bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispensing opioid substitution treatment: practices, attitudes and intentions of community‐based pharmacists
Authors: LAWRINSON PETER , ROCHE ANN , TERAO HIROE , LE PHUONG‐PHI
Published: November 2007

Introduction and Aims. Community‐based pharmacists (CPs) play a pivotal role in the provision of opioid substitution treatment (OST). This study examined practices, experiences, attitudes and intentions of a sample of South Australian pharmacists involved with the provision of OST. Design and Methods. A random sample, stratified by geographic location, of 50 SA CPs were administered a telephone survey. The survey included pharmacist and pharmacy details, current practices, problems experienced, attitudes towards and future intentions in relation to the provision of OST. Results. Pharmacists indicated high levels of support for the OST programme and most (98%) intended to continue providing OST. Sixty‐four per cent of all pharmacists, and significantly more rural pharmacists (90%), indicated that they were willing to take on additional clients. Metropolitan pharmacists dosed greater numbers of OST clients (median = 7) than rural pharmacists (median = 4). There was a strong positive correlation between number of regular clients seen and problems experienced by pharmacists. Seventy per cent of pharmacists reported detecting no diversion of pharmacotherapy medication. Discussion and Conclusions. Despite reports to the contrary, pharmacists appear to be generally positively predisposed to providing OST. Policies aimed at retaining pharmacists, particularly in resource poor rural areas, could consider embracing a shared‐care approach between general practitioners and pharmacists.
Evaluation of a community‐driven preventive youth initiative in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: LEE K. S. KYLIE , CONIGRAVE KATHERINE M. , CLOUGH ALAN R. , WALLACE CATE , SILINS EDMUND , RAWLES JACKIE
Published: November 2007

Introduction and Aims. We evaluated a community‐driven initiative established to prevent substance misuse and increase respect for culture and their elders among young people in a group of remote Aboriginal communities in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory (NT), Australia. The Youth Development Unit provided a range of training, recreational and cultural activities within a community development framework to all young people in the community. Design and Methods. Methods of operation, community acceptability, perceived impact and likely ability to meet goals were assessed. Data included community, staff and stakeholder interviews and observation. School attendance, youth apprehension rates and information on levels of substance use were compared 2 years before and after the initiative was implemented. Results. Interviewees reported increased youth training and recreational opportunities, increased communication between local agencies, overall satisfaction with programme delivery and optimism that it could achieve its goals. Suggested improvements included even more training, cultural programmes and other activities and employment of more community‐based Indigenous staff. The importance of key staff, involvement of a respected Indigenous staff member and community engagement were noted as probable contributors to its success. Discussion and Conclusions. Indigenous young people in Australia remain one of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups. Community‐driven preventive initiatives offer enhanced youth resilience and connectedness in remote Aboriginal communities and alternatives to substance use.
Persistence of the emerging pathogen
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
outside the amphibian host greatly increases the probability of host extinction
Authors: Mitchell Kate M , Churcher Thomas S , Garner Trenton W.J , Fisher Matthew C
Published: November 2007

Pathogens do not normally drive their hosts to extinction; however,
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
, which causes amphibian chytridiomycosis, has been able to do so. Theory predicts that extinction can be caused by long-lived or saprobic free-living stages. The hypothesis that such a stage occurs in
B. dendrobatidis
is supported by the recent discovery of an apparently encysted form of the pathogen. To investigate the effect of a free-living stage of
B. dendrobatidis
on host population dynamics, a mathematical model was developed to describe the introduction of chytridiomycosis into a breeding population of
Bufo bufo
, parametrized from laboratory infection and transmission experiments. The model predicted that the longer that
B. dendrobatidis
was able to persist in water, either due to an increased zoospore lifespan or saprobic reproduction, the more likely it was that it could cause local
B. bufo
extinction (defined as decrease below a threshold level). Establishment of endemic
B. dendrobatidis
infection in
B. bufo
, with severe host population depression, was also possible, in agreement with field observations. Although this model is able to predict clear trends, more precise predictions will only be possible when the life history of
B. dendrobatidis,
including free-living stages of the life cycle, is better understood.
Identification of novel modulators of mitochondrial function by a genome-wide RNAi screen in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Chen Jian , Shi Xiaoying , Padmanabhan Ranjani , Wang Qiong , Wu Zhidan , Stevenson Susan C. , Hild Marc , Garza Dan , Li Hao
Published: November 2007

Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with many human diseases. There has not been a systematic genetic approach for identifying regulators of basal mitochondrial biogenesis and function in higher eukaryotes. We performed a genome-wide RNA interference (RNAi) screen in Drosophila cells using mitochondrial Citrate synthase (CS) activity as the primary readout. We screened 13,071 dsRNAs and identified 152 genes that modulate CS activity. These modulators are involved in a wide range of biological processes and pathways including mitochondrial-related functions, transcriptional and translational regulation, and signaling pathways. Selected hits among the 152 genes were further analyzed for their effect on mitochondrial CS activity in transgenic flies or fly mutants. We confirmed a number of gene hits including HDAC6, Rpd3(HDAC1), CG3249, vimar, Src42A, klumpfuss, barren, and smt3 which exert effects on mitochondrial CS activities in vivo, demonstrating the value of Drosophila genome-wide RNAi screens for identifying genes and pathways that modulate mitochondrial function.
Chemical synthesis and 1H‐NMR 3D structure determination of AgTx2‐MTX chimera, a new potential blocker for Kv1.2 channel, derived from MTX and AgTx2 scorpion toxins
Authors: Pimentel Cyril , M'Barek Sarrah , Visan Violetta , Grissmer Stephan , Sampieri François , Sabatier Jean‐Marc , Darbon Hervé , Fajloun Ziad
Published: November 2007

Agitoxin 2 (AgTx2) is a 38‐residue scorpion toxin, cross‐linked by three disulfide bridges, which acts on voltage‐gated K+ (Kv) channels. Maurotoxin (MTX) is a 34‐residue scorpion toxin with an uncommon four‐disulfide bridge reticulation, acting on both Ca2+‐activated and Kv channels. A 39‐mer chimeric peptide, named AgTx2‐MTX, was designed from the sequence of the two toxins and chemically synthesized. It encompasses residues 1–5 of AgTx2, followed by the complete sequence of MTX. As established by enzyme cleavage, the new AgTx2‐MTX molecule displays half‐cystine pairings of the type C1–C5, C2–C6, C3–C7, and C4–C8, which is different from that of MTX. The 3D structure of AgTx2‐MTX solved by 1H‐NMR, revealed both α‐helical and β‐sheet structures, consistent with a common α/β scaffold of scorpion toxins. Pharmacological assays of AgTx2‐MTX revealed that this new molecule is more potent than both original toxins in blocking rat Kv1.2 channel. Docking simulations, performed with the 3D structure of AgTx2‐MTX, confirmed this result and demonstrated the participation of the N‐terminal domain of AgTx2 in its increased affinity for Kv1.2 through additional molecular contacts. Altogether, the data indicated that replacement of the N‐terminal domain of MTX by the one of AgTx2 in the AgTx2‐MTX chimera results in a reorganization of the disulfide bridge arrangement and an increase of affinity to the Kv1.2 channel.
Fatty acid composition in ocean‐ranched Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Jónsson Ásbjörn , Pálmadóttir Heiöa , Kristbergsson Kristberg
Published: November 2007

Summary  The difference in fat content and fatty acid composition in the muscle of one‐and two‐year‐old ocean‐ranched Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) was studied and compared using spot samples. The fat content in the muscle of 1‐year‐old salmon was 4.8% of wet weight, and 5.0% in 2‐year‐old salmon. The effect was not statistically significant. The main constituents of the fat were palmitic acid (16:0), oleic acid (18:1,n‐9), gadoleic acid (20:1,n‐9) and erucic acid (22:1,n‐9). Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were predominant among the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). There was a significant difference between the groups in relation to the content of stearic acid (18:0), palmitoleic acid (16:1,n‐9) and oleic acid (18:1,n‐9).
A field quantification of coastal dune perennial plants as indicators of surface stability, erosion or deposition
Authors: LEVIN NOAM , KIDRON GIORA J. , BEN‐DOR EYAL
Published: November 2007

Dune plants both modify the wind field around them and are impacted by various stress factors, among them sand erosion and sand deposition. As coastal dunes are being either stabilized or remobilized, in response to the changes in the rates of sand and dune movement, the vegetation cover and composition are expected to vary reflecting the differences in the sedimentary conditions. In this field study 315 quadrats of 100 m2, in which the perennial plant species were sampled, were analysed with respect to annual rates of sand erosion and deposition that were measured using erosion pins. A visual exploratory data analysis was introduced, based on selective filtering of samples according to their vegetation cover. This method, combined with established statistical tools, enabled the authors to uncover the inclination and indicative power of nine perennial dune plants to either a stabilized or a mobile environment, and to establish whether they are more prevalent in places undergoing sand erosion or sand burial. Two species were found to be clear indicators of a stabilized environment, Stipagrostis lanata, and Retama raetam. Of the species indicating a mobile environment, only one may be stated as a clear indicator of sand erosion: Silene succulenta, with Cyperus macrorrhizus coming close to being an indicator of a less mobile erosive environment. The best indicator species for sand burial was found to be, as expected, Ammophila arenaria, with Artemisia monosperma also indicating high rates of sand mobility especially when its relative cover is higher than 80%. Such information can be used to monitor natural processes of dune stabilization or reactivation, or to assess the success of a management plan that aims at stabilizing a dune, or at remobilizing it by removing vegetation.
Habitat selection and foraging behaviour of breeding Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola: a comparison between contrasting landscapes
Authors: HOODLESS ANDREW N. , HIRONS GRAHAM J. M.
Published: November 2007

Diet, feeding behaviour and habitat selection of breeding Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola were studied by radiotracking birds from March to July in two contrasting situations: a 171‐ha lowland plantation of Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Beech Fagus sylvaticus and pine Pinus sylvestris/P. nigra in Derbyshire, central England, and an area of c. 900 ha of fragmented, naturally regenerating birch Betula pendula/B. pubescens woodland and hill margin in an upland glen in Angus, northeast Scotland. Earthworms were the most important diet component of adults and chicks in terms of biomass at both sites (50–80%), the rest comprising mainly spiders, harvestmen and beetles. In spring both sexes flew c. 1 km after dusk to feed on fields at night, with up to 94% of nocturnal radiolocations on fields in March, dropping to 18% in July. This behaviour probably reflected seasonal changes in the relative availability of earthworms in fields and woodland. Diurnal home range sizes were similar at both sites and the mean size of 30‐day ranges was 62 ± 20 ha (± se), although Woodcock changed locations regularly and areas used for feeding on a daily basis were typically smaller than 1 ha. In the lowland plantation, Sycamore with Dog's Mercury Mercurialis perennis ground cover was highly used relative to availability. In the upland margin study area, the same held for dense sapling‐stage birch. These habitats appear to represent a compromise between food availability and protection from avian predators. Recently documented changes in the structure of British woods during the last 30 years, suggestive of reduced management and increased grazing/browsing, are likely to have been detrimental to breeding Woodcock.
Living on the edge: British and Irish woodland birds in a European context
Authors: FULLER ROBERT J. , GASTON KEVIN J. , QUINE CHRIS P.
Published: November 2007

This paper reviews broad geographical patterns in the species composition of breeding woodland bird communities from Ireland to eastern Europe and outlines how processes affecting woodland birds in Britain and Ireland may differ from those operating in mainland Europe. Bird communities in British and Irish woodlands consist of a subset of the species occurring within European forests at similar latitudes. The occurrence of virtually all groups of forest birds is lower in Britain, and strikingly lower in Ireland, than in other temperate areas of mainland Europe. This phenomenon appears to form part of a west–east gradient in species diversity and is probably not just a consequence of insularity. Across this gradient there appears to be broad geographical constancy in the types (taxonomic, ecological and life‐history groups) of species present. There is considerable spatial variation in habitat use by forest species within Europe. Some species in Britain probably use habitats in different ways to elsewhere for reasons related to competition, predation and historical adaptation to landscape change. Several species appear to reach the limits of their geographical ranges within Britain (i.e. in the absence of physical barriers). We suggest that range contraction of one of these species, the Common NightingaleLuscinia megarhynchos, in Britain may partially reflect redistribution into the highest quality areas in response to a wider population decline. It is argued that conclusions drawn from studies of forest birds in Britain do not necessarily apply in other regions and vice versa. There is a need for large‐scale studies in Europe of the spatial variation in organization of forest bird assemblages, habitat use and the genetic structure of populations.
Elements of Nonpharmacologic Interventions That Prevent Progression of Heart Failure: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kozak Andrea T. , Rucker‐Whitaker Cheryl , Basu Sanjib , Mendes de Leon Carlos F. , Calvin James E. , Grady Kathleen L. , Richardson DeJuran , Powell Lynda H.
Published: November 2007

This review examined whether nonpharmacologic treatment was associated with reductions in all‐cause mortality and heart failure (HF) hospitalizations and investigated the effects of face‐to‐face contact and longer treatment duration on these outcomes. MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were searched through June 2006 and bibliographies of potential articles were hand‐searched. Nonpharmacologic treatment was associated with significantly lower odds of HF hospitalizations (odds ratio [OR], 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.30–0.56) and death (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.56–0.85) compared with control treatment. Face‐to‐face contact was associated with significantly lower odds of HF hospitalization (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.22–0.81; P<.05) and death (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.44–0.91; P<.05) as compared with control treatment. Longer treatment duration (≥12 months) was associated with a 65% reduction in the rate of HF hospitalizations and a 36% reduction in death rate. Nonpharmacologic treatment featuring face‐to‐face contact is particularly effective in reducing HF hospitalization and all‐cause mortality rates.
Intermittent hypoxia reverses the diurnal glucose rhythm and causes pancreatic β‐cell replication in mice
Authors: Yokoe Takuya , Alonso Laura C. , Romano Lia C. , Rosa Taylor C. , O'Doherty Robert. M. , Garcia‐Ocana Adolfo , Minoguchi Kenji , O'Donnell Christopher P.
Published: November 2007

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and type 2 diabetes frequently co‐exist and potentially interact haemodynamically and metabolically. However, the confounding effects of obesity have obscured the examination of any independent or interactive effects of the hypoxic stress of OSA and the hyperglycaemia of type 2 diabetes on haemodynamic and metabolic outcomes. We have developed a chronically catheterized, unhandled, lean murine model to examine the effects of intermittent hypoxic (IH) exposure and exogenous glucose infusion on the diurnal pattern of arterial blood pressure and blood glucose, as well as pancreatic β‐cell growth and function. Four experimental groups of adult male C57BL/J mice were exposed to 80 h of (1) either IH (nadir of inspired oxygen 5–6% at 60 cycles h−1 for 12 h during light period) or intermittent air (IA; control) and (2) continuous infusion of either 50% dextrose or saline (control). IH exposure during saline infusion caused a sustained increase in arterial blood pressure of 10 mmHg (P < 0.0001), reversed the normal diurnal rhythm of blood glucose (P < 0.03), doubled corticosterone levels (P < 0.0001), and increased replication of pancreatic β‐cells from 1.5 ± 0.3 to 4.0 ± 0.8% bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)‐positive) β‐cells. The combined stimulus of IH exposure and glucose infusion attenuated the hypertension, exacerbated the reversed diurnal glucose rhythm, and produced the highest rates of apoptosis in β‐cells, without any additive effects on β‐cell replication. We conclude that, in contrast to the development of sustained hypertension, IH impaired glucose homeostasis only during periods of hypoxic exposure. IH acted as a stimulus to pancreatic β‐cell replication, but the presence of hyperglycaemia may increase the hypoxic susceptibility of β‐cells. This model will provide a basis for future mechanistic studies as well as assessing the metabolic impact of common comorbities in OSA, including obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐modulated ‘HCN’ channels confer regular and faster rhythmicity to beating mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Qu Yang , Whitaker Gina M. , Hove‐Madsen Leif , Tibbits Glen F. , Accili Eric A.
Published: November 2007

The hyperpolarization‐activated cation current (If), and the hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐modulated ‘HCN’ subunits that underlie it, are important components of spontaneous activity in the embryonic mouse heart, but whether they contribute to this activity in mouse embryonic stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes has not been investigated. We address this issue in spontaneously beating cells derived from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) over the course of development in culture. If and action potentials were recorded from single beating cells at early, intermediate and late development stages using perforated whole‐cell voltage‐ and current‐clamp techniques. Our data show that the proportion of cells expressing If, and the density of If in these cells, increased during development and correlated with action potential frequency and the rate of diastolic depolarization. The If blocker ZD7288 (0.3 μm) reduced If and the beating rate of embryoid bodies. Taken together, the activation kinetics of If and results from Western blots are consistent with the presence of the HCN2 and HCN3 isoforms. At all stages of development, isoproterenol (isoprenaline) and acetylcholine shifted the voltage dependence of If to more positive and negative voltages, respectively, and they also increased and decreased the beating rate of embryonic cell bodies, respectively. Together, the data suggest that current through HCN2 and HCN3 channels confers regular and faster rhythmicity to mESCs, which mirrors the developing embryonic mouse heart, and contributes to modulation of rhythmicity by autonomic stimulation.
Physiological responses to rock climbing in young climbers
Authors: Morrison Audry Birute , Schöffl Volker Rainer
Published: November 2007

Key questions regarding the training and physiological qualities required to produce an elite rock climber remain inadequately defined. Little research has been done on young climbers. The aim of this paper was to review literature on climbing alongside relevant literature characterising physiological adaptations in young athletes. Evidence-based recommendations were sought to inform the training of young climbers. Of 200 studies on climbing, 50 were selected as being appropriate to this review, and were interpreted alongside physiological studies highlighting specific common development growth variables in young climbers. Based on injury data, climbers younger than 16 years should not participate in international bouldering competitions and intensive finger strength training is not recommended. The majority of climbing foot injuries result from wearing too small or unnaturally shaped climbing shoes. Isometric and explosive strength improvements are strongly associated with the latter stages of sexual maturation and specific ontogenetic development, while improvement in motor abilities declines. Somatotyping that might identify common physical attributes in elite climbers of any age is incomplete. Accomplished adolescent climbers can now climb identical grades and compete against elite adult climbers aged up to and >40 years. High-intensity sports training requiring leanness in a youngster can result in altered and delayed pubertal and skeletal development, metabolic and neuroendocrine aberrations and trigger eating disorders. This should be sensitively and regularly monitored. Training should reflect efficacious exercises for a given sex and biological age.
Emergent plant communities of oxbow lakes in northeastern Alberta: salinity, water-level fluctuation, and succession
Authors: Lieffers V. J.
Published: November 2007

Emergent vegetation was sampled in 15 oxbow lakes in a 50-km segment of the Athabasca River in northeastern Alberta. Cover of individual species was visually assessed in plots at the outer, middle, and (or) inner edge of the emergent zone of each lake (n, 37 sample units). Detrended correspondence analysis showed two main axes of variation. The first axis related to salinity. Water conductivity ranged from 170 to 12200 μS cm−1 and community types ranged from freshwater fens to saline wetland communities dominated by Scolochloa festucacea, Scirpus maritimus, and Triglochin maritima. The second axis of variation related to water-level fluctuations. Half of the lakes had an increase in water level in the recent past (ca. 6–30 years). In these lakes, Typha latifolia was dominant in both grounded and floating substrates subjected to increased water levels. Sedge communities dominated by Carex rostrata, C. aquatilis, and Acorus calamus were common in sites with stable water levels. In freshwater lakes, floating substrates were established over open water by the lateral growth of floating stems of Calla palustris and Potentilla palustris. Floating substrates were not in the saline sites probably because these open-water colonizers were not present under saline regimes.
Structure of microsclerotia of Verticillium dahliae in roots of 'Russet Burbank' potatoes
Authors: Perry James W. , Evert Ray F.
Published: November 2007

Microsclerotia of Verticillium dahliae in potato (Solatium tuberosum) roots were examined, primarily with the transmission electron microscope. These resting structures were found in all tissues except the xylem, even though the tracheary elements of some microsclerotium-containing roots were infected. Microsclerotia were occasionally present within 9 days of inoculation, but they became more numerous with time. Usually, the microsclerotia consisted of a peripheral region composed of degenerate cells and cells with cytoplasmic contents of moderate electron density and an inner region of cells with very electron-dense cytoplasm. Melanin coated all cells but was more abundant over cytoplasm-containing cells. Roots containing large microsclerotia were moribund. Several living roots contained small microsclerotia, some of which produced penetration hyphae. Living host cells responded to attempted penetrations by producing lignitubers which ensheathed the penetration hyphae, as was previously described by the authors.
BRILL–NOETHER THEORY ON NODAL CURVES
Authors: BHOSLE USHA N.
Published: November 2007

We study the Brill–Noether loci for semistable torsionfree sheaves of small slopes on a nodal curve. We determine conditions for nonemptiness and irreducibility of these loci.
PERRON–BREMERMANN ENVELOPES ON BOUNDED DOMAINS IN ℂn
Authors: DIEU NGUYEN QUANG
Published: November 2007

An example about non-convergence of Perron–Bremermann envelopes on the unit ball in Cn is constructed. Under additional conditions, we show that convergence of envelopes is possible. We also deal with a representation of envelope in the style of Poletsky on domains which are not necessarily strictly pseudoconvex.
CUSTOMER SELECTION PROBLEM WITH SEARCH COST, DUE DATE, SIDELINE PROFIT, AND NO WAITING ROOM
Authors: SON JAE-DONG , IKUTA SEIZO
Published: November 2007

This paper deals with a problem of selecting profitable orders to accept out of sequentially arriving customers in a custom production company where only one customer is allowed to be held. It is assumed that a cost must be paid to search for orders, that a delay cost would be paid for every order not completed up to its due date, and that when there was no order in the system, the company could engage in sidelines yielding income. The purpose of this paper is twofold: One is to demonstrate that both admission control and pricing control problems for our customer selection problem can be analyzed within an identical framework and the other is to clarify the properties of the optimal decision rules for this particular problem.
UNPARTICLE AS A FIELD WITH CONTINUOUSLY DISTRIBUTED MASS
Authors: KRASNIKOV N. V.
Published: November 2007

We point out that the notion of an unparticle, recently introduced by Georgi, can be interpreted as a particular case of a field with continuously distributed mass considered in Phys. Lett. B325, 430 (1994). We also point out that the simplest renormalizable extension of the SU c(3) ⊗ SU L(2) ⊗ U (1) Standard Model is the extension with the replacement of the U (1) gauge propagator [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text].
Hermann Abich (1806–1886): ‘the Father of Caucasian Geology’ and his travels in the Caucasus and Armenian Highlands
Authors: Milanovsky E. E.
Published: November 2007

Hermann Willhelm Abich (1806–1886) spent more than thirty years travelling and investigating the geology of the Caucasus, Transcaucasian and Armenian highlands. He was appointed Professor of Mineralogy at Dorpat University but soon afterwards began his travels. He investigated the volcanic processes of this region to determine the reasons for its tectonic and seismic instability. He later focused on Georgia with its coal deposits, and then studied the oil and gas fields and mud volcanoes on the Apsheron peninsula near Baku in Azerbaijan. He also studied the effects of the last glaciation on the topography of the region.
Franz Hilgendorf (1839–1904): introducer of evolutionary theory to Japan around 1873
Authors: Yajima M.
Published: November 2007

Franz Martin Hilgendorf (1839–1904) arrived in Japan in March, 1873 and stayed in Tokyo until October 1876 as a ‘foreign employee’ (a Westerner employed in the modernization of Japan). In the beginning of the Meiji Era, the Japanese Government invited many Westerners to introduce facets of Western civilization. Hilgendorf's doctoral dissertation at Tübingen University (1863) dealt with molluscan evolutionary lineages of Miocene age from Steinheim, Germany. Hilgendorf's ideas already included the concept that fossils had evolved. Charles Darwin (1809–1881) himself had mentioned Hilgendorf's findings in the sixth edition of his
Origin of Species
, published in 1872. Hilgendorf lectured on evolution at the Tokyo Medical School (the former University of Tokyo) well before the American, Edward Sylvester Morse (1838–1925), whom it was thought had introduced Darwinian theory to Japan in 1877. The priority of Hilgendorf is proved by contemporary notes taken by the famous Japanese novelist, Mori Ougai (1862–1922), who had attended Hilgendorf's lectures whilst a student.
Migration of Dendritic Cell Subsets and their Precursors
Authors: Randolph Gwendalyn J. , Ochando Jordi , Partida-Sánchez Santiago
Published: November 2007

The ability of dendritic cells (DCs) to initiate and orchestrate immune responses is a consequence of their localization within tissues and their specialized capacity for mobilization. The migration of a given DC subset is typified by a restricted capacity for recirculation, contrasting markedly with T cells. Routes of DC migration into lymph nodes differ notably for distinct DC subsets. Here, we compare the distinct migratory patterns of plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs), CD8α+DCs, Langerhans cells, and conventional myeloid DCs and discuss how the highly regulated patterns of DC migration in vivo may affect their roles in immunity. Finally, to gain a more molecular appreciation of the specialized migratory properties of DCs, we review the signaling cascades that govern the process of DC migration.
KATPchannel-deficient pancreatic β-cells are streptozotocin resistant because of lower GLUT2 activity
Authors: Xu Jin , Zhang Li , Chou Andrew , Allaby Tim , Bélanger Guy , Radziuk Jerry , Jasmin Bernard J. , Miki Takashi , Seino Susumo , Renaud Jean-Marc
Published: November 2007

In wild-type mice, a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 200 mg/kg body wt) caused within 4 days severe hyperglycemia, hypoinsulinemia, significant glucose intolerance, loss of body weight, and the disappearance of pancreatic β-cells. However, in ATP-sensitive K+channel (KATPchannel)-deficient mice (Kir6.2−/−mice), STZ had none of these effects. Exposing isolated pancreatic islets to STZ caused severe damage in wild-type but not in Kir6.2−/−islets. Following a single injection, plasma STZ levels were slightly less in Kir6.2−/−mice than in wild-type mice. Despite the difference in plasma STZ, wild-type and Kir6.2−/−liver accumulated the same amount of STZ, whereas Kir6.2−/−pancreas accumulated 4.1-fold less STZ than wild-type pancreas. Kir6.2−/−isolated pancreatic islets also transported less glucose than wild-type ones. Quantification of glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) protein content by Western blot using an antibody with an epitope in the extracellular loop showed no significant difference in GLUT2 content between wild-type and Kir6.2−/−pancreatic islets. However, visualization by immunofluorescence with the same antibody gave rise to 32% less fluorescence in Kir6.2−/−pancreatic islets. The fluorescence intensity using another antibody, with an epitope in the COOH terminus, was 5.6 times less in Kir6.2−/−than in wild-type pancreatic islets. We conclude that 1) Kir6.2−/−mice are STZ resistant because of a decrease in STZ transport by GLUT2 in pancreatic β-cells and 2) the decreased transport is due to a downregulation of GLUT2 activity involving an effect at the COOH terminus.
Tonsillectomy in Children
Authors: Smith S.L. , Pereira K.D.
Published: November 2007

The indications for pediatric adenotonsillectomy have changed over time from chronic pharyngitis to sleep-disordered breathing. It is important to thoroughly evaluate children for symptoms related to these problems. Symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing range from snoring to obstructive events. Diagnosis is made from accurate history taking, physical examination, and polysomnography. Although surgical treatment has been shown to improve the quality of life in these children, it is not without risks, including bleeding, velopharyngeal insufficiency or postobstructive pulmonary edema.
Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Current Management
Authors: Sargi Zoukaa , Younis Ramzi T.
Published: November 2007

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a condition frequently encountered in children, and belongs to a spectrum of diseases called sleep-disordered breathing. Its pathophysiology is related to decreased ventilation despite respiratory effort, leading to episodes of hypopnea and apnea. Left untreated, this condition could have a significant impact on both physical and mental health. Primary snoring is often the presenting symptom reported by parents, and should warrant careful screening for OSAS. Although overnight polysomnography remains the gold standard diagnostic test for OSAS, its feasibility in clinical practice is less obvious, and furthermore, interpretation of its results is not unanimously agreed on. This is why in clinical practice history and physical examination remain among the most useful diagnostic tools. Management of OSAS traditionally includes tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy to which most of the cases respond. However, other risk factors and coexisting conditions should be carefully investigated and treated prior to considering surgical treatment.
Coblation for Tonsillectomy: An Evidence-Based Review
Authors: Shah Udayan K. , Dunham Brian
Published: November 2007

Coblation technology (Arthrocare Corp., Sunnyvale, Calif., USA) allows for tonsillectomy using plasma-mediated ablation. This review presents the evidence to date with respect to surgical and recovery measures, in order to promote an objective discussion of this surgical technology.
Tonsillectomy Techniques and Pain: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Call for Standardization
Authors: Ashbach Matthew N. , Ostrower Samuel T. , Parikh Sanjay R.
Published: November 2007

Objectives: To review the literature comparing operative techniques in tonsillectomy and postoperative pain. Methods: Randomized controlled trials comparing operative techniques and pain outcomes over a 10-year period were reviewed. Results: 44 trials met inclusion criteria for analysis. A total of nine different techniques for complete or partial tonsillectomy were compared. There were several studies with contradictory results. Many of the studies were performed under different parameters. Conclusions: Future studies comparing tonsillectomy technique and pain outcomes should be conducted using a standard protocol to allow for accurate comparisons between numerous techniques.
Ischemic Preconditioning Protects the Dog Kidney from Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Salehipour Mehdi , Khezri Abdolaziz , Monabbati Ahmad , Jalaeian Hamed , Kroup Mohsen , Azizi Valiallah , Tanideh Nader
Published: November 2007

Objective: To evaluate the effects of unilateral ischemic insult and ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on renal histology in a canine model. Methods: 30 dogs were randomized into 4 groups. In group A (5 male controls) and group B (5 female controls), ischemia was induced by clamping both left renal arteries for 40 min. Dogs in group C (10 male cases) or group D (10 female cases) underwent 5 min of arterial clamping and 10 min of declamping prior to the final 40-min ischemia induction. Renal biopsy was prepared 48 h later and microscopically examined. Results: The control groups (A and B) developed 40% frank necrosis, 60% moderate injury, and there was no intact renal tissue in this group with no difference between sexes. The IPC groups (C and D) revealed 55% moderate injury and 45% normal pathology; however, there was no frank necrosis among them. Better IPC protection in the female group was not statistically significant. Conclusion: An IPC schedule of 5-min ischemia and 10-min reperfusion improves ischemia-reperfusion injury from subsequent prolonged ischemia in a canine model.
Neonatal Exposure to Estrogen in the Wistar Rat Decreases Estrogen Receptor-Beta and Induces Epithelial Proliferation of the Prostate in the Adult
Authors: Un-no Toshiyuki , Hayami Shinsuke , Nobata Shunsuke , Sudoko Hiroshi , Honma Seijiro , Fujita Kimio , Ozono Seiichiro
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: The effects of environmental endocrine disruptors on the male reproductive system have received much attention. We attempted to assess the responsible reproduction period vulnerable to decrease in ERβ mRNA by exposing neonate rats to disruptors. Methods: Each of 64 male Wistar rats was given an injection of estradiol at a dose of 25 µg or oil on days 1, 3 and 5 after birth. These rats were sacrificed on days 80, 120, 160 and 180 and then subjected to measurements of both serum and tissue testosterone levels. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to measure the levels of androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor-β (ERβ) mRNA of the ventral prostate. Histological compositions were analyzed by quantitative morphometry. Immunohistochemical analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was determined. Results: The incidence of epithelial components by histomorphometry and the expression of PCNA was significantly higher in the estrogen group in the mature adult (day 160). Levels of AR and ERβ mRNAs in the estrogen group were significantly lower in middle-aged rats (day 180). Conclusion: Estrogen exposure in the neonatal period to Wistar rats decreases the number of ERβ in the mature adult and accelerates cell proliferation.
Inadequacy of Prostate-Specific Antigen Doubling Time Estimates Calculated Using an Ultrasensitive Assay of Prostate-Specific Antigen for Biochemical Failure after Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Shimizu Fumitaka , Matsuyama Yutaka , Tominaga Takashi , Ohashi Yasuo , Fujime Makoto
Published: November 2007

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the adequacy in calculating prostate-specific antigen doubling time (PSADT) using an ultrasensitive assay of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for biochemical failure after radical prostatectomy (RP). Methods: In this research, we included 52 consecutive patients who experienced more than or equal to three consecutive increases in ultrasensitive PSA values after RP at two institutions. PSADT is to be calculated by fitting a linear model to post-nadir longitudinal logarithm ultrasensitive PSA (lnPSA) values. The goodness of fit of linear model for longitudinal lnPSA values was evaluated by applying a mixed effect model for all patients or two groups divided by median PSADT. Results: Median PSADT was 4.7 months. A mixed effect model showed that the fit of linear model for longitudinal lnPSA values was not good in lower ultrasensitive PSA values for all patients (p < 0.0001) or the group with a value longer than the median PSADT (p < 0.0001), while it was not worse for the group with a value shorter than the median PSADT (p = 0.079). Conclusions: These findings suggest that calculating PSADT using an ultrasensitive assay for biochemical failure after RP may still be open for discussion.
Seminal Vesicle Cysts with Unilateral Renal Agenesis and Contralateral Ureteral Stenosis in a β-Thalassemic Patient: An Unknown Association by Incomplete Development of the Mesonephric Duct
Authors: Savica V. , Santoro D. , Monardo P. , Ciolino F. , Magistro A. , Blandino A. , Bellinghieri G.
Published: November 2007

We report the case of a 13-year-old male patient with β-thalassemic trait who presented for a colic pain. An ultrasound of the abdomen revealed absence of the right kidney with a complex hypoechogenic pelvic mass causing mild pressure on the posterior bladder wall. Urography showed hypertrophy of the left kidney with moderate ureteral enlargement of the distal third due to an insertion defect in the bladder suggestive of a primary segmental nonobstructing megaureter. MR studies showed right multilocular seminal vesicle cysts. One year later an MR examination of the pelvis showed an increase in size of seminal vesicle cysts and open surgery was performed to remove the cystic retrovesical mass. Our case represents a very rare association of seminal vesicle cysts, unilateral renal agenesis and alteration in contralateral ureteral insertion in a patient with β-thalassemic trait.
Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer Treated with Resection of the Solitary Metastatic Site
Authors: Pruthi Raj S. , Hubbard J. Slade , Kouba Erik , Wallen Eric
Published: November 2007

The concept of resection of a solitary metastatic lesion is quite foreign in prostate cancer, as metastases to regional lymph nodes or to other distant sites are most likely suggestive of disseminated disease. The current report demonstrates a very unique case, in whom excision of a solitary pulmonary metastasis has resulted in continued undetectable prostate-specific antigen values over 3 years after resection. Nevertheless, the presence of unusual cases such as this, as well as the work of others, may suggest that surgical excision of solitary or oligometastatic sites could at least be considered for the most highly selected and well-informed patients, whose clinical scenario indicates a potential benefit from such an approach.
Improving Detection of Dementia in Asian Patients with Low Education: Combining the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly
Authors: Narasimhalu Kaavya , Lee June , Auchus Alexander P. , Chen Christopher P.L.H.
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: Previous work combining the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE) has been conducted in western populations. We ascertained, in an Asian population, (1) the best method of combining the tests, (2) the effects of educational level, and (3) the effect of different dementia etiologies. Methods: Data from 576 patients were analyzed (407 nondemented controls, 87 Alzheimer’s disease and 82 vascular dementiapatients). Sensitivity, specificity and AUC values were obtained using three methods, the ‘And’ rule, the ‘Or’ rule, and the ‘weighted sum’ method. Results: The ‘weighted sum’ rule had statistically superior AUC and specificity results, while the ‘Or’ rule had the best sensitivity results. The IQCODE outperformed the MMSE in all analyses. Patients with no education benefited more from combined tests. There was no difference between Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia populations in the predictive value of any of the combined methods. Conclusion: We recommend that the IQCODE be used to supplement the MMSE whenever available and that the ‘weighted sum’ method be used to combine the MMSE and the IQCODE, particularly in populations with low education. As the study population selected may not be representative of the general population, further studies are required before generalization to nonclinical samples.
Vitamin B Status and Cognitive Performance in Preclinical and Clinical Alzheimer’s Disease: Data from the Kungsholmen Project
Authors: Wahlin Åke , Fahlander Kjell , Robins Wahlin Tarja-Brita , Bunce David , Bäckman Lars
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: The impact of vitamin B status on cognitive functioning in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is disputed. Using a population-based sample, we examined the associations of vitamin B12 and folate with cognitive functioning in clinical (n = 44) and preclinical (n = 39) AD. Methods: The groups were subdivided in terms of low (<200 pmol/l) versus normal levels of B12 and low (<13 nmol/l) versus normal folate levels. Participants were administered tests of verbal and nonverbal episodic memory, visuospatial abilities and verbal fluency. Results: As expected, the preclinical AD group performed better than the AD group across most cognitive tests. More interestingly, the effects of low vitamin B12 and folate levels were negligible across all cognitive tests in clinical and preclinical AD. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the influence of vitamin B deficiency on cognitive functioning is overshadowed by the neurodegenerative processes associated with AD.
Effect of Timing of Episiotomy Repair on Peripartum Blood Loss
Authors: Baksu Basak , Davas Inci , Akyol Atıf , Ozgul Jale , Ezen Figen
Published: November 2007

Background: To evaluate the effect of timing of episiotomy repair on peripartum blood loss. Method: In this case-controlled study, nulliparous women were grouped as: group 1: no episiotomy (control; n = 82); group 2: midline episiotomy repair after placental removal (n = 76); group 3: midline episiotomy repair before placental removal (n = 78); group 4: mediolateral episiotomy repair after placental removal (n = 84), and group 5: mediolateral episiotomy repair before placental removal (n = 80). Hemoglobin and hematocrit values were evaluated at admission and 24 h postpartum. Results: The reductions in hemoglobin and hematocrit in all episiotomy groups (groups 2–5) were significantly more than that of control (group 1) (p < 0.05). There was no difference among midline episiotomy groups (groups 2 and 3) whereas a significant difference existed among mediolateral groups (groups 4 and 5) (p < 0.05). When episiotomy repair was done after placental removal, there was a significant difference between midline and mediolateral techniques (groups 2 and 4) (p < 0.05). When repair was done before placental removal, there was no difference in the amount of blood loss regardless of technique (between groups 3 and 5). Conclusion: Episiotomy should be avoided to decrease the amount of peripartum blood loss. However, if mediolateral episiotomy is to be performed, it should be repaired before placental removal to decrease the amount of peripartum blood loss.
Desipramine Induces Apoptotic Cell Death through Nonmitochondrial and Mitochondrial Pathways in Different Types of Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Arimochi Hideki , Morita Kyoji
Published: November 2007

Cytotoxic effects of desipramine on human colon carcinoma HT29 and HCT116 cells were examined. Desipramine reduced the viability of HT29 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, but failed to cause any significant change in the viability of HCT116 cells by the concentration up to 50 µmol/l, at which an approximately 60% reduction of the viability of HT29 cells was observed. Despite their different sensitivities, desipramine caused the nonoxidative apoptotic damage to both of them. In contrast to HT29 cells, desipramine might cause the apoptotic death of HCT116 cells through the disturbance of mitochondrial function. These results suggest that desipramine may cause the nonoxidative apoptotic damage to different types of human colon carcinoma cells through either a nonmitochondrial or a mitochondrial pathway, which may confer the different sensitivities to this drug on these tumor cells.
Validation of Grading Scale for Evaluating Symptoms of Idiopathic Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Kubo Yoshihiko , Kazui Hiroaki , Yoshida Tetsuihiko , Kito Yumiko , Kimura Nobuyo , Tokunaga Hiromasa , Ogino Atsushi , Miyake Hiroji , Ishikawa Masatsune , Takeda Masatoshi
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: We developed an idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus grading scale (iNPHGS) to classify a triad of disorders (cognitive impairment, gait disturbance and urinary disturbance) of iNPH with a wide range of severity. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of this scale in 38 patients with iNPH. Results: The interrater reliability of this scale was high. The iNPHGS cognitive domain score significantly correlated with the cognitive test scores, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the gait domain score with the Up and Go Test and Gait Status Scale scores, and the urinary domain score with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) score. The MMSE, Gait Status Scale and ICIQ-SF scores significantly improved in patients whose iNPHGS scores improved after CSF tapping but not in those whose iNPHGS scores did not improve after CSF tapping. Fourteen of the 38 patients received shunt operations. In these 14 patients, changes in the iNPHGS cognitive and urinary domains after CSF tapping were significantly associated with the changes after the shunt operation.