bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meal Composition And Shift Work Performance
Authors: Love Heather L. , Watters Corilee A. , Chang Wei-Ching
Published: May 2007

Research indicates that the ability to perform a task can be affected by the composition of the meal preceding the task. This study investigated the effect of shift workers’ consumption of a medium-fat, medium-carbohydrate meal on alertness scores. Six subjects (four men, two women) aged 19 to 44 recorded food intake, sleep, and quality of sleep for two weeks, and measured their body temperature and performed cognitive tests during two night shifts at baseline and in test periods. The Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS) was used to quantify sleepiness, and a Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) was used to measure cognitive performance. In comparison with the score at baseline, when subjects had a low-fat, high-carbohydrate dietary intake (1,335 kcal/5,588 kJ, 56% carbohydrate, 28% fat), the 1.6-second PASAT score improved significantly (p=0.042) during night shifts when subjects consumed a test meal (987 kcal/4,131 kJ, 46% carbohydrate, 42% fat). No statistically significant difference in SSS was found between baseline and test periods. The reduced body temperature between 2400 hours and 0530 hours was similar for both baseline and test periods. Meal composition and size during night shifts may affect cognitive performance.
Mealtimes as Active Processesin Long-term Care Facilities
Authors: Gibbs-Ward Amie J. , Keller Heather H.
Published: May 2007

Mealtimes are central to the nutritional care of residents in long-term care facilities. There has been little Canadian research to guide interdisciplinary practice around mealtimes. This study included a grounded theory approach to explore mealtime experiences of 20 people with dementia living in two long-term care facilities, and the meal-related care they received from registered nurses, health care aides, and dietitians. Theoretical sampling directed the collection and analysis of data from mealtime observations in special care units and key informant interviews with care providers. The constant comparison method was used to analyze and conceptualize the data. A substantive theory emerged with three key themes:

Each mealtime is a unique process embedded within a long-term care facility's environment. Residents are central to the process through their actions (i.e., arriving, eating, waiting, socializing, leaving, and miscellaneous distracted activities). Internal (i.e., residents’ characteristics) and external (i.e., co-resident, direct caregiving, indirect caregiving, administrative, and government activities) influences affect residents’ actions at mealtimes.

The theory suggests that optimal mealtime experiences for residents require individualized care that reflects interdisciplinary, multi-level interventions.
The Meaning of Food to Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Adams Charla , Glanville N. Theresa
Published: May 2007

Although a definitive relationship between diet and breast cancer remains controversial, many women adopt dietary change after diagnosis. To understand factors motivating dietary change, we explored the meanings that breast cancer survivors attached to food during recovery. Six women who were breast cancer survivors for six to 19 years participated in semi-structured interviews exploring personal meanings attached to food, dietary changes after diagnosis, factors influencing dietary change, and experiences with food in relation to breast cancer. Two distinct phases emerged. These corresponded to active treatment, when women used food to gain control, to cope, for comfort, and for hope, and to post-treatment, when the meanings that women attached to food were shaped by the perception of food's role in breast cancer causation. Women who believed that diet prevents a first diagnosis adopted change to prevent recurrence, while those who did not believe in the relationship between diet and breast cancer adopted change to improve health. In women with breast cancer, food can be an important coping mechanism. Women may benefit from counselling grounded in the meanings they attach to food over the recovery continuum.
Assessing Nutritional Riskof Long-Term Care Residents
Authors: Bowman Jennifer J. , Keller Heather H.
Published: May 2007

The validity was determined for Minimum Data Set (MDS) 2.0 oral/nutrition status (Section K) items, used to identify long-term care residents at nutritional risk. A registered dietitian assessed 128 long-term care residents using standardized procedures, and used clinical judgment to provide a nutritional risk rating. Registered nursing staff completed the MDS assessments. Bivariate tests of association were used to assess the relationship between the dietitian rating and each Section K item. The sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of specific and combinations of variables were also determined. The MDS variables of dietary prescription (diet rx), supplement use, and swallowing problems were significantly associated with nutritional risk rating. Body mass index (BMI), calculated from MDS data, also was significantly associated with nutritional risk rating. The MDS trigger system, however, had poor Se and Sp. The best combination of variables included the presence of one or more of diet rx, supplement use, swallowing problem, or BMI <24 kg/m2(Se=0.81, Sp=0.50). Although Section K items are associated with nutritional risk, Se and Sp analyses suggest that these items and this section require further refinement and validation before use as part of a referral mechanism.
Evaluating a Food BankRecipe-Tasting Program
Authors: Keller-Olaman Susan J. , Edwards Vicki , Elliott Susan J.
Published: May 2007

Food banks mitigate immediate food insecurity, but their ability to promote healthy nutrition is constrained by how often recipients may visit and the range of foods available. In a descriptive study, a formative evaluation was completed of a combined heart-healthy recipe-tasting and education program that aims to promote healthy eating knowledge and skills in a group of food bank recipients in Hamilton, Ontario. Fifty-five adults were surveyed about food bank attendance, program awareness, perceived enhancement of knowledge and skills, and suggestions for program improvement. Most participants (73%) were positive about the program, and 91% wanted the program to continue. In addition, 78% would prepare the recipes sampled. In contrast, program awareness and planning food bank visits to coincide with the program were generally low. Food banks are potential sites for effective nutrition promotion programs. To reach more recipients, more frequent implementation and seeking the use of a designated room are suggested for the current program. The findings also suggest that the sampling approach to promoting healthy eating to food bank recipients deserves further study. For example, monitoring the selection of featured recipe ingredients would be a useful indicator of behaviour.
Gender and Nutrition Management in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wong Mildred , Gucciardi Enza , Li Louisa , Grace Sherry L.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The literature suggests that adherence to dietary recommendations may differ between women and men with type 2 diabetes due to family obligations and spousal support.

Methods: To assess division of household labour between spouses, retrospective chart review of 561 individuals who attended the Diabetes Education Centre at the Toronto Western Hospital was performed. Qualitative interviews were also performed with 12 married clients (six female and six male) and seven spouses of clients (three female, four male) to understand how the sharing of household labour influences adherence to nutrition guidelines in type 2 diabetes.

Results: Results indicate a significant gender difference in responsibility for meal preparation (χ2(3)=140.64, p<.001) and grocery shopping (χ2(3)=88.24, p<0.001), with women more often engaging in these household activities than men. Male clients are more likely to be actively supported by their wives in the form of meal preparation and verbal encouragement, while female clients are only passively supported by their husbands.

Conclusions: The results suggest that diabetes educators should recognize gender differences in household labour and support when counselling their clients to ensure that both men and women have the help they need to successfully manage their diabetes.
Learning Opportunity and Preparedness for Practice: Perceptions from Dietetics Programs in Canada
Authors: Rose Maureen , Mcalpine Lynn , Strychar Irene
Published: May 2007

Purpose: This study determined dietetics trainees’ and program coordinators’ perceptions about trainees’ preparedness to practice, based on Dietitians of Canada’s 145 competency statements. Depth and breadth of learning opportunity were also determined with definitions of these two concepts based on Elliott’s view of professional education and practice.

Methods: Research questions were: 1. How prepared were trainees for practice? 2. What were the depth and breadth of learning opportunity in assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation? 3. How many learning opportunities were there in professional practice and communication? 4. Did responses vary between integrated programs and internships or between trainees and program coordinators?

Results: Of 313 trainees, 168 (54%) responded and 23 (72%) of 32 coordinators responded. Preparedness was rated as “well prepared” or better for 25 (56%) of the 45 main competencies. For every competency, preparedness ratings were higher in integrated programs than in internships. Learning opportunities were rated as sufficient in depth and breadth or number for 88 (61%) of the 145 competency statements. Low ratings for preparedness were accompanied by low ratings for depth and/or breadth or number of learning opportunities.

Conclusions: The notion of depth and breadth is useful as a framework to assess learning opportunities for developing entry-level competence.
Nutrient Inadequacyin Obese and Non-Obese Youth
Authors: Gillis Linda , Gillis Aubrey
Published: May 2007

Purpose: In this study, the Dietary Reference Intake standards were used to evaluate the prevalence of inadequate intakes of micronutrients in obese and non-obese youth.

Methods: Dietary intake was analyzed with a dietary history taken by a registered dietitian. The obese group (n=156) had a body mass index (BMI) above the 95thpercentile for age and sex. The non-obese group (n=90) was between the tenth and 85thBMI percentiles.

Results: In the obese subjects, the prevalence of inadequate intakes was 81% for vitamin E and 27% for magnesium; the proportions with intakes below the Adequate Intakes (AIs) for calcium and vitamin D were 55% and 46%, respectively. The obese children consumed 124% of estimated need for energy, 32% of which came from fat. The non-obese had a similar prevalence of inadequate intakes (vitamin E, 93%; magnesium, 29%; calcium, 51%; vitamin D, 44%). They consumed 107% of estimated need for energy, and 31% of energy came from fat. For both groups, all other nutrient intakes were adequate.

Conclusions: Even though children may consume an excess of energy, they may not be meeting all of their micronutrient needs.
The Relationship Between Price, Amounts of Saturated and Trans Fats, and Nutrient Content Claims on Margarines and Oils
Authors: Ricciuto Laurie , Ip Hedy , Tarasuk Valerie
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Modifications to the amount and type of fat in the diet are recommended as strategies to help reduce heart disease risk. Individuals can choose from a variety of margarines and oils to alter their intakes of different types of fats, and nutrient content claims on product labels (e.g., ‘low in saturated fat’) can help them quickly identify healthful products. However, margarines and oils vary in price.

Methods: To examine the relationship between the price and amounts of saturated and trans fats in margarines and oils, and the relationship between price and the presence of nutrient content claims, price and label information were recorded for margarines (n=229) and oils (n=342) sold in the major supermarkets within the Greater Toronto Area.

Results: Linear regression analysis revealed a negative relationship between the price and amounts of saturated fat and trans fats in margarines, but not in oils. Margarines with a nutrient content claim were significantly more expensive than were those without a claim.

Conclusions: The findings for margarines are of particular concern for lower income groups for whom budgetary constraints result in the purchase of lower priced foods, and also raise important questions about the usefulness of nutrient content claims in guiding food selections.
Dietary Practices of Women Diagnosed with Environmental Sensitivity
Authors: Glanville N. Theresa , Crawley P. Elizabeth
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Food avoidance is central to the treatment of environmental sensitivity (ES), a chronic, often debilitating, multisystem disorder characterized by adverse reactions to non-noxious levels of environmental substances. Because prolonged food avoidance could impact nutritional health, the purpose of this research was to assess adequacy and quality of diets consumed by women diagnosed with ES.

Methods: Twelve women aged 37 to 50 recruited from the Nova Scotia Environmental Health Clinic completed a fourday food record during the spring and summer of 1998.

Results: When adequacy of nutrient intake was assessed by comparison to the Estimated Average Requirement, the most limited nutrients in the diet were folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and magnesium. Only one woman exceeded the Adequate Intake for calcium. When diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index, the majority of women (75%) scored in the “needs improvement” category; intake of milk and dietary variety scored the lowest. Women consumed very few servings from “other foods”, defined in the food guide as foods containing mostly sugar and mostly fat.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that women diagnosed with ES would benefit from counselling on ways to increase dietary variety, which would lead to improved nutrient intake, and ways to increase calcium intake.
Promoting Healthy Lifestyles In Ontario Family Health Networks
Authors: Brauer Paula , Schneider Theresa , Preece Christine , Northmore Deborah , West Eva , Dietrich Linda , Davidson Bridget ,   Steering Committee
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Primary health care reform presents new opportunities for registered dietitians (RDs) to contribute to health promotion and disease prevention in family practices. Since this is an emerging area of RD practice, a health promotion specialist was contracted to conduct a needs assessment and develop a plan for implementing nutrition-focused healthy lifestyle activities.

Methods: The needs assessment was conducted as part of an Ontario-based demonstration project in three Family Health Networks (FHNs).

Results: The needs assessment revealed a lack of agreement about what types of activities should be undertaken, a lack of information on the population's needs, a lack of coordination with other agencies in the community, and barriers of time and resources. The health promotion specialist recommended that health care team members in each FHN develop a shared understanding of their goals, and undertake the entire planning and evaluation cycle. Specific strategies were suggested to increase awareness, to provide health education, and to improve environmental support.

Conclusions: A significant need exists for conceptual development, planning, testing, and evaluation of disease prevention and health promotion in family physician-based primary health care organizations. The findings may be useful to others interested in increasing the focus on health promotion and disease prevention in such practices.
Enhancing Interdisciplinary Collaboration In Primary Health Care
Authors: Sharp Marsha
Published: May 2007

Background: Dietitians of Canada has endorsed the Principles and Framework for Enhancing Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Primary Health Care (EICP) created by the EICP Initiative. The Initiative focused on the conditions required for health professionals to work together in the most effective and efficient way, so that they can produce the best health outcomes for individuals and their families – the patients, clients, and consumers of our national health system. The Initiative was spearheaded by a Steering Committee of 11 national health professional organizations, and brought together leaders, health professionals, and key stakeholders in Canada's primary health care system in a change process designed to facilitate more interdisciplinary collaboration.

Principles and Framework: In the context of the EICP Initiative, the Principles are values shared by stakeholders. They are critical to the establishment of collaboration and teamwork to achieve the best health outcomes. The elements of the Principles are patient/client engagement, a population health approach, the best possible care and services, access, trust and respect, and effective communication. The Framework builds upon these Principles and is composed of the structural and process elements required to support collaborative primary health care. The elements of the Framework are health human resources, funding, liability, regulation, information and communications technology, management and leadership, and planning and evaluation.

Conclusions: The Boards of Directors of the ten health professions leading the EICP Initiative agreed upon the values and key structural and process elements that need to be put in place to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration in Primary Health Care in Canada. Dietitians of Canada will continue to seek opportunities to further the change process started by EICP. Approximately 40 research papers and a toolkit to help primary heath care providers work together have been produced.
Primary Health Care, Mental Health, And the Dietitian's Role
Authors: Davison Karen
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Individuals with mental illness are at nutritional risk because of health, social, and economic factors. To address this problem, the Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative (CCMHI) and Dietitians of Canada (DC) commissioned the development of a toolkit that outlines the role of the registered dietitian (RD) and advocates for RDs in primary health care (PHC) mental health programs.

Methods: The development of the toolkit followed a fourstage process: a comprehensive literature review, a focus group discussion with a national working group, interviews with consumers about RD services, and evaluation of the toolkit.

Results: The costs of mental illness in Canada are at least $6.85 billion per year. Currently, little evidence exists on how RD services can reduce these expenses. The focus group identified accessibility as the predominant issue facing individuals with mental illness. To explain consumer experiences with RD services, a three-tier theory based on in-depth interviews was developed. Consumer experiences with RDs occur in five categories: financial concerns, perception of service, status of mental illness, engagement, and self-esteem (tier 1). These are further influenced by five individual and contextual factors, e.g., social environment, the mental illness (tier 2), which are weighed as benefits and barriers instrumental in determining actions (tier 3).

Conclusions: The evaluation of the final draft of the RD toolkit confirmed that it reflected the visions of PHC. The toolkit is intended to act as a blueprint for action. Dietitians are encouraged to use its contents to advocate for positions in mental health PHC settings.
Common Ground: The Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative
Authors: Dietrich Linda
Published: May 2007

Background: As one of 12 participating national health associations, Dietitians of Canada (DC) endorsed the Charter Principles and Commitments created by the Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative (CCMHI). The Chair of the DC Board of Directors signed the Charter, committing DC to work collaboratively to uphold the Principles and actively endorse the Commitments.

Achievements: The Initiative's vision, making mental health care work – new places, new partners, new hope, provided the Steering Committee with a clear direction. The CCMHI Charter Principles cover promotion and prevention, a holistic approach, collaboration, partnership, respect, information exchange, and resources. In addition to the Charter, the CCMHI has produced a series of 12 toolkits and research papers. The toolkits are practical pieces that also contain ideas and other information. Dietitians of Canada has developed a toolkit that examines the dietitian's role in primary health care mental health programs. A set of reviews of the practice of collaborative mental health care in Canada covers a wide range of issues, from the attributes of effective collaborative care to a discussion of the barriers to collaboration.

Conclusion: Communications between the 12 member organizations are ongoing, and the organizations await the establishment of the Canadian Mental Health Commission, which is expected to be up and running in fall 2006.
Is There a Link Between Postpartum Anemia And Discontinuation of Breastfeeding?
Authors: Rioux France M. , Savoie Nadya , Allard Jacques
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Factors associated with early cessation of breastfeeding were identified and patterns of infant feeding were examined. Feeding practices were compared with the 1998 guidelines in Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants and with recent Health Canada recommendations.

Methods: To recruit participants, a letter was sent to every mother (n=424) who gave birth at Dr. Georges-L. Dumont Regional Hospital in Moncton from April 1998 to February 1999. Eighty-five mothers agreed to participate with their infants. Information on infant feeding patterns and socioeconomic background was gathered with semi-structured questionnaires. Only healthy infants from singleton pregnancies were included in this study.

Results: At birth, almost 83% of infants were breastfed. The proportions of infants breastfed for at least four, six, and nine months were 43%, 22%, and 9%, respectively. As many as 34% of infants were introduced to baby cereals before age four months, and 21% were introduced to cow’s milk before age nine months. Lower family income, lower level of parental education, and reduced postpartum hemoglobin level (below 95 g/L) were associated with discontinuation of breastfeeding before infants were four months old.

Conclusions: Early postpartum nutrition interventions may be effective in ensuring follow-up care for mothers with compromised iron status, in supporting breastfeeding for at least six months, and in promoting better infant feeding practices.
Traditional Versus Room Service Menu Styles For Pediatric Patients
Authors: Wadden Krista , Wolf Bernice , Mayhew Alain
Published: May 2007

Purpose: To compare patient satisfaction with a room service (RS) menu style versus a traditional menu (TM) in a Canadian pediatric hospital.

Methods: A sample of 20 subjects (Group A) was surveyed before implementation of the RS menu and a second sample of 20 subjects (Group B) was surveyed after implementation.

Results: All subjects in Group B rated overall satisfaction with meals as greatly exceeding or exceeding expectations after implementing the new menu style. Also, 65% of Group B subjects rated quality of food as greatly exceeding or exceeding their expectations after the intervention.

Conclusions: To improve meal satisfaction for pediatric oncology and hemodialysis patients, the RS menu style is a worthwhile option.
Dietitians’ Opinions and ExperiencesOf Client-Centred Nutrition Counselling
Authors: MacLellan Debbie L. , Berenbaum Shawna
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The concept of “client-centredness” was explored within a nutrition counselling relationship.

Methods: A two-round reactive Delphi survey was used. The first survey was sent to 65 Dietitians of Canada members who indicated in the member database that they had advanced counselling skills. Following analysis of the data, the secondround questionnaire was developed and sent to participants with a report of the first-round results. Analysis of the secondround survey indicated that participants’ responses had remained stable, and the Delphi survey was terminated.

Results: Participants agreed that most of the issues identified in the Delphi questionnaire should be included in a client-centred approach to practice; however, when participants were asked about their experience in these areas, median responses and/ or the interquartile ranges changed, indicating some difficulty in implementing the client-centred approach. Comments also indicated that the reality of their workplaces did not allow participants to be as client-centred as they thought they should be, and suggested that the concept of “client-centredness” is not universally understood by dietitians.

Conclusion: If a client-centred approach to practice is truly important, we need to start a dialogue within the profession to gain a deeper understanding of what this means and how it can be implemented.
Widespread Micronutrient Inadequacies Among Adults in Prince Edward Island
Authors: Taylor Jennifer P. , MacLellan Debbie L. , Van Til Linda , Sweet Lamont
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The prevalence of micronutrient inadequacies was assessed among adult residents of Prince Edward Island (PEI) in the PEI Nutrition Survey.

Methods: A peer-reviewed protocol was used in this crosssectional survey, in which 24-hour recalls were administered during in-home interviews. A stratified random sample of 1,995 adults aged 18 to 74 participated. Median nutrient intakes with and without supplements were calculated; intakes were adjusted for day-to-day variability. Chi-square testing was used to assess differences in prevalence of inadequacy by age and sex.

Results: Most of the sample (more than 90%) had folate intakes below the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Magnesium and vitamin C intakes were low in more than 50% of the sample. Iron intakes were adequate in all groups except women aged 19 to 50, 29% of whom had intakes below the EAR. Women were more likely than men to have inadequate intakes. Median calcium intakes fell below recommendations for all age and sex groups. Supplement use had little impact on dietary adequacy in this sample.

Conclusions: This study underscores the need for public health interventions designed to reduce the very high prevalence of nutrient inadequacies in the PEI adult population. In addition, education is needed on the selection of appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements.
Once upon a time…. Storytelling to Enhance Teaching and Learning
Authors: Lordly Daphne
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The impact of storytelling in the classroom was examined, as was what motivates individuals to engage in storytelling.

Methods: A storytelling methodology was introduced in an undergraduate nutrition course as an opportunity to enhance the teaching and learning environment. A 28-item, multi-part, self-administered survey was then distributed to the class (n=17).

Results: Survey responses (n=15, 88% response) indicate that educators’ and students’ storytelling can positively influence the learning environment. This occurs through the creation of a greater focus on personalized information, glimpses of real-life experience, a connection with a topic as participants recognize similarities in their own personal experience and knowledge, and connections between different topics and through the emphasis on key concepts. Stories initiate useful conversations about unexplored struggles within practice, such as the emotional dimension(s) of an issue or what it means to be professional. Students are motivated to participate in storytelling through an external focus on others (i.e., helping others to learn) and an internal focus on self (i.e., seeking a connection with others to promote social dialogue). Several challenges related to the use of storytelling in the classroom emerged.

Conclusions: Storytelling develops ways of knowing and dialoguing about issues, which has the potential to influence how students will approach their professional practice.
Oculo‐auriculo‐vertebral spectrum: Associated anomalies, functional deficits and possible developmental risk factors
Authors: Strömland Kerstin , Miller Marilyn , Sjögreen Lotta , Johansson Maria , Joelsson Britt‐Marie Ekman , Billstedt Eva , Gillberg Christopher , Danielsson Susanna , Jacobsson Catharina , Andersson‐Norinder Jan , Granström Gösta
Published: May 2007

Swedish patients with the oculo‐auriculo‐vertebral (OAV) spectrum participated in a prospective multidisciplinary investigation. The aims of the study were to describe their systemic and functional defects, especially autism spectrum disorders, and to search for possible etiologic risk factors. Available medical records were studied and the mothers answered a questionnaire on history of prenatal events. A clinical examination evaluating systemic findings, vision, hearing, speech, oral and swallowing function, and neuropsychiatric function, especially autism, was made. Eighteen patients, (11 males, 7 females) aged 8 months to 17 years with OAV were studied. Most frequent systemic malformations included, ear abnormalities (100%), ocular malformations (72%), vertebral deformities (67%), cerebral anomalies (50%), and congenital heart defects (33%). Functional defects consisted of hearing impairment (83%), visual impairment (28%), both visual and hearing impairment (28%), difficulties in feeding/eating (50%), speech (53%), mental retardation (39%), and severe autistic symptoms (11%). Three children were born following assisted fertilization (two intracytoplasmatic sperm injection, one in vitro fertilization), two mothers reported early bleedings, and six (33%) mothers had smoked during pregnancy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chorea associated with antiphospholipid antibodies in a patient with Kabuki syndrome
Authors: Gidwani Pooja , Segal Eric , Shanske Alan , Driscoll Catherine
Published: May 2007

Kabuki syndrome, OMIM 147920 (KS) is a disorder characterized by multi‐system abnormalities. These include physical, neurological, endocrine, and autoimmune abnormalities. Multiple autoimmune abnormalities are described in KS such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), vitiligo, thyroiditis, hemolytic anemia, and hypogammaglobulinemia. In this report, we describe a patient with KS with sudden onset chorea associated with the presence of anti‐phospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in the serum. Chorea in the presence of aPLs has been well described in the literature both in the presence and absence of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This report of APL in a patient with KS adds to the list of autoimmune disorders seen in patients with KS and also strengthens the hypothesis that patients with this syndrome have an increased incidence of immune dysregulation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spontaneous or Mycobacterium tuberculosis‐induced apoptotic neutrophils exert opposite effects on the dendritic cell‐mediated immune response
Authors: Alemán Mercedes , de la Barrera Silvia , Schierloh Pablo , Yokobori Noemí , Baldini Matías , Musella Rosa , Abbate Eduardo , Sasiain María
Published: May 2007

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) modulate the adaptive immune response through interactions with immature dendritic cells (iDC) while spontaneous apoptotic neutrophils PMNapo (PMNapo) may have an inhibitory effect on DC functions. We investigate the effect exerted by PMNapo in DC maturation and the role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)‐induced PMNapo in the cross‐presentation of mycobacterial antigens. We demonstrate that Mtb triggers the maturation of iDC while it is impaired by the presence of PMNapo, which abrogate Mtb‐induced expression of costimulatory and HLA class II molecules, reducing IL‐12 and IFN‐γ release by DC and partially inhibiting Mtb‐driven lymphocyte proliferation. This inhibitory effect is not observed in already Mtb‐matured DC, and it involves a direct interaction between DC and PMNapo, as supernatants from PMNapo cultures do not reveal this effect. Although PMNapo do not alter Mtb/DC‐SIGN interaction, they affect the intracellular signals leading to DC maturation without requiring their entry into DC. Phagocytosis of Mtb‐induced PMNapo by iDC leads to lymphoproliferation, which is significantly reduced by blocking CD36 and not DC‐SIGN on iDC. Therefore, cross‐presentation of Mtb antigens is taking place. Our findings suggest that the inflammatory milieu is subjected to a fine balance between non‐infected and Mtb‐induced PMNapo: non‐infected PMNapo limiting inflammation and Mtb‐induced PMNapo generating a specific immune activity.
CD8α/α homodimers fail to function as co‐receptor for a CD8‐dependent TCR
Authors: McNicol Anne‐Marie , Bendle Gavin , Holler Angelika , Matjeka Theres , Dalton Emma , Rettig Lorna , Zamoyska Rose , Uckert Wolfgang , Xue Shao‐An , Stauss Hans J.
Published: May 2007

In this study, we have started to dissect the molecular basis of CD8 dependence of a high and low avidity CTL clone specific for the same peptide epitope. Using anti‐CD8α and anti‐CD8β antibodies, we found that cytotoxicity and IFN‐γ production by high but not by low avidity CTL was strongly CD8 dependent. We isolated the TCR genes of both types of CTL clones and used retroviral gene transfer to analyse the function of these TCR in primary T cells of wild‐type and CD8β‐deficient mice. Both TCR triggered antigen‐specific killing in wild‐type T cells, and blocking experiments showed that CD8 dependence/independence co‐transferred with the TCR into primary T cells, indicating that it was dictated by the TCR itself. Gene transfer experiments into CD8β‐deficient T cells revealed that only the TCR derived from the CD8‐independent CTL clone elicited antigen‐specific cytotoxicity, while the CD8‐dependent TCR was non‐functional in the absence of the CD8β‐chain. These data indicate a striking difference between CD8α/β heterodimers and CD8α/α homodimers as only the former were able to provide co‐receptor function for the CD8‐dependent TCR.
Polarization of judgment and preference for judgmental labels
Authors: Van Der Pligt Joop , Van Dijk Jos A.
Published: May 2007

Studied how value connotations of the response language affect the relationship between judges' attitudes and polarization of judgment. Subjects (military conscripts, n = 105) rated 28 statements concerning drug use on 2 types of rating scales. Results indicate that subjects show more polarization on rating scales where their own evaluation of the statement is congruent with the value connotations of the scale labels. In a second experiment 82 subjects (male and female university students) were asked to rank adjectives in order of their suitability to characterize attitude statements. Results imply that value connotations also mediate the relationship between judges' attitude and preference for verbal labels in attributing adjectives to attitude statements. Subsequent analysis suggests that this preference for adjectives that are evaluatively congruent with own attitude, persists even when the adjectives are less correct from a descriptive point of view.
The dimensionality of attributions of causality and responsibility for an accident
Authors: Nogami Glenda Y. , Streufert Siegfried
Published: May 2007

Effects of the dimensionality of responsibility and causality attributions were investigated. An accident was described. Subjects cued to respond with causality attributions increased their attributions with event severity. Subjects cued to respond with moral responsibility attributions decreased attributional levels with increasing severity. Assignments of guilt varied specifically with the cued attributional concept.
Compromising between equity and equality: The effects of situational ambiguity and computational complexity
Authors: Debusschere Marc , van Avermaett Eddy
Published: May 2007

This study tested the hypothesis that in situations, incorporating demands for opposing allocation rules, people will only compromise between the relevant rules if the allocational computation is fairly simple. Male secondary‐school pupils were given a description of one of three situations (an unambiguous equality, an unambiguous equity or an ambiguous equality and equity situation), and they were then asked to divide 100 units of reward over four persons in easy or in complex computation circumstances. Instead of the expected interaction between situational ambiguity and complexity the results showed a computational complexity main effect: compromising decreased with complexity. In addition, in the ambiguous conditions, the proportion of equitable distributions was greater in the simple and smaller in the complex condition than the proportion of equal distributions. It was concluded that greater computational complexity not only decreases the amount of compromising, but also induces a preference for equality over equity allocations, if situational demands for equity are not too strong. Both are considered expressions of the same tendency to switch to computationally easier allocations, as allocation computations become more complex.
Exploring the role of personal normative beliefs in the theory of reasoned action: The problem of discriminating between alternative path models
Authors: Budd Richard J. , Spencer Christopher P.
Published: May 2007

In the 1967 version of Fishbein's model of the attitude‐behaviour relationship a distinction was drawn between personal and social normative beliefs. Personal normative beliefs were later removed from the model on the grounds that they act as an alternative measure of behavioural intention. It is argued that the existing literature does not support this hypothesis and data is presented which indicates that personal normative beliefs are not an alternative measure of behavioural intention. It is argued that personal normative beliefs can be reconceptualized as measuring a person's ideal behavioural intention; a variable which mediates the relationship between attitudes, subjective norms and intentions, Evidence is presented which supports this hypothesis, but it is further demonstrated that an alternative model can be fitted to the present data. It is argued that it is impossible to discriminate between these alternative models on the basis of path analytic techniques, and the implications that this finding has for attitude research are discussed.
Lure of limitations
Authors: Blume Norman
Published: May 2007

Toledo area experience proves they diminish fiscal responsibility and frustrate the voters.
Thrust toward quality
Authors: Ellis James R.
Published: May 2007

Capital investment decisions offer chance for a consensus of officials and citizens to improve cities.
A new togetherness
Authors: Stewart Alva W.
Published: May 2007

Three North Carolina communities consolidate as one, sparking possible action by neighbors.
The triple threat
Authors: Walker David B.
Published: May 2007

Urbanization, racial unrest and rural decline suggest need for joint action at all levels.
Strength in unity
Authors: Kolderie Ted
Published: May 2007

Twin Cities area making serious efforts to achieve real metropolitan organization.
The nashville story
Authors: Fillebrown T. Scott
Published: May 2007

Six years after merger with Davidson County, area has more capacity to serve local needs.
New cop on the beat
Authors: Gerlach Gary
Published: May 2007

Nationwide network hooked to an FBI computer helps nab crooks in seconds, curb growing crime.
An area federation
Authors: Zimmerman Joseph F.
Published: May 2007

Metropolitan service problems may be resolved more easily by utilizing a two‐tier approach.
A growing militancy
Authors: Capozzola John M.
Published: May 2007

Public employees act more like trade unionists to protect interests in collective bargaining.
How Illinois did it
Authors: Pisciotte Joseph P.
Published: May 2007

After a static century, determined group guides voters to approval of constitutional convention.
Pseudo‐Ombudsmen
Authors: Dolan Paul
Published: May 2007

Political conditions and traditions preventing full use of concept by city complaint offices.
For rural revival
Authors: Anding Thomas L. , Gustafson Neil C.
Published: May 2007

Regional approach suggested to create system capable of producing ‘the good life’ for everyone.
Our probate mess
Authors: Bloom Murray Teigh
Published: May 2007

Need cited for basic reforms to reduce unrealistic costs and long delays in courts.
Lessons of defeat
Authors: Spector N. J.
Published: May 2007

Bridgeport effort points up need for more emphasis on ‘selling’ a proposed charter.
New lawmakers?
Authors: Heath Robert , Melrose Joseph H.
Published: May 2007

Few changes evident in the composition of Pennsylvania's legislature after redistricting.
A call for invention
Authors: Tollenaar Kenneth C.
Published: May 2007

Participatory democracy may help strengthen local government's role in the federal system.
Costs of reform
Authors: Hamilton Howard D.
Published: May 2007

Structural change in city government may not resolve alienation problems.
Is mechanical deformation of the suboccipital vertebral artery during cervical spine rotation responsible for vertebrobasilar insufficiency?
Authors: Mitchell Jeanette
Published: May 2007

Purpose. The atlanto‐axial region of the vertebral artery (VA) has traditionally been considered at risk for injury during cervical spine rotation, leading to compromised blood flow to the hindbrain and vertebrobasilar insufficiency or ischaemia (VBI). The anatomical relationships of the suboccipital VA (VA3) and related haemodynamic changes associated with cervical spine movements have been neglected, however. The present review aims to provide a new perspective on possible causes of reduced blood flow to the hindbrain, with particular reference to the functional anatomy of VA3 and related biomechanics of cervical spine rotation, to inform evidence‐based practice. Method. To support the hypothesis that it is VA3, not the VA in the atlanto‐axial region, that is compressed or stretched during cervical spine rotation, current studies of blood flow changes in the VA distal to the region of rotation and possible arterial deformation were retrieved, using AMED, CINAHL, Embase, Pedro and PubMed, and reviewed. Results. Possible sites for VA3 deformation, based on a re‐examination of its anatomy and biomechanics, are described. However, no research reports of VA3 blood flow measurements associated with cervical spine rotation have been published to date. Five studies on blood flow changes in the intracranial VA after cervical spine rotation were reviewed. The subjects for four of these reports were young, healthy individuals, and the fifth included older patients and young non‐patients. The analysis of these studies demonstrated that more rigorous control of variables is necessary before meaningful conclusions can be made. Conclusion. The paucity of studies of VA3 emphasises the need for research based on informed understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of this area. This view on mechanical deformation of VA3 associated with cervical spine rotation as a possible cause of compromised blood flow to the hindbrain and VBI provides further argument for avoiding full‐range or sustained cervical spine rotation in clinical practice. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of cholesterol and simvastatin treatment in patients with Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS)
Authors: Haas D. , Garbade S. F. , Vohwinkel C. , Muschol N. , Trefz F. K. , Penzien J. M. , Zschocke J. , Hoffmann G. F. , Burgard P.
Published: May 2007

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is a malformation syndrome caused by deficiency of 7‐dehydrocholesterol reductase catalysing the last step of cholesterol biosynthesis. This results in an accumulation of 7‐ and 8‐dehydrocholesterol (7+8–DHC) and, in most patients, a deficiency of cholesterol. Current therapy consists of dietary cholesterol supplementation, which raises plasma cholesterol levels, but clinical effects have been reported in only a few patients. Hydroxymethylglutaryl‐coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase inhibitors were shown to reduce 7+8–DHC levels and increase cholesterol concentrations in two small trials with divergent clinical outcome. This retrolective study evaluates the effects of cholesterol only and of cholesterol plus the HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitor simvastatin on plasma sterols in 39 SLOS patients and on anthropometric measures in 20 SLOS patients. Cholesterol as well as additional simvastatin decreased the plasma (7+8–DHC)/cholesterol ratio. However, the mechanism leading to the decreasing ratio was different. Whereas it was due to an increasing cholesterol concentration in the cholesterol‐only cohort, a decreasing 7+8–DHC concentration was demonstrated in the cohort receiving additional simvastatin. We could not confirm a positive effect of simvastatin treatment on anthropometric measures or behaviour, as previously reported.
Lipase‐catalyzed alcoholysis of triglycerides for short‐chain monoglyceride production
Authors: Lee Guan‐Chiun , Wang Dong‐Lin , Ho Yi‐Fang , Shaw Jei‐Fu
Published: May 2007

Lipase from Pseudomonas fluorescens efficiently catalyzed the alcoholysis of various TG in dry alcohols. For TG with short‐chain FA, more MG were accumulated. The yields of MG were affected by the alcohols used. The maximum yields of MG were as follows: 85% for monoacetin in n‐butanol, 96% for monobutyrin in ethanol or n‐butanol, 50% for monocaprylin in n‐butanol, 48% for monolaurin in isopropanol, and 45% for monopalmitin in isopropanol. The MG produced were judged to be 2‐MG by TLC analysis. The presence of organic cosolvent affected the reaction rate of the lipase‐catalyzed alcoholysis of TG. For the alcoholysis of various TG in ethanol and cosolvent (1∶1, vol/vol), the rates had the following orders: (i) for tributyrin, hexane > toluene > acetone > ethyl acetate > chloroform > acetonitrile > pyridine; (ii) for tricaprylin, hexane > acetone > toluene > acetonitrile > ethyl acetate > pyridine > chloroform; and (iii) for trialurin, hexane > acetonitrile=acetone > ethyl acetate > pyridine=chloroform > toluene.
Production of structured lipids by lipase‐catalyzed acidolysis in supercritical carbon dioxide: Effect on acyl migration
Authors: Kim In‐Hwan , Ko Soon‐Nam , Lee Sun‐Mi , Chung Soo‐Hyun , Kim Hakryul , Lee Ki‐Teak , Ha Tae‐Youl
Published: May 2007

Structured lipids were synthesized by the acidolysis of corn oil by caprylic acid in supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) with Lipozyme RM IM from Rhizomucor miehei. The effects of pressure and temperature on the reaction were studied. To compare the degrees of acyl migration in the SCCO2 and solvent‐free reaction systems, the effects of reaction time on the degree of acyl migration were also studied. The highest mole percentage incorporation of caprylic acid (62.2 mol%) occurred at 24.13 MPa in SCCO2. The overall incorporation of caprylic acid in the SCCO2 system remained higher than that in the solvent‐free system at every temperature tested. This trend was observed more clearly at lower temperatures (35–55°C) than at higher temperatures (65–75°C). Acyl migration with both reaction systems was low, with a negligible difference between them up to 12 h, after which the degree of acyl migration in the solvent‐free system increased rapidly with time up to 24 h compared with the SCCO2 system.