bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Analysis of Amino-Terminal Domains of the Photoreceptor Phytochrome B
Authors: PalÁgyi Andrea , Terecskei Kata , ÁdÁm Éva , Kevei Éva , Kircher Stefan , Mérai Zsuzsanna , Schäfer Eberhard , Nagy Ferenc , Kozma-BognÁr LÁszló
Published: June 2010

At the core of the circadian network in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), clock genes/proteins form multiple transcriptional/translational negative feedback loops and generate a basic approximately 24-h oscillation, which provides daily regulation for a wide range of processes. This temporal organization enhances the fitness of plants only if it corresponds to the natural day/night cycles. Light, absorbed by photoreceptors, is the most effective signal in synchronizing the oscillator to environmental cycles. Phytochrome B (PHYB) is the major red/far-red light-absorbing phytochrome receptor in light-grown plants. Besides modulating the pace and phase of the circadian clock, PHYB controls photomorphogenesis and delays flowering. It has been demonstrated that the nuclear-localized amino-terminal domain of PHYB is capable of controlling photomorphogenesis and, partly, flowering. Here, we show (1) that PHYB derivatives containing 651 or 450 amino acid residues of the amino-terminal domains are functional in mediating red light signaling to the clock, (2) that circadian entrainment is a nuclear function of PHYB, and (3) that a 410-amino acid amino-terminal fragment does not possess any functions of PHYB due to impaired chromophore binding. However, we provide evidence that the carboxyl-terminal domain is required to mediate entrainment in white light, suggesting a role for this domain in integrating red and blue light signaling to the clock. Moreover, careful analysis of the circadian phenotype of phyB-9 indicates that PHYB provides light signaling for different regulatory loops of the circadian oscillator in a different manner, which results in an apparent decoupling of the loops in the absence of PHYB under specific light conditions.
Deciphering the Arabidopsis Floral Transition Process by Integrating a Protein-Protein Interaction Network and Gene Expression Data
Authors: He Fei , Zhou Yuan , Zhang Ziding
Published: June 2010

In a plant, the progression from vegetative growth to reproductive growth is called the floral transition. Over the past several decades, the floral transition has been shown to be determined not by a single gene but by a complicated gene network. This important biological process, however, has not been investigated at a genome-wide network level. We collected Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) protein-protein interaction data from several public databases and compiled them into a genome-wide Arabidopsis interactome. Then, we integrated gene expression profiles during the Arabidopsis floral transition process into the established protein-protein interaction network to identify two types of anticorrelated modules associated with vegetative and reproductive growth. Generally, the vegetative modules are conserved in plants, while the reproductive modules are more specific to advanced plants. The existence of floral transition switches demonstrates that vegetative and reproductive processes might be coordinated by the interacting interface of these modules. Our work also provides many candidates for mediating the interactions between these modules, which may play important roles during the Arabidopsis vegetative/reproductive switch.
Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid pharmacokinetics of flurbiprofen in children
Authors: Kumpulainen Elina , Välitalo Pyry , Kokki Merja , Lehtonen Marko , Hooker Andrew , Ranta Veli‐Pekka , Kokki Hannu
Published: June 2010

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

Flurbiprofen is a commonly used non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug in children to treat pain and fever. There is limited information on the pharmacokinetics of flurbiprofen in children and no data on the cerebrospinal fluid permeation of flurbiprofen.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

Our population pharmacokinetic model indicates that weight‐based dosing of flurbiprofen is appropriate in children older than 6 months. The bioavailability of oral flurbiprofen syrup is high, 71–91%, and thus, the oral syrup provides accurate dosing in paediatric patients. Cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of flurbiprofen are markedly higher than the unbound plasma concentrations.

AIMS

This study was designed to characterize paediatric pharmacokinetics and central nervous system exposure of flurbiprofen.

METHODS

The pharmacokinetics of flurbiprofen were studied in 64 healthy children aged 3 months to 13 years, undergoing surgery with spinal anaesthesia. Children were administered preoperatively a single dose of flurbiprofen intravenously as prodrug (n= 27) or by mouth as syrup (n= 37). A single cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample (n= 60) was collected at the induction of anaesthesia, and plasma samples (n= 304) before, during and after the operation (up to 20 h after administration). A population pharmacokinetic model was built using the NONMEM software package.

RESULTS

Flurbiprofen concentrations in plasma were well described by a three compartment model. The apparent bioavailability of oral flurbiprofen syrup was 81%. The estimated clearance (CL) was 0.96 l h−1 70 kg−1. Age did not affect the clearance after weight had been included as a covariate. The estimated volume of distribution at steady state (Vss) was 8.1 l 70 kg−1. Flurbiprofen permeated into the CSF, reaching concentrations that were seven‐fold higher compared with unbound plasma concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Flurbiprofen pharmacokinetics can be described using only weight as a covariate in children above 6 months, while more research is needed in neonates and in younger infants.
Relation of early antibiotic use to childhood asthma: confounding by indication?
Authors: Su Y. , Rothers J. , Stern D. A. , Halonen M. , Wright A. L.
Published: June 2010

Background
Findings from studies of the relation between early antibiotic use and subsequent asthma have been inconsistent, which may be attributable to methodologic issues.

Objective
Our objective was to assess the impact of confounding by indication on the relation of early antibiotic use to childhood asthma through age 5 in a non‐selected birth cohort (n=424).

Methods
Oral antibiotic use was assessed by frequent nurse interviews in the first 9 months of life. Physician‐diagnosed active asthma and eczema were assessed by questionnaire at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years, and were considered as ever asthma or ever eczema if positive at any age. Allergen‐specific IgE was assessed in plasma at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years. Confounding by indication was investigated by considering the relation of asthma to antibiotic use while controlling for the number of illness visits to a physician in early life.

Results
There was no statistically significant relation of early antibiotic use with physician‐diagnosed eczema or allergen‐specific IgE. A dose–response relation was evident for antibiotic use with ever asthma (odds ratio [OR]=1.5, P=0.047). Ever asthma also increased significantly with the number of illness visits to a physician (P<0.001). After adjustment for number of illness visits, antibiotic use showed no relation with asthma.

Conclusions
The relation of asthma to antibiotics in this cohort appears to be an artefact of the strong relation of number of physician visits for illness with both antibiotic use and risk for asthma.

Cite this as: Y. Su, J. Rothers, D. A. Stern, M. Halonen and A. L. Wright, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 1222–1229.
Phenotypes of childhood asthma: are they real?
Authors: Spycher B. D. , Silverman M. , Kuehni C. E.
Published: June 2010

It has been suggested that there are several distinct phenotypes of childhood asthma or childhood wheezing. Here, we review the research relating to these phenotypes, with a focus on the methods used to define and validate them. Childhood wheezing disorders manifest themselves in a range of observable (phenotypic) features such as lung function, bronchial responsiveness, atopy and a highly variable time course (prognosis). The underlying causes are not sufficiently understood to define disease entities based on aetiology. Nevertheless, there is a need for a classification that would (i) facilitate research into aetiology and pathophysiology, (ii) allow targeted treatment and preventive measures and (iii) improve the prediction of long‐term outcome. Classical attempts to define phenotypes have been one‐dimensional, relying on few or single features such as triggers (exclusive viral wheeze vs. multiple trigger wheeze) or time course (early transient wheeze, persistent and late onset wheeze). These definitions are simple but essentially subjective. Recently, a multi‐dimensional approach has been adopted. This approach is based on a wide range of features and relies on multivariate methods such as cluster or latent class analysis. Phenotypes identified in this manner are more complex but arguably more objective. Although phenotypes have an undisputed standing in current research on childhood asthma and wheezing, there is confusion about the meaning of the term ‘phenotype’ causing much circular debate. If phenotypes are meant to represent ‘real’ underlying disease entities rather than superficial features, there is a need for validation and harmonization of definitions. The multi‐dimensional approach allows validation by replication across different populations and may contribute to a more reliable classification of childhood wheezing disorders and to improved precision of research relying on phenotype recognition, particularly in genetics. Ultimately, the underlying pathophysiology and aetiology will need to be understood to properly characterize the diseases causing recurrent wheeze in children.

Cite this as: B. D. Spycher, M. Silverman and C. E. Kuehni, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 1130–1141.
Effect of intense swimming training on rhinitis in high‐level competitive swimmers
Authors: Bougault V. , Turmel J. , Boulet L. P.
Published: June 2010

Background
Rhinitis is commonly reported by swimmers. Seasonal allergic rhinitis may impair athletes' performance and quality of life (QOL). No data are currently available on the changes of nasal symptoms during and after a swimming season. We aimed to determine in competitive swimmers: (1) the prevalence of rhinitis and its impact on their QOL during an intense training programme, (2) the changes in nasal symptoms and QOL after a resting period and (3) the relationship between rhinitis and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR).

Methods
Thirty‐nine swimmers and 30 healthy controls answered the Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) and scored nasal symptoms on a seven‐point Likert scale during the week preceding their visit. Subjects had allergy skin prick tests and a methacholine challenge. Peak nasal inspiratory flows were also measured. The athletes performed these tests during an intense training period (V1), outside the pollen season and after at least 2 weeks without swimming (V2).

Results
At V1, rhinitis symptoms were reported by 74% of swimmers and 40% of controls (P<0.01). Eighty‐four percent of swimmers and 72% of controls were atopic (NS). RQLQ score was higher in swimmers compared with controls at V1 (27.3 ± 28.5 vs. 9.5 ± 12.7, respectively, P<0.005). The presence of AHR during training did not correlate with the presence of rhinitis symptoms. At V2, the nasal symptoms and RQLQ scores were similar in swimmers and controls.

Conclusion
Intense swimming training is associated with an increase in nasal symptoms and impairment in QOL in most competitive swimmers. Such an increase is not related to seasonal allergen exposure in atopic athletes and probably results from chlorine derivative exposure.

Cite this as: V. Bougault, J. Turmel and L. P. Boulet, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 1238–1246.
Immunocytochemical detection of Ki‐67 in Diff‐Quik‐stained cytological smears of canine mammary gland tumours
Authors: Choi U. S. , Kim D. Y.
Published: June 2010

U.S. Choi and D.Y. Kim

Immunocytochemical detection of Ki‐67 in Diff‐Quik‐stained cytological smears of canine mammary gland tumours

Objective:  To investigate whether Diff‐Quik stained fine needle aspirate smears can be used to evaluate Ki‐67 expression by immunocytochemistry.

Methods:  Both cytological and histological samples were obtained from 24 dogs with spontaneously developed mammary gland tumours. The cytological and histological specimens were examined by Diff‐Quik and H&E stains, respectively. After examination, both samples were immunostained using the same Ki‐67 antibody. The % Ki‐67 values were calculated based on the percentage of positively stained tumour cells per 500 and 1000 tumour cells in cytology and histology specimens, respectively.

Results:  Ki‐67 staining was successful in 17/24 smears (71%) and 19/23 sections (83%). The correlation coefficient between the percentage of Ki‐67‐positive cells in cytological smears and in the histological sections was 0.677 (P < 0.01). These values were significantly different between histologically benign and malignant tumour groups both in cytology and histology samples (P < 0.001). The threshold value of the percentage of Ki‐67‐positive cells for distinguishing benign from malignant tumours was set at 4.85% with 90.9% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve using histopathology as the gold standard.

Conclusion:  Diff‐Quik‐stained cytology smears can be used to detect the presence of Ki‐67 antigen when histology sections are not available.
Comparison of SurePath® and ThinPrep® liquid‐based cervical cytology using positive predictive value, atypical predictive value and total predictive value as performance indicators
Authors: Wright P. K. , Marshall J. , Desai M.
Published: June 2010

P. K. Wright, J. Marshall and M. Desai

Comparison of SurePath
®
and ThinPrep
®
liquid‐based cervical cytology using positive predictive value, atypical predictive value and total predictive value as performance indicators

Objective:  Two liquid‐based cytology (LBC) systems are in widespread use in the UK: ThinPrep® and SurePath®. A number of studies have now compared LBC with conventional cytology in cervical screening. However, to date, we are aware of no studies that have compared ThinPrep® with SurePath® LBC. As the selection and use of specific diagnostic systems in a laboratory has significant clinical and economic implications, there is a clear need to compare directly existing LBC technology. The objective of this study was to compare ThinPrep® with SurePath® LBC in a single cytology laboratory using performance indicators.

Methods:  Data were collected for all cervical cytology samples processed at Manchester Cytology Centre over a 1‐year period. ThinPrep® LBC was compared with SurePath® LBC using positive predictive value (PPV), atypical predictive value (APV) and total predictive value (TPV), reflecting outcome of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 2 or worse for high‐grade dyskaryosis (PPV), low‐grade dyskaryosis or borderline (atypical) cytology (APV) and all (total) abnormal cytology (TPV).

Results:  2287 (out of 56 467) (ThinPrep®) and 586 (out of 22 824) (SurePath®) samples showed borderline or worse cytology after exclusion criteria. PPV, APV and TPV were within acceptable ranges for both ThinPrep® and SurePath®.

Conclusions:  ThinPrep® and SurePath® were equivalent based on three performance indicators. We suggest that APV and TPV should be used as an adjunct to PPV and other methods of quality assurance for cervical screening.
Immunoadsorption in dilated cardiomyopathy: long‐term reduction of cardiodepressant antibodies
Authors: Trimpert Christiane , Herda Lars R. , Eckerle Lars G. , Pohle Susanne , Müller Carina , Landsberger Martin , Felix Stephan B. , Staudt Alexander
Published: June 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (8): 685–691

Background  Disturbances of humoral immunity have been described in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and a number of antibodies against cardiac cell proteins have been identified. Previous studies showed that immunoadsorption therapy with subsequent IgG substitution (IA/IgG) enhances cardiac function, and that removal of cardiodepressant antibodies may represent one essential mechanism of this therapy. The long‐term effect of IA/IgG on the level of cardiodepressant antibodies remains to be elucidated.

Methods  A total of 17 patients with DCM were observed up to 12 months after IA/IgG. Echocardiographic measurements were performed at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months after therapy. Cardiodepressant antibodies were detected by incubation of rat cardiomyocytes with purified patients’ IgG and recording of contractility and Ca2+ ratio.

Results  In contrast to patients without cardiodepressant antibodies before IA/IgG, patients with negative inotropic antibodies showed an improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from 33·8 ± 1·7% to 44·7 ± 2·7%; 44·5 ± 2·3% and 51·8 ± 1·7% after 3, 6 and 12 months (P < 0·001 vs. baseline, P < 0·05 vs. LVEF of non‐cardiodepressant group). Immediately after IA/IgG therapy, no cardiodepressant effects of patients’ IgG on isolated cardiomyocytes were detectable, and this effect remained diminished until 6 months after IA/IgG (P < 0·001 for contractility and Ca2+ ratio). Compared with the levels after 3 and 6 months, cardiodepressant antibodies reoccured after 12 months (P = 0·067 for contractility, P < 0·05 for Ca2+ ratio vs. 6 months after IA/IgG). However, the negative inotropic reaction is still diminished compared with the reaction before IA/IgG.

Conclusion  IA/IgG therapy induces long‐term reduction of negative inotropic antibodies. After 12 months, however, re‐increase of negative inotropic antibodies cannot be excluded.
Relative influences of DOC flux and subterranean fauna on microbial abundance and activity in aquifer sediments: new insights from 13C‐tracer experiments
Authors: FOULQUIER ARNAUD , SIMON LAURENT , GILBERT FRANCK , FOUREL FRANCOIS , MALARD FLORIAN , MERMILLOD‐BLONDIN FLORIAN
Published: June 2010

1. Aquifers are considered to be controlled bottom‐up because of their dependence on organic matter supply from surface ecosystems. Microorganisms are generally assumed to form the base of the food web and to respond strongly to organic matter supply. Although the bottom‐up control of microorganisms by carbon sources has been well documented, the potential top‐down control of obligate groundwater invertebrates on microorganisms has never been addressed in alluvial aquifers.

2. The main aims of the present study were (i) to quantify the relative influences of the activity of a subterranean amphipod (Niphargus rhenorhodanensis) and the flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) on organic matter processing and microbial activity, biomass and abundance in slow filtration columns mimicking an alluvial aquifer, and (ii) to determine the feeding rate of N. rhenorhodanensis on sedimentary microbes by tracing the flux of a 13C‐labelled source of DOC in batches (closed systems).

3. Slow filtration column experiments showed that microbial abundance, biomass and activity were primarily controlled by DOC flux, whereas the activity of N. rhenorhodanensis had only a slight effect on the microbial compartment. Modelling of carbon fluxes in the 13C‐tracer experiments indicated that the feeding activity of the amphipod was too low to significantly modify microbial growth and activity.

4. Our experiments supported the hypothesis that groundwater ecosystems are controlled bottom‐up. The small influence of N. rhenorhodanensis on the microbial compartment was probably linked to its slow metabolism. Our results highlight the need for further experiments to examine the relationship between metabolic rates of subterranean organisms and their role in ecosystem functioning.
Efficacy of ‘saltwater flushing’ in protecting the Great Lakes from biological invasions by invertebrate eggs in ships’ ballast sediment
Authors: BRISKI ELIZABETA , BAILEY SARAH A. , CRISTESCU MELANIA E. , MACISAAC HUGH J.
Published: June 2010

1. Mid‐ocean exchange and saltwater flushing were implemented as management practices to reduce the likelihood of new biological invasions in the Laurentian Great Lakes associated with ships’ ballast water and sediments. Despite this, there has been no formal assessment of the efficacy of these procedures. Here, we conduct a comparative analysis of community composition of dormant taxa transported by ballast sediment before and after regulations came into effect in 2006.

2. Ballast sediment samples were collected from 17 ships during the post‐regulation interval of 2007 and 2008. Invertebrate eggs were counted, hatched and species identified in the laboratory. Results were compared to similar samples collected from 39 ships between 2000 and 2002, prior to implementation of saltwater flushing regulations.

3. The estimated amount of residual ballast sediment transported by vessels was significantly lower during the post‐regulation period, ranging from <1 to 45 tonnes per ship, with an average of 5 tonnes. Mean density and number of dormant viable eggs per ship declined 91 and 81%, respectively.

4. Community composition also changed through time, with Rotifera accounting for 78% of taxa transported prior to regulation, whereas Cladocera and Copepoda each accounted for 38% of abundance post‐regulation. Although the number of non‐indigenous species (NIS) declined 73% per ship after 2006, the reduction was not statistically significant; however, the number of freshwater NIS – which pose the greatest risk of invasion for the Great Lakes – was significantly lowered.

5. Our comparative analysis suggests that ballast management regulations enacted in 2006 markedly reduced the probability of introduction of NIS via dormant eggs carried in ballast sediments.
Quantifying the effects of temperature and flow regime on the abundance of 0+ cyprinids in the upper River Rhone using Bayesian hierarchical modelling
Authors: PIFFADY JEREMY , SOUCHON YVES , CAPRA HERVE , PARENT ERIC
Published: June 2010

1. Assuming that recruitment variation is one of the main sources of fish population and assemblage changes, it is necessary to understand how natural variations in the environment influence 0+ fish abundance. Temperature regimes play an important role in enhancing both spawning activity and survival during early larval fish development. Flow regime variation, which is a powerful source of stream disturbance, is another factor to be taken into account.

2. Responses to these variables need to be assessed using long‐term datasets, since standard statistical approaches fail to provide a causal structure or to quantify the different effects. We therefore used a 26‐year dataset to evaluate the respective effects of seven derived independent variables describing the effects of temperature and flow regimes on the 0+ juvenile abundance of eight fish species in the River Rhone.

3. A clustering procedure using the Kendall tau rank correlation coefficient was implemented and identified three groups of fish according to their synchronic variations in juvenile abundance; i.e. varying with decreasing juvenile abundance, slightly increasing juvenile abundance and increasing juvenile abundance. These clusters provided the basis for building hierarchical log‐Poisson generalized linear models. The Bayesian paradigm gives a reliable framework for model selection, and the best model was determined using the Bayes Factor.

4. The posterior distribution of the regression parameters was coherent with what was expected based on knowledge of the biology of the different species. It indicates that temperature regime drives 0+ juvenile abundance but that flow regime also plays an important regulating role. The models thus detected evidence of the consequences of specific flow events such as larval drift and an increase in available habitat during higher flow discharges.

5. Our study illustrates the advantages of using a hierarchical modelling approach to quantify ecological effects by improving discrimination between the different sources of uncertainty, leading to better precision when estimating regression parameters.
Evidence of changing intrinsic water‐use efficiency under rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations in Boreal Fennoscandia from subfossil leaves and tree ring δ13C ratios
Authors: GAGEN MARY , FINSINGER WALTER , WAGNER‐CREMER FRIEDERIKE , MCCARROLL DANNY , LOADER NEIL J. , ROBERTSON IAIN , JALKANEN RISTO , YOUNG GILES , KIRCHHEFER ANDREAS
Published: June 2010

Investigating the many internal feedbacks within the climate system is a vital component of the effort to quantify the full effects of future anthropogenic climate change. The stomatal apertures of plants tend to close and decrease in number under elevated CO2 concentrations, increasing water‐use efficiency (WUE) and reducing canopy evapotranspiration. Experimental and modelling studies reveal huge variations in these changes such that the warming associated with reduced evapotranspiration (known as physiological forcing) is neither well understood or constrained. Palaeo‐observations of changes in stomatal response and plant WUE under rising CO2 might be used to better understand the processes underlying the physiological forcing feedback and to link measured changes in plant WUE to a specific physiological change in stomata. Here we use time series of tree ring (Pinus sylvestris L.) δ13C and subfossil leaf (Betula nana L.) measurements of stomatal density and geometry to derive records of changes in intrinsic water‐use efficiency (iWUE) and maximum stomatal conductance in the Boreal zone of northern Finland and Sweden. We investigate the rate of change in both proxies, over the recent past. The independent lines of evidence from these two different Boreal species indicate increased iWUE and reduced maximum stomatal conductance of similar magnitude from preindustrial times (ca. ad 1850) to around ad 1970. After this maximum stomatal conductance continues to decrease to ad 2000 in B. nana but iWUE in P. sylvestris reaches a plateau. We suggest that northern boreal P. sylvestris might have reached a threshold in its ability to increase WUE as CO2 rises.
Natural killer T cells constitutively expressing the interleukin‐2 receptor α chain early in life are primed to respond to lower antigenic stimulation
Authors: Ladd Mihoko , Sharma Ashish , Huang Qing , Wang Adele Y. , Xu Lixin , Genowati Indira , Levings Megan K. , Lavoie Pascal M.
Published: June 2010

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are known to constitutively express the high affinity interlukin‐2 receptor α chain (CD25) in neonates, but the functional consequence of this phenotype is unknown. Here, we show that high numbers of CD25‐expressing iNKT cells are present early in gestation and represent a significant proportion of the developing immune system. Despite their activated phenotype, neonatal iNKT cells express high levels of the Krüppel‐like factor‐2, a transcription factor associated with quiescent T cells, and require de novo T‐cell receptor and CD28 co‐stimulation to proliferate. In contrast to bona fide CD4/CD25‐expressing regulatory T cells, neonatal iNKT cells do not suppress T‐cell responses, indicating that they do not represent an immunosuppressive cell subset. Evidence that neonatal iNKT cells respond to dramatically reduced amounts of CD1d‐restricted antigen compared with adult iNKT cells or T cells, and that their proliferation can be induced in the absence of early interleukin‐2 suggest that constitutive expression of CD25 ‘primes’ neonatal iNKT cells to respond rapidly to low amounts of antigen. This unique phenotype, which is distinct from adult iNKT cells, as well as other CD25‐expressing activated T or regulatory T cells, may be important to ensure stability of a structurally limited peripheral iNKT‐cell repertoire early in life.
Thickness of dentine in mesial roots of mandibular molars with different lengths
Authors: Sauáia T. S. , Gomes B. P. F. A. , Pinheiro E. T. , Zaia A. A. , Ferraz C. C. R. , Souza‐Filho F. J. , Valdrighi L.
Published: June 2010

Sauáia TS, Gomes BPFA, Pinheiro ET, Zaia AA, Ferraz CCR, Souza‐Filho FJ, Valdrighi L. Thickness of dentine in mesial roots of mandibular molars with different lengths. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 555–559, 2010.

Aim  To measure the minimum thickness of the distal (furcal) root dentine associated with the buccal and lingual canals of the mesial roots of mandibular first molars with different lengths.

Methodology  The mesial roots of 285 mandibular first molars were allocated into three groups according to their length: group I – long (24.14 mm ± 0.85), group II – medium (22.10 mm ± 0.65) and group III – short (19.97 mm ± 0.75). The minimum thickness of the distal (furcal) root dentine associated with the buccal and lingual canals of the mesial roots 2 mm below the furcation was measured. The distance between the buccal and lingual canals, and the depth of concavity in the distal surface of the mesial roots were also measured. anova and Tukey–Kramer were used to test for significant differences among the groups.

Results  The minimum thickness of the distal wall of the mesiobuccal canal was significantly different (P < 0.05) between group I (long) and III (short), with long teeth having the smallest mean values. No significant difference was found in the thickness of the distal wall of the mesiolingual canal among the groups studied (P > 0.05). The shortest distance between the mesiobuccal and the mesiolingual canals was observed in group III (P < 0.05). The distal (furcal) concavity was deeper in group I (P < 0.05) when compared with the other groups.

Conclusion  There was a significant difference in the minimum thickness of the distal (furcal) root wall of the mesiobuccal canal of mandibular first molars 2 mm below the furcation between group I (long) and group III (short) teeth. The thinnest walls were found in the longest teeth. The deepest concavities in the distal (furcal) walls of the mesial roots were found in the longest roots.
Treatment of an avulsed maxillary permanent central incisor replaced by autotransplantation of a mandibular premolar: 14‐year follow‐up
Authors: Mendoza Mendoza A. , Solano Reina E. , Segura‐Egea J. J.
Published: June 2010

Mendoza Mendoza A, Solano Reina E, Segura‐Egea JJ. Treatment of an avulsed maxillary permanent central incisor replaced by autotransplantation of a mandibular premolar: 14‐year follow‐up. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 818–827, 2010.

Aim  To present the 14 year follow‐up of a case in which an avulsed permanent maxillary central incisor was replaced by autotransplantation of a mandibular premolar.

Summary  A mandibular premolar (Moorrees’ stage 3) was transplanted into the space left by an avulsed permanent maxillary central incisor after a delay of 3 months. Recall examination 14 years after transplantation revealed a normal periodontal architecture with absence of infection, ankylosis or progressive resorption. The transplantation of a premolar is seen as a promising method to replace a lost permanent tooth and to restore aesthetics and function.

Key learning points 

 Autotransplantation is a viable option for the treatment of a missing tooth or for replacement of avulsed and traumatized tooth when a donor tooth is available.

 Autotransplantation is a therapeutic option for the substitution of missing anterior teeth in young patients who also need orthodontic treatment.
Non‐psychiatric health problems among psychiatric inpatients with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Charlot L. , Abend S. , Ravin P. , Mastis K. , Hunt A. , Deutsch C.
Published: June 2010

Background  Physical distress resulting from medical problems has been found to cause increased behaviour problems in patients with intellectual disabilities (ID). Despite this fact, little has been documented on the medical problems of individuals with ID admitted for inpatient psychiatric care. We conducted an exploratory investigation based on a retrospective chart review of the medical problems and medications for 198 people with ID who had been admitted to a specialised inpatient psychiatric unit. Most patients were referred for admission because of aggressive, disruptive and self‐injurious behaviours. The average length of stay was 17.6 days.

Methods  We tallied the total number of medical problems and medications listed in the patients' discharge summaries. Because longer stays are disruptive, costly and associated with greater overall impairment, we examined the relationship between length of stay and frequency of discharge medical diagnoses. We also assessed whether or not the number of psychoactive medications correlated with the number of medical diagnoses. The effects of other demographic and diagnostic variables on rates of medical diagnoses and medications were also evaluated, including gender, age group (16–25, 26–45, 46–60, >60), level of ID (mild, moderate or severe ID) and diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder or Down syndrome (DS).

Results  Inpatients with a higher number of medical diagnoses had longer lengths of stay (Spearman r = +0.32, P < 0.0001). There was a significant correlation between number of psychoactive medications and number of medical problems (Spearman r = +0.32, P < 0.0001). The most frequent medical comorbidity was constipation, reported in 60% of the inpatients (n = 118), while gastro‐esophageal reflux disease was identified in 38% (n = 75). Older inpatients had an increased number of medical problems, as might be expected, but a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder, gender and level of ID had no detectible effect on rates of either medical diagnoses or medications. There were only 13 inpatients with DS; in this modest sample, it was found that they had higher rates of osteoarthritis, cardiac problems, hearing loss, hypothyroidism and sleep apnoea than peers without DS, as is consistent with previous findings on overrepresented conditions in this trisomy.

Conclusions  In the present study, individuals with ID admitted for inpatient psychiatric care exhibited high rates of medical problems, and these were associated with duration of inpatient stay. Based on these findings, further investigation of the effects of medical problems on behaviour among individuals with ID admitted for inpatient psychiatric care is warranted.
Is local adaptation inMimulus guttatuscaused by trade‐offs at individual loci?
Authors: HALL M. C. , LOWRY D. B. , WILLIS J. H.
Published: June 2010

Local adaptation is considered to be the result of fitness trade‐offs for particular phenotypes across different habitats. However, it is unclear whether such phenotypic trade‐offs exist at the level of individual genetic loci. Local adaptation could arise from trade‐offs of alternative alleles at individual loci or by complementary sets of loci with different fitness effects of alleles in one habitat but selective neutrality in the alternative habitat. To evaluate the genome‐wide basis of local adaptation, we performed a field‐based quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping experiment on recombinant inbred lines (RILs) created from coastal perennial and inland annual races of the yellow monkeyflower (Mimulus guttatus) grown reciprocally in native parental habitats. Overall, we detected 19 QTLs affecting one or more of 16 traits measured in two environments, most of small effect. We identified 15 additional QTL effects at two previously identified candidate QTLs [DIVERGENCE(DIV)]. Significant QTL by environment interactions were detected at theDIVloci, which was largely attributable to genotypic differences at a single field site. We found no detectable evidence for trade‐offs for any one component of fitness, althoughDIV2showed a trade‐off involving different fitness traits between sites, suggesting that local adaptation is largely controlled by non‐overlapping loci. This is surprising for an outcrosser, implying that reduced gene flow prevents the evolution of individuals adapted to multiple environments. We also determined that native genotypes were not uniformly adaptive, possibly reflecting fixed mutational load in one of the populations.
Evolutionary Perspective on the Interplay Between Family Life, and Parent and Offspring Personality
Authors: Roulin Alexandre , Dreiss Amélie N. , Kölliker Mathias
Published: June 2010

Consistent inter‐individual variation in behaviour over time and across contexts has been reported for a wide variety of animals, a phenomenon commonly referred to as personality. As behavioural patterns develop inside families, rearing conditions could have lasting effects on the expression of adult personality. In species with parental care, conflicts among family members impose selection on parental and offspring behaviour through coadaptation. Here, we argue that the interplay between the evolution of personality traits (i.e. boldness, exploration, activity, aggressiveness and sociability) expressed outside the family context and the specialized behaviours expressed inside families (i.e. offspring begging behaviour and parental response to offspring solicitations) can have important evolutionary consequences. Personality differences between parents may relate to the typically observed variation in the way they respond to offspring demand, and dependent offspring may already express personality differences, which may relate to the way they communicate with their parents and siblings. However, there has been little research on how personality relates to parental and offspring behaviours. Future research should thus focus on how and why personality may be related to the specialized parent and offspring behaviour that evolved as adaptations to family life.
Factors associated with resilience of school age children with cancer
Authors: Kim Dong H , Yoo Il Y
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To identify factors associated with resilience of school age children with cancer.

Methods:  The participants were 74 children, 10–15 years old who were diagnosed with cancer at least 6 months prior to data collection. The instruments used were; a self‐reported questionnaire on resilience, Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale III, measurements of relationship with friends and teachers. Descriptive, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to analyse the data.

Results:  The average score for resilience was 98.49 (range: 32–128). There was no statistically significant relationship with resilience for age, gender, religion, existence of siblings, mother's age, academic performance, duration of illness or type of cancer. In bivariate analysis, family adaptability and cohesion (r= 0.535, P < 0.001), relationship with friends (r= 0.520, P < 0.001) and teachers (r= 0.318, P < 0.01) were significantly related to resilience. However, the results of multiple regression analysis showed that only family function (β= 0.257, P < 0.05) and relationship with friends (β= 0.581, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with resilience.

Conclusions:  School age children with cancer who reported higher family function and positive relationships with friends showed higher resiliency than their counterparts. Thus, it is important to help the families of children with cancer to enhance family function and help children to adjust to school re‐entry by maintaining ties with school friends and teachers during treatment. Development of counselling programmes for parents to promote family adaptation and cohesion and educational programmes for classmates and teachers are recommended.
Electroencephalogram in children with minor traumatic brain injury
Authors: Oster Isabel , Shamdeen Ghiath M. , Gottschling Sven , Gortner Ludwig , Meyer Sascha
Published: June 2010

Background:  Mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is one of the most frequent causes for hospitalisation in childhood. Because of different guidelines in the management the diagnostic approach varies substantially. Apart from neuroimaging studies (CT, MRI, sonography) an electroencephalogram (EEG) is often performed without any evidence‐based data supporting its use.

Methods:  Retrospective analysis of 150 children with MTBI (age 0–16 years), who were admitted to the Children's Hospital of the University of Saarland from January 2006 to December 2007.

Results:  Mean age was 4.3 (SD 3.6) years: 55.3% were boys. The most common mechanisms of injury were: Minor fall <1 m of height (60%) and fall >1.5 m of height (10%). The most common symptoms were: one or more episodes of vomiting (60%), somnolence (26.7%) and headache (12.7%). On 118 patients an EEG was performed; 106 (89.8%) were normal, 11 (9.3%) pathological and 1 (0.9%) invalid because of artefacts. The pathological EEGs showed focal findings with localised slowing in nine cases, spike‐wave complexes in one case and general slowing in one case. Of the 11 patients with pathological EEG, two had a CT scan, two a MRI and two had cranial sonography; all the neuro‐imaging was normal. None of the children required neurosurgical intervention, had a negative outcome or showed persistent symptoms.

Conclusion:  The routine performance of an EEG after MTBI in children is not indicated because in most of the cases it is unrevealing, and may lead to unnecessary diagnostic procedures. Instead, children with MTBI should be closely monitored for possible clinical complications and neurological deterioration.
Efficacy of glycerol in preventing postoperative peritoneal adhesions
Authors: Aysan Erhan , Bektas Hasan , Kaygusuz Arslan
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To evaluate the efficacy of glycerol in preventing postoperative peritoneal adhesions.

Materials and Methods:  Forty Wistar albino female rats were randomly assigned into four groups of 10 rats each. Rats in group 1 were each injected intraperitoneally with 0.1 mL glycerol. In group 2, the adhesion model was created with no injection of glycerol. In group 3, the adhesion model was created and the area was covered with 0.1 mL glycerol. In group 4, 0.1 mL glycerol was used to cover the area where the model was to be formed and the adhesion model was created. The rats were killed on postoperative day 10, and the size and severity of adhesions were evaluated, together with histopathological fibrosis parameters.

Results:  Mean macroscopic adhesion scores in groups 1–4 were, 0, 5.8 ± 0.42, 0.30 ± 0.95 and 0, respectively (P = 0.0001), with the score in group 2 higher than those of groups 1 (P < 0.001), 3 (P < 0.01) and 4 (P < 0.001). Mean histopathological fibrosis values were 0, 2.8 ± 0.32, 1.60 ± 0.70 and 0.60 ± 0.51, respectively (P < 0.0001). Group 3 and 4 scores were different than group 2 (P < 0.0001) and group 3 was also different than group 4 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Covering peritoneal surfaces with glycerol, both before and after peritoneal trauma, is effective in decreasing peritoneal adhesion formation. The efficacy of glycerol covering was greater in the group receiving glycerol prior to trauma because it decreased the direct effects of trauma on the surface.
Ultrasound estimation of fetal weight: A formula for a Pakistani population
Authors: Munim Shama , Figueras Francesc , Shah Saima Malik , Khan Farah , Gardosi Jason
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To assess and validate the best model for fetal weight estimation in the Pakistani population.

Material and Methods:  The cohort included 178 women with singleton pregnancies at term (37–41 weeks) who had an ultrasound scan within 7 days of delivery. A proportionality formula was used to compensate for the fetal weight gain between the scan and the delivery. Data points from 119 pregnancies were used to derive the fetal weight formula, which was subsequently tested on the remaining 59 pregnancies. The best model for fetal weight estimation from ultrasound biometric parameters was selected.

Results:  The selected model showed an interclass correlation coefficient with birthweight of 0.89. The systematic and random errors were −10 and 250 g, respectively. This validity assessment compared favorably with the performance of the more commonly used formulae when applied to our population.

Conclusions:  We describe a new model for fetal weight estimation in a Pakistani population which produces more valid and reliable estimates than currently used models derived from other populations.
Incidental adnexal masses at cesarean section and review of the literature
Authors: Ulker Volkan , Gedikbasi Ali , Numanoglu Ceyhun , Saygı Sezin , Aslan Halil , Gulkilik Ahmet
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To study the outcome of cases of incidental adnexal masses detected during cesarean section.

Methods:  A total of 126 093 live births and 39 115 cesarean deliveries performed between 2002 and 2008 were retrospectively evaluated and cases with additional adnexal masses and surgical interventions were included in the study. Histopathologic assessment and related outcomes were examined.

Results:  One hundred and nineteen patients had incidental adnexal masses at the time of cesarean delivery; the incidence of adnexal masses was 1/329. The most common histopathologic diagnoses were mature cystic teratoma (32%) and functional cysts (26%). Six cases (5%) were bilateral. The mean cyst size was 6.4 cm; two of the masses were malignant.

Conclusion:  Incidental masses detected at the time of cesarean section should be extirpated in order to exclude the possibility of malignancy and to avoid additional surgical procedures following cesarean section.
Simple educational intervention will improve the efficacy of routine antenatal iron supplementation
Authors: Senanayake Hemantha M. , Premaratne Samanthi P. , Palihawadana Thilina , Wijeratne Sumeda
Published: June 2010

Aim:  Sri Lanka has a policy of free provision of iron supplements to pregnant women. However, iron deficiency anemia remains common in pregnancy.

Methods:  We tested the hypothesis that educating women regarding improving bioavailability could improve the efficacy of iron supplementation. The education focused on how best supplements could be taken and on how they should be stored. We carried out a study using a quasi‐experimental design on a group of women attending for antenatal care at a suburban University Obstetric Unit in Sri Lanka. The control group had care free of charge including iron supplementation and antihelminthic therapy. In addition, the study group received an education in small groups regarding maximizing bioavailability of iron. Hemoglobin and iron status of the women were compared between the groups at recruitment and at 34 weeks of gestation.

Results:  The two groups were equally matched in demographic data, and hemoglobin and iron status. There were significant differences between the two groups at 34 weeks in the hemoglobin levels, serum ferritin levels, anemia rates and the number with low ferritin (P < 0.0001 for all parameters), with a favorable outcome in the study group. The study group had used the iron tablets in ways that improved their bioavailability.

Conclusion:  A simple health education improved the efficacy of iron supplementation in this population. Such interventions should be an integral part of iron supplementation programs, especially in populations whose habits tend to reduce the bioavailability of iron.