outcomes included self‐rated health, basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs and IADLs), and death. Disease‐related symptoms and impairments included HF symptoms and ejection fraction (EF) for HF, Dyspnea Scale and forced expiratory volume in 1 second for COPD, joint pain for osteoarthritis, and executive function for cognitive impairment.

RESULTS: The diseases were associated with the universal health outcomes (P<.001) except osteoarthritis with death (both cohorts) and cognitive impairment with self‐rated health (Health ABC). Symptoms and impairments accounted for 30% or more of each disease's effect on the universal health outcomes. In CHS, for example, HF was associated with one fewer (0.918) ADL and IADL performed without difficulty than no HF; HF symptoms accounted for 27% of this effect and EF for only 5%. The hazard ratio for death with HF was 6.5 (95% confidence interval=4.7–8.9) with EF accounting for 40% and HF symptoms for only 14%.

CONCLUSION: Disease‐related symptoms and impairments accounted for much of the significant associations between the four chronic diseases and the universal health outcomes. Results support considering universal health outcomes as common metrics across diseases in clinical decision‐making, perhaps by targeting the disease‐related symptoms and impairments that contribute most strongly to the effect of the disease on the universal health outcomes.
Effects of Exogenous and Endogenous Distracters on Immediate and Long‐Term Recall in Toddlers
Authors: Dixon Wallace E. , Lawman Hannah G. , Johnson Elizabeth B. H. , May Sarah , Patton Leslie A. , Lowe Allison K. , Snyder Courtney M.
Published: September 2011

We explored the role that exogenous and endogenous competitors for attention play in infants’ abilities to encode and retain information over a 6‐month period. Sixty‐six children visited the laboratory at 15 months, and 32 returned for a second visit at 21 months. Children observed models of conventional‐ relation and enabling‐relation action sequences. Half the children were distracted by a “Mister Monkey” mechanical toy during the conventional‐relation sequence, while the other half was distracted during the enabling‐relation sequence. The Early Childhood Behavior Questionnaire indexed endogenous factors at both ages. Immediate postmodel production of target actions indexed encoding efficiency, and 6‐month production of target actions indexed long‐term recall. The exogenous distracter impacted encoding efficiency (i.e., immediate recall), but not long‐term recall. Endogenous factors (i.e., temperament) were primarily associated with long‐term recall. Of special interest was our finding that endogenous factors, especially surgency, moderated the effect of the exogenous distracter. It appears that when learningconventional‐relationsequences in the presence of exogenous distracters, surgency mobilizes attentional resources toward the learning objective; however, when learningenabling‐relationsequences under the same conditions, surgency either boosts the saliency of the distracters or boosts children’s susceptibility to them.
Pre‐Prosthetic Orthodontic Treatment Using Personalized Elastic Separators for Optimization of Emergence Profile in Esthetic Crowns: A Clinical Report
Authors: Freitas‐Júnior Amilcar C. , Silva Antonio M.
Published: September 2011

Restoring a misaligned tooth with an inadequate contact point is a challenge to the practitioner. In some instances, teeth that could be repositioned and adequately restored are extracted. Thus, the aim of this article was to describe a treatment using orthodontic and prosthetic techniques to restore esthetics and function in a patient with a distally drifted maxillary lateral incisor. The patient's functional and esthetic expectations were successfully met with the outlined treatment.