bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test in young soccer players
Authors: Wong Pui‐Lam , Chaouachi Anis , Castagna Carlo , Lau Patrick W. C. , Chamari Karim , Wisløff Ulrik
Published: September 2011

The Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test is frequently used to assess aerobic endurance performance in young soccer players but only the logical validity of the test has been shown to date. The main ai m of this study was to assess the criterion (i.e. association with maximal aerobic capacity, [Vdot]O2max) and construct validities of the test in young soccer players. A secondary aim was to examine possible shared variance of the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test with other physical capacities. Sixty‐two soccer players (age 13.7±0.5 years) from an Under‐14 team participated. All players performed a battery of fitness tests to assess [Vdot]O2max, aerobic endurance performance (Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test), soccer dribbling endurance performance (Hoff dribbling test), and power performance (maximal vertical jump, 30‐m sprint with 10‐m split time). Results showed that the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test was strongly correlated with [Vdot]O2max (r=0.63, P<0.001), thereby showing the test's criterion validity. Players with the best performance on the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test had significantly higher [Vdot]O2max (P<0.001, large effect), and significantly better soccer dribbling endurance (P<0.001, large effect) and 30‐m sprint times (P<0.05, medium effect). Logistic regression (r=0.79, P=0.0001) showed that Hoff dribbling test performance (explained variance=50.4%), [Vdot]O2max (explained variance=39.7%), and 30‐m sprint time (explained variance=14.4%) were significant independent parameters contributing to performance on the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test. Therefore, the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test is a valid on‐field aerobic endurance performance test for young soccer players, which can also be used to differentiate the maximal aerobic capacity, soccer dribbling endurance, and 30‐m sprint performance of these players.
Peripheral alterations after two different concentric power protocols
Authors: Tomazin Katja , Millet Guillaume Y. , Ulaga Maja , Jereb Blaz , Strojnik Vojko
Published: September 2011

The aims of the present study were to assess the ability of explosive concentric contractions to induce high‐frequency fatigue, and to determine what effects the number of repetitions and number of sets have upon peripheral fatigue. Nine male students performed two protocols (6 sets, 5 min and 1 week rest between sets and protocols, respectively) with a different number of concentric jumps in a set on the sledge (10 vs. 20 jumps in the first (S10) and the second protocol (S20), respectively). Isometric twitch torque, torque during low‐frequency (20 Hz) and high‐frequency (100 Hz) electrical stimulation of the vastus lateralis were measured (before protocols and 30 s after sets). Peak twitch torque increased, while contraction and half‐relaxation times shortened during the S10 protocol (P<0.05). The increase in peak twitch torque was accompanied by non‐significant reductions in contraction time and half‐relaxation time in the S20 protocol. High‐ and low‐frequency torques did not change significantly in either protocol. The high‐ to low‐frequency torque ratio increased significantly (P<0.05) after the fourth set in the S10 protocol. Post‐activation potentiation was the main reason for enhanced contractile response after both protocols. There were no alterations in high‐frequency torque or reductions in the high‐ to low‐frequency torque ratio, even with increased sets and repetitions. Explosive concentric contractions showed no potential to induce high‐frequency fatigue, when separated with long periods of rest.
Influence of technical instructions on the physiological and physical demands of small‐sided soccer games
Authors: Dellal Alexandre , Chamari Karim , Owen Adam Lee , Wong Del P. , Lago‐Penas Carlos , Hill‐Haas Stephen
Published: September 2011

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of changes in the number of ball contacts allowed per individual possession on the physiological, technical, and physical demands within small‐sided games in elite soccer. Twenty international players (age 27.4±1.5 years, body mass 79.2±4.2 kg, height 1.81±0.02 m, velocity at [Vdot]O2max 17.4±0.8 km ·h−1, percent body fat 12.7±1.2%) performed three different small‐sided game formats (i.e. 2 vs. 2; 3 vs. 3; 4 vs. 4) on three different occasions in which the number of ball contacts authorized per possession was fixed (one touch, two touches, and free play). The relative pitch per player ratio was similar for all small‐sided games. The small‐sided games were performed with four support players (placed around the perimeter of pitch) with instructions to keep possession of the ball. The total duration of the small‐sided games was the effective time of play. The physical demands, technical requirements, heart rates, post‐exercise blood lactate concentrations, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed. The percentages of successful passes and numbers of duels were significantly lower when the small‐sided game was played with one touch (P<0.001), whereas the number of balls lost increased (P<0.001 for 2 vs. 2 and 3 vs. 3; P<0.01 for 4 vs. 4). The small‐sided game played with one touch also induced increases in blood lactate concentration and RPE, as well as greater physical demands in the total distance covered in sprinting and high‐intensity runs. In conclusion, the main findings of this study are that by altering the number of ball contacts authorized per possession in small‐sided games, the coach can manipulate both the physical and technical demands within such games.
Social isolation and physical inactivity in older US adults: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Reed Sharon B. , Crespo Carlos J. , Harvey William , Andersen Ross E.
Published: September 2011

Physical inactivity is a risk factor for cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. It has been shown that both physical inactivity and social isolation increase with age, and that these factors are detrimental to physical and mental well‐being. The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between physical inactivity and social isolation in older US adults. Using data from a nationally representative cross‐sectional survey, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988–1994, we assessed the age‐ and race‐specific prevalence of no leisure‐time physical activity in relation to various forms of social interaction. The prevalence of no leisure‐time physical activity increases with age in both men and women. In non‐Hispanic whites, non‐Hispanic blacks, and Mexican Americans, the prevalence of no leisure‐time physical activity is increased in older US adults who are socially isolated. Social isolation is related to physical inactivity among persons 60 years and older. Longitudinal and intervention studies are needed to establish whether increased social support translates to a more active population of older adults.
A multidisciplinary identification model for youth handball
Authors: Matthys Stijn P. J. , Vaeyens Roel , Vandendriessche Joric , Vandorpe Barbara , Pion Johan , Coutts Aaron J. , Lenoir Matthieu , Philippaerts Renaat M.
Published: September 2011

Talent identification in team sports is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach. The purpose of this study was to examine differences between elite and non‐elite handball players in three age groups: U14 (n=186), U16 (n=150), and U18 (n=92). A multidimensional test battery was assessed, taking biological maturation into account. Significant maturation effects were found for all anthropometric characteristics and most performance variables. Compared with their non‐elite peers, the elite handball players demonstrated significantly greater aerobic capacity (P<0.01), strength and power (U14: countermovement jump, P=0.021; sit‐ups, P=0.003; handgrip, P=0.020; U16: countermovement jump, P=0.013; five‐jump test, P<0.001), and speed and agility (P<0.05) when maturation was controlled for. There was a significant difference in flexibility between elite and non‐elite players in the U18 group (P<0.05). The elite and non‐elite players did not differ in task‐ and ego‐orientation. These results show that elite and non‐elite young handball players possess different physical performance characteristics and that the specific tests that discriminate elite from non‐elite handball players vary among age groups. In addition, maturity status can influence the results and should therefore be considered in talent identification and development programmes.
Effects of aerobic versus resistance training on glycaemic control in men with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Moe Børge , Augestad Liv Berit , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Flanders William Dana
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic training and resistance training on glycaemic control factors in men with type 2 diabetes. We performed a randomized clinical trial in which 26 men (age 57±8 years) with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to an aerobic training group or a resistance training group. The participants exercised three times a week for 12 weeks. Metabolic factors (haemoglobin A1C; fasting glucose and C‐peptide; total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol; triglycerides), blood pressure, body composition, maximum oxygen uptake, and muscular strength were measured before and after the intervention. Both training groups experienced significant improvements in haemoglobin A1C: the aerobic training group saw a decrease in absolute values from 7.10±0.97% to 6.55±0.74% (P=0.001) and the resistance training group from 7.21±1.8% to 6.85±0.66% (P=0.024). Both training groups had significant improvements in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.05) and in several of the measured body composition variables (P<0.05). In conclusion, the aerobic and resistance training groups saw similar improvements in glycaemic control. This suggests that both aerobic training and resistance training have beneficial effects for men with type 2 diabetes.
Executive Summary: The Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Infants and Children Older Than 3 Months of Age: Clinical Practice Guidelines by the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society and the Infectious Diseases Society of America
Authors: Bradley John S. , Byington Carrie L. , Shah Samir S. , Alverson Brian , Carter Edward R. , Harrison Christopher , Kaplan Sheldon L. , Mace Sharon E. , McCracken George H. , Moore Matthew R. , St Peter Shawn D. , Stockwell Jana A. , Swanson Jack T.
Published: September 2011

Evidenced-based guidelines for management of infants and children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) were prepared by an expert panel comprising clinicians and investigators representing community pediatrics, public health, and the pediatric specialties of critical care, emergency medicine, hospital medicine, infectious diseases, pulmonology, and surgery. These guidelines are intended for use by primary care and subspecialty providers responsible for the management of otherwise healthy infants and children with CAP in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Site-of-care management, diagnosis, antimicrobial and adjunctive surgical therapy, and prevention are discussed. Areas that warrant future investigations are also highlighted.
A unique homologue of the eukaryotic protein-modifier ubiquitin present in the bacterium Bacteroides fragilis, a predominant resident of the human gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Patrick Sheila , Jobling Kelly L. , O’Connor Danny , Thacker Zubin , Dryden David T. F. , Blakely Garry W.
Published: September 2011

In the complete genome sequences of Bacteroides fragilis NCTC9343 and 638R, we have discovered a gene, ubb, the product of which has 63 % identity to human ubiquitin and cross-reacts with antibodies raised against bovine ubiquitin. The sequence of ubb is closest in identity (76 %) to the ubiquitin gene from a migratory grasshopper entomopoxvirus, suggesting acquisition by inter-kingdom horizontal gene transfer. We have screened clinical isolates of B. fragilis from diverse geographical regions and found that ubb is present in some, but not all, strains. The gene is transcribed and the mRNA is translated in B. fragilis, but deletion of ubb did not have a detrimental effect on growth. BfUbb has a predicted signal sequence; both full-length and processed forms were detected in whole-cell extracts, while the processed form was found in concentrated culture supernatants. Purified recombinant BfUbb inhibited in vitro ubiquitination and was able to covalently bind the human E1 activating enzyme, suggesting it could act as a suicide substrate in vivo. B. fragilis is one of the predominant members of the normal human gastrointestinal microbiota with estimates of up to >1011 cells per g faeces by culture. These data indicate that the gastro-intestinal tract of some individuals could contain a significant amount of aberrant ubiquitin with the potential to inappropriately activate the host immune system and/or interfere with eukaryotic ubiquitin activity. This discovery could have profound implications in relation to our understanding of human diseases such as inflammatory bowel and autoimmune diseases.
Membrane sialidase NEU3 is highly expressed in human melanoma cells promoting cell growth with minimal changes in the composition of gangliosides
Authors: Miyata Maiko , Kambe Mariko , Tajima Orie , Moriya Setsuko , Sawaki Hiromichi , Hotta Hiroshi , Kondo Yuji , Narimatsu Hisashi , Miyagi Taeko , Furukawa Koichi , Furukawa Keiko
Published: September 2011

NEU3 is a membrane sialidase specific for gangliosides. Its increased expression and implication in some cancers have been reported. Here, we analyzed NEU3 expression in malignant melanoma cell lines and its roles in the cancer phenotypes. Quantitative RT‐PCR revealed that high levels of the NEU3 gene were expressed at almost equivalent levels with those in colon cancers. To examine the effects of overexpression of NEU3, NEU3 cDNA‐transfectant cells were established using a melanoma cell line SK‐MEL‐28 and its mutant N1 lacking GD3. SK‐MEL‐28 sublines overexpressing both the NEU3 gene and NEU3 enzyme activity showed no changes in both cell growth and ganglioside expression, while N1 cells showed a mild increase in cell proliferation with increased phosphorylation of the EGF receptor and neo‐synthesis of Gb3 after NEU3 transfection. In contrast, NEU3 silencing resulted in a definite reduction in cell growth in a melanoma line MeWo, while ganglioside patterns underwent minimal changes. Phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 with serum stimulation decreased in the NEU3‐silenced cells. All these results suggest that NEU3 is highly expressed to enhance malignant phenotypes including apoptosis inhibition in malignant melanomas. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 2139–2149)
Correlation between mammographic findings and corresponding histopathology: Potential predictors for biological characteristics of breast diseases
Authors: Tamaki Kentaro , Ishida Takanori , Miyashita Minoru , Amari Masakazu , Ohuchi Noriaki , Tamaki Nobumitsu , Sasano Hironobu
Published: September 2011

The present study retrospectively evaluated the mammographic findings of 606 Japanese women with breast cancer (median age 50 years; range 27–89 years) and correlated them with histopathological characteristics. Mammographic findings were evaluated with an emphasis on mass shape, margin, density, calcification, and the presence of architectural distortion; these findings were correlated with histopathological characteristics such as intrinsic subtype, histological grade, lymphovascular invasion, and the Ki‐67 labeling index. An irregular mass shape and masses with a spiculated margin were significantly higher in the group of patients with luminal A breast cancer than in patients with masses that were lobular or round, or in tumors with an indistinct or microlobulated periphery (P = 0.017, P = 0.024, P < 0.001, and P = 0.001, respectively). Irregular mass shape and spiculated periphery were significantly lower in patients with Grade 3 cancer (P < 0.001 for both). In terms of lymphovascular invasion, there were significant differences between oval and irregular or round mass shape (P = 0.008 and P = 0.034), between tumors with a microlobulated and indistinct periphery (P = 0.014), between tumors with a punctate and amorphous or pleomorphic calcification shape (P = 0.030 and 0.038), and between the presence and absence of architectural distortion (P = 0.027). Equivalent or low‐density masses were also higher in Grade 1 breast cancers (P = 0.007). There were significant differences in the Ki‐67 labeling index between irregular and lobular or round tumors (P < 0.001 and P = 0.014), as well as between spiculated and indistinct or microlobulated tumors (P < 0.001 for both). Significant differences were noted in the mammographic features of different primary breast cancer subtypes. These proposed mammographic diagnostic criteria based on biological characteristics may contribute to a more accurate prediction of biological behavior of breast malignancies. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 2179–2185)
Chemerin levels are positively correlated with abdominal visceral fat accumulation
Authors: Shin Hyun‐Young , Lee Duk C. , Chu Sang H. , Jeon Justin Y. , Lee Mi K. , Im Jee A. , Lee Ji W.
Published: September 2011

Objective  Chemerin, a recently discovered adipocytokine, may be linked to obesity and obesity‐associated metabolic complications. However, the relationship between visceral fat accumulation and chemerin is still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between serum chemerin levels and body composition as measured by computed tomography (CT).

Patients  We recruited 173 men and women without histories of diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Measurements  Biomarkers of metabolic risk factors and body composition by computed tomography were assessed. Serum chemerin levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results  Chemerin levels correlated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, abdominal visceral fat area, blood pressure, fasting insulin, homoeostasis model of assessment‐insulin resistance, total cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. By stepwise multiple regression analysis, abdominal visceral fat area, blood pressure and total cholesterol levels independently affected chemerin levels.

Conclusions  Abdominal visceral fat accumulation, blood pressure and lipid profile were significantly associated with serum chemerin levels. Our findings suggest that chemerin may be a mediator that links visceral obesity to cardiovascular risk factors.
Thrombin generation in type 2 diabetes with albuminuria and macrovascular disease
Authors: Ay Leyla , Hoellerl Florian , Ay Cihan , Brix Johanna‐Maria , Koder Silvia , Schernthaner Gerit‐Holger , Pabinger Ingrid , Schernthaner Guntram
Published: September 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (5): 470–477

Background  Albuminuria is an indicator of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and methods  In our cross‐sectional study, we measured thrombin generation (TG), a key process in haemostasis and a tool to detect an individual’s coagulation potential, in normo‐, micro‐ and macroalbuminuria in T2DM with and without macrovascular disease (MVD). The TG‐assay was performed, and the TG‐curve [including the lag phase, peak thrombin and area under the curve (AUC)] was analysed.

Results  A total of 160 patients (62 women; mean age ± SD: 67 ± 11 years) with T2DM and normo‐, micro‐ or macroalbuminuria were investigated. Of those, 90 (56%) patients had normoalbuminuria, 40 (25%) microalbuminuria and 30 (19%) macroalbuminuria. The AUC between the groups of patients with normo‐, micro‐ and macroalbuminuria was statistically significantly different [3297 (2785; 3764) vs. 3222 (2381; 3678) vs. 3726 (3153; 4235) nM Thrombin; P = 0Æ019]. T2DM patients with MVD (n = 121) had a significantly shorter lag phase [12 (9; 16) vs. 20 (15; 25) min; P < 0Æ001], a significantly higher peak thrombin [233 (130; 339) vs. 133 (82; 187) nM; P < 0Æ001] and a significantly higher AUC [3464 (2969; 3868) vs. 3091 (2384; 3619) nM Thrombin; P = 0Æ01] than T2DM patients without MVD (n = 39), indicating an earlier and higher thrombin generation.

Conclusion  Our results support the hypothesis that TG may be involved in the pathogenesis of MVD in diabetic nephropathy as for the first time, we could show that patients with T2DM in different stages of diabetic nephropathy had disturbances in thrombin generation.
The energetic cost of exposure to UV radiation for tadpoles is greater when they live with predators
Authors: Alton Lesley A. , White Craig R. , Wilson Robbie S. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: September 2011

1. Global increases in ultraviolet‐B radiation (UVBR) associated with stratospheric ozone depletion are thought to be contributing to the rapid disappearance of amphibian populations from pristine habitats around the world. Much research has been dedicated to understanding the effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) alone and in combination with other environmental stressors on the early life stages of amphibians. Little is known, however, of how UVR affects amphibian metabolism, or how amphibian metabolism may change in response to exposure to other stressors in addition to UVR.

2. Using a controlled laboratory experiment, we examined the independent and interactive effects of UVR and non‐lethal predatory chemical cues (PCC) on the tissue and whole‐animal metabolic rate (MR) and activity of striped marsh frogLimnodynastes peroniitadpoles. PCC signal risk of predation, which is a natural stressor that can cause tadpoles to alter their behaviour, morphology, and life history, and for which the metabolic cost remains little explored.

3. We found that exposure to UVR caused tissue MR to increase by 36%, but whole‐animal MR to decrease by 14%, which is most likely due to tadpoles reducing their activity levels by 56%. Exposure to PCC had no significant effect on tissue or whole‐animal MR, but caused tadpoles to reduce their activity levels by 36%, indicating that the whole‐animal MR of tadpoles exposed to PCC is elevated relative to their activity levels. Compared with tadpoles exposed to neither stressor, tadpoles exposed simultaneously to UVR and PCC showed no change in whole‐animal MR despite reducing their activity levels by 62%.

4.This research shows that, for tadpoles, there is an energetic cost associated with being exposed to UVR and PCC independently, and that this cost is greater when they are exposed to both stressors simultaneously. Our previous research has shown that exposure of tadpoles to PCC enhances the lethal effects of UVR, and the present study suggests that this synergistic interaction may arise as a consequence of the effect of these combined stressors on MR. Global increases in UVBR may therefore be contributing to amphibian population declines by compromising energy allocation towards growth and development as well as energy allocation towards coping with additional environmental stressors.
Selection of reference genes in peanut seed by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Jiang Shengjuan , Sun Yujun , Wang Songhua
Published: September 2011

Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is a powerful tool for quantifying gene expression, combining both high sensitivity and specificity with efficient signal detection. Choosing the ‘correct’ normalisation control is essential and critical for obtaining reliable expression data. In this article, ten reference genes from Arachis hypogaea were analysed as internal controls for gene expression assay by using qPCR in two tissues of the seed, including embryo and cotyledon. The results showed that phospholipase D and actin were the most stable genes, whereas tubulin B4 and polyubiquitin 10 should be avoided when doing gene expression analysis because of their high variabilities in those tissue types. Although phospholipase D was scored as the most stable gene, it should be carefully validated for each particular experiment because it was easily regulated by different conditions. Taken together, actin was concluded as the optimal reference gene for studying gene expression in the mature peanut seed.
Vegetation recovery in a desert landscape after wildfires: influences of community type, time since fire and contingency effects
Authors: Engel E. Cayenne , Abella Scott R.
Published: September 2011

1. Theories of plant succession are poorly developed in arid lands, hindering our understanding of how long communities may take to recover after disturbances such as fire. In desert landscapes vulnerable to fire, information about vegetation recovery is important when deciding whether land managers should facilitate vegetation recovery. The deserts of the southwestern USA are increasingly subject to unprecedented fires, facilitated by fuel from exotic grasses, yet management strategies are unclear.

2. We evaluated post‐fire recovery patterns of perennial plant species richness and diversity, compared the rate and direction of succession between two major community types, and explored the relationship of time since fire (TSF) and other environmental factors with vegetation recovery. We sampled perennial plant communities and environmental variables (e.g. soil N) on 32 burns, ranging from 2 to 29 years TSF and each paired with their own unburned area, within a 1·8 million ha landscape in the Mojave Desert, USA.

3. Species richness, diversity and composition exhibited different post‐burn recovery patterns, and recovery rates differed between community types. Specifically, diversity in Coleogyne ramosissima communities was greater in burned than unburned areas, but diversity did not differ in Larrea tridentata communities. Species composition in Larrea communities exhibited trajectories that indicate convergence with unburned community composition after 19 years TSF. Conversely, burned and unburned Coleogyne communities lacked convergence irrespective of TSF. Environmental variables (e.g. soil texture and P) accounted for 79–83% of the variation in burned species composition, suggesting environmental characteristics in part control recovery patterns.

4.
Synthesis and applications. The results indicate that geographically similar vegetation types within the same landscape can have markedly different post‐disturbance successional rates and trajectories. Furthermore, the persistence of fire effects varied depending on the community measure, with fire effects on species composition more long‐lasting than the effects on species diversity. This work supports (i) the use of post‐disturbance successional analyses for helping to prioritize management where it is most needed (e.g. communities not recovering naturally) and (ii) the need to assess whether persistent, early successional desert communities meet functional management objectives.
‘Out‐of‐Africa’ dispersal of tropical floras during the Miocene climatic optimum: evidence fromUvaria(Annonaceae)
Authors: Zhou Linlin , Su Yvonne C. F. , Thomas Daniel C. , Saunders Richard M. K.
Published: September 2011

Aim African–Asian disjunctions are common in palaeotropical taxa, and are typically explained by reference to three competing hypotheses: (1) ‘rafting’ on the Indian tectonic plate, enabling Africa‐to‐Asia dispersal; (2) migration via Eocene boreotropical forests; and (3) transoceanic long‐distance dispersal. These hypotheses are tested usingUvaria(Annonaceae), which is distributed in tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australasia. Recent phylogenetic reconstructions of the genus show a clear correlation with geographical provenance, indicating a probable origin in Africa and subsequent dispersal to Asia and then Australasia. Ancestral areas and migration routes are inferred and compared with estimates of divergence times in order to distinguish between the prevailing dispersal hypotheses.

Location Palaeotropics.

Methods Divergence times inUvariaare estimated by analysing the sequences of four DNA regions (matK,psbA–trnH spacer,rbcL andtrnL–F) from 59Uvariaspecies and 77 outgroup species, using a Bayesian uncorrelated lognormal (UCLD) relaxed molecular clock. The ancestral area ofUvariaand subsequent dispersal routes are inferred using statistical dispersal–vicariance analysis (s‐diva).

Results Uvariais estimated to have originated in continental Africa 31.6 Ma [95% highest posterior density (HPD): 38.4–25.1 Ma] between the Middle Eocene and Late Oligocene. Two main migration events during the Miocene are identified: dispersal into Madagascar around 17.0 Ma (95% HPD: 22.3–12.3 Ma); and dispersal into Asia between 21.4 Ma (95% HPD: 26.7–16.7 Ma) and 16.1 Ma (95% HPD: 20.1–12.1 Ma).

Main conclusions Uvariafruits are widely reported to be consumed by primates, and are therefore unlikely candidates for successful long‐distance transoceanic dispersal. The other biogeographical hypotheses, involving rafting on the Indian tectonic plate, and dispersal via the European boreotropical forests associated with the Eocene thermal maximum, can be discounted due to incongruence with the divergence time estimates. An alternative scenario is suggested, involving dispersal across Arabia and central Asia via the tropical forests that developed during the late Middle Miocene thermal maximum (17–15 Ma), associated with the ‘out‐of‐Africa’ dispersal of primates. The probable route and mechanism of overland dispersal between Africa and Asia for tropical plant groups during the Miocene climatic optimum are clarified based on theUvariadata.
Managing blood glucose during and after exercise in Type 1 diabetes: reproducibility of glucose response and a trial of a structured algorithm adjusting insulin and carbohydrate intake
Authors: Kilbride Lynn , Charlton Jacqui , Aitken Gillian , Hill Gordon W , Davison Richard CR , McKnight John A
Published: September 2011

Aims and objectives.  To enable people with Type 1 diabetes to exercise safely by investigating the reproducibility of the glucose response to an algorithm for carbohydrate and insulin adjustment during and after exercise compared to their self‐management strategies.

Background.  Difficulties in managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes whilst exercising is known to deter people from exercise. Currently there is a limited evidence base to aid health care professionals enable people with diabetes to exercise safely. This study seeks to address this gap.

Design.  A quasi‐experimental study was undertaken amongst people with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods.  Over 14 days, 14 participants undertook four exercise sessions (40 minutes at 50%VO2max). Two sessions were undertaken in week 1 self‐managing their diabetes and two sessions in week 2 using an algorithm for carbohydrate and insulin adjustment.

Results.  The mean reduction of glucose levels detected by Continuous Glucose Monitoring during exercise was 3·1 (SD 2·03) mmol/l. Time spent within the range of 4–9 mmol/l during exercise was not significantly different between the self‐managed and the algorithm weeks (−3–22·4 min). The mean reduction of blood glucose for each individual over all four exercise sessions ranged between 0·8–5·95 mmol/l. The technical error between days one and two was 2·4 mmol/l (CV = 33·2%) and between days 3–4 the technical error was 2·7 mmol/l (CV = 33·7%).

Conclusions.  The results provide useful data about the reproducibility of the blood glucose response to moderate intensity exercise, despite the variability of individual responses 40 minutes of moderate intensity exercise decreases Continuous Glucose Monitoring glucose by 3 mmol/l with or without a 30% decrease of insulin before exercise.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This information provides valuable baseline information for people with diabetes and health care professionals who wish to encourage physical activity and undertake further research in this area.
Patients’ and nurses’ perceptions of individualised care: an international comparative study
Authors: Suhonen Riitta , Efstathiou Georgios , Tsangari Haritini , Jarosova Darja , Leino‐Kilpi Helena , Patiraki Elisabeth , Karlou Chryssoula , Balogh Zoltan , Papastavrou Evridiki
Published: September 2011

Aim.  The aim of this study was to compare patients’ and nurses’ perceptions of individualised care in five European countries, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Finland, Greece and Hungary.

Background.  Individualised nursing care has been studied from both patients’ and nurses’ perspectives, but to date, there are no studies comparing these perspectives internationally.

Methods.  A cross‐sectional comparative survey design was used. Data were collected from nurses (n = 960; response rate, 79%) and patients (n = 1315; response rate, 78%) in 71 surgical units from 26 acute hospitals in 2009. Data were collected using two Individualised Care Scales (ICS‐Nurse and ICS‐Patient) and analysed statistically using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results.  Differences in patients’ and nurses’ assessments of individualised nursing care were found between each country. Nurses, compared with patients, assessed that they supported patient individuality more often. The Meannurses ranged from 3·61 (SD 0·90, Greece)–4·31 (SD 0·53, Hungary), and the Meanpatients ranged from 3·05 (SD 1·09, Greece)–3·79 (SD 1·00, Cyprus). To a large extent, the care provided was individualised as defined by the Meannurses 3·75 (SD 0·92, Greece)–4·36 (SD 0·49, Hungary) and the Meanpatients 3·41 (SD 0·95, Greece)–4·18 (SD 0·79, Cyprus). In Cyprus and Finland, patients’ assessments of the individuality in their care corresponded well with nurses’ assessments. Clear between‐country differences in both patients’ and nurses’ assessments were found in both subscales of the ICS.

Conclusions.  An in‐depth analysis of the European between‐country differences is required to define the causes of differences that may be due to the differing content of education, the organisation of nursing work, ideology and values assigned to individualised care and health care systems and processes in each country.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Obtaining both patients’ and nurses’ assessments of individualised care may facilitate the further development of individualised nursing care and be used to help to harmonise European health care processes and nursing care.
Beliefs about health and illness in Swedish and African‐born women with gestational diabetes living in Sweden
Authors: Hjelm Katarina , Berntorp Kerstin , Apelqvist Jan
Published: September 2011

Aims.  This paper is a report on a study exploring beliefs about health and illness in women with gestational diabetes born in Sweden and Africa living in Sweden. A further aim is to study the influence of beliefs on self‐care and care seeking.

Background.  Extensive global migration leading to multicultural societies implies challenges to health care. Health/illness beliefs are culturally related and determine health‐related behaviour, including self‐care, which is crucial in management of gestational diabetes. The risk of developing gestational diabetes is increased in migrants, particularly of African origin, when residing in Western countries. No previous studies, except one, have been found comparing health/illness beliefs in women with gestational diabetes of different origin.

Design.  Exploratory descriptive study.

Methods.  Semi‐structured interviews. Consecutive sample of women diagnosed with gestational diabetes, 13 born in Sweden and 10 born in Africa, from a diabetes clinic in Sweden. Qualitative content analysis of data was applied.

Results.  Beliefs were mainly related to individual and social factors. Health was described as freedom from disease and being healthy. Swedish women perceived heredity and hormonal changes as causing gestational diabetes, avoided work‐related stress, had a healthy lifestyle, worried about the baby’s health and development of type 2 diabetes, sought information, used more medications and health care and were on sick‐leave more often because of pregnancy‐related problems than African women, who did not know the cause of gestational diabetes, had a passive self‐care attitude and followed prescriptions, often reported being told by staff that gestational diabetes would disappear after delivery and stated more pregnancy‐related problems which they treated with rest or watchful waiting.

Conclusions.  Health/illness beliefs differed and affected self‐care and care seeking. Lower risk awareness in African‐born women was related to limited knowledge about the body and gestational diabetes, which was further amplified by healthcare professionals informing them about gestational diabetes being transient.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Individual beliefs and risk awareness must be elicited, and adequate information must be given to prevent negative health effects of gestational diabetes.
Feeling out of control: a qualitative analysis of the impact of bipolar disorder
Authors: CROWE M. , INDER M. , CARLYLE D. , WILSON L. , WHITEHEAD L. , PANCKHURST A. , O'BRIEN A. , JOYCE P.
Published: September 2011

Accessible summary

Bipolar disorder is a serious and recurrent mental disorder.

The patients interviewed for this study described feeling out of control as one of the main impacts of the disorder.

Mental health nurses can utilise strategies to facilitate a sense of control for people who experience bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic and recurrent disorder with fluctuating symptoms. Few patients with bipolar disorder experience a simple trajectory of clear‐cut episodes, with recovery typically occurring slowly over time. The chronic and disabling course of the disorder has a marked impact on the person's functioning and relationships with others. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of bipolar disorder on the lives of people diagnosed with this disorder. The method used was a general inductive qualitative approach. Twenty‐one participants were interviewed between 2008 and 2009 about how they had experienced the impact of bipolar disorder. The interviews were audio‐taped and transcribed. The core theme that emerged was the participants were feeling out of control. Their own reactions and the reactions of others to the symptoms of bipolar disorder contributed to this core theme. The core theme was constituted by feeling overwhelmed, a loss of autonomy and felling flawed. Mental health nurses can help facilitate a sense of personal control for people with bipolar disorder by exploring what the symptoms mean for that person and implementing strategies to manage the symptoms, address social stigma and facilitate active involvement in treatment.
Lack of efficacy of long‐term, low‐dose azithromycin in chronic rhinosinusitis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Videler W. J. , Badia L. , Harvey R. J. , Gane S. , Georgalas C. , van der Meulen F. W. , Menger D. J. , Lehtonen M. T. , Toppila‐Salmi S. K. , Vento S. I. , Hytönen M. , Hellings P. W. , Kalogjera L. , Lund V. J. , Scadding G. , Mullol J. , Fokkens W. J.
Published: September 2011

To cite this article: Videler WJ, Badia L, Harvey RJ, Gane S, Georgalas C, van der Meulen FW, Menger DJ, Lehtonen MT, Toppila‐Salmi SK, Vento SI, Hytönen M, Hellings PW, Kalogjera L, Lund VJ, Scadding G, Mullol J, Fokkens WJ. Lack of Efficacy of long‐term, low‐dose azithromycin in chronic rhinosinusitis: a randomized controlled trial. Allergy 2011; 66: 1457–1468.

Background:  In persistent chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), conventional treatment is often insufficient. Long‐term, low‐dose administration of macrolides has been suggested as a treatment option. The MACS (Macrolides in chronic rhinosinusitis) study is a randomized placebo‐controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of azithromycin (AZM) in CRS.

Methods:  We describe a group of patients with recalcitrant CRS with and without nasal polyps unresponsive to optimal medical and (in 92% also) surgical treatment. Patients were treated with AZM or placebo. AZM was given for 3 days at 500 mg during the first week, followed by 500 mg per week for the next 11 weeks. Patients were monitored until 3 months post‐therapy. The assessments included Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 (SNOT‐22), a Patient Response Rating Scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Short Form‐36 (SF‐36), rigid nasal endoscopy, peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF), Sniffin’ Sticks smell tests and endoscopically guided middle meatus cultures.

Results:  Sixty patients with a median age of 49 years were included. Fifty per cent had asthma and 58% had undergone revision sinus surgery. In the SNOT‐22, Patient Response Rating Scale, VAS scores and SF‐36, no significant difference between the AZM and the placebo groups was demonstrated. Nasal endoscopic findings, PNIF results, smell tests and microbiology showed no relevant significant differences between the groups either.

Conclusion:  At the investigated dose of AZM over 3 months, no significant benefit was found over placebo. Possible reasons could be disease severity in the investigated group, under‐dosage of AZM and under‐powering of the study. Therefore, more research is urgently required.
Hematopoietic progenitor cells are innate Th2 cytokine‐producing cells
Authors: Allakhverdi Z. , Delespesse G.
Published: September 2011

To cite this article: Allakhverdi Z, Delespesse G. Hematopoietic progenitor cells are innate Th2 cytokine‐producing cells. Allergy 2012; 67: 4–9.

Typically, hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) reside within the bone marrow (BM) where they give rise to all hematopoietic populations. However, HSPCs also constantly egress from the BM into the blood and circulate through the peripheral tissues where upon encounter with inflammatory stimuli and epithelial cell‐derived cytokines they rapidly release very high levels of Th2 cytokines/chemokines and differentiate into Th2 effector cells. The novel concept of the dual function of HSPCs as hematopoietic precursors and potent Th2 cytokine producers has important clinical implications in various inflammatory conditions, including allergic diseases.
Overexpression ofSsCHLAPXsconfers protection against oxidative stress induced by high light in transgenicArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Pang Cai‐Hong , Li Ke , Wang Baoshan
Published: September 2011

To evaluate the physiological importance of chloroplastic ascorbate peroxidase (CHLAPX) in the reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging system of a euhalophyte, we cloned theCHLAPXofSuaeda salsa(SsCHLAPX) encoding stromal APX (sAPX) and thylakoid‐bound APX. The stromal APX ofS. salsa(Ss.sAPX) cDNA consists of 1726 nucleotides including an 1137‐bp open reading frame (ORF) and encodes 378 amino acids. The thylakoid‐bound APX ofS. salsa(Ss.tAPX) cDNA consists of 1561 nucleotides, including a 1284‐bp ORF, and encodes 427 amino acids. TheN‐terminal 378 amino acids of Ss.sAPX are identical with those of Ss.tAPX, whereas theC‐terminal 49 amino acids differ.Arabidopsis thalianalines overexpressing Ss.sAPX and Ss.tAPX were constructed usingAgrobacterium tumefacienstransformation methods. Under high light (1000 µmol m−2s−1), malondialdehyde (MDA) content was lower in transgenic plants than in the wild type. Under high light, Fv/Fm and chlorophyll contents of both overexpressing lines and the wild type declined but were significantly higher in the overexpressing lines than in the wild type. The activities of APX (EC 1.11.1.11), catalase (CAT 1.11.1.6) and superoxide dismutase (SOD EC 1.15.1.1) were higher in the overexpressing lines than in the wild type. The transgenic plants showed increased tolerance to oxidative stress caused by high light. These results suggest that SsCHLAPX plays an important role in scavenging ROS in chloroplasts under stress conditions such as high light.
S‐methylmethionine is involved in the salinity tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana plants at germination and early growth stages
Authors: Ogawa Saori , Mitsuya Shiro
Published: September 2011

Methionine (Met) is biosynthesized by the activated methyl cycle and S‐methylmethionine (SMM) cycle in one‐carbon (C1) metabolism in plants. It is converted to S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) which serves as a precursor for many metabolites including glycinebetaine, methylated polyols, polyamines and ethylene which accumulate in plants in response to salinity. We have investigated how the Met biosynthetic pathway is regulated under saline conditions at the transcriptional level in Arabidopsis thaliana plants. Within Met biosynthesis‐related genes, the expression of homocysteine methyltransferase (HMT) and methionine methyltransferase (MMT) genes in SMM cycle had altered toward increasing Met production by the presence of NaCl. We have determined the salinity tolerance of an Arabidopsis mmt mutant with an insertional mutation in the single copy of the AtMMT gene. Although the mmt mutant showed comparable germination and shoot growth with wild type under normal conditions, NaCl treatment caused severe repression of germination rate and shoot growth in the mmt mutant compared with in the wild type. These results indicate that the utilization of SMM is important for the salinity tolerance of Arabidopsis plants at the germination and early growth stages.
Placental immunology and maternal alloimmune responses
Authors: Kumpel B. M. , Manoussaka M. S.
Published: September 2011

During pregnancy, women are tolerant of their semi‐allogeneic fetus whilst not being immunosuppressed and indeed readily form alloantibodies. This ‘Immunological Paradox of Pregnancy’ may be explained by an understanding of placental anatomy and immunology. Trophoblast cells form the interface between the fetus and maternal tissues and blood and escape allorecognition because they lack classical human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I and II molecules. Local immunoregulation, or tolerance, in the decidua is mediated partly by HLA‐G+ extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) that invade the tissue and prevent killing by maternal natural killer cells, cytotoxic T cells and macrophages. Placental hormones orchestrate the composition and regulatory function of maternal immune cells. In contrast, syncytiotrophoblast cells at the surface of chorionic villi, in contact with maternal blood, maintain a state of mild maternal systemic immunity via activation of innate immunity and skewing towards humoral immunity. This enables maintenance of a healthy immune system in pregnant women and robust protective antibody responses to pathogens whilst enabling survival of the fetus. However, this has the unfortunate consequence that pregnant women readily form alloantibodies to incompatible alloantigens on fetal red cells, platelets and leucocytes if fetomaternal haemorrhage (FMH) occurs. The antibodies are initially low affinity but after re‐immunization with further FMH become functionally effective, high‐titre IgG.