bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extreme xanthomatosis in patients with both familial hypercholesterolemia and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis
Authors: Huijgen R , Stork ADM , Defesche JC , Peter J , Alonso R , Cuevas A , Kastelein JJP , Duran M , Stroes ESG
Published: September 2011

Huijgen R, Stork ADM, Defesche JC, Peter J, Alonso R, Cuevas A, Kastelein JJP, Duran M, Stroes ESG. Extreme xanthomatosis in patients with both familial hypercholesterolemia and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis.

Two unrelated individuals were referred to Lipid Clinics in The Netherlands and Chile with extreme xanthomatosis and hypercholesterolemia. Both were diagnosed with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (heFH) after molecular genetic analysis of the low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor gene. Since heFH by itself could not account for the massive xanthomas, the presence of an additional hereditary lipid or lipoprotein disorder was suspected. Further genetic analysis revealed homozygozity for mutations in the sterol 27‐hydroxylase gene, confirming the diagnosis of cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX). Markedly, the typical neurological manifestations of CTX were absent, suggestive of a protective role of LDL‐receptor deficiency against the severe neurological consequences of CTX.
Microbial ureteral stent colonization in renal transplant recipients: frequency and influence on the short‐time functional outcome
Authors: Bonkat G. , Rieken M. , Siegel F.P. , Frei R. , Steiger J. , Gröschl I. , Gasser T.C. , Dell‐Kuster S. , Rosenthal R. , Gürke L. , Wyler S. , Bachmann A. , Widmer A.F.
Published: September 2011

Ureteral stent insertion at the time of renal transplantation significantly decreases complications of urine leakage and obstruction, but bears an intrinsic risk of microbial colonization. Associated urinary tract infection (UTI) may pose a significant risk for graft infection and subsequent graft failure, in particular, during high‐level immunosuppression in the early phase after transplantation. The aims of this prospective study were (i) to assess the frequency of microbial ureteral stent colonization (MUSC) in renal transplant recipients by sonication, (ii) to compare the diagnostic value of sonication with that of conventional urine culture (CUC), (iii) to determine biofilm forming organisms, and (iv) to investigate the influence of MUSC on the short‐time functional outcome. A total of 80 ureteral stents from 78 renal transplant recipients (deceased donors n = 50, living donors n = 28) were prospectively included in the study. CUC was obtained prior to renal transplantation and at ureteral stent removal. In addition, a new stent sonication technique was performed to dislodge adherent microorganisms. CUCs were positive in 4% of patients. Sonicate‐fluid culture significantly increased the yield of microbial growth to 27% (P < 0.001). Most commonly isolated microorganisms by sonication were Enterococcus species (31%), coagulase‐negative staphylococci (19%), and Lactobacillus species (19%), microorganisms not commonly observed in UTIs after renal transplantation. The median glomerular filtraton rate (GFR) of the study population increases from 39 mL/min immediately after transplantation (time point A) to 50 mL/min 6 month post transplantation (time point B). In patients without MUSC, the GFR improves from 39 mL/min (A) to 48 mL/min (B) and in patients with MUSC from 39 mL/min (A) to 50 mL/min (B), respectively. In summary, MUSC in renal transplant recipients is common and remains frequently undetected by routine CUC, but colonization had no measurable effect on renal function.
Relationship Between Contractions of the Uterus and Concentration of PGF2α in Uterine Venous Blood after Luteolysis in Gilts
Authors: Stefańczyk‐Krzymowska S , Wąsowska B , Gilun P , Muszak J , Grzegorzewski W
Published: September 2011

Contents

The origin and physiological significance of high pulses of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) in uterine venous blood that occur 2–3 days after luteolysis are not well understood. We studied the relationship between contractions of the uterus evoked by exogenous oxytocin (OT) and PGF2α concentration in uterine venous blood on day 17 of the porcine oestrous cycle. The infusion of OT into the uterine artery produced an immediate increase in the uterine intraluminal pressure (UIP) (p < 0.001) and a simultaneous elevation in PGF2α concentration in uterine venous blood (p < 0.0001). The infusion of indomethacin (IND) into the uterine artery slightly decreased PGF2α concentration in uterine venous blood, but it did not suppress uterine contraction or the rapid increase in PGF2α concentration in uterine venous blood just after OT infusion (p < 0.0001), which was lower that in gilts not treated with IND. We conclude that the spikes of PGF2α concentration in uterine venous blood occurring after OT infusion on day 17 of the porcine oestrous cycle are mainly caused by the excretion with venous blood from the remodelled uterus and that PGF2α synthesis may contribute to this. These results suggest that the high spikes in PGF2α concentration that occur 2–3 days after luteolysis in pigs, sheep, cows and mares all have a similar origin.
Distribution of Mast Cells in Vaginal, Cervical and Uterine Tissue of Non‐pregnant Mares: Investigations on Correlations with Ovarian Steroids
Authors: Walter J , Klein C , Wehrend A
Published: September 2011

Contents

Mast cells constitute part of the cellular immune system of the genital tract. They play a potential role in cervical remodelling during parturition and are subject to the influence of ovarian steroids. In this study, the influence of oestradiol‐17β and progesterone on the distribution of mast cells in equine vaginal, cervical and uterine tissue was evaluated. Genital tracts were retrieved from healthy mares at a local slaughterhouse. The cervix was divided along the longitudinal axis into five equivalent regions from cranial to caudal (R1 to R5). Toluidine blue staining was used for the detection of mast cells. Hormone values were determined via radioimmunoassay. In cervical tissue, mast cells were present at higher frequency and higher density than in vaginal and uterine tissue. Statistically significant differences were obtained between cervical R1 (cranial) and uterus as well as cervical R2 and uterus (p < 0.05). In cervical tissue, an association between the presence of mast cells and peripheral oestrogen concentrations was observed, whereas such correlation could not be established for vaginal and uterine tissue. With increasing oestradiol‐17β concentrations, the density of mast cells in cervical tissue increased to a statistically significant degree in the cranial (r = 0.46; p = 0.05) and caudal (r = 0.5; p = 0.03) regions. We propose that mast cells play a role in the cyclic remodelling of the equine cervix during the course of the oestrous cycle. Elucidation of mechanisms controlling cervical remodelling could contribute to development of therapies for mares showing a lack in cervical opening during oestrus.
Polypropylene mesh as an alternative option for uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction in patients with uterine prolapse
Authors: Huang Kuan‐Hui , Chuang Fei‐Chi , Fu Hung‐Chun , Kung Fu‐Tsai
Published: September 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of polypropylene mesh for uterine preservation during pelvic reconstruction in patients with severe uterine prolapse.

Materials and Methods:  The study included 67 women with severe uterine prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse quantification stage III/IV) who received transvaginal mesh reconstruction with uterine preservation. Surgery combined with a transobturator membrane sling procedure (tension‐free vaginal tape–transobturator route) was performed in 54 patients. Among them, 18 had urodynamic stress incontinence, 30 had occult stress urinary incontinence, and six had mixed urinary incontinence. Objective assessments were carried out with the pelvic organ prolapse quantification staging system, urodynamic examination, and 1‐h pad test. Evaluation of urinary and prolapse symptoms comprised the subjective assessment.

Results:  The mean follow‐up interval was 19.6 months (12–40 months). The objective cure rate for the treatment of uterine prolapse was 89.5%, and the objective cure rate for the treatment of urinary incontinence was more than 90%.

Conclusions:  Uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction is technically feasible and the subjective and objective assessments imply that uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction is an alternative option for indicated patients.
Intrapartum translabial ultrasound demonstration of face presentation during first stage of labor
Authors: Lau Wai‐lam , Cho Lai‐yin , Leung Wing‐cheong
Published: September 2011

We report an unusual case in which sonographic diagnosis of face presentation was made by translabial ultrasound examination during the first stage of labor. In a multigravida, induction of labor was performed at 39 weeks' gestation for suspected small‐for‐gestational age. The diagnosis of face presentation was confirmed by the use of intrapartum translabial ultrasound examination. In face presentation, the orbits and nasal bridge are shown in the center of the presenting part at the mid‐sagittal plane. Emergency cesarean delivery was performed for labor dystocia. Here we discuss the merits and limitations of transabdominal, transvaginal and translabial ultrasound examinations in assisting clinical diagnosis of non‐vertex malpresentation. We propose the use of intrapartum translabial scan in documentation, counseling and education in case of unusual non‐vertex malpresentation.
Molecular characterization of putative biocorroding microbiota with a novel niche detection of Epsilon‐ and Zetaproteobacteria in Pacific Ocean coastal seawaters
Authors: Dang Hongyue , Chen Ruipeng , Wang Lin , Shao Sudong , Dai Lingqing , Ye Ying , Guo Lizhong , Huang Guiqiao , Klotz Martin G.
Published: September 2011

Submerged metal surfaces in marine waters undergo rapid microbial colonization and biocorrosion, causing huge damage to marine engineering facilities and significant financial losses. In coastal areas, an accelerated and particularly severe form of biocorrosion termed accelerated low water corrosion (ALWC) is widespread globally. While identification of biocorroding microorganisms and the dynamics of their community structures is the key for understanding the processes and mechanisms leading to ALWC, neither one is presently understood. In this study, analysis of constructed clone libraries and qPCR assays targeting group‐specific 16S rRNA or functional marker genes were used to determine the identity and abundance of putative early carbon steel surface‐colonizing and biocorroding microbes in coastal seawater. Diverse microbial groups including 10 bacterial phyla, archaea and algae were found to putatively participate in the surface‐colonizing process. Analysis of the community structure of carbon steel surface microbiota revealed a temporal succession leading to ALWC. By extending the current state of knowledge, our work demonstrates the global importance of Alphaproteobacteria (mainly Rhodobacterales), Gammaproteobacteria (mainly Alteromonadales and Oceanospirillales), Bacteroidetes (mainly Flavobacteriales) and microalgae as the pioneer and sustaining surface colonizers that contribute to initial formation and development of surface biofilms. We also discovered Epsilonproteobacteria and the recently described Zetaproteobacteria as putative corrosion‐causing microorganisms during early steps of the ALWC process. Hence, our study reports that Zetaproteobacteria may be ubiquitous also in non‐hydrothermal coastal seawaters and that ALWC of submerged carbon steel surfaces in coastal waters may involve a highly diverse, complex and dynamic microbial consortium. Our finding that Epsilon‐ and Zetaproteobacteria may play pivotal roles in ALWC provides a new starting point for future investigation of the ALWC process and mechanism in marine environments. Further studies of Epsilon‐ and Zetaproteobacteria in particular may thus help with the design of effective corrosion prevention and control strategies.
Effects of combining simvastatin with rosiglitazone on inflammation, oxidant stress and ambulatory blood pressure in patients with the metabolic syndrome: the SIROCO study
Authors: Lazich I. , Sarafidis P. , de Guzman E. , Patel A. , Oliva R. , Bakris G.
Published: September 2011

Aim: Individually, statins and thiazolidinediones (TZDs) show positive effects on atherosclerosis progression in cellular and animal models as well as patients with diabetes; however, their combined effects have not been studied. This study examines the effects of simvastatin combined with rosiglitazone on vascular inflammation, oxidant stress, ambulatory blood pressure (BP) and other atherosclerotic factors in patients with the metabolic syndrome.

Methods: This is a randomized, double blind, placebo‐controlled study in 53 subjects with the metabolic syndrome. Participants were randomized to simvastatin 40 mg/day plus placebo vs. simvastatin 40 mg/day plus rosiglitazone 4 mg/day for 6 months. The primary endpoint was the between‐group difference in high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and secondary variables including urinary isoprostanes, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), ambulatory BP, adiponectin, and lipid and glycaemic profiles.

Results: At study end, the group randomized to the simvastatin/rosiglitazone combination had a greater reduction in hs‐CRP of 1.33 mg/dl, (p = 0.029) and showed a trend for a greater reduction in urinary isoprostane (−39%), (p = 0.056) compared to simvastatin/placebo group. Changes in MDA levels did not differed between groups (p = 0.81). 24‐h systolic blood pressure (SBP) also showed a 4.5 mmHg reduction at 6 months (p = 0.06). Adiponectin levels increased by 3.91 µg/ml in the combination group over placebo, (p = 0.03) and blood glucose decreased in combination group vs. placebo.

Conclusion: Our data show that patients with the metabolic syndrome given a statin/TZD combination manifest greater reductions in markers of vascular inflammation and oxidant stress, 24‐h ambulatory BP and increases in adiponectin as well as improved glycaemic indices.
From Leonardo to da Vinci: the history of robot‐assisted surgery in urology
Authors: Yates David R. , Vaessen Christophe , Roupret Morgan
Published: September 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Numerous urological procedures can now be performed with robotic assistance. Though not definitely proven to be superior to conventional laparoscopy or traditional open surgery in the setting of a randomised trial, in experienced centres robot‐assisted surgery allows for excellent surgical outcomes and is a valuable tool to augment modern surgical practice.

Our review highlights the depth of history that underpins the robotic surgical platform we utilise today, whilst also detailing the current place of robot‐assisted surgery in urology in 2011.

The evolution of robots in general and as platforms to augment surgical practice is an intriguing story that spans cultures, continents and centuries. A timeline from Yan Shi (1023–957 bc), Archytas of Tarentum (400 bc), Aristotle (322 bc), Heron of Alexandria (10–70 ad), Leonardo da Vinci (1495), the Industrial Revolution (1790), ‘telepresence’ (1950) and to the da Vinci® Surgical System (1999), shows the incredible depth of history and development that underpins the modern surgical robot we use to treat our patients. Robot‐assisted surgery is now well‐established in Urology and although not currently regarded as a ‘gold standard’ approach for any urological procedure, it is being increasingly used for index operations of the prostate, kidney and bladder. We perceive that robotic evolution will continue infinitely, securing the place of robots in the history of Urological surgery. Herein, we detail the history of robots in general, in surgery and in Urology, highlighting the current place of robot‐assisted surgery in radical prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy, pyeloplasty and radical cystectomy.
Assessment of complication and functional outcome reporting in the minimally invasive prostatectomy literature from 2006 to the present
Authors: Hakimi A. Ari , Faleck David M. , Sobey Steven , Ioffe Edward , Rabbani Farhang , Donat Sherri M. , Ghavamian Reza
Published: September 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Minimally invasive approaches to radical prostatectomy have been touted to lead to superior surgical and functional outcomes with less potential complications despite scant and often conflicting reports in the peer reviewed literature.

This review provides evidence that the minimally invasive prostatectomy literature still fails to meet the standards and critical benchmarks necessary for adequate complications reporting. Given our current release on observational studies. Increased effects should be made to standardize all complications and functional outcomes reporting for minimally invasive prostate cancer surgery.

To query the minimally invasive urological literature from 2006 to the middle of 2010, focusing on complications and functional outcome reporting in laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and robot‐assisted LRP (RALP), to see if there has been an improvement in the overall reporting of complications. We performed a Medline search using the Medical Subject Heading terms ‘prostatectomy’, ‘laparoscopy’, ‘robotics’, and ‘minimally invasive’. We then applied the Martin criteria for complications reporting to the selected articles. We identified 51 studies for a total of 32 680 patients. When excluding functional outcomes the outpatient complications reporting was 20/51 (39.2%). In all, 35% and 43% of papers did not list any method for recording continence and potency, respectively. A complication grading system was only used in 30 studies (58.8%). Of the 16 papers using a grading scale in 2006–2007, only 31.3% used the Clavien system, compared with 69% from 2008 to the first half of 2010. In all, 27% of papers used some form of risk‐factor analysis for complications. Multivariate analysis was used in 43% of papers, 29% looked at body mass index, while one looked at prostate weight, and another age. There has been an overall improvement in complications reporting in the minimally invasive RP literature since 2005. However, most studies still do not fulfil many of the criteria necessary for standardised complication reporting. Functional outcome reporting remains poor and unstandardised. Given our current reliance on observational studies, increased efforts should be made to standardise all complication outcomes reporting.
Commonly used antihypertensives and lower urinary tract symptoms: results from the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey
Authors: Hall Susan A. , Chiu Gretchen R. , Kaufman David W. , Wittert Gary A. , Link Carol L. , McKinlay John B.
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Prevalence (inception cohort)

Level of Evidence 1b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Certain antihypertensives, particularly diuretics and calcium channel blockers, are known to be associated with increased risk of LUTS including nocturia, but little is known about gender‐specific effects.

This is the first epidemiological study, to our knowledge, to compare the prevalence of several urological symptoms (storage, voiding and nocturia) among male and female users of a wide variety of common antihypertensives using a community‐based sample.

OBJECTIVE

To examine differences in the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) among users of five common AHT classes compared with non‐users, adjusted for LUTS risk factors in a large, representative sample.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Data were from the Boston Area Community Health Survey, a population‐based study of community‐dwelling male and female (30–79 years) residents of Boston, MA, USA for whom prescription drug information was collected between 2002 and 2005.

The urological symptoms of storage, voiding, and nocturia were assessed using interviewer‐administered questionnaires and the American Urological Association Symptom Index. This analysis was conducted among 1865 participants with an AHT indication.

Associations of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and loop and thiazide diuretics with the three groups of LUTS were estimated using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from multivariate logistic regression (referent group: untreated hypertension). Overlap in use was accounted for using monotherapy and combination therapy exposure categories.

RESULTS

Among women, monotherapy with CCBs was associated with increased prevalence of nocturia (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.04–6.74) and voiding symptoms (OR = 3.84, 95% CI: 1.24–11.87); these results were confined to women aged <55 years.

Among men of all ages, positive associations were observed for thiazides and voiding symptoms (monotherapy OR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.17–7.19), and loop diuretics and nocturia (combination therapy OR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.26–5.14).

CONCLUSION

Results are consistent with the hypothesis that certain AHTs may aggravate LUTS. The presence of new or worsening LUTS among AHT users suggests medications should be reviewed and a change in AHT class considered.
What explains landscape patterns of tree mortality caused by bark beetle outbreaks in Greater Yellowstone?
Authors: Simard Martin , Powell Erinn N. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Turner Monica G.
Published: September 2011

Aim Bark beetle outbreaks have recently affected extensive areas of western North American forests, and factors explaining landscape patterns of tree mortality are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the relative importance of stand structure, topography, soil characteristics, landscape context (the characteristics of the landscape surrounding the focal stand) and beetle pressure (the abundance of local beetle population eruptions around the focal stand a few years before the outbreak) to explain landscape patterns of tree mortality during outbreaks of three species: the mountain pine beetle, which attacks lodgepole pine and whitebark pine; the spruce beetle, which feeds on Engelmann spruce; and the Douglas‐fir beetle, which attacks Douglas‐fir. A second objective was to identify common variables that explain tree mortality among beetle–tree host pairings during outbreaks.

Location Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, Wyoming, USA.

Methods We used field surveys to quantify stand structure, soil characteristics and topography at the plot level in susceptible stands of each forest type showing different severities of infestation (0–98% mortality;n= 129 plots). We then used forest cover and beetle infestation maps derived from remote sensing to develop landscape context and beetle pressure metrics at different spatial scales. Plot‐level and landscape‐level variables were used to explain outbreak severity.

Results Engelmann spruce and Douglas‐fir mortality were best predicted using landscape‐level variables alone. Lodgepole pine mortality was best predicted by both landscape‐level and plot‐level variables. Whitebark pine mortality was best – although poorly – predicted by plot‐level variables. Models including landscape context and beetle pressure were much better at predicting outbreak severity than models that only included plot‐level measures, except for whitebark pine.

Main conclusions Landscape‐level variables, particularly beetle pressure, were the most consistent predictors of subsequent outbreak severity within susceptible stands of all four host species. These results may help forest managers identify vulnerable locations during ongoing outbreaks.
Toward a conceptual synthesis for climate change responses
Authors: O'Connor Mary I. , Selig Elizabeth R. , Pinsky Malin L. , Altermatt Florian
Published: September 2011

Aim  To identify hypotheses for how climate change affects long‐term population persistence that can be used as a framework for future syntheses of ecological responses to climate change.

Location  Global.

Methods  We surveyed ecological and evolutionary concepts related to how a changing climate might alter population persistence. We organized established concepts into a two‐stage framework that relates abiotic change to population persistence via changes in the rates or outcomes of ecological and evolutionary processes. We surveyed reviews of climate change responses, and evaluated patterns in light of our conceptual framework.

Results  We classified hypotheses for population responses to climate change as one of two types: (1) hypotheses that relate rates of ecological and evolutionary processes (plasticity, dispersal, population growth and evolution) to abiotic change, and (2) hypotheses that relate changes in these processes to four fundamental population‐level responses (colonization, acclimatization, adaptation or extinction). We found that a disproportionate emphasis on response in the climate change literature is difficult to reconcile with ecological and evolutionary theories that emphasize processes. We discuss a set of 24 hypotheses that represent gaps in the literature that limit our ability determine whether observed climate change responses are sufficient to facilitate persistence through future climate change.

Main conclusions  Though theory relates environmental change to fundamental ecological and evolutionary processes and population‐level responses, clear hypotheses based on theory have not been systematically formulated and tested in the context of climate change. Stronger links between basic theory and observed impacts of climate change are required to assess which responses are common, likely or able to facilitate population persistence despite ongoing environmental change. We anticipate that a hypothesis‐testing framework will reveal that indirect effects of climate change responses are more pervasive than previously thought and related to a few general processes, even though the patterns they create are incredibly diverse.
Beyond Individual Transferrable Quotas: methodologies for integrating ecosystem impacts of fishing into fisheries catch rights
Authors: Gibbs Mark T , Thébaud Olivier
Published: September 2011

While there has been a growing concern for the adverse ecological impacts of fishing, progress on incorporating these into operational fisheries management has been slow. Many fisheries management organizations have addressed the problem of overharvesting and over‐capitalization first. In this domain, the question of access regulation has gained growing recognition as a key dimension of fisheries sustainability, leading to recommendation and progressive implementation of rights‐based systems, in particular Individual Transferrable Quotas (ITQs). While adjustments in fishing capacity resulting from the implementation of these systems may entail a reduction in some unwanted ecosystem impacts of fishing, it is also recognized that they will not be sufficient to achieve the ecological outcomes increasingly demanded by the global community. There is thus a need to examine the possibilities for a common management framework for dealing with both over‐capitalization of fisheries and adverse ecological effects of fishing. In this paper, we examine the feasibility of incorporating greater ecosystem goods and services into ITQ policy instruments initially designed with a narrow focus on commercial target species. We consider the advantages and limitations of alternative approaches in this respect and identify some of the practical issues associated with the different alternatives, in particular the underpinning knowledge requirements. We argue that given the need for increasingly streamlined management processes, further investigation into practical ways forward in this domain is crucial if management of fisheries is to achieve economic efficiency while fully encompassing the ecologically sustainable development objectives of ecosystem‐based fisheries management.
On robust spectral analysis by least absolute deviations
Authors: Li Ta‐Hsin
Published: September 2011

The method of least absolute deviations has been successfully used in construction of robust tools for spectral analysis under the conditions of outliers and heavy‐tailed statistical distributions. This article compares two such spectral analyzers, called the Laplace periodograms of the first and second kind, which can be viewed as robust alternatives to the ordinary periodogram. The article proves that the Laplace periodogram of the second kind has a similar asymptotic distribution to the Laplace periodogram of the first kind which established its association with the zero‐crossing spectrum in a recent publication. The article also demonstrates that the Laplace periodogram of the second kind has a smoother sample path which is more suitable for visualization, identification, and estimation of arbitrarily located narrowband components. Extensions of the results to complex time series are discussed.
The biological standard of living in early nineteenth‐century West Africa: new anthropometric evidence for northern Ghana and Burkina Faso1
Authors: Austin Gareth , Baten Joerg , Van Leeuwen Bas
Published: September 2011

West Africans are on average shorter than Europeans today. Whether this was already the case at the end of the Atlantic slave trade is an important question for the history of nutrition and physical welfare. We present the first study of changing heights for people born mostly in what are now northern Ghana and Burkina Faso during the early nineteenth century. The dataset, not used before for anthropometry, documents men born between 1800 and 1849. Mostly purchased from slave owners, they were recruited into the Dutch army to serve in the Dutch East Indies. We find that height development was stagnant between 1800 and 1830 and deteriorated strongly during the 1840s. In international comparison and after taking selectivity issues into account, these Ghanaian and Burkinabe recruits were notably shorter than north‐western Europeans but not shorter than southern Europeans during this period.
No increase in headache after previous intracranial infections: a historical cohort study (HUNT)
Authors: Linde M. , Langnes H. A. , Hagen K. , Bergh K. , Stovner L. J.
Published: September 2011

Background and purpose:  Despite the absence of robust scientific evidence, it is today generally accepted that the acute headache typical for intracranial infections can develop into permanent headache complaints. This widespread concept was explored in the first, large, longitudinal, population‐based study.

Methods:  Data on confirmed exposure to intracranial infections amongst all adult inhabitants in a geographical area during a 20‐year period were assembled from hospital records. Surviving individuals were later invited to the third Nord‐Trøndelag Health Survey (HUNT 3), where 39 690 (42%) of 94 194 invited inhabitants aged ≥20 years responded to a validated headache questionnaire. Using logistic regression, the 1‐year prevalence of headache and its subtypes according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society was assessed and compared between those with and without previous confirmed intracranial infection. Age and sex were used as covariates.

Results:  Overall, 43 participants were identified with earlier intracranial infection, whereof three had more than one infection: bacterial meningitis (n = 19), lymphocytic meningitis (n = 18), encephalitis (n = 9), and brain abscess (n = 1).The mean interval from infection to participation in HUNT 3 was 11.2 (range 1.5–19.7) years. There was no significant increase in the prevalence of headache (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.58–2.07), its subtypes (migraine, or tension‐type headache), or chronic daily headache (OR 1.85, 95% CI 0.45–7.68) amongst participants with previous intracranial infection compared with the surrounding population.

Conclusions:  This study challenges the existence of chronic post‐bacterial meningitis headache and does not indicate the presence of other long‐term headaches induced by intracranial infection.
Expression of stromal‐cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1): a predictor of ischaemic stroke?
Authors: Wurster T. , Stellos K. , Geisler T. , Seizer P. , Andia M. E. , Schuster A. , May A. E. , Melms A. , Gawaz M. , Bigalke B.
Published: September 2011

Background and purpose:  Platelet stromal‐cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) plays a pivotal role in angiogenesis and the regeneration of ischaemic tissue through the regulation of haematopoietic progenitor cells and is upregulated at the sites of vascular injury and platelet activation. Thus, SDF‐1 has recently been discussed as a predictor in ischaemic diseases such as acute myocardial infarction. However, no clinical data pertinent to the investigation of the platelet SDF‐1 expression in patients with stroke are available.

Methods:  We consecutively evaluated 196 patients who were admitted to the stroke unit with symptoms suspected for stroke. Surface expression of the platelet activation markers (P‐selectin and GPIb) and the expression of platelet‐bound SDF‐1 were determined by two‐colour whole blood flow cytometry.

Results:  Patients with transient ischaemic attack (TIA) as well as with ischaemic stroke showed similar levels of SDF‐1 expression on hospital admission compared with patients with non‐ischaemic (NI) events and with 30 healthy controls (TIA (mean fluorescence intensity ± SD): 31.5 ± 18.2 vs. NI: 26.4 ± 15.7; P = 0.361; stroke: 28.7 ± 19.8 vs. NI; P = 0.943; control: 26.1 ± 11.3; P > 0.05 compared with all). Platelet SDF‐1 expression showed a trend with the severity of stroke according to National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score (r = 0.125; P = 0.085), but significantly correlated with the peak levels of C‐reactive protein (r = 0.218; P = 0.002) and with the levels of platelet activation (P‐selectin: r = 0.389; P = 0.001). Multifactorial analysis of covariance revealed a significant influence on platelet SDF‐1 expression by smoking (P = 0.019).

Conclusions:  Platelet SDF‐1 surface expression did not show any significant difference in patients with TIA and ischaemic stroke compared with patients with NI events. Thus, single biomarker evaluation of platelet SDF‐1 surface expression is not helpful to predict ischaemic stroke.
Use of a handheld, computerized device as a decision support tool for stroke classification
Authors: Nam H. S. , Cha M.‐J. , Kim Y. D. , Kim E. H. , Park E. , Lee H. S. , Nam C. M. , Heo J. H.
Published: September 2011

Background:  The Trial of ORG 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification has been widely used to determine etiology of ischemic stroke. However, interrater reliability is known to be modest. The complexity of abstraction and the interpretation of various clinical and laboratory data might limit the accuracy of the TOAST classification. In this study, we developed a computerized clinical decision support system for stroke classification that can be used in a handheld device and tested whether this system can improve diagnostic accuracy and reliability.

Methods:  Based on the TOAST classification, a logical algorithm was developed and implemented on a handheld device, named iTOAST. After answering six questions using the touch interface, the stroke subtype result is displayed on the screen. Four neurology residents were randomly assigned to classify stroke subtypes using iTOAST or the conventional method (cTOAST). Using a crossover design, they classified the stroke subtypes of 70 patients. The standard subtypes were determined by three stroke experts. Correlated kappa coefficients using iTOAST compared with cTOAST were determined.

Results:  The kappa (SE) value of iTOAST [0.790 (0.041), 95% CI: 0.707–0.870] was higher than that of cTOAST [0.692 (0.046), 95% CI: 0.600–0.782] (P < 0.001). Neither sequence (P = 0.857) nor period effect (P = 0.999) was observed.

Conclusions:  The stroke classification tool using a handheld, computerized device was easy, accurate, and reliable over the conventional method. It may have additional benefit because a handheld, computerized device is accessible anytime and anywhere.
Surviving underground: Irregular migrants, Italian families, invisible welfare
Authors: Ambrosini Maurizio
Published: September 2011

Ambrosini M. Surviving underground: irregular migrants, Italian families, invisible welfare

The aim of this article, which focuses on the Italian case and its domestic and care sector, is to highlight two aspects. The first concerns the interaction among unauthorised migrants, the demand of their labour on the one hand and the other social actors they meet during their settling process on the other hand. The second concerns the nature of the irregularity of their condition, which is dynamic and often transient. Despite the increasingly fierce declarations, the reality does not correspond to the claims regarding control of the migration flows. Recognised or disguised forms of tolerance with only occasional implementation of severe measures – such as deportation – and regularisation processes of different kinds and with different purposes seem to be more the rule than the exception in Italy, as in other developed countries.
The Eurasian water shrew: an unsuitable candidate species for a vertebrate bio‐indicator of aquatic pollution
Authors: Scott D. M. , Southgate F. , Overall A. J. , Waite S. , Tolhurst B. A.
Published: September 2011

The Eurasian water shrew Neomys fodiens is a semi‐aquatic predator of freshwater invertebrates. As water quality affects the diversity and abundance of aquatic invertebrates, water shrews could potentially be used as a vertebrate bio‐indicator of water quality. To date, no detailed studies have empirically examined the impacts of water quality on Eurasian water shrew occurrence. Bait‐tube surveys were undertaken in winter and summer over 3 years at 26 different wetland locations across Sussex, UK, which varied in water quality. Bait tubes were used to confirm water shrew presence at specific sites and derive an index of activity using frequency of occurrence of faeces within tubes. Water quality was measured using six direct physical and chemical indicators (dissolved oxygen, pH, water temperature, ammonia, nitrate and phosphate) and two derived indices of biological indicators based on aquatic invertebrate composition. We found no linear relationship between any physical, chemical or biological water quality indicators and water shrew occurrence. Generalized linear models indicate that water shrew presence and frequency of occurrence are more affected by site and season than water quality. Thus, water shrews may be more tolerant of poor water quality than previously envisaged. Overall, our study indicates that water shrews are not suitable vertebrate bio‐indicators of water quality.
Use of forest strata by bats in temperate forests
Authors: Plank M. , Fiedler K. , Reiter G.
Published: September 2011

Concurrent recordings of bat calls at the ground and canopy levels were compared to analyse the vertical stratification of habitat use in a broad‐leaved deciduous forest in central Europe. The recording effort was 48 nights, by sampling 16 sites three times in 2010. Overall, 2170 call sequences were recorded; 40% of them at the canopy level. Sixteen bat species were identified, 13 of which occurred at ground level and 14 in the canopy. By fitting generalized linear mixed models for seven species and all calls sequences combined, the effects of stratum, time period, ambient temperature and forest structure on bat‐calling activity were assessed. Four species preferred the ground level (Barbastella barbastellus, Eptesicus serotinus, Myotis daubentonii, Pipistrellus pygmaeus). M. bechsteinii was the only species which had a significant preference for the canopy level in the pregnancy, lactation and post‐lactation period, whereas two further species (M. alcathoe, P. pipistrellus) showed a significant canopy preference in at least one period. Therefore, canopy sampling should be undertaken when aiming at monitoring such species for conservation purposes. Populations of certain target species will be underestimated by ground recordings alone.
The influence of the magnitude, probability, and valence of potential wins and losses on the amplitude of the feedback negativity
Authors: KreuSSel Luisa , Hewig Johannes , Kretschmer Nora , Hecht Holger , Coles Michael G.H. , Miltner Wolfgang H.R.
Published: September 2011

We assessed the influence of the variables outcome potential, feedback valence, magnitude, and probability on the amplitude of the feedback negativity (FN). Outcome potential was defined as the a priori valence of an upcoming feedback, that is, is there a potential win or potential loss? All these variables have been studied previously, although never together, but the findings have been contradictory. We analyzed the event‐related potential (ERP) after feedback presentation in a reinforcement‐learning task to examine the effects of all the variables on feedback negativity. Our results show that outcome potential, feedback valence, probability, and magnitude all influence feedback related ERPs. Taken together, the findings suggest that ERPs in the time range of the feedback negativity are primarily driven by positive outcomes (reinforcement) rather than negative outcomes (punishment).
Physiological roles of microglia during development
Authors: Pont‐Lezica Lorena , Béchade Catherine , Belarif‐Cantaut Yasmine , Pascual Olivier , Bessis Alain
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 901–908.

In all the species examined thus far, the behavior of microglia during development appears to be highly stereotyped. This reproducibility supports the notion that these cells have a physiological role in development. Microglia are macrophages that migrate from the yolk sac and colonize the central nervous system early during development. The first invading yolk‐sac macrophages are highly proliferative and their role has not yet been addressed. At later developmental stages, microglia can be found throughout the brain and tend to preferentially reside at specific locations that are often associated with known developmental processes. Thus, it appears that microglia concentrate in areas of cell death, in proximity of developing blood vessels, in the marginal layer, which contains developing axon fascicles, and in close association with radial glial cells. This review describes the main features of brain colonization by microglia and discusses the possible physiological roles of these cells during development.
Effect of Gelsemium 5CH and 15CH on anticipatory anxiety: a phase III, single‐centre, randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Paris Adeline , Schmidlin Sophie , Mouret Sandrine , Hodaj Enkelejda , Marijnen Philippe , Boujedaini Naoual , Polosan Mircea , Cracowski Jean‐Luc
Published: September 2011

Therapeutics to treat or prevent anxiety are numerous but many people choose to try non‐conventional medicine such as homeopathy. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of Gelsemium 5CH and 15CH on provoked anxiety in healthy volunteers, in comparison with placebo. This was a double‐blind, single‐centre, randomized, placebo‐controlled study. Eligible healthy men or women aged from 18 to 40 years without a history of psychiatric disorders were randomly allocated to receive Gelsemium 5 or 15CH or placebo. Anxiety was proved by performance of the Stroop colour word test (SCWT). The primary end‐point was anxiety assessed by the State measure of the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI‐S) as the absolute value and difference with baseline, according to the treatment received. We included 180 healthy volunteers. The distribution into each treatment group was homogenous. There was no statistical difference between groups for the values of STAI‐S at baseline, just before the SCWT and the difference between these times (1.8 [0.20 to 3.4], 1.0 [−0.6 to 2.6] and 1.4 [−0.3 to 3.0] for Gelsemium 15CH, 5CH and placebo respectively). Likewise, no statistical difference was observed between groups in anxiety as measured by a Visual Analogue Scale and the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate significantly increased (P < 0.001) but no interaction between time prior to provoked anxiety and treatment was shown (P = 0.59 and P = 0.46, respectively). Gelsemium 5CH and 15CH do not prevent anticipatory anxiety in the conditions used in this study.
d‐Amino acid oxidase‐mediated increase in spinal hydrogen peroxide is mainly responsible for formalin‐induced tonic pain
Authors: Lu Jin‐Miao , Gong Nian , Wang Yan‐Chao , Wang Yong‐Xiang
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Spinal reactive oxygen species (ROS) are critically involved in chronic pain. d‐Amino acid oxidase (DAAO) oxidizes d‐amino acids such as d‐serine to form the byproduct hydrogen peroxide without producing other ROS. DAAO inhibitors are specifically analgesic in tonic pain, neuropathic pain and cancer pain. This study examined the role of spinal hydrogen peroxide in pain and the mechanism of the analgesic effects of DAAO inhibitors.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Formalin‐induced pain behaviours and spinal hydrogen peroxide levels were measured in rodents.

KEY RESULTS Formalin injected into the paw increased spinal hydrogen peroxide synchronously with enhanced tonic pain; both were effectively prevented by i.t. fluorocitrate, a selective astrocyte metabolic inhibitor. Given systemically, the potent DAAO inhibitor CBIO (5‐chloro‐benzo[d]isoxazol‐3‐ol) blocked spinal DAAO enzymatic activity and specifically prevented formalin‐induced tonic pain in a dose‐dependent manner. Although CBIO maximally inhibited tonic pain by 62%, it completely prevented the increase in spinal hydrogen peroxide. I.t. catalase, an enzyme specific for decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, completely depleted spinal hydrogen peroxide and prevented formalin‐induced tonic pain by 65%. Given systemically, the ROS scavenger PBN (phenyl‐N‐tert‐butylnitrone) also inhibited formalin‐induced tonic pain and increase in spinal hydrogen peroxide. Formalin‐induced tonic pain was potentiated by i.t. exogenous hydrogen peroxide. CBIO did not increase spinal d‐serine level, and i.t. d‐serine did not alter either formalin‐induced tonic pain or CBIO's analgesic effect.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Spinal hydrogen peroxide is specifically and largely responsible for formalin‐induced pain, and DAAO inhibitors produce analgesia by blocking spinal hydrogen peroxide production rather than interacting with spinal d‐serine.